Steve Nicol declares that although Liverpool's win over Everton wasn't flashy, a win is still a win.

Liverpool claimed a crucial 1-0 victory over Everton at Anfield, restoring their 12-point lead at the Premier League table. Despite not producing their most polished performance, Arne Slot's side showcased the resilience necessary to emerge victorious after consecutive setbacks in other competitions. The match was marked by contentious refereeing decisions, notably James Tarkowski's challenge on Alexis Mac Allister, which many, including pundit Duncan Ferguson, believed warranted a red card. Referee Sam Barrott's yellow card decision, upheld by VAR's Paul Tierney, sparked further debate over VAR's effectiveness. Diogo Jota's decisive goal was a beacon for Liverpool, breaking his goal drought and lifting spirits at Anfield, which has been a continual stumbling block for Everton's manager David Moyes. As the discussion around Liverpool's offensive depth arises, especially with Mohamed Salah's contract nearing its end, Jota's form could be pivotal in the remaining games. Everton's Carlos Alcaraz impressed despite the defeat, validating interest for a permanent move. Meanwhile, Liverpool captain Virgil Van Dijk's performance raised questions about his future with the club. This win inches Liverpool closer to the title, epitomizing the grit that champions often display. Despite the game being mired in controversial refereeing decisions, managers Arne Slot and David Moyes offered contrasting viewpoints—the former embracing the current rules, while the latter expressed frustration over perceived impartiality at Anfield. Ultimately, the analysis underscores Liverpool's gritty path towards a potential league triumph and hints at strategic considerations both on and off the pitch.