29/05/2026
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(Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
As the first season at our new waterfront home comes to a close, there is time to reflect on the adaptation to the new matchday experience at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The change in logistics has certainly been difficult, with evident teething problems for both the club and us fans.
Who knew moving 2 miles away would have such an impact! But travel issues have been top of the pecking order in terms of concerns during the opening season at Bramley-Moore Dock. The housing near Goodison meant short walks to the match for many, whilst standardised parking and familiar bus routes meant getting to the ground was a doddle. Nowadays, the journey is a little more difficult.
Despite Everton’s goal to get fans inside the stadium site earlier and attempt to entice us to stay later, a chaotic environment has been constructed due to poor planning from Merseyrail, specifically on the return journey.
Although travel concerns were prominent earlier in the season, after the second test event (25,000 fans), many classified the experience as “awful” and called it “a dangerous situation”. Thankfully, the post-match disorder now seems to have de-escalated, as a new footbridge at Sandhills train station and improved security management seem to have improved the fan experience.
Some argue that the experience for supporters has been damaged following the move to Hill Dickinson Stadium. The frequent rearranged fixtures and late kick-offs make fans feel shortchanged by television coverage, as well as the collective loss of traditional fan culture, leaving supporters disconnected.
For years, a certain pub of choice was the stomping ground for pre-match atmosphere. From The Brick to The Winslow, there would always be familiar faces wherever you would be. The change in the people around you, both in your seat and on your travels, means there has been a disruption to the connection between us fans. The sense of community between people at Goodison Park will be difficult to rebuild at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Perhaps this problem has been behind claims of a lack of atmosphere in the new ground, and a lack of the hostility often created at Goodison toward opponents. That may have had a psychological impact on supporters and, arguably, the players too.
This is only further damaged by the club’s decision to disrupt the orderly matchday logistics that were ever-present at Goodison. The consistent concerns regarding ticket allocation and price hikes this season mean corporate revenue is deemed as Everton’s priority for the foreseeable future, not us, loyal supporters.
The modernisation has reinforced the chapter of new owners and a state-of-the-art stadium, but tradition is being lost at Hill Dickinson Stadium. As season ticket price hikes of almost 10% were recently announced, the Everton Fan Advisory Board has called for a 3-year price freeze on season and general admission tickets, showing our desperation to be heard and seen.
What happened to the simpler times at Goodison? Where every person was recognisable, where there were pre-match rituals. It seems the move to our new stadium has eroded fan culture, but the hope is that time will see new traditions emerge.
Reader Comments (49)
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Mike Gaynes
2 Posted 29/05/2026 at 23:48:22
2 Posted 29/05/2026 at 23:48:22
Andy, for almost 20 years we had a chairman who knew all about our past and our supporters. Fat lot of good that did us.
Personally I'd rather have one who knows how to run a billion-dollar business operation so that it no longer resembles a stage comedy.
Personally I'd rather have one who knows how to run a billion-dollar business operation so that it no longer resembles a stage comedy.
Jack Convery
3 Posted 29/05/2026 at 00:37:44
3 Posted 29/05/2026 at 00:37:44
If the RS had owned the Stadium, the transport links, rail, road, ferries would have been sorted out as it was being built. An extended platform at Sandhills or even, god forbid a station on Boundary Street, for match days only.
A multistory car park, possibly two or three, could have been built in the area also, in anticipation of the fans' needs, and not a cocked-up parking scheme at the 11th hour, coming out of the council.
I said at the time a ferry terminal could have been built, with a park and ride scheme in Wallasey or Birkenhead. It just takes the will to do it.
Where Everton are concerned, Liverpool City Council, appear to me, to treat us like 2nd class citizens. The RS would have got whatever they requested to aid their darling supporters journey to and from the ground. Makes me sick.
A multistory car park, possibly two or three, could have been built in the area also, in anticipation of the fans' needs, and not a cocked-up parking scheme at the 11th hour, coming out of the council.
I said at the time a ferry terminal could have been built, with a park and ride scheme in Wallasey or Birkenhead. It just takes the will to do it.
Where Everton are concerned, Liverpool City Council, appear to me, to treat us like 2nd class citizens. The RS would have got whatever they requested to aid their darling supporters journey to and from the ground. Makes me sick.
Andy Meighan
4 Posted 30/05/2026 at 07:21:54
4 Posted 30/05/2026 at 07:21:54
Spot on, Jack.
But and it kills me to say this, they do bring a lot of tourists into the city, whereas our support is mainly local.
So you're right when you say the council would have bent over backwards to help them where their attitude towards us was a shrug of the shoulders and "Sod them, they know where it is, so let them get there."
But in some respects the change in fixtures was terrible, even the Man City game moved from a Sunday afternoon to a Bank Holiday Monday night when most were in work the next day.
The changes were the one thing that irked and we only had 3 Saturday 3 o'clock kick-offs, shocking.
But and it kills me to say this, they do bring a lot of tourists into the city, whereas our support is mainly local.
So you're right when you say the council would have bent over backwards to help them where their attitude towards us was a shrug of the shoulders and "Sod them, they know where it is, so let them get there."
But in some respects the change in fixtures was terrible, even the Man City game moved from a Sunday afternoon to a Bank Holiday Monday night when most were in work the next day.
The changes were the one thing that irked and we only had 3 Saturday 3 o'clock kick-offs, shocking.
