Everton and Liverpool’s first Merseyside derby of the year ended in a scoreless draw, with Jordan Pickford earning man of the match honours.
Although there were a total of 37 shots between the two teams, the much-anticipated local derby between the two teams fell short of expectations.
Conor Coady, a former Liverpool player, thought he had given Everton the victory, but his goal was cruelly disallowed after a protracted VAR review, which determined that the Everton centre back was marginally offside.
The England international was in top form as he repeatedly stopped Liverpool with some incredible goalkeeping.
Nunez’s volleyed shot toward the goal was stopped by a stunning acrobatic save from Pickford. Pickford was in no mood to let anything pass him.
Additionally, Firmino had a close-range header expertly blocked before the Everton goalkeeper stopped his follow-up volley.
The 28-year-old saved his best for last when Mohamed Salah, who had been mostly kept in check throughout the contest, arrowed a shot towards the near post. Pickford reacted quickly and crucially got his finger tips on the ball to divert the shot onto the post, securing Everton’s fought-for point.
Pickford discussed his performance after winning man of the match for his performance.
He said on BT Sports: “I thought I had a good game today – I helped the lads and you need lots of leaders on the pitch and I think we’ve got that. We didn’t get three points but we got a draw and we can keep building.
“They were good – Alisson made some wonderful saves as well but that’s our job, to help the team when we’re needed. It’s my first clean sheet of the season and that’s where we have to keep building and get better and better.”
He added: “Four draws but it’s hard work and commitment – if we keep building and get stronger then we’ll get the wins.”
Everton’s search for their first win of the season continues, up next for Frank Lampard’s side is a trip to face leaders Arsenal.
