Everton Independent Research Data
CHESTERFIELD RES 1, EVERTON RES 0
April 1, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
Only the efforts of goalkeeper O’Neill saved Everton Reserves from a heavier defeat at Saltergate. Chesterfield swing the ball about, making full use of their wing and the Everton defence worked over time. An unusually high number of free kicks were awarded to Chesterfield because of foul tackles. Everton outside right Mayers gave a good account of himself, but lacked support in front of goal in the infrequent attacks of the visitors. Whitehurst scored the goal in the 32nd minute.
TEMPLE ANOTHER PROMISING YOUNG EVERTON PROSPECT
April 1, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
I was perfectly satisfied with Everton’s first-half display against Newcastle at Goodison Park on Saturday, for they showed more assertiveness than they have done for weeks. They have been seriously criticized for their lack of penetration in many of their previous games, but this could not be leveled against them this time. There was a brightness about their performance and they were so much on top that they should have had more than two goals, but all well, that ends well. The irony of it was that Newcastle’s goal was scored by Donovan who tried to scoop away a ball which was travelling near his own goal and it landed in the ne. It was bad luck, but he just had to attempt something for White was on his heels at the time. that was the only blemish in an otherwise sound display of full back requirement but I liked the look of the whole team during those first 45 minutes, when they were fast, elusive and often had the Newcastle defence running the wrong way because the pass was not put to the obvious place. The ball was often hooked to a quarter where a man could take his time in gathering and do what he willed. Newcastle United were not united particularly in defence. Up to the time when Gauld hurt his ankle the speed of the Everton forward line was such that they cut and carved their way through and then delivered their shot-or header. It is a long time since I saw Everton finish off their work so well, and with the slightest bit of luck they should have had more goals in their bag at the half stage than the one McNamara scored at the 13th minute. McNamara had often been the butt of the crowd but on Saturday he showed just what he could do if left alone and not jeered at. His link-up with Gauld was a success and had not the former Charlton player been rendered half effective by his injury I think this pair would have played duck and drakes with the United defence. McNamara had played well at Portsmouth but I think Saturday’s performance was one of the best. He accepted Fielding’s corner kick with alacrity and plunged the ball into the net with his head as coolly and calmly as one could wish. McNamara did many other good things and nearly took another goal also with his head –when he went for a Williams cross. I have often wondered why he was not allowed to go inside when corners were taken for his height is a valuable asset when flag kicks are being taken. What of newcomer Derek Temple, playing his first game with the seniors. This was a big test, but this young centre forward showed ideas and an enthusiasm that was heartening. He called for the ball, was not afraid of a challenge and his control was often good enough to outwit a rival. This young player is worth a further trial. He like Gauld, was handicapped nu an injury, but neither shirked an issue in fact Gauld produced a pace that was devastating at times, despite his limp. Gauld certainly shape up well to give it that thrust which makes it a menace to opposition defenders. Everton’s success was that they went out looking for the ball. Another factor was the two wing half backs. We have come to expect that of Farrell but Birch has tumbled down in that phase of the game, on occasions. Against Newcastle, however he was always backing up. Don’t think that Newcastle were never in it. They came in parts and had a anger look when they set off on goal scoring missions.
Thrilling Saves
Dunlop made one thrilling save when he tipped over his bar a terrific drive by White. It was a thunder-bolt affair and if it had beaten Dunlop few could have complained. Dunlop is playing in the manner of an international which he must be sooner or later. I have yet to see him play a bad game. This was not his only save, but it was undoubtedly his best. His fearlessness is the admiration of all who watch him, while his command of the penalty area is one of his strong points. Jackie Milburn could not get in one of those match winning shots for which he is famous but I must admit I liked White, a thrustful go-ahead leader who knows where the goal is. Eastham who is a nephew of the former Harry Eastham who used to delight Anfield followers by his trickery is a clever player, but we saw little of Mitchell who was taken good care of by Donovan. This Irishman is playing at the top of his form and has been for some time. If Eire has a better right back I don’t know him. When Gauld took his side to a two goals lead, I had no fear but within a minute Donovan had made his one slip and the United were back in the game with a chance. Gauld’s goal was made in three moves –Dunlop to Temple, who picked up a ball which had bounced over Scoular’s head and then pushed it forward to Gauld. Gauld went sailing along until he thought the moment right for the shot and when it did come goalkeeper Mitchell was just helpless, Mitchell was none too sure with the many cross balls which came over. Time and again they passed him by because he had not judged the flight but was not made to play the penalty for his inaccuracies.
Not As Prominent
Williams up against the “hard” Scoular, was not as prominent as he had been against hall at St. Andrew’s a fortnight ago, but what pluck he has for a little fellow. He has more than that –a lot of football ability and he was unlucky to see one of his shots crash against the legs of goalkeeper Mitchell. It was a let off for Newcastle for it was a scoring chance, which Williams would have taken nine times out of ten. The second half was not nearly so good as its predecessor. Everton faded a little no doubt due to the injuries to Gauld and Temple. I thought Everton were inclined to stand more on defence than attack this half, so much so that we often saw Fielding –he had a good shot saved – and McNamara in their own penalty area. There were some anxious moments in the Everton goal, but apart from one or two saves by Dunlop, rather easy ones for him –the shooting of Newcastle was feeble. Milburn tried one after he had “poached” into the centre, but it was a gift to the Everton goalkeeper for it was only a half-hit effort. Newcastle had about 15 minutes when they threatened to draw level, but in the end Everton got on top again and in the final ten minutes were testing the Newcastle defence to the full. The policy adopted by Everton is the type commended for it gives is the opportunity of seeing what they gave to their junior ranks. What I have seen so far is satisfying for there are undoubtedly possibilities about such as Graham Williams, Thomas and now Temple.
HILLSBOROUGH NOT LUCKY FOR BLUES
April 5, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton, away to Sheffield Wednesday are opposed to a side which though not in serious danger of relegation cannot afford to take any chances, and for the reason is sure to put up a strong fight for maximum points. The chief reason for Wednesday’s lowly placing has been lack of success in away engagements of which they have won only two and drawn three. Another contributory factor has been a run of injuries which has cost them the services of several players in recent weeks. Don Gibson the wing-half son-in-law of Matt Busby, is out of action for the rest of the season with a damaged knee, and inside-left Redfern, Froggart has played in only three of the last ten matches. Right back Ron Staniforth has also been out of action of late, his place being filled by John Martin. Another change from the Wednesday side which lost by the only goal at Goodison last November has been at outside left, where Albert Broadbent has regained his place at the expense of former Burnley player Dave Caggill, who played against Everton. Generally speaking the Owls attack has found scoring almost as easy as it was in the Second Division last term, with the bulk of their goals coming from the right wing pair, Alan Finney and Albert Quixall. These two have netted 21 and 17 respectively in League matches. Centre forward Roy Shiper has not been able to maintain the form which brought him eight goals in the first six matches of the season. He has subsequently increased that number by only a further five in another 25 outings. Froggatt is Wednesday’s third highest marksman with 11 goals. This will be the Blues fourth post-war League visit to Hillsbrough and they are still awaiting their first win there. On the first two occasions they concerned ten goals without reply, gained their first point from a 2-2 draw in 1954-55; but lost in a fifth round Cup-tie the previous season. Sheffield Wednesday; McIntosh or Pllu; Martin, Curtis; McAnearney (T), McEvoy, O’Donnell; Finney, Quixall, Shiner, Froggatt, Broadbent. Everton; Dunlop; Donovan, Tansey; Birch, Jones, Farrell; McNamara, Gauld, or Thomas, Temple, Fielding, Eglington.
GAULD OUT
April 6, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Leslie Edwards
Everton go to Hillsbrough to play Sheffield Wednesday today without inside forward Jimmy Gauld who failed to pass a fitness test yesterday. His place will be filled by Eddie Thomas. The Goodison side’s task is not an easy one but if the attack can continue in the same spirited way in which they performed against Newcastle United a week ago, they may surprise the Wednesday. Temple as leader of the attack, and Williams (G) on the extreme left certainly added punch and variety against Newcastle while McNamara going into the middle to use his height when the occasion demanded, often proved dangerous. Such a policy may well pay dividends against the Wednesday defenders. Wednesday goalkeeper McIntosh failed to pass a fitness test yesterday and twenty-one-year-old Charles Pllu recently signed from Scarborough will make his League debut. A native of Ayrshire, he was recently demobilized from the Army. Sheffield Wednesday; Pllu; Martin, Curtis; McAnearney (T) McEvoy, O’Donnell; Finney, Quixall, Shiner, Froggatt, Broadbent. Everton; Dunlop; Donovan, Tansey; Birch, Jones, Farrell; McNamara, Fielding, Temple, Thomas, Williams (G).
EVERTON FAIL TO HOLD LEAD IN LIVELY GAME
April 6, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Sheffield Wed 2, Everton 2
Sheffield Wednesday; Pllu, goal; Martin and Curtis, backs; McAnearney, McEvoy, and O’Donnell, half-backs; Finney, Quixall, Shiner, Froggatt, and Broadbent, forwards. Everton; Dunlop, goal; Donovan, and Tansey, backs; Birch, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; McNamara, Thomas, Temple, Fielding and Williams (G), forwards. Referee; Mr. K. Howley (Middlesbrough). Everton went straight into the attack and Farrell, backing up his forwards, was soon prominent with a fast centre which just eluded Thomas, head and went over for a goal kick.
An Early Corner
When Birch took a throw-in Thomas gave a beautiful dummy to outwit two opponents and then transferred to Fielding, who helped the ball along to Williams and the ultimate result was a corner. This was taken by Williams and it was helped along to McNamara who seemed to have missed his chance when he made rather a tame effort to head a goal. He certainly did the right thing in nodding the ball down, but there seemed enough Sheffield men there to have saved such a situation. However, much to the dismay of everyone, Pllu mishandled the ball and it finished in the net at the second minute. This was indeed a blow to Wednesday and naturally a joy to Everton. The Blues came again, but this time did not create any trouble and it was the Wednesday who made the next advance. But it did not reach any distance for Farrell and Tansey between them saved the situation. Next time the Wednesday came down, however, Jones had to act quickly to prevent Broadbent moving in for a shot. Jones was hurt in this incident and the game was stopped. He soon resumed and from a throw-in Everton were awarded a goalkick which Dunlop put out to his right wing, where McNamara was rather slow in reading the play and the opposition took possession.
Striking Back
For some minutes the Wednesday held the whip hand and Broadbent went close with a ball that passed just outside. Dunlop had positioned himself to take it had he been required to do so. The Wednesday hit back almost immediately following this goalkick and Donovan had to make a very determined tackle to prevent Froggatt from getting through. Williams beat two men simply by lobbing the ball over their heads and running round them, and then offered the ball to Farrell. The Everton captain seemed undecided whether to offer a chance to McNamara or shoot. He decided on the former and McNamara’s centre was headed over by Williams.
Determined Fight
McNamara, Thomas, and Williams engaged in a really nice movement which culminated in the little outside left putting his centre into goal much too low so that it went to a Wednesday man. The Wednesday were putting up a determined fight and McAnearney had a shot charged down by Jones who did Yeoman service when the Wednesday bustled down the middle. Finney won a corner from Tansey and he put this into the goalmouth and the ball came back to him. He tried again, but this time, Farrell was there to make the clearance.
Thrilling Minutes
The former England player, however, saw the ball come back to him once more and this time he unleashed a fast rising drive which Dunlop tipped over his bar. A really great save. After having defended for quite a while Everton cut loose and a Fielding shot from well outside the penalty area saw the ball crash against the Wednesday crossbar. Curtis completed the clearance at the expense of a corner. Quixall tried another shot but was off the target and then Temple and Thomas linked up in an effort to surprise the Wednesday defence, but Thomas did not quite catch the ball correctly and it passed away for a goalkick. Quixall tried a low snap shot which Dunlop saved, then Temple, bursting through the Wednesday defence shot inside the upright and Pllu had to dive across goal and actually push the ball on to the post. This was a let-off for Wednesday.
Half-time; Sheffield Wednesday nil, Everton 1.
The first few minutes of the second half was a testing time for Everton, for the Wednesday were right on their toes and the Everton defence had much hard work to do during this spell and as the Wednesday were hitting hard, Jones and Shiner came into collision and Shiner went to earth whereupon the referee awarded Wednesday a penalty.
Everton’s Protest
In my view it had been a case of six of one and half a dozen of the other. This by the way was the Wednesday’s second penalty of the season, and Quixall who was allocated the task of taking it, stroked the ball easily in, well out of reach of Dunlop at the 50th minute. Everton protested but I must admit the referee was right on the spot to see everything most clearly. Quixall who was keen to have a go under any provocation, had another attempt but his shot was blocked. Then two corners to Wednesday followed but Everton broke the Wednesday’s stranglehold. McNamara forced a corner, Thomas went close with a header and Pllu watched a Fielding shot go over his crossbar. This was followed by a Thomas effort which the Wednesday goalkeeper saved at the expense of a corner.
