SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 3 EVERTON 1 (Game 368)

April 1 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

About 5,000 spectators witnessed the contest at Owlerton on Saturday, the limited attendance being accounted for by the wretched conditions that prevailed. On the Everton side, Settle stood down owing to an injured ankle, and Crawshaw, Ruddersdin, and Langley were absentees from the home ranks. The sides were as follows: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer (captain), and Eccles, backs, Wolstenholmes, Booth and Abbott halfbacks, Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Gray, and Turner forwards. Sheffield Wednesday: - Stubbs, goal, Layton, and Gosling, backs, Ferrier Thickeray and Fish, halfbacks, Davies, Chapman, Wilson, Wright. and Spikesley, forwards. Everton won the toss, and played with a crosswind in their favour. They monopolised the bulk of the opening play, and were often within shooting range, but their final efforts were extremely weak. Gray frequently passed badly and lost much headway, and then the Wednesday forwards broke away and put on severe pressure. After 20 play, Wilson was placed in possession with an open goal, but shot very wide. For a long period the home side held the advantage, and eventual, Davies forced a corner. Several exchanges followed, and the Everton backs failed to clear the ball, which lay but a few yards from goal, when Chapman rushing up, put it into the net, this point coming three minutes from the interval. On changing ends, Everton showed up well for a few, but they rarely looked like getting a tangible point, and following a smart run down by Davies, the ball came to Chapman, after Muir had partially saved a second goal resulted. Play had not long been resumed when a shot from Wilson struck the crossbar, and Spikesley who had followed up well, headed an easily into the net. Play became more even, but still the efforts of the visitors were disjointed, and the Wednesday defence continued to prevail. At length the ball was put to Taylor, who raced on and shot a really clever goal. Stubbs having no chance of saving. No further scoring took place and Wednesday winning by 3 goals to 1.

 

EVERTON RESERVES 3 ACRRINGTON STANLEY RESERVES 0

April 1 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

At Goodison Park. Dawson started for Accrington in a duluge of rain. Everrton immediately assailing the visitors goal, a corner being forced. O'Brien shot in, the leather bounding of golding, the Accrington half into the net. Kitchen next saved from Brandon and Everton again scored through McDonald. When the interval arrived Everton were leading by 2 goals to nil. Accrington showed better form, but failed to score fine defenc being shown. During a scrimmage in the Accrington goalmouth Dawson, and Everton winning by 3 goals to nil put the ball into the net. (Game 27) Everton: - Kitchen goal, Halliday, and Watson backs, Blythe, Green and Taylor (r), Roche Dawson McDonald Grey, and O'Brien forwards ,

 

EVERTON REVIEW

April 1 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

The Everton team gave as elementary an exhibition against Sheffield Wednesday as one would expect to witness from a second rate organisation in one of its off days; indeed, for general ineffectiveness they established a record that should stand unquestioned for some time to come. There was absolutely no method in their play, and but for spasmodic efforts at intervals the final result would have been dreadful to contemplate. Aimless wandering, faulty passings, and the expenditure of maximum energy with minimum effect, prevailed all through the game and following as it does upon recent satisfactory performances one is at a lose to account for such a complete several reversal. For such an utowed state of affairs, the forwards were mainly responsible for they never looked like getting the upper hand, and the only items worth chronicling in their favour were a few clever individual efforts which, of course, can never be depended upon to bring about good results. Often enough did one or other try to get the better of the whole Sheffield team on his own account, needless to state the efforts was short lived and by a steady combined move on the part of their opponents it required the severest methods of the Everton backs to stem a persistent tide of disaster. With a cross wind in their favour the Everton forwards in the early stages showed a fairly good front, but their play was greatly discounted by the ludicious attempts to defeat the custodian failure that stood out in marked contrast to the combination movements and sharp shooting by the Wednesday line. At ordinary times the visitors must have converted several openings, but invariably their shots lacked sting. and the custodian was given every opportunity of clearing. As the game wore on the home forwards got into a good swinging stride, and at times the perfect understanding that existed between them was one of the brightest features of the game. The players flank each other and anticipated a pass to each other, and so keen were they in following up the ball, that one could come to no other conclusion than that the Everton team were in for a severe trenching. Two value of closely following up the ball was never more apparent than in this game, for two of the three goals seem were the direct outcome of this plan of campaign, and several other efforts only failed to bring about tangible results by the merest shave. Steady combined play characterized the Wednesday eleven, and disjointed movements those of their opponents. The only forward to do himself justice was Taylor, who worked hard to minimise the severity of the defeat, and in quite befitted the occasion that he should score the first goal gained in the game. It was unfortunate that Settle was unable, owing to an injuried ankle, to take the field, but that does not altogether account for such a paltry exposition, and a leg improvement will be necessary for the side to finish up in a satisfactory position in the League table. For Sheffield Davies, and Spikesley on the wings found plenty of openings for the inside men who with a couple of exceptions, when open goals lay before them, pounced upon in every opportunity of testing Balmer, Eccles and Muir. The half backs were distinctly good, so that Crawshaw and Ruddlesdin were not missed from the ranks. The backs were never severely tested, and often enough they obtained a bad attention from their opponents. They kick and cleared well, and Stubbs in goal was thus rarely troubled. It was a poor game in which the Blades were always the better team, and they thoroughly deserved their margin of success. They have thus extracted three points out of Everton this season having previously accomplished a similar performance at the expense of Liverpool.

 

