What Michael Oliver said to Jordan Pickford just moments before Everton scored their equalizer against Liverpool.
Pickford Reveals What Michael Oliver Told Him Before Everton’s Dramatic Equalizer
Jordan Pickford has revealed that referee Michael Oliver extended injury time by two and a half minutes at Goodison Park just before James Tarkowski’s late equalizer secured a crucial point for Everton against Liverpool.
Everton had been trailing 2-1 after Alexis Mac Allister and Mohamed Salah overturned Beto’s early goal. However, in the 98th minute, Tarkowski capitalized on a ball into the box, smashing it home to level the game and ignite wild celebrations among the home fans.
Controversy and Liverpool’s Frustration
Liverpool manager Arne Slot was visibly frustrated with the added time and, along with his assistant Sipke Hulshoff, received a red card from Oliver after the final whistle due to his animated protests. However, Pickford insisted that the referee had followed protocol, clarifying that no extra time was unfairly played.
Pickford’s Exchange with the Referee
Speaking to TNT Sports, Pickford explained that a collision between teammates Jarrad Branthwaite and Carlos Alcaraz led to additional injury time. He recalled asking Oliver how much time was left, to which the referee responded:
“97 and a half minutes.”
Tarkowski’s equalizer came at 97:26, reinforcing Pickford’s point that the game did not go beyond the allotted time. “It wasn’t that he played overtime,” he emphasized, giving credit to his teammates for their resilience in pushing until the final whistle.
A Hard-Fought Point for Everton
Reflecting on the match, Pickford expressed pride in the team’s performance.
“It was a massive result for the fans and for us,” he said. “We didn’t give up and kept fighting for the full 97 minutes. The lads put in some great performances, and I think we deserved the point in the end.”
He also acknowledged the intensity of the derby, stating that while tensions ran high, the match showcased quality football as well. “That edge in a derby is crucial. We know how much it means to the fans, and I think we definitely earned our point tonight.”
Looking Ahead to Anfield
Pickford recognized the significance of securing a draw in Everton’s final Goodison Park derby before Liverpool relocates next season. “If they had won 2-1 tonight, it would have stuck with us and the fans for a long time,” he admitted. “But getting that last-minute equalizer was huge, and it keeps us moving in the right direction on the league table.”
However, he remained focused on the challenges ahead, noting that Everton must stay grounded and continue picking up points, especially with a trip to Anfield looming in a few weeks. “We have to take the positives, stay focused, and keep pushing up the table.”
