Liverpool Vs Everton: Reliving The Top 10 Epic Clashes

The Merseyside derby, featuring Liverpool and Everton, is one of the oldest and most passionate rivalries in English football. Over the years, it has produced countless memorable moments, filled with drama, excitement, and controversy. This article relives the top 10 epic clashes between these two historic clubs, taking you on a journey through the games that have defined this iconic rivalry.

1. FA Cup Final 1986: Liverpool 3-1 Everton

The 1986 FA Cup Final is etched in the memory of every Liverpool and Everton supporter. Not only was it an all-Merseyside affair at Wembley, but it also saw Liverpool complete the league and cup double, a feat that cemented their dominance in English football during that era. Everton, managed by Howard Kendall, were looking to spoil the party, and they started brightly, with Gary Lineker giving them the lead. However, Liverpool, under the guidance of Kenny Dalglish, showed their resilience and fighting spirit.

Liverpool's comeback was inspired, with goals from Ian Rush (two) and Craig Johnston securing a 3-1 victory. Rush's goals, in particular, were classic examples of his predatory instincts in the box. The atmosphere at Wembley was electric, with both sets of fans creating a cauldron of noise and color. This match wasn't just a final; it was a showcase of everything that makes the Merseyside derby so special: passion, skill, and unwavering commitment. The victory marked a significant moment in Liverpool's history, further solidifying their status as one of the giants of European football. For Everton, it was a painful reminder of Liverpool's superiority at the time, but it also fueled their desire to challenge for honors in the years to come. This final remains a talking point for fans of both clubs, a testament to the enduring legacy of the Merseyside derby.

2. FA Cup 4th Round Replay 1991: Everton 4-4 Liverpool

Often hailed as one of the greatest FA Cup ties of all time, the 4th round replay between Everton and Liverpool in 1991 was an absolute thriller. The game, played at Goodison Park, saw both teams locked in a pulsating battle that ended 4-4 after extra time. Peter Beardsley and Ian Rush both scored twice for Liverpool, while Graeme Sharp, Tony Cottee (two), and Dave Watson replied for Everton. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with lead changes, stunning goals, and dramatic twists and turns.

The match had everything: brilliant attacking play, defensive errors, and a never-say-die attitude from both sides. The atmosphere inside Goodison Park was deafening, with the fans creating an intimidating environment for the players. Ultimately, Liverpool won the second replay 1-0, but this first replay is the one that everyone remembers. This game is remembered not just for the goals, but for the sheer drama and intensity that unfolded over 120 minutes. It showcased the best of English football, with two teams going toe-to-toe in a relentless pursuit of victory. For neutrals, it was a captivating spectacle, while for fans of Liverpool and Everton, it was an emotional rollercoaster that will forever be etched in their memories. The match served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of cup competitions and the special place that the FA Cup holds in English football.

3. Premier League 1996: Liverpool 2-1 Everton

The 1996 Premier League clash between Liverpool and Everton at Anfield is best remembered for Robbie Fowler's controversial goal celebration. After scoring against Everton, Fowler ran to the touchline and pretended to snort the white lines on the pitch, seemingly mocking allegations of drug use. The celebration sparked outrage, and Fowler was later fined and banned by the FA. Despite the controversy, the game itself was a tense and exciting affair.

Liverpool won 2-1, with Fowler scoring both goals. Duncan Ferguson scored for Everton. The match was significant for Liverpool's push for a Champions League spot, while Everton were battling against relegation. Beyond Fowler's celebration, the game was a hard-fought contest, with both teams giving their all. The tackles were fierce, the passing was crisp, and the atmosphere was electric. The win was crucial for Liverpool's ambitions, while the defeat deepened Everton's relegation worries. This match serves as a reminder of the intense rivalry between the two clubs and the high stakes involved whenever they meet. It also highlights the impact that individual moments, both positive and negative, can have on the outcome of a game and the memories that fans carry with them.

4. Premier League 2001: Everton 2-3 Liverpool

This Premier League encounter in 2001 was a high-scoring affair that saw Liverpool emerge victorious in a five-goal thriller. The game was filled with drama from start to finish, with both teams displaying attacking intent. Liverpool took the lead through Emile Heskey, but Everton responded quickly through Duncan Ferguson. Michael Owen then put Liverpool back in front, only for David Unsworth to equalize for Everton from the penalty spot. In the dying minutes, Gary McAllister scored a stunning free-kick from long range to win the game for Liverpool.

McAllister's goal was a moment of pure genius, and it sent the Liverpool fans into raptures. The game was a classic example of the unpredictable nature of the Merseyside derby, with both teams refusing to give an inch. The atmosphere at Goodison Park was electric, with the fans creating a cauldron of noise and passion. This victory was crucial for Liverpool's Champions League qualification hopes, and it further cemented their dominance over their city rivals. For Everton, it was a heartbreaking defeat, but it was also a reminder of their ability to compete with the best teams in the league. The match is remembered for its thrilling twists and turns, its high quality of play, and its dramatic finale. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Merseyside derby and its capacity to deliver unforgettable moments.

5. Premier League 2007: Everton 1-2 Liverpool

This Merseyside derby in 2007 was a closely contested affair that saw Liverpool secure a narrow victory at Goodison Park. The game was marked by its intensity and physicality, with both teams battling fiercely for every ball. Liverpool took the lead through Dirk Kuyt, but Everton equalized through Joleon Lescott. In the second half, Kuyt scored a controversial penalty to win the game for Liverpool. The penalty decision sparked outrage among Everton fans, who felt that their team had been unfairly treated.

