SMART ARRIDGE GONE TO BANGOR
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 01 April 1904
“Smart” Arridge, the ex-Bootle, Everton, New Brighton Tower, and Stockport County first team player yesterday took up his residence in Bangor, where he learned his football, as manager for his father-in-law. The Bangor Football Club are already on his track, and hope to play him in a friendly today against New Brighton Tower, and afterwards to secure him as a regular member of the team.

OUTDOORS SPORTS
Liverpool Mercury - Friday 01 April 1904
Fixtures for this Day
Everton v Liverpool. Referee; T. Kirkham, A. D. Downs and H.C Parr.
Everton- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, McDermott, and HP Hardman, forwards.
Liverpool; Cotton, goal; West and Dunlop, backs; Parry, Raisbeck, and Hughes, half-backs; Goddard, Robertson, Raybould, Hewitt, and Cox, forwards.
TOMORROW FIXTURES
Everton v Wolverhampton Wanderers Referee J.H. Smith, WJ Archer and H. Brown.
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth, and Abbott, half, backs; Sharp, Taylor, Settle, McDermott, and HP Hardman, forwards. Kick-off 3.30
The Lancashire Combination Division A
Turton v Everton Reserve, Turton.
Everton.- Whitley, goal; Gordon and Murray, backs; Chadwick, Russell, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, Sheridan, Roberts, O’Hagan, and Simpson, forwards. Reserve, Wildman. Train leaves Exchange Station at 1.10. kick-off three p.m.

EVERTON v. LIVERPOOL.
London Daily News - Saturday 02 April 1904
Lovely weather favoured the meeting of the local teams at Goodison Park, and a crowd 35.000 people assembled. Representative teams took the field. There was somewhat startling commencement, a long shot by Wolstenholme scoring before play had lasted two minutes. Everton did not hold their lead long. Robinson equalising. The game was contested a fine pace, and with much spirit. From centre by Hardman, Young scored for Everton. who changed ends with the score of 2 to 1 in their favour. On resuming. Everton showed the superior form, and Young headeda goal. Parry then scored for Liverpool, but Everton again attacked, and Young put on two more points for them. Baybould failed to score from a penalty, and Everton, who had the best of matters throughout, won by 5 goals to 2.

EVERTON V. LIVERPOOL
Leeds Mercury - Saturday 02 April 1904
At Goodison Park, in splendid weather, before 35,000 spectators/ Both teams were at full strength. The game opened in sensational style, for in less than a couple of minutes from the start Wolstenholmes scored for Everton with a long shot. Robinson equalised, and the game was splendidly contested, Young again palcing Everton ahead, from a centre by Hardman. Interval; Everton two goals to Liverpool one goal. In the second half, Everton maintained their superiorty. Young headed a third goal following a foul, and during a scrimmage Parry scored for Liverpool. Young added two other goals, and during the concluding stages Liverpool were awarded a penalty, which Raybould failed to convert. Everton had the best of the game throughout, though Liverpool were not so well beaten as the score might indicate. result; Everton five goals, Liverpool two goals.

EVERTON 5 LIVERPOOL 2
April 2, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
The out standing event locally in the Association football would yesterday was the return League match between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison-park. A part from the interest which of necessity attackers to the meetings of local rivals, the game was of the utmost importance to Liverpool, who have a hard struggle to maintain their position in the First Division of the league. Though the weather was somewhat uncertain rain, fortunately held off during the progress of the game, and a holiday crowd of at least 40,000 people witnessed the match. Liverpool were at full strength, while Everton played Young centre forward in place of Settle. At three o'clock the teams forced as follows: - Everton: - Kitchen, goal, W.Balmer, and Crelly, backs, Wolstenholme, Booth (captain), and Abbott half-backs, Sharp, Taylor, Young McDermott, and H.P.Hardman, forwards. Liverpool: - Cotton, goal, West and Dunlop, backs, Parry, Raisebeck, and Hughes, half-backs, Goddard, Robinson, Raybould, Hewitt, and Cox, forwards. Referee T.Kirkham. Liverpool kicked off against the sun, and at once made progress on the right. Goddard was in evidence, but Raisebeck missed his kick when danger threatened the Everton goal. Then Hardman got away and after the ball had been transferred from player to player Wolstenholme opened the score for Everton with a long shot, which Cotton might easily have saved. This early success of Everton added interest to the encounter, and the home side continued to press, especially on the right. Many nice points of play were brought out, and while Crelly on the one side was conspicuous, Raisebeck was always a trier though Young was a thorn in his side. The game opening out provided the spectators with plenty of interesting items, but the advantage still rested with Everton. Cox failed badly when a little more earnestness might have been of great service to his side. After a period of midfield play, Young forced a corner off Hughes, but this came to nothing. Everton had the assistance of the breeze, and enjoyed the bulk of the play, though the Liverpool defence was sound. West cleared his lines in cool fashion, and smart work by Hughes led to an attack by Liverpool in the course of which a mistake by Booth was overcome by the vigilance of West. The ball hovered round the Everton goal, but so persistent were the defenders that Kitchen was not called upon. Goddard was injured, but quickly returned, and for a time play was in Everton half. There was a determination about the work of the Liverpool attack, which deserved to be awarded, and the equalising goal was not long delayed. Hewitt cleverly beat the home backs and passing to Cox, that player centred, with the result that Robinson headed into the net. It was a good goal, and deserved the applause with which it was received. Everton went off in great style, after this reverse, and a fine movement was spoiled by a long shot from McDermott, which was wide of the mark. At the other end Cox was in fault, and then McDermott was penalised for fouling West. Following the Liverpool made ground, but a feeble attempt by Raybould saw play transferred to the visiting half. Next Balmer checked a promising movement in which Raybould and Robinson were the principal participants and for a time Everton were decidedly on the offensive, the chief source of danger to Liverpool being from the right wing. Goddard lost a good chance through over turning the ball, and a moment later Crelly was on the ground just outside the penalty line. He had the ball, and was surrounded by players, the exciting incident ending by the whistle blowing for a foul against Liverpool. So far the game had been contested in the best spirit, and unfair tactics were rare. At the same time the wind was of great assistance to Everton. West cleverly intercepted a centre from Sharp, and the venue being immediately changed, Goddard sent over the line. Both sets of players put in their best efforts, and the great crowd had any amount of excitement. From a free kick well taken by Dunlop, Kitchen fisted out, and after Raisebeck had a try, Goddard placed the leather over the bar. Hardman attempted ineffectively to place his side ahead, and, after Raisebeck had led an abortive movements on the home goal. Dunlop was forced by Sharp to kick into touch. Operations were suspended for a few moments owing to an injury to Raisebeck's knee in a collision with Young. When play was resumed Raisebeck conceded a corner, which was not turned to account by the Evertonians. However, they were soon attacking in great style, and when the downfall of the Liverpool goal, appeared a certainty Cotton rushed out in the nick of time. Dunlop conceding a fruitless corner. The Liverpool right wing retaliated, only to find the home defence on the best behaviour. Hardman raced away to be pulled up for off side, and in another onslaught by Liverpool, Balmer was a tower of Strength. Suddenly Hardman broke away, and although protests were made on the ground of offside the centre the ball, the result being that Young shot past Cotton and gave Everton the lead. This success encouraged the Evertonians, who made the pace hot, and it was lucky for Liverpool that Young's shot was a little too high. There was no falling away in the game in the pace, and just before the interval, Raisebeck had hard lines with a capital shot, which only went inches over the bar. Half-time Everton 2, Liverpool 1.

On resuming, Kitchen had to run out to clear from Raybould, and the ball being transferred West checked Hardman in the nick of time. After this Liverpool again pressed, but several mistakes were made, and Kitchen was not seriously troubled. There was no cessation in the keenest with which the game was fought, and during a somewhat prolonged attack by Everton, both Young and Hardman were at fault with their marksmanship. Sharp forced a corner, which was nicely cleared, and Liverpool endeavored to make headway, but Cox centred right to the head of Crelly, who easily changed the venue. Some pretty touches were recognised by the crowd, and following a free kick against Parry the ball was placed to Young, who headed in, Cotton apparently was over the line when he handled the ball. A goal was allowed, and this gave Everton a lead of three goals to one. Stung by this reverse the Liverpool players strenuously attacked, and after a free kick against Taylor, the ball was sent into the goalmouth by West. A scrimmage ensued, and during an exciting encounter the ball was sent into the net, Parry as far as could be seen from the press-box being the excutant. Liverpool were now going great guns, and the Everton defence had a trying experience. However, it prevailed, and the varying fortunes of the game provided the spectators with plenty of excitement. Kitchen pass up neatly from Goddard, and during a further onslaught on the Everton goal, Raybould was injured, after which Crelly luckily charged down a grand shot from Robinson. At this period Liverpool were doing all the pressing, and it was lucky for Everton that Raisebeck shot high over the bar. A raid by the Everton front line brought no tangible result, but a moment later Taylor ran down, and a weak clearance by West presented an open goal to Young, who had no difficulty in putting on a fourth for Everton. Although in such a serious position, Liverpool attacked with the greatest persistency, but inaccurate shooting spoiled several favourable opportunities. After a visit to the other end, Raisebeck following a free kick brought out all Kitchen's resource, the Everton goal being only saved at the expense of a corner. Next Sharp was prominent, and a moment later West cleverly intercepted a smart cross from the Everton outside right. Hughes was hooted for tripping Sharp, and the infraction of the rules proved of use to Everton, for from the free kick, taken by Wolstenholme, Young added a fifth goal for his side. Liverpool were awarded a penalty kick , in the closing stages, but to the chargin of Liverpool supporters Raybould failed miserably, sending the ball high over the bar. The end came immediately afterwards, the final result being Everton 5, Liverpool 2.

EVERTON v  LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 02 April 1904
Apart from the fact that it afforded the greatest local holiday attraction, the League fixture between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park yesterday was invested with peculiar interest. To the Liverpool eleven the result of the encounter was fraught with the utmost import and fully 40,000 spectators assembled to witness the encounter. Both teams were at full strength and at three o’clock they lined out as follows;-
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth (captain) and Abbott, half-backs;  Sharp, Taylor, Young, McDermott and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
Liverpool.- Cotton, goal; West and Dunlop, backs; Parry, Raisbeck (captain), and Hughes, half-backs; Goddard, Robertson, Raybould, Hewitt and Cox, forwards.
Everton won the toss, and the Anfielders started in the face of a strong sun. from the kick-off they rushed away grandly on the right, and a fine centre was put in by Goddard but Raybould missed the pass, and  so lost a glorious opportunity of scoring. The home forwards at once took up the attack, and moving down in combined order. Wolstenholme, with a lengthy shot, succeeded in netting the ball after play had been in progress only a few minutes. This success was received with mingled feelings, and it was hoped that the Anfielders would speedily repair the loss thus suddenly sustained. The home team however, kept up the pressure, and it was only the sterling defence of Dunlop and West that averted further disaster. A fugitive breakaway on the part of Cox came to nothing, and it was not long before the Evertonians were again figuring valiantly in front of Cotton. Good back play, however, kept the invaders from repeating their first score, and, after a time, the Anfielders made ground on the left, where the ball went out of play. From the throw-in, the leather was sent across to the right, and Robinson, working through, looked exceedingly dangerous, when he was stopped by Crelly. The ball, however, came however, came in again, and an exciting minute in front of Kitchen ended in West putting over. After this the game opened out considerably, and both ends were visited in rapid succession. At length Cox got going in quite his old fashion, and he terminated his run with a glorious centre, which Robinson managed to head into the net. This achievement was received with cheers and counter-cheers, and the succeeding stages of play showed that both sides were battling in grim earnest. For some time the Evertonians monopolised the attack, only to be met as before with stubborn opposition on the part of the Liverpool backs. Once the Anfielders looked very like running through thanks to a brilliant effort on the part of Raisbeck and Raybould, but Balmer administered an effective check, and the home team moved down on the right, where Dunlop eventually relieved. The Reds then got going in workmanlike style, but the movement was pulled up short by Crelly getting possession. In doing this the Everton back fell, but he kept the leather very cleverly, and it was exceedingly laughable in witness the attempts of half a dozen players to dislodge it from between his knees. It was only when the referee interfered that the comedy was terminated. Following upon this there was excellent play on both sides, and for quite a long time there was no determining the balance of power. The Anfielders made play on the left, but Cox was very weak when “the pinch” came, and a moment later Sharp proved equally lacking when a nice opportunity presented itself. Liverpool at once took up the attack again, and Goddard instead of steadying himself, shot wildly, hight over the bar. The next item of interest was a forward movement on the part of the Evertonians, and in attempting to check this Raisbeck was rendered horse de combat, the game being delayed for some seconds, before the Liverpool captain was himself. Resuming hostilities, both teams continued to give an excellent account of themselves, the Evertonians holding the advantage their attacks being more dangerous and persistent. A somewhat prolonged attacks on Cotton’s charge ended in Hardman shooting in strongly. The Liverpool custodian cleared, but Young caught the return and the situation was only saved at the expense of a corner granted by Dunlop. The Evertonians still persisted in their attentions to the Liverpool goal and eventually their efforts were rewarded for a brilliant run down the wing by Hardman was followed by a splendid centre, and Young, nipping in, had little difficulty in beating the Anfield goalkeeper. Having attained the head once more, the home clever played with renewed confidence and on several occasions the Liverpool defence was placed in extreme jeopardy. West more than once clearing magnificently just in the nick of time. Just before the interval the Anfielders made strenuous efforts to get on level terms, and, after Goodard had been well beaten by Crelly, Raisbeck ran through his field and put the ball just over the bar. A moment later half-time arrived, the score standing; Everton 2 goals.  Liverpool 1.
In the first half the pace was very hot and both teams were at it hammer and tongs, so that any suspicious accommodatory methods was soon dismissed by the crowd. Restarting, the first serious effort came from the Reds. Cox making a dashing move up his wing, and crossing the leather at the close of his movement, but Kitchen came out and cleared comfortably. Then followed a dash down the Everton left, and West was so hard pressed that he had to kick out. Anfield soon escaped the pressure, and Cox was once more in evidence and led the van in an attack which was maintained for some minutes in Everton territory without Kitchen being really in jeopardy. Hardman changed the venue and admirably seconded by his partner, McDermott, carried the leather down to the penalty area, where Sharp joined in the fray, and put Young in very advantageous possession, but the Everton centre made an atrocious response to Sharp’s offer by shooting high over the crossbar. Raisbeck was defending gallantly, and tackled Sharp determinedly when the speedy Blue was preparing to centre after a fine run. Very soon after the Everton quintet came away in line, and cleverly evading opposition, they were buzzling round Cotton, who single-handed offered what resistance he could, but was ultimately driven back into his enclosure. Several times he repelled the leather, until he was well under the crossbar, and although the ball was never netted a goal was successfully claimed by the Blues. This put the Anfielders in the unhappy position of being two goals to the bad. Nevertheless, they played up with spirit and a foul against Taylor brought about a stiff attack adjacent to Kitchen. A mass of players concentrated in the goalmouth and, as the result of a Rugby “scrum” the leather was ultimately netted. Resuming, the Anfielders still kept up the pressure, and Kitchen ran out to a very accurate ground shot from Goddard. Robinson got a capital opening, which he was not slow to use, but unfortunately Crelly was in the line of the shot or the Anfielder would probably have equalised. The Everton forwards put in some very attractive play, and art times their passing was wonderfully clever, and accurate, and completely puzzled Liverpool’s half-backs. During one of these efforts West was very hard pressed, and being somewhat flustered, he headed sideways right at Young’s feet, and Cotton had little chance of resisting the Everton centre, who put up the fourth goal and effectually obliterated any chance of victory for the visitors. Further disaster was in store for the Reds as Hughes took Sharp’s legs from under him, and from the free kick Young scored again. Liverpool fully deserved their misfortune as Sharp looked very like scoring before he was unceremoniously grassed. Neither of the Liverpool backs showed to much advantage during the second half. Liverpool could do anything right, as just on time Raybould took a penalty kick and put the leather over the bar. He has been singularly unfortunate with his penalty kicks this season. There was no doubt as to which was the better side, and reviewing the play generally, Everton fully deserved their emphatic victory. Result; Everton 5 goals, Liverpool 2

EVERTON v  LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 02 April 1904
These sides met yesterday afternoon, in the presence of some 40,000 spectators. Both organisations were at full strength, and in view of Liverpool’s precarious position in the League table more than ordinary interest centred in the event. The teams were as follow;-
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth (captain) and Abbott, half-backs;  Sharp, Taylor, Young, McDermott and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
Liverpool.- Cotton, goal; West and Dunlop, backs; Parry, Raisbeck (captain), and Hughes, half-backs; Goddard, Robertson, Raybould, Hewitt and Cox, forwards.
Referee, Mr. Kirkham.
The Anfielders were the first an incisive attack and had Raybould taken a smart centre  scoring within the first couple of minutes must have been opened in favour of Liverpool.  Another attack was splendidly repelled by Crelly and this led to affine movement on the part of the Everton forwards. Dunlop checked temporarily, and on play opening out Wolstenholme had a clear opening, and with a capital drive put the ball into the net.  This success spurred on the Evertonians fand for some few minutes quite a bombardment of the visitors goal took place. Fine defence prevailed and eventually Cox led the way to the Everton half, but the attack was successfully challenged by Balmer,  and as the result of steady play the Liverpool defenders were again called upon . Raisbeck put in much good work, which was ably supplemented by West, whose cool tackling and clean kicking were of the greatest assistance to his side. Then followed a really clever movement on the part of the whole of the Liverpool forwards and with the least modicum of luck an equalising goal must have been forthcoming Booth missed his kick from a fine pass by Robinson but he was ably covered by Balmer, and a moment later a clever centre from Goddard was cleared more by good luck than management.  He Liverpool players continued their aggressive tactics and a pass by Raybould. who was in difficulties to Cox resulted in the outside man centreing the ball. Robinson rushed in, and just in time to get his head to the ball, with the result that Kitchen was easily beaten. With the scores level the game was contested with even more earnestness, and following upon a further attack by Liverpool, Sharp raced along the wing, and centring to McDermott that player came under the notice of the referee for fouling West. A short spell of pressure on Cotton’s charge was relieved by a capital run down by Cox, who centred to Raybould, only to find Balmer intercepting and kicking strongly into touch. Goddard next had an opportunity of displaying his sprinting powers, but unfortunately he ran the ball out of play; but in a trice the game was contested in Everton quarters, when  Crelly, while on the ground, and on the 18 yards line, kept possession and was eventually relieved as the result of an infringement. Taylor and Sharp led on a further attack on the Liverpool end, and for some minutes Hughes was kept busily employed. He tackled well, well, but was eventually beaten by Taylor, and the ball rolled harmlessly over the line.  A smart pass out from Robinson to Goddard was the next item, but the latter’s shot went wide, and at the other end of the line Cox made progress, but had to contend with the combined attentions of Balmer,  Wolstenholme and Booth.  The second-named player managed to clear, and then Sharp half the field only to find West, who had crossed over quite equal to the emergency, and in a moment the play was at other end, Goddard skied the ball over the bar.  The game was stopped for some little time owing to an injury to Raisbeck, and directly afterwards the skipper who was evidently labouring , gave a corner in attempting to clear from Young.  A further attack brought out Cotton to save from Hardman and on the clearance Dunlop gave a corner, which however came to nothing.  Liverpool attacked, but pressure was not sustained, and on the Everton forwards moving along, West was beaten, and the ball went to Hardman. Racing on the outside left put ball across, and Young management to reach it, put in a slow shot, which however was quite out of the reach of Cotton, and thus gave the lead.  Following upon this the game became keener than ever, and close upon the interval Raisbeck, with a fine shot only just missed the mark.  Half-time -Everton two Liverpool one.
Restarting Kitchen was immediately called upon by Raybould and in a trice play was at the other end, where West checked Hardman in time to prevent that player testing Cotton. Sharp was penalised for fouling Hughes, but the free-kick came to nothing, and within a couple of minutes both Young and Hardman put in shots which, however, were ridiculously wide of mark. Some very clever footwork on both sides followed and at length Parry was pulled up for fouling Hardman.  The kick was well taken and Young headed the net where Cotton met the ball, but was obviously over the line and the point counted. Play had no sooner resumed than the Liverpool players swooped down upon the home goal and after Kitchen had partially checked a dangerous shot, Parry rushed up put the ball into the net.  This success spurred on Anfielders for some minutes quite a severe pressure was levelled upon the home goal.  A corner kick came to nothing, but not disheartened the “Reds” played up in strong fashion, and kept the Everton backs extend to their best efforts. A fine sprint and low shot came from Goddard, but Kitchen gathered the ball well and cleared strongly.  Returning again Robinson had an opening, but his shot was unfortunately charged down by Crelly only a few yards from goal. Raisbeck next shot high over the bar, and there could be no mistaking the fact at this juncture the Anfielders were having the better of the game.  Everton then broke away and Taylor centred. West was weak in clearing and the ball to Young, who had practically no opposition. Cotton ran out but was helpless, and the home centre put on a fourth goal. Liverpool then attacked in vigorous fashion, and a brilliant effort from Goddard just skimmed the bar, while later on Raisbeck put in a beautiful shot, which Kitchen managed to get away at the expense of a corner kick.  Sharp was next in evidence from a wide pass by Taylor and it was fortunate that West in stepping across, should have managed to intercept his at goal.  Immediately following Raybould tested Kitchen, but to no purpose. Sharp next got away and eluded Dunlop.  Hughes however, met the sprinter and unfairly tackled him, with the result that from the free-kick Young put on a splendid.  Shortly afterwards a penalty kick was awarded Liverpool. Raybould was entrusted with it, but his attempt was exceedingly poor, and the ball was driven over the mark. No further scoring took place, and the game ended with the score- Everton 5 Liverpool 2.

OUTDOOR SPORTS
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 02 April 1904
Everton play the second of their holiday fixtures this afternoon, their opponents being Wolverhampton Wanderers. If they display similar form to that exhibited against Liverpool yesterday they should easily annex a couple of points, and on comparative form the issue is a certainly. The Wolves were fully extended at Sunderland yesterday, and they are thus not likely to be in the best condition for to-day’s encounter. Seeing that the result of the game has practically no bearing on the positions of the respective clubs, there can be little interest in the encounter, which has only one redeeming feature, namely, that it is a League match.
Everton v Wolverhampton Wanderers- Referee JH Smith, WJ Archur and H. Brown.
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Settle, McDermott, and HP Hardman, forwards. Kick-off 3.30.
The Lancashire Combination Division A
Turton v Everton Reserve, Turton
Everton.- Whitley, goal; Gordon and Murray, backs; Chadwick, Russell, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, Sheridan, Roberts, O’Hagan, and Simpson, forwards. Reserve Wildman, train leaves Exchange Station at 1.10. kick-off three p.m.

EVERTON v  LIVERPOOL
Sheffield Evening Telegraph - Saturday 02 April 1904
Last season’s results- At Goodison Park; Everton goals, Liverpool 1 goal. At Anfield Road; Liverpool 0 goals, Everton 0 goals.
This match was played at Goodison Park, before fully 40,000 spectators. Liverpool kicked off against the wind and sun and in the first couple of minutes Wolstenholme defeated Cotton with a long shot, which came as a surprise to the Liverpool goalkeeper. Robinson equalised after a rare struggle but Young, who played centre forwards placed Everton ahead the score at the interval being- Everton 2 goals; Liverpool 1 goal. In the second half Everton soon made their position secure, as Young was responsible for the third goal, and after Parry scored for Liverpool from a scrimmage. Young was credited with other two goals. Everton undoubtedly deserved their win. They were by far the cleverer team, Liverpool being weak at half-back and in goal.
Result; Everton 5 goals, Liverpool 2 goals.

EVERTON v  LIVERPOOL
Nottingham Journal - Saturday 02 April 190
At Goodison Park in splendid weather, before 35,000 spectators. Both teams were at full strength. The game opened in sensational style, for in less than a couple of minutes from the start Wolstenholme scored for Everton with a long shot. Robinson equalised and the game was splendidly contested, Young again placing Everton ahead from a centre by Hardman. Interval; Everton 2; Liverpool 1.
In the second half Everton maintained their superiority. Young headed a third goal following a foul, and during a scrimmage Harry scored for Liverpool. Young added two other goals, and during the concluding stages Liverpool were awarded a penalty, which Raybould failed to convert. Everton had the better of the game throughout, though Liverpool were not so well beaten as the score might indicate.
Result;- Everton 5 Liverpool 2

EVERTON v. LIVERPOOL.
Birmingham Daily Gazette - Saturday 02 April 1904
This League match, which was of great importance to Liverpool, was played at Goodison Park yesterday, before fully forty thousand people, Everton winning by 5 goals to 2. Liverpool kicked off against the wind and sun. In the first couple of minutes Wolstenholme defeated Cotton with a long shot, which came as a surprise to the Liverpool custodian. Robinson equalised alter a rare struggle, but Young, who played centre-forward placed Everton ahead, the score at the interval being Everton 2, Liverpool 1. In the second half Everton soon made their position secure. Young was responsible for the third goal, and after Parry had scored for Liverpool during a scrimmage, Young was credited with two more goals. Everton undoubtedly deserved their win, for they were by far the cleverer team, Liverpool being weak at half-back and in goal.

