EVERTON BRING BACK TROUP
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 02 December 1925
Bee’s Notes
The Everton directors have selected the same side, with one exception (Troup for Weaver), for this game with West Ham United, at Goodison Park, On Saturday, 2,15 p.m. The team is; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, and Troup.  The Reserves X1 to visit Preston North End, in the Central League fixture, is; Harland; Livingstone, Kerr; Rooney, McBain, Hart; Millington, Houghton, Murray, and Williams. 

PRESTON RESERVES
Lancashire Evening Post - Thursday 03 December 1925
North End Reserves, who will be at home to Everton Reserves, will have Ratcliffe, who assisted the “A” team last week as leader of the attack again to place of Williamson.  The selected team is; Prout; Phizacklea, Cook; Gerrard, Craven, Walsh; Aitkens, Woodhouse, Ratcliffe, Bradford, and Dickie. 

EVERTON’S BIG TEST
Liverpool Echo - Friday 04 December 1925
WEST HAM AS VISITORS
Bee’s Notes
We shall trek to Goodison Park to-morrow in the belief and confident hope that Everton will beat West Ham if, for no other reason than the fact that Everton are vastly better in their movements nowadays, and West Ham have gone back a lot since Hodgson, Watson and company gave Liverpool a rare game at Anfield early in the season.  The fact is West Ham have lost some really good members, notably Hodgson, the back who broke his leg last week; they will be clever if they replace him readily.  Everton on the other hand come to their loyal followers with a record of not having lost for three weeks, and a team practically unchanged- Troup’s leave-taking last week was due to his shoulder trouble, which is always worse when the going is hard.  Naturally Troup comes back to the fold this week –ice marks permitting, I take it- and in view of Everton’s steadying up in the last month of play, there should be a rousing victory, helped along by the enthusiasm of the big crowd.  It should be a dour contest for West Ham adopt offside tactics if necessary, and in Watson and others of the attacking line they have instant-shooters, so that Everton cannot call the game 2won until the last breath.  In to it, Everton.  Teams; Everton; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup.  West Ham; Hufton; Hebdon, Horfor; Carter, Barrett, Collins; Moore, Earle, Watson, Williams, Ruffell. 
LATE CHANGE IN WEST HAM SIDE
Against Everton Tom Hufton, the goalkeeper, will be unable to play owing to his injured hand not having sufficiently recovered.  David Baillie will again deputise for him. 

OLD-TIMES AND TIMERS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 05 December 1925
VICTOR HALL RECALLS LIVERPOOL FOOTBALL ASSCOIATION MEMORIES
Away back in the nineties, the personnel of the Liverpool and District Football Association, to give it its full title, included members who still loom large in the public eye.  The president of those days was Mr. Douglas Lamont, one of the most capable and sincere legislators the game has ever provided.  For the many years in which Mr. Lemon retained his honoured position his word was law, his judgement wise, and his charity unbounded.  If ever the yoke of stern administrative law in football was exercised with prudence and kindly feeling, it was by President Lamont, and when he retired from office, a little while ago, full tribute was paid by his colleagues and the clubs under his jurisdiction to his long reign and fairness to all with whom he came in contact.  Mr. Lamont in those days had the co-operation of a very capable and efficient committee of men well versed in the laws of the game they were called on to administrate upon in the wide area covered by their district and foremost among them was Mr. W.R. Clayton, he vice-president, then for many years the representative of the Everton club upon the council.  Mr. Clayton saw eye to eye with his president, and in the hands of these who able administrators the dignity of the game and the dispensing of justice was in firm hands. The treasurer of those days is still happily and honourably in office, and never has the game had a better or more respected provincial guardian of the purse than in Mr. James Grant, the shy yet capable treasurer, whose prudent and efficient handling of the finances of the local association has brought tribute of praise from the parent body in Russell-square down to the humblest club who can afford to affiliate. If we speak in glowing praise of the treasurer, what praise is adequate for the juvenile veteran who is still the honorary secretary of the “Liverpool and District” F.A.? Columns have been written and speeches by the bucketful have been made about “Bob” Lythgoe, yet he has gallantly survived, and seems likely to create he first record as the centurion secretary of the F.A. 
A GRAND OLD “BOY.”
If ever a well-earned compliment is paid to Robert Lythgoe, it will be when his colleagues mark in some enduring manner his life’s work for the game in the North of England.  From the days when C.W Alcock was the administrative officials of the F.A. in London, down through the long years of Mr. Wall’s capable succession, Bob Lythgoe has gone cheerily on in Liverpool guiding and ruling the destines of the local clubs, watching at their birth, tending them in their infancy, and, when needed, curbing them in the boisterous indiscretions of their youthful impetuosity.  To follow the smilie, he has guided and guarded them in their life’s journey, and at the last, his has been the gentle hand that laid the wreath on the tomb that marked “finis” to many a brave career.  So have passed away names that were once household words in local football annals.  Bootle, Aintree Church, Garston Copperworks, Hoylake, Lansdowne, Celtic, White Star Wanderers and Seacombe Swifts were once live factors in local football administration, and most of these clubs were represented in the officials who legislated for football in those days locally, yet to-day their influence in local affairs, if not quite extinct, is nearly so.  Liverpool, Waterloo Marine, Blundellsands, New Brighton, and most of the I Zingari clubs of to-day had not come into prominence, and the Liverpool County Association had not been formed.  Mr. S. W. Gill, of Hoylake, then looked ably after the interests of his district, and was ably supported by Mr. Edward Case, then representing Seacombe Swifts, and Mr. J. Maddock as the representative of Birkenhead Locos.  All three gentlemen were active and popular referees in their district at that time, and in the framing of laws and administration of “justice” held the traditions of the game in respect.  The grandfather of the council was then Mr. W.P. Lomax, of “Aintree Church” that grand old club that was such a fine nursey field of young players, who afterwards distinguished themselves in the great world of league football.  From there came the brothers Balmer and many other promising players, who Everton, Bootle, and later on Liverpool, helped on the ladder to fame.  The Tranmere Rovers of those days had a most popular representative in Moses Wilson, whose good humour and genial personally was a great asset to his club.  The Tranmere Rovers of to-day owe grateful memory to his efforts on their behalf in those early days.  One of the most popular members of the committee at that period was genial Harry Coglan, of Garston Copper Works.  His cheery wit and charming personality endeared him to all and earned many friends for his club.  When business changes took him out of the Liverpool distinct a few years later his loss was keenly felt by his colleagues.  Genial “Teddy” Ramsbottom too, was another estimate member of the inner circle of that period.  Representing the Lancashire Referees’ Association, which he had been prominent in forming, he had a great circle of friends, and in Southport especially, where he and Jack Merchant had done a lot to foster football, he was highly thought of. 
A CHEERY PRESENCE
No football meeting of those days was incomplete that lacked the radiant cheery presence of “Bob” Nelson, the able and prudent secretary, who carried the Police Athletic Society on his broad shoulders into fame.  If ever a personality endeared himself to all with whom he came in contact, (except “prisoners of war”) that was Robert Nelson.  The “Echo” has previously paid tribute to his monumental work in his young days, by which he reared and nourished that magnificent Athletic Society that made the Liverpool Police known and respected whenever they stepped on the sports field, but few people know how much Superintendent Nelson (as he afterwards became) did for local football and sport generally.  Early and late, whenever his official duties permitted, he worked and strove for football progress and the work and position of his own society in the public regard to-day is due in the largest measure to his boundless energy and keen judgement.  The interest of the shipping teams of those days found representation in Frank Cox, who was the White Star Wanderers’ nominee, and Kirkdale had Wm. Beckett- still happily with us, but retired from active football legislation. A keen young legislator of those days in J.F. Langford held a brief for the interests of the Celtic club of the period, but later Mr. Langford had an important part in guiding the Zingari League into its present position of honour.  Genial “Willie” Roche, who has been referred to in a former article, completed the happy group who for a period controlled the destinies of the game in the Liverpool area.  Mr. Roche was responsible for the interests of the Bootle club, and his personality was a popular one with his colleagues, and with all local clubs, combining as he did the onerous duties of his office, with an active refereeing career that brought him into local prominence.  This, then, is a picture of the man who looked after the interest of the game in the Liverpool district, at a time when he professional elements was making as strong claim for public support.  That they “builded wisely,” few will gainsay.  The prudence and wisdom of their judgement have rarely been called into question in the thirty years that have passed since these gentlemen first met together in council.  Many are still in harness in football duties.  All honour to their seal their energy and their unswerving loyalty to the game they have honoured by their high regard. 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 05 December 1925
By Louis T. Kelly

• ‘Tis wonderful how form and fortune change
• Two seasons ago Wilf Chadwick was the League’s Senior Division crack scorist.
• A year later he could do little that was right, and eventually lost his place in Everton’s senior team
• The Everton forwards must try and not leave all the goal scoring to Dean
• He has notched eleven of the last fourteen goals for his side

LIVERPOOL “A” V EVERON “A”
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 05 December 1925
AT Litherland.  Everton won the toss, and taking advantage of the strong wind, pressed very hard on opening.  After five minutes they were awarded by Kelly opening the score with a fine shot.  Liverpool made great efforts to equalize, but the Everton defence was very steady.  Quarter-time Everton “A” 1, Liverpool “A” 0. 

EVERTON CONTINUE TO GO UP
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 05 December 1925
WEST HAM’S LIVELY CHALLENGE ON A GLACIER SURFACE
A CROWD OF 25,000 ESKIMOS
By Bee
Everton; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy (Captain), Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Weaver.  West Ham; Ballie; Bebdon, Hertor; Cater, Barret, Collins; Moore, Earle, Watson, Williams, Ruffell.  Everton housed a good attendance to-day, owing to their recent success. West Ham had a middling sort of side, with good forwards, but a reserve back for Hodgson, who broke a hone last week.  Weaver for Troup was an automatic change, and Ballie, the 19-years-old boy, went into the West Ham goal owing to Hufton being injured. 
THE FIRST TOSSES
There were sheets of ice in parts of the field, and when Chedgzoy lost the toss, the prospects of play being good were very small.  The very firs more made by Brown resulted in that player getting seating accommodation on the earth.  McDonald gave a corner to West Ham; but they could not improve on it; and when Everton went off on an attacking mission it was seen that Barrel, he visitors centre half, was limping.  The first real point of play was a splendid movement in which Weaver used the ankle to turn a pass in towards O’Donnell.  The Darlington man made a lovely drive to the left-hand corner of the post, where Balie made a catch of extraordinary measure.  The hot ball made the goalkeeper’s hands tingle, but his heart was made warm by the applause of the crowd.  West Ham had a trifling show, and Watson, having to shoot hurriedly, could not be depended upon for accuracy. 
A VIRILE SHOOTER
There were times when a player was twenty yards from the ball and when he started to more up he fell to the ground.  Virr seemed to keep his feet very well, and he proved that he could shoot when he had a corner kick chance.  West Ham were never hesitant about moving up to force an offside decision, but Everton were not easily caught in the trap.  There was little between the sides for a long time, although Everton were palpably a shade superior in making attacks.  There was some hearty work on the Everton right, and when the ball was put to the middle everybody looked for Dean’s customary goal, when Hebden stepped into the breach, and heading away for a corner stopped the first goal of the match. 
THE MAN OF THE MOMENT
Stanley Earle, by wise movements and long passes did more than any other West Ham forward to set the London side in happy attack.  However, there was no blinking the superiority of Everton at his moment, notably when Weaver, with his rakish stride moved up as though there was no opposition on the field. 
O’DONNELL’S OPPORTUNITY.
Brown and O’Donnell were pretty close with surprise shots, and after Barret had put a free kick for hands behind the line, Everton opened the scorebook by the aid of Irvine and O’Donnell.  O’Donnell was the actual scorer, but Irvine made the chance possible by a carefully-planted centre made a fraction of a second before Horier could get across his pass.  O’Donnell, without hesitation, rammed the ball to the top of the net.  West Ham found the Everton backs in particularly good form, and, although they took risks, they were very sure.  Thus it was that Ruffell, while playing well, did not get much return for his work. 
UNPLEASANT FEATURES
After Ruffell had shot over, a rather nasty spirit entered into the game, proceedings being started with Raitt putting up a leg near the penalty line, if not on it, and West Ham attempting to streak a claim for a penalty kick.  A moment later they claimed that Raitt had handled in the penalty area.  This should not have been a day for bitterness near for charging.  When Watson was going through to take up a mistake by McDonald, Virr came along to give him a hefty charge, which sent him to the earth.  After this Dean and Barret began a cross-word puzzle that led to the referee’s intervening and speaking a few homely words to them.  The game still went chiefly to the Everton side, and when West Ham tried to work an offside trick, Everton saw through the move; and when goalkeeper Bailie fell to the ground and hurt his knee it was only a stroke of luck that prevented a second goal, Dean’s effort being turned merely a matter of inches over the bar. 
NO EXERCISE FOR HARDY
In the first half Hardy did not have a single shot; and I should imagine, in spite of that, he readily agreed with his band when they played “There’s no place like home.”  It would be unfair to criticize on such a day as to-day; yet one had to give high praise to the Everton half-back line and the full-backs for a display that had made West Ham look like a trifling side.  Although there was no sign of the light failing, the referee, Mr. Price, of Wrexham, suggested a turn-round without an interval.  This was not accepted when the captains remembered the warming-pan that had bene left in the dressing room. 
Half-time; Everton 1, West Ham 0.
A KICK IN THE AIR
In the second half West Ham’s reserve backs had, for a time, less work to do, and the London side started in rather more practical fashion; apparently they had been informed that it would be as well if they made a shot without any effort to put the Christmas trimmings on it.  That being so, it was no surprise to see Williams make a hefty kick and entirely miss the ball.  Earle next came to the fore with a shot that went over the bar, but had some cut on it.  A better shot and a better effort was that composed and completed by O’Donnell, who cleverly turned the ball inward and at once made a lively shot that was only just out of its correct marking.
BAFFLING FORTUNE.
West Ham could find no fortune.  Barrett, their strong man, was hurt, and had to go off for a while.  Bain ricked his back, and for a time West Ham were on the collar.  Hardy did not have a save for an hour, and his first test was trifling sort of thing, easily caught.  Watson warmed to his work and drew off the defence before passing out to Ruffell, who not only over-ran the ball, but had to skip out of the way of a stray foot negligently left behind by one of the home players. 
EDGING FOR EQUALISER.
The West Ham right wing had no sort of show, and half-way through the second half it was decided to put Earle at outside right in the hope of snatching an equalizer.  Goals were not easy to make in to-day’s conditions, and when the first goal was scored I remarked that this would be good enough to win the game, and so it looked like being a true prophecy.  There was much indiscriminate kicking, and players, quite rightly, gave up the charge as being dangerous, and decided that this was a day when self-preservation should be the first order.  O’Donnell seemed to be the one man who did not mind if it snowed icebergs.  He was very enterprising in his attack, and there were times when one found him helping the defence.
SHANINK THE BAR.
For a time Everton went asleep, as also the crowd, and the result of his was that West Ham began to fancy their chance and make a lot of trouble.  In fact, so troublesome did they become that everyone looked for a goal when Ruffell’s good work and centre was miskicked by less than half a yard, Collins the left half-back, driving along the best shot of the day, only to find the ball hit the crossbar and nearly shattering it.  West Ham put more life into their work, and Watson became a very dangerous man to hold.  Indeed, the London side threatened to equalize at any moment.  Earle was more effective on the extreme wing, and he got across several capital centres.
WEAVER DECIDES THE ISSUE
Watson was hurt, and retired to the touchline for a time, and Ballie had to make one of the best saves.  It was really only half a save, because one of the West Ham defenders managed to kick the ball clear.  Then Weaver put the issue beyond doubt with a second goal at the 83rd minute.  The ball was netted after a number of exchanges in the West Ham goal.  Final; Everton 2, West Ham 0. 