LIVERPOOL 2 EVERTON 1

April 4 1901. The Liverpool Courier

A friendly game between these old rivals took place at Anfield yesterday afternoon and with both sides playing at full strength an increasing game was interested. The weather fortunately kept fine, the ground being in excellent condition whilst the game was witnessed by some 6,000 spectators. Liverpool Kicked off give and take play following. Then Raisbeck sending down, forced the “Blues” to defend. A free kick, however spoiled the move, and after pretty forward play, Everton went to the other end, where, after some finessing, Turner let drive at Perkins, who caught and kicked away. Dunlop checked on a return being made, and although the Evertonians were awarded another free kick, no impression could be made, Liverpool packing their goal well. In close following the home right raced down and forced a corner, which was taken by Robertson, and Dunlop had a couple of drives for goal, the second-a particularly hard one-being headed away by Booth. Liverpool continued to monopolise the bulk of the play, until at length Taylor and Sharp made a breakaway. The ball was sent across to the other wing but on McDonald returning the former, with an open goal, sent over the bar from an easy position. Balmer and Booth were subsequently prominent in an attack on the Everton goal, and danger was averted whilst in close following the Liverpool citadel had narrow escape on a couple of accasions, Sharp giving Perkins an awkward shot to save, whilst during bully in front of goal Everton had hard lines in not forcing an entrance. Play was of an exhilarating character, and somewhat above the run of “ ordinaries “Hunter and Satterwaite in an endeavour to break through were brought to bay by Crelly running across, and another passing movements took the ball to the other end, Raisebeck being in the way and serving to Robertson and Walker. The outside man centred and Scatterthwaite, palpably offside, put the Muir, who had no chance of saving. Turner later on headed finely into Perkins hands and on the custodian sending clear Liverpool moved to the other end, Balmer clearing. Play followed upon level terms, there being little to choose between the sides, who crossed over with Liverpool leading by a goal to nil. On resuming, Liverpool again forced the pace, and Walker sending over, the visitor's goal had a narrow escape of being captured again, the ball passing just outside the far upright. Crelly was next prominent in an attempt made to lower the Everton colours by Hunter and Walker, and then Turner and McDonald dashed off, Parry interfering in the nick of time, and enabling Liverpool again take up an aggressive attitude. Booth headed away, and at the other end Proudfoot had a chance, but preferring to pass instead of shooting, the advantage was nullified and Glover had no difficulty in clearing. Raybould next shot hard, only to find the ball topping the crossbar, and Parry being penalised. Taylor shot strongly, the ball striking Turner, thus impeding its progress into the net, and giving a free kick to Liverpool on account of the latter player being offside. Perkins was next called upon to fist out a shot from McDonald, whole moment later sent yards wide. A finely concerted movements between the home forwards was not utilised, Raisebeck going outside with a final shot. A hot attack by Everton was the next noticeable item, Dunlop letting them in by miskicking, only, however, to find Perkins covering safely, and sending up the field, where Scatterthwaite centred for Raybould to head over. Dunlop safely negotiated a couple of corner kicks to the visitors, and Parry and Blythe broke up an attempt at combination by Robertson and Walker. A couple of minutes later, Scatterthwaite received possession, and centring nicely Raybould easily placed the ball past Muir thus recording the second point for Liverpool. Then Dunlop brought down Taylor, and from the resulting free kick, Wolstenholmes shot in, and the ball gliding off one of the home players into the net, the whistle sounding immediately afterwards with the score Liverpool 2 goals Everton 1 goal. Teams: - Liverpool: - Perkins, goal, Glover, and Dunlop, backs, Parry, Raisebeck, and Goldie, halfbacks, Robertson, Walker, Raybould, Hunter (s), and Scatterthwaite, forwards. Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer (captain) and Crelly, backs Wolstenholmes Booth, and Blythe halfbacks Sharp, Taylor Proudfoot, McDonald and Turner forwards,

 

EVERTON RESERVES 1 LIVERPOOL RESERVES 2

April 4 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

A hugh holiday crowd, numbering 15,000 person, was present at Goodison Park to witness the aboral rivals decide their return fixture in the combination. Both sides were strongly represented, and a remarkably fast and interesting game ensuded. Liverpool commenced operations, and straightway a tremendous pace was initiated, in which the respective combatant proved to be equally matched. Several well meant strong defence checked efforts, the splendid returns of Robertson and Watson being a prominent feature of the contest. In the opening half Liverpool held a slight ascendancy forward, and McGuigan got away, only to find the Everton left back impassable. The Everton front rank were kept in motion owing to clever work by Green and Boyle, and Roche was a thorn in the side of Morris, but as was the case at the other end of the field, the defence eventually prevailed. Both custodian were called upon, and Soulsby failed to utlise a capital chance, though from a centre by the same player, Davies headed against the upright what time Kitchen lay prostrate. This was a narrow escape for the Everton men, and roused by the partial reverse, their forwards rushed smartly away, and Storer only just succeeded in averting a dangerous centre from O'Brien. Two grand opportunities than came to Liverpool, for McGuigan got clear away from his opponents, but Watson overtook him and saved. A moment later Davies had a similar chance, and on this occasion Kitchen came to the rescue, but though the custodian failed to check the onward career of his opponent he managed to divert the shot, which rolled just outside the upright. Everton took up the running, and Dawson gave Storer a warm handful, but the Derbyshire man was equal to the emergency. Despite strenuous efforts on both sides to gain the lead, there was no score at the interval, a result which was strictly in accordance with the general run of the play up to this point. On resuming, the played waxed as keenly as ever, and smart passing between Soulsby and McGuigan gave the latter an opening. Dashing along the centre, McGuigan placed across to Otty, whose cross was headed in by Soulsby, and Kitchen, though failing in his attempt to clear, saved marvellously. Everton retaliated with rare dash, and a heavy bombardment of the Liverpool goal followed, shots being showered in without effect, though many narrow escapes were recorded. The home left wing proved very troublesome, and after severe pressure Roche took advantage of a series of weak returns by driving the ball past Storer, to the accompaniment of tremendous cheering. The Everton forwards were now showing more forceful tactics than their rivals though for the “Reds” McGuigan was always dangerous when in possession, but the great fault of the visiting forwards was lack of shooting power. A pretty sequence of passing between McArdle and McGuigan was well terminated by the latter, for racing beautifully past the Everton backs, he ran close in, and beat Kitchen in rare style. With both, sides again on an even footing, play was continued with greater determination than ever and McGuigan again beat the backs centring well, and causing Kitchen great difficulty in clearing. The custodian ran out, and a long shot from Howell, almost gave his side the lead whilst the keep was unguarded. Away went Everton, and Roche was presented with an open goal, but Morris managed to hamper his opponents so well that Storer was easily enabled to throw away the final shot. To the other goal flashed the “Reds” and McGuigan's speed was once more in evidence the home goal escaping by the merest chance. The pace began to tell a tale, and the movements were now not so incisive; but a mistake by Wilson let in O'Brien, who shot right across the goalmouth, missing the net by inches only. From a foul against Green, Robertson drove the ball into the net and the referee allowed the goal; though it was difficult to imagine why, for it did appear as if a second player had touched it in its progressed. Everton strenuously appealed against the decision, and they certainly deserved commiseration. In the closing stages Everton strove hard to regain the even balance, and obtained a couple of corners, but nothing further was scored, and a splendid game, which should have resulted in a draw, was won by Liverpool by two goals to one. (Game 28) Teams: - Everton: - Kitchen goal, Halliday and Watson backs, Boyle, Green, and Taylor (r) half-backs, Roche, Dawson, Worthington, Gray, and O'Brien forwards. Liverpool: - Storer, goal, Robertson and Morris backs, Wilson Hunter, and Howell, halfbacks, Soulsby, McGuigan, McArdle, Davies, and Otty, forwards.

JOHHNY HOLT

April 6, 1901. The Tamworth Herald

Holt, who for years did good services as centre half at Everton, has been a prominent figure in the Association world for over a decade now. He is a native of Church, a small town near Churington, in East Lancashire, which in the early ‘eighties could boast as good a team as any in the County Palatine. On the Church team becoming defunct in 1885 Holt found his way to Bootle, but did not remain there long, for he soon crossed over the boundary into the city. He then went into the Everton ranks. He is as famous a man for his size as ever held the position. He is small, but his agility makes up for this. He would, however, be still more popular did he not resort to practise that are not always acceptable to his opponent of to the referee. He began his international career against Wales in 1890, and there have only been a few seasons since in which he has not been capped.

