Divock Origi: That was unbelievable!
Scoring in a Merseyside derby is nothing new for Divock Origi – but his last-minute winner in Sunday's 232nd edition was something 'unbelievable'.
The latest Premier League clash between Liverpool and Everton looked to be heading for a goalless stalemate despite an entertaining and chance-filled contest.
Deep into stoppage-time, though, a Virgil van Dijk miskick bounced up off the roof of the goal and fell for Origi to force home off with his shoulder at the Kop end.
The breakthrough sparked wild scenes of celebration inside Anfield as the Reds extended their unbeaten league run to 14 games in breathless fashion.
“It’s unbelievable!” Origi told Liverpoolfc.com immediately after the final whistle.
“Derbies are always special, I’ve played in a couple of them and I’ve scored in a couple of them but this one was the most crucial one, so it is very, very special for me.”
It was, indeed, the No.27’s third goal in as many home league appearances against Everton, and a sweet moment for a player who has patiently waited for an opportunity.
“I had the first chance and it was Virg, so I knew there was an open ball,” explained Origi, who had earlier struck the crossbar, of the dramatic winner.
“Then I just played on my instinct, I was so hungry to help the team and give whatever I could. I had a good action before down the side but I wanted to be in [the box]. Thank God, it came in front of me.”
Both teams had chances to decide the derby during an action-packed encounter and each continued to press for an opener until the final seconds.
And Origi felt Liverpool made their own fortune by refusing to settle for a draw.
“We had a lot of scuffles and open balls. It was important to be concentrated and hungry. At the end, we showed the hunger,” he added.
“Everyone pressed and we knew we could win this game; we had to make something out of nothing. That goal at the end gives us an unbelievable feeling in the derby. I’m happy.”