CHEDGZOY’S VIEW
The Liverpool Echo- Tuesday, August 12 1924
Sam Chedgzoy who reached “home” again on Monday after a very successful coaching tour in Canada, looks fit to fight for a kingdom once more. Specially interviewed, he considers the Canadians are making genuine and steady headway at the soccer game, and in proof of this would refer us to their recent victories over the strong Corinthian tourist them out there. The Canadian standard is certainly higher than that obtaining in the States, which has recently been brought much into the public eye by reason of several notable Scottish “migrations,.” Of course there is plenty of money in the game in the U.S but whether English or Scottish professional footballers will really like the American type of game for “keeps” in another matter. It is certainly much more robust and dangerous than the game as we know it in the British Isles, and one fears that some if not all of the recently departed “experts,” tempted abroad by the lure of £.s.d., may ere long return home sadder and wiser, though even possibly richer men.

TRIAL MATCH
The Liverpool Echo- Wednesday, August 13, 1924
Bee’s Notes
Everton hold their first public practice on Monday, at 7 o’clock, and have selected the following teams;- Blues; Harland; Raitt, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. Whites; Kendell; Glover, McDonald; Peacock, Reid, Virr; Parry, Hargreaves, Bain, Williams, Forbes.

EVERTON TRIAL GAME
Liverpool Echo - Monday 18 August 1924
Bee’s Notes
The Everton trial game will be played at Goodison Park to-day, kick-off at seven o’clock. Teams;-
Blues; Harland; Raitt, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup.
Whites; Kendall; Glover, McDonald; Peacock, Reid, Virr; Parry, Hargreaves, Bain, Williams, Forbes.

PRACTICE MATCH
August 19, 1924. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
FOOTBALL AT GOODISON.
TRIAL MATCH ENDS IN A DRAW.
SUCCESS OF NEW PLAYERS.
Everton's first practice match supplied a goodly crowd at Goodiosn Park, last night, with some really entertaining football, six goals being equally divided between the Blues and Whites. Unfortunately the game was marred by an accident to Harland, the Blues' goalkeeper. At first it looked as if he been more seriously hurt than eventually turned out –he twisted his ankle, which started to swell –but fortunately for himself and his club it is not a serious matter.
The Blues were undoubtedly the crafty side, while the Reds were triers, all with a shot. The new man fared fairly well, Bain from Manchester United, got two of his side's goals, besides showing clever moves, an abundance of energy, and a true shot. Hargreaves, the Oldham recruit, obtained the third goal with a hefty drive when Raitt was in goal. The Blues' scorers were Troup, who seized upon a centre from Chedgzoy; Cock, who scored the second after Kendall had punched away a shot from Irvine; and then Chadwick equalised when standing unattended.
Kendall did not open with too much confidence, but when he settled down he was safe. His punch-over, when Chadwick made one of his famous drives, was a fine effort. The newcomers who took the eye was the former New Brighton back, Glover, who was the essence of coolness and confidence. Bain is a bunde of energy, and no defender will have to treat him lightly, for he never shirks the issue. Hargreaves too, did well while Williams ably partnered Forbes, whose centres were always a source of danger. Reid and Peacock lived up to their known standards. Parry showed improvement on what was seen of him last season, and McDonald played his usual ruthless game.
OLD MASTERS.
The Blues played football worthy of the old masters. In the first half they sent the spectators into ecstasy with their footwork. Troup and Chadwick were competent, Cock led the line well, and the spectators were amazed at the speed of Chedgzoy. Bain used every ball to advantage, Brown and Hart were “themselves” which tells the whole story of their game, Livingstone was the better of the full backs, and Harland up to the time of retirement, did all that was asked of him in a workmanlike fashion. Result 3-3. Teams: - Blues: - Harland, goal, Raitt, and Livingstone backs, Brown, McBain, and Hart (captain), half-backs, Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, and Troups, forwards. Reds: - Kendall, goal, Glover, and McDonald, backs, Peacock, Reid (captain), and Virr half-backs, Parry Hargreaves, Bain Williams, and Forbes forwards. Referee Mr. T. Constantine.

BOYS OF LIVERPOOL- A WARNING FROM SENIOR CLUBS
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 19 August 1924
EVERTON SHINIO
Bee’s Notes
I have received letters from both the Everton and Liverpool clubs, complaining of the action of boys running over the pitch at the conclusion of the practice games. The directors point out that this will have to cease, otherwise they may have to consider the advisability of not opening the exit gates until the conclusion of the match, or closing the boys’ turnstiles altogether and charging them full price. Now, laddies, take full notice of this. Running over the pitch may cause a lot of damage, and it’s up to you to prevent that. In any case the ground is sacred, and any other than officials and players are more than intruders; they are trespassers, and can be treated as such by the police. Everton and Liverpool have decided to charge 4d admission to League matches for boys giving them the benefit of the reduction in the entertainment tax. It has also been decided to retain the half-time gate of 5d, which is the cheapest in the country, other clubs charging sixpence, and even a shilling.
LIVERPOOL v.  MANCHESTER
It has been arranged that a team of Liverpool and Everton players shall lay a similarly mixed team of Manchester United and Manchester City players at Maine-road on September 10 (probably in the evening) for the benefit of J.E. Magnall, the former secretary of Manchester City. 
Everton shareholders are asked to make early application for tickets in order to avoid a rush. Tickets have been on sale three weeks. Everton have decided to play the same teams for next Saturday’s trial game, with one or two exceptions, due chiefly to the ankle injury sustained by Harland in last night’s game. Therefore Kendall goes in Harland’s place, and Stephenson in Kendall’s.
HARLAND’S HURT
At one time last night it lacked as if Harland had got another unlucky blow that would keep him out of the game for some time. He was injured on the ankle, and the players called for a doctor. However, it is a badly-bruised ankle, and there is no break -for which many grateful thanks. Everton have a bonny pair of sides on last night’s showing. I am glad to see the reserve side are fashioning their play on the first team style. That is as it should be, for the second team members are going to do well when they move up to the senior side. The crowd was about 10,000 strong, which was good, considering the time of kick-off-Liverpool had 14,000 on Saturday-and Mr. Constantine referred a game in which six goals were scored. Three apiece was good going. Bain got a couple, thanks to the extreme winger’s help and the rough Billy Williams making a wise move. I think Bain will improve 20 per cent, though leaving Manchester for Goodison. They told me Hargreaves was very small and light; he belied this when he turned out. His game is of a natty order and he seems to be modelled on the Burnley-Kelly plan, which is a very high pattern and promises a lot. I thought Jack Peacock played a most resolute game and showed a bigness of body that suggests he is now at his primost  point. Teddy Glover romped around the defending lines in his own quiet way and his tussles with Troup were one of the joys of an enjoyable game. It does not do to trust to trial games to any great extent but this much can be said; Everton have an attractive side with a reserve side that is in front of the customary level, even though it may not suit Central Leaguerush and bustle.
HOLE-O!
It would seem that the West Cheshire golf club members are getting into the habit of holing out in one. Jack Cock, the Everton centre-forward, did it at the second hole with a ball that travelled on and “entered the net,” as it were.
EVERTON PERMIT MAKEPEACE TO FINISH
Everton directors have granted permission for Makepeace to continue playing cricket until September 8, which will enable him to complete the county programme.

