What makes a great atmosphere?

What makes a great atmosphere?

We know the catalysts that create one for Evertonians: a crunching tackle, a bad decision, or a series of attacks. Goodison Park never purred more than when a sliding challenge connected with ball and man or some shocking officiating turned the world against us. But singing when you're winning? That's more difficult for us.

It didn't used to be, so maybe we're just a generation or two out of the habit. My forty-something memories of great Goodison atmospheres are all about winning. But, more recently, it's adversity that has brought the best out of the Goodison Gang. Is that why we're struggling at home in 2026: because we're in the top half of the Premier League with no jeopardy?

It's surely not the fault of the bricks and mortar of the state of the art stadium we were all crying out for over the last three decades.

The tactics don't help (though they're clearly ideal for away from home). The kick-off times (and dates) haven't helped either. Some of the first half performances have been particularly shocking, too. Maybe it's the "teething problems" every club from Arsenal and beyond have experienced?

It has to change soon, though. Especially if we want to win the big games coming up and turn this season into a great one with entry into Europe come what May brings...

Hunting by the rivers, through the streets, every corner
Abandoned too soon, set down with due care
Don't walk away, in silence
Don't walk away

Everton Pleasures

Pat Nevin called it the ‘best football tee shirt ever…’

We’ve woven the Everton tower into the seminal artwork of Joy Division’s classic ‘Unknown Pleasures’ record sleeve. Two of our most loved things coming together in one classic design. The subtlety of the Everton tower in the design will make people look twice… those who know will understand!