EVERTON ONE OF THE ASSOCIATION CLUBS THAT WILL PLAY
December 5, 1925. The Daily Courier.
In am indebted to Mr. W. Cuff for the information that the ground at Goodison Park is in good order and play certain to take place. This is good news for the visitors are West Ham United, who, however, are coming without their best eleven owing to injuries. Horler takes the place of Hodgson at back while Collins comes into the half-back line, which is one of three local ex-schoolboys. Bailie is in goal, Huffon having hurt his hand. Everton play the side selected against Leicester City, which means that Troup takes Weaver's place on the extreme leftwing. Their form of late has been good enough to win the match. Teams: - Everton: - Hardy; McDonald, Raitt; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, Troup; West Ham United: - Baillie; Hebden, Horle; Carter, Barrett, Collins; Moore, Earle, Watson, Williams, J. Ruffell.

EVERTON 2 WEST HAM UNITED 0
December 7, 1925. The Daily Courier.
EVERTON GET A GOAL IN EACH HALF.
GOOD FOOTBALL ON A FROZEN GROUND.
Everton are on the right road. It was a game, which the half-frozen, stamping and clapping spectators found well worth watching. Goodison Park was as cold as a snow-slide, and the picture was quite Christmassy. It would have occasioned no surprise had the ground been reported unplayable, but Referee Price –a most capable whistler, by the way –ruled otherwise. West ham directors just before the start inspected the ground and expressed the wish that their players' boots had been shod with rubber studs. The players felt their way at first as gingerly as cats. Barrett found the earth meeting him after his first kick, and limped afterwards. For at least 10 minutes the players were doing a few extra turns before they began to dominate the conditions.
TEAM SPIRIT.
Everton in their last four engagements have garnered six points, and apparently have returned to complete form. They earned both points and both goals in the game, for except for an exciting spell in the second half the “Hammers” were mostly kept in subjection. Team spirit is the tonic that is working the change with the Goodison Park brigade. They played like as side charming up together to get goals. The halves helped considerably in winning the game, and the wings had a share of the work. O'Donnell took the eye for those useful little crisp passes of his. His goal 25 minutes from the start was an unstoppable shot, and Irvine deserved credit for his well-timed pass. Weaver is an improving winging developing into a speed master, and if some of his centres were not all they should have been, it was obvious that there was difficulty, after going all out, in balancing himself to get in his kick. His goal on time revealed a cool head, for it was an opportunist effort after Bailie had saved one.
BALL CONTROL.
Chedgzoy and Irvine had a good understanding, and the latter exhibited a ball control that helped to make the wing so aggressive. The home halves were generally consistent and Virr was not afraid to use his weight when the “Hammers” were particularly robust in the first half. The referee, however, smoothed out the little differences, which cropped up after a claim against Raitt for handling in the penalty area was negative. Dean is developing as a head juggler, which is all to the good; the deft touches with his toe were also quite in the approved style; and with a trifle more spend and generalship the Everton marksman will make an ideal pivot. Raiit and McDonald were full of confidence; it was remarkable the number of corners the game produced. The home pair kicked well notwithstanding the handicap of the surface, but they were inclined sometimes to take too much liberty in working for position before giving the all-clear signal. Hardy had not enough exercise to keep warm first half, and there was nothing much to trouble him. Bailie the “Hammer” youthful centre reserve, playing for Hufton, who injured his arm in the Sunderland match, did well, though beaten twice. West Ham are keen on the local idea, and the team had a substantial leavening of the home product and of reserves due to injuries. Watson, Earle, and Barrett were their outstanding players. Teams : - Everton: - Hardy, goal, Raitt and McDonald, backs, Brown, Bain Virr half-backs, Chedgzoy (captain), Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, and Weaver, forwards. West Ham United: - Bailie goal, Hebden, and Herler, backs, Carter, Barrett, and Collins, half-backs, Moore, Earle, Watson, Williams, and Ruffell, forwards. Referee Mr. Price.

REAL EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 07 December 1925
HALF-BACK SECRET OF MARKED IMPROVEMENT
WEST HAM’S FLASH
EVERTON 2 WEST HAM O
By Junius
Several hours of sunshine and a liberal sprinkling of sand reduced the difficulties at Goodison Park to an appreciable extent.  Still, the going was always treacherous, and it was pleasing to note that for the most part the players refrained from anything approaching a heavy charge. There were a few minor injuries due rather o keenness than vigour, but there was nothing serious, and considering the conditions the standard of play was quite satisfactory.  Everton continued the improvement which set in at Nottingham three weeks previously, and were quite good value for their two goals victory.  In my judgement much of their success has bene brought about by improved half-back play.  It was outstanding in Saturday’s game, and so such an extent that the West Ham forwards, with the exception of a short spell in the second half, were completely subdued.  Quick to recover, the Everton half-backs were alive to the needs of their forwards.  There was no hesitancy.  A few risks were taken, yet they played practical football so far as the existing conditions allowed, and by never shirking a tackle, reduced the pressure on the last lines of defence to a minimum.
FORWARDS MASTERED
With the exception of a brief period of the second half, the play centred round the Everton half-backs.  They held the West Ham forwards with the greatest of case.  Constructive work was distinctly good considering the surface, while Bain’s defensive measures reduced the effectiveness of Watson to a minimum.  Brown, too, was invariably the master of Ruffell and Williams, and perhaps the most gratifying feature from the point of view of the Everton management was the further improvement shown by Virr who is steadily making the left half-back berth his own.  He completely subdued Earle and Moore, and rarely gave a faulty pass to his forwards.  But the whole display, allowing of course for the difficult conditions was characteristic of the real Everton.  The team spirit was there, each shouldered his own burden, and their work was reflected in the success achieved.  West Ham were not at full strength through mishaps of the previous week.  Though the forward line was intact, it was rarely assertive.  Taking few risks, they got going only on furtive raids, and rarely appeared dangerous. 
 A FIVE MINUTES FLASH
The first direct shot as Hardy’s charge was deferred till after the interval, and midway through this period Earle, who had never been happy, took up the outside position.  Then the forwards but in five minutes of intensive attack, during which one shot from Earle dropped on the bar, while Collins had the ill-luck to see his terrific drive rebound from the woodwork, and Ruffell was only inches wide on another occasion.  Such pressure deserved success, but it was short lived, and Everton once again dominated the play.  In the first few minutes Bailie accomplished a magnificent save from a strong hook shot by Dean at close quarters.  Other capable efforts were also dealt with, and then followed one the cleverest combined movements seen in the game, and which led to the first goal after 25 minutes play.  Brown, Chedgzoy, and Irvine were concerned and the last named, beating Horler, centred for O’Donnell to complete the movement.  Everton’s second goal seven minutes from time followed the heavy bombardment to which I have referred.  Hebden, I thought, had a chance of clearing, when Weaver, who had closed in, defeated Bailie, who appeared to be unsighted. 
DEAN’S SKILFUL LEADERSHIP.
Considering the nature of the ground it would be unfair to be too critical.  Everton were unquestionably the better side.  Hardy was only for a few moments seriously extended.  Bailie was a busier man, and did quite well.  Raitt and McDonald were more convincing defenders than Hebden and Horler, who kicked strongly, but not always with discretion, the ball being returned as often as not, for the West Ham pair to repeat their work.  The half-backs did not compare favourably with the Everton trio, nor was there the same balance in attack.  Barrett and Dean had many interesting tussles, with honours to the Everton centre-forward, who was difficult to hold and led his line with consummate skill.  Everton; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, and Weaver.  West Ham United; Hebden, Horley; Carter, Barrett, Collins; Moore, Earle, Watson, Williams, and Ruffell. 

EVERTON SOAR, WEST HAM SORE
Liverpool Echo - Monday 07 December 1925
AN EXPLANATION
By Bees
In view of what happened at Everton and my comment thereon, I am happy to say Referee Price, of Wrexham, says;- “I notice in the Echo’ you say I wanted to turn the teams round at the interval without their going off.  This is a mistake.  The fact was that one or two of the West Ham players suggested they should turn straight round, but I told them there was plenty of time, and thought the players would be all the better for an interval on such a day.” 
HOW TO STOP PLAY
And quite right too, I think.  It is as well to know the facts of the case; certainly he arm-action suggested that the referee was inquiring about the necessity of an interval.  Had I been playing –I should have been warmer than I was –I should never have dreamed of cutting out the half-time lemons, or whatever it is they serve up to them nowadays.  I pity any player who has to play on what seems to be a sanded turf, level and quite all right even for a dance; yet when he starts to move on it finds it is iced-land with sand strewn over it.  I believe it is the fact that recently in a League match in which Cardiff and Bury were concerned the referee asked all the players to cut out changing.  Each agreed to do so, kept their words honourably, and the game was carried through without demur and without trouble to anyone.  It is the only way to play football in such Arctic conditions; a fall and a player might be damaged for life.  That was one reason why I thought Referee Price (of whom I had heard many kind remarks) would have stopped play when Barrett was hurt.  Discretion in this matter s very tantalizing, but I would sooner be on the side of the malingerers than make a genuine case unnecessarily.  Why West Ham players, seeing what was going on, did no bang the ball into touch is beyond my think-tank.  That is the only way to pull up a game if your pal is hurt and proceedings go ahead.  Referee Price, by the way, gave some very “fine” decisions, notably on the penalty-box line when Raitt was mulcted in a foul; but his general handling of the game makes it plain to me that he is one of the new ones who are sure to make good.
SILENCE, PLEASE!
On such a day, criticism would be unfair.  Let us observe silence where we think a player was below form.  Let us rather take those who rose above the conditions; and here I put in the first standard Ruffell, who has generally wasted good chances in his games on Merseyside but now revealed how good he can be in skipping ahead and centring.  He and Watson evened the hammers to some tune, and when Collins rammed the crossbar Everton were plainly unnerved by the escape, for escape it was, as they had only O’Donnell’s goal to guide them to victory. West ham claimed they ought to have had two penalty kicks; they claim that Watson’s goal near the end was a good one, and his comrade not offside when he centred; they say further that fate is against them.  So it would seem, but their side were never in the hunt for a solid hour, and Everton were good winners of a hard game.  Some said they were lucky to win, I cannot trace it.  It was simply that West Ham near the eightieth minute looked more dangerous than they were in reality.  Earle could not get going, and the experimental right wing was not a success; Everton’s half-back trinity was, and Virr by position and play and occasional shot showed up well again, while the other two helped manfully.  In standard 2 (Ruffell was alone in the first class) I put O’Donnell and Weaver, who are making a happy combine and arranging their forces in a style that may develop more quickly than most folk think.  The game did not go the right-wing way, nor yet the centre way, and the home backs, after a brilliant start began to take rather abnormal risks.  The win was a big help to Everton’s stock; but they should remember that while they were soaring West Ham, with three reserve defenders, were sore about certain points of play.  Everton still require to balance their side.  The upward tendency is plain, and as the Cup ties are near us the change is indeed welcome.  Keep it going, Blues!