Thanks to Kjell Hanssen for senting this

EVERTON 1 SUNDERLAND 0 (Game 369)

April 8 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

These clubs met at Goodison Park, before 18,000 spectators. Everton started, and at once the game become exceedingly fast. The home left wing was particularly prominent, and after Doig had saved a terrific ground shot from Abbott, Settle worked through and forced a corner, from which Sharp scored the only goal of the match after 15 minutes play. A clever move by the Wearsiderd give Hogg a chance, but he shot over the bar, whilst Miller had a similar experience a few minutes later. Doig tripped a long drive from Wolstenholmes over the bar, and up to the interval the play was continued at high pressure. Everton holding a slight advantage. The second moiety was not so interesting owing to the numerous fouls, but Everton were the most dangerous, and efforts from Sharp and Turner were with difficulty saved. Miller was hurt and left the field, and Balmer twice checked the opposition when close to the home goal. From now till the finish, even play was witnessed, but Everton always held their ground, and had the satisfaction of winning a splendid tussle, and Everton winning by a goal to nil. Everton: - Muir goal, Balmer and Eccles, backs, Wolstenholmes Booth, and Abbott halfbacks, Sharp Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle (captain), and Turner, forwards. Sunderland: - Doig, McCrombie, and Watson backs Ferguson, McAllister, and Jackson, halfbacks, Hogg, Leslie, Miller, Livingstone, and McLatchie, forwards.

 

NEW BRIGHTON TOWERS 1 EVERTON RESERVES 0

April 8 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

At New Brighton. The Tower eleven defeated Everton by 1 goal scored by Cunliffe to nil. Everton: - Kitchen goal, Halliday, and Watson backs, Boyle, Green and Taylor (r) half-backs, Roche Dawson Worthington, Gray, and O'Brien forwards.

 

EVERTON REVIEW

April 8 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

The defeat of the present leaders of the League at Goodison Park opens out a question of the championship considerably, and it is a matter of pure conjecture where the honour will finally rest. Rarely has the ultimate issue been so evenly apportioned among so many clubs, and from all appearances it is highly probable that the proud possessor of the title will not be made known until the curtain descends and leaves the present season amongst the multitude of things that have passed into oblivion. Everton had a tremendous tussle with the Wearsiders and they eventually triumphed though their success was well deserved, and on the play no other verdict could be deemed satisfactory. Still the visitors did not lesson their reputation by any means, and one can easily imagine them as League champions-a sturdy vigorous side pegging away throughout the 90 minutes, and a well balanced team that would earn respect from the most select organisations on either side of the Border. There is something substantial about their general methods that precludes the possibility of a rout, and their present proud position has been gained by a steady persistency which has worked most successfully throughout the season. To Everton therefore, is great credit due that they managed to check the career of their opponents at a period when the latter were never more bent upon advancing; and advancing; and the Northerns despite their ceaseless determination, and vigours tactics had to acknowledge the superiority of the home team's cleverness. Stubborn defence was met by a harassing attack which would not be denied, and sound resistance by Everton backs nullified the most incisive rushes of their opponents. In no department could the doughty visitors claim an advantage and when they discovered their inability to master the opposition there was more than a tinge of roughness about their methods that appeared to denote the irritated spirit of the skilled performer foiled at every turn. The pace of the first half was enough to test the qualities of the most perfectly conditioned player for the game waged from end to end in furious fashion, and there could be no mistaking the fact that Everton were the more accomplished exponents. Sunderland were beaten on their merits in this moiety, and when several well meant efforts were capped by a goal after 15 minutes play, the success was no more than Everton's skill deserved. The home left had baffled McCombie repeatedly, and Settle forced a corner which was accurately placed Turner, and after some vain attempts by two of three members of the team to find the net Sharp had the felicity of diverting a slow ball out of the reach of Doig. The Sunderland forwards made feeble attempts to equalise from some clever crossing by their right wing, and Everton were more dangerous near goal than their rivals. Abbott and Turner came very near increasing the lead, and in the second half Sharp banged the ball at Doig so viciously that worthy must have felt the effects of the clearance for some time afterwards. But the most perfect chance of the day came to Settle. Who received a masterly centre from Wolstenholmes, and the Everton skipper found himself with the ball at his toes, and the custodian alone a few yards in front. The sudden opportunity seemed to bewilder the recipient and instead of giving the final tap, which was all that was required to place his side two goals in front, he remained motionless-the situation was too much for him, and in the true spirit of Mark Tapley considered there would be no credit in scoring under such simple surroundings. Close on time Muir made a galant save from a beautifully placed corner kick, and thereby destroyed Sunderland's last hope, the result being that the honours of the contest went where they were due. The foundation of Everton's triumph was laid by the half backs divisions, and whilst giving every praise to the other branches of the team, to this trio must be awarded precedence. They baffled the well-laid schemes of the opposition, initiated the most seductive movements for their own front rank and practically became the pivot not only of attack, but defence likewise. Rarely indeed, has this line, amongst many creditable performances shown to such advantage as on this occasion, and to individual would be invidious. Each man work and as a result of the game depended entirely upon his exertions and in their dealings with the forwards the utmost harmony was manifested. In the van, Turner and Settle gave a very fine exhibition in the first half, but after the interval they were not too prominent. Their passing was exceptionally clever and whenever they got the ball the Sunderland defence had an anxious time of it. In the second half the right wing took a turn though Sharp experienced rather rough usage from Watson, who was more than necessarily severe on the Everton flyer. Taylor was not so effective as usual, though in the later stages improvement was noticeable, whilst Proudfoot was useful in the centre. In actual play they demonstrated a lighter grade of skill than their opponents, and in the opening half this was strongly displayed but when it came to a question of rough and tumble methods, and a not too close adhesion to the strict rules of the game they handed over the supremacy to their visitors, who, in this latter respect, felt the salutary restrictions of the referee repeatedly. The latter, by the way must have had a trying ordeal to keep up with the rapid exchanges of the early period, which were sufficient to test to the utmost the most physically fit. The Everton defence was sound, backs and goalkeeper rarely being in difficulties, and even when faced by the stiff breeze, which blew in their faces during the initial period, the returns of the full backs were telling. Balmer tackled in rare style, and twice checkmated the whole Sunderland front rank when apparently a score was imminent. The Wearsiders are a powerful combination, and though beaten, were not much behind their opponents in point of ability. They infused abundant dash into their movements; their kicking was strong and judiciously timed, but in front of goal they failed to maintain the advantages gained in midfield, and their shooting was by no means as accurate as it might have been. Hogg was the cleverest forwards on the side but the inside men spoiled many opportunities by dribbling too much instead of passing out to the extremities of the line, where capable exponents, were eagerly awaiting the chance to demonstrate their skill. The backs division adopted a vigorous policy, and gave little quarter to the opposition though McCombie in the second half made several mistakes which were only rectified by the vigilance of Doig, who was in his customary effective humour. Two clearances stood out prominently amidst a number of smart saves. One from a rasping shot by Sharp and another at the opposite goal where a low shot by Abbott almost succeeded in entering the net. The two points thus secured by Everton place them in close proximity to the leading clubs in the table, and a bold determination by the team at this juncture might easily land them much nearer the head of affairs than at present appears within the range of possibilities.

