Everton vs Liverpool: 5 talking points from the Merseyside derby

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 28: Luis Suarez of Liverpool celebrates scoring the opening goal during the Barclays Premier League match between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park on October 28, 2012 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

1. Suarez takes the pre-match banter a step too far

With every Merseyside derby staged with some pre-match drama, Suarez was again the focal point of all the banter. After opening the account for the Reds in the early stages by forcing an own goal from Baines, Suarez ran in front of the Everton dug-out and fell dramatically in front of David Moyes – a reply to the Scot’s pre-match comments on Suarez’s history of diving. One could’ve certainly expected a response from the Uruguaian, but his gimmicks were certainly uncalled for – no doubt, he’s one of the most hated personalities of the League – he just tries so hard to be one!

2. Everton’s hopes of victory probably departed at half-time

Probably, it was down to Rodgers’ tactical ineptness that saw his side start with two inexperienced players on the right wing. Raheem Sterling and Andre Wisdom were bossed by the blistering pace and commanding presence of Leighton Baines and Kevin Mirallas throughout the first half. It led to the Blues’ second goal, while some would argue that Sterling should’ve also been handed a second yellow during that torrid part of the first half, where he cynically hacked Baines down near his own half throughout the first half. Yet, it was Mirallas who looked by far the best player on the pitch for the first half as he put up an inspired performance – critical in his side’s comeback after being two goals down in quick succession. The attacking sting on the left was missing after the influential winger left the field with an injury at the stroke of half time – an unfortunate turn of events which certainly had its effects on the result for Moyes’ men.

3. Brad Jones could’ve hoped for a better derby day

Brad Jones had his best opportunity to impose his extension as the first choice goalkeeper and what better game to prove your credentials than a derby! Sadly, it didn’t turn out to be a perfect outing for the Australian, in fact, not even close to it. Coming into this game, it was clear that Jones will have an aerial test to face against this spirited Everton unit. Yet, it was his inability to deal with the Baines corner that led to the second goal from Osman. There were a couple of more incidents which highlighted his uncomfortable dealings with the long balls from the Everton wings, and it won’t be a surprise if Reina claims his place back in front of the Liverpool goal in the next game.

4. Liverpool midfield imposed authority but only in patches

It’s largely been the story of Liverpool season, yet worth a mention every single time. The midfield engine does have what it takes to create a string of opportunities for the likes of Sterling and Suarez. However, somehow, Liverpool again failed to manage a stranglehold for a long spell. They always look on the move with an attacking intent with the ball but fail to retain it after a certain amount of time. Rodgers reacted swiftly in the second half with the introduction of Shelvey, yet even he faded as the game reached into its last quarter. The game that started so brightly for the Reds, ended with a rather familiar feel for Brendan Rodgers; it’s the consistent approach on the park that still evades this Liverpool side.

5. A draw seems to be a fitting result

It was a game that would’ve exceeded the expectations of both sets of fans in the early stages but ended with a sense of satisfaction overall. One could’ve expected more goals in the second half after a frantic first half, yet one cannot blame both the managers for being cautious in the closing stages of the game. Everton never took off in the second half and after everything that panned out for them in the first, including Mirallas’ injury, Moyes would certainly be content to take a point from the derby. Rodgers on the other hand, will have to accept that his side never really assumed complete control of the game and given the intensity of the occasion, a solitary point was a fair reflection of his side’s performance tonight.

Full Time: Everton 2-2 Liverpool