Ryan Gravenberch stars as Liverpool triumph in the Merseyside derby

Liverpool defeated local rivals Everton 2-1 at Anfield to extend their perfect run of the season, making it five wins from five.

The Reds have made a habit of winning late this campaign, but they got off to a quick start as Ryan Gravenberch put the champions ahead just 11 minutes into the game from an inviting Mohammed Salah cross.

In the 27th minute, Everton could have drawn level as Jack Grealish showed his creative prowess, setting Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall on goal, but the Englishman lashed the ball well off target.

Liverpool punished the Toffees a minute later when Gravenberch turned the provider this time, finding Hugo Ekitike with a wonderful pass, who calmly slotted the ball into the bottom-left corner, through Jordan Pickford’s legs.

Everton had the chance to halve the deficit just before the break, but Idrissa Gueye’s shot is collected by Alisson.

The Reds started the second half strong again, bossing possession but could not extend their lead by three goals in the early stages.

Gueye this time took his chance as he found the back of the net 13 minutes after the break when he latched onto a pass from Iliman Ndiaye from a Grealish cross.

Alexander Isak came on for his Premier League debut for Liverpool in the 67th minute, replacing Ekitike.

The Reds could have restored their two-goal lead after Konate met an inswinging cross with his head, but Grealish blocked the goal-bound shot with his chest.

Grealish could have tied the game at the death after Kirkez’s block from Jack O’Brien’s header was sent to his part, but the winger blasted his volley high over the bar.

The champions host Southampton at home in the Carabao Cup, with a trip to Selhurst Park next in the Premier League.