'THERE IS SIMPLY NOTHING LIKE IT'

Fans share their memories of Goodison Park ahead of final Premier League game

- By DAN HAYGARTH

AN Everton era comes to an end today. Goodison Park will host its final Everton men’s first team match as the Blues face Southampton at midday.

It will be an emotional day, marking years of history and success at the ‘Grand Old Lady. Fans will line the streets in the morning, welcoming the team bus, before taking their seats for a Premier League match at Goodison for the last time - 133 years after the Toffees made it their home.

After the game, a ceremony will take place, involving current players, club legends and live music on the pitch. The occasion will mark the end of a chapter of football heritage, with the men’s team set to move to the club’s new home at Bramley-Moore Dock for next season.

Fans will no doubt stay around once that concludes - taking in the atmosphere around Goodison, returning to the pubs and chippies that have been central to matchday rituals for generations.

It is not the end for the ground, however. It was announced this week it will become the new home of Everton Women, keeping one of the world’s oldest football stadiums alive for a new chapter.

But it is the end of an era, and moving on will not come easy. Here, fans tell us what the Grand Old Lady means to them.

Paul Nowak, 52, from Bebington - Secretary of the Trade Union Congress

For just over four decades I've been making my way over from Wirral to Goodison Park, so it'll be strange knowing it will be the last time I walk through the turnstiles to watch the men’s team.

Those four decades have packed in their fair share of highlights and lowlights, but it won't be the hard times I remember. It'll be Big Dunc’s first goal in the derby, Wayne Rooney introducing himself against Arsenal with the wonderful arrogance of youth, Dan Gosling sparking mayhem with his extra time winner against the Reds in the FA Cup.