EVERTON v  LIVERPOOL
Birkenhead News - Saturday 02 April 1904
YOUNG SCORES FOUR GOALS
The holiday attraction at Goodison Park on Good Friday was the means of attracting 35,000 spectators. The weather was fine but of a breezy description. The Everton captain winning the toss elected to play with the sun, and against the wind. The start was highly sensational and inside two minutes Everton were a goal to the good. Wolstenholme beating Cotton with an easy shot. Liverpool pegged away manfully against this reverse, and at quarter time Robinson nipped in between the home backs and defeated Kitchen. Midfield play ruled for some time afterwards until ten minutes from the interval, when Young headed a second goal for Everton. Soon after resuming, Young placed Everton further ahead and then, for a foul, Parry outwitted the hoe custodian. A good finish appeared to be in store, but the Evertonians came with a rattle towards the finish. Young scored his third goal and after Raybould had missed with a penalty kick, the Everton centre forward notched his fourth goal.
Final result;- Everton 5 Liverpool 2.

TEAM ARRNAGEMENTS FOR THIS DAY
Liverpool Daily Post – Saturday 2 April 1904
Everton v Wolverhampton Wanderers
League Match at Goodison Park; Kick-off 3.30
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Settle, McDermott, and HP Hardman, forwards.
Everton Combination v Turton
Lancashire Combination match, at Turton, 1.10 train from Exchange Station; kick-off 3
Everton.- Whitley, goal; Gordon and Murray, backs; Chadwick, Russell, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, Sheridan, Roberts, O’Hagan, and Simpson, forwards
Monday.
Everton Reserve v Liverpool Reserve
Combination match at Anfield; Kick-off 11 a.m.
Everton;- Whitley, goal; Wildman and Murray, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and R. Balmer, half-backs; Rankin, Sheridan, Roberts, O’Hagan, and Corrin, forwards.
Liverpool.- Platt, goal; Wilson and McLean, backs; Morgan, Latham, and Craik, half-backs; Dudley, Hendren, Carlin, Chadwick, and Garside, forwards. Raisbeck, reserve.

EVERTON (2) WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS (0)
Empire News & The Umpire - Sunday 03 April 1904
(Everton won last season, 2-1)
Before 10,000 spectators. This encounter was of an uninteresting character, with the exception of Baddeley’s brilliant custodianship. The home forwards were the more classy, with close play and short passing, but when adjacent to Baddeley, they seemed to lack initiative. In addition, they failed where opportunities were forced. Sharp played quite up to his reputation. Though closely watched by Betterley and Annis, he put in some well judged centres, which Settle nearly always miscalculated although the little man was usually sand-witched by Betteley and Jones. The home halves were at times very loose, and did not offer stern opposition to the determined advances of the Wolves’ front rank. On several occasions the Everton defence cracked up, Balmer making had mistakes and feeble clearance. Kitchen was, however, on his best behaviour. On both sides there was a painful listlessness which never augured well for goals. Taylor, Wolstenholmes and Booth put in brilliant long shots, but nothing came amiss to the alert Baddeley, who gave a masterly exhibition. Settle missed many chances, and Taylor and Heywood skied with open goals. Seldom has a game been played where so many palpable chances were thrown away, more particularly by the homesters. In the second half there was a little improvement but hesitation and miscalculation in front of goal were the dominant features. Sharp was very brilliant for his side, but his efforts went a-begging more often than not, and Settle could make no impression on Betteley, Jones, and Baddeley, both of the Wolves’ backs deserved credit, as they were very cool and steady under pressure. Everton did manage it at last in creditable style; after a severe bully, Taylor followed the leather and put over to Sharp, who swung across the goal mouth, and from the thick of the crowd Hardman hooked the leather in, thus defeating the heretofore invincible Baddeley. After this Everton infused more vigour into their work, and Abbott nearly did the tricky with a magnificent long shot. Soon after Jones missed his kick, leaving Settle with Baddeley at this mercy, and the little man made no mistake in netting. Thus, after a lengthy period of disappointment, two goals came in a couple of minutes, and the crowd went home happy.

EVERTON 2 WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 0
April 4, 190. The Liverpool Courier
Unfortunately for the complete success of the match at Goodison park on Saturday, rain fell heavily for an hour or more before the time fixed for the start. However, the downpour ceased shortly before the players appeared, but the attendance was not as large as might have been expected under favourable climatic conditions. Everton made one change from the team which so signally defeat Liverpool. Settle figuring at centre forward in place of Young, while the Wolves were strongly represented. The teams were: - Everton: - Kitchen, goal, W.Balmer, and Crelly, backs, Wolstenholme, Booth (captain), and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp Taylor, Settle, McDermott, and H.P.Hardman, forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers: - Baddeley, goal, Jones, and Bettleley, backs, Whitehouse, Pheasant, and Annis, half-backs, Bayman, Haywood, Bevin, and Miller, forwards. Referee H.J.Miller. Everton kicked off against the wind in the presence of 10,000 spectators, and immediately Hardman was applauded for beating Jones, but nothing came of the effort. The Wolves made a brief incursion into the home half, and then effective combination between the Everton halves, and forwards gave an opening to Booth, who, however, shot very wide of the mark, Crelly was outwitted by Bayman, but Miller found himself pulled up for off-side, and again the Everton attack was most persistent. Shot, after the Wolves defenders charged down shot, and a good attempt by Settle was applauded though his show was lacking in direction. The Wolves forwards improved, and Bayman got in many shot, which Kitchen only cleared by throwing himself full length at the ball. At the other end the alert Baddeley was drawn out to almost the corner flag before he secured possession and kicked clear. The Wolves were again aggressive and Balmer and Crelly had all their work cut out to overcome, the lively visiting forwards. Miller was penalised for offside, but the visitors were in a most determined mood, and Kitchen distinguished himself by his cleverness in dealing with a difficult header from Woolridge. The visitors goal then had a narrow escape. Several shots being charged down, and only a fine clearance by Baddeley prevented Sharp scoring. After a temporary diversion the Evertonians returned to the attack in splendid style. Wolstenholme had several bangs at goal, and on this occasion he tested Baddeley with a beauty. The international custodian was equal to the demand, but in saving his lines he had to concede a corner, which was not improved upon. Kitchen kicked away a long shot and Everton were again doing all the attacking. Into the net the ball could not be propelled. There was always one of other of the Wolves defenders in the way and once the referee intercepted a dangerous looking centre from Sharp. Jones was penalised for fouling McDermott near the penalty line, but it was not turned into account, and it seemed as if Everton onslaught were to go unrewarded. The visiting left were responsible for some smart work, but Balmer and Wolstenholme looked after them very carefully. For a few moments, operations were suspended owing to McDermott being injured in a collision with Whitehouse. Everton continued to assert their superiority, and exhibited some pretty passing. At the same time the Wolves defence was exceedingly sound of occasionally rather too vigorous. After the visiting forwards had been driven back, Sharp electrified the crowd by a brilliant run in which, he completely out-distanced Baddeley. He finished up with a beautiful low centre, which Settle missed very badly. At the other end Kitchen kept out a grand shot from Bayman, and a moment later there was a surprising scrimmage in the Wolves goalmouth, during which Taylor brought down Baddeley. There was a good deal of kicking or attempted kicking, and the incident terminated with a free kick against Everton. This took the ball to Everton's half where Booth was penalised for a foul just outside the penalty area. Again Sharp led a vigorous attack, and the downfall of the Wolves goal seemed assured, but another glorious chance was spoiled by Settle. Next Hardman shot just wide, and immediately afterwards the Everton goal had a marvellous escape. Haywood, with a perfectly open goal, hooking the ball over the bar. A rush on the Wolves right let in Wooldridge, who was brought down by Balmer just as the whistle had gone for offside. Everton then went away in rare style, Settle missing another easy chance of scoring. Half-time Everton nil, Wolverhampton nil.

When the game was resumed Everton at once made headway on the left, and in the first minute Taylor might have opened the score. The Wolves defence was hard pressed, the home halves rendering the forwards admirable support with the result that Baddeley was kept on the alert. Taylor made amends for his previous slip by banging in a lighting shot at Baddeley, who, however, brought off a splendid clearance. The Wolves rarely crossed the half-way line, but still the anxiously awaited goal, was not forthcoming as a reward of Everton's undoubted superiority. A header from Settle seemed likely to do the trick, but Bayman there, and in a twinkling the ball was at the other end, thanks to a smart ran all Baddeley. A miskick by one of the home defenders let in Miller, and the crowd were relieved when Booth kicked clear. Everton were quickly at their old tactics and a terrific shot from Wolstenholme struck the crossbar, and flew out of touch. This was decidedly lucky for Baddeley who would have had no chance had the ball been inches lower. Everton could do everything except score. Taylor was applauded for a magnificent shot, and so was Baddeley for a really masterful save. After being penned in their own quarters for several minutes, the Wanderers broke away on the right, but the attack was not sustained, and resumed the bombardment, Taylor sent the ball against the upright, but no matter what kind of shots came in Baddeley was unbeatable. At last Everton were deservedly rewarded, Hardman scoring amid great applause, from a centre by Sharp. Play continued to be one-sided, and though a mistake by Jones Settle ran clean through and registered a second goal for Everton. Result; Everton 2, Wolves nil.

EVERTON’S EASTER-ICAL EXHIBITION.
Athletic News - Monday 04 April 1904
By Junius
The elect of Goodison Park awaited the return encounter with Wolverhampton in calm confidence, and the result fully justified their expectations. A. more one-sided game has not been witnessed on the enclosure this season, and Baddeley alone prevented the defeat from becoming an absolute rout. He has almost invariably given a splendid exposition in Liverpool, but I question if ever exhibited such brilliant form as in this match. With one exception—the substitution of Settle for Young as centre-forward -the Everton team was constituted as on the previous day; whilst the Wanderers were at full strength. Unfortunately, the weather broke down before noon, and a drenching downpour materially affected the attendance, which numbered about 10,000, whilst it also influenced the going, which otherwise would have been excellent.
EVERTON VERSUS BADDELEY
To all intents and purposes the game resolved itself into a conflict between the Everton attacking forces and Baddeley, and whilst the former were in a most aggressive humour, the International keeper was in an equally efficient vein. In the first half glorious chances were missed by both sides, Everton being the more culpable in this respect, and had Settle utilized a tithe of the openings made for him by the extreme wing forwards, the issue would have been decided before the interval arrived. Very few opportunities came to the visitors, though Bayham after cleverly stopping the ball, which seemed to be rolling over the goal line, brought Kitchen to his knees, but no one was at hand to take advantage of the unexpected opening. On another occasion Bevan centred, and though Kitchen cleared, the ball came out to Haywood, who missed one of the best chances of the afternoon. Still, these were only occasional happenings, whereas Everton were driving in all sorts of shots at Baddeley, and Taylor, who allowed his zeal to overcome his discretion, was responsible for a foul on the custodian, which seemed like creating an uproar amongst the players. However, they sobered down, and, with the exception of another smart clearance from Miller by the Everton goalkeeper, the play was practically all around the “Wolves” goal, where, chances bungled, in conjunction with the splendid work of Baddeley, were responsible for a clean sheet at the interval. Afterwards the superiority of Everton was even more pronounced, and Baddeley made one save from Taylor at full length, which brought down the house. I must confess to a feeling of disappointment when the daring custodian was eventually beaten. To relate the feats he performed would require more space than I have at my command. Suffice it to say that Sharp eventually got in a centre which baffled him, and Hardman made the goal a certainty by finally heading into the net. Then shortly following, Settle took advantage of a mistake by Jones, who miskicked, and running close in, gave the goalkeeper no chance with his final shot. To the finish Everton were all over their opponents, and score of two clear goals give no idea of the preponderance of Everton in actual warfare.
EVERTONIANS EXCELLENCE
There was no comparison between the two teams in attack, and whereas the visitors had to rest content with an occasional breakaway, Everton were hammering away at Baddeley’s charge almost continuously.  So incisive were the advances of the home front rank, extended throughout and had Settle displayed any ability in accepting the endless chances which came his way, the score must have reached abnormal proportions.  In midfield he shaped better than in any other game this season at Goodison Park, but when it came to a question of scoring he spoiled the easiest opportunities and he has yet to demonstrate that he has any claims to occupy such a portion.  McDermott was the best forward on the field, his tricky footwork and beautiful passing being quite a treat.  Sharp and Hardman were resplendent on the extreme wings, and Taylor plied the former with some lovely placings, but I did not appreciate the manner in which he went for Baddeley on several occasions, and there was ample reason for the Wanderers’ custodian retaliating.  In the half-back division the Everton trio were preeminent, Booth especially distinguishing himself, but Wolstenholme and Abbott were in rare trim, and there need be little wonder that the visitors failed to make headway.  Kitchen was seldom requisitioned, and the full backs rarely cornered; in fact, the Everton defence was never really called upon to offer a sturdy resistance.
WORRIED “WOLVES.”
Little can be said in favour of the Midlanders’ forwards and half-backs, for the former were never allowed to get going, and the chances they secured were more the result of over-confidence on the part of the Everton players than to nay exhibition of excellence on their part.  Bayham and Wooldridge were the most prominent of a fair forward line, which unfortunately for them met the Everton rare division at the top of their form, and their advances were, therefore, of a decidedly spasmodic character.  Had Haywood accepted a grand opening in the first half, the result might have been altered, but continuously, that I fancy their efforts would have been bound to meet with success.  The half backs were unable to keep the clever Everton vanguard in check, and both Jones and Betteley, further behind, were overwhelmed with work, which they gallantly endeavored to perform until completely worn out with the task.  Baddeley, however, was the hero of the game, and that clearance of his from Taylor at full length was marvelous.  He anticipated the ball with a fine accuracy, and gave an exhibition which could not have been excelled.  Everton; Kitchen; Balmer, and Crelley; Wolstenholme, Booth, and Abbott; Sharp, Taylor, Settle, MCDermott, and Hardman.  Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Baddeley; Jones and Betteley; Whitehouse, Pheasant, and Annis; Baynham, Haywood, Wooldridge, Bevan, and Miller.  Referee; Mr. J.H. Smith, Doncaster. 

EVERTON IN FORM
Athletic News - Monday 04 April 1904
By Junius
The Everton players have signaled their return to headquarters in most exhilarating fashion, and the form they have shown against Liverpool and the “Wolves” speaks ill for the chance of the League leaders today.  As already stated, the Anfielders were well beaten, but the Midlanders were utterly routed, and the magnificent goalkeeping of Baddeley alone prevented the final figures from being in accord with the general character of the play.  Everton are capable of achieving the finest results, but they have this achieving the finest results, but they have this year, as in previous campaigns, displayed their customary inconsistency, and after demonstrating, it is somewhat disappointing to find them just below the leaders, without any possible chance of troubling them.  Their remaining league matches are all of a most interesting character, for Stoke and West Bromwich have to visit Goodison Park, and Manchester City are likewise due on the Monday after the Final Tie.  If there is still any doubt as to the centre forward position in the team, the game played on Friday and Saturday respectively must have finally settled such a controversy.  Young was a conspicuous success, but Settle was not altogether irreproachable, especially near goal. 

TURTON 0 EVERTON RESERVES 5
April 4 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 27)
At Turton. The visitors had the best of matters throughout. Simpson opened the scoring, and Rankin put on two more goals in quick succession. Everton leading at the interval by three goals to nil. In the second half O'Hagan scored twice and Everton won by 5 goals to nil. Everton: - Whitley, Gordon, and Murray backs, Chadwick, Russell, and Makepeace, half-backs, Rankin Sheridan, Roberts, O'Hagan, and Simpson, forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
April 4, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
In their two holiday fixtures already decided Everton have displayed resplendent form, and seem pretty certain to finish in the first half dozen in the League table. They were never really extended in their game with Liverpool, and against the Wolves they simply walked through their opponents, though they found an almost impassable barrier to their progress in Baddeley, who kept the goal in excellent fashion. With the exception that Settle deposed Young as centre forward, the team was the same that trounced Liverpool, whilst the Wolves were presented by the side that was beaten at Sunderland. Everton practically monopolised the attack from the start, though from a sudden breakaway, Haywood missed a perfect opening at close range. Two causes contributed to the clean sheet at the interval namely, the fine work of Baddeley is goal, and the bungling of numerous chance of Settle, who repeatedly failed to utilise the easiest opportunities of scoring. Almost throughout was the play hovering around the Wolves goal, and this state of affairs was even more pronounced after ends were changed. Rare chances were on two occasions gained by the visitors, but they blundered badly with them, and though Everton simply rained in all manner of shots, the international keeper maintained the integrity of his charge until about twelve minutes from the finish, when a centre from Sharp beat him, and Hardman headed into the net. Shortly afterwards Jones miskicked, and Settle went clean through with the second goal. The game was too one-sided to be really enjoyable, and the superiority of Everton was apparent from the start. Such persistent bombardment, as they brought to bear on Baddeley and his backs has seldom been seen on the Goodison Park enclosure, without a goal being secured, and the conviction was beginning to dawn upon many that Everton never would score, when Sharp led the way to Baddeley's first reverse. Everton played a strong game in every department, and particularly was this the case in the forward and half-back divisions. Settle shaped well in the centre, but near goal was an utter failure, though in the first half all the inside forwards were culpable when it came to a question of shooting preferring to finesse instead of sending in a rasping shot. They certainly improved in this respect in the second moiety, and gave Baddeley as warm a time as any custodian need wish for. McDermott was the trickiest forward on the field, and the exhibition was delightful to witness. He and Hardman got along famously together, the inside man opening out the play finely with most delicate yet effective touches, while the extreme winger ran and centred very affectedly. At the other end of the line, Sharp was equally capable and his centres were beautifully judged, but as already stated, they were not sufficiently utilised. Taylor played a characteristic game but there was absolutely no need for the totally uncalled for foul which he perpetrated on Baddeley, and throughout the game his methods in this respect were unnecessarily vigorous. The right winger is a robust player, but his zeal somewhat o'erran itself on two of three occasions, otherwise his display was extremely creditable. Concerning the half-backs, nothing but praise can be recorded, and Booth again demonstrated what fine form he is in at present. Confident judicious, and always effective, he had the Wanderers inside forwards at his mercury, and gave his own vanguard every advantage by his favourable placing. Wolstenholme likewise was most reliable, and with Abbott completed a trio that utterly upset all the forward notions of the visitors, who could make no headway against them. Balmer and Crelly were seldom at fault further behind, for they were never very hardly pressed, and Kitchen, who had only two or three difficult shots to stop throughout the game, was equal to everything which required his attention. From front to rear Everton played with delightful combination, and they were altogether too clever for their visitors who were exceedingly fortunate to escape with a two clear goals beating. On the actual play, double figures would just about have represented the home team's superiority. Baddeley prevented the defeat from becoming an utter rout. His abilities are too well-known to require repetition here, and, though he has in previous years afforded some notable examples of custodianship, he has never excelled the exhibition, which he gave on Saturday. His anticipation of the oncoming shot is really astounding, and what to an ordinary keeper would be a difficult task becomes comparatively easy his unerring instinct. There can only be one keeper in an English team, while Baddeley can display prowess of like quality to that which he treated the crowd at Goodison Park. Considering the vast amount of work they were called upon to perform, Jones and Betterly deserve credit for their defensive tactics at full back, but they naturally were unable to maintain an accurate opposition throughout the grueling, which the Everton forwards inflicted on them. At half-back the Wolves were not seen to advantage and though each of the trio plodded gamely along as a body, they were unable to cope with the bewildering advances of the home forwards. The visitors front rank could only occasionally get going, but their long, swinging passes were in those instances trouble some to the Everton defenders, and Baynam seems a promising right winger. In the centre, Woolridge shaped fairly well, but seldom got an opportunity of sending in a decent shot and both Haywood and Miller missed an opening, which were by no means difficult. Their methods wore totally different to those of the Everton front line, though against ordinary half backs their tactics would probably have been more effective.

EVERTON v  WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 04 April 1904
At Goodison Park, in full weather, before 10,000 spectators. The Wolves were at full strength, while Everton played Settle for Young. Play was vigorously contested., Everton had by far the better of the game, but their shooting was poor. Settle being the principal offender. The Wolves were dangerous when they got away, but Heywood missed an open goal. Half-time- Everton nil, Wolverhampton Wanderers, nil.
During the second half there was no comparison between the sides. Everton were all over their opponents, and only the magnificent goalkeeping by Baddley prevented Everton obtaining a rare harvest of goals. There were only 15 minutes to play when Everton’s first success came, Hardman concerting a centre from Sharp. Settle quickly added a second, and a one-sided game ended in an easy victory for Everton.
Result- Everton 2 Wolverhampton Wands 0
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Crelly; Wolstenholme, Booth (captain), and Abbott; Sharp, Taylor, Settle, McDermott, and Hardman,
Wolverhampton Wanderers.- Baddeley; Jones and Betteley; Whitehouse, Annis, and Beyman; Haywood, Wooldridge, Bevin, and Miller.

BADDELEY IN FORM.
Birmingham Daily Gazette - Monday 04 April 1904
BRILLIANT DISPLAY AGAINST EVERTON.
Everton 2 Wolverhampton 0
After the duel Everton had with Liverpool on Good Friday, it was generally considered that the Wolverhampton Wanderers would have more than a share of the game at Goodison Park. It is not often the Evertonians score successive victories, and holiday fixtures have often ended in their discomfiture. To give the lie direct to the many epitaphs flung at them from time to time, they started so cleverly that Wolverhampton never recovered. At no period of the game did the visitors appear to have a chance, although when Wooldridge and his colleagues got away they were always dangerous.
As will be gathered, however, the Wolves were the inferior side. The Everton forwards were out for “blood," and backed up by a splendid trio in the intermediate line, the Wolverhampton goal was subjected to one of the most severe bombardments ever seen on Goodison Park. And yet how futile were their efforts against Baddeley! To put the game into a nutshell, the game revolved itself into a long and persistent duel between the Everton attack and the Wolves' defence, in which the international goalkeeper shone above all. The two efforts which beat him were altogether beyond human skill to circumvent, and to Baddeley alone belong the entire honours of the game. The home forwards were in a dangerous mood, and with a less versatile custodian, a huge score must have been recorded. For three parts of the game, the 15,000 spectators marvelled at Baddeley’s prowess, and time and again he was loudly cheered. On many occasions he was a third full back, for he ran out and assisted Jones and Betteley out of their difficulties. It was just seven minutes from the finish when Hardman scored Everton's first goal. and finally Settle notched a second. What can be said about the game has already been recorded, and now a word for the players. On the Wolves' side they want of grit and cohesion was apparent throughout. After Baddeley, Jones was the most prominent. The half-backs had a rare gruelling, but kept up well under severe pressure. The forward line was not evenly balanced. Miller and Bevin, on the left, put in some useful runs, but Baynam spoiled many good openings by a disregard for the off-side rule. As to the " Toffies," seldom have they appeared so strong in all departments. The defence had little to do, but the halves and front line were in tip-top form, and yet they were kept at bay by Baddeley. The custodian’s greatness on this occasion must surely live in the minds of those who witnessed it.

EVERTON v. WEDNESDAY.
Leeds Mercury - Tuesday 05 April 1904
At Goodison Park, in beautiful weather, before 25,000 spectators. Wednesday were short of Davis, and were without Abbot and Crelly. The game started a great pace, and within couple minutes Hardman scored grand goal for Everton, Wednesday, however, played in spirited fashion. Kitchen saving cleverly. Everton had rather the better the subsequent exchanges, and the interval the score was—Everton one goal, Sheffield Wednesday none. The second half was as keenly contested as the first, the game being most enjoyable to watch. Both goalkeepers saved splendidly, but Everton increased their lead through Hardman, who found the corner of the net from a difficult position. Wednesday, towards the finish, lost the services of Beech, but they were beaten better team. Result;—Everton two goals, Sheffield Wednesday none.

