Kuyt heads Liverpool to win over Everton in derby

Dirk Kuyt headed Liverpool to a 1-0 victory over Everton on Saturday, maintaining the team's push for a top-four spot in the Premier League.

Kuyt sent captain Steven Gerrard's inswinging corner past goalkeeper Tim Howard from close range in the 55th minute for the only goal of the game.

Liverpool were a man down from the 35th minute after Sotirios Kyrgiakos was sent off for a two-footed challenge on Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini, who escaped punishment for stamping on the Greek defender in the same incident.

Everton winger Steven Pienaar was shown a second yellow card in the 90th for a light challenge on Gerrard, but the South African was fortunate not to be sent off in the first half for a foul on Javier Mascherano.

After a lackluster start to the season, Liverpool has now collected 17 points from a possible 21 in the last seven matches.

The victory lifted Liverpool into fourth place, but Tottenham had a chance to return there later Saturday with a win over Aston Villa.