The Merseyside Derby kicks off at Anfield on Sunday. It will be the last one for Liverpool defender and legend Jamie Carragher. This will be Carragher’s 30th derby over his Liverpool career. The Merseyside Derby is one of those matches that rarely disappoints. Expect this one to be no different.
With the loss of Luis Suarez for the rest of the year, Brendan Rodgers will again have Daniel Sturridge, Philippe Coutinho and Fabio Borini to unleash on the Everton defence. Sturridge scored twice while Borini netted once in the complete dismantling of Newcastle this past weekend.
If the last derby is any indication, then this one should be full of drama and excitement. In October’s match at Goodison Park, Liverpool jumped out to a two goal lead off a Leighton Baines o.g. and a Suarez header. Not to be out done, Everton countered with a Leon Osman 18 yard strike two minutes later and at the 35 minute mark, Steven Naismith completed the comeback. Everton dominated the second half but could not finish Liverpool off.
Everton are currently 5 points clear of Liverpool and still chasing a Europa League berth and still has a slim chance at a Champions League spot. If Everton are able to get past Liverpool then this will be the second season in a row that Everton has surpassed Liverpool in the standings.
There is much at stake in this 220th Merseyside Derby. Liverpool would love to catch and overtake Everton. Everton has their eyes set on Europe and must get past Liverpool for their chance. Carragher would love to go out a winner in his last derby and of course both groups of Supporters would love to have bragging rights.
Source: DSG