EVERTON 2 SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 0
April 5, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
For their third home league match during the holidays Everton had again an attraction fixture at Goodson park yesterday. The visiting side was Sheffield Wednesday, the league champions and the present leaders in the competition. Fortunately the weather turned out beautifully fine. And there would be fully 20,000 spectators at the start. Owning to Abbott's appearance in the Inter-league match, and an injury to Crelly their were several alterations in the Everton team. R.Balmer partnered his brother at back. Taylor went left back, and with Young in the centre, McDermott partnered Sharp, while Settle was in his old place as inside left. On Wednesday side, Davis was an absentee as the result of injuries, his place, being taken by Hemmingfield. The team were: - Everton: - Kitchen, goal, W.Balmer and R.Balmer, backs, Wolstenholme, Booth (captain), and Taylor, half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Sheffield Wednesday: - Lyall, goal, Layton, and Burton, backs, Ferrier, Crawshaw, and Ruddlesdin, half-backs, Hemmingfield, Chadman, Wilson, Beech, and Simpson forwards. Everton kicked off against the sun, and the left wing were at once prominent, Hardman sending in a centre which Young almost utilised, but Taylor was in the way, Everton continued in an aggressive mood, and Young sending nicely across to Hardman the amateur scored a beautiful goal within a couple minutes. The Wednesday now made headway but young Balmer smartly robbed Wilson. The Sheffield Wednesday right, however, bore down on the Everton goal, and Hemmingfield put in a tremendous shot, which Kitchen dealt with splendid fashion. A moment later Lyton from midfield got in a dropping shot which Kitchen cleverly tipped over the bar at the expense of a corner which prove abortive. Then Hardman receiving from Young raced the length of the field, only to be eventually beaten by Layton. The game was finely contested and a corner off young Balmer, and Kitchen them saving from Chapman. Afterwards the Everton forwards were responsible for a beautifully combined movement, as the outcome of which Hardman from a splendid centre, which was met by Sharp, who from two or three yards distance aim against the goalkeepers legs. Wednesday goal had a narrow escape, and so terrific this period were Everton's onslaught then from Young's centre Hardman might have added a second goal. His attempt, however, was fortunately for Lyall, a trifle on the wrong side of the upright. Wednesday put themselves together and attacked on the right, play for some minutes being confined to the home left. The only advantage with the visitors obtained with a corner, which Booth rendered futile, then the ball was at the other end with tricky work by Sharp, in centring, placed the ball behind. Further pressure by the Evertonians was overcome by the vigilance of the Wednesday defenders, and then, after Wilson had beaten W.Balmer, Chapman made a wretched off a glorious chance to equalise. Both ends were visited in turn, and although the game was more even than previously it never lacking in interest. W.Balmer had miss a charged down and this presented an opening for Beach, who directed a really good chance, shot at Kitchen, though in doing so he temporarily injured. Next capital work between McDermott and Sharp gave a chance to Young, who was at fault, and at the other end, Simpson was penalised for fouling Kitchen as he was in the act of dealing with a good effort from Hemmingfield. The play continued full of exciting incidents and not the least interesting were Taylor's touches at the half-back. The Everton attack was in rare trim, but the visiting defence gave nothing away, Hardman being warmly applauded for a fast low shot, which brought Lyall to his knees. So far the exhibition had been entirely worthy of the reputation of the club. Everton enjoyed a spell of attacking, and if only Settle and put a little more power behind one of his shot Lyall must have been beaten. Just before the interval Beech shot over when nicely placed, and danger again threatened the Everton goal, put the defence could not be overcome, and Everton led at the interval by a goal. Half-time Everton 1 Sheffield Wednesday 1
The first half had produced a really admirable exposition of first class football, and strong as was the champions defence no one could begrudge Everton their lead by a goal. When proceedings were resumed there must have been an attendance of fully 23,000, of whom a fair sprinkling came from Sheffield. Everton were the first to show up, but Sharp ran the ball over the line, and Booth was wide with a long shot. The players, were some time in settling down to their high standard of the opening half, and frequent thrown-ins, coupled with an occasional free kick, rather spoiled the enjoyment of the spectators. The visitors were first seriously called upon, but sided by a little luck in having shots charged down, the Evertonians were beaten back. Beech was unfortunate enough to sustain a second knock, and had to retire to the side of the field for a few minutes. His absence did not disconcert his comrades, who kept Kitchen, and his backs engaged. A beautiful centre from Hardman evoked applause, and although Settle sent over, the Everton outside left quickly forced a corner, which was followed by a couple more, neither of which, however, was turned to advantage. A splendid bit of work by Settle left Young with practically an open goal, but the centre forward failed miserably. The Blades changed the venue, only to be met by as tenacious a defence as their own. Once however, Kitchen was called upon to intercept a dangerous centre, from Chapman. This he neatly accomplished, but still the visiting attack was exceedingly difficult to overcome, their forwards being very quick on the ball. In a trice Everton were invading their opponents territory, and reward availed them for receiving a pass from Young. Hardman by a brilliant effort when in a position of difficulty, gave his side a second goal, with a shot that found the corner of the net, quite out of the reach of Lyall. This further success had the effect of rousing even to a greater extent, than before, both sets of players, and a more interesting and hard fought match has not often been seen at Goodison Park. The venue changed from end to end with the utmost rapidity, for while one moment Kitchen was surrounded by opponents. Lyall the next was similarly situated. Wednesday lost the services of Beech, who had again been in the wars, but although handicapped they struggled hard. Towards the finish, they were outplayed, and had to acknowledge the superiority of the Evertonians, who were fairly entitled to their handsome victory. Final Everton 2 Sheffield Wednesday nil.

LIVERPOOL RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 1
April 5, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 28)
The return Lancashire Combination match was played at Anfield yesterday morning in fine weather, and before about 7,000 spectators. The teams faced as follows: - Liverpool: - Cotton, goal, Wilson and McLean, backs, Latham, Fleming, and Morgan, half-backs, Dudley, Raisebeck, Carlin, Chadwick, and Garside forwards. Everton: - Whitley, goal, Wildman, and Murray, backs, Chadwick Russell, and Makepeace, half-backs, Rankin, Sheridan, Roberts, O'Hagan, and Corrin forwards . Carlin kicked off on behalf of Liverpool, the visitors having the advantage of a strong wind. Play ruled in favour of the Blues, and they forced a couple of corners without result. Carlin then got away but Wildman cleared in fine style. Chadwick returned, but shot poorly, and Whitley was not called upon. Everton then resumed the attack, and Cotton saved a low shot from O'Hagan. His clearance, however, was a poor one, for he sent the ball right to Rankin, who was about fifteen yards out, and the Everton outside right scored with a splendid shot. Assisted by the wind, Everton attack after this, and Sheridan was tripped. Chadwick took the free kick, and Cotton turned his shot over the bar, the corner being worked away. A little later Fleming fouling Sheridan just outside the penalty area, and Cotton conceded another corner, which Russell headed over the bar. Play continued to be contested in the Liverpool half, and Roberts neatly beat McLean, only to shoot wide. Then Sheridan had a shot charged down, and Wilson kicked away from Rankin. Raisebeck spoiled good play by Carlin by poor passing, but assisted by a free kick, Liverpool got down, Garside and Chadwick each sending wide. For some time Everton had to defend, but Makepeace and Russell relieved. Roberts sent wide, and a corner was fruitless. Fine passing between Sheridan, O'Hagan and Corrin resulted in the latter dashing into goal at a great pace his shot turning out of goal off Morgan. This corner brought no result, and Garside dashed away, Murray running across and clearing in fine style. Everton again put on pressure, but failed to call upon Cotton, the shooting being very poor. The Reds retaliated, Carlin, however, sending wide, while the home right quite failed to make headway against Makepeace, and Murray, Whitley saved well from a free kick, and then between them Wilson and McLean nearly let in the Everton forwards. Whitley stopped a capital shot from Raisebeck, and at the other end Roberts was very little wide with a fine long shot. A little later Cotton saved well from Sheridan, half-time arriving just as the corner kick was being taken. Interval: - Liverpool nil, Everton 1.
Roberts restarted, Russell being an absentee, and after Raisebeck had shot wide, the visitors put on pressure, McLean clearing luckily, Garside next called upon Whitley with a capital low shot, and then McLean brought himself under the notice of the referee for tripping Roberts, who had a clear course. Chadwick did good work for the Reds, but Murray was a tower of strength in the Everton defence. The strong wind spoilt the play, the shooting of both sides being very poor. Liverpool forced a corner on the left without result, and after Everton had made a brief attack, Garside put in a capital run. Murray taking the ball from his toe. A corner followed from which Dudley missed a good opening, and then the Blues goal under went considerable pressure. The goal was packed to good purpose however, while Whitley twice saved well. Russell returned, and Rankin made a grand run, Latham saving at a critical juncture. End to end play followed, and once Rankin beat both McLean and Cotton, but the ball went across the goal and outside. Carlin tried to get through for the Anfielders, but the Everton backs were too strong. Wilson also spoiled several promising movements on the part of the Blues forwards. Liverpool made great efforts to get level, and a penalty kick was awarded, owing to Chadwick handling. His namesake took the kick, but hit the post, and Whitley catching the ball on the rebound, clearing with wonderful smartness. Everton defended finely under severe pressure, but Liverpool lost chances. The Anfielders pressed in the closing stages, but the Everton defence held out until just on time, when Garside equalised with a fine shot from close quarters. Final Liverpool 1 Everton 1.

INTER-LEAGUE HOUOURS FOR WALTER ABBOTT
April 5 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Inter-League Match, Scotland against England at Manchester yesterday in front of 35,000 spectator's watch England beat Scotland by two goals to one, Walter Abbott playing half-back, for the English.

EVERTON v  SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY
Sheffield Independent - Tuesday 05 April 1904
WEDNESDAY LOSE A GOOD GAME
The visit of the Wednesday team to Liverpool yesterday to play their return League match with Everton attracted a crowd of something like 30,000 people to the Goodison Park enclosure, and produced a good and interesting games, wherein the Evertonians showed a superiority in forward play which gave them a well-earned victory over the champions by two goals to none. The Wednesday team lacked the service of Davis, who was injured at Nottingham on Saturday. Hemmingfield therefore playing outside right, but Lyall was able to reappear and keep goal. Everton re-arranged their team. R. Balmer playing left full back instead of Crelly, Taylor coming from the front rank to left half-back in place of Abbott, who was playing in the inter-League match at Manchester, and Settle being moved centre forward to his original position of inside left in order to let in Young as the pivot. After being unsettled in the morning the weather at Liverpool turned out beautifully fine in the afternoon, and a well contested game, played on a ground in splendid condition, was witnessed with evident pleasure by the large assemblage of people who cheered heartily the scoring of the two goals by which the home team defeated the champions. It should be mentioned that during a portion of the second half the defeated Wednesday team had to play with only ten men owing to an injury to Beech. Winning the toss, the Sheffielders had the advantage of a fair breeze and the sun shining in the face of their opponents. The Evertonians, however, started admirably against these disadvantageous, and their left wing at once bore down in brilliant style, the Sheffielders’ goal having a narrow escape from a pretty centre by Hardman. After the goal kick the home vanguard rushed down again in spirited style, and Young got in a pass just as he was bowled over by Layton, whereupon Hardman sprung to the ball, and with a fine shot flashed it into the net, and scored a lovely goal two minutes from the start. After their defence had bene thus penetrated by the opening dash of their opponents the Wednesday men steadied themselves a little, and away went their right wing in sprightly fashion. Hemmingfield, shooting in sharply from an acute angle, caused Kitchen to look lively in order to save. Wednesday again attacked, and Layton tried a long shot from midfield, which Kitchen had some difficulty in just tipping over the bar. The ball was got away from the corner kick, and Young letting in Hardman there was another brisk attack by the Everton left, but Burton prevented the centre being improved upon. Wednesday dashed back again and forced a corner, from which Chapman headed in cleverly, Kitchen, however, saving. Then came another smart movement by the Everton vanguard, and good passing by Hardman and Young gave Sharp the ball and the last-named shot, but the ball struck Lyall on the knee and rebounded into play. Occasionally the Sheffielders advanced, but the home side were the more dangerous in attack, nearly all the danger, however, coming from the left wing. Once Settle, well placed, had a glorious chance, only to shoot wide. Then Wednesday made a spirited advance by the left, but found the home defence strong, and could not get a shot at Kitchen. However, they kept the ball in their opponents’ quarters, the forwards working hard for an opening, but though they forced a corner they could not get through. Then Everton ran down, and Sharp screwed in wide of the mark. Wilson was given off-side as he essayed to break away, and midfield play followed. However, a little later the Wednesday centre broke away and passed well to Chapman, who however, kicked too strongly when he had a clear course for a run, and the ball went over the line. Burton skilfully stopped a rush by the Everton right, beating Sharp. Some clever football was shown on both sides Wednesday now playing better than at the start, the game at this period being well and evenly contested. Once Wilson and Beech ran smartly down into the Everton quarters, and Beech put in a capital shot, which, however, Kitchen saved well near the post. Beech had been heavily charged down at the point of shooting, and was not able to resume immediately. Everton made several skilful forward movements, which were spoiled by breaches of the off-side rule. The Sheffielders replied with a well-managed advance by the right, and Chapman called upon Kitchen with a fast long shot, the Everton custodian, however, saving. Play continued of an even and interesting character, but the defence at both ends was strong and except one good low shot from Hardman, which Lyall saved, neither goalkeeper had anything to do for a considerable time. However, at length the Evertonians began to exert energetic pressure, and Settle made an opening for Young, who, however, shot in too slowly, and Lyall making a great effort, brought off a fine save, while just afterwards Burton, close in front of goal, stopped a straight drive, which would have beaten Lyall. Wednesday were kept defending, but Burton and Layton and all the halves stuck well to their opponents and held them in check. From a free kick in midfield, Wednesday then made a dangerous dash, but a fast shot by Chapman straight for the mark cannoned back from a defender, and the attack ended by Beech hooking the ball over the bar. Hemmingfield did good work on the Wednesday right, but his centre as cleared. A rush by the Sheffield left saw Simpson send the ball wide. The ball remained in the Everton half up to the interval which arrived with the score; Everton, 1 goal; Wednesday, 0.
When ends were changed Wednesday had to face the breeze, but the sun had become overcast with clouds, and gave no disadvantage. Everton began with a combined rush, but Crawshaw headed clear, and both returned the ball very wide. The Sheffielders then attacked from a free kick, but Wolstenholme cleared well, and then a free kick to Everton threatened danger to the visitors’ goal, but a foul in goalmouth by an Evertonian cleared the danger. Simpson and Beech got away on the Wednesday left, and Beech was hurt in the face as he tried to rush through, and had to leave the field. The referee threw the ball up, and Wednesday, rushing in, Simpson put in a sharp shot which gave Kitchen some trouble to save. Another dash by the Sheffield left saw the ball forced over the line. Beech returned to the field, but subsequently bad to retire again. Hardman led several attacks by the Evertonians, and once Settle  missed a chance by shooting over the bar when well placed. Hotly pressed the Wednesday defence had to yield several corners, and Everton had most of the play. Once Settle made a grand opening for Young, but the latter shot wretchedly wide. At length the “Blades” drove their opponents back, and had a spell of attacking in their turn. Chapman and Hemmingfield had changed places on the Wednesday right, and once Chapman put in a superb long shot which Kitchen had to beat away from under the bar. Simpson making a great effort to get at the ball. There was now more energy in the Sheffield attack than previously, and twice the left wing rushed the ball only a shade wide of the Everton goal. The game continued to be contested with much determination, but when play had been in progress 20 minutes Everton succeeded in scoring a second goal. Settle ran the ball down and upset Brown, who went for him, leaving the ball to Hardman, who ran in, and with Lyall unprotected had an easy chance, of which he availed himself, shooting into the net amid loud applause. Just after this the Wednesday goal had a narrow escape from downfall again, but afterwards the “Blades” despite the adverse score, played up with commendable dash, and Crawshaw put in a fine shot which gave Kitchen a lot of trouble to save under the bar. Another dash by the Sheffielders saw Chapman put a glorious centre right into goalmouth, Kitchen beating away as Simpson vainly dashed at him. But the Everton forwards were not idle, and twice Lyall had to deal with dangerous centres from Sharp. Wednesday tried hard to reduce their opponents’ lead, although they were now playing only ten men, Beech being still an absentee, and Hemmingfield drove the ball hard against the side net. However, the Everton backs and halves continued to play a sound, defensive game, and the Sheffielders had to retire defeated by opponents who, on the day’s play, were the better side. Result;- Everton 2 goals, Sheffield Wednesday 0 goals.
Sheffield Wednesday.- Lyall, goal; Layton. Burton, backs; Ferrier, Crawshaw, Ruddlesdin, half-backs; Hemmingfield, Chapman, Wilson, Beech, Simpson, forwards.
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; W. Balmer, R. Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth, Taylor, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, Hardman, forwards.

INTERNATIONAL LEAGUE
Sheffield Independent - Tuesday 05 April 1904
ENGLAND v  SCOTLAND
EGLISH LEAGUE v  SCOTTISH LEAGUE MATCH
On the ground of the Manchester United club at Clayton, Manchester, the annual contest between the English League and the Scottish League was played, yesterday, in the presence of between 30,000  and 40,000 people, and resulted after a highly interesting struggle in a victory for the Englishmen by two goals to one.
Pleasant weather favoured the game, but a fairly breeze prevailed, and the ground was rather soft, although a liberal application of sand enabled the players to obtain a fairly good foothold.  The Scottish League, who depended upon eight of the men who had appeared for Scotland against Ireland, with a fresh left wing in the ranks, and Young brought into the half-back line, took the originally selected; but the home side lacked the services of Bache, Aston Villa, for whom Shearman, of Notts Forest, appeared at inside left. The Scotchmen played a capital game in the opening half, showing a marked superiority at half-back, while all their men seemed quicker on the ball than the English eleven. Indeed, at the interval the visitors, who had the wind against them to start, with, crossed over with a lead of one goal to none, their success seemed assured, but on change of ends the English Leaguers improved vastly. The home backs checked the rushes of the Scottish forwards very finely, and though the half-back line never proved quite satisfactory, the front rank combined admirably. Within ten minutes England had drawn level and with nearly 20 minutes to go they secured the lead. There were plenty of exciting before the end was reached, but the Englishmen retained their advantage and won on their merits. Disappointing in the early stages the contest, the English forwards played fine football afterwards. Cox and Shearman forming a capital left wing, Raybould acquitting himself well in the centre, and Rutherford showed rather too prominent to get off-side Bloomer rose to the needs of the occasion as only that great player can.  Frost, at half-hack, proved distinctly erratic, and Greenhalgh, though tackling well, failed to show himself a skilful attacking half, the best of the three being Abbott.
Burgess scarcely recovered from an injury to his ribs , was not at his best, but yet put in good service, and Crompton played a great game while Baddley in a big match had never been seen to better advantage. Hamilton and the two Walkers were the pick of the Scotch forwards, who played most spirited and decidedly skilful football in the opening half, but never really got going afterwards. Robertson was always a tower of strength at half, and Thomson and Young, if by no means his equals, acquitted themselves creditably. Jackson and Cameron kicked very sounded up to a certain point, but their limitations became apparent when Bloomer and his colleagues began to really combine. Little or no fault could be found with Rennie. Just at the start England came near scoring more than once, but within a few minutes the game went strongly in favour of Scotland, and play had lasted less than a quarter of an hour when a strong attack on the left wing ended in Robertson scoring with a long low shot, which Baddeley vainly endeavoured to reach. Rennie subsequently had a lot to do. Cox being several times prominent. But gradually the visiting forwards assumed the upper hand although rarely able to elude Crompton and Burgess. Some neat work between J. Walker and Hamilton ended in the latter putting through, but the point was disallowed for offs-side. Again Rennie had to save his charge more than once, and a clever combined effort between Bloomer, Cox, and Shearman only just failed to equalise the scores. Still at the interval Scotland led by one goal to none, and on resuming they went off with great dash, Baddeley having to handle three times in as many minutes. Then came several breaks away by the home forwards, but Rutherford getting off-side they came to nothing. However, with 10 minutes Shearman, taking a pass from Cox, made a capital opening for Raybould, who, at close range, beat Rennie, and so made the game one goal all. Then followed other attacks, first by England and then by their opponents, but the play settled down in favour of the home side. Shearman, when well placed, slipped down, and from a pass by Cox, Bloomer put through, but was given offs-side. The pressure however, continued, and Frost heading in, Rennie fisted back, the ball coming to Greenhalgh, who passed up to Bloomer, and amid great cheering the Derby man placed England in front less than half an hour after the resumption. The Scotchmen struggled gallantly to get on level terms again, and only rare goalkeeping prevented them from so doing. Baddeley saving splendidly from Hamilton, and even more brilliantly from McFarlane. Before the end Rennie cleared rather luckily from Shearman at the expense of a corner, but the match terminated without further scoring in a victory for the English League. Result;- English League 2 goals, Scottish league 1 goal
English League- Baddley, goal; Crompton and Burgess, backs; Frost, Greenhalgh, and Abbott (Everton), half-backs; Rutherford, Bloomer, Raybould, Shearman, and Cox, forwards.
Scottish League.- Rennie, goal; Jackson and Cameron, backs; Young, Thomson, and Robertson, half-backs; J. Walker, R. Walker, Hamilton, Macfarlane, and Quinn, forwards.
Referee, W. Nunnerley (Wales).
ENGLAND v  SCOTLAND
After the inter-league match at Manchester, yesterday, the following team was selected to represented England in the international match against Scotland- Baddley (Wolverhampton Wanderers), goal; Crompton (Blackburn Rovers), and Burgess (Manchester City), backs; Wolstenholme (Everton), Wilkinson (Sheffield United), and Leake (Aston Villa), halves; Rutherford (Newcastle United), Bloomer (Derby County), V.J. Woodward (Tottenham Hotspurs), S.S. Harris (Cambridge University), and Blackburn (Blackburn Rovers), forwards.
Reserve; Common (Sheffield United) and Jones (Middlesbro).
Linesman; A. Davies, Berkshire.

EVERTON v  SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 05 April 1904
Played at Goodison Park, before a holiday crowd of 30,000. There was a complete rearrangement of the Everton team, which has done so well of late, the most notable absentee being Abbott. The teams turned out as fellow;-
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and R. Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth (captain) and Taylor, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Sheffield Wednesday.- Lyall, goal; Burton, and Layton, backs; Ruddlesdin, Crawshaw, and Ferrier, half-backs; Simpson, Beech, Wilson, Chapman, and Hemmingfield, forwards. Young led off, but Ferrier prevented an advance and the leather came back to Balmer, who put his side in possession, and there was a dash down the left, followed by a hot attack, which was not, however, effectively maintained, as Hardman and Young failed to improve the situation, and the ball was somewhat clumsily put over the bar. Wednesday did not get away from the goal kick, and the Blues returned on the left with redoubted vigour. Ferrier was passed in great style, and the leather put in to Young, who was hampered by Layton, so he passed back to Hardman, and the outsider, steadying himself for a second, let go with a grand drive, which had such beautiful direction and angle that Lyall could not get at it at all, and thus Everton scored amidst frantic applause in the first five minutes. After this success the Evertonians again raced down in fine fashion, but Layton checked, and the Wednesday right wing pair making ground, Hemmingfield gave Kitchen a swift and difficult shot to deal with. The home custodian, however, was fully equal to the occasion, and the Evertonians tried to force matters once more. Crawshaw checked admirably, and then Layton put in a long shot, which Kitchen saved at the expense of a corner. This led to a warm bully in front of the home citadel, but R. Balmer eventually cleared the invaders out, and Hardman getting possession raced along in the most brilliant fashion. He was challenged by Layton, but got the better of the encounter, and rushing on he put the ball over the bar. It was altogether a fine effort, and evoked loud plaudits of the crowd. Following upon this the visitors moved down on the left, and through an infringement they were given a free kick close in. this, however, was safely disposed of, and a second forward movement on the right resulted only in an unproductive corner. After this turn of stiff pressure by the Blades Everton came down once more on their left, but the advance was only momentary, and Ferrier soon put his wing in possession, and both of the Balmers had to chip in to check. Again did Everton’s left make a most promising incursion, but such stern resistance was offered that the leather was crossed to Sharp, who was quite uncovered, and the cricketer had practically an open goal. He sent the ball towards Lyall with a splendid ground shot, but, most luckily for the Blades the leather caught the toes of the Sheffield custodian, and bounded into play once more, when Burton cleared. This was, indeed, a marvellous escape for Wednesday. Young made an advance on his own, but was sandwiched and grassed, and from this Wilson and Beech came away together. They were checkmated by Balmer and Booth, and a tough struggle wound up in favour of the Blues, though the Baldes, were not driven out, and Taylor, put the leather outside. The pressure by the Wednesday right increased and finally Balmer had to concede a corner, from which Young finally headed the leather into safer quarters. Everton now took up the attack, and Taylor tried a long shot, which Layton accounted for, Sharp and McDermott failed to advance owing to the attentions of Burton and Crawshaw, and the result was an advance up the Sheffield centre, when Beech put behind. A free kick provided another opening for the Blades but the ball was again carried over the goal line. Booth put across to his right, when Burton proved too smart for Jack Sharp, and then offside spoiled an advance on Everton’s opposite wing. Booth only partially checked a visit from Chapman and Hemmingfield, and Balmer had to step in before they were ejected. A strange sequence of mulls came from Booth and the Balmers, who each failed in turn to stay an advance by Beech and Wilson, and the inside man found opportunity ultimately to test Kitchen with a very awkward shot. This failure in the Everton defence might easily have led to disaster. Next came a smart bit of footwork from Settle, who was playing well in his old position, but once more was Young offside in receiving the pass. Capital work followed from Sharp and McDermott, but Young miskicked. The Blades now attacked with great vigour, and Kitchen just saved at full-length from a straight drive from Chapman. The Blades refused to retire, until a free kick enabled Balmer to clear; and another soon after brought about a hot attack, which was well met by the Wednesday defence. Then Booth held the field himself, but failed to get his left wing going, though soon after Hardman beat Layton and sent in to Lyall, but his shot lacked speed. Everton continued to have much the best of matters, but their attacks lacked method and finish when near goal. The score was nearly augmented by Settle after some clever work by McDermott and Young, and Lyall had to fling himself full length out of goal and drop on the ball to save. It was a superb bit of artistic passing and footwork, and fully deserved a successful issue. Some time had now elapsed since Wednesday had made a decent move out of their own territory, so keen was the Everton attack, and the half-back play. A fine opportunity was offered Beech and Chapman from a free kick, but both made poor efforts from highly advantageous positions.
Half-time; Everton 1 goal, Wednesday nil.
The gate numbered quite 35,000 when the teams reappeared Wilson at once initiated a forward movement, but Wolstenholme checked him, and then served up to the right wing Sharp and McDermott rushed away, only to put the ball over the line. After this Wolstenholme shot in, as did also Booth, but the latter’s was a rather poor attempt. Taylor afterwards cleared, and a free kick further improved Wednesday’s position, but Booth and Wolstenholme staved off the attack in clever fashion. At the opposite side a couple of throws in enabled Everton to press very closely, and then they were awarded a free kick, and from this they put on more pressure, but Burton repulsed very gamely. McDermott next gave Settle a nicer chance, but the little man only drove the leather to Ruddlesdin. After this Everton kept up the attack strongly. Their passing was rather slovenly, and several promisingly movements were spoiled. Beech had his nose hurt in a collision, and was forced to leave the field for a few minutes, and during this time Wilson tested Kitchen with a very fine drive, but the latter cleared, and then all the Everton forwards moved along in combined order, and Burton making a weak clearance, McDermott gave Settle a good opening, from which the latter tested Lyall’s ability. The Wednesday goalkeeper then cleared. But further pressure was put on by the Evertonians who forced three corners in rapid succession, but they were unable to pierce the net. On one occasion Young was guilty of a really shocking effort when he had an open goal before him. After this the visitors paid a determined visit to the Everton quarters, and the powers of the brothers Balmer were severely tested. In the end, however, Booth cleverly checkmated Hemmingfield and Chapman, and though the Blades attacked with renewed vigour, they could not meet with success. Everton in turn took up the attack, and a second goal accrued after some good work by McDermott, who was bowled over after he had passed the ball to Hardman. The latter then had a clear field, taking the ball along, he beat Lyall with an awkward shot.
Result; Everton 2 goals, Sheffield Wednesday nil.

