STOKE v EVERTON.
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 01 March 1902
At Stoke, before 7,000 spectators. Stoke were without Halford and Hales. McDonald scored one minute from the start from a splendid pass from Johnson. Roose soon afterwards mulled a fast shot from Young, a most giving away a goal. Ashworth set Lockett going and the latter tricking Wolstenholmes and Balmer, centred well. kitchen cleverly cleared with McDonald upon him. Smart work by Settle and Bell caused Roose to clear on several occasions, benson eventually punting away. After midfield play, Settle judiciously passed out to Bell, who shot grandly, the ball swerving under the bar, where Roose punched it out. Clrke now left the field and Booth immediately equalised with a low, fast shot. Ashworth aggain passed out, this time to Johnson, who rushed straight in and centred. Watson heading over. Everton again worked down, and Roose saved brilliantly from Settle. The latter again shot outside when very well placed. Half-time; Stoke 1, Everton 1

Alfred Chadwick
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 01 March 1902
Alfred Chadwick, tbe old Btadcburn and Everton back, was on the line at Preston last week, brother Edgar, the most famous of the footballing brothers, was assisting in the defeat of Bury; a third brother was on the same afternoon playing in the Everton League against Blackburn Rovers. Alfred, by the by, is a thorough all-round sportsman, and though no longer an active participant in the winter game, he turns out regularly in the cricket season, playing as captain of one of the local Blackburn clubs. He is a punishing bat and a good field.

TODAY TEAM NEWS
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 01 March 1902
Everton v Stoke. At Stoke; Lime-street 12; Kick-off 3.30
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and B. Sharp, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth and Abbott, half-backs; J. Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards. Reserve- A. Chadwick.
Everton Combination v Bolton Wanderers Reserve, at Bolton; Exchange Station 1.10.
Everton.- Muir, goal; Watson and Eccles, backs; Boyle, Clarke, and Blythe, half-backs; Rankin, Paterson, Bowman, Bone and Chadwick, forwards.

EVERTON v STOKE
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, March 1 1902
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
The Everton eleven were engaged at Stoke to-day, where they met the Potters un their return engagement. The teams met at Goodison Park in November last, when Everton won by a goal to nothing. Since then, however, the Evertonians have been going so groggily that it was no anticipated they would repeat the victory at the Victoria Grounds this afternoon. The weather was beautifully springlike and there was a large turnout of Staffordshire enthusiasts when the men turned out. The visitors were represented by their full eleven, but Holford was absent from the Stoke eleven, a reserve, in the person of Benson, being tried. Promptly at half-past three the men faced each other.
Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Bert Sharp, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards.
Stoke.- Roose, goal; Benson and Clarke, backs; Meredith, Ashley, and Bradley, half-backs; Johnson, Higginson, Watkins, McDonald, and Lockett, forwards. Referee.- Mr. Kingscott, of Derby.
The home eleven wore mourning bands.
The Everton captain won the toss, and Stoke started with their faces to the sun. they at once went away on the right hand. A foul against Jack Bell gave the Potters a further opening. Of this they have the fullest advantage, for Benson landed the leather right into the goalmouth, and though Kitchen managed to fist away. The return was caught by McDonald who placed the ball into the net within thirty seconds of the start. This sudden success sent many of the home supporters almost frantic with delight, and its effect on the players was equally marked, the home front rank returning to the attack with renewed vigour. The visitors however, soon steadied themselves and from long range Booth sent in a shot that went just outside. A brief visit to the centre line was followed by a second break away on the part of Everton, and this time Young came within an ace of scoring. Roose being rather lucky in clearing a particularly warm shot. After this the game slowed down somewhat, but the visitors gradually moved down, and after some brilliant work by Settle a corner was forced off Clark, and this was only cleared after an exciting bully in front of the Stoke custodian. The visitors at this stage were having all the best of the argument, and on more than one occasion the home defence was in trouble. Clarke having to leave the field for a time owing to an injured ankle. The Stoke team being thus weakened were for some time placed upon their mettle, Bell and Settle worrying Benson considerably and a long spell of attack was only terminated by Taylor shooting many yards wide. Then the home front rank advanced in splendid order, and should certainly have scored when Watkins sent wide. The Potters at once returned on the left, and McDonald gave Kitchen a handful. The latter threw clear but Watkins got the ball and banged it in, but fortunately for Everton. Balmer was in the way and able to clear. There was again a lull in the pace, but it was not long before the home contingent forced matters. Lockett and McDonald running down in fine style, but the latter was offside when he finally shot.
Half-time score; Everton 1 goal, Stoke 1 goal.

EVERTON COMBINATION v  BOLTON WANDERERS RES
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, March 1 1902
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION
This rearranged match was placed on Burden Park ground. The Wanderers started and a miskick by Barnston placed Chadwick in possession but the ball was worked away. Williams had hard lines with a pass from Nichol, and Arrowsmith saved. Two fine shots from Bowman and a shot from Lawson went abegging and at the other end Roche put in a shot, which Bowman caught and placed into the net. Half-time; Everton Res 1 goal, Wanderers Res nil.

STOKE CITY 1 EVERTON 2
March 3 1902. The Liverpool Courier
McDonald scores 30 seconds from start, while Abbott scores the winner 30 seconds from the finish
The return League match between Everton and Stoke was played on Saturday in the pottery town. The weather was usually genial being all in favour of a big gate. Everton were at full length, but Stoke were without Hales and Holford. The teams were as follows: - Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Balmer and Sharp (B), backs Wolstenholmes Booth (captain), and Abbott half-backs Sharp (j), Taylor, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards. Stoke City: - Roose goal, Becton and Clarke, backs, Meredith, Ashworth, and Bradley, half-backs, Johnson, Higginson, Watkins, McDonald, and Lockett, forwards. Everton won the toss, and had both the sun and alight breeze their favour. Stoke at once got going, and improved their prospects by obtaining a free kick against Bell. Benson placed the ball well up, and following a saved by Kitchen off Watkins, the ball was beautifully centred by Johnson, McDonald completing the movements with a shot which gave Kitchen no earthly chance of saving. This success came before the game was a minute in progress, and naturally placed the Everton men on their mantle. They immediately raced down into the Stoke half, and an opening was made for Young, who, however, hanged the ball wildly over the bar. Bell eventually eluded Benson and put in a swift shot, which Roose in fisting out sent against Young, and the custodian was extremely fortunate in meeting the rebound when only a couple of yards away from the line. The Everton forwards were just now in good trim, particularly the left wing, but all that resulted from a fine cross shot from Settle was unproductive corner. Eventually Lockett availed Wolstenholmes, and a distinct chance was given to Watkins who did not avail himself of the opening. This breakaway, after quite ten minutes pressure by the Evertonians infused new spirit into the play of the home forwards, and when Kitchen was beset with difficulties an offside ruling came to his rescue checked another dangerous moment, and when Stoke looked like getting well into their stride again headway was lost from a foul throw in. Johnson and Bert Sharp had many tussles, in which the Evertonians more than held his own. A brisk attack by the Stoke forwards ended in McDonald being penalised for offside. Following this the Everton forwards pulled themselves together, and a fine concerned movements; in which the whole took part looked like beinging a tangible point, when Bell lost his foothold. There was an undercurrent of superiority all though the movements of the Everton players, and it eventually asserted itself which Booth, after closely following up his forwards drove low in at the corner of the net, equalising after half an hour's play. A determined swoop was now made upon. Kitchen's charge, and when McDonald seemed likely to get through one of the Everton defenders cause under the notice of the referee within the twelve yard line. A free kick of the ordinary character was awarded and the suspense was relieved on Jack Sharp racing through and putting the ball out of danger. At this juncture much headway was lost by Everton through Young getting offside; particularly on one occasion, when Taylor had more than an outsider's chance of scoring, Settle had a ridiculously easy chance being right on the goal line with only Roose to beat. The custodian was immediately facing, and as before, the ball was driven right at him. A moment later the little international sent in the best shot so far of the game, and it was with a magnificent effort that Roose, prevented disaster. During the last 15 minutes Clark was off the field. This was to be regretted in more than one sense, for by resorting to the one back game, Everton were often pulled up for offside. Half-time Everton 1; Stoke 1. On resuming, Stoke had their full team, and the play was witnessed by fully 10,000 spectators. The first movement of promise came from the Stoke left, but Abbott and Young transferred the play, which was supplemented by J.Sharp and Taylor directed a shot at Roose, who just reached the ball with a flying kick. Relief came to Stoke, the result of offside by the Everton outside right. Steadily Everton pressed their opponents, and for some few minutes, both the Stoke halves, and backs were kept fully extended. Booth was playing a successful game, with the result that the Blues were often in possession, and when scoring looked certain, Taylor, but over the line. The game was keenly contested, and just on time Abbott scored the winning goal for Everton. Final time: - Everton 2; Stoke 1.

WILLIAM MALLEY
March 3, 1902. Nottingham Evening Post
Colliery Fatality
William Malley, a pony driver, was killed on Saturday morning while at work in Clyde Colliery, Hamilton. He was engaged in clearing a roadway, and while his horse was going up a “brae” with “hutch” the breeching of the harness broke, causing the “hutch” to run backward. In trying to stop it, Malley was knocked against a prop, which gave way, and he was pinned against the “hutch” his ribs were pressed upon his heart, death being instantaneous. Deceased was in his day a well-known footballer, having played for Everton for two seasons.

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 03 March 1902
By Junius
With their team at full strength again the Everton directors and supporters viewed the fixture with Stoke with some degree of confidence.  These anticipations were justified by the actual result and once more they rise to second place in the table.  All hope of gaining the Championship has practically departed, but it is not unlikely that remarkable changes will be witnessed at Goodison Park within the next few months.  A club that can command the support that Everton does requires something more than second honours in return, though of course, money fortunately does not always command success.  Still, the Everton team has acquired a reputation for always failing just when the most is expected from it, and to alter this state of affairs is the intent of the directorate.  Their ingenuous question to the Football Association regarding the legality of giving Christmas boxes to their players has caused many smiles to wreathe the countenances of those who can see further than their nose, and personally I am surprised that the Association were ever asked to give a decision on the point.  Even the most innocent individual must have known that there was no possible chance of any other than a negative answer being given, and I can’t see what difference there is between bonuses and Christmas boxes.  True, there is a difference in name, but what’s in a name?

EVERTON WIN ON TIME AT STOKE.
Athletic News - Monday 03 March 1902
By Onward
THE UNFORTUNATE “POTTERS”
Stoke’s experience during the past five or six weeks in having players sick and injured has been, indeed, an unfortunate one. The long list of accidents was further augmented in the Cup-tie at Nottingham, when the centre half-back, Holford, was injured so seriously that he was unable to take the field against Everton. The managers of the Pottery club were in sore straits to form a half-back line, and eventually decided to play Meredith at right half, with Ashworth in the centre, and Benson, a second team youngster, in the vacant position in the back division. Roose had recovered from the injury he met with at Blackburn, and was again in goal. Everton, after several weeks, were able to play their best side, Bell and Settle returning to their accustomed positions on the left wing. The turf was in fair older, considering the recent weather mixture we have been favoured with in the Potteries, and 8,000 people took advantage of a fine afternoon to view the proceedings.
STOKE SCORE FIRST,
An early dash by Stoke brought success in its train, and bardy two minutes had been kicked off, when McDonald capped some clever wing work by Johnson with a beautiful goal. Stoke went so strongly after this that they appeared several times likely to increase their lead, and once Johnson showed a clean pair of heels to the Everton backs, and flashed in a grand shot at Kitchen. The Everton goalkeeper, however, got to the hall, and brought off a superb clearance. At the end of twenty-five minutes play the home team were unfortunate in losing services off Clark, owing to an ankle injury, and whilst he was absent, some loose defensive play let in Booth, who had no difficulty in putting the visitors on equal terms. Everton exerted great pleasure until the call of half-time, and several times appeared likely to take the lead, so persistent were their forwards in shooting when they got anywhere under the mark. Roose made a number of fine saves, one clearance from Settle at close quarters being a particularly clever effort, and the teams crossed over with a goal each to their credit.
A VICTORY ON “TIME”
Clark, limping badly, came out with the rest of the Stoke players for the second “45.” and. although obviously in pain, pluckily continued until the end. Taking the second half throughout, play was very equally distributed, and it was certainly hard lines on the home team that Everton should score the winning goal from a corner in the last half-minute of the game. Roose made a bad error in judgment in leaving his goal, and in his absence Abbott neatly headed the ball into the net.
PRAISE FOR THE WINNERS
The victory went to the team which played the cleverer football, but cleverness does not always spell success, and on their show Stoke were unfortunate in being left a goal on the wrong side of the sheet. The Everton defence was very safe, Kitchen showing coolness and resource in goal, whilst both Balmer and Bert Sharp were effective m their kicking, and kicked well both in the open and at close quarters. But it was at half-back where the strength of the team undoubtedly lay, and to this trio belongs the main credit for the victory. Booth was at his best, and got through a load of work, performing to the full the ideal half-back’s functions of assisting in defence and attack in turn. He was ably flanked by Abbott and Wolstenholme, both of whom played finely. The forward play was not of superlative excellence, and it was no tribute to their shooting abilities that both the goals were scored by half-backs. Good work was done by all three inside men, Settle often spoiled combination by dwelling on the ball. Sharp was good, bad, and indifferent by turn, and Bell nursed himself very tenderly. It appeared to me that the old Dumbarton player had not fully recovered from the injury to his arm.
ABOUT STOKE
During the first part of the game Stoke appeared to have victory well in hand, but the injury to Clark seemed to unset the side as a whole, and during the latter part of the initial half they went all to pieces. They improved greatly in the second portion of the game, but lacked the grit and determination so necessary to win an uphill game. Roose kept goal well on the whole, and some of his saves in the first half were fine. He was, however, in my judgment, to blame for the second goal, and he would do well to get rid of a bad habit and running out and bouncing the ball. Clark played creditably both before and after his injury, but Benson seemed to be suffering from nervousness and was not a complete success. All three half-backs did good work, and Meredith shaped well in his new position. Ashworth has played better, and was hardly so successful in his passes as usual. The forward play was lacking in vigour and determination, a remark which particularly applies to Watkins, who was very far from energetic. I don't know if he was saving himself for the International game at Wrexham today, but he certainly did not unduly evert himself in Saturday’s game. Johnson and Lockett were often dangerous, but were not fed as frequently as they might have been, for there was far too much close passing between the three inside men. The teams were: Everton; Kitchen; Balmer, and B. Sharp; Wolstenhomle. Booth and Abbott; J. Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Bell.  Stoke;- Roose; Benson, Clark; Meredith, Ashworth, and Bradley; Johnson, Higginson, Watkins, McDonald, and Lockett.  Referee; Mr. A. Kingscott, Derby. 

EVERTON RESERVES 1 BOLTON WANDERERS RESERVES 1
March 3 1903.
Lancashire Combination (Game 24)
Everton: - Muir, goal, Watson, and Eccles, backs, Boyle (captain), Clark, and Blythe, half-backs, Rankin, Paterson, Bowman, Bone, and Chadwick (j), forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
March 3 1902. The Liverpool Mercury
The Everton team must be congratulated upon their highly meritorious performance at Stoke on Saturday. The victory was achieved not so much by the cleverness of forward play but by the alertness and outstanding ability of the defence, particularly the half-backs. It one player could ever claim in great measure the benefit of victory for his side, Booth on Saturday certainly deserved that high and distinguished position. Always a sterling exponent of half-back play, the Everton captain simply excelled himself in the match under notice for while mindful of the needs of his forwards he was never at fault in checking the at times strong rushes of the Stoke' attack. Admitting the general excellence of Everton display, and the fact that they practically monopolised the attack in the second half, it is only fair to Stoke to state that the winning goal came with thirty seconds from time, and that was due not so much to the visitors cleverness as the ill considered tactics of Roose, the home custodian. As our readers are probably aware, the resourceful amateur has a tendency to leave his goal, and in this matter his fondness for carrying the ball resulted in a concession to Everton that led up to Stoke losing a couple of valuable points. Although the winning goal only came in the last minute of play, there was no doubt whatever that Everton were much the smarter team. Had their forwards combined in anything like their usual style, the margin of victory must have been much greater that two goals to one. Unfortunately, Young in the centre forward position, failed to keep good command of his wings, and exhibited a too marked tendency for getting offside, and his mistake in the latter direction in several instance materially afforded the play of his colleagues. Allowance can, of course, be made for the period that Stoke resorted to the one full back system, but it was at other times a striking fault which unhinged many a promising movement towards success. Taking into account the fact that both Settle and Bell had been suffering from injuries, it was quite agreeable to record that they were once more acting at the pivot of the Everton attack. On Saturday, it is true, they had not many opportunities of shinning, but this must be attributed to the cleverness of Ashworth and Meredith, who rarely indeed allowed any quarter. The little International, however, lost a couple of excellent chances in the first half and probably none were more disappointing than himself, while Bell gave Roose several warm shots to clear. There was little of omen from the other forwards, and to the midway line must be accorded the greatest prise. Sufficient has been stated of the prowess of the skipper, but those on either side of him were good seconds, and in estimating the services of the trio, no better testimony can be given than that both goals came directly from this quarter. The value of closely following up the forwards were exemplified when Booth opened the score, and when in the closing minutes Abbott had accurately anticipated a corner kick, even the Stoke crowd could not but admit that the visitors fully deserved their victory and that the half-backs were much to be complimented. Further behind, Balmer played a masterly game, for he was never beaten, and it is a pleasing duty to record that Bert Sharp continues to improve, and van his confreres a very close race, while the watchful Kitchen was always ready for the best of Stoke's efforts. The home eleven had not until Saturday appeared in a League match at the Victoria Ground since January 11 th . Their experience is not at all pleasant, and it is rather remarkable considering that they had not been beaten on their own ground since opening match of the season with Bury, when curiously enough, the East Lancashire team gained the verdict by a precisely similar score that Everton obtained. The forwards are a hard working, but they were unfortunate in opposing the Everton half-backs on the top of their form. Johnson was always a dangerous player to deal with, and many of his centres merited better results, which at halfback Ashworth and Meredith were untiring, both in their attention to those in front and in unhinging the offensive tacks of the quintet. There was nothing striking in this display of the backs except that Clark was inclined to let defeat get the better of his temper, and on one occasion matters looked likely to take a series turn, Roose kept a good goal, but he may let his side down anytime by his penchant for carrying the ball, for on several occasions on Saturday, there were doubts as to whether he had exceed the limit.

EVERTON v STOKE
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 03 March 1902
At Stoke, before 7,000 spectators, stoke, who were without Hales and Holford, started and pressed through Lockett, Johnson centred across the goal mouth, and McDonald scored a fine goal a minute from the start. The game was fast and open after this for 25 minutes each custodian being tested. Then Clark retired injured, and immediately Benson let Everton through, and Booth scored, the ball striking the inside of the post. Half-time; Stoke 1 goal, Everton 1.
On resuming, Stoke got down, and Watkins was robbed by Balmer just in time. Everton took up an attacking position, and Roose kicked away finely from Sharpe, whilst Bell narrowly missed andSettle put the ball over. Stoke had a spell of attacking, but Watkins spoiled several promising movements by indifferent play. Stoke were aggressive in the closing minutes, and almost scored. Abbott headed through from a corner. Result; Everton 2 Stoke 1.
Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Bert Sharp, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards.
Stoke.- Roose, goal; Benson and Clarke, backs; Meredith, Ashley, and Bradley, half-backs; Johnson, Higginson, Watkins, McDonald, and Lockett, forwards. Referee.- Mr. Kingscott.

EVERTON v  STOKE
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 03 March 1902
Played at Stoke, before 6,000 spectators. The visitors were represented by their full eleven, but Holford was absent from the Stoke eleven, a reserve, in the person of Benson, being tried. Promptly at half-past three the men faced each other.
Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Bert Sharp, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards.
Stoke.- Roose, goal; Benson and Clarke, backs; Meredith, Ashley, and Bradley, half-backs; Johnson, Higginson, Watkins, McDonald, and Lockett, forwards. Referee.- Mr. Kingscott, of Derby.
The Everton captain won the toss, and Stoke started with their faces to the sun. they at once went away on the right hand. A foul against Jack Bell gave the Potters a further opening. Of this they gave the fullest advantage, for Benson landed the leather, right into the goalmouth, and though Kitchen managed to fist away, the return was caught by McDonald, who placed the ball into the net within thirty seconds of the start. This sudden success sent many of the home supporters almost frantic with delight, and it’s effect on the players was equally marked, the home front rank returning to the attack with renewed vigour. The visitors, however, soon steadied themselves and from long range Booth sent in a shot that went just outside. A brief visit to the centre line was followed by a second break away on the part of Everton, and this time Young came within an ace of scoring. Roose being rather lucky in clearing a particularly warm shot. The visitors at this stage were having all the best of the argument, and on more than one occasion the home defence was in trouble, Clarke having to leave the field for a time owing to an injured ankle. The Stoke team being thus weakened were for some time placed upon their mettle. Bell and Settle worrying Benson considerably, and a long spell of attack was only terminated by Taylor shooting many yards wide. Then the home front rank advanced in splendid order, and should certainly have scored, when Watkins sent wide. The Potters at once returned on the  left, and McDonald gave Kitchen a handful. The latter threw clear, but Watkins got the ball and banged it in, but, fortunately for Everton, Balmer was in the way and able to clear. There was again a lull in the pace, but it was not long before the home contingent forced matters. Lockett and McDonald running down in fine style, but the latter was offside when he finally shot. Shortly after this some fine forward work was shown by the visitors, the outcome being that Booth equalised. Before the interval was reached Everton ought to have scored another goal, as Settle mulled a very good chance. At half-time the score was one each. On resuming Stoke got down, and Watkins was robbed by Balmer just in time. Then Everton pressed, Clarke who ahd come on again, returning well. Roose kicked finely away a long shot by Bell, and J. Sharp shot across the goal. Stoke attacked for a time, and Watkins was at fault, whilst Kitchen fumbled a shot from Lockett, but recovered possession, and cleared. Everton got down again, but Settle was penalised for fouling Meredith, and the game slowed down somewhat, Settle the ball over the bar. McDonald an d Bradley relieved and the former centred finely, after clever work on the wing. Watkins passed blindly when the Stoke forwards were going well, but Johnson centred, and B. Sharp headed away. Ashworth got his head to the ball, and sent in a beauty, which grazed the bar. Balmer robbed Lockett after a fine run, and just on the call of time Abbott, with a grand shot, gave Everton the winning goal. It was a somewhat lucky victory, as the homesters at this stage were having most of the play. Result; Everton 2 goals, Stoke 1 goal.

SATURDAY FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 03 March 1902
It was almost too much to expect Everton would bring back a victory this time from Stoke- that they did so, however, is very satisfactory. Their success has given them a wonderful jump upwards, for instead of being sixth on the list they now occupy second position. That they- or any other of the League clubs for the matter of that-will now be able to displace the Wearsiders from their exalted place seems impossible, for Sunderland by their victory on Saturday have secured a strong lead. It may be mentioned that these two games (Everton v. Stoke and Sunderland v Blackburn) have had rather a peculiar effect on the Rovers’ prospects. If the latter had won against the Wearsiders, they would have been a point in front of Everton, and only one behind Sunderland, and they would have become a strong fancy for championship honours. It is remarkable what a couple of points mean. Sunderland have now beaten the Rovers six times in succession. With regard to Everton’s victory, it was never certain; it was more lucky- we won’t say fluky-than otherwise, for when Abbott managed to score the winning goal expectations were on the other side. Stoke having been “pressing” most of the second half, and were, in fact, “clamouring” for a goal when the Everton forwards broke away, and enabled Abbott to score what was a very valuable goal. Lucky perhaps for Everton, the whistle went just afterwards.

WILLIAM MALLEY
Cambridge Daily News - Monday 03 March 1902
William Malley, an old Everton footballer, was killed on Saturday in the Clyde Colliery, Hamilton.

ENGLAND v WALES
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 04 March 1902
Delightful springlike weather favoured this international engagement, which took place on the Wrexham Racecourse yesterday. The ground was in splendid condition, and long before the time the attendance promised to be a record one for this particular enclosure. There was one alteration in England’s team, but in the Welsh team there were two- Hughes (Tottenham Hotspurs), who was slightly injured on Saturday, and R. Jones being absentees. W. Jones (West Ham United) and T.D Parry (Oswestry United) respectively filled the positions. The forward line was altered, the Oswestry man playing centre and Watkins going inside right. The teams were;-
England.- George (Aston Villa), goal; Crompton (Blackburn) and Crabtree (Aston Villa), backs; Wilkes (Aston Villa), Abbott (Everton) and Needham (Sheffield United), half-backs; W. Hogg (Sunderland),  Bloomer (Derby County), Sagar (Bury), R.E. Foster (Corinthians), and Lipsham (Sheffield United), forwards.
Wales.- L.R. Roose (Stoke), goal; S. Meredith (Stoke), and C. Morris (Derby County), backs; M. Parry (Liverpool), W. Jones (West Ham), and J.L. Jones (Tottenham Hotspur), half-backs; W. Meredith (Manchester City), T.D. Parry (Oswestry United), M. Watkins (Stoke), R. Morris (Druids), and E. Williams (Druids), forwards.
At the last moment it was announced that Abbott, of Everton was to replace Frank Forman. About 12,000 spectators were on the ground when the teams turned out at twenty minutes to four o’clock. Wales got the wind in their favour, and Sagar kicked off. W. Meredith got possession, but Needham cleared and then England advanced. Sam Meredith kicking away. A free kick to England was unproductive, and the Welsh right raced up, and W. Meredith made a brilliant centre, the ball falling within an inch of the bar. George fisted out, and Abbott relieved the pressure, Wales continued to press, and Morris (Druids) had a good shie, the game here-about being very exciting. Hogg made tracks, but the ball was sent over. Wales again attacked, and the visitors’ goal was once more in jeopardy. George finally fisting away. Hogg and Bloomer made a pretty passing movement, C. Morris (Derby County) proving a stumbling block. Hogg centred beautifully and Sagar, receiving shot in, Roose just succeeding in lifting the leather over the bar. The resulting corner proved abortive, a foul by England raising the siege. E. Williams was fouled at the other and a free kick took the venue to the English goalmouth. England’s right wing rushed up against with lightning speed, but their efforts bore no tangible result. Lipsham brought Roose to his knees with a beauty, the Welsh custodian clearing in fine style. Bloomer was in a nice position, but shot yards too high. A free kick to the Leek changed the scene of hostilities and then England again pressed. Hogg being stopped by Morris. The latter, however, handled and a free kick to the visitors close in was very nearly converted, Bloomer missing narrowly. Wales then attacked spiritedly; Crompton saved in the nick of time. W. Meredith received from Watkins, and sent in a magnificent shot, which George cleared in equally brilliant fashion. The same Welshman passed forward along the ground, and E. Williams had a try, but he was off-side. The Taffies were new more than holding their own, giving the Saxons a good deal of work. The scene of operations at length changed, and Hogg, when well up, lost a good chance. Bloomer beat Roose with a warm shot, but he was ruled off-side. Sagar was fouled within the twelve yards line, and the resulting penalty kick was taken by Needham who, however, failed to send the ball past the goalkeeper, the latter saving magnificently. The averted disaster was greeted with great cheering. Wales were next to the fore, and had a lovely chance of opening their account, Morris (Druids) missing an almost certain goal. S. Meredith relieved in grand style when Hogg was getting to business. Morris had another chance shortly afterwards, but failed to improve on it, although he compensated for this with a shot, sent into George’s hands. Meredith shot over. Hogg and Bloomer worked prettily, but the Welsh defence was invulnerable. C. Morris (Derby County) was cheered to the echo for some splendid play, frustrating in fine style a menacing effort by the English right. The interval arrived without anything having been scored. The teams immediately crossed over and restarted. W. Meredith was spoiled by Crompton who gave a corner. This was beautifully taken, but nothing ensued, and then England retaliated R. Morris (Druids) made a capital try, and then Crabtree conceded a corner, when T.D. Parry and W. Meredith getting to work, this came to nothing and then the Manchester City man crossed over, but nobody was there to meet the leather, a possible chance thus being lost. The Englishmen next got to work, and Sagat sent over. A warm attack on George’s charge nearly ended in its downfall, the England custodian clearing a shot from F.D Parry, and then meeting a smart effort by Morris (Druids). Crabtree fouled W. Meredith when the latter was making off with a clear field before him. The free kick was no use, however, and for a while England had the better of the play, Foster and Lipsham being prominent. T.D. Parry had hard lines, and then Crabtree gave a corner which proved unavailing. R. Morris tried a shot which might have penetrated the English citadel, but one of the defenders was luckily in the way. Crompton rushed in when the Welsh rank looked dangerous and stopped further progress. After a long while on the defensive England at last attacked. Hogg centred, and Roose punching out. Foster volleyed the ball into the net. Apparently the goal was good, but the referee disallowed it, presumably because Roose had been impeded. Then Wales attacked but could not score, and the game was drawn, nothing being scored.
On the whole the match was favour of the Welshmen, who attacked in splendid style, whilst their defence was well-nigh perfect. England were strong in attack, but, generally speaking their display was indifferent. The gate receipts amount to £400.

WILLIAM MALLEY
Hants and Sussex News - Wednesday 05 March 1902
William Malley, a pony driver, was killed on Saturday morning while at work in Clyde Colliery, Hamilton. He was engaged in clearing a roadway. and while his horse was going up a "brae" with a “hutch,” the breeching of the harness broke, causing the hutch” to run backward. In trying to stop it, Malley was knocked against a prop, which gave way, and he was pinned against the “hutch,” his ribs were pressed upon his heart, death being instantaneous. Deceased was in his day a well-known footballer, having played for Everton for two seasons.

EVERTON COMBINATION v GLOSSOP RESERVE
Liverpool Daily Post - Thursday 06 March 1902
The following will represent Everton in the above match to-day at Goodison Park, kick-off at 3.30;- Muir, goal; Watson and Eccles, backs; Brown, Boyle, and Blythe, half-backs; Rankin, Paterson, Bowman, Proudfoot and Chadwick, forwards.

COMMENTS ON SPORT
Liverpool Daily Post - Thursday 06 March 1902
By Lynx II
Local football supporters were rescued from the slough of despond into which they had lately fallen by the victory of both Everton and Liverpool on Saturday. The Evertonians were at Stoke fulfilling their return engagement, and, truth to confess, I for one was anything but sanguine as to the ultimate issue. The first half, though fairly well contested, gave little promise of a victory for the visitors, the score at the interval standing at one goal each. In the second portion of the game, however, Everton showed something like creditable form, and though it was not until within thirty seconds of the call of time that Abbott scored the winning goal, there is no doubt that Everton, on the general play, were the better side. They had any amount of opportunities to score during the second forty-five minutes, and failure in this respect was solely due to want of combination. The victory, though doubtless deserved, was none the less a rather lucky one, and it would certainly never have been achieved but for the sterling play of the half-backs. I never saw Booth play a better game, and he was admirably assisted by both Abbott and Wolstenholme. To this trio and to Kitchen, who kept a fine goal, the honours of the match undoubtedly belong.

WILLIAM MALLEY
Diss Express - Friday 07 March 1902
William Malley, a pony driver, was killed on Saturday morning while at work in Clyde Colliery, Hamilton. He was engaged in clearing a roadway. and while his horse was going up a "brae" with a “hutch,” the breeching of the harness broke, causing the hutch” to run backward. In trying to stop it, Malley was knocked against a prop, which gave way, and he was pinned against the “hutch,” his ribs were pressed upon his heart, death being instantaneous. Deceased was in his day a well-known footballer, having played for Everton for two seasons.