Calling For The Ball
Little had been seen of Williams in this game so far, not because of his own falling but because he had seen so little of the ball. He was constantly calling for it, in fact he often wandered in search of it. Quixall who was a very live wire in the Wednesday attack saw his close range shot earn him a corner but this was speedily cleared and McNamara with a long forward pass tried to find Fielding but he had misjudged his colleague’s where abouts. It was cat and thrust and Pllu had to turn round the post a nice effort from Thomas, Williams and Temple combined to make an opening for McNamara, who was moving in from the right wing but the Everton centre forward’s final pass was just a little too strong for the winger to make contact.
Tested By Temple
When Fielding piled Temple on the left wing the young Everton centre forward’s trickery failed to get the better of Martin, but in the next moment Temple had Pllu with a good shot, just as Shiner did when he cracked in an 18-yards drive which Dunlop dropped on. The Wednesday had lost a little of their fire and after Dunlop had fielded a Finney centre like the crickter he is, Fielding and Williams opened a way for a goal. Williams who had not had many opportunities showed what he could do when he slipped the ball into the middle and Temple ran round the back of O’Donnell and practically took the ball off his toes and then went on to beat goalkeeper Pllu at the 78th minute. This by the way, was Temple’s first goal and let me say, he took it well. Then came the shock of the match, Curtis from near the far, touchline and not many yards inside the half-way line sent over a centre which looked harmless enough, but Dunlop raced out and was mortified when he saw the ball pass over his head and into the net. Thus with a few minutes to go, matters were level with the Wednesday taking two quick corners, the second of which saw a terrific melee close to the Everton goal, which, however did not fall, although another corner was to follow. This was headed in by Froggatt but Dunlop saved under the bar. It was certainly a fighting finish. Final; Sheffield Wednesday 2, Everton 2. Official attendance 23,258.
EVERTON RES V STOKE RES
April 6, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Everton Res; O’Neill, goal; Parkes and Sutherland, backs; Rea, Sanders, and Meagan, half-backs; Mayers, Farrell, Harris (J), Haughey, and Williams (JD), forwards. Stoke Res;- Hall, goal; Ratcliffe, and Allen, backs; Anderson, Ford and Rayner, half-backs; Bentley, Graver, King, Hutchinson, and Wallace, forwards. Referee; Mr. H. Freeman (Preston). Stoke kicked off facing the sun and Wallace shot into the side netting from Graver’s pass. Mayers then made headway for Everton before, crossing to Williams whose first time shot beat Hall but went just outside. In the eleventh minute Stoke went ahead when Wallace promptly returned Graver’s pass into the middle for King to net easily. Two minutes later Farrell netted but in doing so he fouled Hall who had fumbled a shot from Williams. Except for a good effort by Farrell, Everton seldom threatened to score despite having most of the play. Stoke had several near misses notable when King missed an open goal and Parkes cleared his lines with O’Neill beaten. Half-time; Everton Res nil, Stoke City Res 1. Following a spell of aimless midfield play Harris was quick to take advantage of a defensive tangle to equalize in the 54th minute. After a Stoke corner had been cleared through Bentley getting offside the ever alert Harris almost connected when Rayner allowed the ball to run back to his goalkeeper.
• Everton “B”nil, Preston “B” 2
• Barrow Res 1, Everton “A” nil
• Everton “C” 3, Tranmere Rovers “A” nil
END-OF-SEASON SIGNS MAY BE MIS-READ
April 6, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
By Peter Farrell
Some folk are of the opinion that for teams not interested in championship or relegation issues, the remainder of the season is devoid of interest except for the £3 winning bonus. This is an opinion not shared by me. As soon as players get out to the field no matter what is at stake the vast majority have only one thought in mind, namely to endeavour to play to the limit of their ability for their club with one object in view from the start to the finish namely victory. Furthermore at this time of the season players are more anxious than ever to reveal their best form, as very shortly the various League clubs retained lists will appear a fact which gives all professionals an added incentive to be on their toes in order to be resigned for next season. At the end of every season there are always some sad faces when the list is updated. The fans are either sorry or glad to see some players more on to other clubs according to what kind of footballer the individuals are in the eyes of the fans. For their fellow players it is a little different as we our fellow team mates with whom we associate daily on the grounds of what kind of man they are, their character, personality, &tc, and if a really good type leaves the club irrespective of his football ability he is missed more in the dressing room than the star who is no such a good mixer or perhaps too self-centred.
Parting Pangs
However, football being a big business, good and bad, famous or otherwise leave most clubs at the end of every season due to the fact that the management consider that such players can no longer serve the club in good stead. What happens to such players who move on to other clubs? Do they still retain an interest in the performance of their former team mates? Well, speaking from an Everton point of view regarding –players who have left Everton during my time at the club I can say that nearly all former Everton players, no matter where they are or with whom they are playing are still interested in how the Blues are doing and whenever the opportunity arises these old colleagues of ours call in to Goodison for a chat or to see the Blues in action. For example a fortnight ago when Everton played at Fratton Park, Les Melville travelled from Bournemouth to Portsmouth to see his old club in action and meet all his old pals. So too with all the lads at Goodison Park, whenever some of our pals join another club we are always very interested to know how they are progressing and we like to go along and see them in action, whenever we get a chance. Last week when Southport played Chesterfield at Southport and two former Evertonians were in action in the persons of George Rankin and Gwyn Lewis quite a few of the Everton lads travelled to Southport to see the game and meet George and Gwyn.
Friendships Remain
You will gather from this that friendships among footballers, developed through years of association as team mates are maintained even when they part company but should any footballer meet a former colleague in opposition on the field of play, the friendship ceases for 90 minutes and the rivalry is often more intense than on normal occasions. Last week’s win over Newcastle was very welcome to all of us connected with Everton, as we badly needed those two points in view of our League position. I thought the Blues thoroughly deserved their victory, as our boy’s seemed to have a grip throughout the game, I was delighted to see young Derek Temple have such a satisfying debut I was also pleased that Derek didn’t have what is familiarly termed in football a “blinder” last Saturday as too often youngsters emerge on the football scene with a sensational debut only to “flatter to deceive” and never make the grade. It is far better for them, as in Temple’s case to have a good debut rather than a sensational one. I mentioned before in this column that I considered both Thomas and Temple two of Everton’s most promising youngsters I am still convinced both of them have the ability and temperament to become fixtures in the Everton side.
THE BOUNCE DECEIVED DUNLOP
April 8, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Stork
Sheffield Wednesday 2, Everton 2
What an unhappy experience for a young goalkeeper making his first debut, to concede a goal he should not have conceded in the first two minutes. This was the experience of Pllu, Sheffield Wednesday’s 21-years-old goalkeeper from Scarborough. It was enough to shake him to the roots, and no doubt it did, but he did not show any sign of nerves after such a disaster. McNamara’s header did not look dangerous. It bounced before it went to Pllu’s hands, but it twisted away and into the net. There was another peculiar goal and this one foiled Everton to victory, it was scored by full-back Curtis. His clearance into the goalmouth from fully forty yards, flew over Dunlop’s head and entered the net five minutes from time. One rarely sees Dunlop make an error and this was, indeed a surprise. Maybe the swirling wind caused him to misjudge the flight of the ball.
Debated Penalty
There was another goal which caused debate and that was Quixall’s scored from the penalty spot. Some considered that Jones and Shiner had simply crashed into each other without any intention of a foul. The referee was on the spot and he seemed certain that a penalty was the correct decision. Taken by and large I think that Everton’s football was of slightly better class than that of the Wednesday, who relied more on the long pass and the quick charge down to goal followed by a quick-fire shot whenever that was possible. I must admit that this had the effect of keeping Everton on the defensive for long spell. There were many near misses and some excellent saves. Two by Dunlop were worthy of headlines, particularly the one from Quixall. How he got across his goal to save only he knows. Most of the Wednesday success from their right wing where Finney and Quixall are a live combination. Quixall nowadays has altered his style. He used to be a maker of goals, today he is a taker of them, and although he only scored from the spot he had other efforts which were worthy of a better fate. As Against that, one we must recall the Fielding shot which had Pllu well beaten. The Wednesday goalkeeper must have heaved a sigh of relief when he saw the ball bounce against the crossbar and rebound into play.
Exciting Finish
Then there was an effort by Thomas which brought forth a good save by Pllu. The ball would undoubtedly have sneaked just inside the post had not the Sheffield goalkeeper flung himself full length to turn the ball on to the post. It rebounded into play. But such things as these were happening almost every minute mostly in the Everton goal area. The last five minutes were packed with sensation. The Wednesday saw the possibility of a win and nearly succeeded. I don’t say they would have deserved it for surely a defence is entitled to some credit when they are being hammered, but it does suggest that with such spirit Wednesday may escape relegation. Most of Everton’s success was due to determined defence. The half and full-back lines had plenty to do, and at times the forward line looked as though it might probe successfully a Sheffield defence which was not all it might have been. Graham Williams did not get a lot of service of the ball, but when he did he showed how he could open up a position for a colleague. It was from his pass that Temple was able to notch his first League goal of the season. One had to admire Temple for the way he took the goal, instead of racing in front of his opponent he came round the back of him, sneaked the ball away from him and shot it into the net. Jones I thought had a magnificent game and it was bad luck that he should be involved in a penalty, only the second awarded to Sheffield this season. Quixall did not crash the ball in, but simply stroked it out of the reach of Dunlop.
EVERTON RES 1, STOKE CITY RES 1
April 8, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
A draw was a fair reflection of the play in a scrappy game in which the respective defences generally held the upper-hand. The defenders’ task was rendered easier, however through the shortcoming of the forwards, who had difficulty in mastering a lively ball. Two notable exceptions were King, the Stoke leader, and Everton’s inside-left Haughey. City were the more penetrative force in the first half and took an early lead through King. After Harris (J) had equalized in the 54th minute, Everton gradually gained command, but a rugged defence and some wild finishing made their late rally unprofitable.
FOUR GOALS, BUT TEMPLES ALONE WORTHY OF NAME
April 8, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
I saw four goals scored at Hillsborough on Saturday but only one of them thrilled me, for two of the others were flukes while the remaining one was a penalty. The first and last should never have been for any goalkeeper would normally have saved them. No one however, can elimate the human element from football. I am a pretty hard campaigner and it takes lot to make me feel unhappy about anything that happens on a football field, but I will readily admit I was unhappy for the curiously named Charles Pllu, the young Scottish-born Sheffield Wednesday goalkeeper signed from Scarborough and making his debut in 1st division football. It was a big ordeal but imagine his feelings when he made an error the first time he was called upon to handle the ball and it cost his side a goal. There was no danger in McNamara’s header. The ball actually bounced to Pllu’s hands but he allowed it to slip his grip and pass over the line. What a tragedy it would have been had that goal been the decider. I wonder what thoughts passed through Pllu’s mind. He could have gone to pieces after that dramatic mistake, but instead he went on to show that he is a really capable goalkeeper.
Curtis Lob
We have come to look upon Dunlop as one of the best goalkeepers in the hand and although I have watched him score on times since his magnificent debut against Manchester United, I have not seen him make a semblance of an error. He has been consistency itself, but the day had to come when he would make that slip which comes to all goalkeepers in time. Did he attempt to blame his mistake on the wild or anything else? No. He immediately admitted that he had misjudged the flight of Curtis’s lob into the goalmouth from 40 yards out. Curtis was the most surprised man on the field when he saw the ball pass over Dunlop’s had and bounce into the Everton net. A goal was the last thing Curtis thought about when he belted the ball upfield but I saw that Dunlop had come out too far. Usually there is an Everton man ready to race back and clear but Dunlop’s colleagues have been so confident in their goalkeeper that they did not think it necessary and so Sheffield Wednesday took a point that may be invaluable in their effort to escape relegation.
Penalty Protest
Now to a penalty. It certainly did not look a penalty to me. To my way of seeing it, it was Shiner who fouled Jones, but the former went to earth and the referee awarded a spot kick despite Everton’s protest. Quixall showed us now penalties should be taken when he stoked the ball well out of Dunlop’s reach. Now to the good goal. it came in this manner, Tansey to Fielding, Fielding to Williams and Williams o Temple, who came round McEvoy to sneak the ball from under his nose and then shot beyond Pllu who was a bit slow coming out to cut down the angle. What Temple scored I fully anticipated an Everton victory. Whether they were deserving of it is another matter. I though they played the better type of football but Wednesday playing with the desperation of a side fighting a death or glory battle, gave the Blues defence 10 minutes of extreme anxiety when they threw everything they had into the game in the hope of snatching the winning point.
