the way it works is perhaps explained by paraphrasing Goenka.
The heat of the fire is fueled by adding fuel.
To cool the fire stop adding fuel and throw a handful of cold water on it.
There is an eruption of steam and sound.
Throw another handful of water.
More eruptions.
In time there are no more eruptions.
The process of stilling the anger or passion is the same.
The water is the equanimous awareness. The eruptions is the past store of suppressed anger.
Keep bringing the awareness to the breath in the area of the nose. An eruption follows. Keep throwng cold water on the anger. Don't throw anger on the anger... In time the heat is gone.