November 1891

PRESTON NORTH END 4 EVERTON 0
NOVEMBER 2 1894
DAILY POST
The fog, was very dense when E verton left Liverpool, but on reaching Preston the sun was shining brilliantly, and so far as the elements were concerned evertything promised well for a good game. With the exception of Maxwell (inside-right) and Jardine, the visitors teams was the same as last week. Teams as follwed:- trainer, goal, helmes, and ross backs, sharpe, ross (captain) and stewart halfhalfs, gordon, ross (jun), drummond, towie and gallacher, forwards
Everton,, jardine (d), kelso (r) mclean (d) backs, kirkwood (d) holt (j) (captain) robinson (h), wyllie (t) maxwell (a) (debut), laata (a) chadwick (e), and milward (a), forwards.
About 12,000 specatators were present, and at five minutes past three latta started for the visitors. Towie and drummond were first away, but found mclean too much for them. Kirkwood was most noticeable for stopping an homesters movement of the home left and then Milward showed ineffectually. For some minutes the Everton defences was sorely tried, but at length Kelso relieved. Trainer was again called upon, and the visitors ntill Keeping up the pressure, N ross was expelled to concede a corner. This having been safely got rid of, Gallacher and Towie initiated a good onward movement with their antageuist's quarters but Kelso defendered. North End again. The hme right made spendid attack in eluding McLean, and Gordon centre to Drummond, who had no difficultly in deating Jardine. This was all that was done up to0 half-time North End 1, Everton nil. Drummond restarted, and the opening play was spiritualy tested in midfield. Jardine was called again to handle, but north end returned to the outslaught with towie succeded in scoring a second point pass Jardine.later Gordon registered a third goal, and J ross a fourth , a good game ending in favour of north ends by 4 goals to nil.

PRESTON NORTH END V. EVERTON
November 2, 1891. The Birmingham Daily Post
Fully 12,000 people assembled at Preston to see the struggle between these famous Lancashire elevens. Play was fast and fairly even for the first half-hour, and then Drummond scored for North Enders. Soon afterwards a scrimmage took place close to the Preston goal, but Trainor cleared. The game then became fairly even again, Preston being a goal ahead at half-time. Within ten minutes of the resumption Towie put on a second for North End. Gordon obtained a third, and although play for some time afterwards was fairly even, Everton never looked like a materially reducing their opponent's lead. As a matter of fact, Ross junior kicked another goal for Preston, who were left victors by four goals to nil.

PRESTON NORTH END v. EVERTON.
Sporting Life - Monday 02 November 1891
THE CHAMPIONS BEATEN HOLLOW.
The meeting of the present champions and the ex-champions of the League at Deepdale on Saturday was the piece de resistance of the League programme on Saturday. The elevens had met previously on October 10, at Liverpool, when each side scored a goal. For Saturday's game Everton were without Geary, but Jardine again took his place. There were fully 15,000 spectators present. The visitors started game up the incline, and facing the sun. The play was at once fast, but so good was the style of the respective half-backs that neither side’s forwards could get into swing for a bit. AI last North End got together, and, after Towie, Gallacher, and Drummond had each failed to take the chances offered them. Trainer had to stop a shot from Chadwick. However, the home side continued to show the best form, and at the end of half an hour Gordon beat opposing half backs, and passed forward. Drummond skipped round McLean, and beat Jardine with a splendid shot. This was all that was recorded in the first half. The game up to this had been remarkably equal, but on resuming it was soon evident North End meant winning. Jardine was kept busy, but at the end of five minutes Towie scored, Jardine having four times fisted away. Gordon again beat the Liverpool custodian five minutes later. North End now eased up a bit, but still had their opponents well in band. Chadwick once skimmed North End's goal, but the only other point registered was for North End, Ross, jun. being responsible for the finishing touch. The result was, therefore, North End four, Everton none. Mr. J. C. Clegg, chairman of the Football Association, was referee. Teams North —Trainer (goal), Ross and Holmes (backs), Stewart, Sanders, and Sharp (half-backs). Gordon and J. Ross (right wing), Drummond (centre). Towie and Gallacher (left wing). Everton;- Jardine (goal), McLean and Kelso (backs), Kirkwood, Holt, and Robertson (half-backs). Wyllie and Maxwell (right wing), Latta  (centre), Chadwick and Milward (left wing).

LIVERPOOL DISTRICT AND NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 02 November 1891
By the Loiterer
So Maxwell played at Preston after all. I understand he was not a success, but for the life of me I cannot understand the Everton committee in selecting Murray to play. Then is no consistency about it. Here they have been after Maxwell for about eight or nine months, and when they got him he is not selected. The change from the originally constituted team may not have been a success, but I do not consider it a blunder. It is questionable whether Murray would have done any better. This youth is very clever, but there is not sufficient of him to face Ross. I wonder what the other members of the team were doing—the forwards in not scoring, and the backs in not preventing North End from scoring. Four goals none! and the state of the ground favouring Everton. After last week’s match the Everton supporters went to Preston in the best of humours, and nothing like such a disaster as four goals was ever dreamt of. I have no doubt “The Tramp’’ will tell us how it occurred.
Fairbrother, one the backs from Long Eaton, is down here, but Kent, his club-mate, is trying to come the “old man.” But it won’t do in this case. After Everton had bought his release from Long Eaton, it appears Woolwich Arsenal offered him better terms, and advised Everton accordingly. Mr. Molyneux, however, had obtained his signature to a League form, and you know the penalty of pouching on the League preserves. Woolwich could not afford to do it, and gave it up as a bad job, and Kent is considerably agitated thereby. I dare say it will end all right, but it would teach this young man a lesson if he was “out of collar "for a month or two.
The ground question at Everton took a new phase on Wednesday evening, when about 70 old members of the club met at a dinner, and expressed confidence in Mr. Houlding and gratitude for what he had done for the club. It is only these old members that can appreciate the advantage of having a gentleman like Mr. Houlding to fall back upon.

EVERTON AT DEEPDALE.
Athletic News - Monday 02 November 1891
EASY VICTORY OP NORTH END.
By The Tramp.
The gods were kind to the above great clubs on Saturday, Mr. Editor. A lovely autumn week made everybody who is anybody look forward to a rich football treat on the half-holiday, and they were in no wise disappointed. Those who saw the return League fixture between the champions and ex-champions are not likely to forget it for long time to come. The ground was dry and firm, and there was no troublesome breeze to interfere with the tactics and calculations of the players. Hence we saw the game as “she ought to be played.” But let me first introduce the teams to your notice. Here they are;-
Preston North End;- Trainer, goal; Ross and Holmes, backs; Sharpe. Saunders, and Stewart, half-backs ; Gordon. Ross, Jun, Drummond. Towie, and Gallocher,  forwards. Everton; - Jardine, goal; McLean, and Kelso, backs; Robertson, Holt, and Kirkwood, half-backs: Milward, Chadwick, Latta, Maxwell, and Wyllie, forwards. Referee; Mr. JC. Clegg. Sheffield. An analysis of the above will show that the North End relied on exactly the same artists that scored such a triumph at Ewood Park, and Everton made a couple of changes from the team that came off with flying colours at Derby. These were Jardine for Williams in goal and Maxwell for Murray on the right wing. Maxwell is one of the young Scotch recruits who has just been hooked. He must have been given a place during the morning, as he was announced to figure in the Combination match at home. But the crowd—what shall I say about the crowd?  The enclosure looked like a huge amphitheater with its serried ranks of spectators. They stood many deep all round, and ran wall into five figures. Twelve thousand was the general estimate. Tommy Atkinses were present in strong force, their vermillion-hued coats touching up the otherwise sombre picture here and there with pleasing effect. The gathering was in every way worthy of the occasion, and it was a day to be remembered. My chapter of incidents shall be very brief. From the first I thought there was more method in the movements of the home forwards, and as they passed prettily and repeatedly sallied down on Jardine’s charge, the Everton contingent had an anxious time of it. Danger came mostly from Gordon, who gave sandy-haired McLean little rest, and now and again the strapping youth was fairly tied in a knot. But the other forwards also required watching, and it was well that Kirkwood was at his best, and that Holt was also in capital form. The work of the visiting front rank was very uneven. We were not long in discovering that Maxwell is not up to League requirements. Leastways he was not in this case. He was slow and confused in his ideas, and when he ought to have shot out like a catapult he passed harmlessly wide out to Wyllie, who was well taken care of by Stewart and Jack Ross. Latta, Chadwick, and Milward put in some neat specimens of passing, but they did not often carry the warfare right into the enemy's camp. There was only one goal before the interval, and that was a beauty. Gordon easily showed his heels to Hope- Robertson, flashed the ball past Mclean like lightning, and Drummond sent it flying through. Wyllie came nearest of anybody to doing the trick at the other end, and until the ball was seen to have settled on the top instead of inside the net, the crowd were in doubts whether Trainer had been beaten or not. Something had gone wrong with Mr. Clegg’s chronometer, and it was only after stentorian shouts of “Time! Time! ’’ That he consulted one of the linesmen, something like three minutes extra having been thrown in. To enter upon the second half at a disadvantage of goal was rather a formidable undertaking against such a sturdy club as the North End, and yet Everton did not lose heart. They had not been so much overplayed as to make the task utterly hopeless. But, alas, fate was once more up in arms against them, and the breach widened as the scythe bearer went on his way. Towie clapped on a second point, Gordon a third, and Jimmy Ross, just for the sake of old times, a fourth and last. Victory by four to none was convincing enough in all conscience, and were all inclined to sing the praises of the conquerors. I never saw a more resolute team from stem to stern. Every man played for all he was worth, and neither whip nor spur was needed, Trainer had so little that he may be passed on one side. Jack Ross went deeper into my affections than ever, and Holmes shaped like an international right through, and be it remembered that he had England's international left-wing to battle with. They tried him with every device they could bring into play, but as a rule came off triumphant. The half-backs are not of the finished stamp of the old trio of three or four seasons back, but they are trusty men, and were not often caught napping. Gordon and Drummond were the stars of the forward brigade, but the left pair put in plenty of useful and telling work. Jimmy Ross was occasionally clever, but he did not like the polite attentions of Johnny Holt. Indeed, no love was lost between the pair, and each was penalized in turn for fouling the other. Holt was a sticker, and delighted his admirers more than once by walking away with the ball before his opponents knew exactly where it was. Robertson was not nearly so effective as Kirkwood at half-back, but of course he had a strong wing to cope with. Latta got in many a taking bit of passing, together with Chadwick and Millward, but they were handicapped for want of more skill on the right, and, consequently, played mainly for their own hand. Wyllie did what he could under the circumstances, but Maxwell won’t do at all. McLean was erratic and rocket-like, his chief weakness being hesitation and imperfect judgment. Bob Kelso, on the other hand, was never slow in making up his mind, and was repeatedly seen well out helping his comrades in their dilemma. No fault could be placed at his door, nor at Jardine’s either. "Dainty Davie” had no chance whatever with the shots that told against him, and some of his saves were real masterpieces.

EVERTON RESERVES 6 CHESTER 0
COMBINATION MATCH
November 2 1891
Liverpool mercury
At anfield in presentance of fully 3,000 spectators. Everton won the toss and at6 once proceed to make matters lively for the chester defenders, who offered a stubborn resistance for a time. At length Murray opened the Everton account with a smart shot. Gordon poy on number two and after Pennell had very hardlines. Elliott was instrumental in adding other three golas to the Everton total. The half-hime score being Everton 5, Chester nil. The second half was more evently lessfully repelled, however and after an off-side goal had been disallowed Gordon added a good point, and the game end Everton 6 goals; chester nil
Played 7, won 6, lost 0, draw 1 for 31, against 3 points 13
Everton team, williams (r), chadwick (a) collins (j), parry (c jones (r) lochhead (a), gordon (p), pinnell (a), maxwell (a) , elliott (j), mcmillan (j)

EVERTON REVIEW
November 2, 1891. The Liverpool Mercury
Nothing surprising was the outcome of the six League matches decided on Saturday, unless it was the unequivocal manner in which Preston North End triumphed over Everton. Everton failed unexpectedly at Deepdale to retain the strong line taken at Derby a week ago, and instead of a victory of 3 goals to 0, are discomfited with a defeat of 4 goals to nil. What a transformation, and how different are the feelings of their followers. Last week justifiable hope was indulged that the championship would be held by Everton for another season, but now the outlook is not roseate, for whilst the Liverpool club have a see-saw experience, the Bolton Wanderers, in particular, win games, with more consistency. The defeat suffered by Everton is the heaviest they have had to submit to at Deepdale in connection with the League, the nearest approach to it being in 1889 –the first year of the League, when North End knew no defeat –the score than being 3 goals to nil. The game was marked by that high feeling that seems inseparable from these contests between the champions and ex-champions, and science was sacrificed to more forcible means. There was roughness, and fouls were frequent. J. Ross’s excesses once provoking a reprimand from the referee. Still, Preston North End played the better game, and worked determined for the prize secured. Ross and Holmes when the halves failed to break up the Everton combination, were very safe in their tackling and kicking, and Trainor was equal to any shots that came his way. The forwards worked in good combination with Gordon, who was the best man on the field, being particularly conspicuous, though Drummond could do nothing remarkable, so well was he attended to by Holt. The Everton forwards were disappointing. Maxwell who superseded Murray, was badly kicked early on, and this will account for some of the failure; but after making every allowance, it vanguard was about the worst seen this season. Latta was given no quarter, and so effectively did N.J. Ross, and Saunders which his movements, that he never got a shot at goal. The half-backs all worked hard, and cannot be blamed for the reverse, Holt especially making friends for his finished play. Kelso also did exceedingly well, but Mclean, who held on soundly for a long time, was tried severely in the closing stages of the game, ad was then literally run off his feet.
All was to be expected; Everton added two more points to their combination total by beating Chester to the extent of 6 goals to nil. The game was not by any means a brilliant one, and was chiefly noticeable for the plucky manner in which Chester played on the finish. Taylor proved himself as good as back as there was on the field, and received able support from Maddock and Carty. Forward, Morris, Carter and Thompson made a good show and never relaxed their efforts, even when defeat was inevitable. For the winners Williams was never asked a question. A Chadwick and Collins being quite equal to all emergencies. Parry seemed most in demand of the halves, while the only objectionable feature into the forward line was the persistent manner in which the wing players helped themselves to the almost utter exclusion of Pinnell, who filled the centre. In the latter player Everton have secured a “rough diamond” well worth looking after.