Grim Battle
It had been a grim battle but not a feast of good football for the game never reached a classic standard. The Wednesday exploited the long ball and quick getaway and such tactics meant hard work for the Everton defenders. For a long spells they were penned in their own penalty area and Dunlop had to make some brilliant saves. One in particularly out in the memory. He had pushed a shot on to his crossbar and it came back to Quixall who returned it only to see it blocked. Again it came out to Quixall and this time he hit a tremendous drive, Dunlop got to it by some miraculous means and out it over the bar. It was Quixall –Finney wing which troubled the Everton defence most of all. Quixall is ever-ready to shoot nowadays whereas he used to be a maker rather than a taker of goals. He seems to have fined down a little but has lost nothing by it. Pllu was lucky to see a powerful Fielding shot shave the cross bar. Then there was a Thomas shot which the goalkeeper pushed on to his upright as a way to safety. So you see we had plenty of thrills though the football was not out of the top drawer.
No Response
Graham Williams had a quiet first half because he was not given service of the ball, I often saw him calling for it but he got no response. When he did get a good ball it ended up in the goal. I am more than ever convinced that Thomas is going to be a top notcher for the material is there for the making. McNamara did not have such a good day as the previous week. Fielding was not so dominating as usual but he was still the engineer of many movements. Temple took his goal well and furthermore took up good positions but I would like to see him a little more trustful. The defence with a tremendous burden to carry, did a really solid job. Jones was here, there and everywhere stemming the tide but he could not have done this singlehanded. He had able henchmen all round him. Farrell and Tansey had a warm handful to look after the Sheffield right wing. Donovan played his usual stern game so there was nothing wrong in this section of the Everton team.
EVERTON’S CHANGES
April 10, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton make one change in their team to meet Cardiff City at Goodison on Saturday. Alec Farrell coming in at inside left in place of Fielding. This will be his first appearance of the season. In each of the three previous campaigns he has also had one senior outing. Gauld has a run in the Central League side.
Everton; Dunlop; Donovan, Tansey; Birch, Jones, Farrell; McNamara, Thomas, Temple, Farrell, Williams (G). Everton Reserves; (away to Bury); O’Neill; Sutherland, Leeder; Rea, Sanders, Meagan; Mayers, Gauld, Harris (J), Haughey, Eglington.
Everton have today signed Frank McKay an inside-left or left-half, from the Scottish junior club, Bathgate Thistle. McKay, who had a trial period at Goodison recently, is now in the Army stationed at Shrewsbury. He is a brother of the Hearts player, and has been sought by several Scottish and English clubs.
CARDIFF BADLY NEED POINTS AT GOODISON
April 12, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Cardiff City, visitors to Goodison Park are not out of the relegation wood by a long way, and Everton can count on having to fight to the last ounce for any reward against the Welshmen. Fortunately for Cardiff they have shown considerable improvement in defence of late. They kept a clear sheet for the second successive match against Luton at Ninian Park last week and in doing so enabled their previous best unbeaten run – of only three matches –set up at the beginning of the season. There has not been any correspondingly better work from the attack however, which has only twice scored more than three goals in any game. Of Cardiff’s goals, 30 have been registered by centre forward Gerry Hitchens (19) and John McSeveney. The latter of who has been playing recently at inside right after a long spell on the left wing. Elsewhere the attack lacks penetration and six players have been tried in each inside-forward position. Cardiff claim three away victories and two draws in 19 matches, in which they have scored only 18 goals to 53 against. The forward line has not been alone in presenting problems, though the defensive ones have been less pressing. Stiffall and centre half Danny Malloy who has played in every game to date provide most of the experience in the rearguard particularly now that Sherwood has gone and left half Sullivan is out of action throughout injury. Wing-halves Alan Harrington and Colin Baker and goalkeeper Graham Venacombe are all in their early twenties. The latter has performed well since taking over from Welsh international Ron Howell’s in February last year. The chief worry for Manager Trevor Morris in this department of the side has been to find a reliable partner for Stiffall. The most recent occupant of the right back position is London-born Charlie Rutter who was first choice at the beginning of the season, but he lost his place to a succession of players. Everton give Alec Farrell a chance to show his paces in top company. He has not had many in the past though a cartilage operation was a big set-back to him. When I have seen him he has looked a useful lad. I hope he has a good outing this time. Everton; Dunlop; Donovan, Tansey; Birch, Jones, Farrell; McNamara, Thomas, Temple, Farrell, Williams (G).
SHOT-SHY FORWARDS ON VIEW AT GOODISON
April 18, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Both Teams Reveal End of Season Air
Everton 0, Cardiff City 0
Everton; Dunlop, goal; Donovan and Tansey, backs; Birch, Jones, and Farrell (captain), half-backs; McNamara, Thomas, Temple, Farrell, and Williams (G), forwards. Cardiff City; Vearncombe, goal; Rutter, and Stiffall, backs; Harrington, Malloy, and Baker, half-backs; Nugent, McSeveney, Hitchens, Jenkins, and Tuckler, forwards. Referee; Mr. J.J. Baxter (Royston, Herts). Cardiff started in bright mood, and their left wing was particularly busy in the first minute without being able to get in a striking blow. Everton hit back and Veancombe had to race out to prevent the oncoming Temple from collecting the ball. The Cardiff goalkeeper the dropped on the ball in the nick of time. The Cardiff goal had an exceptionally narrow escape in the next minute, for when Birch pushed the ball forward to Farrell the defence was completely spread-eagled, Vearncombe did the only thing possible, coming out to retrieve the position and although Farrell managed to flick the ball past him, the goalkeeper turned around quickly and took possession. Everton stayed in the Cardiff half and McNamara, taking the ball into the centre placed into Birch, who made a neat push forward, but Thomas was given offside-a hairline decision. McNamara had made a couple of good passes but when he held the ball, looking around for someone to pass to, the crowd again go at him a little.
Calling The Tune
Everton were now calling the time, most of the play being on the right-where McNamara and Birch were combining well. They engineered an opening which might have produced a goal had not Temple’s pass been a little too strong for Thomas. A free kick by Donovan was deflected outside the post by Thomas, and then Hitchens jumped high to make a header which set his colleagues in motion but the attack was short lived. Rutter was glad to put into touch as he raced for the ball with Temple. The throw was followed by a corner from Williams, who had seen little of the ball. His kick was placed into the goalmouth, but McNamara’s height was of no avail in this instance for he was just beaten in the air by Malloy.
Donovan Steps In
Thomas lobbed one over the bar and a defensive slip by Tansey let in Cardiff who had chances to shoot but refrained from doing so until McSeveney had a go. His shot was blocked and Donovan cleared the danger. When Williams received a pass, he tried to jink his way through but was finally beaten, losing possession and his foothold. The crowd did not like the off-side decision given against Temple, but I thought the referee was justified. The next incident was a McNamara shot taken with his left foot, the ball passing a foot or so on the wrong side of the post. Hitchens a lively leader, forced a corner off Donovan and had many keen duels with Jones. Slightly injured, Williams soon resumed, and Everton went back on the goal track and took a corner which led to a lob of McNamara into the goalkeeper’s hands. McNamara had hard luck in the next minute when he closed in to make a header from a pass by Williams. It was not a header of power, yet it only missed the mark by a matter of six inches. So far we had not seen enough determined shooting from two sides well known for their mediocre finishing. A goal was needed to set this game alight and so far there had been little indication of one. A Farrell –Farrell-Williams combine made it a bit warm for the Cardiff defence which, however, was able to keep Everton from striking a blow. Thomas sent a header narrowly wide, and then miskicked as he was about to shoot. A free kick for a foul by Birch on Hitchens produced the old trick of one man going up as though to take the kick, quickly followed by another who actually did take it. Hitchens was the marksman, the ball passing just wide of the angle. Nugent raced away and enabled Baker to get in a shot which Dunlop dealt with in his usual confident manner. Half-time; Everton nil, Cardiff City nil. The crowd, which had little to enthuse over in the first half saw a neat movement cu short in the first minute of the second session when Rutter intercepted Farrell’s pass to Williams. At the other end Dunlop raced out to pick up dropped the ball turned round quickly and recovered it as his challenger went headlong over the line.
In The Net
Dunlop then caught a short centre and Hitchens went hurting into the back of the net. In these early moments Cardiff had looked the more dangerous side, and had McSeveney connected properly his shot might have been much more troublesome than it was. Hitchens chased a clearance and managed to get in a left foot shot, which Dunlop collected and cleared. The crowd was now getting a bit irritable with reason for up to now they had not seen anything worth cheering. Play was very tame indeed. One of the best movements came when four Everton players combined together, McNamara finally putting the ball on to the top netting. Jones had to make a very determined tackle on Nugent following a left wing movement. It cost his side a corner, where upon Jones gave away another on the other side. Two more came as a result of this and Tucker’s in-swingers led to two shots, both cannoned out. Occasionally a promising movement began, only to fall down long before any real danger was apparent. The great need was for a forward who could hit a ball. There was any amount of close passing although Farrell had a shot charged down.
Still No Shots
It is a long time since I saw so many corners in one game, Dunlop cleared one and from his throw out to McNamara there seemed a chance McNamara’s cross to Farrell was a good one, but the inside left failed to gather so neither goalkeeper had a full blooded shot to deal with. Final; Everton nil, Cardiff nil.
SOMETHING MORE FOR THE STICKERS
April 13, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
By Peter Farrell
Very often when football fans are discussing players, both post and present, they refer to them as having been great players or bad ones, or they discuss them in a different category as to whether they were or are great club men or bad clubmen. Most professional clubs strive very hard to create a happy atmosphere in the dressing room among their staff, in an endeavour to make all their players really club-minded and proud to wear their club’s colours. It is my contention that any happy football club that has had any success down the years can attribute it mainly to the fostering of team spirit and to having so many good club men in their ranks, men who place the needs of the team before their own personal honours in glory. Admittedly the attributes which I have just mentioned are not of great value to a side unless were is a certain amount of ability within the ranks. One the other hand ability is not much use to a success side if the lads haven’t got team spirit to put such ability in to proper use. I have nothing but the largest of admiration for the good clubman, I would for rather have in my side eleven players with average ability plus 100 per cent team mindedness than eleven stars playing more for themselves than the club.
Great Clubmen
It we glance through the various clubs many really great clubmen come to mind immediately, Billy Liddell of Liverpool, Tom Finney of Preston and Billy Wareing of Wolverhampton are three at the top of the list. These three for many years now have played their hearts out for their clubs and have never looked to cause trouble in their directors or ask for a transfer. Their only thoughts have been to serve their clubs loyalty and to the best of their ability. Had players such as Liddell, Finney and Wright wished to move to another club during their careers, I am sure their future could have been guaranteed through means of a senior promise of such when their football days are over as many clubs with the right influence do.
BURY RES V EVERTON RES
April 13, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Bury Res; Adams, goal; Fairclough and Gallacher, backs; Atherton, Bunner, and Daniels, half-backs; Lowe, Reid, Hukin, Parker, and Lockhart, forwards. Everton Res; O’Neill, goal; Sutherland and Leeder, backs; Rea,. Sanders, and Meagan, half-backs; Mayers, Gauld, Harris (J), Davidson and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. J. Berry (Timperley). Gauld was prominent in several Everton attacks, but Adams was not unduly disturbed by the visitors final efforts. Harris had a scoring chance, but after drawing Adams from goal, shot into the side netting. In the 20th minute Lockhart cleverly outwitted Sutherland and from his centre Hukin but the home side in front. Just after this Gauld was clean through but Adams was able to parry his shot and clear. Bury had slightly the edge later, and O’Neill made several smart clearances, one in particular from a low Daniel shot near the post. Half-time; Bury Res 1, Everton Res nil. The visitors goal escaped narrowly on resumption, when Lovie got into a packed goalmouth, the ball striking Meagan and coming back into play, Gauld was brought down in the penalty area, but Sutherland shot wide from the ensuing kick, but in the 56th minute Gauld shot an equalizer. Harris added a second goal for Everton nine minutes later.
NOW THEY TAX OUR PATIENCE
April 15, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 0, Cardiff City 0
By Leslie Edwards
Chancellor Thorneycroft knew a thing or two when he abolished entertainment tax. Anyone demanding tax from this match would have been hard put to it to discover a moment’s entertainment for the 24,000 spectators who groaned and sighted their way through a game as empty of interest as the ciphers of the score line. As a critic who always tries to appreciate the good things of games which one can only rate as ordinary I confess I found no consolation here. Not even five consecutive minutes of excitement or one move of the kind which sometimes sends us home glad that we did not miss it. Never before have I wished a game over half an hour before the end. You followers of Everton, dismayed as you must have been at the second – and third rate play produced, stayed on hopefully but without reward. The two greatest roars of the day were reserved for after-the-game moments – first when Liverpool’s defeat at Sheffield was announced; then when one of the many youngsters who invaded the pitch scored with a sixpenny ball the day’s only goal.
