Brian Sorensen says there is no extra pressure on his Everton side as they make their debut at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Sunday.
But he says that opponents Manchester United will undoubtedly be a tough challenge, adding that he doesn’t think it’s possible for Marc Skinner’s team to raise their game even higher for a big occasion.
“United – it’s the best we’ve seen them at least in the last couple of seasons, since I’ve been here,” declared Sorensen.
United head to Merseyside having just achieved their first-ever win in the group stage of the UEFA Women’s Champions League, beating Valerenga 1-0 on Wednesday evening at Leigh Sports Village.
Sorensen: The atmosphere at the Hill Dickinson Stadium is phenomenal
He also shared his own experiences of the new stadium.
“I’ve been there a couple of times now. The atmosphere when I’ve been there has been phenomenal. Everywhere you sit, you have a good view.
“But I think it just looks so good, I’ve been there for a couple of visits to see the lounges and the restaurants, so everything is just top-class. Hopefully the ones who come will have that experience also.
“The lower tiers are so loud. I think it’s going to be a very good atmosphere and we’re really looking forward to playing there.”
Most of his players have also visited the ground, he said, and the squad would train there on Saturday.
Brian Sorensen: We are super excited
With a capacity of almost 53,000, Sorensen knows there are likely to be plenty of fans there who have not been to the new ground before – nor have seen a women’s football game before.
But he hopes that the big occasion will meet expectations and bring the supporters back to Goodison Park in due course.
“We’re just going to go in and enjoy that one in a big stadium. It’s a big crowd coming. We are super excited for it.”
He went on: “Hopefully they’ll come back at Goodison and see us play. Our plan is to put on a good show and make it an exciting game.
“We are also realistic that it’s going to be tough, of course. But one thing that we will do is we will give everything.”
Everton’s next match at Goodison Park will be in the Subway Women’s League Cup against Nottingham Forest, on Sunday, 19th October.
