Restored to the starting line-up to lead the line on his own, he sliced wide Albert Riera’s pull-back before he was denied in a one-on-one with Andrew Lonergan. He then failed to capitalise on Gerrard’s brilliance twice, first volleying a simple chance wide then not even bothering to shoot when presented with another inviting cross, instead deciding Riera was better placed.

The Spanish winger was quickly closed down but Preston’s failure to do that in the 24th minute ensured Liverpool didn’t pay the price for Keane’s misses, as Riera cut inside to unleash a superb drive into the top corner.

Even though it was a fine individual goal, Gerrard had set it up with his prod forward, and he continued to be at the centre of everything Liverpool did, as Lonergan denied him on countless occasions, as did Preston’s best player Sean St Ledger.

He found the net with a header, disallowed for a foul on Jamie Carragher indicates how fortunate Liverpool were to not be punished for complacency as they struggled to re-adjust after Xabi Alonso departed injured.

But they avoided a replay and the fact that Chelsea had failed to do likewise against Southend is yet another boost to the Reds.

However, the real knockout blows are delivered with results and this was just another good one in a campaign that is going to rely on many more, not just in the FA Cup.

And that’s why it’s not just Gerrard toning down the after-match celebrations.

Man of the match votes

Gerrard 44.4%; Alonso 15.3%, Riera 15.3%; Agger 9.7%; Hyppia 6.9%; Insua 4.2%; Keane 2.8%; Torres 1.4%.