 

EVERTON 0 NEWCASTLE UNITED 1 (Game 370)

April 9 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

The supporters of the Everton club have witnessed in the two latest League matches at Goodison Park the highest and the lowest depth of their team's form; one day their favourites perform feats of valour, and trample in the dust the colours of the League leaders; 48 hours later they themselves are smitten hip and thigh by a combination thatt has not by any means the same pretensions to a high position in the football world. Anything more depressing than the display given against Newcastle United can scarcely be imagined; weakness in every branch of the team was manifest lackadaisical movements, absence of all combined effort and general inability to do anything well were the prominent features of the Everton players performance yesterday. After the splendid exposition given against Sunderland another victory at the expense of the club hailing from farthest North seemed a matter of certainly, but the game had not been in progress very long before these expectations were ruderly dispelled and Everton were fortunate in not being more soundly thrashed. In less than five minutes the game was won, and lost, for Niblo completely outwitted Eccles, raced close in and then crossed to Gardner, who had no difficulty in registering the first and only goal of the match. Several times did the United left wing round the Everton back, and the repeated rushes of the latter led to nothing more than a narrow escape for Muir's charge whilst had the visitors shown any great efficiency near goal they must have been returned more decisive victors. Abbott made some creditable efforts to change the fortune of the game, and Sharp indulged in much clever work, but there was no cohesion amongst the forwards; the halves were in the whole too rambling and uneven in their methods, and with Eccles rarely able to hold the opposing wing in check. Everton were not seen to any particular advantage. In the second half, the home forwards made an occasional attempt to equalise matters, but Taylor missed a splendid chance and close on time Settle dashed clean through but shot against the side of the net. The United had much more of the game, and Heywood narrowly missed placing his side further ahead, but when the final whistle blew Everton were deservedly beaten. Their display was about the most feeble they have given at home since the opening of the season, and Saturday's effort had apparently taken all the energy and efficiency out of the men. The forwards never got going; the halves were little better with the exception of Abbott, and all round there was a want of swing and dash that boded nothing but disaster all through the play. Everton never gave the impression that they were likely to win no concerned action was forthcoming leading to a maintained attack on Kingsley's charge; consequently the visitors' defence was never really in difficulties. A few creditable individual efforts were noticeable. Sharp being the most prominent in theirs respect; but as a body the Everton attack was no match for the Newcastle halves, and by their superior dash and determination the latter made sad havoc of the quintet that had performed so meritoriously against an equally powerful defence two days previously. The halves were most disappointing, probably on account of the high standard exhibition in the previous game, and Abbott alone was in anything like the form usually associated with this department of the team. Further behind, defects were prevalent, and, as already stated, the rushing tactics of Eccles were seldom of advantage and often to the complete detriment of his side's welfare. The United forwards were a smarter set than the line, which visited Anfield a forthnigh ago. Niblo and Heywood making a capital pair, the ex-Turton youth being the pick of the whole line. Too much dribbling was indulged in, and more honest shooting would have benefited then to a greater extent than the useless finessing of Peddie, who was the greatest sinner in this respect. The halves were the best part of the team, each man rendering excellent service and breaking up the home team's combination samply by their vigour, and by anticipating their oppositions. The backs were sturdy and sound, and Kingsley was never beaten, though on one occasions a shot from Abbott almost brought about his downfall. To say that the result was a surprise to the crowd, is putting the fact mildly, but the better team won, and Everton were vanquished solely on account of their wretchedly indifferent efforts. Teams: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer, and Eccles backs, Wolstenholmes, Booth, and Abbott, halfbacks, Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle (captain), and Turner forwards. Newcastle United: - Kingsley, goal, Burgess, and Gardner (d), backs, Ghee, Aitken, and Carr, halfbacks, Gardner (a), MacFarlane, Peddie Heywood, and Niblo, forwards. Referee M.J.Brodie

 

BURNLEY RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 2

April 9 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

These teams met at Turf Moor last evening, in splendid weather. Some good football was witnessed. At the outset Everton, who showed smart form, had the best of matters; but from a penalty Mole scored the first goal for Burnley after 15 minutes. The ensuing play was fairly even, and just before half time Dawson equalised, the half-time score being 1 each. Immediately on resuming Roche placed Everton ahead. There was little to choose between these teams, though the visitors showed rather better combination and Everton won by 2 goals to 1. (Game 30).

 

NOTTS COUNTY 3 EVERTON 2 (Game 371)

April 10 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

Everton completed their holiday fixtures yesterday with a return League engagement at Nottingham with the County team. They were, owing to injuries without Balmer and Booth, for whom substitutes were found in Watson and Blythe. The same team that appeared at Liverpool on the previous day represented the County and, although the weather was showery, about 8,000 spectators witnessed the game. The teams were as follows: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Eccles and Watson backs, Wolstenholmes Blythe, and Abbott, halfbacks, Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle (captain), and Turner forwards. Notts County: - Pennington, goal, Lewis, and Montgomery, and backs, Ball Bull, and McDonald, halfbacks Hadley, Warner, Ross, Morris, and Gee, forwards. Everton had the choice of ends, and with the assistance of a cross breeze had slightly the better of the opening play. Settle and Turner made headway, and the former player looked like getting through when Lewis came to the rescue of his side. The Everton forwards combined with good effect, and for some time the full resources of the County defenders were kept in requisition. The monotony was broken with a smart run down by Gee, who, repeating the performance directly afterwards was only a trifle lacking in an attempt to lower the visitors goal. The Everton forwards continued to more than hold their own but the final touches were difficult to convert, owing to the very fine defence of the County backs. A brilliant shot by Ross was the next item, and had Muir been beaten none could have blamed him. The ball was immediately at the other end, and following a movement initiated by Taylor, Sharp put the ball across to Settle, who defeated Pennington with a low shot, play having been in progress 20 minutes. The visitors continued to play effectively together, and looked like adding to their score, when Hadley and Warner broke off, and obtaining a free kick Morris defeated Muir with a fast shot into the corner of the net. Immediately afterwards Turner came near scoring, and within a couple of minutes Pennington was called upon to keep out two well-directed attempts at scoring. The play was interesting at every turn, but when it came to the critical test the respective defences prevailed. Settle had affair opening but shot wildly and following a couple of very fine kicks by Montgomery the County forwards were placed in a good position, and from a very fine centre by Gee, Ross placed his side ahead. There was now no holding the County, who bore down in irresistible fashion, and Muir kept out a brilliant shot from Warmer in marvellous fashion. So far, Everton had shown the better form, but were not so decisive in their attacks when in front of goal. There was no further scoring at half-time when Notts led by two goals to one. The second half opened with a strong attack on the Everton goal Gee being principally concerned, but both Watson and Eccles defended well, and Muir was not troubled, Sharp made headway on the right but could not get the better of the home defenders, who stopped at nothing to protect their goal. Eventually Sharp and Taylor made the running and the latter passing to Proudfoot the last named made the best of an opening afforded him and scored a really fine goal, thus placing his side on level terms. During the next few minutes the County forwards were distinctly dangerous and Muir and his backs were kept fully extended. Hadley was only a trifle wide with a capital shot and on play being transferred to the other end; Turner made a capital attempt to score. The home side now put a big effort forward to gain the lead, and for some time Muir had many anxious moments. On one occasion his charge looked like being captured by Hadley when Blythe put his head to the ball, and a further return required all the efforts of the visitors to keep down the scoring. A free kick against Settle close in looked ominous, but Proudfoot came through and supplemented with a run by Turner play was taken to the home end of the field. There was however, no mistaking the superiority of the County team, for whom Ross, put in a brilliant effort, which was ably dealth with. Toward the close the County forwards attacked strongly, and after Muir had partially saved from Warmer Morris pounced upon the ball and shot it safely into the net. The game, which was finely contested, ended in a victory for Notts County by 3 goals to 2.

