Everton player ratings vs Liverpool: Richarlison shines, Jordan Pickford impenetrable

Ben Godfrey and Michael Keane produced a defensive masterclass in central defence.

Defence:

Mason Holgate – 8

Mason Holgate played in the right back position as Coleman was deployed further forward. The 24 year old had to negotiate the blistering pace of Sadio Mane which he managed to do throughout the game. Holgate effectively used his pace and body to shield the ball from the opponents and played a fairly intelligent game.

Michae Keane – 9

Michale Keane was resilient throughout the game. The Englishman was outstanding, making crunch tackles and valuable blocks. He anticipated Liverpool attacks and movements of Roberto Firmino, Mane exceptionally well and covered his tracks. The centre back produced a classic text book performance, one that can possibly be shown as a lesson to young centre backs. In total, Keane made six ball recoveries, the highest in the match.

Ben Godfrey – 9

In the first half, Ben Godfrey looked faultless, mopping up loose balls and not leaving Mohamed Salah unatteded. He countinously burned his pace and covered a good amount of ground. The former Nowich City man showed a perfect mix of aggression and acceleration throughout the game. For a moment, it didn’t look like he’s a boy from York but a local lad that has been bred on the blue half of Merseyside and is living every moment of this intense tie.

Lucas Digne – 8

The teamsheet suggested that Digne would play in an advanced role but the Frenchman was glued to the left back position and instead Seamus Coleman played slightly higher up the pitch. The 27 year old whipped in a vicious cross that found Coleman’s head but was brilliantly saved by Alisson. Digne looked sharp in the first half and even contained Salah well.

Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold got more notorious in the second half but Digne coped superbly. The former Barcelona man didn’t leave any lose ends on the pitch and made sure that his area is well guarded.