LIVERPOOL BILLIARDS
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 08 December 1925
B.T. Fairhurst, Sefton Park Conservatives, having a bye in the second round of the Liverpool Championship, a match had been fixed up between him and T.E. Booth, the ex-Everton and international footballer and a competitor for the English championship.  The earlier efforts were all in favour of Fairhurst, who compiled 27, 20, and 35.  Then Booth, playing in something like his old style, quickly complied 22, being pulled up by a red loser.  Next he strung up 26, and Fairhurst 28.  A series of small items ensued, from which Booth was the first to get going, and playing all round the table, he quickly completed 111, when he failed at a close cannon.  Fairhurst did little, and came from Booth, and then 20 from Fairhurst.  Score at 2.40, Booth 370, Fairhurst (in play) 289. 
BURY V EVERTON
Considerable preparations have been made at Gigg-lane for Bury’s meeting with Everton to-morrow in the second round of the Lancashire Senior Cup, and it is practically certain that the match will be played.  Bury will field their full League eleven, namely; Harrison; Heap, Adamson; Wilson, Bradshaw, Turner; Mathews, Stage, Bullock, Ball, Amos. 

EVERTON AT GIGG-LANE.
December 9, 1925. The Daily Courier.
The third round of the Lancashire Cup will be played today between Bury and Everton at Gigg-lane. Both sides are at full strength, and as each club is showing improved form a keen game should result. I have seen both sets of players this season, and my impression is that Everton will win. The sides are: - Bury: - Harrison; Heap, Adamson; Wilson, Bradshaw, Turner; Matthews, Stage, Bullock, Ball, and Amos. Everton: - Hardy; Raitt and McDonald; Brown, Bain, Virr, Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, and Weaver.

BURY V EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 09 December 1925
EARLY GOALS TO HOME SIDE
“BEE’S” COMMENS
Bury led at half-time by 2-0, and they deserved the lead if only on the score of their none-step football.  They danced their way through by single and quick moves, whereas Everton often desired to do the two-step before parting with the ball.  This was fatal on a day when the wind was helping Bury.  There was a gale at times, and Bury’s improved form, as at Anfield, got the visitors’ defence harassed and overworked.
AMOS SCORES
Even so Everton were not without shot, and O’Donnell put in half a dozen very good ones.  One hit the bar and by so doing turned the course of the game, because at that point the only goal scored had been obtained by Amos, the sprightly spark on the left wing.  O’Donnell actually netted a minute after the Bury goalkeeper had escaped and this time he was offside.  It was no surprise when Ball took a further lead from a right wing pass and a beautiful header.  Hardy saved several times, his best effort being when he saved from one of his own men- Irvine-who passed back harshly, and again when he stuck out his right foot to prevent what seemed a sure goal. 
EVERTON’S LUCK OUT
O’Donnell had three bumps early in the game, and finally fell awkwardly and damaged his shoulder.  He was able to resume, however, and when the second half started Everton were more forceful and practical, and early on there was a definite shooting policy that continued and had a good chance of being successful.  Hardy was not without his good fortune in the first half when he found a shot that was about to enter the net hit his heel.  In one Bury rally, Virr turned the ball towards his own goal, but Hardy thumped away cleverly, while at another point Chedgzoy shot in from an easy angle, and the ball accidentally struck a defender on the face so that it could not be said that Everton’s luck was in.  The greatest barrier was, without doubt, Bradshaw.  He was a barrier to the best.  Everton in the second half lacked understanding one with the other, but they made a brave shot, and indeed there was a rallying finish after O’Donnell got a good goal through Turner mis-heading the ball, and Everton wound up by making a stout challenge for a draw. 
BRADSHAW AGAIN!
Harrison made two good saves and three bad ones, and after Ball had gone off injured Everton were masters of the situation.  Dean was about to shoot into an empty goal when Bradshaw dropped into the goal area and kicked clear.  Harrison made a save from Virr with the last kick of the match and from the rebound after the whistle had gone Chedgzoy netted with a flashed shot.  Thus only a fraction of a minute prevented Everton making a draw.  Bury, however, had been the better side on the day’s play and the margin was an equitable one in view of their first-half superiority and their superior forward work.  Final; Bury 2, Everton 1. 

BURY 2 EVERTON 1
December 10, 1925. The Daily Courier.
LANCASHIRE SENIOR CUP ROUND THREE.
EVERTON OUT OF THE LANCS CUP.
Considering the recent climate vagaries, the playing pitch at Gigg Lane was in good condition yesterday. Both sides fielded their recently successful League sides, and the game, which was the third round of the Lancashire Cup, was arduously fought, Bury were fortunate in winning the toss, as this gave them the assistance of a powerful wind which was practically the deciding factor. Everton were quickly on the defensive. Bury repeatedly threatening till after nine minutes a delightful movement initiated by Bradshaw culminated in Matthews centreing and Amos opening the scoring with a fast rising shot. Raitt and McDonald were defending stubbornly against odds, what time Bradhsaw dominated the Everton forwards, so that the latter were able to work up few distinctive, cohesive attacks, or to sustain them when made. O'Donnell was the only forward who appeared to realise the whereabouts of the goal, and one of the numerous attempts had hard luck in hitting the post. After 25 minutes Bury forced further ahead through Ball from another of Matthew's centres. Everton opened the second half with dash, but the forwards lacked precision though both goals had narrow escapes. Twenty minutes from time Ball retired through a head injury sustained in collision with Bullcock, and thereafter Everton aided by the powerful wind, were all over the Bury defence. O'Donnell found the net after 34 minutes, but greater precision in front of goal would have given Everton victory, for they made many storming attacks only to fade away in finishing. Hardy made excellent saves, and Raitt and McDonald defended stubbornly and brainy, while the half-backs showed resource and capital feeding powers. The forwards however, were only good up to a point. Chedgzoy was the better winger while Dean was smart, but the only real marksman was O'Donnell. Teams: - Bury: - Harrison goal Heap, and Adamson, backs, Wilson, Bradshaw, and Turner half-backs, Matthews, Stage, Bullock, Ball, and Amos, forwards. Everton: - Hardy, goal, Raitt and McDonald, backs Brown, Bain, and Virr, half-backs, Chedgzoy (captain), Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, and Weaver, forwards.

BURY AS CUP FIGHTERS
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 10 December 1925
O’DONNELL’S MASTER GAME
Bee’s Notes
Having joined in the Blackburn cat-burglar chase after the Jubilee of the Rovers club I hied myself off to Bury to meet the Everton club, which club, by the way, has very kindly sent me five guineas towards the “Echo” Goodfellow Fund.  They were met with a cold, nippy air, and when they lost the toss, I would not have given much for their chances of victory against what I reckon is going to be one of the big factors in the English Cup this season.  However, Everton fought back so gallantly late on that one was left marveling how the side could have hidden their talents for seventy-five minutes.  Was it that they gave up the ghost early on?  Was it that Bury faded out?  Was it what one might call a characteristic display on the part of the losers?  No, it was simply due in part to the fact that Bury so outplayed their rivals early on that they thought any old time and any old lead would do.  O’Donnell, who played his most enterprising and masterly game, was the one possibility in the shooting department, and when he got a great goal Bury lost Ball, and some of their cheery optimism.  As a fact, Bury became very windy, and Everton should have drawn in the last three minutes.  Captain Sam Chedgzoy did actually net after the whistle had sounded the final touch, so it was a rousing and close finish to a game that was very enjoyable to those who like the arts and graces in Soccer football. 
BRADSHAW’S STYLE
The great artist yesterday was Bradshaw.  It is not often a footballer can make a crowd laugh by his trickery; yet this is what Bradshaw is doing.  He was a revelation in his ease and comfort, and it was laughable to see the way in which some of his opponents said o themselves.  “We’ll have a go at this big lad-“ and they chased him hither, and found he was thither! Yet he never for a moment strained at his lungs or limbs; he made the wise pass; he has the faculty for getting out of the way of knocks and kicks; he gave what in my estimation was one of the greatest exhibitions of pivotal play it has been my pleasure to witness –both at Anfield and now against Everton.  I could find time to smile at his old-fashioned, whimsical, almost lackadaisical, and always comical effects.  Here is Scotland’s centre half back.  He is but twenty-one years old, and plays like a veteran.  Yet Bury nearly lost him through offering him 50s a week!  He wanted 60s!  I remember “Kilty” Cameron bringing him down from Scotland, and I happened to be in the same carriage, but did no notice “Kilty” till very late on, as he had gone to sleeper and dreamed dreams about this big boy capture.  When he awoke we had friendly words, and he told me then that he was taking the Scottish international centre half backs to Bury.  It sounded like nonsense, but it may be proved sense this very year.
STIRRING PLAY
Everton lost because they had not the spirit nor yet the life of the Bury attack, if one excepts O’Donnell.  This versatile player was a ready shooter, and if an early drive of his had scored instead of hitting the upright, no one can say how the game would have gone, for at that time Everton were moving up sweetly.  It is “just one little one more” in the passing business that upsets much of Everton’s prettiness.  There was lack of understanding at times that made one wish for more devil when the shooting chance came.  Bury never hesitated about a shot; Everton wanted to get the ball down here or there or anywhere where it was not, ere they would shoot.  This is a fault.  The Bury half backs were not so good as to warrant the Everton attack playing poorly.  It did play below par, and whereas Weaver started well he faded out, and Irvine got little from his skilled dribbles; passing went astray, and the result was Chedgzoy had little to do.  The half-backs were variable; Bain did many cute things, but was below his own standard, Virr being the best because of his tact and doggedness.  At full back Raitt was superior, and after mistiming a ball and catching a tartar in Amos he played strong, sure football.  McDonald was inclined to go up among the half backs, and Hardy could not be blamed, for in addition to making fine saves from the home forwards, he had to jump to gather a pass-back by Irvine.
DIFFERENCES
When Directors Banks, W. Gibbons, A. Wade, and W. Sawyer, with Mr. Secretary McIntosh (now happily, well and singing solos with alarming regularity!), broke their journey after the game, they chanced o bump into other football parties, notably he Wigan side that had put up such a brave fight at Broughton against Swinton in a memorable final tie.  Talk turned on wages, and the Soccer folk were astounded at the rates of pay offered to the men of the handling code; and when no play no pay was mentioned some of the Soccer men began to wonder whether handling the ball was worthwhile! 

EVERTON’S CHOICE
Liverpool Echo - Friday 11 December 1925
Bee’s Notes
EVERTON AT NEWCASTLE
It is a bit of bad luck that Everton should go to Newcastle at the very moment that Gallacher makes his debut in Neil Harris’s shoes.  Newcastle at home have, this season, been one of the oddities of play; yet they have some sterling results to their credit, and there is no doubt that the appearance of Gallacher will tend to liven up the Magpies, who in their best mood are a difficult combination to beat back.  Everton have a chance to-morrow to surprise the football world.  These are the teams; Everton; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup.  Newcastle United; Wilson; Chandler, Hampson; A.N. Other, Spencer, Gibson; Urwin, Dowsey, Gallacher, Cowan, Seymour. 
A late wire;- Troup returns to Everton’s team; otherwise no change.

EVERTON AT NEWCASTLE.
December 12, 1925. The Daily Courier.
Everton made the journey to Newcastle yesterday in preparation for the game with the United at St. James's Park. The latter place has never been a happy one for the Blues so far as League points are concerned and to add to this, the visitors catch their opponents with Gallacher as leader. Secured in midweek at a fee believed to be bordering on £7,000, the Geordies are hoping his debut will be a winning one. But then Everton are working so smoothly at the moment that this expectation will not be easily realised. Troup resumes on the Everton left now that the “bone” has left the ground. Otherwise the side is unchanged from that which beat West Ham. It should be a close game with the odds slightly favouring the home lot. Teams: - Newcastle United: - Wilson; Chandler, Hudspeth; McKenzie, Spencer, Gibson; Urwin, Cowan, Gallacher, McDonald, Seymour, forwards. Everton: - Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, Troup.

