ASHWORTH URNS DOWN BURY OFFER
Friday, May 1, 1959. The Liverpool Echo and Evening Express
Everton Lose In Spain
By Michael Charters
Everton reserve inside forward, Alec Ashworth has refused to sign for Bury who had agreed with Everton on a fee said to be £9,000 for his transfer.  Ashworth was placed on the transfer list last week, but said today he did not want to play in Third Division football.  Terms between the clubs were settled on Wednesday and Ashworth asked for a week to think it over.  This morning, however, he telephoned Mr. Dave Russell the Bury manager to say he was no longer interested in the move. 
Reuter’s correspondent in Valencia reports that Everton lost 1-0 last night by a penalty goal scored in the second half.  Difficulty in contacting the Spanish town prevented any additional details. 
No date has yet been decided for the Liverpool Senior Cup final between Everton and Tranmere Rovers at Prenton Park.  The clubs agreed mutually that a week tomorrow, May 9 would be most suitable but nothing can be settled without the deliberations of Mr. Ike Robinson, secretary of Liverpool F.A.   When I required today, I learned that Mr. Robinson was out of town and nothing would be settled until his return. 

JONES AND PARKER LOOK BACK ON A EVENTFUL SEASON
Saturday, May 2 1959. The Liverpool Echo and Evening Express
Successes and Disappointments Experienced By The Players
There has been much said and written by public and Press about Everton this season, and naturally each has his own view an what was good and what not-so-good. The players too, have their opinions on these topics.  The best games, the best goals, the best players, &c and to let you, the fans know what they think Tommy Jones and Alex Parker, Everton’s Football Echo contributors approached Leslie Edwards the Echo Sprits Editor, and asked him if they could make their last article a joint affair.  They requested David Horridge of the Sports Department to record their views and the following is the result –a review of the season as seen by the club skipper and their international full backs.
Tommy – Well, Alex, that’s your first season of English football.  What do you think about it? 
Alex – I’ve quite enjoyed it and have no regrets in coming to Everton although in actual fact it’s only been about two thirds of a season.  I remember when I was introduced to you last October that you told me I had come to a good club and a grand set of boys.  I thought that was just the usual welcome but although I hate to admit it, you were right.  Considering the bad start, I think we have done quite well especially when you consider the additional points we could quite easily have had I’m referring to the home game with Leicester and the matches at Blackpool, Notts Forest and Manchester United.  In addition I have checked up and discovered we lost 10 games by the odd goal. 
Tommy – that’s quite true, Alex but I suppose nearly all teams could point to games they should have won but didn’t.  That’s football I could add that it’s a long time since I’ve seen Everton have so many shots cleared off the line as they’ve had this season, but that’s what defenders are for. You’ve done your shame of that, remember.  I think we made quite a reasonable come-back after that dismal start.  At times the team moved quite well.
Alex – What do you think of the general standard of play this season, To” Naturally as it’s my first season in English football I can’t compare it.  I did draw a comparison with the game north of the border in my article a couple of weeks ago.
Tommy – I think it’s on the upgrade.  Some clubs, noticeably Burnley, Chelsea, and, due to the Munich disaster, Manchester United have introduced quite a number of youngsters over the past year or so and many of them came into their own this season with a consequent improvement in the game. 
Alex – There’s been quite a deal of talk about the standard of sportsmanship in the game this season.  Personally, apart from one or two incidents I think it’s pretty high. 
Tommy – I couldn’t agree more.  As you say there is the isolated incident, but you will always get that in any game.  Generally the standard of sportsmanship is good.  But to leave soccer in general and concentrate on Everton what do you think was our best display of the season? 
Alex – That’s an easy one.  Our game at Bolton for football and fighting spirit.  The Wanderers were playing great stuff then and as we had only won 1-0 the previous day a 3-0 victory away speaks for itself. 
Tommy –Yes, Alex, I don’t think there’s much doubt about it, although the lads played well at Luton over Easter.  Remember I was hurt early on in the game and although I have to admit it the team seemed to play better without me. 
Alex – For shear football though I thought our match at Portsmouth the other week was as good as any.  Even allowing for, the fact that Pompey were already doomed to relegation Everton played really good football. 
Tommy – Talking about Portsmouth reminds me that the best goal I saw all season was scored by Bobby Collins there.  I’ll always remember the way he lobbed the ball over the advancing goalkeeper. 
Alex – The best goal I saw from an Everton player was also by Bobby, but it was the one he got at Nottingham Forest.  He hit it high into the net from the edge of the area, Dave Hickson’s in the home match against Bolton on Boxing Day was another that sticks up my mind. 
Twice-Taken Penalty
Tommy –Your twice-taken penalty against Aston Villa was a good goal.  I wouldn’t have fancied having to take it twice.
Alex – Well, seeing as you are handing out bouquets, what about your two penalties in my first league game after returning from Cyprus?  I remember you scoring them early in the game and you had my sympathy.  Funnily enough, they were also against the Villa.  I’m thinking that if they ran a poll at Villa Park for the most unpopular player of the year you and I would stand a good chance of winning it.  Tommy – On the subject of penalties I shall always remember the one Jimmy McIlroy took –against us at Goodison early in the season.  You were in Cyprus then Alex, so you’ll have to take my word for it.  He put the ball on the spot, walked about two paces towards his own goal and then suddenly turned and flicked it with the inside of his right foot inside Jimmy O’Neill’s left hand post.  It was immaculate.
Alex – The best I’ve seen if that’s the right word, was by Goodwin of Manchester United.  One of our boys headed clear a corner by Bradley and you’ll probably remember how Goodwin hit it first time.  I was on the line and jumped for it.  Thinking back, I’m almost glad I didn’t get in the way of it. 
Tommy – Yes, I remember that one-well enough.  I also remember the one Dick scored for West Ha, the other week.  He picked up a ball just outside the penalty box, moved forward a couple of paces and let fly into the far corner.  It was the best piece of controlled shooting I saw all season. 
