Chaos Unfolds in Final Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park
The last-ever Merseyside derby at Goodison Park between Everton and Liverpool was nothing short of dramatic. The match saw four goals, with James Tarkowski’s 98th-minute volley sparking wild celebrations in the Gwladys Street End, and a post-match brawl that resulted in four red cards. The 2-2 draw was a chaotic spectacle from start to finish.
One of the biggest talking points after the game was Liverpool manager Arne Slot’s dismissal following a heated exchange with referee Michael Oliver. While his initial reaction seemed relatively mild, newly released footage sheds more light on the altercation that led to his suspension.
Slot was one of four figures sent off after full-time, along with assistant manager Sipke Hulshoff, Curtis Jones, and Abdoulaye Doucoure. Hulshoff received his red card for furiously protesting Tarkowski’s goal, which had undergone an extensive VAR review for offside and a possible foul. Doucoure was dismissed after provoking Liverpool fans post-match, while Jones saw a second yellow for initiating the scuffle.
Why Arne Slot Was Sent Off
The Dutchman confronted the referee after the final whistle
TNT Sports footage initially captured only the latter part of Slot’s exchange with Oliver, in which he appeared to shake the official’s hand in a sarcastic and aggressive manner—an act believed to have triggered the red card. However, new footage has now surfaced, providing a clearer view of the incident.
While the exact words exchanged remain unknown, reports from The Daily Mail and Goal suggest Slot’s suspension was a result of his conduct during the handshake.
Premier League Backtracks on Slot’s Suspension Length
Uncertainty remains over how many games he will miss
According to The Sun, a Premier League statement initially confirmed that Slot had used “offensive, insulting, or abusive language” and would serve a two-match ban. This meant both he and Hulshoff would miss Liverpool’s home game against Wolves and the trip to Aston Villa on February 19.
However, the Premier League later deleted the statement, causing confusion over the actual length of Slot’s suspension. Typically, a red card for a manager results in a one-match ban, but the final decision is still pending. The Athletic’s James Pearce reported that the Premier League’s statement was an error, as they are still reviewing the referee’s report.
In Slot’s absence, assistant coach John Heitinga—who made 140 appearances for Everton during his playing career—is expected to take charge. With 14 games left in the season, Liverpool hold a seven-point lead over Arsenal, but Wednesday’s heated encounter has reignited the title race.
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