EVERTON RESERVES 5 GLOSSOP UNITED 0
March 7 1902. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Comination
The return match was played at Goodison Park in capital weather, and before a good gate. Glossop started operations, Everton pressing from the outset, Proudfoot testing the visiting custodian with a fine shot, which was cleared magnificently, Glossop then took up the running, and Muir's charge was made the scene of hostilities for some time, the Everton goalkeeper getting away a ground shot in good style. Everton again attacked and got well in front of the Glossop goalmouth, but the visitors defence was very safe, and the Blues were compelled to retire. The home goal was again assailed, and Muir's abilities were tested to the utmost, the home goalkeeper cleaning three brilliant shots at close quarters. Everton now got off on the left, but their efforts to penetrate the Glossop defence was futile. The visitors backs playing a grand game. Smart forward play by the visitors was next witnessed and Glossop got within easy shooting distance of the Muir's goal, but a free kick against them spoilt their chances, and Everton once more took the play to the other end, where Brown and Rankin shot in, the visiting goalkeeper saving nicely. Proudfoot a minute later, when right in front of goal, missed a fine opening by shooting over the crossbar. Even play followed, the visitors it anything showing the better for, Half time Everton nil; Glossop nil. On resumption of play, Everton went off strongly, and kept the visitors busy defending, Brown tried a shot at goal, but the ball went over the bar. The Glossop quintet at length got possession, and went with a nice attack up the field, but Everton were back again in a trice and bombarded the Glossop goal. After repeated attempts by the Blues to open an account, Proudfoot shot, the goalkeeper rushing put to save, but Chadwick charged him, and succeeding in placing the leather into the net. The visitors made a strenuously effort to get on even terms, but without avail. Patterson scored a second goal for Everton. Everton maintained the pressure, and Chadwick further augmented the home score. Everton were playing a splendid game, and the Glossop goal had many miraculous escapes. Bowman shot in, and the Glossop Goalkeeper caught the leather in hard, but failed to hold it, the ball going into the net, much to the amusement of the spectators. Paterson added an another point shortly after this Everton having the best of the game and won 5 goals to nil.
Teams: -Muir, goals, Watson, and Eccles, backs, Boyle (captain), Clark, and Blythe, half-backs, Rankin, Paterson, Bowman, Bone and Chadwick forwards.

EVERTON v. GRIMSBY TOWN.
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 08 March 1902
The home team were without Settle and Bel!. Whittaker soon stopped good attempts by Sharp and Taylor, and Young ran in, but Bromley stopped him. The Fishermen's forwards were out classed, but their defence was good, and withstood tricky by the home five. The first corner fell to Grimsby, and a bad miss by Balmer was just saved by Kitchen. Bone gained a corner for Everton, from which Fletcher and Reynoldson made the play. A fine centre by Fletcher was beautiful taken by Appleyard and the ball was under the home bar when offside was sounded. Everton played up after this narrow escape. Still there was too much trifling with the ball and the Grimsby defence was sterling. Whittaker fisted out from Singleton. Play continued of a give and take order, and kicking into touch made it monotonous. Taylor and Young obstructed each other, and a good chance was lost. Both custodians were busy. Half-time; Everton 0, Grimsby 0

TODAY TEAM NEWS
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 08 March 1902
Everton v Grimsby Town, at Goodison Park, Kick-off 3.30
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and B. Sharp, backs; Clark, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Bone and Singleton, forwards.
Everton Combination v Accrington Stanley
At Accrington. Train leaves Exchange Station at 12.25. kick-off 3.
Everton;- Muir, goal; Watson and Eccles, backs; Brown, Boyle, and Blythe, half-backs; Rankin, Paterson, Bowman, Proudfoot, and Chadwick, forwards.

FOOTBALL LAW; OLD AND NEW
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 08 March 1902
A STORY OF EVOLUTION
By William McGregor
Football has been played for many generations in nearly every part of Great Britain, mostly without any code of rules, and certainly with no limit to the number of players on each side. In some districts there are certain unwritten laws to be observed, and these were, in a crude form, the basis of what are now recognised as the laws of the game. They were undoubtedly the foundation of the present laws. The laws drawn up at the starting of the Football Association numbered 14, and the game then contained a great deal of the Rugby code of to-day. For instance, the rules provided for fair catches being made; a player was entitled to a free kick if made his mark with his heel. If a player made a fair catch he could run with the ball towards his opponents’ goal, and his opponents were at liberty to charge, hold, trip, or hack him, or to wrest the ball from him, but it was mercifully ordained that no player was to be held and kicked at the same time. Another rule was: “That the sides shall change goals after a goal is won.” That was how we played Shinty at school nearly half a century ago; we always changed ends after each hail. But notwithstanding the fact that the laws of the Football Association were framed by a body to which all clubs owed a nominal kind of allegiance, they were by no means universally adopted, for even in the late seventies the Sheffield Association had their own code of laws, and even in Birmingham we had an offside rule which differed both from that of the Football Association and the Sheffield Association. I remember the first few occasions on which I saw a very well-known Birmingham club of that time play. There used to be 15men on each side.
THE GOAL SNEAK
The men were placed something after this fashion:—A goalkeeper, two backs, a three-quarter back, three half-backs, seven forwards, and one kicker-in, or sneak, as he was generally termed. There were few rules and few penalties. When the ball went out of play the side which had not kicked out had a kick in. There was no offside rule, and the duty of the kick-in, or sneak, was to charge the goalkeeper through when others were about to shoot. He was great also when a long shot was sent in. If he got the ball before the goalkeeper he had a good chance of scoring, and if he did not score he used every device in his repertoire to prevent the goalkeeper getting at the ball. When an attack was proceeding he led the goalkeeper a dog s life. He had his office to perform, and there were no rules to terrify him. I often think what the views of one of those original sneaks would be upon the multiplicity of rules which hedge in that highly scared personage the modern goalkeeper. The game was played in those days as an exercise pure and simple, and was indulged in by grown men, some of whom were getting on in years. Heavy charging was also very common, but there were seldom any serious accidents. I know dozens of men who played in this old-time football and went through season after season without missing a match.
DIVERSE RULES.
Many years elapsed before all the clubs in the country adopted the Association rules in their entirety. When, for instance, the picked elevens of the Birmingham and Sheffield Associations used to meet—and those were then the great games of the Midland season—one half of the game would be played under Association rules,and the other half under Sheffield rules. A little later, when the Birmingham Association used to play the Scotch Counties, and Midland clubs usedto meet Scottish club elevens, one half of the game would be played with the straight throw-in, which was the one funda mental difference between English and Scottish football of that day. I can recollect the time when all the junior clubs in the Midlands used to play under theold Sheffield rules; indeed, among the juniors, who cared little what the seniors did —for men used to playfootball then in preference to watching it—the Sheffield rules survived years after all the leading clubs in every district had adopted one common style of play.
HANDLING: A GREAT ADVANCE.
With the adoption of a general code of laws, the game became more of an exactscience than it had hitherto been. Although the rules of the game have been constantly altered, they have been so altered as to invariably lead to improved play. The great point the Association have had in view has been,to make the game faster, and so football has become a pastime in which it is necessary for its exponents to be in pink of condition. No man who is short ofcondition can last through a game to-day. Yet years ago the veterans need to last through an afternoon. The alteration of the rule relative to unintentional handlings was a great improvement. Until comparatively recently, a refereehad no option but to blow the whistle whenever the ball touched a man’s hand or extended arm. In seven casesout of ten player had intention of fouling, but the law than drew no distinction between intentional and unintentional handling. If the other sidekicked the ball against a man’s hand it was a foul. The result was that the game was continually being stopped; the whistle was always going. And all this meant rest for the players. It also meant delay, a temporary cessation of the game. Under the old rule the whistle was always going; now, with a sensible referee in charge, the game has a chance of proceeding. Nothing has more greatly added to the pace of the game than the introduction of this rule.
THE PENALTY KICK.
Then, again, the introduction of the penalty kick rule in 1891-2 resulted in the game being wonderfully improved. Under the old dispensation a defender felt himself justified in saving a goal and rendering the acquisition of a goal unlikely, at all hazards.  There was an utter lack of sportsmanship on the part of some player. A back thought nothing of fisting the ball out if he imagined it likely to go into net, and all that attacking side got was a free kick at the spot where the informality occurred. But the other side immediately packed their goal, and rarely, indeed, did a point result from the foul. The trick of pushing an opponent, in the act of shooting, off the ball, was very common indeed, and the gentle art of fetching an adversary down from behind when he had an open goal before him, had reached the level of fine art. The forward who beats a defender now has a chance of shooting a goal or, if impeded unfairly, someone else gets an even better chance of shooting a goal. The rule relative to the penalty kick has undoubtedly done a great deal towards stamping out unfair play, and naturally the result has been to make the game more agreeable both to the player and the spectator.
GREAT THROWERS-IN.
The method of putting the ball in from touch has also had an influence upon the game. First we had the kick-in, and then the Scotch clubs used to line up as they now in the Rugby game and the ball used to be thrown in straight. Sometimes it wasn’t thrown in straight—the Rugby men still aim badly, I notice-and then that meant another stoppage. This straight throw-in naturally never led to open play, and I was glad when it was abolished. The more open you make the game, the better it must be for the players and also for those who are looking on. Then I have seen men throw the ball in from touch, over their heads, with their backs to the field of play. I just forgot what rule this was, but I know I have seen it done. The throw-in, in any direction, with the one hand, worked very well for a time, and was an improvement on earlier methods, but the extraordinary proficiency attained by a few players, notably Hugh Wilson, Sunderland, Stewart, of Everton, and Hindle, of Accrington, caused what was merely intended to be a slight advantage to the side which did not kick out to become a serious penalty to the side sending the ball out of bounds, so the law was altered, indeed, it had altered, for Hugh Wilson’s throws were far more dangerous than the best directed corner kick. The present method is a fair one, although, perhaps, it scarcely sufficiently penalises the side which kicks out.
BELGER AND GOALKEEPERS.
No law has wrought a greater change in the game than that which declares that the goalkeeper shall not be charged except when he is bolding the ball. I am afraid that if this rule had been in operation in the days when Jem Bayliss, Tom Green, and Pearson used to play for the Albion, the efficiency of that famous team would have been considerably impaired. How those stout-hearted, fearless fellows used to go for the goalkeeper whenever Woodhall or Bassett sent the ball flying across from the wing—and no one could centre quite like Bassett. John Brodie. the old Wolves’ centre, was also a goalkeeper's terror, but greater than any of them probably was Belger, North End’s centre. He once went crashing into some boards at the back of the St. George’s goal, at Birmingham. Stansbie quietly eluding his rush. Belger could not pull up, and he almost demolished the boards. The goalkeeper was not then the favoured individual he is to-day; I sometimes think he is pampered just a trifle too much now, but on the whole the rule works well, and adds to the science of the game. Goalkeeping is now exact art; it used to be largely a matter of pluck and skill combined. A goalkeeper who was funky in those days was utterly useless. John Brodie won many a match for the Wanderers by his resolute dealings in regard to the poor goalkeeper.

INTER-LEAGUE MATCH
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 08 March 1902
ENGLAND v. SCOTLAND.
At St. James’s Park, Newcastle, before 12,000 spectators. Teams;
English League—Kingsley (Newcastle United), goal; Crompton (Blackburn Rovers') and Iremonger(Notts Forest), backs; Wolstenholme (Everton), Bannister (Bolton Wanderers), and Houlker (Blackburn Rovers), half-backs; W. Hogg (Sunderland), Bloomer (Derby County), Beats (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Settle (Everton), and Cox (Liverpool), forwards.
Scottish League—McWatts (Heart of Midlothian), goal; M Smith (Glasgow Rangers), and Battle (Celtic), banks; Gibson (Glasgow Rangers), Anderson (Kilmarnock), and Templeton (Queen's Park), half-backs; McCartney (Hibernians), Walker (Heart Midlothian), Campbell (Celtic), Wilson (Queen’s Park), and A. Smith (Glasgow Rangers), forwards. Referee: Mr. S. Torrans, Ireland.
Scotland kicked off up the incline, and after a few minutes’ even play England pressed, and Beats sent to Bloomer, the Derby man scoring after five minutes for England. The representatives of England had the better of matters after this. Settle missed grand chance, and men McWattie had a narrow escape.  Scotland's forwards got well up, but Crompton and Iremonger saved splendidly, and when the home men rushed to the other end Cox sent in grand shot from the left wing and fairly beat McWattie. During the next ten minutes England had practically ail the play, and after eighteen minutes play W. Hogg scored after McWattie had been severely tried. So far the game was all in England’s favour. Two minutes later W. Hogg got away on his own, and centring, Gibson put through his own goal, making four against Scotland. Scotland then pressed heavily, and Campbell and McCartney tested Kingsley. These failed, and then for a long period England held sway. Once Kingsley and Iremonger just saved from Campbell. Hogg scored England's fifth from a penalty kick. England pressed the interval. Half-time—England 5. Scotland 0.
The teams turned straight round, and at once England was pressing The Scottish backs, who had changed sides, were equal to the attack, and Scotland received a fruitless corner. England rushed to the other end, and Bloomer just got to the ball before Anderson and scored England a sixth goal.So far the home side had been far ahead as regards combination, shooting, and defence. Scotland again had a short time at pressing but the efforts of the forwards were easily cleared by Crompton and Iremonger, who both played a grand game. With their big lead, the representatives of the home county eased down somewhat, and a foul to them inside enabled Campbell to score the first goal for Scotland from a penalty. Scotland now pressed heavily. For a considerable period the was even, but once Kingsley saved in marvellous fashion from Campbell. Hogg was clever on the right wing, and Campbell got a grand pass from McCartney and scored a good goal for Scotland. The latter stages of the game were very even, both goalkeepers being tried in turn. Campbell scored from a penalty for Scotland. Result- England 6 Scotland 3.

EVERTON v  GRIMSBY TOWN
The Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, March 8 1902
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
Of all the clubs which have obtained promotion during the last two season’s none have acquitted themselves of late better than Grimsby, the bold fishermen from the East Coast. On their own ground they have in the past accounted for redoubtable opponents, and they stand as one of the instances of a club performing well, and the direct result of impetus supplied by all supporters. Everton were not very well represented to-day, but they advanced a team which promised at any rate to account for those “who go down to the sea in ships.” Before the game started the surroundings were somewhat gloomy, but the ground was in a grand condition, and favoured an excellent game. At the start there would be 10,000 spectators when the teams appeared. The colours were so similar that Everton at once made tracks for the dressing room, and changed colours, a move which the spectators fully appreciated. As to the teams, Everton were weakened by giving two good men to the International game- namely, Settle and Wolstenholme; and in their places were Clarke and Bone. The full teams were;-
Everton; Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Sharp, backs; Clarke, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Bone, and Singleton, forwards.
Grimsby; Whittaker, goal; Mountain and McConnell, backs; Hall, Burnley, and McNelly, half-backs; Fletcher, Ronaldson, Appleyard, Long and Gardner, forwards. Referee Mr. Brodie.
Booth having won the toss, set his opponents to face what wind there was blowing. Appleyard kicked off, and a long series of exchanges ensued in close proximity to the half way line, Abbott at last being instrumental in enabling his compatriots to advance. However, the efforts of the homesters were soon nipped, a bad pass from Clarke being easily captured. Appleyard and Long followed by making desperate efforts to press forward, but every move was accounted for by Abbott and Balmer in the coolest possible manner. A workmanlike move was now commenced by Sharp, and good work by the whole of the home front ended in Singleton centring finely and Bromley clearing just as prettily. Everton  still pressed forward, and after a while Booth took a long shot at goal, but missed. The opening exchanges had not been exciting, but the fishermen put in a very pretty move down the right, which might have been dangerous had not Mr. Brodie pulled Fletcher up for offside. The whistle, however, was not taken advantage of by the boys in white (Everton), and Appleyard shot behind before the attack fell off, though the East Coasters maintained the attack with vigour and Kitchen had to concede a corner, and handle again and again before Booth put in a useful clearance, which enabled Sharp and Taylor to distinguish themselves, and in the crush which followed Bone put in a really fine drive, which Whittaker disposed of at full length on the ground. The “gents” who spread nets” were not long in coming again, and they forced matters. Appleyard impeded Kitchen, and gained a frown from Referee brodie. A huge clearance by Bert Sharp was taken possession of by Brother Jack and swung into the goalmouth, where McConnell cleared. Sharp pounced on the ball again, and another fine centre was the result, after which Young failed to take proper advantage of an opening that was given to him. Abbott likewise missed a possible chance, but after a passage along the left Singleton on being pressed, swung round and took a flying shot at goal, which sailed over the crossbar, and a little later on he succeeded in effecting a splendid centre, which was taken by Mountain and well cleared. The spell of attack by Everton had no much method in it, and they never seemed earnest in their endeavours to open the account until Sharp and Taylor raced up, and with perfect understanding got very much the best of Nelmes and McConnell. The leather was promptly transferred to the other wing, from whence Singleton gave Whittaker a rare handful to negotiate. The Grimsby custodian proved equal to the occasion, and neutral exchanges followed in midfield. Everton were the first to break the monotony, but there was still the absence of method which was necessary to success. Fletcher got up speed, but the whistle opened the exhaust valve, and attack came from Everton’s left. It was of little consequence, however, and both sides resumed scrambling tactics in midfield. Some sharp play was now put in by the Grimsby right wing, but in two successive moves they were checked by B. Sharp, who tackled Fletcher very well. Eventually the ball was slung over to the home right, where Sharp worked the ball down, and at the finish he, along with Young and Taylor, were as busy with the ball as flies around a honey-pot, but when it came to goal shooting it was a dead failure. Just afterwards Young made a dreadful miss, as after a pass from the left he had but to put his toe to the ball and a goal was certain, but the effort was too much for him. A spicy bit was then shown by the Fishermen. Fletcher suddenly broke away and got through afterwards sending in to Appleyard who missed the chance, but Gardner was handy, and he filled the breach, but shot high over the bar. The home lot must certainly be considered lucky, as Gardner’s shot had so much sting behind it that a goal must have accrued, as Everton’s defence was well beaten, and Grimsby’s combination was truly the tit-bit of the game up to this point. It was followed by a visit to Whittaker, but the forward line were as usual at sixes and sevens. Appleyard was soon away, and the visitors’ front rank were really dangerous about five yards from Kitchen where a bunch-up occurred. Sharp being on the ground and Balmer and Abbott striving to clear, which the latter ultimately managed to do. A struggle in the centre culminated in favour of Everton, though it was neutralised by the award of a free kick to Grimsby. Soon after Whittaker repelled a stinging attempt from Taylor. Grimsby paid a leisurely visit to Kitchen, where Long put in a tame and ineffectual shot. The forward play on both sides up to this point had been of a most mediocre deception, and hardly one forward on either side had distinguished himself though Singleton did force a corner a few minutes from the interval, and dashing into the fray sent one in which Whittaker had to clear. Soon after Booth gave a nice pass to Young, and the whistle sounded as he cleared from Young, Half-time; No score.
Young restarted the Everton left, after a few minor exchanges, moving sharply towards the Grimsby goal, only to be smartly pulled up by Mountain. However, the leather found its way to the opposite wing, where Sharp, after making desperate efforts to effect a centre, was penalised. The free kick availed nothing to the visitors, who were soon beaten back, and after awhile Young was placed for a shot, but instead of banging the ball in he commenced fiddling about, and was deservedly robbed by Mountain. The home contingent kept making strong dashes for goal, and at the finish of one made a bold bid, but shot wide of the posts. Final Result Grimsby Town 1 goal, Everton nil.

ACCRINGTON STANLEY v  EVERTON COMBINATION
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, February 8 1902
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION
Played at Accrington. Half-time score;- Accrington Stanley 4 goals, Everton Combiantion 1 goal.

GRAND PERFORMANCE AT LIVERPOOL
Grimsby & County Times - Saturday 08 March 1902
THE SENSATION OF THE LEAGUE
GRIMSBY WITH A WEAK TEAM
BEAT THE CHALLENGERS FOR THE LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP
A BRILLIANT EXHIBITION
By Our Own Reporter
It is safe to say that the Grimsby Town team this afternoon had to face one of the stiffest away engagements of the season. They were set to oppose the powerful Everton team at Goodison Park, Liverpool, and those who saw the clever movements of the visitors when Everton disported themselves at Blundell Park, will hardly need to be told that the exhibition they gave has not been equalled by any team this season. It was without doubt quite the most delightful exhibition of football seen for some time, and it was hardly to be wondered at that on that occasion Grimsby had accept what is always unpalatable, namely, a defeat before the eyes of their own supporters. To a large extent, however, the inability of the inside players to turn to good account the centres of the wing men was the reason why Everton won by the margin of 2 to 0. Since this, the fourth defeat, the Town have only lost one home match, namely against Sheffield United, a thoroughly underserved defeat, by the way, and there has been a gradual return to something like form. It is rather a pity though that to-day’s match found both teams somewhat handicapped in regard to players. The Everton club was weakened by the absence of Wolstenholme and Settle, the two players who were required by the League to play against the Scottish League team, at Newcastle, and Bell. Indeed, the home left wing was quite an experiment, as Bone and Singleton had neither of them played together there, the latter indeed making his debut in First Division football. The football critics this morning set forth the danger signal for the Evertonians, and proclaimed the warning that if Grimsby were only in the same mood as they had been at Sheffield, when they drew with the United, there might be a bit of trouble in store for them. The probability, however, was that these kind scribes were unaware of the kind of team which Grimsby had to reply upon. They could hardly have known for instance that Paddy Gray, the grand old plodder of the team, at centre half would be missing, and that Hemingfield was still an absentee, leaving beyond all question the weakest middle line which Grimsby has sent out this season. The half-back division indeed seems to be giving the directors no end of trouble this season, and it is a pity that what was a short time ago regarded as one of the best balanced trio in the First Division, should have so suddenly through causes which could not be controlled, become a source of no little concern for the management. The absence of Hemingfield is due to causes well known to our readers, but the inability of Gray came as a great surprise to the football public when it was announced in the “Telegraph” that owing to an attack of influenza he would be unable to turn out today. Hall was retained in place of Hemingfield, but it was a more difficult thing to find a capable centre half. In the end it was decided to play Bromley, whom many considered should have been taken to Small Heath, and confidence was expressed that despite the fact that he was making his debut in First Division football against such a powerful lot of forwards as those of Everton, that he would make a by no means poor substitute. No other changes have to be noted, so far as to-day’s team is concerned, but it is worthy of notice that since November 9th, when the teams last met Grimsby have made no less than seven changes. In the front line only Ronaldson remains of the team that was defeated at Grimsby. Nelmes is the solitary representative of the half-back line, but be it noted that the backs are unchanged. Grimsby was hoping to-day that the last two lines of defence would rise to the occasion, and indeed upon Whittaker, Mountain and McConnell rested a larger responsibility than has occurred probably this season. Everton have made no secret this season of their intention of making a bold bid for the championship, and the way they started indicated that they had good reason to believed their players capable of lifting the League Cup. Six weeks went by before they met with their first defeat at the City ground, and commencing with November 2nd they pretty well won everything before them. Recently though they have bene rather inconsistent. Flattering the hopes of their supporters by drawing at Newcastle and Sheffield, they allowed Blackburn to beat them at Goodison Park. The result was that their supporters at once said “Good-bye” to the championship, when lo and behold, they come smilingly along and capture a couple of the best last week at Stoke, and once again put a different complexion on the outlook. But for the fact that Sunderland were equally successful last Saturday at Blackburn, the victory of the Toffee men might have meant a lot, but as things stand at present the Northerners appears to have a pretty good chance of taking the League Cup away from the Mersey Town, and thus remove from Tom Watson’s sideboard a valuable and much treasured ornament. The Grimsby team left along with Mr. Burnham and the Town Secretary, Mr. Hickson, yesterday afternoon, and made a stay at Southport for the night. The teams were as under;-
Grimsby Town; Whittaker, goal; Right back Mountain, Left back McConnell; Hall, Bromley and Nelmes, half-backs; Ronaldson, Fletcher, Right wing; Appleyard, centre; Long, Gardner, left wing.
Everton; Kitchen, goal; Balmer, and B. Sharp, backs; Clarke, Booth (Captain), Abbott, half-backs; S. Harp, Taylor, Young, Bone, Singleton, forwards.
It was dull and cloudy at Goodison, and occasionally a very slight drizzle fell. The ground was rather wet and soft owing to yesterday’s rain, and the wind was blowing slightly diagonally across the ground. The Grimsby team arrived safe after a pleasant stay overnight at Southport, and when the teams turned out it was plain there would be great difficulty in distinguishing the men, the dark blue of Everton and Town’s chocolate and blue appearing exactly similar from a short distance, so Mr. Brodie ordered Everton to change, and they turned out again all in white.
There were about 10,000 spectators at the kick-off, and though Everton won the toss they gave Grimsby the advantage of the wind. Town soon lost the advantage of the kick-off, for Abbott trapped the ball and sent forward to Singleton, who gave to Bone. The latter made a bad pass to the right and Nelmes was thus able to relieve the pressure. Then Appleyard beat Booth, and Ronaldson looked like getting through, but Sharp pulled him up a bit too smart. Neither goalkeeper was troubled for the first two or three minutes for a stern fight was going on in the middle of the field to make headway. At last the home men managed to break the opposition but Taylor shot weakly at the finish, and it was the easiest thing in the world for Whittaker to get rid of the ball, which came to the centre. Nelmes was tripped by Young, and Mr. Brodie promptly awarded a free kick which resulted in the ball being landed well in the Everton goal and giving Kitchen a very uncomfortable time. The home custodian seemed a bit nervous for once when he had a clear chance to punch out a shot from Gardner, he slung the ball over his own goal line. Nothing, however, came from the corner. Everton now had a turn, their right putting in a movement which baffled Nelmes and gave McConnell a handful to deal with; Indeed he could not stop them for Taylor centred, and Bone essayed a low shot which brought Whittaker down full length to save. This he did at the expense of a corner. Some sparkling work was next seen between Ronaldson and Fletcher. They first got the chance from Appleyard, who, having dodged Booth, gave to Ronnie. Our inside right went off like an arrow, dribbling in clever style. He passed Abbott all right, but B. Sharp seemed likely to prove the stumbling block, but Ronaldson had not done. He merely jumped over the ball and back-heeled to Fletcher, who went straight ahead, the back being too astounded to interfere. Harry swung in a lovely centre which Gardner unsuccessfully tried to head through. The Clyde man, however, had another try, but Appleyard got wrong by impeding Kitchen and was promptly whished up. It was a very stuff fight which was going on. There was nothing particularly brilliant about the game, but it was a hard and determined one, and a contest in which Grimsby were fully holding their own. Each goalkeeper had an equal amount of work to do, and it was evident that neither side was going to be allowed to score without stern opposition. Mr. Brodie was handling the game very well, though why he gave Taylor offside once was somewhat hard to understand. However, it relieved the pressure on the Grimsby goal. Backwards and forwards the ball went, the halves, of both teams working hard and fast. Bromley had a tough customer to meet in Young, but he never skirked. Hall came in very useful in front of goal now and then. Once Mountain saved the situation by putting in a long drive just before Bone could get his foot to the ball. Then two wonderful misses occurred. First Young with no one to beat but Whittaker screwed the ball four yards on the wrong side of the post. At the other end Gardner had a fine chance, Kitchen being three yards out of goal. The Grimsby man shot too hard, and the ball flew high over the cross bar. Another descent by the Everton right and almost on the goal line the ball struck McConnell’s hand. Although it was purely accidental, there was an appeal for a penalty, but for some reason not at all obvious, the referee gave a free kick to Grimsby. The ball was returned, and Booth tried a long high shot which Whittaker had only just time to poke over the bar. Fletcher cleared the succeeding corner with an overhead kick, and again Ronaldson went away, but was stopped by Sharp. Just before the interval Whittaker saved magnificently from Young. Half-time;- Everton 0, Grimsby Town 0.
On resuming, Everton’s attack was broken by Bromley, who shot ahead to Appleyard. From him the ball went successively to Long and Fletcher, but Harry in trying to get away unfortunately over-ran himself, and Booth pouncing on the ball gave to J. Sharp, who raced down followed closely by Long. The Grimsby man bothered the Everton flier so much that he found himself in a corner, and still unable to get his centre in. Then Nelmes came along to help long, but Sharp was put on his mettle and refused to part until the incident ended by Long tripping him. This of course did not do any good for the free kick landed the ball in front of the Town goal where it stopped for a bit, and in attempting to clear from Singleton, Mountain nearly put through his own goal, the ball just missing, and of course giving Everton a corner. This was taken by Singleton, and before it could scarcely be realised the ball had been raced down to the other end, and Fletcher was right in front of goal with the ball at his toe. A score seemed certain, but Ginger got his foot the wrong way round the ball, and it flew sideways. This was the first real attack the Town had made this half, for in the first few minutes Everton had been pressing hotly. Once Grimsby broke the ice, however, they soon put in some more visits to Kitchen, Gardner, owing to a mistake by Balmer was let through, and gave Kitchen a teaser. Our right wing put in some clever runs, but still no goal came. Everton’s work just now was rather erratic. Sharp, the forward, made some very silly shots, whilst Young had a very peculiar knack of passing back without any apparent reason. A foul to Grimsby was useful but Appleyard was not prepared for it and back the ball came giving the visiting defence an uncomfortable time. Thanks to some good understanding between our men the attack was gradually forced back, and Nelmes, Long, and Gardner carried the ball to the other end, where Ronaldson all but scored. Grimsby were repeatedly getting dangerous now. As the game drew towards a close the excitement became more intense as the Town were gaining a decided advantage over their opponents in points of play. With only ten minutes to spare a free kick was awarded Grimsby, and from this Nelmes found the net with a beautiful shot, and scoring what proved the only goal of the game. Until the sounding of the whistle Grimsby maintained their superiority of play, and were all over the Everton men, and though the exhibition was not a classical one, the Town team worked hard for, and deserved, the win. Result;- Grimsby Town 1, Everton nil.
SPECIAL ON THE GAME.
There was the wildest enthusiasm in the streets of Grimsby when within four minutes of the whistle sounding at Goodison Park a hundred newsboys burst upon the populace with the result which can safely be described as little short of the sensational. For a time it was hardly believed, but the accuracy of the “Telegraph” for football scores left nothing for it but for local football enthusiasts to cheer and cheer again. The performance practically makes Grimsby safe, and we may lay out our stall for another season of First Division football. As the Town Club has only three home matches to play in two months it is to be expected that when the Directors make a special appeal for assistance as they will have to do if a sound team is to be signed on for next season, that we shall not any of us grumble, but “put our hand down,” and cheerfully help the club to keep its place in the League. There is a time for cheering and a time for paying. Let us do our part worthily when the request comes officially along. On Monday night our own reporter, who was at the match to-day, and witnessed the brilliant performance of the team, will tell in graphic pen pictures the story of the greatest triumph of to-day’s League matches. To-night it must suffice to simply give his brief comments on the game. He telegraphs;- The First half was great from a Grimsby point of view, I do not mean the Town gave an overwhelming display, but they certainly met their opponents at all points, and gave as good as they received. No quarter was asked on either side. It was a half, full of bustling play, with occasional flashes of brilliancy, which proved very acceptable. I liked the way our halves worked. They struck to their men and gave them as little room as possible. Bromley seemed at bit at sea now and then, but put in some useful work, and was in the main quite reliable. The weakness on both sides was the shooting. Each set of forwards proved tricky and smart on the run, but as for shooting, well, about half the shots went straight and half missed. Bad misses some of them were, and each set of forwards were about equally to blame. At the beginning of the second half I though Everton were going to score for they kept the ball in the Grimsby half, in a most persistent manner, but our defence prevailed, although had it not been for some assistance by the forwards, notably Fletcher and Long, there might have been a different tale to tell. But all’s well that ends well. The Everton attack spent its fury and then a big change came. Grimsby began to assert themselves, with the result that the play was worked into the vicinity of Kitchen, who made a few good saves, but at length had to own himself beaten Nelmes’ goal was a beauty, and was got through his being just in the right place. Grimsby victory was well earned and thoroughly deserved, a fact which was almost universally admitted by those within hearing of the Press Box.