EVERTON V PRESTON NORTH END
November 2, 1891. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton went to Deepdale on Saturday to play their return League match with the North End. The last contest at Everton having resulted in a draw, the enthusiasm of the home supporters was aroused to great dimensions, no fewer than 1200 persons leaving Liverpool to witness the encounter. The day was a grand one, a bright sun making the atmosphere agreeable. The ground was also in tiptop condition. Preston played the same team as that at Liverpool, while Maxwell filled Murray’s palate at inside right, and Jardine was again at his post in goal. The following were the teams;- Preston North End –Trainor, goal; Holmes and Rose, backs; Sharpe, Saunders, and Stewart, half-backs; Gordon, Ross, jun., Drummond, Towie, and Gallacher, forwards. Everton;- Jardine, goal; Kelso and McLean, backs; Kirkwood, Holt (captain), and Robertson, half-backs; Wyllie, Maxwell, Latta, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Holt led on his men to the field, and the Evertonians were loudly cheered by the 10,000 spectators who lined the enclosure, in similar compliment being served out to the homesters. Latta kicked off for the visitors, who lost the toss. North End were the first to get on the attack, but were immediately sent back; and then Latta brought out Holmes, relief coming to the home team by the ball being kicked over. Preston gradually working down Jardine’s charge was assailed, but Kelso cleared; and after Maxwell ad Wyllie had shone out, J. Ross was cautioned for fouling Holt. The free kick resulting in nothing tangible, the Prestonians soon returned, and Kelso had to negotiate from Gallacher. Enthusiasm ran high amongst the Evertonians as Latta parted to Chadwick, but the latter shot over. The North End then had a turn, and Saunders’s shot for goal was finely headed clear by Robertson. So aggressive were Everton at this juncture that the whole of the home defence was brought out, Sharpe, being the most conspicuous. it now looked promising for Everton as Milward sent over to Wyllie and the latter returned across the goalmouth, Latta then fed the attack in clever fashion, but it was broken up finely by Holmes, and the pressure in front of Trainor was not eased until Ross conceded a barren corner. For some time after this Everton were in the home half, mainly through the exertions of Holt, who was playing a splendid game. Towie and Gallocher, however, raised the siege, and after a bit of goalmouth play the latter sent over the crossbar from short ranges. At last, and with Everton all in front of Trainor, Gordon got possession and dashed along, and in beating McLean, crossed to Drummond who with no one in front of him but Jardine, scored for Preston, with a good shot. Everton went at it with renewed energy after this reverse, and completely stormed Trainor’s charge, a splendid shot by Wyllie being thought by many to have gone through. This was rather hard luck, as Trainor failed to work the ball. As half-time was arriving, the game continued fast and furious, and Latta and Maxwell were in fine position when Saunders rushed in and tripped up Maxwell, but the free kick was valueless. Nothing of any importance took place, and Mr. Clegg sounded the interval four minutes after time, with North End leading by a goal to nil. Drummond restarted, and Robertson returned, Ross senior sheering Latta’s finish down the field. Coming again, however, Chadwick gave Maxwell a chance, with the new man failed to accept, with the result that Jardine’s charge was again all but captured. Chadwick now worked through, and was in the act of passing to Latta when Sharpe brought him down. Fate now seemed to be against the visitors, as they could not get in with many good shots, and it was left to Preston to again score, Towie doing the needful with his elbow out of a scrimmage. North End were playing up well at this stage, and Jardine had to save a scorcher from Drummond. Not to be denied, however, the homesters were again at it, and Gordon, who was lying handy, scored the third goal for Preston. Chadwick continued to work hard, and kept his partners well fed, but any chances that looked like being put to account were lost, Maxwell, who was far from being at home in the game, owing to a serve kick, being the chief defaulter. Although the homesters had done all the scoring, the visitors were by no means played out, as they for several minutes, mainly through their half-backs division and Chadwick kept the North End in their own quarters; ad had the front line been up to anything like their usual form they must assuredly have lessened the margin. After Chadwick had been eased by Holmes, Gordon again got hold and, passing shortly to Ross junior, the latter made the total up to 4 goals. End to end play then ensured, out of which Gordon again got clear, and, dashing along, was steadying for goal when Milward frustrated him. No further scoring taking place, Everton retired beaten, after their worst game of the season, by 4 goal to nil.

EVERTON STUFF
Athletic News- Monday, November 2, 1891
Everton will surely give the North End up as a bad job. They have met the Prestonians no fewer than six times in the League, and have only one victory to show for their pains. This is, indeed, remarkable. Four our of six were wins for the North End, one was a draw, and the others ended in a victory for Everton by two to one, this being at Deepdale two years ago. This season Mr. Sudell’s team have squeezed three points out of their powerful rivals, and scored five goals to one, so that they have had their full share of honours.
Everton trotted one of their new men out at Deepdale. This was Maxwell, who, if his form was correct, has made a pretty good bargain. A player who managed to engage himself for £110 down, and £2 per week, ought to be able to do something but, judging from his efforts against the North End, he would be dear at half the price. Perhaps he was overawed by the great Ross, or maybe was nervous in the presence of the big crowd. Whatever the cause, the new Scotch fledging was voted a failure.
One of the great games of the season was that at Deepdale. The teams could not have had a better day for their important contest, and the North End showed the vast gathering that they can play football as well as anybody on a dry turf. Everton have not the well-worn excuse of saying that they were not were not suited by the ground, as they often have when at Preston, for it was in the best condition. The real reason is that the Liverpool men met a superior team, who not only passed beautifully and shot accurately, but tackled fearlessly and defended grandly. In fact their football was of the very best quality.
The Scottish F.A have at length had the full case of Everton v. Doyle before them, and have not even read it, because the Football Association refused to act as accusers. The position of the F.A in the matter was a very simple one, and as Mr. Alcock said in his letter, “The information was brought to the knowledge of my Council, and as there appeared a prima facie infringement of you amateur rules, we concluded the evidence ought to be forwarded to you. We have no right to make any complaint, or to ask you to enforce your own rules, and have no intention of doing so.”
I understand Stoke have arranged for the transfer of C. Parry, the burly Everton half-back, but I am afraid he will not be of much use to them.

EARP
Nottingham Evening Post - Thursday 05 November 1891
We hear that Mr. Molyneux, the secretary of Everton, has offered M. J. Earp, the well-known right full-back of Notts. Forest, a place in the famous Everton League team, and that Mr. Earp has accepted the proposal. Of course Earp remains an amateur, and his decision must not be taken as in any way indicative of open hostility to the Forest Club. Possessed of the natural ambition to secure International honours, Earp is anxious to play regularly with a team where he is sure of his place. Whenever possible his services will be at the disposal of the Reds, for it is ridiculous to think that a member of the Earp family could lose sympathy with the Forest. Next Saturday Earp will, play with the Reds against Sheffield Wednesday, and on the 14th he will assist Everton against Darwen. It is a matter for regret that Earp finds it necessary to take this step, but should the Forest be admitted to the League next spring, and desire Earp's help we have the highest authority for stating that Everton will readily consent to his transfer. If Earp shows the same football for Everton as he did last season in the North and South match, against Queen's Park, and Sunderland Albion, we venture to prophesy that he will not be overlooked when the International teams are selected.

EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB
Liverpool Echo - Friday 06 November 1891
Earp, the Notts Forest full back, has signed for Everton, and will play for Everton in the League engagement against Darwen, on the 14th inst.

TODAY GAME
November 7, 1891. The Liverpool Mercury
Liverpool Associationists will welcome Everton League home again this afternoon, they having been away during the last three Saturdays –first to be beaten by the Bolton Wanderers, then to score a success over Derby County, and last week to go down heavily before Preston North End. The visitors to Anfield road today are West Bromwich Albion, who have already this season defeated Everton by four goals to nil, and who last year effected a surprise at Liverpool by beating Everton with the score of 3 goal to 2 on October 25-the first League reverse Everton experienced last season. After the failure at Deepdale the Everton executive had harked back, and chosen the identical team which overthrew Derby County a fortnight ago, and their policy will be generally approved.
Everton v. West Bromwich Albion, Anfield, Kick-off at three o’clock. The following will play for Everton; Williams, goal; Kelso and Mclean, backs; Kirkwood, Holt and Robertson, half-backs; Wyllie, Murray, Latta, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Everton v Stockport County, Stockport, Kick-off at three o’clock. The following will play for Everton; Smalley, goal; A. Chadwick and Collins, backs; Body, Jones and Lochhead, half-backs; Gordon, Pinnell, Maxwell, McMillian and Elliott, forwards.

GLEANINGS
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 07 November 1891
The following table will give some idea to what extent Association football has popularised itself in Liverpool during the last half-dozen years. The figures it will be noticed, have gone up by “leaps and bounds” since 1885-6 in which year the income of the Everton Club from members’ subscriptions and gates receipts totalled £681; while last year it amounted in round figures to £6,593- a remarkable growth. Naturally the expenses have risen in proportion, and players’ wages have increased from £161 in 1885-6 to £2,848 as shown in last year’s balance-sheet. The total income of the club for the season 1884-5 amounted to £331. Since the club have occupied their present enclosure considerably over £2,000 has been spent in its maintenance and improvement. The figures below (from which shillings and pence have been omitted) will be interesting;-
1885-86.
Members Subs £51- Gates Receipts £629 -Players wages £161- Travelling expenses £28- Paid visiting teams £223, Ground Improvements £33
1886-87
Members Subs £61- Gates Receipts £1456 -Players wages £216- Travelling expenses £128- Paid visiting teams £433, Ground Improvements £285
1887-88
Members Subs £61- Gates Receipts £2111 -Players wages £460- Travelling expenses £151- Paid visiting teams £697, Ground Improvements £370
1888-89
Members Subs £148- Gates Receipts £4323 -Players wages £1146- Travelling expenses £403- Paid visiting teams £966, Ground Improvements £920
1889-90
Members Subs £272- Gates Receipts 5188 -Players wages £2059- Travelling expenses £702- Paid visiting teams £900, Ground Improvements £198
1890-91
Members Subs £324- Gates Receipts £6268 -Players wages £2848- Travelling expenses £746- Paid visiting teams £7933, Ground Improvements £311
Total
Members Subs £917- Gates Receipts £19980 (£917) -Players wages £6890- Travelling expenses £2168- Paid visiting teams £4017, Ground Improvements £2122
Total Income £20,397

EVERTON REVIEW
November 9, 1891. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton are on equal terms again with West Bromwich Albion, just as they were last year, winning and losing one game each. There is a difference, however, for whilst the visiting club last season was the fortunate one, the home team has now been successful. The goal balance is also transferred. Everton a twelve month ago scored in all 6 goals to 4, but West Bromwich have reversed the record with sight interest, their goals totalling 7 to 4. Everton were hard pressed on Saturday, and, though confidence was generally felt that the issue would be satisfactory one from an Evertonian point of view, they emerged with the narrowest margin of success that it is possible to conceive -4 goals to 3, the winning stroke being made about two minutes before the expiration of time. Everton, not pleased with the display at Deepdale, went back on the selected team that won so creditably at Derby; but the display of the home eleven on Saturday, taken as a whole, came short of expectations. They were irregular, wandering, and less methodical than they ought to have been, seeing that they had played together before. West Bromwich Albion, on the other hand, were splendidly balanced, consistently energetic, and combined almost to perfection. And yet the Albion lost. They were unlucky to lose, for it will be generally conceded that they dished up tasty courses for the company assembled, played a clever game, and proved themselves past masters of the art of football that makes their position as whippers-in of the League an inconsistency –that is of the form of the “Throstles” as seen at Anfield on Saturday is the true one. Every man did that which merited praise. Bassett enjoyed the most success, but he had a capital partner in Nicholls. The left wing play of Geddes and Pearson was also of high order, and Kirkwood and Kelso were not permitted many reposeful moments; whilst Groves kept well in touch with the man that flanked him. Perry did some smart things, and Latta found himself now and again nonplussed, whilst McCulloch and Dryer, particularly the latter on the left, were difficult wing half-backs to outmancenvre. Nicholson especially in the first half, gave a splendid exhibition of back play, as did Powell, though the latter was not so often called upon. Roberts succumbed chiefly to scrimmages, and had no chance against the shot by which Latta scored the fourth goal. Williams kept goal well, but should have prevented at least one of the three goals being gained. The backs were not seen at their best. Not were the half-backs. All three worked hard, but Holt was several times outwitted towards the close. Murray seemed the weak spot in the attack, and his decency in stature is not compensated in his profundity of skill. Dyer was too resourceful for him. Wyllie did famously, seeing he was moderately supported. No fault could be found with the left wing and Latta, and the latter’s fearless and clever run, which secured the winning hit, was undoubtedly the feature of the match. It is to be regretted that an unseemly incident occurred. West Bromwich disputed the ruling of the referee in the matter of Everton’s second goal. Roberts seemed to step back with the ball, and so thought the official. Nicholls, Nicholson and McCulloch then showed an inclination to leave the field, but Bassett was successful in dissuading them; and after a “debate” play proceeded. We understand that Earp and Fairbrother will be Everton backs next Saturday at Darwen. We also hear that Jardine has unavailingly been, asked to be released so that he can assist Blackburn Rovers, and that Mr. Roper has sounded Geary with a view to helping Sefton Cricket Club next summer.

