Liverpool’s Premier League title hopes suffered a setback as the Toffees secure derby victory

Liverpool’s hopes of clinching the Premier League title took a severe blow as they suffered a 2-0 defeat to their city rivals Everton in a thrilling Merseyside derby.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s header secured the victory for the Toffees, marking their first win in a derby at Goodison Park since 2010, following Jarrad Branthwaite’s opening goal.

Despite a strong effort from Luis Diaz, who hit the post, Liverpool managed just one win in their last four top-flight matches under Jurgen Klopp’s helm. The loss leaves the Reds trailing league leaders Arsenal by three points with four games remaining, while Everton moved eight points clear of the relegation zone.

Everton asserted dominance in the early stages, initially appearing to earn a penalty when Alisson brought down Calvert-Lewin, but VAR overturned the decision due to an offside infringement.

The Toffees continued to threaten, notably from free-kicks, and capitalized on slack defending to take the lead through Branthwaite’s strike in the 26th minute. Despite Liverpool’s resurgence and several chances created, including saves by Jordan Pickford, they failed to convert.

Calvert-Lewin extended Everton’s lead with another header from a corner, condemning Liverpool to defeat. Although Diaz came close to pulling one back, striking the post, and Mohamed Salah squandered a late opportunity.L Everton secured a crucial result, impacting both ends of the league table.