Everton manager David Moyes says Mersey rivals Liverpool remain favourites to clinch the fourth Champions League spot in the Premier League this season.
Both teams won on Sunday, leaving Everton three points ahead of Liverpool, who have a game in hand.
Moyes said: "We are doing everything we can to make a fight of it but Liverpool have to be favourites, still.
"We have been consistent but for them fourth would be expected. The bookies are right to make them favourites."
Despite Moyes's assertions, Everton have enjoyed better results than Liverpool since the start of the calendar year.
But the Reds could return to fourth place on Wednesday when they play their game in hand against West Ham.
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The final Merseyside derby on 30 March, at Anfield, could be vital in establishing which team claims the final Champions League qualifying spot behind Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea.
However, Aston Villa, currently two points behind Liverpool, are also in contention.
Moyes said: "We have to keep our play at this level and keep going right to the end.
"Our performances are getting better, so all we can do is to put ourselves in a position to keep going forward."
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez said: "We have beaten Manchester City and Portsmouth, and they are two teams who have been pushing us all the way.
"They all want a European place.
"I feel we have realised that we can play against the best teams and cause them problems.
"Every win is important when you are fighting for fourth place."
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