Premier League Easter Sunday: Liverpool Stand Against Late Norwich Onslaught, Arsenal & Everton Keep Up Race For Fourth

Football

BY NISAR KHAN

A delightful offering of Easter Sunday Premier League football saw Liverpool go five points clear at the top with a win over Norwich, while Arsenal won at Hull and Everton caused misery for Moyes to keep up the pressure on one another in the race for the coveted fourth spot. 


Easter Sunday was marked with a terrific triple-header of Premier League football, that featured fresh developments in the battle for fourth place, and a big gap opened at the top – all hand-in-hand with significant implications in the relegation battle.

SEE ALSO: Power Rankings – Top 10 Sports Stars of the Week (20 April 2014)

This article features in-depth analysis and comment for the games, reports and plenty more information including attendance figures – get your fix for all the games on Sunday 20th April 2014. 

Following a day of penalties in the Premier League the day prior, which saw Chelsea stunned at the Bridge by Sunderland, Tottenham thump Fulham and Crystal Palace and Swansea were victors, there were advantages to be seized upon along with trepidation to avoid.

Liverpool Defy Late Norwich Surge At Carrow Road

Score: Norwich 2 – 3 Liverpool
Goalscorers: Raheem Sterling (4′, 62′), Luis Suarez (11′), Gary Hooper (54′), Robert Snodgrass (77′)
Location: Carrow Road, Norwich, England.
Time: Sunday 20th April 2014, 12:00pm
Attendance: 26,857
Man of the Match: Raheem Sterling

The Reds extended their blitzing league form to an 11-game win streak after holding on against the tide of a late onslaught from hosts Norwich City at Carrow Road.

Their victory, aided by Raheem Sterling’s standout performance, put them five points clear at the top of the league following Chelsea’s loss to Sunderland at Stamford Bridge the day prior.

Nineteen-year-old Raheem Sterling got in on the act as early as the fourth minute with a thunderous long-range strike leaving keeper Ruddy hopeless. 

As Liverpool marched on and took a firm grasp of the game, the goalscorer Raheem Sterling would set up his Uruguayan teammate Luis Suarez for the second. A curling, low ball was slotted in the path of the striker, allowing him to guide it in the bottom right corner.

However, Liverpool seemed to slack slightly following the extension of the lead. Complacency may have been at fault for the Reds as they sat back and passed the ball around leaving the Canaries agitated. 

While Liverpool may have been comfortably leading during the interval, Norwich had something to represent for their pressure in the second half, as Gary Hooper capitalized on keeper Simon Mignolet’s error. The Belgian keeper was poor in his effort to punch the ball to safety, allowing Hooper to score at ease and put Norwich back into contention.

Around eight minutes later, Raheem Sterling completed his magnificent duo of goals where he displayed great composure and maturity to strike at goal. After running through the central area, the option to Luis Suarez faded, so Raheem Sterling charged towards Ruddy, with his shot deflecting off the keeper and fortunately trickling into goal.

Again, though, Liverpool were not in for a comfortable culmination. Robert Snodgrass made sure of it with a headed goal in the 77th minute to put his side at reach of the illusive point. 

Liverpool managed to hold on, after Mignolet saved Van Wolfswinkel’s header, and secured their eleventh straight league win, going five points clear at the top.

Analysis & Comment

Yet another thrilling game of football, from the neutral perspective at least.

Liverpool have the habit of nervy finishes to the game as they progress to a anxious and marginal victories time and time again. Fortunately for the Reds though, none have proved too costly, yet.

With three games remaining, Liverpool have opened up a crucial gap at the top of the table, with Sunderland beating Chelsea presenting itself as an absolute gift to Liverpool’s title surge.

A problem for Liverpool could come back to bite them. In the game they complacently sat back and attempted to drown out the Canaries – Liverpool could have very well beat themselves. 

Raheem Sterling is Man of the Match with a marquee performance. Over the course of the season he has matured by great lengths to secure a stable position in the starting XI. His first goal was sublime while his second may have been gifted some fortune, though he still was clinical in taking the chance. Not to mention, his assist to Luis Suarez was mastering a difficult ball – artistry. He continues to improve game by game.

Norwich put up a good showing but got nothing from it. Facing a daunting conclusion to their season, they’ll hope for more performances of the same, but ones which will get them points to edge safety in a heated relegation battle.

Liverpool’s key players against Norwich celebrate during the big win INDEPENDENT.CO.UK

Podolski On Form As Gunners Tame Tigers

Score: Hull City 0 – 3 Arsenal
Goalscorers: Aaron Ramsey (31′), Lukas Podolski (45′, 54′)
Location: KC Stadium, Hull, England.
Time: Sunday 20th April 2014, 2:05pm
Attendance: 24,762
Man of the Match: Lukas Podolski

Lukas Podolski scored twice as Arsenal eased past Hull at the KC Stadium to maintain control of the race for Champions League football.

Arsenal comfortably passed the ball around the pitch in search of a switch to flamboyant football, as Hull City pressed forward. Shane Long struck fright early for the Gunners, alas in vein though as his shot fizzed over the bar. 

After half-an-hour, Arsenal would be leading at the hands of Aaron Ramsey. The Welshman put an emphatic exclamation mark on his return beating keeper Steve Harper to cap off a sublime passing build-up.  