LANCASHIRE COMBINATION DIVISION A
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 05 April 1904
LIVERPOOL RESERVE v.  EVERTON RESERVE
At Anfield, before 7,000 spectators. The teams faced each other as follow;-
Liverpool.- Cotton, goal; Wilson and McLean, backs; Lathom, Fleming and Morgan, half-backs; Dudley, Raisbeck, Carlin, Chadwick and Garside, forwards.
Everton.- Whitley, goal; Wildman and Murray, backs; Chadwick, Russell and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, Sheridan, Roberts, O’Hagan, and Corrin, forwards.
Carlin kicked off for Liverpool against the wind, and Everton pressed at the start, forcing a corner, several following in quick succession. Everton kept up the pressure for some time, but failed to call upon the Liverpool goalkeeper, and Carlin and Chadwick were instrumental in Liverpool taking up the running. Rankin, after about ten minutes’ play, was successful in opening the score for Everton, after Cotton had saved from O’Hagan. Liverpool retaliated but failed to get the better of the Everton backs. Further corners by Everton were worked away, and then Carlin dashed through but Wildman cleared, while Murray was also defending well, and Everton were seen attacking again, being assisted by several free kicks but their shooting was poor, Sheridan being very often at fault. Everton now had several corners, but they failed to add to their score. After Liverpool had survived a long period of pressure they then attacked, and Whitley saved from Dudley and Garside. Liverpool kept in the visitors’ half for some time, and Wildman saved well from Raisbeck. Just before the interval Everton had an unsuccessful corner.
Half-time; Everton Reserve 1 goal, Liverpool Reserve nil.
In the second half Liverpool had the wind behind them, and had practically all the game. It was not until the last minute, however, that Garside equalised.
Result Liverpool Reserve 1 goal, Everton Reserve 1 goal.

EVERTON v  SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 1
Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 05 April 1904
Everton concluded their holiday programme, before a crowd numbering fully 25,000 persons, in brilliant fashion, defeating the League champions by two clear goals after a most keenly fought encounter. Owing to the absence of Abbott, who was assisting the English League eleven at Manchester, and Crelly, who was injured on Saturday, the home team was rearranged, as will be seen from the subjoined list of players. Everton started against a stiff breeze, and in two minutes Hardman received from Young, and scored. Both sides displayed fine football after this, but Everton were the more dangerous, though a long drive from Layton occasioned Kitchen some anxiety. Another rush on the home left enabled Hardman to centre perfectly, but Sharp shot against Lyall’s legs when close in, and an apparently certain goal was thus luckily prevented. Near the interval Beech ran through after charging down the elder Balmer’s return, but Kitchen smartly cleared, and Everton led by a goal at the interval. The second half was most stubbornly contested, each side pressing in turn, but eventually Young beat Layton for possession, and Hardman receiving scored a very clever goal. This settled the aspirations of the visitors, and, though Kitchen was frequently requisitioned, he maintained an impregnable defence. Result-Everton 2 Sheffield Wednesday 0
As already stated, Everton exhibited really brilliant form and better football need not be wished for than that witnessed in this match.  Had similar efficiency been shown throughout the season, the highest honours of the football world must of necessity have been theirs. There was not a weak spot in team, and, though mistakes near goal were frequently made, these were neutralised by the general excellence of the play in other respect. In the forward line the outstanding feature was the fine performance of Hardman on the extreme left, who gave a display superior to anything he has ever for before done for his club. His dashing runs and accurate centre were a continual source of anxiety to the Sheffield defence , and he two goals he scored were very fine efforts, the second in particular being the result of a judicious calculation of the situation, which was promptly utilised. Settle gave him every opportunity of making headway by his deft footwork, though near goal the inside left was somewhat remiss, and a like remark applies to Young who was responsible for many weak attempts at scoring.  McDermott gave another capable exposition, on this occasion as inside right, and Sharp though paling in comparison with the brilliance of the extreme left-winger, achieved some very clever bits of work. At half-back no fault could be found, and Booth played a splendid game in the centre, his tackling and placing being alike irreproachable, and on present form, the Everton skipper has no superior in this position in the country. Wolstenholme was likewise a striking success, his work being characterised by sound judgement, and Taylor- the general utility man- filled the place of Abbott most satisfactorily. Further behind, the brothers Balmer presented a most formidable line of defence, their returns being powerful and well timed, whilst Kitchen kept a very fine goal, and some of his clearances were especially skilful, those from Beech near the interval, and Crawshaw in the second half, respectively, being the most noticeable.  The Wednesday players proved themselves a well-balanced side, and had the Everton defence exhibited the least unsteadiness the issue might easily have been reversed.  Wilson was in vastly different form to that shown in the semi-final tie but he was well shadowed by Booth. Chapman sent in some capital centres, and Simpson on the extreme left is a most promising footballer.  The whole line worked well together, but could never get the upper hand of the home half-back, who dogged their movements unceasingly. In the half-back division, Crawshaw was a distinct success, whilst both Ruddlesdin and Ferrier worked hard without being unduly prominent. At full-back the Blades were splendidly represented, and in Burton they possess a defender of exceptional merit.  He repeatedly baulked Sharp when it came to a matter of speed, and he got the ball away from most difficult positions. Layton also defended sturdily, and  Lyall in goal made no mistakes, for the shots which Hardman got past him were simply impossible to stop, and would have beaten any custodian.  Everton have thus enriched themselves with six points in three matches and they should finish very near the leaders in the results tables.
Everton; Kitchen W Balmer, R. Balmer; Taylor, Booth, Wolstenholme; Sharp, McDermott,  Young, Settle, Hardman
Sheffield Wednesday; Lyall; Layton, Burton; Ferrier, Crawshaw, Ruddlesdin; Hemmingfield, Chapman, Wilson, Beech, Simpson.

INTER-LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP
Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 05 April 1904
ENGLAND v. SCOTLAND
One of the biggest crowds in the history of Manchester football was present at Clayton yesterday to see the inter-league match between England and Scotland.  Except that Bache (Aston Villa) was unable to turn out at inside left, the teams were as advertised. Shearman (Notts Forest) was introduced as partner to Cox. When the team appeared it was estimated that there would be about 45,000 people present.  The ground, after the  heavy rain, was heavy, but liberal use of sand had made the surface tolerably easy.
Crompton won the toss, and no sooner had the ball been set rolling than Abbott secured possession, and gave a Cox. The Liverpool man rounded Young in great style, and Rennie’s citadel looked like being captured. The goalkeeper, however, was not troubled, Cox shooting round the post. From the goal kick Hamilton and the two Walkers initiated the first of a series of fine movements, but the Glasgow Ranger failed utterly when in the best of positions. For a time, so well did Scotland play- and backs (Cameron and Jackson) and the halves were really splendid -Baddeley, Crompton and Burgess were kept on tenterhooks. Frost was repeatedly outwitted by Macfarlane and Quinn, while  Abbott hardly came up to club form.  After 15 minutes’ play Robertson took a full kick and shooting hard along the ground, beat Baddeley. Bloomer and Raybould strove hard to bring the score level, but the Scotland defence held the upper hand, while it was as much as England’s backs could do at times to prevent further downfall. At the interval Scotland led by a goal to nil.
In the second half England improved wonderfully, particularly at half-back; but still the neatest and more methodical play was shown by Scotland until Raybould, from close quarters, drew level, Rennie having no chance. Once on a level footing, England pressed with great vigour and at last, amid great cheering, Bloomer in characteristic style slipped the backs and scored what proved the winning goal. The match was capitally fought.  In the first half it looked as if would win easily, the team all round being in fine fettle.  England’s chance came in the concluding half, and settling down, they at last got the full measure of their opponents. Result; England 2 Scotland 1
English League- Baddeley (Wolverhampton Wanderers) Crompton (Blackburn Rovers) and Burgess (Manchester City); Frost (Manchester City), Greenhalgh (Bolton Wanderers) and Abbott (Everton); Rutherford (Newcastle United), Bloomer (Derby County) Raybould (Liverpool) Shearman (Nottingham Forest)and  Cox (Liverpool). Scottish League.- Rennie (Hibernian) Jackson (St Mirren) and Cameron (St Mirren) Young (Celtic) Thomson (Heart of Midlothian) Robertson (Glasgow Rangers) Walker (Glasgow Rangers), R. Walker (Heart Midlothian) R. Hamilton  (Rangers) Macfarlane and Quinn (Celtic)
THE ENGLISH TEAM TO MEET SCOTLAND
At a meeting of the English selection committee yesterday,  the following team was chosen to meet Scotland at Glasgow, next Saturday;- Baddeley (Wolverhampton) goal Crompton (Blackburn Rovers) and Burgess (Manchester City) Wolstenholme (Everton) Wilkinson (Sheffield United), and Leake (Aston Villa), half-backs; Rutherford (Newcastle United), Bloomer (Derby), Woodward (Tottenham Hotspur) S.S (Cambridge University), and Blackburn (Blackburn Rovers), forwards Reserves : Common (Sheffield United) Jones (Middlesbrough)

LANCASHIRE COMBINATION
Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 05 April 1904
LIVERPOOL RESERVE v EVERTON RESERVE
The return Combination fixture between the above teams was played on the Anfield ground yesterday morning before 6000 persons.  Both sides were represented, and a capital game was witnessed. In the first half Rankin scored, after Cotton had cleared a fine shot from O’Hagan, and though Sheridan ran clear through just before the interval, the Liverpool custodian brought off a fine save.  Afterwards with the breeze in their favour, Liverpool were seen to more advantage, but Chadwick missed a penalty kick ten minutes from time.  Wilson who had been playing full back went forward, and just before the whistle blew sent across a centre, which Garside cleverly converted, the result thus being a draw of one goal. For Everton, Whitley kept a good goal, and Murray played a very finely at left full back. The halves were an even trio, and in the forward line O’Hagan was especially prominent, his passing being beautifully timed. Roberts seems a likely centre forward and both Sheridan and Rankin put in much clever work. The Liverpool defence was extremely sound, Wilson doing splendidly at right full back; whilst Latham and Fleming were the pick of the halves. Carlin gave a capital exhibition as centre forward, and is worthy a trial in the premier team. Of the others, Chadwick was the most conspicuous, and Garside who started rather shakily, improved as the game progressed. On the play the teams deserved to share the points.

TIT BITS OF " THE" LEAGUE.
Football Chat & Athletic World- Wednesday 06 April 1904
By Montezuma
Everton began and continued their Eastertide programme in prime fashion. The Good Friday event at Goodison put a big nail in Liverpool's coffin, the Toffees winning a lively encounter by 5 goals to 2. For some considerable time past those given to dishonourable behaviour themselves made no secret of asserting that this game was as good as won by Liverpool prior to a ball being "bowled," so to speak; in brief, that Everton would, through kindly consideration for their distressed neighbours, "go aisy." For the sake of sport's good name, and also that the game's traducers should be sent shamefacedly into hiding, I rejoice that Everton asserted their supremacy. Nevertheless, I condole with Liverpool. But the losers in this instance had only themselves to blame, for they showed a painful lack of understanding and real grit; only West, Goddard, and Robinson did themselves justice. On the other hand, Cotton in goal, gave a most inglorious exhibition and 'Cox, among others was Cox only in name. As for Everton, they played well almost to a man, and sent the 40,000 spectators home well satisfied, with the exception of the Liverpool club's partisans. Balmer played a great full-back game, whilst Wolstenholme and Booth again demonstrated their great claims to places in the English team v. Scotland. McDermott was perfect in his footwork at inside-left, and Hardman's wriggling dash frequently upset West's equilibrium. But Young was the greatest surprise, coming out in fine form and scoring no fewer than four of the five goals.
On Saturday Everton entertained their Wolverhampton rivals, when a generally one-sided game ended favourably to the former by 2 goals nil. Whilst not exhibiting their most brilliant form, and despite quite a number of easy chances missed, Everton found Baddeley a big afternoon's employment—all which serves to indicate that Baddeley's companions, on the whole, were a most moderate lot. So they were, with the exception of Jones, Pheasant, and, perhaps, Baynam. As for England's goal-keeper, he was at his best, all shots coming alike to him until ten minutes before the close, when little Hardman got through from a corner. Then Jones miskicked, and Settle (who displaced Young at centre) made some amends for previous shortcomings with a capital goal. Sharp : Hardman, Wolstenholme, and Booth were the winner's leading lights.

LANCASHIRE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
Liverpool Mercury - Thursday 07 April 1904
AN EVERTON PLAYER SUSPENDED
A meeting of the executive of the Lancashire Association was held at Blackburn last night, Mr. Woolfall presiding. Referee Roberts reported Sheridan (Everton) and Hulmes (Rossendale) for fighting at Rossendale. Both players were suspended until the end of the season.

THE SCOTTISH SKIPPER-JACKY ROBERTSON
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Saturday 09 April 1904
Jacky Robertson, thoroughly deserves the honourable position of captain of the Scottish team. Leaving Dumbarton as a mere youth, he joined Everton and played for some time in the reserve teasm, Boyle, Holt, and Stewart were the regular League halves, but such excellent form did Robertson show that it was soon seen a place must be found for him. "Sojer Stewart" was playing a great game, but could keep out the youngster, who not only maintained his place in the Everton team, but gained his cap against England. There was now a demand for his service, and Southampton finally secued him. Though loss to sight in Southern League football, he was not lost to memory, for another English cap was his. Strong inducements were now held out to him by two leading Scottish Clubs, and Rangers proved the lucky ones. He has been capped every year since he came to Ibrox, his record of English caps being 1898-99-1900-1-2-3-4, or one more than Neillie Gibson, and three less than the record-holders Arnot and Campbell. As the holder of seven consectutive caps, Robertson is above adverse criticism. He is a keen tackler, and, possessing rare speed, grand at following up when beaten, as happens even the ableat defender. Shines equally well in defence or atatck, and is perhaps the deadiest half-back shot in the kingdom, as witness his goal against England League at Manchester. His aspirations after the managership of an English team, and is at presently studying with a view to improve himself in ascholastic matters.

JACKIE ROBERTSON
April 9, 1904. Evening Telegraph
Jacky Robertson thoroughly deserves the honorable position of Captain of the Scottish team. Leaving Dumbarton as a mere youth, he joined Everton, and played for some time in the reserve team. Boyle, Holt, and Stewart were the regular League halves, but such excellent form did Robertson show that it was soon seen a place must be found for him. “Sojer Stewart” was playing a great game, but could not keep out the youngster, who not only maintained his place in the Everton team, but gained his cap against England. There was now a demand for his services, and Southampton finally secured him. Though lost to sight in Southern League football, he was not lost to memory, for another English cap was his. Strong inducements were now held out to him by two leading Scottish Clubs, and Rangers proved the lucky ones. He has been capped every year since he came to Ibrox, his record of English caps being 1898-99-1900-1-2-3-4, or one more than Neillie Gibson, and three less than the record-holders Arnot and Campbell. As the holder of seven consecutive caps, Robertson is above adverse criticism. He is a keen tackler, and possessing rare speed, grand at following up when beaten, as happens even the ablest defender. Shines equally well in defence or attack, and is perhaps the deadliest half-back shot in the kingdom as witness his goal against England League at Manchester. Has aspirations after the managership of an English team, and is at presently studying with a view to improve himself in scholastic matters.

TEAM ARRNAGEMENTS FOR THIS DAY
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 09 April 1904
Everton v Stoke.
League match at Goodison Park; Kick-off 3.30
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and HP Hardman, forwards.
Everton Combination v Bolton Wanderers
Lancashire Combination match at Bolton; Exchange Station 2.5. Kick-off 3.30.
Everton.- Whitley; Gordon and Murray, backs; Clayton, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, Sheridan, Roberts, O’Hagan, and Dilly, forwards.
Tuesday
Everton v Colne
Combination match at Goodison Park; kick-off 5.30.
Everton.- Whitley, goal; Gordon and Murray, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, Sheridan, Roberts, O’Hagan, and Dilly, forwards.

T. CORBIN
Aldershot News - Saturday 09 April 1904
Gunner T. Corbin, the centre-forward, comes from Liverpool, and has played for Richmond and Everton, winning two medals with the former team and one with the latter. This is his second year with the Marine team, being in the tea that run u to second place last season in Division II of the United Service League. He is 21 years of age, stands 5ft 9 ½ ins., and scales 11st 4lbs.

EVERTON v  STOKE
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, April 9, 1904
LEAGUE DIISION 1
NEITEHR SIDE SCORE UP TO HALF-TIME
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
Local interest in the second division is maintained even at this advanced stage of the football season. The visit of the Potters to the Goodison Park enclosure was of less interest to Everton than Stoke, who came determined to achieve a victory, which seemed most improbable when the recent superb form of the Blues is considered. Victory for Stoke meant sure escape from deposition to lower company next season whilst to Kitchen it meant but the ratification of that “highly respectable” position they now occupy. The Anfield crowd who supported the fixture were brimful of confidence that the Blues would extinguished the Potters and keep alight that little ray of hope which still shines for the Anfield club.
Everton.- Kitchen; Balmer and Crelly; Taylor, Booth (captain), and Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.
Stoke.- Roose; Burgess and Hartshorne; Baddeley, Holford, and Bradley; Fielding, Whitehouse, Galloway, Capes and Leonard.
There were about 12,000 spectators present when Young started operations for Everton. After a few minutes play Leonard got in a centre, which Gallimore missed, and then, when Sharp got down his wing. Hartshorne missed his kick, but smartly recovered himself, and play was transferred to the visitors’ right. A visit was quickly paid to the Everton goal, where after passing between Whitehouse, Fielding, and Gallimore, Holford shot wide of the mark. The Stoke forwards kept giving the Everton halves a lot of work to do, and on two occasions had Booth and Abbott fairly and squarely beaten, but a mistake by Whitehouse gave the Everton defence a lease of life, and then Whitehouse fouled Booth, this being the cause of the rout of the attacking team. Sharp got one or two opportunities, but he was evidently half lame and seemingly incapable of a really smart sprint. Leonard missed a sharp pass from Holford, and Sharp nipped on the leather and put across to his partner. Both the right wing men sailed away in company but found Burgess and Baddeley too stubborn, and the latter robbed and put into his centre, when Booth checked the advance of Gallimore and Capes. Neither set of forwards had proved particularly dangerous so far, and the high wind was all against accurate passing, so that the performance of the home quintet was by means artistic. At last the Potters did make a really dangerous move by forcing their way in on the right and leading Crelly out, when Whitehouse put in a flying shot, which shot along the ground a foot wide. After play in the centre Taylor put in some very hard work, and set his forwards going very prettily, but they were unable to make much impression on Hartshorne. Roose saved from a free kick, but then ran out of his goal, and came to grief, Everton gaining a corner, from which Abbott shot over the crossbar. The Stoke left made headway until Capes came under the notice of the referee and then Everton replied on the left, Roose again leaving his charge and kicking out. Whitehouse and Fielding went down their wing, and Abbott gave a centre for his opponents. Taylor passed out to Sharp, and a good move was made by the Everton front rank, but on Sharp coming in again Burgess dashed across and made a return to midfield.
Second report on back page is at the crease of the paper and cannot be read accurately without guessing the first part of the report.

BOLTON WANDERERS v  EVERTON
The Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday February 9 1904
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION-DIV A
At Burden Park. A heavy hailstorm doubtless affected the attendance, but about 2,000 spectators were present at the start. Everton were the first to attack, but found Broomfield safe in goal, whilst Ostick and Watson repeatedly exercised their wits, the Goodison club’s forwards being nippy. Lee’s centres were noticeable, but they were not utilised. The home forwards failed to accept their opportunities. Roberts scored per Corrin. Half-time; Everton 1 goal, Bolton nil.

EVERTON 0 STOKE CITY 1
April 11, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Everton played their fourth successive League match at home on Saturday, when they were opposed by Stoke. In as much as the Potters were not yet secure for the next season ususal interest attached to the game, especially in view of the fact that with Liverpool, Stoke were candidates for the second division. The teams were: - Everton: - Kitchen, goal, W.Balmer, and Crelly, backs, Taylor, Booth (captain), and Abbott half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young Settle, and H.P.Hardman, forwards. Stoke: - Roose goal, Burgress, and Hartshorne, backs, Baddeley, Holford, and Bradley, half-backs, Fielding, Whitehouse, Gallimore, and Leonard, forwards. Referee A.Kingscott. Everton kicked off against the sun in the pressure of some 12,000 spectators, and the opening stages favoured the Potters, although the Everton defence was not seriously troubled. Leonard indulged in a sprint, only to be ruled offside, and the right wing also were prominent without however, getting in a shot at goal. Hardman raced away without result, and following smart work by Sharp and McDermott, Roose rushed out and kicked away, with the result that Booth with a long kick dropped the ball over the bar. Play was of a ragged
Description, and once, when Young was making headway, the referee's decision of offside did not meet with approval. Play was of a given and take description, with few incidents of outstanding interest. Stoke got away, only to find Gallimore shot too high, and at the other end, Hardman was brought up for off-side. Everton were now showing up more prominently, but their attack was sadly lacking in sting. The Potters suddenly dashed away, and from Fielding's centre Whitehouse shot across the goalmouth. After this Everton forced the pace, but Roose had little difficulty in dealing with the demands made upon him. Stoke vainly endeavored to change the venue, and the Stoke defence were fairly hard pressed, though the Everton forwards were lacking in the directness of their attacks. Taylor gave Sharp some nice chances, but the Everton flier was well watched. The game was listless as compared with the holiday encounters, and neither side seemed able to rouse the spectators. Once when Hardman initiated an attack Burgess seemed to deliberately knock the ball down with his hands, within the penalty area, but it was not noticed by the referee, a piece of luck for Stoke. End to end play followed, but striking features were conspicuous by their absence. Eventually McDerrmott put the ball nicely forward to Sharp who crashed in a splendid centre, which Burgess kicked over at the expense of a corner. From this the ball was planted in the goalmouth, and ultimately headed over by Booth. A moment later another corner fell to Everton, and this time after some tricky work, McDermott, with a low shot, sent just wide of the upright. From a throw-in Sharp shot over the bar, and then the Stoke left wing made progress by means of very pretty8 passing, the movement however, being spoiled, through the feeble finishing effort of Gallimore. Neither team appeared able to rise to the occasion, nor the scrambling nature of the game brought forth various appeals of the spectators, certain of them not being very complimentary. At last Everton showed in greater advantage, and Roose cleverly kept out a stinging centre from Sharp, but though pressing for some time they were unable to penetrate shooting high over the bar. Half-time Everton nil, Stoke nil. Now that Everton had the benefit of a stiff breeze it was confidently expected that they would soon place a different complexion on the game. On the resumption the home forwards at once made headway, but Settle was woefully at fault with a shot high over the bar. The Stoke defence was severely pressed, but Roose was equal to all the calls upon him. Stoke rushed away to the other end, and Crelly punting strongly, Hardman raced away on his own, without however, being able to get the better of Burgess. A moment later Sharp with his left too put in a really grand centre, which Roose was just able to tip over at the expense of a corner. Further pressure was maintained by Everton, and a fast bouncing shot from McDermott gave the Stoke custodian considerable corcern. For some time the Stoke goal was under continuous attack, but the shooting of the home men left much to be desired. On one occasion Roose very cleverly scooped out Settle;s shot from close range. Both Taylor and Booth shot out of range, and then from a sudden breakaway Stoke opened the score. Whitehouse and Fielding ran the ball down, and the former, beating Crelly, shot in at Kitchen, who stopped the ball without clearing. The result was that Whitehouse had little difficulty in planting the ball in the net. The reverse had rather an inspiriting effect upon the Evertonians, who, however did not produce anything approaching the form exhibited in their three previous home games. Towards the finish Stoke resorted to kicking out tactics, and after a very poor display Everton were beaten, Everton nil, Stoke 1.

BOLTON WANDERERS RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 3
April 11, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Combination “A” Division
At Burden Park. Just on the interval Roberts scored for Everton, Half time Bolton nil, Everton 1. Resuming, the Wanderers quickly crossed the middle line and forced back the visitors defence. Everton them scored twice. The Bolton men were disorganized, but towards the close they played better and put on two goals. Bolton 2 Everton 3. Everton: - Whitley, goal, Gordon, and Murray, backs R.Clayton, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs, Rankin, McAdam, Roberts, O'Hagan, and Dilly, forwards.

WOLSTENHOLME INTERNATIONAL HONOURS
April 11 1904. The Liverpool Courier
The annual contest between the association football representatives of England and Scotland, took place on the ground of the Celtic Club Glasgow on Saturday. There would be about 40,000 people present. Everton winning by a goal to nil.

THE LEADERS HARD-EARNED VICTORY
Athletic News - Monday 11 April 1904
Everton reserve gained a very creditable victory over the Bolton Wanderers Reserve at Burnden Park.  Just on the interval the Bolton goal was captured.  This was not a strong lead, considering the conditions and it was expected that the Wanderers would soon rub off the advantage. Singular to say, they became completely disorganized and so well did the Everton vanguard acquit themselves that they obtained a lead of three goals.  A rally on the part of the home side enabled them to put on two goals, but they failed to obtain an equalizer, and the honours went to the side that deserved them. 

