More stories

  • in

    Gutted Everton fan spent 17 years saving for 10,000 mile trip for Merseyside derby before Storm Darragh KO’d match

    AN Aussie Everton fan was left gutted after Storm Darragh ruined his “bucket list” dream of watching his favourite team.The Toffees were scheduled to host Liverpool for Saturday’s early kick-off at Goodison Park, but the extreme weather conditions led to a postponement.Everton fan Nathan Hamlin flew all the way from Australia to watch the Merseyside DerbyCredit: Sky NewsThe Merseyside Derby was postponed because of Storm DarraghCredit: AFPNathan Hamlin and his mum flew all the way from Perth for the 30-hour trip to Liverpool, which required a total of four stops, but found out two hours before the game that it was all for nought. Storm Darragh has caused disruption throughout the entire country as its 90mph winds caused power cuts, trees to be uprooted and events as well as travel to be cancelled.The game was postponed due to health and safety concern and Everton confirmed all tickets purchased for the original fixture will remain valid for the rearranged fixture.However, that may be of no help for Hamlin, 32, who waited at least 17 years to watch his favourite team in action up close and in person.Read More on FootballThis unfortunate development means he may have missed his last chance of ever seeing a Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park as the club moves to Bramley Moore Dock for next season.Hamlin told Sky News: “It’s very upsetting due to the fact my mother and I have flown about 30 hours in total.”Perth-Singapore, Singapore-London, London-Dublin, then Dublin all the way over to here.”It’s been a bucket list item that I’ve always wanted to cross off, and the fact that it’s the last opportunity that we’re going to get to have a Merseyside Derby at Goodison, that was the clinching reason why I came.Most read in FootballAsked if he’s ever watched Everton play in person before, Hamlin responded: “No, I’ve spent probably the last 17 plus years – I’m 32 now – as an Everton fan watching online, watching over [the] product in Australia.”To actually get to go to Goodison, to get to see a game in person was exactly why I came and it’s been very unfortunate.93mph Storm Darragh: Travel chaos, thousands without power and Merseyside Derby called off”I understand the weather – I totally get it. I’m a health and safety advisor, so I totally get the reason as to why you called it off.”It’s just upsetting to be coming this far and only finding out a couple of hours before that you can’t go to the game.”This comes after Everton captain Seamus Coleman made a touching gesture to another Aussie fan who blew “all his savings” on a flight to attend the last Goodison Merseyside derby.Mackenzie Kinsella, 15, had made the 10,000-mile 24-hour trip from Sydney to watch his beloved Blues face Liverpool.It was his “dream” to watch his Liverpool-born mum’s Toffees play against their red neighbours at the historic old ground before the switch to Bramley Moore Dock.However, after Storm Darragh forced safety officials to postpone the game, he will miss out unless it can be re-arranged to take place within the next week before he jets back Down Under.Coleman tries to make it upAfter news of his heartbreak spread following the postponement, Coleman attempted to make it up to Mackenzie by inviting him to be a VIP guest at their Finch Farm training ground.In a video message to the youngster, who is staying with an aunt in England, the Irish ace said: “Hi Mackenzie, it’s Seamus Coleman here. I just wanted to send you a video message today to say I know you’ll be so disappointed today.“I know how hard you saved up to travel from Australia for the Merseyside derby. I know you were looking forward to the experience of being at the last Merseyside derby at Goodison.“So I’m sure you’ll be very disappointed today. We all are, we were all looking forward to the game. But we’d love to see you down here at the training ground on Monday if that’s OK with you?“Hopefully you can see some of the lads and that will make up for the disappointment on Saturday. We can have a bit of a chat then. All the very best Mackenzie and take care.”Mackenzie’s mum Rita, an Everton diehard, admitted that she thought he had “no chance” of earning and saving enough cash to pay for the trip.Fan spent all his savingsBut he proved them wrong and after spending £1,400 he landed at John Lennon Airport in time to see his team thrash Wolves, who his father happens to support, 4-0 on Wednesday.Speaking to BBC Radio Merseyside about her initial response to his derby dream just after Easter, Rita said: “You’ve got no chance mate. We’ve just come back from England and there’s no way I can save that money in the time we’ve got.“When we came back [after Easter], he said it was his dream to go to an Everton vs Liverpool game at Goodison Park.”READ MORE SUN STORIESMackenzie’s nan Jo had previously explained that the person who sits next to her son Michael had to work today, which resulted in his ticket being available.Rita added: “He saved up the money, used all his savings and said two weeks ago ‘I’d really like to go mum – will you let me go?’ I said, ‘I can’t stop you if you’ve got the money’. We’re very proud of him.”Everton captain Seamus Coleman invited another Aussie fan to trainingCredit: Getty More

