Everton has delayed the title celebration of Liverpool in a pulsating encounter that ended goalless at the Goodison Park.

The Toffees were the closest to winning the fair that would have been their first Merseyside derby victory in more than a decade. This result means that the Reds can secure their first Premier League title in 30 years on Wednesday at Anfield when they welcome Crytal Palace, provided Manchester City, that is second fail to beat Burnley at Etihad Stadium on Monday.

As they shared the points at Goodison Park, Liverpool now needs five points to be sure of the top spot. Although they dominated possession as expected, Everton was well-organized.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s flick would have resulted in a goal, but all thanks to Alison for a superb save. Tom Davies also struck the rebound against the post. The Brazilian keeper also stopped his fellow countryman, Richarlison, who was largely tamed during the game, played behind closed doors after he coronavirus-enforced break.

Everton keeper Jordan Pickford was also busy in the closing moment. The English number one made a save from Fabinho’s free-kick. The game shows two rusty sides.

Star player, Mohamed Salah was only fit enough to make the bench while left-back Andy Robertson was also absent due to injury.

In a match where Liverpool created a lot of opportunities but struggled to test Pickford seriously, Naby Keita was energetic before he was substituted. Jurgen Klopp now has hamstring injury sustained by James Milner to think about alongside Joel Matip’s, who also limped off. The Reds might not worry about the latter as Joe Gomez is already an ideal replacement.

The stalemate means the celebratory champagne of Liverpool may be on the ice a little longer, but it is only a matter of time. The Anfield side is expected to return to the peak of the domestic game by clinching that long-awaited title.

How Ancelotti stopped Liverpool

Carlo Ancelotti, who took over from Marco Silva at Goodison after a 5-2 derby capitulation at Anfield in December, set up a disciplined starting eleven. It could be said that the long break had given the Italian tactician, who had already made a good start at the club before the season was halted, to impart his methods. He seemed well pleased with what he saw in the game. It is expected that he feels disappointed his side did not win.

One of the outstanding players was Captain Seamus Coleman, while young defender Mason Holgate, showed good leadership by ditching out instructions in the backline around Goodison Park.

With two dangerous forwards in Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison at his disposal, Ancelotti might be building a formidable attacking line alongside teenager Anthony Gordon.

With the forward line seemed sorted, all Ancelotti will be looking to add is more strength and physical presence in central midfield.