Gravenberch’s Stunner Helps Liverpool Edge Everton in Merseyside Derby

 

Liverpool managed to hold off a determined Everton side to win 2–1 at Anfield, thanks to an early stunner from Ryan Gravenberch, in a match that kept the Reds’ perfect Premier League run alive. With this win, Jurgen Klopp’s team extends their early season dominance and opens up a six-point lead at the top. 

Early Brilliance from Liverpool

Just ten minutes into the game, Gravenberch curled in a sensational finish from a Mohamed Salah cross, setting the tone for Liverpool’s dominant first half. They didn’t stop there  Hugo Ekitike added the second goal, making it three in five league matches since his move to Anfield, putting Liverpool firmly in control. 

Everton Fight Back

In the second half, Everton came out stronger. Jack Grealish, showing glimpses of his pre-season form, was at the heart of their best moves. The pressure paid off just before the hour mark when Idrissa Gana Gueye fired one past Alisson Becker, pulling one back for Everton. 

Liverpool had some shaky moments late on, especially as fatigue seemed to creep in the game came only about 60 hours after their stoppage-time win over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League. Everton pushed, bringing on new sign-ings like Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak from the bench in pursuit of an equaliser.

Big Picture

• Anfield hoodoo for Everton continues: Everton are still winless in the 21st century at Anfield.

• Liverpool’s midfield balance looked strong with the return of Alexis MacAllister, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Gravenberch. Their energy in the first half was the key difference. 

• Everton’s risk: Slot kept some high-profile signings on the bench, presumably saving them for impact. But it also meant they weren’t quite able to impose themselves early.