Liverpool Derby Explained: Rivals, Matches, Legacy

Liverpool's rivalry with Everton is one of the best in English football. It's often called one of the friendliest rivalries in the world, and that's because of the warm and welcoming nature of the Merseyside people. Even though the competition between the two clubs is intense, there's always a sense of respect between the fans and the players.

The Merseyside Derby has its roots in 1892 when Everton moved from Anfield to Goodison Park. Since then, these two teams have shared the city and a deep rivalry built on pride. 

This article will explore the origins of this rivalry, the memorable matches they’ve played over the years, and the legacy it holds for both clubs and the city of Liverpool.

How Did the Liverpool Derby Start?

The rivalry between Liverpool and Everton is as old as the clubs themselves. It all started back in 1892, when Everton, originally based at Anfield, decided to move to a new ground, Goodison Park. This decision came after a fallout with Liverpool FC, who took over Anfield and continued to rise in prominence. From that moment on, the two clubs became rivals with a shared history that would span over a century.

And if you ask many folks from the region, they’ll tell you that the Merseyside Derby is more than just football. It’s about pride, which is why, despite the huge contrast between the clubs in terms of success, this derby commands a lot of global attention, especially from those who understand the rich culture of English football.

At first, Everton dominated the local scene. The Toffees had a strong hold on the city until Liverpool FC came into the picture and started to dominate. Liverpool's rise in the 1960s and 70s, with legendary players like Bill Shankly, brought a new level of intensity to the rivalry. Everton, despite their own successes, found themselves trying to prove they could hold their own against the red half of the city.

The geography of Liverpool only adds to the uniqueness of the derby. Goodison Park and Anfield are located just a short distance apart, meaning fans of both clubs walk the same streets, share similar experiences, and often belong to the same families. This makes the rivalry personal, but also more friendly in nature compared to other derbies in the football world. While the fans are passionate, the shared sense of belonging to the same city means that, even in defeat, there is a mutual understanding that goes beyond the pitch.

Memorable Matches and Key Moments

The Merseyside Derby has given us some of the most memorable moments in English football. These games, full of drama, passion, and surprising twists, have shaped the rivalry between Liverpool and Everton over the years. Here’s a look at some of the standout matches that have defined the derby.

4-4 Draw, 1991

The 1991 Merseyside Derby remains one of the most thrilling games in the history of the rivalry. A 4-4 draw at Goodison Park, full of twists, turns, and unforgettable moments, captured everything that makes this derby so special. Liverpool went into the match as the more dominant team, but Everton was determined to make a statement on their home turf.

The game started with Liverpool taking an early lead, but Everton quickly responded. The match was a rollercoaster ride, with both teams exchanging goals in rapid succession. At one point, Liverpool led 2-0, only for Everton to storm back and level things at 2-2. Just when it seemed like Liverpool had regained control, Everton equalized once again to make it 4-4.

Liverpool’s 5-0 Victory Over Everton, 1982

Liverpool delivered one of the most dominant performances in derby history with a 5-0 victory over Everton at Anfield in 1982. The match was a statement win for Liverpool, showcasing their power and their place at the top of English football. Everton, despite their own successes, were completely outclassed that day.

From the first whistle, Liverpool asserted their dominance. Ian Rush and Kenny Dalglish led the charge, with Rush scoring two goals in the first half to set the tone. By the time the final whistle blew, the scoreline read 5-0, with goals from Phil Neal and Craig Johnston sealing the deal. Everton had no answer to Liverpool's fast, clinical football.

2020’s 2-2 Draw

In 2020, the Merseyside Derby once again captured the world’s attention with a dramatic 2-2 draw at Goodison Park. This match was significant not just because of the late drama, but also because it came during a time when Liverpool was dominating English football, chasing a long-awaited Premier League title. Everton, however, was determined to prove that it was still a force to be reckoned with.

Liverpool took an early lead, but Everton responded with equal vigour. The first half was a tense affair, with both teams playing with the high intensity expected of a derby. Just when it seemed like Liverpool would walk away with all three points, Everton found their equalizer in the final minutes. The game ended 2-2, a result that left both teams feeling like they had earned something, though the derby always leaves a bit of disappointment when you don’t win.