Peter Mitchell
5 Posted 30/05/2026 at 07:56:19
5 Posted 30/05/2026 at 07:56:19
As a long-distance fan (London), the move to the new stadium has been very positive and welcome. It is handy for hotels and bars in the city centre and only about a 30-minute walk away.
The location is fantastic, the impact on what was a pretty derelict area is already apparent (with bars, cafes and clubs springing up) and, with the central docks development happening, it will no longer be in the middle of nowhere.
The stadium itself is amazing, inside and out, and the noise generated is very impressive when the team are at it. I also understand that they will be doing more to "Evertonise" the stadium and plaza, which will make a difference.
In fact, the only downside I can see is the team performance at home, which has not been good enough. Over to you, TFG!
The location is fantastic, the impact on what was a pretty derelict area is already apparent (with bars, cafes and clubs springing up) and, with the central docks development happening, it will no longer be in the middle of nowhere.
The stadium itself is amazing, inside and out, and the noise generated is very impressive when the team are at it. I also understand that they will be doing more to "Evertonise" the stadium and plaza, which will make a difference.
In fact, the only downside I can see is the team performance at home, which has not been good enough. Over to you, TFG!
John Pickles
6 Posted 30/05/2026 at 08:23:38
6 Posted 30/05/2026 at 08:23:38
With 97% of fans renewing their season tickets, the move, if not positive, is certainly not deemed a disaster.
I suppose, certainly hope, that at least the travel issues will improve over time. It will help if the non-match-going public decide they don't need to drive to Costco 1 hour before kick-off.
I suppose, certainly hope, that at least the travel issues will improve over time. It will help if the non-match-going public decide they don't need to drive to Costco 1 hour before kick-off.
Ian Bennett
7 Posted 30/05/2026 at 08:51:11
7 Posted 30/05/2026 at 08:51:11
With so many teams in Europe next season, we will have more, not less games moved to a Friday or Monday.
I think I read Man Utd were the most popular Monday night game, so with them back in Europe, and another in West Ham relegated, Sky will come a knocking for the Hill Dickinson experience.
I think I read Man Utd were the most popular Monday night game, so with them back in Europe, and another in West Ham relegated, Sky will come a knocking for the Hill Dickinson experience.
Joe McMahon
8 Posted 30/05/2026 at 08:54:57
8 Posted 30/05/2026 at 08:54:57
Andy and Jack, with nearly half the Premier League in Europe next season (ridiculous isn't it), Everton will most certainly get the lions share of Monday night games.
I'm not looking forward to next season, Moyes sacked by Winter and any manager we wanted will be unavailable.
I'm not looking forward to next season, Moyes sacked by Winter and any manager we wanted will be unavailable.
Mick O\\\'Malley
9 Posted 30/05/2026 at 09:08:23
9 Posted 30/05/2026 at 09:08:23
Andy @1,
That is the reason my arl fella has given up his season ticket because of how awkward it is for him to get there.
He's had a season ticket for near on 60 years and he barely missed a home match at Goodison in all that time. He'd park his car outside my cousins off Priory Road and he'd have a 10-minute walk to Goodison Park.
It broke his heart giving up his season ticket and, to be honest, it's broken mine to see him at a loose end on a Saturday giving up something he absolutely loved.
He had a quadruple bypass a few years ago and is 78, so he couldn't manage the walk and the pissing about getting to the game, especially midweek games.
He loved his seat in the Gladwys Street Stand, Row D, Seat 88 -- right behind the goal. He loved Goodison Park and all the memories attached to our spiritual home.
That is the reason my arl fella has given up his season ticket because of how awkward it is for him to get there.
He's had a season ticket for near on 60 years and he barely missed a home match at Goodison in all that time. He'd park his car outside my cousins off Priory Road and he'd have a 10-minute walk to Goodison Park.
It broke his heart giving up his season ticket and, to be honest, it's broken mine to see him at a loose end on a Saturday giving up something he absolutely loved.
He had a quadruple bypass a few years ago and is 78, so he couldn't manage the walk and the pissing about getting to the game, especially midweek games.
He loved his seat in the Gladwys Street Stand, Row D, Seat 88 -- right behind the goal. He loved Goodison Park and all the memories attached to our spiritual home.
Jason Hewly
10 Posted 30/05/2026 at 09:10:02
10 Posted 30/05/2026 at 09:10:02
Almost every club that moves to a new stadium sees a drop off in home form as everyone gets used to the new place. For some, it even results in relegation. We've managed the transition (which is still on-going) okay so far.
There are always going to be people who do nothing but moan, especially on this site, but we're consolidating, we play in an iconic, beautiful arena, and the extra revenue will see some investment in the squad.
There are always going to be people who do nothing but moan, especially on this site, but we're consolidating, we play in an iconic, beautiful arena, and the extra revenue will see some investment in the squad.
Grant Rorrison
11 Posted 30/05/2026 at 09:26:56
11 Posted 30/05/2026 at 09:26:56
Our drop-off in home form started years ago. Moyes had it pretty good by the time he left.
It continued for 1 year under Martinez, then dropped off a cliff. Koeman's first year, it was good again, particularly second half of the season, and it's been terrible ever since.
I don't think moving stadium has made any difference.
It continued for 1 year under Martinez, then dropped off a cliff. Koeman's first year, it was good again, particularly second half of the season, and it's been terrible ever since.
I don't think moving stadium has made any difference.
