Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez can see their derby victory being a turning point in their season.

A 12th-minute own goal from Everton defender Joseph Yobo and Dirk Kuyt's close-range effort 10 minutes from time flattered the visitors, who were second best for most of the game.

However, considering the inconsistent start to the season, which was compounded by Wednesday's failure to qualify for the Champions League group stages, Benitez was keen to accentuate the positives as the Reds moved up to fifth in the Barclays Premier League.

"I think it was really important for us. We won against Debrecen (in midweek) and we knew we had to keep winning," said the Spaniard.

"A derby is always very difficult and also very important so a win today could set us up for the rest of the season.

"We are higher in table now, everyone is happy, so we will see if we can keep winning some games."