“This is their Cup final,” Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk throws shade on Everton following chaotic 2-2 draw in the Premier League

Liverpool skipper Virgil van Dijk aimed a hilarious jibe at Everton, following the Merseyside derby which ended in a frustrating 2-2 draw.

“This is their Cup final,” Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk throws shade on Everton following chaotic 2-2 draw in the Premier League

Liverpool skipper Virgil van Dijk aimed a dig at Everton, claiming that they played it like a 'Cup final'. (via Super Sport)

Liverpool skipper Virgil van Dijk took a cheeky dig at Everton, following the Merseyside derby, which ended in a 2-2 draw for the two sides. The Dutchman also aimed his dig at Everton midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure, over a scuffle that occurred after the full-time whistle.

The Reds went into the Merseyside derby hoping to make a comeback, following their shock FA Cup exit at the hands of Plymouth Argyle. However, they suffered an early blow, as Beto opened the scoring for the home side in the 11th minute. Alexis Mac Allister equalized soon after. Mohamed Salah scored Liverpool’s 2nd goal in the 76th minute, and it seemed to be the winner.

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However, the Toffees bounced back with a brilliant 98th minute goal from defender James Tarkowski. A lengthy VAR check ensured that the goal was not offside. The visitors were left irked, as three extra minutes had been played after the 95th minute. After the full-time whistle, players from both the sides clashed on the pitch, with Curtis Jones and Abdoulaye Doucoure later being sent-off.

Speaking to reporters after the match, Liverpool skipper Virgil van Dijk expressed his frustration. He took a dig at their Merseyside rivals by stating that it was their biggest match of the season, and that they treated it like a final match. Van Dijk went on to claim that Doucoure intended to provoke the visiting fans, while defending Curtis Jones’ role in the scuffle.

We all know this is their cup final and they will do everything in their power to try and win against us. This year, you see them scoring at the end and it’s obviously a big boost for them but it’s a blow for us.

Virgil van Dijk on Liverpool vs. Everton (H/T Eurosport)

Nonetheless, in spite of the draw, the Reds still remain in the pole position on the EPL table, seven ahead of second-placed Arsenal. Meanwhile, the late goal for Everton made it four league games in a row without defeat for David Moyes‘ side.

Virgil van Dijk claims referee Michael Oliver ‘lost control’ of the Merseyside derby

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk slammed referee Michael Oliver‘s role in the club’s 2-2 draw against Everton, saying that he ‘lost control’ of the game. The Reds lost the chance to go nine points clear on top of the EPL table.

Virgil van Dijk on Michael Oliver's role
Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk claimed that refree Michael Oliver ‘lost control’ of the club’s match against Everton. (via Reuters)

This is also not the first time that EPL referee Michael Oliver has been called out for his poor officiating. Speaking after the match, Virgil van Dijk stated that the officiating was inconsistent, and added that the referee allowed certain challenges against Liverpool players. Van Dijk also claimed that Oliver did not have control over the match, as well as the post-match scenario.

I think the ref didn’t have the game under control in my opinion… Both teams have to deal with it. It is what it is. We just need to move on.

Virgil van Dijk on referee Michael Oliver (H/T ESPN)

Liverpool will be back into action this weekend, when they take on Wolverhampton in the EPL. Arne Slot’s side has endured a tough time this month, having won just two out of its last five matches in all competitions.