ENGLAND VICTORY AT LAST
Athletic News - Monday 11 April 1904
Scotland v England
By Titrus
So rarely have the English eleven conquered their Scottish foemen in Glasgow that the supporters of the dominant partner can be excused for enthusing over they victory gained on the ground of Glasgow Celtic on Saturday in the presence of 40,000 followers of the dribbling game.  England;- Baddeley; Crompton, Burgess; Wolsteholmes (Everton), Wilkinson, Leake; Rutherford, Bloomer, Woodward, Harris, Blackburn.  Scotland;- McBride; Jackson, Watson; Aitken, Raisebeck, Robertson (Rangers), Niblo, Walker, Brown, Orr, Templeton.

Ex Everton Player Jack Robertson now of Glasgow Rangers

POOR FOOTBALL AT GOODISON PARK
Athletic News - Monday 11 April 1904
By Junius
After their fine exhibition during the Easter holidays Everton were naturally expected to account for Stoke without much trouble, despite the fact that the visitors were sorely in need of points to prevent their relegation to the Second Division.  However, Everton once more gave proof of their inconsistency by allowing their opponents to score the only goal of the match, and thereby repeating precisely the verdict of last year’s meeting on the same ground.  A strong breeze was blowing from goal to goal, and Stoke had the advantage of this in the first half.
SCRAMBLING FOOTBALL
To even attempt to record the details of this exhibition of football would be as wearisome as it was to witness.  The Everton players never seemed to settle to serious football, and throughout the game did not display a tithe of the cleverness shown in their recent games.  Stoke were little better, for their forward play was rugged, and rarely occasioned Kitchen much anxiety.  No goals were scored before the interval, and none were deserved, and the half-time verdict of nothing gained was a faithful reflex of what had happened during this period.  Everton on resuming with the breeze in their favour pressed for a time, but their shooting was as wild as the April wind, and one never knew where to expect the ball to travel, when it came to close quarters.  After Everton had kept the play hovering around Roose and his backs for fully twenty minutes, the Stoke right wing broke away, and Whitehouse beating Crelley shot straight at Kitchen.  The latter failed to hold the ball, and the Stoke inside right continuing his career, regained possession, and banged the ball into the net via the under surface of the crossbar.  This settled the issue.
GENERAL CRITICISM
It was the worst exhibition of football seen on the ground this season, without doubt, and coming as it did after the excellence of the previous days, I cannot account for the remarkable falling away of the Everton players.  It was simply a rush and scramble throughout, utterly devoid of any of the finer points of the game, and neither side deserved to score, for the general work scarcely reached even a moderate standard.  Everton were the greater sinners in this respect, for their forwards were inert and disjointed, and they never seemed likely to find the net.  Sharp deserves some commiseration for, though unfit, he was pressed into service at the last minute owing to his substitute, Rankin, being incapacitated, and this will account for the weakness of his work.  It would be difficult to single out any forward for especial mention, whilst the half-backs, with the notable exception of Taylor, who worked untiringly throughout, were off colour.  The backs were little removed from fair, and Kitchen failed at the only decent shot he had to deal with during the game.  Everton have disappointed their patient supporters many times in their undulating career, but I question if ever they have given them greater cause for displeasure than in this match.  Within a week they have been seen at their topmost pinnacle of their form and at their lowest depth, and to even attempt to explain such a falling away is beyond me.  As regards Stoke, who can be excused for displaying their jubilation at the finish, the defence never gave anything away.  Roose saved some straight shots, and made ultra-heroic efforts to get at others, terribly wide of the mark.  The full backs kicked sturdily, and did not rest on ceremony in clearing the ball; in fact, the Stoke defence shaped very creditably under the circumstances.  The half-backs were a fairly even trio, and the forwards were best represented by Whitehouse and Capes.  Everton; Kitchen; Balmer and Crelley; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.   Stoke; Roose; Burgess, and Hartshorpe; Baddeley, Holford, and Bradley; Fielding, Whitehouse, Gallimore, Capes, and Leonard.  Referee A. Kingscott, Derby.

EVERTON REVIEW
April 11, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
After having treated their supporters to three successive displays of brilliant football at Goodison Park, the Everton team following by an exhibition of a totally different character against Stoke, and, as was the case last season were beaten by a goal to nil. For inconsistency. Everton have no superiors in the Country, and they are evidently determined that this questionable characteristic shall remain theirs, even if they cannot secure such honours as the Association and League trophies. Within a parried of nine days we find then humbling Liverpool into that dust, overwhelming the Wolves, smiting the League champions, and being vanquished by a third rate exhibition of football from Stoke. Such variety may possibly appeal to the tastes of some, who rapidly tire of a monotonous sequence of success, which their generous treatment of the lowly and struggling Potters may awaken some springs of eternal gratitude in the breasts of the latter. It will thus be readily understood that Everton were placed in a thankless position in having so many conflicting wishes to satisfy, and the Potters are to be congratulated on being the lucky recipients of the offered favours. To fully account for such a complete reversal of form is the only matter in connection with the match under notice that deserves any considerations whatever, and in addition to those suggestions already mentioned it is possible on matures reflection to advance others which may have worked at influence, neither directly or telepathically on the ultimate result. For instance it may be urged that Everton were beaten by superior play on the part of their opponents. This, however, is a delicate question to tackle, and as Everton have demonstrated that they can play the game, it might be considered an insult to put forward the proposition that the stuff which Stoke exhibited under the guise of football was better than that which the home side displayed. A more feasible and withal charitable explanation of the defeat seems probable. Playing at they generally do, a stylish and high class game, Everton doubtless found it an impossible task to descend from their alevated plane to the humble depths where on the Potters disport themselves; their corners and methodical notions carried out in accordance with the highest traditions could not combat with the miserably unorthodox scrambles of their visitors and in the effort to simulate their tactics with those of the opposition they fell to the ground, and their endeavours were baffled by striving to overcome these difficulties, and at the same time win the game. Taking everything into consideration this appears the most likely causes of Everton's failure. To the casual observer, therefore, who accepts the course of events simply as they appear on the surface, the result would cause some surprise, but to the more simply thinking enthusiasm the defeat would merely come in the ordinary way as the naturally anticipated verdict. Such a method of reasoning is amply borne out by facts, and can consequently be accepted as the correct one. In the first of their Easter matches they had to face their Anfield rivals, and this was sufficient incentive to cause them to earnestly desire victory, for though the latter were sorely in need of points such details as those cannot be taken into account in a stern League struggle. Hence Everton, anxious to obtain a high position in the League table, won readily enough. The following day they met a doubtly opponent in Baddeley, the Wolves custodian and his valiant defence was eminently calculated to bring out the sterling qualities of the Everton attack, which accordingly followed. Then the League champions were thrashed, and as there is always considerable merit in vanquishing those who are at the top of the tree. Everton rose grandly to the occasion, and preformed their task splendidly. Next came Stoke, and the home team had, accordingly to the general consensus of opinion nothing to beat, consequently they did not beat the Potters. Could anything be more straight forward than this, and yet there were those present who ironically cheered some of the Everton players whenever they managed to get the ball and make headway with it, and who launched forth all manner of sneering insinuations when the match was over. Some people are never satisfied and yet it has been averted that football crowds are good judges of what should be and that they are generally accurate in their deductions. Everton were an utterly disjointed team, the forwards being practically useless, especially near goal, and they never seemed like scoring. Sharp was playing under difficulties for he only turned out at the last minute owing to Rankin, who had been selected being injured, and therefore his display can be readily pardoned. Of the remainder, some were worse than others and none good. Young was a complete failure in the centre, Settle ditto at inside left, and Hardman seldom in evidence, whilst McDermott on several occasions nearly scored. In the half-back division, Taylor worked untiringly, but both Booth and Abbott were faulty, and a long way removed from their usual efficiency. Balmer was moderate further behind and Crelly shaped fairly well. Kitchen had about half-a-dozen shots to stop, and the one, which beat him, ought never to have occurred, for he should easily have cleared the first drive from Whitehouse. Doubtless the men were Keenly feeling the effects of the hard work of the previous matches, and had thereby become somewhat stale. Everton could scarcely have gained the League championship even if they had won, but Stoke should clear the second division with a further share of similar good fortune. Concerning Stoke, little need be said beyond the fact, that they played no better football than Everton. Their forwards at times displayed fair passing, but as a general rule their work was scrambling, lacking in method, and devoid of any pleasing feature yet, they scored. Whitehouse deserves all the congratulations possible for achieving such an unlooked for honour though he may never again get another so easily. The remainder rambled about to little purpose, and the half-backs were content to lob the ball anywhere and everywhere.

Ex Everton Player John Breasley now of Tottenham In Athletic News

EVERTON v  STOKE
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 11 April 1904
At Goodison Park, before 12,000 spectators. Everton started against the wind and sun. stoke were early prominent, but shot badly, Leman and Galloway were often prominently, but Kitchen was rarely requisitioned. From a foul Roose saved a stringing shot, and a corner resulting, the ball was sent over the bar. Sharp tested Roose with an accurate centre, but Everton were none too effective near goal. Whitehouse missed a glorious chance near the interval. Half-time-Everton nil, Stoke nil.

With the wind behind them, Everton forced the play in the opening stages of the second half, but Roose was equal to the few demands made upon him. Suddenly racing away, Whitehouse called upon Kitchen, who only partially cleared, with the result that Whitehouse scored for Stoke. Everton gave a poor display and were unable to draw level. Result- Stoke 1 Everton 0
Everton.- Kitchen goal; Balmer and Crelly; Taylor, Booth and Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.
Stoke.- Roose; Burgess, and Hartshorne; Baddeley, Holford, and Bradley; Fielding, Whitehouse, Galloway, Capes and Leonard.

INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 11 April 1904
ENGLAND v  SCOTLAND
The 23rd annual international match between the above countries was played at Celtic Park, in weather of a most boisterous character. A cold north-west wind prevailed, accompanied by heavy snow showers, though at intervals the sun broke out. They very unfavourable character of the conditions had an appreciable effect upon the attendance.  Of the previous games played Scotland had been credited with 15 wins with England with 9 while 8 games were drawn. Although both elevens as originally chosen were full representative of the playing strength of the opposing nations, and there was consequently every indication of a fast and even game, the home side, by a series of misfortunes befalling several of its members, had to undergo a revision tending but little to its benefit. Defection after defection became known during the week preceding the fixture and when the Scottish representative took the field four changes were apparent, Rennie (Hibernians); goal; McCombie (Newcastle United) back; (Hamilton (Rangers) centre; and Livingstone (Manchester City) inside left wing, all having been compelled to withdraw. The three last mentioned resignations were all last-minutes one, the two former players intimating their inability to appear on Friday evening, The places vocated were given to McBridge (Preston North End) Jackson (St Mirren) brown (Middlesbrough) and Orr (Newcastle United).  
For an April day the weather conditions prior to the start were of the most inauspicious kind, heavy showers of hail during the morning converting the arena into a seas of mud, not bettered by the additional whirlwind of sleet which fell just before the game opened.  Doubtless the circumstances of the atmospheric conditions, and possibly the memory of that fateful 5th of April two years at Ibrox Park, had a deterrent effect upon the attendance which would not exceed 40,000 in an enclosure where preparations had been made for almost double that number.

THE GAME
After the usual photographing process the Scottish team took the field closely followed by the English. No little disappointment was felt when it became known that a further change had taken place in the eleven, McCombie (Newcastle United) right back, having intimated he could not play and Jackson (St Mirren) appearing on the field in his place.  The snowstorm which on a few minutes before the contest started completely saturated the ground and turned it into a perfect quagmire drenching those unfortunate spectators who didn’t happen to be under cover.  Scotland lost the toss, and Brown set the ball in motion.  A slight invasion of English territory took place,  but Crompton stopped Templeton’s attempt to get through. The Scots found the gale in their teeth a great disadvantage. Robertson, home left half-back passed out to Orr and a throw-in on the pavilion side resulted. The visitors' goal however was never in imminent danger, though Walker and Brown tried to slip in Burgess. The ball travelled with the greatest difficulty through the mud, and never has an international been played on worse ground conditions. The Scots were driven back by effective work on the part of Wolstenholme and Bloomer who secured a corner. The Scotch goal was in great jeopardy, but Jackson sent the ball to the left wing, where it went into touch. Templeton worked down the side, and after being brought up short by Crompton he subsequently got in a telling shot, which was blown past the goalmouth.  The players found it very difficult to catch the ball, and mistakes were frequent. From a throw-in near the home goal Robertson caused a diversion by giving Orr and Templeton an opportunity of bringing out Crompton's abilities. The Rovers rose to the occasion. The Scottish captain gave Niblo a long pass, and the latter, giving Walker possession, the Edinburgh player centred to Orr, who just failed to drive home the chance given him, the aim being hindered by  Crompton. The visitors next had a look in, and a long shot from Harris went high over the home upright. Wilkinson next was somewhat wide. Brown, the Scottish centre dashed clean away for the English citadel, when Burgess brought him down, and the free kick was safely got ride of. Walker, Niblo, and Brown put in some neat passing, but their tactics were rendered fritless by Burgess again. Baddeley was made anxious. He, however, was alive to the situation and promptly caught a stringer from Templeton. The home team were now playing very cleverly, and their passing under such adverse conditions left little to be desired. One more they were invading the Saxon goal, but Burgess again proved a stumbling block.  The visitors found the home defence very difficult to break through, Raisbeck, Robertson and Watson being in their best form.  A clever run by Niblo compelled Crompton to kick behind for safety. The corner kick was nicely placed.  Orr, however, headed the ball over the bar. The game had now been half an hour in progress without a tangible result. The Scots certainly were making an unexpectedly fine appearance, and were bringing out all that was good in the English backs.  Being well fed with the ball by their half-backs, the home front players were combining beautifully, The visiting 'forwards too performing wonders on the soft ground under conditions to which they were wholly unaccustomed. The Saxon left wing now had a look in, and Blackburn, tasking Harrison’s pass, compelled M’Bride, the home custodian, to save. The game certainly throughout its first half, was very interesting, and the football was displayed was of a wonderfully good character, though it was for either team to exhibit the  finer points of the game. Just as the whistle blew for half-time England had obtained a corner kick and for previous ten minutes had the better of the game, but could not storm the home citadel.  Thus honours were even at half-time,  neither side having scored.  After a short retirement to the pavilion the game was resumed, it being now the turn of the visitors to face the gale.  Woodward started by a pass to Bloomer. It was observed when the Scots appeared that Templeton and Niblo had changed places, the former playing on the right wing with Walker, while Niblo partnered Orr.  The visitors began at once to press, and were close on the home goal, the ball going into touch near the corner flag. Woodward was conspicuous by a single-handed run, but Raisbeck ended his career. The game now assumed a more open character, the ball travelling quickly from end to end. From one of these runs down by the visiting forwards Woodward almost, his fast shot striking the post and glancing out. The Scots returned the compliment, Baddeley, having twice to clear his charge, once from the foot of Walker, and again from a high shot delivered by Brown, who got the ball from Robertson. All his was very exciting, and increased the interest in the game. The ground was now drying, and play became faster in consequence. Fully a quarter of an hour had now passed, and still neither fortress had fallen, though each had its own escape. Once the home goal was left open, McBride running out, but Raisbeck headed the ball behind at the expense of a corner, which, however, proved abortive. Play was pretty lively now for a period at the home end, and Watson, making a miskick, Bloomer fastened on the ball, and with a lightning shot beat McBride, and thus obtained the first goal for England after 19 minutes’ play. The Scots followed up the kick-off, and when Walker saw an opportunity he gave Baddeley a difficulty shot to save, but it was cleverly held. Again the home team were assaulting Baddley’s change, and Orr, taking up a pass from walker, missed the left upright by inches only. Still the Scots pressed, and Crompton was forced to kick into touch. Clever passing by Harris, Woodward, and Blackburn forced the home custodian to run out. He fell, but stuck to the ball, eventually getting it safely away. The trend of the game was now somewhat in favour of the visitors, whose forwards were forcing matters. Harris made a splendid effort to score, but McBride was quick to save. The home goalkeeper’s troubles were not, however, over, as a free kick neat his charge caused him some anxiety, until Robertson gave him a welcome relief by sending the ball up the field. This half was certainly England’s, whose forwards, even in the face of the gale, were always assertive, and by wide passing puzzled the home defence. The crossing of Templeton and Orr did not appear to improve matters for Scotland, as the home combination seemed to be upset thereby. The home forwards appeared to be easier held in check, and they seemingly did nothing right. As the end approached a certain win for England was inevitable by the odd goal. Still the Scots did not give up hope, and persevered until the referee’s whistle sounded a cessation of hostilities, England gaining her first victory on Scottish soil since 1898. Result -England 1 Scotland 0
Considering the adverse conditions the game was, on the whole very interesting. While the Scots shone best in the opening period, the Englishmen had most of the second half. The best of the visiting players were Burgess (who played a good game at back) and Wilkinson at half, while Harris the Cambridge University amateur, was the best of the forwards. Bloomer was well looked after, and received good support from Rutherford. Woodward did fairly well. For the Scots, Watson at back was good, Raisbeck was slightly better than Robertson at half, while Templeton, Orr, and Walker were the best of the front line.
England.- Baddeley (Wolverhampton Wanderers), goal; Crompton (Blackburn Rovers),  and Burgess (Manchester City), backs; Wolstenholme (Everton), Wilkinson (Sheffield United), and Leake (Aston Villa), half-backs; Rutherford (Newcastle United), Bloomer (Derby County), V,J. Woodward (Tottenham Hotspur), S.S. Harris (Cambridge University), and Blackburn (Blackburn Rovers), forwards.
Scotland.- McBride (Preston North End), Jackson (St, Mirren), and Watson (Sunderland), backs; Aitken (Newcastle United), Raisbeck (Liverpool), and Robertson (Glasgow Rangers), half-backs; Walker (Heart of Midlothian), Niblo (Aston Villa), Brown (Middlesbrough), Templeton (Newcastle United), and Orr (Newcastle United) , forwards.
Linesmen.- England; A. Davies (Berks and Bucks). Scotland; Captain R.M. Christie (president Scottish Football Association). Referee; Mr. Nunnerley (Welsh Association).

BOLTON RESERVE v EVERTON RESERVE
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 11 April 1904
At Burnden Park.  Just on the interval Roberts scored for Everton.  
Half-time-Everton 1 Bolton nil
Resuming, the Wanderers quickly crossed the middle line, and forced back the visitors’ defence. Everton then scored twice. The Bolton men were disorganised, but towards the close they played better, and put on two goals,  
Result Everton Reserve 3; Bolton Wanderers Reserves 2

SATURDAY’S FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 11 April 1904
On Saturday the Everton players showed us how surprising quickly football of the highest form can change to that of mediocre class. Three matches in four days- Liverpool on Good Friday, Wolverhampton Wanderers on the Saturday, and Sheffield Wednesday on Easter Monday-were won in the most brilliant manner at Goodison Park, the three games yielding 6 points and 9 goals. During the few days, however, that have intervened the Evertonians lost all their form, the consequence being that Stoke defeated them by a goal to nil. The result was no little surprise to those people who were anticipating further laurels for the brows of the Everton men. To have added the Stoke scalps to those of the other trio would, indeed, have made a record-four successive victories in practically a week-in League football. however, it was not to be. But we need not be so much concerned locally about missing this “record.” It is the fate of the Liverpool club we must think about. Until Stoke left the field at Goodison Park winners of two points on Saturday afternoon there was a chance -a very poor one it must be admitted -of the Liverpool Club retaining its place in the First division; but when Stoke walked off with that solitary goal Liverpool’s chance went with it. A contemporary says “the win will do Stoke a power of good.” No doubt it has, for it lands the organisation of the ”Potters” safe and sound for another season. At the same time- one cannot help but be locally selfish in these matters-it has given football in Liverpool a knock-down blow, more especially the club most concerned. While on this matter, mention might here be made to a rumour which has been in circulation for some weeks now, though we only give it for what it is worth, and without committing ourselves as to its veracity or otherwise. The rumours is that if the Liverpool Club lost its place in the First Division it would sooner or later drop out of existence, as the owners of the land at Anfield intend to build on the ground. If the latter rumour is correct, then it does not matter much whether the Liverpool Club remains in the First Division or not, for it would be a difficult task indeed for the club management to acquire such another convenient plot of ground for the purposes of football. it will be remembered that some twelve months or so ago a similar rumour- that is, as to building on the Anfield ground- was rampant, but when inquiries on the matter were made to the club directors they affected to know nothing whatever about them. It would surprise nobody if the rumour was correct this time.
Now, as to the Everton-Stoke match. Ten thousand of the 12,000 spectators present were shockingly disappointed at the display of football given on both sides. Everton played a weak game, but the visitors were very much weaker. The home contingent were quite good enough to do three-parts or more of the attacking, but, with one or two exceptions, the individual work was done in the most slip-shot fashion- seemingly careless and regardless of result. Taylor, at half back was a notable exception, for he himself tried more the once to beat Roose, who was always a clever custodian when his goal was in danger. Perhaps it was the high wind, which was very boisterous, which spoiled all the Evertonians attempts at scoring, for the ball was blown everywhere but into the net. The Stoke goal was a lively one. It was obtained from a breakaway after the visitors had been cooped up like a flock of sheep, and only that Kitchen was taken by surprise he would probably have saved his charge.

EVERTON RESERVES 3 COLNE 0
April 13, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division
This postponed match was played at Goodison-park, last evening before a good attendance. The home team included a new back and half-back, in Heyes and Hanlin. Teams: - Everton: - Whitley, goal, Heyes, and Murray, backs, Hanlin, Chadwick, and Makepeace half-backs, Rankin, McAdam, Roberts, O, Hagan, and Dilly, forwards. Colne: -Paterson goal, Turner and Smalley, backs, Savage, Johnson, and Rounder, half-backs, Goulding, Hunter, Driver, Russell, and Gardner, forwards.
Roberts started for home side. Colne early on took up the running. The Everton backs were kept busy, and Whitley had effected smart clearances. Colne then hit the crossbar with a splendid shot, Everton retaliated strongly but found the opponents defenders in capital form. The visitors took the aggressive, and Russell made a fine shot, which Whitley saved, in fine style. The home forwards then got possession and went away, Rankin sending in a stinging shot, which Paterson cleverly saved. A few minutes later Rankin passed beautifully to O'Hagan, who shot wide. Even play followed, each side attacking in turn. Eventually Everton got away on the left and were from a ace of scoring, but Turner nipped in and cleared. Half-time neither side had scored. In the second half Colne played on with ten men, Smalley having to retire with an injured collarbone. Everton put on considerable pressure, and following play by the forwards, Roberts scored a splendid goal. A little later O'Hagan put on a second goal, giving Paterson no chance of saving. Colne played one back and although Everton had frequently played offside they secured a third goal. Paterson was kept busy to the close, there was no more scoring, and Everton won by 3 goals to nil.

LANCASHIRE COMBINATION —DIV A
Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 13 April 1904
EVERTON v COLNE.
At Goodison Park before a good attendance. The following were the teams—
Everton Whitley goal; Heyes and Murray, Hanlon, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, McAdams, Roberts, O'Hagan, and Dilly forwards
Colne: Taterson, goal; Turner and Smalley, backs; Savage, Johnson, and Pounder, half backs; Goulding, Huxley, Driver, Russell, and Gardner, forwards.
Everton kicked off, and immediately pressed, the home goal being subjected to severe pressure. Savage struck the crossbar with a rattling shot. Everton then assumed the aggressive, but the Colne defence was excellent and the visitors removed play to the other end where Whitley was called upon to save a fine shot from Russell. The home team then got possession and raced away. Rankin sending in a stinging shot, which Taterson cleverly saved. A minute or two later Rankin passed the leather beautifully to O’Hagan, the last named shooting wide. Eventually, Everton got away on the left, and were within an ace of scoring, but Turner nipped in and cleared. When the whistle sounded the interval, neither team had scored. Resuming, Everton pressed strongly, and following some clever forward work, O’Hagan scored brilliantly. The same player put on a second goal. Everton were on good terms with themselves after this success, and they made things lively in front of Taterson’s charge, Roberts ultimately finding the net and scoring the home team’s third goal. Everton held the upper hand to the finish, the visitors being handicapped somewhat through one of their players being hurt, and having to leave the field. Result; Everton 3 goals, Colne nil.

NEW PLAYER FOR EVERTON
Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser - Thursday 14 April 1904
Ben Rickerby, of Southport Central, has signed for Everton, and will play for the Reserve team in the Lancashire Combination match with Accrington Stnaley on Saturday.

