Liverpool and Everton have been fined for their players’ involvement in a “mass confrontation” during the Merseyside derby.
The incident occurred in the 86th minute of the fixture that Liverpool won 2-0 earlier this month when Andrew Robertson continued to play after the referee had blown his whistle for a free kick. The Scot proceeded to kick the ball away prompting Everton goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford, to respond angrily and decided to take matters in to his own hands.
As a result, the players on the pitch began to argue and shove each other. Players and staff from both benches were involved on the touchline.
Everton have been fined £40,000 for their involvement in the conflict whilst Liverpool have received a lower punishment of £25,000. The fines handed to the clubs were decided by an independent regulatory commission during a hearing.
In a statement, The FA said: “Both clubs admitted that they failed to ensure their players and benches conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and refrained from provocative behaviour.”
Whilst no details have been released explaining why The Toffees have received a larger fine compared to their city rivals, The FA have said that the commission’s “written reasons will be published in due course.”
— FA Spokesperson (@FAspokesperson) February 22, 2023
It is hoped that these written reasons will be provided soon to provide clarity to Everton fans as to why their club have been a dealt a larger punishment.
Goals from Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo saw Liverpool win the derby, a result the Reds Liverpool up with an impressive 2-0 victory away at Newcastle as they revived hopes of a top four finish.
Everton bounced back from derby defeat to pick up three crucial points against relegation rivals, Leeds United. Seamus Coleman provided the finishing touch with a fantastic strike in a 1-0 win.
