Everton fans lined the streets surrounding Goodison Park as the team’s coach was given an extraordinary welcome ahead of the crucial clash with Chelsea.
Supporters answered a rallying call from fan groups in an incredible show of unity and passion. Flags, banners and flares featured as the tight streets of L4 were turned into a cauldron of hope and dedication.
The most vibrant displays were on City Road and Goodison Road as the Blues players arrived just after midday. Chants and blue smoke filled the air as the 'Goodison gang' turned out in their thousands to back their side.
*Watch video of the moment the team bus arrived:
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READ MORE: Fireworks set off outside 'Chelsea hotel' as Everton prepare for vital clash
In a call for support ahead of the match, Everton Fans Forum had urged: “Nobody is happy with the position we are in - but one thing that unites every Evertonian is that we all want the best for the Blues.
“Right now, what is best is everyone pulling together, being united and doing all we can to help get the points we need on the board. All we can do is try everything in our power to make a difference, to give the players confidence and to try to make Goodison the cauldron-like fortress we know gives us an advantage.”
Frank Lampard had welcomed the plans in his pre-match press conference on Friday.
Referring to the home support vital to his side taking seven points from the last three games at Goodison Park, as well as today’s plans to get behind his players, he told reporters: “Our fans are brilliant - it’s their life. If we get together in this moment it will make us stronger.”
*Another clip of the bus arriving:
Burnley have since heaped further pressure on Everton after securing a comeback win over Watford, though Leeds United lost to Manchester City.
Everton sit five points below both but, with two games in hand ahead of Chelsea’s visit, their Premier League fate lies in within the club’s control.