 

DERBY COUNTY 0 EVERTON 1 (Game 372)

April 15 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

This game was played at Derby on Saturday. Everton were without Booth and Sharp, and Bloomer was an absentee on the home side. Everton commenced play, and during the early stages were seen to great advantage. Turner forced a couple of corners, and placed them well, but so stubborn was the home defence that scoring was out of the question. Goodall followed up some fine tackling by putting Crawshaw in possession, and the latter sprinting down sent the ball across the goalmouth. Both Boag and Wombwell missed it, and Everton had a narrow escape. A few minutes later Taylor tested Fryer, only to find him in good trim, and once again, Crawshaw shot across only to find it going abegging. Then followed a stern bombardment of the home goal, and after the ball had been kept out several times. Proudfoot drove into the net. Nothing further was scored up to half time. After resuming the County forwards had more of the play, but could exact no quarter from the Everton backs. Settle than made headway, but lost an opportunity by preferring to pass to Turner when a clear course lay open. Immediately afterwards a heavy attack was levelled on Muir's charge without result, and the following play was generally even and Everton won by 1 goal to nil. Teams: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer, and Eccles, backs, Wolstenholmes, Boyle and Abbott, halfbacks Taylor, McDonald Proudfoot, Settle (captain), and Turner forwards. Derby County: - Fryer goal, Methven, and Morris, backs May, Goodall, and Leckie, halfbacks, Crawford, Arklesden, Boag, Wombwell, and McQueen forwards.

 

EVERTON RESERVES 7 TURTON 0

April 15 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

At Goodison Park. Gray forced a fruitless corner one-minute from the start. Everton asserted themselves and Worthington defeated Hill. Everton always held the upper hand, and Worthington scored another goal, the same player added a third and fourth. As the interval approached Turton made strenuous efforts to open their score, but failed to penetrate the defence. Half time Everton 4 goals Turton nil. Resuming Everton kept up the pressure. Hill having many difficult shots to contend with, but the preformed splendidly in goal. A brilliant long shot by Taylor struck the post. Roach shortly afterwards defeating Hill with a beauty. Worthington added another from a penalty. Everton scored a seventh and won by 7 goals to nil. (Game 32) Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Halliday and Watson backs, not known, Jones and Blythe, halfbacks, Roche, Dawson, Worthington, Gray and O'Brien, forwards.

 

EVERTON REVIEW

April 15 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

By defeating Derby County on the Baseball ground, Derby, the Everton team accomplished a very smart performance, especially so when it is remembered that a couple of enforced changes had to be made in the team. Their victory was one by the narrowest possible margin-one goal to nil, and though on the actual run of the game, and the chances attendant upon it, they could scarcely lay claim to superiority they are to be congratulated upon having taken better advantage of their opportunities than did their opponents. They opened in very promising fashion, for the game had not been ten minutes in progress and a trio of corners had fallen to their lot, and nothing but the indomitable resource and pluck of the home defenders could have kept them from scoring. To this vigorous attack the County forwards replied with a siege that placed their supporters upon excellent terms with themselves, and three times did Crawshaw in quick succession put the ball across the goal mouth with such accuracy and precision that only the slightest touch was required from the inside left to direct into the net. Had these chances been taken, they must have been chronicled as occurring in the ordinary run of events, and none who watched the play observantly could have denied that the County should have been at least two goals up in the first half an hour. Wombwell was the delinquent, and his failure to take advantage of the openings afforded him had a damping effect upon the subsequent play of his confreres up to the change of ends, for Everton, profiting by their escapes, simply bombarded the home goal, and called up the best of the County defenders. After a prolonged attack in front of the upright, during which there were many exchanges and a brilliant save by Fryer the ball was put through by Proudfoot, and on charging ends the visitors were this leading by a goal to nil. During the second half play fluctuated considerably the most exciting incident being a terrific attack upon the Everton goal, one almost identical with that in the first half, but in this case a tangible point was desired, and following this effort the home players never looked like getting upon level terms with their opponents. It was not by any means a brilliant game, and possibly the changes in the forward ranks of the respective teams had something to do with the unevenness and general inaccuracy that prevailed. As an instance of this, much good work on the part of Taylor was reduced to a minimum by the feeble attempts of McDonald and this somewhat unhinged the whole line. Again, Bloomer would probably have taken advantage of openings that occurred, and the lack of finish by the left wing was one of the striking weaknesses of the County team. None could take exception to the general distribution of the play; it was when in the vicinity of the goalmouth that the sides showed their greatest weaknesses. As before stated, Taylor put in some capital work, and was the most effective of the Everton forwards. Proudfoot in the centre, kept his wings fairly well employed, and did well when on his own account while the left wing, much hampered by the attention of May and Goodall were rarely allowed to get in a shot at Fryer. For the County, Crawford was the most successful and dangerous forward, his centre across the goalmouth being always exceedingly accurate, and had they been put to advantage his side must have enjoyed a lead at the finish. The left wing was rarely in evidence; in fact McQueen was practically a spectator during the second portion of the proceedings, and Wombwell's failures in the first half can scarcely be overlooked. At halfback Boyle filled the centre half position in a manner that left nothing to be desired, and both Wolstenholmes and Abbott gave quite a satisfactory exhibition. The finest defensive work was displayed by Eccles whose attention top Crawford, with almost unvarying success, being one of the finest features. The tussles between these players were frequently, and that the forward, who was in one of his best humours, should be so repeatedly foiled rebounds greatly to the Evertonian's credit. The display of the County forward's was rather uneven, though they had every assistance from the half backs, of whom Goodall and May gave a sound display. At full back Morris was the most reliable, and in goal Fryer saved several dangerous shots and cleared with good judgement. Everton have thus extracted all four points from Derby this season, and should make a big effort to repeat the performance against Bolton Wanderers and West Bromwich, the last named fixture being set down for April 25 at the Hawthorns.