EVERTON TOO GOOD: SMALLEY THE UNLUCKY.
Nelson Chronicle, Colne Observer and Clitheroe Division News - Friday 15 April 1904
Colne played their postponed match with Everton Reserve at Goodison Park on Tuesday evening before a good attendance. There was one change in the Alkincoates eleven, Golding appearing in place of Seddon, who was given a rest. Teams:
COLNE. Tattersall, Turner, Smalley, Savage, Johnson, Pounder, Golding, Huxley, Driver, Russell, Gardner.
Everton Reserve; Whitley, Heyes, Murray, Hanlon, Chadwick, Makepeace, Rankin, McAdam, Roberts, O’Hagan, Dilly.
Everton kicked off, and Colne immediately pressed, the home goal being subjected to severe pressure. Savage struck the crossbar with a rattling shot. Everton then assumed the aggressive, but the Colne defence was excellent, and the visitors removed play to the other end, where Whitley was called upon to save a fine shot from Russell. The home team then got possession and raced away, Rankin sending in a stinging 'shot, which Tattersall cleverly saved. A minute or two later Rankin passed the leather beautifully to O'Hagan, the last named shooting; wide. Eventually, Everton got away on the left, and were within an ace of scoring, but Turner nipped in and cleared. When the whistle sounded the interval, neither team had scored.
Resuming. Everton pressed strongly, and following some clever forward work, O'Hagan scored brilliantly. The same player put on a second goal. Everton were on good terms with themselves after this success, and they made things lively in front of Tattersall' charge. Roberts ultimately finding the net and scoring the home team's third goal. Everton held the upper hand to the finish the visitors being handicapped by an unfortunate injury to Smalley, who had the ill-luck to have his collar bone fractured for the second time this season. The first accident was sustained in the match with Nelson at Christmas, Tuesday's match was only the second in which Smalley had taken part since that date. There was no further score and Everton ran out winners by three goals to nit. Colne have this played 33 matches (including cup ties), of which 9 have been won, 20 lost, and four drawn. For them 50 goals have been scored, and 79 against. The goal-scorers for Colne are:— Driver 12, Howarth 7, Seddon 7, Russell 6, Smalley 3, Sawley 3,  Husky 3,  Walker 2, Lee 1, Mclnnes 1, Savage 1, Crawford 1, Golding 1,  Johnson 1.
The Nelson team will do their jerseys for the last time on Tuesday night on the Seedhill ground, when they met Everton Reserves in  a re-arranged match. Tomorrow the clarets journey to Manchester to do battle with the United. 

BEN RICKERBY
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 15 April 1904
Ben Rickerby of Southport Central, has signed for Everton, and will play for the Reserve team in the Lancashire Combiantion match with Accrington Stanley to-morrow. He has appeared at inside right for Southport several times this season.

DERBY COUNTY v. EVERTON.
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 16 April 1904
At Derby. The attendance numbered 5,000, the weather being favourable for footbal. l Each team was below the usual strength. Everton were the better side in the first half, but could not get near Mackrey, who had many fine shots to stop. Bloomer knocked off the ball when well placed, and afterwards struck the crossbar. The Derby goal afterwards underwent brief bombardment. Half-time—Derby 0, Everton 0. The second half was well contested, but the game had not been long in progress when Wheatcroft, with no one but Whitley to beat, tipped the ball gently against Whitley who cleared. Maskrey again had more to do than Whitley and some of his saves were brilliant. In the last few minutes Hickling conceded a corner from which Abbott headed a goal. ResuIt—EVERTON 1, DERBY 0.

EVERTON RESERVE V. ACCRINGTON STANLEY
Saturday April 16, 1904. The Lancashire Evening Post
At Goodison Park in fine weather, before a big crowd. Everton Reserve; Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs; Dilly, McDermott, Roberts, O'Hagan, and Corrin, forwards. Accrington Stanley; McGregor, goal; Finney and Hampson, backs; Chorlton, Bradshaw and Holden, half-backs; Hesham, Hargreaves, Brunton, T. Becton, and M. Becton, forwards. Stanley won the toss, and Everton had to face a bright sun. Stanley made a vigorous atatck soon after the start, and the home backs had to continually defend. T. Becton missed a glorious chance shooting on to the stand when right in front of goal. Everton retaliated, and McGregor saved a long shot from McDermott, while Hampson conceded a corner in order to stop Corrin. Another flag kick followed but the brothers Becton, cleared the danger, and Tom had hard lines with a splendid shot the ball just missing the goal. Finney defended in brilliant fashion during the pressure by Everton, but so far Stanley had rather the better of a veryt fast and keenly contested game. O'Hagan headed against the post and Roberts scored for Everton from the rebound. A minute later Kitchen saved from Becton, Stanl;ey trying hard to get on terms. Everton at length relieved the pressure and retaliated strongly but the Stanley defence was grand. The visitors then pressed, Makepeace clearing almost under the Everton bar. Stanley tried desperately hard to get level, and Kitchen saved from Chorlton. McGergor saved brilliantly from Dilly. Half-time; Everton reserve 1, Stanley 0. Resuming after the interval, Everton forced three corners, and missed two practically open goals. Hotham missed his kick, but McGregor saved well and cleared a fine shot from McDermott. Stanley defended finely under considerable pressure, but Everton would probably have added to their score but for bad shooting. Stanley were rather too vigorous and werre penalsied on mnay occasions. Result; Everton Res 2, Stanley 0.

ENGLAND V. SCOTLAND.
Falkirk Herald - Saturday 16 April 1904
ENGLISH VICTORY.
The most important, of the Association international games was that decided at Celtic Park, Glasgow, on Saturday, when the thirty-third meeting of elevens of Scotland and England resulted in a victory for Southerners by one goal to nothing. The Scottish team during the past week suffered by reason the withdrawal Rennie (Hibernians), McCrobie (Newcastle United), Hamilton and Livingstone (Manchester City). By the Scottish selectors, Hamilton and Livingstone were considered the players whose absence had a weakening effect on the Scottish side, and their belief was confirmed during the progress of the game. The places of the players named were taken by M'Bride (Preston North End), Jackson (St Mirren), Brown (Middlesborough), and Orr (Newcastle United). Scotland lost the toss, and Brown kicked off against a strong westerly breeze. The opening minutes had gone very largely in favour of the north country men, but it proved their was only temporary. Against the wind the aggressive attitude the Scots delighted the crowd, and once the defence settled down the attacks of the Englishmen were easily repelled. Great cheering was caused a pretty piece ot wing play on the part of Orr and and the cheering became louder as Baddaley was reached. At this point Templeton was left in possesion, but, before he could shoot, the danger was cleared by Crompton, who thus early showed that he was the best fettle. The English forwards were soon at the other end, where Hair and Rutherford gave McBride some trouble with a couple of fairly stiff shots, Raisheck sent his opponents back, and from a return by him, Orr got away but, though near goal, his shot caused Bdderley very little trouble. Bloomer then thought his side to tho other end, where he forced a corner off Jackson. Once in the vicinity of the Scottish goal at this stage the southern forwaids were rather difficult to dislodge, and before they were driven back the home goal had two narrow escapes, McBride having to be on the alert to deal with shots from Leake and Wolstenholme, who had followed up their forwards. A series of Scottish attacks succeeded, Templeton frequently leading the way. The somewhat forcible manner in which Compton disposed of the Scottish left winger was not relished by the crowd, whose demonstration towards the Englishmen was far from complimentary. A free kick was granted the Scots for Crompton's attentions To Templeton. This was nicely taken by Robertson, who, patsing far out to the left, enabled Templeton to have a clear run in on goal. Just as Crompton made to charge him, Templeton let drive at goal with great force. As the Scot was strong and accurate, a goal looked certain. The custiodian, however, effected marvellous save, clutching the ball as it sped towards the net, and clearing ere an opponent was near him. Encouraged by the frequency with which they had approached scoring, the Scotsmen continued to press. Every time Templeton got tho ball the crowd cheered, but almost every time he was on the run Crompton proved more than his equal by the manner in which he knocked the light Scotsman off the ball. The spectators once more howled at the Blackburn Rover as he deliberately held the outside left, and though the Englishman was again penalised, the Scots profited nothing . A minute later the home eleven were pressing, and Orr, who was in on Baddeley had a goal presented to him, having nothing do but shoot. To the astonishment of all the missed, kicking the turf Instead of the ball, and falling as he did so. Crompton then had no difficulty in clearing. Next Brown, owing to a mistake by Wilkinson, got through the defence, while the astounded English halves looked on at the Scotsman careering for goal the spectators cheered lustily. A sprint by Wolstenholmes, however, enabled him get in front of Brown, who was pulled down Just outside the penalty line. who was hard on the Scottish eleven, who had so olten looked like scoring. Near the interval a misunderstanding between Robertson and Watson let in Rutherford, who, profiting by the opportunity, made for McBride . With a wonderfulturn of speed, Jackson rushed across, and cleared as Rutherford was in the act of shooting, and for his save the St Mirren representative was deservedly cheered. On till the interval each goal ran narrow escapes, though the Scots were the chief aggressors. Half-time —Scotland, nothing; England, nothing.
With the wind behind them, the scots were expected to win, especially after their dashing if ineffective play in the first half. Nibio and Templeton changed places in order to strengthen the atiack. Alter an invasion by the visiting forwards, the home quintette pressed, and Niblo, from a strong return Jackson, had a good opening given him, but failed at goal. At this point, however, the English forwards settled down to a telling game, combining with remarkable freedom, aud shooting with astonishing frequency. As the Englishmen improved, the Scottish forwards declined. The first sign of the effect of the improved playof the southern forwards was seen when Jackson, in his hurry to clear, made a bad miss, and Woodward, rushing on,shot strongly at goal. McBride throw himself at the ball and failed to reach it. Luckiiy for Scotland it glanced off the post over the line. The defence of the representatives of the Thistle was then sorely tried, and no sooner was the goal cleared of danger than the English quintette were back again. This at last had its effect, for after a run by the visitors' right Watson, in trying to clear, missed his kick, and Bloomer, racing on, beat M'Bride with a shot which the goalkeeper was powerless to save. For a lew minutes after that the effect this reverse was seen in the determined play of the home forwards. Time after time they broke through, and appeared certain to get the equaliser; but the strong defence of the English backs, and extremely smart and daring saving of Baddeley baulked the Scots at all points. Orr, Templeton, Walker, and Aitkens had each good tries at goal, but each was successfully dealt with English custodian. After that the home forwards fell away, and the pressures of the Rose was renewed. Time was called, leaving England the winners of a game which, from the first half display Scotland, looked like going in favour of the Thistle. Result; England one goal, Scotland nothing. England; Baddley (Wolverhampton Wanderers); Crompton (Blackburn Rovers), and Burgess (Manchester City); Wolstenholme (Everton), Wilkinson (Sheffield United), and Leake (Aston Villa); Rutherford (Newcastle United), Bloomer (Derby County), V.J. Woodward (Tottenham Hotspur), S.S. Barris (Cambridge University), and Blackburn (Blackburn Rovers). Scotland; McBride (Preston North End); Jackson (St. Mirren), and Watson (Sunderland); Aitken (Newcastle United), Raisebeck (Liverpool), and Robertson (Rangers); Nible (Aston Villa), Walker (Hearts of Midlothian), Brown (Middlesbrough), Orr (Newcastle United), and Templeton (Newcastle United). Referee -Mr. Numberlay, Welsh Football Association.

DERBY COUNTY v. EVERTON.
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 16 April 1904
At Derby. The attendance numbered 5,000, the weather being favourable for football Each team below the usual strength. Everton were the better aide in the first half, but could not get peat Maakrey, who had many fine shot* to stop. Bloomer knocked off the ball when well placed, and afterwards struck the crossbar. The Derby goal afterward* underwent brief bombardment. Half-time—Derby 0, Everton 0. The second half was well contested, but the game had not been long in progress when Wheatcroft, with no one but Whitley to boat, tipped the ball gently against Whitley who cleared. Maskrey again had more to do than Whitley and some of his saves were brilliant. In the last few minutes Hickling conceded comer from which Abbott headed goal. ResuIt—EYERTON 1, DERBY 0
EVERTON.
The raising of the football curtain upon the season 1899-1000 will rapturously received by the camp followers of the Everton club, and it is confidently expected that the majority League teams will be speedily made aware of that fact. A glorious team has been collected together, and Everton are fully expecting that after the first few months of the season have passed away, their pets, having pulverised all and sundry, will, like Alexander old, have to look for other worlds to conquer. Hero is full list of players from which the all-conquering eleven to be selected:—Muir and Kitchen, goal; Balmer. Molynoux, Eccles, and Crelly, back; Woltenholme. Boyle. Taylor, Bert Sharp, Blyth. Murphy, and Gordon, half backs; Jack Sharp, Settle, Toman, Abbott, Gray, Proud foot, Gee, Schofield. Marquis, Oldham, Roche, Whelan, and Bickett. Forward A large number players have been given marching orders, chief among whom might be mentioned Ball, Chadwick. Barlow. Kirwan, Hughes, Turner, Clark, Bright, Harley, Stringfellow. And last, but by no means least, Lawrence Bell. It will be noticed that in the back division little alteration had been made, but forward a great, one might say an immense, change has taken place. Several stars of the very first water have been engage, and although the “star” element in the team has not hitherto been very successful, last season's experiment in the” local talent line was such utter failure that it not to wondered at that Everton have again decided to dabble in the “star article. It is note that majority of the players engaged are Englishmen –the two who cost them more money are “quite English, you know.”
I refer to Wilfred Toman and James Settle. Most of our readers know these men's capabilities, and it would a waste of time discuss the merits and demerits of men whose names are household words in the football world. Suffice it to say that Toman 23 years of age, weighs list. 101b. and stands 5ft. 10in; whilst Settle has likewise seen summers, turns the scale at list., and can claim 5ft. bin. As his height. The brothers Sharp are likewise not unknown to the football world, and Mr. Molyneux did a grand stroke of business when he persuaded these two Rummage on youths to take up their residence on the banks of the Mersey. Off the remaining new players, Robert (Iray learnt his football with Patrick Thistle, and was selected to play for Glasgow last season in the inter-city match with Sheffield; whilst Walter Abbott, of whom great things are expected, the star of last season's Small Heath team, and topped the list of goal-getters in the Second Division the League, with the fine total of 38. .ho doe* the same for no one will complain. The ground is in magnificent condition, and everything in apple pie order for September, when the English will taken on, and it is expected done for.

TEAM ARRANGEMENTS FOR THIS DAY
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 16 April 1904
Everton v Derby County
League match, at Derby; Central Station10.15.
Everton.- Whitley, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, Taylor, Young, Settle, and HP Hardman, forwards.
Everton Combination v Accrington Stanley
Lancashire Combination match at Goodison Park; 3.30
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer; Hanlon, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs; McDermott, Roberts, O’Hagan, and Corrin, forwards.

OUTDOORS SPORTS
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 16 April 1904
Everton are making three changes in their team to tackle Derby County at the Baseball Ground, and as the chance appear to be in favour of the Peakites the probability is that Everton will succeed in averting defeat. The unlikely is pretty certain to happen whenever they are concerned, as witness their exhibition against Stoke a week ago. Kitchen for the first time this season will not figure in goal, and his place will be taken by Whitley, who has had long to wait for the opportunity of displaying his abilities. Sharp is still unfit for play, and Rankin will partner Taylor on the right wing, with Settle and Hardman at the other extremity of the line. It will therefore be seen that McDermott has been given a rest, whilst Wolstenholme resumes at half-back. Derby are safely placed in the League now, so that there will be little interest in the result of this match, and whatever it may be the issue will create no surprise.
Derby County v Everton- J. Adams, H. Spencer, and J Bradshaw.
Everton.- Whitley, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, Taylor, Young, Settle, and HP Hardman, forwards. Reserve McDermott. Train leaves Central Station at 10.15 a.m.
Everton Reserve v Accrington Stanley, at Goodison Park.
Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick and Makepeace, half-backs; Dilly, McDermott, Roberts, O’Hagan, and Corrin, forwards. Reserve McAdam. Kick-off 3.30 p.m.

EVERTON v  DERBY COUNTY
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 16 April 1904
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
A CLEAN SHEET AT THE INTERVAL
VICTORY FOR EVERTON
The Everton team completed their out of town league engagements to-day by travelling to Derby, where they engaged the County club. The weather was delightfully warm and fine, and the journey through the Peak was thoroughly enjoyed. In Derby itself there was a powerful counter attraction in the races, which naturally drew away a large number of regular supporters. Nevertheless, a capital crowd put in an appearance at the baseball grounds in anticipation of a fast and exciting game. There were three notable absentees from the regular Everton team, Kitchen, Sharp and McDermott being away. The two forwards are indisposed, and Kitchen was given a rest. Otherwise the team was at full strength, and lined out as follows;-
Whitley, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth (captain) and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Derby County.- Maskery, goal; Methven and Hickling, backs; Warren, Hall, and Leckie, half-backs; Mercer, Bloomer (captain), Wheatcroft, Richards, and Middleton, forwards.
Referee- J. Adams of Birmingham.
It will be noticed that May and Davis were both absent from the home eleven owing to injuries, Wheatcroft made his first appearance in a league match. There were about 6,000 spectators present when hostilities began. Bloomer won the toss, and Young started in a cross wind, which did not give either side any material advantage. After the opening exchanges the home forwards made ground on the right and Mercer was about to shoot for goa, when he was pulled up for being off-side. Following immediately upon this the visitors worked down in clever fashion, and Abbott made a long drive, which was rather luckily diverted by Methven. The clearance, however, was only temporary, for the visitors returned to the attack on the right, and Taylor put outside. A break away on the part of the home left was well accounted for by Balmer, and play again raged in front of the home goal, where after Rankin had tried his luck without success, Young put in a glorious shot, which Maskrey saved at the expense of a fruitless corner. The next movement of interest was a brilliant run down on the part of the home right wing, but the Everton defence was thoroughly sound, and the next few  minutes were occupied with midfield play of a rather desultory character. The Evertonians, however, gradually made ground, and Rankin dashing down put in a fine centre, which was only cleared at the expense of another corner. This was well dealt with, but not entirely cleared, and Wolstenholme, from long range, sent in a slow dropping shot, which caused Maskery to run out in order to throw clear. After this the game again became rather tame, and bad mistakes were made on both sides. The home team at length made effective play, on the right, and after Bloomer had run cleverly through his field he passed back to Hall who sent the leather a few inches over the crossbar. The Evertonians took up the
Attack in turn, and moving along in nice combined order Booth put in a strong shot, which Maskery was exceedingly clever in saving. A corner resulted and this led to a hot bully in front of the home goal, which ended in another corner being forced and finally disposed of. Some midfield work followed, without any apparent advantage to either side though both sets of forwards at times showed rare cleverness. On one occasion Rankin, who was playing a capital game, dashed down the wing, and centred with fine judgment, but Settle just missed putting the finishing touch on the effort, and the Derby goal escaped. More play of an even character followed, and the County forwards working through on the left forced a corner off Balmer. This was safely negotiated by the Everton defence, but it was not long before the home forwards were again paying close attention to Whitley, Mercer sending in a swift low shot, which gave the Everton custodian considerable trouble. Following upon this the Derby forwards subjected the visitors’ goal to a terrific bombardment. Wheatcrop first shot wide, and then Bloomer struck the crossbar, while a second later skied the leather over the goal. At this period the County were undoubtedly having the best of the argument, and it was only the soundness of the Everton defence that kept them out. Once Rankin got off again, on his own account, but as on a former occasion, Settle failed to meet the pass, and as a consequence another fine opportunity was lost. Waking up a bit the Evertonians now began to press strongly, and after Young had shot from an offside position Booth tried his luck with a long drive, which went wide of the mark. The visitors however, kept pegging away, and Hardman caused Methven to grant a corner, from which Rankin put the ball over the bar. An excursion down field on the part of the home left came to nothing, and then the visitors began to press in the most determined way. Rankin raced the length of the field, but was finally beaten by Hickling. The visitors, however, returned on the right, and Hardman put in a grand centre. Taylor tried to convert it into a goal, but Methven stood in the way. The Derby back did not quite clear the danger, for Settle, dashing up, put in a swift shot, which came within an ace of scoring. The play was now going all in favour of Everton, and Hardman put in some exceedingly clever touches on the left. He was opposed however, by a back of great resource, and time after time Methven got the upper hand just at the crucial moment. Towards the interval the Everton men put on extra pressure and a movement in which the whole forward line was concerned ended in Young putting in a ground shot, which Maskery threw clear. An attempt to transfer play on the part of Richards and Middleton was spoiled by Balmer, and the visitors raced down again. Hall proved a stumbling-block and giving to Bloomer, the famous flier worked his way through and passed to Middleton, who gave Whitley a very warm handful. Both ends were then visited in rapid succession, but neither set of forwards succeeded in finding the net, and half-time arrived without anything having bene scored. Half-time score; Derby County Nil, Everton Nil.
In the second half play was most vigorously contested.
Final Result Everton 1 goal, Derby County Nil
Everton 1, Derby County nil was the result of the corresponding game last season.

EVERTON v  ACCRINGTON STANLEY
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, April 16 1904
LANCASHIRE COMBIANTION-DIV A
The meeting of the leaders of the above Combination created an immense amount of interest and the weather being splendid a large crowd assembled -about 10,000. There was only one change in the Accrington team, Holden taking the place of Harrison, while the Everton team was unchanged. Prompt to time the teams faced, Roberts kicking off for Everton, and for the first few minutes play was confined to midfield, but Accrington made the first dangerous move, and a foul against the home team gave them further advantage. Makepeace, however, came to the rescue, and got away the ball in fine style. Accrington returned to the attack, but T. Beckton made an awful mess of his shot when right in front of goal, shooting yards too high. The visitors continued to press, but the defence of the Everton backs was very fine, and they were never allowed a shot at goal. Everton then broke away, and McDermott sent in a fine low shot, which was saved by McGregor. After the visitors goal had another escape, the Accrington men made a determined onslaught and twice in succession shots were sent in, but just a trifle too high. The teams were very equally matched and the game was full of exciting incidents. Roberts made a fine run, but when he was within shooting distance he was easily robbed by Hampson. A few minutes later, however, Everton returned and O’Hagan headed against the post and from the rebound Roberts shot into the net, this success being greeted with great cheering. Encouraged by this success Everton played up splendidly, and Dilly nearly put on a second point with a great attempt. A fine bit of combination between the Everton forwards was spoiled by Corrin shooting behind. A combined rush by the visitors looked very dangerous but Makepeace cleared almost from under the post. A free kick against Everton was splendidly saved by Kitchen, and at the other and Dilly’s shot was just saved by McGregor.
Half-time Everton Combination 1 goal, Accrington Stanley nil.

DERBY COUNTY 0 EVERTON 1
April 18, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
On Saturday Everton brought their League season to an end so far as away matches were concerned. They visited Derby, but there was no particular interest taken in the match seeing that nothing of vital importance to either club attached to the result. Everton made three alterations from their usual team, both Sharp and McDermott standing down, while Whitley was tried in goal. Derby also made changes. The teams were: - Everton: - Whitley, goal, W.Blamer and Crelly, backs, Wolstenholme, Booth (captain), and Abbott, half-backs Rankin, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Derby County: - Maskery, goal, Methven and Hickling, backs, Warren, Hall, and Leckie half-backs, Mercer, Bloomer, Wheatcroft, Richards, and Middleton forwards. Everton lost the toss, and Wheatcroft opened the play against a slight cross breeze. The opening stages favoured the County, and a fine movement, and pass out to Mercer looked like bringing disaster when the home outside right was ruled offside. Following a strong clearance by Crelly the Everton forwards moved away on the right wing, and Settle was just a trifle late in taking a pass from Taylor. Everton for some minutes continued to have the better of matters, thus being mainly the result of capital work by their half-backs. Another fine movement in which Taylor again played a prominent part, ended in Rankin shooting across the goalmouth, and on the ball coming out Hickling, in attempting to clear gave a corner kick. This led to further pressure, and on Wolstenholme lobbing the ball forward, Taylor headed in, only to find Maskery alert. Eventually Wheatcroft led his men on, and considerable progress was made, though in Balmer and Crelly they found defenders both stubborn and clever. On one occasion Bloomer looked like running clean through, when Balmer tackled accurately, though a moment later Hall secured, and with a magnificent fast rising shot, just skimmed the bar. On Everton getting away, Rankin put in a smart centre. Settle was unfortunate, overrunning the ball, when there was no opposition. A corner kick to the home side was the next item, and this led to a strong attack upon Whitley's charge, the keeper eventually fisting away a header by Leckie. A moment later, Mercer put in a swift ground shot, which Whitley cleared well, but returning again a strong attack was levelled, but Abbott shoulder Bloomer off the ball. Keeping up the pressure, the Everton halves were beaten again by Bloomer, who slipping though could however, do no more than shoot against the crossbar. From the rebound Mercer also had an open goal, but his effort went ridiculously high over the bar. Everton then raced away, and Taylor shot wide of the mark, when Bloomer was again in evidence, but finished up badly. Just now the pace was fairl6y stiff, and the Peakities were having the better of the play, still their finishing touches were faulty, and after a series of attacks. Hardman and Settle made off, the inside man parting to Young, who was palpably offside. Returning again, Hardman forced a corner off Methven, but Rankin was unmarked, made a poor attempt to convert. Richards and Middleton next led on a strong attack, but were finally challenged by Wolstenholme after Balmer was beaten, and the situation was saved. Then followed a splendid run by Rankin more than half the length of the field and eventually forcing a corner off Hickling. This led to a protracted pressure on the County goal, during which Settle put in a low ground shot, which Maskery just reached and placed to Methven, who promptly cleared. The next minute Young shot in, but from an offside position and steady took the game to the visitors end of the field. Just before the interval the County left raced away, and Middleton sent in a clever oblique shot, which Whitley saved with distinctly. Half time Derby Nil, Everton nil.
On resuming play were even for some time the exchanges being contested in midfield. Derby were the first to become dangerous, and five minutes after the interval, Wheatcroft had a grand chance of opening the score for his side, but he shot into Whitley's hands. Everton then attacked, but Maskery accounted for Harman's shot. From Mercer's centre Hall was a yard wide, and Mercer forced a corner, but Balmer cleared. Everton retaliated strongly, and Young tested Maskery, who also saved well from Settle. Everton pressed in the closing stages and Abbott scored from a corner kick, conceded by Hickling in the last few minutes. Everton were the better team and deserved their success, result Derby nil, Everton 1.