Bobby Mallon
12 Posted 30/05/2026 at 09:32:20
12 Posted 30/05/2026 at 09:32:20
You can't please everyone.
I just hope Mick's dad has kept the ticket in his family.
I just hope Mick's dad has kept the ticket in his family.
Steve Brown
13 Posted 30/05/2026 at 09:48:07
13 Posted 30/05/2026 at 09:48:07
Jason @ 10,
It's not fucking moaning to question why 78-year-olds like Mick's dad have to walk 30 minutes to get to the ground.
How are our elderly and disabled fans meant to access the ground when the council has made zero plans to help them? It is shameful that these fans are now having to give up their season tickets which a number of them have had since before you were born.
Show some empathy.
It's not fucking moaning to question why 78-year-olds like Mick's dad have to walk 30 minutes to get to the ground.
How are our elderly and disabled fans meant to access the ground when the council has made zero plans to help them? It is shameful that these fans are now having to give up their season tickets which a number of them have had since before you were born.
Show some empathy.
Dave Abrahams
14 Posted 30/05/2026 at 10:04:26
14 Posted 30/05/2026 at 10:04:26
Jason (10),
I'll give you some advice — don't get old, mate, you'll find it a lot harder to do the ordinary things in life but some things are just too much to do... getting to the new ground is one of them.
I'm a bit older than Mick's dad but I haven't had the medical problems he has had, and I understand the difficulties he has had to endure. Moyes has made it easier for me to miss the team I love with his anti-football style of play.
I'll give you some advice — don't get old, mate, you'll find it a lot harder to do the ordinary things in life but some things are just too much to do... getting to the new ground is one of them.
I'm a bit older than Mick's dad but I haven't had the medical problems he has had, and I understand the difficulties he has had to endure. Moyes has made it easier for me to miss the team I love with his anti-football style of play.
Jim Bennings
15 Posted 30/05/2026 at 10:07:07
15 Posted 30/05/2026 at 10:07:07
It's teething problems, yes.
I go back to much of what I said 5 or 6 months ago, however, and I'll hope that this summer sees the following improvements:
More Everton branding outside, make it more about the club and not just the area and Hill Dickinson.
The lettering on the seats, a massive bugbear of mine, some may call it petty but I want EFC on the South Stand or something, across one of the sides EVERTON like we had on the Bullens.
Far too much concrete still visible inside, get it painted blue for fuck's sake, or get skins on it, especially that disabled section which is too prominent.
Small tweaks are needed, it's not asking much really, is it?
I go back to much of what I said 5 or 6 months ago, however, and I'll hope that this summer sees the following improvements:
More Everton branding outside, make it more about the club and not just the area and Hill Dickinson.
The lettering on the seats, a massive bugbear of mine, some may call it petty but I want EFC on the South Stand or something, across one of the sides EVERTON like we had on the Bullens.
Far too much concrete still visible inside, get it painted blue for fuck's sake, or get skins on it, especially that disabled section which is too prominent.
Small tweaks are needed, it's not asking much really, is it?
Dave Abrahams
16 Posted 30/05/2026 at 10:17:36
16 Posted 30/05/2026 at 10:17:36
Mike (2), not to go on about that chairman knowing all about our past and supporters. He was a Johnny come late to supporting Everton and he never lived the life of supporting Everton.
He might have read about our past but his claim of going in the Boys Pen etc is a load of baloney. Mike, you and plenty of supporters all over the world who can't get to watch Everton are much better Bluenoses than the man who claimed to be “Everton's greatest fan.
I hope that the new owners, without coming to watch the club they bought, turn out to be better than Kenwright... although they'd have to be really bad not to be better.
He might have read about our past but his claim of going in the Boys Pen etc is a load of baloney. Mike, you and plenty of supporters all over the world who can't get to watch Everton are much better Bluenoses than the man who claimed to be “Everton's greatest fan.
I hope that the new owners, without coming to watch the club they bought, turn out to be better than Kenwright... although they'd have to be really bad not to be better.
Brian Harrison
17 Posted 30/05/2026 at 10:22:37
17 Posted 30/05/2026 at 10:22:37
We as fans have been badly let down by our City Council and our new owners in regard to older and disabled people getting to and from Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Both had long enough to sort out the problems of having a stadium built by the waterfront; they knew that everybody had to enter and leave using Regent Road. They made Regent Road unavailable to traffic, so everything had to exit the area via Great Howard Street.
So trying to disperse 52,000 people via one road was going to cause massive disruption. Then, to make matters worse, the Council decided to close all roads leading off Great Howard Street.
Basically, the club don't care how you get there or get away after the game, and the Council will tell us they don't have the money to make the structural changes.
But I would respectfully suggest that seeing the pavements are wide along Regent Road, allow buses only along there, and open all access roads off Great Howard Street.
So far, we have been lucky in not having too many times were it's rained going and coming out... but, in our climate, we will get a lot more games when we have wet weather.
I suggested years before the stadium was built they could build a ferry terminal outside the ground and, even if they had a park and ferry ride to and from the ground, that would considerably reduce the traffic using Great Howard Street.
Both had long enough to sort out the problems of having a stadium built by the waterfront; they knew that everybody had to enter and leave using Regent Road. They made Regent Road unavailable to traffic, so everything had to exit the area via Great Howard Street.
So trying to disperse 52,000 people via one road was going to cause massive disruption. Then, to make matters worse, the Council decided to close all roads leading off Great Howard Street.