 

EVERTON 2 BOLTON WANDERERS 3 (Game 373)

April 22 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

The last League engagement at Goodison Park was brought off on Saturday, when Bolton Wanderers furnished the visiting side. The weather was all that could be desired but there would not be more than 10,000 spectators present. The sides were as follow: - Everton: - Muir goal, Balmer, and Eccles, backs Wolstenholmes, Booth, and Abbott halfbacks, Sharp Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle (captain), and Turner, forwards. Bolton Wanderers: - Sutcliffe, goal, Somerville, and Ostick, backs, Fitchett Freebairn, and Burnison halfbacks, Bell, Picken, McKie, Barlow, and Brown, forwards. The visitors had the advantage of playing with the wind, and early on were very aggressive. Barlow forced a corner and this being well placed the same player scored after Muir had only partially cleared from Picken. This success came after play had been five minutes in progress and on the game settling down again the home forwards took up the running, with the result that Turner sent in a fine cross shot, that was, however, not put to advantage. This was the signal for renewed pressure, and Sutcliffe was kept fully extended for some time, a fine attack ending with Taylor equalising from a pass by Turner. Shortly afterwards Picken give his side the lead again. Half time Everton 1 goal, Bolton 2. On resuming the Everton forwards had the bulk of the play and after several attempts had been made to defeat Sutcliffe Sharp finished up a weak shot from Proudfoot, and put his side on high terms again. Play became more spirited, and many clever efforts to score were repulsed by the Bolton custodian, one from Turner and a dropping shot from Balmer being kept out with capital judgement. Eventually Bell sprinted down and a capital centre to Barlow gave Muir no chance of saving, and Bolton again took the lead. There was now no defeating the Wanderers defenders and when time was announced the score stood Bolton 3 goals Everton 2.

 

WREXHAM 0 EVERTON RESERVES 2

April 22 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

Liverpool Senior Cup Semi-Final

On Wrexham Racecourse. Playing with the wind Everton had rather more of the game than their opponents and scored from a corner Gray doing the deed. The home team twice had hard lines. After crossing over, Everton scored again though, O'Brien, and ran out winners by two goals to nil.

 

EVERTON REVIEW

April 22 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

The final appearance of the Everton team at home in this season's League journey, was the occasion of another feeble exhibition of football, such a one indeed, as was eminently suitable for putting up of the shutters and consigning the winter pastime to a much-needed four months' oblivion. A year ago, in the closing match on the same enclosure, Everton were seen at the top of their form against Manchester City-their scintillating and exhilarating footwork against the representatives of the rival seaport, making one feel somewhat saddened that the season's limit prevented the repetition of another such rousing display. Their most recent performance, however, will not produce any such inward regrets, and a disappointing campaign was terminated in about the most unsatisfactory fashion possible. The last two matches played at Goodison Park have shown the home team in a very unfavorable light, and when it is considered what can be accomplished by them, the results become all the more astonishing. Neither side any anything to fear as regards position in the League table, and naturally at this period of the year, and under conditions of such a nature, coupled with the fact that the afternoon was more suggestive of cricket than football, it is possible to unearth some exuse for the paltry performance. Goals came plentifully enough in the early stages, but the Wanderers were always the leaders in this department. They went ahead on three occasions, and Everton twice retaliated but at the last time of asking the visitors maintained their advantage. Weak defence by Everton undoubtedly gave the Bolton team a helping hand towards their final triumph, and the easy manner in which they registered their three goals was startling on account of its novelty. Sutcliffe had far more difficult work to tackle than his vis-à-vis, and came through the ordeal with greater credit, for at various periods the home forwards were very persistent in their attentions, turner and Sharp making several good attempts to defeat the custodian. But the forwards were not in an incisive humour as a body, and the most effective work came from the extreme wings. Taylor best represented the inside men, and the weakest player in the front rank was Settle. In the rear division Balmer and Abbott carried off the honours, but the custodian had evidently commenced his vacation. Generally speaking it would be an extremely difficult task to discover anything praiseworthy about the display of the team as a whole, and the season had apparently come to an end none too soon for some of the experts. The Wanderers would most probably be as astonished as anyone at the result of the match, which now places them in a decidedly respectable position in the League table. Their forwards were as a body superior to the home quintet, not clever perhaps, but certainly more energetic and determined in their movements. Bell was the pick of the line, and it was not without considerable difficulty that the Everton defence on the left wing could hold him in check. Whenever he got the ball he invariably made good use of the opportunity, and two of the points scored were the outcome of dashing work by the quondam Evertonians. The front rank was an evenly balanced one whilst further behind the halves struck well to their task with out being unduly prominent, but the defence had a rare solid foundation in Sutcliffe, who was as alert and able as of old, and his exposition was quite in keeping with those previous astoning displays that the Yorkshireman appears to reserve for his visits to this locality. But it was a relief when the final whistle blew, for Everton never shaped like a winning team, and whilst giving every credit to the Wanderers for profiting out of what must previously appeared to them a forlorn hope, it must be admitted that they had little to beat, and by catching the Everton team in one of its inexplicable homours gained not only credit from a football standpoint, but if rumour hath it correctly a splendid opportunity of a more substantial reward. Another season has vanished as far as Everton are concerned, and football honours are apparently as far distant as ever from Goodison Park.

 

WEST BROMWICH ALBION 1 EVERTON 2 (Game 374)

April 23 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

Played at West Bromwich. The weather was regular summer, the warmth being oppressive. Seeing that the loss of a single point meant life of death to the Albion as far as their existence in the First division was concerned, more than the 10,000 spectators evinced the usual interest in the game that lined the enclosure. Everton won the toss, setting their opponents to face a dazzling sun. Allbion: - Reader, goal, Adams and Chadburn, backs, Perry, Jones, and Hadley, halfbacks, Roberts, Pickering, Stevenson, Smith, and Walker, forwards. Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer and Eccles, backs, Wolstenholmes, Booth and Abbott, halfbacks, Sharp, Taylor Proudfoot, Settle (captain) and Turner, forward. A smart run into Everton's territory was terminated by Eccles getting his head well in the road of a dropping shot from the toe of Smith. At the other end the visitors forced a corner, a scrimmage in goal being cleared by Reader, and Roberts raced off to the other end. A flying shot from Stevenson came to nothing the ball going a trifle wide, and then a rush by the whole visiting string looked dangerous. Adams saved the situation by a timely kick, sending the ball spinning well over the halfway line. A soft thing now occurred, for Sharp running down, sent in a slow shot at long range, and Reader, baffled by the sun, let it slip through his handles and go into the net. The game had so far been keenly contested every foot of the ground being fought for, but the pace began to tell, and play slowed down considerably. Some good passing between Sharp and Taylor, brought the ball within shooting distance, and Settle reveiving the pass, let fly, but Reader was on the alert, and caught the ball as it was flying into the net. Half time-Everton 1 goal West Bromwich nil. Crossing over after a few minutes interval, the visitors had to face the sun, and although handicapped by it, got up, and Settle shaved the bar with a beauty. Twice Perry proved too much for the visitors left wing, and Stevenson, getting the ball when close up, only missed the mark by inches, while Pickering a little later shot when in a grand position, but only succeeded in hitting the side of the net. Then Everton rushed down. Settle put across to Sharp, who passed back to Taylor, that player scoring neatly. Adams cleared away a good shot from Turner that looked like scoring, and from a foul in midfield the Trostles once more became dangerous, but over-excitement when near goal nullified their effort, Smith shooting yards wide of the post, amid derisive cries of “oh” he made amends later by hitting the post with a beauty. A corner to the Albion resulted in Jones heading the ball into the net. As times drew near the homesters gathered themselves together for a final effort, in which all the forwards participated but the effort came too late, and Everton won by 2 goals to 1.