THE EVERTON CIRCULAR
Athletic News - Monday 18 April 1904
By Junius
Although the arguments set forth in what may termed the Everton circular are somewhat hackneyed, the club, nevertheless, deserves more than passing praise for bringing the question of the wage limit once more into prominence. Having had a year's experience of the rule, both Everton and Liverpool, who were bitterly opposed to the scheme when it was passed have had their views strengthened in the direction of the mistaken policy then adopted by the Football Association. Apart from the question as to whether a footballer should be paid according to his ability and the value of his services, irrespective of any limit but that which his own directors decide upon, there is this point to consider. A rule so vital in importance, and embodying a complete alteration in the methods previously in vogue of payment to players, should not become law unless its provisions can be thoroughly carried out, any deviation there-from detected and the offenders punished. It is an open secret that the rule has been evaded, and. strange to say, those who have honestly endeavored to carry out the Association's decision have been the sufferers.  In addition, the ambitious player has been deprived of the incentive to place himself ahead of his fellows, and I trust that this action by Everton will result in the wage limit being blotted off the books or a bonus made legal. 

EVERTON’S MARKSMANSHIP
Athletic News - Monday 18 April 1904
By Peakite
Towards the close of the season we have all sorts of football, good, bad, and indifferent.  On Saturday we had a sample of the latter description, though I am bound to admit that there were periods when Everton treated us to an exhibition of the higher type.  That of Derby, however, was commonplace from beginning to end, and they lost the game in the last few minutes by a bare goal.  With the game going as it did the 5,000 or 6,000 spectators round the ropes ran no risk of getting unduly excited and we had hardly a good honest cheer all afternoon.
NEW FACES
When the teams made their appearance there was a face on either side with which the spectators were unfamiliar.  In the Everton goal Whitley made his appearance.  He is a strapping fellow, and though not highly tried on Saturday created a distinctly favourable impression.  On the Derby side Wheatcroft took his place in the centre.  He is an amateur, and amateurs have to be something out of the common to make their mark on the very first occasion on which they appear in League games.  Wheatcroft put in one or two nice touches that suggested the possession of an unselfish desire to benefit his side, but he can hardly be described as a success.  So far as the first half of the game is concerned matters went in favour of Everton, who gave Maskery a great many difficult shots to stop, but failed to defeat him.  There is no necessity to detail the various stages by which this result was achieved, except that with the wind and sun at their backs the visitors sent in five shots to one that their own goalkeeper had to deal with.  At one time it was Booth, at another Settle, and at another Young, but Maskery met them all with unconquerable coolness, and was never once in trouble.  At the other end Whitley had a comparatively easy time of it, but curious though it may sound, he was once in greater danger of being beaten than ever has vis-à-vis was.  This was when Bloomer caught a centre from Middleton and sent the ball with a mighty rattle against the crossbar.  A couple of minutes earlier he had been knocked off the ball when it looked any odds on his scoring, but there was hardly another occasion when Derby could be said to have been really dangerous.
BEATEN AT THE CLOSE
The second half was pretty evenly contested, but the universal anticipation of a draw was destined to be falsified in the last few minutes.  Once again Maskery had the more systematic workmen to face, but, as in the first half, it was the weaker side that ought to have opened the scoring. This was shortly after the interval, when Richards sent in a beautiful low centre that came right to Wheatcroft’s feet in front of goal.  There was no one else near him except Whitley, and it looked as if the defence would never successfully resist the attack.  Wheatcroft’s shot, however, was a tame one.  He tipped the ball gently forward, and Whitley, by thrusting out his left arm, stopped it and threw away.  It was a very lucky get-out for Everton, and once the danger had been averted the game settled down to what looked like a certain draw.  Then in the last few minutes Hickling conceded a corner, and from the flag-kick Abbott headed into the far corner of the net well out of the goalkeeper’s reach.  It was rather hard on Maskery to be beaten at the close of what was really a fine display.  Still, the goal was there.  The better team had obtained it and won the match, so that there was really nothing more to be said on the point.
THE WINNERS SHOOTING
There will no doubt be people found ready to argue that Everton were somewhat lucky to win.  I cannot see the game in that light, for admitting that there was not a great deal to choose between the rival teams there was one all-important matter in which Everton were distinctly the better lot, and that was in shooting at goal.  The Derby men, as they so often do, were afraid to shoot for fear of robbing Bloomer of an opportunity and the famous international found openings come to him but seldom.  Abbott seemed to enjoy his society immensely and could not be persuaded to leave him for more than a few minutes at a time.  With their leader doing little the Derby forwards gave a very indifferent show. And compared ill with their opponents who played fine football in the open and banged at goal whenever half a chance presented itself.  There was not much in it at half-back, though here the Everton trio were perhaps the more level lot.  However, the whole six worked hard and tackled admirably.  Hickling did not shine as in some recent matches.  He was too rash, and very neatly let his side down on more than one occasion.  When he has had a little more experience of League football he will find that impetuosity does not pay, even with such a wary customer as Methven to back one up.  The rival goalkeepers have already been alluded to in terms of commendation.  Derby County; Maskery; Methven, and Hickling; Warren, Hall, and Leake; Mercer, Bloomer, Wheatcroft, Richards, and Middleton.  Everton; Whitley; Balmer, Crelley; Wolstenholme, Booth and Abbott; Rankin, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Hardman.  Referee; J. Adams, Birmingham.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 ACCRINGTON STANLEY RESERVES 0
April 18, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Combination “A” Division
At Goodison Park. Wildman repeatedly saved, the visitors having much the best of matters. Roberts scored from a rebound. Interval Everton 1 Stanley nil. Roberts scored a second, and Everton won by two goals to nil. Everton: - Kitchen goal, Wildman, and R.Balmer, backs, Hanlin, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs, Dilly McDermott, Roberts, O'Hagan, and Corrin forwards .

EVERTON REVIEW
April 18, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton on Saturday gave what may be styled another instance of their inconsistency. Probably it may have been due to the fact that they wished to wind up their away League matches with a victory, but certainly it is singular to sat the least, that a team which at home succumbed to Stoke should the vary next Saturday visit the Peak district and defeat Derby County, after having it must be conceded, all the better of the game. It is largely owing to feeble efforts against, the presumably weaker teams in the League that Everton have thrown away their chances of securing the championship after a lapse of very many season. Anyone who witnessed game at Goodison park against the Potters would never have expected the Evertonians to be successful at Derby because although the county are assured of their status for next season, they meant if at possible to improve their position in the table. But Everton seemed to have recovered entirely from the staleness, which affected them on the previous Saturday, and came back to the brilliant form, which characterised their displays during the holiday. Only in the last couple of minutes did the visitors obtain the solitary goal, which gave them the victory. The point, which was cleverly assured by Abbott was in every respect deserved, although after the splendid exhibition of goal keeping given by Maskery one could hardly help sympathizing with aim in being beaten when a drawn game appeared to be inevitable. In both halves he was frequently called upon to deal with shots that might easily have proved exceedingly troublesome to a has experienced custodian, but throughout he did his work in cool and clever fashion, and with the header from Abbott which found its way into the net he had no possible chance of intercepting. As compared with Maskery, Whitley, who appeared in the League team for the first time this season had a comparatively easy tack, as the same time when he was tested-and he had two of three capital shot sent in to him-by exhibited both confidence and resource. A keen pace was maintained throughout the whole 90 minutes, although after playing so many weeks on sudden ground, the ball was at times a little too lively, with the result that in stances of failure on both sides were somewhat frequent. Both in attack and defence Everton were the superior side. The half-backs in particular were in grand mood, and it was largely due to the watchfulness of Abbott that Bloomer was prevented from repeating his success in the interleague and Internationals matches in Scotland. Derby County suffered by the absence of their usual centre forward for Wheatcroft who was given his first chance of figuring the position was by no mean a success. A pleasing feature of that Everton attack was the rare good game played by Rankin at outside right, and there is no doubt that in this player Everton possess admirable understudy to Sharp. He put in severe fine runs, and invariably finished with a centre which was accurately placed and afforded opportunities to his colleagues. This evening at a quarter to six. Everton will entertain the West Bromwich Albion eleven, this being the League fixture, which was postponed from March 12, owing to the semi-final tie, which was decided at Goodison Park. It will be of interest to note that signing off of players in the Everton team is proceeding without hitch, and, among them who have signed there signature may be mentioned, Kitchen, Balmer, Crelly, Booth, Abbott, Sharp, Taylor, Young, Sheridan, and Dilly. Sharp, Abbott, Kitchen and Settle will next season be entitled to a benefit match and the directors of the club have decided subject of course to the approval of the Football Association to pair off the quartet and given them the proceeds of two league matches.

HOW STANLEY WERE BEATEN.
Lancashire Evening Post - Monday 18 April 1904
Running as they were a keen race for the championehip of the Lancashire Combination, it was not surprising that large crowd of spectators turned out to see Everton Reserve and Accrington Stanley fight for honours. A gate of 10,000 would appreciated by a First League club, and it speaks well for the populace Mersey side that they should rally in such strong numbbers. As to the game, Everton made every effort to place strong team in the field, and the selected eleven turned out apparently in splendid condition. Accrington deplored the of Harrison. but found capable substitute in Holden, who, it cun here be said, gave a good the manner the game opened Stanley looked like scoring very early on. Makepeace had a hard nut to crack when T. Becton raced through twice in quick succession, his final shot passing wide on each occasion. On the whole, however, the wearing down tactics of the Goodisonians proved very effective, although they bad nothing give away. Eventually Roberts scored after O'Hagan had headed against the post, and from this point the game gradually veered in tho locals' favour. Crossing over with the lead by goal the Toffees added their score, and finally won by two goals to nil. It was a finely contested game, and one could see the talent which had brought Stanley within ace of the championehlp. The Bectons made fine wing, and were unfortunate in not getting goal early on, while Hargreaves and Brnnton were always dangerous under weigh. The halves tackled very well, while the backs, whom Finney was the best, struggled verv gamely against the nippy forwards the opposition. This victory gives the Everton Reserve the championship.

DERBY COUNTY v EVERTON
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 18 April 1904
At Derby. The attendance numbered 5000, the weather being favourable for football. Everton were the better side in the first half, but they could not get past Maskery, who had many fine shots to stop. Bloomer was once knocked off the ball when well placed, and afterwards struck the crossbar. The Derby goal afterwards underwent a brief bombardment. Half-time- Derby nil, Everton nil.
The second half was well contested, but the game had not been long in progress when Wheatcroft with no one but Whitley to beat, tipped the ball gently against Whitley, who cleared. Maskery again had more to do than Whitley, and some of his saves were brilliant. In the last few minutes Hickling conceded a corner kick, from which Abbott headed a goal. Result- Everton 1 Derby County 0
Everton.- Whitley, (goal); Balmer and Crelly, (backs); Wolstenholme, Booth (captain) and Abbott, (half-backs); Rankin, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Hardman, (forwards).
Derby County.- Maskery, (goal); Methven and Hickling, (backs); Warren, Hall, and Leckie, (half-backs); Mercer, Bloomer (captain), Wheatcroft, Richards, and Middleton, (forwards).

EVERTON RESERVE v  ACCRINGTON STANLEY
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 18 April 1904
At Goodison Park. Wildman repeatedly saved, the visitors having much the best of matters. Roberts scored from a rebound. Interval- Everton 1, Accrington, nil
Roberts scored a second for Everton. Result-Everton 2; Accrington, nil.

SATURDAY’S FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 18 April 1904
After their temporary lapse from grace last week the Everton team returned to their true form on Saturday by helping themselves to a couple of points from Derby County. The defeat mattered little to the Midland club, inasmuch as they were already clear of the dreaded drop into the Second Division, and the match was mainly interesting by reason of Everton’s excellent display. The game was played in beautifully warm, sunny weather, and, despite the fact that the Derby Race meeting was in full progress at the other end of the town, a considerable crowd lined the baseball ground enclosure. From the outset it was seen that the visitors were the cleverer team, although at the same time the Derby forwards showed striking skill, and more than once they gave the Everton defenders an anxious time. The first half produced nothing, and forty minutes of the second portion of the game had expired when Abbott headed the ball into the net. Considering the play generally, the Evertonians were fully entitled to the two points which accrued as the result of this effort, for, as already said, they were undoubtedly the cleverer team. Thus they wound up their away matches with a fitting victory, and in the light of this and their Easter performances they ought certainly to fill a higher position in the League table. Probably the best forward on the side was Rankin, who showed throughout considerable dash, speed, and ability. His breaks along the wing were notable features of the game and on two occasions at least Settle ought to have converted the centres which the youngster put in. Hardman on the other wing played smartly, and Taylor “worried along” in characteristic fashion, while Young played fairly well in the centre position, though, as usual his shooting lacked string. The half back line was as sound and reliable as ever, while the backs showed coolness and confidence. Whitley in goal was not called upon to do very much, and he dealt smartly with all the shots sent in. the home forward line was keen and tricky, but Bloomer was so closely watched that he could never get through. The half backs played well, and Methven gave a capital exhibition of full back play, while Maskery in goal could not be blamed for the solitary shot that passed him.

EVERTON V. WEST BROMWICH ALBION.
Leeds Mercury - Tuesday 19 April 1904
This rearranged League match was played at Goodison Park last evening, before 4,000 spectators, both sides being strongly represented. Starting a quarter to six, Everton pressed, and after twenty minutes Abbott headed through from a corner. Albion tried hard, but could not overcome the back division, and for the most part they were on the defensive, Everton's shooting being faulty. Interval score:—Everton one goal, Albion nothing. In the second half the Albion made a brief spurt, but Everton were the superior side, and from weak clearance from Cook the ball rebounded off Rankin into the net. Young added a third goal for Everton, and with the Albion well beaten. Settle was responsible for the fourth. Final:—Everton four goals, Albion nothing.

EVERTON 4 WEST BROMWICH ALBION 0
April 19, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
This rearranged League fixture was played at Goodison park last evening. Under the circumstances it was not surprising that it aroused little interest, although the kick off was fixed for as late as a quarter to six o'clock. Probably the fact that a brilliant afternoon turned into threatening conditions had something to do with the meagre attendance. Both teams were well represented, the players being as follows: - Everton: - Whitley, goal, W.Balmer, and Crelly, backs, Wolstenholme, Booth (captain), and Abbott half-backs, Rankin, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Hardman forwards. West Bromwich Albion: - Cook, goal, Kifford and Adams backs Randall, Stevenson, and Harley, half-backs, Owen, Simmons, Aston, Brown, and Dorsett forwards. Referee Mr. Nunnerley. Young started for Everton, who were the first to make headway, but Adams kicked strongly, and a dash away by the visiting left proved of no use. Aston was temporarily injured, and following this, Abbott dispossessed Owen, while at the other end Rankin was pulled up for off-side. Hardman had a bit of a shaking up in an encounter with Randall, and play continued fairly even. As shot from Young was charged down, and a fine centre from Dorsett was nullified by off-side. An attack by the Everton right led to nothing, and at the other end Whitley fisted out smartly. The Albion were playing with the utmost determination, and from a centre by Dorsett a chance was offered to Owen, who might easily have opened the score. Everton retaliated with a capital movement, which did not materialise owing to the watchfulness of the Albion defence, and play was rapidly transferred from end to end without either goalkeeper being seriously troubled. In an onslaught by Everton Kifford did good work for his side, but Everton were aggressive and Cook was tested by a long shot from Settle. The home side were having the best of matters, and pressed their opponents, who, however, exhibited sterling defence. At last, following a free kick, Adams conceded a corner, and this being nicely placed by Hardman. Abbott headed the ball against the upright, whence it bounded into the net. A couple of free kicks assisted the Albion, and they got very near goal, only to find Dorsett shooting high over the bar. This continued to be their fault. Following a free kick well placed by Crelly, the Everton forwards threw away a good chance of adding to their score, while a moment later from Rankin's centre Settle failed at an open goal. For a time Everton had matters all their own way, their attempts at goal, however, causing Cook no anxiety. When they did break away the Albion forwards were weak and the game was singularly devoid of exciting incidents. There was some tall kicking by the defence on both sides and the finer points of Association football seemed to be at a discount. Everton maintained their superiority to the interval, when the score was Everton one goal, West Bromwich Albion nil. In the second half the Albion opened strongly, but were quickly driven back, and from a high dropping centre from Hardman the visiting custodian scooped the ball against Rankin, off whom it rebounded slowly into the net. Everton being credited with a particularly soft goal. The Albion raced right away and this time Whitley effected a fine clearance from Owen. Everton soon came again, and Rankin, after a fine run, banged in a lightning centre, which none of his colleagues could reach in time. Everton outplayed their opponents, and Young added a third goal, which was awarded by the referee after consulting both linemen. The Albion played without heart and Settle put on a fourth for Everton, while Taylor put the ball into the net again, only to be ruled offside. Everton after this simply romped round their opponents and won a one sided game. Result Everton 4, West Bromwich Albion nil.

EVERTON v WEST BROMWICH ALBION
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 19 April 1904
Everton owed it to their supporters to wipe out the stigma of the Stoke defeat, which was the surprise packet presented to the spectators when they preformed a week ago at Goodison Park. Last evening West Bromwich were the visitors, and the Brummagem contingent were hopeful of catching the Evertonians off colour or in a charitable mood, and by victory revive the fluttering hope of escaping the degradation of the Second Division. That there was little interest in the fixture was demonstrated by the very sparse attendance, little more than 1,000 spectators being present at the kick-off. Sharp was an absentee, and the following turned out for
Everton; Whitley, goal, Balmer, and Crelly, backs, Wolstenholme, Booth (captain), and Abbott half-backs, Rankin, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Hardman forwards.
West Bromwich Albion: - Cook, goal, Kifford and Adams backs Randall, Stevenson, and Hadley, half-backs, Owen, Simmons, Aston, Brown, and Dorsett forwards.
Mr. Nunnerley conducted the operations. Young was the first to operate but he failed in a long pass to Rankin. Balmer stayed an advance by the Brum right. After Young and Settle had hindered each other, Crelly retrieved. Hadley next passed out to his right wing, and Owen beat Crelly cleverly, but Balmer came to the rescue, Hardman was next away with a fine dash, but he was most unceremoniously grassed by Hifford. Young and Taylor both had a try to find Cook, but their shots were charged down. Then followed a dash by the Brummagem centre, and Whitley repelled a stringer, and then fisted out bravely a long one from Brown. The Throstles had made a great effort without avail, but soon afterwards Balmer fell in tackling Brown, and Owen got the ball with a grand opening, but he only muddled his chance outside the post. Everton’s supporters had no cause for congratulations at this stage of the game. Interesting work followed in midfield, and there was on both sides clever tackling and footwork. Settle finally tried to catch Cook napping with a tricky screw shot, and the wound up a sustained movement in favour of the Blues. After Young had been fouled, Crelly from the free kick put the leather right in the goalmouth, where Adams cleared at the expense of a corner, from which Abbott Headed past Cook into the corner of the net. After this reverse the Throstles pressed somewhat, but their finishing touches were quite feeble and their shooting faulty. Rankin put in a fine sprint with the leather at his foes, and finished a capital effort with a pretty centre to Settle, who responded with a reckless effort which sent the ball well over the bar. Good work by Abbott and Wolstenholme ended in the latter putting in a well-directed long shot. A rather dull period gave way to an exciting effort on the home left, where Hardman, Settle and Young all contributed shots in a well-sustained attack. The Throstles did plenty of good work ion midfield, but Whitley was seldom in jeopardy, as the visitors were quite unable to press their attacked home; in fact, they were a poor lot, and had the Blues infused a little more energy into their attack the score would have been augmented sooner.
Half-time; Everton 1 goal, West Bromwich nil.
At the interval the crowd had increased to about 5,000. Restarting, Taylor and Abbott both endeavoured to open the Everton attack, but Whitley had a kick before the Evertonians broke away down their left. This wing did not shine to advantage, and passing and shooting were alike wild. A second goal accrued to Everton in very soft fashion, as Hardman skied the leather, which dropped nearly in the goalmouth. Cook ran out, and in clearing knocked the ball on to Rankin, from whom it rebounded and rolled into goal. Everton showed great anxiety to further augment their score, and some splendid efforts were put forth by Hardman and Rankin, which brought about very severe pressure, during which Young found an opening and scored in very smart fashion, though at such close quarters that the referee consulted his linesmen before awarding the point. Everton were not yet satisfied, and gave the Brummagem defence no quarter. So severe was the attack that Adams and Hifford were quite pumped out, and after a regular melee adjacent to Cook, Settle scored the fourth goal with a beautiful shot, The Albion’s feeble forward efforts were mainly due to Everton’s splendid half back work, and the visitors hardly ever looked like scoring.
Result Everton 4 goals, West Bromwich nil.

EVERTON v  WEST BROMWICH ALBION
Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 19 April 1904
This League game, postponed from March 19, was decided last evening before 4,000 spectators. The opening play was well contested, Dorsett putting in a dashing run; but Balmer smartly intervened. Rankin retaliated with a rare dribble; but his centre was useless, for Abbott’s shot was charged down. Balmer slipped, and let in Dorset, who centred to Owen, but the latter badly utilised a perfect chance, with only Whitley to beat, by shooting wide. The Albion left wing was responsible for several rousing dashes, Dorsett in particular playing finely; but Balmer was generally too good for the left winger. From a foul, Crelly accurately placed, and Adams conceded a corner. The flag-kick was take by Hardman, whose centre Abbott met, and the left-half smartly headed the first goal. Tame play followed for some time; but eventually Rankin raced away, and gave Settle an open goal from his centre, but the chance was wretchedly taken. The Albion were rarely able to make headway; but from neat work on their right Nurse was afforded an opportunity of equalising; but he feebly sent the ball on the top of the net. Booth and Taylor were repeatedly in evidence; but, although Young sent in a beautiful shot, which narrowly missed scoring, the Everton forwards as a rule were seldom enabled to get near enough to seriously trouble Cook. At the interval Everton led by a goal.
Five minutes after the resumption Hardman sent across a lofty centre, which Cook weakly knocked against Rankin, and the ball rolled into the net, thus registering the second goal. The Albion played vigorously after this reverse, and Dorsett, getting the better of a tussle with Crelly, crossed to Owen, who headed in accurately; but Whitley brought off a remarkably clever save. Some interesting exchanges near the visitors’ goal ended in Young scoring, though the referee only allowed the point after consulting both linesmen. Albion shaped most dispiritedly after this, and following some scrambling play, Settle gained a fourth goal. Everton simply romped round their opponents from this stage, and Taylor netted again, but was adjudged off-side. Rankin shot grandly at Cook when going at full speed, and Everton won readily.
Result; Everton 4 West Bromwich Albion 0.
Everton; Whitley, goal, Balmer, and Crelly, backs, Wolstenholme, Booth (captain), and Abbott half-backs, Rankin, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Hardman forwards.
West Bromwich Albion: - Cook, goal, Kifford and Adams backs Randall, Stevenson, and Hadley, half-backs, Owen, Simmons, Aston, Brown, and Dorsett forwards.
Referee Mr. W. Nunnerley, Wrexham.

EVERTON v  WEST BROMWICH ALBION
Birmingham Daily Post - Tuesday 19 April 1904
ALBION’S LAST HOPE GONE
Probably owing to the late kick-off (5.45), and to the position which the Albion hold in the League table, not more than four thousand people witnessed the rearranged League match at Goodison Park yesterday. The teams were;-
Everton.- Whitley, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth (captain) and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
West Bromwich Albion- Cook, goal; Kifford and Adams, backs; Randle, Stevenson, and Hadley, half-backs; Ownes, Simmons, Aston, Brown, and Dorsett, forwards.
Young started for Everton, who were the first to make headway, but Adams kicked strongly, and a dash away by the visiting left proved of no use. Aston was temporarily injured, and following this Owen was dispossessed by Abbott, while at the other end Rankin was pulled up for outside. Hardman had a bit of a shaking up in an encounter with Randle, and play continued fairly even. A shot from Young was charged down, and a fine centre from Dorsett was nullified by offside. An attack by the Everton right led to nothing and at the other end Whitley fisted out smartly. The Albion were playing with the utmost determination, and from a centre by Dorsett a chance was offered to Owen, who might easily have opened the score, Everton retaliated with a capital movement, which did not materialise owing to the watchfulness of the Albion defence, and play was rapidly transferred from end to end without either goalkeeper being seriously troubled. In an onslaught by Everton Kifford did good work for his side, but Everton were still aggressive and Cook was tested by a long shot from Settle. The home side were having the better of matters and pressed their opponents, who, however, exhibited sterling defence. At last, following a free kick, Adams conceded a corner, and this being nicely placed by Hardman, Abbott headed the ball against the upright whence it rebounded into the net. A couple of free kicks assisted the Albion, and they got very near goal only to find Dorsett shooting high over the bar. This continued to be the fault, although they were clever enough in midfield. Following a free kick well placed by Crelly, the Everton forwards threw away a good chance of adding to the score, while a moment later, from Rankin’s centre, Settle failed with an open goal. For a time Everton had matters all their own way, the shots at goal, however, causing Cook no anxiety. When they did break away the Albion forwards were weak, and the game was singularly devoid of exciting incidents. There was some tall kicking by the defence on both sides, and the finer points of Association football seemed to be at a discount. Everton maintained their superiority to the interval, when the score was -Everton 1, West Bromwich Albion 0
In the second half, although Brown was limping the Albion opened strongly, but were quickly drives back, and from a high dropping centre from Hardman the visiting custodian scooped the ball against Rankin off whom it rebounded slowly into the net, Everton being credited with a particularly soft goal. The Albion raced right away, and this time Whitley effected a fine clearance from Owen. Everton soon came again and Rankin, after a fine run, banged in a lightning centre which none of his colleagues could reach in time, Everton outplayed their opponents, and Young added a third goal, which was awarded by the referee after consulting both linesmen. The Albion played without heart, and Settle put on a fourth for Everton, while Taylor sent the ball into the net again, but was ruled offside. The Albion were disappointing, and Everton fully earned their decisive victory. Final; Everton 4 Albion 0
The result of the match is that West Bromwich Albion lose their position in the First Division of the League, and accompany Liverpool into the Second Division.