EARP
November 9, 1891. The Birmingham Daily Post
Earp, the Nottingham Forest back, will play for Everton when not required by the Forest, who can rely on having first claim on his services, as Earp is an amateur who takes great interest in the fortunes of the “Reds”. Everton defence is at present a great source of trouble to the club's managers, and Earp's services should be very welcome.

EVERTON v. WEST BROMWICH ALBION.
Sporting Life - Monday 09 November 1891
These teams met on the Anfield Enclosure, before 12.000 spectators. The home side kicked off, and in the first minute Roberts saved capitally. Then Williams, at the other end, stopped three hard shot's, but before the relief came Latta finished up a bit of brilliant passing by Kirkwood, Murray, and Wylie by scoring. The Throstles, however, were not to be kept out, but it was half hour before Bassett, meeting the ball when knocked out by Williams, put his side on an equality. Just on half time, however, Geddes again beat Williams, and the Throstles led at the interval by two goals to one. On resuming a slight fog hung over the ground, but it did not interfere with the play. The Albion kept up their form fora while, but then Everton settled down, and Latta sent it in. A goal was claimed and allowed. Everton scrummaged another goal. Then Bassett put his side equal again, but just on time Latta scored, and Everton won by four goals to three. Referee, Mr. Earlem (Davenham). Teams; - Everton; Williams (goal), Mclean and Kelso (backs); Kirkwood, Holt and Robertson, half-backs; Wylie, Latta, Chadwick and Milward.  Albion; - Roberts (goal), Powell and Nicholson (backs); Dyer, Perry, and McCullock (half-backs); Pearson, Bassett, Nicholls, Groves, and Geddes. 

EXCITING GAME EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 09 November 1891
By The Loiterer
Last season West Bromwich Albion were the first to lower the Everton colours in a league match. After beating such minor clubs as the Bolton and Wolverhampton Wanderers by such trifles as five goals each, and Derby County by seven goals, the Everton team received a check at the hands of Aston Villa on the 11th of October. This year there are five and seven goal wins to chronicle, and the team have not come up to expectations. “Accidents will happen,” and goodness knows Everton have had enough of cripples, but irrespective of this the remaining members have not maintained last year’s form. In the forward ranks the only remnant is the left wing, and they are not near so effective, whilst in the back division no comparison can be made. Against last season’s results then, Everton entered upon the contest under notice under unfavourable conditions, yet so far as the official verdict goes the team came off with flying colours. But this is doubtful. I for one, question it, and may safely count upon all West Bromwich backing me up. But more of this anon. To get to the teams. Everton put the best available eleven on the field, and the Albion ditto, but as they are a little different from usual I will give them : - Everton;- Williams, goal; Kelso and McLean, barks: Kirkwood, Holt, and Robertson, half-backs; Wyllie, Murray, Latta,  Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. West Bromwich Albion; Roberts, goal; Nicholson and Powell, backs; McCulloch, Perry, and Dyer, half-backs: Bassett, Nicholls, Groves, Geddas, and  Pearson, forwards. Mr. Earlam started operations, and the Everton forwards were very persistent in pressing, but without any apparent definite object in view. This went on for a little while, and then the Birmingham fellows thought they would have a turn, and truth to tell, they shaped a lot better than their opponents. The first bit was a splendid run by Groves, Pearson, and Geddas, and there was more merit in that bit of combination than any shown during the afternoon. Well, the Everton goal was reached, and before they were driven back the visitors had several good shies, but Williams was all right and none took effect. The play was very exciting and even, as both sides had spells of attacking, but there was a difference in method. The Everton forwards went in for schoolboy shooting, and as such the ball hovered around the Albion goal without anything tangible resulting. The other side had just the same measure, but Williams had to be pretty lively to keep the shots out. However, Everton scored the first goal, and it was a soft one, but well-earned all the same. The Albion forwards had been peppering at Williams when Murray got hold, and some grand work between he and Wyllie gave Latta a chance, and it was as simple a shot as ever scored that put on the first point for Everton. But it counted without any cavilling. The visitors had another turn of attacking from the kick-off, in which Geddas and Pearson, materially assisted by Groves, took an active part; and Williams not clearing a shot at all well enabled Bassett to get in rasper, which equalised. As regards the play there was not much difference in the teams, and it was only the better method which enabled Nicholls to score the second goal for West Bromwich, which gave them the lead at half-time by two goals to one. The play in the second half had cooled down, but was much as before. When fifteen minutes had elapsed one of the Everton forwards sent in a shot which Roberts seemed to negotiate right, but which on appeal was given a goal for Everton. Several of the Albion players made a point of leaving the ground, and play was not resumed for a few minutes. I saw nothing wrong with Roberts’s action in dealing with it. Bear in mind, the shot was straight one, and Roberts had no occasion to go over the line. He, however, did swerve a little, but it was so little that I maintain the referee was not in position to testify whether it had gone through or not. At the most the ball could only have been just over the line, and I assert that Mr. Earlnm from his position could not give a positive decision. The ball may have been through, but it was one of those questions which could only be decided by a person standing on the goal line. The game was more vigorously contested after this, and some hard knocks were given and taken, and of the play Everton had rather the best it. Wyllie scored a third goal, and after some regular ding-dong play, Bassett equalised, and with about five minutes’ to go it looked as if the visitors would win, but Latta received the ball in mid-field, and beat one back and jostled the other, finally scoring the winning goal, the result being Everton, four goals West Bromwich, three goals. On the day’s play the better team lost, and on this form it is difficult to understand West Bromwich being at the bottom of the League. The team played a fine game all round—not a weak spot in it. The defence was splendid, both in the open and in goal, and Dyer and McCulloch had a lot of work and required some beating. The forwards were in rare trim, and their attacks had more about them than those of their opponents. Their mid-field play was also of a superior stamp, and when Groves got his back down it was a treat to see him work the ball. Pearson also put in sterling work, and the two outside men made full use of their opportunities, and the shooting was streets in front of that of Everton. The home forwards were weak in comparison. Wyllie and Murray passed very well in the first half, but the latter was not much use in the late stages the game. The left-wing are not doing the great things of last year, and were scarcely any more effective than the right. The home team had rather more of the play, but, in point of fact, they were very much behind. The halves were also a bit off. Holt especially, but the backs played a very good game. Williams is a likely man for goalkeeper, and shaped very well at most shots; yet he was responsible for the first goal and ought to have stopped the third.
Earp of Notts Forest has become a member of Everton.  No 500 the very last on the card and will play as an amateur.  It is also rumored that Jardine would like his “papers” back to enable him to play for the Rovers, but I hardly think he will get them. 

EVERTON V. WEST BROMWICH ALBION
November 9, 1891. The Liverpool Mercury
The return fixture was played at Anfield-road on Saturday, and despite the slight rain and fog, over 16,000 spectators turned out to witness the homesters effecting the 4 to nil defeat received at Stoney-lane. For the hometsers, Jardine and Maxwell were supplanted by Williams and Murray respectively. The visitors were at their full strength, as will be seen from the following;- West Bromwich Albion; Roberts, goal; Nicholson, and Powell, backs; McCulloch, Perry, and Dyer, half-backs; Bassett, Nicholls, Groves, Geddes, and Pearson, forwards. Everton; William, goal; Kelso and McLean, backs; Kirkwood, Holt (captain), and Robertson, half-backs; Wyllie, Murray, Latta, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Referee, Mr. Erlam, Davenham. Punctual to time both teams entered the enclosure, and were loudly cheered. Losing the toss, Everton kick-off, and soon Chadwick, from a pass by Milward caused Roberts to kick out. The homesters, however, immediately returned, and pressure against the “Throstles” was only eased by a barren corner. After Everton had been dangerous from a free kick, Bassett worked with his partner finely down the right, with the result that the home custodian had to clear, while at the other end Roberts was caused some anxiety by Latta and Chadwick and each custodian had to negotiate well-meant stroke. Latta placed the ball to Chadwick rather nicely from a pass by Robertson, but the home inside man shot high over performances which was immediately followed by Milward and Wylie. Everton now showed a fine bit of football on their right, the outcome of which was that Latta drew the first goal of the match for Everton 15 minutes from the start. The “Throstles” made an effort to equalise, but found Kelso ready, and then Murray kicked out of danger high over the bar. Again West Bromwich went down, and, after the homesters had stalled off three attempts, Bassett succeeded in equalising the game with a shot which Williams failed to reach. Spurting up after this the homesters were busy in front of Roberts, but so well was the visiting defence playing that they were driven back, and, from smart play by the Stoney-Laners, Geddes gained the lead by beating Williams with a regular flyer. Wyllies and Murray took play from midfield, but the fouling of the former by Powell spoiled a chance, as the free kick was worked by Roberts. With a determination worthy of them, Everton were playing in splendid fashion, and after Nicholson had worked a couple of stingers from Chadwick, the latter forced another barren corner, Powell meeting his shot and sending over the bar. At length ease came to the visitors through a dashing run by Groves, and Mclean was forced to concede a corner to Bassett, while in the home and Nicholson eased with a timely and barren corner. Nothing further in the scoring line took place up to the interval, when the game stood –Albion 2, goals; Everton 1. With a point to the good Groves kicked off, and Roberts had a warm time of it, three shots from Chadwick, Milward, and Latta sorely trying his abilities, but the old custodian was at his best, and threw out in a masterly manner. Expectation now ran high amongst the homesters as Latta sent in a shot which bounced off Nicholson into Roberts hands. A claim that the Albion custodian was behind the chalk line when he cleared the ball was sustained by the referee, and a goal accordingly given to Everton. This evidently netted a few of the “Throstles,” as Nicholson, Nichols, and McCulloch were leaving the ground, in an unsportsmanlike manner when little Bassett prevailed upon them to remain. The official maintained that Roberts not only was behind the uprights, but that he turned sideways in the goalmouth with the ball in his hands. The game was restarted with forcible play, both sides using their weight in a perfectly legitimate style. Everton took up the running, and Roberts was twice called upon to throw away from Milward and Chadwick. After Wyllie, who had been very deadly with his screws, had sent over, Everton again got the lead from a scrimmage in goal, Wyllie being successful in notching a third point from Everton. To show that the Albion had not yet shot their bolt, they began a severe attack on the right. after being driven back a few times Bassett returned, and, eluding McLean, screwed into William’s hands, the throw out from the home custodian rebounding off Bassett returned, and, eluding McLean, screwed into William’s hands, the throw out from the home custodian rebounding off Bassett and going through the posts, thus equalising the game for the third time. Both sides never relaxed their efforts to get the upper hand, with the consequences that the game was kept going at high pressure. The respective defences were always kept fully employed, and each goalkeeper was often called upon to negotiate well-meant shies. It was last however to Everton to snatch the victory, the home end the latter lobbed across to Latta, who put in a grand run down the centre, grounding Perry in the course, and beat Roberts with a shot which gave him no chance. The performance of Latta was tremendously cheered, and it will be long remembered by the followers of Everton. On capturing the goal, Roberts complimented Latta on his success. This being the last goal of the match, one of the hardest and most exciting matches of the season ended in favour of Everton with the following result; -Everton, four goals; West Bromwich Albions, 3.

EVERTON V. WEST BROMWICH ALBION
November 9, 1891. The Birmingham Daily Post
An enormous crowd, which must have numbered some 12,000, witnessed the meeting of these clubs in their match at Liverpool. Bright but cold autumnal weather was experienced, and the ground was in excellent condition. Following the kick-off Everton attacked strongly and Roberts was at once called upon to save, but the ball was quickly returned, and Everton were for a time compelled to act on the defensive. The exchanges then for a time became of an even character until, fifteen minutes from the start, Everton once more broke away, and Latta getting possession of the ball, finished up a good run with a successful shot at goal. The visitors then had much the best of the game, and Bassett equalised, while immediately afterwards Geddes supplemented this point with another. Then came another spell of give-and-take play, in which both sides were seen to great advantage; but the Albion were decidedly the keener side, and put more life into their play that did their rivals. No further point was registered, and the sides changed ends with the Albion leading by 2 goals to 1. On resuming the game continued to very fast and spirited, neither side for a time able to gain an advantage. When about twenty minutes had elapsed an unfortunate and regrettable incident occurred which did much to spoil an otherwise good and friendly game. Latta having made a shot at goal, Roberts picked up the ball and returned it, but apparently stepped between the posts in doing so. The goal was claimed and allowed; but the Albion demurred strongly to the decision, and some of the players prepared to leave the field. They were prevailed upon to return; but from that time the spirit-of-the-game underwent a change, and the play became rather too earnest. Eventually the home team were victorious by 4 goals to 3.

