The Everton Forum * Re: Fixtures
Reflecting back on my initial venture at Goodison Park brings a wave of nostalgia that is hard to convey. It was the tail end of the ’81/’82 season when I first stepped into the roaring stands to watch Everton face off against Wolves. The match, ending in a 1-1 draw with Peter Eastoe netting the goal, remains etched in my memory. This experience was something I hoped to replicate for my final visit to the historic ground, ideally in December, picturing a perfect farewell enveloped in the warmth of the sun, reminiscent of that first game.
The ritual of match day is more than just the game; it’s the ambiance that surrounds it. I longed for those simple joys — a few drinks at the Elm followed by the camaraderie at the Wilmslow, a routine that became almost sacred over the years. Yet, certain elements that once added layers to this nostalgic experience seem forever lost to time. The absence of the old, grungy hot dog carts that lined our paths and the cheeky local kids offering to “watch” the car for a few coins, add to a nostalgia that the modern game-day experience seems to lack.
Despite these changes, the essence of those bygone days remains. It’s the thrill of the game, the connection with fellow fans, and the shared hope and disappointment that binds us. As stadiums evolve and match day traditions fade into memory, the heart of the football experience — the reason we all came together in the first place — persists. It’s this enduring spirit that I hoped to capture one last time under the classic Everton skies; a tribute to the old while embracing the new.