EVERTON 0 GRIMSBY TOWN 1
March 10 1902. The Liverpool Mercury
On Saturday Grimsby Town appeared for the first time at Goodison Park in the premier division of the League. The weather was not too favourable for a big attendance, drizzling rain falling some time before the match began. Everton were short of Wolstenholmes, Settle, and Bell, Clare, Bone, and Singleton, taking their places, while on the visiting side Bromley appeared for Gray, at centre half. The teams were: -
Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Balmer, and Sharp (b) backs, Clark, Booth (captain), and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp (j), Taylor, Young, Bone, and Singleton, forwards. Grimsby Town: - Whittaker goal Mountain, and McConnell, backs, Hall, Bromley, and Nelmes, half-backs, Fletcher, Ronaldson, Appleyard, Long, and Gardner, forwards. Everton having won the toss, Appleyard kicked off a couple of minutes after time before about 10,000 spectators. The home team were the first to make headway, but they were easily driven back, and play settled down in midfield. Ronaldson fouled Abbott, but the free kick was not utilised and the visiting left wing became dangerous, until Balmer neatly pulled up Gardner. Then Taylor and J.Sharp got away, and the ball went out to Singleton, whose centre was lacking in accuracy. A long shot from Booth went the wrong side of the upright, and next Fletcher and Ronaldson ran the ball down nicely until the former was pulled up presumably for offside. Taylor was penalised, and the Grimsby men, worked their way into the vicinity of the Everton goal without effect, the game so far being singularly devoid of interest. At length the visiting forwards made matters warm for the Everton defence. First Kitchen in fisting out from Long, conceded a corner, and from this Bert Sharp missed his kick in the goalmouth. Kitchen however, easily cleared, and in a twinkling he was called upon by Hall. Suddenly play was transferred to the other end where Bone tested Whittaker with a fine shot, which the custodian scooped out at the expense of an abortive corner. Grimsby retaliated and when a score seemed likely Long was penalised for charging the goalkeeper. By dint of sheer determination Everton carried the play into their opponents territory, where Booth, evidently having his mind his success at Stoke the previous Saturday, put in a bouncing shot which gave Whittaker trouble. There was more dash about Everton's play at this period, but in front of goal, there was a tendency to dally with the ball instead of shooting. The home left wing did some smart things, but at this period they were rather outclassed. For some minutes, Everton maintained a persistent attack, but they rarely appeared likely to penetrate the Grimsby defence. At the other end, Long shot wide. And next a pretty centre by Singleton right into the goalmouth was heartily applauded. Everton had the bulk of the play, but there was a woeful lack of incisiveness in their attack. With practically only the goalkeeper to beat Young missed his kick, and than a sudden bust away on the part of Fletcher and Appleyard produced some excitement, especially when it was seen that Gardner had a glorious chance of opening the score. To the disappointment of his colleagues, he failed to utilise the opening. After this the pace improved and both sides showed to better advantage. Neither side had scored when the interval arrived. On resuming Everton dashed off in promising style, but the custodian was not troubled, the visiting defenders sticking closely to their men. Young was upset just outside the penalty line, and J.Sharp had a try from long range, only to find the ball curl the wrong side of the upright. After two corners to Everton, Fletcher ran the ball down three parts of the length of the field, and his fine individual efforts deserved a better fate than it received, for he shot the ball yards the wrong side of the post. To this Everton responded with alacrity, but again the old fault was evident, and the crowd were not surprised when Young shot slowly into Whittaker's hands. Then Appleyard was conspicuous, and presented an opening to Fletcher, who however, muddled his chances of giving his side the lead. The visitors were now having rather more of the play, and occasionally looseness, prevailed amongst the Everton defence. A quarter of an hour from the finish, Nelmes scored for Grimsby from a scrimmage in the goalmouth. Final result Grimsby Town 1 goal Everton nil.

EVERTON v. GRIMSBY TOWN.
London Daily News - Monday 10 March 1902
A surprising result was the outcome of this match at Everton on Saturday, for, in the presence of 12,000 spectators, Grimsby beat the home team by one goal to none, The opening play was dull and lacking in incident, Everton being very weak in front of goal. The interval arrived with nothing scored, and although Everton subsquently obtained several corners, they failed to make the best of their chances. Towards the close Nelmes scored for Grimsby from a scrimmage, and this point sufficed to give the visitors the victory in a poor game.

ACCRINGTON STANLEY RESERVES 4 EVERTON RESERVES 2
March 10 1902. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination.
At Acrrington, before 5,000 spectators. Stanley went off with great dash, and liberally over whelmed the Everton defender. Gardner and Golding scoring for Stanley within ten minutes. Everton rallied and Proudfoot scored, but the point was disallowed for offside. Stanley had a strong wind behind them. Again Everton pressed, and Wright forced a corner. Oldham relieved and Watkins scored for Stanley. Paterson scored for Everton. Interval Stanley 4 goals, Everton 1. Result Stanley 4, goals Everton 2.
Everton: - Muir, goal, Watson, and Eccles backs, Boyle (captain), Clark, and Blythe, half-backs, Rankin, Paterson Bowman, Bone, and Chadwick forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
March 10 1902. The Liverpool Mercury
Grimsby one, Everton none. Need anything more be said about the game? It must be admitted that the symmetrical cypher attached to Everton's title faithfully portrays the extent of their ability displayed against the Fishermen. Not only did they fail to score, but they exhibited a woeful lack of dash, combination, and deadliness near goal, which practically occurred disaster throughout the piece. A fortnight ago the Rovers showed them their failings, the comparative of their movements, and their weak attempt to locate the goal; but one could understand this to some extent, for the East Lancashire eleven had acquired a promising reputation by reason of a succession of smart triumphs. But Grimsby were looked upon as being of inferior quality and without any intention of casting a slight upon the east coast eleven. They were naturally anticipating, as fairly easy victims. They made the journey to Liverpool on Friday, and spent the night at Southport, thus leaving nothing to chance as far as they were concerned. But it is safe to assert that had Everton shaped even moderately well, they would have been equal have been equal to accounting for their opponents, and the fact that they were vanquished, will therefore under the circumstances, demonstrate the nature of their work. Even by stretching one's imagination to breaking points, it would be impossible to draw attention to any redeeming feature about the play of Everton in this match. The forwards appeared incapable of scoring, or of maintaining a continued attack of any degree of keenness. Their passing was faulty, and as often went to an opponent as to one of their own side. Young never got the wings going in anything like concerted fashion, and this was due at much to the feeble work of the inside forwards as to the fact of himself being off colour. Taylor and Bone were dreadfully weak, and Sharp was by no means a success. There was no cohesion between the members of the front line, and even when they did obtain a favourable opening they either dallied with the ball, until the chance had disapperced or they made some most inexcusable blunder. Singleton started well, and sent across some excellent centres, but in the second half his ability was less conspicuous and dwindled away to the level of the remainder. The Everton forwards are evidently stale, and for players of their reputation their exhibitions in the last two home game have been as starting as they been ineffective. Considered from another point of view, this is satisfactory in the sense that if they do change at all an improvement is bound to result, for they can scarcely descend to a lower depth of puerility. The half-back line showed little better form. Rarely has Abbott been beaten with such consummate ease, and with international caps hovering about it would be impossible to urge the claims of the left half on Saturday's display. Booth played a hard game, but even he was not as effective as usual, and Clark was good and had alternately with a considerable preponderance of the latter quality intermingled. The full backs were likewise very faulty for Balmer was languid in his returns there was wanting the customary dash and verse which are such characteristic features of his work when in form. Sharp made several blunders, and none greater than the one which gave Grimsby a free kick, and which led up to the visitors securing the only goal of the match. Kitchen had not a decent shot to stop, for Grimsby mulled as many openings as would have won a couple of games. The visitors would probably be more surprising, at the result than the home supporters, but they deserved their victory. Whittaker was equal to every emergency in goal, and Mountain played a good game at right back. The halves were more determined than brilliant, and in the forward line Gardner contributed some dashing sprints, as did Fletcher on the extreme right, but in front of goal the Fishermen made some inexcusable blunders. Such games as the one under notice, however, force one to the plain question-Where is Liverpool football vanishing to 1.

EVERTON - GRIMSBY
Athletic News - Monday 10 March 1902
Everton, who won at Grimsby 2-0, were beaten in the return at Goodison Park on Saturday by 1-0 and even the absence of such players as Wolstenholme, Settle and Bell is small excuse for such a reverse.  Everton were really weak all round, although Singleton the player they secured from Bury, was very useful indeed as outside left.  Without being in any way wonderful the “Fishermen” deserved their victory, and Nelmes, who scored the only goal of the game, played very well, indeed, although the best man on the side was Gardner, who has fine speed.

ALEX YOUNG
Athletic News - Monday 10 March 1902
The Everton directors accomplished a rare stoke of business when they secured the services of Alexander Young, who has shown such distinct ability to fill the onerous post of centre-forward since his selection to do duty with the League eleven.  The serious injury to Wilfrid Toman created a great gap in the Everton attack, for centre-forwards are not easily obtained, but Young stepped into the breach, and progressed so favorably that no Everton team could now be regarded as representative that did not include this rapidly improving player.  He was born across the border at Slamanan a little over 20 years ago, so that he has youth on his side, and should reach a higher pedestal of fame.  Standing 5ft 8 ¾ in., and scaling 11st 7lb, he is well suited for the position he fills.  His early career was with the Slamannan Juniors, and it was with this local eleven that he developed a real fondness for the game.  His skill quickly became recognized outside the precincts of his birthplace, and Paisley St. Mirren introduced him to a better class of football.  He left the “Saints” in 1900 to join Falkirk and it was whilst playing with this latter organiastion that his ability was discovered by some of the Everton directors.  The two crack Glasgow clubs-Rangers and Celts- were on the scent, but Young had an idea that he would like to come to England, and Everton thus gained their objected.  For some weeks he displayed his cleverness with the reserves, and his chance came when Toman was hurt.  He cannot as yet boast any honours-international or inter-league –but he has proved a rare find for Everton, and the most pleasing feature about him is the gradual improvement, which is raising him to the rank of a first-class centre.  He takes the ball beautifully and is not only tricky, but places to his wings with great judgement, and a fast rising shot from fairly long range is one of his favourite methods of deceiving a goalkeeper.  He has fallen into Settle’s style, and much of the inertness of the Everton attack in recent matches has been caused by the inside left being unable to play.  The good-humoured Scot- like most of them- has taken a great fancy to England, and Everton sanguinely anticipate their centre receiving the highest honours of the Football arena ere many moons pass. 

A GREAT DAY FOR ACCRINGTON
Athletic News - Monday 10 March 1902
Everton Reserve received an unexpected rebuff from Accrington Stanley, whose victory by 4-2 completely establishes their claim to rank as rivals with either the Manchurians or the “Toffee” men for pride of place in the Combination.  It was a momentous game, and 5,000 spectators braved the discomforts of dripping rain all afternoon.  Strange, though it may sound, Everton never had a look in; they were beaten in all points of the game-in speed, dash, cohesion, and accuracy of marksmanship.  The display of Stanley was really marvelous –undoubtedly the cleverest this season.  Among a team of level excellence Golding, Watkins, and Gardner shone very prominently, while the veteran Hargreaves was as useful as ever in helping Oldham in generalship.  Everton had not their best strength and suffered in consequence.  Muir had little chance with any of the goals but through the pitiable display of the halves there was sadly too much pressure put upon him and his colleagues, Eccles and Blyth, who worked hard.  Rankin was very persistent, Proudfoot and Makepeace fully justified expectation, but on the whole the Everton forwards were out of balance. 

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 10 March 1902
UNIQUE DISPLAY BY EVERTON
By Junius
Everton’s defeat by Grimsby was one of those things that had never been taken into consideration by anyone having a knowledge of the relative form of the two clubs.  The display given by the Goodison Park eleven was lacking in every quality that can command success on the field.  The attack, for instance, was utterly devoid of dash, and in this respect was a repetition of the form shown against the Rovers a fortnight previous whilst the shooting was at its lowest ebb.  But the forwards were not alone to blame, for the defence was terribly weak, and both Balmer and Sharp made some most inexcusable blunders.  There was a nonchalant air about their methods, that practically invited disaster, and Sharp who has an awkward habit of fouling an opponent dangerously near the penalty line, was the initial cause of the visitors gaining the only goal of the match.  Truly, have Everton fallen from their high state.  This is the third time this season that they have failed to score at home, but it is certain that the latest defeat is the most bitter pill the club have had to swallow for many a day.  And unless the players pull themselves together and throw more heart into their work, there will be more disasters to record. 

EVERTON EXTINGUISHED BY GRIMSBY
Athletic News - Monday 10 March 1902
By Junius
The Everton eleven have given some remarkable exhibitions during their career, but it is questionable whether they ever descended to such depths of impotency as on the occasion of the visit of Grimsby to Goodison Park.  They had previously beaten the Fishermen on their own enclosure by two clear goals, so that their defeat in the match under notice was all the more astounding.  Everton had three of their usual team away, Settle and Wolstenholme being engaged in the Inter-League fixture at Newcastle, whilst bell was suffering from another injury to his arm, received at Stoke the previous week.  But didn’t imagine I am forwarding this as any excuse for the defeat of Everton; they were not vanquished because they were scarcely at full strength, but simply and solely on account of their own shortcomings.  Grimsby did not play a great game by any means, but Everton gave a decidedly feeble exhibition, and it is questionable whether they have ever been seen to such disadvantage. 
THE GOAL THAT DID
There was only one goal scored in the match, and as a matter of fact, the ball was netted but once throughout the whole ninety minutes.  I do not intend to set forth the various phases of the contest, which was of a decidedly featureless character, and which reflected not the least credit upon the home players.  Singleton ran and centred with some degree of merit, but when it came to a question of shooting, all semblance of accuracy vanished.  There was no score at the interval, and none was deserved, though Grimsby missed a glorious chance of opening their account.  In the early portion of the second half, Everton seemed as if they were alive to the situation, but as time were on they gradually fell back into their previous state of incompetency, Sharp fouled Fletcher when twenty yards from goal; the ball was well placed, and first one and then another attempted to score, only to find the ball returned, until the sphere came out to Nelmes in the scrimmage and he promptly netted.  This was the winning point, and had the visitors shaped with anything like keenness near goal they should have increased their lead from many centres whipped across by Gardner, who showed a fine turn of speed and repeatedly beat the Everton backs. 
HUMPTY-DUMPTY HAD A GREAT FALL
Everton played the part of the above character to perfection.  Erected on a giddy height some few weeks ago, as likely to run the prospective champions a close race for premier honours, they are now fallen from their pedestal and if Saturday’s game be any criterion, are a hopeless wreck.  There was not one branch of the team that even rose to the level of average merit, and a more weak-kneed, featureless display of would be impossible to imagine.  Their opponents played but a moderate game, but as this proved too good for Everton it will be easily understood what sort of an exhibition the home players indulged in.  It was, indeed a sorry exhibition all round, utterly unworthy of the traditions of the Everton club, and whilst giving the visitors every credit for their victory it must be reluctantly admitted that they had absolutely nothing to beat.  Had the Fishermen taken the chances that came their way they should have been the victors by three goals instead of one.  Gardner made an awful attempt to score, with a practically open goal, and Fletcher, after racing through all opposition, kicked the ball outside, and nulled as fine an opening as any forward need wish for.  Gardner, however, played a capital game, and showed a fine turn of speed, whilst Fletcher accomplished many smart things and several of the other sort.  Mountain was the pick of the backs and Nelmes deserves the credit of his countrymen, if only on account of the goal he scored.  Whittaker was equal to every call upon him, but he must have been astonished by the weak efforts of his opponents to overcome him.  Everton; Kitchen; Balmer, and B. Sharp; Clark, Booth, and Abbott; J. Sharp, Taylor, Young, Bone and Singleton.  Grimsby Town; Whittaker; Mountain, and McConnell; Hall, Bromley, and Nelmes; Fletcher, Ronaldson, Appleyard, Long and Gardner.  Referee; J.B. Brodie, Stafford. 

EVERTON v GRIMSBY TOWN
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 10 March 1902
Played at Goodison Park, before 12,000 spectators, Everton were weakened by giving good men to the International game- namely, Settle and Wolverhampton and in their places were Clarke and Bone. The full teams were;-
Everton; Kitchen, goal; Balmer and B. Sharp, backs; Clarke, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Bone and Singleton, forwards.
Grimsby Town;- Whitaker, goal; Mountain and McConnell, backs; Hall, Bromley, and Nelmes, half-backs; Fletcher, Ronaldson, Appleyard, Long and Gardner, forwards. Referee Mr. Brodie.
Booth having won the toss, set his opponents to face what wind there was blowing. Appleyard kicked off, and a long series of exchanges ensued in close proximity to the half-way line, Abbott at last being instrumental in enabling his compatriots to advance. However, the efforts of the homesters were soon nipped, a bad pass from Clarke being easily captured. Appleyard and Long followed by making desperate efforts to press forward, but every move was accounted for by Abbott and Balmer in the coolest possible manner. Everton still pressed forward and after a while Booth took a long shot at goal, but missed. The opening exchanges had not been exciting, but the fishermen put in a very pretty move down their right, which might have been dangerous had not Mr. Brodie pulled Fletcher up for offside. Singleton on being pressed, swung round and took a flying shot at goal, which sailed over the crossbar, and a little later on he succeeded in effecting a splendid centre. This spell of attack by Everton had not much method in it, and they never seemed earnest in their endeavours to open the account until Sharp and Taylor raced up, and with perfect understanding got very much the best of Nelmes and McConnell. Eventually the ball was slung over to the home right, where Sharp worked the ball down, and at the finish he, along with Young and Taylor, were as busy with the ball as flies around a honey-pot, but when it came to goal shooting it was a dead failure. Just afterwards Young made a dreadful miss, as after a pass from the left he had but to put his toe to the ball and a goal was certain, but the effort was too much for him. Soon after Whittaker repelled a stinging attempt from Taylor. Grimsby paid a leisurely visit to Kitchen, where Long put in a tame and ineffectual shot. The forward play on both sides up to this point had been of a most mediocre description, and hardly one forward on either side had distinguished himself though Singleton did force a corner a few minutes from the interval and dashing into the fray sent one in which Whittaker had to clear. Soon after Booth have a nice pass to Young, and the whistle sounded as he cleared from Young.
Half-time; Everton nil, Grimsby Town nil.
Young restacted, the Everton left, after a few minor exchanges moving sharply towards the Grimsby goal, only to be smartly pulled up by Mountain. However, the leather found its way to the opposite wing, where Sharp after making desperate efforts to effect a centre, was penalised. The free kick availed nothing to the visitors, who were soon beaten back, and after a while Young was placed for a shot, but instead of banging the ball in he commenced fiddling about, and was deservedly robbed by Mountain. The home contingent kept making strong dashes for goal, and at the finish of one made a bold bid, but shot wide of the posts. In the last stages the visitors did the best work, Everton displaying rather poor form, and at the finish were well beaten, Nelmes scoring for Grimsby.

TODAY TEAM NEWS
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 15 March 1902
Everton v Sunderland, League match at Goodison Park; Kick-off 3.30
Everton; Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Eccles, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards.
We understand that the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress and a distinguished party will witness the game. The above team will also represent Everton at Manchester on Monday against the City, the kick-off taking place at 3.15. train leaves Exchange Station 1.30.

EVERTON v  SUNDERLAND
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, March 15 1902
YOUNG SOON OPENS EVERTON’S ACCOUNT
TAYLOR ADDS A SECOND BEFORE THE INTERVAL
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
Glorious weather prevailed at Goodison Park to-day, when Sunderland the prospective champions of the League, were due to antagonise Everton. Between the two teams for years past there has been keen rivalry, and only a few weeks ago the home lot flattered us with successes which suggested League honours, since then, however, the team has been considerably disarranged, and Everton’s record has suffered accordingly. To-day, the Evertonians turned out fit and well, and with a fully representative team, determined to give the northerners stern battle, and repeat, if possible the glorious victory attained when they visited Sunderland and scored 4 goals to 2. At an early hour it was evident there would be an exceptionally big gate to record once more the well proved fact that no visitors to Goodison Park are more popular than doughty Sunderland. Amongst the spectators on the grand stand were the Lord Major and Lady Mayoress and a distinguished party of citizens. The home club had a much better team this week than last, and turned out at full strength, with Settle, Bell, and Wolstenholme back in their places, while Eccles appeared at left back. As regards the visitors they were short of McLatchie, in whose place Craggs was playing. The sun was shining brilliantly when Sunderland led the way on to the enclosure, being closely followed by the home eleven, each team appearing to the accompaniment of a ringing cheer. The preliminaries were soon arranged, and the combatants faced in the following order. Mr. Kirkham being referee.-
Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Eccles, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth (Captain) and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards.
Sunderland.- Doig, goal; McCombie and Watson, backs; Ferguson, McAllister, and Jackson, half-backs; W. Hogg, R. Hogg, Miller, Gemmill, and Cragg, forwards.
Booth won the toss, and placed his opponents with the sun in their eyes, but they appeared to have the benefit of what wind was blowing. Miller kicked off, and, after the usual exchanges in the centre, Settle was checked by Ferguson, and on the other wing Taylor put the ball outside. Bell was fouled, and the free kick led up to an assault on the Sunderland goal, Young getting well placed, and shooting hard, Doig bringing off a magnificent save. Suddenly the Sunderland van dashed away, Miller and R. Hogg proving very troublesome, but Eccles cleared well. The next moment, however, the home quarters were again threatened but from the opposite wing, and Eccles cleared a straight drive from Gemmell; but the Wearsiders kept pegging away. After a weak clearance by Eccles, Craggs and Gemmell put in some excellent work at close quarters. The former shot over. The visitors kept well to their task, but Eccles with a clever drive relieved and the “blue line” was away in grand style. McCombie stepped into the fray, but before he could get fairly at the ball Bell out in a grand centre; and Young, dashing up to time exactly, met the leather, and drove past Doig, the success being achieved in the most workmanlike fashion after five minutes’ play. After this success, Everton kept up the pressure in earnest fashion. The Everton halves were playing a very fine game, and rarely gave their opponents an opening, but on two occasions the two Hoggs did get as far as Eccles, being routed on each occasion. A clever place by Booth gave Settle possession, the last named coolly popping the ball over McAllister’s head to Young, who dashed in and tried to score, but was given offside. Eccles drove the ball hard into the goal, and nearly scored, after which Sunderland had a bit more luck, and managed to get through the Everton half-line in force. R. Hogg was checked by Eccles, but the opposite wing did better, Gemmell passing on to Miller, who had a pop at goal, but lifted the ball over the bar. Everton’s attack was full of method and brilliant in charcater. Sharp and Taylor dashing up, the former shot with great force, but Watson’s body received its full force, or a second goal might have been registered. McCombie dashed into the fray, but came to grief, and after a delay of a few minutes he was carried off the field, as one of his feet was evidently beyond temporary repair. Miller left the centre forward position, and went full back. Starting once more, Everton’s left was very soon in evidence, but the ball was carried past the goal-post. Very soon the left was attacking, and Settle was in a good position, but too well watched to get power on the ball, so his shot went wide. Another very fine centre from Bell should have been captured by Young, who missed, and Taylor made a dreadful finish by the skying the ball at a distance of about half a dozen yards. A good run by Craggs and a centre from the same, was turned into a corner by Eccles, but a foul against McAllister nullified the advantage. On the opposite wing, R. Hogg was going great guns when he was bowled over by Abbott, but a moment later W. Hogg got through, and shot across the goalmouth. After a further spell of pressure by the Wearsiders, the Evertonians reasserted themselves to a considerable degree, and a grand long shot from Wolstenholme drew forth a rousing cheer. After Everton had been favoured with a free kick W. Hogg got in a grand run, and successfully eluded Abbott and Booth, Cragg and Gemmell were both waiting on the other wide to receive the pass, but, unfortunately for Sunderland’s chances, he shot just over them, thus their best chance was lost, as Everton’s defence had been skilfully beaten. After some hard fighting in midfield, the ”Blues” emerged successful and though Miller and Watson several times checked the Evertonians front line, they got their measure, and Taylor, who had been anxiously awaiting an opening found it at last, and Doig was defeated for the second time, after the game had been in progress for thirty-one minutes. For a while after Everton’s second goal play was rather quiet, but at last the home left went down with a swing, the result of which was a corner. At the second attempt this was cleared, both Booth finished the business by a long lunge at goal, which missed the mark. Craggs, on two occasions, led the way into Everton’s territory, where the Sunderland men did very little, Eccles generally being the stumbling block. After being beaten by Ferguson, Settle a moment later drove the ball wide, and just afterwards put in a splendid shot, which Doig just managed to get at with his left hand and beat away. After these marvellous escapes of Doig, Sharp and Taylor redoubled their efforts and got well up, when Young joined in, but though there was a lot of clever finessing, Sunderland’s defence was too tough, and Watson shot over to his left, but they did not make very much progress owing to Wolstenholme’s attentions. As they still pressed, Balmer dashed in, and clenching which Gemmell damaged his foot and had to be carried off, just as the whistle announced the interval. Half-time- Everton 2 goals, Sunderland nil.
Young restarted before about 25,000 spectators, neither Balmer or McCombie turning out with their comrades, Booth falling back. Very soon after the restart Sharp made a strong dash along his wing, but was closely pursed, and so hampered that he was at last beaten, as was also Taylor, who endeavoured to continue the move. Sunderland adopted the one-back game, and the crowd gave vent to angry cries of “Play the game, Sunderland.” Just as Everton were about to retaliate there was a nighty cheer, and it was then noticed that Balmer was coming through the wicket gate to take up his accustomed position. End to end play ensued in the course of which Everton held a slight advantage, but there was nothing very exciting about the game, and indeed, it was rather of a scrambling nature. Later on the Everton left wing put in some clever touches, and at last the ball swung over to Sharp, who was over-anxious and shot wildly. The next moment Taylor was well placed, and might have scored, but he preferred to leave it to Settle, who immediately dashed forward, and netted the ball, but he was so obviously offside that the goal was at once disallowed, notwithstanding Settle’s somewhat animated protest. A pass from the centre was carried along by Bell, and a corner was the result. Bush, after a stiff bully in goal, cleared. Then a rattling shot from Settle nearly took effect, and just afterwards Young shot into Doig’s hands. Taylor missed. A corner to Everton followed, from which the ball was placed over the crossbar.
Final Result; Everton 2 goals, Sunderland Nil.
Last year Everton won by 1 goal to nil.

EVERTON PLAY FOOTBALL
Athletic News - Monday 17 March 1902
By Junius
Not many weeks ago it was thought that the return game between Everton and Sunderland would prove a sort of final tie for the League championship, but the recent doings of the Goodison Park eleven have sadly discredited these anticipations, and the match under notice was thereby bereft of much of its interest.  Nevertheless there were fully 25,000 persons present, and on the large stand, by special invitation of the directors, the Lord Mayor and several members of the City Council graced the proceedings with their presence.  Both teams were at full strength, if we may except the presence of Craggs on the extreme left, vice McTatchie and when Booth won the toss he set the Wearsiders to face a glaring sun and a fairly stiff breeze. 
THE STORY OF THE GOALS
In five minutes Everton were a goal ahead, the result of some really clever forward play, Settle craftily dribbled down, and when within shooting range drove strongly inwards but the ball cannoned off McCombie and came out to Young, who with a beautiful ground shot gave Doig no possible chance of clearing.  Everton were certainly going great guns at this juncture, and after Kitchen had fisted away from Graggs, the home forwards burst through the opposition, and Taylor was tackled by McCombie.  In the tussle the right back was hurt, and had to be carried off the field by the trainer.  He took no further part in the game, and Miller was brought from centre forward to fill his place.  From now to the interval Everton had all the play, and Taylor skied the ball when almost under the bar.  Shortly afterwards Bell ran down, and crossed to Settle, who deftly landed the ball past the Sunderland backs, and Taylor dashing in put on the second goal.  Just before half-time Balmer hurt himself in attempting a return with a couple of opponents on the ball and on resuming both sides started with ten men.  Sunderland then adopted the one-back game and Everton who had brought out Booth to fill Balmer’s place, did likewise.  A few minutes afterwards Balmer reappeared amidst defeating cheers and Sunderland were a beaten team all through this half.  Kitchen had scarcely handled the ball until Watson sent in a trimmer from near the half-way line, but gallantly though the backs strove to hold the Everton attack; it was left to Doig to save his side from a complete rout.  Time after time did he repel glorious shots which might easily have found the net with a less experienced custodian custodian between the uprights, and one full length clearance from Wolstenholme’s was applauded to the echo.  Five minutes from time Taylor broke through all opposition and banged the ball against the upright, but the play in this period was spoiled by the Everton front rank being repeatedly offside.  However, for the second time this season Everton vanquished Sunderland by a margin of two goals. 
REFLECTIONS
Everton were a totally different team from that which fell before the attack of Grimsby.  With Settle in the forward line there is always danger looming ahead, and the cute manner in which the inside left repeatedly placed the ball to that comrade most favourably situated for scoring was suggestive of the artist that he really is.  The three inside forwards were decidedly effective, full of dash, trickery, and deadliness near goal, and rarely have I seen McAllister so often beaten as he was in this match.  Young repeatedly baffled him, and the goal he scored was with that characteristic shot whose speed from fairly long range has baffled even the most adroit keeper.  But the extremities of the line were decidedly weak, for Sharp was given no chance whatever by Jackson and Bell in the first half did not display any undue tendency to get to the ball.  In the second half he improved considerably and sent across some capital centres, but the extreme right winger was feeble throughout.  At half, Everton’s superiority was most marked and I have rarely seen Booth give such a finished exposition.  His tackling was excellent, and his placing most accurate, whilst in Wolstenholme and Abbott he had partners who were little behind in efficiency.  Half-back was Everton’s strong point in this match, and the Wearsiders could make no sort of a show against them.  Eccles gave a dashing exhibition, and Balmer more nearly reached his customary standard, but Kitchen has rarely had such an easy afternoon as was the case in this game.  Sunderland gave a disappointing display, for their forwards made little headway and seemed to be imbued with little idea of combination; whilst that determined deadliness near goal which they usually delight Liverpool crowds with was entirely wanting.  Jackson was the pick of the half-back line, and Watson defended with grim stubbornness, but it was left to Doig to once more keep his side from severe disaster, and his performance was worthy of his great reputation, for the home forwards gave him something to do.  Sunderland must have been off colour, but even with a full team they could scarcely have prevented the defeat, for, it must be remembered, Everton had shown their superiority before McCombe had to leave.  Everton; Kitchen; Balmer and Eccles; Wolstenholme, Booth, and Abbott; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Bell.  Sunderland; Doig; McCrombie, and Watson; Ferguson, McAllister, and Jackson; Hogg (W), Hogg (R), Miller, Gemmill, and Craggs.  Referee; Mr. T. Kirkham (Burslem). 

EVERTON 2 SUNDERLAND 0
March 17 1902. The Liverpool Mercury
Weather of the most lovely description favoured the match between Everton and Sunderland at Goodison Park, and there were about 20,000 spectators present, when the game started. The Lord Mayor (Right Hon. Charlies Petrie.) and several members of the City Council were present. On the Everton side Eccles superseded Bert Sharp, while Cragg took the place of McLathchie in the Sunderland team. The teams were: -
Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Balmer and Eccles, backs, Wolstenholmes, Booth (captain), and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards. Sunderland: - Doig, goal, McCombie, and Watson, backs, Ferguson, McAllister, and Jackson, half-backs, Hogg (w), Hogg (r), Miller, Gemmill, and Craggs, forward. Booth won the toss, and Sunderland kicked off against a bright sun, and in the teeth of a variable breeze. The game opened in spirited fashion, and after Taylor made a bad pass to J.Sharp, Bell was fouled by W.Hogg. Following the free kick Eccles did smart work, and almost unexpectedly Doig had to deal with a dangerous shot, from Young. The Everton forwards were quite a different team to that which represented the club last week. There was no mistaking their determination, and the pace was terrific. Before five minutes had elapsed, Settle centred, and Young fastened upon the ball cannoning off Ferguson, who completely beat Doig with a lovely ground shot. This success was naturally received with tremendous cheering. The game continued to be contested in vigorous fashion, the ball travelling from end to end with marvelloous rapidly. The Everton front line, time after time nonplussed the visiting defence, their smartness being cordially appreciated by the crowd. From a centre by Settle the ball was banged against Doig by Taylor, who, however, was ruled offside. From a free kick the visiting left was conspicuous, but again sterling defence was offered to the clever attack, and no impression could be made upon Kitchen. At the other end Taylor, was presented with a nice change, but he kicked very poorly. The game was delayed for some minutes owing to the injury of McCombie, who was carried off the field. Instead of resorting to the one back game. Miller partnered Watson. A splendid attempt to force the game on the part of W.Hogg was applauded. He outwitted a couple of opponents, and looked like becoming dangerous, but unfortunately for the Evertonians his cross was woefully lacking in direction. Immediately the Evertonians retaliated and a high dropping shot from Booth dropped on the crossbar, and bounded over the line. However, the pressure, which they exerted was soon rewarded. Bell took up the ball and passed to Settle, who crossed it well forward past the backs, Taylor dashed up at the same time that Doig came out of his goal, and getting to the ball first banged the ball into the goal, at the same time apparently coming into contact with Doig's knee. The second success was again received with loud cheering. Although short-handed the Wearsiders struggled gamely, but there was no mistaking the superiority at this stage of the Evertonians. Jackson was quite a match for Jack Sharp, who was playing a waiting game without much opportunity of shinning. Remarkably clever tackling by Booth was appreciated and from his pass, Settle called upon Doig to use his fist, the Sunderland goal at this period having to undergo a regular bombardment. Just as the whistle was blowing for the interval Balmer rushed up and kicked the ball just as an opponent got his foot to it. He lay on the ground, and had to be carried off the field. Half-time Everton 2; Sunderland nil.
When the teams reappeared in the presence of fully 25000 people, it was noticed that both sides were short of their right backs. In the press box no information could, be obtained as to the injuries that Balmer and McCombie had sustained. Booth started in Balmer's place, but as Sunderland resorted to the one back game Booth resumed his original position. However, not many minutes had elapsed when Balmer game on the field amid hearty cheering. The play was pretty open, with Everton claiming rather most of the exchanges. Young was badly fouled by Watson as he was getting nicely away, and a moment later Booth was penalised for a foul. Sunderland improved, and one of the few calls, which were made upon Kitchen came from Watson, who sent in a lighting shot from long range, Bell was showing up much better than in the first half, and from one of his sprints he forced a corner off Watson. This however, was not improved, and although Everton attacked with great persistency, Doig kept a marvellous goal, and nothing further was scored. Final score Everton 2; Sunderland nil.