Then, on the brink of half-time, the German would get in on the act with a terrific volley that left the Tigers out of it going into the break. A lofted ball to Ramsey was chested into the path of the German, lashing at it with the perfect balance of power and accuracy. 

Nine minutes into the second half and any small hopes of Hull’s comeback were tarnished. Lukas Podolski got his second goal after Ramsey’s blistering shot was saved, allowing the German to tap in to an open goal.

Olivier Giroud, who picked up a slight knock ruling him out for a few moments, hit the crossbar after the wind delayed the ball from reaching goalkeeper Steve Harper. The Frenchman slid to get the ball that went up and hit the crossbar, rebounding out to Tigers’ relief.

Speaking of wind, it was exactly that which delayed the game just a few minutes in. Around a dozen advertising boards were blown onto the pitch from the wind, and the players carried them off before playing again. When you think you’ve seen it all…

Hull City hit the bar on one occasion, and that would be the closest they would come after Arsenal eased past them, increasing their woes while the Gunners are edging closer to securing more Champions League football.

The two teams will meet again at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 17th May 2014 for the FA Cup Final.

Analysis & Comment

While Hull may not have taken away anything in points from the game, there was plenty of lessons for the Tigers going into their FA Cup final meeting – they’ll be hoping, though, that they will be safe when the season closes a week prior.

One thing to change maybe is the two forwards. It was clear throughout the duration of the match that a lot of gaps were exposed, allowing the Gunners to move at will and set up for goals like Aaron Ramsey’s opener – speaking of Ramsey, what a way to return, Arsenal will definitely value his presence.

Hull City really didn’t get much of a shout throughout the one-sided contest. Arsenal, looking sharp and upbeat made a dominant statement for fourth place intentions.

Lukas Podolski has emerged as the solution, possibly, for Arsenal to find more goals like they did against Hull City. He’s been on great form, and should Giroud follow the same, Arsenal could ease to fourth. You can’t forget Ramsey either, whose contributions will no doubt be vital.

On a day where they were mathematically ruled out of winning the title, Arsenal were determined in their pursuit to make something of a season – a season which has seen them turn a sharp corner from a prosperous start at the top to battling for Champions League football.



Toffees Spoil Moyes’ Goodison Return 

Score: Everton 2 – 0 Manchester United
Goalscorers: Leighton Baines (38′ penalty), Kevin Mirallas (43′)
Location: Goodison Park, Liverpool, England.
Time: Sunday 20th April 2014, 4:10pm
Attendance: 39,436
Man of the Match: Kevin Mirallas

Everton spoiled David Moyes’ return to Goodison Park with an impressive 2 – 0 win over Manchester United to keep up the race for fourth place.

The Toffees made a good response to the game prior, which saw Arsenal win at Hull. 

Leighton Baines scored the opener in the 38th minute from the penalty spot, after Phil Jones handballed Romelu Lukaku’s shot in the box.

Kevin Mirallas extended the lead five minutes later after Seamus Coleman put the Belgian through to fire past David De Gea.

Although having plenty of possession, Moyes side were far too poor, lacking creativity and urgency.

One fan, dressed as the Grim Reaper in the stands, proved an illustrious image for the Scots’ possible future after another devastating blow to his side.

Manchester United’s loss meant it is now mathematically possible for Champions League qualification next year.

Analysis & Comment

Its another tough blow for Manchester United. The demise from glory days continues, and its misery for Moyes at Goodison Park.

The Red Devils really looked short of motivation, a sense of dejection seemed to cloud their hopes throughout the game.

Manchester United eagerly await the final day of the season so they can rebuild and rejuvenate after a dreadful season.

Everton move within one point of Arsenal (as of 20/04/2014 DD/MM/YYYY) to keep up the pressure as they squeeze for Champions League football.

Leighton Baines scored a penalty to sink the visitors IAN HODGSON / THE DAILY MAIL

Easter Sunday brings a delightful offering of the Premier League. 

We saw Liverpool hang on to ground the Canaries, and Everton keep up the pressure on Arsenal with both sides winning impressively. Hull City and Norwich are dealt with big blows at the bottom, while more misery consumes Manchester United.

MORE on TheSportMatrix

• FEATURE · Crumbling Catalans: End Of An Era For Barcelona?
• POWER RANKINGS · Power Rankings For 20 April 2014
• ANALYSIS · How Will Liverpool Fare in Absence of Jordan Henderson?
• FOOTBALL · More Football on TheSportMatrix

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Man City Drop Points To Sunderland While Crystal Palace Thwart Toffees’ Fourth Hopes With Vital Win

Football

Premier League: 16 April 2014

BY NISAR KHAN

It was a dramatic midweek night of Premier League action which dramatically effected the Top Four as Everton were stunned by Crystal Palace, and Man City scraped merely a point from Sunderland at the Etihad Stadium.

Sunderland’s Connor Wickham dealt a big blow to City’s title hopes on Wednesday STANDARD SPORT

Manchester City’s title hopes were dealt a colossal blow as they drew with Sunderland in a thrilling game at the Etihad Stadium.

For the visitors, it was looking to be a gloomy day from the outset, as Fernandinho netted a goal for the hosts just two minutes in. The Brazilian smashed it to the right bottom corner after being threaded through from Sergio Aguero’s through ball.

