We take a look at Wednesday’s epic Merseyside Derby clash between Everton and Liverpool, one last time at Goodison Park. With the Toffees looking to show far more resolve under David Moyes, can the boys in blue make it two in a row against the Reds? Here are our thoughts, along with a suggested bet for you to consider.
Let’s begin with the outright markets for the title race. With a 6-point lead at the top of the standings and a game in hand going into Wednesday’s clash, Liverpool remain clear favourites at 1/4, with Arsenal following at 7/2. Both Manchester City and Nottingham Forest are priced at a staggering 100/1, with the rest of the field priced at 110/1 or higher.
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EVERTON v LIVERPOOL – Click here to bet
THE HOSTS
Everton will be looking to cause an upset when they host Liverpool one last time in the Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park on Wednesday. This eagerly anticipated fixture, originally scheduled for last December, was postponed due to safety concerns from adverse weather conditions caused by Storm Darragh. Now, almost two months later, the Toffees and the Reds will finally face off in what promises to be an emotional encounter.
Everton, currently in 16th place with 26 points from 23 matches, have shown remarkable signs of resurgence under newly appointed manager David Moyes. Since his return to the club in early January, the Toffees have secured three victories from their last five matches in all competitions, accumulating nine points from a possible 12 in just four league games under the Scotsman. This marks a sharp improvement compared to the three wins from 19 games under Sean Dyche, which had placed the club dangerously close to the relegation zone. Although Everton enter Wednesday’s clash on the back of a 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth in the fourth round of the FA Cup over the weekend, ending their three-match winning streak, this week’s derby was always likely to command their full attention. Having steadied the ship in the league, Everton are now nine points clear of the drop zone—an impressive turnaround given their precarious position just a month ago.
THE REDS
On the other hand, Liverpool are enjoying an excellent season, currently sitting atop the Premier League with 56 points from 23 matches. Despite a shock 1-0 defeat to Plymouth Argyle in the FA Cup last weekend, their league form remains exceptional. With a chance to extend their lead over Arsenal to nine points, Liverpool will be focused on maintaining their impressive 19 game unbeaten streak in the EPL this week as they close in on their twentieth League title. Manager Arne Slot has his side firing on all cylinders, and with a League Cup final to look forward to against Newcastle United in March, as well as a round-of-16 spot secured in the Champions League, it is clear that the former Feyenoord coach has made a significant impact since replacing Jürgen Klopp.
With this being the final-ever derby at Goodison Park, knowing that next season will mark the start of new ventures for Everton in their newly revamped Bramley Moore Dock stadium, there is no doubt that the Toffees will be extra motivated to make this a memorable occasion. With an impressive record of 71 unbeaten encounters out of 105 league matches in this fixture (W35, D36, L34), perhaps Moyes’ men can send the Goodison crowd off with a win, adding another historic chapter to this storied rivalry.
Liverpool, however, will be determined to spoil the home crowd’s party. While their record away to Everton isn’t as impressive, with only two wins in their last 12 visits (W2, D9, L1), their current form and aspirations of securing the title certainly place them in good stead heading into this massive derby occasion, one last time at Goodison Park.
Top of Form
Bottom of Form
Head-to-Head
Liverpool have had the upper hand in recent meetings, winning 3 of their last 5 league encounters with Everton (all at Anfield), while securing just one point from a possible six in their last two visits to Goodison Park. Last season, Liverpool secured a 2-0 win in the reverse encounter, while Everton returned the favour with the same scoreline in this fixture.
Betting
Everton 6/1
Draw 4/1
Liverpool 4/9
Verdict
Given the weight of this particular fixture, along with Everton’s incredible transformation in the league, I’m not convinced we will see many goals in this meeting. Truth be told, it wouldn’t surprise me if this ended in a draw—a result both teams would likely be content with in the end. That said, I do have a particular preference that has appeared in all of their last five meetings, with just 8 goals scored during that period. Under 2.5 goals appears to be the way to go, especially at very favourable odds.
Suggested Bet: Totals, Under 2.5 at 12/10
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Note: All prices correct at the time of writing but are subject to change
