ROY EVANS believes his Liverpool side can keep their flickering championship hopes alive with a win over Everton at Goodison Park tonight (Sky Sports, 8.0). While Anfield's title hopes are slim, a winning run to the championship wire, coupled with more slip ups by Manchester United and Newcastle, could see them slip through on the rails.

Liverpool manager Evans concedes that such a scenario is unlikely, but refuses to give up until it is mathematically impossible. A win tonight - which would be Evans's first Merseyside success over Joe Royle's Everton - is therefore essential.

Royle's first game after returning to Everton was in the corresponding match in November 94, goals from Duncan Ferguson and Paul Rideout beginning a revival - that ended in FA Cup final success - last May. When the sides met at Anfield in January 95, his team eked out a goalless draw.

This season, in the middle of Liverpool's disappointing November run, a double from Andrei Kanchelskis inflicted Liverpool's only home league defeat.

"We've still got a glimmer of the title," Evans said. "We haven't given that up and we certainly need the points to ensure we qualify for Europe. You don't need any more incentive than a derby match. It's about pride around the city.

"We've only an outside chance of the title, but we're not going to give it up while there is a chance. While we still have that chance mathematically, why throw it away? We still will go for it."

Evans, his defence riddled by injuries, is boosted by the news that England full back Rob Jones has recovered from the back injury which ruled him out of the Easter Monday win over West Ham. However, Republic of Ireland international Jason McAteer, is doubtful with a knee problem.

Evans is already likely to by Babb while broken leg victim Steve Harkness is a long term absentee. Neil Ruddock is, however, available after suspension.

Royle has problems too, Paul Rideout, along with battling midfielder Joe Parkinson, is a definite non starter while Duncan Ferguson is again doubtful with a groin problem. Royle is hopeful that John Ebbrell and Nigerian Daniel Amokachi will pass fitness tests on their respective ankle and foot injuries.