AN INTERSTING FIXTURE
The Liverpool Echo Wednesday, August 20, 1924
Bee’s Notes
The following is a mixed side from Liverpool and Everton to play a mixed side of City and United for the benefit of Mr. Ernest Mangnall, former secretary of the Manchester City club, on September 10, at Maine-road, Manchester; kick-off some time in the evening;- Harland; Lucas, Mackinlay; Brown, McBain, Bromilow; Rawlings, Forshaw, Cock, Chadwick, Hopkins. Williams is on reserve.
The match should be a big draw, for there is much personality about it, and Hopkin and McBain are former Manchester players. Lucas not only lives at Manchester, but one time was loaned to Manchester United from Liverpool, and the United have never since failed to express their regret at their loss when the was redeemed!
J DOUGLAS OLD EVERTONIAN
Old football followers will remember Sir. Johnnie Douglas, who played for Everton in their Anfield-road days. He has just retired He has just retired from the L.M.S railway High Level Coal Depot, Bramley-Moore Dock, and has been presented by the coal shippers, &c., of Liverpool, with a wallet of notes, contributed by them in token of their esteem for their old friend. He is sixty-six years old and looking splendidly well. He says he is so fit that he will box any man for £6,000 and chance the knock-out blow! Good luck to him!

BEE’S NOTES
The Liverpool Echo- Friday August 22 1924
Everton F.C to-day went for their annual picnic to Llandudno by train, and thence by charabanc to some of the finest places in North Wales. It was a joyous outing in which there was plenty of fun and frolic, and the scheme for bringing together new and old players was much enjoyed. Mr. W. Cuff, chairman of the club was in charge, and directors and players had to thank Mr. Manager McIntosh for his wise arrangements. An international link in the day’s proceedings was the fact the party dined at Mr. W.T Parry’s house at Llandudno. Mr. Parry is a well-known member of the Welsh F.A.
When down in London for the Exhibition many London football enthusiasts told me they were looking forward eagerly to the Everton-Liverpool match- a unique chance of a lifetime for them, writes Mr. T.J. Lovgreen. They will be bitterly disappointed if the match is off on account of the ground. Could not the match be arranged to take place on one of the London club grounds, say, Chelsea? It would be more convenient.
A very happy idea, and one that commends itself to me. I hope it will do the same in the minds of the Everton and Liverpool people. We are all anxious that Liverpool’s Civic Week will be a success, and there is no doubt that a meeting of Everton and Liverpool at Stamford Bridge would bring far more spectators to the “Liverpool Week” funds than will ever arise through a visit to Wembley. Perhaps Everton or Liverpool will be seen at Wembley next April! S’hope col.
NOT SIGNED -YET?
I hear that Fleetwood and Weller have not signed on for Chester.

EVERTON F.C.
The Liverpool Echo- Saturday, August 23, 1924
Bee’s
Grandfather’s “clocked” the Everton family yesterday at Llandudno when the club had their annual picnic and broke their journey at the Links Hotel, where Mr. W. Parry, of the Welsh F.A. looked after their inner man. It was a joyful outing with good weather reigning almost the whole time.
Everton to-day had a fine gate and a fine day for their practice game, in which the following sides made their appearance;
Blues; Kendall; Raitt, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart; Chedgzoy, Hargreaves, Cock, Chadwick and Troup. Whites; Stephenson; Glover, McDonald; Peacock, Reid. Virr; Parry, Wall, Bain, Williams, and Forbes. Play was fast and enjoyable, and there was a lot of tricky work to entrance the crowd of 15,000 spectators. Parry made one delightful move, and the Whites’ defence stood up well to a hot line of forwards. Jack Cock had threatened Reid that to-day it was to be war to the knife, but there was no bloodshed, even if Reid beat Cock more than once. The first shot of the match was from Brown, and the tall Stephenson stretched himself across it in solid manner. Irvine, like his compatriot, Harland was an absentee. Harland has a very fierce swelling of the ankle, and I doubt if he will open the season. Irvine, however, is pretty sure to play. Hargreaves, who took the forward’s place, showed trickiness and steadiness, and I hope the same steadiness will obtain with this young man in all his football movements. Chadwick’s first-time passes by means of a dragged or a pushed stroke many times set Troup on the move, and it seems safe to prophesy that the home left wing is about to enjoy another feast of goals and good football. Bain and Forbes had a capital understanding, and when Cock opened a way unselfishly for Hargreaves, the little man shot hard and straight, and the manner of Stephenson’s saving once more put him in a good light. One of the best things of a most enjoyable match was a hook-pull made by Chedgzoy to a spinning ball. The ball dragged, and passed inches outside the play line. The tussles between Peacock and Troup were among the dandiest bits of play of the day.
A CHADWICK SOLO
Parry got in his best centres in spite of being awkwardly placed and badly angled, but no goal came, and it was left to Chadwick to score from one of his own solo efforts. His first shot hit the upright and came back into play. Chadwick drove in a second time, and Stephenson made a brave effort to stop a close-range shot. Grenyer best feature was his manner of beating the forwards instead of wild punting. Peacock on the goal-line prevented Chadwick getting number two. Before the interval, however, Bain equalised, and the half-time score read;- Blues 1 Whites 1

BLUES 2 WHITES 3
August 25, 1924. The Daily Courier
A SURPRISE RESULT AT GOODISON PARK.
There was some bite about the Everton practice game, and also a surprise result, for the eleven made up practically of first team men, and labelled the Blues, was beaten 3-2 by the reserves after scoring first. When the Blues found themselves two goals in arrears, they put some vim into their work which had been rather lacking before; there was some hefty charging, and at least one appeal to the referee for a foul, but the Reserves hung in to their advantage, urged on by the 15,000 spectators, who saw a good game, as practice games go. Everton have found a couple of capital young goalkeepers in Kendall and Stephenson, both of whom made some smart clearances. Glover also took the eye, for though rather lacking in size for a back, he places a ball extremely well. The regular backs were sound and kicked well. The Everton halves firmly established their reputation last season, and appear as good as ever, but in Peacock, Reid and Virr the club have further talent knocking at the door. Both sets of wing forwards were speedy, and dexterous, and there was generous applause for Hargreaves, Forbes and Parry, who all showed up well against the seniors. Chadwick and Bain scored in the first half, and Wall (twice) and Cock in the second half. Teams : - Blues: - Kendall, goal, Raitt, and Livingstone, backs, Brown, McBain, and Hart (captain), half-backs, Chedgzoy, Hargreaves, Cock, Chadwick, and Troup, forwards. Whites: - Stephenson, goal, Glover, and McDonald, backs, Peacock, Reid (captain), and Virr, backs, Parry, Wall, Bain, William, and Forbes, forwards.