EVERTON 4 WEST BROMWICH ALBION 3
NOVEMBER 9 1891
DAILY POST
At Everton, before upwards of 10,000 spectator. It will be remembered that the first match whilst was played at West Browich on the fifth of september, ended in favour of the albionites by four goals to none. The following comprised the teams:- Everton: williams (r), goal; kelso (r) and McLean (d) backs, kirkwood (d), holt (j) (captain) and robertson (h), half-backs; wyliie (t) murray (p), latta (a), chadwick (e), and milward (a) forwards; West Bromwich; roberts, goal; nicholson and powell backs; McCulloch, perry, and dryer, half-backs, barrett, nicholls, groves, goddes and pearson forwards. The visitors won the toss and at three o'clock latta kicked off towards the anfield-road end. The game commenced pretty fast, and after a few exchanges in midfield, a move was made by the Everton left Rorberts eventully having to save. In another minute the West Bromwich goal had a narrow escape. aFter a sharp tussel in front the West Bromwich forwards passed down the field until McLean gave the order of retreat. After further play in midfield a grand bit of work was done by Everton left wing and another assult was made on Roberts's charge. The West Bromwich goalkeeper saved twice after which the visitors fronk rank moved up in attacking order. But were quicly repused. A grand display of passing was then given by Murray and Wyllie, the ‘'seasawing'' of the pair being a treat to witness. Fically Wyliie gave a sharp pass to Latta, who easily defeated Roberts. Pearson then got away down the left, but came to grief when Kelso steeped in the way. The ball was kept in dangerous proximity to the Everton goal. However, and Williams saved once; but the leather was put over the visitors' right wing, and Bassett sent in a beauful shot, which the Everton goalkeeper had no chance with. Very soon afterwards the vistors again attacked the Everton goal and pearson succeded in scoring the second goal. West Bromwich again rushed down the field and forced futile corner, after which another grand bit of work was done by Latta, Murray, and Wyllie, with the result that Everton made a strong attack, Milward missing a possible chance of scoring. Half-time Everton one gaol, West Bromwich two goals. Groves restarted and very soon the Evertonians were in front of the West Bromwich goal, Chadwick shooting in twice, and nearly scoring at the second attempt, a claim being made for a goal on the ground that the ball went through before it was cleared but this was met not successful. Shortly afterwards another, attack was made by the home side, and nearly the whole team crowed round their opponents goal, Latta eventullay shooting in and beating Roberts. However along disput caused as to whether it was a legitimate gaol and there was a period of great excitement during the time which unseed before a decesition was given. When it bacame known that mr. Earlam had given the point in favour of Everton., there was a regular salve of cheering all round the ground. At length, after another run down the close quarters, a defening cheer announced the fact that Wyllie had scored. West Browich then drew level with a very easy goal, and some four minutes from time Latta registed the winning point after a dashing run. Final result:- Everton 4 goals, West Bromwich Albion 3 goals.

CHESTER V EVERTON
November 9 1891. Cheshire Observer
These teams met at Everton on Saturday, in the presence of about 3,000 spectators. Carter kick-off for Chester and the homesters soon began to press, Evans having to save three shots. Everton had two more good tries, and then Chester broke away, gaining an abortive corner. Everton then threatened, and Murray scored, while Gordon shortly afterwards put in a second. The game continues to be a one-sided character, Chester seldom having a chance, and at Half-time matter stood Everton 5, Chester 0. In the second half Chester played a much better game, both so far as defence and attack were concerned. They were, however, unable to score, but Everton registered another point, and the game ended 6-0.

STOCKPORT COUNTY 1 EVERTON RESERVES 2
COMBINATION MATCH
November 9 1891
Liverpool mercury
At stockport, Maxwell kick off, and Everton took up the attack and indulged in some short passing, which baffled the stockport men. Pinnell rewgistered the first point for Everton with a fine shot. Soon afterwards Maxwell added another goal. Restart the stockport men having rather the best of the argument. Everton soon agaain took up the attack but counld not pass the home defence. The county display good passing getheridge scoring. They tried to equaliser, but failed:- result stockport county 1 Everton 2. E verton team, smalley (r) chadwick (a), collins (j), brady (a), jones (r), lochhead (a) gordon (p), pinnell (a) maxwell (a), elliott (j), mcmillan (j)
Played 8, won 7, lost 0, draw 1, for 33, against 4


EVERTON STUFF
Athletic News - Monday 09 November 1891
Notts Forest have now such a smart professional team that they are actually unable to find a permanent place in their eleven for amateurs of the calibre and reputation of Jack Earp, the right back, and Albert Smith, the right half-back. Earop offered his service to Everton and Albert Smith to the Blackburn Rovers. Both have signed the usual League forms, and will soon be seen in their new jerseys. They are thoroughly earnest and capable players. Earp plays for Everton against Darwen, at Barley Bank, next Saturday. Neither Earp not Smith has had any quarrel with the Forest committee, and they still entertain the same enthusiastic feeling to the club which brought them out, but as amateurs they desire sport, and they do not think that watching other people play is the best sport in the world.

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT
Athletic News - Monday 09 November 1891
By The Loiterer
There was hardly a full League crowd at Everton on Saturday, but I should say there would be quite 9,000 spectators. It was a very exciting match, and Everton were somewhat lucky to win.
Football matters are in full swing. Earp of Notts Forest, has become a member of Everton, No.500 the very last on the card, and will play as an amateur. It is also rumoured that Jardine would like his “papers” back to enable him to play for the Rovers, but I hardly think he will get them.

STOCKPORT COUNTY V. EVERTON COMBINATION
November 14, 1891. Wrexham Advertiser
At Stockport on Saturday, before 3,000 spectators . Maxwell kicked off and the County returned, the left wing getting well up. Everton came down with some fine passing, and for some time put the County defence to a severe task. Pinnell eventually scored, and Maxwell put one through shortly after, half-time arriving with the score two goals to none in favour of the visitors. The second half was grandly contested. Final score;- Everton 2 goals, Stockport County 1 goal. • Douglas and Parry to Chirk.

TODAYS GAMES
November 14, 1891. The Liverpool Mercury
Though Everton League team will be away this afternoon playing the return match with Darwen, whom they defeated at Anfield on September 7 by 5 goals to 3, there are one or two matches at home that ought to receive attention from the followers of the Association cods. At Anfield Road ground the Everton second team, still unbeaten in the combination, play a return game with Maccclesfield, who ran the champions as closely as a goal margin (3 to2) on September 19.
Everton v Darwen, Darwen, Kick-off at 2.45 p.m. The following will play for Everton; D. Jardine, goal; M.J. Earp and D. McLean, backs; R. Kelso, J. Holt, and H. Robertson, half-backs; T. Wyllie, J. Murray, A. Latta, E. Chadwick, and A. Milward, forwards.
Everton v. Macclesfield, Anfield, Kick-off at three p.m. The following will play for Everton; Williams, goal; A. Chadwick, and J. Collins, backs; D. Kirkwood, R. Jones and A. Lochhead, half-backs; P. Gordon, A. Pinnell, A. Maxwell, J. McMillam, and J. Elliott, forwards.

LONG EATON CLUB
Nottingham Evening Post - Saturday 14 November 1891
Kent and Fairbrother, the Long Eaton full backs, whom the Everton club had been anxious to procure, have signed for the Liverpudlians, and have already left Long Eaton to take up their residence among their new friends. 

FOOTBALL PRICES AT EVERTON
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, November 14 1891
TO THE EDITOR OF THE FOOTBALL ECHO
Sir.- If you will kindly give me space in your paper, I should like to make a protest against the Everton Executive charging 1s 6d to go on the large covered stand on the football ground. As the ground is at present arranged I think one shilling is quite enough to pay. If they went to make a charge of eighteen-pence why not partition off about our quarter of the present stand in the centre and charge eighteen-pence for that portion, and not charge that money for the whole of the stand; and also, if the members want to make use of the centre make them pay the extra money. The outside public are made to pay these extra charges, the members get off free, which oi think is a downright shame. Why should the members who only pay 7s 6d per year be so favoured; they certainly do not keep the club together. Hoping the committee will show a little more reason.- Yours &c.- A CONSTANT SUPPORTER.

FOOTBALL CHIPS
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, November 14 1891
Kent, the Long Eaton Rangers’ full back, who has gone in for League honours and emoluments, is described as “a fine, strapping fellow, 5 feet 10 inches in height, and 13 stone in weight.”
He wore the Everton jersey to-day against Darwen, and partnered Earp in place of Mclean. In Kent Everton believe they have unearthed a Doyle. We hope they have.
Has Jardine got over his illness yet? Was that him playing in disguise for St. Matthews’s against Birkenhead Post office reserve on Saturday?

EVERTON v DARWEN
Sporting Life - Monday 16 November 1891
SURPRISE FOR THE CHAMPIONS.
This game was played at Darwen, before some 5 000 spectators. The match was the return between the pair, Darwen having lost the former one by five goals to three. The homo side had Marsden away, and played Earp, of Notts Forest, at back. The visitors had to face the slight wind in the first portion. Both custodians had plenty to do at the start, but then Darwen settled under the goal. A prolonged scrummage in front of Jardine, in which the Everton defence behaved splendidly, was finished by Thornber putting on the first goal for Darwen. The Evertonians had twice hard lines, and were behind—one goal none—at the change of ends. The Darweners in the second moiety were much better than their opponents, and fully deserved their win. The home team got their second goal by Jardine fisting the ball through his own goal. Their third came through Alexander sending in a perfect shot, and just on time Murray notched a point for Everton, who lost by three to one. Robertson (of Everton) and Entwistle (of Darwen) had both to retire hurt. Referee, Mr. Roberts (Chester). Teams;
Darwen;-McOwen (goal), Siddons and Leach (backs), Thornber, Owen, and Yates (half-backs). Nightingale and W. Marsdan (right wing). Alexander (centre). Smith and Entwistle (left-wing), Everton;-  Jardine (goal). Earp and Kent (backs), Kelso, Holt, and Robertson (half-backs). Wylie and Murray (right wing),Latta (centre), Chadwick and Milward (left wing).

EVERTON NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 16 November 1891
The final result of the Everton-Doyle case created some little amusement and more indignation, and the Scottish Association may rest assured of one thing-that not a single member of the English Council gives them credit for being honest in preserving amateurism.  Probably this won’t upset them very much; in fact, I’m sure it will not for the Scottish Association is not composed of your ordinary everyday sort of men, who are sensitive to any attack upon their honourable intentions.  The investigation was refused because the F.A. did not make any application for its consideration, and the Everton club had no locus standi.  Locus Standi is very good and sounds well, but I should like to know and Mr. J.C. Clegg would like to know, what Locus standi had the F.A?  
However, it is just like pouring water down a duck’s back, and the Scottish Association will be left severely alone in future.  There will not be any attempts to prevent importation and sympathy with the Scottish body will be at a decided discount.  The Council of the F.A have arrived at the conclusion that I have held and preached for some years- that the members of the Scottish Association, in the matter of preserving amateurism-or, rather preventing professionalism –are a lot of hypocrites.  Sorry to use the term, but I am pressed for time and cannot think of one more suitable.  Exit Everton v. Doyle.
Everton turned out a new pair of backs at Barley Bank on Saturday in Earp, late of Notts Forest, and Kent, formerly of Long Eaton Rangers.  The former played a champion game, and Kent did not fall far short of him in point of excellence.  Darwen think they could do very well with an amateur back like Earp if there are any more anxious to get into harness. 