  • in

    TWO EFL clashes postponed over safety fears as Storm Darragh wrecks vital part of stadium

    NOTTS County’s League Two clash against Colchester United has been postponed after high winds damaged a scoreboard.Storm Darragh is wreaking havoc up and down the country, with League One’s Blackpool vs Rotherham also abandoned in the last hour.Notts County v Colchester United has been postponed after vital equipment damagedBoth clubs made the decision to postpone the match due to safety fears surrounding Storm DarraghIt comes after a scoreboard at Meadow Lane came loose in the high windsGusts of 90mph have seen a number of sporting fixtures cancelled, including Everton’s 12:30 kick-off against fierce rivals Liverpool.And now Notts County are the latest side to be affected by the amber weather warnings.The 3pm game has been postponed after two panels in the Kop scoreboard came loose in the 50mph high winds.The scoreboard hangs directly above the goal at Meadow Lane and is fixed to the roof of the Kop end.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSA Notts County statement read: “Following damage to one of the Meadow Lane scoreboards, this afternoon’s Sky Bet League Two fixture against Colchester United has been postponed in the interests of spectator and player safety.”Two panels in the Kop scoreboard, which is fixed to the roof of the stand, have come loose in the recent high winds and it will not be possible to make the necessary repairs in time for the match to safely go ahead.”Following conversations with this afternoon’s match officials, our opponents, the EFL and the Sports Ground Safety Authority, it’s been agreed that, particularly in light of this afternoon’s weather forecast, these loose panels pose a significant risk.”Tickets and hospitality bookings will remain valid for the rearranged match, a date for which will be confirmed in due course. We’re unable to process any refund requests until the new date is set.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSJust one point separates the sides, with the hosts sitting 16th and Colchester occupying the place below.Fans of both teams were quick to react to the postponement.EFL club owner gives update on new £2bn ‘spaceship’ stadium included in mega plans for state-of-the-art complex One wrote on X: “Should of done it last night.”Another said: “Safety first ❤.”The League One fixture between Blackpool and Rotherham United has also been called off.In a statement, Blackpool said: “After safety checks earlier this morning and in consultation with local agencies, the Club can confirm today’s match has unfortunately been postponed.”A Blackpool fan raged on X: “The lack of communication from the club for this has been appalling. The amber weather warning has been in place for over 24 hours.”Another said: “They announce it now when the travelling fans have probably already left.”The National Grid has revealed that Darragh has left a whopping 32,600 homes in the Midlands and the south west without electricity.An expensive Porsche was destroyed in CardiffStorm Darragh has left a trail of destruction up and down the countryThe storm also led to the cancellation of two Championship games on Friday.Under-fire Wayne Rooney’s Plymouth Argyle side’s clash against Oxford United was the first to be cancelled.While Watford’s trip to Cardiff was also abandoned, after Wales was among the heaviest Home Nations hit by Storm Darragh.The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for wind in the North West region.Fans are eagerly waiting on decision to be made around Man United’s clash with Nottingham Forest at 5:30pm.READ MORE SUN STORIESA statement on United’s website said: “Strong winds associated with Storm Darragh likely leading to some disruption and damage.”And Crystal Palace have confirmed that their home clash against champions Man City will go ahead as planned at 3pm.Full list of postponed fixturesPremier LeagueEverton vs LiverpoolChampionshipPlymouth Argyle vs Oxford UnitedCardiff City vs WatfordLeague OneBristol Rovers vs Bolton WanderersCrawley Town vs StevenagePortsmouth vs RotherhamLeague TwoNewport County vs Carlise UnitedBarrow AFC vs MK DonsNotts County vs Colchester UnitedFA TrophyTorquay United vs HorshamSouthport vs Peterborough SportsHanwell vs EastleighFA VaseSouth Liverpool vs Albion SportsNational League NorthWarrington Town vs Curzon AshtonNorthern Premier LeagueMatlock Town vs Ashton UnitedBlyth Spartans vs Workington.Prescot Cables vs Bamber BridgeNorthern Premier League WestBootle vs Witton AlbionVauxhall Motors vs Stafford RangersKidsgrove Athletic vs AvroHanley Town vs ClitheroeHednesford Town vs Stalybridge CelticNewcastle Town vs City of LiverpoolNorth West Counties LeagueCharnock Richard vs BurscoughAFC Liverpool vs Cheadle TownStafford Town vs Foley MeirAshton Athletic vs Holker Old BoysWinsford United vs Sutton UnitedRamsbottom United vs PadihamMarket Drayton vs EccleshallCheadle Heath Nomads vs Allscott HeathBarnton vs AshvilleTHIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..The Sun is your go to destination for the best football, boxing and MMA news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheSunFootball and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSunFootball. More

