26 Facts About Goodison Park

History of Goodison Park

Goodison Park, home to Everton Football Club, has a rich history. This iconic stadium has witnessed countless memorable moments. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this legendary ground.

1. Opened in 1892: Goodison Park opened its doors in 1892, making it one of the oldest purpose-built football stadiums in the world.

2. First purpose-built football stadium: It was the first major football stadium built in England specifically for hosting football matches.

3. Hosted FA Cup Finals: Goodison Park has hosted the FA Cup Final twice, in 1894 and 1910.

4. First stadium with dugouts: It was the first stadium to introduce dugouts, a feature now standard in football grounds worldwide.

5. First stadium to install undersoil heating: In 1958, Goodison Park became the first stadium to install undersoil heating, ensuring matches could be played even in freezing conditions.

Architectural Features

The architecture of Goodison Park is unique and has evolved over the years. Here are some interesting details about its structure.

6. Bullens Road Stand: The Bullens Road Stand, built in 1926, is one of the oldest stands still in use in English football.

7. Archibald Leitch design: Renowned stadium architect Archibald Leitch designed parts of Goodison Park, including the Main Stand.

8. Distinctive criss-cross steelwork: The Main Stand features Leitch's signature criss-cross steelwork, a hallmark of his designs.

9. Goodison Road Stand: Opened in 1971, the Goodison Road Stand is the largest stand in the stadium, with a capacity of over 12,000.

10. Everton Lock-Up: The Everton Lock-Up, a historic building, is incorporated into the stadium's design, adding a unique touch.

Memorable Matches

Goodison Park has been the stage for many unforgettable matches. Here are some highlights.

11. 1966 World Cup: Goodison Park hosted five matches during the 1966 World Cup, including a semi-final between West Germany and the Soviet Union.

12. First European match: Everton played their first European match at Goodison Park in 1962, facing Inter Milan in the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup.

13. Record attendance: The highest attendance at Goodison Park was 78,299 for a match against Liverpool in 1948.

14. Dixie Dean's 60th goal: Everton legend Dixie Dean scored his record-breaking 60th goal of the 1927-28 season at Goodison Park.

15. First floodlit match: The first floodlit match at Goodison Park took place in 1957, with Everton facing Liverpool in a friendly.

Fan Experience

Goodison Park is known for its passionate fans and vibrant atmosphere. Here are some facts about the fan experience.

16. Gwladys Street End: The Gwladys Street End is famous for its passionate Everton supporters, creating an electric atmosphere on match days.

17. Fan mosaics: Everton fans often create stunning mosaics in the stands to show their support for the team.

18. Everton in the Community: The club's charity, Everton in the Community, is based at Goodison Park and works to improve the lives of local residents.

19. Fan zone: On match days, a fan zone outside the stadium offers entertainment, food, and drink for supporters.

20. St Luke's Church: St Luke's Church, located next to the stadium, hosts pre-match events and is a gathering spot for fans.

Modern Developments

Goodison Park has seen many changes over the years. Here are some recent developments.

21. New pitch technology: The stadium's pitch features a hybrid grass system, combining natural grass with synthetic fibers for durability.

22. Improved accessibility: Recent renovations have improved accessibility for disabled fans, including new seating areas and facilities.

23. LED floodlights: In 2019, Goodison Park installed new LED floodlights, enhancing the matchday experience with better lighting.

24. Wi-Fi for fans: The stadium offers free Wi-Fi for fans, allowing them to stay connected during matches.

25. Sustainability initiatives: Everton has implemented various sustainability initiatives at Goodison Park, including recycling programs and energy-efficient systems.

26. Future move: Everton plans to move to a new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, but Goodison Park's legacy will always be cherished by fans.

Goodison Park's Legacy

Goodison Park stands as a historic gem in the world of football. From its inception in 1892, it has been a witness to countless memorable moments, legendary players, and unforgettable matches. The stadium has not only been a home to Everton FC but also a symbol of community and passion for fans. Its unique features, like the Church of St. Luke the Evangelist and the distinctive Archibald Leitch design, make it a one-of-a-kind venue. As the club looks to the future with the new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium, Goodison Park's legacy will always hold a special place in the hearts of supporters. Whether you're a die-hard Evertonian or just a football enthusiast, the rich history and cultural significance of Goodison Park are undeniable.