Basically, the club don't care how you get there or get away after the game, and the Council will tell us they don't have the money to make the structural changes.
But I would respectfully suggest that seeing the pavements are wide along Regent Road, allow buses only along there, and open all access roads off Great Howard Street.
So far, we have been lucky in not having too many times were it's rained going and coming out... but, in our climate, we will get a lot more games when we have wet weather.
I suggested years before the stadium was built they could build a ferry terminal outside the ground and, even if they had a park and ferry ride to and from the ground, that would considerably reduce the traffic using Great Howard Street.
Paul Hewitt
18 Posted 30/05/2026 at 11:05:56
18 Posted 30/05/2026 at 11:05:56
Let's be honest. LCC don't give a fuck about us.
We don't bring the money and exposure that the other lot bring to the city.
We don't bring the money and exposure that the other lot bring to the city.
Matt Traynor
19 Posted 30/05/2026 at 11:16:43
19 Posted 30/05/2026 at 11:16:43
I was never a fan of David Moyes -- from the last contract before he left to go to Man Utd. I don't blame him for accepting a much bigger job, I personally felt we'd reached our glass ceiling between him and Kim Jong Bill, and we were never going to trouble the engravers.
With TFG at the helm, and quiet apart from the "happily disatisfied" baloney from their CEO, I suspect they are not in it for the long haul.
-- They bought the club at a knock-down price, thanks to Moshiri's inept fiscal management;
- They've restructured things financially;
- There's a big push on boosting revenue, commercial sponsorships, near 10% increase in Season Ticket prices after a very underwhelming season at home;
Furthermore, there's been clamour to replace our manager, in part due to the availability of some high calibre candidates, as well as in part to the capitulation in the last 7 games -- after early exits in the cups as well.
Moyes represents stability, and a new manager would require a big transfer kitty to reshape the squad. I fully expect Moyes to see out his contract, and not go large in the transfer market.
The main reason for this is I think TFG are considering flipping the club in 12 months, and securing a substantial windfall from their investment. They just seem utterly disinterested in the club.
With TFG at the helm, and quiet apart from the "happily disatisfied" baloney from their CEO, I suspect they are not in it for the long haul.
-- They bought the club at a knock-down price, thanks to Moshiri's inept fiscal management;
- They've restructured things financially;
- There's a big push on boosting revenue, commercial sponsorships, near 10% increase in Season Ticket prices after a very underwhelming season at home;
Furthermore, there's been clamour to replace our manager, in part due to the availability of some high calibre candidates, as well as in part to the capitulation in the last 7 games -- after early exits in the cups as well.
Moyes represents stability, and a new manager would require a big transfer kitty to reshape the squad. I fully expect Moyes to see out his contract, and not go large in the transfer market.
The main reason for this is I think TFG are considering flipping the club in 12 months, and securing a substantial windfall from their investment. They just seem utterly disinterested in the club.
Tony Abrahams
20 Posted 30/05/2026 at 11:37:45
20 Posted 30/05/2026 at 11:37:45
Kenwright knew how to play the gullible members of the fan base, Mike, so his divide and conquer tactics worked for him.
The title of this thread is very iconic though. When I look at David Moyes, I see the ghost of a terrible downplaying era, and one which I think a lot of people are too scared to leave behind.
It's definitely going to take time because of the logistics, the pros are the games early or late in the season, days when the sunshine is out, but there are major problems with getting to and from the stadium, and this hasn't been helped by the Liverpool City Council, one bit.
We need a good team that either plays entertaining football or wins (preferably both) because the novelty has worn off for a lot of people and there are plenty of people who have got similar feelings to Andy.
The title of this thread is very iconic though. When I look at David Moyes, I see the ghost of a terrible downplaying era, and one which I think a lot of people are too scared to leave behind.
It's definitely going to take time because of the logistics, the pros are the games early or late in the season, days when the sunshine is out, but there are major problems with getting to and from the stadium, and this hasn't been helped by the Liverpool City Council, one bit.
We need a good team that either plays entertaining football or wins (preferably both) because the novelty has worn off for a lot of people and there are plenty of people who have got similar feelings to Andy.
Michael Kenrick
21 Posted 30/05/2026 at 11:38:00
21 Posted 30/05/2026 at 11:38:00
I differ on this one, Jim @15:
Some may call it petty but I want EFC on the South Stand or something, across one of the sides EVERTON like we had on the Bullens.
I fully expected them to go down that route, and I think the fact that they haven't is pretty classy. It's like the old Catterick meme asking "Why should we need to put Everton or EFC on our shirts? Everyone knows who we are!"
The stadium looks remarkably clean and slick without trying to spell out the obvious using white seats. Let's not spoil that unique look that sets us apart from the rabble.
Some may call it petty but I want EFC on the South Stand or something, across one of the sides EVERTON like we had on the Bullens.
I fully expected them to go down that route, and I think the fact that they haven't is pretty classy. It's like the old Catterick meme asking "Why should we need to put Everton or EFC on our shirts? Everyone knows who we are!"
The stadium looks remarkably clean and slick without trying to spell out the obvious using white seats. Let's not spoil that unique look that sets us apart from the rabble.
John Collins
22 Posted 30/05/2026 at 11:45:02
22 Posted 30/05/2026 at 11:45:02
Dave 16,
Out of order there mate.