OLD TIMES AND TIMERS.
December 12, 1925. The Liverpool Football Echo.
VICTOR HALL RECALLS FAVOURITE OLD TRAINING QUARTERS
When Everton immigrated to Goodison Park from Anfield, the club “gates” began almost at once assumes handsome proportions. The lavish enterprise of the energetic directorate of those days in providing handsome and adequate stand accommodation brought an immediate reward in an established patronage of people who came to see football under comfortable conditions, of shelter and seating room, and who liked the game, and kept on coming. As the weekly gates grew, so did the club's resource. Players of ability were secured in rapid sequences the best was then only good enough for Everton, and the enterprise of the directorates, and the quality of the football fare provided met its just reward, and the finances of the club because so well established as to leave Everton easily the most influential, and certainly the richest club in the League. With the financial anxieties of the past period safely removed, the club took up on a new lease of life, and the enterprise of the directors of those days led them to spare no pain to keep their players fit and well for any call on the services. Whenever the Cup-tie period approached it was deemed a prudent policy to indulge the players in a process of special training, that included both change of some disary, and training methods. If the coming match were to be played near home, the training ground was selected conveniently near to the scene of the “tie” so as to involve little train fatigue on the final day, but if the scene of the encounter was to be a distant one, then climatic and other conditions had to be taken into account, and a choice would then be made of a training quarter close to the scene of “battle.” Thus it came about, that with cup ties for Sunderland or Newcastle on Tyne a favourite rendezvous for the Everton training was found at Roker, a pretty watering place on the Durham coast.
CUP TIE FEVER.
For Cup-ties down South, Winchester was a favourite training quarter, and for London Cup-ties the sylvan charms of Epping Forest and Chingford made strong appeal. For home matches though Everton made long and favourite use of Hoylake and West Kirby, where the League team became warm favourities, with the residents, and came to be regarded almost as natives of the village. Indeed, on the day of the match it was no novelty to see the whole of the residents at the station when the team set off for the “great flight” with both engine, carriages and the railway staff bedecked with the Everton club colours. Lytham and St. Annes were also great favorites training quarters, as there, the players could indulge their fancy with golf and the vigorous sea breeze added their quotes of the necessary vim. There, too, the natives became ardent Evertonians, and it has been said, ungallantly, no doubt, that fond fathers had trouble with the outbreak of Everton blue in new frocks and furbelows demanded by' marriageable daughters. The demand for stand tickets that came from training quarters admirers in Cup tie days was for long a source of amusement to harassed secretaries, until they discovered to their astonishment on the day that the match that nearly every player in the team had a sister or a cousin or an aunt from Lytham who “simply must see Everton play.” Then of course, he knew! Another favourite training ground for short training spells was the “Grapes” at Freshfields, when the late Charlie Sulivan was in management them. Charlie had for years been a firm supporter of Everton, and followed them away to all their big cup-tie battles, and as his hotel at Freshfields was well equipped with cinder track, covered training quarters, and other materials comforts, both players and visiting committee were glad to make Freshfield at such times their temporary headquarters. Even today the Formby people are accordingly hereditary Evertonians. Hoylake and West Kirby were however, the prime favourites and Holt, Bell, Boyle, Chadwick, Milward, Kitchen, and the rest were to the manner natives of the place and eligible at any time they chose to be elected mayor or members of the corporation. There it was that I found one day the late and popular Sandy Young lying on his side on the heart-rug in front of the fire in the dinning room, working imaginary “picks” at the coal scuttle with the ordinary fire poker, while Secretary Cuff (of those days) and a group of the team looked on, doubled up with laughter “Sandy is just showing up,” explained Mr. Cuff, tears of merriment running down his face as he spoke “the way miners pick the coal from the colliery in which he used to work in Scotland. Sandy was a most innocent and obliging young man, and whenever the secretary or any of the team disputed the possibility of being able to “pick” coal while lying down in a cramped position, he was always willing to show them how it was done. Towards the end, however, those requests for demonstrations became too frequent and Sandy wildly complained that they had seen him “do it before.” And they had! The later Ben Kelly most popular of directors was a favourite visitor to the team in training, as was dear, loveable John Davies. The club realised then, and do now, that under certain conditions it is in the players own interests, as well as the clubs, that a quiet period of sustained application to training methods is advisable at periods of important preparation. Players are like ordinary people in most things, and they are subject to certain temptations and flattering attentions well meant, no doubt –that are a positive danger at times. So to remove community to an atmosphere of quiet intensive preparation, with regular meals of a special character, where both exercise and rest can be practised with regularity in a good preparation for a stiff encounter.

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 12 December 1925
By Louis T. Kelly

• There is a certain nattiness and neatness about O’Donnell’s movements that goes to suggest the natural footballer
• He was very apt against the Hammers
• It seems strange to find both the Everton captain and sub-captain –Hart and McBain –unable to keep their  League team position
• Yet the same thing has happened before at Everton and elsewhere
• Virr has certainly begun well, and to date had not once finished on the losing side with the seniors either this season or last in Cup of League
• “Dixie” failed to find the net on Saturday, after a five weeks’ run; but there were left-wing compensations.
• Everton is the only senior club side to score in every match to date.  Manchester City the only side that has not once retained an unbroken defence.
• Everton is a case in point, whilst Bolton’s present half-back line is made up entirely of youngsters, new to League football this season- Cope, Round, and Thornborough to wit

EVERTON FACE GALLACHER & CO
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 12 December 1925
“F.E.H” TELLS OF THE BIG RECEPTION FOR NEW NEWCASTLE PLAYER
Everton; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Peacock, Reid, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup.  Newcastle United; Wilson; Hudspeth, Hampson; McKenzie, Spencer, Gibson; Urwin, Cowan, Gallacher, McDonald, Seymour.  Referee; Mr. A. Scholey, of Sheffield.  Everton and Newcastle revived pleasant memories of a Cup final.  Years ago that pleasantly, and since then much disappointment at Everton, To-day Newcastle brought their new Scottish international signing into the eleven.  Gallacher of Airdrie, is one of the best centres in the game, and his signing, though not at record fee, as has been stated, led to a big crowd assembling at St. James’s Park.  Everton had chosen Bain and Chedgzoy, but both were doubtful starters, and Peacock and McBain made the journey North.  The Everonians made the long and tiresome journey to Newcastle yesterday, and this morning they rested quietly in the hotel.  The weather, though on the damp side, was bright and seasonable, and there was a good attendance at the start.  Everton made three changes, Troup came in for Weaver, Reid took the place of Bain, who was on the injured list, and Peacock displaced Brown.
STUPENDOUS PURCHASE
In the home ranks the great feature was the first appearance of the big transfer fee player, Gallacher, who was secured at a cost of 7,000 pounds.  The ground was in perfect condition when play began before 30,000 spectators.  Everton started, and the play was at once agreeably fast.  There were some deft exchanges on both sides, and after the visitors had made smart play on the left, the home forwards got going in determined fashion.  Seymour forced a couple of corners, and Gallacher tried to convert them with clever touches, but he was unsuccessful.  Everton replied in spirited style, and Dean was in collision with Hudspeth, but he was able to carry on.  Newcastle were then busy on the right, and Cowan was in the act of shooting when he was pulled up by McDonald.  As the game developed, Everton began to assert themselves to some purpose, and the home backs were beaten when O’Donnell put the ball just wide of the mark.  The Goodison Park brigade were now playing class football, and a brilliant movement met with its reward after the match had been in progress nine minutes, Dean finding himself hampered put the ball back to Reid, the latter promptly returned it, and Dixie scored with a swift touch.  The Magpies relied in a combined attack on the Everton defence, but the movement terminated with Gibson shooting hopelessly wide.  Another attack was more hopeful in promise, for Gallacher got through, and though rather badly placed, he sent in a puzzling ground shot, which passed a couple of feet wide of the post.  Everton were once again in the picture and Troup go off the mark smartly but he tailed off rather tamely, and some clever work by Irvine was not turned to account.  Newcastle returned to the onslaught, and the Everton goal looked like succumbing when McDonald head in.  A few minutes later Gallacher was placed in a fine position when he got the ball from Cowan, but he shot weakly wide.
GALLACHER’S PRIMAL GOAL.
The home team nevertheless were most persistent, and they should certainly have equalized through McDonald, who had a beautiful pass from McKenzie.  Newcastle kept up the pressure, and the game had been going just under half-an-hour when McDonald put the leather to Gallacher.  Hardy ran out to meet the danger, but he was too late, and the famous centre-forward drove the ball into an open goal.  Everton took the offensive once again but both Dean and Irvine were baulked at the last moment, and at the other end there were several exciting passages which ended in smoke.  For quite a long period play was rather on the dull side, though there were occasional flashes of pretty footwork on both sides.  Reid was conspicuous in the Everton middle line, and once he put the ball over the bar. 
Half-time.- Newcastle 1, Everton 1.
In a brief review of the first half I may say that Everton had shown themselves at their top form.  The play was considerably cleverer than that of their opponents, the work of the half-backs being especially good.  On the play they should certainly have been leading when the interval came.
HAT-TRICK BY DEAN
BRILLIANT PERFORMANCE IN DRAWN GAME
GALLACHER’S TWO GOALS
SENSATIONAL SCORING AT NEWCASTLE
There were 40,000 present when the game was restarted, and the first episode was a shot from O’Donnell, which the home custodian tipped over the bar. Newcastle made ground in aggressive manner, and Gallacher, using all his skill, rushed clean through and put in a glorious shot, which Hardy only partially cleared, and before he could recover himself, Seymour had netted an easy goal.  The visitors were by no means idle, for they came to the attack time after time.  A Newcastle director said to me that they were the cleverest team Newcastle had met at St. James’ Park so far this year.  This was high praise, but it was thoroughly well deserved by the same token. 
GALLACHER’S SECOND.
It made the Magpies play up to their fullest extent.  After fourteen minutes a triangular effort on the part of McKenzie, McDonald, and Gallacher, the latter racing through suddenly reversed the directors of a shot which completely deceived Hardy as it flew into the net.  There was another rally on the part of Everton and four minutes after Newcastle’s success the visitors registered another goal. 
DEAN’S SECOND.
Spencer, the Newcastle half-back, put the ball back to the goalkeeper, who ran out and fell on the ball, not anticipating such a movement.  Dean, rushing up, propelled the ball into a tenantless goal.  This close competition made the pace faster ever, and again the valuable work of the Everton halves took the eye of the crowd.  Troup went along the wing with characteristic speed, but his centre was lost, and a clever effort on the part of Chedgzoy was also allowed to go by the board.  The United forwards came away once more, and both McDonald and Raitt stopped dangerous rushes on the part of the home vanguard with celerity and dispatch. 
HAT-TRICK BY DEAN
Then came a sensational episode.  Dean, catching the ball on the run, beat both Spencer and Hampson, and from thirty yards’ range placed the ball into the corner of the net.  It was a great effort, well worthy of the hat trick, and even the Newcastle supporters cheered the fine shot.  The home side, however, were still to be reckoned with, for the forwards came through at top speed, and Gallacher headed at close range, but the danger was cleared.  It had been altogether a fine exhibition of football played at a great pace, and in the best spirit.  Everton, as I have said, were at their best, and their recovery was admirable.  Final; Newcastle United 3, Everton 3. 

EVERTON RES V LEEDS RES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 12 December 1925
At Goodison Park.  Everton played Millington for Peacock at outside right, and the game opened in favour of the home side.  The Leeds defence was sorely troubled through fine efforts by Murray and Kennedy.  Robson and Whipp formed a very dangerous wing for the visitors.  The home goal was subjected to bombardment from shots from Riley, Richmond, and Whipp.  He game took a turn in Everton’s favour, and they forced pressure upon Russell, who saved a very fast ground shot from Murray.  A few minutes later Houghton was only inches wide with a fine attempt.  A spirited movement by the Leeds right wing ended in Livingstone miskicking in close proximity to Harland.  Kerr, however, stopped into the breach and saved what looked like a certain goal.  Ten minutes from the interval neither side had scored. 
OPPORTUNIIES LOST BY HESITANCY
The second half opened in favour of Everton.  Murray missed a glorious opening through hesitancy. The visitors were the first to score, through Riley who placed into an open ne, after Harland ran out and missed. 

NEWCASTLE UNITED 3 EVERTON 3
December 14, 1925. The Daily Courier.
HAT-TRICK BY DEAN ON TYNESIDE.
BLUES' FORWARDS' GREAT DISPLAY.
Everton created an excellent impression on the 35,000 spectators, who saw them divide six goals with Newcastle on Saturday. Certainly it was a feat of which the team has every reason to be proud. Critics were unanimous that Everton's game was really good and the forwards played with a dash and verve that was enjoyable to watch. Indeed, one or two went so far as to say that the visitors put up the best show that has been seen on the ground this season. Coming from Newcastle praise of that sort is undeniably heartening. Injuries influenced the choice of the Blues' team. Reid took Bain's place at centre half, and Peacock went to right-half in place of Brown.
GALLACHER.
Uncommon interest was taken in his first appearance for the Tynesiders of Gallacher, the famous Scottish International centre forward. He made a good debut, and scored two of the goals. Dean shone brilliantly. There was not one of the three goals that was not deserved. The more spectators work of a good front line is, in the nature of things, apt to dim by comparison the more unostentatious efforts of the halves and backs. A fine passing movement which culminates in a good goal obviously takes the eye of the crowd right away, whereas the plucky tackle or judiciously placed pass from the rear which really initiates the attack, is frequently overlooked. It was in just this quiet but effective way that Virr, Reid, and Peacock worked on Saturday. On his form at present Virr will take some displacing from the side. Reid and Peacock, too, were capable and the centre had no easy job of it in keeping an eye on Gallacher. The first goal came in nine minutes. A real good one too. O'Donnell, who, by the way played a dashing game, slipped the ball out to Troup, who flashed in a centre which Dean drove low into the net. This was a promising start, and things looked well for the visitors, who never slackened in their efforts. Before half-time, however, Newcastle drew level, Gallacher shaking off the defence, ran through and shot past Hardy, who had left his goal. On the run of play few predicted that the Tynesiders would be two ahead midway through the second half. That was what happened, however.
GEORDIES GO AHEAD.
Seymour obtained the second goal after Hardy had partially cleared from Gallacher. The last named got the third soon after. It could be said with truth the lead was undeserved and that the Blues had fully as much of the game as their rivals. The vistors speedily demonstrated this, Five minutes later they reduced the lead. Dean again being the marksman. It was an excellent bit of opportunism. Under pressure Spencer passed back to Wilson, who was apparently taken by surprise, and Dean dashing up placed the ball in the net. Then just before the end Dean preformed the hat-trick and presented his side with a welcome point. The Tynesiders in only sharing honours cannot complain of ill-luck. Their keeper, Wilson had several trying moments besides those when he was beaten. He had no chance at all with any of the three goals against him, whereas the second one that beat Hardy looked –at least from the stand –as if there was just a chance of him saving it. Still, whether that is so or not, there is no doubt that the Everton keeper played a masterly game, and brought off some fine saves. He had a couple of hard-working and competent men in Raitt and McDonald in front of him. Raitt was particularly good in his tackling and clearing. It was the front line, however, which attracted the crowd most. At present it is playing convincing football. Newcastle played a good all-round game, and in the trustful Gallacher always had a potential scorer. Their halves and backs played a sound game on the whole. But if Everton's defence had to keep a wary eye on Gallacher, so did Newcastle's on Dean. Teams : - Newcastle United: - Wilson, goal, Hampson and Huspeth, backs McKenzie, Spencer, Gibson, Unwin, Cowan, Gallacher, McDonald, and Seymour, forwards. Everton: - Hardy, goals, Raitt and McDonald, backs, Peacock, Reid, Virr, half-backs, Chedgzoy (captain), Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, and Troup, forwards. Referee Mr. A. Scholey.

