Liverpool F.C. vs Everton F.C. Timeline – The Merseyside Derby Through the Decades

Introduction

Few football rivalries in the world carry the depth of history, emotion, and local identity quite like the Merseyside Derby—the clash between Liverpool F.C. and Everton F.C. These two proud clubs from the city of Liverpool have been facing off since the 19th century, creating one of the most fiercely contested fixtures in English football.

This rivalry is unique. Unlike other derbies where hostility dominates, the Merseyside Derby has often been dubbed the “friendly derby”, largely due to the family connections between supporters on either side. Yet, once the whistle blows, it’s war on the pitch.

In this timeline article, we explore the evolution of the Liverpool vs Everton rivalry, significant matches, club milestones, and the impact these fixtures have had on football history.

Historical Overview – A City Divided by Loyalty

The two clubs are located less than one mile apart, separated by Stanley Park. Yet, their paths in football have often been remarkably different, with Liverpool enjoying greater global success and Everton holding a longer domestic heritage.

Timeline of the Rivalry – Key Decades and Events

1892–1930: The Split and First Meetings

• 1892 – Everton left Anfield after a dispute, leading to the formation of Liverpool F.C. by John Houlding.

• 1894 – The first Merseyside Derby was played. Everton won 3–0 at Goodison Park.

• 1900s–1920s – Both clubs established themselves in England’s top tier. The rivalry grew in local stature.

1930–1960: Post-War Football and Local Dominance

• 1932 – Everton thrashed Liverpool 5–1 at Anfield.

• 1939–1945 – During WWII, both clubs shared stadium duties and collaborated for charity matches.

• 1950 – Everton were relegated, marking a downturn in the rivalry's frequency for a few years.

1960–1980: The Golden Years of Local Football

• 1962 – Everton returned to the First Division.

• 1965 – A fierce 2–2 draw in front of 65,000 fans at Goodison Park.

• 1970s – Liverpool emerged as a European powerhouse, while Everton remained strong domestically.

• 1974–1980 – Liverpool won 4 league titles and 2 European Cups, widening the performance gap.

Classic Derby Moments

Here are some of the most iconic matches in Merseyside Derby history:

1. 1984 League Cup Final (Replay)
   ???? Liverpool 1–0 Everton at Maine Road.
   The only major final contested between the two clubs. Souness scored the winner.

2. 1985 Charity Shield
   ???? Liverpool 2–1 Everton.
   A heated season opener that set the tone for a dramatic season.

3. 1986 FA Cup Final
   ???? Liverpool 3–1 Everton at Wembley.
   The only all-Merseyside FA Cup final. Liverpool completed a league and cup double.

4. 1991: Gary Ablett’s Transfer
   Ablett became the only player to win FA Cups with both clubs, switching from red to blue.

5. 2000: Kevin Campbell's Winner at Anfield
   Ended a long winless run for Everton away at their rival's ground.

6. 2012 FA Cup Semi-final
   ???? Liverpool 2–1 Everton at Wembley.
   A late winner by Andy Carroll broke Evertonian hearts.

7. 2021: Everton win 2–0 at Anfield
   Their first win at Anfield since 1999, ending a 22-year drought.

Modern Era (2000–Present)

Liverpool’s Resurgence

Under managers like Rafa Benítez, Jürgen Klopp, and backed by world-class players like Steven Gerrard, Mohamed Salah, and Virgil van Dijk, Liverpool has enjoyed an era of global dominance.

• 2019 – Champions League winners

• 2020 – First Premier League title in 30 years

Everton’s Rebuild and Ambitions

Everton has undergone several rebuilding phases, especially with the arrival of managers like Carlo Ancelotti, Frank Lampard, and now Sean Dyche. The club aims to return to consistent European competition.

• New Stadium – The upcoming Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium will mark a new era for the Toffees.

Head-to-Head Statistics (As of 2025)

Memorable Players on Both Sides

Liverpool F.C.

• Steven Gerrard – Local legend and derby destroyer

• Robbie Fowler – Scored several key goals vs Everton

• Jamie Carragher – Raised in a blue household, became a red legend

• Mohamed Salah – Scored multiple times in recent derbies

Everton F.C.

• Dixie Dean – Scored in multiple derbies in the 1920s–30s

• Graeme Sharp – One of the top scorers in Merseyside Derby history

• Tim Cahill – Always a threat from midfield

• Leighton Baines – Noted for consistency and set-pieces

Derby Records

Most Wins: Liverpool

1. Top Goalscorer: Ian Rush (Liverpool) – 25 goals vs Everton

2. Most Appearances: Neville Southall (Everton) – 41 appearances

3. Biggest Win: Liverpool 6–0 Everton (1935)

4. Most Red Cards: Merseyside Derby holds the record for most red cards in Premier League history (20+)

Off-the-Pitch Impact

• Shared Tragedy: Both clubs stood united during the Hillsborough Disaster, with Everton fans offering immense support.

• Community Work: Both clubs run numerous community initiatives in Merseyside, often collaborating on charitable causes.

• Cultural Identity: The derby shapes Liverpool’s cultural and social narrative, dividing families and uniting neighborhoods with pride.

Conclusion

The timeline of Liverpool F.C. vs Everton F.C. is not just a record of goals and games—it's a story of passion, pride, and legacy. With every passing decade, the Merseyside Derby evolves, reflecting changes in the game, the city, and its people.

Whether you’re a Red or a Blue, this rivalry is the heartbeat of Liverpool football. It’s about more than just silverware—it’s about identity, belonging, and 90 minutes of unforgettable drama.

As both teams prepare to enter a new era with evolving squads and stadium projects, one thing is certain—the Merseyside Derby will continue to be one of the most emotionally charged and historically rich rivalries in world football.