Don't you know Bill had to stand at the front of the Boys Pen enduring piss-soaked socks, a result of the older lads having a piss higher up and Bill having holes in his shoes due to the family being skint?
Out of order there mate.
Don't you know Bill had to stand at the front of the Boys Pen enduring piss-soaked socks, a result of the older lads having a piss higher up and Bill having holes in his shoes due to the family being skint?
Jim Bennings
23 Posted 30/05/2026 at 12:09:19
23 Posted 30/05/2026 at 12:09:19
Maybe Michael
Maybe it's just me, but at Goodison I always felt like I could see the Blue, the pure sea of Everton Blue from a mile off.
I grant you in past decades it was overly decked out in swathes of our predominant colour outside the stands or surrounding area, but once they started making Goodison the Everton area I got used to it.
The whole Bramley Moore area for me feels quite cold and distant, as wonderful as the stadium is, I do feel it needs a more Blue feel when there.
What's your opinion on the concrete inside being on show?
Maybe it's just me, but at Goodison I always felt like I could see the Blue, the pure sea of Everton Blue from a mile off.
I grant you in past decades it was overly decked out in swathes of our predominant colour outside the stands or surrounding area, but once they started making Goodison the Everton area I got used to it.
The whole Bramley Moore area for me feels quite cold and distant, as wonderful as the stadium is, I do feel it needs a more Blue feel when there.
What's your opinion on the concrete inside being on show?
Colin Malone
24 Posted 30/05/2026 at 12:22:08
24 Posted 30/05/2026 at 12:22:08
Totally agree with the posts, but unfortunately, something bad has to happen before they do something about it.
Evening kick-offs are a nightmare, supporters leaving early to get a limited transport system. James Street and Moorfields are jammed as a sardine tin. Parking is atrocious, traffic wardens are like flies around shite... Bastards!!
Does Liverpool City Council care? Do they fuck.
Evening kick-offs are a nightmare, supporters leaving early to get a limited transport system. James Street and Moorfields are jammed as a sardine tin. Parking is atrocious, traffic wardens are like flies around shite... Bastards!!
Does Liverpool City Council care? Do they fuck.
Andy Meighan
25 Posted 30/05/2026 at 12:30:39
25 Posted 30/05/2026 at 12:30:39
Mick 9.
Sorry to hear that about your dad, he must have sat near me in the Gwladys st, as I was only a row behind.
I know a few lads who haven't bothered with the HD simply because of the getting there and getting home, I know it's not that far from the old lady but it's a bastard to get to.
I had a fella sat next to me in the Gwladys for years in his late 70s and was marvellous for it, and I thought hed be sat near me but no the club shunted him near the back of the South stand upper so he was upset over that.
Ive seen a few lads and girls who id known for years in the new ground but it's just not the same that said I've got a cracking lad and his son next to me and a fella 2 seats away who's a good lad, so not all bad news.
I'm just a moaning fucker.
Sorry to hear that about your dad, he must have sat near me in the Gwladys st, as I was only a row behind.
I know a few lads who haven't bothered with the HD simply because of the getting there and getting home, I know it's not that far from the old lady but it's a bastard to get to.
I had a fella sat next to me in the Gwladys for years in his late 70s and was marvellous for it, and I thought hed be sat near me but no the club shunted him near the back of the South stand upper so he was upset over that.
Ive seen a few lads and girls who id known for years in the new ground but it's just not the same that said I've got a cracking lad and his son next to me and a fella 2 seats away who's a good lad, so not all bad news.
I'm just a moaning fucker.
Dave Abrahams
26 Posted 30/05/2026 at 13:02:28
26 Posted 30/05/2026 at 13:02:28
John (22) That was Billy Boy talking about his days on the Kop with his uncle Cyril and that was another load nonsense, he never ever mentions who he went to Goodison with. I reckon his Saturday afternoons were spent in the pictures ( cinemas ) dreaming about when he became a famous actor, what an absolute useless “ xxxx” he was at that!
Laurie Hartley
27 Posted 30/05/2026 at 13:08:48
27 Posted 30/05/2026 at 13:08:48
We had a lengthy discussion on here maybe 3 years ago about the transport issue. Many good solutions were offered. Isn't it ironical that the fanbase had more vision than LCC or Peel on this matter. However maybe someone was listening?
Link
There are much bigger versions than this available.
Link
Peel shouldn't get a free pass on this. Normally when an area is redeveloped the first thing the developers do is put the infrastructure in place.
LCC will have to sort it out before the European Championships in 2028; otherwise, they are going to look very incompetent in the eyes of the football world.
Link
There are much bigger versions than this available.
Link
Peel shouldn't get a free pass on this. Normally when an area is redeveloped the first thing the developers do is put the infrastructure in place.
LCC will have to sort it out before the European Championships in 2028; otherwise, they are going to look very incompetent in the eyes of the football world.
Mick O\\\'Malley
28 Posted 30/05/2026 at 15:29:40
28 Posted 30/05/2026 at 15:29:40
Andy@ 25 That was another reason he wasn't fussed about moving to the new ground, the fellas who used to sit next to him weren't bothering either, there was a gang of them,.my uncle, friends etc but they've all passed on, and he it just wasn't the same anymore
Bobby unfortunately the ticket has been given up,
Bobby unfortunately the ticket has been given up,
John Collins
29 Posted 30/05/2026 at 16:26:03
29 Posted 30/05/2026 at 16:26:03
Dave,
I've read that one as well.