Alex – Another good goal was one of the two Wylie got for Villa in the Cup-tie.  He moved to the right and then pivoted before hitting it past Albert Dunlop.  Strange how Villa keep on cropping up.  They were also responsible for what was to me the biggest disappointment I have experienced since coming to Goodison.  It was the Cup defeat.
Thought It Was Our Year
Tommy –Yes, I think we’re all agreed on that, particularly as the lads thought it was one year.  Still there’s always next year.  However, to get back to the season just ended.  What would you say were the best teams we-faced” I would say Wolves. 
Alex;- Yes, Tom I don’t think anybody will disagree with that after them I would place West Ham and Nottingham Forest on their display at their own grounds. 
Tommy –Well, if you’re going to name another two I’ll place Arsenal on their display at Goodison when they beat us 6-1 and Spurs performance when they won 1-4.  You were lucky to miss both those, Alex. 
Alex – There have been quite a number of players who were virtually unknown at the beginning of the season and are quite well known now.  Two who spring to my mind are Bradley, of Manchester United and Dobing of Blackburn.  Admittedly Dobing was playing well before but since August he has been an even greater player.  I’ve seen quite a lot of him as we played together for the Army. 
Tommy – If I had to name two I would say Ray Pointer, Burnley’s centre-forward and Mick Lill of Wolves.  They have both scored a lot of goals, and as somebody once said, it’s goals that count. 
Alex;- If you had to name a team of players who have done well against us over the season what would it be  Tom? 
Tommy – Well, my goalkeeper would be Nigel Sims of Aston Villa on his display in the Cup-tie.  His cutting out of cross balls was excellent. 
Alex – Yes Tom, he played well but I would name Leicester’s McLaren.  Remember the way he helped to beat us 2-0 after we had about 90 per cent of the play? 
Tommy –What about right-back?  Milne would be Howe of West Brom I think he was the classiest back we played against. 
Alex – I would pick Jimmy Armfield of Blackpool, I have always been an admirer of his, and he was tops for me.
Tommy – I would select Doug Winton of Villa at left back again on his display in the Cup-tie.  He played exceptionally well when you consider that it was his debut after leaving Burnley. 
Alex;- I thought the best display from a left back was that by Doug Wilson in our recent game at Portsmouth and Blackburn’s Ron Clayton is in my opinion the best right half we played against.  It’s no mystery to me why he is automatic choice for England. 
Tommy –Yes Alex, I’ll agree with you on that one.  What about centre-half?  I choose an old club mate –Matt Woods.  He played against us in his hundredth game for Blackburn and it must have been one of his best.  He was great and it was a pity that he was sent off near the end. 
Centre-Half Docherty
Alex;- I’ll surprise you with this one.  The best display I saw from an opposing centre-half was by a player who has made his name as a wing-half.  Tommy Docherty.  Remember he was switched to the No. 5 position in an emergency for our game at Highbury last January.  He played a blinder.  Talking about blinders the left-half position presents no difficulties at all.  Ron Flowers for his game last week gets my vote. 
Tommy- Again Alex, I must agree with you.  He is big and strong and makes full use of these assets, but always fairly.  He’s a great man to have on your side. 
Alex- I’m going to surprise you with my choice for outside-right.  He’s a player I’ve never even been with on the same back this season, but he put up the best display I saw in a No 7 shirt.  Billy Liddell of Liverpool.  It was when he played against Middlesbrough the other week at Anfield I had never seen him playing for Liverpool before but he left me in no doubt as to why he’s so popular with the Kopities. 
Tommy –The right-wingers I was surprised to see do so well was Peter Harris of Portsmouth.  You‘ve heard Alex how Pompey have given us some rare hidings since the war and Harris has always had a lot to do with it.  He must have scored more goals against us than any winger I know.  Despite the fact that we beat them a couple of weeks ago he still managed to pop in a couple.  Now what about inside right?  I would choose Ivor Allchurch.  When Newcastle beat us 4-0 at S. James’ Park he scored two and could have had a couple more.  He looked the complete inside-forward and worth every penny of the money the Geordies paid for him. 
Alex- I would name Peter Broadbent of Wolves on his game at Molineux.  I remember he got the only goal of the game and his speed off the mark is fantastic.  I would hate to be a wing-half having to mark him. 
Tommy – I think the best centre-forward I faced was Arsenal’s Alex Herd in the game at Goodison.  As I mentioned earlier, they beat us 6-1 and Alex scored four.  He was practically unstoppable that day. 
Alex- I would plump for Derek Kevan, of West Brom.  I know Derek has is critics but I’d always have him in my side.  He’s one of the most dangerous forwards I know when he sets off on those runs of his down the middle.  The best inside-left I played against as in my-wing-half days.  I’ll always remember the display by Arsenal’s Jimmy Bloomfield at Highbury.  You said before that Herd was unstopped.  That day Bloomfield was an un-find-able. 
Tommy – I would name Bobby Collins, of Manchester United at inside-left for his big-powered shooting in the game at Old Trafford.  Outside-left?  Peter McParland.  He must be the most dangerous winger in the game today.
Alex- Yes I’ll agree with you there Tom. 
Tommy –Well, that’s my team of individuals best performances over the season, Sims (Aston Villa); Howe (West Brom) Whinton (Aston Villa); Clayton (Blackburn), Woods (Blackburn), Flowers (Wolves); Harris (Portsmouth), Allchurch (Newcastle), Herd (Arsenal), Charlton (Manchester United), McParland (Aston Villa)
Alex- Fair enough Tom.  Mine is McLaren (Leicester City) Armfield (Blackpool), Wilson (Portsmouth), Clayton (Blackburn), Docherty (Arsenal), Flowers (Wolves), Liddell (Liverpool), Broadbent (Wolves), Kevan (West Brom), Bloomfield((Arsenal), McParland (Aston Villa). 
Praise For Bramwell
Tommy – Looking back over the season despite that had start things haven’t been all black at Goodison.  There was the signing of Bobby Collins and the wonderful manner in which John Bramwell has settled down to First Division soccer. 
Alex- I’ll agree with you on both counts.  There has also been the consistency of Albert Dunlop in goal and the grand form of Brian Harris at wing half.  What would you say your outstanding memory of the season was Ton? 
Tommy- Well, I have given this some thought and decided that it is the wonderful fight back at Charlton in the Cup-tie which gave us a draw after being two down.  I have never felt so proud of the lads. 
Alex- Well, I’m afraid it’s the Villa again. It must be my debut in the Everton colours so soon after returning from Cyprus. 
Tommy;- Teams to watch next season?  I would say Wolves, Manchester United, and West Ham
Alex- Agreed on all three.  And I think we’ll call it a day at that.  I’ve got to do some packing for this Spanish tour. 