STEPHENSON.
August 25. 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
On Saturday some 13,000 spectators, presenting a sum to charity of about £400, saw a young “Local” named Stephenson keep goal like a master. He is only nineteen years old, stands 6ft 1ins, as does Kendall the other goalkeeper of the side, and he was making his first senior appearance though Harland being out of combat through injury. Stephenson played for Walton Parish Church in the L. U. B. C Competition. He catches were splendid and he shaped, as through he will make a big name in the matter of goalkeeper.

EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 25 August 1924
Junius
Everton will be able to open the season with the side that carried them so successfully through the second portion of the last campaign. From the first week in January to the end of the season they only lost two games, and incidentally established a record by obtaining the highest number of points in the history of the club. Thus the enterprise of the directors under the chairmanship of Mr. W.C. Cuff, in launching out on a bold policy a couple of seasons ago, was justified and only three new players have been engaged. Glover, who learned his football with South Liverpool, and was last season with New Brighton as a right full-back, is likely to develop into a very serviceable defender, and much is expected from F. Hargreaves, the inside left, who comes from Oldham Athletic and who was formerly associated with Manchester North End and Droylsden. Bain, the Rutherglen centre, who gained distinction as a Scottish junior, and has had two seasons with Manchester United, is another acquisition for the attack. Fern, the goalkeeper, has joined the Port Vale club, and Weller has not yet obtained an engagement, while the veteran Downs has not fixed up. Miller has gone to Preston, and Grenyer, who was offered the usual terms, has not up to the present appended his signature. Continuing their policy of fostering local talent, the directors are again running a third team of local amateurs in the Liverpool County Combination. The club should be able to place a very strong team in the field. Harland, whose ankle was bruised in the first practice game, is making good progress, and will be in readiness for the opening match.

BY-PLAY IN FOOTBALL
Liverpool Echo - Monday 25 August 1924
DOWNS LEAVES EVERTON FOR BRIGHTON AND HOVE ALBION F.C
Bee’s Notes
The youngsters at Walton must have though they were engaged in the Cup final. They went at it so heartily that they won, and the seniors in the result column look to have gone west. Such was not the case. The first team, as in all these tests, strove to make a pleasant game and to save their legs. It was ever thus, and it becomes a question whether these games are worthwhile, save for the money which accrues for charity’s sweet cause. Many a feud finds its birthplace in trail games. However, there was plenty of fun introduced into the game and some by-play by Jack Cock and Davie Reid was almost Parkinesque. Chedgzoy’s centre hit Cock and travelled to goal, and Davie Reid, centre half of the opposite side, graciously offered his hand as token of congratulation! Ah, well, a smile now and them is good for anyone.
LOCAL YOUTH
Stephenson kept goal like a master. He is only nineteen years old, stands 6ft 1in., as does Kendall, the other goalkeeper of the side, and he was making his first senior appearance through Harland being out of combat through injury. Stephenson played for Walton Parish Church in the L.U.B.C. competition. His catches were splendid, and he shaped as though he will make a big name in the matter of goalkeeping. He has a habit of drawing back before he delivers his kicks, and by this means he reduces the chance of the ball being taken from him by an oncoming forward. Once he handled out a shot with great skill, another time he fell to a sharp shot from that crack scorer Chadwick, and though the ball passed on to the goal-support Stephenson was “down to it” with sufficient speed to prevent it entering the goal-net. When Chadwick scored after hitting the upright he was driving a big ball at point-blank range, yet the boy made a gallant effort to stop the shot. Kendall also kept goal well although he could not stop the victory of the reserve side by 3-2, Wall scoring twice and Bain once. Bain scored just as in a previous test- through a good centre by the nippy Forbes. Wall got his goal through Parry’s brilliance. These boys are all coming to hand nicely, and Wall has now reached a prime age and physique, as have Reid (centre half) and Peacock (right half)- both fine players. Bain keeps a good place, and Virr is big and strong, while Glover did some fine placing, and will not meet giants like Chadwick in Central League warfare. Williams too, has recovered his confidence and his deadly shot. Cock “cannoned” Chedgzoy’s centre for the seniors’ second goal.
DICKIE DOWNS
The big news of the day is the signing by Brighton and Hove Albion of Dickie Downs, the famous full  back, one of the last links of the Barnsley side that made Cup history. Downs is the man who saved Everton from second division experience. Everton’s proud boast was that they had never been in danger of second division status. Downs stopped the rot in 1920, yet he only made his debut for them on March 6 of that year. He was signed at a remarkably cheap rate, and Birmingham never ceased to worry over losing him because they intended to buy and were put off signing purely by the lowness of the price on his head-they felt there was “a catch in it somewhere.” A wag now “tick-tacks” the following gag;- “Tell Everton I hope they are not drawn against Brighton and Hove Albion again. They had a sorry time last season, but if Dicky plays against them they will have a sorrier time. Downs was capped for England against Ireland on October 23, 1i920. He is known by his Gaby glide and by his wondrous heading power. He has not pace, as players know it, but as he himself has told me; “I don’t mind these flyaway going ahead of me- so long as they are not taking the ball wi ‘em.”

ROBERT DOWN SIGNS FOR BRIGHTON
August 26, 1924. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
Robert Downs, the Everton full back, has been transferred to Brighton & Hove Albion. Downs formerly played for Barnsley and was a member of the Yorkshire side, which made Cup history. He came to Everton from Barnsley in March 1920, and was capped for England against Ireland in October of the same year.

FLEETWOOD FOR CHESTER
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 27 August 1924
Bee’s Notes
As anticipated in this column a short time ago, Tom Fleetwood, the ex-Evertonian, who last season played for Oldham, has signed for Chester, and what is more has been made captain.
EVERTON F.C TEAM
Everton, at Birmingham, play;- Kendall; Raitt, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick and Troup.

BREWSTER BECOMES PLAYER MANAGER IN SCOTLAND
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 28 August 1924
This afternoon we learn that George Brewster, ex-Everton and Wolves, has been appointed player-manager of the Inverness F.C. Brewster was in America during the close season with the Brooklyn Club, and he returned from there some six weeks ago.

