The first Merseyside derby of the season between Everton and Liverpool ended in a 0-0 stalemate, with Jordan Pickford putting in a man of the match performance.
It was a much anticipated derby between the two local rivals but the match did not live up to the expectations, with no goals to show despite a combined 37 shots between the two sides.
Former Liverpool player Conor Coady thought he had won the game for Everton but his goal was cruelly chalked off after a lengthy VAR check, the Everton centre back was adjudged to be fractionally offside.
Jurgen Klopp welcomed back new summer signing Darwin Nunez after his three match suspension, the Uruguayan tried his best to get his side ahead but Toffees number one, Pickford, had other ideas.
The England international was in sublime form as he denied Liverpool on numerous occasions with some stunning goalkeeping.
Nunez was put in behind by a long ball, the Uruguayan latched onto the pass and volleyed towards goal, Pickford produced a stunning acrobatic save to tip the shot onto the bar.
Advert
In the second half, Klopp introduced Roberto Firmino as the Reds chased the go ahead goal, however, Pickford was in no mood to let anything pass him.
Firmino was expertly denied after a close range header, before later seeing his volley repelled by the Everton keeper.
The 28-year-old saved his best till last, Mohamed Salah, who was largely kept quiet all game arrowed a shot towards the near post, Pickford got down quick and vitally got his finger tips onto the ball to divert the shot onto the post, ensuring Everton’s hard earned point.
After his man of the match display, Pickford spoke about his performance.
He said on BT Sports: “I thought I had a good game today - I helped the lads and you need lots of leaders on the pitch and I think we've got that. We didn't get three points but we got a draw and we can keep building.
“They were good - Alisson made some wonderful saves as well but that's our job, to help the team when we're needed. It's my first clean sheet of the season and that's where we have to keep building and get better and better.”
He added: “Four draws but it's hard work and commitment - if we keep building and get stronger then we'll get the wins.”
Everton's search for their first win of the season continues, up next for Frank Lampard's side is a trip to face leaders Arsenal.
Topics: Everton, Liverpool, Jordan Pickford
Marcus Chan