Despite the dark and freezing conditions on Monday evening along the banks of the River Mersey, Everton fans experienced a moment of pure excitement and anticipation as they set foot inside their club’s new stadium for the first time. The under-18s friendly match against Wigan marked the initial test event at Bramley-Moore Dock, a state-of-the-art venue that symbolizes a fresh start for the club.
The stadium, which has been in development for four years at a staggering cost exceeding £750 million, will officially become Everton’s new home in time for the 2025-26 season. Replacing Goodison Park, the historic but aging ground that has hosted the Everton since 1892, the new venue represents a bold step forward while preserving key elements of Everton’s rich heritage. Fans arriving via Liverpool’s Dock Road were immediately struck by the sheer scale of the stadium, a futuristic yet classic design blending steel and red brick in homage to the club’s past.
A Spectacular First Impression
From the moment supporters arrived at Bramley-Moore Dock, the excitement was palpable. The iconic Bramley Moore pub, situated directly across from the stadium, was alive with celebration, with Elton John’s I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues playing loudly over the speakers. The scene was one of jubilation, as fans marveled at their new home and the opportunities it presents.
“It’s out of this world,” said Andy, a devoted Everton season-ticket holder who has already secured his seat at Bramley-Moore next season. “We could not have wished for a better stadium. Everyone is excited, old and young. It will be a wrench to leave Goodison, but when you see this, it is going to be the envy of everyone.”
Inside, only the towering South Stand was open for the test event, allowing fans to experience the steep, intimidating tiers designed to create an electric atmosphere. The 52,888-seat stadium will be the seventh-largest in the Premier League and has already been selected to host matches during Euro 2028. The architectural design pays homage to Everton’s history, incorporating restored Victorian-era railroad tracks and the Grade II-listed hydraulic tower, while also featuring modern amenities such as enormous glass windows offering stunning views of the Liverpool skyline.
The Match and Historic First Goal
While the night was primarily about the stadium, the game itself produced a historic moment. Wigan’s Harrison Rimmer, a boyhood Liverpool supporter, etched his name into history by scoring the first-ever goal at Bramley-Moore Dock. Adding to the drama, he celebrated by holding up six fingers in reference to Liverpool’s six Champions League titles. Cole Simms doubled Wigan’s lead, while Everton’s 16-year-old Ray Robert netted a late penalty for the Toffees, securing a 2-1 result.
However, the final score was secondary to the occasion. For fans like Tom and his son Elliott, who are set to become season-ticket holders at the new ground, the experience was unforgettable. “It’s a spine-tingling moment,” Tom said. “Goodison was an amazing ground, but it’s time to move forward. This stadium is on another level.”
The match also provided an opportunity to test the stadium’s state-of-the-art facilities. Fans explored the wide range of food and drink options, from traditional football pies to Korean sticky chicken and The Toffees Doughnut, which left many with blue icing stains on their lips.
Concerns Over Transport and Crowd Safety
While the stadium received widespread praise, not everything went smoothly. Many fans encountered difficulties at Sandhills railway station, the closest stop to the ground, where overcrowding raised serious safety concerns.
Liverpool councillor Richard Clein expressed fears about the station’s capacity to handle matchday crowds, telling the Liverpool Echo that the infrastructure “clearly hasn’t been thought through.” However, the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority (LCRCA) assured fans that the purpose of test events is to identify potential problems before full-scale matchdays begin.
A spokesperson for the LCRCA stated, “These test events will be subject to a comprehensive review with all involved parties. The queuing system at Sandhills is modeled after those used for major events like the Grand National at Aintree. We’ll be taking feedback from fans and considering immediate steps to improve safety and accessibility.”
Future improvements will include expanded facilities around the stadium, with additional fan zones, new toilets, a fixed stage, and large digital screens to enhance the matchday experience. Everton officials and local transport authorities have committed to ongoing evaluations to ensure smooth and safe operations for supporters.
Parking Charge Disputes and Business Concerns
Another contentious issue surrounding the new stadium is the introduction of a parking permit zone, which has faced backlash from local businesses. The new regulation requires businesses within a 30-minute walk of the stadium to pay an annual £50 permit per vehicle, a move that thousands have opposed through a petition claiming it will “kill businesses.”
Liverpool City Council has responded by stating that the parking measures are part of an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO), allowing for adjustments based on public feedback. “This ETRO is now subject to a live consultation,” a spokesperson explained. “It enables the council to assess effectiveness and make necessary changes before finalizing any permanent measures.”
While the ETRO can remain in place for up to 18 months, the council has clarified that modifications can be made much sooner if required. For now, local businesses continue to voice their concerns, fearing that restrictive parking policies could negatively impact foot traffic and sales, especially on non-matchdays.
A Historic Night and a Bright Future for Everton
For Evertonians, the unveiling of Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the club’s history. While challenges remain—particularly regarding transport logistics and parking regulations—there is an overwhelming sense of optimism. The stadium is a fusion of past and future, a venue that respects the club’s heritage while ushering in a modern era.
“This place is breathtaking,” said Dave, a lifelong Everton fan. “Goodison was our spiritual home, but this brings us right up to date with the best. It’s our future, and we couldn’t be prouder.”
With final adjustments and improvements in the works, Everton fans eagerly await the official opening next summer. If this first glimpse was anything to go by, the Everton have a spectacular new home to call their own