The initial analogies of what the game would turn out to be though were, in fact, the contrary to what actually ensued – Sunderland pressed Man City and left them with a slender lead going into the half-time break.

Man City would hold on till the 71st minute, when Connor Wickham fired a deserved goal back in Sunderland’s favor to even the game. Emanuele Giaccherini’s cross put him through to beat Joe Hart and put The Citizens on edge.

Under ten minutes later, and Connor Wickham would complete his double and of much greater significance, he would give Sunderland a lead that hardly anyone would have expected. Joe Hart was left a bystander as the shot was cruelly slotted past him and left him helpless.

As the Black Cats slowly approached a vital three points, it was snatched away from them in crumbling fashion. Samir Nasri’s shot from the middle of the box was half-saved by Vito Mannone, though he could do little as it trickled into the net – the Italian was distraught as his blunder surrendered what would have been an uplifting three points to his side.

Sunderland, contrary to general consensus, would in fact press further for a winner, rather than defending for their lives, they came close to stunning City with another winner out of nowhere. Neither side could score a third goal, and honors were even as they both took a point. 

A dwindling blow for Manchester City, who have put the title out of their own doing now – the loss to Liverpool on Sunday means that the Reds will only need 10 points from their final four games to clinch the title.

Crystal Palace held on to defy Everton at Goodison Park, while in the process push them further towards safety in the Premier League.

Jason Puncheon continued his scoring form as he broke the deadlock around 22 minutes in, with a strong strike to the bottom left of the goal. His lone goal of the half gave the Londoners an important lead going into the interval.

Three minutes into the second phase and the Eagles’ would be flying high in Goodison – Scott Dann headed home from Bolasie’s ball in. 

Everton kept a gasp in the game around the hour-mark, with Naismith scoring from close range after Leighton Baines headed it towards his path, bringing back the deficit to one goal.

As Everton pressed, they would suffer a setback ten minutes after scoring. Cameron Jerome was provided possession off the ball from Jason Puncheon, allowing him to beat Tim Howard with a low-driven, medium-range shot.

Goodison was preparing for a nail-biting finish when Kevin Mirallas scored an easy goal with little yards between him and the goalline, just five minutes from the end of regulation. 

Some six minutes of stoppage time later, and Everton’s final efforts would be in vein – Crystal Palace flew high on the day as they propelled to safety considerations, while Everton handed the fourth-place takings in the Gunners’ favor.

City Fail To Take Advantage Of Game In Hand

Manchester City’s meeting with Sunderland was one of two games in hand that, if both were won would sandwich them two points between Liverpool and Chelsea. Sunderland were reluctant to succumb to Manchester City’s attacking prowess and got the point.

But many would say they deserved more – Mannone’s blunder was a horrifying way for Sunderland to miss out on the three points. They definitely did a bigger favour for the other two title challengers in Liverpool and Chelsea.

Yaya Toure’s absence due to injury was quite noticeable in the game – even though Fernandinho made his presence somewhat known with an early goal, it was far from Yaya Toure’s potentials. A positive for City though is Aguero’s improvements as he assisted Fernandinho for the opener.

Liverpool need 10 of a possible 12 points to clinch the title now, meaning they can afford to draw with Chelsea at Anfield. If Liverpool and Chelsea continue form, then Man City are gone completely – every game now is must-win for the Etihad Stadium occupants.

The three points they missed out on though may be costly in the relegation bottle as they stick rock-bottom of the table.

Eagles Stick Toffees For Fifth?

Arsenal’s touts as the favorites for fourth spot are now even stronger – as wrote in this previous column, they definitely have the advantage.

Everton still have games with Manchester United, Manchester City and Southampton – while Arsenal’s run-down is a much easier journey to secure Champions League football. Everton really needed to pick up a win, even with it being at home, to keep the pressure on the Gunners. 

And for Crystal Palace, well, what a turnaround. They are fighting back as the season approaches a thrilling culmination. They’ve hit the magic 40-point mark, and lie ten points from the drop zone.

Aftermath: The table at the end of the night

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Everton Decimate Gunners At Goodison, Liverpool Hold Tight To Shut Out Hammers

Football

BY NISAR KHAN

Everton catapulted themselves right back into contention for fourth place as they thrashed Arsenal at Goodison Park while Liverpool picked up an anxious away win over West Ham in a game that featured controversial decisions in Sunday’s Premier League double-header.

The Merseyside teams made significant advances in their respective races for either the title or Champions League football. 

In the first of two games featured on the Super Sunday schedule, Everton ran riot in an Arsenal decimation at Goodison Park. 

Arsenal, who have now dropped 10 points out of a possible 12 in their four previous games, were a recipient of Everton’s sweet retribution – which saw the Gunners beat them 4 – 1 in the FA Cup Quarterfinal. 

It would be a much different story to the events that occurred in the Emirates around a month ago, with Steven Naismith altering the course of events early when he pounced on Lukaku’s saved shot to hit home. 

After twenty more minutes of pressing and an uncomfortable spell for the visitors, Romelu Lukaku put his side two goals to the good with a low-fired shot past Szczęsny after dribbling past the watchful Arsenal players. 

