Everton 1 Liverpool 1: Simon Mignolet stands out, Emre Can pettiness spoils Merseyside derby

ANALYSIS: A look at the star man, view from the bench and biggest moan 

Sunday 04 October 2015 15:54 BST
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Danny Ings scores the opening goal
Danny Ings scores the opening goal (GETTY IMAGES)

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STAR MAN

Simon Mignolet. The goalkeeper has had his critics since moving to Liverpool, but he pulled off two fine saves to deny Steven Naismith and James McCarthy.

MOMENT OF THE MATCH

Romelu Lukaku's equaliser. The Belgian had bullied the Liverpool defence all afternoon and deserved his equaliser. The goal highlighted Liverpool's defensive deficiencies as much as the striker's excellent predatory instincts. Emre Can panicked, booting the ball at Mamadou Sakho after Lukaku's first effort and the former Chelsea man did not miss at the second time of asking.

Romelu Lukaku celebrates his goal against Liverpool
Romelu Lukaku celebrates his goal against Liverpool

VIEW FROM THE BENCH

With John Stones and Seamus Coleman out injured, Roberto Martinez had little option but to field a youthful defence. Ramiro Funes Mori, Tyias Browning and Brendan Galloway did not disappoint on their first Merseyside derby starts. Keeping Philippe Coutinho and Daniel Sturridge quiet is no mean feat. Liverpool desperately missed the physical presence of Christian Benteke up front. Brendan Rodgers' decision to play three at the back proved a wise one as Romelu Lukaku proved to be a big threat up front and the Reds regularly had to double up on the big Belgian.

MOAN OF THE MATCH

Emre Can's 33rd-minute clash with Ross Barkley. With this being the worst-disciplined match in the Premier League, there was always going to be the potential for trouble. This scuffle was not caused by a late tackle or contentious decision, however - just the pettiness of Emre Can. The German failed to hand the ball to Ross Barkley and the pair squared up before pushing each other. Brendon Galloway, James Milner and Mamadou Sakho got involved too. The flow of a fantastic game was interrupted and Martin Atkinson booked both players.

Emre Can squares up to Ross Barkley
Emre Can squares up to Ross Barkley (GETTY IMAGES)

WHO'S UP NEXT?

Everton v Manchester United (Premier League, October 17)

Tottenham v Liverpool (Premier League, October 17)

PA

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