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Everton Set to Host Southampton in Goodison Park Farewell Match
Everton Football Club is preparing to bid farewell to Goodison Park, their home for 133 years, as they host Southampton in a Premier League fixture. This upcoming match marks the final chapter at the historic stadium before the Toffees move to their new ground. However, fan anticipation has been met with frustration as broadcasting schedules have led to a change in the kick-off time, sparking outrage among supporters keen to give Goodison Park a fitting send-off.
Supporters Express Disappointment Over Kick-Off Time Change
Originally scheduled for a 2pm start, the match against Southampton on Sunday, May 18, has been moved to 12pm. This alteration comes after TNT Sports selected the game for live broadcast, a decision that has angered both Everton and Southampton fans.
The revised kick-off time has been described as a “massive blow” to match-going supporters. Everton fans voiced their concerns on social media, lamenting that the earlier start would diminish the atmosphere and the pre-game build-up intended for such a significant occasion. Concerns were raised that an early start would prevent fans from fully experiencing the traditional matchday atmosphere associated with Goodison Park.
Southampton supporters also expressed their displeasure, highlighting the difficulty of travelling over 250 miles for a midday kick-off. The early start presents logistical challenges for travelling fans, requiring them to commence their journey at a very early hour.
Fan Reactions Highlight Sentimental Value of Goodison Park
Fan posts on social media platform X reflected the general sentiment. One Everton supporter wrote of missing out on the pre-match atmosphere and a perceived lack of planning for post-game celebrations, fearing the farewell could become a “non event.”
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Another Evertonian echoed these sentiments, labeling the time slot “pathetic” and criticizing the likely diminished atmosphere associated with early kick-offs. The fan further pointed out the inconvenience for Southampton supporters and stressed the decision’s negative impact on the fans who value the occasion most.
New Stadium Beckons for Everton
Following this emotional final match at Goodison Park, Everton will transition to the state-of-the-art Everton Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock. The new venue is set to become the eighth-largest football ground in England and is slated to be a host stadium for Euro 2028.
The new stadium boasts an increased capacity of 52,888, a significant rise from Goodison Park’s 39,572. This expansion signifies a new era for the club, offering enhanced facilities and a larger capacity for supporters.
Memorable Moments at Goodison Park Nearing an End
Goodison Park has witnessed countless dramatic moments throughout its history. The final Merseyside derby played at the ground was a particularly memorable affair, filled with tension and excitement. Liverpool initially took the lead in a 2-1 comeback, but James Tarkowski secured a dramatic late winner for Everton in front of the Gwladys Street End, etching his name into Goodison Park folklore.
That derby also saw two players dismissed – Abdoulaye Doucoure from Everton and Curtis Jones of Liverpool – in heated scenes, as David Moyes successfully guided Everton away from Premier League relegation concerns.
With Everton now securing their Premier League status, the concluding fixture against Southampton is anticipated to be less fraught with pressure, allowing for a greater focus on celebrating Goodison Park’s legacy.
Southampton’s Allocation and End-of-Season Context
Southampton, despite their confirmed relegation from the Premier League, have received their full allocation of nearly 3,000 tickets for the match. While the game might be considered a “dead rubber” in terms of league standings for Southampton, their fans may look for a positive end to a challenging season.
Intriguingly, Southampton have already tasted victory at Goodison Park this season, defeating Everton on penalties in the Carabao Cup. They also secured a 1-0 home league win against Everton earlier in the campaign, which remains their only home league victory this season. These past results may offer Southampton fans a glimmer of hope for a positive result in Goodison Park’s final Premier League game.