Everton v Crystal Palace announcement on Thursday an ‘absolute disgrace’ – Dominic King
The scheduling of the Everton vs Crystal Palace FA Cup tie on a Thursday night in January is an “absolute disgrace” in the words of Dominic King.
The Daily Mail journalist reacted on Twitter (8 December) after it was confirmed that the Toffees are set to go on the road to Selhurst Park for an 8pm kick off on 4 January, branding the Eagles’ ground the “most difficult” to get to in London.
Evertonians are therefore predicted to have a tough task on their hands to travel to the capital for a midweek night game early in the New Year.
King wrote in response to the announcement by the club: “This, by the way, is an absolute disgrace. The most difficult ground in London to get to on a Thursday night at 8pm.”
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It has long been proven that TV companies get far more consideration than travelling fans and this fits in with that.
Toffees supporters seem to be getting it from all angles at the moment, with the team’s points deduction and being painted as a danger live on Sky Sports ahead of the win over Newcastle.
In that context a tricky set of travel arrangements might seem like a fly in the ointment, especially since it is in FA competition rather than at the behest of the target of their ire, the Premier League.
But it is hardly good news and won’t do anything to dispel the feelings of unfair treatment from the footballing authorities in general.
The Evertonians will follow the club all the same as they always do but it has been made harder than was surely necessary for a fanbase that has been through more than enough of late.
Obviously Everton aren’t the first club in history to have been handed an awkwardly timed trip on the road but in the context of everything else around the Toffees currently it isn’t especially helpful.
Thankfully Sean Dyche and the players are currently providing a cause to rally around despite the endless issues off the pitch, with the 3-0 victory at Goodison Park over Newcastle probably the best result this season.
In other Everton news, Sky Sports have been slammed over their portrayal of the Toffees supporters ahead of the Newcastle win.