Everton Women Make Goodison Park Their Permanent Home
In a historic move, Everton Women are set to play their first match at Goodison Park as their permanent home on Sunday against Tottenham. This marks a new chapter for the club following the men's team's relocation to the Hill Dickinson Stadium, transforming the iconic stadium into the largest dedicated women's stadium in England.
A "Magic Place" Transformed
Goodison Park, steeped in history, is undergoing a transformation to cater to its new occupants. While retaining its "soul," the stadium is embracing changes like a pink-tinged tunnel and adjustments to facilities. Everton Women are determined to make the ground their own, creating new memories and legacies.
As stated by Kenzie Weir, whose father David Weir played for Everton men, "The history and the feeling you get when you go to Goodison is different to any other stadium I've been to. There's just pure excitement from the whole team to be able to play there." The club's trust in the women's team is reflected in this significant move.
Renovations and Adaptations at Goodison Park
Everton is implementing a "light touch" approach to renovations. The stadium's structure remains largely unchanged, but new additions cater specifically to the women's team and their fans. Banners proudly declare "Welcome to Goodison Park – Home of Everton Women," and former men's restrooms are being converted into more family-friendly facilities with fewer urinals.
The stadium also features lounges dedicated to Mo Marley, a legendary player and manager, and Leasowe Pacific, the team's name before becoming Everton. A timeline documenting the women's team's achievements is being installed, complementing the existing history of the men's team. Hannah Forshaw, Everton Women's chief executive, emphasizes the importance of "retain[ing] the soul of Goodison Park" while creating a new home for women's football.
New Signings Enticed by Goodison Move
The move to Goodison Park has already proven to be a significant draw for players. Ornella Vignola, who recently scored a hat-trick in the Merseyside derby, cited the stadium as a major factor in her decision to join Everton. Ruby Mace, the club's record signing, echoed this sentiment, expressing excitement to build upon the stadium's historic moments.
Goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan views the move as a "massive statement" of the club's commitment to the women's team, facilitated by the Friedkin Group's investment. Manager Brian Sorensen notes that Goodison Park will always be a "magic place", even as it enters a new chapter.
Spurs Manager Martin Ho Prepares for Everton Challenge
Tottenham Hotspur manager Martin Ho is preparing his team for their second game of the 25/26 season against Everton at the newly designated home of the Toffees. Fresh from a victory against West Ham, Ho acknowledges his team will face a tough challenge, especially in neutralizing Everton's in-form striker, Ornella Vignola.
Ho, who has a past with Everton, recognizes the strength and respect of the club. His strategy to counter Vignola involves focusing on a strong defensive performance, drawing from their success against West Ham. He has high expectations for defender Toko Koga. While acknowledging his team needs to improve in sustaining attacks and creating more opportunities, he also praised Araya Dennis for her performance, and looks to build her confidence and experience going forward.
Key Players and Strategic Considerations
The manager also acknowledges the return of key players such as Kit Graham following her ACL injury, and hints at the imminent return of Ashleigh Neville following a period of recovery. Ho anticipates a competitive game with Everton in their new home and wants his team to be able to react and adjust. The match between Everton and Tottenham kicks off at 14:30 on Sunday and will be broadcast on the BBC.