EVERTON'S SKILL ALLIED TO A HEFTY PUNCH.
August 28, 1924. The Liverpool Echo
Everton, who have stood for class for a couple of years, have now shown signs of having a kick in their artistry. They will be a delight to the eye, that goes without saying, but some spectators have asked for more definiteness in front of goal. This is likely to arise, because the forward line of the first side has replicas in the second team, and therefore every man is virtually playing for his place. Not that expects any changes in the senior side if things go well in the first seven matches, most of which are on foreign soil. There is an optimistic ring the Everton board-room and amongst the officials there is a feeling that it is up to the players now to redeem their pledge to win the league or the cup. In my estimation a great deal depends upon what happens in the defending lines. There is still a need for a sure kick from the defenders, and one hopes that the rearguard will rise to the height of the other portions of the team. Bain is going to be a live proposition, and Davy Reid is playing more like McBain every day. Everton players, (* denotes amateur) goal, A. L. Harland, Crookstown, 5ft 10, and 12 stone, J. Kendall, Bronghton, 6ft, 12 stone 1. C. Stephenson, Liverpool, 6 and half, ft, 11 stone 11.
Backs, D. Livingstone, Alexandra, 5ft 9, 11-4, D. Raitt Buckham, 5ft 9and half, 11stone, 4, J. McDonald Drke head, 5ft 10, 12stone 1, J. Kerr, Burnbank, 5ft 8 and half, 11 st 8, G. R. Caddick, Bootle, 5ft 9 and half, 11 stone, C. E. Glover, Bootle, 5ft 7 and half, 10 st 9, H. Hamilton, * Wallasey, 5ft 8and half, 11 st 8, A. H. Hetherton, Liverpool * 5ft 8, 11 st , A. Calvert, Shilton, ft 8, 11 st 5,
Half-backs, W. Brown, Cambuslang, 5ft 8, 11 st 6, N. McBain, Cambleton, 5ft 8, 12st 2, H Hart, Glasgow, 5ft 9 and half, 11 st , 8, J. Peacock, Wigan, 5ft 8 and half, 11 st 2, D. Reid, Glasgow, 5 ft 8 and half, 11 st , A. E. Virr, Liverpool, 6ft, 12st, J. McGrae, Bootle, 5ft 9and half, 12st, W. F. Rooney, Liverpool, 5ft 8 and half inches, 11 stone, R. Fairfoul, Liverpool, 5ft 10 and half inches, 11 stone 6, J. Gray, Liverpool* Prescot, 5ft 7 and half inches, 10st, 8, L. H. Holford*, Liverpool, 5ft 9, 11 stone, J. Weir* 5ft 10, 12 stone.,
Forwards. S. Chedgzoy, Ellemeres Port, 5ft 8 and half inches, 11stone2, R. Irvine, Lisburn, 5ft 9, 11 stone 4, J. G. Cock, Hayle, 5ft 10, 12 stone, W. Chadwick, Bury, 5ft 10 and half, inches, 12 stone 4, A. Troup, Forfar, 5ft 5, 10 stone 7, F. J. Parry, Seaforth, 5ft 9, 11 stone, F. Hargreaves, Ashton-under-lyne, 5ft 7 and half inches, 10 stone 10, D. Bain, Ruthergien, 5ft 8 and half, 11 stone 8, W. D. Williams, Blackburn, 5ft 7 and half inches, 10 stone 12, F. J. Forbes, Edinburgh, 5ft 8, 10 stone 10, E. V. Barton, Liverpool, 5ft 9 and half inches, 11 stone 6, H. Houghton, 5ft 8 and half inches, 10 stone 8, G. Robinson, * Middlesbrough, 5ft 9, 11 stone 8, G. H. Wilcox *, Prescot, 5ft 6 and half inches, 10 stone 6.

IRVINE DOUBTFUL STARTER
Liverpool Echo - Friday 29 August 1924
A TROUBLESOME ANKLE MAY STOP HIM AT ST. ANDREWS
Bee’s Notes
We were first is the field yesterday with Brewster’s change of club, with the important team-sheets of the opposition clubs; and now I have another live line. It refers to a dropping out-or a possible dropping out- of Bob Irvine, who, like Harland, has stuck bad fortune early on. The team that is due to play at St. Andrews’s against Birmingham includes Irvine at his usual spot, but private advices state that the bad ankle may not be fit to be trusted. In that case it is possible that Alec Wall would have a run. It is hard lines on Everton that, after welding a side, they should open the season without their regular goalkeeper and a doubt with their inner forward. However, this is part and parcel of the game, and we must not expect to have all the luck all the time. For my part, I am content to believe that the Birmingham forwards will not beat the Everton defence, and surely the half-back situation at Everton is such that we can expect to see a goal or two against Ashurst and Jones, strong and resolute defenders though they be. I am not so sure that the slowness of the Birmingham side will not lead Everton to a prominent position, and if Everton stave off the first ten minutes’ rush that is planned against them, then I shall expect “F.E.H,” to forward news of a first-class k.o. of the Birmingham club. May the wish be ratified! And may Hunter Hart and Company have the joy of coming home with points and pleasure! By the way, it has not yet been stated, but it the fact that this season Neil McBain is the deputy-captain. Everton; Kendall; Raitt, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart; Chedgzoy, Irvine (?), Cock, Chadwick, Troup. Birmingham; Tremelling; Ashurst, Jones; Dale, Cringan, Barton; Harvey, Crosbie, Bradford, Islip, Linley.
HARGREAVESD TAKES PLACE OF IRVINE
Irvine is now definitely a non-starter for Everton tomorrow, in their match at Birmingham and his place will be taken by Hargreaves.

EVERTON MUST SHOOT!
August 30 1924. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
PLAN THAT WILL BRING GOALS AND POINTS.
Like their neighbours across the park, Everton have signed but few men. It is therefore rather unfortunate that they will have to take the field against Birmingham in the Midlands without such stalwarts as Harland and Bobby Irvine. Both the Irishmen were in the wars in the practice games, but are mending nicely, and will soon be fit to take their places in the sides. In the absence of Harland, Kendall, the ex-Lincoln keeper, will guard the goal, while Hargreaves will deputise at inside-right. Apart from those two changes, Everton will be at full strength. On paper the side is powerful one and should do well at St. Andrews. The halves and forwards are, so far as football goes, the most daintiest to watch, and it is doubtful whether any club in the premier division can match them in point of skill. Their one drawback, however, is the lack of penetrative power. If they only bear in mind that it is goals that count in football we can see quite a happy time of Everton way. This afternoon they have a chance of showing they have not lost this art, for they will catch the Birmingham side without their clever captain, Frank Womack. The latter has proved a valuable leader for the past seventeen seasons, and his absence will be severely felt by the Midlanders. Birmingham, however, have a most dangerous leader in Bradford, who one time did good service with Blackpool, and the Blues' defence will need to keep a watchful eye upon him, otherwise they will find themselves debited with goals. Apart from Bradford, however, the Midlanders do not appear a formidable opposition, and the Blues should at least return with one point.

