LIVERPOOL, England — The Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool has been postponed due to the hazardous conditions caused by Storm Darragh. The match, which was set to begin at 12:30 p.m. UK time, will not take place as a precaution for the safety of players, staff, and fans.
The storm has brought severe winds and heavy rainfall to the region, with the Met Office reporting gusts exceeding 90 mph in areas of Wales. In a statement, the Met Office warned of continued strong and potentially damaging winds throughout the afternoon, advising residents to exercise caution.
While the Merseyside derby has been postponed, other Premier League matches scheduled for Saturday will proceed as planned. Notably, Manchester United is set to host Nottingham Forest later in the day, and both Aston Villa and Brentford have encouraged their fans to allow extra travel time due to adverse weather.
Everton and Liverpool expressed their disappointment over the postponement but prioritized safety. Representatives from both clubs, along with officials from Merseyside Police and the local council, made the decision after reviewing the safety risks posed by the storm. The Premier League has indicated that the new date for the derby will be confirmed in the future.
Although the postponement is disappointing for fans and players alike, it also highlights the importance of safety in sports amidst extreme weather. As Storm Darragh gradually subsides, there’s hope that the affected communities will recover quickly and that football will return to its vibrant atmosphere soon.
In summary, while the derbies may be delayed, the commitment to ensuring safety during such weather emphasizes a collective responsibility, fostering a sense of resilience and community among fans and clubs in the face of challenges.