  • in

    Everton vs Liverpool CALLED OFF due to safety fears as Storm Darragh KOs final Goodison derby and matches around UK

    THE Merseyside Derby between Everton and Liverpool has been CALLED OFF due to dangerous weather.But Manchester United’s clash with Nottingham Forest is tentatively slated to GO AHEAD.Today’s Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool has been cancelledCredit: GettyThe high winds caused by Storm Darragh has resulted in the final league Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park to be axedCredit: PABoth clubs made the decision to postpone the match due to safety fearsCredit: PAStorm Darragh is wreaking havoc up and down the country, with several services being disrupted.The storm led to the cancellation of two Championship games on Friday.And it’s claimed this afternoon’s match between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park.An Everton statement read: “Everton’s Premier League fixture against Liverpool, scheduled for 12.30pm (GMT) today has been postponed.READ MORE ON STORM DARRAGH”Following a Safety Advisory Group meeting at Goodison Park, attended by officials from both clubs, as well as representatives from Merseyside Police and Liverpool City Council this morning, it was decided that, due to the risk to safety in the local area due to strong wind gusts, and an amber severe wind warning that remains in place until 6am on Sunday, today’s fixture should be postponed on safety grounds.”We apologise for the inconvenience caused and thank supporters for their understanding. Whilst we appreciate this will be deeply disappointing for supporters, the safety of fans, staff and players is of paramount importance.”Information relating to a rearranged date for the fixture will be announced in due course.”All tickets purchased for the original fixture will remain valid for the rearranged fixture.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSStorm Darragh has left a trail of destruction up and down the countryFlood have been reported nationwide, with a driver in Essex getting stuck in 4ft floods yesterdayThe Met Office has issued a red warningFans of both teams were quick to react to the postponement.One wrote on X: “Should of done it last night.”Everton fans say ‘I feel sick just looking at it’ as new video of Bramley Moore Dock stadium go viral Another said: “Weather can really throw a wrench in the plans, but safety comes first.”And another said: “Safety comes first. Gutted though.”One remarked: “Yeah fair enough.”Another chimed in: “Wrong time to call it off – call it off at 10.30 and give it chance to calm down.”Poor decision this because I bet it’s absolutely fine at 12.30.”The Reds’ trip to Goodison was set to be an historic one.It would have been the final league Merseyside Derby at Goodison before Everton move into their new stadium at Bramley Moore Dock.Given its proximity to Liverpool, there were fears that United’s clash with Forest at Old Trafford could also fall victim to Darragh.But as it stands, the match – which is scheduled to get underway at 5:30pm – will GO AHEAD.A United statement read: “Today’s Premier League fixture at Old Trafford between Manchester United and Nottingham Forest is scheduled to go ahead as planned. “The club will continue to consult the relevant authorities throughout the day and will update supporters immediately if anything changes. “We understand that fan travel will be disrupted by the weather so this fixture will not be included in the minimum number of games a season that season tickets must be used.”Aston Villa, Brentford and Crystal Palace also issued statements confirming their respective matches against Southampton, Newcastle United and Manchester City will are expected to go ahead as scheduled.Storm Darragh has so far claimed four fixtures this afternoon.Watford’s and Plymouth’s respective Championship clashes Cardiff and Oxford United have been called off.Bristol Rovers’ League One showdown with Bolton Wanderers has also been postponed.And AFC Barrow, Newport and Notts County’s respective League Two clashes with MK Dons, Carlisle United and Colchester United have also fallen by the wayside.Storm Darragh began battering the UK on Friday with winds of 92mph.The Met Office quickly issued a stay at home order for millions of people with a red warning.READ MORE SUN STORIESA red warning indicates serious danger to life. The National Grid has revealed that Darragh has left a whopping 32,600 homes in the Midlands and the south west without electricity. More

