Merseyside Derby

Lore & Background

The rivalry originated from a dispute between Everton and John Houlding, the owner of Anfield. Everton were founded in 1878 and played at Anfield from 1884. Political and financial disagreements led Everton to vacate Anfield in 1892 and move to Goodison Park. Houlding then created Liverpool Football Club to use Anfield. The derby was traditionally called the 'friendly derby' due to many families supporting both clubs, and fan segregation was not total. Since the mid-1980s, the rivalry has intensified, and the derby has seen more red cards than any other Premier League game. In the 2010s, Liverpool dominated, but it has become more competitive in recent years.

In Their Own Story

The rain falls heavily on Anfield, blurring the floodlights into streaks of white against the dark Merseyside sky. Thousands of fans in red and blue chant in unison, a deafening roar that shakes the terraces. For a Tottenham supporter watching from afar, the scene is a reminder of the deep roots football holds across England. The whistle blows, and two local giants collide, their history written in every tackle and pass on the wet grass.

Reader's Guide

The first official Merseyside derby was on 13 October 1894. Key early history includes Everton's founding in 1878 and Liverpool's formation in 1892 after the split. Notable matches include the 1984 League Cup final (nicknamed the 'friendly final'), the 1986 FA Cup final (won by Liverpool to complete the double), and the 1989 FA Cup final (won 3–2 by Liverpool after extra time). The 1984–85 season began with a Charity Shield win for Everton. The 1985–86 season saw Liverpool win both league and FA Cup. The 1986–87 season was the last time Everton overshadowed Liverpool until 2005.

Did You Know?

• The first official Merseyside derby was played on 13 October 1894.
• The derby has been played continuously since the 1962–63 season.
• The 1984 Football League Cup final was nicknamed the 'friendly final' because sections of the ground were mixed and fans chanted 'Merseyside'.
• Since the creation of the Premier League, the Merseyside derby has seen more red cards than any other game.