DERBY hero Dirk Kuyt believes Liverpool have shown the character that can transform their season after stealing victory at Goodison.

Rafael Benitez’s side bounced back from Champions League elimination in midweek with a morale-boosting 2-0 win against neighbours Everton in yesterday’s 212th Merseyside derby.

After a Javier Mascherano shot deflected in off Joseph Yobo in the 12th minute, Liverpool were forced to withstand intense pressure before Kuyt slotted home 10 minutes from time after Tim Howard could only parry substitute Albert Riera’s shot.

The result moves the Anfield outfit up to fifth place in the Premier League table and within two points of the Champions League qualification places.

And Kuyt reckons the manner in which Liverpool dug deep to extend their unbeaten league run against Everton to six games can strengthen their resolve for the remainder of the campaign.

“We’re really happy with the result,” said the striker. “It’s one of the most important games of our season and to beat Everton always gives you a special feeling.

“I’m really happy for the team and the supporters.

“It’s a good result and hopefully we can take the confidence from this into our next couple of games.

“When you play in a derby match, they aren’t often the greatest games to watch but I think we showed a lot of character to win, and that’s what it was all about.

“A derby is more important than almost every other game, and to win this means a lot for us. The result is more important than the performance in a derby, you know it’s going to be hard to play good football.”

Of Liverpool’s early Champions League exit – they could now face their neighbours in the Europa League in the New Year – Kuyt added: “We work hard to get results and we’ve all come to Liverpool to win trophies, so when things don’t go your way it’s disappointing.

“It has been a very hard period for us but, like the manager says, we have to move on now and look forward.

“This was a good win, especially as it gets us back in the top five.

“Liverpool have had a great history in the Champions League, including the three years I have been here.

“We have had some special nights and we want them again.”