In a season filled with struggles, Liverpool produced a moment their fans will never forget, as Virgil van Dijk’s 100th-minute winner secured a dramatic victory over Everton in the first Merseyside derby at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The late header sparked wild celebrations among the 3,000 travelling Liverpool supporters, marking yet another injury-time triumph over their rivals - the sixth of its kind in Premier League history.
After Everton’s stoppage-time heroics in the final Goodison Park derby last season, this time it was Liverpool who claimed the bragging rights in a match that will be etched into derby folklore.
Liverpool weathered early pressure before taking a surprise lead through Mohamed Salah, whose clinical finish once again underlined his importance.
The decisive moment came from a set-piece, with Dominik Szoboszlai’s corner expertly met by Van Dijk, exploiting a known Everton weakness.
The victory could prove crucial in Liverpool’s push for Champions League qualification, with Arne Slot’s side now in a strong position heading into the final stretch of the season.
Despite the result, questions remain about Liverpool’s overall performances.
They have struggled for consistency, and concerns persist around their defensive stability, tactical identity, and future without Salah.
Still, on a day like this, none of that mattered.
Salah’s goal was his ninth in a Premier League Merseyside derby - matching Steven Gerrard’s record - and his 257th for the club, further cementing his legacy.
Van Dijk praised his teammate, saying: “He’s so important for us, on and off the pitch."
"We’ve been through everything together - highs and lows. He still has a big role to play in these final games.”
With a healthy cushion over their nearest challengers, Liverpool look set to secure a top-four finish.
For Slot, that may represent a respectable outcome in a challenging campaign - and a platform to build from next season.
It may not have been a great season overall, but for Liverpool fans, this was a perfect day - one that will live long in the memory.