Video: Arsene Wenger’s post-match interview following Arsenal’s loss to Everton YOUTUBE / BBC SPORT

Mikel Arteta – unsurprisingly booed throughout the match – would conceded the third for Arsenal in the form of an own goal after one hour of play. The own goal was forced from terrific work by Kevin Mirallas as he pressurized the Spaniard into the own goal. 

Another humiliating defeat down Merseyside spells more trouble for Arsenal. #WengerOut hashtags were prominent around Twitter. Frustration is clear for all to see as Arsenal went from battling at the top to fourth in the turn of the new year. 

Everton made their intentions clear – Champions League football. Coming in with a hot run of form from March, they are going to put Arsenal in a very uncomfortable situation and even jeopardize Arsene Wenger’s record of always finishing in the top four. 

Romelu Lukaku scored an excellent strike to sink Arsenal AFP | GETTY

Liverpool survived an anxious onslaught to end the game at Upton Park as they secured a mind-boggling ninth consecutive league win, putting them back at the top of the league after Chelsea topped it with a win over Stoke City the day prior. 

The majority of the first half was goalless as the hosts kept them at bay and made for a frustrating outing for Liverpool, who had no clear-cut chances in the first half, that was until the late stages.

The general consensus of the penalty was blatant, as Luis Suarez’s touch was indeed handballed by the defender whom apologized straight after. Then up stepped the skipper, who remained composed as he slotted home with ease.

However, Guy Demel would equalize merely minutes later in controversial fashion. Simon Mignolet, who appeared to have been hit in the face by Andy Carroll mid-air, dropped the ball from the cross – falling to Guy Demel to score his first goal for the Hammers.

You be the judge.

Celebrations were paused for the home side with the linesman flagging. After a hot dispute with the referee, the goal was ruled legal and West Ham had equalized. As the first-half drew to a close in the play after, Liverpool were irate as they argued their cause to the referee.

As some called it “poetic justice”, Steven Gerrard scored his 50th penalty for the Reds when John Flanagan was taken down by Jaaskaleinen in another controversial ruling. “Two wrongs don’t make a right”, Sky Sports commentator Martin Tyler described after the event, which lead too a successful penalty scored from the skipper.

West Ham’s onslaught was insufficient with its goal of equalizing, but it did cause Liverpool a lot of discomfort as they anxiously regained top spot in the league.

Comment & Analysis: Controversial Calls And Manager Mistrust 

Controversy no doubt surrounded the West Ham vs. Liverpool fixture. Considering I’m a Liverpool fan I’d rather not comment on the calls to duck accusations of bias. However, that could prove dividend for Liverpool in the title race. I’ll just put it as Martin Tyler did, “two wrongs don’t make a right”.

As for Arsenal, it has just been a demise from Premier League contention. The only positive they can take is that they have no tough sides to follow in the run-up to the end of the season, although this does increase pressure on them to get close to maximum points to close out their campaign.

Everton, on some hot form right now, are going to really push Arsenal in the challenge for fourth place meaning Wenger will need to get his players attitude sorted.

You could see the gulf in contrast between the efforts of both sides. Everton were working their socks off for their gaffer while Wenger’s men’s attitude were even criticized by Wenger himself. This could be key in the race for fourth.

When all things were looking bright, when Arsenal got an incredible headstart to the season, people started to believe. Things have changed so fast that sees them facing more criticism. FA Cup and fourth place is now a must.

A terrific Sunday in the Premier League as the Merseyside teams stand tall and have increased the probability of both teams finishing in the top four. 

GET INVOLVED with your opinions. Should Guy Demel have scored? Did Liverpool deserve the second penalty? Where do Arsenal go from here? Who will go fourth? Use the comments section at the bottom of the article, send us an email, Tweet us your views or post thoughts to our Facbook page.

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Liverpool Make Title Race Intents in Undoubted Derby Rout, Thrash Everton 4 – 0

Football

BY NISAR KHAN

LIVERPOOL – Daniel Sturridge scored twice in Liverpool’s emphatic four-goal Merseyside Derby win over Everton, in a glorious night for the Reds.



Deadly Duo: Daniel Sturridge scored twice while Luis Suarez added another. COURTESY: TWITTER.COM/LFC

Kick-Off: Tuesday 28 January at 8pm (GMT)
Location: Anfield Football Ground, Liverpool
Score: Liverpool 4 – 0 Everton
Goalscorers: Gerrard 21, Sturridge 33′ & 35′, Suarez 50′

Daniel Sturridge fell short of a hat-trick, in a game where the skipper, and his striking partner hit the back of the net as they thumped four goals past their Merseyside rivals.

An atmospheric Anfield witnessed an opening ten minutes of some good quality football, with great tackles being made around the pitch. Uruguayian Luis Suarez had the closest chance of the game to that point, forcing Everton’s keeper Tim Howard to make a save in the corner.

Jordan Henderson and Ross Barkley were eager to get in the act early on, with long-range efforts, none too troubling for either goalkeeper. 

Rather than a frantic start, it was a good one, with the rain pouring down on the pitch – although not dampening Liverpool’s hopes as we would come to see just minutes later.

Twenty-one minutes in, and the rout would begin. Liverpool’s skipper Steven Gerrard scored in his 31st Merseyside Derby heading in from Luis Suarez’s curled cross. England’s captain left no doubt as he powerfully headed it past the Toffees.

