Travel. Adventure. Discover: Liverpool F.C. vs Everton F.C.

Football is a way of life here in England. Especially, living here in Liverpool, where many people ask, "Who's your favourite team?" Football (soccer to all of us Americans) is a HUGE part of the culture here in England but especially to those in Liverpool, since two of the football clubs (F.C.) are based here in Liverpool. Since I had been hearing about how great Liverpool F.C. is and how great Everton F.C. is, going all way back to sitting in the airport in Chicago waiting for the plane (I overheard two gentleman heading back to Manchester going back and forth about the rivalry between the two clubs.) So I decided that I would go along with some friends from school and tour both stadiums to see for myself if one football team was better than the other.

The history of football really starts off with the Everton Football Club. According to our tour guide many "firsts" (as in first standard rules for football, first use of goalie markings) was started with the Everton F. C. They haven't won many trophies so in comparison to the Liverpool F.C. they are not as good. But they are known as being one of the most hospitable teams. That has to count for something.

The Liverpool F.C. is the team with all the wins and trophies here. their home field is Anfield Stadium and their motto is, "You'll Never Walk Alone." Which first appeared as their motto and tribute to the fans who died watching a semi-final game on special stadium roof seats that collapsed. While touring Anfield Stadium, it definitely felt majestic in comparison to Everton F.C. everything just felt bigger. Both football clubs share a rich history in Liverpool and there is a park that sits exactly between both stadiums, which on game day is filled with fans for both teams. You can just imagine what a few game day beers, tailgating, and one or two snide comments will create in that park. Just be sure that if you ever go there during game day, you know which side to walk on (Everton fans are on one side and Liverpool fans are on the other.) I am really glad that I was able to experience and go on these tours, because I feel like I am now able to understand at least the football culture a little better here. Now, if only I can figure out how rugby is played!

Travel: Tours of Goodison Football Stadium (Everton F.C.) and Anfield Stadium Liverpool F.C.)

Adventure: To learn more about Liverpool's rival football teams

Discover: England takes their football here very seriously. The field is called a "pitch;" a game is called a "match;" and a team is called a "club." Also, I should really watch an actual football/soccer game/match from start to finish.