“Keown Reacts to Everton v Liverpool Postponement, Calling It a ‘Shame’ Despite Weather Being a ‘Great Leveller’”
Martin Keown Says Everton Will Be Disappointed by Merseyside Derby Postponement at Goodison Park Due to Weather
Everton would have been brimming with confidence heading into their final Premier League clash against Liverpool at Goodison Park on Saturday, 7 December, following a commanding 4-0 victory over Wolves on Wednesday, 4 December, according to BBC pundit Martin Keown.
Keown suggested that the harsh weather conditions, brought on by Storm Darragh, could have leveled the playing field for the relegation-battling Toffees against the league leaders.
However, the postponement of the game was inevitable under the circumstances, as noted by David Ornstein.
Speaking on BBC’s Football Focus (7 December, 12:05 pm), the former Everton defender remarked: “With Everton winning so convincingly mid-week and the weather being a great equalizer, it’s unfortunate the match couldn’t go ahead.
It would have been a good day for Everton to challenge Liverpool.
“Liverpool have had back-to-back away games, including a tough draw against Newcastle mid-week. Newcastle were exceptional in that 3-3 result.
Everton, on the other hand, would’ve relished playing at that iconic stadium, especially for the last derby game there.
The atmosphere would’ve been electrifying, so it’s a real shame.”
Keown’s comments reflect a belief that the timing was advantageous for Sean Dyche’s Everton to face Liverpool.
The Reds were coming off a disappointing draw at St. James’ Park and had been stretched thin after recent matches against Real Madrid and Manchester City.
Furthermore, they would have been without key players such as Alexis Mac Allister, suspended after his fifth yellow card, alongside Alisson, Ibrahima Konaté, and Diogo Jota due to injuries.
Despite the favorable conditions for Everton, the postponement was necessary to ensure fan safety amid severe weather risks.
Former Premier League referee Keith Hackett also expressed concerns about potential damage to Goodison Park caused by Storm Darragh.
While the delay is disappointing for Everton and their fans, it avoids putting supporters from both sides in jeopardy, ensuring the safety and well-being of all involved remain the priority.