WIGNALL’S DEBUT FOR EVERTON
May 5, 1959. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Alan Pinch
It is exactly a year ago today since Frank Wignall a young inside-forward from Horwich R.M.I., the Lancashire Combination club signed professions forms for Everton.  In recent weeks Wignall has been proving his versatility with appearances at centre forward and on the wing in the Goodison club’s Central League side but tonight Frank celebrates the anniversary of his joining Everton by making his senior team debut in the Lancashire Senior Cup final against Liverpool at Anfield (kick-off 7-15).  Wignall a native of Blackrod, near Chorley fills the inside left position in place of Bobby Collins, who plays for Scotland against Germany tomorrow.  Otherwise both teams will be virtually at full strength for this eagerly awaited “Derby” struggle.  Strangely enough Wignall’s partner former Chelsea left winger Bobby Laverick is also a newcomer to these Liverpool v. Everton tussles as is Everton’s Scottish international right back Alex Parker. 
Third Time Lucky
This will be the third floodlit meeting of the Merseyside rivals this season and it is hoped there is no repetition of the earlier unruly clash at Anfield.  Liverpool won that match by the odd goal in three and then went on to score a 3-2 victory in the return match at Goodison.  Obviously Everton who have not won the Lancashire Senior Cup in post war seasons will be after revenge tonight.  Teams;- Liverpool – Younger; Molyneux, Moran; Wheeler, White, Wilkinson; Morris, Melia, Liddell, Arnell, A’Court.  Everton; Dunlop; Parker, Bramwell; B. Harris, Jones, Meagan; J. Harris, Thomas, Hickson, Wignall, Laverick. 
In the final of the Liverpool Junior Cup, also to be played this evening, Everton will meet Birkdale Athletic at Southport’s Haig Avenue ground (kick-off 7-0). 
Next Monday night Anfield will again be the venue for the Liverpool Senior Cup final between Everton and Tranmere Rovers.  This game should prove another big attraction with Peter Farrell leading the Third Division side against his former club mates. 

BIG ANFIELD GAMES
May 5, 1959. The Liverpool Echo and Evening Express
By Leslie Edwards
Anfield has two big games this week to end the season.  Tonight Liverpool face Everton in the final of the Lancashire Senior Cup –both teams playing their best available sides –and on Saturday the Youth of England meet the Irish Youth X1. 
Mr. Robert Webster, of 31 Sandyville Road, Walton, writes;-  I would like to bring to your notice the sportsmanship of an amateur referee.  His name is unknown but I will describe events of a match which took place at Newton heath, Manchester between the teams of Everton F.C youngsters and a local eleven called St. Clares.  When I arrived the pitch was under water from the half way line to one goal line.  Two men worked on the flood water without avail; then the referee put in an appearance.  While the teams kicked in for 30 minutes, he took over the draining job.  A large pit was under the centre of the flood.  The referee made channels to this and then organized a bucket scheme which would have done credit to a fireman.  Eventually he had a steel sheet and rubber boards placed over the pit them four barrow loads of soil.  And at 7-30 the match started.  Shortly after a couple of claps of ominous thunder were heard, but the Gods smiled the storms passed, and all was well.  I can be critical of referees but whatever this gentleman lacked academically, he made up for in enthusiasm. 

