On Sunday, Everton’s Women’s Super League (WSL) team earned their first victory of the season with a 1-0 win over Liverpool at Goodison Park.
Katja Snoeijs’ penalty secured the historic triumph in what will be the final women’s Merseyside derby played at the iconic stadium before the team relocates to Bramley-Moore Dock next season. A banner hanging from the stands declared Everton’s motto, “Nil Satis Nisi Optimum” (“Nothing But The Best Is Good Enough”), an ethos Sorensen’s side seemed to embody despite a turbulent start to the campaign.
The match, however, was overshadowed by controversy. Replays revealed that the foul leading to Snoeijs’ converted penalty occurred outside the 18-yard box, yet the decision stood due to the absence of VAR in the WSL.
Liverpool manager Matt Beard expressed his frustration, citing the incident as another example of poor officiating, an ongoing issue that has plagued the league and reignited calls for VAR’s introduction. Beard’s frustrations echoed past grievances, including disallowed goals in previous derbies.
Everton’s manager Brian Sorensen celebrated the result, viewing it as a deserved reward for his team’s perseverance amid injuries and financial constraints. While Everton’s win offers hope for a turnaround, Liverpool’s lingering frustrations highlight the need for improved officiating standards in women’s football.
With debates about VAR gaining momentum, the WSL faces critical decisions about the league’s technological and officiating future.