EVERTON REVIEW
March 17 1902. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton went a long way towards rehabilitating themselves in their favour of their supporters by their victory over Sunderland, but the success invariably leads one to regret what might have been, had the team shown its real form when pitted against the Rovers and Grimsby. Saturday's game would then have been a sort of final tie for the League championship, with more than a possibility of the honour being retained in this city for another twelve months. A display against Grimsby similar to that set forth for the detection of the Wearsiders would have sent the Fishermen back with a sadly damaged net, and it is difficult to reconcile to the failings of the team one week with the excellencies of another. It may be that Everton have a reputation to maintain, but, in this case it were desirable that their characteristic feature of always falling away when most is expected from them would quickly vanish. However, there could be no availing at the exhibition given against the prospective champions, and rarely have the Wearsiders been so completely overplayed as they were at Goodison Park. Even taking into consideration the injury to McCombie, which necessitated his retirement from the struggle-and this was a serious handicapping of the enemy's force- there was a keenness about the movements of the home players which showed that even with a full eleven, the Wanderers would have had a rough journey. It must not be forgotten that Everton had roared their first goal-a beautiful effort by Young-before this untowed event occurred to the visitors defence, but the solution to the home team's superiority lay in the fact that the Sunderland forwards could do nothing with the Everton half back line, and the former were rendered impotent and ineffective by some of the cleverest work at half that has been seen at Goodison for many a day. The one outstanding figure in the Everton team was Booth, and the consummate ease with which he dispossessed his opponents and placed to his own forwards with unvarying accuracy, left to the undoing of the usually stirring attack of Sunderland. The Everton centre was complete master of the situation and Wolstenholme and Abbott, each of whom rarely allowed their opposing wings the slightest latitude, splendidly followed his example. No wonder the Sunderland attack was effective, and seldom occasioned Kitchen any anxiety; their maneuvered bring was out maneuvered by the home trio; the incisive of their attack vanished before the impenetrable Everton halves, as the mist fade away before the rising sun. Almost every move of Miller and his comrades was rendered abortive by the line of defence, whilst the home forwards were given endless opportunities of making headway. In speaking of the Everton front rank, whole sale praise cannot be award, for the three inside players bore the brunt of the attack, whilst the wings were evidently chipped, and unable to accomplish their fair share of the work. The cause is not far to seek for both Bell and Sharp fought shy of the men they had to face, and allowed them unlimited room in which to effect a clearance. A drawing back when an extra dash forward would have materially effected their chances of success spoiled their play, and though Bell did improve in the second half, the Lancashire cricketer was disappointingly weak throughout. Settle played a beautiful game, and fairly bewildered his opponents by his trickery. He and Young got along famously together, and the former's placing of the ball was chiefly responsible for this, as witness the pass over Watson's head which gave Taylor a splendid opening to obtain the second goal. Much of the credit of this point was due to Settle, notching the opportunity and practically putting the leather in the best position possible for his comrades. Young was a great success in the centre, and his goal was a grand effort, whilst Taylor worked with more effect, than has been the case for some weeks. The backs were sound, Balmer showing great improvement in his work, whilst Eccles gave a dashing exhibition, and there is no lagging behind on the part of the old Wolverhampton man. Hesitancy and lack of resource cannot be laid to his charge, and whenever he went ahead, Balmer always there to cover a possible failure. Kitchen had a very easy position, and, strangely enough, his most trying shot came from Watson, the Sunderland back. The office of his vis-à-vis, Doig was however, no such sinecure, and their rare qualities of this fine custodian were tested to the utmost. He anticipated a shot with rare judgement, and twice repelled efforts, from Bell which appeared certain to bring disaster, whilst a ground shot from Wolstenholmes-cleared at full length-and rousing drives from Young and Settle were got away with equal skill. Watson kicked strongly, and, brooked little interference, whilst Jackson made a sad mess of Sharp at left half, and repeatedly got the ball whilst the right winger was waiting to received it. Considering that he was labouring with a bandaged limb, and had to tackle the Everton left, Ferguson did very well, but the forwards were not by any means responsive. The International W.Hogg was occasionally prominent and Cragg was also conspicuous, but as a body the Sunderland forwards were far removed from the standard which they have invariably reached when in Liverpool. To-day Everton are due at Manchester to play their return fixture with the “Cits” and in view of the latter's precarious position they are bound to be confronted with a most determined opposition. It they repeat Saturday's form, however, the Manchesterians will have all their work cut out to win, and as the same team will visit Hyde Road, that overthrew Sunderland, there seems to be no reason why Everton should not annex two more points.

EVERTON v. SUNDERLAND.
Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer - Monday 17 March 1902
Played at Goodison Park, before 25,000 spectators. The game opened at a tetrific pace, and after five minutes Young scored a fine goal for Everton. McCombie was carried off the field injured. Taylor got a second tor Everton. Balmer was injured just before half-time, when Everton led by two goals. In the second half both teams started with ten men, but Balmer soon re-appeared. Sunderland played the one-back game, and were continually on the defensive, doig keeping a marvellous goal, repelling many brilliant shots. Near the close Sunderland gained a couple of corners, which were not turned to account. result- Everton 2 goals, Sunderland nil.

EVERTON v. SUNDERLAND.
London Daily News - Monday 17 March 1902
Great interest was taken in this match at Liverpool, there being very large crowd. It was a very hard and fast game, both sides losing men through accidents during the game. Early in the game Young scored for Everton, after which McCombie was hurt, and had to be carried away. Subsequently Taylor scored a second goal for Everton, who crossed over with that advantage. Sunderland, who had but ten men, had play a defensive game daring the second half, but thanks to Doig, Everton could not score again, and only won by two to nil.

EVERTON v SUNDERLAND
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 17 March 1902
Played at Goodison Park, about 20,000 spectators being present, including the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Liverpool. The following were the teams;-
Booth won the toss, and placed his opponents with the sun in their eyes, but they appeared to have the benefit of what wind was blowing. Miller kicked off, and, after the usual exchanges in the centre, Settle was checked by Ferguson, and on the other wing Taylor put the ball outside. Bell was fouled, and the free kick led up to an assault on the Sunderland goal. Young getting well placed, and shooting hard, Doig bringing off a magnificent save. Suddenly the Sunderland van dashed away, Miller and R. Hogg proving very troublesome, but Eccles cleared well. The visitors kept well to their task, but Eccles, with a clever drive, relieved, and the “blue line” was away in grand style. McCombie stepped into the fray, but before he could get fairly at the ball Bell put in a grand centre; and Young, dashing up to time exactly, met the leather, and drove past Doig, the success being achieved in the most workmanlike fashion after five minutes’ play. After this success, Everton kept up the pressure in earnest fashion. The Everton halves were playing a very fine game, and rarely gave their opponents an opening, but on two occasions the two Hoggs did get as far as Eccles, being routed on each occasion. A clever place by Booth gave Settle possession, the last named coolly popping the ball over McAllister’s head to Young, who dashed in and tried to score, but was given offside. Eccles drove the ball hard into the goal, and nearly scored, after which Sunderland had a bit more luck, and managed to get through the Everton half-line. McCombie dashed into the fray, but came to grief, and after a delay of a few minutes he was carried off the field. After Everton had been favoured with a free kick, W. Hogg got in a grand run, and successfully eluded Abbott and Booth. Cragg and Gemmell were both waiting on the other side to receive his pass, but, unfortunately for Sunderland’s chances, he shot just over them, thus their best chance was lost, as Everton’s defence had been skilfully beaten. After some hard fighting in midfield, the “Blues” emerged successful, and though Miller and Watson several times checked the Evertonian front line, they got their measure, and Taylor, who had been anxiously awaiting an opening, found it at last, and Doig was defeated for the second time, after the game had been in progress for thirty-one minutes. For a while after Everton’s second goal play was rather quiet, but at last the home left went down with a swing, the result of which was a corner. At the second attempt this was cleared, but Booth finished the business by a long lunge at goal, which missed the mark. Cragg, on two occasions led the way into Everton’s territory, where the Sunderland men did very little, Eccles generally being the stumbling block. After being beaten by Ferguson, Settle a moment later drove the wide, and just afterwards put in a splendid shot, which Doig just managed to get at with his left hand and beat away. After these marvellous escapes of Doig, Sharp and Taylor redoubled their efforts and got well up, when Young joined in, but though there was a lot of clever finessing, Sunderland’s defence was too tough, and Watson shot over to his left, but they did not make very much progress owing to Wolstenholme’s attentions. As they still pressed, Balmer dashed in, and clenching with Gemmell damaged his foot and had to be carried off, just as the whistle announced the interval.
Half-time; Everton 2 goals, Sunderland nil.
Young restarted, neither Balmer or McCombie turning out with their comrades, Booth falling back. Very soon after the restart Sharp made a strong along his wing, but was closely pursued, and so hampered that he was at last beaten, as was also Taylor, who endeavoured to continue the move. Sunderland adopted the one-back game, and the crowd gave vent to angry cries of “Play the game, Sunderland,” Just as Everton were about to retaliate there was a mighty cheer, and it was then noticed that Balmer was coming through the wicket gate to take up his accustomed position. End to end play ensued, in the course of which Everton held a slight advantage, but there was nothing very exciting about the game, and, indeed, it was rather of a scrambling nature. Later on the Everton left wing put in some clever touches, and at last the ball was swung over to Sharp, who was over-anxious and shot wildly. The next moment Taylor was well placed, and might have scored, but he preferred to leave it to Settle, who immediately dashed forward, and netted the ball, but he was so obviously offside that the goal was at once disallowed, notwithstanding Settle’s somewhat animated protest. A pass from the centre was carried along by Bell, and a corner was the result, Bush, after a stiff bully in goal, cleared. Then a rattling shot from Settle nearly took effect, and just afterwards Young shot into Doig’s hands. Taylor missed. A corner to Everton followed, from which the ball was placed over the crossbar. Result; Everton 2 goals, Sunderland nil.

SATURDAY FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 17 March 1902
If the Everton team a week ago had shown anything like the play they did on Saturday there might now have been a possible chance for their taking League honours again. However, the fiasco they made with their match against Grimsby Town has settled their hash. Saturday’s football against Sunderland was a flash of old form, and it pleased their many thousand friends and spectators who witnessed the game. The Goodison Park men also have the satisfaction of knowing that they have twice defeated Sunderland this season, a feat no other team can claim.

DEATH OF AN EX-LORD MAYOR OF LIVERPOOL
Bolton Evening News - Monday 17 March 1902
Information reached Liverpool to-day of the death of Cimiez of Ald. John Houlding, an ex-Lord Major of the city, who has had a remarkable career. From a humble beginning he built up an extensive brewing and public house business, and for many years has been one of the leading public men of Liverpool. He was the founder and president of the Liverpool Football Club.

MANCHESTER CITY v. EVERTON.
London Daily News - Tuesday 18 March 1902
Ten thousand spectators witnessed this match Hyde-road. Manchester. Even play marked the opening, after which the City attacked, and in quick succession Meredith and McOustra put on a couple of goals for them. Everton then took up the attack, but Sharp, Taylor, arid Settle all missed some good openings, and at half time the score was still in favour of the City. Resuming, Everton attacked strongly, and Hillman was given plenty do. Singleton found the not, but was given offside. Both goals were threatened times, but nothing further was scored, and Manchester City wore left winners by two goals none.

DEATH OF "THE KING OF EVERTON."
Hull Daily Mail-Tuesday 18 March 1902
Information reached Liverpool on Monday the death at Cimiez Alderman .John Houlding, ex-Lord Mayor of the city, who has had a remarkable career. From a humble beginning built up extensive brewing and public-house business, and for many years has been one-of the leading public men Liverpool in Corporation, poor law, political, and philanthropic work. was long known " the King of Everton, and owed great deal lof his popularity to his Interest in athletics.

DEATH OF “THE KING OF EVERTON”
March 18, 1902 Hull Daily Mail
Information reached Liverpool on Monday of the death at Cimiez of Alderman John Houlding, an ex-Lord Mayor of the city, who has had a remarkable career. From a humble beginning he built up an extensive brewing and public house business, and for many years has been one of the leading public men of Liverpool in Corporation, poor law, political, and philanthropic work. He was long known as “the King of Everton,” and owed a great deal of his popularity to his interest in athletics.

MANCHESTER CITY 1 EVERTON 0
March 18 1902. The Liverpool Courier
This postponed match took place at Hyde-road, Manchester, yesterday, and as the weather was beautifully fine, there was an attendance of some 12,000 spectators. Orr was off on the home side, Slater taking his place, whilst Watson superseded Balmer in the visiting team, the latter player having received injuries in the game against Sunderland. Prompt, at 3-15 the referee (Mr.John Lewis) marshalled the teams as follows: -
Manchester City: - Hillman (j), goal, Slater, and Jones, backs, Moffatt, Hynds, and Hoste, half-backs, Meredith, McQustra, Gillespie, Drummond, and Threlfall, forwards. Everton: - Kitchen, goal Watson and Eccles backs, Wolstenholmes, Booth (captain), and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Singleton forwards
Gillespie set the ball in motion on behalf of the City, but the Everton forwards at once got away, Jones repulsing in the nick of time. Threlfall and Drummond retaliated on behalf of the City, put McQustra sent wide, and from the goal kick, Young just failed to open the Everton account from Sharp's centre. Play was fast, and, with the ground in good conditions, some capital play was witnessed, the home side, however, having a trifle the best of matters. Threlfall on one occasion put in a grand shot, which taxed Kitchen to the utmost. At the other end, Singleton went wide of the posts, Watson pulled up Meredith and McQustra following which Abbott shot grandly, only to find the burly Hillman in the road. The latter cleared, and with the goal at his mercy, a few moments later, Sharp put the ball over the bar, to the evident disgret of the partisans of the visitors supporters. Level play followed, but the Mancunians plodding away in right good style, a trifle more than held their own, and at last their efforts were rewarded. Meredith getting away on the right in brilliant style, and sending in a shot, with which, Kitchen had no chance. Needless to say, the first point for the City was heartily welcomed. Encouraged by this success, Manchester redoubled their efforts, and shortly afterwards McQustra headed through, thus practically leaving the game in their hands. When in front of the posts, however, the visitors forwards could not find the net, and thus several chances went a miss. Taylor making attempts with an open goal. Nothing further was done up to the interval, when Manchester City were leading by 2 goals to nil.
On resuming Everton went away, and from a foul, Settle in a fine shot, which Hillman punched put, the Blues however, continuing the pressure without effect. A fine move by the visiting forwards ended in Settle again closing in to Hillman, but with a ground shot, the attempt failed. The burly custodian throwing clear away, and enabling Meredith and McQustra to make a far outslaught on the Everton goal. Gillespie had extremely hard lines with a fine attempt, which deserved a better fate, Kitchen allowing the sphere to pass the posts. Play was of a give and take order, but there was no mistaking the earnestness of the City, who evidently were determined to keep their lead. Threlfall as a result of one of these movements, shot hard cross, but the Everton citadel escaped disaster, although it was a narrow ecaspe. The next item was a short sprint by Sharp, but on the ball being passed to Young, the latter was fouled. Hillman clearing easily from the subsequent free kick, with the result that Settle was penalized at the other end. Moffatt's shot went wide, however, but in close following a grand shot by Meredith, was tipped over the bar, the resulting corner coming to nought. The Evertonians could make no appreciable headway, at this period although on one occasion the Manchester goal had a narrow escape from a run down by Settle, Young, and Taylor. Meredith had one of his usual sprints only to be foiled at the last moment, and Hynds was penalized thus giving another chance to the visitors. Threlfall interposed, and sent in a hot shot. From this point until the close of the game play was of a give and take character, the only noticeable item bring a scrimmage in front of the City goal, where the custodian was impeded with the customary free kicks. In the last few minutes Everton tried their utmost to reduce the opposing lead. Hillman saving smartly from Wolstenholmes, but their efforts were unavailing, and Manchester City secured a well-deserved Victory by 2 goals to nil.

DEATH OF ALERMAN JOHN HOULDING
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 18 March 1902
We regret to learn that Alderman John Houlding died at Nice in the South of France, yesterday. Alderman Houlding had been in feeble health for some time, but it had been hoped that a trip to the South of France would restore him to convalescence. Last week, however, his condition became so serious that his son and daughter, Councillor William Houlding and Mrs. T. Knowles, were summoned to his bedside. The alderman gradually sank and died this morning as stated.
In the neighbourhood of Everton and Anfield, where he was so well known, the news of Alderman Houlding’s demise created a profound sensation. In Oakfield-road and Anfield-road many of the residences were marked by drawn blinds, and on the Liverpool Football Club grounds the flag fluttered mournfully at half-mast. For some time past the decreased had taken no active part in the management of the football club, but he was always keenly interested in its doings, and he was intimately known and appreciated by the players.
MAGISTERIAL REFERENCES
During the proceedings at the City Police Court, yesterday, the stipendiary (Mr. W.J. Stewart) said that he was very much shocked to hear of the news which had just reached him of the death of Mr. John Houlding. The shock was doubled from the fact that none of them knew he was seriously ill. Apart from being a magistrate, Mr. Houlding was a very prominent citizen for many years. He discharged in a very efficient and worthy manner the duties of chief magistrate for the city during his term of office. He (Mr, Stewart) had known him many years before he was on the bench, and had many opportunities of coming in touch with him. He had always heard of him spoken of as “Honest John Houlding,” and everyone who came in contact with him found him honest to the backbone. It was a great loss to Liverpool, to which he devoted a very large position of his life. He (Mr. Stewart) wished to tender on behalf of his brother magistrates and himself their sincere sympathy to the relatives of Mr. Houlding. Detective Chief Inspector Robertson wished to associate himself with the remark of the stipendiary. Mr. Houlding was, he said, a good friend to the police in many ways, and on all occasions he had given them every assistance possible in carrying out their duties.
During the hearing of the cases at the Third Police Court, over which Mr. T.E. Sampon presided, the intimation of the death of Alderman John Houlding was received. Mr. Sampson said he could not allow the business to proceed until reference had been made to the sad news which had just reached Liverpool. He knew Alderman Houlding very well indeed, and frequently met him on various matters connected with hospitals and other institutions and movements for the warfare of the community in which he took a warm interest. Mr. Houlding was a gentleman whose advice and assistance was most valuable, and he was always ready and willing to give it. As a public man he had long occupied a prominent position, and had discharged his duties with credit to himself and benefit to the city. He was appointed a justice of the peace in 1897 and the same year he became the Lord Mayr. During his Mayoralty he won appreciation from all classes, and his death would be regretted by all sections of the community. One was almost overwhelmed by the deaths of citizens who had attained high position, and the regret was all the more poignant when they remembered that such tried and trusted men were very hard to replace. Speaking on behalf of his brother magistrate, Mr. T.E. Linton, and himself, he wished to express sympathy with the family of Alderman Houlding in their bereavement. Mr. Linton said it had been his privilege to know Alderman Houlding for the last thirty years, and had intimate association with him during that time and respected him very much. Mr. Houlding’s connection with Everton had been long and useful. No man was so well known or esteemed more highly in that distinct than he. He had done good work for the locally and the city as a whole, and his death was a great loss to all.
SYMPATHETIC RESOLUTION OF THE CONSERVATIVE CLUB
Prior to the commencement of the ordinary business of the annual general meeting of the Liverpool Conservative Club, held yesterday afternoon it was unanimously resolved on the motion of the Chairman (Mr. Isaac Morris), seconded by Dr. Utting;- that this meeting of the Conservative Club, Liverpool desires to record its sincere regret at the death of Mr. Alderman John Houlding, an original member of the club, a former Lord Major of the city, an ardent political worker, and a most zealous and devoted adherent of the Conservative party. Further, that this meeting expressed its deep sympathy with the family of their late colleague in their bereavement, and requests the chairman to forward a copy of this resolution to Mr. Councillor Houlding.”
BREWERS’ ASSOICATION AND THE DECEASED
At a general meeting of the Liverpool and District Incorporated Brewers and Spirit Merchants’ Association, held yesterday, upon the death of Alderman John Houlding, J.P. being reported a resolution was immediately passed that no business be transacted, and that the meeting be postponed out of respect to the memory of the late chairman of the association.
MEMOIR
The late Alderman John Houlding who in 1897-8 filled with success and distinction the office of Lord Mayor, was a native of Liverpool and was born in Everton in the year 1832. He began life as an employee in the Custom House, but relinquished that employment to assist in his father’s business, which was that of a cow-keeper. The concern proving unprofitable, owing to the loss of stock from cattle plague, Mr. Houlding obtained a situation in the brewery of Mr. W. Clarkson, Soho-street. He started in a somewhat humble capacity, but being a man of worthy character, rose eventually to the position of foreman and chief brewer. In that appointment he showed himself an accomplished expert. Subsequently, having saved sufficient capital, he entered into the business of a licensed victualler on his own account, and by prudent accumulation was enabled to establish in Teignmouth-street, Everton, a brewery of his own. In this way he turned his skill in the science of brewing to good account, built up a flourishing business in the “sparkling ales” associated with his name, and became the proprietor of a number of “tied” houses. For many years he was an active politician on the Conservative side, and as chairman of the Breck road branch of the Working Men’s Conservative Association was prominent in the fierce political contests in the old Everton and Kirkdale Wards. His first association with public work was on the West Derby Board of Guardians. He was elected a member of that body in 1873, and continued to be a member of it until his decease. In 1884 he was elected to represent Everton and Kirkdale in the City Council, receiving 8,196 votes against 5,819 cast for his opponent. Mr. David Hughes. In 1891 he was unsuccessfully opposed by Mr. William Nicholson, and again in 1894 by Mr. J.H. Naylor, a Labour candidate, on the extension of the city boundaries in 1895 he was raised to the bench of aldermen. As a member of the City Council he did active work on their Health Committee, presiding for some years over the Scavenging and Works Department, which he maintained in great efficiently. One of the reforms he assisted to bring about was the more scientific method of dispersing of town refuse by means of “destructors.” Previously the refuse had been neatly taken out to sea, or the deposited in a raw state  on suburban “tips.” He was also an active advocate of the open spaces, and in that connection did good work on the Parks and Garding Committee. Among other public positions he was a member of the Lancashire Asylums Board, a member of the Everton and Kirkdale Burial Boards, an overseer for some years of the township of Everton, and president of the Liverpool Carters’ Association. His occupancy of the office of chief magistrate in 1897-8 was a distinctly popular one, and he did the honours of the Lord Mayoralty in a way that was above criticism and gained for him much esteem. It was currently believed that he had long cherished the ambition of becoming chief magistrate.
The late alderman, who was long known as “the King of Everton,” owed a great deal of his popularity to his interest in athletics. His interest was chiefly in cricket, swimming, and football. It was his energy and organising ability which made the fame of the Everton Football Club, and, after the differences which led to the removal of the club from the ground at Anfield to that at Goodison Park, Walton, he established the rival Liverpool Club, which soon won its way into the front rank of the League. In his earlier days he was a playing member of the Breckfield Cricket Club.
Mr. Houlding was one of the oldest, most enthusiastic and influential representatives of Freemasonry in Liverpool. It was during the year of his Lord Mayoralty that he had the high distinction conferred upon him of being elected Grand Senior Deacon of England, an office which gave him the privilege of sitting on the right of the Grand Master of the Order in England, who was then the Prince of Wales (now his Majesty King Edward VII). Naturally Mr. Houlding was proud of this honour. The deceased gentleman had also filled the office of Grand Senior Warden of the Province of West Lancashire when the late Lord Lathom was provincial Grand Master. Of the various and multitudinous orders and high degrees-including that know as the “Thirty-three degree”-of the craft, there were very few that Mr. Houlding had not passed through or held at one time or other in his masonic career. He was P.M. of several local lodges, his mother lodge being Everton, of which he was senior P.M. a short time ago, he, with some other gentlemen, founded a lodge called the Sir Walter Raleigh in Liverpool. He was elected its first W.M., and it was only recently that his year of office expired. He was a most popular and highly esteemed member of the Order, and his death will be greatly regretted by a very large circle of brethren.  Although, in the most unqualified sense, “the architect of his own fortune,” Alderman Houlding was not simply devoted to the amassing of wealth. In private life he was a diligent student, and a lover of literature; and, although he began with no great advantage of education, he managed, in spite of the cares of business and of politics, to become an unusually good French scholar, and a terse and sensible public speaker, by no means devoid of polish. He did not often speak in the Council, but his contributions to debate were practically valuable, and were always received with respect. He was also a fair and moderate opponent. In 1897 he was made a justice of the peace for the city. During the later years, Alderman Houlding practically retired from business. He devoted his leisure partly to Continental travel, for which he had a keen liking. Another other places he visited Constantinople, and was decorated by the Sultan with the Order of the Imteaz of the First Class. He also represented the Liverpool Corporation at the International Health Congress at Moscow in 1897. It may be added that Alderman Houlding was one of the chief advocates of the establishment at Fazackerley of the West Derby Union Cottage Homes for Children, and one of the initiators of the annual dinner to the aged poor, which was first held in 1869 in a schoolroom in West Derby-road. The deceased alderman was a widower. His son, Mr. William Houlding, B.S., is a barrister of the Middle Temple.

ALDERMAN JOHN HOULDING J.P
Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 18 March 1902
An ex-Lord Mayor of Liverpool, who had been in the City Council for some 18 years, and a member of the West Derby Guardians 29 years, died yesterday at Cimiez where he had been sojourning in the hope of re-establishing his health. He was 70 years of age.

DEATH OF ALD J. HOULDING
Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 18 March 1902
A USEFUL CAREER
Death has removed one of the most prominent of Liverpool’s citizens in the person of Alderman John Houlding, J.P., an ex-Lord Major of the city, of Stanley House, Anfield-road, Stanley Park. He had not been well for some time, and with the object of recruiting his health he recently journeyed to Cimiez. His condition, however, became such that early last week it was thought advisable to communicate with the relatives in Liverpool. On receipts of this message, Mr. William (Alderman Houlding’s son) and Mrs. Knowles (his daughter) proceeded to France, and remained with their father until the end came at 71.5 yesterday morning. When the news was received in Liverpool widespread regret was expressed, and flags were placed at half-mast at the Town Hall, Conservative Club, and many other public and private buildings. Born at Everton in 1832, of humble parentage, Alderman Houlding, who received his education at the Liverpool Colleague, commenced his career as an employer in the Custom House, but subsequently assisted his father, who was a cow-keeper, by carrying out the milk cans. Mr. Houlding, however, owing to the milk business declining in consequence of loss of stock from plague, had to seek other employment, and was engaged in the brewery of W. Clarkson, Soho-street. Although he started here in a lowly way, by his industry and indomitable energy he quickly improved his status, gradually climbing the ladder until he became foreman and chief brewer. In this capacity he obtained great expertness, and having saved sufficient he launched out on his own account as a licensed victualler. By means of that untiring perseverance which at all times characterised his labours, he was enabled to enter the brewing trade, and established the Tynemouth-street Brewery, Everton, which has become such a prosperous concern, and in connection with which are a number of “tied” houses. During recent years the alderman had practically retired from business, and he spent his leisure in travel, having visited amongst other places Constantinople, when he was decorated by the Sultan with the Order of the Imteaz of the First Class. Despite the assiduity with which he devoted himself to business he found considerable time when quite a young man to give to public matters. In politics a strong Conservative, he became a power in Everton on behalf of that party, and was for many years familiarly known as “King John of Everton.”
It was on the 21st November, 1894 that he first entered the Liverpool City Council, and thus commenced a career of great usefulness on behalf of his native city. He was elected by the ratepayers of Everton and Kirkdale Ward, which then embraced an electorate of some 26,000-a longer electorate than that of any municipality in the kingdom. How popular he was with the people of those districts was evidenced by the fact that his majority on that occasion was 2400; and this was still further demonstrated at a subsequent election, for his majority was then increased to 4,000. Mr. Houlding continued to represented that ward until 1895, when, on the extension of the city, he was raised to the aldermanic bench. From the time he entered the governing body of the city he gave special attention to matters directly affecting the wellbeing of the inhabitants, and more particularly the poorer people. He never tired in his labours in connection with the improvement of sanitation and the provision of open spaces, and long he served the city as chairman of the Sanitary Sub-committee of the Health Committee or in connection with the Parks Committee, of which he was deputy-chairman. In regard to sanitary matters he studied them most closely, and one of the reforms which he largely assisted to bring into vogue was the improved method of dealing with the town refuse by means of destructors. Frequently did he attend health conferences as a representative of the city; on one occasion, in 1897, he travelled as far as Moscow to attend a sanitary congress. Another assembly which he regularly attended was the Congress of the British Institute of Public Health, and in 1896, when the gathering was held in Glasgow, Alderman Houlding contributed an instructive paper on “The History of the Treatment and Disposal of City Refuse in Liverpool. During the Last Fifty Years.” In November, 1897, he was chosen and elected Lord Mayor of the City, although numerous protests were raised on the ground that he was a brewer. It was undoubtedly the ambition of his later life to rise to this dignity in his native city, as exhibited by a latter which he wrote just prior to his election, in which he expressed the wish to imitate the example of the old Lord Mayor of London-Dick Whittington-and when, in returning thanks after having been invested with the chain of office, Alderman Houlding remarked that it was the proudest moment of his life. He discharged the duties attaching to the position of chief magistrate with a zeal that made his year of office most popular, in some respects notable. At the time of his death Mr. Houlding was chairman of the Sanitary Sub-Committee of the Health Committee, and a member of the Health Committee; chairman of the Special Sub-Committee as to Burial Grounds; deputy-chairman of the Parks Committee; a member of the Acquisition of Land for Open Spaces Sub-Committee; a representative on the Lancashire Asylums Board; and also on the council of University College. Although not a frequent speaker in the City Council, his remarks were always of a practical character, and bore weight with the members generally. In connection with the West Derby Guardians, to which body he was elected in 1873, and remained a member until his demise, he performed a most valuable work on behalf of the poor. It was he who in no small measure was responsible for the establishment of the Fazackerley Cottage Homes for Children, which have proved so great a success. The esteem in which he was held by his fellow-guardians was amply testified to by his being elected twice as chairman, a distinction not conferred on any other member, and his portrait adorns one of the walls of the boardroom at the offices, Brougham -terrace. When it became known that Alderman Houlding’s name had been mentioned in connection with the Lord Mayoralty the guardians passed a resolution expressing unqualified satisfaction, and recording the opinion that such a distinction would be a most suitable recognition of the valuable service rendered by the alderman in the interests of the poor both in connection with the guardians and in his efforts to feed thousands of destitute people at Christmas time. The latter part of the resolution had reference to the work which Alderman Houlding performed in connection with the annual dinners given under the auspices of the City of Liverpool Aged Poor Dinner and Relief Fund. For many years he had acted as chairman of the fund, and it was largely due to his efforts that the success attained has been so great, for the number of people fed has in 30 years risen from 18 to 1000 at the last dinner. Alderman Houlding was also a prominent member of the North-western (Lancashire and Cheshire) Poor-law Conference, and frequently spoke at its annual meetings, always very concisely, and to practical effect. The particular medical charity to which he lent his aid was the Stanley Hospital, with which he was associated from its foundation. He was largely instrumental in carrying out the fancy fairs and galas which used to be held in Stanley Park, from the proceeds of which the hospital derived considerable benefit. As a recognition of his labours in connection with the institution he was in 1893, made the recipient of a silver punch bowl. He was created a city magistrate in 1897, was a member of the Everton and Kirkdale Burial Boards, for many years the chairman of the Township of Everton, and was president of the Liverpool Caters’ Association. To his keen interest in sports, particularly football, swimming and cricket, Mr. Houlding owed much of his popularity. Everton Football Club’s fame was largely due to his energy and organising ability, and after the differences which resulted in the removal of the club ground to Goodison Park, he established the Liverpool Club. It is understood that he was a playing member of the Breckfield Cricket Club in his earlier days. As a Freemason Alderman Houlding was well known and highly respected by a wide circle of members of the craft. When King Edward VII (then the Prince of Wales) was the W.G.M. of the order, the great services of the deceased to the fraternity in the direction of charity and in other channels were recognised by the Masonic chief, who appointed him to the important office of England. The late R.W. Bro Lord Lathom, when Prov. G.M. of West Lancashire, also recognised Alderman Houlding’s long and valuable services on two occasions-first by appointment him P.G. Register, and at a later period by promoting him to the rank of P.G. Senior Warden. He was a P.M. of the Everton Lodge No. 823 and identified with many other branches of the crafts as founder and supporters. He also held high rank in the Royal Arch and other Masonic degrees in the province, and was a generous subscriber to the West Lancashire Masonic Educational Institution, the Hamer Benevolent Fund, and the Alpass Benevolent Fund, as well as to the three great London charities connected with the order. It is expected that the body will be removed to England for burial.
PUBLIC REFERENCES -LIVERPOOL MAGISTRATES.
Mr. W.J. Stewart, stipendiary magistrate, on taking his seat on the bench yesterday morning, said he was very much shocked to receive news of the death of Alderman John Houlding. The shock was doubled by the fact that no one seemed to know that he had been seriously ill. Apart from being a magistrate, he was a prominent, useful, and generous citizen of Liverpool for many years. He had also discharged the duties of Chief Magistrate in a worthy and efficient manner, and during the time he held that office he secured the admiration of the whole of the community. He (Mr. Stewart) had known the deceased for many years before he was on the bench, and had frequent opportunities of coming into touch with him. He was generally spoken of as “honest John Houlding,” and everyone who had come into contact with him found that he was honest to the backbone. His death was a great loss to Liverpool, to the best interests of which he had devoted a large portion of his life. He (Mr. Stewart), on behalf of his brother magistrates and himself, extended their sincere sympathy with the relatives of the deceased- Detective Chief-inspector Robertson said he desired to be associated with the remarks made by his worship. Mr. Houlding had been a good friend to the police, and on every occasion he assisted them in every possible way in the performance of their duties. Mr. T.E. Sampson (whose colleagues on the bench was Mr. T. Linton), presiding in the third police court yesterday, remarked that he could not allow the business to proceed till reference had been made to the end news which had just reached Liverpool. He knew Alderman Houlding very well indeed, and frequently met him on various matters connected with hospitals and other institutions and movements for the welfare of the whole community in which he took a warm interest. Mr. Houlding was the gentleman whose advice was the most valuable, and he was always ready and willing to give it. As a public man he had long occupied a prominent position, and had discharged hiss duties with credit to himself and benefit to the city. He was appointed a justice of the peace in 1897 and the same year he became the Lord Major. During his mayoralty he won the appreciation of all classes and his death would be regretted by all sections of the people of Liverpool. One was almost overwhelmed by the deaths of citizens who had attained high positions and the regret was all the more poignant when they remembered that such tried and trusted citizens were very hard to replace. Speaking on behalf of his brother magistrate and himself, he desired to express sympathy with the family of Alderman Houlding in their bereavement. Mr. Linton  said it had been his great privilege to know Alderman Houlding for 30 years, and had intimate association with him during that time. He represented him very much Mr. Houlding’s connection with Everton had been long and useful. No man was so well known or esteemed more highly in that district than he. He had done good work for the locality and the city as a whole, and his death was a great loss to the whole community.
LIVERPOOL CONSERVATIVE CLUB
Prior to the commencement of the ordinary business of the annual general meeting of the Liverpool Conservative Club, held yesterday, it was unanimously resolved on the motion of the Chairman (Mr. I. Morris ), seconded by Dr. Utting, “That this meeting of the Conservative Club, Liverpool, desires to record its sincere regret at the death of Mr. Alderman Houlding, an original member of the club, a former Lord Mayor of the city, an ardent political worker, and a most zealous and devoted adherent of the Conservative party; further, that this committee expresses its deep sympathy with the family of their late colleague in their bereavement, and requests the chairman to forward a copy of this resolution to Mr. Councillor Houlding.
LIVERPOOL & DISTRICT BREWERS’ ASSOCIATION
A general meeting of this association was called for yesterday at the offices of Mr. Simon Jude, Cook-street, but in view of Alderman Houlding’s death it was resolved that out of respect to the memory of the late chairman of the association no business should be transacted.