LIVERPOOL’S ONE GOAL MIGHT HAVE BEEN FIVE
May 6, 1959. The Liverpool Daily Post
Liverpool 1, Everton 0
By Horace Yates
How seriously can these derby games be taken?  The answer, I should say is that where Liverpool and Everton are concerned all meetings are serious even though that at Anfield in the final of the Lancashire Senior Cup last night, was oh so gentlemanly.  Any fouls there may have been, and they were remarkably few, were entirely without ill will and we had the spectacle of Hickson picking up Younger’s cap and handling to him after it had been knocked off in a save Parker kicking the ball out of play when A’Court was injured so that he could receive attention and players bringing the ball back for free kicks to the opposition.  There was in incident in which Ronnie Moran stopped the ball with his hand and got away with it to the amusement of both crowd and Everton players.  Imagine the reception an offencer would have had in different circumstances.  For all; that there was plenty at time left for Jones endeavour and quite a lot of good football too.  End of season it may have been, but the crowd had incident enough to excile them, unless they were Everton supporters in a second half in which their team could fine little attacking spark.  Three times these teams have met this season and the results have gone all one way – in Liverpool’s favour.  There are those who will tell you that the consolation for Liverpool having to remain in Division Two or another season is that all they had been promoted they would not have proved strong enough to hold their new position.  These tussles with Everton suggest that this generality may be far removed from the truth for Everton’s record suggests they are by no means the weakest side in Division One and yet at each meeting they have had to bow the knee to Liverpool.  In the opening half hour there was nothing in the play to suggest a LIverpool triumph for Everton monopolized the attack with speedy direct approach that suggested
Younger would not always be in a position to keep the ball out of the net.  Young Wignall’s sampling his first Derby game showed us touches and distributive moves that made him look quite at home in this senior assembly and though chances to confirm that early impression were fleeting he had as much right as any of his side to be satisfied with his performance.  What a busy man was Younger during this period of Everton ascendancy.  There were times when he stood alone between Everton and goals and it can truthfully be said that when Liverpool went into the lead in 34 minutes through a Liddell goal, it was completely against the run of play. 
Target Sighting
The scoring of it was more than a shade fortunate, for Melia who had a mixed match lost his chance of adding to his impressive scoring record for the simple reason that he took too much time in sighting his target.  When he shot, the ball struck a defender and bounced out high enough into the air for Liddell to rise like a fish to a fly, and ram the ball home with a header that had the force of many a forward’s shot leaving Dunlop’s single handed intervention ineffective.  A fusillade of shots and headers were rained on the Liverpool goal almost immediately afterwards and with Younger down on the ground from the last of his saves Thomas was left with a great opportunity to restore equality, but the wonderfully quick recovery of the Liverpool defence ended in his shot being blocked.  Although Everton’s superior play had produced several thrills and hair-breath escapes they were as nothing compared with the chances which came Liverpool’s way in a second half, in which they were dominant to a remarkable degree matching the quality of effort which had previously belonged almost exclusively to Everton.  If Liverpool had ended the game with five goals to their credit, who could have complained?  The openings were there for all to see and it was Liverpool’s failures rather than Everton’s recoveries that kept the score at one. 
Liddell’s Miss
Probably the most glaring miss of the evening had to be debited to the man who normally has no part in such gestures of clemency – Billy Liddell, A’Court squared a ground pass almost from the touch line to the foot of Liddell admirable placed in front of the Everton goal.  He side-footed the ball well clear of Dunlop, but so wide was it that it cleared the post as well, narrowly it is true but still wide.  Liddell on another occasion headed high into the air and with cool deliberation nodded the ball forward to Arnell as it came down –Arnell’s hooked shot was yards over the bar at a sitting target from a perfect position.  A’Court put the ball into the net only to find that Wilkinson’s pass had come from a position inches over the goal line.  Liddell was within inches of a goal with a terrific header from a Melia offering sent over from the touch line, so that Everton could have no complaints for on balance they were defeated by a superior side.  One glorious run by A’Court must have done much to restore his shaken confidence.  Three men he beat with wonderfully controlled action at speed and that memory should serve him well in his efforts to forget a disappointing season.  I thought Parker, Brian Harris particularly in the first half and Jones were the strong men in Everton’s defensive setup and of the forwards Thomas got through a lot of work with little reward. 
Moran’s Hard Luck
Moran chalked up yet another highly satisfactory performance and though his maiden goal continues to elude him, it is only sheer bad luck that is so consistently keeping his name out of the scoring lists.  A cracking drive from a short Wilkinson free kick beat everybody and no wonder Moran shook his head disconsolately as he narrowly cleared the target.  It would be extremely difficult to name three Liverpool displays to surpass those they have give for Everton’s discomfiture this season and there can be little doubt that such form consistency produced would have earned a more deserving reward than they have received from their endeavours in Second Division football.  This latest victory, however, will do nothing to lull the club into a false sense of well-being and a belief that all will come right next season for intensive activities in attempts to obtain new signings, which are going on incessantly behind the scenes, are an indication of the determination that if at all possible the necessary reinforcements will be forthcoming.  Surely they will not always have to accept “No” for an answer to their approaches.  Liverpool; Younger, goal; Molyneux and Moran, backs; Wheeler, White and Wilkinson, half-backs; Morris, Melia, Liddell, Arnell,  and A’Court, forwards.  Everton; Dunlop, goal; Parker and Bramwell, backs; B. Harris, Jones (captain), and Meagan, half-backs; J. Harris, Thomas, Hickson, Wignall, and Laverick, forwards.  Referee; Mr. W. Hickson, (Wigan).  Attendance 23,198. 

