Everton’s Cheeky Program Cover Nearly Backfires in Final Merseyside Derby

Everton’s bold choice for their matchday program cover came close to spectacularly backfiring in the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park. The Toffees’ decision to feature former player and current Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta on the cover was seen as a clear jab at title-chasing Liverpool.

The image showed Arteta celebrating a goal in Everton’s 2-0 victory over Liverpool in 2010. Many fans interpreted this as Everton throwing their support behind Arsenal in the Premier League title race against their local rivals.

Reactions on social media were mixed, with some praising the cheeky move while others called it “embarrassing.” However, the stunt nearly went horribly wrong as Liverpool took a 2-1 lead late in the match after goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Mohamed Salah had overturned Beto’s opener for Everton.

Just when it seemed Liverpool would leave Goodison Park with bragging rights for the final time, James Tarkowski struck in the 98th minute with a superb goal to rescue a 2-2 draw for Everton. The defender’s late equalizer sparked wild celebrations among the home fans, who poured onto the pitch to join the players.

The match was not without controversy, as Liverpool’s Curtis Jones and Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucoure were sent off after the final whistle, along with Reds manager Arne Slot. Despite the chaotic ending, Everton managed to avoid defeat in the last derby at their historic home ground before moving to a new stadium.

While Everton’s program cover gambit didn’t completely backfire, it serves as a reminder of the intense rivalry between these Merseyside clubs – one that will continue even after Goodison Park hosts its final derby.