As a Bournemouth fan, my memories of Goodison Park are few and far between, with my only visit coming on the final day of the 2022/23 season, hoping for a result that might see Everton relegated.
Don’t hate me just yet, because I was genuinely glad, not initially, to see Abdoulaye Doucouré fire home that volley and secure the win for Everton. That goal sent shivers down my spine, not because of the result of the strike, but because of the eruption of pure pandemonium among the home fans that was matched by the sound of the final whistle that day. The joy and relief on their faces were something special to witness.
Facing a possible first relegation from the Premier League was no more.
Had our own Premier League survival been on the line, perhaps I’d have felt differently. But at that moment, a soft spot for Everton pulled me in, and here I am today. I left Goodison Park with a smile on my face, more than happy to share a pint and a high five with the fans celebrating their club’s survival.
Walking away from Goodison Park, I knew I’d experienced something special. It’s a ground that radiates atmosphere, and in those defining moments, it has a unique way of uniting the blue half of the city.
Reflecting on that experience took me back to another iconic memory, one I watched from home. I still remember seeing a young Wayne Rooney turn Sol Campbell with confidence beyond his years, glance up from 25 or 30 yards out, and bend a stunning shot past England's No.1, David Seaman.
Even though I wasn’t in the stadium that day, I was struck by the roar that followed. It wasn’t just a goal, it was the dream of every kid in a blue shirt coming to life in front of our eyes. His emotions were plain to see, living out his dream against some of the best in the world.
For a 17-year-old to produce that in front of his fans and family is a credit to a Premier League legend being born. I, being an England supporter, never thought that man was to go on and become England’s all-time scorer (for a short period) and have the hopes of the nation on his shoulders for many years to follow.
His move to Manchester United may have left a bitter taste for some Everton fans, but his return brought a welcome sense of closure, restoring his legacy in royal blue. Perhaps that return can even pave the way for a future role in management or coaching at the club.
From the Gwladys Street End to the Bullens Road Stand, no matter where your loyalties lie, the memories made at Goodison Park will live on—long after the doors open at Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium and whatever happens to the iconic stadium.
We want to hear your stories. Share your favourite Goodison moments in the comments below or drop us a message on social media. Let’s celebrate the history together.