Everton
Everton icon Peter Reid is set to reunite with his Huyton Boys teammates for the first time in 55 years during the Women’s Super League Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park this Saturday. Reid, who enjoyed a storied career with Everton, will make a special pitchside appearance alongside his former youth team colleagues, adding a nostalgic touch to the day’s festivities.
Peter Reid said: “I was fortunate enough to get in the Huyton Boys side and we got to the final of the English schools’ trophy. Alan Bleasdale (the playwright who created Boys from the Blackstuff) was our coach, ECHO readers and everyone in Liverpool knows Alan, he’s still a big friend of mine. We played the semi-final at our ground and at 14 years of age, I played in the final. I think we’d beaten them 4-1 away from home so there was no pressure. It was one of them, go and enjoy it, your family were there. I think there were 10,000 or so watching. Your mam and dad are there. I think a lad called Pat Phillips got the winner and it was my first game at Goodison Park and I got a result as the Grand Old Lady was shining on us. As well documented, I’ve had a decent career, but when you’re a schoolboy, you don’t know you’re going to do that. You’re full of dreams and ambition and hope but at 14 going into school and your mates say: ‘You played at Goodison!’ I thought I’d done it all. In fact, that could have done me, I could have finished then and been happy, it was a dream.”
Reid’s illustrious career at Everton saw him win two League Championships, an FA Cup, and the European Cup-Winners’ Cup. Described by Howard Kendall, Everton’s most successful manager, as the club’s most important signing since World War II, Reid overcame significant injuries, including two broken legs and torn knee ligaments, before joining Everton in December 1982.
The event at Goodison Park promises to be a family-friendly affair, with various activities planned for supporters. The Easter Bunny will make an appearance, distributing free chocolate eggs to young fans. Additionally, entertainment options such as live music, face painters, balloon twisters, and an Easter arts and crafts table will be available from 10:30 am. Fans can also look forward to giveaways, including baseball-style player cards and Barclays Women’s Super League sticker books.
Before the match kicks off, a vibrant flag and banner display will light up the Gwladys Street Stand, courtesy of volunteers from the Everton Women Official Supporters’ Club. Tickets for the event are priced at £12 for adults and £6 for juniors, with a family ticket option available for £20. Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets online or by contacting the South Stand Ticket Office.
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