Saturday’s Merseyside derby at Goodison Park is set to proceed as scheduled despite storm Darragh’s fierce winds prompting concerns. Liverpool and Everton issued a joint statement confirming the Premier League clash will kick off at 12:30 PM, but not without a warning: brace for the storm’s impact and plan ahead.
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The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for Merseyside from 1 AM Saturday to 6 AM Sunday. Gusts of 60-70mph are forecast inland, climbing to 80mph along coastal areas. Football fans, take note: allow extra travel time and stay updated on weather advisories. The statement reads:
“Supporters attending Saturday’s Merseyside derby at Goodison Park are advised to allow extra time for travel and remain alert to Met Office weather warnings. Given the weather warning, fans are advised to allow extra time for their journey and take extra care.”
Liverpool vs Everton derby faces off despit storm
Merseyside Police echoed the cautious tone:
“We are advising members of the public to stay safe, plan ahead and avoid any non-essential travel until conditions have improved. If you need to make an essential journey during the storm, please plan ahead and drive carefully.”
Public transport disruptions may further complicate the commute, so officials are urging travelers to stay vigilant. Police emphasized:
“Remember to give vulnerable road users including cyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians more room than usual. They are more likely to be blown around by side winds – always keep a safe distance.”
The derby, the last at Goodison Park before Everton’s move to their new stadium, holds sentimental value for fans. However, Storm Darragh has already wreaked havoc, postponing other sporting events, including Cardiff vs. Watford and Plymouth vs. Oxford.
With the game still on, fans are encouraged to “keep a close eye on travel and weather guidance in their area to assist with travel planning,” the clubs’ statement added.
Storm or no storm, Merseyside’s football faithful will likely brave the elements for this historic clash. But with winds set to roar, it’s more than just Everton and Liverpool fans who will need to hold their nerve — the weather promises to be the fiercest rival on the pitch this weekend.
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