Everton fans will say an emotional farewell to Goodison Park on Sunday as they prepare to move to their new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium. The historic ground has been the Toffees’ beloved home since 1892 and will forever occupy a special place in the heart of every Evertonian.
Rather than being bulldozed, Goodison Park will now become the permanent home of Everton Women from the start of the 2025-26 campaign. “We know how treasured Goodison is, not only to every Evertonian, but to the game itself, and being able to keep such an iconic stadium at the heart of the legacy project is something that has been incredibly important to us,” Everton CEO Angus Kinnear said this week.
“The women’s game has grown significantly in recent years, and we believe that growth will continue and accelerate. We’re under no illusions; there are obstacles we need to overcome to make this a success both practically and economically, but we’re confident that we will overcome those challenges.”
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Everton Fans Can Break Strict Premier League Protocol
Supporters can consume alcohol from their seats
Everton fans attending the men’s team’s final game at Goodison Park against Southampton on May 18 have been granted special permission to break a strict Premier League protocol that’s been in place for 40 years. Supporters have never been able to consume alcoholic drinks from their seats – but that will change this weekend due to the club’s post-match plans.
In a statement posted on their website, Everton announced: “Following the final whistle, Evertonians will be asked to remain in their seats for a special on-pitch celebration that will include guest presenters, appearances from current and former players, live musical performances, and specially-curated big screen content that captures the spirit, memories and history of the stadium. The ceremony, called ‘End of an Era’, will last for approximately one hour, and when it finishes, all fans will be asked to leave the stadium.
“Once the match has ended, supporters will be able to purchase food and drink – including alcohol – on Goodison’s concourses and return to their seats to enjoy the show. Consumption of alcohol will be permitted within the stadium bowl from the full-time whistle until all bars – including hospitality – close at 2.45pm.”
Former PGMOL Chief Casts Verdict on Decision
Keith Hackett believes it’s a good idea
Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official Keith Hackett believes the rule change is the right decision for this one-off occasions. “I have had the pleasure of officiating many games [and players] at the iconic Goodison Park. Joe Royle, Howard Kendall, Peter Reid, Gary Lineker, Neville Southall to name a few,” he told Football Insider.
“It is important that the fans allowed to consume alcohol enjoy the occasion and hold onto their plastic drink containers and refrain from casting them in the direction of the field of play.
“My team at Penistone Church serve our fans with beer in plastic containers and they are able to enjoy the game and we have not had any problems.
“Great idea and I hope that everyone enjoys their last men’s game at Goodison Park.”