  • in

    Liverpool and Everton release joint statement amid fears Storm Darragh’s 80mph winds could postpone Merseyside derby

    LIVERPOOL and Everton have released a joint statement amid fears Storm Darragh could curtail Saturday’s derby.The Merseyside rivals spoke out to offer advice to fans – as the region braces itself for winds of up to 80mph.Goodison Park is expecting fierce conditions for Saturday’s big clashCredit: RexMerseyside is subject to an amber warning, meaning severe windsCredit: MET OfficeThe 12.30pm Premier League match is still expected to go ahead.But the clubs have responded to concerns over travel and playing conditions.They shared identical messages on their official websites.Both statements read: “Supporters attending Saturday’s Merseyside derby at Goodison Park are advised to allow extra time for travel, and to remain alert to Met Office weather warnings.READ MORE FOOTBALL”An amber severe wind warning has been issued by the Met Office for Merseyside from 1am on Saturday morning, with wind gusts of 60mph to 70mph likely.”That warning for wind is expected to remain in place until 6am on Sunday. “Given the weather warning, fans are advised to allow extra time for their journey and to take extra care.”Fans are also advised to keep a close eye on travel and weather guidance in their area to assist with travel planning for Saturday’s Premier League fixture.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSLiverpool are seven points clear of second-placed Chelsea in the Prem, while Everton are three above the drop zone.Meanwhile, Goodison is likely to escape the worst of Storm Darragh.John O’Shea says teams all over Europe will try to sign Caoimhin Kelleher from LiverpoolThe Met Office is anticipating winds of 70 to 80mph around exposed coasts and headlands on Merseyside.But the predicted speed in the area drops to around 60-70mph inland.Wales and south west England might suffer the most severe effects in Britain.The Met Office has put out a rare red alert for that region – including an emergency warning – to around 3million people.Winds there could reach a life-endangering 90mph in some places. More

  • in

    Championship fixtures POSTPONED by weather chaos including Wayne Rooney’s Plymouth with 90mph Storm Darragh set to hit

