The highly anticipated Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool was unfortunately postponed on Saturday due to the severe weather conditions brought on by Storm Darragh. The match, scheduled to kick off at 12:30 p.m. U.K. time, was called off by Everton in the morning, citing safety concerns.
Storm Darragh unleashed dangerous winds and heavy rain on the west coast, with parts of Wales experiencing wind gusts exceeding 90 mph. The Met Office issued warnings of potentially damaging winds and persistent heavy rain across the region.
Despite the postponement of the Merseyside derby, the four other Premier League games scheduled for Saturday proceeded as planned. Manchester United prepared to host Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford, while Aston Villa welcomed Southampton at Villa Park in Birmingham.
Both Brentford and Crystal Palace in London confirmed that their matches against Newcastle and Manchester City, respectively, would go ahead as scheduled. Fans were advised to take precautions and allow extra travel time due to the inclement weather conditions.
Met Office chief meteorologist Steve Willington reassured that Storm Darragh was expected to gradually ease as it moved across the UK, with the strongest winds in the west beginning to subside through Saturday.
Both Everton and Liverpool issued statements explaining the decision to postpone the derby, emphasizing the safety risks posed by the severe wind gusts and the amber severe wind warning in place until Sunday morning.
The Premier League announced that the rearrangement of the fixture would be communicated at a later time, ensuring that the highly anticipated clash between Everton and Liverpool will take place under safe conditions.
Despite the disruptions caused by Storm Darragh, the Premier League remained resilient in ensuring the continuation of the matches, with clubs and authorities working together to prioritize the safety of players, staff, and fans.
