A Must-Read for Football Purists
As a lifelong admirer of historic football grounds, Jim Keoghan's "Farewell to Goodison" transported me back through time. The book masterfully captures the soul of this architectural marvel, which was the first major football stadium built in England. I found myself lost in the vivid descriptions of the iconic Archibald Leitch-designed stands, particularly the Bullens Road stand with its distinctive criss-cross steelwork that has become synonymous with football's golden age.
What really resonated with me was the book's exploration of those magical moments that defined Goodison's legacy — from being the first league venue visited by a ruling monarch in 1913 to hosting record-breaking crowds in the post-war era. The personal accounts of fans, players, and staff members breathe life into every page, painting a picture of a stadium that's more than just concrete and steel— it's been the heartbeat of a community since 1892.
As someone who appreciates the craftsmanship of traditional football grounds, I was particularly moved by the detailed descriptions of the stadium's architectural evolution. The book doesn't just document a building; it celebrates a cathedral of football that has witnessed over 130 years of triumph, heartbreak, and unforgettable memories. Reading this book felt like taking one final walk around the Grand Old Lady, touching the weathered turnstiles and breathing in the history that lingers in every corner.
What really resonated with me was the book's exploration of those magical moments that defined Goodison's legacy — from being the first league venue visited by a ruling monarch in 1913 to hosting record-breaking crowds in the post-war era. The personal accounts of fans, players, and staff members breathe life into every page, painting a picture of a stadium that's more than just concrete and steel— it's been the heartbeat of a community since 1892.
As someone who appreciates the craftsmanship of traditional football grounds, I was particularly moved by the detailed descriptions of the stadium's architectural evolution. The book doesn't just document a building; it celebrates a cathedral of football that has witnessed over 130 years of triumph, heartbreak, and unforgettable memories. Reading this book felt like taking one final walk around the Grand Old Lady, touching the weathered turnstiles and breathing in the history that lingers in every corner.
