An Everton fan group has raised up to £39,000 in an "atmosphere fund" that will see a mass protest levelled against the Premier League both before and during their game with Manchester United on Sunday.
The protest is in response to the league's decision to deduct Everton 10 points after an independent commission found them guilty of breaking Profitability and Sustainability rules.
Such a points penalty leaves Sean Dyche's men level on points with Burnley, who prop up the Premier League table currently, having been just one point off the top half prior to the sanction.
The1878s Fan Group created the GoFundMe fundraiser in the immediate aftermath of the decision by the Premier League to raise money for a protest that will show the supporters displeasure at the decision.
The description on the fundraiser's page states that there are "plans in motion regarding banners and flags against the quite frankly disgraceful and nonsensical decision to deduct the club 10 points"
"Any money donated will go towards making the Goodison Park atmosphere as hostile and electric as it can be at a pivotal time for Everton Football Club."
The idea quickly gained traction on social media and hit its initial target within just a few hours, as Everton fans rallied together in support of the protest.
Over 2,500 people have donated up to now, totalling £39,000 as of 2pm on November 21, with the figure rising by the minute.
Earlier on Tuesday, the fan group released their plans for the protest, which includes cards, flags, banners, and anti-Premier League chants.
It is claimed there will be enough cards for every fan in the stadium to have one, with pick-up points dotted all around the game prior to kickoff, and volunteers to help out with the distribution in nearby pubs.
There were hopes of flying a plane over Goodison Park with a message to the Premier League too, but as the match will be played when it is dark, it will instead be flown over the Etihad Stadium when Manchester City face Everton's neighbours Liverpool on Saturday lunchtime.
Andrew Delaney
