Everton close curtain on Goodison Park with final match vs Southampton | Football News

Everton fans will witness a historic moment on Sunday as the club plays its last game at Goodison Park against Southampton. With a 12 p.m. kick-off, this emotional farewell will mark the end of an era, as the team prepares to move to the new Hill Dickinson Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock next season.

A stadium full of firsts and football history

Goodison Park has been more than just a football ground. For 133 years, it stood as one of the great symbols of English football. It was the first purpose-built football stadium in the world. It introduced dugouts and even installed undersoil heating before others. But beyond these firsts, Goodison became a home for unforgettable football memories.The stadium saw Everton win eight of their nine league titles. Legends like Dixie Dean, who scored 60 goals in a single season, and the famous trio of Kendall, Harvey and Ball created moments that fans still talk about. The ‘School of Science’ teams of the 60s and the strong mid-’80s squad built the club’s proud history.Even in difficult times, Goodison never lost its spirit. Fans remember nail-biting matches against Coventry and Bournemouth to avoid relegation. Many supporters under 30 have never seen a league title, but they grew up with dreams shaped by this special place.

Emotions run high as the final whistle nears

When the players walk onto the field on Sunday, it will be a special game. The chapter will bring closure to a life of sweet memories and goodbyes. Former players, club staff, and thousands of fans will feel the weight of the moment.Joe Royle, who played and managed at Goodison, says he can’t imagine how hard it will be to say goodbye. “The crowd was awesome. Goodison in winter was terrifying for opponents,” he recalls.Arsene Wenger, the former Arsenal manager, also shared his thoughts. He compared this goodbye to leaving Highbury, calling Goodison “another soul of English football” that’s disappearing.Also Read: Everton women make history with permanent move to Goodison ParkEverton plans to let fans buy their own stadium seats as keepsakes. But the real memory lies in the cheers, the chants, and the people. From the Toffee Lady to Z Cars playing before kick-off, every part of Goodison lives in the hearts of Evertonians.This Sunday, the final whistle will sound at Goodison Park—but the memories will echo forever.