An Australian teenager, Mackenzie, has made headlines as he travels from Sydney to Liverpool to witness the last-ever Premier League Merseyside derby at Goodison Park. The 15-year-old Everton supporter expressed his excitement about being part of this historic match, which marks the end of an era for the Toffees at their iconic stadium.
Mackenzie, who has been a passionate Everton fan, shared his desire to attend the derby with his mother, Rita, who hails from Liverpool. Rita recounted how she initially told her son that attending the game would be impossible due to financial constraints, especially after their recent trip back to England. However, Mackenzie was determined and took it upon himself to save money for the trip.
Recently, he successfully managed to accumulate enough funds and flew back to England for a two-week visit. His timing was impeccable, as he arrived just in time to witness Everton’s impressive 4-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers. This win further fueled his enthusiasm for the upcoming derby against Liverpool.
“Everyone says I’m a lucky charm,” Mackenzie said, reflecting on his recent experience at the game. He is eagerly anticipating the match against Liverpool, hoping for another victory that would secure crucial points for Everton in the Premier League.
Goodison Park, which has been home to Everton since 1892, is set to be replaced by a new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, with a capacity of 52,888, next season. This impending move adds a layer of significance to the final derby at Goodison, making Mackenzie’s attendance even more special.
Rita shared the story of how Mackenzie’s dream to attend an Everton vs. Liverpool game at Goodison Park began. After returning from a trip to England, he voiced his ambition to be part of this iconic match. Despite the challenges, Mackenzie’s determination led him to save all his pocket money and plan for the trip.
“When we came back after Easter, he said it was his dream to go to an Everton v Liverpool game at Goodison Park,” Rita explained. “He saved up the money, used all his savings and said two weeks ago, ‘I’d really like to go, mum – will you let me go?’ I said I can’t stop you if you’ve got the money. We’re very proud of him.”
Staying with his aunt during his visit, Mackenzie expressed that he could have used his savings to buy a car but chose to prioritize experiencing the thrill of being back in Liverpool and supporting his team. The young fan is now counting down the days until the derby, which he believes will be a memorable occasion.
As the excitement builds for the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park, Mackenzie’s story resonates with many football fans who understand the passion and dedication that comes with supporting a team. His journey not only highlights the deep-rooted connection between fans and their clubs but also serves as a reminder of the unforgettable moments that football can create.
With the derby just around the corner, Mackenzie is ready to cheer on the Toffees in what promises to be a thrilling encounter against their local rivals, Liverpool. The atmosphere at Goodison Park is expected to be electric, as fans from both sides come together for this historic match.
As fans eagerly await the kickoff, Mackenzie’s story reflects the spirit of football, showcasing how it transcends borders and unites people through a shared love for the game. His journey is a testament to the lengths fans will go to support their teams, making the Merseyside derby an event not to be missed.