MANCHESTER CITY v EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 18 March 1902
This postponed fixture took place yesterday at Hyde-road, Manchester, in beautifully fine weather, before 10,000 people. The Everton players wore mourning bands as a token of respect to the late president of the Liverpool Football Club. Alderman J. Houlding, whose sudden death yesterday morning was deeply regretted. Teams;-
Manchester City; Hillman, goal; Slater and D. Jones, backs; Moffatt, Hynds, and Hosie, half-backs; Meredith, McOustra, Gillespie, Drummond, and Threlfall, forwards.
Everton; Kitchen, goal; Eccles and Watson, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Singleton, forwards.
Everton were short of Balmer at full back and J. Bell, their places being taken by Watson and Singleton respectively. The home side were at their full strength. Gillespie started for the City, and Everton at once got down, Taylor causing Jones to clear at the opposite end, and Eccles missed his kick, but the ball went out from McQustra. The visitors passed, and Sharp centring nicely, Young just failed to head in, Jones effecting a smart clearance. Following this, the City were prominent, and Gillespie shot weakly, the ball going outside. A fine run by Threlfall to the line saw the last-named shoot straight in, and Kitchen was left to clear the shot. For Everton Singleton put in a long shot, the leather going out. Midfield play followed, and then an attack by the City was well cleared by Watson. At the opposite end Abbott tested Hillman with a beauty, and for a time it appeared as if Everton would find the net. Fine play by the home right wing saw the Everton defence sorely taxed and twice the ball was sent in by Meredith and two corners were conceded. With an open goal, Sharp sent over the bar. The omission on the part of Sharp to find the net was a big let-off for Manchester. Play of an even character followed, until Meredith got away grandly on the right, and, despite the attentions of Watson, shot a very clean goal. From the restart at centre, Young made a grand effort to break through, but Jones chimed in nicely, and sent the ball to centre. The home players then attacked, and Threlfall from close to the line tapped the ball in, and McQustra cleverly headed through. With a couple of goals behind. Everton set about their work in earnest, and Taylor was only just thwarted by Jones within ten yards of the goal. Young tested Hillman and a few moments later Settle at short range banged the ball wildly over the bar. Everton up to now had several good openings, but had shooting spoiled their efforts, Hosie twice dispossessed Sharp, but the ball was returned and Singleton on the Everton left, went full sail for all he was worth, but close in Hynds prevented him from shooting, Taylor next, with a beautiful opening, sent the ball high over the City bar. Everton as the interval approached attacked several times and Taylor on one occasion came near finding the net. Jones stopped a splendid shot by Settle, and Hillman saved from Sharp.
Half-time score; Manchester City 2 goals, Everton nil.
On resuming, Everton were conceded a free kick and after the ball had been cleared Taylor rushed in and shot finely, Hillman raising his hands just as the leather sailed over the bar. From a corner the City custodian fisted away grandly, while a little later Singleton shot into the net, but was adjudged offside. At the opposite end McQustra sent wide and then play was transferred to midfield. From this point Settle got possession, and, threading his way cleverly through the opening backs, sent in a fast ground shot, which Hillman gathered and cleared nicely. From a melee the burly City custodian nearly sent through his own goal, but following which Drummond, for the home side, twice tested Kitchen. An individual effort was put in by Meredith, who wriggled through to the centre, and just dashed the ball past the post. The venue was eventually changed, and Sharp and Taylor were prominent. There was, however, no regular attempt to shoot in, and play was taken to the Everton half, where Meredith ran down. Watson cleared to the toe of Moffatt, who sent in, and Eccles kicked away to the centre. A couple of minutes later the City attacked smartly, and Threlfall, getting possession, sent in a terrific shot, which only just failed to take effect. At three-quarter time Manchester City led by 2 goals to nothing. Final Result;- Manchester City 2 goals, Everton nil.

DESCRIPTION OF BUILDINGS
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 18 March 1902
The above picture shows the elevation of the Mersey Docks and Harbour Board’s new offices, which are occupy about 8,000 square yards, at the south end of old George’s Dock site, between Brunswick-street and James-street. Two years ago the Dock Board offered a premium of £300 for the best design for their proposed new offices, inviting about a dozen Liverpool architects to compete. Messrs. Briggs and Wolstenholme, F. B. Hobbs, and Arnold Thornley, 51, North John-street, were adjudicated the best by Mr. Alfred Waterhouse, who acted as assessor. The above is not, however, the actual design for which the premium was awarded. Its main lines are much the same, but the shape of the site at that time was of such an awkward character as to render impossible an elegant, elaborate, and comprehensive building like the above. Upon a representation from the architects, the Dock Board negotiated an exchange of land with the Corporation, and secured a fine rectangularsite for the new offices. Granted these fresh conditions, the architects have designed a building which will credit to themselves, to the Dock Board, and to Liverpool. The rearranged contour of the site not only permits of the erection much more monumental offices, but also of the principal frontage being to the river. Building operations will occupy from three to four years. Designed in late English renaissance style, the exterior will be constructed of Portland stone. The length of the building will be 260 feet, breadth 216 feet. There are four comer towers, each 144 feet high; the grand central dome is to reach an altitude of 220 feet. The main building will be 80 feet high. Facing the river is to the principal entrances. There will be two other entrances in the corner towers on the east side, approached from James-street and Brunswick-street. A most imposing feature of the building internally will be the grand octagonal-shaped central hall, 64 feet in diameter, under the grand dome, leading from which will be the large staircase and six passenger lifts to the various floors. Each floor will have a gallery running round the hall, and it may be arranged that an uninterrupted view may be obtained from the floor to the summit of the grand dome; but if an inner dome is decided upon, the view will reach upwards of 112 feet. The building will be spacious, and will contain approximately 25 per cent, more area than the Dock Board’s immediate requirements demand; but the board is wisely looking ahead, and will meanwhile let off a portion of the building for private offices. This, of course, means a source of revenue. For present purposes the space is allotted as follows:
Ground Floor: Along the east front, Bates and Dues Office—a spacious department 200 feet long and 40 feet wide, with entrances from the towers; facing Brunswick - street, the Warehouse Manager’s Department; on the principal front, facing the river, the Accountants’ and Treasurer’s Department; on the James-street frontage, offices of the Harbour Master. First Floor: Facing Brunswick-street, the Marine Surveyor and Water Bailiff’s Departments; fronting the river, the Check and Statistical Department; facing James-street, the Traffic Manager’s, Weights and Materials,and principal Examiner’s Departments. Second Floor (the chief floor in the elevation): Board-room, Committee-rooms, and the general manager’s, solicitor’s, and auditor’s quarters. Third Floor: Members’ luncheon-room, Estate and Rating Department, and part of the general manager’s staff.
Fourth Floor: Large dining-room for the clerks, kitchens, principals’ luncheon-room, and caretaker’s apartments. The rest of this floor will be available for let-off offices. The basement of the building will be utilised for storing books, documents, &c. A model of the new building, Norbury and Co., Upper Duke-street, is now on exhibition the Exchange Newsroom.

JOHN HOULDING
Sunderland Daily Echo-Wednesday 19 March 1902
A well known sportsman in Liverpool in the person of Ald, John Houlding, J.P., has died at Nice. Decreased, who was 69 years of age, was an ex-Lord Mayor of Liverpool and was one of the founders of the old Everton F.C, while he also founded the Liverpool Club, and up to his death was president and a keen supporter of the latter.

THE LATE ALDERMAN JOHN HOULDING
Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 19 March 1902
FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS
The remains of the late Alderman John Houlding will be brought over the England from Nice for interment in Fazackerley Cemetery probably on Friday next. Mr. William Houlding and Mrs. T. Knowles, the son and daughter of the deceased, are both at Nice, and aremaking arrangements for the speedy conveyance of the body to the city with which the deceased was for so long and so closely identified.
TRIBUTES AT THE WATER COMMITTEE
At the meeting of the Liverpool Corporation Water Committee, held yesterday, Alderman Burgess (chairman), referring to the great loss the city had sustained by the death of Alderman John Houlding, said that Alderman Houlding had occupied in an exemplary way many positions of a public character in Liverpool. He was a strong man, a man of sturdy character and of high principle, and for whom every member of the Council entertained a very high respect and regard. In everything that he undertook he worked arduously and strenuously for the benefit of those amongst whom he lived. Though a strong man, he was a gentle man, and in nothing more were his deep affections shown than in the interest he took in the poorer part of the population. He showed very tender regard for the Fazakerley Cottage Homes and the Indefatigable, and, in fact, for all those not able to take care of themselves. Alderman Grindley, as one of the oldest members of the City Council, and as one who has been associated with Alderman Houlding for forty-five years, feelingly endorsed the remarks of the chairman, and said that he felt as if he had lost a brother.
Captain Denton, adding his tribute, said that Liverpool had sustained a very several loss. They all appreciated the work which Alderman Houlding did for the city for so many years. Though a strong party men. Alderman Houlding was always a generous and courteous opponent.
Mr. Pierce (deputy Town-clerk) said that Alderman Houlding was a gentleman for whom the officials of the Corporation had a very high respect and esteem.
TRIBUTE FROM EVERTON LIBERALS
At a meeting of the sub-committee of the Everton Liberal Association held on Monday evening, reference was made by the chairman (Mr. Henry Jones) to the death of Alderman John Houlding, who had so long been associated with public life in Everton. The following resolution was proposed by the chairman;- “That this meeting of the sub-committee of the Everton Liberal Association deeply regrets to hear of the death of Alderman John Houlding, and wishes to place on record its appreciation of his place on record its appreciation of his public services and also to sympathise with his family in their sad bereavement.” This was seconded by Mr. J.H. Allan, supported by Mr. William Evans and Dr. E.T. Davies, and carried unanimously. There was a large gathering in the Lecture Hall, Everton-road, last evening, on the occasion of the annual concert in connection with the Everton Liberal Association. The programme, which had been arranged by Mrs. J. A Wade, was one of all-round excellence and included a bright little comedietta entitled “Bubbles,” in which the members of the party did themselves justice. During an interval Dr. Thorp, who presided, referred in sympathetic terms to the death of Alderman John Houlding. Though Mr. Houlding was not, he said, in their tabernacle they fully appreciated his noble qualities. Alderman Houlding was a friend to the poor in many ways. During his public life he instituted several social reforms, and by his death Liverpool had lost one of its noblest citizens. Dr. Thorp concluded by expressing his sympathy with Alderman Houlding relatives in their bereavement.- Other speakers associated themselves with Dr. Thorp’s sentiments with regard to the great loss Liverpool had sustained through the death of Alderman Houlding.

THE LATE ALD. HOULDING
Liverpool Mercury - Wednesday 19 March 1902
According to the latest information, the funeral of Alderman Houlding will take place in Liverpool on Friday, but the arrangements connected with the obsequies are necessarily not yet completed. The body is to be conveyed from Nice to this city, the son and daughter of the lamented gentleman, Mr. Williams Houlding and Mrs. T.Knowles, accompanying the remained home.

THE DEATH OF ALD. HOULDING
Sporting Chronicle - Wednesday 19 March 1902
The death of Alderman John Houlding, the ex-Lord Mayor of Liverpool, will be sincerely regretted by thousands of the citizens of the great seaport, as he was an honourable, broad-minded, large-hearted man, who was ever a friend to the poor and needy. But his passing away will be genuinely deplored by those who love football, for the game never had a stauncher supporter and firmer friend. The many thousands who enjoy their Saturday afternoon's recreation at Goodison Park and Anfield owe a heavy debt to the late Alderman Houlding, who, as a son of the people. very fond of the people's pastimes. I had scarcely reached the ground of Manchester City on Monday afternoon ere I encountered my old friend Mr. Tom Watson , secretary of Liverpool. who told me of the loss the club had sustained. He added that no public man had ever done more for football, and that Alderman Houlding had spent many thousands up on the game, and had made many sacrifices that the crowds which thronged the grounds knew nothing of. This I can well believe, but it is gratifying to know that the alderman's son, Mr. William Houlding, has the same love for the sport as his father. and has for years been the active chairman of Liverpool, despite the time he has devoted to the study of science and latterly to law.
Without the assistance of Alderman Houlding, neither Everton nor Liverpool would have attained the position they occupy nowadays. The earlier meetings of the Everton executive used to be held at the Sandon Hotel, Anfield, and Mr. Houlding, the proprietor of these headquarters, was in 1883, induced to buy a plot of land off Anfield-road for the use of the Everton team. In the midst of much residential property this freehold site was intended for building purposes, and was consequently much dearer than pasture lying on the outskirts of a city. Indeed, Mr. Houlding had to give nearly £6,000 for possession. This became the Anfield-road enclosure, and Everton removed there from a field off Priory-road. Everton prospered greatly under a landlord who gave them the ground rent free for two or three seasons, and as I think treated them with liberality. Of course, rent was afterwards charged, and eventually Alderman Houlding insisted upon a maximum rental of 4 per cent, on his original outlay. Everton refused to pay, and removed to build Goodison Park, while a minority of members remained loyal to Mr. Houlding, and founded the Liverpool club. These few foregathered at the private residence of Mr. John Houlding, Stanley House, Stanley Park, on March 15, 1892, and the outcome of their deliberations was a resolution appointing a committee to promote the success of the Liverpool Football Club, with Mr. John Houlding as president, an office he retained to the day of his death. The new club met with all sorts of difficulties , they began life in a large way, and have accomplished a great deal since the day when they had no funds, and when the late Mr. Houlding volunteered to put £500 in the bank to the credit of the club, for the purpose of securing players. It was understood that if the club could at any time repay this amount well and good, but if not, there would be no thought of regarding it as a debt, and of legal proceedings. Alderman John Houlding was not a man of that stamp, and it is no exaggeration to say that Liverpool owe their existence and their success to the Houlding, father and son. Mr. William Houlding is a quiet and courteous gentleman, and a clever man whom it is always a pleasure to meet, for he is rarely absent from the directors' box on important occasions. He has the sympathy of all who know him.

Settle
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Thursday 20 March 1902
owing to an injury sustained while assisting the Corinthians against Notts County at the Queen's club; R. E. Foster, will be unable to play for England against ireland at belfast on Saturday. His place will be taken by Settle, of Everton.

NORTHWICH DISTRICT v.  EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post - Thursday 20 March 1902
Played last night at Northwich, before 5,000 spectators. Enormous interest was attached to this match, which was in aid of the Northwich Infirmary Memorial Extension. Roose (Stoke), international, kept goal for Northwich. Mr. Roscoe Brunner kicked off for the Salts, who had a strong wind behind them. Singleton scored for Everton after five minutes’ play. Muir saved from Powell, Davenport had hard lines with a lovely shot. Muir saved prettily from Powell and Northwich attacked ineffectually. Interval’- Everton 1 goal, Northwich nil. Northwich had the best of the second moiety, but had hard luck. Result;- Everton 1 goal, Northwich nil.

NORTHWICH DISTRICT v  EVERTON
Liverpool Mercury - Thursday 20 March 1902
At Northwich last night, before 5,000 spectators, Enormous interest was attached to this match, which was in aid of the Northwich Infirmary Memorial Extension. Roose (the Stoke international), international, kept goal for Northwich. Mr. Roscoe Brunner kicked off for the “Salts”, who had a strong wind behind them. Singleton scored for Everton after five minutes’ play. Muir saved from Powell, Davenport had hard lines with a lovely shot. Muir saved prettily from Powell and Northwich attacked ineffectually. Interval’- Everton 1 goal, Northwich nil. Northwich had the best of the second moiety, but had hard luck. Result;- Everton 1 goal, Northwich nil.

COMMENTS ON SPORT
Liverpool Daily Post - Thursday 20 March 1902
By Lynx II
By the death of Alderman John Houlding a notable figure has been removed not only from the civic life of the city, but from the region of sport, and of football in particular. He it was who in the struggling days of the Everton Club did much to foster the cause of Association football in this part of the country, and he was, IO think, president of the Everton Club when that organisation won championship honours. When the notorious spirit came, Alderman Houlding founded the fortunes of the Liverpool Club, and I know that it was a source of great gratification and pride to him when the Anfielders last season carried off the League Cup. Latterly he had taken little or not active part in the management of the Liverpool Club, but he was always keenly concerned in its doings, and was often an occupant of the “private box” at the Anfield-road enclosure when an important League contest was afoot. Alderman Houlding will always be affectionately remembered by all the older generation of footballers and followers of that popular pastime.

IRISH INTERNATIONAL
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 21 March 1902
The English international party left Fleetwood by last night’s boat for Belfast in charge of Mr. R.P. Gregson, Blackburn. The players met at Preston, the only change in the team being the substitution of Settle (Everton) for R.E. Foster, the amateur, who has withdrew on account of an injury. The players will stay at Newcastle, county Down, until Saturday instead of making Belfast their headquarters, as hitherto.

FUNERAL AN EX-LORD MAYOR OF LIVERPOOL.
Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser - Saturday 22 March 1902
There was large attendance at Everton Cemetery, Fazakerley near Liverpool, yesterday, when the funeral took place of Aderman John Houlding who during the greater part a long life had been very prominently identified with public affairs in Iiverpool. He was an active politician the Conservative side, and in 1897-8 served the office of Lord Mayor- Mr. Houldiug was leading brewer. He died at Nice, after having been in ill-health for some time.

Edgar Chadwick
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 22 March 1902
More than ever Everton must now be sorry they parted with Edgar Chadwick. He helped chiefly to defeat Liverpool in the Cup competition -a feat Everton rejoiced oer, but had to reflect that Chadwick was dismissed from Goodison because he was not good enough." In the cup semi-finals Chadwick was once more to the front for Southampton, and scored two of the three goals by which they defeated Notts Forest. One of them was a really remarkable feat, for the ball was kicked over the heads of the Forest backs and put just under the bar; It was still more valuable as a stimulus to the Sotons; who were behind at the time, and looked like being beaten, but Chadwick's goal saved the situation.

John Houlding
Lancashire Evening Post -Saturday 22 March 1902
The death of Alderman John Houlding, J.P, is a serious blow to Liverpool F.C, and a severe loss to loca football. he helped to found the old Everton club; he was the sole founder of the Liverpool organiastion, and its most munificent supporter, barring the public; but many a time when the public subscriptions fell short, so to speak, he made good the deficiently out of his own pocket. Then he always interested himself in the players -gave them picnics, treated them to suppers, gratified them with bonuses for wins, consoled with them in defeat; was almost as constant an attendant at Anfield as the late Dr. Morley, and though never a football legislator, a good judge of the game, and knew a good man when he saw him.

EVERTON
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 22 March 1902
Everton, says "Tom Tiddler," are an extraordinary team -extraordinary in their successes and their failures. They have lost three matches running at home against less conspicious League clubs; the fourth match they win, and the losers are the League champions! How to reconcile such in-and-out play is rather difficult; but Everton are a team who play best against high-class clubs; and then last Saturday they were able to put their best team in the field, and for the first time for a month had a complete forward rank. Settle and Bell have been the forward absentees and Wolstenholmes at half. Settle was in great form last week, and it was his and Young's play that practically won the game. Young is a more improved player than any other member of the team. His style was delightful to all who saw it, except Sunderland -so quick on the ball, so hard and straight did he drive at goal; and yet he came to Goodison a second team player, and might have been so still but for the accident to Toman early in the season, which gave him his chance, and he has made such good use of it that he will certainly not be displaced by Toman again.

JOHN HOULDING
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 22 March 1902
The remains of the late Alderman John Houlding were interred yesterday at Everton Cemetery, Fazakerley. Prior to the interment a service was conducted at the Church of St. Simon and St. Jude, Anfield, where the Rev. F. Linstead Downham delivered a short and eloquent appreciation of the deceased gentleman, making particular reference to his valuable work as a member of the City Council and as a member of the West Derby Board of Guardians. Both at the church and at the cemetery there was an immense gathering, which included the Lord Mayor and members of the City Council, several members of Parliament, Masonic and private friends, and representatives of various public bodies with which the deceased gentleman was associated.

