Virgil van Dijk scored a dramatic late winner on his debut as Liverpool clinched a 2-1 victory over Everton in a heated Merseyside derby FA Cup tie at Anfield.

Liverpool had led 1-0 at the break after James Milner converted from the penalty spot but Everton looked to have secured a replay when Gylfi Sigurdsson equalised midway through the second half.

Here, we focus on Yannick Bolaise’s performance.

 

 

BASIC STATS

Minutes – 90

Goals – 0

Assists – 0

Shots – 0

Dribbles – 4

Passes – 26

Key passes – 0

Pass Accuracy – 69.2%

Touches – 50

EFFECTIVENESS

One of the key influences in the Everton attack, Bolaise was the only player to provide the Toffees with some attacking spark in the first half.

The 28-year-old’s battle with Andrew Robertson was one of the most intriguing in a dour opening 45 minutes – with the Congo international coming out on top with his direct runs, strong pace and clinical decision making.

Although his teammates were unable to breach the Reds defence in the opening period, Bolasie was at the heart of the equaliser after the break as he skipped down the left, slipped a ball across to Phil Jagielka who fed Gylfi Sigurdsson to score.

The attacker does need to work on his fitness – as he was gassed out after his contribution to the goal – which resulted in Robertson gaining the upper hand in their battle.

KEY MOMENTS

5th min: Collects possession down the right and races into the Liverpool penalty area. He initially gets past Virgil van Dijk but the ball runs ahead of him and out for a goal-kick.

11th min: Bolasie heads the ball into the path of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and quickly takes the ball back. With space in front of him, the 28-year-old attempts to cross the ball into the box but it’s saved by Loris Karius.

67th min: Skips down the left and sends a glorious pass across to Jagielka. The defender turns back and passes to Sigurdsson, who side-foots the ball into the bottom right corner of the net from outside the box.

OUR VERDICT

He didn’t receive great service in the first half but showed signs of his class whenever he got the ball at his feet.

Overall, good signs from the Congo international who looks a sterling presence in the Toffees attack – possessing pace, skill and a strong eye for taking the right option.

8/10

All statistics are compiled using whoscored.com