DARWEN V EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 16 November 1891
By Darwenian
The reversals which have persistently attended the efforts of Darwen for some time past had a depressing effect on the attendance on Saturday afternoon, when, though Everton was the attraction, not many more than 4,000 assembled to witness the game, which turned out a surprisingly good one, with an unexpected result thrown into the bargain. Fortunately for the home side, McOwen was again able to appear in goal, and the rest of the team was almost identical with that which wrought such disaster upon the Stoke team. The Everton contingent included two new backs, viz., Karp, the Notts Forest amateur, and Kent, late of Long Eaton Rangers.  It was quite three o’clock, and a quarter of an hour after the appointed time, when the teams ranged themselves under:-
Darwen; -  McOwen, goal; Siddons and Leach, backs: Yates, Owen, and Thornber, half backs: Entwistle, Smith, Alexander, Marsden, and Nightingale, forwards. Everton;- Jardine. goal; Earp and Kent, backs; Robertson, Holt, and Kelso, half-backs; Wyllie, Murray, Latta, Chadwick, and Mllward, forwards.
Darwen had to face the wind during the first half, but by nice passing the home forwards at once got dangerous, Earp robbing Alexander just as he poised himself for a shot. Then the Everton forwards showed up well, Chadwick and Milward effecting a combined run; but the former shot very wildly, and Latta made a grand attempt, and, just as everybody had given up hope of the goal being saved, McOwen caught the ball, which was all but through – a marvelous bit of work, for which he was heartily applauded. The home forwards now endeavored to raise the siege, and an exciting scrummage took place right under the Everton bar. Several players and the ball seemed to sway considerably over the line, but still the play was allowed to proceed, and Thorner getting his toe to the leather scored an unquestionable point. The remainder of the play of the first half was of a fairly even character, both sides shaping well in the attack and defence, but Darwen led at the interval by one goal to none. 1 ought to have mentioned that Robertson, who had been playing grandly, was injured, and shortly before half-time retired, but subsequently turned out with his team after the interval. Everton for a time had the best of the re-opening, and steadilly drove Darwen back upon their own lines. Siddons aiding them somewhat by one or two weak kicks. At the end of fire minutes' play Entwistle broke away, and with along cross to Nightingale enabled the latter to force a corner, which was dropped immediately in front, and the Everton goal fell for the second time. Entwistle and Robertson had a long and interesting tussle, the result of which was that the Evertonian’s leg again gave way, and he soon afterwards retired permanently. Latta distinguished himself with a fine run, in which he defeated both the Darwen backs, and seemed certain to score, but McOwen darted out and was successful in getting the ball from Latta’s toe. Everton were now playing hard and well, Thornber being compelled give a comer, which was only cleared after a deal of trouble, and the home side again assumed the offensive. Jardine saving wonderfully on one occasion, though three or four of the Darwen men were jostling him unceremoniously. A neat bit of individual play followed by Alexander, who overcome first Holt, then Earp, and finished with shot which completely beat Jardine, and there followed a Iusty roar such as only Darwenian lungs can produce. Everton were now a beaten team, but, as usual, there was one flicker before the fire completely died out, for Latta made a run, and got round Siddons after which he sent in a shot which McOwen failed to stop, and the state of the game at the finish was—Darwen, three goals; Everton.one. Being a Darwener, and participating to some extent in the general feeling of satisfaction at the above result, there is slight tendency to paint the doings of the Darweners in a roseate hue, but I don't think any of our Liverpool friends—and there were a good many present—will differ with the assertion that Darwen worked hard for their victory, and thoroughly deserved it. The winners very soon found out the advantage of having trustworthy goalkeeper, and had McOwen not have been present an early reverse might have changed the aspect entirely, and I might have been recording a humiliating defeat instead of a glorious triumph. 

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 16 November 1891
By the Loiterer
The unbeaten “Everton” team were at home and another victory was the result of their match with Macclesfield.  The usual 5,000 turned up to see the Combination fixture, and they were rewarded with witnessing a grandly fought game.  The Macclesfield fellows were often near scoring in the first half, and play on the whole was fairly even, the only difference being in the shooting department, in which Everton excelled, and four goals were put on in the first half.  For a time in the second portion the home team were in the ascendant, and Gordon scored a fifth goal.  Five goals required some working off; but the visitors playing very pluckily, could only score one, and the game ended in another win for “Everton” by five goals to one.  Mr. Clayton bosses this show and is proud of the “Everton” team.  When you take an interest in a team, there is nothing that gives so much satisfaction as to know your efforts are appreciated, and Mr. C, is proud of the very pretty medal the team presented to him last Saturday. 
Whatever is to do with the Everton league team?  They are being licked all over the shop.  Fancy Darwen beating them, and I am given to understand there was no fluke about it either, so that no particular individual can be blamed for the defeat.  The train went through the Sough tunnel, but I am told this made no difference.  About 220 made the journey to Darwen, and although diminished in numbers the
followers of the club still accompany the team. 

LABOUR CANDIDATES
November 16, 1891. The Liverpool Echo
(Only take reference from these notes)
Mr. Nicholson succeeded in greatly reducing Mr. John Houlding's majority on this occasion; but everybody else knows that it was Mr. Houlding's quarrel with the Everton Football Club that did this, and which offered so excellent an opportunity of winning the seat.

EVERTON REVEIW
November 16, 1891. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton cut up badly at Barley Bank against Darwen, who are to be complimented on a thoroughly deserved victory. They played a quick, rushing kind of game, not characterised so much by combination as downright pluck and determination. They were very much in earnest to win, and their sojourn during the week at Southport had evidently braced them up for the hard task set them. They presented no weak spots, and their play came as a rude awakening and surprise to Evertonians, seeing that Darwen on the two previous occasions they were engaged in league matches were beaten badly –by Aston Villa (5-0), and Notts County (5-1). Everton were disorganised and demoralised. They arrived on the scene but a few minutes before the kick-off, after a hurried walk uphill from the station. Still they at the outset took up the attack, but, presuming they had an easy achievement before them, allowed some chances, that did not occur afterwards, to pass away. Chadwick and Milward were the greatest offenders, and shot wildly several times. Latta was a host in himself at centre, but, lacking proper wing support, particularly on the left, could effect no destruction. Murray again partnered Wyllie, and was always trying his best, but found himself overpowered by the backs. Wyllie played a fine game, his centres across the goal being often brilliant, and deserved to have been turned to better advantage by his comrades than they were. It was a risky experiment on the part of the Everton executive to put two new backs in the field, both unknown to their men, to the exclusion of Mclean, who, if somewhat unpolished in his style, is a safe and fearless hard worker. Kent made a poor defender, and is responsible greatly for Everton's defeat. Earp, however, played a dashing, successful game in the open. He had mot much to test his tackling proclivities on Saturday, but if he is as effective in this line of defence as in using his legs he will be a great acquisition. Kelso was less conspicuous than usual at half-back, but he yet joined Holt and Robinson in strong play. The players were not pleased with the selection of the committee, and it might effect a desirable change for the better if the captain had more voice in arranging and manning the team he is to command.

DARWIN 3 EVERTON 1
November 16 1891
Liverpool mercury
Everton played their return League fixture with Darwin at Barley Bank on Saturday, and despite the gloominess of the day another big excursionist party accompanied them to the ‘'peaceful valley.' Kent late of long eaton rangers, played left back in place of McLean for Everton, and was supported by Earp (Notts Forest), whilst kelso went to his accutomed position at right half. The homester were fully represnted. The following were the teams:- Darwen: McOwen, Leach, and Siddons, backs; Yates, Owen, and Thornber, half-backs, Nightingale, Marsden, Alexander, Entwistle, and Smith, forwards. Everton : Jardine (j), goal; Earp (E), Kent (J), backs, Kelso (r), Holt (J) (captain), and Robertsson (H), half-back;, Wylies (T), Murray (J) Latta (A), Chadwick (E), and Milward (A) forwards. Losing the toss Alexander started for Darwen, and Earp had to stop a dangerous rush on the home left with a timely lunge and Chadwick immediatlty after put a chance over the bar. Everton were again in the home quarters Owen doing some sterling breaking up work but Latta took possession with some difficulty and shot a strong attmpt a few inches outside the post. The homesters from the goal kick made tracks towards Jardine, and working through the vistors' defence Smith was very near with his finish. A fine movement by the visitors wings caused some excitement, but the header from Wyliie allayed anxiety, the ball going outside of its mark. From a fhrow in by Kelso, Chadwick again had a try at goal, but lifted the leatherb high over the ball. It was now ‘Darwin's turn to attack, and so persistent in it were the Barcley Bankers that Jardine succumbed to a scrimmage from Thonber, ten minutes from the start to great delight of the home supporters. Everton went away after this reverse, but so strongly were Darwin in a winning vein that only a barren corner accrued. Chadwick then got the ball in a good position, but again made a mistake, the shot going yards wide. The referee having been hooted for giving a free kick to Everton which came to nought. Nightingale shot past and then Milward from a pass by Latta forced another fruitless corner, relief coming to Darwin by the ball going over the line. The ‘'bankers'' having been nicely pulled up by Earp in the goalmouth, Everton made a sharp advance to the other end, where Murray just missed the desired effect. Everton now showed up in fine combination, and although the ground was not to their liking they for a while sorely taxed the defence of the homesters, which was severly tested as shot after shot from the foot of Latta, Milward, and Wyliie poured in upon them. Hope Robertson was here soon labouring under pain from a kick, and had to retire-an unfortunate occurrence for the visitors. Thus handicapped Everton were put on the defence with the consqence that the abilities of Earp were brough out, and they passed muster from the Liverpool contingent, his tackling and kicking holding his side in good stead. With determination to get on even terms Everton went along by a short passing movement, Latta finishing touch, being well got rid by Siddons. The game though never scientic contined exciting up to the interval, which arrived with Darwin leading by a gaol to nil. Immediately on changing over the visitors made a sharp advance on the right but luck seemed against them as Latta made a couple of fruitless attempts to get through. Smith and Entwistle when were conspicuous by some clever wong work, but Holt broke them up, and converting play to his left, an attack was quickly made upon McOwen a goal looked certain for Everton, but Milward eased danger as he drove the leather clean over the bar. It looked now as if the Everton team were leading a forlorn hope, as they seemed unable to cope with the stricky ground and allowed the homesters to notch a second point from a corner kick, the ball bouncing off one of the Everton backs outside the reach of Jardine. From this stage of the game the homesters gained confidence, and, mainly throough forcible play, completely outwitted Everton, Jardine again succuming to Smith for a third goal. Right on the close of the match Everton seemed to realise their position, and showed some of their old play, Latta brusihing aside all opposition and scoring with a grand shot a minute from time. Everton again began to rush the game but they were too late, and had to retire beaten with the following score: Darwen 3 goals; Everton 1.

EVERTON RESERVES 5 MACCLESFIELD 1
COMBINATION MATCH
November 16 1891
Liverpool mercury
This return combination match was played at anfield-road on Saturday before something like 5,000 specatators. Everton won the first game by 3 goals to 2. But were more decisive in their victory at the second meeting, winning 5-1. They went on even lines at the outset, but after five minutes Maxwell scored. The game progreesed favourably to the home team and before the interval gordon scored twice and kirkwood once. The second half was more evenly contested and gordon scored for Everton and nolan for the visitors.
Everton team, Williams (R) goal; Chadwick (A), Collins (J) backs; Kirkwood (D), Jones (R), and Lochhead (A), half-backs Gordon (P), Pinnell (A) Maxwell (A) Mmillan (J), AND Elliott (J) forwards Played 9, won 8, lost 0, draw 1, for 38, against 5 points 17

JONES.
November 21, 1891. The Hampshire Advertiser.
Jones, who made his mark in the Royal Engineers team, has lately been playing for Everton. He since transferred to Chester for better pay.

TODAYS GAMES
November 21, 1891. The Liverpool Mercury
The Everton league team pay their annual visit to Wolverhampton this afternoon, where it will be remembered they defeated the Wanderers last season by a goal to nil. How will Everton shape today? Is the somewhat anxious interrogation. The “Wolves” have been less successful than Everton, and have won but three matches out o 13. These were against Stoke City, Accrington and Notts County –the last two at home –and so Everton have not such powerful men to face as those of previous years at the Molieueax Grounds. The game is sure to be a vigorous one, however, for Wolverhampton Wanderers were always ready for muscular play, and their ill-luck hitherto will cause them to “grid up their lines,” for a special effort to make a forward move. Everton, too, are impressed with the necessary of putting their best foot forward, and with the team –as will be seen below –that has been chosen, a vast improvement on the display seen recently at Preston, Anfield and Darwen, will be confidently expected. At Anfield Everton combination team will of course, be in possession, and will be visited by Wrexham, who are high up in the combination table.
Everton V. Wolverhampton wanderers, Wolverhampton, Kick-off at 2-30 p.m. The following will play for Everton; Jardine, goal; Earp and Mclean, backs; Kelso, Holt, and Robertson, half-backs; Latta, Wyllie, Geary, Chadwick and Milward, forwards.
Everton v. Wrexham, Anfield, Kick-off at 2.45 p.m. The following will play for Everton; Williams, goal; Fairbrother and Kent, backs; Kirkwood, Jones, and Lochhead, half-backs; Gordon, Murray, Pinnell, McMillan, and Elliott, forwards.

WE HEAR WE SEE-
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 21 November 1891
That there is “weeping and gnashing of teeth” in the Everton camp; that the prospects are becoming gloomy; that the chance of retaining the League championship has gone, but that this was hardly to be hoped for even from the outset, and, for the prosperity of the League, it is well that the honorable position of cupholders should not be monopolized; that Everton seem prematurely on the wane, and that, too, before they have got near the final of the English Cup; that there is no mistaking the spirit of disintegration in the air, which unless quenched (and this will require much delicate tact) will ruin the status of the club that can yet command the highest number of spectators; that if Everton went on winning matches all would be couleur de rose; that they don’t; that it is evident other clubs take a special delight, and naturally so, in humiliating Everton; that ex crations are freely indulged in the committee blaming the players and the players being equally earnest in holding the executive to blame; that both parties are at fault, though the one show never so much zeal and enterprise, as witness the number of new men secured this season, and the individually and as a team; that the players think they are too much subject to the whims, caprices and vacillation of a divided committee, and that the team originally elected at the weekly meeting of the committee is nearly always changed at the last moment; that as evidence of the indecision, McLean actually went into the dressing-room at Darwen preparing for the fray before he was apprised of the fact that he had been left out of in favour of Kent, a man who was quite strange to his colleagues.  That Holt, the captain carries all the responsibilities without the power of suggesting who should form the team he is to control and lead to victory, that these thinly-guised acts of despotism have an enervating and discouraging effect on the players, who are, after all, the men who make football popular; that Everton said they wanted additional men in order to man the two teams and be also prepared for emergencies arising from accident; that they have now got an ample array and that all should be made to feel secure so long as they play to the best of their ability; that there is the material at command to furnish two powerful teams, but that even professional footballers are possessed of human feelings, and like to indulge in the pastime for the love of the sport, and with a desire to excel and not solely for pecuniary consideration; that if the actors are to succeed they must have enthusiasm in the cause of the club for which they are engaged; that the enthusiasm should be instilled by the officials and can be best roused by little acts of deference impartially distributed; that just now the players are manifestly out of touch with the management, but the matters could easily be put right with the exercise of firmness, tempered with conciliation; that there will be then less likelihood of the players closing with liberal offers that are being made them in different quarters.  That Everton went to Wolverhampton today, prepared for giving and receiving hard knocks; that Geary was chosen for centre forward, with Maxwell on reserve. 

EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, November 21 1891
PRESENTATION TO MR. R. CLAYTON
A correspondent writes;- It has been said that the leading players have no sympathies with the “malcontents,” as they are termed, but this theory cannot again be advanced, seeing that the Everton team have plugged out one of the most prominent, in the person of Mr. Clayton, to whom they presented a suitably-inscribed medal, all the players contributing. The medal was presented after one of the recent matches by Mr. R. Smalley, who stated that Mr. Clayton had been away with the team to every match except one, and there had always been the most kindly feeling between the players and Mr. Clayton, and they felt they ought in some practical manner, to show their appreciation of his services. -Mr. J. Elliott also referred in a kindly manner to Mr. Clayton.- In reply, Mr. Clayton said he had always done his best to further the club’s interests, and he thanked them heartily for their present, which he said he should always value most highly. He thought those people who said Scotch players did not appreciate any efforts made on their behalf were ignorant of the people they referred to, and the presentation to him that night gave the statement the “lie direct.” -The proceedings them terminated. We may add that the medal is a handsome and costly gold-centre one, bearing the inscription;
  “Presented to Mr. Clayton by the Everton team in appreciation of his services.”
OTHER STUFF
Better days are in store for Everton Athletic and the team will soon attain a higher position locally than it seemed at all likely they would a few weeks back. The whole affair has been re-organised and Mr. F.E. Brettle rather than desert an apparently sinking ship has once more assented to act as secretary, and his well known enthusiasm and business capacity are a sure token of better days.

FOOTBALL CHIPS
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, November 21 1891
Everton’s performance last Saturday, at Darwen is about their worst this season. Fancy, to be beaten by 3 goals to 1.
Jardine has been seen to play better, his clearing not being all that could be desired.
Earp’s display was a grand one, and in him Everton have a worthy successor to the famous Dan.
The same, however, cannot be said of Kent, who is too slow, and certainly no improvement on the hurly Mac.
Kelso was entirely at son at half-back, and we don’t think we have ever seen him do worse.
Robertson was hurt early on, and was practically no use at all.
Holt was very poor, and we think it is about time the little ‘un tucked up his sleeves and showed us his true form. Now, Johnny, give us a glimpse of last season.
Wyllie and Murray were both weak, the latter being very feeble indeed, and Wyllie seemed to have lost the pluck he showed against West Bromwich the previous Saturday.
Latta tried hard in the centre, but was badly supported by the wings, Alex deserves great credit for Everton’s only goal.
But what is to do with the famous left wing?
Chadwick is not the Chadwick we were used to seeing last season.
Some people say that “Windsor Castle” is too full of conceit, and thinks he can play the game without any effort on his part. We hope this is not so, and that Alf will show a bit more dash and play more for the goal and less for the gallery.
We hope that Alf will take these “chips” in the sense they are meant, as we would be very sorry to see Elliott taking his place.
The team sadly wants Geary, but Fred will not be ready for a week or two yet. He still feels the effects of his Sunderland accident.
Training will have to be done but what use is training when the committee (like they did last Saturday) invite the players to lunch at 12.30, leave by train at 1.5, arrive in Darwen at 2.20, and kick off at 3.45? Is this not running it a bit fine?
The result came as a thumber-clap to Evertonians.
The supporters who went to Darwen seemed mesmerised at the way the Darwen lot walked round their pets. They could not raise a proper Everton shout all the afternoon, not even when Latta scored.
What a contrast the second team is to the first.
They do not know what defeat is yet. If this could only be said of the League team!
It is said that Mr. Houlding has give instructions to stop polishing the League cup, seeing that it will not remain long in the Sandon.
Macclesfield got a rare thrashing at Anfield by practically ten men, as Jones’s substitute was quite harmless.
The championship of the Combination with a bit of luck is nearly certain to come Everton way this season to take the place of the League Cup.
Pinnell in fast making himself a great favourite by his peculiar and tricky play.
Maxwell does not show form up to his reputation yet. Oh, that £110. If it had only been given to Doyle instead Everton would have been a happy party to-day.
What are Everton going to do all the backs they have now engaged? There are Earp, Fairbrother, Collins, Mclean, Chadwick, Kent, Marsden, and Campbell.
The fates at Woodcroft are beginning to look up a bit now. Two thousand spectators last Saturday.
Some very funny things were hard at Darwen last Saturday, one being that Bob Stockton and Mr. Molyneux are about to play on the left wing. The other items were that Milward wants a rest; that if “Tom” could only play football as well as he can shirp he would then be a first-class committee man; that Campbell and Geary are sadly wanted; that the committee should resign; that goose is a rare thing to play football on; that old Hannah’s captaincy is being missed; that Holt does not talk enough; that the Combination team could beat the League team.

WOLVERHAMPTON  WANDERERS V. EVERTON.
Athletic News - Monday 23 November 1891
THE “WOLVES” ROMP HOME.
By Wulfruna
Everton made their annual appearance at the Molineux Grounds on Saturday, this being the first meeting between the two clubs this season. Both teams have had their players moved about so much, and with such unfortunate results that now they are towards the bottom of the League list, whereas this time last year the “Wolves” and the “Toffeyites ” were fighting for the top place. The following were the teams: Wanderers;- Rose, goal; Baugh, and Mason, backs; Davies, Allen, and Kinsey, half-backs; Wykes, Baker, R. Topham, Devey, and Booth, forwards.  Everton; Jardine, goal; J. M Earp, and McLean, backs; Kirkwood, Holt and Lockhead, half-backs; Latta, Wyllie, Maxwell, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. 
Referee; Mr. Lewis, Blackburn.  The weather was good for football, and when Everton kicked off there would be about 8,000 spectators. The game opened in a surprising manner, for each end had been visited, Latta got in a good centre, and at the second attempt the ball hit the cross-bar, and dropped into the net. This happened three minutes from that start, and two minutes later Jardine was beaten, whilst a little later Devey gave the Wanderers the lead. Rose had to clear, and once the visitors thought the ball had gone through, and were surprised to see Rose go round and fetch the ball from the back of the net. Holt was penalised for tripping, the ball being twenty yards away, and Kirkwood held Booth, and as the game went against them the visitors seemed to be losing their temper, but Mr. Lewis promptly pulled them up, and at half-time the ”Wolves” had scored two goals to Everton’s one. The game had been very fast, but in the second half the home team gave a splendid exhibition. Everton were run off their legs, and the game was soon put beyond doubt, for the “Wolves” forwards, fed beautifully by the half-backs, rained shots in at Jardine, Earp kicked and tackled well. The goal fell at last, and the “Wolves” afterwards put on two more, winning by five to one.   Johnny Holt was twice within five minutes penalised for tripping.  Both were dirty tricks, as the ball each time (as in the first half) was some distance away. The “Wolves” also had some fouls against them for pushing, and when the whistle sound Wykes was taking a parting shot at Jardine who, by the bye, was slightly hurt a couple of minutes from time in a scrummage. I cannot call to mind Everton receiving such a drubbing during the last two seasons in a League match. They played nothing like the game last season, and the “Wolves” deserved every bit of their win. Long before the game over the “Toffeyites” were hopelessly demoralized. It was one of the best ‘games seen on Molyneux Grounds for long time, and, except for Holt’s loss of temper, free from deliberate fouls, and fast from start to finish. Everton suffered in comparison with the home team, who all round, played splendidly, and their week’s hard training placed them on the field in such condition that they never wavered all through. For Milward and Chadwick were in good form, and so was Latta, but Wyllie seemed out of place, and Maxwell was an awful frost. Holt was the best half-back. The other two played well, but they were no match for the respective wings of the ‘‘Wolves.” Earp is a fine catch, and kicked like a giant. McLean was not much behind him, although he missed one or two kicks, but he is a glutton for work. Jardine was in fine form, and I cannot speak too highly of him. The way he threw himself on some of those low shots was immense, and everyone was sorry he got hurt. The “Wolves” scarcely ever played better game, and the combination of the forwards was first class. They threw nothing away, and with a little more luck might have added several goals, as once or twice they seemed certain to score. Booth was in fine form and very fast, but now and again a little too selfish, and he and Devey combined well, Devey playing better than he has done this season. Topham was splendid in the centre, and fed his wings impartially and neatly, and his shooting —well, Jardine will not forget the way they came in. Baker got hurt, and was limping the last half of the game, but, along with jolly, good-tempered Wykes played a fine game, and most of the goals were the result of the tricky passing of this pair. Wykes improves every match, and when he drop his clowning makes a very dangerous forward. The defence was good all round, and much too clever for Everton, but then they only had three forwards to beat. Allen was better than Holt, and Kinsey and Davies were as safe houses, and placed the ball very neatly. Baugh and Mason were about level, and Rose played one of his best games, shows no signs of falling off. 

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 23 November 1891
By the Loiterer
Another defat of the champions and by the large score of five goals to one.  These reverse are coming very regular and with a depressing effect.  The worst of it is that no one can account for it, in Everton at any rate.  Personally, I don’t know how the rubbing in process is administered, as I have seen very little of the team this season; but I may say that I cannot quite understand it.  I daresay this is what bothers a lot of people in the town, and if the team makes no better show at home than they have done away, matters will become desperate.  I am given to understand that Jardine did not play anything like the game expected from him.  I saw Davie on Thursday and I thought he looked badly, but on being questioned by several of the committee he said he was quite fit to play.  It is a great mistake on Jardine’s part to attempt to play if he is not fit and well.  I hear that some of the players were dissatisfied with his performance on this occasion, but I will leave your Wolverhampton correspondent to deal with the match. 
The “Everton” team received a visit from Wrexham.  The match was a Combination fixture, and the result –nine goals to none in “Everton’s” favour –indicates the one-sided character of the game.  The visitors only numbered ten players; or to be more correct, perhaps, as one facetious Evertonian remarked, nine and three-quarters, one of the men being minus an arm.  “Everton” scored five times in the first portion and four in the second.  Pinnell was responsible for three out of the first five, and his style of play greatly amused the spectators, as did his attention to the goalkeeper whenever the ball was in a likely way for contact with that individual.  Pinnell’s zeal in this direction, however, unfortunately brought about his retirement from the game before the expiration of the first half, as, in going for the custodian, he fell against something or other about the goal post, and was absent during the remainder of the game.  The play does not require much comment.  Everton were immeasurably in front of the Welshmen at all points., and the score about represents the comparative merits of the teams.  None of the visitors impressed me as being worthy of mentioned, unless it was Lewis. 

EVERTON REVIEW
November 23, 1891. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton were bowed down with yet another severe defeat on Saturday, beaten as they were by the Wolverhampton Wanderers by 5 goals to 1; and it seems inevitable that the Evertonians are in for a bad time. There was nothing accidental about the latest disaster, for most certainly the better team won. Everton started very well, and scoring the first goal received that encouragement which generally serves a team to much purpose. Just when Everton were having quite as much of the fight as the Wanderers, however, at a moment when the home team were thrown on the defence, Lochhead persisted in going after the ball, despite the fact that McLean shouted to him that he would take it. Between them they missed it altogether, and a spot was sent in to Jardine, who failed to throw sufficiently clear, and paid the penalty of a keen return striking home. Most of the subsequent goals were the outcome of Jardine’s inability to place the ball at a safe distance, and though he made many smart saves, he was not up to his usual standard of excellence, and must be held responsible if not for the defeat, at least for its decisiveness. Eyewitnesses assert that Williams had more shots to negotiate at Derby County were unable to score. The moral is clear. There were many other flaws in the Everton team, however. The forwards played an improved game. The two outside men were the least satisfactory. Wyllie screwed in well, when he had no one near him, but he will not tackle, and is thus often a source of weakness, whereas Milward is nothing unless he is fearless, but his lost his art of shooting from near the corner. Maxwell possessed and disposed and dispossessed himself of the ball without timidity and with judgement, but he was far too slow in is running for his wing men, and the line could not maintained. Latta was as brilliant and hardworking as ever, and Chadwick came nearer his old form than of late; but it is apparent that until Geary returns –he was linesman on Saturday –the attack will not be class enough to win League matches with consistency. Kirkwood was cool and energetic, but had more than his match in Booth and Devey, and Lochhead gained none of his lost prestige, for he was dodged time after time. Both Earp and McLean contributed bits of good back play, but neither inspired confidence. Mclean was best in tackling, his kicks not being hard enough to be uniformly useful. Earp uses his feet splendidly if he has plenty of room, but he was unstable when the pinch came at close quarters and it is yet problematic whether his inclusion will be to the advancement of his own reputation or that of the club whose cause he has espoused. Kelso, who is suffering from cold, was missed; but if he and Geary, with Williams are impressed into the team, Aston Villa may be discomforted on Saturday next. The “Wolves” plated an even, fast, clever game all through, and in Devey and Topham have two most dangerous forwards.

