Goodison Park Everton
Everton marked a significant milestone in their history with a 2-0 victory over Southampton in what was the final Premier League game at Goodison Park. The match, held on May 19, 2025, was not just about the scoreline but also about celebrating the club’s rich history and legacy at their iconic home ground. Seamus Coleman, the club captain, played a pivotal role in preparing the team for this momentous occasion by delivering an inspiring speech to his teammates, emphasizing the importance of signing off from Goodison Park in style. Additionally, the squad was shown a video highlighting the club’s storied past to further instill the significance of the day.
Dwight McNeil said: “All week the gaffer has been on it, and skip (Coleman) talked to us last night about how important today was. We had a little video this morning before we set off about the whole history of the club. We knew what the job was today, and we are really happy we got that done. You can see what they have won as a club over the years. It has been a struggle over the past few years, but it is what the club is; it has never backed down from any challenge. Like I say, we just knew how important it was today to get that win.”
McNeil added: “It was between the backroom staff, they made the video. Like I say, it had stuff from the past and stuff recently as well, some of the struggles we have gone through, but we came through the other end. We are all really happy.”
The atmosphere at Goodison Park was electric, with thousands of supporters gathering hours before kick-off to pay tribute to their beloved ground. The fans, who had previously rallied to support the team during relegation battles, were this time united in celebration, eager to give Goodison the send-off it deserved. The match itself saw Iliman Ndiaye score twice in the first half, securing a fitting farewell victory.
Seamus Coleman, making his return to the starting lineup, led the team out for the final time at Goodison Park, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd. His leadership and connection to the club were highlighted by Dwight McNeil, who expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play alongside Coleman in such a significant match.
McNeil stated: “Skip is massive here. He is a massive part of the club and like I say, he has been here for a long time now. I said to him that it was an honour to start the game with him behind me. I am really thankful for that now and I will never forget that moment. It is massive. He is a massive part of our club. That is another moment that I will never forget. I am really privileged and honoured because they are legends of the game.”
The day concluded with a farewell party on the pitch, attended by Everton greats, marking the end of an era as the club prepares to move to their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock. The occasion was a poignant reminder of Goodison Park’s place in Everton’s history and the memories it holds for players and fans alike.
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