The Premier League is gearing up for an emotional farewell to one of its most storied venues: Goodison Park. Everton Football Club is set to host relegated Southampton in what will be their final Premier League match held at this iconic stadium. Goodison Park has been the stage for countless unforgettable moments since it first opened its doors in September 1892. As the narrative draws to a close for this venerable ground, fans are invited to reminisce and choose their favorite memory from a curated list of ten milestones that have defined Everton’s history at this venue.
Among the treasured highlights is the legendary match between Dick, Kerr Ladies and St Helens Ladies, held in December 1920. This milestone game was notable not only for its competitive spirit but also for its charitable intent, as it raised funds for the Unemployed Ex Servicemen’s Distress Fund. An astonishing 53,000 spectators filled Goodison Park to witness the encounter, establishing a record attendance for a women’s club game in the UK for over a century, a record that stood until it was surpassed during the 2023 FA Cup final with a turnout of 77,390. The Dick, Kerr Ladies emerged victorious, solidifying the day in the annals of football history.
Moving into the 1920s, a legendary figure graced Goodison Park: Dixie Dean. On the last day of the 1927/28 season, Dean achieved a remarkable feat by scoring his 60th league goal, a record that has never been eclipsed in English football. In a thrilling game against Arsenal, Dean completed his hat-trick just eight minutes before the final whistle in a match that concluded in a 3-3 draw. The joyous acceptance of this historic event was only heightened as a fan ran onto the pitch to kiss the iconic player, whose statue now stands proudly outside the stadium.
Fast forward to 1985, where Everton produced one of the club’s most memorable nights in European competition. The Toffees faced Bayern Munich in the Cup Winners’ Cup semi-final, having fought valiantly to a goalless draw in the first leg on German soil. The home return saw Goodison Park alive with nearly 50,000 supporters who witnessed a dazzling performance. Goals from Graeme Sharp, Andy Gray, and Trevor Steven secured a 3-1 victory, propelling Everton into the final. They not only triumphed in Europe but also clinched the league title during that remarkable campaign, a season fans still celebrate.
Another remarkable chapter unfolded on the final day of the 1993/94 season, as Everton faced the grim specter of relegation against Wimbledon. In a heart-stopping affair, Everton found themselves trailing 2-0 within the first twenty minutes. However, a remarkable resilience shone through as Graham Stuart and Barry Horne orchestrated a stunning comeback, securing safety in what has since been dubbed the “Great Escape,” leading to jubilant scenes on the pitch post-match.
The emergence of Wayne Rooney in 2002 added to the lore of Goodison Park, as the young prodigy, only 16 at the time, scored a sensational last-minute goal against reigning champions Arsenal, announcing his arrival on the world stage. The rapturous celebration from both fans and commentators marked the beginning of a storied career for Rooney, who would go on to achieve great things at both Everton and Manchester United.
The Toffees claimed another unforgettable encounter in 2005 when Duncan Ferguson scored a climactic winner against Manchester United. As Everton aimed for UEFA Champions League qualification, Ferguson’s towering header in front of a fervent home crowd encapsulated the passionate rivalry and competitive spirit of Merseyside.
More recent history saw heart-stopping moments such as the dramatic comeback against Crystal Palace in 2022 and the crucial victory over Bournemouth at the close of the 2022/23 season, characterized by an outstanding strike from Abdoulaye Doucoure. Each moment encapsulated the spirit of determination and fervor that Goodison Park has represented over the years.
As the curtain lowers on Goodison Park, the final Merseyside derby held there promised to be a fierce confrontation, highlighted by a stunning equalizer from James Tarkowski. Through these numerous classic games, the stadium has not only been a home ground for Everton but has also been a sanctuary of unforgettable sporting moments.
To honor the legacy of Goodison Park, fans are encouraged to cast their votes for their all-time favorite moment. The farewell match against Southampton is set for Sunday, May 18, with kickoff at 12:00 UK time. Live coverage can be accessed through TNT Sports across various platforms, ensuring that fans everywhere can join in on this momentous occasion to celebrate the magic that Goodison Park has brought to the world of football.