Liverpool have seen their clash on Saturday called off - but the weather left them no choice
Liverpool have seen their clash on Saturday called off - but the weather left them no choice
Liverpool have confirmed that severe weather, high winds and severe travel disruption were behind the postponement of the Merseyside derby.
The decision was taken on Saturday morning to halt the Premier League game, which was due to be the final top flight outing at Goodison Park. Storm Darragh has wreaked havoc across the UK with numerous sporting events falling foul of the conditions.
The west of the country is being hit hardest and other events on Merseyside, including a race day at Aintree, have also been postponed. It does create something of a fixture nightmare for Everton and Liverpool, who now need to find a new slot for the game.
Everton were first to communicate that the game had been called off with Liverpool quickly following suit. Despite the proximity of the two clubs there were still serious travel issues that could also have impacted on the safety of fans.
The Reds released a statement detailing the reasons for the late cancellation. It read: "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."
The Merseyside derby was postponed on Saturday morning ( Image: PA)
A number of matches up and down the country have already been postponed as the elements set in. Met Office have issued several warnings which has led to games being hosted by Cardiff City, Plymouth Argyle and Bristol Rovers all being called off.
Manchester United have now confirmed that their contest, which is a 5.30pm kick-off at Old Trafford, is being monitored as a result of the weather. Currently their game with Nottingham Forest is still on but fans will be kept in the loop as authorities track the situation.
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