The Merseyside derby, scheduled to kick off at 12:30pm at Goodison Park, has been postponed due to severe weather conditions battering Liverpool today.
Storm Darragh’s arrival prompted an amber weather warning from the Met Office, with forecasts predicting gusts of up to 70mph in inland areas across Merseyside.
The anticipated conditions raised significant safety concerns, leading Merseyside Police to advise against non-essential travel during the storm’s peak, which coincided with the planned match time.
Strong winds arrived as expected on Saturday morning, disrupting travel and forcing the cancellation of numerous events.
Merseyrail services in Liverpool and Wirral were impacted, and high-profile events such as public visits to the Royal Navy’s flagship, HMS Prince of Wales – currently docked in the city – were cancelled in advance.
A safety inspection conducted at 7am also led to the abandonment of Becher Chase Day at Aintree Racecourse after high winds caused damage to track infrastructure and posed risks to attendees.
Discussions between Everton and relevant authorities continued on Saturday morning, ultimately resulting in the decision to postpone the match. The safety of fans traveling to and around Goodison Park was a primary concern.
The postponement means the final league Merseyside derby at Goodison Park is now likely to be rescheduled as a night game.
A statement from Liverpool reads: “Liverpool FC can confirm today’s Premier League fixture against Everton at Goodison Park, scheduled for a 12.30pm kick-off, has been postponed.
“This is due to severe weather and high winds, which have also resulted in severe travel disruption in and around Merseyside.
“Following a Safety Advisory Group meeting this morning at Goodison Park, attended by officials from both clubs, as well as representatives from Merseyside Police and Liverpool City Council, it was decided that due to the risk to safety in the local area, and the amber severe wind warning that remains in place until 6am on Sunday, today’s match is postponed on safety grounds.
“We appreciate this will be deeply disappointing for supporters, but the safety of fans, staff and players is of paramount importance.
“Information relating to a rearranged date for the fixture, including ticketing, will be announced in due course.”
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