The Reds had Greece defender Sotirios Kyrgiakos sent off for a badly-timed challenge on Marouane Fellaini, with the Belgium international being fortunate not to see red himself for his role in the challenge.

Dirk Kuyt headed the winner from Gerrard's 55th-minute corner to move Rafael Benitez's side up to fourth in the Premier League, with Everton's Steven Pienaar seeing red in injury time.

Gerrard told Sky Sports 1: "That is what derbies are all about. There was passion, commitment and fight. We beat a very good Everton side today with 10-men and we should enjoy this result.

"We played some good football and had a great attitude, sticking together. We knew we would be up against it at times and if we had the chance at a set-piece we could grab a goal."

Gerrard also praised the performance of referee Martin Atkinson during a typically feisty clash between the local rivals

With a midweek visit to Arsenal and then a trip to Manchester City a fortnight on Sunday those results will go a long way to defining their season.

However, first up is the visit of Liverpool's neighbours where a win would lift Benítez's side into the top four, with current incumbents Tottenham kicking off in the evening.

"We talk about crucial times and this period is very important," said Benítez. "I've spoken with the players and we have been analysing what we have [in terms of games] until the end of the season and this is the most crucial phase.

"We are close to the top four and we cannot make too many mistakes and we play against three teams that are around us. It is important to keep winning games to maintain the momentum and it would be fantastic to win all three but you have to start with the first one.

"We want to make sure we get back into the top four and this is the first opportunity to try and do that."