 

LIVERPOOL RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 0

April 26 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

Liverpool Senior Cup Final

The reserve teams of the above clubs met at Anfield yesterday evening to decide who should hold the handsome trophy presented by the local association for the coming year. There was a fair attendance, and, both sides being strongly represented, an interesting encountered ensued. In the first half play was evenly contested, Midfield being the scene of operations chiefly. Neither custodians was seriously troubled, for in front of goal the respective forwards showed a sad lack of accuracy, and weak shooting nullified many capital movements. The interval arrived without any score, but on resuming more energy was thrown into the play. There were a number of accidents, mostly of a minor nature and due to fair state of the ground. Glover Blythe, Satterthwaite, and Gray being amongst the sufferers. Three minutes after half time Halliday failed to judge a lofty ball and Otty was left five yards from Kitchen with the sphere at his feet. To the dismay of his side, he dallied until Kitchen was able to divert the ball and Everton once more breathed freely. Halfway through the second period, Sailor, Hunter essayed a long drive, and Kitchen fumbling the ball passed into the net. This proved the winning point, though a couple of clever efforts by Boyle and McDonald only just failed to bring an equalizer. Liverpool thus won the trophy by 1 goal to nil. Councilor Rutherford, who complimented the players upon the excellent spirit in which they had conducted the game, afterwards presented the cup to Howell, the captain of the winning team. Liverpool: - Forrester, goal, Glover, and Morris, backs, Wilson, Hunter (j), and Howell (captain), halfbacks, Soulby, Hunter (s), McCuigan, Satterthwaite, and Otty forwards. Everton: - Kitchen goal, Halliday and Watson, backs Blythe, Boyle, and Abbott halfbacks Roche, McDonald, Worthington, Gray. And O'Brien forwards.

EVERTON COMBINATION V. OSWALDTWISTLE ROVERS
April 27, 1901. The Liverpool Football Echo
(Lancashire Combination)
At Goodison Park before a moderate gate. The following teams turned out;- Everton; Kitchen, goal; Halliday and Watson, backs; Blythe, Green, and R. Taylor, half-backs; Roche, Dawson, Gray, Corrin, and O’Brien, forwards. Oswaldtwhistle;- Platts, goal; Rushworth and Shaw, backs; Livesey, Bolton, and Lord, half-backs; Hindle, Richardson, Dawson, Yates, and Birtwistle, forwards. Oswaldtwistle won the toss, Gray kicking off for Everton against a strong wind. The home team at once pressed, Roche defeating Plattt after about five minutes play. Green lowering the colours of the Rovers shortly afterwards. Everton kept the visitors penned in their own half for some time, another goal being added by Green. By good play the Rovers got to the front of Kitchen but the home team were back at the other end in a trice. Platt being tested by Roche after which Dawson scored. Everton continued the attack, and forced a corner without tangible result. A free kick against the home team enabled the Rovers to get beyond the half-way line, but they were never dangerous. The scene of hostilities were removed to the front of the Rovers custodian, who negotiated many fine shots in brilliant fashion. Everton kept up a persistent attack until the interval without scoring anything further. Half-time score; Everton 4, Rovers Nil.

THIRD LANARK 0 EVERTON 2

April 29 1901. The Liverpool Courier

Everton paid their first visit this year to Scotland, to play the clever Third Lanark team at Catkins Park, Glasgow. The day was brilliantly fine, and everything was in favour of a big crowd and a good gam. The crowd was slow in arriving and at the start there would only be five thousand present. The teams were: - Third Lanark: - Raeside goal, Barr, and Thompson, backs Cross, McCue, and Smith, halfbacks, Johnson, Lynn, Sloan, Cross, Junior, and Lambie, forward. Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer and Eccles, backs, Wolstenholmes, Baugh, and Boyle, half-backs, Taylor, Settle (captain), Proudfoot, Abbott, and Turner, forwards. Everton at once's started the game, but the Volunteers early paid a visit to Muir. Keeping at it the home club were soon back again, and after some splendid work on the part of Cross, and Lambie, the latter ended in putting the ball wide. This livened up the Englishmen and for fully five minutes the Third's goal was hotly besieged, Proudfoot, Abbott, and Turner all having shots at Raeside. Up to this point the Everton forwards were doing work in front of goal, and after a little dodging on the part of Proudfoot, the lively centre forward sent over to Settle, who had little difficulty in beating Raeside. With this early success, play began to liven up a bit. Everton through Abbott, had hard lines, in not scoring, the ball shaving the post by inches. Everton were having the better of the game, but at goal they were too fancy in their play, too many tricks being tried on in front of goal. Taking advantage of this the home lot tried to get on level terms, but were very weak in shooting in front of goal. After a foul against Everton the Volunteers had a fine chance to score, but the parting shot of Sloan went wide of the mark. Again the warriors were paying a visit to Muir, but Booth got the ball away, and play rested in front of Raeside, who had some work to do than the Englishmen. Again the warriors had a chance to score, but Sloan was pulled up for offside. Everton tried hard to increase their lead, but after a few tries at goal by their forwards the ball went outside. From the goal kick the Third Lanark made a bold attempt to get on level terms, and after Sloan had led his forwards to within a few yards of Muir, Lambie and Cross lost a good chance. Keeping at it the home lot were determined to get a goal, but Sloan who was playing a fine game, was pulled up for off-side. From the place kick, Everton got down on Raeside, and for a short time the Cathkins goalkeeper had a hot time. The Englishmen were not done for, as in a few minutes, Proudfoot had the ball safely in the net. Offside was given against the Liverpool centre. This was all the scoring at halftime when Everton lead by a goal to nil. During the second half Abbott scored a second goal, when Abbott scored with 15 minutes remaining and Everton won by 2 goals to nil.

 

EVERTON RESERVES 4 OSWALDTWISHLE ROVERS 0

April 29 1901. The Liverpool Courier

At Goodison Park. Play was in Everton's favour, and Roche soon scored. Green scored another shortly afterwards from a pass by Aintree. A free kick close in gave Green another chance, and he again scored easily, the goalkeeper being weak. Everton continued to have all the play, and scored again through Dawson. Oswaldtwishle made a very poor show, and Everton won by 4 goals to nil. (Game 34) Everton: - Kitchen goal Halliday, and Aston (j), backs Blythe, Green and Taylor (r), halfbacks, Roche, Dawson, Worthington, Gray and O'Brien, forwards.