FAMOUS OLD-TIMERS.
August 30, 1924. The Liverpool Football Echo
JOHNNY HOLT –THE CENTRE HALF WHO WAS GOOD IN BOTH ATTACK AND DEFENCE.
By Victor Hall.
When Football opens this season there will be a number of old time enthusiasts at both Goodison and Anfield who will recall with a sigh the years that have passed since their football fever began, and will be reminded thereby of the keenest with which at each of the season's opening, the faces – and the faces –and paces –of new players were earlely scanned, to judge of their promise in the field of play.
It always appears that the players and personalities of the latter days can never quite reach the intimacy of relationship that existed between the players of a previous generation, and their particular “public” of those days. Nowadays, they have become “supporters,” and form themselves into regular constituted bodies with rules and agendas, and what not. It may be that present day directors welcome such support or on the contrary, they may find it at times an embarrassment. Which is the case, I wonder. However, to return to our theme, it may be only the halo of the youthful enthusiasm that seems to make as believe that the “old” players were best and that the game was more skilful, if not so fast, as the present day. Certainly, there did seem a more intimate bond of “association,” shall we say between the personality of the players and the “man in the crowd.” It was known, say, that the popular right winger worked at his trade at Rollo's or at some other engineering shop –especially if he came from the Clyde; or the left back might be is trade as a newsagent or cycle maker, and so the personal link of association off the field of play was formed, to mutual advantage and many enduring friendship thus made.
UNEQUALLED.
It is pleasant to recall some of the players –names made at Anfield and Goodison –that will endure in the annuals of the game. Their prowess was exceptional in days when talent of an exceptional order was not so scarce as it is today. As an example of type that was akin to genius –outstanding genius as that, let me recall “Johnny” Holt, the Everton centre half-back. John Lewis (who writes football articles today as brilliantly as he ruled the been equalled since the football association game was introduced. Many of the present day followers of the game have no idea in what degree exactly Holt excelled. They have seen and applauded more of the brilliant half-backs of today, whose names are household words. They have seem and admired their varied styles of excellence. One man will be exceptionally good in defence; he will have the happy knack of breaking up attack, or he speedy in falling back to cover his co-defenders. Another men will perhaps be an admirable leader in attack; forceful in carrying the ball to his forwards, and in backing up their assault, making as it were an extra centre forward. He may be a positive genius in “ sizing up” the weakness of the opposing side –in crystallizing, as it were, their one weak spot –and then like a master strategist –autantly vitalizing his whole team with that discovery, and leading foray after foray on the weakened link, until victory is assured. These are but the individual brilliance by which the great centre halves are made “great.” Some are speedy –some are born tacticians –others are untiring, or have that sure and born instinct for being at the right spot at the precisely accurate moment. We label that grit and call it “judgement.” Now, if you ask in which of these degrees Johnny Holt excelled, I answer at once –“in all” –and in twice as many!” To give a faint picture of his style. Remember he was not tall. “Little” Johnny Holt was his pet name –he was four or five inches below the average height, and he often played against exceptionally tall centre forwards. He enjoyed that. Almost invariably when the opposite side got a “goal kick “ –Johnny” got the ball. He generally stood a few yards from the centre forward, who, conscious of his own height –waited for the goal kick to “come” to him. Holt made no movement until the ball was in the air –and dropping; them like a flash his body shot up into the air. Most often his hands rested on the startled “centres” shoulders for an instant of time –getting an “impetus” of a “poise” whichever he needed. And his head headed the ball; often two feet higher in the air than the six-foot “centres” below him. Holt's “heading” was miraculously exact –he seldom headed a pinpoint out of direction, but he headed to his own forwards, and straight away his side were attacking again! This, mine you, from the opposing goalkick. When this incident had been repeated a dozen times in the game the centre forward began to feel foolish, and play foolish accordingly. If he was a very stupid centre forward as well he got vexed, and then Holt scored off him more easily. Then Holt broke up every attack he played against. This is no figure of speech; he shattered every attack –robbed it, plundered it, battered it, and ridiculed it, until it became limp and paralyzed, and generally gave up trying to get past this magician, who seemed to know just where you were going to “try” to put the ball, and to get in the way of it, and take it away with him. Even if you changed your mind, and didn't get it there –he changed his mid too, and got to the other place first.
THE JOKER.
Once he got the ball it was no use trying to take it from him. Very few people ever saw Johnny Holt robbed of the ball –he took it along with him –not fast, mind you –just whenever he wanted to take it –while his forwards sorted themselves into their proper positions –and then he “gave” it to them. He kicked it, of course, if they were free and “unbothered,” but if there was any interference, he dribbled it up said, as it were, put it on your toe, with an air of “Now! Go on, while I go back and play in the centre.” And withal, Jack Holt was a humorist –and at times I am afraid he was a bit of a rogue too! When an unsuspecting referee, who was new to Jack's play, saw a little foot getting suspiciously imitating a trip, and “blew” accordingly to investigate, he would find to his amazement, when he got to the spot, that it was Holt who was on the ground, writhing probably, in apparent anguish, while an indignant and bewildered forward was volubly protesting that he was the injured party, and giving a pictorial representation of Holt's apparent “foul.” Most forwards forgave Holt's jokes when the game was over because he was of a sunny disposition, and looked so profoundly innocent of say ill intent that it was easy to accept his version of “ a pure accident.” But all of them admired him as a player. He worthily served his club and his country, and was never out of form. He took care of himself and always kept himself in good training condition, although through living out of Liverpool a lot, he could not train with the team on the ground as regularly as did his comrades. He was a great believe in Turkish baths for keeping his weight down and himself fit. During the greater part of his career, and certainly during the height of it with Everton, he played behind Fred Geary as centre and Brady and Chadwick as inside forwards. The combination of these four players in the centre –in the opinion of many keen judges had never since been equaled. Johnny Holt made many enduring friendships while with Everton, and he certainly made a name as English centre halfback that the passing of the years has only enhanced.

