Liverpool Grind Out Merseyside Derby Victory Amid Van Dijk Decline Questions and Title Charge

Merseyside Derby Delivers Drama as Liverpool Edge Closer to Title

Liverpool restored their 12-point lead at the Premier League summit with a gritty 1-0 victory over Everton at Anfield. While far from their vintage best, Arne Slot's side showed the resilience of champions to bounce back from consecutive cup defeats.

Key Moments:

• Diogo Jota broke his 10-game goal drought with a clinical second-half winner
• Everton's James Tarkowski escaped red card for dangerous challenge on Alexis Mac Allister
• VAR controversy sparked by referee's decision not to upgrade yellow card to red
• Virgil van Dijk showed rare defensive vulnerabilities against Everton's Beto

Jota Ends Drought at Crucial Moment

The Portuguese forward chose the perfect time to rediscover his scoring touch, delivering the match-winner with a composed finish in front of the Kop. His relief was palpable after struggling for form during Liverpool's recent cup exits.

"That's why we keep faith in him," said Slot post-match. "Great strikers deliver when it matters."

VAR Under Spotlight Again

Everton defender Tarkowski sparked outrage with a reckless 11th-minute challenge that saw his studs connect forcefully with Mac Allister's thigh. Despite clear replays showing the danger, VAR official Paul Tierney controversially upheld the on-field yellow card decision.

Van Dijk's Concerning Performance

The Liverpool captain, normally a defensive rock, showed rare signs of vulnerability:

1. Failed to deal with Beto in buildup to disallowed goal
2. Completely missed interception leading to dangerous Everton break
3. Shown up physically by Everton's forward multiple times

With contract negotiations ongoing, these lapses come at a sensitive time for the 33-year-old.

Title Charge Marches On

Despite the unconvincing display, Liverpool's victory puts them within 13 points of securing their 20th league title. The Reds have now gone 26 league matches unbeaten this season.

What's Next:

• Liverpool face tricky away trip to West Ham (April 6)
• Everton continue relegation scrap at home to Burnley (April 7)
• Decision expected soon on Van Dijk contract extension

The victory keeps Liverpool firmly on course for glory, but questions remain about their aging defense heading into a crucial summer transfer window.