Heaven help us all if Tony Hibbert ever does this again.
The Everton defender scored against AEK Athens on Wednesday, and Everton FC fans rushed the field in celebration.
The “Tony Hibbert riot” couldn’t have come at a better time than it did. In fact, had it not occured during Hibbert’s testimonial — a game played to commemorate the 10 years of service he has given the club — it might have never happened at all.
Hibbert, a no-nonsene fullback, has played 309 games for Everton without scoring a goal. Fans who have watched him since 2001 find that statistic a bit endearing, and some promised to “riot” if Hibbert ever scored. The stars aligned on Wednesday night.
In the 53rd minute, Hibbert struck a free-kick past AEK goalkeeper Dimitris Konstantopoulos. Both hillarity and pandemonium soon followed.
First, the 31-year-old’s teammates swooped on him to mark the feat. They were soon joined by more than 1,000 fans who stuck to their word. They came from all parts of the stands looking to rub Hibbert’s head. Many of them did before the announcer ordered them off the field. They returned to their seats almost as quickly as they took to the field.
On this night they were good natured and obedient. If Hibbert ever scores again, perhaps in a competitive game, we’ll watch closely to see what happens.