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 5 EVERTON 1
November 23 1891
The Liverpool mercury
Everton visited the Midlands on Saturday to play Wolverhampton Wanderers. The latter had their best team, who have bben training hard, whilst Eeverton had to call up Lochhead and Kirkwood to fill the positons occupied genarally by Kelso and Robertosn. There were about 7,000 present and the teams were everton: Jardine (J), goal, Earp (E), and McLean (D), backs, Kirkwood (D), Holt (J) (captain) and Lochhead (A), half-backs, Latta (A) , Wyllie (T), Maxwell (A) Chadwick (A), and milward (A), forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers, Rofe, goals, Baught, and Mason, backs; Davies, Allen, and Kinsey half-backs Wyles, Baker, Topham, Devey and Booth forwards.
Everton got well down the left from the kick off, but Baugh interpused and Booth soon header the ball into the visitors quarters. McLean cleared, but the ‘'wolves'' were not yet to be stalled off, and both Earp and Lochhead had to kick hard, the latter over the touch line. Everton came away on the right, and a corner wasconceded. Kinsey now showed up for good tackling, with the result that the Everton backs had to defend. It was time before the half-back could place the visiting forwards on the attack. Maxwell made one or two faulty movers but the wings were playing finely, and Latta sent across to Milward. The latter shot aginst the bar, but Latta was ready, and scored from the rebound. This served as the proverbially red rag and the wolves attacked with spirited. McLean gave a foul, and during the pressure Wykes took advantage of a misunderstanding between McLead and Lochhead and equalised from a short throw by Jardine. Topham ran down from the half line and shot grandly, but Jardine was clean in his save this time. Everton were in trouble several times at this juncture, chiefy from the left. Kinsey, Topham , Devey, and Booth joined in splendid combination, Topham allowing a fine opening to pass away from Booth's centre. Kirkwood was instrumental in shaking off the aggressors, and Everton were going well, but ran off side, and the Wanderers escaped. Jardine stopped a shot, but succumbed to an ensuing scrimmage. Play ruled keen. Both sides attacked, but the home team were more dangerous, and shots very true several times. Whereas Chadwick, at the other end, drove wildly over the goal line. A fine effort by Latta, however latere on nearly took effect. He ran and shot and Milward had got Rose down, but the ball dropped on the bar and rolled behind. The Wolves, continuing to play with dash and system, had the best of the game up to the interval which arrived, however with the Wanderers still leading by 2 goals to 1. The first incident of the second half was in Kirkwood, when down being penalised for holding Booth with his legs but no advantage arose from the free kick, and a nice movement by Maxwell, Chadwick and Milward caused Baugh to concede a corner, when Rose fisted away. The wanderers, it was evident, were playing a winning game. They improved, if anything as the play went on, and attacked in spendid style time after time, relieved with a futile movement by Everton as far as the backs. Several shots were tried and at length after Maxwell had skied over the Wolves bar. Topham ran and shot. Jatdine tried to pick up but Devey rushed in and scored easily. Latta and Wyllie had changed positions, and there was an improvement but after an unimpressive innings. Everton had to take the defence, and a lob by Wyles enabled Topham so shoot hard into Jardine, who saved. Holt came out well, but he was punished soon afterwards for a trip, and from the place kick devey scored. And a neat but of passing across the field gave Devey a further chance which he exercised to the full. The best effort of Everton afterwards was when Chadwick, from Wyliie's screw, tested Rose with a rattling shot without effect. The Wolves finally won by 5 goals to 1- a well earned victory.

EVERTON RESERVES 9 WREXHAM 0
COMBINATION MATCH
November 23 1891
Liverpool mercury
This combination match excited much interst in anfield-road. The visitors were shorthanded davies having missed the train, and thus weakened, Wrexham had no chance of making a good flight. The home attack was strong. Pennell scored three goals, and then was unlucky enough to get injured, being forced to retire. Murray and McMillan also scored, and at the interval Everton had the strong lead of 5 goals to nil. Gordon was effective three times later on and murray adding his mite the welshmen retired badly beaten by 9 goals to nil
Everton team, Williams (R) goals, Fairbrother, Kent (J), backs,Kirkwood (D), Jones (R) and Lochhead (A),half-backs, Gordon (P), Murray (J), Pinnell (A), McMillan (J) Elliott (J) forwards
Played ten won 9 lost 0 draw 1 for 47 against 5 points 19.

FOOTBALL GOSSIP.
Stroud News and Gloucestershire Advertiser - Friday 27 November 1891
(BY OLYMPIAN).
Last week I had to lament the defeat of Everton at Darwen, and now I have to speak of another disaster for the Champions at Wolverhampton. I would not have been surprised at a defeat for the Everton team, but the extent of it—five goals to one—is fairly staggering. Considering the quality of the individual players in the Everton ranks, the results of the last two League matches belong to that class of fact which no fellow can understand. The forwards, with the exception of Geary, who is still on the injured list, are the same as last year, but only Andrew Latta seems to be playing up to League form. Latta scored the only goal against the Wanderers on Saturday, and some of his other efforts were really brilliant; but he was poorly supported. Latta, who is a Dumbartonshire man, has played first-class football for a number of years now, and the chances are that he will keep his place for a long time to come. The Wanderers on Saturday played one of their best games, and the victory will do them world of good, as they have only won four out of 14 matches this season.

WE HEAR AND SEE-
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 28 November 1891
That the capture of R. H. Howarth by the Everton Club is now an accomplished fact; that seven days hence Bob will blossom forth as a full-fledged professional footballers ; that nobody will blame him for deciding to sell his football ability, and everyone may take it for granted that he has got a good price for it. That the Evertonians did not approach Bob Howarth, but the Prestonian approached them; that he was in Liverpool the same time as the North End team last Monday, but did not finally come to an agreement until Tuesday; that Bob was registered forthwith, and now North End cannot have him again even if they were ever so desirous, without an arrangement with the Everton club. That the news of Howarth’s departure from the North End ranks has been variously received in Preston ; that everyone or nearly so is sorry that he is going, and though they would much rather have kept him at Deepdale, they wish him luck ; that whether or not Bob has done a wise thing in electing Everton remains to be seen ; that he will still follow his employment in Preston. That the fidelity of the Everton spectators’ friendship is an unknown quantity ; that Howarth plays a few good games he will lauded sky high, but if on the other hand he plays badly for start or falls off to mediocrity after a few games he will have only a poor time of it, as sundry North Enders, who have taken a similar step to that of Bob, can testify, as N. J. Ross, Thomson, and even Kelso, for instance. That the North End made Bob a capital offer of £3 per week whether he played or not, with the prospect of a benefit when he retired ; that in addition to this he was told that if at any time he wished to join another team on the ground that he could improve himself, he would be at liberty to do so ; that Howarth could not see the fun of playing for a prospective benefit match, when he could get a fast lump sum down, and a good salary per week for two years ; that he further imagined that he was only wanted until Jack Ross was well again, and hence the offer “if he could improve-himself.”   That no doubt has a perfect right to suit himself, but without a doubt he would have done well to have pocked his suspicions and had an interview with the North End, for he never had one after the offer referred to above was made ; that it is,  however, an open secret that it was not altogether monetary considerations which took Robert Henry away; that had this been all no doubt it would have been comfortably settled. 

WREXHAM V. EVERTON COMBINATION
November 28, 1891. The Wrexham Advertiser
Played at Anfield, on Saturday, before 3,000 spectators. Wrexham kicked off and were at once dangerous. Chadwick stopped them and returned and Pinnell immediately put the ball through. The point was disallowed for offside, as was also another scored by Everton a few minutes later. Samuel's saved from McMillan and then Kelly and W. Turner did some nice work. From a cross by Elliott, Gordon headed over the bar. A high shot from Kent was mulled by Samuels, and Pinnell rushed the ball and goalkeeper through, thus scoring the first goal for Everton. A corner by Everton which resulted from some good play by Murray and Gordon, was followed by another, which was cleared. A free kick from the home team was well placed, McMillan kicking over the bar. Wrexham played up well. B. Lewis and W. Turner putting in some good work. Directly afterwards, a long shot from Murray scored the second goal for Everton. The game had just been restarted, when Heyes kicked the ball through his own goal, thus scoring the third goal for Everton. Samuels saved well at the expense of a corner, which was cleared, and a shot from R. Jones hit the bar. Another corner from the home team was sent behind. Wrexham worked the ball to the other end, but W. Turner kicked behind. Elliott got past the backs, but shot wide. Williams saved a shot from Lewis, after nice passing by the visiting forwards. A shot by Kelly was well kept out, and then J. Turner handled the ball. W. Turner played well, and the play was for some time around the home goal. Then Gordon and Murray rushed away, centreing, Pinnell shot a fourth goal, the ball hitting the bar and going through. Directly afterwards Pinnell hurt his knee, and had to retire. Samuels saved at the expense of a corner, which was cleared. Another corner followed, and Samuels, mulling the ball, a fifth point was rushed through. B. Lewis worked the ball to the other end and shot. Williams saved, and J. Turner missed a grand chance of scoring by kicking behind. The home left wing went down in grand style, a shot from Elliott hitting the post and going behind. R. Jones shot high over, and Ellis put in some good work. Half-time arrived with the score Everton, 5 goals; Wrexham, nil. After the interval Wrexham got up, and Heyes kicked behind, Williams had to run out to save a shot from Lewis, and directly afterwards he saved a shot from Kelly. At the other end Samuels had kick away, and J. Turner got well along the right. Robertson returned, and a corner resulted for the home team. This was well placed, and Ellis handled in goal. From the free kick the ball appeared to go through without touching anyone, but the referee allowed a goal. Not long afterwards, from a run by Elliott, Murray got the seventh goal for Everton. The ball had only just been again set in motion when Jones sent in a long shot from midfield. Sameuls caught the ball and dropped it, and McMillan immediately kicked through, thus scoring the eight goal for Everton. Gordon ran the ball nearly the length of the field, but finally shot outside. A free kick for Wrexham near the home goal was well placed, but was finally sent behind. Murray shot the ninth goal for Everton. J. Turner worked hard, but Chadwick cleared. Two corners for Everton were cleared, and then Wrexham looked dangerous, but the ball was finally sent wide. Lea put in some good work, and Samuels saved two shots in quick succession. W. Turner shot behind after Lea had kicked well, and the same player shot wide directly afterwards. Just before time Wrexham gained a corner, which was cleared, and the final result was –Everton, 9 goals; Wrexham nil. The following were the teams; Wrexham; Samuels, goal; Ellis and R. Roberts, backs; Williams, Heyes, and Lea, half-backs; W. Turner, B. Lewis, and J. Turner, and G. Kelly, forwards. Everton; Williams, goal; Hope-Robertson and A. Chadwick, backs; Collins, R. Jones and Kent, half-backs; Gordon, Murray, Pinnell, McMillan, and Elliott, forwards. Referee. Mr. R.E. Lythgoe, Liverpool.

TODAYS GAMES
November 28, 1891. The Liverpool Mercury
Interest locally in the Association game centres at Anfield-road this afternoon, where Everton, who have been away during the two previous weeks, with disastrous results, at Darwen and Wolverhampton, will join issue with Aston Villa –the most improved club in the League. In 1890 Aston Villa finished in the last four with 19 points, and did seen worse last year, scoring then 18; but now, though only having played twelve matches, they are practically “top sawyers” with 18 points. This is a great advance, and it is evident that Everton have a formidable task before them if they have generally achieved hitherto at Anfield-defeat Aston Villa unequivocally, Everton will again have an altered team from that of last week, as Williams has been nominated for goal, and Kelso and Robertson, if well enough, will return to their positions as wing half-backs. Otherwise the team is the same as that which played at Wolverhampton. Earp will make his first appearance in the League jersey at home; whilst the forwards, who are at times were clever last Saturday, should improve on acquaintance.
Everton V. Aston Villa, Anfield, Kick-off at 2-30 p.m. The following will play for Everton; Williams, goal; Earp and Mclean, backs; Kelso, Holt, and Robertson, half-backs; Latta, Wyllie, Maxwell, Chadwick and Milward, forwards.
Everton v. Buxton, Buxton, Kick-off at 2.30 p.m. The following will play for Everton; Smalley, goal; A. Chadwick and Collins, backs; Kirkwood, Jones, and Lochhead, half-backs; Gordon, Murray, Pinnell, McMillian and Elliott, forwards.