EVERTON IN THE MIDLANDS
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, August 30 1924
ON THE QUEST FOR LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP
HARGREAVES IN FRONT RANK
F.E.F DESCRIBES AN EVEN AND STORMING GAME
Everton; Kendall; Raitt, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart (Captain); Chedgzoy, Hargreaves, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. Birmingham; Tremelling; Ashurst, Jones; Dale, Cringan, Barton (Captain); Harvey, Crosbie, Bradford, Islip, Linley. Referee; Mr. W.G. Day, of Derby. This day Everton started out on a quest for the League championship. They fancied their chance somewhat in this long-distance race, and therefore it was a pity they should kick-off with a depleted team. As was announced in the “Echo” during the week, Bob Irvine did not dare risk his ankle, which had been very swollen, and when it was turned gave him a “crick.” Irvine’s absence let in young Hargreaves, who thus made his debut in senior football -a rapid rise for a boy who a year ago was playing junior football. He has the novel experience of having played one game in any reserve side of any note!!! This is somewhat of a novelty-record. Harland, of course, was still unable to keep goal, so that young Kendall, who made his debut late last season, went into the first team goal. Birmingham were as per usual, save that Frank Womack was not able to play thus early on. Our journey to Birmingham was considerably delayed by the holiday traffic, but the Midland capital was reached in good time for a light lunch, before proceeding to the ground. The playing pitch at St. Andrew’s looked in perfect condition. The spectators were flocking in when the players appeared.
CHANGING THEIR COSTUME
There was considerable enthusiasm as the ball was sent rolling for the opening of the campaign. There were over 30,000 present when play should have started in delightfully warm weather. It was puzzling, however, that both teams wore Royle blue jerseys, the only difference being that the Birmingham men had a white V-shaped stripe on theirs. After consultation, the Everton team were called back to the dressing-room, and they reappeared in white. It of course caused some delay, but it was only five minutes after the appointed time that Everton started. Birmingham were at once busy on the left, and Linley, with a swinging square pass, gave Harvey a fine pass, but he put the leather wide. The visitors were quick to respond, and they made rapid ground through the cleverness of Chedgzoy, who centred with fine judgement, but the effort was lost. The Evertonians now developed their play in the most sparkling style, and a swift shot from Cock was rather luckily charged down by Jones. A minute later the Everton centre got clean through and shot and the volley was well fielded by the home keeper amid great excitement. The visitors were now all over their opponents, and a great effort was headed away. Troup then took a hand in the game, and sent in a dangerous low shot which was booted away by Barton. The home side now rousted themselves and made dangerous progress on the right, where first Crosbie and then Bradford sent in flying shots which were well intercepted by the Everton backs.
HARGREAVES METHODS
For a time there was a lull in the pace, but Hargreaves was putting in well both the style and tactics of Chedgzoy, and they were a frequent thorn in the side of Barton and Jones. A division was created when Bradford got off on his own account and, whipping between the backs, he sent in a regular daisy cutter, which passed wide of the post. The Birmingham right wing players were again in the picture, but were well held by Hart and Livingstone, and when Islip tried to improve the shinning Hart he was well accounted for by Brown. Further pressure on the part of the Evertonians saw Chedgzoy chancing two long shots, which were just off the target, and from another effort Hargreaves failed to finish effectively. Still Everton continued to press, and their attack only ended when Cock again experienced ill-luck. At the other end Birmingham became dangerous, and Kendall had to save in hot style.
THE EVERTON DEFENCE
Crosbie and Islip sent in the latter’s effort being a particularly difficult one to deal with. The home side were now enjoying quite as much of the play as their opponents, and rattling shots went sent in from the three inside men. Fortunately, the Everton defenders were on their best behaviour, and after several efforts to get through had been defeated Islip spoiled a fine opening by putting the ball outside when he was practically unwatched. The wonderfully fine work on the part of McBain and Livingstone kept out a couple of assaults, and Linley was bowled over near the corner flag just as he was about to centre. The Midlanders were now, however, most persistent, and after Kendall had cleverly cleared a couple of shots Bradford headed the ball over the bar. It was now the turn of the visitors to again become aggressive, and, working down in combined order, Hargreaves sent in a beauty, which came within an ace of scoring, and Cock was making well for goal when a doubtful decision arrested his progress, and, following upon this, Linley and Islip both made attempts to gain the lead. A breakaway by Harvey returned the trouble, but he overran the ball, and when Cringan lobbed the ball up from long range it was easily cleared.
A STORMING ATTACK
Just before the interval Everton came away with a tremendous rush on the right. A fine centre from Chedgzoy was missed by a mere matter of inches on the part of Hargreaves, and two seconds later Cock attempted to deliver the goods, but without success. In both these cases the Birmingham defence was well beaten, but Everton’s luck was apparently out.
Half-time.- No score.

EVERTON AT BIRMINGHAM
THRILLING ATTACK AND COUNTER-ATTACK
CHADWICK OPENS SCORE
TWO GOALS EACH IN A FEW MINUTES
It had been a strenuous and fast half, and Everton on points should have led.
EHER THE WEAKNESS LAY
It appeared to me that the weakness in the first period lay with the forwards, who could not finish effectively. In  other words, the backs had invariably the better of the argument. The ground was full when play was resumed. Chadwick and Troup were the first to make ground, but the movements came to nothing, and the next episode of note was a duel between Brown and the home left wing pair, in which the Evertonian carried off the honours. Play was much clever than it had been in the first half, but it brightened up considerably when Harvey got off the mark, and finished with a promising shot that was smartly diverted. For a time Birmingham were in very lively moods, and Raitt made several clever clearances, and the visitors then got going in serious fashion through Chedgzoy, whose centre was just missed by Hargreaves, while Cock was once more the victims of circumstances when he failed at a promising position.
STUBBORN DEFENCE
As the struggle proceeded without the registering of any goals, it became more keen, and Bradford and his wings spared no endeavour to get around Raitt and Livingstone, but both maintained their best form. A breakaway on the Everton left might have led to something, but the final shot from Chadwick lacked sting, and the home keeper was not seriously troubled. Constructive work by the Birmingham half-backs led to a further attack on the Everton goal, and Kendall had to run out to clear. Then Chadwick got through on his own, and with a long shot scored the easily deserved goal, and a little later the visitor came through again, and Brown just failed to register a second point. The home forwards made a desperate reply to this success by a series of raids on the right, Harvey and Crosbie both putting in dangerous dropping shots, which were safely negotiated. Troup next raced down and put in a pass which Cock ought to have converted. He shot well, but the keeper pulled it round from the foot of the post at the cost of a corner.
AN EQUALISER
Linley equalised for Birmingham. In the concluding stages of the contest the fight became keener than ever. The home left wing was altered, Bradford going to the outside and Islip to the centre. This change at once proved effective, for after some pretty play Linley, from the inside position, equalised matters with a goal that fairly beat Kendall.
ANOTHER THRILLING EQUALISER
Crosbie scored a second for Birmingham, Cock equalising. Ten minutes from time excitement reached fever pitch when Crosbie, getting possession, scored from long range. Everton’s response was immediate, for Cock ran clean through and equalised with a beauty. These two goals came with the twinkling of an eye, and the great crowd rocked with enthusiasm. From this point to the finish both sides played with great vin and the shooting was erratic and an admirable opening goal ended in a draw. Final; Birmingham 2 Everton 2.

