The Merseyside derby, which was due to kick off at Goodison Park at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, was postponed due to the impact of Storm Darragh.
Winds of up to 70mph and severe weather conditions have disrupted travel in and around Merseyside and pose a safety and risk. Decision to postpone the match between Everton and Liverpool was taken at 8.30am on Saturday.
A statement released by both clubs confirmed: “Following a meeting of the Goodison Park Safety Advisory Group attended by officials from both clubs as well as representatives from Merseyside Police and Liverpool City Council this morning, it was decided that due to the risk for safety in the local area due to strong gusts of wind and an amber high wind warning remaining in effect until 6am on Sunday, today’s match has to be postponed for consideration for safety.”
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Everton’s statement added: “We apologize for any inconvenience caused and thank the supporters for their understanding. While we appreciate that this will be deeply disappointing for supporters, the safety of fans, staff and players is paramount. Information regarding a rescheduled match date will be announced in due course. All tickets purchased for the original match will remain valid for the rearranged match.”
Liverpool also said they had no alternative but to postpone the 245th edition of the derby and what was to be the last league derby to be played at Goodison Park. “We appreciate that this will be deeply disappointing for supporters, but the safety of fans, staff and players is paramount,” the club said.
League One clashes between Bristol Rovers and Bolton plus Crawley v Stevenage have also been called off, with many more postponements possible. Championship fixtures including Cardiff v Watford and Plymouth v Oxford were called off on Friday, with the League Two game between Newport and Carlisle following suit after the Welsh FA earlier called off all matches in the country amid a red weather warning .
Saturday afternoon’s races at Aintree and Chepstow were canceled due to high winds, but Sandown was cleared after a morning inspection. Bristol Bears Women’s match against Exeter Chiefs at Ashton Gate has also been called off due to adverse conditions following a pitch inspection.