"I went the match sitting on Uncle Cyrils bike,he used to park it in a local residents back yard"
A latter day Blue he became when he spotted a money making opportunity.
BTW,on his upbringing in a poor family.
The family owned a 6 bedroom house on Botanic Road.
Rough as toast nowadays but back in the day a salubrious address failing the park
I've read that one as well.
"I went the match sitting on Uncle Cyrils bike,he used to park it in a local residents back yard"
A latter day Blue he became when he spotted a money making opportunity.
BTW,on his upbringing in a poor family.
The family owned a 6 bedroom house on Botanic Road.
Rough as toast nowadays but back in the day a salubrious address failing the park
Dave Abrahams
30 Posted 30/05/2026 at 16:50:36
30 Posted 30/05/2026 at 16:50:36
John (29),
Was that the house he allegedly mortgaged to pay for his shares when he bought Everton?
I doubt it, he'd have to be living in St Georges Hall to do that.
Was that the house he allegedly mortgaged to pay for his shares when he bought Everton?
I doubt it, he'd have to be living in St Georges Hall to do that.
Mike Gaynes
31 Posted 30/05/2026 at 16:52:44
31 Posted 30/05/2026 at 16:52:44
Mick, deepest respects to your dad.
Dave #14, stand tall, my friend. It's only 7 and and half years since you ran with me to the train station! You were amazing.
I'm now about the same age you were then, and when I ran last night refereeing, I broke down. Headed for Achilles surgery this week. You're right, getting old ain't fun.
(Although it beats the alternative.)
Dave #14, stand tall, my friend. It's only 7 and and half years since you ran with me to the train station! You were amazing.
I'm now about the same age you were then, and when I ran last night refereeing, I broke down. Headed for Achilles surgery this week. You're right, getting old ain't fun.
(Although it beats the alternative.)
John Charles
32 Posted 30/05/2026 at 17:24:40
32 Posted 30/05/2026 at 17:24:40
Stadium has been magnificent. Not as aggressive as Goodison but when going certainly as loud.
The evening games haven't helped but overall a huge improvement over Goodison.
The evening games haven't helped but overall a huge improvement over Goodison.
Mick O\\\'Malley
33 Posted 30/05/2026 at 17:25:24
33 Posted 30/05/2026 at 17:25:24
Mike @31 Thanks, good luck with your surgery
Michael Kenrick
34 Posted 31/05/2026 at 11:56:40
34 Posted 31/05/2026 at 11:56:40
Never saw this coming...
In their first season at the new ground, Everton regularly sold out matches at Hill Dickinson Stadium, the average matchday attendance for home games over the 2025-26 season was 52,121, eclipsing the previous best of 51,603 set at Goodison Park during the 1962-63 Football League Championship campaign, the only previous occasion they had topped the 50,000 average in their entire history.
Based on a capacity crowd of 52,769, that's a 97% load factor... and combine that with the 97% season ticket renewal rate and the 5-year waiting list... the portents of doom from match-going fans who see it going out of fashion seem rather overstated, while TFG will be rubbing their hands in glee.
In their first season at the new ground, Everton regularly sold out matches at Hill Dickinson Stadium, the average matchday attendance for home games over the 2025-26 season was 52,121, eclipsing the previous best of 51,603 set at Goodison Park during the 1962-63 Football League Championship campaign, the only previous occasion they had topped the 50,000 average in their entire history.
Based on a capacity crowd of 52,769, that's a 97% load factor... and combine that with the 97% season ticket renewal rate and the 5-year waiting list... the portents of doom from match-going fans who see it going out of fashion seem rather overstated, while TFG will be rubbing their hands in glee.
Dave Abrahams
35 Posted 31/05/2026 at 20:01:53
35 Posted 31/05/2026 at 20:01:53
Mike (31), Seven and a half years Mike ? It doesn’t seem that long, sorry about your injury, hope you make a good recovery, you’re doing well still refereeing at that tidy age, are you still singing in the choir?
Brian Harrison
36 Posted 01/06/2026 at 14:05:14
36 Posted 01/06/2026 at 14:05:14
Michael 34
I don't know who coined the phrase of "you cant kid all of the people all of the time" -- they obviously weren't talking about Evertonians.
As you have stated, the biggest average gate and it's eclipsed the 1962-63 season. That was when we won the league and the team was full of super talented players who were a joy to watch.
In regard to the 97% renewals again, this shows how loyal or how stupid football fans are. Imagine buying a season ticket for a theatre not knowing what shows were coming on or who was in the shows or what time or day the shows would be on.
But that's exactly what 97% of us have done. We don't know who might be the manager, what players will be playing, or what time or day the games will be on.
I don't know who coined the phrase of "you cant kid all of the people all of the time" -- they obviously weren't talking about Evertonians.
As you have stated, the biggest average gate and it's eclipsed the 1962-63 season. That was when we won the league and the team was full of super talented players who were a joy to watch.
In regard to the 97% renewals again, this shows how loyal or how stupid football fans are. Imagine buying a season ticket for a theatre not knowing what shows were coming on or who was in the shows or what time or day the shows would be on.
But that's exactly what 97% of us have done. We don't know who might be the manager, what players will be playing, or what time or day the games will be on.
Tony Abrahams
37 Posted 01/06/2026 at 14:41:41
37 Posted 01/06/2026 at 14:41:41
"If I give my season ticket up, I might not be able to get another one because of the huge waiting list" -- that will have gone through the minds of a lot of fans.