EVERTON RESERVES 0 LEEDS UNITED RESERVES 3
December 14 1925. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 17)
Everton sustained an unexpected defeat at Goodison Park. Leeds winning a keen game by three clear goals. The Everton forwards were the weak part of the team their finishing being poor. Leeds were fast and clever and never failed to shoot usually with direction. In the first half Everton claimed two penalties, but the referee ruled against them. All the goals were scored after the interval Riley (2), and White netting . Everton: - Harland, goal, Livingstone, and Kerr, backs, Rooney, McBain and Hart, half-backs, Peacock, Houghton, Murray, Kennedy and Williams, forwards .

SKELMERSDALE UNITED 4 EVERTON “A” 2
December 14 1925. The Daily Courier.
LIVERPOOL COUNTY COMBINATION.
Skelsderdale were trying Gutteridge, the former New Brighton forward, and though he was obviously out of condition on he did very well, and should improve their forward line. Skelmersdale deservedly won, for though Everton played well in the first half their defence did not kick too well in the second half, when the home forwards for Everton, and Gutteridge, Harris, Heaton, and Pilkington for the homesters Murphy the Everton centre and Jones in goal were the pick of the visitors.

GALLACHER!
Athletic News - Monday 14 December 1925
FINE RECOVERY BY EVERTON AT NEWCASTLE
DEAN’S HAT-TRICK
NEWCASTLE UNITED 3, EVERTON 3
By Beric
Thirty-six thousand Tynesiders made their way to St. James’s Park inspired with one idea, that being to sea Hugh Gallacher, Newcastle's costly acquisition from o’er the Border, score his first goal for his new employers. The young Scot obliged after 29 minutes on English soil, but prior to that Everton, as visitors, had made their impression on the score sheet.  The game had been in progress just nine minutes and Everton were making the pace warm. A slackness in the Newcastle defence let the aggressive Everton pack through. Troup centred to Dean, who planted the ball back to Irvine, who in turn sent it forward to Dean, who collected deftly and placed it into the top of the net out Wilson’s clutch. ,
FOLLOWING UP. 
At 29 minutes Gibson, who had been assiduously feeding the ex-Airdrie star, sent the ball down the middle, where it travelled a lonely path, the Everton keeper and Gallacher speeding towards it from opposite poles. Gallacher reached the ball in the nick of time and drove it into the vacant goalmouth as Hardy rushed past him.  This had to suffice until the interval. The game had been restarted four minutes (but very brisk minutes they were) when Erwin sent the ball out on the wing to Gallacher.  The latter cleverly tricked the half-backs, ran in and shot almost from the goal-line. Hardy got the ball all right but could only just touch it out to where Seymour waited, and the homo wing man easily punted the ball into the net. 
HARDY DECEIVED. 
Newcastle’s lead now roused Everton to sterner efforts, and O’Donnell brought the Newcastle keeper to his knees to collect fast drive. Fourteen minutes of this half had sped vigorous, thrilling football when Gallacher again asserted himself. McKenzie had placed the ball to Macdonald, who passed it young Scot, for him to past the backs and slice the ball into the one section of the net that Hardy least expected it might go.  With three goals to one lead the Newcastle defence should have taken a hold of the game and kept the score as it stood. This they conspicuously failed to do.  Everton had Gallacher well watched throughout, but nobody took it into their heads to chaperone Dean, who for all his youth is wise enough to avail himself of such liberty. Twenty minutes after the interval saw the Newcastle custodian stop a shot by falling on the ball, only to have Dean kick it away from Jus grasp into the net. The Tyneside citadel now underwent a trying period, and eleven minutes from the end Dean reached his hat-trick with a beautifully-placed shot. Thus the big crowd had the pleasure pf watching two stars in the- firmament, although they doubtless reckoned on only seeing one twinkle that day. 
A MAN OF MERIT.
Newcastle have undoubtedly secured a leader of artistry and resource. He turns onpivot as quick thought to drive at the right spot. His two Scottish inside partners aided and abetted him, but Seymour and Urwin were little in the picture.  I have not seen the home half-backs more at sea this season, and Hudspeth was guilty of many lapses. Everton were able to draw, because nobody got a grip upon their movements. Yet this in no way detracts from the performance of Dean, who proved the best visiting centre seen in the North for quite a good while.  I believe the combined ages of the inside Mersey forward trio only just exceeds sixty years, in which case youth is having a fine day. The older wing men Chedgzoy and Troup, seldom wasted a ball. What was practically a reserve intermediate line likewise did all that was needful.  Newcastle United. —Wilson:  Hudspeth; McKenzie, Spencer, Gibson;  Urwin, Cowan, Gallacher, Macdonald, and Seymour.  Everton, —Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Peacock, Reid Vlrr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, and Troup.  Referee; Mr. A. Scholey, Sheffield. 

EVERTON GET A DEAN HAT-TRICK AGAINST NEWCASTLE
Liverpool Echo - Monday 14 December 1925
By “F.E.H”
I am coming to the conclusion that the more one attempts to study football form the worse one becomes confounded.  The game at Newcastle on Saturday came as a revelation from several points of view.  It showed Everton in their pristine form- fast, clever, combined, and cohesive in every department.  There was scarcely a weak link, and apart from one mistake in defence, which I need no emphasize, they should have carried off the honours of the afternoon.  Even whole-hearted Newcastle spectators admitted that the visitors were the better side, and with a division of the points they were quite content.  The great draw, of course, was the first appearance in the home ranks of the highly transferred Scottish international Gallacher.  Let it at once be said that he played up to his great reputation.  He assimilated himself admirably to his new club and showed a power of ball control and initiative that were speedily recognized by the 40,000 people present.  He is likely to prove a very valuable asset to the wealthy Tyneside club.  Their defence did not strike me at all favourably.  The halves made many mistakes and the backs were frequently in difficulties.  The story of the goals has already been told, and there is no reason to repeat the narrative.  But one may note with pleasure the steady progress of Dean, whose second “hat-trick” showed that he will, with luck, become a really great player.  All three were well got and when he took the leather on the run and banged it into the net at thirty yards range even the home spectators metaphorically raised their caps to him.  After all, the average “Geordie” is one of the best sportsmen in the world, and recognizes spirit when he sees it.  A notable feature of the game was the good work of the Everton defence.  Reid took on a serious task with highly commendable coolness, and he was well supported by both Virr and Peacock, Raitt and MacDonald were confident in tackling and they kept a very keen eye on the new Newcastle star.  Altogether it was a fine exhibition play in fine weather, and upon a fine playing patch.  Finis! 

BROAD TRNASFERRED.
December 16 1925. The Daily Courier.
EVERTON CENTRE FOR NEW BRIGHTON.
James Broad the ex-Stoke centre forward, has been transferred by Everton to New Brighton and will play against Bradford today. He was obtained from Sittingbourne in November last year and played several games in the Everton senior side, eventually to be displayed by Dean. He is the son of James Broad for many years trainer of Manchester City, weights 11 st 7lb, and is 5ft 7 and half in height. Broad's dashing methods should be successful in Third Division football. He had the record of scoring 32 goals in 39 matches while with Stoke.
BAIN FOR REID.
Everton's team against Bolton Wanderers on Saturday at Goodison Park will be the same as that which draw at Newcastle, with the exception that Bain displaces Reid at centre-half back.
SAM CHEDGZOY
Sam Chedgzoy, acting in love parents for Hunter Hart, is not only optimistic, but gives good advice as well. He says: “There are no good things in F.A. Cup-ties, and we shall have to take Fulham seriously. Of Course, I am quite pleased with the draw. We shall go into the fourth round anyway. “We shall have to put all we know into the game, the same as if it had been a so-called stronger club. Form in cup-ties is often misleading. “Fulham play a more classy game than many clubs, and their style will fit in with Everton's. MY advice to the team is ‘Play the open game, with plenty of dash and shooting by the forwards,' and to repeat myself ‘Take Fulham seriously,' A splendid team spirit prevails.

J. BROAD JONS NEW BRIGHTON
Shields Daily News - Wednesday 16 December 1925
James Broad, the Everton centre-forward, has been transferred to New Brighton.  He went to Everton from Sittingbourne last December, having previously played for Stoke, Millwall, Greennock, Morton, and Oldham Athletic.  He has appeared in the Scottish league, Southern League, the Second and First Division of the League, and now goes to a Third Division club. 

EVERTON CAPTAIN’S HOPES
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 16 December 1925
By Bees
Sam Chedgzoy, Everton’s acting captain, said last night at an Old Xaverians’ “do”; “We do not come here as prospective League champions, but our luck has turned and strange things happen in football.  We are now about 10 points behind Arsenal, and with a couple of months’ good luck we may be treading on their heels.  Last time I was here I promised to bring the Cup, and everyone must admit we were unlucky to lose to Sheffield. We are drawn against Fulham.   Don’t think we have a soft thing on.  There are soft things in English Cup-ties.  We are taking Fulham very seriously, and I hope our supporters will be interested in the newspaper report of the draw on the Monday following.” 

AN EVERTON “SENSATION”
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 17 December 1925
Bee’s Notes
There is promise of an Everton sensation.  It is said that a court case will be proceeded with, and that two or more members of the side will have to answer for certain matters that occurred late in the evening on the other side of the river, when blows were alleged to have bene struck. 
EVERTON V ST. FRANCIS XAV
The Everton team paid their annual visit to St. Francis Xavier’s Club, at Salisbury-street, and in a most interesting match Everton were just as much at home with billiards as they are at football, and finished winners, with the score; Everton 1,000, St. Francis Xavier’s 999. After refreshments were served a most enjoyable smoking concert was held, and great credit is due to Mr. T. Williamson for getting together a wonderful array of talent.  Rev. Fr. McConnell in the hair, supported by Mr. S. Chedgzoy, Fr. Sykes, and the Rev. Fr Magge, rector of St. Francis Xavier’s.  the following artists appeared;- Mr. Dan Sherlock, Jack Kay, Mr. Miller, Bert Corless, Rev. Fr Sykes, Rev. Brother Devlin, and George Neville White (a great favourite at the Sodality Club).  Mr. R. McCarthy’s splendid work at the piano went a long way in making the evening a success. 

EVERTON’S TILT AGAINST BOLTON
Liverpool Echo - Friday 18 December 1925
EVERTON’S RISE
Bee’s Notes
Everton’s rise has been steady, and has been maintained against odds.  Gallacher, at Newcastle, did not overawe the eleven, and to-morrow we shall be able to give hearty welcome to a side that is growing in goodness, and is proceeding to lift the good old club from the lower order.  Everyone, friend and foe, wants to see the side rise to its proper sphere.  Newcastle folk, who are good judges of what is necessary and right in football, have declared that the exhibition given by Everton, and particularly their centre forward, was astonishingly good.  Well, we can do with a sample to-morrow, captain Chedgzoy.  The crowd will be with you in your earnest endeavor of the next month or so.  Bolton’s defence is its greatest barrier; there have been some good men issuing therefrom, and if Everton’s attack can take command of the proceedings early on, Bolton’s forward line should not take up the ascendancy.  It ought to be one of the best games we have seen, and I am grateful that the elements look like propitious for a change.
BOLTON’S HISTORY
The Wanderers, founded in 1877, are one of the Old Brigade who joined the League when it was first created in 1888.  During their thirty-seven years League history they have been relegated four times, but on three occasions gained promotion the following year.  On the fourth occasion they spent two years-1903-4 and 1904-5-in the Second Division.  They have topped the Second Division once, in 1908-9, but are still without a First Division championship to their credit.  Their nearest approach has bene he third position, which they have filled three times during their career.  Apart from winning the Cup in 1923 the Wanderers have twice been in the final- first in 1893-4, when they were beaten 4-1 by Notts County at Goodison Park and again in 1903-4 whe4n they lost to Manchester City through a goal scored by Meredith.  Their Cup successes in 1904 came at a very opportune moment, enabling start the following season with a substantial balance in hand.  Everton; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Peacock, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup.  Bolton Wanderers; Pym; Haworth, Jennings; Cope, Round, Thornborough; Butler, Jack, Smith (JR), Smith (J), Vizard. 
St. Edwards’s Orphanage will play Everton Juniors at Broadgreen at 2.30 to-morrow, not at Everton’s ground.
The Royal Hippodrome, on Wednesday, December 30, are giving a free matinee to 3,000 of Liverpool’s poorest school-children to witness “Cinderella” pantomime, and they are collecting to give each child sweets, cake, fruit, &c.  The Everton Football Club directors have kindly given permission to take a collection on the ground on the occasion of the Bolton match. 

