Cody Gakpo scores first Liverpool goal against Everton, he has finally arrived

Cody Gakpo has finally scored his first Liverpool goal after netting against Everton in the Merseyside derby on Monday night.

Heading into the much anticipated Merseyside derby, both Liverpool and Everton have been struggling as of late with both teams situated below where they originally expected.

Liverpool were taught a lesson by Wolverhampton Wanderers last week as they were convincingly beaten 3-0.

Whilst Everton recorded a shock 1-0 win over league leaders Arsenal in Sean Dyche’s first match in charge.

Jurgen Klopp’s men dominated the proceedings in the first half as they looked to create the go-ahead goal. However, it was Everton who went the closest after James Tarkowski hit the post from a corner.

Moments later, Mohamed Salah opened the scoring after a blistering counter attack led by Uruguayan Darwin Nunez who flew up the pitch before crossing for Salah to tap into the back of the net.

WHAT A COUNTER-ATTACK!!! 😮 pic.twitter.com/XWUilMfshR

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) February 13, 2023

In the second half, Everton came out fighting as they chased an equaliser.

However, it was Liverpool who managed to double their lead in the 49th minute. Trent Alexander Arnold played a beautiful low cross across the face of the Everton goal, and waiting at the back post was Gakpo to score his first goal for the Reds.

Cody Gakpo slots home his FIRST Liverpool goal! 🔴 pic.twitter.com/PeDgGWDXTh

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) February 13, 2023

It was a much-needed boost for the 23-year-old after a tough start to his Anfield career, and he has most importantly saved himself from a barrage of '007' memes from rival fans.

The '007' meme was given to Manchester United player Jadon Sancho after the winger recored zero goals and zero assists in seven matches.

Fans were quick to react to Gakpo's goal on social media

One fan said: "United fans can delete their 007 drafts on Cody Gakpo."

Another tweeted: "Rival fans can’t do the 007 meme on Gakpo!"

A third fan added: "Hell yessssss.... Gakpo with that much needed goal."