MARINE v  EVERTON A
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, August 30, 1924
Henshaw and Parry were prominent for Everton, but Marine were the more aggressive side in the first half. Jones kept a good goal or the visitors, and saved splendid shots from Neil, Clayton, Davies and Jones. Clayton opened the scoring for Marine, and Davies increased the lead, both goals coming from good footwork by Jones. McGrae placed well for Everton, but their forwards were very weak in shooting. The Marine side gave a splendid display of combination up to the interval.
Half-time; Marine 2, Everton A 0- Final; Marine 3 Everton A 0

EVERTON RES v  BIRMINGHAM RES
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, August 30, 1924
CENTRAL LEAGUE
For the opening fixture Everton made one change, Barton for Hargreaves at inside right, while Birmingham played as selected. Reid won the toss for Everton, and the first few minutes saw some exciting exchanges in the Birmingham goalmouth. Barton gave Forbes a fine opening, but the latter’s centre went wide. A nice, concerted move by the Birmingham forwards ended in Glover charging down, rather luckily, a shot from Briggs. Hibbs, the Birmingham ‘keeper, was then called upon to save two good shots from Williams and Bain. A foul against Reid let in the visitors, and White drove in a shot in which just grazed the crossbar. A few minutes later Glover made two weak clearances, which spelt danger, but McDonald came to the rescue  on each occasion. Hibbs was showing good form in goal against some excellent and well-directed shots from the Everton forwards, one of his saves from parry receiving plaudits from the crowd. Everton were gradually gaining the upper hand, and enjoyed most of the play. Ten minutes from the interval HARRIS dribbled through the Everton defence and finished by scoring a beautiful goal, giving Stephenson no chance. This was all against the run of the play, but in the short time at their disposal and the brilliant work of Hibbs they were able to make up the leeway. Half-time; Everton Res 0, Birmingham Res 1.
In the second half Everton started strongly, both Bain and Williams almost notching an equaliser, while a corner taken by parry had the Birmingham keeper in difficulties, but he eventually cleared. Birmingham had a great chance of scoring second goal when Liddell shot over when well placed, but a moment later they scored Russell, Stephenson being badly beaten by a soft shot. Bain scored for Everton.

CENTRAL LEAGUE
Sports Argus - Saturday 30 August 1924
EVERTON v  BIRMINGHAM
At Liverpool. Everton; Stephenson; Glover, McDonald; Peacock, Reid, Virr; Parry, Barton, Bain, Williams, Forbes. Birmingham;- Hibbs; Dixon; Hunter; White, Morgan, Liddell; Harvey, Briggs, Harris, Russell, Scriven. The exchanges were of an exciting order in the opening minutes. The Birmingham goal was bombarded, and Hibbs came through the ordeal with flying colours. Birmingham then attacked, and Briggs looked a certain scorer when Glover very luckily charged down his shot. Williams and Bain had good shots countered by Hibbs. Birmingham attacked, White sending in a strong shot which just grazed the bar. Glover’s weak clearance gave Harris a chance, but McDonald cleared in the goal line. Hibbs saved splendidly from Parry, receiving applause from the crowd. Everton were now playing better and gradually assumed the upper hand.
Result; Everton 2 Birmingham 2.

RAPID SCORING
Sports Argus - Saturday 30 August 1924
THREE GOALS IN EIGHT MINUTES AT ST ANDREW’S
“BLUES” SHARE
By “Old Blue”
A heavy programme for the opening month of the season had been arranged for Birmingham, but happily, most of the matches were at home, and should provide the team with a good send-off. The first match of the season was with Everton at home this afternoon, and a big crowd was expected to encourage the side to attain victory- a result Birmingham have not secured against Everton at St. Andrew’s since they returned to the First Division. Many regrets were expressed at the absence of Womack, the captain, from the opening match, but he was being kept in reserve in order to get him ready for the stern engagements ahead. Apart from this Birmingham had a full team out. Everton, too, had what was regarded as a strong side, although Irvine was unable to play at inside right. Teams;- Birmingham;- Tremelling; Ashurst, Jones; Dale, Cringan, Barton (Captain); Harvey (W.H), Crosbie, Bradford, Islip, Linley. Everton; Kendall; Raitt, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart (Captain); Chedgzoy, Hargreaves, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. Referee.- Mr. W.G. Day (Derby).
Fortunately the weather held fine, and when the teams lined up there were about 30,000 people present to usher in the season. Some delay was caused at the start by Everton having to change their jerseys owing to the clash of colours. Barton captained the home team in the absence of Womack, and succeeded in winning the toss. This gave Birmingham the advantage of the sun behind them. Birmingham were the first to press, and Islip showed well in making the running for Linley, but the attack ended in Harvey heading behind. Chedgzoy and Hargreaves were responsible for a neat bit of play, and when the home left pair again pressed Bradford failed to hold a useful pass from Islip. At the other end Tremelling fisted away a centre from Chedgzoy, and when he again tried to break through Jones promptly bowled him over, thus ending a dangerous movement. Cock, however, proved of great trouble. He once rounded the home defence beautifully, and looked like opening the score until Jones intervened, and a moment later the centre-forward put in a  hard drive from short range, for Tremelling to execute a capital save. Birmingham, too, displayed enterprise in their attacking, and Crosbie opened up a smart attack with a pass out to Linley, but the latter’s return went too far back for Bradford to reach it. The home front line, however, soon renewed the pressure, and after Kendall had saved from Harvey, Islip went near with a good drive from an acute angle. The play was fast, and both goals were visited in turn, Tremelling having to make another quick save from Cox, but at the other end Crosbie got in a surprise drive which Kendall saved at the foot of the post. For some minute Birmingham kept up the pressure, and hovered round the Everton goal, in dangerous style, Raitt and Livingstone being kept on the alert. Birmingham played good football in all departments, equal to anything they did last season, and once Bradford executed a splendid dash for goal, his shot being only inches wide. Crosbie next forced a corner, but it yielded no advantage. Bradford found a very close guard in McBain and Raitt, but he proved a warm handful for both of them, and each time he received the ball he made a bee-line for goal. Crosbie, too, harassed the opposition, and once screwed the ball in front of goal while Kendall was out. Livingstone being lucky to effect a clearance. Jones was very sound in the home defence and the skilful work of Barton in holding a troublesome wing also came in for praise. There was an excellent understanding on the part of the home left wing, and in rapid succession Kendall was called upon to save several dangerous shots from Linley, Crosbie, and Islip, which fully extended the smart Everton goalkeeper, and even Ashurst came up to him during one attack. It was only with great difficulty the goal was kept intact, Cringan also assisted in the shooting, and brought Kendall to his knees. Birmingham now had much the better of the play, but Islip did not get anywhere near the mark with his next two shots. By the time the crowd had increased to 36,000 and they rejoiced in the smart tackling of the Birmingham half-backs and backs which prevented the speedy and clever men from Everton getting too dangerous. The Birmingham forwards played grand football, passing smartly and showing enterprise in all they did. Their only fault was that the ball was too often in the air. Barton made only one error, bit it let in Cock and Hargreaves, and the latter sent in a terrific shot which Tremelling only saved at the second attempt. Soon after Cock rushed down in a threatening manner, but fortunately Dale got between him and the goalkeeper, and he was foiled. Two more corners fell to the home team, but both were cleared. Birmingham’s attack was so keen that the visiting backs deemed it expedient not to take the slightest risks, but at the other end Chedgzoy missed the bets scoring chance. The ball came across from Troup, and Chedgzoy had plenty of clear shooting space among the defenders, but allowed Ashurst to clear.
Half-time; Birmingham 0, Everton 0
In re0starting, a strong movement by the visitors was soon beaten off, and then Linley had a clear run, but his final pass did not reach Bradford, who was waiting in position. The pressure was sustained for a time, and Harvey made a big effort, but made the mistake of kicking the ball goalwards a little too soon. Then a pass from Linley across goal was missed, and afterwards Islip made a brave attempt to convert a centre from Harvey, but failed. The only reply to the strong raids of Birmingham was an individual effort by Cock, but he received no assistance from his comrades, and he had to shoot from an impossible angle. It was only at the expense of a corner. But Raitt was able to stop Bradford from accepting a smart centre by Linley, but Birmingham continued to hold a distinct advantage in the play, and the Everton defenders had a very wares time in keeping the keen and resourceful Birmingham forwards from doing serious harm. Bradford tried his utmost to convert a centre from Harvey, but Livingstone stopped him at the cost of a corner and the free kick ended in Bradford having another shot at goal. This time Raitt, standing on the line, kicked clear, but Birmingham kept up the pressure for a time without meeting with success. When the pressure was beaten off the ball went up to CHADWICK who, after manoeuvring for position sent in a long shot that just beat Tremelling and travelled into the corner of the net after 61 minutes play. Everton, however, did not merit this success on the run of the play, and were certainly fortunate to be leading, but they followed up the advantage with another strong raid, and Tremelling had to handle from Brown. There was a good prospect of Birmingham equalising soon afterwards as the result of the enterprising Islip, but Crosbie shot wide, and when another bright raid was in progress Harvey sent behind. Although Everton held the lead, the advantage in the play rested with Birmingham, but Everton’s strong attack got going occasionally, and once Tremelling was called upon to make a smart save from Cock. At the end of 80 minutes CROSBIE obtained the lead for Birmingham with a beautiful shot after smartly tricking the opposition, but immediately afterwards COCK put the scores level with an oblique shot. Bradford was injured and went to outside left, Linley and Islip moving inward. Birmingham practically monopolised the play, and when Harvey again dropped the ball into the centre Islip allowed it to pass to LINLEY, who, with a first time shot, scored the equalising goal, the score being then far more in keeping with the play. It was a hard-fought game, and hotly contested to the end. Result.- Birmingham 2 Everton 2.
THE GAME AT A GLANCE
After 61 minutes;- Birmingham 0 Everton 1 (Chadwick scored)
After 74 minutes;- Birmingham 1 Everton 1 (Linley scored)
After 80 minutes;- Birmingham 2 Everton 1 (Crosbie scored)
After 82 minutes;- Birmingham 2 Everton 2 (Cock scored)

