Manchester United defender Jonny Evans says victory over Liverpool wasn't as bitter as it appeared.

Ref Phil Dowd was forced to speak to both sides at half-time and stress the need for calm after Patrice Evra had tried to confront Suarez in the tunnel at half-time.

Police and stewards intervened in the melee and Evans praised referee Dowd for his handling of the inflammatory situation.

"There was a bit of commotion in the tunnel but the referee came in and told us to keep our heads," said Evans.

"But I think, on the whole, the game was played in good spirits by both sets of players."