Stay Off Please!
For boys to jump the barriers after the match is not harmful. When they do it while the teams are kicking-in there is always a danger that they will be decapitated by some hard-driven shot. The crowd should back not barrack players who refuse to give them autographs. From experience at Goodison Park and from sight of televised play at Wembley and Luton on Saturday, I am convinced that League clubs everywhere could be forced to water their pitches for end-of-season matches. The explanation for the failure of Everton and Cardiff City to produce the goods was partly that the bumpy, dry ground made the ball difficult to control. The handicap can be overcome, but only by the thoughtful competent player whose desire is always to kill the ball and get it to his feet Everton and Cardiff did no such thing. They bothered and bumped the ball in a tragic succession of inaccurate passes. And when the ball failed to find the player to whom it was directed it usually finished out of play. It was as much out of play as in. Not one really good shot troubled Dunlop, or Vearncombe. Scarcely a header of consequence bothered either. Admitting the misfortune of McNamara when he leaped high and directed just outside the far post a centre by Williams there was scarcely another time when the goalkeepers were menaced.
No Fielding
Such a match could hardly do other then end in a goalless, soul-less draw. It had one comparing the Everton of the past with the Cardiff City of the 1920’s and comparisons, as everyone knows, are odious –in this case especially so. Could the old teams of these two great clubs have played equally badly? That is imponderable. But at least I can say this; I never saw either of them play half so badly, as Saturday’s teams. Cardiff had some pattern to their attacking but lacked confidence. Everton’s attack was hardly ever linked and had no player comparable with Fielding to make hold of the line and make it function. The lack of incident can be judged by the fact that one’s memory-jogging notes stopped after two early Everton attacks. It was the least rewarding First Division match I ever saw –a complete blank which almost made one angry at wasting 20 minutes about it. Thomas, whose long stride and useful football ideals serve him well, and Temple (whose dash in his main armament) showed promise, but we demand more first teamers. Little Graham Williams was scarcely seen; Alec Farrell was too slow. Cardiff contributed little more than Everton but Malloy was excellent all through. Given more yielding pitch it must have been a watchable match. Instead it was football which made the Chancellor’s tax concessions to professional soccer players a little ironic.
PERSISTENT GAULD
April 15, 157. The Liverpool Daily Post
Bury Res 1, Everton Res 2
Everton reserves were on the whole, rather fortunate to win this Central League game at Bury. Although Gauld missed two favourable scoring chances in the initial half, it was mainly due to his untiring persistence later that Everton got both their goals in the first instance, his sturdy challenge forced Daniel, the Bury left half to mis-kick and put the ball through his own goal and not long afterwards as Gauld swept across a centre from the wing. Adams misfielded the ball and Jimmy Harris easily shot home the winner, Hukin scored for Bury in the twentieth minute.
A MATCH THAT FEW WILL WANT TO REMEMBER
April 15, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
I want to forget Everton’s game with Cardiff on Saturday and so do thousands of others for it was one of the poorest exhibitions of football I have ever seen. There was not one seal thrill throughout the whole 90 minutes. That may be hard to believe, but it is perfectly true. Dismal aimless and thrillless. That sizes up matters as well as anything else. Was it any wonder that many left the ground long before the finish. There was nothing to keep them there. As one man put it to me the biggest thrill was when the referee blew for half-time. Everton had little to win except bonus money, but Cardiff prior to the game were embroiled in the relegation struggle. Even so they could not produce anything about which to cheer. They started as though they meant business, but their flash and flurry lasted only a few minutes. One could not blame the conditions, although the ball was lively. Perhaps the players are getting tired of football after eight months of slogging. One would have thought that Cardiff had no worries at all, for they were as bad as Everton. Occasionally I thought I saw an effort to bring some sort of unison into the game, but it was for only fleeting moments, then back they would go into their shell, slapping the ball about without digressions. You had to be there to see for yourself just how bad it was. There were groans all around the ground and when little Graham Williams put a shot over the bar in the final minutes there was a great cheer.
No Danger
I cannot recall either goalkeeper having one decent shot to deal with. Corners there were in plenty but there was never any danger of them being converted. How footballers expect to win games unless they shoot is beyond me. Even when play was in the penalty area there was little prospect of a goal. Even the big and bustling Hitchens could not muster a single shot and Dunlop’s chief duty was taking centres. With such a paucity of forward play it was small wonder that the rival defences had little to fear. What a goal would have done t the game I cannot say but it certainly needed one to bring it to life. It was as dead as chilled beef. The young Everton forward line of which so much is expected failed lamentably. They started off promisingly but in the end there was no cohesion. An old head was needed to prompt and encourage these youngsters who strove hard enough but had not the subtedly to beat a strong defence. Why was Williams given such meagrie support? Most of the first half he held a watching brief with most of the play on the other wing.
Looked Good
Here McNamara and Birch looked a good combination for a time but eventually they fell under the spell of the others. I was sure we would see a fighting Cardiff City, but they lacked spirit. Perhaps they were satisfied with a point. It may save their bacon in the end but I am not surprised that they are in the position they are. The nearest thing to a goal was when McNamara shaved the upright twice. The defence were in command they could not help be with such frail forward lines to cope with. Jones had one or two tussles with Hitchens, in the early moments of the game but he eventually subdued the Cardiff leader. The thrust of Gauld was needed and the absence of Fielding was most apparent for there was no guilding hand in the Everton attack, I still like Thomas and Temple has got something. I think a goal would have sent the crowd delirious but one never looked like coming. Let us forget –and forgive.
HAUGHEY’S DEBUT
April 17, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
For the visitor to Manchester City on Good Friday, Everton play the same defence as against Cardiff City, but make two changes in attack. Gauld returns in place of Thomas, and Haughey takes over at inside left from Farrell. This will be Haughey’s debut in a Football league match, though he has played in the first team in a couple of friendly games. He has been one of the most regular attenders in the Central League side, for which he has scored seven goals in 24 appearances, all at inside left. Everton; Dunlop; Donovan, Tansey; Birch, Jones, Farrell; McNamara, Gauld, Temple, Haughey, Williams (G).
For the game against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday Everton will choose from the above eleven players, plus Fielding, Meagan, Rea and Thomas. If Meagan plays it will also be his League debut.
Everton Decision
Everton’s Board has unanimously decided to support the re-election of the three directors who retire by rotation at the annual meeting in June. These are Messrs T. C. Nuttall (vice chairman) Coffey, and C. Balmforth. Nomination close on May 1.
EVERTON PUT SIXTEEN PLAYERS ON THEIR TRANSFER LIST
April 17, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
“We Simply Must Cut heavy Overheads,” Say Chairman
Biggest Clearance For Years
By Ranger
Everton have put no fewer than sixteen of their full and part-time professional players on the open to transfer list, including long-service Tommy Eglington, who has been with them over ten years. “We are parting with them all with regret but we simply have to cut down our heavy overhead expenses,” said the club’s chairman Mr. R.E. Searle in announcing the board’s decision today. The most notable among the players with whom the club is dispensing are –in addition to Eglington –Payne, Mayers, Harris (A), Sutherland, Tomlinson, and Farrell, all of whom have appeared in the first team. The remainder have not advanced beyond the Central League side. The 16 placed on the list, in their playing positions are;-
Goalkeepers –*B Caldwell and A. Harris
Full Backs- J. Sutherland, *K Heyes, and *B Capper.
Half-Backs; C. Fitzsimmons, *I Smith, and T Loader
Forwards; T. Eglington, J. Payne, D. Mayers, J. Tomlinson, C. Viazard, * B Jones, *JD Williams, and A. Farrell. *Denotes part-time professional.
Cut Wages Bill
“Owing to steadily increasing overhead expenses we have been forced to cut out wages bill” said Mr. R.E. Searle, the club’s chairman. “We have done so with regret and particularly to relation to the older players. “In order to ease the position for those with whom we are parting and give them an opportunity to get fixed up elsewhere we are making the announcement at the earliest possible moment. “We shall do all we can to assist those involved to get engagements with other clubs and are now ready to consider offers for any of them.”
The Men On The List
The following are brief biographical details of the players on the transfer list.
Tommy Eglington- signed in July, 1946 from Shamrock Rovers and has played in 394 League games and 34 Cup-ties, scoring 82 goals. He requires one more appearance for Eire to earn the silver shamrock awarded for 25 matches for that country. When netting five times against Doncaster Rovers at Goodison in September 1952 he equalled the Football League record of goals in a game from outside left.
Jimmy Payne – A former England “B” international who spent several years with Liverpool and once appeared destined for the top of the football tree. Injuries and loss of from cost him his place, however, and he was transferred to Everton in April last year. Has made only six senior appearances for the club.
Derek Mayers – has appeared in four forward positions for the club, making his senior debut four years ago. He has played only 19 senior games in all, scoring seven times. Earlier this season was sought by Rochdale, but decline to join the Northern Section side.
John Sutherland –a native of Cork, Sutherland will have been with the club seven years in May, but only made the first team grade this season, appearing in eight games.
Albert Harris – No relation to the other Harris boys on the staff. Albert comes from Bootle made his debut a year ago and played in the last five games last season. The claims of Dunlop and O’Neill have since limited his opportunities.
John Tomilnson- Hails from Birkenhead and has played twice in the first team. Has been with the club nearly five years is a professional.
Colin Vzard – A prolific scorer in junior football. Although on the small side for a centre forward this Newton –le-williows boy looked at one time as if he would make the top class. Was married last month.
Ted Loader – signed from Barry Town, nearly twelve months ago. He is a native of Colchester.
Ken Heyes; - a native of Hayock and a former school boy international.
John D. Williams- from Trelewis, (Glamoragh) he has been a professional close on twelve months and has played regularly in the Centre League side.
Brian Capper- signed on professional forms in July 1953. Native of Winsford
Ian Smith – A part-timer from the Chorley district who joined the club last May.
Charles Fitszimmons –Played for Longview Rovers and Maghull before accepting a paid engagement at Goodison in July 1953.
Brian Caldwell- has been a part time professional since 1953, joining the club from school as an amateur. Born in Liverpool.
Bryn Jones- has been with Everton four years and signed professional forms two seasons ao. A native of Flint.
Alec Farrell- A former schoolboy international belonging to West Kirby. Has made five senior appearance in five seasons but has been unlucky with two cartiage operations.
Biggest Clearance
This is the biggest clearance of players made by Everton since the war. Last year eleven were put on the transfer list at this stage of the season, and three others departed later. It means assuming all those named are transferred that the club will have only 36 professionals with which to start next season, unless newcomers are signed in the meantime. This figure will be made up of 19 full timers, nine part-timers and eight who are still in the Forces. This will be the smallest staff the club has had for many years.
Players Retained
The players who have been retained are as follow, the asterisk indicating a part-timer and the two asterisk one still in the forces.
Goalkeepers Dunlop, O’Neill, * Moore
Full Back –Donovan, *Parkes, ** Hillsdon, Tansey, Leeder, *Griffiths
Half-Backs; Farrell, Birch, * King, **Clayton, Jones (T), Sanders, *BIllington, Rea, Meagan, *Gannon
Forwards; McNamara, **Harris (b), *Dawson, Thomas, Gauld, **Gregory, Temple, *Kirby, Harris (J), Hood, *Llewellyn, Fielding, **Williams (K), **mackay, Haughey, Williams (G), and Keeley.
EVERTON TAKE THEIR CHANCES
April 20, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Stork
Manchester City 2, Everton 4
At one time this game looked as though it might be devoid of interest. The first half was singularly quiet, typical of an end-of-the-season game, but in the second half it livened up to such an extent that it almost became a thriller. Everton’s victory was no fluke, for they took their chances when City did not. The ground was almost bone dry and I wondered why it had not been watered. However, the players eventually mastered its peculiarities, although there were many occasions when a man misjudged the bounce or the flight of the ball. When Birch scored after 15 minutes play was of such a character that it seemed this goal would carry the day. It was an uncommon one in that it came from a free kick, after Farrell had slipped the ball over to Birch. Everyone knows that the Everton half-back can hit a ball but Trauntmann is still one of the best goalkeepers in the land. This shot, however, had him beaten all ends up. He seemed to be caught flat-footed and when he went for the ball it was miles too late. This was the only goal scored in the half, but City made several openings from which they should have scored. And so we came to the second half.