OLD TIMES AND TIMERS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 19 December 1925
VICTOR HALL DISCOURSES OF LEGISLATORS, REFEREE AND LINESMEN
It is all to the good of football to-day that the game is legislated for and controlled by men who have passed through the school of stern experience.  For many years the striking personality of Lord Kinnaird dominated the council chamber, and no name has been held in higher regard than that of this stern yet loving aristocrat.  Himself a brilliant player in his school teams and in early manhood, he brought to the legislative chamber that practical and sympathetic view that, while appreciating the rights of the players, safely guarded the equal rights of the committee of the directorate.  He was a strict disciplinarian, but he handed out even justice, and his name and high principles led in a great measure to the rapid strides of the game in popular esteem. 
The memory of the equally striking personality of C.W. Alcock, the former F.A. secretary, is now passing away, the tenure of office by his successor, Mr. Wall, having carried on the tradition of business aptitude and honorable dealing the F.A have had for many a year.  But the personality of the man who served with the chiefs at the council table has had a lot to do with the popularity of the game.  The influence for instance of Mr. J.C. Clegg, of Sheffield, is not likely to be forgotten during the next generation, and in the provinces, and especially in the League councils, other names leap to mind that have had a powerful influence in the moulding of popular approval.  Who of any reflection in Lancashire can ever overlook the outstanding influences of Dr. Morley and John Lewis, of Blackburn, or the case of John Allison or J. Bentley, of Manchester, of John McKenna and Robert Lythgoe, of Liverpool; neighboring names are those of Arnott of Leek, Case, of West Kirby, Lockall, of Hanley, William McGregor and F.W Pinder, of Birmingham.  One could fill a column with but a few provincial selections such as these, each of whom has had a marked influence in the development of the spirit of true sport in football.  It is surprising how many of those former leaders in the control of the game had participated also as referees on the field!  John Lewis, as a more notable instance in his days of acting service as a referee, was always in keen demand, especially when the known rivalry of the contestants was likely to lead to any exhibition of “keenness” on the field of play.  I have seen club directors before to-day rub their hands with confidence as the name of John Lewis came forward as their official for the Derby day game, in either League or Cup.  Mr. Lewis was a comfortable official to play any game under. M the game and the players were in strict control from the whistle to the final tap.  No player “ground” within earshot of that alert referee, nor were his decisions questioned with anything approaching asperity. 
His decisions were instant and irrevocable, he allowed for what he saw only, and was not be cajoled or importuned to a variation of a decision once given.  Two local referees of genial acceptance were the favorite popular members of the local Association, Mr. “Bob” Lythgoe and the late Willie Roche.  Although both past the half way mark, they were active in training methods, and in those days could keep up with the speed of an average game of the friendly or exhibition order.  A popular League referee of the period was Mr. T.S. Ashmole, then resident, I think, in Derby.  Mr. Ashmore of later years has had his business interests entirely in Merseyside, and is better known to the present generation as a civic leader of distinction on local politics in Wallasey.  Mr. Ashmole has had a long and active career, however, in League football, referring, having officiated in some of the most memorable League games and Cup ties that made football history over a score of years ago.  He was the referee in the famous League match of Everton and Sunderland at Goodison that accounted for one of the most dramatic finishes ever witnessed on a football ground.  Old readers will remember the match I refer to as the sensational one in which Dicky Boyle, single-handed, scored the winning draw for Everton when all seemed lost save honour.  Old enthusiasts will recall the memorable scene at the finish on the ground that day, when players and spectators alike rushed on the field of play to carry Dickey Boyle shoulder high to the dressing-room.  Mr. Ashcroft told me years after that match, that for sheer inspiration and brilliance tenacity of purpose he had never witnessed more dogged determination than that exhibition not only by Boyle, but by the whole Everton team, once the lust of victory came within their keen by Boyle’s single-handed effort towards the close, when thousands had already streamed from the ground. 
Jack Bentley, the former League president, had also officiated as referee, but that was before he took high office in the League; afterwards it was thought better that executive officials took no personal or active interest in games, on whose results they might later be called upon to express an opinion. 
Mr. Arnott, of Leek, and Aaron Scragg, of Crewe, were both popular referees in Lancashire League circles, and their control of a game was rarely productive of trouble.
Edwin Ramsbottom, of Southport, was strongly supported by the nomination of many Lancashire clubs, and with Steers and Langford, of Liverpool, had the control of many important games, both as referees, and at times as linesmen.  In those days the rules as regards prompt timekeeping by referees and linesmen were not as strict as they are nowadays, and it was no uncommon thing for a referee to arrive on the ground a little late for the advertised time of kick-off, and then explain to an anxious group of committee men that he had missed his connection in Manchester, or had got on the wrong tram at the Pier head.  Vagaries, too, in timekeeping during the match and at the final whistle blowing were not uncommon, and led at times to unusual conferences and comparisons of watches on the field of play, to the huge delight of an admiring-and vocal- multitude.  Once a referee played a second half of a League game at Anfield consisting of exactly thirty-five minutes, and at the end of the time blew his whistle and dismissed the players to the dressing-rooms despite their frantic appeals for the full time.  It was only after a further ten minutes wrangling in the dressing-room and the production of over a series of watches that he would accept the inevitable and agree that perhaps there had been an oversight.  Anyhow, the players were once more ordered out on the field and a further ten minutes’ play indulged in, but no alteration in the score took place, and the original decision stood.  Most of the spectators had left the ground, and the players, too, were disgruntled with the game, and perhaps with the conduct of it.  It was a Boxing Day match too, perhaps that had something to do with the erratic behavior of the watches that day! 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 19 December 1925
By Louis T. Kelly

• Bert Freeman is now a football scout down in the Midlands.
• Personally, we have a feeling that Everton are going to make a capital bid for the Cup honours this winter
• Hardy has helped so steady down the defence, wherein, too, Raitt has of late given of his best
• Then there has been a solidity at half-back in recent weeks that is pleasing to note
• Whilst the attack (and especially since O’Donnell came alongside Dean) has grown much more incisive.
• Indeed, a continuance of recent form should mean a look in, at least, for Cup honours.
• Chadwick got his first goal for Leeds United on Saturday
• But he has yet to see his side get their first point, having lost all four to date.
• “Dixie” fairly impressed the Tyneside crowd; indeed the “Magpies” teeth must have chattered near the end
• Dean be it known has to date registered 16 goals in 16 league matches this season- a splendid record for a youth who is practically in his first senior season.
• He carries a wise, as well as a clever head on those massive shoulders.

“BEE” TELLS OF A CROWD THAT BAWLD AT REFEREE
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 19 December 1925
THE SMITH A MIGHTY MAN WAS NOT
BOLTON BOW THE KNEE AT EVERTON
Everton would have had a tremendous gate to-day but for the further sample of inclement weather.  The side that has done so well for a month was expected to change the “draw” phase that has obtained at home this season.  Bolon, with J.R. Smith back to centre and a big win over the Champions, helped to make an attendance of about 36,000.  Everton; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Peacock, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy (Captain), Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup.  Bolton; Pym; Haworth, Jennings; Cope, Round, Thornborough; Butler, Jack, Smith (JR), Smith (J), Vizard. 
O’DONNELL FINDS THE NET.
It took ten minutes for Everton to keep up their record of scoring in every match this season.  O’Donnell then netting through careful following up, and an endeavor to harass the Bolton full backs, O’Donnell had done something more than this.  He had, in the first minute of play, fallen back to stop J.R. Smith scoring in sixty seconds, and a second time one noticed him acting the part of full back.  The Darlington man is a willing worker anywhere, and when he got Haworth and Jennings in a tangle, he got low down to a ball from the right wing and scored a popular goal.  Up to this point play had been even, and whereas Pym had little to do, Hardy had twice to punch away.  One of the noteworthy features of play was the stern unbending and unending energy displayed by Virr and Chedgzoy.  The former soon got a tight rein on Butler, but there was still David Jack to bother him.  McDonald and Virr paired off in their positional play, and the result was that the Bolton forwards were for a long time unable to make any impression.
SHAKING THE CROSSBAR.
Peacock also played his part in stopping Bolton’s best-known division, namely, the forward line.  Dean was unselfish in the matter of goal chances and shots, and when he ankled a ball to O’Donnell, it was the nearest possible thing for Bolton that the home team did not score- he was smothered out of his chance by Haworth.  Bolton’s half-back line was new to the local folk, and the big centre-half, said to be a second edition of Seddon, found his work irksome, because the Everton attack was on its toes.  This was made manifest when Chedgzoy took a corner kick and Dean heading in his best and most thrustful manner, seemed an assured scorer till the ball bounced against the crossbar and rebounded over. 
BUTLER SNAPS A GOAL
Jack was the only Bolton forward living up to his name, and when he gave a most delicious up-the-middle pass for J.R. Smith, Macdonald headed away, which was clever intervention.  Bain and Jack in turn showed individual brilliance, and O’Donnell got one ball to Pym’s hands, but at the sounding of the half hour Jack began a movement in which the ball was sent to the extreme left, at which point J.R. Smith had arrived by devious methods.  J.R. Smith instantly crossed the ball, and Butler, in a muddling sort of manner, seemed to knee the ball over the goal line.  Everton had been so whole-hearted that they were worth a lead, but the snapped goal obtained by Butler showed how easily a lead can be taken from the clever side.  A taste of a goal to Bolton was as chocolate to a child.  They came near taking the lead, when Butler, unmarked, seemed to have got the defence, mesmerized.  Fortunately, Butler’s shot hit a foot. 
TURN ROUND ON LEVEL TERMS
This was good luck, not only good management, and something similar occurred when Everton swooped down.  Chedgzoy being on the inside right (owing to Irvine having hurt his leg).  The defence got away with an effort by Dean and another by Chedgzoy.  O’Donnell made a drive from inside right, and the position he had taken up showed how much work he was putting in.  Pym fell to the ball and cleared it. It had bene a good clean first half.  Half-time; Everton 1, Bolton 1.
DEAN’S STLISH GOAL
The second half opened with some alarums.  Within a very short space of time Troup missed what we now know as a “sitter.”  Chedgzoy had been clever and in passing to the middle of the field had opened the way for Dean to score in no uncertain manner, after he had trapped the ball in his old-fashioned style.  This goal aroused enormous enthusiasm and from this, the 50th minute, there was a succession of thrills that suggested the game was far from won.  After O’Donnell had gone down on the knee to try to convert a Chedgzoy centre, Vizard burst through and made a surprisingly tame effort to goal.  Butler came along and was much more severe in his drive.  Hardy, however, caught the ball at the foot of the post.  Then followed a real surprise packed.  Hardy stool still to a ball that apparently hung in the air and he was a lucky man not to see a goal registered against him. The pace was telling its tale on certain members of both sides, and while J.R. Smith could get little done, Everton always had a chance of holding their lead.  However, Chedgzoy joined the injured party, so that the right wing was working under difficulties.  Irvine, with his one leg and a swinger, made two nice drivers, each near the mark, and each carrying a load of powder. 
THE CROWD DISURBED
It was after this that Referee Scholey of Sheffield got a round of abusive, boos because he allowed play to go on when O’Donnell was lying knocked out.  It would seem that Mr. Scholey is not popular here if anywhere else, and yet it struck me that his delay in connection with the stop page of play was due to the fact that he did not realize the severity of the injury.  Dean, lying well up the field, was always a danger, and when his intended shot became a half centre, the ball came too fast and awkwardly for Chedgzoy to accept accurately. 
PENALTY REFUSED CREWE
Judged on to-day’s form Everton are plum ripe and should go well in the Cup.  Referee Scholey came in for further trouble when he refused a penalty kick for a charge on Dean, who had broken through and had stabbed the ball in Pym’s hands, Pym being out of place, and out of touch with the incident when Dean was about to score an easy goal.  Round plainly charged Dean in the middle of the back and sent him flying.  Later on the referee gave a foul against Round that was a problem to me, but he was quite right when he refused the appeals of the crowd for another penalty kick against Howarth, the ball having been accidentally handled.  Final; Everton 2, Bolton 1. 

BURNLEY RES V EVERTON RES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 19 December 1925
A capital first half saw the teams level at half-time with 1 goal each.  Everton had the better of the early play, but Burnley were the better finishers.  For the home team, Roberts and Heap hit the bar, and Pollard opened their account after half an hour’s play.  Hands by Burnley in the penalty are enabled Kennedy to equalize with a free kick just before the interval.  Play in the second half was very even, neither side being particularly dangerous. 