A FINE “HAT-TRICK” OF VICTORIES FOR LIVERPOOL
May 6, 1959. The Liverpool Echo and Evening Express
By Jack Rowe
Liverpool ended their season in grand style at Anfield last night when they beat Everton 1-0 in the final of the Lancashire Senior Cup and so recorded a “hat-trick” of wins over their Goodison Park neighbours since last October.  This may seem ironical to their supporters as they reconcile themselves to at least another season in the Second Division but this latest success over the First Division club must have provided a little consolation especially as it was so thoroughly deserved.  Yet for the opening half-hour it was Everton who looked as though they might go through to a Cup winning victory for they struck a better understanding and there were two occasions when the Liverpool goal was within an ace of falling.  In this period Liverpool could do so little that was right and up to the 34th minute when Liddell go the goal they had offered no threat worth the name to Dunlop.  Everton found themselves behind because Hickson was too often astray with his passes at the one time when his side had a capable look-and another reason was the dour and strong defensive play of White and Moran.  Then came Liddell’s goal, a header from close in when an Everton defender blocked but could not keep down a quickly taken shot by Melia following a right wing corner.  After that it was Liverpool all the way and the remaining minutes of the first half they gradually took command so that after the interval they were able to move forward strongly and smoothly and as Everton were faced with a succession of fine raiding movements the marvel was that no more goals came. 
Wide Open
Wheeler and Wilkinson moved down at will and the service of passes they provided meant that the Everton defence was often cut wide open and the crowd -22,198 –saw the spectacle of Liddell and Arnell missing glorious chances from no more than six yards range.  Bramwell headed off the line from Liddell and shots from Melia whistled inches outside.  Add to this another header from Liddell which also scarped the post and you have the measure of Liverpool’s second half superiority, for the most menacing Everton response was a hard ground shot from Hickson when Younger saved with his foot by the post and two long-range efforts from Meagan and Wignall which were hardly likely to cause Younger much misgiving.  Liverpool played so much good stuff in the second half that Everton were made to look slow and cumbersome in comparison and if A’Court had been anything like as brilliant in other parts of the season how different the Anfield story might have been.  But A’Court was not alone in these fine moments for every Liverpool player looked the part and if Liddell and Arnell could have made the most of those opportunities the score lined would have made more fitting reading. 
In Control
Everton fell away surprisingly after their opening flourish and if the game showed anything for their fans it was that the attack is ineffective without Collins.  Wignall who deputizing for him, has the physical attributes and at the start promised other things as well but he went out of it and hard though Thomas and Laverick struggled in the second half they could make little impression on a Liverpool defence which by then was so completely in control.  Jones and Meagan I thought were the best Everton defenders for Parker did not maintain a good looking start and Brian Harris seemed affected by an injury he sustained when Liddell scored his goal.  One of the most pleasing features of the game which was really entertaining from a Liverpool footballing point of view in the second half was the spirit.  There were fouls but none of them deliberate or nasty and the friendly atmosphere between the sides was illustrated by several gestures such as Hickson retrieving Younger’s cap Parker kicking the ball out of play when A’Court was hurt and players fetching and carrying the ball for free kicks. 
Junior Cup Final
Scoring in the opening seconds, Birkdale Athletic went on to win the Liverpool Junior Cup at Haig Avenue Southport last night.  In an exciting struggle they beat Everton “B” 3-2 a victory they deserved.  Dobson, Jenkinson and Martin scored the winners goals and Morton and Jones netted for Everton.

WHY THIS BITTERNESS?
May 6, 1959. The Liverpool Echo and Evening Express
By Leslie Edwards
Mr. D. L. Evans of Garth Heswell Avenues, Higher Bebington, says;-
“Who are the dirty players Mr. White and others of your correspondents want to have removed from the Everton team?  I have seen all the games at Goodison Park this season and I think it fair to say that I have seen little to cavil about, on the whole apart from the Notts Forest match and apparently at Chelsea.  “Why this bitter attack on the players when they have fallen from grace only in two matches” Bolton, Manchester United, Aston Villa, Chelsea and others have been attacked in the Press for rough play during the past season, but for some reason the attack seems more bitter against Everton.  “Mr. Walker’s “Little Angels’ from Notts Forest did all they could to ruin the game at Goodison by continual body-checking deliberate handling, to prevent passes reaching their destination.  All this, coupled with the offside game (this being legitimate I know) contrived to ruin the game and Mr. Walker has the cheek to criticize Everton.  With regard to the Chelsea game, Bobby Collins must have had severe provocation because in my opinion it would be impossible to find a cleaner, more whole-hearted and sporting player than Collins.  “I am also very sorry about Bramwell, as I consider him to be one of the best young [prospects on Everton’s books.  Personally I am more concerned about the prospects of the club –Mr. Carey has inherited a colossal job to build up a team.  The second team have finished up near the bottom of the Central league and a team’s strength lies in its reserve so the prospect look pretty bleak.

