Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has expressed frustration over referee Michael Oliver’s handling of Wednesday’s high-intensity Merseyside derby, which ended in a dramatic 2-2 draw at Goodison Park.
The match took a chaotic turn after full-time, with Oliver issuing four red cards in the aftermath of a heated confrontation.
Late Drama and Controversial Decisions
Everton’s James Tarkowski sent the home crowd into a frenzy with a stunning stoppage-time volley, seemingly securing a last-gasp victory. However, tensions escalated when Abdoulaye Doucouré’s interaction with the away fans triggered a mass brawl.
Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones confronted Doucouré, leading to both benches getting involved. Security personnel and police officers intervened to defuse the situation, but not before Oliver brandished red cards to Jones and Doucouré.
Moments later, Liverpool manager Arne Slot and his assistant Sipke Hulshoff were also sent off for protesting the referee’s decisions.
Also Check: Arne Slot Calls Premier League “The Most Difficult League to Win” Ahead of Merseyside Derby
Van Dijk: “The Referee Lost Control”
Speaking to TNT Sports post-match, Van Dijk didn’t hold back in his assessment of Oliver’s officiating.
“Obviously, you saw how they celebrated the goal, and they have every right to,” Van Dijk said.
“But I think Doucouré was trying to provoke our fans, and Curtis stepped in because he felt that wasn’t right. You know what happens in moments like that—things escalate quickly.”
The Dutch defender criticized Oliver’s inability to manage the escalating tensions.
“In my opinion, the referee didn’t have control over the game. Both teams had to deal with it, but it’s frustrating. We just need to move on.”
Moyes Reflects on an Emotional Night
Everton boss David Moyes acknowledged the intensity of the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park but avoided commenting on the post-match scuffle.
“It was right up there. The way it ended, maybe the night was meant for something like this,” Moyes told TNT Sports. “It wasn’t the cleanest or best game, but it felt like an old-school derby—scrappy and hard-fought.”
Recognizing Liverpool’s quality, Moyes credited his team’s approach:
“Liverpool are an incredibly talented side, and they’ve proven it in the league this year. We had to find a way to close that gap tonight, and I think we did a good job.”
Slot Unable to Address Media After Red Card
Slot’s late dismissal prevented him from attending his post-match press conference, leaving Liverpool fans eager to hear his take on the chaotic conclusion.
With emotions running high and controversy surrounding the officiating, this fiery Merseyside derby will be remembered as one of the most dramatic in recent history.
