Houllier said: "They tested my nerves and heart, and my surgeon will be pleased we won! There have been so many games where we have played teams off the park here and only got a draw or lost so we will take this win today. We were a bit lucky we have to admit that.
"Stevie's goal epitomised the spirit of the team and it was a great goal. This is why I made the double substitution because I wanted Stevie out wide. He looked to have an incredible energy level and he kept going.
"Some of the players who were magnificent in the derby were not as inspirational today. Sometimes after a derby with the pressure of it they can then go into anti-climax and some of our key players at Goodison didn't have the isnpriration today. We looked flat but what we have got is commitment and a fighting spirit to keep it going right until the end of the match.
"The character of the players is exceptional. Jerzy made a great save just after we equalised which was very important."