And if conceding the opener was bad, Everton’s fans’ despair would instantly turn up a notch, as Romelu Lukaku was substituted after picking up an injury in the corner. Teammate Gareth Barry collided with the Belgian, resulting in a suspected ankle ligament injury.

It was a Liverpool takeover for the next few minutes to follow, as Everton were on the backfoot and at the verge of breaking point. The hosts were smelling blood early on.

Daniel Sturridge would continue his superb run of goalscoring form, getting on the end of a pin-point ball from Phillipe Coutinho and clipped it past to double the lead.

Just two minutes later and it seemed that the game was up and beyond Everton’s grasp. Daniel Sturridge doubled his goal tally with an excellent lofted ball past the onrushing Tim Howard. Kolo Toure provided the assist for Sturridge’s second.

Liverpool comfortably eased their way towards the interval, while away fans watched in disarray. Roberto Martinez had one tough time talk to ensue during the break, but we would soon realize that it would not turn things around.

Gareth Barry had his name in the books for a foul on Raheem Sterling. Whether it was out of frustration or just a bad tackle, it was reminiscent of what was becoming a very troublesome outing for Everton.

Captain Fantastic: Steven Gerrard celebrates the opening goal. COURTESY: TWITTER.COM/LFC

Everton came out on a roll to start the second half. Liverpool were being pushed back and their resolve was being tested most to that point in the game. Around five minutes of this would amount to nothing, in fact further damage, for Everton.
A defensive mishap from Phil Jagielka would let Luis Suarez through, surging down the middle with two defenders hot on his tails. Keeping composed, he slotted it past Tim Howard to surely seal the game for the hosts.

It had become a game almost contrary to their six-goal thriller earlier this season.

Liverpool continued to dominate the game with a four-goal cushion. Daniel Sturridge scuffed a hat-trick opportunity with a penalty to make it five. The penalty was awarded after Tim Howard fouled Raheem Sterling in the box. Sturridge blasted it over the bar, and would later be replaced for Victor Moses in the 70th minute.

Prior to his substitution, he failed to convert when it was three-on-two, but John Stones managed to clear away – with Suarez and Sturridge in a bit of a disagreement. Goals mean goals, no matter how much you are leading by.

Everton were down and out, but Ross Barkley had other ideas – and so did Mignolet, who batted away his effort to maintain his clean sheet thus far.

With the time slowly ticking down towards the full-time whistle, the fans were as contrasting as each team in the game. Glum Everton fans exited the arena, while Liverpool fans savored every minute as they cruised to a big victory over their neighbors.

Liverpool were unable to get a fifth in the 88th minute, as Victor Moses smashed it over, with Luis Suarez in promising territory, albeit shunned for that chance. 

And it finished 4 – 0, with Liverpool embracing their glory as they picked up a vital win that catapulted them back into possible title contention.

“We wanted to get back to the way we’ve been playing. We’ve been ruthless at home.” Steven Gerrard spoke to BT Sport following the game. The skipper also took responsibility for allowing Daniel Sturridge taking the penalty, “I wanted Daniel to experience the same feeling that I did” of scoring in the Derby.

“We played good football. And the boys created good chances,” double-scorer Daniel Sturridge explained. He also apologized if anyone was offended by his reaction to being substituted off.

Comment & Analysis: “From a thrilling draw last season to an undoubted rout this time round” writes Nisar Khan

A win of this magnitude is simply unheard in the Merseyside Derby.

With Everton placing one of their best Merseyside Derby squads for this game, a lot of questions need to be asked as to how they were so dominated by Liverpool at Anfield.

Quick comparisons of their match and the thriller earlier this season have shown a vast change. Romelu Lukaku, arguably the most significant piece to the puzzle, was taken off twenty-one minutes in, a bitter blow to Everton that the loss will only further worsen. 

While the first goal came from a set-piece, they wouldn’t prove a factor. It would be through balls, that for some reason, Jagielka and his defensive teammates were unable to deal with. Sturridge’s second goal showed it all, how was he let into so much vast space to finish like that?

The number of chances, even with Lukaku on, show Everton’s problem (at least one of them) in the game. In the first twenty minutes, the hosts had six chances to Everton’s one chance – despite a very even and top-quality start for both sides.

Everton no doubt can bounce back from this game, but it will be a real test of their resolve. This acts as encouragement for Liverpool, going six games unbeaten, and now a demolition over their rivals to keep them well-and-truly alive in the title race, taking advantage of Arsenal’s draw on the same night.

Striking prowess was yet again clearly evident for all to see on the Reds’ part. Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge’s partnership is proving to be a lethal one, of which Everton have witnessed firsthand.

Midfielders were yet again influential, with Coutinho working his socks off today, along with Steven Gerrard, thriving in his 31st Merseyside Derby appearance.

Maybe the only negative performances was Aly Cissokho, who was wasteful in possession and messed up on creating assists for the strikers downfield. Meanwhile, Kevin Mirallas stood out for Everton with his vein effort amounting to nothing, except a pinch of recognition.

Everton’s chance to go ahead of Liverpool has been thwarted, and thwarted in some emphatic fashion by the hosts, putting on a superb performance against their rivals.

It’s the biggest win in a Merseyside Derby since 1982.