HICKSON BEATS MELIA BY ONE IN SCORING RACE
May 7, 1959. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Horace Yates
Now that the shouting, criticism and praise are over for another season, this is an appropriate moment at which to take stock of the season’s events, so far as the activities of Everton players are concerned.  The only Evertonian to top forty appearances is the man who has not missed a game –Cup or League –Jimmy Harris and he has 15 goals (including one Cup goal) to his credit.  Dave Hickson with an unbroken run of thirty –nine games after regaining his place in the fourth match of the season, with Tom Jones next in order with thirty-eight appearances.  John Bramwell’s thirty-six games were all consective following his debut at Burnley on September 9.  Here is Everton’s complete record;- Dunlop (33), O’Neill (9); Sanders (25), Bramwell (35), Griffiths (2), Parker (26), Rea (4), Jones (38), Meagan (20), King (17), B. Harris (35), Labone (4), J. Harris (42), Thomas (32), Harburn (4), Ashworth (6), O’Hara (21), Fielding (10), Williams (7), Hickson (30), Temple (4), Collins (32), Laverick (11).
Scoring Return
In the scoring line, in Cup and League;- Parker ( 1 pen), Jones (4 pens) King (1), B Harris (1), J Harris (15), Thomas (12), Harburn (1), O’Hara (2), Fielding (2), Williams (1), Hickson (22), Temple (2), Collins (10), Laverick (5), with three own goals making up the total. 

ANOTHER IRON CURTAIN TO PENETRATE
May 11, 1959. The Liverpool Echo and Evening Express
By Leslie Edwards
When Everton manager John Carey, returns from behind the Iron Curtain today –as coach of the Republic of Ireland team he has been with the party touring Czechoslovakia –his first job will be to penetrate the domestic Iron Curtain posed by the news that two of his best players, Scottish internationals Bobby Collins and Alex Parker have both reported themselves as unsettled at Goodison Park.  Both have been chosen to play in the Everton team against Tranmere Rovers at Anfield tonight; both chose the week-end to disclose their rather surprising reactions both have yet to re-sign for another term with Everton.  No wonder football managers get ulcers and worse.  No wonder club wonder what more they must do to keep players contended.  It is likely that Collins and Parker will see Mr. Carey on Tuesday morning in which event the Everton Board meeting on Tuesday evening should be pretty ruthless.  Stories that Collins was unsettled were denied by the player at the time of the England v. Scotland match three weeks ago.  He told me then “I don’t know where these upsetting stories come from, I hope to play a good few seasons more yet, with Everton.”  Yet Collins now comes out himself with news that he is unsettled and he is joined by Parker.  Is a chat with the manger going to cure their home-sickness which seems the only thing that is making them unhappy?  I think not.   Everton fans will be disturbed also that Collins has been troubled by one or two poison pen letters.  But for every crank who would write one of these letters there must be fifty thousand Everton supporters who have nothing but praise and good will for Collins.  The trouble is that such conficiting rumours as people have heard for weeks about Collins and the fact that he is now joined by Parker, make it difficult for anyone to continue to idolize them. 

EVERTON WIN SENIOR CUP
May 12, 1959. The Liverpool Daily Post
Laverick Starts The ball Rolling
Everton 8, Tranmere Rovers 5
Everton won the Liverpool Senior Cup at Anfield last night when they beat Tranmere Rovers in a memorable final, which provided enough goals and good football to keep the 14,474 spectators happy throughout the close season.  After a tremendous first half in which Tranmere twice two goals behind, fought back to 3-3 and then concerned another goal, Everton scored three times in ten minutes after the interval and made the game safe.  What a fantastic first half it was, Laverick started the ball rolling as it were in the fourth minute when he found himself in possession and unmarked on the edge of the penalty area, and drove the ball past an unsighted Payne in the Rovers goal.  The Everton outside left wandered into the centre forward position later and was on hand to turn a Hickson header into the net, after Payne had failed to cut out a Jimmy Harris centre.  At the 26th minute Peter Farrell was tipped when trying to control a cross from the left wing and his former Everton colleague, Eglington made no mistake from the spot. 
Slip By Firth
One minute later a mistake by Firth let in Thomas, who had the easiest of tasks in slipping the ball past Payne but two goals by Keith Williams at the 35th and 36th minutes, both from perfect Eglington centres leveled matters.  Keith Williams was unlucky to lose control of the ball near goal after a brilliant fifty-yard run a minute later before Everton again went into the lead at the 39th minute with a fine shot on the turn by Wignall. Everton played their best football at the beginning of the second half and added three quick goals though Thomas (48 minute) and Hickson (51 and 54 minutes).  Two fine saves by Payne prevented them going even further ahead, and indeed Everton so dominated the game at this stage that 22 minutes of the half had passed before Dunlop had first shot to deal with.  Tranmere came back into it when the floodlights went on half way through the second period, but it was Jimmy Harris, Everton’s only forward not to score up to that point who added their eight goal at the 77th minute. 
Williams Hat-trick
It was fitting that Keith Williams should get his hat-trick when scoring Tranmere fourth at the 61st minute and Eglington his second at the 84th for they had been the only men in the Rovers team to really trouble Everton.  Jimmy Harris who was given far too much room in which to move to left back Firth and Hickson were the main worries to the Tranmere defence while Parker and Jones were outstanding in the Everton rear-guard.  Everton; Dunlop; Parker, Bramwell; Harris (B), Jones (captain), Meagan; Harris (J), Thomas, Hickson, Wignall, Laverick.  Tranmere Rovers; Payne; Bell, Firth; Farrell (P), Millington, Charlton; Williamson, Finney, Williams, Rowley, McDonald, Eglington. 

