Few really expected Everton to taste victory in last night’s Merseyside derby, but there was a quiet confidence that a result could be attained.
After all, Liverpool’s recent form, which has seen them dumped out of the FA Cup and the Europa League, showcased that they were far from invincible.
Meanwhile, two wins from their last three detailed Sean Dyche’s team as on the up, despite their 6-0 mauling at Chelsea.
To bounce back from such a tough result showcases the immense character within their dressing room, and they have earned their rewards with a historic win.
However, from all those garnering praise, Jarrad Branthwaite is unsurprisingly top of the pile.
Jurgen Klopp left worried about Jarrad Branthwaite
Speaking in his post-match press conference, relayed by Liverpool’s official website, Jurgen Klopp cut a deflated figure, having just lost his final Merseyside derby before his summer departure.
Rumours regarding a burnout from football were all but confirmed in his various media appearances after such a devastating loss, as wherever he went and whoever he talked to, his desolation was painfully evident.
Evertonians likely lapped that misery up.
One interview with talkSPORT’s Sam Matterface even had a particularly downbeat moment, as Klopp let out an almighty sigh before claiming he had nothing good to say about the match.
However, in this other interview, he revealed how the fierce combination of two Everton players actually led him to opt against making a substation, as he noted: ‘I know we had Dannsy [Jayden Danns] on the bench, but we didn’t know we had to bring him in [to the squad] because of the two situations – with Diogo [Jota] we only learned two days ago [about his injury] and with Cody [Gakpo] actually today really.
‘So, that’s now not a game for an 18-year-old boy and [James] Tarkowski and Branthwaite kill you in these situations and it doesn’t help.’
Jarrad Branthwaite was Everton’s hero vs Liverpool
At this point, it is more surprising when Branthwaite has a bad game than a good one, such is his immeasurable consistency.
When he was thrown into the first team at the start of this season, few could have expected him to flourish as easily as he has done.
Albeit, a fine loan spell with PSV Eindhoven had hinted at his quality, but the manner in which he has translated it into the Premier League is stunning.
And arguably, last night marked the apex of his performances so far, as a defensive rock alongside James Tarkowski who also notched the crucial opening goal.
His solidity is exemplified through his remarkable defensive figures, as not only did he squeeze a left-footed striker under Alisson to get the Toffees on their way, but he also posted eight clearances, four blocks and one tackle whilst winning 75% of his total duels, via Sofascore.
He was Everton’s hero last night, but these kinds of performances are becoming frighteningly commonplace for the 21-year-old titan.