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That’s the problem with these pre-planned celebrations. You can send out the invitations, arrange the play list, tailor the entire occasion for your guest of honour and it can still all fall flat.

Crystal Palace are the worst kind of people to invite to share your revelry. Steven Gerrard should have known better. In the past year, they have been a thorn in the side of Liverpool, ending their title hopes last season and beating them 3-1 last November.

Saturday evening was no different. Just as Jose Mourinho refused to play the role of ‘clowns at the party’ when Liverpool were on the verge of the title last season, Alan Pardew’s team resolutely declined the opportunity to be the sideshow.