Everton were well worth a draw in the Merseyside derby.
David Moyes’ side actually looked like they could win it towards the end, but they were dealt a sucker punch by Virgil van Dijk in the 100th minute.
It ended in a 2-1 defeat for Everton, who still remain only a point adrift of sixth place heading into the final five games of the season.
What went wrong there for Everton? 😫
Heartbreak for the Blues in the derby
Beto of Everton leaves the pitch due to a injury during the Premier League match between Everton and Liverpool at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Speaking to the media after the game, Jake O’Brien explained why the Toffees let themselves down in the derby.
Everton vs Liverpool.
Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images
Jake O’Brien slams poor Everton defending
O’Brien, speaking to Sky Sports, admitted that Everton were the better side, but their poor defending in crucial moments let them down.
“Lost for words really, I thought we played well for the majority of the game and had the better chances,” the Republic of Ireland international stated.
“Then let ourselves down with a poor goal at the end. It’s not a result that reflects the game, I don’t think.”
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What could Moyes have done differently to avoid that late goal? 🫣
David Moyes, Manager of Everton, looks on prior to the Premier League match between Everton and Liverpool at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Credit: Getty Images/Liverpool FC
“Coming into a game like this is huge. Moments in a game can go for or against you but we stayed in it. Moments can be capitalised on and they scored a goal at the end that was really poor.
“I think we played well and the atmosphere was really good. It was a small moment that let us down, I think we were the better team on the day.”
O’Brien was then asked about Everton’s European hopes and he rightly pointed out that the table is so tight.
“There are still a few games to go and we’re right in it. The table is very tight.”
The Toffees are only one point behind Chelsea in sixth place, so they could still qualify for the Europa League.
A big final five games lie ahead for the Merseysiders, who are away at West Ham United next weekend.
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