Everton and Liverpool could face financial sanctions following the brawl between their players at the end of the Merseyside derby, according to Keith Hackett.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that it’s “unlikely” the clubs will receive sporting punishments, with financial penalties being more probable instead.
The dramatic Merseyside derby on Wednesday night (12 February) marked the final match between the two sides at Goodison Park. After Everton controversially took the lead through Beto, Liverpool responded with goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Mo Salah to lead. However, James Tarkowski’s equalizer deep in second-half stoppage time secured a dramatic draw for the Toffees, leading to further controversy after the final whistle.
**Everton vs Liverpool Descends Into Chaos**
At full-time, Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucoure celebrated in front of the Liverpool fans, prompting a furious response from Curtis Jones, which escalated into a brawl between players and officials from both sides. Both Doucoure and Jones were sent off for their involvement in the melee, along with manager Arne Slot and his assistant. Additionally, a bottle thrown from the crowd during the altercation is likely to be investigated by the police.
**Keith Hackett Discusses Potential Points Deduction**
Speaking to Football Insider about whether the brawl could lead to points deductions for either club, Hackett stated, “The authorities operating today prefer to sanction these incidents through monetary fines. UEFA often imposes fines and, in some cases, bans spectators from attending the next game.”
Hackett pointed out that the confrontation began when Everton’s Doucoure celebrated provocatively in front of Liverpool fans, which led to Jones reacting angrily. This sparked the mass confrontation, with some spectators also becoming involved. Hackett noted that both The Football Association and the police will conduct thorough investigations, with the bottle-throwing incident also on the agenda.
Reflecting on his involvement in the infamous 1990 brawl between Man United and Arsenal, Hackett added, “I always smile when I think about my role in that Old Trafford confrontation.”