It’s Liverpool’s day as they leave no doubt to thwart Everton’s chances to go ahead of them. Four goals in a problematic outing for the Toffees, while Liverpool were on another level.

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Merseyside Derby Retrospective: Reliving Epic Merseyside Clash at Goodison Park Earlier This Season Ahead of Tomorrow’s Derby

Football

BY NISAR KHAN

Ahead of Tuesday evening’s Merseyside Derby clash at Anfield, we look back at Everton and Liverpool’s amazing clash earlier this season, with a dramatic climax seeing the game end with three-goals-a-piece.

Luis Suarez’s extraordinary free-kick was one of six goals in the game. COURTESY: AP

It remains one of the best games of the season thus far, a pulsating, back-and-forth encounter that had drama throughout, goals coming from the very start.

Read the match report here »

Just five minutes in and the goals would get flowing, as Phillipe Coutinho edged his side ahead following an assist from Luis Suarez.

Merely minutes later, Goodison Park would erupt in celebration, as Kevin Mirallas equalized – taking advantage of some poor Liverpool defending towards Leighton Baines’ long-range free-kick.

Liverpool would lead into the interval by way of a free-kick from Luis Suarez, curling it low past Tim Howard, and a poor wall arrangement to score.

In the second half, Romelu Lukaku would spoil the day for Liverpool, with a double within ten minutes to turn the game back into the Toffees’ favor – turning in from Mirallas’ cross first, then heading of a corner to take the lead with eight minutes remaining of regulation.

With the game now looking sealed, we were in for one more twist in the tale, as Daniel Sturridge equalized of a free-kick late on to cap off an incredible tie.

A combination of two significant factors would prove decisive in the match. Set-pieces, with poor defending to back them up.

In their next meeting, it is likely that both teams would have improved from then, with their defense, but as a result improving set pieces will increase the standard and make it harder to defend – proportional improvement. 

Simon Mignolet, who delivered a great goalkeeping performance for the visitors, has been suffering a slump in form as of late – looking far from his best. With his work in between the sticks in the previous encounter, how will Liverpool fare if Simon Mignolet is not at his best?

It’s a Derby. This means we will get ferocious tackles, heated debates and some really competitive football. We’re hoping for better decisions this time round, as Kevin Mirallas could have easily been sent off last time for a harsh foul on Luis Suarez.

This time round. Things have changed.

We are in for another fantastic game of football come Tuesday evening. Anfield will be ready and rocking for more terrific action from this pulsating derby. 

It’s a Derby, with title race chances at stake too. Importance and intensity just multiplied, big time.

Everton and Liverpool are ready to do battle, and if the previous match is anything to come by, we are in for one magnificent game of football.

Watch Liverpool vs. Everton in the UK on Tuesday at 7:30pm on BT Sport

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Everton, Liverpool Hit Three Each at Incredible Derby Classic

BY NISAR KHAN

Football

Premier League
WEEK 12

EVERTON 3 – 3 LIVERPOOL

KICK-OFF: 23 Nov 2013 at 12:45pm, Goodison Park
Coutinho ‘5’, Mirallas 8′, Suarez 19′, Lukaku 72′, Lukaku 82′, Sturridge 89′

EVERTON – Daniel Sturridge scored an 89th minute equalizer to tie it all up in an incredible game at Goodison Park in the Merseyside Derby.




Philipe Coutino edged his side into the lead early on after Luis Suarez provided the assist.

But minutes later, Kevin Mirallas would equalize off some poor-defending after Leighton Baines’ long-range free-kick.

Luis Suarez would take advantage of defensive errors as he beat the wall, and Tim Howard with a curled, low shot to put Liverpool ahead.

In the second half, a double from Romelu Lukaku within ten minutes would set Goodison Park up for a huge win.

But it was not to be, as a late goal from Daniel Sturridge, coming off from the bench, finished the game with both scoring three each.

In a game filled with talking points, every goal coming from a set-piece, fouls and speculation, it was an absolute classic.



A huge roar was greeted as the hosts got the game underway. With an electric atmosphere at Gooidson Park, Everton passed the ball around for the opening stages with Liverpool putting on the pressure.

The Toffees provided early encouragement for the home fans with the majority of early possession while Liverpool looked to settle them down.

Steven Gerrard had the first corner of the game four minutes in. It would fall to Luis Suarez, flicking it on to Coutinho – who controlled the ball before striking it into goal, scoring his first Derby goal after just four minutes.

GIF: Philipe Coutinho scores in the fifth minute to open the scoring. Courtsesy: OffThePost

While Liverpool’s early goal was the start needed, Everton would look to fire back, and that they did.

Kevin Mirallas flicked the ball in from close range of Leighton Baines’ distant free-kick. An acrobatic effort would put Everton back in it, capitalizing of poor defending from Liverpool. It was even once again, with Goodison Park with an even more electric atmosphere.

GIF: Kevin Mirallas equalizes quickly following Liverpool’s goal. Courtesy: OffThePost

Everton came close to a second, minutes after, but Romelu Lukaku was thwarted by Simon Mignolet who risked life and limb (and a red card maybe) to deny him on the edge of the area.

Following a frantic start to the game, around eighteen-minutes in and the game had finally settled. Liverpool were putting together a string of passes, while Everton were still well in contention.

