Everton Hill Dickinson
Connor O’Neill of ECHO sat down with England rugby star Harry Smith ahead of the highly anticipated Ashes Test against Australia at Hill Dickinson Stadium. Smith, who has been recalled to the starting line-up after missing last weekend’s defeat at Wembley, is set to fulfill a lifelong dream by playing at the home of his beloved Everton.
Harry Smith said: “It hasn’t really sunk in. Playing against Australia is the pinnacle for us, but it makes it extra special playing at such an amazing ground. It will be packed out with loads of rugby fans and hearing that atmosphere will be great. I went to one of the trial games and then I went to have a look around as a part of a promotion for this England game. I have not been when it has been fully sold out. I had the chance to go to a Carabao Cup game, but then it didn’t work out, so my dad went with one of his mates. I’m sure the experience this weekend will be incredible. It is going to be up there with one of the best stadiums I have ever played in. The way it is designed and the stands are close to the pitch. The atmosphere then when the fans start to cheer.”
Harry Smith added: “It is all I have ever known. My dad and grandad are both Everton fans. All I have ever known is to watch Everton. My first memories were the David Moyes years when we had the likes of Tim Cahill, Marouane Fellaini, Sylvain Distin, Phil Jagielka, and Tim Howard. They are my first memories and it is all I have ever known. The only team I was allowed to support was Everton. I wish I had played football a bit more as a kid, but rugby league was always my sport, but I used to love going to Everton games in the Family Enclosure right next to the tunnel and where the players warmed up. But I just remember the atmosphere, I’d never heard anything like it. I’ve always enjoyed going to football games.”
Smith’s return to the England squad is a significant boost as they prepare to face the Kangaroos on Saturday. A victory would set up a series decider at Headingley, adding to the excitement of the occasion. For Smith, a boyhood Evertonian, the opportunity to play at Hill Dickinson Stadium is a dream come true. The Widnes-born athlete has fond memories of attending Everton matches with his family, and this weekend’s game promises to be a memorable experience for him personally.
The stadium, known for its close proximity of stands to the pitch, is expected to be filled with passionate rugby fans, creating an electric atmosphere. Smith’s enthusiasm for the game and his connection to the venue highlight the emotional significance of this match. As England aims to level the series, Smith’s presence in the line-up is expected to inspire both his teammates and the fans.
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