Liverpool Beats Everton 2-1 for Perfect Start: Rivals on Edge?
Last season's Premier League champions continued their perfect start with a 2-1 win over Everton in the Merseyside derby, although the match was challenging.
Liverpool took the lead with first-half goals from Ryan Gravenberch and Hugo Ekitike. Everton fought back in the second half, scoring through Idrissa Gueye in the 58th minute but couldn't find an equalizer.
Liverpool has won all five Premier League matches and also started their Champions League campaign with a win, posing a strong challenge to their competitors. Everton's comeback from 2-0 down might raise concerns for Liverpool's manager Arne Slot and other title contenders.
Despite the early lead, Liverpool had to work hard to secure the victory as Everton improved in the second half. Gravenberch's quick goal and assist for Ekitike showcased his growing importance in the team.
David Moyes, Everton's manager, has yet to win a game at Anfield in his 23 visits with various teams. Despite the loss, Moyes found positives in Everton's second-half performance.
Ekitike's impressive start at Liverpool, with three goals in five games, raises questions about his role once Alexander Isak returns from injury. Liverpool's attacking options are plentiful, with both strikers performing well.
Liverpool's midfield trio of Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, and Gravenberch played a crucial role in the match, ensuring control in the first half. However, Everton's improved performance in the second half exposed some weaknesses in Liverpool's play.
The match highlighted Liverpool's need to maintain control throughout the game, especially against stronger opponents. The head coach acknowledged the challenges of a congested schedule impacting the team's performance.
Everton's manager admitted his team's slow start cost them the game and emphasized the need to create more chances for the strikers. Despite the defeat, he praised the team's effort in the second half.
Upcoming matches for Everton include facing Southampton and Wolves in the Carabao Cup third round on Tuesday, September 23.