Why Four Reds? Premier League Breaks Down Merseyside Derby Drama

EPL issued an official statement after the Everton versus Liverpool match ended with four red cards. The chaos erupted after the final whistle in a game that finished in a 2-2 draw on Wednesday, 12th Feb.

The table toppers had taken a 2-1 lead when Mohamed Salah scored in the 73rd minute. However, James Tarkowski equalized in the 98th minute, securing a point for Everton in their final derby at Goodison Park.

Trouble started when Curtis Jones and Abdoulaye Doucoure clashed after Doucoure celebrated Everton’s equalizer in front of Liverpool fans. 39-year-old Referee Michael Oliver immediately showed both players a second yellow card, resulting in their dismissals. EPL explained its decision in an official statement on its Match Centre account on Social Media via X platform.

"The referee issued a second yellow card and a red card to Curtis Jones and Abdoulaye Doucoure after a dispute following the final whistle. Arne Slot and his assistant, Sipke Hulshoff, also received direct red cards after the match," the statement read.

The league also clarified the VAR check on James Tarkowski’s goal in the 98th minute. Officials reviewed whether Doucoure was offside before the goal but, after three minutes of analysis, allowed the goal to stand. This incident could lead to additional sanctions for both Liverpool and Everton. If neither club successfully appeals, Slot will serve a one-match touchline ban.

Jones and Doucoure will also miss the next match due to their two yellow cards. However, if the FA finds Slot guilty of misconduct, he could face a suspension of up to three matches. Now, Liverpool must prepare for their next match without their manager on the sidelines, while Everton will play without Doucoure.