Local lad's stunner sees Liverpool's kids sink Everton

Curtis Jones' second half curler sent Anfield in ecstasy as the club's youth academy graduates handed Everton an embarrassing derby defeat. 

The 18-year-old Liverpool-born midfielder was making only his fifth appearance and his memorable match winner was his first senior goal. Jones is the youngest goalscorer for Liverpool in a Merseyside derby since Robbie Fowler.

Without a win over their rivals in any competition since 2010 and thrashed 5-2 at Anfield in the Premier League earlier this season, Everton will feel the pain from this defeat against their under-strength neighbours for some while.

Hit by injuries that left him with 12 fit senior outfield players, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp had made nine changes, selecting Nat Phillips, 22, and teenage trio Neco Williams, Harvey Elliott and Jones. In contrast, Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti made just two changes, fielding a strong team as the visitors chased a first win at Anfield since 1999.

Liverpool's injury problems mounted within 10 minutes when James Milner limped off to be replaced by another teenager Yasser Larouci. Ancelotti's side threatened early on when Dominic Calvert-Lewin's strike was pushed away by Adrian, who then repelled Mason Holgate's header and Richarlison's shot.

Liverpool's youngsters had been thrashed by Aston Villa while the senior stars were away at the Club World Cup in December. But they acquitted themselves much better this time and Japan striker Takumi Minamino, making his debut after joining from Salzburg, glanced a header narrowly off-target before Divock Origi's low drive was brilliantly saved by Jordan Pickford.

Jones' moment of magic came in the 71st minute when he played a chipped pass to Origi, took the return ball and curled a stunning effort into the top corner.

Despite making substitutes, Everton were unable to create anything after falling behind with the exception of a Moise Kean volley which went off target in the closing stages. After being second best in the first period, Liverpool were dominant in the second half and worthy winners. For Everton, it was yet more Merseyside derby disappointment.