Everton’s long-awaited relocation to the Hill Dickinson Stadium—formerly known in construction phases as Bramley-Moore Dock—ushered in a new chapter for the club on August 24, 2025.
In their inaugural Premier League match at the striking £750-million waterfront venue, Everton delivered both on and off the pitch, defeating Brighton & Hove Albion 2–0 in front of a near-sellout crowd.
Iliman Ndiaye etched his name into history as the first-ever scorer at the new ground, and James Garner added the gloss, giving fans more than just memories of the final years at Goodison Park.
It was Jack Grealish, however, whose artistry shone brightest. In his first Premier League start for Everton since arriving on loan from Manchester City, Grealish provided two exquisite assists—one leading to Ndiaye’s historic opener in the 23rd minute, the other setting up Garner’s thunderous strike seven minutes after half-time.
The winger’s creativity revitalized the Toffees’ attack and seemed to rekindle a spark he’d nearly extinguished in Park Lane. Manager David Moyes couldn’t hide his excitement, hailing Grealish as a difference-maker and expressing hope that this new stage would help him reclaim his place in the England squad.
Iliman Ndiaye, already Everton’s top scorer last season—and the last to find the net at Goodison—once again stole a moment of glory by tapping home Grealish’s driven cross.
His goal bookended the Goodison era and christened the Hill Dickinson Stadium in a single, symbolic gesture that captured the emotion swirling around this milestone.
Seven minutes into the second half, Garner did the rest. Grealish laid off a perfect pass from the wing, and the midfielder unleashed a ferocious strike from outside the box that sailed over the beleaguered Brighton goalkeeper. The crowd erupted—a sign that this new stadium would become a fortress in time.
Brighton, for all their early dominance, found themselves haunted by the woodwork and their own finishing woes. Jan Paul van Hecke rattled the post, and Danny Welbeck spurned a glorious opportunity as the first half drew to a close. Their squandered chances would eventually cost them dearly.
As tension mounted in the 77th minute, Brighton were awarded a penalty when Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall handled in the box. But enter Jordan Pickford, displaying nerves of steel—and perhaps something more.
Reports emerged that Pickford had consulted a water bottle with a “cheat sheet” just before Welbeck’s spot-kick, giving him the edge to dive the correct way and preserve Everton’s clean sheet. The method may split opinions, but the execution was clinical.
Everton’s backline, marshaled by James Tarkowski, held firm in the face of Brighton’s pressure. The defensive cohesion provided a foundation for Moyes’ side to ride out the closing stages and seal three morale-boosting points in this historic occasion.
From the stands, the atmosphere matched the grandeur of the occasion. Fans roared their approval at every touch by Grealish and offered a standing ovation when he departed deep into stoppage time—a gesture that hinted at the bond he could cultivate with this club.
The stadium, with its breathtaking architecture, glass and steel design, and a capacity of 52,769—close to its full attendance of 51,759 on the day—felt electric, ready to be etched into Everton lore.
David Moyes, reflecting on the afternoon, spoke not only of a vital three points but of the emotional weight of this victory. He praised his players for delivering a performance they and the fans would cherish for years, and acknowledged the pride of opening a new chapter in such a tangible way.
Brighton, for their part, will rue missed opportunities. Manager Fabian Hürzeler was gracious in defeat, noting that while his side created moments, they failed to turn dominance into goals. It was a lesson in ruthlessness Everton imposed—a penalty saved, woodwork rattled, but none taken.