Liverpool Women 0-1 Everton Women – Over 23,000 turn up for derby disappointment at Anfield

Liverpool FC Women were once again on the wrong end of the all-important Merseyside derby, as they were narrowly beaten 1-0 by rivals Everton on Sunday. 

More than 23,000 supporters took their seats at Anfield to watch the Reds take on Everton at Anfield in the much-anticipated Women's Super League clash.

However, despite the impressive home support, Matt Beard's side ultimately fell to their first league defeat of the season, leaving them in fifth position in the WSL table – but just one point off the top in what has been a very close and competitive start to the season.

Liverpool thought they had taken the lead early on in the game when Missy Bo Kearns netted, only for her goal to be ruled out for a tight offside. Prior to the Toffees' match-winning goal from Megan Finnigan, Liverpool's Ceri Holland saw a shot bounce down off the underside of the bar before being cleared.

After a strong start to the 2023/24 season, the Reds' defeat to Everton marks the third consecutive Merseyside derby at Anfield where they have failed to even get on the scoresheet.

The last time Liverpool Women earned a victory against Everton Women was all the way back in 2019. While the weekend's clash could have been the chance for revenge, it was ultimately a squandered opportunity with the added sting of having to see the visiting fans celebrate on the Kop – where they were, somewhat strangely, seated.

Despite the result, the attendance was the day's big positive.

A confirmed 23,088 supporters came to Anfield for the occasion – a total not far short of the home crowd of 27,574 in the same fixture in September of last year.

Liverpool Women are becoming accustomed to playing in front of big audiences, having stunned Arsenal with a 1-0 win in front of a WSL record attendance (54,1115) at the Emirates on the opening day of this season.

Beard's side next challenge will come on Sunday against West Ham Women, and supporters will be hoping to see the Reds get back to winning ways against the Hammers and make a big statement to the rest of the WSL that Liverpool will be in a title race come the end of the season.

While the women's Merseyside derby didn't quite go to plan, fans don't have long to wait for the men's equivalent, with Jurgen Klopp eager to get his squad back from the international break and ready to take on Everton at Anfield this Saturday.