EVERTON 5 ASTON VILLA 1
Everton hit woodwork four times before chadwick equaliser of the bar in the second half.
November 30 1891
The Liverpool mercury
Everton in playing Aston Villa at Anfield on Saturday completed just half their league engagements, and, though winning are still on the wrong side, having lost one more than they have won, but as eight of the remaing 13 are at home they may yet finish in a forward position. The meeting on Saturday was a momentous one, but owing to the miserable weather the attendance fell some thousands short of the usual number, about 8,000 being present.. kelso and Geary were again absent and Aston Villa were without Cox, Baird taking his place. The teams were:- Everton, Williams (R), goal, Earp (E), and Collins (J), backs, McLean (D), Holt (J),(captain), and Robertson (H) half-backs, Latta (A), Wyllie (T), Maxwell (A), Chadwick (E), and Milward (A), forwards. Aston Villa, Hinchley, goal, Evans and Baird backs; Brown, Cowan, and Campbell (G), half-backs; Athersmith, Dickson, Devey, Hodgetts, and Campell (L) forwards. Aston Villa got away from Everton's kick-off, but Earp arrested their progess on the left wing, and Everton soon gave evidence that they were in a business-like, sprightly, and determined frame of mind. They attacked very hard and in good syles, which early raised plenty of enthusiasm, but Milward from a pass by Maxwell, shot wide, and all the good play went for nothing. Keeping well up, more shots were essayed by Everton, a likely one from Robertson passing on the wrong side of near post. Aston Villa broke away in loose formation once or twice without becoming very troublesome, and Everton took up the parable again, to once more find the visitors' defence equal to all the good shies. It was marvellous how near Aston Villa were being beaten, and always escaping by the narrowest shave. A corner was given and from this the visitors made a fast movement, wound up by Hodgetts with a free course, scoring from the left. Williams misjudged the direction of the shot, and whilst he went to the near end the ball passed through at the farther end. The game was now ten minutes old, and Everton had all the play and Aston Villa had monopolished the luck. The home team seemed little put about at this early reverse, and took up the attack in a finished and determined manner, but were still doomed to disapponitment shoot they never so accurately. Latta and Wyliie made two especially fine shots but Hitchley was safe. The Everton left wing worked like Trojans, bent on regaining some of their lost prestige but they found Evans a most powerful and capable man. Play then went on the right, and Wyllie tried another fair aim. It was long here Aston Villa could relieve their defence; but even then they could not sustain operations in Everton quarters, and after Dickson had header narrowly over the bar, play returned to the other end, where more hard lines were experienced by the home team, Wylies hitting and Chadwick skimming the bar. Aston Villa enjoying such immunity, next laid strong siege on goal, and Willams stopped a raspong shot from Athersmith. In the renewed attack Holt headed a corner, and Dickson shot low shortly following, Williams picking up the ball off the ground very smartly and risking another corner. Everton went away at the lead of Milward and Chadwick, and a protracted bombardment intervened up to the interval, both wings getting in keen shots. Maxwell too, though slow in comparison, put in useful work, but the defence held out. On resuming McLean gave hands and G Campbell placed well into goal, but Collins whipped up and cleared with a well-judged kick to the right wingman, who harassed Baird and forced him concede a corner. Milward was dissappointed in a fine shot, the ball striking the bar. Wyllie next shot well, and then McLean tested hinchley with a swift one, Chadwick banged in against the post., and the Villa defenders certainly had a most trying time of it. Amid great enthusiasm Everton returned time after time, and a length McLean accidentally from a mis-kick gave Chadwick possession, and he straightway shot hard, the ball touching the bar, in its passgae through. Great cheering signalled the fact that Everton's good play had at length been reward. Latta and Chadwick next shot too high. Earp at last had some work to do in arresting the left wing, which he did well, and on Hodgetts returning, he again found Earp safe. Latta soon got near enough to shhot hard, but without success. Chadwick also went close-a disappointed he atoned for a minute later by scoring from a straight aim. Hogetts Devey, and Athersmith joined in nice passing, but Collins rendered the movement, nugatory. Maxwell came though, and Chadick centreing , Latta strengthened the position of the Everton by scoring the third goal. Williams once fisted away from Aston Villa left, but subsequently Everton attacked with persistencey, and Wyllie and Maxwell scoring the home team won handsomely by 5 goals to 1.

BUXTON 1 EVERTON RESERVES 7
COMBINTION MATCH
November 30 1891
This return match was played at Buxton on Saturday the prevous game having resulted in a draw, neither side scoring. The weather was unpropitious, but play was lively, and the Everton forwards combining well had scored three times with a quarter of an hour. Two more following, before the interval arraved. The scond half was more even, asnd finally everton won by 7 goals to 1
Everton team, Smalley (R), goal, Chadwick (A), and Collins (J),backs Kirkwood (D), Jones (R), and Lochhead (A), half-backs Gordon (p), Pinnell (A), McMillan (J), Elliott (J) forwards
Play 11, won 10 lost 0 draw 1, for 54 against 6, points 21

EVERTON EXCELLENT WIN
November 30 1891
The Liverpool mercury
Everton ralled womderfully on Saturday, and gave their supporters a better game than the most sanguine dared to even hope for, much less expect. The ease with which thy held the upper hand over Aston Villa came as an agreeable surprise after what had happened at Preston, Darwin, and Wolverhampton. Everton were still without Kelso,, and Geary, and were consequently not at their strongest, but the display was high class-everything seemed orderly, where spectators had grown accustonied to witness chaos. And them improved work was done when opposed to Aston Villa, who had previously beaten, away from Perry Barr, Preston North End, West Bromwich Albion, Stoke City, and Darwin, and who have thus hitherto played almost as strongly when paying visits as at home. But on Saturday they were almost continuously thrown on the defensive. They certainly scored the opening goal, but this was from a surprise brealaway, a brilliant spurt in which Hodgetts found he had the goal at his mercy, and took advantage very smartly of a chance which never occurred again. Everton were repeatedly firing away at goal, but could not score up to the interval. It was not that the shooting was badly done- it was about the best seen this season. but luck went dead against the home team and the escape of the Aston Villa goal were simply marvellous. The second half was a repetition of the first, so far as the tendency of play went. Such was the pressure however, that the force of resistance was sure to yield to the impact, and Chadwick drew his club up level, and then made the position more sure by again scoring. And these two goals came from the hitherio ill-starred Everton left wing. Latta, Wyllie, and Maxwell contributed their mites, and Aston Villa had to accept their heaviest defeat this season. they have always returned from Liverpool in connection with the league a beaten team-in 1888 by 2 to 0: in 1889, by 7 to 0 and again in 1890 by 5 goals to 0. The quality of the latest success is substantial, but contrary to Everton's recent experience, the score rather underrates the inerits of the two teams. With the exception of Hodgett and Devey, the Villa forwards were weak, and there was accordingly not much combination. Their half-backs were no better, but Evans, late of Bootle, played spendidly and Hinchley made many smart saves. The Everton defence was not found much employment. Williams once misjudged Hodgetts' intention but no one would have stopped the shot perhaps. Collins was smart in front of goal; Robertson,, Holt, and McLean were very successful at half-backs and it was greatly owing to the accurate passes of the two former that the Everton forwards were able to shine so brightly. Maxwell came out of the shell, and, with improved health, will be of great service, the left wing were themselves again, and Latta and Wyllie were always a ferror of G, Campbell and Baird. Wyllie tackled stoutly, and kept well in touch with Latta, who seems at his best just now, and this right wing should become recognised one. After Saturday's display, Ewood Park should be the scene of another much need Everton success. Meanwhile Everton League will play Southport Central. This will be played on the Everton ground Anfield on december 2, the kick-off being at 2-30. The following team has been selected to play for Everon. Williams, goal, Fairbrother and Howarth (late of Preston north end) backs Kirkwood, Holt (captain0, and Robinson, half-backs, Gordon, Wyllie, Maxweell, Chadwick and Milward forwards.

EVERTON NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 30 November 1891
Mr. C.J Hughes, the well-known Association referee, took a somewhat exceptional course at Everton on Saturday.  Several so-called gentlemen on the reserved stand not only considered Mr. Hughes a cheat, but told him so, and placed a red hot adjective in front.  This occurred very often, and at last Mr. Hughes grew tired of it, stopped the game and told the so-called gentlemen a bit of his mind.  As Mr. Hughes says, it is bad enough to keep the teams in order without being insulted by a parcel of empty-headed cads, and he is to be complimented on the stand he took.  The game itself was a very pleasant one, and the Everton officials did all they could to put a stop to the filthy language; but these spectators ought not to be allowed to frequent respectable football grounds without being securely muzzled.  

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 30 November 1891
By the Loiterer
In Saturday’s performances of our two premier teams we have “form” knocked into a cocked hat.  The way Everton has bene treated by the Albion and the other clubs at the tail end of the League table rendered their chance against Aston Villa very poor indeed.  Yet here they go and romp round the club that were second on the list by five goals to one.  I don’t know that I have ever seen such a one-sided game as that between the clubs on Saturday, and at one time it looked as if Everton were going to be beaten, so perverse was their luck.  However, Evans and Baird could not stand the constant strain of fully seventy minutes out of the ninety, and in the last quarter of an hour goals were put on quickly. 
Bob Howarth will partner Earp at Blackburn next Saturday.  What Everton will do with all their backs I don’t know.  If they are not all quite up to League form they are very little below, and on Saturday Collins played a rare good game.  I had a chat with Fred Geary in coming from the ground, and I was rather surprised to hear that it will be six or eight weeks before he will be able to play.  That is the report of the specialist who examined him last week. 

THE “VILLANS” BADLY BEATEN. L
Athletic News - Monday 30 November 1891
By the Loiterer
If the positions and performances in the League tournament go for anything, Everton had only a poor chance against Aston Villa. The Liverpool team have not done at all well in the aggregate, but on the few occasions they have been on view the lads, whilst not giving all round satisfaction, have managed to score points in all League matches home. Away matches have been totally different, and disaster until has followed disaster until the supporters of the club have really given up all heart. Like myself, I dare say the majority cannot understand it, for, with the exception of the West Bromwich Albion match, Everton have performed very well at home, but away they have cut up badly. Well, this is old news; but when you come to think of the results of the matches—we, in Liverpool, cannot judge of the play -and compare both the play and the result of Saturday’s match, then it becomes a matter  of cross reckoning to reconcile the two. Here you have a club with splendid achievements and second on the League list, and opposed to them a combination who only just escape from the dreaded quartette, and the presumed inferior lot go and knock the others altogether out. I am not talking now of mere results, but of the actual play. Five goals to one is a big licking, but the Everton team overplayed Aston Villa even more than the score registers. There were several changes in the composition of the teams, but I suppose each club had its best available eleven up, and these are what did duty on this occasion Everton; - Williams, goal; Collins and Earp, back; Robertson, Holt, and McLean., half-backs: Latta, Wylie, Maxwell, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Aston Villa; - Hinckley, goal: Evans and Baird, backs: Brown, Cowan, and G. Campbell, half-backs; Attersmith, Dickson, Devey, Hodgctts, and L. Campbell, forwards. It is not a long tale that can be spun about the game. As regards the play, it was fast all through, and the Everton team made it such. There was an ugly kind of wind blowing nearly from corner to corner, and Maxwell started operations against it. I cannot spin out a long yarn about the ninety minutes’ play, for the simple reason that it had always a liking for the Villa goal. But stay!  To counteract the poor opinion formed—and on the results, it is quite natural to arrive at such opinion of the Everton team - I may say that they played a game on this occasion quite equal to any played by the members forming the Everton Club last season. The left wing was there in trickiness and dash of yore. The right wing, it anything, was better than ever, for Wyllie was superior to even Brady, with Latta in quite his youthful vigour. The halves were a tower of strength. Burly McLean, on the right, was clumsy but effective, little Holt as the pivot kept turning round and assisting where required, whilst Hope Robertson was a champion. Behind these were Earp and Collins. Earp was speedy and kicked strongly, little Collins was judicious and cool, and yet Aston Villa scored the first goal. This very goal had some merit in it, too. I should say about ten or fifteen minutes had elapsed, and all in favour of Everton, when Cowan gave the ball to Derey, and he transferred it over to his left wing, and Hodgetts, taking deliberate aim from a distance, beat Williams. This was a staggerer. Here was one team having all the play, and a burst away by their opponents puts them in a minority. But still the spectators were sanguine of the result, and I shared it with them. I have seen some queer things in football, but I have never seen a team that could stand the pressure the Everton team brought to bear on the Villa goal without having to cave in. The play of the whole front rank of Everton was as brilliant as it is possible to conceive, scarcely a mistake being made, yet they could not score. The defence opposed to them was good, but lack assisted Evans and Co. to a great extent. Lots of shots were sent in which only this element stopped. This was the state of the game in the first half, but in the few spurts that the Villa forwards made they caused some uneasiness. Devey and the left wing were always dangerous in the open, but Earp generally managed to clear all right. The second half was something similar, although play was more open. The visiting forwards were not so good, but the halves worked hard. The home forwards, however, waltzed round them, and goals came at regular intervals. Chadwick scored the first two, Latta the third, Wyllie the fourth, and Maxwell the fifth, and Everton won by five goals to one. That the better team won is beyond all doubt. There was not a weak spot in them. The forwards combined well and the defence was sure. As regards the Villa, all I can say is that the team worked hard. In cleverness they were not in it. Evans was a champion as cover goal and saved well repeatedly, but Everton always held the upper hand.

BOB HOWARTH
Athletic News - Monday 30 November 1891
Bob Howarth will make his first appearance as a “pro” on Saturday next, when he will assist his new employers against the Rovers at Blackburn. If rumours is not a lying jade, the ex-North Ender has made a rare bargain with the Everton F.C.- £200 down and £2 a week for two years. I know he refused princely offers from his town’s club, and also from the Rovers. North End offered him £3 per week and also a prospective benefit match, and gave a promise to release him at any time he thought proper. North End, of course have given Everton permission to register Howarth, but does it not also require the sanction of the League? According to my reading of the rules it does. Wherever Howarth goes and wherever he plays he will be found a thorough gentleman, both on the field and off it.