Cup Triumph Rewarded With Goodison Park Parade

Writes: Jerry Morrel-Takou

Following Everton’s FA Disability Cup triumph over Portsmouth in June, the squad were recently invited to parade the trophy around Goodison Park (Everton FC Stadium) during the Toffees friendly against Sporting Lisbon.

Amputee football is steadily finding its audience amongst football fans; it is without a doubt that such a gesture will only aid the visibility of EAFA.

To demonstrate how amputee football has evolved throughout the years, the last time the amputee Toffees won the FA disability cup was during 2018-2019. At the time, that final was nowhere to be found on TV.

Everton and England striker, Liam Burbridge said: " The atmosphere at Goodison was incredible.

"The crowd started clapping; they shouted our names through the tannoy; I could feel that the Everton fans were all so proud of us."

While this already special moment was even more unique for Toffees goalkeeper, Phil Grace whose been playing amputee football for the past seven years. As an Evertonian, the Merseyside shot-stopper couldn’t quite believe what he had achieved.

"I was so proud during the moment we walked around the pitch, especially being an avid blues supporter,” said Grace.

"Halfway around, I realised that my dad was in the stand, then my friends too. When I looked around and looked at where I usually sit, it is surreal in a way."

And the best is yet to come for Everton as with silverware already under their belt, they could clinch the league title this weekend too!

The Toffees face Portsmouth on Saturday in a top of the table clash with Everton needing all three points to secure their spot in Europe.