The match was a tense and nervy affair, with few clear-cut chances for either side. The atmosphere inside Goodison Park was hostile, with the fans creating a cauldron of noise and intimidation. This victory was important for Liverpool's Champions League aspirations, but it also came at a cost, as several players picked up injuries during the game. For Everton, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow, especially given the controversial nature of the penalty decision. The match is remembered for its contentious moments, its physical intensity, and its narrow margin of victory. It serves as a reminder of the fierce rivalry between the two clubs and the importance of every single decision in a game of such magnitude.

6. Premier League 2017: Liverpool 3-1 Everton

In this more recent clash from 2017, Liverpool showcased their attacking prowess with a convincing 3-1 victory over Everton at Anfield. Sadio Mane opened the scoring with a stunning individual effort, before Matthew Pennington equalized for Everton. However, Liverpool quickly regained their lead through Philippe Coutinho, who curled a beautiful shot into the top corner. Divock Origi added a third goal to seal the win for Liverpool.

Liverpool's attacking trio of Mane, Coutinho, and Roberto Firmino were in scintillating form, causing all sorts of problems for the Everton defense. The match was a dominant performance from Liverpool, who controlled the game from start to finish. The atmosphere at Anfield was electric, with the fans roaring their team on to victory. This win further solidified Liverpool's position in the top four, while Everton were left to rue their defensive frailties. The match is remembered for Liverpool's attacking brilliance, Coutinho's stunning goal, and the overall dominance of the home side. It highlighted the growing gap between the two teams at the time and Liverpool's resurgence as a force in English football.

7. Premier League 2018: Liverpool 1-0 Everton

The 2018 Merseyside derby will forever be remembered for Divock Origi's late, late winner. The game, which appeared to be heading for a goalless draw, saw Origi score in the 96th minute after a horrendous error from Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. Virgil van Dijk's miscued shot looped onto the crossbar, and Pickford inexplicably pushed the ball back into play, allowing Origi to head home from close range.

The goal sparked wild celebrations at Anfield, as Liverpool snatched a dramatic victory. The match itself was a cagey affair, with few clear-cut chances for either side. Everton defended resolutely for the majority of the game, but their resistance was ultimately broken by Pickford's costly mistake. This win was crucial for Liverpool's title challenge, and it further deepened Everton's woes. The game is remembered for its dramatic ending, Pickford's howler, and Origi's unlikely heroics. It serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football and the importance of concentration until the very final whistle.

8. Premier League 2019: Liverpool 5-2 Everton

The 2019 Merseyside derby at Anfield was a goal fest, with Liverpool running out comfortable 5-2 winners. Divock Origi continued his knack for scoring against Everton, bagging a brace. Xherdan Shaqiri and Sadio Mane also got on the scoresheet, while Michael Keane and Richarlison replied for Everton. The game was a dominant display from Liverpool, who tore Everton apart with their attacking prowess.

Liverpool's front three were in irresistible form, showcasing their speed, skill, and clinical finishing. The match highlighted the gulf in class between the two teams at the time, as Liverpool cruised to victory. The atmosphere at Anfield was electric, with the fans celebrating a resounding win over their local rivals. This victory further extended Liverpool's unbeaten run in the Premier League, and it cemented their status as title contenders. For Everton, it was a humiliating defeat that ultimately led to the sacking of manager Marco Silva. The match is remembered for its high scoreline, Liverpool's attacking brilliance, and the contrasting fortunes of the two teams.

9. Premier League 2020: Everton 0-0 Liverpool

In a stark contrast to the previous year's goal fest, the 2020 Merseyside derby at Goodison Park ended in a goalless draw. The game, which was one of the first to be played after the COVID-19 lockdown, was a subdued affair with both teams lacking sharpness and creativity. Liverpool, who were on their way to winning the Premier League title, were far from their best, while Everton defended resolutely to earn a point.

The match was a tactical battle, with both teams prioritizing defensive stability. There were few clear-cut chances for either side, and the game lacked the usual intensity and drama of a Merseyside derby. The absence of fans inside the stadium contributed to the muted atmosphere. This draw did little to halt Liverpool's march to the title, but it did give Everton a boost in their fight for Premier League survival. The match is remembered for its lack of goals, its tactical nature, and the strange atmosphere created by the absence of fans. It serves as a reminder of the impact that external factors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, can have on the beautiful game.

10. Premier League 2021: Liverpool 0-2 Everton

The 2021 Merseyside derby at Anfield saw Everton break a long-standing hoodoo, securing their first win at Anfield since 1999. Goals from Richarlison and Gylfi Sigurdsson (penalty) gave Everton a memorable victory. The game was a significant moment for Everton, who had endured years of frustration against their local rivals. For Liverpool, it was a disappointing defeat that further dented their hopes of Champions League qualification.

Everton's victory was built on a solid defensive performance and clinical finishing. The Toffees frustrated Liverpool's attacking players and took their chances when they came. The match was a tense and nervy affair, with both teams desperate for a win. The absence of fans inside the stadium added to the surreal atmosphere. This win was a huge boost for Everton's confidence, and it gave their fans bragging rights over their Liverpool counterparts. The match is remembered for Everton's historic victory, Liverpool's struggles, and the shifting balance of power on Merseyside. It serves as a reminder that in football, anything is possible, and even the longest of droughts can eventually come to an end. These top 10 clashes are just a snapshot of the many memorable moments that have defined the Liverpool vs Everton rivalry. With its rich history, passionate fans, and unpredictable nature, the Merseyside derby will continue to captivate football fans for generations to come.