Brilliant Goal
It rose from a quiet affair into a really entertaining game of football and within three minutes of the restart City had equalized. What a bonny goal it was; Fagan was the scorer, but it was Dyson’s work which made it possible. The City inside forward beat three men in a long run on the left wing and centred. Dunlop punched the ball away but it went out to Fagan who rammed it back towards goal, Dunlop leaped up and actually made contact but all he could do was push the ball on to the upright and it went into the net. At the 59th minute Everton went into the lead once more, and it was Haughey; making his League debut, who scored. But he had much to thank Temple, for The Centre forward put through a beautiful pass and Haughey after beating Marsden and Littler gave Trauntmann no chance. City tried hard to get level again but it was Everton whom should have scored when Gauld was right through but mis-hit his shot. He made amends at the 74th minute he made a run of almost three parts of the field and then slipped the ball to Haughey. Back it came to Gauld, who with the sweetest little flick I have seen made it 3-1. Everton remained the more dangerous, as City were remiss in front of goal and at the 80th minute Haughey started another movement which enabled McNamara to pull the ball back from the line and Williams did the rest. There was not long to go now, but there were still some thrills to come and Fagan hit the bar-the fifth time in three games he has done this. Finally Clarke fastened on to a Johnstone back-header to reduce Everton’s lead at the 84th minute. This was indeed a happy day for Haughey. He may have seemed slow, but his brain works fast and that is the most important factor in football to my mind. He scored one goal and had a hand in two others so his day’s work was full of credit.
Two Players Rested
Everton make two chances for their game against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge today. Gauld and Haughey have been rested to be fresh for Monday’s return game with Manchester City, and their places are taken by Thomas and Fielding. The Everton team is; Dunlop; Donovan, Tansey; Birch, Jones, Farrell; McNamara, Thomas, Temple, Fielding, William (G).
EVERTON RES LUCKY
April 20, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Res 2, Manchester City Res 2
Everton were fortunate to take a point from a more polished side in this Central League game of few thrills at Goodison Park yesterday. Doubtless the hard ground and lively ball contributed to much of the scrappy play and only McAdams the City inside right mastered the conditions. Two great saves by O’Neill prevented McAdams from snatching victory for the visitors in a goalless second half. City took a two goal lead through Davies and Barlow, but Mayers and replied for Everton before Farrell luckily equalized in the thirty-third minute.
HAUGHEY’S AUSPICIOUS DEBUT
April 20, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Everton Win Well at City
Gauld’s Goal
By Stork
Maine Road has not been a happy hunting ground for Everton during the past few seasons, but yesterday they won and truly laid the bogey, winning 4-2. It was a victory well earned for the City put up quite a fight in their efforts to reduce the margin. The experiment of bringing in Haughey at inside left was a success for not only did he score a goal but he had a hand in making of two of the others. But there were others who played their part in this victory. Gauld scored one of the best goals of the day following a run of more than half the length of the field. He was helped in his mission by a great pass from Temple; Trauntmann did get his hands to the ball but was unable to keep it out of the net. The first half was anything but bright but the second portion made up for it. The ground was almost grassless and hard and this to my mind was a case for watering.
Sealed the Issue
The players ultimately got the hang of things, and in following Birch’s goal in the 15th minute we saw five more in the second half. This completed the match and Everton showed a brightness which was followed by goals by Williams and Haugley, ultimately seal the issue. Fagan and Clarke reduced the arrears but by this time Everton had but both points safely in the bag. The City missed quite a few chances in the first half but that was no fault of Everton, who took theirs with alacrity. This win puts Everton in a reasonably comfortable position whereas the loss puts the City in rather desperate flight.
Quick Thinking
It is not my habit to fly of the handle over the first display of a new man but I have got to admit that I liked the way Haughey played. He may seem slow in his movement but he is quick turning and that is what counts in my estimation. Temple too played his part.
EVERTON HIT BY A GOAL STORM AR CHELSEA
April 20, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Chelsea 5, Everton 1
By Stork
Chelsea; Matthews, goal; Whittaker, and Sillett, backs; Nicholas, Dicks and Saunders, half-backs; Brabrook, McNichol, Allen, Tindall, and J. Lewis, forwards. Everton; Dunlop, goal; Donovan and Tansey, backs; Birch, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; McNamara, Thomas, Temple, Fielding and Williams (G), forwards. Referee; Mr. R. Ryalls (Sheffield). Following their sound win over Manchester City on Good Friday Everton made two changes in their attack for their game against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The changes were made not because of any injury, but simply to relieve the strain over the holiday period. Fielding returned to his normal position at inside left and Thomas return for Gauld. Chelsea’s only change, was Nicholas for Armstrong. It was a glorious day and the ground had been lightly watered but the ball was still likely to be lively. Chelsea quickly framed an attack, but it petered out and Everton struck back, but their attack was not of any duration.
Chelsea Attack
For a minute or two Chelsea were on the attack and Donovan had to make a sure tackle to prevent Allen from making his centre and a free kick resulted in Nicholas making a high powered shot which passed wide. Then Everton made their initial attack and with the lightest bit of luck it could have meant a goal. Williams took up a pass from Fielding raced down his wing, beat a man en route and then flung over a fast centre which Matthews and Sillett between them made a hash of, and it looked as through McNamara, who had closed in, in anticipation would sneak a goal. He did win a corner, but this was ably dealt with by the Chelsea defence and the Pensioners were back again on the attack.
Quick Recovery
A free kick to Everton this time saw Matthews fumble Donovan’s lob into the goalmouth, but he was able to make a quick recovery and clear what might have been an awkward situation. Lewis put across a fast low centre which Jones cleared. The ball was very lively and the bounce often puzzled and beat the players. So far the football had been entertaining and there were several missed chances. Dunlop for instance made a brilliant save when Allen from the left wing position put the ball dangerously across the Everton goal face. However, it was not long before Chelsea had their revenge, for at 20 minutes Jones yielded a corner to Allen, whom I thought was offside, and this was perfectly placed by Lewis, and Brabrook moved in to score a most spectacular header at the 20th minute. The Chelsea winger had not a lot of target to aim at, but he just managed to find a gap between tansy, Dunlop and the upright to squeeze the ball home.
Glorious Drive
There was no doubt that Chelsea looked the more dangerous side. At least when they came to shooting they shot twice as often as Everton. At the 25th minute they went further ahead through Saunders who picked up a clearance and without hesitation hit a glorious drive which flashed into the Everton net without any Everton man being able to do anything about it. This naturally put the Pensioners in good heart and the next few minutes they had one of two more attempts at shooting but were more often than not off the target but still too close for Everton to be happy about it.
Own Goal “Puzzle”
Chelsea had been attacking with intensed power for quite a while, yet Everton might have reduced the lead when Fielding put Temple through but the Everton centre-forward could only shoot straight at Matthews, who had closed the angle. Than Chelsea scored a third goal in rather an uncommon way. Brabrook took a corner, and as two Chelsea men went up for it, the ball seemed to drop suddenly and strike Dunlop on the thigh and finish up in the net. Naturally the Chelsea players congratulated Brabrook but as it went in off Dunlop it seemed more natural to make it own goal. This was at the 31st minute. Everton started to hit back and they actually got the Pensioners penned down in their own penalty area for a while but there was still nothing dangerous when it came to a shot. By comparison Chelsea were much more dangerous in this respect and Allen on the turn put in a great drive which went flying narrowly over the cross bar. The Chelsea pressure died down after this third goal and a quick raid by Everton might have brought a result had not Temple in his keenness taken a header which he should have left to Tansey who was better placed for the chance. It started from Williams corner kick and this was headed in by McNamara. Thomas seemed to have set himself ready for a shot at goal but Temple jumped up high and headed the ball over the bar. Chelsea than came back as an attacking force and were always a much greater threat than Everton had been near goal, and Allen by his wanderings was always the source of danger. Just on the interval Lewis went close but not close enough and so ended a half which had seen Chelsea the much superior side. Half-time; Chelsea 3, Everton nil.
Chelsea’s football had not been brilliant but it had been forthright. But it was Chelsea who were off to a good start at the beginning of the second half, and they could have had two goals through McNichol and Lewis. Nothing seemed to go right for Everton and so far we had seen nothing of the forward line, except for the enthusiasm of Williams. At the 47th minute Allen put through a pass to Nicholas and Brabrook beat Tansey and offered the chance to his half back and Nicholas took it with alacrity to score a fourth. Matthews the Chelsea goalkeeper had little to do. One of his tasks being to watch a pass back by Whittaker slip by the upright. His second job so far was to save a long fast drive by Tansey. Much of the Pensioners success was due to their open methods. They slipped the ball about quickly and try how it would be Everton defence could not master it and Tindall actually netted, but the goal was disallowed for some reasons which was no apparent to me. The fifth goal had its starting point from a free-kick taken by Dicks. Dunlop came rushing out, but lost the ball and as it was moving slowly towards the net Saunders rushed in and tapped it over the line as Dunlop came dashing back in his effort to try and retrieve matters but it was too late. This was a different Everton to the one I saw on Good Friday for there was plenty of punch at Maine Road in the second half –here it was absent. Yet in the 66th minute Thomas opened a way for the first Everton goal when he swept the ball over to Williams who rushed in and rammed home a shot which Matthews could not have seen. Dunlop was not at all sure today, for he fumbled another shot and had to whip round quickly to recover. Everton were doing slightly better hereabouts, but one to realized that Chelsea could afford to take things a little easy with their big lead, and Matthews had to field a pass-back from his centre half. When Fielding got through he shot yards high over the bar.
Goalmouth Thrills
Birch had a shot charged down, claimed the rebound and then lobbed the ball into Matthews hands. A more thrilling moment took place in the Everton goalmouth. The ball bobbed around like a shuttlecock until finally Tindall headed just under the bar. Dunlop edged it onto the woodwork and away to safely. With five minutes to go Birch received a knock after which he was limping. A movement between Fielding and Donovan who had raced up the wing, ended when the latter centre was headed in to Matthews hands by Thomas. At this point Everton were putting in their best work of the match and Matthews put a Temple shot over the bar. It was so close that it just curled over the bar and hit the top netting. A corner followed and Donovan, once again going up, hit the angle of the woodwork. Dunlop had to save from his colleagues Jones whose back pass was rather fast to be safe. Final; Chelsea 5, Everton 1. Official attendance 28,317
A BOY’S GOAL AMAZED ME
April 20, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
By Peter Farrell
Every year around this time when the long evening become noticeable, junior football and schools football really come into their own with a spate of games, nearly every evening from now until the end of the season. This is the period during which some of the lucky youngsters crown a really hard season during which they have played in all kinds of weather on some really bad junior grounds were an appearance at either Anfield or Goodison or other famous grounds. What an event such an occasion is for school boys as watched by proud parents and relatives in the crowd. They do battle for coveted medals and cups.
A Great Job
Within the past ten days I have been invited to attend four schoolboys finals to present trophies in different parts of Liverpool and Districts and as always I have been very much impressed with the tremendous enthusiasm and excitement that such games create, not only among the rival contestants but also among the rival supporters who cheer every kick of their favouries. What a great job of work the teachers and others responsible for the organiastion of schoolboy football do. Furthermore these people give up quite a lot of their share time to coaching the youngsters under their charge, and become completely wrapped up in the proceedings during the course of a game just as much as a professional football manager or coach. When lads are around the age of twelve or thereabouts it is very hard to get them to keep to their various positions during a game, as they all like to be where the ball is.
No Effort Spared
I was really surprised when during one of the games I attended during the week a corner was awarded. All the players were under 12 years of age, and yet, to my amazement the right winger took a short corner kick to his inside right, who had moved along the bye-line to within a few yards of the winger. The outside-right immediately moved into position for the return pass took it in his stride and drove it into the net before the surprised young opposition realized what was happening. A good goal on any class of football but for lads so young to be able to think and act so quickly certainly amazed me. Most of the credit for such a move must go to the teachers in charge of the side and believe me these teachers spare no effort in training the youngsters. Without such people there would be no schooling football and we all realize what a tragedy that would be. With Everton retained list appearing during the past week I think the time is opportune to pay tribute to a really great club mate who will not be seen in Everton’s colours next season.
Great Servant
I refer to Irish international Tommy Eglington, who for the past 11 seasons has delighted Evertonian’s with his thrilling dashes down the left wing. “Eggo” as he is familiarly know to Goodison folk came to Goodison along with myself from Shamrock Rovers 11 years ago and we little realized at that time that we would participate in so many thrilling battles in the colours of the Blues. Apart from the great service he has given Everton as a player Tommy has also been valuable for his part in a good team spirit in the dressing room and was very popular among his colleagues at Goodison. On behalf of all Evertonians I should like to take this opportunity of thanking Tommy for the great service he has given the club and wish him on behalf of all of us every success and happiness in the future. I suppose no player has been more closely associated with Tommy than I during the last 11 years and I am assure you nobody could wish for a finer friend than he.