What made this draw so special was the timing. Liverpool was at the top of the league, and this match felt like an important step in their journey to the title. For Everton, it was a sign that despite the dominance of their neighbours, they were still capable of competing in one of the most emotionally charged matches of the season.

Liverpool’s Other Major Rivalries

Liverpool-Manchester United

The Liverpool-Manchester United rivalry is one of the biggest in English football. It’s always a battle for bragging rights and legacy. The two clubs have been at the heart of English football for more than a century, and they always carry the significance of the rivalry into every meeting.

If you ask fans of both clubs, they’ll tell you the rivalry is way beyond titles. For decades, these two cities have been locked in a battle for influence. Liverpool’s rise was basically tied to its status as a lively port city, making it the heart of global trade during the Industrial Revolution. On the other hand, Manchester built its name through textiles and, later, football.

Liverpool ruled the 1970s and 1980s, dominating both in England and Europe. Players like Kenny Dalglish and Ian Rush made sure no one could forget the Reds. But just as Liverpool were untouchable, Manchester United rose to power under Sir Alex Ferguson, who took over in 1986. The Scot reshaped United into a powerful force, leading the club to 13 Premier League titles, two Champions Leagues, and many other domestic trophies.

But Liverpool wasn’t going to lie down. Despite the success of United, the Reds always kept pushing for greatness. The club’s six Champions League titles and 20 league titles meant they remained a constant force, even when United pulled ahead in the Premier League count. The Reds leveled with Manchester United last season when they won their 20th league title under Arne Slot, who took over from Jurgen Klopp. This rivalry continues to shape English football despite United’s disappearance into a background role since Ferguson retired in 2013.

Liverpool-Manchester City

Although there’s no traditional rivalry between these two, games between Liverpool and Manchester City have become more intense in recent years, especially in the Guardiola-Klopp era. Their meetings have brought fans some of the most thrilling games and arguably one of the tightest title races in Premier League history.

For example, City and Liverpool went toe-to-toe for the Premier League title, and despite amassing a club-record 97 points that season, Liverpool finished one point below a high-flying City side to miss out on the league title.

In the 2019/20 season, Liverpool claimed their first league title in 30 years, and while City wasn’t quite able to keep up, the 4-0 thumping Liverpool handed them at Anfield showed the gap had closed. These games, with their relentless pace, set-piece drama, and late winners, have cemented this rivalry as one of the best the Premier League has ever seen.

How to Get Merseyside Derby Tickets

Official Channels

The best and most secure way to buy tickets is through the official club websites. Both Liverpool and Everton offer ticket sales directly to their fans, ensuring you get an authentic experience. Liverpool’s official site provides members with priority access to tickets for high-demand games, including the Merseyside derby. Similarly, Everton’s site offers tickets to its fanbase, with options for season tickets and matchday tickets for the derby.

Third-Party Platforms

For those who may miss out on tickets through the club channels, third-party platforms like Visitfootball offer an excellent alternative. Visitfootball provides a range of packages, including tickets for the Merseyside derby, often bundled with travel and accommodation for a complete matchday experience. Other platforms, such as SeatPicks and Ticketmaster, also list tickets for these high-demand fixtures, giving fans a chance to secure their spot at the match, though prices may vary based on availability and demand.

Conclusion

The Liverpool vs Everton derby is one of the most exciting fixtures in football, drawing fans from all over the world. If you're looking to secure a spot for this intense match, there are a few options.

The official club websites are always the most reliable, with both Liverpool and Everton offering tickets to their members. For Liverpool, securing a ticket often means becoming a member to access priority sales, while Everton has similar offerings for its fans.

If you miss out on the official channels, third-party platforms like Visitfootball provide another avenue. These sites often offer not only tickets but complete matchday packages, including travel and accommodation. Websites like SeatPicks and Ticketmaster also feature tickets for the derby, though prices can fluctuate depending on demand.

With tickets being highly sought after, it’s crucial to act fast. Whether you’re a Liverpool or Everton supporter, the derby is an unforgettable experience that’s worth the effort to secure a spot.