Lucy Graham’s 45th-minute winner saw Everton emerge victorious in the first-ever women’s Merseyside derby at Anfield.
The Scot’s effort proved decisive as Willie Kirk’s team triumphed in front of more than 23,500 fans.
Everton captain Graham took aim from 25 yards in first-half stoppage time.
She caught hold of her effort well but Liverpool keeper Anke Preuss looked to have it covered. The German goalkeeper fumbled the shot, however, and the ball landed in the net at the Kop end, sparking wild celebrations from Graham and her Everton teammates.
Liverpool had previously shaded proceedings in the first half.
Everton were indebted to goalkeeper Tinja-Riikka Korpela on 17 minutes – the Finnish stopper making a breathtaking save to keep the scores level.
Liverpool’s Kirsty Linnett headed at goal from no more than six yards out but Korpela sprang to her left and made a sprawling, fingertip stop.
This looked destined for the corner 😮
— Barclays FA Women's Super League (@BarclaysFAWSL) November 17, 2019
How did @EvertonWomen's @tinnikorpela manage to get her fingertips on this to deny Liverpool a lead? pic.twitter.com/0OOZpqi3yV
The dangerous Linnett had another chance eight minutes before the break, shooting fractions wide from 20 yards.
Everton were a much-improved side after the break, with Liverpool struggling to fashion any clear chances and the Toffees dangerous on the counter-attack.
When the home side did carve out an opportunity on 67 minutes – Niamh Charles working a space for a shot just inside the area – the impressive Dan Turner slid in to make a vital challenge and clear the danger.
Everton substitute Hannah Cain then escaped down the right flank before clipping the ball across to Chaney Boye-Hlorkah, who saw her effort well blocked by Becky Jane.
Liverpool committed players forward as they searched for a leveller, but the Blues were in resolute mood, with Gabby George and Kika van Es in commanding form at the heart of the defence.
Everton saw out the game successfully to take maximum points to move up to fourth in the WSL.