Everton bid farewell to Goodison Park in style with a convincing 2-0 victory over Southampton in the final Premier League match at their historic 133-year-old home.
The emotional occasion saw the Toffees triumph amid scenes of celebration and nostalgia as fans gathered to witness the end of an era.
Under the Merseyside sunshine and surrounded by a sea of blue, Everton delivered a performance worthy of the occasion.
The win continues the improvement shown under manager David Moyes since he replaced Sean Dyche in January, providing a fitting conclusion to the men’s team’s tenure at the beloved stadium.
Everton beat Southampton 2-0 in their final match at Goodison Park
GETTY
The win continues the improvement shown under manager David Moyes since he replaced Sean Dyche in January, providing a fitting conclusion to the men’s team’s tenure at the beloved stadium.
Fans flocked to Goodison Park in their thousands hours before kick-off, packing the surrounding streets as they came to say their final farewells.
The historic ground has been home to Everton for 133 years, but the men’s senior team will now move to their new arena at Bramley Moore Dock, which has been named The Hill Wilkinson Stadium.
The atmosphere was electric as supporters gathered to witness this significant moment in the club’s history.
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Many were visibly emotional as they prepared to watch the final Premier League match at a venue that has been the backdrop to countless memories.
Iliman Ndiaye emerged as the star performer on this historic day, opening the scoring with a stylish low finish just six minutes into the match.
The forward wasn’t finished there, rounding Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale in first-half injury time to double Everton’s advantage against the already-relegated visitors.
The Toffees could have been even further ahead, with Beto having two goals ruled out for offside during the first half.
Everton star Iliman Ndiaye scored twice against Southampton
PA
The Portuguese striker was unfortunate not to add his name to the scoresheet on such a momentous occasion, but Ndiaye’s clinical finishing ensured the hosts maintained control throughout.
The second period was played out in testimonial fashion as both teams seemed content with the scoreline.
Despite the relaxed atmosphere, there was still time for Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford to showcase his quality with a superb late save from Cameron Archer.
