The Reds went on to run out 3-1 winners over the Blues, despite Steven Gerrard's early dismissal for two bookable offences.
Phil Neville inadvertently put Rafael Benitez’s side ahead on the stroke of half-time, and Luis Garcia extended the lead in the opening stages of the second period with an artful lob at the Kop end.
Everton halved their deficit through Tim Cahill’s header but, after Andy van der Meyde had been sent off, Harry Kewell’s fine long-ranger sealed all three points for the hosts.
Another two derbies have taken place on this day.