The 52,888-seat ground in Bramley-Moore dock impresses as 10,000 fans flock to test event – even if Everton lose

The clue is in the name, yet it is hard to imagine now that Bramley‑Moore dock was an abandoned, neglected body of water 1,303 days ago. Twelve unexploded anti-aircraft shells from the second world war still lurked in the depths, waiting to be removed by the Royal Navy, when Everton took possession of the site on 26 July 2021. Less than four years later a magnificent, imposing, futuristic stadium has opened on the banks of the River Mersey. A torturous journey decades in the making has been worth every step.

It was July 2019 at the nearby Titanic Hotel when the architect Dan Meis unveiled his grand plans for Everton’s new home. Tonight it welcomed its first guests, the 10,000 fortunate Evertonians selected via a ballot to attend the first test event and game at Bramley-Moore dock. A friendly between Everton’s and Wigan’s under-18s has never felt so significant, or such a privilege to observe. Future quiz question answers: Everton’s Demi Akarakiri kicked the first ball and Wigan’s Harrison Rimmer scored the first goal at Everton Stadium. Everton lost 2-1.