    TWO Championship fixtures have been postponed as Storm Darragh is set to batter Wales and the South West with winds up to 90mph. Wayne Rooney’s struggling Plymouth will not face Oxford United tomorrow while Cardiff vs Watford has also been called off. Under-fire Wayne Rooney has seen his Plymouth side’s Championship game get postoponedCredit: RexThe Football Association of Wales (FAW) had earlier announced that ALL matches scheduled in Wales would be postponed with flooding and travel chaos expected. Cardiff have now confirmed they will not face the Hornets “in the interest of supporter safety” after receiving advice from the Met Office.Plymouth’s home clash had already been axed earlier in the day, with under-fire Rooney handed a reprieve following a dismal run.The Man Utd legend was reported to have two games left to save himself from the sack, although this was refuted by the Pilgrims’ chairman.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt came after a week in which his side got thrashed 6-1 by Norwich and then 4-0 by Bristol City, leaving them just outside the relegation zone. Storm Darragh is sweeping across the Atlantic with the Met Office issuing a rare red ‘danger to life’ warning across parts of Wales, Bristol and north Somerset. The FAW said in a statement: “The Met Office has issued red, amber, and yellow weather warnings for the vast majority of Wales due to Storm Darragh, which is expected to bring damaging winds and heavy rain, causing significant disruption and danger to life.”It is not safe to drive in such weather, including travelling to and from football matches. Being outside in high winds increases the risk of injury and The Met Office advises people to stay indoors if possible.Most read in Football”Clubs have been advised to check for and secure any loose items around their grounds if it can be done safely. This includes bins, furniture, goalposts, and fences etc.”Potential postponements of fixtures on Friday 6 December and Sunday 8 December will be considered on a case-by-case basis, in line with each individual league’s policy.”Other games in the area that could be hit by the weather include Bristol Rovers vs Bolton in League One, and Yeovil Town’s FA Trophy clash with Weymouth. Meanwhile Haverfordwest County announced their Welsh Premier League clash with Briton Ferry tonight was also postponed. Red warnings are extremely rare, with today’s announcement just the 19th such warning since records begin in 2011. The alert, issued on the Met Office website, warns of danger to life due to flying debris and falling trees. Damage to buildings and homes, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down, are also expected – with power cuts potentially affecting other services including mobile coverage. Brits are urged to avoid travelling and stay indoors if possible. There is a 39-hour yellow wind warning for the whole of England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and much of Scotland, until 6am on Sunday. Cardiff City also announced their fixture has been postponedCredit: Alamy More

  • in

    Non-league stars go SWIMMING on their pitch as entire stadium covered in water as Storm Bert wreaks havoc

    NON-LEAGUE stars enjoyed a spot of swimming after their entire stadium pitch was left covered in water by Storm Bert.The amazing moment came as the UK was hit by a plethora of wet and windy weather.Non-league players enjoyed a swim after their pitch was flooded by Storm BertGames were called off across the country due to the stormy conditions.And non-league side Lydney Town saw yesterday’s home fixture against Roman Glass St George among the matches that were called off.However, some players rocked up on Sunday to check out the extent of the damage.And they could not believe their eyes when they saw that the pitch had been completely submerged in water.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHilariously, the Lydney players decided to take advantage of the situation.A football was booted into the middle of the flooded field.And several dived into the water before swimming around in joyFans certainly found the moment amusing.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSOne said: “Wait until the subs come on.”Another declared: “Great game of water polo that.”Every Premier League stadium ranked by the number of pubs nearby with one boasting over 130 local boozersOne noted: “Class lads, we’re in the same boat quite literally.”Another yelled: “Fans need to sort themselves out…“Biggest game of the season and it’s empty!”One added: “Did tell you it was playable.” More

  • in

    Man Utd fans face travel chaos as Storm Bert threatens to ruin chance of seeing Amorim’s first game in charge vs Ipswich

    MANCHESTER UNITED fans are facing a travel nightmare as the country continues to feel the full force of Storm Bert.New manager Ruben Amorim takes charge of his first game this afternoon against Ipswich.Ruben Amorim takes charge of his first game as United bossCredit: GettyFans are facing travel chaos getting to IpswichCredit: PABut some away supporters are having difficulty getting to Portman Road for the 4:30pm kick-off.Train lines between Manchester and Stoke-on-Trent have been flooded, causing cancellations and huge delays.There are also several road closures and lengthy detours in place in the North West.For United fans living in the capital, there is disruption on trains from London to Ipswich.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Met Office have issued a yellow weather warning as torrential rain, heavy snow and strong winds continue to batter the UK.These conditions are set to continue into the evening, giving United fans potential difficulty getting home from Ipswich too.Liverpool supporters are facing similar challenges as they travel down to face Southampton this afternoon.The police are advising against non-essential travel due to the dangerous weather in some areas.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSStorm Bert has already caused chaos in the EFL after several matches were postponed yesterday. In the Championship, Blackburn vs Portsmouth was called off due to flooding and League Two games Bradford vs Accrington Stanley and Fleetwood vs MK Dons also got axed.’Thunder and hail’ on route amid flooding & second overnight Storm Bert warningAll Premier League games are set to go ahead this weekend, including tomorrow’s clash between Newcastle and West Ham.The North East has been hit with 70mph winds and the storm could wreak havoc for the Hammers’ travel plans. More

