Match Summary
Everton U21s and Liverpool U21s played to a 1-1 draw at Goodison Park on 1 February 2025, with both sides earning a red card. Liverpool took the lead through Will Wright in the 13th minute, before Jack Patterson equalised four minutes later. The score remained level until the closing stages, when tempers boiled over.
Red Cards and Brawl
Liverpool goalkeeper Harvey Davies was the first to be dismissed, after hauling down Everton substitute Justin Clarke as he raced out of his area. With Liverpool having already used their substitutes, defender Mor Talla Ndiaye had to fill in between the posts for the rest of the match. In the 89th minute, Everton’s Braiden Graham reacted furiously to a dangerous challenge from Liverpool midfielder Joe Upton, sparking a mass brawl that involved players from both sides. Graham was shown a red card for his immediate reaction, leaving both teams to finish the match with ten players on the field.
Aftermath
The incident added to the frustration that had built throughout the ill-tempered contest, including a controversial goal that was ruled out shortly before the flashpoint. The chaotic scenes echoed the senior Merseyside derby fracas earlier in the season, underscoring that the fierce rivalry between Everton and Liverpool extends to the academy level. The first Merseyside derby of the Premier League season will be hosted by Everton on 26 November.
