Liverpool increased their lead to 12 points at the top of the Premier League by defeating Everton in another intense Merseyside derby, thanks to Diogo Jota’s goal.
Jota's goal, his first in the league since January, played a crucial role in securing a 1-0 win over Everton and maintaining distance from second-placed Arsenal.
The defeat snapped Everton manager David Moyes' nine-game unbeaten league run since taking charge in January and extended his winless record at Anfield to 22 visits.
However, the match was marred by controversy as Everton's James Tarkowski avoided a red card for a harsh challenge on Alexis Mac Allister early in the game.
Former Everton player Duncan Ferguson labeled the challenge as a "straight red all day," reflecting the severity of the incident.
Referee Sam Barrott, officiating his first match at Anfield and handling a Merseyside derby for the first time, seemed hesitant in making decisions during the game.
The tackle by Tarkowski in the 11th minute drew widespread criticism for its excessive force, with pundits and commentators unanimously condemning the challenge.
Despite receiving a yellow card, VAR did not intervene to upgrade it, as the Premier League later deemed the tackle as "reckless." Ferguson, a pundit for Sky Sports, expressed disbelief at the decision.
Liverpool's head coach Arne Slot, who was notably sent off during the previous encounter at Goodison Park due to similar incidents, managed to contain his frustration this time.
The tense atmosphere favored the visitors, who had the better chances in the first half, including a goal disallowed for offside and a shot hitting the post.
In the second half, Liverpool's breakthrough arrived in the 57th minute when Jota evaded defenders before scoring past Jordan Pickford.
There was a sense of justice as the goal came from an offside position that was negated when Tarkowski inadvertently deflected a pass to Jota.
The match saw another contentious moment late on, as a foul was given inside Liverpool's half following a collision involving the goalkeeper, Darwin Nunez, who received treatment on the pitch and was booked for unsporting behavior.
Despite not being a classic encounter, the victory was crucial for Liverpool after recent setbacks, moving them closer to their second title in five years.