‘The old stadium rocked’published at 07:11 Greenwich Mean Time
Everton 2-2 Liverpool
Phil McNulty
BBC Sport chief football writer
From a final Goodison Park derby that looked like ending in disappointing defeat, Everton showed the revived spirit and character brought by the return of David Moyes as manager to provide a climax of genuine sporting theatre.
Everton’s fans exploded with joy when James Tarkowski fired an unstoppable shot high past Alisson in the 98th minute – but the celebrations were put on hold for what seemed like an age as checks were carried out for offside and a foul on Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate.
The old stadium rocked when the goal was confirmed and Everton emerged with real honour and credit, having made sure they did not end derby games at Goodison on a losing note.
The brawl after the final whistle was unsavoury, Abdoulaye Doucoure needlessly goading Liverpool’s fans to the fury of Curtis Jones, but all the fire and fury of a remarkable evening encapsulated what Goodison Park is about.
Moyes has rejuvenated Everton – Beto in particular, with the striker showing a composure rarely seen previously – and they even overcame the first-half loss of key man Iliman Ndiaye to injury.
The manner in which Everton pushed Liverpool all the way, then claimed a point, was the sort of performance Goodison Park deserved and was another example of their improvement under Moyes.
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