FUNERAL OF ALDERMAN JOHN HOULDING
Liverpool Daily Post –Saturday 22 March 1902
A REPRESENTATIVE GATHERING OF CITIZENS
IMPRESSIVE-SCENE
A great tribute to a life well spent was paid yesterday when the mortal remains of the late Alderman John Houlding were laid in their last resting place in Everton Cemetery,Fazackerley, a vast concourse of people, embracing all shades, creeds, and classes,assembling to honour to do honour at the obsequies. Theattendance included the Chief Civic Magistrate of Liverpool, members of Parliament  the City Council, representatives Boards of Guardians, public institutions, professional and commercial bodies, the Masonic fraternity,and working classes generally of the city. The deceased gentleman, it will be recollected, died on Monday morning last at Cimies, South of France, in his 69thyear, and the body was convoyed hence, arriving in Liverpool for interment on Thursday evening, awaiting which it was taken to Stanley House, Anfield, the deceased’s residence. Shortly before eleven o’clock the cortege left Stanley House for St Simon and St. Jude’s Church, closely adjacent, of which deceased was trustee. Here a funeral service was conducted, in which Rev. Canon Leigh (vicar of Walton), the Revs. F. L. Downham (vicar of St. Simon and St. Judel’s) C. H. E. Howell (curate). F. J. Gough, F. Gasking, J. Davies, and J. W. Baker took part. As the coffin containing the body was borna into the church it was received by the clergy the choir, and the Rev. Canon Leigh reciting the opening sentences of the service for the burial of the dead. The lesson was read by the Rev. F. L. Downham, and after the choir and congregation had sung the hymn “Abide with Me.” the last-named rev. gentleman delivered a very touching oration in memory of the deceased. At this period the spacious interior of the church was filled with people, a large number having to remain outside. Following the address, the hymn “Now the labourer's task is o’er” was impressively sang, and the organist. Mr. J. Hampton, rendered the ” Dead March ” in ‘'.Saul” and Handel’s ‘‘o, rest in the Lord” as the cortege wended its way out of the church for cemetery. The funeral procession went by way of Clubmoor to avoid the crowded thoroughfare- along Scotland-road, etc., and throughout the route the occasion was reverently recognised by the inhabitants. The principal mourners were Councillor W. Moulding (son). Mrs, T. Knowles (daughter), Mrs. W. Houlding (daughter-m-law), Mr. T. Knowles (son-in-law), Miss Audrey Houlding and Masters T. H. Knowles and W. D. Knowles (grandchildren). Miss Houlding (sister). Dr. Utting, Councillor R. A. Hampson, and Mr. Thomas Cooper. At the graveside another immense concourse of people assembled, prominent amongst those awaiting the arrival of the cortege being Captain Bremner, with a number of the boys of the training ship Indefatigable, and Mr. J. Chambers, superintendent of the Cottage Homes,Fazakerley, belonging to the West Derby Union, and a number of the boy residents. The body was laid in the grave which contains the remains Mrs. Houlding (wife), the service here being very brief, and conducted by the Rev. F. L. Downham. An apology for absence was sent by Alderman Grindley (a very old friend of the deceased gentleman), who, unfortunately, is confined to his house a severe attack of sciatica, and Mr. T. E. Sampson, city coroner.
THE PANYGERIC
The Rev. F. Linstead Downham towards the close of the service made an eloquent reference to the deceased. He said they met there in that sacred place to observe the funeral rites of one of Liverpool’s most distinguished sons and citizens. The deep and widespread regret which the news of the death of Alderman Houlding had called forth was an eloquent testimony to his worth and work. He loved Liverpool, and brought his strong intellect to her service. As they were well aware, he very largely devoted his energies to civic labours. As a member of the City Council he distinguished himself by his great grasp of affairs and by the statesmanlike character of his general judgment. His loss, therefore, to their local parliament was very severe. As a member of the West Derby Guardians for the prolonged period of about thirty years he rendered such eminent service as to lay the wholecommunity under a lasting debt of gratitude to him. Perhaps, indeed, this was his magnum opus, and his highest, though far from being his sole, claim to the permanent remembrance of Liverpool people. In respect of this was certainly significant that Mr. Houlding should have habitually declared that his services as a poor law guardian were those which he regarded constituting the most valuable part of his life work. Such services, whose energies extended far beyond their city confines, came to have even a national value, and were fittingly crowned by a recognition, when in 1897 Alderman Houlding was elected to the highest honour with which the Liverpool municipal government could invest those who their distinguished capacity and by their devotion to her arduous and commonest affairs had merited their elevation to chief magistracy of the city. To one who had been associated with him in sorrow and in joy there had now fallen the pathetic and yet the prized and privileged duty of voicing that day in the sanctuary which their lamented friend took an important share in helping to erect, the thankfulness to God which they all fell in reflecting upon the great work which he was permitted to do for the benefit of his fellow men. His body was laid in peace, but his name would continue to live in the annals of this the greatest seaport in the world as that of one who served it well in not a few of its spheres of beneficent activity. That was one of their chief consolations, as in the hope of a joyful resurrection to eternal life they committed the mortal remains of their beloved friend to the tomb. Might the striking manifestation of love and respect, in which his fellow-citizens held their father’s memory help to comfort his sorrowing sons and daughters and their children, and might the great hope of the blessed reunion in city of God, through the mercy of God and the merits of Christ, shine through the darkness of their bereavement as a pathway of golden light.
THE GENERAL MOURNERS.
Amongst the principal body of mourners at the church and graveside were the Lord Mayor (Alderman C. Petrie). Sir John Willox, M.P., Mr. A. F. Warr, M.P., Mr. D. Maclver, M.P., Aldermen McCubbin. W. Roberts. J. Ball, A. T. Salvidge, W. J. Burgess, J. Ellison, E. Walker, E. Purcell, C. H. Giles, S. Campbell, Frederick Smith, and W. H. Williams, Councillors R. A. Hampson, Austin Taylor, J. R. Grant, E. L. Lloyd, J. Duncan, D. H. Grant, J. B. Colton, A. Shelmerdine, Dr. Clarke, E. J. Chevalier, L. S. Cohen, Simon Jude, D. A. McNeight, J. Harvey Farmer, J. Hunter, Isaac Turner, T. May Smith, R. R. Meade-King, W. Evans, G. Sturla, John Morris, E. Berry, Val Smith, G. B. Smith-Brodrick, WilliamOulton, R. Kelly. I. Glover, E. Burns, T. Salter, G. J. Lynskey, J. G. Taggart, W. Craigie Williams, and J. Roby. Corporate officials: The Town-clerk (Mr. E. R. Pickmere), city engineer (Mr. J. A. Brodie), Mr. P. Corkhill (Lord Mayor's secretary), Mr. Richard Barrow (city controller). Dr. E. W. Hope (medical officer of health), Dr. Mason (assistant medical officer of health), W. Goldatraw (city building surveyor), C. J. Robinson (chief inspector of fish and poultry), R. C. Bellamy (manager of the tramways department), James Cooper (chief sanitary), W. Histed (chief of theregistration department), Mr. J. McKechnie (superintendent  of cleaning department), Isaac M. chairman, and F. W. Frodsham, vice-chairman, Liverpool Conservation Club, Major J. J. Maccabe, Captain D. C. Pugh, Mr. F. Salisbury (postmaster), and Mr. H. P.Moore (chairman of Select Vestry). Magistrates: Major Hewitt. Mr. E. W. Cropper, Dr. Kellet-Smith, Dr. J. J. Flinn, and W. Malkin; Doctors Phillpott, Barr, McMurray, R. Ross Smith, A. W. German, W. M. Prees, Archer, J. C. Bradshaw, R. Saunders, G. M. Arkle, J. J. Tisdall, A. Thomas, Richardson, Fleetwood, and Alexander: Rev. C. E. Haynes, M.A..W. H. Harper, J. W. Campbell, Baugh, J. W. Barker, H. M. Braithwaite, Stanley Rogers, J. Taylor. W. H. Harper, F. Smith.  Representing the West Derby Guardians were Mr. J. Stringfellow (chairman), Dr. Holmes, Mr. J. J. O’Brien, the Rev. Fred. Smith, Messrs. S. W. Lunt, Birch (Netherton), J. Edwards. T. Chamock, C. H. Boote, J. H. Allan, J. Price. J. Hamilton, H. Hughes, Dr. Price, Dr. E. T. Davies, Messrs. W. Lilt, W. E. Parry, H. Hulme, and C. Taylor. Among the officials the West Derby Union were Messrs. H. P. Cleaver (clerk), R. W. Maddox, J. H. Taylor, G. Lever, T. Rowson, W. E. Williams, R. Wilding, A. Nesbit, W. Worgan, T. C. Howarth, G. H. Webster, W. F. Horne, C. H. Lancaster, W. Tansley, G. G. Wadsworth, J. Richardson, A. Jones, C. McDowell, C. J. Johnson, T. W, Johnson. J. P. McGagh, E. A. Gotta, E. Jenner, G. James, J. D. Ellison, W. H. Bucknill, and B. E. Bailey.
Messrs. T. Preston (chairman) G. Jones (vice-chairman), P. Armstrong, R. Shacklady, W. Rawsthorne, S. Prince, Christensen, T. E. Chilton, J. Cunningham, T. Hillman, and W. Gill (secretary), representing the Liverpool Licensed Victuallers’ Association; Messrs. F. Stoner (chairman), T. Backhouse (secretary), J. Raw. W. Verity, J. Noble, R. Greenbank, and V. T. Dean, representing the Liverpool Cow-keepers’ Association; Mr. J. F. Caroe, Consul for Denmark; Mr. J. E. Moulding, representing Mr. James Moulding, clerk to theToxteth Guardians; Messrs. R. Rutherford. Thomas Eyles, Thomas Duckett, F. Fairhurst, and R. Berry, of the Everton Ward Conservative Committee and Club: Messrs. William Guyler (chairman), John Verity, G. P. Titterton, E. Burns, and B. Battersby, West Derby Overseers; Messer. Robert Roberts and William Gilbert, overseers of Everton, and Joseph Williams, assistant overseer; Messrs. D. Lloyd, F. Knight. R. Jones. F. X. Lightbound, and K. Pritchard, members of the Everton Burial Board; Mr. Isaac Morris,representing the Liverpool Conservative Club; Mr. A. Ward Jones (president), representing the Liverpool Press Club: Messrs. H. Jones and A R. Price, Everton Liberal Association. Representing the Liverpool Football Cub were Messrs. J. M Kenna, G. Newman. R. H. Webster, J. J. Ramsay, and T. Watson. Representing the Everton Football Club were Dr. Baxter and Mr. J. Coates. Representing the Liverpool Cowkeepers’Association were Messrs. C. A. Still, R. Woodroofe, E. West, and W. Postlethwaite. Representing the Theatrical Gala Committee were Messrs. J. West, F. Norbury. C. Gibson. J. Roby. &c.
The Masonic fraternity was represented by Bro. Robert Wylie, P.G.D. of England, Deputy-Provincial Grand Master of the Province of West Lancashire. Bro. W. Goodacre, Prov.G.Sec., and the following members of the deceased’s mother lodge’. Everton. No. 823: -Bros. W. E. Fermor, W.M.. J. J. Boyle, P.P.G.S.B. W. Barnes, P.P.G.St.B.. R. W. Gow. P.P.G.S.of W., T. C. Millington. P.M.. G. Santiford, Joseph Bennett, P.M., A. W. Triggs, G. H. Cunningham, W. Richardson, T. Churton, W. Gaskell, G. J. Bridgeman, I.P.M., W. Spencer, T. W. King, J. Nicholson, W. J. Guilbert, D. Richardson, R. S. Johnson, John Ramsey, Edwin Kite. P.M.. F. 0. Gresswell, G. Mills W. E. Penley, F. Gorton, G. H. Fisher, W. E. Goodwin, W. C.Briggs, P.P.G.D.C.. M. W. Daveys, P.M . W. Goodwin, J. A. Griffiths, P.M.. J. T. Spears, S. Millikin, T. Cretney, G. Roberts, Williamson, Duncan, Captain Raymond. Bro. Thomas Bush, P.A.G.D.C.. J. Fineberg, P.P.G.J.D.. Colonel . Fineberg, P.P.G. J.D., H. Fineberg, P.P.J.D., Colonel C.S. Dean. P.G.D. of England. P.P.W (Cheshire). P. Armstrong. P.P.S.G.D.. W. McLachlan, P.P.G.S. of W.. Thomas Banner Newton, P.P.G.T.. E. Johnston P.P. G.D..M J. Marner, E. Johnston, P.P.G.D. J. Marner Smythe, P.P.A.G.D.C., Dr. W. J. Fleetwood, P.P.G.D., Richard Sharrock, P.P.A.G.D.C.. J. McKinnell, P.P.A.G D.C.. the Rev. T. J. Preece. Prov. Grand Chaplain, Lewis Peake. P.P.G.D.C.. J. McCarthy, P.P.G.D.R.. John Lee. P.P.G.S.B., John E. Williams, P.P.G.D., Colonel Whitney. V.D.. P.P.G.D., John Scott, P.P.G.S ofW.,H. F. Burrows, P.P S.G.D.. Bros. F. W. Knight, W.M. (2.837). W. Wallace. W.M. (2.681) S. Merrick. W.M. (2,215). F. Minshull, W.M. (1,393), C. Taylorson, W.M. (1.086). J. S. Bird. T. Peter. C. Fanshaw, W. H. Neale, H. T. Morris, J. L. Craigen, H. G. Gibbons, W. Quine, W. Morgan, E. Green, I. Wilkinson, J. Coxhill,J. Wilcox, A. J. Weddell. W. Railton, W. P. Meredith, C. Saltmarsh, A.R. Barclay, F. Norbury, H. Cowell, W. H. Jones,H. L. Williams, A.H. Stevenson, B. Lipson,G. Beeken, G. Sharples, C. Anderton, W. Austin. H. Drake, E R. Hoblyn, T. Guyle, A. Vickers, W. Steggles, A. Morris, A. Woit, W. Gore, G. Barnard, T. T. Jones, J. H. Jones, Jones, W. Jones, S. S. Chiswell, Morrison, H. Jennings. R. Owen. M. Alexander. A. R. Brookes, G. Platt, W. Cantle, A. P. Hosking, W. J. Thompson, J. Molloy, R. G. Moore, J. C. Smith, J. D. Gearing, H. Knight, C. Johnson, J. Busfield, J. S. Bird, A. Sharpe, Alfred Shawfield, G. Martin, G. H. Bowen, H. Hughes, J. O. Jones, J. R. Hankey, John Muir,H. Shuttleworth, J. A. McRobie,W. Sharples, W. Edwards, H, J. Nicholls, E. C. Anderton. J. A. Thompson, G. L. Mead, F. Geary, J. Greenlees, J. G. Hassell, J. Neill, R. G. Bradley, D. Hamock, D. Brisk. &c.
Among others present were Messrs. W. Venmore, J. Venmore, R. Myley, T. Bowden, T. B. Newton, T. M. Ranson,G. M. Arkle,McGuiness, T. McMahon, J. Waugh, J. H. Maxwell,F. D. Williams,G.R. Barnett, T. Morgan,  J. Pendrigh,H. Brodrick, J. Asbury, jun., J. Campbell Balfour,W. Thomson, T. B. Sykes. W. E. Parry, G. A. Harrodon, W. Isaacs. S. Parrington, John Parrington. F. A. Farrington, Eyton Jones, Lowe,C. Jaffa, D, Riske, Jos. Williams, R. B. Fry, H. Owen, Walter Russell, A. V. Coates, C. Bullock, R. H. Fisher, J. Cooper. J. McKechnie, J. Basnett, C. Jeffers, James Thompson (secretary of Liverpool Constitutional Association), John Atkinson, S. Taylor, Ernest Ellis, J. J. Arnold, Jos. Wilton, T. White, W. Hartley. R. Ronnan, J. Elliott, R. Greenbank, James Rowe, W. T. Dean, John Noble, George Barker, J. Arnold,W. Taylor, J. Williams, S. Boyd, R. Rutherford, G. M. Bell, A T. Wray, R. A. French, Leventon,H. McKee, J. Hamilton, A. Degge, W. Kittle, Taylor, G. Green, H. Hall,J. W Fry, W. T. Johnston, J. H. Maxwell, W. Veal, F. Pennington, W. Rutherford, C. Ellam, Pritchard, H. Hughes, J. H. Holland, H. Jackson, Issac,  E. Bennett (Stanley Hospital), W. Walker, J. Storey, W. G. Fitzsimons,  W Bramley,E. R. Fishwick, W. J. Coffey, C. Snowdon, F. S. Elsworth, J. Griffiths, H. Nicholls, A Tarbuck, T. J. Tarbuck, J. Cornish, A. M. Miller, R. Parry. L. W. Heintz, R. Sumner, T. Crowden W. J. Holmes, M. Little, P. Kearney, W.E. Caldwell. J. S. Bird, J. H. Boyle, Rourke. J, Haughton, J. Comers, J. Lambert, W. Cross, W. H. Kennedy, J. B. Beatty, J.  Dodd, A. R. Brooke, J. Winkup, G. Gordon Houghton, H. Sharrock,S. S. Millikin, G. E. Bell, W. Shaw, C. C. Pendrigh, J. S. McLean, J. Harding, H. Stevenson, E. Durant,W. Devereux, G. Holden, J. H. Wilson, A. F. Eberle,  A. B. Johnson, I. B. Austin, G. H. Austin, T. Bell,J. F. Metcalfe, J. Beckett,R. Woods, T. Singleton, J. Ibbs, Cochrane, W. Sloan, T. Dunwoody, T. Sammons, J. McIntyre,  J. S. Peel, W. J. Jones, P. McDonald,H. Hughes, T. Doran, E. Green, G. Austin, F. Fitzpatrick, E. Murray, Thos. Robertson, F. G. Gibbons, C. R. Cheshire, W. Gradate, John Stubbs, J. W. Kershaw, W. Morgan, W. H. Neal, H. G. Morris, W. Quine, J.L. Craigen, F. Robertson, Isaac Wilkinson, T. Hignett, T. Green, J. Bond, W. H. Pilson, Issac Arthur, W. Evans (School Board), J. Beck, S. Gracey, D. Laurensen, T. Laurensen,W. Smalley, G.M.  Davey, J. Comus, W. Dickinson. W, Wycherley, H. Newton, J. Edwards, R. H. Jenkins, John McAulay, J. Patterson, John Tisdall, W. H. Kennedy, F. A. Van Gelder, M. Alexander (president Lyceum, Liverpool), A. Duncan, Richard Webster (President Liverpool Farmers Club), N. Cookson, B. Battersby, R. McCullogh, W. Fraser, W. Harrison, W. S. Harrison, J. T. Wright, J. Baker. J. Connor, T. Nixon, J.  Nottingham, R. Madden, T. Lydiatt, R. Golbourne, J. W. Cook. S. Thompson, W. Mercer, G. Glover, H. Newton, H. Fairclough.
A beautiful wreath of primroses and violets was sent by the officers and members of the Liverpool Constitutional Association, the card attached bearing the words:—‘‘ln affectionate remembrance of a patriotic citizen and an unfailing and loyal supporter and friend, whose whole life was unselfishly devoted to the welfare of his native city." Other floral tributes were also sent Mr. and Mrs. W. Houlding. Mr. and Mrs. Knowles, the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress, Mrs. Good, Mr. and Mrs. R. A. Hampson, Everton Ward Conservatives committee and club. Liverpool Football Club, the employees of Messrs. Houlding and Son, from Alderman J. Ball. J.P.. and members of the Parks and Gardens Committee with sincere and deep regret at the loss of a warm hearted friend and indefatigable worker in the public interest, and a kind sympathy for surviving members of the family. Mr. and Mrs. R. Rutherford, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Watson, directors of Liverpool Football Club, the Rev. F. Linstead and Mrs. Downham, Mr.. Mrs., and the Misses Ramsay, Mr. and Mrs Webster. Everton Ward Branch of the L W.M.C.A.. Mr. John Pagendum, Miss Andrews (nurse), Mrs. Rowland and Mrs. Green, Liverpool and Distinct Cowkeepers’Association,Queen’s Lodge, Liverpool Licensed Victuallers’ Association, the staff “Porcupine," Birkenhead and Wirral Licensed Victuallers’ Association, Mr. and Mrs, George Harradon, Everton Swimming Association, Mr. and Mrs. Geary, officersof the Walton Workhouse, Mr. and Mrs. John McCarthy. AH. Stevenson, members of the Walton Division Conservative Club (Belmont-road), the Walton Parliamentary Division, Liverpool Mineral Water Company. Alderman Ball. JP., and members of the Parks and Gardens Committee, Mr. and Mrs. W. Goodacre. Liverpool and District Incorporated Brewers and Spirit Merchants’ Association, Mrs. Edward Whitley. Mrs. W. Russell, Mr. Hugh Owens, officers of the Health Committal and Corporation of Liverpool Major Hewitt and members and friends of the Kirkdale Division, members of the Mersey Quay and Railway Carters’ Union. Lord Lathom, Anfield Lodge (No. 2,215). Mr. and Mrs. John Partington, chairman, officers, and members of No. 12 Polling District (St. Domingo Ward), Dr. J. C. and Mrs. Bradshaw, Town Hall staff, Mr. Harris P. Cleaver, Mr. and Mrs. McCracken Lodge (No. 2.229), churchwardens and sidesmen of St. Simon and St. Jude, Everton Divisional Council. Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Bennett. and Miss Costine. Private carriages were sent by the Lord Mayor. Mr. Jonn Farrington (Roby). Mr. Cleaver, Mr. John Goldstraw, Mr. F. Parrington, and Mr. Arthur Standing. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Messrs. G. H. Lee and Co., Basnett-street.

NORTHWICH DISTRICT v EVERTON
Northwich Guardian - Saturday 22 March 1902
Judging from the “gate” which assembled on the Drill Field, Northwich on Wednesday evening- between 3,000 and 4,000 being present- the kindness of the Everton directorate was appreciated to the fullest extent in sending a team to oppose a local eleven, while Roose, Stoke’s amateur custodian, who very kindly consented to keep goal for the “Salt” men, must have felt delighted that he had contributed his quota towards attracting such a crowd. The object of the meeting was a most worthy one, namely, to assist in raising funds for the extension of the noble institution, the Victoria infirmary, which is to be Northwich and district’s Queen’s Memorial. Mr. J. Archur Cowley, clerk to the Urban Council and the Management Board of the Institutions, was the prime mover in the matter, and he certainly struck upon a happy idea when he thought of the match. Since the matter was taken up he has worked assiduously to ensure its success and deserves every credit. Sir Joesph Verdin, Bart, was announced to kick off, but owing to being away on the Continent he was unable to do so. Mr. Roscoe Brunner kindly undertook this duty, and set the ball in motion for the homesters amid loud applause. The ball went to Blythe, who returned up the field. Kettle received and sent across to the opposite wing, where Powell and Davenport aggressed. The latter tried hard to open the score, driving the ball past the post only a few inches too wide. The visitors endeavoured to get away, but Clark fouled Hindley, and thus their progress was checked. Nothing came of the free kick, and Patterson and Rankin combining prettily invaded the home territory, Bowman calling upon Roose to clear. This he did coolly, whilst a moment later Singleton gave him a high shot to negotiate his clearance meriting the plaudits of the crowd. No sooner had he fisted the ball down the field than Proudfoot bowled him over. The referee gave a free kick for obstruction, but the ball was soon back again, and with a low cross shot Singleton opened the scoring after five minutes play, the custodian making a great effort to save. The homesters began to exhibit better form, and Sharp fouled Joe Foster in dangerous proximity to goal. The free kick was easily cleared. Davenport was next conspicuous with a smart run, and he got in a lovely centre, but Byram was too slow to accept it. Powell essayed, but Muir threw away. A few minutes later Davenport brought the goalkeeper down with a shot, which looked like scoring. Walter Harris put the ball directly in front of the Toffeeman’s uprights, bit to the chagrin of the crowd he was given off-side. Northwich for a time certainly claimed the major share of the play, and Davenport centring accurately enabled Byram to head in, but Muir fisted up the field. Powell tried a high shot, and the custodian tipped over the bar, but the resultant corner proved abortive. Half-time arrived with Everton still leading by one goal to none. Resuming, the home forwards tried hard to draw level, but the Everton backs kept them at bay. A speedy visit to the Northwich goal saw Roose clear from Patterson and Rankin. Each side forced unproductive corners. Muir saved on several occasions, whilst Sutton and Harris checked several determined rushes by the visitors forwards. Time arrived with the score, Everton one goal, Northwich none. Mr. R. Roberts, of Crewe, officiated as referee, and the teams lined up as follows;
Northwich; Goal; Roose, backs, Sutton (Captain), and Harris; Half-backs, Forster, Hindley, and Kettle; forwards, Davenport, Powell, Byram, Hughes and Walter Harris.
Everton; Goal, Muir, backs; Blythe, and Sharp; half-backs, Boyle, Clark, and Brown; forwards; Rankin, Paterson, Bowman, Proudfoot and Singleton.
The locals are certainly to be congratulated upon their display, and whilst they were unable to exhibit the same amount of skill as their opponents, they showed themselves brimful of pluck, and several of their efforts proved eye openers to the Evertonians, Roose in goal was watched with considerable interest by the crowd, and his powerful kicking and fisting of the ball were highly appreciated and loudly applauded. The visitors played a very clean game, and their passing was a treat to witness. The Everton players, who were accompanied by two directors, Messrs Coates, and Horace Wright, together with the trainer, Mr. Elliott, were met at Northwich station at 3.40 by Messrs M. Earlam, F.A. Cowley, T. Wood and J.T, Yearsley. They were escorted straight away to Baron’s Quay, where Mr. J. Arthur Cowley and Mr. L. R. Roose joined the party. By the kind permission of the Salt Union they were allowed to descend the mine, and spent about an hour below the surface inspecting the various workings under the direction of Mr. Robinson, foreman, who had arranged for several blasts, which proved very interesting to the players, several of whom were miners hailing from Scotland prior to migrating to play as professional footballers. The other arrangements at the mine had been made by Mr. E. Molyneux, manager, and gave every satisfaction. After the match both teams sat down to tea in the St. Paul’s Schools, which had been provided gratuitously by Mr. J. Whate. One of the tables was occupied by Mr. Charles J. Hughes, vice-president of the English Football Association, Mr. Coates and Mr. Horace Wright, Everton directors; Mr. J. Arthur Cowley, honorary secretary of the Victoria Infirmary Extension Committee, Mr. M. Earlam (Davenport); Mr. R. Roberts (Crewe), referee; Mr. W. Hodgkinson (Winnington), linesman; and Mr. J. Starkey. Mr. C. J. Hughes proposed the health of “His Majesty the King,” and the toast was drunk with enthusiasm. Mr. Cowley said he had taken upon himself to propose the health of the “Everton team” and in doing so felt that he must in the first place express his sincere gratitude to the directors of the club for the ready response to his letter, inviting then to send a team to the district to play in aid of the Victoria Infirmary Extension Fund. It was not the first time that the directors of Everton had thus honoured the district, and he was quite sure that on some future occasion they might expect that the generous support would again be accorded. He might inform those present that the Everton directors had paid the whole of their own expenses, and the match so far as they were concerned had cost the committee nothing. (Hear, hear.)
The toast was drunk with enthusiasm.
Mr. Coates in reply said the visit had been most interesting and enjoyable to himself, Mr. Wright, and also the players. (Hear, hear). They as directors recognized that 90 per cent at least of the support which they received was from the working classes, and they also recognized that those charities for which they had been playing that day were mainly for the nursing of the working classes, when they ahd either met with an accident or were in such an unfortunate position that they could not help themselves, and that being so, the directors felt that in playing those charity matches they were returning good for good. He was particularly pleased with the manner in which the Northwich team had played that day, and he must frankly admit that on the day’s play there was not much to choose between the two teams. Mr. Wright asked the company the drink the health of Mr. Whate, their host, who had very generously provided that repast entirely free of charge, as his quota, and a very substantial quota indeed, to the proceedings. (Hear, hear).
Mr. Whate in reply said that his feeling in providing that repast was that he was in some degree assisting the Victoria Infirmary, which every one in that district knew was doing an excellent work for the working classes. (Hear, hear). The visitors were probably not aware of the good which the institution had done, but they would have the satisfaction of knowing that in supporting the Victoria Infirmary they were supporting an institution which for its size was carrying on a work second to none in the country (Hear, hear). If the teams had enjoyed the repast, he was more especially pleased. (Hear, hear.). it is expected that the match will result in the realization of £50.

TODAYS TEAM NEWS
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 22 March 1902
Everton v Small Heath, League match, at Birmingham.
Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Eccles and Watson, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth and Blythe, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Abbott, and Bowman, forwards.
Everton Combination v Oswaldtwistle Rovers, Combination match at Goodison Park. 3.30.
Everton; Muir, goal; Sharp and Balmer, backs; Clayton, Cragg, and Brown, half-backs; Rankin, Paterson, Tudor, Proudfoot, and Makepeace, forwards.

EVERTON v  SMALL HEATH
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, March 22 1902
EVERTON LEAD AT THE INTERVAL
VICTORY FOR EVERTON
This match was played off this afternoon at Small heath. The ground, owing to the late heavy showers that had fallen, was sodden and greasy, and the players had some little difficulty in keeping their feet. The fixture drew a big crowd, fully 7,000 spectators lining the enclosure when the following teams appeared;-
Small Heath.—Robinson, goal; Goldie and Archer, backs; Beers, Leake, and Adey, half backs Athersmith, Leonard, McRoberts, Field, and Wharton, forwards.
Everton.—Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Eccles, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth (Captain), and Blythe half backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Abbott, and Bowman, forwards.
Everton won the toss, and set the Heathens to face the wind and sun. McRoberts set the ball rolling for the Heathens punctually to time. The Heathens were the first to become pressing, and McRoberts only just failed in rushing a goal in the first few minutes. The visitors were prompt to retaliate, diving through the half back line, and shooting swift, and straight for goal. Archer interposed, and the ball was got away, but soon returned, and for a little time was bobbing round the home goal, until it was kicked over the line, a goal kick resulting. The ball was transferred to midfield again, where for some time the game was confined. At last Sharp the ex-Villa man got a chance, and at once made off. Closing in he sent in a nice shot that flew into Robinson’s hands. The shot, however lacked sting, and the custodian had no difficulty in clearing his line, the Sharp and Taylor worked the ball trickily along the wing. The latter passed to the centre Young got possession, and, shooting too hurriedly, the ball flew the wrong side. Settle was distinctly missed, that player being selected to play for England v. Ireland, Athersmith was called up for receiving when off-side and a tussle for the ball between Leonard and Booth ended in the latter getting the better of the Small Heath man. It was Everton’s left wing that next threatened danger, but once more a hesitancy as to what to do with the ball at the last moment led to the attack being as futile one. A corner to the homesters was well placed, and Field shot into goal, but Kitchen cleared from under the bar. The ex-Villa man went off with a rush, but this time he was so closely shadowed by Aley that he was compelled to give up possession. McRoberts received from Athersmith and shot, but the ball went wide of the mark, and was quickly at the other end when Robinson brought off a good save. For some time the home men pressed and had the bulk of the play, and it was a pity that Field made a mess of it by dallying so long with the ball, thereby giving an opportunity of robbing him of the leather. For a time there was only one team in it, and that was not the visitors. At length play veered round to the other end, and, swarming round the home goal, the visitors kept up a regular bombardment, shot after shot being sent in, and how the goal escaped capture is a mystery, only the grand saving by Robinson averting disaster. Relief came at last the ball going over the line. From a free kick, Booth had hard lines in not scoring for his side, for he headed in beautifully, the ball striking the crossbar and rolling over. The Evertonians gained a corner, and the ball being placed well in front of goal, Taylor headed in past Robinson, giving the visitors the lead, one minute before the interval. Half-time score; Everton 1 goal, Small Heath Nil.
After a change of ends the Heathens had the advantage of the wind, which was a decided factor in the play. The Evertonians were the first to show up. The Evertonians were the first to show up, brilliant passing between their left wing and centre bringing the ball into close proximity to the home goal. Abbott thought he saw an opening, and shot, but his aim was and, and the ball went wide of the post. A foul against the visitors resulted in the leather being put well into goal, and a scrimmage ensued almost under the bar. The hometsers tried to rush the ball into the net, but they could not manage it, and in the end the ball rolled over the line, a goal kick eventuating. Wolstenholme smartly robbed Wharton when he was making off, and some good headwork later on by the homesters served to keep their goal intact. A corner to the homesters was poorly place, and was easily got away. The Everton right wing once more got going, but found the attention of Adey too many for them, and the Evertonians had to retire discomfited. It was not for long, for getting down, this time on the left, the half backs were neatly eluded. Bowman got in a good centre, which Taylor headed over the bar. Final Result- Everton 1 goal, Small Heath Nil.

EVERTON COMBINATION v  OSWALDTWHISTLE ROVERS
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, March 22 1902
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION
Glorious weather favoured the meeting of these elevens, at Goodison Park this afternoon, and there was a good attendance when the following teams turned out;-
Everton.- Muir, goal; Boyle and Balmer, backs; Clayton, Clarke, and Brown, half-backs; Rankin, Paterson, Tudor, Proudfoot, and Makepeace, forwards.
Oswaldtwistle.- Platt, goal; Smith and Hargreaves, backs; Cunliffe, Morgan, and Calverly, half-backs; Longworth, Richardson, Banks, Pope and Cock, forwards. Everton won the toss, Banks kicking off on behalf of the Rovers. Even play characterised the opening stages of the game either side attacking in turn. The Blues at length got down the field, and the visitors’ goal was in jeopardy, but the Rovers backs cleared the threatened danger and Oswaldtwistle made off, Muir’s charge being subjected to a warm attack. The home custodian brought off a couple of good saves from Banks and Cunliffe, after which Morgan shot over the bar. Everton then pressed for a time, but the Rovers again assumed the upper hand, and Banks tested Muir with a grand shot, which the Everton goalkeeper saved brilliantly. The venue was then changed Platt’s goal being subjected to heavy pressure, but the Oswaldtwistle goalkeeper defended his goal splendidly and eventually the “Blues” were driven out. Another attack on the home goal ensued, and after repeated attempts to open a score Pope found an opening, and defeated Muir somewhat easily, the home custodian apparently being hampered by the glaring sun. from the centre Everton raced away, and made strenuous endeavours to equalise, the Rovers’ goal having several narrow escapes. A corner was forced, but this came to nothing. Paterson heading over the bar. Grand defence was shown by the Rovers, and the Evertonians were soon again placed on the defensive, shooting wide. The home quintet now got possession and made straight for the Rovers’ goal. Tudor the home centre, sent in a magnificent shot, which Platt negotiated smartly. Everton continued the pressure to the interval but failed to get on even terms. Half-time Rovers 1 Everton nil.
Resuming Everton pressed strongly, but try as they would they could not penetrate the Rovers defence. At the other end Muir brought off a magnificent save, but the home forwards when in front of goal were very weak. Rankin showed the best form of the quintette. Final Everton Reserve 2, Oswaldtwistle 1.

SMALL HEATH v  EVERTON
The Sports Argus, Saturday, March 22 1902
POOR SHOOTING BY THE HEATH
EVERTON JUST WIN
By the Heathen.
A great “gate” was expected at Coventry Road to-day. Everton, Small heath’s visitors, are a big attraction wherever they go, and considering the positions of the clubs in the League, there was every promise of an extremely interesting game. Both teams, it was expected, would struggle hard for the full number of points. Small heath were without Wigmore, who is on the injured list. Adey was therefore drafted into the left half-back position, and Leake went centre half. Everton, who wore the Royal blue today (the home team were all in white), had an experimental left wing, Abbott, the ex-Small heath player, and Bowman, a reserve man, being drafted into the front rank in the place of Bell (injured) and Settle, who was required in the International match. The teams were;-
Small Heath.—Robinson, goal; Goldie and Archer, backs; Beers, Leake, and Adey, half backs Athersmith, Leonard, McRoberts, Field, and Wharton, forwards.
Everton.—Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Eccles, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth (Captain), and Blythe half backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Abbott, and Bowman, forwards.
Referee; C.E. Sutcliffe (Burnley).
The ground was bathed in sunshine, and a crowd of fully 16,000 people lined the barricades, losing the toss, Leake had to take the Charles Road end, the home men having the sun in their faces. The game started in vigorous fashion, for after Beers had checked the Everton left wing, Athersmith secured, and, with one of his speediest runs, caused a helter-skelter towards Kitchen. Field was well up for the centre, but Eccles kept him off and safely headed clear. McRoberts was responsible for the first shot of the day, the Heath centre giving Kitchen a hot one, which he caught and threw away amid cheers. This was a promising start, and the local men still showed healthy signs of life by forcing a corner on the left, from which Leake headed half a yard too high. It was Everton’s turn next, Sharp being conspicuous in a bright bit of attacking, which ended in Robinson kicking away a straight one from Young. Old So! Had temporarily diminished his splendour, or the custodian’s task might not have been so easy. Veering round again, play continued in the Everton goalmouth as the result of a corner, but the home forwards could not turn the opportunity to tangible account. Against the Everton’s stronger wing Adey was showing up well, and it was on the other side that the danger next came. Abbott, however, though close in, shot weakly, and Robinson lifted the ball safely out of harm’s way. Everton’s passing was the more accurate, but the locals made up in dash, and Wharton and McRoberts called on Kitchen with long shots. A miskick by Archer at the half-way mark occasioned some anxiety, Sharp being left with a clear course. Goldie, however, proved equal to overtaking the man, and Robinson picked up and threw the leather up the field. Off-side spoilt Small Heath’s next attempt, and the home men found Taylor an awkward stumbling block as they tried to rally. Mainly through the centre-half’s efforts Everton advanced, and Bowman raced away at top speed, with Adey and Goldie in hot pursuit. The Whites had it in the end, and Leonard threatened his way through and missed with a sharp shot. Neither side showed themselves proficient in marksmanship, and as a consequence, while six yards kicks were frequent at both ends, the goals were seldom really endangered. Leonard relieved a spell of quiet work by a plucky single-handed attempt, but Watson and Eccles sandwiched him, and the former banged the sphere into the sixpenny crowd. Everton were fairly persistent, and their left wing gave Beers a lot of running about. Eventually a useful kick by Robinson sent the Heath off, and Field missed a glorious chance when Athersmith had Kitchen well beaten with a rapid centre. To the Everton man’s great relief the ball passed just outside the post. With the interval approaching play slackened, and an unkind spectator shouted to the heath forwards not to go to sleep. Three minutes from time Everton scored from a corner well placed by Sharp, Taylor heading through well out of Robinson’s reach. Field should have equalised immediately on resuming, but drove hard at Kitchen, who smartly cleared.
Half-time;- Everton 1 Small Heath 0.
As showing their determination, the Heath re-entered the field a minute or two too soon for the second half. When the ball was once more in motion they swarmed round Kitchen, and for five minutes or more the visiting defence had the busiest of times. A corner kick kept the leather bobbing up and down in front of goal, and Kitchen twice cleared from the ruck of players. Leake and Leonard were always prominent, the latter being easily the ablest shot on the side. Somehow, however, the defenders barred the way, either judiciously or by luck, and the crowd’s hopes had to be deferred. Settling into their stride, Everton raced off, and Robinson came out and kicked away shots from each wing. From a corner on the right he again saved. Goldie was applauded for checking another Everton break away and then Adey, letting fly, skimmed the bar. The tendency to shoot was by no means wanting in the home quintette, but there was room for much more steadiness of aim. Beers and Field were especially sinners in this respect, the former marring a lot of hard work by skying far above the net when within a dozen yards’ range. Everton were mostly confined to their own half, but the defenders were very quick on the ball, and Kitchen kept goal with great alertness. Field gave him a very awkward one, and he would have had a poor chance of stopping a high one from Leonard, who turned himself round in shooting, the ball grazing the bar. Excitement resigned as Eccles tripped Field on the penalty line, but the referee was not to be influenced by the public clamour, and after a careful consultation with both linesmen awarded a mere free kick. Too many heads barred the way for Small Heath here, and the visitors again opened out matters, speedy exchanges by Wharton and McRoberts gained ground, but the corner kick, which Eccles was forced to give, failed. The next incident was a sensational run by Sharp. After going half the length, of the field the outside right swung across to Abbott, who, with plenty of time to steady himself, banged the ball the wrong side of the near upright. During the final stages Small Heath fought desperately to equalise, a corner being scrimmaged away, while Kitchen saved a grand try by Leonard, and McRoberts getting his head to a centre, diverted it just too far from the goalkeeper to score. Athersmith with a brilliant shot, missed by inches in the last minute. This was the heath’s last hope, and they had to retire pointless. Result -Everton 1 Small Heath 0.
COMMENTS ON THE GAME.
Manchester City had beaten Everton on Monday, and a fine crowd assembled in the hope of seeing Small Heath emulate this stimulating example. With three good men away in Balmer, Bell and Settle, the visitors were by no means so formidable on paper as when the Heath made such a good fight at Liverpool. Abbott, who filled one of the vacancies, has dropped into the role of a half-back since leaving Coventry Road, and the Northern folk decline to take him seriously in his position of to-day. Bowman, his partner, is usually a middle man. Of course Wigmore’s absence made a difference, but Adey has done well before, and the line was not expressed to suffer appreciably. The heath’s start flattered the hopes of their supporters, but the attack badly needed finish, and the passing on the whole had not the crispness of Everton’s. Abbott and Bowman seemed bent on showing that they could fulfil left wing ideals in a very practical way, and, as it happened, most of the attacks came from this quarter. For one thing, the heath’s substitute was also in happy mood, and Sharp had very few chances of showing what he has lean since his Villa days. Nothing could be urged against either set of halves, but there was a weakness all round in shooting, and play fell to tameness for long spells in consequence. Everton’s goal was a decidedly unfortunate affair for Small Heath in every sense. One of the Everton forwards stumbled against Beers- some said with tripping intent- and Beers knocked the ball behind his own line. It was this opportunity that Sharp and Taylor improved into a goal. Even then the positions should have been equal, for Field ought easily to have beat Kitchen in the next minute. But the ex-United man could not rise to the occasion and in fact had been most disappointing from the commencement. Small heath were expected to equalise in the second half, and every man worked his hardest to satisfy the expectation. On the play they should have done so, and also have won the match. But in front of goal the only man who did not lose his head was Leonard, and Kitchen’s vigilance and the smartness of the backs enabled Everton to survive the test. Small heath deserved at least to draw, but while they put heart enough into their work to satisfy the most exacting supporter, raggedness kept creeping in, and the understanding between the eight foremost men was by no means so perfect as it should have been. Everton, by comparison, were complacency itself, and besides being very quick on the ball when it was in the proximity of their own goal, they did not fail so often in passing to feed their own men. Leake was a host in himself, and Adey and Leonard shone especially. McRobert’s credit was rather uneven, while Athersmith was spasmodic. Goldie played a great game, while Robinson could not be blamed for the goal scored against him. In defence lay Everton’s strength, the half-backs getting through a remarkable amount of work. The forwards combined well, but failed badly in the last 30 or 40 yards. The defeat, taken with the victories of Notts County and Manchester, renders Small Heath’s position increasingly critical, and a great effort will have to be made during the holidays of the side is to escape being one of the last two.