The most common phrase I have probably heard is: "I'm gonna give it one more year to see if things improve."
The most common phrase I have probably heard is: "I'm gonna give it one more year to see if things improve."
Mark Murphy
38 Posted 01/06/2026 at 14:52:42
38 Posted 01/06/2026 at 14:52:42
Done your Achilles last night and having surgery this week?
Not everything is shite in the States then, Mike? Good luck!
Not everything is shite in the States then, Mike? Good luck!
John Collins
39 Posted 01/06/2026 at 15:09:30
39 Posted 01/06/2026 at 15:09:30
A lot of fans are giving it a miss, due to the football we are watching.
It's more of the same next year if Moyes stays... it's what he does and has done all of his managerial career, he won't change now.
Anyone hoping he expands into a more attacking coach will be disappointed.
It's more of the same next year if Moyes stays... it's what he does and has done all of his managerial career, he won't change now.
Anyone hoping he expands into a more attacking coach will be disappointed.
Rob Halligan
40 Posted 01/06/2026 at 15:22:08
40 Posted 01/06/2026 at 15:22:08
Getting there and back has not been a problem for me.
Me and a mate get the Merseyrail from Hunts Cross to Moorfields, which takes just under 20 minutes, then it's a 15-20 minute walk down to The Dock Wall for a pint or two, before a further 5-10 minute walk to the South Stand turnstile we use.
Getting out of the stadium can be a bit slow, but what do you expect with 52k people? We walk back into town for a quick pint before getting the train back from Moorfields.
All pretty straightforward, and no different to being stuck in traffic on Queens Drive for 20 minutes as traffic crawls up to The Rocket.
There is plenty of useful information on the club website under The Travel Hub, link below, which I suspect not many people have looked at.
Also does anyone know there is a free disability shuttle bus service on Boundary Street that takes you to the stadium and return to the same pick-up point after the match?
https://www.evertonfc.com/season-25-26/travel-hub/
Me and a mate get the Merseyrail from Hunts Cross to Moorfields, which takes just under 20 minutes, then it's a 15-20 minute walk down to The Dock Wall for a pint or two, before a further 5-10 minute walk to the South Stand turnstile we use.
Getting out of the stadium can be a bit slow, but what do you expect with 52k people? We walk back into town for a quick pint before getting the train back from Moorfields.
All pretty straightforward, and no different to being stuck in traffic on Queens Drive for 20 minutes as traffic crawls up to The Rocket.
There is plenty of useful information on the club website under The Travel Hub, link below, which I suspect not many people have looked at.
Also does anyone know there is a free disability shuttle bus service on Boundary Street that takes you to the stadium and return to the same pick-up point after the match?
https://www.evertonfc.com/season-25-26/travel-hub/
Michael Kenrick
41 Posted 01/06/2026 at 17:53:56
41 Posted 01/06/2026 at 17:53:56
Good info, Rob.
Sounds like you've found watering holes outside of the new stadium.
Can I ask if you considered the bars and such at the stadium, and getting in early or staying a bit longer before you travel home? Or do old habits die hard?
Sounds like you've found watering holes outside of the new stadium.
Can I ask if you considered the bars and such at the stadium, and getting in early or staying a bit longer before you travel home? Or do old habits die hard?
Peter Mitchell
42 Posted 01/06/2026 at 19:40:50
42 Posted 01/06/2026 at 19:40:50
I'm not really surprised that our stadium is pretty much full every week.
I have effectively not been able to get tickets for the last few years at Goodison as a non-season ticket holder and a London-based fan with a family of Blues. The only ones ever available were 'restricted view'.
With the new stadium and the ballot arrangements, getting tickets is much easier (and amazing views from everywhere).
The only downside is the cost -- I spent thousands this season to see 6 matches (plus the Rugby and the test event), what with travel, accommodation etc. Oh, and the results, of course!
The Dock Wall is pretty new and looks interesting. As we stay more centrally, it is the Slaughterhouse for us, though (although we have also done the Titanic). The walk to and from the stadium is mostly pretty enjoyable, but we've not really done it when it is peeing down yet!
I have effectively not been able to get tickets for the last few years at Goodison as a non-season ticket holder and a London-based fan with a family of Blues. The only ones ever available were 'restricted view'.
With the new stadium and the ballot arrangements, getting tickets is much easier (and amazing views from everywhere).
The only downside is the cost -- I spent thousands this season to see 6 matches (plus the Rugby and the test event), what with travel, accommodation etc. Oh, and the results, of course!
The Dock Wall is pretty new and looks interesting. As we stay more centrally, it is the Slaughterhouse for us, though (although we have also done the Titanic). The walk to and from the stadium is mostly pretty enjoyable, but we've not really done it when it is peeing down yet!
Michael Kenrick
43 Posted 01/06/2026 at 22:18:39
43 Posted 01/06/2026 at 22:18:39
Brian @
Not sure that's a very helpful analogy with theatre-going -- it's a totally different life experience.
We don't know who might be the manager, what players will be playing, or what time or day the games will be on.
But the essence of support is going to the games -- despite all that. Because, to a large degree, it doesn't really matter. You might not like the manager, and some are saying they won't go while he remains, but the players are the team we support, no matter how good or bad they are.
The squad is fixed, and rejigged a little maybe, in January. The kick-off times are changed... and you're gonna say you're not going?
