The match began with a lively atmosphere, with a mix of joy and sadness in the air. Everton started strongly, and just a minute after Beto was denied by a remarkable save from Aaron Ramsdale, the Toffees took the lead. A clever pass from Jarrard Branthwaite to Ndiaye in Southampton's half sparked a series of passes that left the Saints struggling to keep up, allowing Ndiaye to find space and slot the ball into the bottom-left corner.

The crowd erupted in cheers as captain Seamus Coleman was substituted due to injury, receiving a standing ovation and a personal thank you from the stadium announcer. Ashley Young took his place, with Jordan Pickford assuming the captain's armband.

Ndiaye continued to shine, with Beto's attempts at scoring being thwarted by offside calls. However, Ndiaye's luck changed when he scored his second goal on the stroke of halftime, after a giveaway from Southampton allowed Dwight McNeil to play him in on goal. Ndiaye's impressive trickery allowed him to round Ramsdale and roll the ball in, securing a dominant first half for Everton.

Despite a strong start, there were concerns among the Everton faithful as the second half unfolded, with the team struggling to maintain their cohesion. However, they still managed to create chances, with James Garner firing at Ramsdale and Beto heading over the bar after a cross from the right.

Southampton's interim boss Simon Rusk made a triple substitution on the hour mark, keeping hope alive for a Saints revival. However, Everton regained their composure and Pickford made a crucial save to thwart Ross Stewart with his shin at close range.

As time ran out, Everton's hopes of scoring at the Gwladys Street End faded, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin being denied a clean shot on a breakaway.

Despite not scoring in the second half, Everton secured a 2-0 win, giving Goodison Park a fitting sendoff. The stadium, which has witnessed many memorable moments, including eight league titles and a FIFA World Cup semi-final, will be remembered fondly by Evertonians.

The team is looking forward to a new chapter at the newly-named Hill-Dickinson Stadium, while Southampton will aim to end their disappointing campaign with a win against Arsenal next Sunday.

Flashscore Man of the Match: Iliman Ndiaye (Everton)