Unprecedented Moment: Liverpool Fans Defy Tradition by Booing Jordan Pickford in the Merseyside Derby
Liverpool fans made a significant departure from tradition during the recent Merseyside derby, with their actions creating a buzz both on and off the pitch.
In a thrilling match that saw Mohamed Salah shine with two late goals, Liverpool managed to secure a 2-0 victory over their city rivals, Everton. The Toffees were already at a disadvantage as Ashley Young received his marching orders in the first half, having accumulated two yellow cards.
The match remained deadlocked until the 74th minute when Mohamed Salah expertly converted a penalty, and he wasn’t finished yet. In stoppage time, the Egyptian superstar netted his second, securing a vital win for the Reds.
However, what set this particular Merseyside derby apart was the behavior of the Liverpool faithful. In an unprecedented move, the Anfield crowd decided to break a long-standing tradition by booing Everton’s goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford, as he prepared to defend his goal.
Anfield has earned a reputation for its sportsmanship, especially when it comes to opposing goalkeepers. The Kop, Liverpool’s iconic stand, has historically greeted visiting keepers with applause and cheers. This tradition dates back to the 1960s when the legendary Bill Shankly was at the helm.
Statistician Dave Ball shared an intriguing anecdote about this tradition in 2020, recalling an encounter with Gordon Banks, the renowned goalkeeper. When Banks played for Leicester City against Liverpool shortly after England’s World Cup triumph in 1966, Shankly sent him out early to soak in the cheers from the Kop. However, when Banks returned to face Liverpool, the Kop erupted in wild applause, marking a remarkable shift in the crowd’s behavior.
Yet, Jordan Pickford, the current English national team’s No.1, did not experience a similar reception. The reason behind this deviation from tradition was Pickford’s failure to acknowledge the Kop. In the past, this tradition was a sign of mutual respect between the fans and the visiting team’s goalkeeper. However, the Everton shot-stopper’s refusal to partake in this ritual turned the cheers into boos and jeers.
This reaction might not come as a surprise to those familiar with Pickford’s history with Liverpool. The local rivalry and the intense emotions it stirs among the fans have created a unique atmosphere for these derbies. Liverpool supporters remember previous incidents involving Pickford, and this may have contributed to their less-than-welcoming response.
In a derby known for its tradition and the passion it evokes, Liverpool fans broke from the norm by vocalizing their displeasure with Pickford. This unique episode added an intriguing layer to the already intense rivalry between the two Merseyside clubs.