Why Rodgers Couldn’t Take Gerrard Off
The 224th Merseyside derby won’t be remembered as one of the classic encounters between the Blues and the Reds but it will be remembered as Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard’s last appearance in the derby.
Liverpool were hoping to continue their fine recent form against their city rivals but they left Goodison frustrated with a 0-0 draw and only a single point as reward for their efforts.
Roberto Martinez set his team out to frustrate Liverpool with defensive attitude that showed tremendous respect to Brendan Rodgers’ attacking flair.
Ultimately Martinez won the tactical duel but spoiled the party as a spectacle.
The surprise team selection was Jordan Ibe, making only his second senior start for the Reds and he was arguably the best player on the park capped by a stunning effort that came closest to breaking the deadlock but deprived by the Everton post.
Many Liverpool supporters criticised Gerrard playing the full 90 minutes but how could Rodgers take him off playing his last derby.
Gerrard didn’t have a great game with his midweek efforts against Bolton taking their toll on his ageing legs but Rodgers had to start his captain in such a game.
Gerrard has been the man for the big occasion so many times in the past for Liverpool and in his last derby it was possible he could have been the man again.
As the game passed by Gerrard wasn’t given any room by Everton’s defence but he almost turned the game in a flash with a spectacular volley that was deflected over the bar by the head of Naismith.
Rodgers didn’t keep Gerrard on for the 90 minutes on sentiment he kept him on because he still has the ability to win a game.
It just wasn’t to be.
The Kopite View 
You can be sure Shanks or Bob Paisley wouldn’t be so weak. Love Gerrard but love LFC more. Stevie can’t play every game and the one yesterday just passed him by.
Gerrard was SHITE ( FACT ) And if RODGERS doesn’t sell BACK PASS allen in the next transfer window,well he might as well sign his own death warrant !!!