Not sure that's a very helpful analogy with theatre-going -- it's a totally different life experience.
We don't know who might be the manager, what players will be playing, or what time or day the games will be on.
But the essence of support is going to the games -- despite all that. Because, to a large degree, it doesn't really matter. You might not like the manager, and some are saying they won't go while he remains, but the players are the team we support, no matter how good or bad they are.
The squad is fixed, and rejigged a little maybe, in January. The kick-off times are changed... and you're gonna say you're not going?
Rob Halligan
44 Posted 01/06/2026 at 23:41:30
44 Posted 01/06/2026 at 23:41:30
Michael # 41. Mainly new bars around the stadium. We have also been to ones near Moorfields which are always packed out with blues.
There has been no particular reason why we don't use the facilities within the stadium. As you say, old habits die hard.
There has been no particular reason why we don't use the facilities within the stadium. As you say, old habits die hard.
Paul Griffiths
45 Posted 02/06/2026 at 02:52:34
45 Posted 02/06/2026 at 02:52:34
Mick (9): lovely and sad in equal measure mate. A dad to be proud of. All the best to him and you and yours.
Hope all goes well with surgery MG. Perhaps it's time to hang up the whistle.
Mark (38): Not everything is shite in the States then, Mike? Good luck!
If you can afford health care (even to supplement Medicare) Mark and/or have good health coverage through work. It's usually a middle-class sort of thing.
Hope all goes well with surgery MG. Perhaps it's time to hang up the whistle.
Mark (38): Not everything is shite in the States then, Mike? Good luck!
If you can afford health care (even to supplement Medicare) Mark and/or have good health coverage through work. It's usually a middle-class sort of thing.
Mike Gaynes
46 Posted 02/06/2026 at 03:14:06
46 Posted 02/06/2026 at 03:14:06
Thanks, PG. But I'm determined to not only keep reffing but hike with Rob and his big puppy when I go over in the fall.
Murph #38, thanks. So much depends on luck, access to insurance and the size of your bank account. There are tens of millions over here who carry medical debt or simply do without routine care because they haven't got the money. I once nearly lost my house to medical bills. So it's not just about quick scheduling.
Murph #38, thanks. So much depends on luck, access to insurance and the size of your bank account. There are tens of millions over here who carry medical debt or simply do without routine care because they haven't got the money. I once nearly lost my house to medical bills. So it's not just about quick scheduling.
Mick O\\\'Malley
47 Posted 02/06/2026 at 09:08:41
47 Posted 02/06/2026 at 09:08:41
Paul@45 Thanks, best wishes to you and yours
Brian Foley
48 Posted 06/06/2026 at 2026/06/06 : 15:38:26
48 Posted 06/06/2026 at 2026/06/06 : 15:38:26
It's truly agonising for me that Everton missed the boat by not naming our new ground with either 'Everton' or 'Merseyside' (Stadium) in in the name from the very beginning.
Fine outfit that I suspect Hill Dickinson is, their relevance to memories gone and memories to come to me is lamentable. Money is key for sure, but surely over the long term there must be better ways...
Imagine say 10 years ago, Goodison Park was changed to Hill Dickinson Park. God, there would have been a riot. Typical Everton missing the opportunity to maximise our name, or geography, and therefore reinforce the club's identity.
Also, I agree on the whole with a lot of my fellow fans and subscribers on here in relation to a managerial change that would constitute 'front-foot' football. All very exasperating.
Michael Kenrick
49 Posted 06/06/2026 at 15:50:02
49 Posted 06/06/2026 at 15:50:02
It's funny, Brian, I think there was a universal outcry on here when it became clear that our wonderful new home was to be called Hill Dickinson Stadium — that's a link ot the original thread from this time last year, and the 346 comments it garnered.
A pretty awful name, most people agreed... but you know what? It seems to have been very widely accepted in the end. And of course sponsorship is about money. And paying for a certain name to be emblazoned for all to see.
But there are moves afoot to increase the Everton identity of the new stadium, although I don't think that will meet your first request. You should have come forward earlier... although, to be brutally honest, I don't think it would have made a blind bit of difference.
The fans weren't consulted. That's not the way TFG do things.
A pretty awful name, most people agreed... but you know what? It seems to have been very widely accepted in the end. And of course sponsorship is about money. And paying for a certain name to be emblazoned for all to see.
But there are moves afoot to increase the Everton identity of the new stadium, although I don't think that will meet your first request. You should have come forward earlier... although, to be brutally honest, I don't think it would have made a blind bit of difference.
The fans weren't consulted. That's not the way TFG do things.
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1 Posted 29/05/2026 at 20:16:24
Players terrified to play there, a negative manager who treats its supporters like he's doing us a favour -- he's not honestly.
A board and owners who continue to treat the people that matter like fools and statements like "happily disattisfied" -- that one line made me wretch it really did. They know nothing and I mean nothing of what it's like to support Everton and sod all about our history and our past.
I'm very very lucky I've seen my football club win titles, cups, and a European trophy. I've got young mates in work who continously ask me what it's like... How do I go about answering that? I can't. It sickens me the way the club has allowed it to stagnate while the one constant thing, us, suffers.
I'll never desert it, never ever, and even at nearly 67, I never will. My wife often says, "Why do you put yourself through so much misery and take it out on us?"
I'm so sorry as I often say but it's in the blood, like yous.