Last week’s game against Cardiff was the worst seen at Goodison Park for a long time, it is very difficult to endeavour to example why such bad displaces occur particularly in view of the Blues condition performance the previous week at Sheffield. During such a game as last Saturday we players hear some great comments from the fans on the terraces. Perhaps it’s a good job most of us don’t take any heed of them.
EVERTON RES V HUDDERSFIELD RES
April 20, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Everton Res; O’Neill, goal; Sutherland and Heyes, backs; Mayers, Sanders, and Smith, half-backs; Tomlinson, Farrell, Kirby, McKay, and Eglington, forwards. Huddersfield Res; Daley, goal; Ramsey and Kelly, backs; Wylle, Connor, and Battye, half-backs; Marriott, Watson, Hickson, Davie, and Ledger, forwards. Referee; Mr. J.G. Westwood (Macclesfield). Everton dictated the play with some beautiful football and were three goals up in a quarter of an hour. In the third minute Kirby netted and 10 minutes later Sutherland converted a penalty after Ramsey had handled the ball. McKay scored the third a minute later when he cleverly netted from a free kick. Huddersfield simply could not get going until Marriott had brilliantly reduced the arrears in the 25th minute. Everton defence was severely tested for several minutes and O’Neill saved by the post a back-heeler from Hickson. While not now in command to such an extent as realier on, Everton recovered and near the interval Tomlinson and Kirby went close with good efforts. Half-time; Everton res 3, Huddersfield Res 1.
CHELSEA’S TACTICS WERE BEST
April 22, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
Chelsea 5, Everton 1
By Stork
What a change twenty-four hours can make. At Maine Road on Friday Everton looked a good side, at Stamford Bridge they failed lamentably to produce the form which brought them four goals. They got one, but that was all they were entitled to. Their attack was as weak as it possibly could be. Chelsea played the right type of game for the occasion. They kept the ball moving, used the long pass to the wings, and their inside men were up and ready for the ball. Everton were never in the game with a chance. From the outset Chelsea took charge and never lost their grip. They were more forceful in every respect. Actually they got the ball in the Everton net six times, but Tindall’s shot was not allowed to count because of an infringement.
Out of Sorts
The Everton attack was right out of sorts. Passes went wrong and on the occasion when they might have got another goal, Temple by his enthusiasm and keenness spoiled Thomas of a goal. But as against that one could not overlook the fact that Chelsea were always going forward. Although their football was not classical it was the sort which brings victory. It certainly brought it at Stamford Bridge and the result was a replica of last season’s score. Everton came into the game in the late minutes but by this time Chelsea were riding easily. They had got the game well won, although Williams reduced the lead. I have watched Dunlop ever since he made his debut at Manchester United and he has made very few mistakes in the interim but on Saturday he was not happy. Two of the goals he would undoubtedly have prevented on a normal day.
Off Goalkeepers Legs
The first was when a ball went in off his legs and the second came when he rushed out to catch a free kick and lost the ball. Saunders nipped in to apply the finishing touch. Thomas had a reasonably good game but there was still that lack of punch which we have complained about so much this season. If you want goals you must make shots. With so little thrust in the attack it was only natural that the Everton defence had to carry the burden and Tom Jones played his heart out, but without avail. He found the meandering and wanderings of Allen a problem. But there were others in the Chelsea attack on which a wary eye had to be kept. This defeat is not of great importance but it would have been nice if it had not been so heavy.
Spectacular Header
Chelsea’s first goal came in the twentieth minute when Brabrook scored with a spectacular header. Five minutes later Saunders added goal number two, then came that curious goal which caused a controversy in the Press Box. Was it an own goal or was it not. It must have been for it went in off Dunlop’s legs. So far Matthews had an easy time and when Nicholas cracked in a third drive from ten yards at forty-seven minutes it seemed that any possibility of an Everton revival was out of the question. It was now that Everton staged a short recovery and Williams scored six minutes later from a pass by Thomas. To show how goals should be scored Donovan came right through on occasions and once hit the crossbar but there was never any hope of Everton out those five goals.
EVERTON RES 4, HUDERSFIELD RES 2
April 22, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Reserves made a flying start to become three goals up within a quarter of an hour. These goals emanated from precise football allied to splendid team work, until Huddersfield reduced the deficit in the 25th minute. Farrell started in the home attack while ex-Everton centre forward Hickson was given little scooped by Sanders, sheet anchor of a solid defence. Kirby, Sutherland (penalty), McKay and Farrell scored for Everton, and Marriott and Battye replied for Huddersfield.
24 HOURS –AND WHAT A DIFFERENCE
April 22, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Everton Lose At Chelsea
Dunlop Errors
By Stork
What a difference 24 hours can make. It hardly seemed possible that Everton could stage two such different display in so short a time, but the fact remains they did not look the same side at Stamford Bridge that they were at Maine Road on Friday. They were not exactly the same side for two forward changes had been made for the Chelsea game. It as the forward line which let the “Blues” down at Stamford Bridge for it did not function as a forward line should do, and the result was a runaway victory for the Pensioners. The score would suggest that Chelsea were a great side. They were nothing of the sort but their secret was their straight forward methods. It was goals they wanted, and they went out for them in a heavy manner. Chelsea, after their goal had escaped in the first minute soon had Everton struggling.
Never A Threat
At times there was some good movement, but the Everton forwards were never really a threat to Matthews in the Chelsea goal. By comparison Dunlop had a busy afternoon and unfortunately it was not one of his good days. He made more errors in this game them in all others I have seen him play. Two goals were undoubtedly the outcome of his misjudgment. With the other three he had no chance so he was not absolutely responsible for the defeat which gave Chelsea a double. The Everton attack was almost non-existent. It did come in the game late on but by them Chelsea had got the points securely in their pockets.
Williams Goal
To be honest I could not visualize them ever scoring a goal. Graham Williams who had all along been the most threatening forward of his side made me wrong with a fine shot but by that time, Chelsea had rattled up five goals. It is significant that three of Chelsea’s goals were scored by half backs. Don’t think this was reflection on the attack, which was bright and purposeful. Sanders got two of them and Nichols the other which the forward to score was Brabrook, for the other goals one was an “own goal” by Dunlop. What constitutes an own goal? There was quite a controversy when Brabrook took his corner lifted it into the goalmouth and Allen came in for it. It seemed to me that Dunlop waited to grab the ball, which appeared to drop more quickly than expected and it actually caught the Everton goalkeeper on the legs and it turned into the net. As Dunlop was the last man to touch the ball I suppose “own goal” was correct. While the defence battled courageous they were not so secure as usual in fact it was all Chelsea and they were fully deserving of their success.
SHOOTING HIGH WIDE BUT NOT HANDSOME AT GOODISON
April 22, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
By Ranger
Everton; Dunlop, goal; Donovan and Tansey, backs; Birch, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; McNamara, Gauld, Temple, Haughey and Williams (G), forwards. Manchester City; Trauntmann, goal; Leivers and Littell, backs; Phoenix, Marsden, and Paul, half-backs; Fagan, McAdams, Dyson, Hayes, and Clarke, forwards. Referee; Mr. L.J. Hamer (Horwich). For this return game, which was particularly vital to the visitors, Everton brought back Gauld and Haughey in place of Thomas and Fielding, thus returning to the formation on which defeated City at Maine-Road on Friday last. City also made changes in their attack. Good work by Farrell started two Everton attacks from one of which Birch fired a terrific shot just over the bar from 15 yards. The early play was quite enlightening with Temple showing some good footwork. Twice Temple got the better of Marsden without being able to get in testing shots.
Donovan To Rescue
Donovan came to the rescue by hooking the ball off McAdam’s toe after a neat City move in which four players combined well. Dunlop pulled the ball out of the air in confident fashion when Dyson having gone over to the right lofted over a high centre. Dyson was playing a deep centre forward role for City with Hayes and McAdams sharing the task of being the main striker. The game was only 15 minutes old when Jones, after limping for a minute or two following a goal scramble sank to the ground and required the trainer’s attention. While this was going on the crowd was entertained to an unusual spectacle of a youngster from behind the goal chasing across the field to capture a bird which appeared unable to fly properly. Jones eventually left the field after the game had been held up a couple of minutes, but seemed to walk reasonably well. He went into the trainer’s cubby hole for further treatment. Jones returned after three minutes.
Tip-Tapping Again
Everton were falling into their old habit of two much lateral passing and close tip-tapping Gauld put an end to this, temporarily at least, when he darted through at top speed at the centre circle and then offered a choice pass to McNamara. The latter’s shot was strong, but yard’s wide. Everton’s defences got themselves into a real tangle largely because nobody took the right measures as the ball stopped around the penalty spot. Finally Birch booted it behind in unceremonious fashion to put an end to the wavering. Apart from cutting out centres and corners and picking up loose balls, neither goalkeeper had been troubled in the first half hour.
Scooped Away
Good work by Haughey led to McNamara squaring the ball for Gauld to come within an ace of giving Everton a lead. Trauntmann scooped the ball away in the nick of time. At the 34th minute Everton took the lead when Tansey from near the half way line put the ball well up the middle. Marsden was slow to go to it, and when the bounce beat him Temple was round him like a shot, took it forward a few yards, and then put it past Trauntmann.
Chances Missed
McNamara had three chances in the next couple of minutes to test the City goalkeeper but was too slow with the first and put the others yard wide. McNamara was not having a happy time and when Little took the ball off his toe and sent Hayes away the City man’s and final shot was not far off the mark. Another lightning raid by Gauld caught the City defence spread-eagle but when he pulled back a pass for Williams the latter’s shot struck Marsden on the leg. Williams pleased the crowd with his speed and determination, but several times he found himself with no one to pass to.
Half-time; Everton 1, Manchester City nil.
Everton’s shooting on resumption was just as bad as it had been in the first half, Haughey put two efforts miles behind McNamara skied another high over everybody’s heads, and when gauld tore through on his own there was nobody up for him to pass to. Gauld let City off lightly when Trauntmann put a ball out of hand straight to the Everton man’s feet, Gauld trying to lob back into the empty goal over the keepers head followed the prevalee Everton pattern, and ended it high amongst the crowd.
The Equaliser
City at last produced a shot which put them on level terms when Leivers lofted the ball into the middle, there seemed no danger at all. Unfortunately Jones failed to get the ball away. He headed down right in the path of Adams who collected the offering and then striding forward at a fierce drive which went into the net off the inside the upright. This was at the 53rd minute. Straight from a mix-up around the Everton penalty area the home side broke away and Leviers kicked off the line as Graham Williams tamely shot with Trauntmann nowhere in the vicinity. A full blooded drive and Everton must have taken the lead again.
• Everton “A” 3, Burnley “A” 1
GLAD TO CALL IT A DAY-AND SO WERE WE!
April 23, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 1, Manchester City 1
By Leslie Edwards
Some matches bring down the house; this one brought down the curtain on an Everton home season which has been only mixed middling. There were no tears when the teams trooped off, but there was frustration that two sides who fought such a good Cup battle a season ago could degenerate so markedly, so quickly. Not even Trauntmann could make this an occasion Everton would not let him. Most of their shots flew high or wide though Temple was unlucky when he picked up Haughey’s though pass and his shot struck a post, rebounding conveniently to the waiting arms of the goalkeeper. A draw was a fair result in a match which started somnolently in the heat of the day and all but sent us to sleep. Manchester City had by far the better forwards, but they were often untidy finishers. The match never sparkled; I suppose its tameness in the season and the fact that other teams had played three matches in four days meant a great deal. But that could not account for all the moderate play or for an almost general could-not-careless attitude. It has come to something when the football publics palate must be ticked by such incidents as occurred when the game was stopped for injury to Tom Jones. A boy then found his way on to the pitch and after many a failure recaptured with a flying tackle the pet bird he had brought with him. These excursions of boys to the playing pitch before, during and after matches are a nuisance to players and to Everton F.C. in the happy-go-lucky way of yesterday’s game there was no one on duty to prevent some dozens of lads pestering the players as they came out for the kick-in. Manchester City played their deep centre-forward plan with that bundle of football skill and energy, Dyson in the title role but hard as he tried the man who will soon be cricketing for Lancashire could not get the right response from such players as Hayes and McAdams. Both City wingers Fagan and Clarke were difficult to bold and Tansey, the old reliable of the Everton defence, did well to confine Fagan to few openings.
