In a moment of pure Merseyside magic, Liverpool's midfield dynamo Marie Hobinger etched her name into derby folklore with a spectacular late winner that sent Anfield into raptures. The Austrian international's breathtaking 89th-minute strike secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over rivals Everton in a Women's Super League encounter that lived up to its historic billing.
Derby Day Drama Unfolds at Anfield
The match had been locked at 1-1 after an own goal from Liverpool's Jenna Clark had cancelled out Ceri Holland's first-half opener, setting the stage for a grandstand finish. As the clock ticked towards full time, Hobinger collected possession 25 yards from goal and unleashed an unstoppable drive that arrowed into the top corner, leaving Everton goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan utterly helpless.
The goal sparked wild celebrations among the 7,227-strong crowd, Liverpool's second-highest home attendance this season, who witnessed a contest brimming with intensity and quality.
Post-Match Reactions Speak Volumes
Liverpool manager Matt Beard couldn't hide his delight, telling reporters: "What a finish, what a moment. Marie has that quality in her locker and to produce it in such a high-pressure situation shows her incredible character."
Beard particularly praised his team's resilience after the setback of Clark's own goal: "The character we showed after their equaliser was exceptional. We controlled large periods and deserved the three points."
A visibly emotional Hobinger described the moment as "something you dream about as a little girl," adding: "To score the winner in a derby at Anfield is indescribable. The noise when the ball hit the net was incredible."
Table Implications and Looking Ahead
The victory propels Liverpool to 10 points from their opening five matches, maintaining their strong start to the WSL campaign. For Everton, managed by former Liverpool captain Sophie Román Haug, the defeat represents another setback in their challenging start to the season.
Haug acknowledged her team's effort but lamented: "We showed great spirit to get back into the game, but we need to learn to see these matches out. Hobinger's quality decided it today."
This thrilling encounter demonstrates the growing stature and quality of women's football in England, with derby day at Anfield providing another iconic moment that will live long in the memory of all who witnessed it.
