Everton played their final men’s first team match at Goodison Park on Sunday, securing a 2-0 victory over Southampton. The day was steeped in emotion as fans gathered to commemorate the club’s 133-year history at their beloved home ground. The atmosphere was electric, with fans lining the streets and creating a vibrant scene outside the stadium.
Barry Connor said: “I’ll miss the atmosphere. The atmosphere is absolutely fantastic – you can’t beat it. Goodison is so close, so tight. And soak it all up. Sadly he passed away just two years ago. My brother has been bringing me since. It’s just unfortunate we couldn’t get tickets today. I’ve cried this morning. I just love Goodison, the whole atmosphere and what it represents. We’ve made lots of friends here.”
Tony Martin said: “I woke up at 3am – I just couldn’t sleep. It’s a once in a lifetime experience. It was one of them when you had to be here. I met a lovely guy like Andy, that’s what Everton’s about. That’s what we do. Everton fans enjoy the atmosphere outside Goodison Park this morning ahead of their farewell match at the stadium today. We didn’t know each other but we both came down today to soak it all in. I’ve now met Andy and we’ve swapped stories and reminisced. It’s just nice to be here, it’s an emotional day. And I’ve ended it that way, there’s a bit of closure that way. I’d love to be in there, don’t get me wrong. But I started and ended it the same way. I knew I’d regret it if I didn’t. I know it’s staying on as the women’s ground, it’s still emotional. I thought there was no chance that I’d get a ticket to the final game. It’s the People’s Club for a reason.”
Chris Gregson said: “A few years ago when we were playing Krasnodar in the Europa League and it was p***ing it down with rain. We were under the cover above the turnstile with a Hot Wok. It’s things like that you remember. You remember the great goals and the great performances, but it’s things like that. You do the same things, you see the people. It’s the process, the habit, the familiar things that I’ll miss. It’s the camaraderie. The moments you share aren’t always good. But it’s about the characters, the people we’ve sat with in the Upper Gwladys. It’s a hell of a family – it is the People’s Club.”
The day was not just about the match but also about the memories and the community that has been built around Goodison Park. Fans like Barry Connor and Tony Martin shared heartfelt stories about their experiences and the friendships formed over the years. The camaraderie among Evertonians was palpable, as people who had never met before bonded over their shared love for the club.
For many, the day was a chance to reflect on the past and celebrate the legacy of Goodison Park. The stadium, affectionately known as the ‘Grand Old Lady,’ has been a central part of Everton’s identity, and its significance was evident in the emotions displayed by fans. As Everton prepares to move to a new stadium, the memories of Goodison Park will remain cherished by all who have called it home.