CENTRAL LEAGUE
Birmingham Weekly Mercury - Sunday 31 August 1924
EVERTON 2 BIRMINGHAM 2
After being two down within twenty minutes of the full time Everton reserves made a fine recovery and levelled matters. It was a brilliant exhibition these teams served up for Everton had quite the better of the attacking early in the game, but found the goalkeeper of Hibbs a feature which kept their sharp shooters at bay. Indeed it was Birmingham who took the lead against the run of the play, yet worthily, for Harris dribbled through half-a-dozen players before shooting hard and low near goal, leaving Stephenson without a chance. The second half was a repetition of the first, for Everton again held away for a spell then fell away, allowing Birmingham to get the second goal. Butler was the scorer, his shot passing the goalkeeper through a mix-up. Everton made strenuous efforts. Eventually Bain scored, and a minute from time Williams notched the equaliser amid enthusiasm demonstration.

“BLUES” FORWARDS’ IMPROVED FORM
Birmingham Weekly Mercury - Sunday 31 August 1924
POINTS SHARED WITH EVERTON AT ST. ANDREWS
TWO GOALS EACH
BIRMINGHAM 2 EVERTON 2
Everton opened the season’s programme at St. Andrew’s by sharing the points with Birmingham, and in meeting with this success the visitors were rather lucky though they no doubt deserved to divide the points. Their slice of luck lay in the fact that Tremelling did not correctly gauge the progress of a shot from Chadwick and got down to the ball too late to prevent Everton from opening the scoring just at a time when Birmingham appeared almost certain to emerge successful. It was a rare good game all through and provided plenty of first-rate football for the enjoyment of the 35,000 spectators present at the match. It was especially pleasing to the Birmingham supporters to see such an excellent understanding between the forwards. Both wings combined in admirable style and the passing of Islip and Linley often completely deceived the opposition, strong as it was. Islip ade repeated openings for his colleagues, but the latter has yet to learn how to get the ball into the centre the first time. He might have caused a great deal more trouble had he lifted the ball into the middle of the field at the first opportunity instead of waiting, but his partner was in fine form and except for a couple of bad shots played delightful football. Bradford did not realise quite his best form, due to the extraordinarily troublesome opposition, and in the later stages of the game suffered from a strain which compelled him to move outside left.
FAULTS IN FINISHING
There were occasional faults in the finishing of the Birmingham raiders, but generally the work was an improvement upon that of last season, and Crosbie was especially troublesome to the opposition. Harvey being the better of the two wing men. Everton did not relish the close attentions and keen tackling of the home half-backs all of whom played at their best and did well to keep the smart visiting forwards so well at bay. Birmingham’s defence, too, was safe and sound, Jones thoroughly justifying his inclusion in the team. An lor elapsed before the scoring opened, and it was only through an error of judgement that Chadwick then scored. Tremelling apparently thought the shot was going outside and he realised his error too late to stop Chadwick’s shot from reaching the net. Linley equalised the scores with a good shot during time he figured at inside left, and very soon after Crosbie rounded off an afternoon’s capital play by putting his side ahead with a grand shot, an incident which roused the spectators to great enthusiasm.
THE EQUALISER
Hardly a minute had elapsed, however, before Cock, the most dangerous and enterprising of the Everton forwards, burst his way through and registered the equalising goal. After this Birmingham strove very hard to regain the lead, and despite the injury to Bradford, which rendered him useless in the attack, the forwards carried out a number of very promising raids.