While most Evertonians might rightly point out the diminutive South African was simply giving back a little of what he received, Moyes remained philosophical about Pienaar’s punishment.

“I’ve no complaints about Steven’s sending-off as there was a tackle earlier in the game where he might have been fortunate to stay on,” admitted the admirable Blues manager.

It was the final booking of the afternoon, taking Atkinson’s total to for the season to 84 yellows in 20 Premier League games.

Saturday brought his first red cards, however; a statistic that was perhaps an indication of his reluctance to reach for his pocket too soon.

In his defence, though, he will no doubt have been mindful that once it starts it’s difficult to stop.

It was no coincidence that Carragher had his name taken for scything down Pienaar just 30 seconds after the Everton midfielder’s lucky escape with Mascherano.

Therefore, had Atkinson started brandishing cards too soon there was every chance the game could have been ruined as a spectacle.

As it happened, the referee’s decisions buoyed Liverpool while conspiring against Everton, who found it difficult to break down a resolute 10 men.

Despite his own manager’s protestations, then, maybe this is why Gerrard was quick to give Atkinson the thumbs-up afterwards.

“I thought the ref was superb,” said the Liverpool captain.

“He let tackles go. Yes, there were some mistimed tackles but we’re certainly not complaining and I don’t think you’ll hear Everton complaining either. That’s what derbies are all about; passion, commitment and fight. That’s what the fans love.”

At last, something we all agree on.