No Welding Force
It was the Everton attack which caused the most concern. They played hard, but that is not enough. Temple had speed and spirit and took his chance well Haughey, of the red hair, achieved most when he was given time to maneuver; title Williams was good and not so good in turn; McNamara who does so much right fun-noticed by his critical and so little wrong (always noted vociferously by those whose, football judgement I suspect) was at least Everton’s only shooter badly as his hard hit drives were directed. If Everton were to start next season with this line, or one like it, I should not be optimistic Gauld had moments when he threatened to burst through and sometimes he succeeded but there was at no part of the line a player capable of taking hold of it and making it move as an entity. Everton’s goal after eighteen minutes was more due to the sleepiness of the defence than to anything else. Tansy put the ball through down the centre of the field and Trauntmann and others were all slow to realize the danger of the situation as Temple with admirable anticipation ran in. He merely toed the ball past the oncoming Trauntmann and there were some rueful looks in the City defence as the ball was booted back for re-centring. Equally, Manchester City were fortunate to get a scoring chance when Tom Jones (off field for two or three minutes in the first half) blundered with a header at the fifth-second minute. The result was that McAdams who had not been conspicuous, took the opening quickly and scored with a shot which passed over the line after striking the far post.
Day’s Best Shot
Perhaps the best shot of the day was Birch’s (after Trauntmann had punched clear in the opening minutes. Birch drove in a tremendous shot from some distance and the ball dipped over the bar. Trauntmann could never demonstrate his real ability but when Haughey weaved and wandered on the left and produced a very good centre McNamara headed the ball down and Gauld had made contact with it. the blond German goalkeeper swept it into the grasp as though he knew exactly when to step in and make the ball his Everton missed the easiest of chances when Gauld crossed the ball in front of goal and none was there to tap it in; then after McAdams had equalized we had a colossal scrimmage of the sort usually reserved for other Park football. Leivers then kicked away from the line when McNamara had made a close in chance for Williams. City’s in swinging corner expect Fagan, ended the match with a corner kick so close to the bar that Dunlop had difficulty in flicking it over before crashing in collision with Heyes at the back of the net. City seemed to take this match too nonchalantly, Leivers was usually too good for Williams and Marsden looked to me to be a better proposition at centre-half than Ewing the man he has displaced. Dyson for sheer graft and ball control was in a class of his own; Farrell who made it his business to keep track of Dyson’s wanderers came out of the defensive battle well; but was not so good as usual in his placements. In the humid conditions I don’t doubt all the players were glad enough to call it a day, there must have been many spectators present who were even readier to follow suit.
A POOR SHOW
April 23, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
By Ranger
I was at Goodison, where Everton in their final home game of the season were a big disappointment to their followers; Though not the worst game I have seen this season, it was not far short. Everton’s finishing was shockingly poor. They had enough chances to win by a fairly substantial margin but just could not cash in on them. Some of their shots were nearer the corner flag than the goal. It seemed impossible that they could continue to waste openings so profligately, yet they did. City with fewer opportunities were no better and neither goalkeeper had to make a really difficult save from a direct shot. The best effort of the day was a corner by Fagan, which was curling in under the bar until Dunlop edged it over as he was bundled into the back of the net. Temple hit the post and Leivers kicked off the line from Williams, who should have done better. This was the sort of game which makes even the most loyal supporters glad that for a few months they will be unable to suffer the pangs of further disappointment, it gives them time to forget the past and conjure up hope of better things in the future. Even the normally solid and consistent Everton defence was not without blame. Jones was at fault when City equalized. He headed a speculative ball from Leivers right down in the path of McAdams who did not stop to say thanks, but rammed it home via the inside of the post. Jones, however, played under the handicap of an early injury. In keeping with the general standard of mediocrity Everton’s goal was almost an exact copy of City’s. It came from a full back’s chacey lob –this time Tansey –a misjudgment by the other centre half, Marsden and a quick dart through by Temple. The only difference was that temple did not need the help of the woodwork to make sure.
Williams Tried Hard
It would be kinder to draw a tolerant yell over the proceedings, rather than particularize too much on individual fallings. Suffice it to say that of the Everton attack. Williams was again the most determined with Gauld running him close. Gauld knows where the goal lies and makes for it without loss of time or unnecessary frills. It is a pity he cannot just finish them off. Temple- started brightly but could not keep it up; Haughey showed clever touches but stood still too often watching his colleagues. His could have been a bigger contribution if he had made greater use of the open spaces. He also needs speeding up in other ways. McNamara’s shooting was poor, yet at least he did shoot often which was more than some of the others did. Farrell did as much as one man could to try to infuse punch into the attack, constantly urging on the forwards from behind, and the backs, part from occasions –erratic clearances, were seldom in any real trouble. There were instances when the ball was scrambled away rather fortunately, but those happen to all sides. What honours there were went mainly to the men of the rearguard, with Dunlop taking his share. The thing which causes Everton fans most perturbation just now is the likely prospects for next season. On recent displays there must be considerable concern. When the professional staff is cut by a quarter as it will be if the sixteen players put on the list all leave, the club will be in no condition to withstand another tough winter’s programme without long periods of anxiety. The only hope seems to be to spend on a few class players with experience. If that is not done< I am afraid they are in for trouble. There seems no alternative.
The Anfielders play Everton Reserves at Goodison Park tomorrow evening (6-45) when Everton’s team will be; O’Neill; Sutherland, Heyes; Meagan, Sanders, Smith, Mayers, Thomas, Hood, Farrell, Eglington. Six of these players are on the transfer list, so there should be plenty of scouts watching.
EVERTON’S DOUBT
April 24, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton are due at Bolton on Saturday in a rearranged match. This should have been played on December 22 but was postponed on account of fog. There may be one change in the team, as Jones is very doubtful following a calf muscle injury received against Manchester City on Monday. If he is unable to play, Everton will introduce yet another debutant into the senior side in Sanders. A native of Salford, Sanders was signed last summer after being given a free transfer by Manchester City. Originally a right full-back he was tried out at centre half in the Central league side last December and played so well that he has retained that position ever since. This is the only alteration so that the team will read; Dunlop; Donovan, Tansey; Birch, Jones or Sanders, Farrell; McNamara, Gauld, Temple, Haughey, Williams (G).
EVERTON RESERVES 2, LIVERPOOL RES 4
April 25, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
A crowd of 13,656 people saw Liverpool Reserves make sure of the Central league championship for the first time in their history by defeating Everton reserves at Goodison Park last night. Liverpool were two up inside 25 minutes thanks to goals by Kerr and Twentyman. Twentyman’s came from a free kick just outside the penalty area which was deflected out of O’Neill’s reach when Twentyman’s shot struck the line of walled-up defenders. Within 10 minutes Everton had fought back to get on level terms Hood reduced the lead in remarkable fashion when a clearance out of hand by Rudham was blocked by the Everton centre-forward and the ball ricocheted on to the bar and was tapped into the empty goal by Hood with Rudham unable to do anything about it. Mayers but the sides on level terms at the 35th minute with a splendid ground shot from a centre by Eglington. There was not a great deal to choose between the sides in the first half, but it was almost all Liverpool in the second. Bimpson gave the visitors the lead at the 49th minute when Kerr cleverly back-heeled the ball to him and although Bimpson later missed a sitter from seven yards he atoned by serving up a pass which enabled Arnell to get Liverpool’s fourth at the 76th minute. Kerr missed a great chance to put Liverpool further ahead, shooting over from six yards range with only O’Neill to beat. Although Everton were mainly confined to spasmodic raids they always looked dangerous and Rudham made two great saves in quick succession from Hood each of which was worth a goal, while Farrell hit the post. The match provided exceptional entertainment for the best Central league attendance of the season.
EVERTON WIND UP THE SEASON
April 26, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton complete their programme tomorrow with a visit to Bolton for a re-arranged fixture which was postponed through fog in December. When Bolton were at Goodison in August, the Blues got their first point of the season with a 2-2 draw. Nat Lofthouse scoring both the visitors goals. The Bolton board has at last agreed to Lofthouse taking over the tenancy of a public house the players has re-signed for next season and a long drawn wrangle has had a satisfactory ending Lofthouse is too good a player for Bolton to lose. Whatever happens tomorrow Lofthouse must finish as Wanderers’ leading scorer for the second time in succession, and the ninth occasion in all since the war. His total now stands at 28 including one hat-trick and seven “doubles.”
Strong In Defence
Most support as a marksman has been lent by inside right Dennis Stevens, who has scored 12 times. No other member of the attack is anywhere near double figures. Five by parry is the next best. In the past three matches Douglas Holden has been playing at outside left, with Brian Birch, taking over the right flank. Defensively the Wanderers have maintained their reputation as having one of the best rearguards in the First Division, however, and the departure of Wheeler and Barrass has had no detrimental effect. Eric Bell has recently staged a come-back following the fractured leg he suffered two years ago, and is playing well. The only problem has been the left back position which has had five occupants in all, due mainly to injury to Tommy Banks, normally first choice for the berth who returned over Easter after a long lay-off. Goalkeeper Ted Hopkinson has played in every match so far, in his first season as a senior. He was given his big chance in the opening game, when Kerr Grieves was still on cricketing duty and has kept it ever since. Only two teams have won at Burnden Park this season, Wolves and Preston. In addition, Bolton have dropped five points at home in drawn games. Everton will doubtless be pleased if they become the sixth side to draw at Burnden. But they will have to do better than in their last two home matches to ensure a share of the spoils. Everton; Dunlop; Donovan, Tansey; Birch, Jones or Sanders, Farrell; McNamara, Gauld, Temple, Haughey, William (G).
TEMPLE CANCELS OUT A “PUNCH” GOAL BY LOFTHOUSE
April 27, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Bolton W 1, Everton 1
By Stork
Bolton Wanderers; Hopkinson, goal; Hartle and Banks, backs; Stanley, Edwards, (B), and Edwards (M), half-backs; Birch (B), Stevens, Lofthouse, Allcock, and Holden, forwards. Everton; Dunlop, goal; Donovan and Tansey, backs; Birch (K), Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; McNamara, Gauld, Temple, Haughey, and Williams (G), forwards. Referee; Mr. H.L. Broadhurst (Atherstone, Warwick).
The first news I got on my arrival at Goodison was that Jimmy Gauld was no longer on the transfer list. He is quite happy at Goodison and is rather pleased that he is now not on the list. Bolton brought in a young lad name Malcome Edwards. He is a 17-years-old Welsh schoolboy international having captained the Welsh side. There was another change in the Wanderers attack, Allcock coming in for Barry. The Everton team was unchanged, Jones having reported fit again yesterday. The ground looked very dry and the ball quite bouncy, while there was also a slight breeze so that accurate football would be rather difficult. The ball on the “floor” would be the best investment at Burnden Park today. Lofthouse scored for Bolton after 13 minutes.
Two Blue Raids
Everton struck the first blow when Farrell tried to get Williams away, but the little winger could not quite catch up with the ball, which went for a goal kick. It was Farrell who initiated the next movement when he slipped the ball out to McNamara I don’t know whether it was the intension of the Everton winger to make a shot or a centre, but whatever it was the ball passed outside again for a goal kick. The first few minutes had been definitely in Everton’s favour, but a quick breakaway by the Wanderers saw Stevens through the Blues defence and it looked that they might open the day’s scoring but they had to be content with a corner kick.
Nat on the Target
It was McNamara again who launched the next Everton attack, but again his shot finished outside. The Wanderers had now come more into the game as an attacking force and at 13 minute they took the lead. Holden had crossed from the left wing over to the right and made a centre close into goal. Lofthouse nodded it into the net, but there was a protest from Everton and the only reason for it in my mind was that they thought Lofthouse had handled the ball. Farrell talked it over with the referee but it was still a goal. After holding down a rather determined tackling spell by Bolton, Everton broke through and it look odds on Temple equalizing. In fact I though he had done but the ball hit the side netting. It was nevertheless, a very close thing. It was Haughey who gave Temple the chance with a very astute up the middle pass.
Dunlop to the Rescue
Everton were playing into the wind, so that the Wanderers had a definite advantage and they went close to increasing their lead through a Holden, Stevens, Lofthouse, movement. Dunlop saving the last named final effort to make it goal number two. So far it had been quite an interesting game and when Temple worked his way through again there were possibilities of an Everton goal but he shot outside as did Birch (K) a few minutes later. Gauld was ever ready to burst through and one long run ended up with a nice pass to McNamara who failed to make full use of it. Donovan just managed to stop Lofthouse who was careering for goal making a very stern tackle to prevent the former England leader from getting in another shot. Haughey was showing a lot of strength on the ball, but if anything the Everton inside forwards were apt to play a little close. This played into the hands of men like Edwards (B) and Banks. Another corner to Bolton was speedly cleared as when Dunlop saved from Holden he did not relish the charge Lofthouse made on him. When Holden was given a pass by Ken Birch there was obvious danger. It came in the form of a shot from the winger and Dunlop had to act very swiftly and drop on the ball that was heading goalwards. Then Lofthouse tried to burst the back of the net with a close-in shot following a Stevens pass, but he was well off the target.
