Five Wins, Still Flawed: Reds Grind Out Derby Victory
Five wins out of five. On paper, Liverpool look unstoppable. In reality, they’re still searching for their top gear. Their Merseyside derby victory over Everton was solid, not spectacular, as they clung on late to protect a 2–1 result at Anfield.
Fast start from the Reds
The first half was all about Liverpool’s energy and sharpness. Ryan Gravenberch broke the deadlock inside ten minutes, smashing home a clever Mohamed Salah delivery with style. Soon after, Hugo Ekitiké doubled the advantage with a calm finish, rewarding the Dutchman’s vision and creativity.
At 2–0, it looked like the Reds might cruise. Everton had other ideas.
Everton fight back
David Moyes’ side started cautiously, sitting deep and trying to absorb pressure. But once Idrissa Gueye struck a thunderous goal after half-time, the momentum shifted. Suddenly, Liverpool’s backline was under stress. Jack Grealish kept tormenting Conor Bradley, while Iliman Ndiaye’s direct running opened gaps.
The Toffees sensed opportunity and threw everything forward, yet couldn’t find that equaliser. Alisson was beaten once, but not again.
Gravenberch running the show
Liverpool’s midfield clicked into rhythm with Gravenberch dictating play. Alongside Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, he showed why this trio could be one of the league’s most balanced engines. His passing, strength, and timing controlled the tempo—even while Everton pushed hard for a second goal.
For the visitors, Beto battled bravely and Grealish looked dangerous, but clear chances were wasted. Against Liverpool, those misses matter.
New faces, same questions
Coach Arne Slot introduced Alexander Isak for his Premier League debut, hoping fresh legs would kill the tension. Instead, nerves grew around Anfield. Cheap fouls, misplaced passes, and anxious defending gave Everton belief.
Still, the Reds held out. It wasn’t smooth. It wasn’t pretty. But it was three points.
What it means
Liverpool may not yet look like a flawless machine, but results matter. Five games, five wins. Clinical finishing—two goals from just three shots on target—shows efficiency even when performances lack sparkle.
Everton, meanwhile, left Anfield frustrated. They attacked bravely in the second half, Grealish shone, Gueye scored a rocket, and the midfield looked promising. But without a true No 9 to finish chances, victories will remain elusive.
The bigger picture
For Liverpool, the story is about patience. The squad has seen changes this summer and players are still adjusting. Chemistry takes time, but the quality is obvious. Once the pieces click, the ceiling looks frighteningly high.
For Everton, there are positives. Their wide players are lively, their midfield is growing in confidence, and performances show progress. This was another defeat at Anfield for Moyes, but also a reminder that his side can compete with the best for long spells.Final verdict: Liverpool’s perfect record stays alive, but their perfect performance still lies ahead.
