Anticipation soared when the Premier League fixture list dropped at 9 a.m. on 14 June. Everton will christen Bramley Moore Dock Stadium with a Saturday evening clash against Aston Villa on 16 August, a matchup instantly dubbed the Dock Debut. Kick off is set for 5 30 p.m. to accommodate global broadcasters eager to showcase the league’s newest venue. Club marketing released a cinematic teaser moments later. The clip panned across the Mersey at sunset before focusing on the illuminated stadium bowl and a tagline reading NEW HOME SAME HEART. Two million views followed within hours, reflecting worldwide interest. Head coach Sean Dyche welcomed the fixture, noting Villa’s expansive style should produce an entertaining spectacle for the first capacity crowd of 52 888. A 30 minute pre match ceremony will feature a light show, a parade of former captains, and a mass rendition of Z Cars with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. Ticket distribution prioritises existing season ticket holders and legacy Goodison families before general sale. Supporters are encouraged to arrive early and explore the riverside fan park of food trucks, live music, and history exhibits. Merseyrail will run late services to meet post game demand. For Evertonians the date provides tangible proof that the long journey from planning applications to steel beams is complete. Hotels are already filling, and a new chapter is set to begin under the floodlights by the water’s edge.
