Merseyside Derby: Liverpool Edge Everton 2-1 To Maintain Perfect Premier League Start

Liverpool extended their flawless start to the Premier League season with a 2-1 victory over Everton in the Merseyside Derby at Anfield on Saturday.

The defending champions came out strong, taking control of the game in the first half. Ryan Gravenberch opened the scoring in the ninth minute with a half-volley from Mohamed Salah’s cross. Shortly after, Hugo Ekitike doubled the lead, sliding the ball through goalkeeper Jordan Pickford’s legs for his third goal in five games since joining from Eintracht Frankfurt.

Despite Liverpool’s dominance, Everton responded in the second half. On-loan forward Jack Grealish was influential for the Toffees, creating several chances, including a cross that eventually led to Idrissa Gana Gueye’s goal just before the hour mark, pulling one back for the visitors.

Manager Arne Slot rested high-profile signings Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak on the bench, but the Reds still showed balance with Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Gravenberch controlling midfield. However, fatigue seemed to catch up with Liverpool, who had only 60 hours of rest since their Champions League win over Atletico Madrid.

The closing stages saw Everton push for an equaliser, but Liverpool held firm to secure all three points, maintaining a six-point lead at the top of the table and extending their unbeaten Anfield run against Everton in the 21st century.

For Everton boss David Moyes, the result marked an unwanted milestone his 23rd failed attempt to win at Anfield, the longest winless run by any Premier League manager at a single stadium.

The victory keeps Liverpool’s title defence on track, with five wins from their opening five matches.