AN EIGHT-FIVE SPECIAL TOPPED ANFIELD BILL
May 12, 1959. The Liverpool Echo and Evening Express
By Michael Charters
Everton and Tranmere Rovers put on their own Eight-Five Special at Anfield last night in the final of the Liverpool Senior Cup, and no stage producer could have thought up a better backcloth, provided here by the elements, with awesome lightning, cracking thunderclaps and torrential rain towards the end.  The offstage effects were matches in their intensity by the inspiring nature –of the game –thirteen goals much lovely football, and fought in a splendid spirit which was a joy to see.  It was a match of such interest that I’m sure the crowd of 14,474 went away wishing it was the start of the season rather than the end.  Everton won 8-5 with one of the best displays I’ve seen from them for a long time but Tranmere at no stage were humbled beyond the gulf which normally separates the First and Third Divisions.  The fans showed their appreciation by staying to the last kick to give both sides a great reception as they came off, soaked but looking very  content that they had earned their three-month holiday with a display that will long be remembered by those who saw it.  Everton’s superior speed, craft and stamina were the deciding factors and their ability to snap right into top gear from the start gave them an overwhelming advantage because Tranmere were slow to get moving.  But when Rovers did come into the game, they showed that there are tutor Peter Farrell had coached them well in football of quality.  As the underdogs Tranmere had the crowd with them in spirit and well they responded to the encouragement they received from fans which made as much noise at times as a 25,000 gathering.  Everton were two up after seven minutes of complete domination –Tranmere had not managed a single attack in that spell.  But if Everton thought the game was wrapped up with the massive and splendid trophy already reposing on the Goodison board room mantle-piece they were in for a shock.  Tranmere fought back magnificently equalized at 3-3 and ended the first half only 4-3 down.  But Everton really crushed them in a great nine minute spell at the start of the second half when they moved the score majestically, almost casually to 7-3 with attacking play which Tranmere could not master. 
Another Rally
Another goal after 77 minutes brought them to 8-3 and inevitably the pace slackened, leaving Tranmere to stage yet another rally in which they scored two more.  Tranmere were always fighting under a handicap of Everton’s initial shock-assault when defensive errors involving that usually immaculate goalkeepers, George Payne, were responsible.  That nerves spell over Payne made some magnificent saves to redeem himself and could not be faulted again.  Tranmere’s defence was sometimes in danger of being run off its feet by the speed and incisive moves of the Everton forwards among whom I though Jimmy Harris, Hickson and Thomas outstanding while Laverick had his best game for the club.  Wignall deputizing for Collins (injured ankle) did much good work as well while Brian Harris was in top form at wing half.  Parker’s class stood out so clearly that Evertonians in the crowd must have hoped that he can resolve his differences and stay with the club.  On the Tranmere side they were rarely a match individually or collectively with the opponents but Keith Williams scored a beautifully hat-trick while Finney and Eglington were the other stars of the attack.  Rowley never mastered Tom Jones who was dominating in the middle but Millington did very well against Hickson who held his line together expertly.  Bell and Frith struggling nobly against fast tricky wingers in Harris and Laverick but Everton always gave the appearance of being able to turn on the pressure and score as they wished.  The story of the goals alone would fill more space than I’d care to contemplate in this report but here is the tally all Everton’s forwards scored.  Hickson (2), Laverick (2), Thomas (2), Wignall, and Harris.  Williams had three for Rovers with two expertly take penalties from Eglington to end the scoring list.  In always seems to me that when I watch Tranmere I see a game out of the ordinary.  This match might never have had the bite of a League engagement but it packed enough thrills and entertainment into 90 minutes that it will leave happy memory throughout the summer. 

“FRANK AND FRIENDLY”
May 12, 1959. The Liverpool Echo and Evening Express
By Jack Rowe
Everton manager Mr. John Carey talked with the Scottish international players Bobby Collins and Alex Parker today.  Collins and Parker have been reported as being unsettled at Goodison Park but understand that the discussions today were frank and friendly.  Mr. Carey would not comment on the outcome although I gather that there is prospect that the difficulties may be. 

COLLINS WILL STAY AT GOODISON PARK
May 14, 1959. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Horace Yates
Everton without Bobby Collins is unthinkable and happily as the player yesterday re-signed for next season the nightmare thought leads to a pleasant awakening after all.  To make the picture one of serene content we only needed the additional announcement that Collins fellow Scottish international Alex Parker, had follow suit but that must wait.  Parker and his wife are holidaying in Scotland but as existing contracts hold good until June 30, there is no real urgency about the position and Parker himself admitted his “unsettled” state could be a passing phase.  A few weeks away from it all plus the news that Collins will still be at Goodison Park next season might well enable Parker to decide that his place is there also.  At any rate Mr. John Carey the Everton manager who tackled this problem with the same sort of unhurried unruffled calm, so much part of his equable temperament that he displayed on the field during his playing career was able to tell me “I am quite happy about the position.” 

