The Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool, scheduled for Saturday at Goodison Park, has been postponed due to severe weather caused by Storm Darragh. This marks the first Premier League match to be called off due to the storm.
Everton confirmed the postponement after a safety advisory group meeting involving officials from both clubs, Merseyside Police, and Liverpool City Council.
The decision was taken in light of strong wind gusts and an amber severe wind warning that remains in place until Sunday morning.
“Due to the risk to safety in the local area due to strong wind gusts, and an amber severe wind warning that remains in place until 6am on Sunday, today’s fixture should be postponed on safety grounds,” Everton said in a statement.
Merseyside Police had earlier urged residents to avoid non-essential travel until conditions improved.
Liverpool, who lead the Premier League standings, expressed their understanding of the situation.
“We appreciate this will be deeply disappointing for supporters, but the safety of fans, staff and players is of paramount importance,” the club said. Details of the rearranged fixture and ticketing information will follow.
The match was set to be the final Merseyside Premier League derby at Goodison Park before Everton leave their historic home at the end of the season.
Two Championship fixtures, Plymouth Argyle vs Oxford United and Cardiff City vs Watford, were also postponed due to the storm.
Liverpool will now shift focus to their Champions League match at Girona on Tuesday, while Everton, currently 15th in the league, visit Arsenal next Saturday.
