Everton Moyes Goodison Park
Keith Hackett
Wed 14 May 2025 21:16, UK
Keith Hackett has been delighted by news of a rule change at Everton for their clash with Southampton this weekend.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider he believes it is the right idea to allow fans to drink alcohol in the stands at the game.
Everton will look to build on their 3-1 win at Fulham from last weekend when they host the Saints on Sunday afternoon (18 May).
But with David Moyes‘ side already safe and Southampton’s relegation guaranteed, the game will take on a major significance for a different reason.
Keith Hackett
Keith Hackett has reacted to a rule change at Everton
Goodison Park to say goodbye
That clash with Southampton is of course set to be the last men’s first-team game that Everton will play at Goodison Park after 133 years.
From next season, the Toffees are set to move to their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, as they follow several other Premier League sides who have moved grounds in recent years.
Everton last five games Result
Nottingham Forest (A) Won 1-0
Manchester City (H) Lost 2-0
Chelsea (A) Lost 1-0
Ipswich Town (H) Drew 2-2
Fulham (A) Won 3-1
MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES
The final game at Goodison Park will undoubtedly be an emotional one, and as part of the celebrations, fans will be allowed to drink alcohol in the stands while watching the match.
That in itself is significant, given there has been a ban on fans drinking alcohol while in view of the pitch at professional games for the last 40 years.
Now, Hackett has paid tribute to the decision to allow for that change, on what will be an historic day for Everton, with one piece of advice for supporters.
Everton fans WILL be allowed to drink alcohol in the stands for the first time since 1985. 🍻✅
This is being permitted for the emotional Goodison Park farewell this weekend, after alcohol consumption in view of the pitch at football matches in England was BANNED 40 years ago.… pic.twitter.com/G92tRZ7HuR
— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) May 14, 2025
View Tweet
Everton rule alteration praised for final home game
After being asked by Football Insider what he made of the decision to allow alcohol in the stands for this game, Hackett said:
“I have had the pleasure of officiating many games [and players] at the iconic Goodison Park. Joe Royle, Howard Kendall, Peter Reid, Gary Lineker, Neville Southall to name a few.
“It is important that the fans allowed to consume alcohol enjoy the occasion and hold onto their plastic drink containers and refrain from casting them in the direction of the field of play.
“My team at Penistone Church serve our fans with beer in plastic containers and they are able to enjoy the game and we have not had any problems.
“Great idea and I hope that everyone enjoys their last men’s game at Goodison Park.”
From next season, Goodison Park will become the permanent home ground of the Everton women’s team, ensuring fans will be able to continue to attend games at the famous stadium.
Related Posts