Everton s new stadium welcomes 10 000 fans for test event

Evertons new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock welcomed 10,000 fans for a test event featuring an under-18 friendly match against Wigan Athletic as the Premier League club prepare to say goodbye to Goodison Park at the end of this season.

Construction of the new 52,888-seater arena took four years and cost close to 800 million pounds ($1.01 billion),according to British media reports, and is also set to host matches at Euro 2028.

Whoevers designed it has done a fantastic job because the stands are on top of you, Everton under-18 coach Keith Southern told Everton TV.

When this is full next season, its going to be a hell of a place to play.

Wigans Harrison Rimmer became the first to score at the Everton Stadium in the 12th minute. Everton lost 2-1 with Ray Robert scoring for the hosts.

Goodison Park, Evertons home since 1892, hosted its final derby on Wednesday as David Moyess side held leaders Liverpool to a 2-2 draw. The stadiums last competitive game will take place on May 18 when Everton host Southampton.

The stadium will then be demolished with the land set to be redeveloped into a mixed-use scheme with housing and offices. REUTERS

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