Luis Suarez had a free-kick in the 19th minute in some promising territory. Tim Howard set the wall up, but the wall would not stop it, as Suarez curled it low beating Howard with a stunning free-kick to put Liverpool ahead. 

GIF: Luis Suarez scores a free-kick to put his side back in the lead. Courtesy: theScore

With half-an-hour of play passed, Liverpool were still in the lead. The game had quietened down with no refereeing issues up to that point. Everton were trying for the equalizer but found themselves playing from the back far too often. 

Ross Barkley was the recipient of the first booking of the game when he dived from Lucas’ challenge. That was the busiest that Phil Dowd had to be thus far.

But he was busier, just moments later. Kevin Mirallas’ fouled Luis Suarez with a high foot that resulted in a very lengthy stoppage, as Phil Dowd took his time to present a yellow card to Kevin Mirallas.

Should Kevin Mirallas have been sent off for this foul?

With half-time approaching, Liverpool finished with a threshold of the game as Everton grew frustrated. More ‘Derby’ fouls were coming in, but Liverpool finished with the lead. 


Luis Suarez gingerly made his way back on to the pitch for the second half, but despite his injuries, Leighton Baines would be replaced by Gerard Deulofeu. Deulofu would almost make an impact as Liverpool were sloppy of a throw-in. Going one-on-one with Mignolet, he hit in straight at Liverpool’s keeper.

A let off for Liverpool so to speak, but it was a word of warning from the Toffees.

Everton’s chances increased, but Joe Allen could have well and truly settled it for the visitors when it was him and Suarez up against the keeper. Allen could have tapped it past Howard or passed it to Suarez for a tap-in, but he chose neither and hit it wide.

Romelu Lukaku caused another scare, but another save from Simon Mignolet – keeping Everton once again at bay in the 63rd minute.

On the 70th minute, Lukaku’s goalless game would continue as he was once again thwarted by fellow Belgian Simon Mignolet, who made a much more comfortable save. A few minutes later, Lukaku would finally beat Mignolet.

After his free-kick was deflected but strongly saved from Mignolet, Lukaku got into the box and struck it low to equalize in the 72nd minute, setting the fans on euphoria at Goodison Park with their team back in it.

GIF: Romelu Lukaku equalizes for Everton

Brendan Rogers looked to make an attacking statement by putting on Sturridge as he replaced Lucas.

Set-pieces would once again come into play as Romelu Lukaku scored in the 82nd minute with a powerful header of a corner just ten minutes after equalizing.

With Liverpool looking to equalize late, a foul in the third quarter of the pitch had Gerrard standing over a long range free-kick.

Gerrard whipped it in, with Sturridge getting the header on to it, beating Tim Howard to equalize making it 3 – 3, a huge impact off the bench.

Daniel Sturridge thought he scored the winner in stoppage time but was offside.

And with that, the final whistle would blow with both teams going off satisfied after a hard-fought game. Even by Derby standards, an absolutely fantastic game of football.

THE BREAKDOWN
Breaking down the game with analysis and the main headlines

SET PIECES: The Difference as Every Goal Came from a Set Piece

Coutinho scored of a set-piece early on to give Liverpool the lead. But just minutes after, when Mirallas scored of a set piece, it was clear – Liverpool were vulnerable and defedning set-pieces was their weakness. Then, it was possibly the opposite when Luis Suarez scored in the 19th minute of a poor defensive set-up by the Toffees. Later on, Lukaku would score twice off set pieces, before Sturridge headed the equalizer from Gerrard’s free kick.

SUAREZ FREE-KICK: Sublime Goal, But Could Everton have done btter?

Luis Suarez scored a stunning free-kick to put Liverpool ahead. But after watching the goal again, the wall was a huge issue. Tim Howard made a mistake with a well, as it was just to easy for Suarez to curl it round and creep in from the bottom corner.

PHIL DOWD: Should there have still been 22 players on the pitch after the first half?

Kevin Mirallas may have only Phil Dowd to thank after him still being on the pitch when the first half whistle blew. His rash challenge on Luis Suarez left the Uruguayian with big marks on his leg and was very dangerous. Yet Phil Dowd’s hesitation and taking too long just left him to only justify the yellow.

SIMON MIGNOLET: Incredible Goalkeeping Performance Kept Game in Sight

Simon Mignolet had a fantastic performance in between the sticks. The amount of saves he had to make was unreal, although conceding two late on. Had he not have been on top form, Everton may have dominated.

MAN OF THE MATCH: Romelu Lukaku

Lukaku’s chances came throughout the game. In spite of him missing out, he continued to work and deservedly scored the double. Simon Mignolet deserves recognition too after fantastic goalkeeping.

Everton Thwart Liverpool’s Chance to go Top

Liverpool were on course to go top, but Everton were defiant and kept them at bay. Outstanding.

GAME OF THE SEASON CANDIDATE? No Doubt!

Well, well, well. What a game. Props to both managers, and players. It did not come down to refereeing despite the numerous fouls. The highest scoring Merseyside Derby in over 80 years provided great entertainment. No doubt game of the season thus far.

THE FINAL SAY
Opinions on the game from the reporter

What a treat. An oustanding game of football to watch. It provided drama, plenty of goals, and everything you wanted from a derby. Both teams can be satisfied as they threw it all at each other. It comes down to the little things, even with these don’t give either team the win. A thriller of a draw.

