Liverpool manager's stoppage time reaction speaks volumes as Merseyside derby curse continues

In the 90th minute at Goodison Park, Liverpool boss Matt Beard turned to his bench with his hands on his head.

His team had just lost the ball on the halfway line but, fortunately for the Reds, Everton's attack petered out without incident. In many ways, the moment was the perfect encapsulation of what was largely the a hugely underwhelming afternoon in L4.

The Liverpool fans who had ventured behind enemy lines for the clash had set their stall out early on at the home of their city rivals. Less than a minute into the Women's Super League (WSL) Merseyside derby, the lively pocket of away supporters in the Lower Bullens erupted into a chorus of 'You'll Never Walk Alone', desperate to inspire their side to an elusive league victory over Brian Sorensen's side.

Everton takeover - Who is responsible for club's fate as 777 decision nears

Four players could soften transfer blow as Everton brace for summer battle

Everton have won three of the last four meetings between the two teams in the top flight and, despite the form book - and the league table - suggesting Liverpool were firm favourites going in to this weekend's clash, history dictates that things rarely go to plan for the Reds when they face off with their Blue neighbours.

"This is a game like no other: form completely goes out the window, so regardless of whether they’re on a poor run and we’re on a good run, it’s whoever can handle the atmosphere and the pressure on the day of the Merseyside Derby," Beard said ahead of the game. "It’s a different kind of pressure…the pressure is on them on Sunday when it comes down to playing at Goodison, and we can go out and enjoy ourselves.”

Perhaps the Reds boss could be accused of engaging in some mind games by putting the onus