Everton were held to a draw by Liverpool in a feisty Women’s Super League Merseyside derby at a raucous Goodison Park.
Watched by a club record crowd of 22,161 fans, the match was the first women’s derby to be played at the men’s stadium.
Everton captain Gabby George opened the scoring in the 27th minute, floating in what looked like a cross from close to the byeline, but curling it out of reach of keeper Rachael Laws.
Liverpool levelled when Taylor Hinds’ low shot ricocheted off Katie Stengel, but the forward managed to get the ball under control, turn and shoot low to the left and just out of reach of goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan.
A thrilling second half saw a goal apiece chalked off as Leighanne Robe’s effort for the Reds was denied by what looked like an innocuous challenge by Ceri Holland on Brosnan.
Jess Park then curled a stunning shot into the top corner for Everton, but it was ruled out for a handball in the build-up.
But despite some superb efforts from both sides, neither could find the winner to give their expectant fans bragging rights.
Liverpool manager Matt Beard told Sky Sports his side “should have won the game”, adding: “I’ve just seen the disallowed goal and can’t believe it, it’s crazy.
“I thought we created numerous chances, we just lacked composure in the final third. We frustrated Everton, but they put their bodies on the line. Courtney Brosnan was their best player by a country mile.”
Sixth-placed Everton are now without a win in four games, while a point for Liverpool puts them eight points clear of the relegation place.