NELSON FINISH UP WITH DEFEAT.
Lancashire Evening Post - Wednesday 20 April 1904
Nelson played their last match of the season home on Tuesday night, when they were opposed Everton. There was an exceedingly large gate. The game was very evenly contested ail through, and homesters were decidedly unlucky in having the only goal of the match scored against them. The forwards played their best games, Kay and Watkins especially working hard, but they were met bya stubborn defence. Balmer was a tower strengthens. His kicking was clean and strong, and he saved his side from many trying positions. Despite all he and his ‘fellows could do, however, tho home quintette took soom shaking off, and Kitchen had considerably more work to than Walker. The visitors' forwards were smart in combination, but Ainsworth checked their rushes time after time. was undoubtedly the best half-back on the ground. A draw would hare been the most fitting result, it was a pity that Hindle should have failed with a penalty kick. Kitchen played a fine game between the sticks for Everton.

TOFFY TOWN TRIUMPH.
Burnley Express - Wednesday 20 April 1904
Last evening, at the Seedhill Ground, Nelson, Everton Reserve were the visitors. Both sides were fully represents. There was a good attendance. Everton from the start had the best of matters and for a period Nelson had to act on the defensive. After twenty minutes' the visitors made combined attack, and O'Hagan opened the scoring for them with a good short range shot. Soon after this Watkins missed an easy chance for Nelson. The Everton team continued to press, Nelson's defence at times being in difficulties. At half-time Everton had the lead one goal to nil. On resuming the visitors opened the pressure, but for a time the Nelson defence was safe. After a change of ends Nelson were awarded a free kick close in. The ball' was kept in the vicinity of the visitors goal for little while, and for some offence in the forbidden area Nelson were awarded penalty, but the Everton custodian saved Hindle's shot. Nelson then began to force matters, and they wrested two fruitless corners in quick succession. Although the Seedhillites were pressing continually, the front rank only shaped badly in front goal. The game was more evenly contested up to the close. Everton however, showed better tactics throughout, and won by one goal to nil.

NELSON 0 EVERTON RESERVES 1
April 20, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury.
Lancashire Combination “A” Division
At Nelson. Everton had the best of matters, O'Hagan opened the scoring, beating Walker at short range. Watkins missed a grand chance of equalising. Half time Nelson nil Everton 1. Early in the second half Chadwick was carried off injured. Nelson were granted a penalty kick, but Hindle failed to score. Result Nelson nil, Everton one.

LANCASHIRE COMBINATION -DIV A
Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 20 April 1904
EVERTON RESERVE v  NELSON
At Nelson. Everton had the best of matters, and O’Hagan opened the scoring, beating Walker at short range. Watkins missed a grand chance of equalising.
Half-time; Everton 1 goal, Nelson nil.
Early in the second half Chadwick was carried off injured. Nelson were granted a penalty, but Hindle failed to score. Result- Everton 1 goal, Nelson nil.

EVERTON RESERVE AT NELSON
Northern Daily Telegraph - Wednesday 20 April 1904
The Combination champions paid their first visit to Nelson lest night and gave a capital display. At every point of the game the Light Blues were too good for Nelson.  In the first half only one goal was scored this falling to O’Hagan, who slipped the ball past Walker at short range. Watkins had afterwards a capital chance of equalising, getting right in front but shooting past the post. Early in the second half Chadwick was carried off injured. Nelson were granted a penalty, but Hindle failed to score. The home team tried hard to redeem this mistake, but were unable to do so, and Everton won by the only goal of the match.

TODAY TEAMS NEW
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 23 April 1904
Everton reserve v Manchester City reserve
Everton; Kitchen, goal; Wildman and Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, Rickerby, Roberts, O’Hagan, and Dilly, forwards. Reserve McAdam
Ordinary matches
Everton v Queen’s Park Rangers, Kensal Rise.
London train leaves Lime-street 9.45 a.m. Kick-off 3.30
Everton.- Whitley, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Wolstenholme, Russell, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, McDermott, and Settle, forwards.
Northern Nomads v Leicester Fosse, Goodison Park Kick-off 3.30
Nomads.- Jowett (Liverpool Leek), goal; Bucknall (Melling) and Walmsley (Etrurians), backs; Houghton (Lytham Institute), Connor (Hesketh Park), and Vickers (Corinthians), half-backs; McKenna (Old Xavierians), Greenwood (Marine), Gaukrodger (Casuals), Lloyd Edwards (Leek), and Elston (Casuals), forwards.
Leicester Foose.- Smith, goal; Mountain and Cleator, backs; Robinson, Collins, and Bell, half-backs; Hadley, Blessington, Mounteney, Everson, and Belton, forwards.

TEAM ARRANAGEMENTS FOR TODAY
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 23 April 1904
Everton v Queen’s Park Rangers, Kensal Rise.
Friendly match at Kendal Rise, London train leaves Lime-street 9.45 a.m. Kick-off 3.30
Everton.- Whitley, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Wolstenholme, Russell, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, McDermott, and Settle, forwards.
Everton reserve v Manchester City reserve
Lancashire Combination match at Manchester, train leaves Lime-street at 2 p.m. kick-off 3.30
Everton; Kitchen, goal; Wildman and Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, Rickerby, Roberts, O’Hagan, and Dilly, forwards. Reserve McAdam
Ordinary matches
Northern Nomads v Leicester Fosse
At Goodison Park Kick-off 3.30
Nomads.- Jowett (Liverpool Leek), goal; Bucknall (Melling) and Walmsley (Etrurians), backs; Houghton (Lytham Institute), Connor (Hesketh Park), and Vickers (Corinthians), half-backs; McKenna (Old Xavierians), Greenwood (Marine), Gaukrodger (Casuals), Lloyd Edwards (Leek), and Elston (Casuals), forwards.
Leicester Foose.- Smith, goal; Mountain and Cleator, backs; Robinson, Collins, and Bell, half-backs; Hadley, Blessington, Mounteney, Everson, and Belton, forwards.

QEENS PARK RANGERS 1 EVERTON 4
April 25, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
On the Rangers ground at Kensal-rise, London. The home team tried three young amateurs in Potter (goal), Fox (back), and Skilton (forwards), and the visitors were without Kitchen, Crelly, and Hardman. Brown scored for the Rangers in the first half, but Abbott Settle, and McDermott (two) got through for Everton, after the change of ends. Everton: - Whitley, goal, R.Balmer, and W.Balmer, backs, Wolstenholme, Booth (captain), and Abbott, half-backs, Rankin Taylor, Young, Settle, and McDermott forwards.

MANCHESTER CITY RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 1
April 25, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 33)
No details, in local papers.
Everton:- Kitchen, Goal, Wildman, and Murray, backs, Hanlin, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs, not-known, Rickerby, Roberts, O'Hagan, and Dilly, forwards.

EVERTON DROP A POINT
Athletic News - Monday 25 April 1904
Everton visited Hyde-road before 10,000 people for the benefit of W. Holmes.  In the City team were included Dawson, of Rusholme United, in goal, and Baldwin, a local player, at right outside.  The home forwards had the best of matters in the first half, Pearson scoring from a penalty after 20 minutes’ play.  After some 40 minutes’ play in the closing period Rankin scored a magnificent goal for Everton.  The home forwards made desperate attempts to secure the leading point, but could not gain a footing in front of goal, and had to be satisfied with a draw of one each. 

ARBITERS OF FATE
Athletic News - Monday 25 April 1904
By Junius
Everton are proving a most potent factor in settling the fate of clubs placed at the extremities of the League table, and by their victories over Liverpool and West Bromwich they practically assured for these teams a position in the Second Division nest season.  Last Monday the Albion gave a very moderate display and as Everton were in one of their aggressive moods, the visitors experienced a rough time, being beaten quite as decisively as the score of four goals to nil would seem to warrant.  Everton will now have to turn their attention to the topmost place in the table, and the visit of Manchester City to Goodison Park tonight as six o’clock, is fraught with tremendous issues to the Cup-holders.  If Everton win the chances of the City securing the championship will be shattered. 

AMATEURS AT GOODISON PARK
Athletic News - Monday 25 April 1904
By Junius
Northern Nomads were on view on the Everton ground their opponents being Leicester Fosse.  The second Division club was well represented, and gave a good display, winning by three clear goals.  In shooting the home players were most erratic, several easy chances being execrably taken, and only Elston seemed capable of locating the goal posts.  He plays a similar game to Hardman, whom he greatly resembles when on the field, and he was streets ahead of his confreres in ability.  McKenna on the extreme right showed a good turn of speed, but is inclined to be selfish, which nullified his otherwise creditable work.  At half Montgomery did well, and Jowett made some rare saves in goal. 

Picture from the Athletic News of Former Everton Player now of Bolton Wanderers

QUEENS PARK RANGERS v  EVERTON
Western Morning News - Monday 25 April 1904
At Kensal Rise. A hard fought game of which the Rangers had rather more than their 4 goals to 1 beating would denote took place. The Rangers led at half-time, thanks to a goal by Brown. Everton put in some strong work half-way through, and in quick succession Abbott and Settle scored, and McDermott added two more goals for the visitors.

QUEEN’S PARK RANGERS v  EVERTON
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 25 April 1904
On the Rangers ground. The home team tried three young amateurs in Potter (goal), Fox (back) and Skilton (centre forward), and the visitors were without Kitchen, Crelly and Hardman. Brown scored for the Rangers in the first half, but Abbott, Settle and McDermott (two) got through for Everton after the change of ends. Result-Everton 4; Queens Park Rangers 1.

AMATEURS AT GOODISON PARK
Athletic News - Monday 25 April 1904
Northern Nomads were on view on the Everton ground, their opponents being Leicester Fosse. The Second Division club was well represented, and gave a good display, winning by three clear goals. In shooting the home players were most erratic, several easy chances being execrably taken, and only Elston seemed capable if locating the goal posts. He plays similar game to Hardman, whom greatly resembles when the field, and he was streets ahead of his confreres in ability. Mkenna, on the extreme right showed good turn of speed, but is inclined to selfish, which nullified his otherwise creditable work. At half Montgomery did well, and Jowett made some rare saves in goal.

QUEEN’S PARK RANGERS v  EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 25 April 1904
On the Rangers ground. The home team tried three young amateurs in Potter (goal), Fox (back) and Skilton (centre forward), and the visitors were without Kitchen, Crelly and Hardman. Brown scored for the Rangers in the first half, but Abbott, Settle and McDermott (two) got through for Everton after the change of ends. Result-Everton 4; Queens Park Rangers 1.
NORTHERN NOMADS v  LEICESTER FOSSE
Played at Goodison Park. Interesting play was witnessed, Elston prominent for the Nomads. Blessington scored for Leicester, and before the interval Everison added a second with a splendid shot. Stevenson narrowly missed when close in, and McKenna, after running through, sent wide. After the resumption both custodians cleared grandly. Smith stopped a tremendous drive from Gaukrodger. Everison obtained a third goal from Hadley’s centre. Result; Leicester Fosse 3 goals, Northern Nomads nil

EVERTON BEAT THE RANGERS
Morning Leader - Monday 25 April 1904
History entirely repeated itself when Everton defeated the Queen's Park Rangers at home by 4—1 in a friendly. Twelve months previously these First Leaguers had accomplished a similar performance under similar conditions, and by way of coincidence Albert Brown again instituted the scoring. Soon after starting Brown notched the Rangers' only goal after Whitley had dropped a teaser from Bowman, who, like Hinch, and White, aimed very accurately. That was all the first half produced, but after crossing over Abbott equalised, and in this Potter, who kept the Rangers goal, was rather unfortunate, for he stumbled just when the Evertonian fired. From a corner by Sharp the distinguished Settle got the second for Everton, and then just when the Rangers appeared to be making headway Brown's knee seemed to give way, and he was carried off. This was s pity for the striving Southerners, because Brown had been doing some magnificent work. Afterwards M ‘Dermott put on a third, but that player reserved his best shot for the fourth, which he got just on time. Such a big margin, however, was a little surprising, but there is no doubt Everton showed their class during the second half. The best man on the field was undoubtedly Archer, but all round the form was good, and nobody begrudges Everton their 4—1 victory. There were 6,000 present.

EVERTON v MANCHESTER CITY.
Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser - Tuesday 26 April 1904
Twelve thousand speotators welcomed the Cup winners at Goodison last evening, when the City made their final bid for Championship honours. Singularly enough, both teams travelled up from London together, City putting up at the Alexandra Hotel on Sunday night. Meredith and his merry men received a cordial welcome from Everton's crowd, the Cup being view. Young led off to Hardman, who was fouled, after which Settle and Young missed a fast centre from the Everton right. The home side continued tho pressure, forcing a corner, but Wolstenholme shot over. Hillman saved from Taylor, and then followed splendid dash by Meredith, who tested Whitley with magnificent shot. Sharp mulled clever pass from Tom Booth. After Meredith had easily tricked Balmer, Booth, the Evertonian, robbed the City captain the nick of time. Soon after Hillman saved splendidly from Young. Booth paid particular attention to Meredith, who, however, soon forced a corner off the Everton skipper. Manchester now made a prolonged stay in tiie Everton territory, but their defence proved equal to all demands. Meredith headed many brilliant breakaway, from one of which Livingstone should certainly have scored, but shot wide. Interval: No score. In the latter half the City made splendid show, their frontal attack being full of life and method. Only Whitley's extreme cleverness saved the situation thrice over. was prominent with brilliant shooting on the Everton side. After escaping many of Sharp's brilliant centres, disaster came at last to Manchester, Taylor receiving a pretty centre and netting with great judgment. Everton's attack waxed fiercer in the closing stages, thou eh Abbott and Hardman were both passengers, but Hillman and his backs were like stone wall, thoucrh the halves could do little against Taylor, Sharp, Settle, and Young, whose passing was perfect. Result: Everton 1 Manchester City 0.

EVERTON v. MANCHESTER CITY.
Sheffield Daily Telegraph - Tuesday 26 April 1904
The last League match of the season was played at Goodison Park last evening, when Manchester City, the Cup-holders, were the visiting side. In delightful weather 15,000 people witnessed game which was all-important to City's chances in League Championship honours. Everton had R. Ralmer in place of Crelly, while the City played their Cup team. In the first half there was little to choose between the teams, both goalkeepers making brilliant saves. At the interval nothing had been scored. Resuming, Everton were distinctly the superior side, and after twenty minutes' play Taylor converted centre from Sharp. With one exception, Everton had all the; play, and ran out easy winners. Result: EVERTON 1 goal. Manchester City 0 goal

EVERTON 1 MANCHESTER CITY 0
April 26, 1904, The Liverpool Daily Post
The victory of Manchester City in the final of the English Cup, intensified the interest already aroused in their visit to Goodison Park last evening. The Mancunians have made a gallant efforts this season to gain the much coverted championship of the League, but unfortunately for their prospects, Sheffield Wednesday have been wonderfully consistent, and have scarcely ever flagged in those efforts which very early on were distinctly of a championship order. In steeplechase parlance the City had to survive “two jumps”, as victory against Everton would only benefit them if Wednesday “bit the dust” to the peakities as Derby next Saturday. On paper form, the city had no chance whatever of vanquishing the Blues who visited Hyde-road earlier on, and routed the victorious Mancunians by 3 goals to 1. Everton supporters watched the struggle with mixed feelings and painful memories of the Stoke defeat particularly, but for which the downfall of the city would have a possible chance of championship honours coming to Liverpool. Both teams travelled up from London together last night the cup winners arriving in Liverpool at ten o'clock, and putting up at the Alexandra hotel. Twenty thousand spectators cordially welcomed the City warriors, and Young led off to Hardman, who was fouled. Taylor obtained, and centred too swiftly for either Young or Settle to stop the leather. Next came a corner to Everton, and the ball came out to Wolstenholme who, with a long shot, skied the leather over the bar. The Blues kept up their attack on the right, and Hillman got a handful from Taylor. The City could not get away from their tenacious opponents, and when R.Balmer had made a miss, Meredith put his partner offside. Soon after Manchester swooped down on their left, and Whitley ran a long way out to save. Meredith was soon away again, and this time fairly beat Balmer, and tested Whitley with a lovely swift shot which, the Everton custodian cleared very ably indeed. Everton forced the pace on the left, and Sharp dashed up just too late for Settle's centre. A fine run by Hardman resulted in a perfect centre, but Young was not at hand to receive. Booth then cleverly robbed Booth, and Turnbull, and gave to Sharp, who ran the leather out. Meredith next got away fairly from R. Balmer, but Booth robbed the City captain in grand style. The Mancunians soon had his revenge by forcing a corner off the Everton captain. A period of remarkable clever work followed in midfield, where both sets of half backs showed fine form and splendid tactics. MaMahon beat Hardman several times, but at last the winger got well round him, only to wind up with a very feeble effort. Booth was playing a great game, and was mainly responsible for breaking up Manchester's clever combination. A prolonged visit to Everton's section culminated in Livingstone troubling Whitley with a wonderfully good effort. Abbott who had been damaged early on made only a very good show, and he could do little to check the furious onrushes of the visitors. Able efforts by Meredith provided a capital opening for Livingstone, who could hardly have missed, but he shot a foot wide at the finish. Taylor and Sharp were then prominent in a vigorous attack by the Blues, who were ultimately awarded a free kick in a very dangerous position, but Burgess cleared his lines smartly. Although no score had accured the game had been very fast and of a highly scientific character. A glorious piece of work by Sharp gave Taylor and Young a perfect opening so that either should have opened the account which they signally failed to do, and the interval arrived with a clean sheet. During the interval the English Cup was passed through the crowd, many hundreds of whom had an opportunity if reverently touching it. After the interval the assemblage had almost doubled itself. Attack was rapidly made on each citadel in turn, and a fine centre from Sharp brought a smart effort from Young, who nearly hooked into the net. Young was almost in a siting posture at the time. This was followed by another hot attack during which Settle, Young, and Abbott all missed palpable chances after a characteristic dash and centre by Jack Sharp, but both City backs offered a grand defence. Whitley effected a couple of first class saves from a bully, and a corner at very close quarters. In fact so spirited was the City attack that only Whitley's extreme vigilance saved the situation. Everton soon woke up again, and Hardman did some brilliant shooting which troubled Hillman scarily at times. Settle, Young, and Taylor worked together as one man, and by sheer energy, and cleverness frequently broke through the City lines, but their shooting was unlucky, and Hillman too clever. At last Taylor got one of Sharp's lighting centres, and netted the leather brilliantly, to the great delight of the crowd, who had waited patently. Hardman and Abbott were both bottled up in the latter stages. Young played all through with courage and good judgement. Settle missed an open goal at the finish, though he finessed very coolly. Manchester were fairly pumped out at the finish, and seldom managed to break away. The Evertonians were as sprightly as could be, and did excellent work, which demoralised the city halves. It was a most interesting and scientific game, thoughout, marred only by Abbott being hors de combat throughout. Result Everton 1, goal, Manchester City nil.

EVERTON v  MANCHESTER CITY
Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 26 April 1904
This important League match-the last of the season in Liverpool- was decided last evening at Goodison Park, before 15,000 people. Manchester’s chances of securing the League Championship depended upon this game,  they were represented by the same side that won the Cup at Crystal Palace. The trophy was on view and the holders appeared they were greeted with tremendous cheering. The teams were as follow;-  Everton Whitley goal; W Balmer R Balmer backs; Wolstenholme, Booth and Abbott half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, Hardman forwards
Manchester City Hillman goal; McMahon and Burgess backs; Frost, Hynds, Ashworth, half-backs; Meredith, Livingstone, Gillespie, Turnbull and Booth forwards
Everton were quickly aggressive and Hillman cleared a capital effort by Sharp whilst a few minutes later the custodian had to concede a corner in dealing with a stinging drive from Taylor. A long pass to Meredith gave the latter a chance and, steadying himself, the City skipper shot hard and true,  but Whitley brought off an equally capable save. Following crisp passing along Everton front line, McMahon deprived Settle of a fine opening and then Abbott retired for ten minutes owing to an injury.  While he was absent Meredith was frequently prominent but Whitley was in great form in goal.  From Taylor's centre Young in a superb ground shot, which Hillman repelled at full length, and from another onslaught Booth skimmed the bar when the keeper seemed certain to be beaten. Manchester  were very dangerous when in possession and Livingstone receiving from Meredith flashed the ball into goal, where Whitley effected the finest clearance of the match thus far.  Both goals were visited alternately but the respective custodians were equal to every emergency.  The fine work of Booth and Wolstenholme and the sterling defence of McMahon for their respective sides the chief features of the opening, half which proved pointless as regards scoring.  Immediately after resuming Sharp raced past Burgess and centred to Young who, with an open goal sent ridiculously wide.  Another rush on the City goal ensued, and Booth shooting through a ruck of players, almost brought about Hillman’s downfall. Manchester now assumed the aggressive, and Gillespie headed in from a corner only, however, to find Whitley in readiness. In quick succession the Everton custodian threw away similar efforts by Livingstone and Hynds,  Everton now attacked in grand style, and Hillman was kept fully employed.  Twice did Hardman drive in but the custodian was resplendent.  Keeping up the pressure.  Taylor failed to score when Hillman apparently helpless. Everton continued to exhibit really brilliant form, Settle, Young, and Taylor giving the City keeper a roasting time. At  length Sharp, receiving  from Taylor dashed psst Burgess, and centred to Taylor who rushed in and beat all to pieces.  McMahon was cautioned for foul play against Hardman which necessitated the latter's temporary retirement.  Meanwhile Abbott received and with tremendous force shot goalwards but Hillman effected a really superb save.  City were now apparently a beaten side, and Settle obtaining Taylor, went close in, but with only Hillman to beat sent straight against the custodian’s outstretched foot.  From a sudden breakaway Booth put in a terrific shot, which  Whitley repelled and the Everton right again receiving possession, Sharp went clear through but was hustled when about to shoot.  Everton held the ascendency to the finish, and during this half completely overplayed their opponents deserving to win by a much greater margin.
Result- Everton 1 Manchester City 0

TEAM ARRANGEMENTS FOR TO-DAY
Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 27 April 1904
Tranmere Rovers v Everton Reserve
At Prenton Park; kick-off 6.15
Tranmere Rovers.- Robertson, goal; Ire and Ingram, backs; Hilton, Robson, and Hancock, half-backs; McDonald, Hughes, Hughes, Headen, and Jones, forwards.
Everton.- Dent, goal; Owen and Heyes, backs; Clayton, Appleton, and Russell, half-backs; Rankin, McAdam, Whitehead, A.N. Other, and Corrin, forwards.
Thursday
Everton Reserve v Southport Central
For this match at Goodison Park tomorrow which will decide the Lancashire Combination championship Everton will be represented by the following team;-
Whitley, goal; Wildman and Murray, backs; Clayton, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Roberts, O’Hagan, and Dilly, forwards.

TRANMERE ROVERS 3 EVERTON RESERVES 1
April 28, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
At Prenton-park last evening, before 2,000 spectators. The Mayor of Birkenhead (Mr.A.E.Grice) kick-off. Everton had the advantage of the breeze at the outset, but the Rovers more than held their own. Many shots were rained upon the visitors charges, but were negotiated cleverly at the other end Corrin tested Robertson. At the interval neither side had scored. Restarting the Rovers attack, and the ball was scrimmaged into the net from a free kick. Hilton scored a second goal, and a little later T Hughs placed the Rovers further ahead. Corrin reduced the home led, and Rovers eventually winning by three goals to one.

EVERTON RESERVES 1 SOUTHPORT CENTRAL 1
April 29, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
The respective champions of Division “A” and “B” of the Lancashire Combination met at Goodison Park last evening, before a good gate. Southport commenced operations. Garvey handling from Corrin in clever fashion. Everton next forced an abortive corner. The Central next tried to relieve the pressure by a promising move down the left. The home defence however, prevailed, and the scene of operations was again transferred to the visitors territory. Give and take play followed, and Corrin forced another corner, which however, availed his side, nothing. O'Hagan just missed the mark with a header. The homesters set up a persistent attack on the Sandgrounders citadel and Garvey was extremely busy repelling all sorts of shots. O'Hagan put in a beauty, which Garvey saved in clever fashion, and then the visitors obtain a corner, which, however, brought no tangible result. Dawson failed to net the leather when, Whitley had run out to save. A good run and centre by Rickably gave Smith a chance to open the score. Wildman however, arrived on the scene in the nick of time, and a barren corner was the only result. Operations were again transferred to the Southport quarters, and Garvey was busy saving shots from both wings. Dawson and Smith both missed chances by dallying in front of goal. Half-time: No score. Resuming after the interval the Sandgrounders pressed, and Lawton was unlucky in having his final efforts charged down by Murray, the ball going for a corner. Both sides were now putting in good work. Corrin was offside was ruled offside when favourably placed, and then play was contested in midfield. The clever work of the Everton front rank at length met with its due towards, Roberts taking advantage of a momentary slackness in the Sandgrounders defence and putting in a beauty, which Garvey had no possible chance of saying. A brillant run by Corrin from the centre line was heartily applauded. Garvey falling in saving Corrin's final effort. Smith equalised from close range, after Whitley had made a partial clearance from Shadbolt. Towards the finish the Sandgrounders fought hard to gain the leading point, but the home defence was very safe. The game throughout was keenly and evenly contended. Both sets of forwards missed many opportunities to score. The home forwards however, more better than their opponents. Garvey was a clever custodian and got through a great amount of work with credit. Result Everton 1, Southport 1.