 

MAY 1901

 

SCOTTISH TOUR

May 3 1901. The Liverpool Courier

The Everton Football Club returned from their tour of Scotland on Wednesday. They played four matches, of which they won two, drew one and lost one, The results were as follows, Hamilton Academicaly 1; Everton nil, Everton 2 goals Third Lanark nil Everton 2 goals Falkirk 2, Everton 3 goals, Aberdeen 2.

FALKIRK 2, EVERTON 2

May 4, 1901. The Falkirk Mail.

On Monday evening Everton visited Falkirk and played a friendly at Brockville Park before about 1,500 spectators. The following were the teams:- Everton;- Muir, goal; Wolstenholmes and Balmer, backs; Boyle, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Taylor, Sharp (Burrbuch Juniors), McDonald, Bone and Knox (Burnback Athletic), forwards. Falkirk;- Thomson, goal; Smith and Reid, backs; Hill (Gairdoch Juniors), Morton and Scott, half-backs; Silcock, Webster, Young (A), Burt and Kemp, forwards. Referee; Mr. Neilson, Thornlieback. Falkirk had the wind in their favour in the first half and at the opening made a good show, Burt having a pretty run at the outset. Equal play followed and than Everton forced a corner, which was unproductive. Burt beat Balmer close in and tipped to Young, who drove the ball hard into the far corner of the net, thus scoring the first goal, in twenty minutes. Everton forwards played strongly, following upon this, but the Falkirk halves, were in splendid order and robbed them of the leather time and again. Silcock got clear away on the right and with a rapid shot brought Muir out. The Everton man, however was safe. At the other end McDonald, after executing some tricky work, gave Thomson a difficult shot to dispose of. When hard pressed by the left wing, Hill had to give a corner, but nothing serious resulted. Several swift shots came in the way of the Falkirk custodian, but he proved equal to the shot, he fell, however, after starving off disaster and with an empty goal Sharp had no difficulty in getting the equaliser, a gentle header doing the trick. At half-time the score was one each. Falkirk had easily the best of their league opponents after the resumption, but had hard lines at goal. Young had a rare shot, followed by another from Burt, but they both failed to scored. Compensation came a few minutes later, when Webster netted the ball from a scrimmage. This was a quarter of an hour from the finish. The “Light Blues” put more vigour into their play, but were well held by the Falkirk defence, and the “Bairns” forwards, playing in dashing style, almost added to their score. The Everton men put on the pressure towards the finish, and just before the referee blew indicating time, Taylor equalised the score from a corner.

•  Thank to Tony Onslow for this cutting he got from Scotland

 

EVERTON BALANCE SHEET

May 20 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

The report and balance sheet of the Everton Football Club Company, Limited, to be presented to the annual meeting of shareholders on Monday the 3 rd June, has been issued, and state that the directors recommend the payment of a dividend at the rate of 5 per cent, per annum on called up capital. The income and expenditure account shows that the total receipts from all sources during the year ended the 30 th April has been £10486 13s. 7d, including £8069 14s. 2d, gate recepts, £1304, 10s. 8d, proceeds of matches played away, and £600 bonuses received for players transferred. The principal items on the otherside are- players wages' and bonuses £6340, 12s. 8d; paid visiting clubs £193 8s. 5d; travelling expenses £637 7s. 10d; advertising etc; £325 8s.3d; gate expenses and checkers, £300 16s. 2d; training expenses and trainers wages; £307 13s. Leaving a balance to profit and loss account of £1008 18s. 5d. The profit and loss account shows that £506 14s. 9d; had been written off for depreciation and that there is a balance of £5793 1s; 2d, carried forward. The property and assets of the company are set down at £7924 17s. 2d; including £2215 12s. 11d; cash in North and South Wales Banks, and £34 2s; 6d; cash in hands.

 

EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB.

Annual Meeting.

June 4 1901. The Liverpool Mercury

The annual meeting of the shareholders of the Everton Football Club Company, Limited, was held last evening in the Lecture Hall. Presbyterian School, Royal-Street, Mr.W.R.Clayton presiding. The directors present were Dr. Baxter, and Messrs. B.Kelly, E.A. Bainbridge, J.Davies, D.Kirkwood, and T.A.Coates.

The chairman, in proposing the adoptions of the report and balance-sheets, said he was pleased, the directors were able to present to the shareholders, a financial statement that was of a most encouraging nature, and that the play of the season had been in district advance of the play of the proceeding seasons. They had not been perhaps as fortunate as they might have been, and did not occupy that the position in the League playing that they ought to do. That the directors had worked hard for the attainment of some of the honours of the football world; there was no denying. Their players set out at the beginning of the season with a determination to secure at least one of the great honours; but they had failed. He knew that in some instances they had extremely hard luck both from the referee and in their play, but he was not going to disguise that some of the play had not been worthy of the club or of the men. (Hear hear.) But, still, they could say that they had made a distinct advance upon previous seasons, and if they took their position in the League since its inception they held the second position in the organisation, which he considered was a great honour. He did not think the directors could have done more than they did, and inducements had been given to the players to win matches. Owing to their financial position they had been able to wipe off from the mortgage on the ground £1000, which reduced the total amount to £6500. (Applause.) This was very satisfactory indeed, and they had made a profit on the year of £1000. He hoped that the club would do as well next year from a monetary standpoint, and better from a playing standpoint. (Applause.)

The proposition was seconded by Mr.Coates, and was carried without dissent, after a number of questions had been answered. On the proposition of the chairman, it was unanimously and with applause resolved that a dividend be paid at the rate of 5 per cent, per annum on called up capital. On the motion of the chairman, also Merrs, T.Theodore Rogers, Bowler, and Co. were re-elected auditors of the company. The meeting then proceeded to fill four vacancies on the board of directors, caused by the retirement of Messrs, Baxter, Coates, Kelly, and Taylor, the latter of whom did not seek re-election. Eight candidates were nominated, and the voting resulted in the election of Dr.Baxter (1780 votes), Dr.Whitford (141 votes), Mr.Kelly (131 votes), and Mr. Coates (127 votes).

Mr.R. Molyneux (Secretary) said that the following players had, up to now, signed for the coming season: - Goalkeepers, Muir, and Kitchen, Backs, Balmer, Eccles Watson and Bert Sharp, half-backs Wolstenholmes, Booth, Abbott, Boyle, Blythe, and Clarke, forwards Jack Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, Young Bone, Worthington, A.Chadwick, Roche, and Patterson.

In reply to questions, it was stated that Brown is a Liverpool youth who has played with the Stalybridge Rovers for two seasons, Clarke was a centre half-back from Hamilton Academicals; Young, a centre forward of promise from Falkirk; Bone an inside left, and Patterson an inside right who recently played for Lanarkshire against Ayrshire. They were also negotiation with two other players, whose names it would bot now be-advisable to state.