Speaking on the BBC, Neil Ruddock said he wasn’t nearly treated the same way at Goodison when he played for Liverpool. He acknowledged that the stadium was a “very intimidating” place to visit because of how close the spectators were to the field, making it feel like they were “on your back.”

Brazil was questioned, “Which fan group intimidated you the most, and who were the fans that used to throw pelters at you?”

Ruddock shot out, “I used to get pelters everywhere, Al, but I think the Merseyside derby at Everton.” That old ground, that is. We both played there; they are so near that it feels like they are on top of you or on your back.

“So, Liverpool at Everton, a really intimidating place, and for some reason, they didn’t like me. It’s unbelievable.” I never went to pick up the ball when it was out for a throw-in.

“I used to like Goodison,” Brazil remarked. “I thought that if we won there—obviously not Liverpool against Everton—but we went up there and defeated them 4-0 one day, and they cheered us off, which was unbelievable to me.”

Kindhearted

On a few occasions throughout the years, Everton supporters have shown themselves to be gracious in defeat when they are aware that their team has been thoroughly defeated.

Even though they weren’t very thrilled with their own team’s performance, they can recognize when the other team deserves praise for their strong play.

It’s long been recognized as a difficult venue for visiting teams because of the fervent support that the fans offer them in an attempt to give them an advantage in games.