EVERTON 2 BOLTON WANDERERS 1
December 21, 1925. The Daily Courier.
EVERTON MOVE UPWARD.
FINE FORWARD DISPLAY AGAINST BOLTON.
O'DONNELL SCORES EVERTON'S 2,000 LEAGUE GOAL.
Everton's tide of fortune is at the flood. They are a goals-every-match club. In other words, they hold the unique record of having scored in every match this season. They have also collected nine points in the last six games. Saturday's was another “famous victory.” It was real full-blooded football. The Wanderers brought their restored Cup winning forward lines. Both sides started to make an afternoon of it, and the standard of football we exceptionally fine, showing that style and dash can be combined. The new Everton, if they have cut out unnecessary finesse and frills are by no means a kick and rush team. There was some gilt-edged football. HUSTLERS.
They were hustlers in front of goal. Forwards let go at half chances without trying to turn them in to better chances before having a pop at the target. Dean's goal which gave Everton the lead at the restart illustrates this. It was one of those one-two wing to centre efforts –a fine square centre from Chedgzoy, and in instanceous crashing of the ball into the net by the pivot. The “Trotters” little day finished before Everton's and in the later stages the home side took command and deserved to score at least two more goals. O'Donnell, Dean, and Irvine being persistent marksmen. Up to this stage we had seen the real Bolton, with this reservation. The halves were not quite up to the Bolton high standard, but the possibilities are there. The trio –Thornborough Round, and Cope –were all playing with the reserves at the beginning of the season. What is the reason of Everton's progress? It is admitted that the quality of their football now compares favourably with any other club in the country. The story of this game reads that all departments must take credit. If we single out the forwards, it will be agreed that the halves were splendid. No trio could have covered each other better, and the forwards flouished on their support. Then the backs must be singled out for a dour defence and happy understanding, and if the players were to give a reason they would probably indicate Hardy as the inspirer of confidants in his responsible post.
DEAN.
Dean gave of his best as leader of the line. His long strides did not suggest the speed of the snappy run of Chedgzoy, but “Dixie” was a hustler in the role of goal-getter. Chedgzoy recovered from his cold, was particularly effective –he was off the mark in a flash. Thornsborough found Chedgzoy and Irvine altogether too elusive, and Jennings never had the winger under his thumb. Irvine was the ideal partner. On the other wing, O'Donnell, whose early goal was a great one, was outstanding –always confident sometimes brilliant, and anxious to apply the finishing touch, Troup, if not robust in his methods, often had his opponents guessing. The halves were as good as most trios in the League. Bain, back again, and Virr particularly in present. Chedgzoy, Irvine, and O'Donnell were all injured in the strenuous closing stages, fortunately not seriously and most of the free –kicks, which were a feature of this period, were against Everton, a state of affairs which the crowd did not relish. Referee Scholeys had no enviable task in these crucial moments when there were many contending applicants on the field. He declined the appeal for a penalty when Round charged Dean in the area. Perhaps he was right; perhaps not. The Bolton Jack and Butler wing was most workmanship, and Butler's goal was the result of brainy anticipation. Teams: - Everton: - Hardy, goal, Raitt and McDonald, backs, Peacock, Bain, and Virr half-backs, Chedgzoy (captain), Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, and Troup, forwards. Bolton Wanderers: - Pym, goal, Howarth, and Jennings, backs, Cope, Round, and Thornsbrough, half-backs, Butler Jack, J.R. Smith, J. Smith, and Vizard, forwards.

BURNLEY RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 1
December 21, 1925. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 18)
While deserving a point for the better style and methods. Everton Reserves were rather luck when their bar was hit by Heap and Roberts of Burnley. Each side scored, Palland for Burnley and Kennedy for Everton with a free kick for Everton. The latter, however, lacked conviction in front of goal, and were not nearly so aggressive as Burnley who, however, lacked steadiness. Evertons left flank, fore and aft, was the best section, but Everton's work all round was much appreciated. It was an excellent game particularly in the first half.

NEWTON COMMON 1 EVERTON “A” 3
December 21 st , 1925. The Daily Courier.
LIVERPOOL COUNTY COMBINATION.
Newton Common Recs, were beaten on their own ground by Everton “A” on Saturday. Everton were successful chiefly by reason of their superior speed and opportunism, but the ultimate score of 3-1 in their favour was flattering. The goals were scored by Murphy, Dodds and Hibbert.

EVERTON’S MIGHT
Athletic News - Monday 21 December 1925
HALF-BACKS’ BIG PART IN BOLTON CONQUEST
DEAN’S PROGRESS
EVERTON 2 BOLTON WANDERERS 1
By Junius
A hard, grueling game, with intermittent thrills, moderate finishing, and a result quite in accord with the general trend of play.  Such were the outstanding points in a game which brought to Everton a success that might easily have been more substantial.  The first half brought out the abilities of both teams, and the Wanderers generally conveyed the impression that they were the cleverer combination in ball accurate passing and in anticipants of opponents’ movements.  They appeared too, to have a slight advantage in getting to the ball, and were always a speedy side.  At the end of ten minutes’ O’DONNELL put the finishing touch to fine work by Peacock and Virr, and the lead was held for twenty minutes, when Smith (J.R.) flashed the ball across to BUTLER, who had closed in, and he scored with case.  After the interval Everton rose in their might, and to such an extent that the Bolton attack was reduced to impotency by a half-back line that, earlier in the season, was regarded as the club’s reserve strength.  They dominated the play, and the Bolton forwards, who were otherwise resourceful, played into their hands by attempting to make positions absolutely certain before testing Hardy.  The second half had only been in progress a few seconds when Chedgzoy put the ball to Troup two yards in front of Pym.  Quick thinking was vital, but the outside left paid the penalty of hesitation, for Pym flung himself at the ball and got it away.  Again Chedgzoy gave a delightful pass to DEAN, who gave his side the lead four minutes after the interval, and incidentally, brought his crop of League goals to seventeen.  The Wanderers fought valiantly, but with no success.  It appeared as though Joe Smith, after racing nearly half the length of the field, would equalize.  He overcame all opposition except Hardy, only to finish with a tame shot.  Later, Jack came near with a great drive that Hardy anticipated, and this was practically the only occasion in the second half that the home goalkeeper was extended.  It was distinctly Everton’s game in this half, but their marksmanship was not of a high standard.  Dean, Irvine, and O’Donnell missed easy chances, but the two latter players were suffering from slight injuries. 
CLEVER HALF-BACKS
I have indicated Everton’s great strength at half-back.  Prominent in a line conspicuous for clever tackling and for removing danger by opportune interception was the local product, Virr, while Peacock successfully challenged Joe Smith and Vizard.  Bain filled the centre half position with skill especially in defensive measures.  Dean was always in the van of progressive movement, and his head-work and persistency in following up for possible emergencies often troubled the Bolton defenders.  Irvine, before he was hurt, was very clever when in possession, and Chedgzoy, O’Donnell and Troup completed a line that more thrust than the Wanderers’ five.  Everton; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Peacock, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, and Troup.  Bolton Wanderers.- Pym; Haworth, Jennings; Cope, Round, Thornborough; Butler, Jack, Smith (J.R.), Smith (Joe), and Vizard.  Referee; Mr. A. Scholey, Sheffield. 

BRAVO EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Monday 21 December 1925
Bee’s Notes
GOOD BUSINESS
Whatever the tradesfolk are doing, Everton are doing good business.  Their persistent rise was carried still further when they beat Bolton by a larger margin than the score of 2-1 denotes.  They were good winners; the better side almost throughout and plainly are fighting factors for the Christmas time and the Cup period.  Which is very welcome information –and dependable.  There in a new life and spirit in the side that has been wanting for two years.  Players in the past have been in the habit of having the ball presented to them or else awaiting its arrival.  Now they are going out to meet the ball, shake it by the hand, metaphorically, and boot it to a pal “with all good wishes,” In short, they are “fetching” the ball.  And they are carrying it with good results, too.  There is a semblance of combination among the forwards that is very welcome in these days when rounds of passing are almost a dead letter.  I like the new spirit; I like O’Donnell’s direct methods and his helpfulness to the harassed half-back.  I like Virr’s stately game and his cool, calculating manner of clearing; I like Dean- but who does not like the boy who has not been spoilt by success.  He has scored 17 goals in 17 matches –a bright record for a young boy.  Long may his lum reek and – may he never grow fat. 
OTHER “WINNERS,”
Other winners were Chedgzoy, making the captaincy rein pull and showing much endeavor and skill; Irvine’s brilliant footwork –sometimes overdone it is true, but nevertheless a joy to those who like the McDermott memory reviver; then Bain and Peacock at half-back showed how good the home three were and how poor the Bolon half-back line was.  Seddon and company were not there; you could not recognize the Bolton half-back line.  Pym kept goal well; Hardy made some punches and one hesitant step that might have been goalful; the Scottish backs kept an even keel and were neves worried off their track and Wee Troup cavorted and carrolled if not gaily certainly in a manner to increase the entre-forward’s chance of goaling.  Peacock delayed the course to put the strangle hold on a famous wing, and J.R. Smith got no change from Bain.  Now, if Smith had been an Englishman, one could have understood this.  It was a good win; it is the forerunner of others and maybe when a forward is pitched high and dry by a charge in the middle of the back, we shall get a spot kick as compensation. 

EVERTON UNCHANGED.
December 23 rd 1925. The Daily Courier.
Everton, who play the Rovers at Blackburn on Christmas Day and again on Boxing Day at Goodison Park, are in the happy position of being able to field a winning side. This is the one that disposed of Bolton Wanderers, namely; Hardy; Raitt and McDonald; Peacock, Bain, and Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, and Troup. The Reserves have an attractive match at Goodison Park Park on Christmas Day when the second team of Blackburn Rovers provide the opposition, the pair meeting again on Boxing Day. The Rovers have not been beaten since September so that Everton will have to be at their best to dispose of them. Everton are giving a trial to C. Murphy, who has played one or two games with the “A” team, the full side being: - Harland, Livingstone, Kerr; Rooney, Reid, Hart; Parry, Murray, C. Murphy, Houghton, and Kennedy.

EVERTON SIDE
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 23 December 1925
Bee’s Notes
Everton have decided to reply on the team which defeated Bolton Wanderers for the Christmas Day match at Ewood Park and for the return game against Blackburn Rovers at Goodison Park on Boxing Day.  Team; Hardy; Raitt, MacDonald; Peacock, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup.
CENTRAL LEAGUE RACE
Blackburn Rovers have not bene beaten in a Central League match since September, and they are running strongly for the championship.  Everton are not without hope in this direction, and as the teams meet on Friday at Goodison Park and on Saturday at Ewood great struggles should be witnessed.  Everton’s side will be; - Harland; Livingstone, Kerr; Rooney, Reid, Hart; Parry, Murray, Murphy, Houghton, Kennedy. 

EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 24 December 1925
Bee’s Notes
Blackburn Rovers as everybody knows, recently celebrated their fiftieth anniversary.  Since the war the Rovers have lost some of the lustre of their early days.  They have won the cup five times in their history, registering three consecutive victories in 1884-5-6 and have two championships to their credit in season 1911-12 and 1913-14.  Blackburn joined the league when it was first formed in 1888, and are one of the three teams –the others being Everton and Villa –who can point to the fact that they joined the league at its inception and have never suffered a Second period.  Everton; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Peacock, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup.  Blackburn; Sewell; Rollo, Forrest; Roscamp, Healless, McIntyre; Crisp, Puddefoot, Harper, Brayshaw, Rigby. 
A HARLAND’S ENGAGEMENT
At the coming-of-age celebration at the Mersey Mission Institute, Runcorn, to Miss Doris Looker, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Looker, of Runcorn, her engagement was announced to Mr. Arthur Harland, the International Everton goalkeeper. 
BLACKBURN ROVERS NOTABLE CHANGE
Blackburn Rovers have made one notable change in the team which will entertain Everton at Ewood Park on Xmas Day, and which will visit Goodison Park on Saturday.  Hulme, the young, talented player from York City, has been dropped, and Crisp has been introduced in the side.  The team will be Sewell; Rollo, Forrest; Rosecamp, Houlless, McIntyre; Crisp, Puddefoot, Harper, Brayshaw, Rigby. 
Blackburn Rovers team which meets Everton Res, home and away on the two days is particularly strong.  McKay, the international forward, who has been off several weeks through leg injury, will be given a test in these games.  Team; Crawford; Hope, Roxburgh; Campbell, Smailes, Lowe; Hulme, Ball, Holland, McKay, Cooper. 

