EVERTON’S new stadium opened its doors ahead of its scheduled grand unveiling for a few lucky fans.
The Toffees are set to leave their historic Goodison Park ground – England’s first major football stadium – after 132 years.
And the Merseysiders are moving in to their brand new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium in the summer.
But club chiefs decided to give a few supporters a sneak peek ahead of next season.
About 10,000 fans were successful in a ballot for an Under-18s friendly against Wigan.
The fortunate Everton faithful took a seat at the 52,888-capacity ground, which will be the seventh biggest stadium in the Premier League.
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And they watched the incredible venue shine bright as it was fully lit up at night.
But it was a Liverpool fan who stole Everton’s thunder with the first ever goal at their new stadium.
Wigan U18 ace Harrison Rimmer took just 11 minutes to notch his historic strike before trolling the home crowd by raising six fingers.
That was of course a reference to the combined total of European Cups and Champions League crowns lifted by his beloved Reds.
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It’s a time-honoured gesture made by brave players who support Liverpool after scoring at either of the club’s two fiercest rivals, Everton and Manchester United.
The stadium’s four-year project came at an estimated cost of more than £750million.
Bramley-Moore Dock has been selected to host matches at Euro 2028.
It is hoped the project will contribute an estimated £1.3billion to the local economy.
Everton’s last ever home game at Goodison Park takes place on May 18.
The Toffees will host Southampton in what promises to be an emotional farewell.
The final Merseyside derby will live long in the memory after James Tarkowski grabbed a stunning last-minute equaliser for the hosts and four people were sent off in wild scenes AFTER the final whistle.
The Merseysiders appear to be securing their place in the Premier League ahead of next season after David Moyes’ return at the helm.
Everton are 14th in the table with 13 points separating them from the relegation zone.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