SMALL HEATH 0 EVERTON 1
March 24 1902. The Liverpool Courier.
Everton visited Birmingham on Saturday to contest the return fixture with Small Heath. The issue of the game was of the utmost importance to the Heathens in view of the very serious chance they run of relegation to the Second Division. Everton were without Bell and Settle. Abbott being brought into the forward line with Bowman as his partner, while Blythe played at left back. The Heathens were minus Wigmore. Seven thousand spectators were present, and the teams were as follows: -
Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Balmer, and Eccles, backs, Wolstenholmes, Booth (captain), and Blythe, half-backs, Sharp (j), Taylor, Young, Abbott, and Bowman, forwards. Small Heath: - Robinson, goal, Goldie, and Archer, backs Beers, Leake, and Adey, halfbacks, Athersmith, Leonard, McRoberts, Field, and Wharton, forwards.
The visitors won the toss, and McRoberts set the ball rolling against a slight wind. From the start the home right wing got down, and Athersmith dropped the ball right in the mouth of the Everton goal. McRoberts tried hard to rush if into the net, but Kitchen was too quick for him, and got the leather away. The visitors had not yet got into their stride, and another wing attack by the home forwards, this time from the left threatened danger to the Everton goal. A slip by Field as he neared goal spoiled his chances, and the ball went flying high over the bar. The visitors again took up the running, and a vigorous attack on the Heathens goal was made. Twice Robinson had to save his charge, which he did brilliantly, and by hard tackling the home halves gradually forced the visitors back over the half-way line. There was some fine play by the home team, who for a time monopolised a good portion of the play. A clever rush down by the left ended in the ball being swung across, and only a miss by Leonard prevented a score. From the goal kick the athens went to the front and a hot shot from McRoberts missed the post by a very narrow margin. A corner a little later led to the visitors goal having a narrow margin, but the defence was strong. The pressure was relieved eventually and in turn the visitors took up the running, Sharp getting down and testing Robinson with a shot which took the custodian all he knew to negotiate. Some scrambling work in front of the home goal looked exciting, and the ball bobbed about in lively fashion. Severel times the Everton forwards got within shooting ranges of the home goal, but they evinced a strong inclination to dally too long, and pass and repass when in quick shot would have been more dangerous, the result being that the halves were enable to get out several tight corners. A capital run down on the right in which Sharp was especially dangerous, boded danger for the home side, and Robinson only cleared by rushing out of his goal, and meeting the ball before Young go to it. A foul against the visitors let in the Heathens, and from the free kick with the goal practically at his mercury, Field sent the ball high over the bar. From the goal kick the Evertonians went away, and a nice pass from Sharp's afford Young a nice opportunity for a shot. It is true he shot, but his aim was so bad that the ball went wide of the post. Some brilliant tackling by Wolstenholme twice us as many minutes dispossessed Wharton of the ball, the Everton right half playing throughout a very fine game. Sharp was given offside, and later a foul against the homesters further assisted the Evertonians. Once again they swarmed round the home goal, and Taylor shot over. The visitors were now having very much the better of the game, backed up splendidly by their halves, they were continually dangerous. A combined rush, and a shot by Young caused Archer to give a corner, and from this Taylor headed a goal for Everton, the whistle blowing immediately afterwards for the interval. Half-time Small Heath nil; Everton 1. It was a minute or two after the resumption, before the visitors began to assert themselves, and pressed their opponents back into their own domain. Bowman got in a nice run in conjunction with his partner, and the ball was put nicely across. However, it went too far forward, and Robinson was able to reach it first sending it by means of a drop kick, well into the centre of the field. Again the Evertonians bore down on Robinson's charge, and this time Young got the leather and sent in a strong shot, which took a lot of stopping. Robinson proved equal to the occasion, and throwing out in the direction of Wharton enabled that player to make tracks for the other end. The opposing half back was on him in a trice, and a most exciting pace between the two ensued, Wolstenholme was too close upon him, and he had no chance of getting in a centre, the ball going over the line, and a promising chance was gone. The game continued interesting to the finish with Everton playing cleverly and in the end Small Heath was well beaten. Final result Everton 1; Small Heath nil.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 OSWALDTWISTLE ROVERS 1
March 24 1902. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination
At Goodison Park. Everton who faced a bright sun in the first half, for a long time failed to make headway, their forwards work being poor. The Rovers played with dash, and after Muir had several times saved splendidly, Pope scored, the Rovers leading at the interval by a goal to nil. Everton had much the best of the second half, Proudfoot equalised and ten minutes from the end, Boyle scored from a penalty kick. Everton: - Muir, goal, Watson and Eccles, backs, Brown, Boyle (captain), and Blythe, half-backs Rankin, Paterson, Bowman, Proudfoot, and Chadwick (j), forwards.

SETTLE CAPPED FOR ENGLAND
March 24 1902. From Liverpool Courier.
The twenty-first annual match between England and Ireland was played on Saturday at Show ground, Balmoral Belfast. A crowd of 12,000 watches England beat Ireland by one goal to nil, with Everton's Jimmy Settle scoring the only goal of the game, five minutes from time.

EVERTON REVIEW
March 24 1902. The Liverpool Mercury
In obtaining full points at the expense of Small Heath on Saturday, Everton, it must be admitted, were more than ordinary fortunate. The Result of the game meant a lot to the Heathens for, like other clubs nearer to us, big efforts were required to steer clear of the lowest positions on the League table. Apart from the ill-luck that attended the home team-ill-luck that was apparent to even their opponents, they added to their troubles by allowing ridiculously easy chances of scoring to pass unheeded. There were openings afforded the forwards that, under ordinary circumstances, would have sufficed to furnish several victories, but both hesitancy and inaccuracy prevailed- defects that stood out in marked contrast to the general methods of their opponents, who rarely missed a chance of making progress. Everton having the advantage of the wind and sun, opened somewhat indifferently, but as play progressed, they improved, and at the interval they deserved their lead of a goal to nil. When, however, ends were changed, quite a different complexion came over the game, and following several failures already referred to the Heathens pulled themselves together and gave the Everton backs, and custodian as stiff a task as only a keen follower of the game can imagine. Time after time were shots sent in from a close range, and as often were they charged dowm more by luck than judgement, one striking instance occurring in the last five minutes of play, when Wolstenholme, turning round, met a terrific drive from Wharton, who was but five yards from the goalmouth. A more exciting finish to a stubbornly contested game can scarcely be imagined for several corners were obtained during the closing stages, not to mention a case in which the referee had occasion to consult the linesmen with reference to a strong appeal for a penalty against one of the Everton backs, and scarcely had the visitors been relieved than followed a free kick against Taylor on the twelve yard line. Both free kicks were warded off, when Athersmith who had gone inside to force the game, put in a beautiful shot, which, fortunately for Kitchen, curled round the upright. It was an exciting finish to a desperate effort, to get level, and had the home side accomplished their object, it would have been but a fitting termination to a hard fought game. Some unrest prevailed among Evertonians owing to the fact, that Settle was engaged in International football, and that Bell was in disposed, but Abbott and his partner quite upheld the reputation of the line, and many were the dangerous movements that emanated from this wing, especially in the first half. Young played well in the centre, though much of his good work was discounted by a pronounces to shoot from too long a range, when it was clear than an additional pass out would have materially8 enhanced the prospects of his side. Sharp had a fair amount of work on hand, but there was a lack of that brilliance about his finishing touches that has characterized some of his displays. Taylor worked hard, and the pair negotiated the only point scored, the inside man anticipating a well placed corner kick to a nicety, and heading into the net, quite out of Robinson's reach. The half-backs got though a vast amount of work, nothing finer being exhibited than that by Booth, and Wolstenholmes. In the first portion, Blythe had a difficult force to combat, and was several times beaten, but in the second half he attended with assiduity to Athersmith and Leonard, with the result that danger rarely threatened from this quarter. Both Eccles and Watson defenced ably, and what Kitchen had to do was accomplished with credit, though there were two occasions when he was thoroughly beaten by shots that were only just missed the mark. The home forwards gave a capital display, of the game in and about midfield, but when it came to putting in a finishing touch, they were often faulty and at other times unlucky. Shooting directly at the custodian, when but a side touch was required to find the net, was a defect noticeable on more than one occasion, and probably greatest delinquent in this respect was McRoberts, who thereby married on otherwise clever display. Leonard and Field, the inside man put in much good work, but Wharton found Wolstenholme in top form, and Athersmith met with little better results in tussle with Blyrthe. Of the backs, Beer and Goldie maintained the brunt of the work, and in goal; Robinson was rarely at faulth. By the failure of second half, the team is included in the struggle of evading the lowest positions. Their remaining fixtures at home are with Derby County, Notts County, and Notts Forest, while they have visit to Derby County, Sheffield Wednesday, and Sunderland-rather severe programme to wind up the season.

EVERTON’S CLEVER VICTORY
Athletic News - Monday 24 March 1902
It was a decidedly smart feat on the part of Everton to capture two points at Small heath, and though the result will have little bearing on their final record, it may have a more far-reaching influence on the fortunes of their rivals, the Liverpool eleven.  It would indeed, be a singular coincidence were Everton to free their neightbours from the trammels of the Second Division, as last season they assisted them into the Championship by reason of their victories over Sunderland and West Bromwich.  A curious feature of the Everton forward line was the partnership of Abbott and Bowman on the left wing.  The latter shaped so well in a charity match at Northwich on Wednesday at outside left that he was given a chance in the same position in a League game.  Bowman is a sturdily built fellow and I feel assured that, in good company he would develop into a very useful player.  The Everton directors mean to give him an extended trial. 

A BAD DAY FOR SMALL HEATH
Athletic News - Monday 24 March 1902
By Brum
If friendship in adversity be any test of loyalty, the Small heath directorate must feel more than a little proud of their following, for some 12,000 to 15,000 spectators thronged to see their fight against Everton, at Coventry-road a beautifully bright afternoon favouring the fixture.  What wind there was blew to Everton’s advantage during the opening half, and so well did it serve them that they scored the only goal of the game, and so managed to reduce the “Heathens” chance of keeping their position.  Settle was absent from the visitors ranks, while Small heath lacked the services of their sterling half-back, Wigmore, who was rather badly hurt in the Stoke engagement.  That the result was cruelly disappointing to the supporters of Small heath need scarcely be emphasized and on the whole they had rather bad luck in being beaten by so narrow a margin.  Opportunities they had, most assuredly, but they lacked the ability to drive them home decisively. 
LOST OPPORTUNITIES
Both goals were visited very early on, but when play opened out the “Heathens” showed capital form in midfield, where the tackling of the halves was sprightly and the passing judicious.  The right wing forwards, too, put in some excellent work, the quick changes of position between Leonard and Athersmith fairly testing the defence of Everton.  The old Villa player was showing some of his best touches and swung the ball repeatedly into goal, but, as a rule, these centres went a begging, for McRoberts was beaten off without a deal of trouble, while Wharton was seldom in a favourable position to turn them to advantage.  At the opposite end the Everton men contented themselves with long shots which flew to their mark accurately enough, but gave Robinson very little anxiety.  What surprised one as much as anything was the lack of energy and enterrpise shown by the home front rank seeing the desperate need of goals.  At length Young dashed up the centre, charged down an opponent in the goalmouth and looked like having a clear opening, but a corner only accrued.  This however, proved the crucial incident in the game, for being very nicely placed Taylor got his head to the ball and diverted it into the net.  For some time afterwards Small Heath had rather the better of the exchanges, but the play was never very exciting.  A lovely chance came again from Athersmith’s centre which clearly beat the goalkeeper, but all that Field could do with the ball at his toe was to put it on the wrong side of the post, Leake made a long shot which went hard and straight, but Kitchen dealt with it safely and so it came about that at the interval Everton held the advantage of a goal.  There were a few exciting episodes in the second half, and once there seemed a probability that Small Heath would be given a penalty kick, but a consultation with the linesmen induced Mr. Sutcliffe to give a foul inside the line to the intense chargin of the home supporters.  Leake, Leonard, and Goldie worked like giants to retrieve the fortunes of their side, but their efforts were not at all well backed up, and with Archer very uncertain in his kicking the ball was often in the vicinity of the home goal.  Goldie frequently advanced to the attack, and was helpful amongst the halves.  Both Bowman and Sharp were thus often placed offside when the ball came out of the ruck, but they certainly were not penalized so frequently as they should have been.  Leonard got in an exceedingly sudden and smart shot in the midst of some clever manceuring that was just as well saved, and before the end came the people began to troop off the ground, for there really seemed no hope for the “Heathens” More than once however they came with a burst and a lovely centre from Wharton looked dangerous.  Booth, however, was very watchful, and so a rather poor game fizzled out leaving Everton the winners by the only goal scored.
BLURRED PROSPECT
Up to the decision of this particular game I had confident hopes that Small Heath would hold their own in the League, and although I do not think it impossible now, if the team work with the desperate energy absolutely necessary, I am bound to confess that their chances are not so bright.  I have admitted and can still admire, the tactics of the back who clears promptly and vigorously and Archer does all this; but on Saturday he put the ball too often amongst the spectators when minutes were precious to serve his side adequately.  Goldie and Robinson both did all that could be expected, and Leake was, as he always is, the backbone of the half-backs, Beers being a capable helpmate.  Adey was not quite nimble enough for his position, although he never shirked work.  Of the forwards we saw most of Leonard and Athersmith, the former, playing good football without quite so much ornamentation as usual.  McRoberts nearly headed a goal, but he often put the ball to the toe of the opposing back and does not get home in the deadly style he once did.  Everton did not play a great game by any means, Bowman and Young doing the bulk of the work, although Taylor was not idle.  Sharp has been a deal more effective, and did not seem over anxious to run after the ball.  The half-backs were a treat, Booth playing a well-nigh faultless game.  There was some little chopping and changing of positions in the defence towards the close, but Eccles did very well.  Kitchen’s work is borne out by the score-sheet.  Had Small Heath drawn the game, they would have had no more than they deserved, for Everton seemed to me to take matters fairly easy, especially after they had got their heads in front.  Everton; Kitchen; Watson and Eccles, backs; Blythe, Booth, and Wolstenholme; Bowman, Bone, Young, Taylor, and Sharp.  Small heath; Robinson; Goldie, and Archer; Adey, Beers, and Leake; Wharton, Field, McRoberts, Leonard, and Athersmith.  Referee; Mr. C.E. Sutcliffe, Rawtenstall. 

EVERTON v  SMALL HEATH
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 24 March 1902
Played at Small heath before 15,000 spectators. The home side opened strongly, much good work being shown by Leonard and Athersmith, but eventually Everton asserted themselves only to spoil their effort by faulty shooting. Booth missed his kick and danger again threatened; but Everton getting away again, Beers had the worse of a charge by Young, and conceded a corner. Sharp placed well, and Taylor headed in out of Robinson’s reach. This success came close upon half time, and on changing ends the visitors maintained their lead. The home side put a big effort forward, and for some time kept the Everton backs well employed. They, however, were very weak in front of goal, and thus lost several chances of getting upon level terms. Once McRoberts raced through but shot direct at Kitchen, when a goal looked certain, and later the custodian fisted out a terrific shot from the same player. Up to the finish the greater portion of the play favoured Small Heath, who struggled gamely, but were not attended with luck. No further scoring took place.
Result- Everton 1 Small Heath 0
Teams: Small Heath.—Robinson, goal; Goldie and Archer, backs; Beers, Leake, and Adie, half backs ;Athersmith, Leonard, McRoberts, Field, and Wharton, forwards. Everton.—Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Eccles, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth (Captain), and Blythe half backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Abbott, and Bowman, forwards

EVERTON v  SMALL HEATH
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 24 March 1902
At Small Heath, before about 16,000 spectators. Teams: Small Heath.—Robinson, goal; Goldie and Archer, backs; Beers, Leake, and Adie, half backs ;Athersmith, Leonard, McRoberts, Field, and Wharton, forwards. Everton.—Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Eccles, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth (Captain), and Blythe half backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Abbott, and Bowman, forwards. McRoberts set the ball rolling for the Heathens punctually to time. The Heathens were the first to become pressing, and McRoberts only just failed in rushing a goal in the first few minutes. The visitors were prompt to retaliate, diving through the half-back line, and shooting swift and straight for goal. Archer interposed, and the ball was got away, but soon returned, and for a little time was bobbing round the home goal, until it was kicked over the line, a goal kick resulting. The ball was transferred to midfield again, where for some time the game was confined. At last Sharp the ex-Villa man got a chance, and at once made off. Closing in he sent in a nice shot that flew into Robinson’s hands. The shot, however, lacked sting, and the custodian had no difficulty in clearing the line. Athersmith was pulled up for receiving when off-side, and a tussle for the ball between Leonard and Booth ended in the latter getting the better of the Small Heath man. It was Everton’s left wing that next threatened danger, but once more a hesitancy as to what to do with the ball at the last moment led to the attack being a futile one. A corner to the homesters was well placed, and Field shot into goal, but Kitchen cleared from under the bar. McRoberts received from Athersmith and shot, but the ball went wide of the mark, and was quickly at the other end when Robinson brought off a good save. For some time the home men pressed and had the bulk of the play, and it was a pity that Field made a mess of it by dallying so long with the ball, thereby giving Balmer an opportunity of robbing him of the leather. For time there was only one team in it, and that was not the visitors. At length play veered round to the other end, and, swarming round the home goal, the visitors kept up regular bombardment, shot after shot being sent in, and how the goal escaped capture is a mystery, only the grand saving by Robinson averting disaster. Relief came at last, the ball going over the line. From a free kick. Booth had hard lines in not scoring for his side, for he headed in beautifully, the ball striking the crossbar and rolling over. The Evertonians gained a corner, and the ball being placed well in front of goal, Taylor beaded in past Robinson, giving the visitors the lead, one minute before the interval. Half-time: —Everton 1 goal. Small Heath nil.
After a change of ends the Heathens had advantage of the wind, which was a decided factor in the play. The Evertonians were the first to show up, brilliant passing between their left wing and centre bringing the ball into close proximity to the home goal. Abbott thought he saw an opening, and shot, but his aim was bad, and the ball went wide of the post. A foul against the visitors resulted in the leather being put well into goal, and a scrimmage ensued almost under the bar. The homesters tried to rush the ball into the net, but they could not manage it, and in the end the ball rolled over the line, a goal-kick eventuating. Wolstenholme smartly robbed Wharton when he was making off, and some good headwork later on by the homesters served to keep their goal intact. A corner to homesters was poorly placed, and was easily got away. The Everton right wing once more got going, but found the attention of Adie too many for them, and the Evertonians had to retire discomfited. It was not for long, for getting down, this on the left, the half backs were neatly eluded. Bowman got in a good centre, which Taylor headed over the bar. Final; —Everton 1 goal, Small Heath nil.

SMALL HEATH FAIL AT HOME
Birmingham Daily Gazette - Monday 24 March 1902
So long as Small heath could win their remaining four home matches, there was hope that they would retain their position in the First Division of the League for another season. That was a pretty general opinion prior to the game on Saturday afternoon at Coventry Road. Of course, everybody realised that the Everton team were no means opponents, and it was expected that a victory would not be secured unless the Small Heath men rose to the occasion, and gave one of those displays which has more than once this season delighted hundreds of spectators. The side was naturally weakened by the enforced absence of Wigmore, but the Liverpool eleven were much worse off in this respect, for they had Bell, Settle, and Balmer away, and remembering that they had no great stake in winning the game, the probabilities seemed that Small Heath had a fair chance of capturing the valuable two points. Although playing with a bright sun in their faces, the Heathens made the pace at the start, and some capital passing on the right wing was followed by many shies at the Everton goal, though the shooting never attained that degree of deadliness which might have brought about its downfall. Then play went quiet for a time. Everton passed well from half-back to forward, Booth being especially noticeable, and the outside men were kept on the run with well-gauged touches from the inside forwards. Still, there was nothing very dangerous about their attack, and Small Heath missed more chances of scoring than the visitors. A few minutes before the interval Beers was pushed on the ball near his own goal, but, to the surprise of many onlookers, instead of awarding a free kick against Everton, Mr. Sutcliffe gave a corner-kick, and this proved to be the undoing of Small Heath, for Sharp placed the ball well, and it was headed into the net, to all appearance Alec Leake and an Evertonian hitting it together. A moment later Field missed a glorious chance of equalising. The second half went very much in favour of Small Heath, but Kitchen kept goal admirably, and what with bad luck with some capital shots and poor attempts with some excellent chances, the Everton goal remained intact, and Small Heath lost for the eight time this season by the odd goal of the match. While one may conscientiously say that the Heathens scarcely deserved to lose all the points, it must be confessed that their form was somewhat disappointing. Now and then there was some smart work, but too often there was a lack of that keenness on the part of some of the players which is so absolutely necessary to secure victories. Leonard and Athersmith made a capital right wing, both men playing in their best form, but the left wing was not so successful. Wharton had so many idle moments in the first half that he had little chance of showing us what he could do. McRoberts played his usual whole-hearted game, though some of his best efforts met with little luck. Taken all round the defenders played fairly well. Robinson gave nothing away in goal, Goldie was the better back, and Beers played cleverly at half-back, while Leake, than whom no one was keener upon securing a victory, strove with all his well-known enthusiasm to turn the tide in favour of his side. Adey was more at home when transferred from left to right half-back. The passing of the Everton forwards was the best feature of their play, Taylor and Young showing up best. Booth was the best man in defence, and Kitchen, with plenty of chances, showed that he was a reliable goalkeeper. The result was a big blow to the home tea, supporters and unless something unexpected attends the visitors to Sunderland and Derby this week-end, the prospect for the future is cloudy indeed. Maybe the said visits will provide the silver lining one often hears about. One never knows.

IRELAND V. ENGLAND.
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 24 March 1902
This Association international was played on Saturday at Belfast, before 14.000 spectators. Ireland had five Anglos on the team, which materially strengthened it, but at the last moment Gibson, Ireland famous back, was unable to play owing to an injured knee. Ireland has never conquered England yet, the nearest approach being draw of 2 goals eight years ago. Teams: England.—George (Villa), Crompton (Blackburn Rovers), Iremonger (Forest), Wilkes  (Villa), Forman (Forest), Bannister (Bolton Wanderers), Hogg (Sunderland), Bloomer (Derby County), Calvey (Forest), Settle (Everton), Blackburn (Rovers). Ireland-—Reilly (Portsmouth). McCracken (Distillery). Boyle (United), Darling and Milne (Linfield). Nicholls (Celtic), Mercer (Linfield), Morrison (Burnley), (Preston), Kearns (Distillery), and Kirwan (Tottenham). Forman won the toss, and took the benefit of a slight breeze, which tempered the brilliant sun. A momentary invasion by the English forwards was easily repulsed, and then the Irish forwards, led by Gara, swept the English halves aside, but home tram did not reach scoring distance, as Crompton and Iremonger closed in, the former sending the ball well down the field. It was a fine open game, full of brilliant touches. The Anglo-Irishmen especially showed up well. Midfield play was followed by an attack on the Irish goal, Hogg, Calvey, and Settle having shots, but Reilly was too much for them, Portsmouth man being in good form. The passing improved as the game went on, and so did the shooting, but the interval arrived without score. Ireland restarted with ten men, Milne having had a bad knock. The home men, with the wind and sun their backs, immediately pressed, and George was given a busy time. A penalty kick was given against Iremonger, and Milne was entrusted with the kick, but his countrymen had the mortification of seeing him send the ball Into George's hands. Continuing to hold the upper hand, the Irishmen had hard lines in not scoring, but they found impossible to beat George, who gave a very fine display. Play again transferred to the Irish half, and for fully ten minutes the Irish defence had to exert themselves to the utmost to prevent a score. A concerted movement ended in Settle scoring.
Result: England 1 goal. Ireland nil.

THE WALLASEY ELECTRIC CARS
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 28 March 1902
The plan given above shows what may be styled the inaugural scheme of the Wallasey Council for providing the district with proper means of transportation. The ultimate scheme will give something further to the residents in Poulton and Wallasey, who have not yet been catered for, the morethickly-populated parts having received the first attention of the Tramways Committee. The plan shows that the whole of the route from Seacombe to New Brighton Ferry is tapped by the two lines already opened, and when the third has been entered upon the district round Hose-side and Warren-drive will also have its needs met. Although shown as completed on the plan, the loop from Liscard Village along Seaview-road and Warren-drive is not yet opened, but it is hoped it will be in working order before Whitsuntide. The routes are follow: —1. Seacombe Ferry, Demesne-street, Brighton-street, King-street, Seabank-road, Rowson-street. Victoria-road, and the Horse Shoe at New Brighton Ferry—distance. 2 ¾  miles; 2. Seacombe Ferry, St. Paul's-road, Wheatland-lane, Main-waring road, Liscard-road, Liscard Village, Rake-lane. Rowson-street-Victoria-road, New Brighton Ferry—about 3 ½  miles; end 3. Seacombe Ferry and the same route as the last Liscard Village, then along Seaview-road, Hose-side, Grove-road, Warren-drive, past New Brighton Station, and down Victoria-road to the Ferry, the return from New Brighton in each instance being through Virginia-read into Rowson-street. The third route is about 4 ½ miles in length. On the No. 1 service the return route goes along Brighton-street for its full length, instead of Demesne-street, as on the outward journey. The cars have been designed largely on the Liverpool pattern, but we understand that the experiences of passengers have already resulted in a demand for the Birkenhead staircase, and the drivers also express preference for it as making their post a safer and consequently a less anxious one. The double-dock cars accommodate twenty-two passengers inside and thirty-four top. The fares, so far, is 2d for the full journey on both routes, with three overlapping penny stages.

TODAYS TEAM NEWS
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 28 March 1902
Everton v Liverpool
A friendly match will be played at Goodison Park today between the above clubs, kick-off at two o’clock. The following team has been chosen to represented Everton;- selected to represent Everton;-Kitchen, goal; Eccles and Watson, backs; Wolstenholme, Blythe, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Bowman, forwards.
Everton Reserve v Liverpool Reserve
This return Combination match will be played at Anfield tomorrow. The match is always an attractive one, and being Good Friday, there should be a large gate; kick-off at 4 o’clock.
The following will represent Everton;- Muir, goal; Boyle and R. Balmer, backs; Clayton, Clarke, and Brown, half-backs; Rankin, Paterson, Tudor, Proudfoot, and Singleton, forwards.

EVERTON 0 LIVERPOOL 0
March 29 1902. The Liverpool Mercury
So far as Liverpool was concerned, there was no attractive football fixture yesterday, the chief event being a friendly game, at Goodison Park between Everton and Liverpool, and a combination fixture between the reserves teams of the two clubs. It is rather suggestive of the interest taken in “friendlies” that even on a holiday not more than 5,000 people assembled at Goodison Park. The kick off was fixed for two o'clock, and the weather beautifully fine, but the fact that Liverpool were playing only a very moderate team probably kept away many people who otherwise would have turned out to see a really good game. The sides faced as follows: - Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Eccles, and Watson, backs, Wolstenholme, Blythe, and Makepeace, half-backs, Sharp, Taylor (captain), Young, and Roche, forwards. Liverpool: - Perkins, goal, McCullum, and Grover, backs, Rathbone, Hunter, and White, half-backs, Goddard, Hunter, Green, Morris, and Robertson, forwards .
Everton kicked off, and after Goddard had been conspicuous with a few good centres. Perkins at full length saved cleverly from Young. Following a corner, Everton pressed for some time, and Roche had hard lines with a shot, which just went the wrong side of the upright. Sharp shot into the hands of Perkins, and the Liverpool defence was troubled, though the home front line did not exert themselves too much. A corner to Liverpool was badly utilised, and the Visitors were prominent without in any degree endanger in Kitchen's charge. There was a good deal of holiday football about and even the spectators could work up little if any enthusiasm. Taylor banged the ball hard at Perkins, who brought off a good save. Another corner fell to Everton without tangible result, and although Robertson and Liverpool new Welsh recruit Morris tried hard to make headway Wolstenholme did not allow them much latitude. Play was of an easy give and take description, and jucidents of any note were few and far between. When the interval arrived, neither side had scored.
On resuming Liverpool, attacked with a certain amount of vigour, but Kitchen had little difficulty in maintaing his charge intact. Then Everton took up the running and, an abortive corner only saved the downfall of the Liverpool goal. A fine run, and centre by Goddard was quite an enlivening feature, and a prominent figure in repelling advances by Everton was McCallum, the visiting right back, who imparted considerable earnestness in his play. For the main part of the game was contested in the most easy going style, and it was the absence of the seriousness associated with a League encounter which afforded some entertaining to the spectators. Green put in a long shot, which went just outside the post, and at the other end, some feeble attempts were made to score. The game ended in a draw, neither side scored.

