Everton v Liverpool Merseyside derby postponed due to Storm Darragh | Everton

On By Littum

The Merseyside derby, scheduled to kick off at Goodison Park at 12.30pm on Saturday, has been postponed due to the impact of Storm Darragh.

Winds of up to 70mph and severe weather conditions have resulted in travel disruption in and around Merseyside and pose a safety risk. A decision to postpone the match between Everton and Liverpool was made at 8.30am on Saturday.

A statement released by the two clubs confirmed: “Following a Security Advisory Group meeting at Goodison Park, attended by officials from both clubs, as well as representatives from Merseyside Police and Liverpool City Council this morning, it was decided that due to the risk to security in the local area due to strong gusts, and an amber high wind warning that will remain in place until noon.”

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Everton’s statement added: “We apologize for the inconvenience and thank supporters for their understanding. While we understand this will be deeply disappointing for supporters, the safety of fans, staff and players is paramount. Information regarding a rearranged date for the tournament will be announced in good time. All tickets purchased for the original match will remain valid for the rearranged match.”

Liverpool also said there was no alternative but to postpone the 245th edition of the derby and what was to be the last league derby played at Goodison Park. “We appreciate that this will be deeply disappointing for supporters, but the safety of fans, staff and players is paramount,” the club said.

Workers collect cones at Goodison Park after the match was postponed. Photo: Carl Recine/Getty Images

League One fixtures between Bristol Rovers and Bolton, plus Crawley v Stevenage have also been called off, with many more postponements possible. The Championship games of Cardiff v Watford and Plymouth v Oxford were called off on Friday, with League Two’s game between Newport and Carlisle following suit after the Welsh FA earlier called off all matches in the country following a red weather warning.

Saturday afternoon’s race meetings at both Aintree and Chepstow have been canceled due to the strong winds, but Sandown has been cleared following a morning inspection. Bristol Bears Women’s match against Exeter Chiefs at Ashton Gate has also been disrupted by the poor conditions following a pitch inspection.