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Gwladys Street ? The Passing of Time

After reading some of the excellent responses to Peter Corcoran?s ?New Chant Challenge? on Toffeeweb?s mailbag, it got me thinking of times gone by.

I only started taking a real interest in football when I was about 15 and my first match was Everton v Sheffield Utd ? it was 1-0 and I can?t even remember who for! All I can remember was sitting in the Upper Bullens in total awe of the Gwladys Street.

I?ve gone through many ?phases? in my time but I can say my love affair with Everton started that day in a way I can?t explain... but I?m sure you all understand what I mean there. And, like most marriages, there have probably been more fallouts than I care to admit.... however like all true loves the feelings still there!

Anyway, back to my point; the following season a season ticket followed, probably down more to the fact my dad was so delighted I was showing an interest he wanted to keep it that way. After several seasons elsewhere in the ground, a season ticket in the Lower Gwladys was inevitable. Although I now occupy a spot in the Upper Gwladys with my brother, which was where my dads final place of worship was before he passed away, there is something about the Lower Gwladys I will never forget.... a very special place indeed.

For some reason one of my fondest memories of the Lower Gwladys was the greetings each Everton player received just before kick off. Every player from the goalkeeper (Southall?s "Wales, Wales number one") right through to the number nine would have their own song chanted prior to kick off. You got the impression the players really appreciated it because when it got to their turn it gave them an opportunity to acknowledge the crowd.

So why doesn?t this happen anymore? If it does happen the chants are that low that I can?t even hear them in the Upper Gwladys ? although I am prepared to accept my ?hard of hearing? might be one of the many side affects that Chang (ghastly stuff). Is it the demise of the terraces, the ever increasing gulf between us fans and the millionaire players or just simply the passing of time and changing of traditions?

There are other examples on how things have changed over the last decade and although Goodison can still be the most intimidating ground in the country (backed up by Mr Wenger), I can?t help feel a bit of fun has also disappeared from the old lady.

Speaking of fun, do you remember the chant when an opposing goalkeeper took a goal kick? Stupid I know but it used to make me laugh. Don?t get me wrong I know the same has disappeared from other grounds but I really do think it is a shame.

I really wish the acknowledgment of each player before the game would start again because at the moment chants during the game, in general, are only reserved for the favoured few. This is the one opportunity to show we are all together, fans, players, directors and if you?re Liverpool Referees as well (couldn?t resist that). It was interesting to hear Jags comment on how pleased he was hearing his name sang for the first time by the crowd, so the players do notice.

Don?t get me wrong this is in no way a criticism of us fans, just an acknowledgement that things have changed. Anyway, enough nostalgia ? we now have two big games ahead. It?s understandable why many heads are turned towards next Wednesday against Chelsea but Sunday?s game against Wigan is just as big. I will be going to Wigan on Sunday hoping we finish the match in the top four, a real possibility.

And of Wednesday?s game.... the ground will be pumping, led by the Gwladys Street to create one hell of an atmosphere! and maybe, just maybe, starting with a chant for each Everton player just before kick off... just like the good old days?!?

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