The Dutch defender expressed his frustrations in a post-match interview, questioning the officiating and accusing Oliver of losing control of the match. ..Continue Reading
Speaking to TNT Sports after the game, Van Dijk also took a sarcastic jab at Everton, suggesting that the Toffees treat the Merseyside derby as the most important fixture of their season.
“We all know this is their cup final. They will make it as difficult as possible for us.”
The Liverpool captain also criticized the added stoppage time, questioning how James Tarkowski’s 98th-minute equalizer was allowed when only five minutes of stoppage time were initially announced.
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Michael Oliver’s officiating was a major talking point, as several decisions seemed to favor the home side.
Everton’s early goal came after a questionable free-kick, awarded despite apparent minimal contact between the players. Liverpool’s defense was caught off guard as Beto converted the quickly-taken set-piece to put Everton ahead in the 11th minute.
Liverpool responded swiftly, with Alexis Mac Allister heading in a Mohamed Salah cross just four minutes later to level the score. Salah then gave the Reds the lead in the second half with a superb first-time finish.
However, controversy struck late in the game when James Tarkowski’s 98th-minute goal secured a point for Everton—three minutes beyond the allocated stoppage time. There appeared to be a foul on Konate in the build-up, and the goal was briefly checked by VAR before being allowed.
Liverpool hurried to restart, launching a long ball forward, but Michael Oliver blew the full-time whistle immediately.
The final whistle sparked chaos as Everton midfielder Abdoulaye Doucouré seemed to taunt Liverpool supporters, provoking a furious reaction from Curtis Jones.
A heated brawl erupted between the players, forcing Michael Oliver to issue red cards to both Doucouré and Jones, as well as to Liverpool manager Arne Slot.
The draw means Liverpool now hold a seven-point lead over second-placed Arsenal, though a win would have given them a commanding nine-point advantage.
Liverpool will be without Curtis Jones for the next match, and manager Arne Slot will also be absent from the sidelines.
There could be further problems for Liverpool if the FA decides to punish Van Dijk for his comments in the post-match interview regarding Michael Oliver’s officiating. Whether his remarks will be sanctioned remains to be seen.
