In this thought-provoking conversation, Everton legend Graham Sharp reflects on the deep emotional ties fans have with Goodison Park, where he thrived as the club’s leading goal scorer. He shares vivid memories of iconic matches, including a thrilling semi-final against Bayern Munich. Joined by notable figures like David Moyes and Wayne Rooney, they delve into the significance of the stadium and the nostalgia surrounding its farewell. As the club shifts to a new chapter, poignant stories from various speakers highlight a rich legacy intertwined with community spirit.
Goodison Park has been the emotional heart of Everton Football Club, housing countless memories that connect fans, players, and families alike.
Former players like Wayne Rooney and Joe Royle reflect on their personal experiences at Goodison, highlighting its historical significance and memorable moments.
As Everton Women prepare to take over the stadium, fans are hopeful that Goodison Park will continue its legacy as a vibrant football venue.
Deep dives
The Goodbye to Goodison Park
Everton Football Club is bidding farewell to Goodison Park, its home since 1892, as the final match at this historic venue approaches. The club has seen numerous memorable moments over the years, including significant victories, intense rivalries, and iconic goals. Former players and fans reflect on the emotional connections formed at the stadium, highlighting personal memories such as watching thrilling derbies and celebrating crucial wins. This farewell is tinged with nostalgia, as players and fans come together for a poignant goodbye, with sentimentality stemming from both triumphs and tribulations experienced within its walls.
Notable Achievements at Goodison Park
Goodison Park has been the site of many historical milestones in football, making it a beloved venue among Evertonians. The stadium has hosted numerous significant events, such as the first-ever FA Cup final and the first club to wear numbered shirts during a cup match. Fans recall iconic feats like Wayne Rooney's debut goal, remembered for its brilliance and significance for a local lad playing for his boyhood club. Each cherished memory solidifies Goodison's status as more than just a football ground, intertwining the lives of generations through shared experiences.
Emotional Farewells and Lasting Connections
As the end of Goodison Park nears, fans express their heartfelt emotions about leaving a place that holds a multitude of personal stories. Many speak of their familial connections to the stadium, recalling times spent with loved ones, children, and friends that have shaped their experiences. Individuals discuss the significance of rituals associated with match days, from pre-game gatherings to post-match celebrations, that will change with the relocation to a new stadium. The emotional weight of leaving Goodison Park resonates deeply, making this transition a bittersweet chapter in the history of the club and its supporters.
The Future of Everton Women at Goodison
In a positive turn, Everton Women will take over Goodison Park, ensuring that the stadium continues to be a prominent venue for football in the community. This transition is seen as a significant opportunity for the women’s team to establish themselves at a historic site, fostering growth and visibility in women's football. Fans hope that the existing connection to Goodison will transition well as the stadium serves a new purpose while preserving its rich legacy. The prospect of having women play at such an iconic venue excites supporters and presents a promising future for women’s sports at the club.
Legacy of Passionate Support
Goodison Park has fostered an incredibly passionate fan base, known for their loyalty and emotional investment in the club. Fans describe unforgettable moments where they felt the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat, with the atmosphere during matches creating an unparalleled sense of belonging. The supporters’ connection to the players, alongside tales of shared experiences, solidifies the club’s identity and the essence of community. As the final match approaches, this legacy of passionate support is poised to transition from Goodison to a new venue, ensuring that the spirit of Everton Football Club endures.
As Everton prepare for their final senior men's match at Goodison Park after 133 years, Mark Chapman, Giulia Bould and Phil Jagielka reflect on the stadium and what it means to fans, players and managers.
We hear from David Moyes, Joe Royle, Wayne Rooney and Seamus Coleman ahead of the final home Premier League game against Southampton.
And they're joined by club Graeme Sharp, who recalls the most famous matches at Goodison, including a European Cup Winners' Cup semi-final with Bayern Munich.
Everton fan and boxer Tony Bellew shares his memories, and Sam Easton, the great, great grandson of stadium architect Archibald Leitch talks about his relative's legacy.
TIMECODES
02:00 What does Goodison Park mean to the fans?
11:10 David Moyes interview
23:20 Seamus Coleman on what Goodison Park is like for players
40:10 Joe Royle's memories of Goodison
47:30 Wayne Rooney on THAT goal
58:20 Sam Easton on his great, great grandfather, architect Archibald Leitch
1:03:00 Tony Bellew's love for the ground
BBC Sounds / 5 Live / Radio 5 Sports Extra weekend commentaries:
Sat 1630 Men's FA Cup Final: Crystal Palace vs Manchester City (5 Live)
Sun 1330 Women's FA Cup Final: Chelsea vs Manchester United (Sports Extra 3)
Sun 1415 Premier League: West Ham vs Nottingham Forest (5 Live)
Sun 1500 Premier League: Brentford vs Fulham (Sports Extra 2)
Sun 1630 Premier League: Arsenal vs Newcastle (5 Live)
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