Mac Shows His Fist
McNamara and Banks got a loggerheads when the Everton man was brought down in a tackle, and McNamara showed his fist to the Bolton full back. He was spoken to by the referee who later had a word with Banks. It was a few minutes after this that McNamara running into the goalmouth headed over. An Everton corner was taken by Haughey, who put across an in-swinger, but Hopkinson caught the ball under his crossbar and cleared. The Wanderers took two corners in quick succession one to the left and one to the right, the latter eventually ending in a third corner through an Everton defender nodding the ball over his own crossbar. Near the interval Holden nearly made it two when he tried a volley which just passed outside the far post.
Lob by Williams
Williams had not been seen a great deal so far but he made one long dribble beating two men and then tried to lob the ball into the Bolton goal, but Hopkinson was there to take it Jones had been a stalwart along with Donovan in the Everton defence which had quite a hectic first half.
Half-time; Bolton Wanderers 1, Everton nil.
Peter Farrell, the Everton captain told me during the interval that Lofthouse had definitely punched the ball into the net for his goal. The Wanderers resumed as through this was an exhibition game. They passed, repassed and passed again, to such an extent that the crowd were not at all pleased about it. They wanted more direct action. Nevertheless the Wanderers won a corner as a result of intricate football. With the wind behind them Everton were doing more of the attacking and a free kick taken by Tansey had to be punched out by Hopkinson. Temple, Haughey, Birch and Gauld tried to force an opening when broken down midway in the Wanderers half. The Wanderers were finding it just as difficult against the wind as Everton had done and the Blues eventually had more of the play. At the hour they had leveled matters. It was an uncommon sort of goal for the first attempt made by temple saw his header bounce from off the ground onto the crossbar, Hopkinson was well and truly beaten, but the ball came back to Temple who promptly nodded it back into the net.
Too Many Passes
The Wanderers were still making what extra pass which often ruined their chances and the best they had done this half in the scoring line was a weak shot by Stevens which caused Dunlop no worry whatever. Slowly but surely Everton were getting on top. They had been so for some time and the solid first half defence of the Wanderers was now being severely tested. Twice Hopkinson had to make saves. Lofthouse from a scorable position made a very deliberate shot, but it was defence for a corner by Donovan. A minute later Hopkinson was saved by his full back and then Birch (K) came along with a brilliant drive which the Bolton keeper saved magnificently. I saw something today I have never seen on a football field before. I saw a player lose his boot. It was Jimmy Tansey and no doubt it was one of the reason’s why he conceded a corner. Everton were much more forceful this, half but the Wanderers were not done with Jones hurt hit back when he made a challenge or Lofthouse and had to receive attention, and then Stevens seeing the futility of this persistent passing, decided to have a go and he put in a tremendous drive which just simply flew outside the far upright. A little later Dunlop leapt to a tremendous height to make a catch and hereabout Bolton were hitting back.
“Goal” Disallowed
Dunlop made a superlative save from Lofthouse and also a shot by Stanley while Jones rushed in to take the ball off Lofthouse foot just as the Wanderers centre forward was about to shoot. With a couple of minutes to go Haughey, netted got Everton but the goal was disallowed. I could not see what for unless I was offside. The free kick was taken by goalkeeper Hopkinson off the goal line. Final; Bolton 1, Everton 1.
TEAMS AND MEN I HAVE NOTED
April 27, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
By Peter Farrell
With the season drawing quickly to an end, perhaps the time is opportune to look back and Endeavour to find the teams who in my opinion have been most impressive during the season and also the players against whom I have played who have caused me the most trouble. One does not want to be a god judge of football to know that at Manchester United have been the team of 1956-57. Many seasons have been put forward as to why Manchester United have had such a great season but the predominating factor of their successful run in my opinion has been their great team work. There is an abundance of ability with their ranks yet there are no really outstanding stars who could be said to be carrying some of the lesser lights. Furthermore the genius of Matt Busby has been responsible for blending the side into its present attractive combination and Busby has also insisted such a great spirit into his lads that they never know when they are beaten, and even when things are going against them they still fight for the full ninety minutes.
All United
It is little wonder then such a great side has had such publicity from all sources. Yet there are many folk who complain that they are hearing too much about United and their deeds in the football would Human nature being what it is, I suppose this is understandable, as there is always a certain section of the public who begrudge the top notches their success. Nevertheless there are very few who can deny that Manchester United, by the quality of their play this season have done more to raised the prestige of British football than any club for quite a long time. Would that there were many more clubs of the standard of Busby’s lads, and there would be little fears for the future of British football. Turning to the Second Division 1, I didn’t have much chance during the season of witnessing many games due to my Everton commitments but one side which impressed me very much was Nottingham Forest, whom I saw in action against Blackburn Rovers. Every member of the Forest side on that occasion was trying to play attractive football and they impressed me as a team with a great deal of method about their play.
Turning to the players of First Division sides against whom I have played some prominent names come to mind who are always difficult to mark on the field. Harmer of Spurs, Shackleton of Sunderland, McIlroy of Burnley, Whelan of Manchester United are high on my list of inside-forwards against whom a half-back is continually kept on his toes for the full ninety minutes. The most improved inside forward of the season’s whom I saw was Kevan of West Bromwich who has come on in leaps and bounds this season. It is also gratifying to see that some of the old-established stars like Matthews, Finney, Wright, Liddell, and Hagan are still more than holding their own in top-class football.
Final Tickets
During the coming week the final burst among soccer fans in the mad scramble for Cup Final tickets will take place. The annual football event of the season will house it customary 100,000 a big proportion of whom will put the names of any of the contestants at Wembley, while the die-hard supporters of United and the Villa who have followed their clubs through good times and bad, but have not managed to get a Final ticket will have to be content watching the game on Television. It seems to me that people in any other walk of life have a better chance of securing a Cup Final ticket than professional footballers of fans without whom there would be no Cup final.
REFEREE SAW NO LOFTHOUSE PUNCH…
April 29, 1957. Liverpool Daily Post
Bolton W 1, Everton 1
By Stork
The taking point of this match was the goal scored by Lofthouse at the thirteenth minute. We in the Press box, were not in a position to be emphatic yet many were of the opinion that Lofthouse punched the ball into the net with his fist, Farrell and his colleagues are emphatic that this was the case. The Everton captain protested strongly, but the referee said goal and there the matter had to stand. It was a difficult sort of day for football, for apart from the bone-hard ground and the lack of turf, there was a blustery wind blowing downfield. Notwithstanding these snags the game was quite interesting, Bolton using the wind in the first half, were the more progressive side and the Everton defence was often on the collar.
Little Thrust
That Everton held their opponents to a single goal during the first 45 minutes was to their credit, but there was very little thrust in the Everton attack which was easily held by the tall Bolton defence. There was a different tale in the second half, Bolton started it as though they held a six goal lead. They annoyed their supporters by the flippant way they went about their work. Before they could realize it they found, Everton had not only equalized through Temple but had come very near to winning the game. Haughey netted the ball a second time, but this was ruled out on an off side decision. It was then that Bolton decided that more direct methods were required. Some fiery drives were made by Lofthouse and Stevens. During this short period the Everton defence stood manfully in defence Dunlop made one particularly good save from Lofthouse and saw a few fierce drives whizz just pass the woodwork.
Different Side
When they had the use of the wind Everton were a vastly different side and with luck might have won. But I think a draw was a fair result. Everton’s goal was scored by Temple. He had to have two bites at the cherry before he got his goal on the hour, for his first effort went on to the crossbar. Hopkinson was completely beaten and when the ball rebounded to Temple he soon had it back in the net. A point away from home is always satisfactory and considering that this was Everton’s last game there was no end-of-the-season look about the play, in fact at times it was quite hectic. Jones received a nasty blow when he collied with Lofthouse. Haughey was very strong on the ball and McNamara had his moments, but most of the credit goes to the defence, in which Jones was outstanding. Had Wanderers been a little more accurate in their shooting they could have won.
DISPUTED GOAL COST EVERTON A POINT
April 29, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
Everton were distinctly, unfortunate at Burden Park on Saturday for they were deprived of a point by a hotly disputed goal scored by Nat Lofthouse, I was some distance away from the goalmouth when Lofthouse went up for Holden’s centre and the next thing I saw was the ball in the net. Lofthouse can raise to a tremendous height to nod in those famous headers of his but immediately this one landed in the net there was an appeal by Dunlop, and others and Peter Farrell protesting most vigorously to the referee who, however, would not change his mind. Farrell told me at half-time that everyone except the defence saw Lofthouse punch the ball into the net. I remember Dixie Dean scoring such a one for Everton and I also saw the late George Hodgson pilot one into the net with his hands. I thought at the time here was a grand opportunity of proving one’s sportsmanship by acknowledging that he had used his hand, but I suppose it was too much to expect.
Disallowed Goal
Everton will no doubt also claim that Haughey scored a genuine goal near the end but I was disallowed for an infringement right on the Bolton goalline. That would have won the game for Everton for Temple had negatives Lofthouse’s goal at the hour. But I hardly think that Everton were worthy of victory for they had been receivers-in-chief during the first half when Bolton had the sun and wind behind them. They made full use of the elements by crowding on all sail and the Everton, defence had to work double time. Dunlop made some great saves whereas Hopkinson was not unduly pressed by the Everton forwards. The Wanderers full backs rarely allowed the Everton attack to take a shot at goal but Temple once went so close that a colleague sitting alongside me actually put it over to his office that he had scored.
More Thrustful
The Wanderers were undoubtedly the more thrustful side in this first half. They flung the ball from wing to wing and tried to find Lofthouse and invariably did. But Jones looked after the former England leader exceptionally well. In fact, the whole Everton defence stood firm. Naturally inaccuracies crept into the game, especially so when it came to shooting. Many shots were leveled at Dunlop but most of them landed into the crowd. Nevertheless the Everton goalkeeper was rarely free from work. Having held Bolton to a goal and with the advancing of the conditions in the second half I gained the idea that Everton were in with a chance. The Wanderers became flippant. They finessed to such a degree that they got under their own supporters skins. They demanded more directed action similar to that which had seen them so successful in the first half. One movement by Bolton saw the ball carried from their own goal area right up to the winning of a corner and only two Everton men touched the ball during the whole proceedings.
Looked Nice
It looked nice, but with such a narrow margin separating the two teams the 16,000-odd spectators wanted goals and this over indulgence was not going t bring them. After about 10 minutes of this exhibition stuff Bolton lost their sting and it was Everton who began to call the tune. The Bolton defence which had been so steady and strong started to creak. Hopkinson was once saved by a full-back and he made a tip-top save from a tremendous shot by Birch. He did other good things, but there was still a need for greater punch in the Everton attack. Temple’s goal at 60 minutes was scored after he had put his first attempt on to the crossbar through the bounce of the ball. It came back to the centre forward with promptly netted. The battle was on again and although persistently attacking it was Dunlop who was the busier goalkeeper. He had the more difficult shots to save and I am sure Lofthouse is still wondering how Dunlop held one of his specials. It was indeed a great save, but only one of many. Bolton at last realized their tip-tapping was getting them nowhere so they set out on another attack in force. It was during one of the forays that Tansey lost one of his Continental boots – I have never seen such a thing happen before. Lofthouse “clouted” anything and everything that came his way and shots whizzled over or outside. The others Dunlop looked after. It was not work for Jones and company but they stood their ground and suddenly Everton broke away and Haughey headed into the net with Temple following in after the ball. “No goal was the ref’s decision. We certainly had many talking points after the game but I think a draw was a good result. Everton’s attack was just so. Williams did not get a lot of scope in fact he and Gauld did their best work in defence and Haughey was the best of the line for Temple found Edwards a problem.
PRENTON CLASH
April 30, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
The meeting of Tranmere Rovers and Everton in the Semi-Final of the Liverpool Senior Cup at Prenton Park tomorrow (645) should produce the usual close contest between these old rivals. Although the prospect of an Everton-Liverpool Final was ruined by Southport’s defeat of the Anfielders recently; there is always the incentive to the players of appearing in the final and winning one of the souvenirs which go to winners and runners-up. In spite of Tranmere’s poor record, this should be a very close game with little between the sides. Everton reserves; O’Neill; Sutherland, Leeder; Rea, Sanders, Meagan; Mayers, Thomas, Harris (J), Farrell, Eglington.
Everton’s first team has an engagement in Belgium with Leige. They fly from Manchester tomorrow morning, play in the evening and fly home on Thursday. Everton will take thirteen players on the trip. These are Dunlop; Donovan, Tansey; Birch, Jones, Farrell; McNamara, Gauld, Temple, Haughey, Williams, plus Fielding and Hood.
April 1957