And speaking of goodbyes, Everton Football Club had a fitting send-off to their storied Goodison Park. On a day of cheers and tears, they triumphed 2-0 over Southampton. The team’s supporters filled the stadium, singing “Everton, you never shone so brightly!” as they witnessed their club’s last match at this historic venue. Iliman Ndiaye had another storybook game, scoring both goals to become the hero. He earned the dubious honour of being the last men’s player to score at Goodison.
Sunday’s match was a reminder of Everton’s storied past at Goodison Park. During that time, the team has enjoyed 17 wins over Southampton here. With this success, Everton went on to finish the season in 13th place with 45 points. This particular accomplishment adds a pleasingly bookending feel to both their Premier League careers at the historic venue.
A Historic Farewell
When the players were introduced, the place was insane. The air thumped with the classic sounds of the “Z-Cars” theme. Fans cheered and cried together, honoring the team they have stood by without ever wavering through thick and thin. Six minutes into the first half, Ndiaye released a shot that curled into the top corner. The home crowd rejoiced in a tidal wave of jubilation!
Ndiaye reflected on his achievement:
“It’s very special (to be the last one).” – Iliman Ndiaye
The first half featured quite the drama as Beto had two goals ruled out for offside within four minutes of each other. Everton wouldn’t allow disappointments to rattle their poise. In first-half injury time, Ndiaye doubled dip his second goal, all but sealing wide of the Told’s all-time greatest Goodison legacy.
Challenges on the Pitch
The match was not without its challenges. Everton captain Seamus Coleman was forced off in the first half with a thigh injury. This, rather surprisingly, left Jordan Pickford as the sole focus of attention for the remainder of the game. Pickford has been rock solid for Everton over the years. Then, in another pivotal moment late in the game, he made a reactionary, crucial save to deny Southampton’s Cameron Archer.
Post-match, Pickford was full of praise for his teammates and touched upon what it meant to play in their last match at Goodison. He expressed a desire for more goals but acknowledged the historical importance of their win:
“We would have liked to score four or five. We will go down in history as the last team to win at Goodison. That’s what the manager asked of us today.” – Jordan Pickford
He mentioned how the impact of this last game would take time to process:
“The last game at Goodison will take some time to soak in.” – Jordan Pickford
Looking Ahead
Everton, get ready to write your new, thrilling, new chapter! Beginning next season, the women’s team will officially play at Goodison Park. This transition ushers in even more promising times for women’s football at the club. It creates new pathways to economic development and civic participation.
The last game at Goodison Park brought to a close an era. It drew attention to the club’s extensive history of racism. And now, as our great club Everton FC looks toward its future, it does so with the memories and achievements made within those storied walls.
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