NO ANIMOSITY BETWEEN CLUB AN THE PLAYERS
May 13, 1959. The Liverpool Echo and Evening Express
By Leslie Edwards
Everton fans need not be so disheartened about news of the possible departures from Goodison Park of Alex Parker and Bobby Collins, two Scottish international whose play has so delighted followers of the club they cannot bear the thought of an Everton team without them.  While Manager John Carey was away behind the Iron Curtain with the Eire team, Collins and Parker came out into the open with their dual.  “We’re unsettled” statement and until Mr. Carey returned nothing could be done to sort out the players personal problems.  My information is that all going well, Collins and Parker will still be members of the Everton staff when the new season starts.  There is no animously between them and their club or between and their Manager indeed, both have been reasonable in stating their case and asking what can be done about it, Mr. Carey, who knows players problems from the players angle has been so long in the game and has such a sensible outlook on all things I am sure he will be able to solve the Collins-Parker problems and if he does he will have the gratitude of countless thousands of Evertonians including one from Hoylake who has suggested that if the respective wives cannot settle in Liverpool they should accommodate themselves at his private hotel. 

OFFER TO JIMMY GAULD
May 14, 1959. The Liverpool Echo and Evening Express
By Leslie Edwards
Jimmy Gauld the former Everton forward, whose club Plymouth Argyle upset him by the statement that that they were prepared to receive offers for him has been offered very good money and terms to take over the player-managership of the Southern League club Gloucester City.  Gloucester offer included a five year contract at £1,500 a year a house and a free hand with the running of the team.  Gloucester were prepared to offer this because Gauld has youth on his side and with luck should play for a further five years.  The retaliation that Plymouth were prepared to let him go was the thing which hurt Gauld and matters were not made better by the fact that the club have said that they will let him go only at a substantial four-figure fee it is understood that Gloucester were hoping to pay nominal fee over a number of years but it seems improbable now that he will join them. 
Everton Nominee
Everton directors at the club’s annual meeting on June 18, have unanimously decided to support the re-election of the three retiring members of the board - Mr. R.E. Searle (chairman) Mr. F. Micklesfield (vice chairman) and Mr. J. Taylor (one nomination has been received from Liverpool stockbroker Mr. D.M. McPhail, who was a nominee last year.   Everton have rearranged their season ticket sections and have now made available the two centre sections of the Bullens Road stand.  Of these the most central seats will be priced at £7 7s with eh remainder at £6 6s each.  There will also be F.Block at £7 7s and D Block at £6 6s both in the Goodison Road Stand.   Priority will be given to present season ticket holders in seat allocation who apply up to June 20.  Anyone who was not a season ticket holder last season may now apply for tickets at either price, although no guarantee can be given that tickets will be available at the price required Season tickets will also be available for the ground at £2.5s and for the paddock at £3 5s.   All last year’s season ticket holders have been notified of the revised arrangements but if any one has not received this a copy of the details and renewal form can be obtained on application. 

COLLINS CRITICS
May 18, 1959. The Liverpool Echo and Evening Express
By Leslie Edwards
Messrs F. Francis, J. McLeod, R. Simmon, R. Leather, L. Quirk, S. Staley, and F. Westinghouse senior writing from Fern Bank, Mather Avenue say; “We must protest at your article lauding Collins of Everton.  From our reading of it he was the one player who played for Everton all season saved all the goals, scored all the goals made all the goals.  We are left wondering what happened to the other 10 players who were named on the programme week after week.   “We are afraid you have got the Collins complex if you have seen Collins play a good game for the whole 90 minutes you must have been dreaming because we have NOT see him play a game equal to what is expected of an inside forward wearing the Royle Blue of Everton “We are very much in favour of giving the inside forward berth to a local player.  Why not concentrate on players like Wignall, and Thomas, who are better all-round footballers and more likely to fit in with the others. 

• News of the Death of Elisha Scott, brother William Scott in today Echo

EVERTON LOSE £16,712 AFTER PLAYING £35,350 IN TRANSFERS
May 27, 1959. The Liverpool Echo and Evening Express
By Michael Charters
Everton’s balance sheet, published today reveals that the club lost £16,712 last season as compared with a profit of £35,122 the previous year.  Transfer fees make the most striking comparison between the two years for the club paid out but £35,350 last season and nothing at all in the preceding 12 months.  Similarly, scouting expenses last season amounted to £5,954 as against nothing the year before.  The payment of transfer fees is the net figure on both comings and goings.  The club signed Collins, Parker, O’Hara, Harburn, and Laverick, but were able to set against the cost the fees for the sale of Williams, Harburn, Kirby and Fielding.  League gates receipts rose from £94,882 to £100,638, with Cup receipts remaining fairly consistent at £41,525 (£42,607 the previous year).  Expenditure over the whole season was £188,122 and increase of £6,000 which is an indication of how top class football these days is big business n every sense.  Visiting teams were paid £20,998 compared with £22,332 but Everton received only £10,700 from their share of away gates.  Goodison Park is indeed a goldmine to the other League clubs.  Travelling and match expense last season dropped a little from £13,967 to £13,273 while one interesting figure is the cost of lighting and heating falling from £2,755 to £2,119 despite the floodlights and ground-heating system.  The annual meeting will be held on June 18, when the three retiring directors Messrs R.E Searle (chairman) F. Micklesfield (vice chairman) and J. Taylor, offer themselves for re-election with the unanimous support of the other members of the board.  As already stated in this column there is one nominee for election –Mr. D.M. McPhail a stockbroker of 27 St. Phillip’s Avenue, Liverpool 21. 

COLLINS SHOWS WAY TO SCOTS
May 28, 1959. The Liverpool Daily Post
Holland 1, Scotland 2
A spell which produced two goals by Everton’s Bobby Collins and Leggatt in five minutes during the second half, gained Scotland’s a rather lucky 2-1 win over Holland in an international soccer match at Amsterdam yesterday.