Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard has praised the Everton defence following this evening's goalless Merseyside derby.
The two sides cancelled each other out at Goodison Park, with goalscoring chances at a premium in probably Gerrard's last derby.
When asked about how he felt earning a point, the departing Reds skipper told Sky Sports News: "Okay. I don't think much better than that.
"In the first half both sides cancelled each other out. We were just looking for that spark and opening that we needed, but it never really came.
"Everton are a good team and they defended well today. The defences were on top today."
Gerrard was stood alongside Jordon Ibe in the post-match interview and also heaped praise on the teenager, who was chosen ahead of Daniel Sturridge for his first Premier League start of the season.
The winger was closest to breaking the deadlock with a fierce first-half strike from distance that smacked into the post.
"[Ibe] was fantastic," added Gerrard. "He only found out he was playing yesterday, so to only have 24 hours to prepare for a big game like this, you know he was man of the match today - sensational performance and unlucky not to get the winner with that unbelievable strike in the first half.
"Credit to him, he's got a big future. If he keeps working hard he's going to be a terrific player."
Gerrard could meet Everton again if the two sides progress from the last 32 of the Europa League and draw each other in the final stages of the competition.
Pascal Lemesre