The best game of the season to date, as Everton and Liverpool provided a derby for memory.

Set-pieces proved the difference in the game, as all goals came from them.

Goodison Park witnesses a superb game. Just like a derby should be, it was thrilling and dramatic.

Everton and Liverpool battle end-to-end in an extraordinary game. Goals, drama, tension, thrilling moments and speculation – it had it all. 

 By Nisar Khan – Read more articles from this author

Image Courtesy: PremierLeague.com, LiverpoolFC.com

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BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE: City Recuperate with Home Win Over Toffees

MANCHESTER CITY 3 – 1  EVERTON FC
Lukaku (’16), Negredo (’17), Aguero (’43), Howard OG (’70)

KICK-OFF: Saturday 5 October at 12:45pm (BST) 

(GAMEWEEK 7) at Etihad Stadium, Manchester.

By Nisar Khan

MANCHESTER – Manchester City answered the critics at the Etihad Stadium with a win in front of the home crowd as they ended Everton’s unbeaten run.

SEE ALSO: Complete Coverage of Champions League Matchday 2 

The visitors got things underway at the Etihad Stadium, and opened up Manchester City early. Joe Hart snatched the ball from Romelo Lukaku’s feet after Naismith played him in. City’s keeper had a point to prove and got off to the right start needed. Everton started very positively restricting the home side to minimal possession in the opening minutes. 

David Silva began to get  things going as the early moments settled in. Initially dispossessed by Distin, Silva’s next piece of possession fell to Yaya Toure outside the box but his shot was far from troubling Howard between the sticks. Manchester City looked a hint of vulnerability when Everton were back on the break but Lukaku was cut out by Vincent Kompany.

Back on the other side of the pitch, Kolarov found himself standing over a free-kick in decent territory. A sweet strike, but the cheers of the fans at the Etihad were quickly put to rest as it hit the side netting. Close though, great effort by the Serbian. 

On Form: Romelu Lukaku continued his scoring run with a goal at the Etihad (Image Courtesy: PremierLeague.com)

Everton looked better in the first ten minutes or so, managing to cut down Manchester City’s threats and be able to collate some attacks of their own. However, as the feeling-out process of the match moved away, Manchester City attacked – but still, looked vulnerable on with Everton on the break. 

Kolarov made a surging run but was unable to get the ball under control for the shot. Everton may have felt some injustice when they were not awarded a corner following a counter on the other side and Hart’s save, but the visitors would strike in the 16th minute…

Cancelling Out: Negredo scored the equalizer (Image Courtesy: PremierLeague.com)

Romelu Lukaku’s goalscoring run would continue with a delightful individual goal. Lukaku stole possession at fault from Kompany and Lescott. The Belgian slotted it under Joe Hart to score the goal – the keeper could have done much better.

GIF: Lukaku scores the opener

But the home side would strike back – very quickly.

In an almost parallel goal to Lukaku’s, Negredo picked up the ball of a pass from Toure and slotted in straight under Howard. Two minutes, two goals, complexion changed. Manchester City were back in it right away, and it developed into an end-to-end game. 

GIF:A frustrated Vincent Kompany sits down after picking up a thigh injury.

James Milner rattled the woodwork twenty-two minutes in, after his shot took a deflection. Manchester City continued to press (with Everton also holding their own) and a delightfully-orchestrated pass looked bound to be on goal, but Feranandinho quite frankly made a mess of it.

Vincent Kompany was forced off after picking up a knock. Nastastic replaced City’s captain, and Yaya Toure picked up the captaincy for the game.

Following in a hindrance in the action as the pace slowed down, a great ball from Negredo set up for Aguero to give Manchester City the lead, but he could not get a touch on it as he completely miss-stepped from the ball. Rarity.
Everton looked a danger on the break but nothing came from it, and so the game continued, with five minutes remaining of the first half.
And to cap off a frantic first half, Sergio Aguero would get back into his rhythm thumping the ball from an acute angle right pass Tim Howard. It happened after altercations between players, which were sanctioned after the goal. Regardless, a superb finish by Aguero.

GIF: Aguero scores City’s second

Indeed a hectic first half, but three great goals with Manchester City leading. Vincent Kompany  was substituted following an injury, but Manchester City had managed to turn the tables, setting up for a very exciting second half.


In the lead, Manchester City came out looking dangerous. Everton were keeping them at bay for the time being but City looked to extend their lead as the hour mark approached.

Another injury substitution for Manchester City, as Kolarov suffered a cut in the head after colliding with Fernandinho from a Naismith push. Clichy replaced him with thirty minutes remaining.

Manchester City looked to have sealed the deal when Seamus Coleman fouled Pablo Zabaleta in the box, resulting in a penalty. Aguero struck it to the right bottom corner, with Howard getting fingertips on it and ricocheting of him into goal.

GIF: Aguero’s penalty

Manchester City just played out the remainder of the time as Manchester City ‘s dominating first half came to a close. A strong game by Pelligrini’s side to emphatically bounce back from their defeat to Bayern. 

Everton’s unbeaten run comes to an end, critics are momentarily silenced as Manchester City are now second in the table. Pelligrini’s side look revitalized, but now consistency is the matter for the winning side.