EVERTON V. LIVERPOOL
Leeds Mercury - Saturday 29 March 1902
A friendly match between these clubs was played at Goodison Park yesterday, in fine weather. The attendance, however, was disappointing, about 5,000 only being present. Neither team was at full strength, Liverpool having several reserves. The game was uninteresting, neither side playing with much earnestness, and the result was a draw, no goals being scored.

LIVERPOOL RESERVES 0 EVERTON RESERVES 3
March 29 1902. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination
The return Lancashire Combination match between the reserves of Everton and Liverpool was played at Anfield-road in splendid weather. The game at Goodison-Park had resulted in favour of Everton, by two goals to nil. A splendid crowd turned out to witness the game, and when the teams faced there would be fully 10,000 present. The sides were: -
Liverpool: - Hobin, goal, Jones, and Orritt, backs, Taylor Geary, and Davies, half-backs, Stanton, Cooper, Hughes Soldier, and Prescot, forwards. Everton: - Muir goal, Boyle (captain), and Balmer (r), backs, Clayton, Clarke, and Brown, half-backs Rankin, Paterson, Tudor, Proudfoot, and Singleton, forwards. Tudor kicked off, and Liverpool who were favored by a crosswind, had the best of the opening play. The Blues defence however, proved safe and Everton took up the running. Hobin saving against the post from Singleton. The danger was no properly cleared, however, for Singleton again got hold about twenty yards from goal, and sent in a beautiful shot just under the bar, Hobin punching out grandly. The game was contested with plenty of spirit. Muir had to run out a considerable distance in order to assist his backs. He sent the ball into the Liverpool half, but Geary returned to his left wing. Hughes got possession close in, a hot shot from the Liverpool centre going a foot wide of the post. End to end play was the order for a long period after this, neither set of forwards getting much out of the back. Clark tried a long shot, which travelled over the bar, and from the goalkick the Reds rushed to the Everton goal, Brown heading out a shot from Stanton at the expense of a corner. This was worked away, and a good run by Rankin led to Paterson forcing a corner off Orritt, Ranking sending wide. A moment later Geary kicked away a good centre from Singleton, but the Everton outside left was foul by Rathbone just outside the penalty line. The free kick was fruitless, and combined work by the home forwards and the visiting backs were hard pressed. Muir had to leave his goal to clear and then Balmer, Boyle and Clarke, each put in clever tactics. Their work was supplemented by the right wing, and from a throw in near the corner flag, Tudor banged the ball along the ground into the corner of the net. Everton played up after their success, which came after 35 minutes play, and Clark had hard luck, with a capital shot which hit the side net. Stanton was mainly responsible for the Liverpool attack, but he was will looked after by Balmer. Once Prescot had a chance of opening the scoring for his side, but his shot went nearer the corner flag than the goal. The game was stopped for a few minutes owing to Tudor being hurt, and he had to retire for a time. On play being resumed, Everton assisted by a couple of free kicks, put on pressure, Singleton sending outside. Stanton and Cooper replied on the Liverpool right, but Clarke and Brown beat them. The ball went to the opposite wing, Soldier shooting yards too high. Proudfoot twice distinguished himself by clever dribbles, and Rankin sent a splendid shot a foot over the bar. In quick succession Boyle pulled up the home left in fine style, and Rankin twice sprinted down his wing without result. The game was contested in vigorous famous to the interval, a fine first half ending with Everton leading by a goal to nil. The pace slackened considerably when play was commenced, Everton had the best of matters and Hobin was twice called upon. Brown got in a capital shot from 30 yards range, the custodian getting the ball away from under the bar. A little later, Rankin shot yards wide when favourably situated. Clarke was always conspicuous, the Everton centre half playing a very fine game. He sent in two capital shots, the first being charged down, while the second grazed the post as it passed outside. Liverpool were completely hennied in, and Hobin saved wonderfully well at the expense of a corner. Following the flag kick, Rankin centred to Tudor, who was under the bar, but he unaccountably sent over. The Liverpool goalkeeper, was applauded for three clear saves, one from Paterson being a capital being a capital bit or work. For a long time, Hobin, was the hardest working man on his side, but he kept goal grandly. Shots from Singleton Paterson, and Proudfoot went very close, and several corners to Everton were fruitless. At length Jones upset Singleton close in, and Boyle taking the penalty kick, scored after Hobin had saved. Liverpool at last made their first real attack of this half, but Stanton got offside. Half an hour elapsed before Muir had to handle, and then he saved a capital shot from Geary. Rankin was very conspicuous in the Blues front rank and he, and Paterson were continually troubling the Liverpool defencders. The game was delayed owing to Brown bring hurt, but he was able to resume and close on time Proudfoot headed a third goal for Everton, who won by three goals to nil.

EVERTON 2 DERBY COUNTY 0
March 29 1902. The Liverpool Mercury
This return League game was played at Goodison Park, before 15,000 spectators. Everton started, and immediately forced matters, but the Derby defence proved sound. After ten minutes Sharp got nicely away, and centred most judiciously. Young missed an open goal, but the ball came to Settle, who easily scored. From now to the interval Everton held the advantage, an occasional breakaway by the Derby left wing relieving the monotony. Eccles cleared a fine centre from Middleton, and the home forwards racing away, Young was fouled when near the penalty line. From this the Everton centre drove the ball against the upright, from which it bounded into the net. After breathing time Everton continued to attack, and Sharp was especially prominent with dashing runs and centres. Kitchen cleared marvelously from Boag and Fulton, but this was the peakites last chance. Settle put the ball past Fryer, but was adjudged offset, and the final result was Everton 2 goals; Derby County nil.
Everton: - Kitchen, goals, Eccles, and Watson, backs, Wolstenholme, Booth (captain) and Blythe, half-backs, Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Bowman, forwards. Derby County: - Fryer, goals, Methven, and Morris, backs, Hunt, Goodall, and Leckie half-backs, Shortcliffe, Bloomer, Boag, Fulton, and Middleton, forwards.

LANCASHIRE COMBINATION
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 29 March 1902
LIVERPOOL RESERVE v. EVERTON RESERVE
Great interest manifested itself in this match, and the fine weather which prevailed was the means of bringing a large crowd to the Anfield enclosure yesterday afternoon, there being about 10,000 spectators present when the following teams turned out; Liverpool: Hobin, goal; Jones and Orritt, backs; Rathbone, Geary, and Davies, half backs; Stanton, Cooper, Hughes, Soldier, and Prescot, forwards. Everton; Muir, goal; Boyle and Balmer, backs; Clayton, Clarke, and Brown, half backs ; Rankin, Paterson, Tudor, Proudfoot, and Singleton, forwards. Liverpool won the toss, and Everton kicked off in face of a slight sun. The Evertonians immediately pressed, and forced a corner. This availed them nothing, and the Reds attacked, but the defence of the Goodison contingent was impenetrable, and Liverpool were eventually cleared out. The ball was then taken to the other end, Proudfoot doing good work in front of goal. Singleton sent in a magnificent shot, which Hobin cleared finely. Just after Clarke shot over the bar. Liverpool at length got away, and it looked as if they would have the honour of drawing first blood. Hughes sent in a grand shot, which just went a trifle wide. The pressure was relieved by Jones, and play was taken to midfield, but the Reds were back again in a trice, the Everton goal being hotly besieged. A fruitless corner fell to the Liverpudlians, and then the Everton front rank got going, Paterson being robbed by Orritt when about to shoot for goal. A corner was forced by the Blues, but nothing tangible resulted therefrom. The pressure was maintained by Everton for some time, the Liverpool forwards making several attempts to break away, but without fruitful result, the Evertonians keeping them well in check. After repeated attempts by the visitors to open the score. Tudor got the ball, and placed it beyond the reach of Hobin, Clarke a few minutes later almost augmenting the score. Good play by the home quintet was next witnessed, and they got well in front of the Everton goal, but their efforts to equalise were futile. A slight cessation of play then occurred owing Tudor being placed hors de combat and temporarily leaving the field. On resuming hostilities Everton made things lively in the vicinity of the home custodian, and Rankin sent in a rattling long shot, which sailed over the bar. Liverpool got off the left, and a foul against Everton enabled them to get close in. The visitors’ defence, however, was perfect, and Liverpool were forced to retire. Play was in favour of Everton to the interval. Half-time score:— Everton 1 goal. Liverpool nil.
On resuming Everton had the best of matters and Hobin saved well from Brown, who sent in beautiful long shot just under the bar. Rankin missed a good chance of adding to the score, shooting yards wide when in a good position. The Reds for a long time could not get over the half way line, and after Clarke had had a warm shot charged down, he a sent foot wide. Hobin again cleared well, but Tudor, who stood almost under the bar, should have beaten him from Rankin's centre but sent over. In quick succession Hobin earned considerable applause for trio of very clever saves. Jones tripped Singleton close in and from the penalty kick Boyle scored after Hobin had saved his first shot. Muir was called upon for the first time after half an hour's play, when he saved from Geary. Play slowed down considerably after this, but Everton always had the best of matters, and near time Proudfoot headed a third goal. Result: Everton Combination 3 goals, Liverpool Reserve nil.

FRIENDLY MATCHES.
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 29 March 1902
EVERTON v. LIVERPOOL.
Visitors to Goodison Park yesterday after noon would hardly expect a very stubborn encounter between Everton and Liverpool, in view of the important engagement' which both clubs have to negotiate to day. Everton were fairly well represented as follows:- Kitchen, goal; Eccles and Watson, backs; Wolstenholme, Blythe, and Makepeace, half backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Roche, and Bowman, forwards. Liverpool, who have done so badly of late in their League fixtures, were represented by: Perkins, goal; Glover and McCallum, backs; Rathbone, Hunter, and White, half backs; Goddard, Hunter, Green, Roberts, and Morris (Welsh International), their latest acquisition, forwards. Barely 4,000 spectators turned up. Young made a start for Everton, and Sharp took the leather on in a leisurely way for few paces, when Hunter intervened, and the cricketer passed the sphere to Taylor. Robertson put in a smart sprint, and from his centre Green shot for somewhere or other, but not Kitchen’s enclosure. A pleasing sequence of gentle exchanges followed in midfield, neither side seeming anxious to take an undue advantage for fully five minutes. A little encouragement from the spectators led to a rather spirited invasion of the Red’s territory by Sharp and Taylor, so that when Perkins cleared from the latter the meagre crowd crowed lustily. Soon after Roche missed an excellent opportunity of getting inside Perkins’ guard. Sharp skipped across, and as the result of his effort the ball met Glover and nearly knocked him off his feet. Roche seemed anxious to put some life into the game, and after getting the leather at his toe he sent it along the ground with lightning-like swiftness, but unluckily it lacked direction, and finished its course a few inches the wrong side of the upright. At the interval there was clean sheet. On resuming, Everton were promptly penalised, but Blythe immediately neutralised. Robertson and Morris soon got to work on Liverpool’s left, and for a moment it looked as if some earnestness would be imparted to the game, as Makepeace, hard pressed, passed back to Kitchen, whom Morris unsuccessfully attempted to rush through. After Sharp had put in a pretty centre from near the corner flag. Glover and McCallum both bungled, and had Bowman meant scoring he had an excellent opportunity but he fumbled about dreamily until McCallum conceded an abortive comer. Robertson next gave an attractive display, and after cleverly beating Eccles, centred smartly. A sequence of passes followed in front Perkins. Ultimately Goddard obtained possession, after a grand run down his wing, wound up by beating Eccles and letting drive at Kitchen. It was a good shot and the ball landed right in the Everton goalkeeper’s clutches. At the finish of the game nothing had been scored.

PROFESSIONALSM IN FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 29 March 1902
One of the features which appeal to athletes in the April number of the “Windsor Magazine" isan interview with Mr. J. J. Bentley, the president of the Football League, whose views on the subject of professionalism in football will read with great interest-.
“Not many people.’ said Mr. Bentley, ‘I fancy, connect the British Association with football; yet it is a fact that an organisation of that name once played a very important part in the history of the game.’ It came about in this way. Professionalism was not legalised till 1885; but for many years before that it was open secret that the players in nearly all the big clubs were receiving payment. The authorities were well aware of the fact, but took no active steps till, in 1884, they disqualified Great Lever and Burnley for competing for the English Cup, on the ground that most of the players of both these clubs were really professionals. As a matter of fact, veiled professionalism was rampant in every Lancashire club at the time; but Lancashire made a great show of virtuous indignation, and withdrew from the Football Association, and formed a combination of all the leading clubs in the county, under the title the British Association." The main object was to demand from the Football Association that professionalism should be legalised. Two Lancashire clubs, however—Blackburn and Darwen -refused to join the new organisation. Inasmuch asDarwen not only paid its players, but was actually the first English club to import a Scotsman —one James Love by name- its action was not altogether popular, but it really didn't matter very much, as the British Association only lasted a single year. It was the British Association which really brought to a head the question of professionalism. Previous this, commissions had been appointed by the Football Association to make inquiries and examine account books of the suspected clubs. But complete evidence was most difficult to find, and when the books were promptly produced by the secretaries they accounted for every penny in the most complete manner. Yet it was common knowledge that many, if not all, the players belonging to these dubs were paid. The popular tale is that the men's wages were placed in their ordinary boots, where they found them when they dressed after the match; but no such pains to ensure secrecy were taken. They were paid quite openly out of the gate money, the net sum remaining after those disbursements being entered in the books kept far inspection as the gross amounts. Others were found situations or were established in tobacco and hosiery shops. The officials of the Lancashire dub simply laughed at the commissions. This state of things, of coupe, could not continue, and in 1885 a meeting of the Football Association was held in London, to consider the whole question of professionalism. Roughly speaking, said Mr. Bentley, ‘all the clubs in the North of England were determined to have professionalism legalised, while the clubs in the South and the Midlands were no lest strongly opposed to it. Major Marandin was in the chair, and Mr. C. W. Alcock, the secretary of the Oval-although as an old Harrovian all his football associations were in favour amateurism-recognised that professionalism was inevitable, and urged that it should be legalised. In the end, however, 113 voted for professionalism and 108 against it; but at the requisite two-thirds majority had not been obtained, the law remained as it was. Six months afterwards another meeting of the Football Association was held at Anderton’s Hotel, at which the necessary number voted in favour of professionalism, which this became law. The Football league was formed in 1888 and its first president was Mr. McGregor, who held that office until 1893, when he was succeeded by Mr. Bentley, who six years previously had been elected a member of the council of the Football Association,” “Windsor Magazine.”

EVERTON v  DERBY COUNTY
The Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, March 29, 1902
SETTLE SOON OPENS EVERTON’S SCORE
By pigeon Post and Telephone
The visitors to Goodison park this afternoon were the bold Peakmen from Derby County, who showed up so valiantly in the English Cup contests until their career was cut short on Thursday by Sheffield United, with whom they had played two drawn games previously. Today’s encounter was not fraught with the keen interest which attaches to struggles for position, as Derby are safe enough, though they are not perched on a very elevated rung of the League ladder. As for Everton, as all the world knowns, they seen certain, whatever comes to be good seconds to Sunderland when the curtain is rung down at the season’s close. Despite the foregoing conclusions, Derby County are good favourites with the Goodison Park crowd, as they usually play a ding-dong game whatever the occasion he, and seldom allow their opponents the liberty of giving much away. The morning broke dull and dreary and yesterday’s sunshine gave place to leaden clouds and an unpleasant drizzle, which however, had practically no effect on the playing pitch. The Everton team, with one exception, turned out as per programme. Blythe appearing in place of Abbott. On the Derby side, however, four of the best were missing in Warren, Boag, Wombwell and Lloyd, for whom Fulton, Middleton, Shirtcliffe and Hunt appeared respectively, and the County men had thus a team which must be considered on the weak side. In the presence of about 12,000 spectators the players lined up as follows, under the watchful eye of Mr. Referee Adams.
Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Eccles and Watson, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth (Captain), and Blythe, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Bowman, forwards.
Derby County;- Fryer, goal; Methven and Morris, backs; Hunt, Goodall, and Leckie, half-backs; Shirtcliffe, Bloomer, Middleton, Fulton and Davis, forwards.

ST HELENS RECREATION 1 EVERTON RESERVES 0
March 31 1902. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Combination
At St.Helens. The home team had a strong wind in their favour, and it helped them considerably. The Recs, ran down, and Roberts scored for them. Halt time Everton nil; St Helens Rec 1. Nothing was scored in the second half, and thus St Helens Recreation won by 1 goal to nil. Everton: - Muir, goal, Boyle (captain), and Balmer (r), backs, Clayton, Clarke, and Brown, half-backs Rankin, Paterson, Tudor, Proudfoot, and Singleton, forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
March 31 1902. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton gained their 15 th League victory in very easy fashion at the expense of Derby County, and the final verdict of two clear goals in their favour does not faithfully portray the superiority of the home players. Everton monopolised the bulk of the pressure, and Derby had to rest content with an occasional breakaway, whilst there was but one instance through out the proceedings when the Peakites appeared at all likely to score. This was in the second half, when from a capital centre by Shortcliffe, the ball was thrice banged at Kitchen, who cleared the first two shots, whereas the third cannoned behind the line off Eccles. In justice of the visitors it must, however, be stated that they had a great weakened side; whilst the fact that they had been indulging in a semi-final the previous Thursday against Sheffield United must have considerably handicapped then in their efforts to gain points in a trying away League match. They were unable to keep Everton in check, and there were times when the home team had matters all their own way. The Latter were none too dangerous near goal, however, and considering the amount of pressure they exerted they ought to have given Fryer a harder task than he actually had to contend with. The forwards line was extremely satisfactory with the exception of Bowman, who was again tried in the League team at Goodison Park, but figured at outside left. He was inclined to cling to the ball too tenaciously, and the half backs opposed to him stood on little ceremony in dispossessing him. Once or twice he placed nicely in goal, but as a general rule he was easily robbed of the ball, and oftentimes hung bank instead of dashing ahead, thus spoiling many possible openings. Young shaped well in the centre, and is becoming quite an adept in trapping the ball, baffling his opposing half, and placing to right and left with judicious discrimination. Sharp's exhibition came as a surprise, considering how languidly he has been disporting himself of late, and it was from a beautiful centre whipped across by him that enabled Settle to steer the ball into the net, and register the first goal. Settle played a good game, but was handicapped somewhat by the inefficiency of the outside partner. The half-backs were too strong for the visiting forwards, and Blythe filled the position usually occupied by Abbott with credit. He completely harassed the Derby right wing by his terrier like attentions, and Bloomer never got a chance to display his ability. Booth and Wolstenholme had a comparatively easy task on hand, for neither were ever fully extended. Watson and Eccles kicked sturdily, and defended so well that Kitchen was rarely troubled, and the number of shots that required the Everton custodian's attentions were very few. His most trying period were on the occasion already referred to, and as the scrimmage occurred almost under the crossbar it required all Kitchen's promptitude, and decision to keep Derby from scoring. The display of the visitors was about as effective as could be expected considering the hard work they have experienced during the last month. Their forwards were ragged, and Bloomer was scarcely seen, the best work of the line coming from Middleton on the extreme left. In the half-back division Leckie was prominent with skilful tackling and placing, and this had a marked influence on the play of the Derby left wing. The full backs were by no means safe, and on three occasions narrowly missed placing the ball into their own goal when endeavoring to clear their lines. Fryer made some capital saves, but as a rule the shots he had to deal with came straight at him. To day Everton tackle Nottingham Forest, and should add another couple of points to their credit.

EVERTON v. NOTTS FOREST.
Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer - Monday 31 March 1902
The return League match at Goodiron Park was played yesterday, before holiday crowd of 20,000. Forest had not a full team, Frank Formen being away, while for Everton Boyle played back instead of Eccles. who is injured. The home team enjoyed much the best of the game, the forwards showing great dash and after half-an-hour's play Sharp scored. Afterwards Everton enjoyed all the play, and at the interval Everton had scored 1 goal to Notts Forest none. In the second half the pace fell off somewhat, and the Forest had rather of the play, their left wing being prominent. Linacre, however, kept fully employed, and once beat him after the whistle had gone for off-side. Towards finish Everton gained several corners, which they could not turn to account. Result:—Everton 1 goal, Forest none.

EVERTON v. DERBY COUNTY.
London Daily News - Monday 31 March 1902
Playing at home, this match was looked upon as a good thing for Everton, and such it proved, as, having the best of the game for the major portion of the match, they won by two to love. The weather was fine, and fully 16.000 spectators were present. Both the goals were scored in the opening half, Settle getting the first after only three minutes' play, and Young adding another at the end half an hour. Afterwards the goalkeeping on both sides was very good, for there was no more scoring in the match. Fryer saved number of excellent shots from Sharp.

EVERTON’S VICTORY OVER DERBY
Athletic News - Monday 31 March 1902
By Junius
What was left of the Derby County team after Sheffield United had finished with it was badly beaten at Goodison Park and the score of two clear goals does not demonstrate the superiority of the home side.  The story of the game is told in another column and beyond mentioning one or two features there is no necessity for me to refer to the match.  I must confess to a feeling of extreme disappointment with regard to the display of Bowman at outside left.  This was the first time he had played with the League eleven in this position and his performance demonstrated many glaring weaknesses.  His conception of wing play on Saturday’s form is decidedly crude, and he certainly ought to have shaped better than he and with the chances afforded.  Singleton, who played a capital game with the reserve team at Anfield on Friday, has a better idea of what is required and though he lacks the physique of Bowman, is smarter away with the ball.  Still, there is so much of the leng by Scot that he should develop; but at present he is decidedly in the rough state; Sharp astonished a great many people by the dash he exhibited and it is some weeks since I saw the right-winger cater the fray with so much gusto.  His centres were extremely judicious and his sparkling sprints along touch most enjoyable.  I must compliment Blythe upon his terrier-like work, and the defence all round for his sturdiness. 

TROT WIN FOR EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 31 March 1902
By Titrbus
Without unduly distressing themselves Everton gained an easy victory over Derby County at Goodison Park on Saturday. The score of two goals to none scarcely suggests the superiority of the home contingent, who seemed to revel in dribbling all over the arena, and winding up with promiscuous pom-pom practice.  All  this shooting did not do a great deal of damage, primarily because it was either faulty in direction or elevation, as artillerymen phrase it, and secondly because that lengthy personage. Master Tom Fryer, with his arms flying around like windmill sails, generally found -the ball. However, on two occasions he was beaten, and this served the purpose of Everton. After their recent Cup-ties there was not a great deal of fight in Derby, who were moreover not represented by their strongest combination, for Davis, Wombwell, and Den Warren were missing from the forward rank, while the vacancy at right half-back caused by May, Raisebeck , and Lloyd being all under the doctor, was filled by a tall and intelligent-looking youth named Hunt. Middleton, who was not qualified for the Cup, re-appeared on the left, and was partnered by Fulton, while the duties of outside right were filled by a sturdy little fellow named Shortcliffe, who is quite a stranger, but by no means a weakling. Nor were Everton at full strength, for John Bell is still nursing his right arm, and Bowman took his position, Abbott was kept away by a bad throat, and the auburn-haired Blythe, a young Scot who came from Jarrow, was at left half-back. Still suffering from his collusion in the Sunderland match, Balmer was absent, the backs being Eccles and Watson.
SHARP S SPARKLING SPRINTS AND CENTRES
The game was only ten minutes old when Everton were credited with their first goal, Jack Sharp had been playing remarkably well, and his fine pace enabled him to overtake a ball on the line near the corner and he centred at right angles. Young intended to score, but he missed the necessary formality of touching the leather, which went to Settle, and he did the trick with a low shot.  Morris making a mistake, Sharp dashed in and made a straight, swift shot, something like his bowling, but Fryer fielded well and threw away. And yet there came another centre from Sharp, Bowman passed back and there was some pretty work among the forwards. This boded danger, and so Goodall chipped in and cleared to the right, Shortcliffe middled well and Boag tested  Kitchen, but he punted away.  The best effort for Derby, however came from Middleton, who dashed down the line and put in a rare centre, which was cleared. Sharp thereupon had another chance, and playing the ball with his head to his feet he dribbled on with his right. Being tackled Morris he hooked the leather round with his left and planted the sliddery ball right into goal amid cheers, but Fryer was equal to the occasion. More clever maneuvering by the Everton front rank was ended by Taylor kicking over his head and also over the goal. The majority of the attacks were led by Sharp on the one side and by Middleton on the other. A centre by the latter off the line hit the crossbar, but, after Kitchen had handled, Boag lifted too high. Much high-class maneuvering was shown by Young, who, however, generally had his shots intercepted or cannoned. Some combination work between Young, Taylor, and Wolstenholme terminated by the half-back making a forty yards' drive. The shot travelled at a tremendous pace, and Fryer saved amid hearty cheering. The second goal arrived shortly before the interval, and was the reward of a foul. Morris thought it necessary to trip up Young, who was apparently offside. From the free kick, Young at close quarters espied an opening, and with a sharp shot Fryer was again beaten. In the latter portion Derby were occasionally dangerous, but nearly all the leading Work was done by Everton, who were always on the ball, Sharp, Young, and Settle, being a particularly industrious trio. All the same, the Everton goal had one escape, for after Shortcliffe had given the inside men a rare chance, shots were ruined in, but the defence managed to prevail. But Everton reasserted themselves, and took numerous corners without securing another point, although Settle once netted the ball.  He was however, obviously off-side and so the game was ended without addition to the score.
COMMENTATORY
There was nothing soul-stirring or particularly  thrilling about the match, for Everton were disposed of  regard  the result as assured from the interval, and one or two men from the interval, and one or two men from from Derby were not much inclined to over-evert themselves.  Everton showed pretty play, and  I was please with Sharp, who beating Leckie and Morris, all the afternoon, and making beautiful centres with both the right and left foot. Moreover, he closed in and shot well when occasion presented. It is a long time since I saw Sharp scintillate in this dazzling style. His partner Taylor, is as hard-working as ever, while Young seems to improve every time he plays. As a close dribbler he has fine command of the ball, and is a splendid marksman.  Settle had a good afternoon practice, but I was not much impressed by Bowman. Booth, the captain and centre-half, is in rare form at present, and the defence never gave cause for anxiety. The mainstay of Derby was Fryer, who kept a grand goal, and it was just as well considering that his backs were not as reliable as usual, for Morris was repeatedly outwitted.  A youth of promise is Hunt, but the evergreen and tireless Goodall was easily first in the visiting half-back line. Bloomer was so indifferent and possibly careless that one could hardly recognise him as the captain of England next Saturday, and of a moderate set of forwards, Boag Middleton alone deserve commendation. But as it Derby’s third hard match within a week much must be forgiven; men are not made of whipcord. Everton; Kitchen; Watson, Eccles; Wolstenholme, Booth, Blythe; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Bowman.  Derby County; Fryer; Methven, Morris; Hunt, Goodall, Leckie; Shortcliffe, Bloomer, Boag, Fulton, and Middleton.  Referee; J.J. Adams, Birmingham. 

EVERTON v DERBY COUNTY
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 31 March 1902
Played Goodison Park, about 16.000 spectators being present. The Everton team, with one exception, turned out as per programme, Blythe appearing in place of Abbott. On the Derby side, however, four of the best were missing in Warren, Boag, Wombwell, and Lloyd, for whom Fulton, Middleton, Shirtcliffe, and Hunt appeared respectively, and the County men had thus a team which must be considered on the weak side. Teams:— Everton.—Kitchen, goal; Eccles and Watson, backs;Wolstenholme, Booth (Captain), and Blythe, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Bowman, forwards. Derby County.—Fryer, goal; Methven and Morris, backs; Hunt, Goodall, and Leckie, half-backs; Shirtcliffe, Bloomer, Middleton, Fulton, and Davis, forwards. The Derby skipper won the toss, and set his opponents to face the sun and wind. The first to make a decided move was the Derby left wing, but Davis and his partner found the Everton defence too strong, and in reply a combined move was made by Sharp, Taylor, and Young, which ended in a pass to Settle, who was beaten by Hunt. Sharp raced along the touch line, and at the crucial moment sent in a beautiful centre, which Young just missed. This mattered little, as Settle was very handy, and, meeting the ball squarely, placed it in net, without giving Fryer theslightest chance of saving. Everton’s success came after ten minutes’ play. The County pulled themselves together well after their reverse, Davis, Fulton, and Middleton making brave efforts to force the Evertonian defence, but Eccles and Wolstenholme were very safe. The Blues were soon away again, and Taylor gave Fryer a hot one to negotiate. A fine run followed by Bloomer, and though Watson stepped in, the flier got the ball at his head, and sent it well over Kitchen’s charge. From the kick out Settle and Bowman got away in brilliant style, and the former wound up with a great shot, which Fryer scooped out of the corner the goal on his hands and knees. This was one of Settle’s most brilliant efforts. Several items which promised well were commenced by the Derby men, but were ultimately broken up the Everton defence. Leckie sent across to Bloomer, who, along with Shirtcliffe. continued the more until one of the pair was penalised. Another move in line came after a pretty serve on the part Goodall, who hereabouts was playing a great game and stopping many efforts on the part of his opponents. Fulton from the left-hand corner sent a shot which went very close to Kitchen, and a moment later Sharp went away on his own, dodged Morris very cleverly, and finished with an oblique shot which greatly troubled Fryer. A free kick fell to Everton and was taken by Eccles, who planted the leather very accurately. Methven and Fraser carefully allowed the ball to take its course, and it rolled slowly into the net. Immediately there was a spirited claim from the Evertonians that the ball had touched Young. Mr. Adams, the referee, consulted the linesman, after which he declined to allow the point.  Jack Sharp was next on the leather, and the way in which he worked round Methven was a treat Taylor took his pass, but the Derby backs stuck to him like glue, and he was not allowed to steady himself for a shot, so that Methven cleared. Derby were now busy on their right, and Bloomer was put in possession by Goodall. He let drive with great force, but the ball went well over Kitchen’s head. Soon afterwards Boag took another long shot, but he fared no better than his colleague as far as resultswent.  Everton then took up the attack from Sharp’s and as the leather came into the centre Fryer was called up to relieve. Immediately he did so Settle returned the ball like lightning, and Fryer, taken by surprise, had to concede a corner, which, however, brought no grist to the Everton mill, and the County forwards were soon sailing up the field, where Booth stepped in and stopped the rush smartly. A strong move on the part of Derby County ended in Middleton shooting wide, after which Bowman, intercepting a pass which was intended for an opponent, raced away and claimed a comer, which was very easily accounted for. Then the County went away on the left wing, and forced a corner for the Peakites, but this was just as easily cleared as the preceding one. More end-to-end play followed, the most interesting point of which was a bright shot from Wolstenholme, which tested Fryer's powers to the utmost. Bloomer and Shirtcliffe were not shining at all on their wing owing to the persistent attentions of Watson and Booth, who usually emerged successful from their various encounters. Boaz also exerted himself to the uttermost, but though was several times very adjacent, Kitchen was seldom severely tested owing to the sterling exhibition Eccles and Watson. Young at last got the ball in a very favourable position, but was fouled by Methven, and from the free kick Taylor got the leather and had a try for goal. The ball came out again and was passed on to Young at close quarters, he screwing round and with a fine shot put the sphere past Fryer a few seconds before the whistle announced the interval : Everton 2 goals. Derby nil.
There were close on 20,000 spectators present when the County recommenced operations. The opening moves were decidedly in favour of Everton, as in the first minute Wolstenholme and Taylor assisted the ball forward, and was left for Young to put on the finishing touch, but his effort was very feeble, and Fryer had no difficulty in saving hisgoal. After a brief breakaway on the part the County, Everton returned to the attack. Settle getting along very nicely until squarely tackled by Goodall, by whom he was beaten, and a little later on the opposite wing made great headway, Fryer at the finish of one move running out and responding to a gallant effort on the part of Taylor. After Taylor had sent in an unexpected return, Fryer ran out and cleared. Young was next in evidence, but Methven cleared. Settle, however, dashed up with a splendid opening, and looked certain to score, but just as he got a fair swing to the ball Morris rushed over and the ball cannoned off him, and though Settle made a second gallant effort to reach the leather. Fryer effected a clearance. Sharp next sent in good shot from the wing, which Fryer dealt with judiciously. Everton kept to their work with great determination, and Young sent a swift shot across the goalmouth. Sharp next obtained, and put in one of the accurate centres which had distinguished his play all along, but Settle missed it, and Morris removed the danger in time. Very soon after Sharp once more troubled Fryer with a rasping shot. This was followed by a nice effort from Fulton, but finished up badly, and Kitchen handled without anxiety. Result: Everton 2 goals. Derby County nil.