  • in

    Barcelona star Robert Lewandowski’s home flooded as wife Anna shares video after ‘extreme danger’ red alert

    ROBERT LEWANDOWSKI’S home suffered flooding as Catalonia was hit by an “extreme danger” red alert.Flash floods have devasted Spain following heavy rain.Robert Lewandowski’s wife revealed their rented home was floodedCredit: GettyAnna Lewandowska dipped her toes in the floodwater in the garageCredit: Instagram @annalewandowskaA river of water ran down the streetCredit: Instagram @annalewandowskaAnd now severe flooding has hit the region around Barcelona, with more rainfall forecast.That includes at Lewandowski’s home in the prestigious neighbourhood of Castelldefels – 15 miles west of Barcelona along the coast.His wife and mum-of-two Anna Lewandowska shared a video on her Instagram story, thought to be of the garage at their £3.3million home they are renting off Marc Bartra.She uploaded the post on Monday – the day after Lewandowski played in Barca’s 3-1 win over rivals Espanyol. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn the clip, the personal trainer and former karate star dips her toes into the massive pool of water before showing the shocking river running past the home outside.The floodwater in the garage looked to be approximately two inches deep – but thankfully did not appear to have risen enough to spread into the rest of the house. Lewandowska, 36, also posted another clip of the devastating impact of the floods, with a car almost fully submerged. At least 217 people have died as a result of the flooding – with Valencia initially hit further down the east coast.Most read in FootballTragic photos of homes, cars, buildings and transport services such as train tracks severely damaged or even completely wrecked revealed the extent of the impact – with rivers of floodwater gushing down streets. Valencia was due to host the season finale of the 2024 MotoGP but will be moved to another location so that the full focus of resources can be put into aiding the recovery response. Mikel Arteta’s wife Lorena beams with pride as he wins Best Premier League Manager at Globe Soccer AwardsHowever, Catalonia is now feeling the full force of the extreme weather conditions. Commuter trains have been cancelled, more than 80 flights have been delayed, diverted or scrapped altogether and some major roads are currently closed. Residents are being told not to travel unless it is “strictly necessary”.Tottenham defender Pedro Porro will donate part of his salary to help fund the clear-up in Valencia. The right-back wanted to be back in his homeland to help practically – but decided giving financially was the next best option.Porro, speaking after playing in Spurs’ 4-1 win over Aston Villa on Sunday, said: “First of all, I just want to say that, well, for a Spaniard, today, for all Spaniards, it’s a sad day.“I think we’ve had three, four, five days of terrible suffering. I can’t even imagine what it’s like for everyone involved in Valencia.“I want to dedicate this victory to them.“There’s a sense of helplessness.“Helplessness about not being there, because I know what it’s like to be ‘in the mud’.“I’d be the first one there to help, to show up, but I’m in London, I have competitions, I can’t.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I’d say it’s helplessness because I’d like to help.“But I’ve already spoken to my agents, and I’m going to donate part of my salary to cover whatever they need, to buy shovels, food, especially anything they need.”Water caused havoc at the airport in BarcelonaCredit: APThe Lewandowski family live in the Castelldefels region near BarcelonaCredit: GettyCars were swept away and piled up following the floodingCredit: EPAThe MotoGP race at Valencia scheduled for later in November has been cancelledCredit: ReutersValencia has been hit hardest by the devastationCredit: Reuters More