OLD TIMES AND TIMERS
December 26, 1925. The Liverpool Football Echo
Cross-Patter in the Days When Spectators Walked to the Ground
By Victor Hall
Most people walked to see football matches at Anfield when Everton played on these greens –thirty years ago. There were, of course, always a proportion of people who hired four wheelers and hamsome from town, but, in the main, people walked. Trans and bus services there was too, of a sort but not enough of either, and the service was causal. But parties made up their own company, and the old-style wagonettes were a favourite travel means in bulk traffic, something like the brake cabs of today in Scotland. Which means that a group of people made their own travelling arrangements with their local car proprietors, and he took the party to the match and waited for their coming home. The parties travelled together going, and mostly they returned together. The nearest reliable tram route then running near the Anfield ground was the Walton tram at the foot of Everton Valley, and the Breckfield road car though Robson street. Anfield and Oakfield roads had then no car tracks. A steady stream of men hurrying from the docks took the Sandhills-Lamberth road and Everton Valley track, Shell-road brought the Southerners and Breck-road, St. Domingo road and vale were the principal tributaries. The Castle street and Pier head car ranks were the earliest raided by the “toffs” after the St. George's crescent and the railway stations were drawn on. When they were emptied you waited for the first empty one returning; if you were not in a hurry, you walked. Billy Bradley, the black-and-white artist, contributed a sketch for the local athletic paper forecasting the time when cabs and buses would being passengers to the ground propelled by motor power, instead of horse. The sketch cause great comment and was attributed to a flight of artistic license or poetic indulgence, not to be taken at all seriously. But, for those who could capture and board one of the buses running from town to the match direct, the journey was worthwhile for the company one met –and the opinzones. “Whose their burly chaps Everton's playing today.” ‘They're not burly, their name's Burnley; they come from a place called Bury.” “Bury what.” “No not ‘to Bury' the place is Bury or Burnley; anyhow, it's a part of Manchester.” “Are they as good as Everton.” “Not art as good, but they play a rough game, and that's why most teams let them win.” “Their goalkeeper, “Trainer,?” No, you're got it all mixed up, Trainer is the goalkeeper of Preston North End. Prince Tariner they call him. I think he's a Welshman, and it's a misprint for Pryce Trainer.” “What do they call them Preston North End for? “They always play better at the north end of the field so they give them that name. You'll see a funny team today. All six foot fellows, the goalkeeper weighs twenty stone. A chap called Hillman, used to be in the Life Guards, I believe. If a player gets the best of him he always falls on him and picks him out that way.” “Does the empire come with the Bury team.” No.” They toss for umpires sometimes the linesmen won't agree to be umpire because they play rough with him. All the umpires give in to Hillman though they're afraid of him.” “Well why don't Everton have an umpire of their own.” “They're got two or three, but they don't like playing so much now that the younger umpires have started wearing these fancy knee breeches and blazers the way they do now. Bob Lythgoe and Billy Roach of Bootle are too good Everton referees, and McGill is another.” “Who do you fancy for today's game,” “Everton, of course, unless Geary gets hurt again; he got a proper good bashing, I believe last week at a place called Blackburn, where the Rovers play.” “Are they the team Mr. Lewis referees for.” “They are that, and you see them playing, my lad, and you'll see some football. All of them Scotchmen too, I believe except Jack Southworth. “Who's he,” “Have you never seen Southworth?” “Best player, bar Geary, in the centre in England –and a fine shot.” “Well what does he do,” “He shoots of course” (with disgust) “Have you ever seen Southworth play” “I don't know, I've seen Preston and Aston Villa, and West Bromwich and Accrington that's all. “Ah man, you've not seen half the good teams play. What about Bootle? That's a good little team if you like; beat Everton twice last year, once with ten men. You want to see Smart Arridge play. Now, there's a player if you like. Never knows when he beat. See him and Charlie Parry play; beats all your Scotchmen.” “What do the players do in the week-time, do they work at anything.” “I should think they do. There's two of them working at Rollo's and one at Jimmy Jacks that I know of –one of them is a regular Toff too, quite affable to talk to, not a bit of swank. I spoke to him myself one day on the tram going to work. He's had a lot of hard luck lately, got a bad ankle he says, and puts him off his play.” “Why do you mean you was talkin' to him about his game.” “Me? Yes, of course, I was, I spoke to him quite friendly like. Told him I often go to the match. He says he must have seen me some times. Promised to look out for me the next time near the touchline. I hold him just about where I stand. He thinks he must have seen me.” “What does he think of the referee?” “He says there's not many of them understand the game properly. Only John Lewis, I was telling you about. He's a whopper and no mistake, he says. Thinks nothing of telling you to mind your own business, or he'll send you off the field. I told this chap I wouldn't be spoken to that way by any man especially in front of a crowd.” “He doesn't mind, though. He say he believes in playing your own game, and taking no notice of the referees. He says they soon tumble to it, if you take no notice of them, and often that they leave you alone.” “Whereabouts does this chap work, you say. What is he, a striker, or an engineer? “Mr. Rollo's I believe he an engineer or an engineer labourer, I forgot which but he has a good job. You watch when I get near him today, you'll see me give him the wink all right.” “Here we are “Breckfield-road” That was the sort of football chat one picked up in those days in the tram or bus. There was little prominence given to football matters in the newspapers and rumours was consequently active. There was no “Bee's” column, nor his ready answers to correspondents of every description so that readers today have the advantage of news is real news, and views that are real views. Sometimes too, they have garrulous old writers who can only write in the past tense. So they get wheat and chaff together.

BLACKBURN ROVERS 2 EVERTON 2
December 26 1925. The Liverpool Football Echo.
DEALS 18 GOALS.
EVERTON'S GOOD POINT AT BLACKBURN
Points for visitors at Ewood Park have been too cheap this season, so that it cannot be said that Everton accomplished anything particularly more worthy in effecting a draw with the Rovers yesterday. They were full value for what they got, however, and must have struck the bulk of 30,000 observes as a side that adapted itself better to the prevailing conditions. The ground was covered with snow, except in the goal areas, which had been cleared, and a foothold was rather precarious. It was no day for smart passing and in this respect the Rovers went wrong, for they held the ball too closely, and never swung it about as did Everton. Fourteen minutes suffered to give the visitors the lead, O'Donnell, from a centre from the right, banging through a high ball that quite beat Sewell. Shortly afterwards the Rovers won a brilliant equaliser, Harper, after a run of many yards (In which he thrice mastered efforts by McDonald to stop him). Having Hardy helpless with a fine shot. Four minutes before the interval Everton were pressing on goal.
DEAN GOAL A GAME.
Rollo placed a free kick straight to Bain, who oushed the ball ahead to Dean to run through and spread-eagle the defence. Just before this O'Donnell missed an open goal, and the manner in which he rubbed his hair roused the crowd to instant laughter. On resuming Robers quickly equalised, through Bradshaw, who rushed the ball through, and this proved to be all the scoring, though Everton were often dangerous. A draw was a fitting result, Everton's custodian Hardy, was not seriously tested until the later stages, so well was he covered by Raitt and McDonald, both, of whom tackled and kicked well. Peacock, Bain, and Virr, were a strong and resourceful half back line a like in defence and attack. Forward Chedgzoy and Troup were speedy and created well, and Dean impressed by his trustfulness. The line moved much better than the Rovers. Teams: - Blackburn Rovers: - Swell, goal, Roll, and Forrest, backs, Campbell, Healess, and McIntyre, half-backs, Crisp, Pudderfoot, Harper, Brayshaw, and Rigby, forwards. Everton: - Hardy, goal, Raitt and McDonald, backs, Peacock, Bain, and Virr, half-backs, Chedgzoy (captain), Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, and Troup, forwards. Referee A.M. Kirby, Lostock Hall.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 BLACKBURN ROVERS RESERVES 2
December 26, 1925
CENTRE LEAGUE (Game 19).
Everton: - Harland goal, Livingstone, and Kerr backs, Rooney, Reid, and Hart half-backs Parry, Murray, C. Murphy, Houghton, and Kennedy, forwards.

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 26 December 1925
By Louis T. Kelly

• Everton have had no pronounced Saturday victories to date this season, wide the score sheet
• Whoever suggested trying O’Donnell in the Everton attack deserves an especial vote of thanks at the next “annual.”
• Bobby Irvine has been brilliant in recent weeks, despite his pre-Christmas lack of goals
• There’s a breeziness about O’Donnell’s play and an appetite for work that is good to look upon.
• He, clearly, enjoys his game
• Everton centre-forwards past and present in Davies, Cock, and Dean are running a very close goal-scoring race.
• To Christmas Eve Dean had 17 to his credit; Davies 16, and Jack Cock 19- a total of 52 in all.
• The further he goes the better we like Virr
• As a player’s wife said at Everton on Saturday –he not only tackles well, but he follows his tackle up.
• Only four of the Everton League team, as set out on August 29th are now to be found retaining their original positions
• McDonald, Chedgzoy, Irvine, and Troup to wit.
• With a saving clause for O’Donnell, who, after dropping out of the defence, has made good in attack
• We would need to turn back a long way to find a better half back exhibition than that given by Peacock, Bain and Virr against the Trotters
• Peacock was splendid in all he undertook; yet we her that he even surpassed Saturday’s standard at Newcastle the week before
• Jack Peacock’s continued success would prove a real source of delight
• For he has not been a particular favorite of Dame Fortune thus far
• Let us hope 1926 will prove more kind than did its elder brother 1925
• For we recall how on January 10 last (after ten minutes’ play) he broke a small bone on the ankle, in Everton’s first round cup-tie v Burnley
• Is there a more unselfish centre-forward in the League than Dixie Dean?  We doubt it
• Prior to Saturday, Bolton Wanderers wondered what sort of a man it was that had won his way into the Everton centre half position. 
• Bain by reason of his brilliant display, must have left them working more than ever at the finish
• Everton were drawn against First Leaguers in all three rounds of the Cup last season
• They are set out against less strenuous opposition now

DEANS 18 GOALS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 26 December 1925
EVERTON’S GOOD POINT AT BLACKBURN
Points for visitors at Ewood Park have been too cheap this season, so that it cannot be said that Everton accomplished anything particularly noteworthy in effecting a draw with the Rovers yesterday.  They were full value for what they got, however, and must have struck the bulk of 30,000 observers as a side that adapted itself better to the prevailing conditions.  The ground was covered with snow, except in the goal areas, which had been cleared, and a foothold was rather precarious.  It was no day for smart passing, and in this respect the Rovers went wrong, for they held the ball too closely, and never swung it about as did Everton.  Fourteen minutes sufficed to give the visitors the lead, O’Donnell, from a centre from the right, banging through a high ball that quite beat Sewell.  Shortly afterwards the Rovers won a brilliant equalizer, Harper, after a run of many yards (in which he thrice mastered efforts by McDonald to stop him), leaving Hardy helpless with a fine shot.  Four minutes before the interval Everton were pressing on goal. 
DEAN’S GOAL A FAME
Rollo placed a free kick straight to Bain, who push the ball ahead for Dean to run through and speadeagle the defence.  Just before this O’Donnell missed an open goal and the manner in which he rubbed his hair roused the crowd to instant laugher!  On resuming Rovers quickly equalized through Brayshaw, who rushed the ball through and this proved to be the scoring, though Everton were often dangerous. A draw was a fitting result, Everton’s custodian, Hardy, was not seriously tested until the later stages, so well was he covered by Raitt and McDonald, both of whom tackled and kicked well.  Peacock, Bain, and Virr were a strong and resourceful half-back line, alike in defence and attack.  Forward Chedgzoy and Troup were speedy and centred well, and Dean impressed by his thustfulness.  The line moved much better than the Rovers.  Rovers; Rollo; Forest, Campbell; Healless, McIntyre, Crisp, Puddefoot, Harper, Brayshaw, Rigby.  Everton; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Peacock, Bain, Virr, Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup.  Referee. A.E. Kirby, Lostock Hall. 

THE ORIGIN PF GOAL NETS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 26 December 1925
Bee’s Letters
Our dear old friend Mr. R.E. Lythgoe has not been too well lately, but in wishing him Christmas greeting I learned that he was hopeful of being out very shortly.  Bob was the centrepeice of the match which led to goal nets being invented by Mr. J. A. Brodie.  “The game was Everton v. Bolton on the Everton ground at Anfield and at the time the end of the ground nearest what is now Spion Kop dipped very much, and the goalposts would be a foot lower than the centre of the field,” says Bob.  “The Wanderers claimed a goal which was not allowed, and they became very noisy.  Mr. Brodie was watching the game, and on getting home at night sat down and designed the nets.  About fifteen years ago Mr. Brodie was in the directors stand at Goodison Park.  He, Mr. Catton (“Tityrus”) and myself were chatting when Mr. Catton raised the question of nets, and Mr. Brodie told us how the idea struck him.” 

EVERTON’S “GEE-UP,” FOOTBALL
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 26 December 1925
O’DONNELL’S CROP OF GOALS INCREASES
“BEE” TELLS OF POOR BLACKBURN ATTACK
Everton; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Peacock, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy (Captain), Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup.  Blackburn Rovers; Sewell; Rollo, Forrest; Campbell, Healless, McIntyre; Crisp, Puddefoot, Harper, Mackay, Rigby.  Holliday spirits were noticeable again to-day, when Everton, not beaten for a considerable spell, were at home to Blackburn.  The crowd was 38,000 strong, and mercifully the “going” was not wintry.  It was one the best attendances ever seen at Goodison.  Mounted police were bust half an hour before the start.  Thousands would be left outside.  This only goes to show the warmth of enthusiasm on the part of the Everton spectators when their team is doing well. 
THAT CRUSHING FEELING
The Goodison brigade began as though they were going to eat their rivals.  They kicked off in the foggy atmosphere, but Everton’s opening move was anything but foggy.  Virr got in an enormous shot which was blocked, and Irvine with a long sinewy run was full of pertinacity and pluck, and could not find an opening towards Sewell.  On the other hand Crisp got busy after the Blackburn defence had got over the first five minutes’ burst, and cutting in, made a shot low for goal. Hardy falling to it and pushing it out.  McIntyre, the half-back, is still one of the best of shots, as he showed when he drove in a high ball which could not have been more than half a yard too high.  In the gluepot turf Raitt made a miskick.  Virr, lying in the goal area, making a fine headway to stop what must have been the opening goal.  McIntyre was not successful purely by his shooting.  He saved his own goalkeeper by kicking out Chedgzoy’s goal scoring shot and then went on to dribble in and out of Peacock and Chedgzoy in a manner that pleased to crowd, which had now grown to about 45,000.  McDonald also came in for enthusiastic applause by reason of his upward match.  Blackburn used the long swinging method as compared to Everton’s close, crazy patchwork, and for ten minutes the Rovers were on top of their adversaries, and Harper, with a gift chance, should have made sure of a goal instead of slewing outside.  Puddefoot came into the picture with a shot and a pass to Rigby, the latter making a sweet Gaby glide on the small of his back.  Rovers repented their omission in front of goal when they saw Everton take up the running, showing a fastness and enterprise that pleased the spectators. 
O’DONNELL’S HOME THRUST
O’Donnell had one shot blocked, Virr put one to Sewell’s safe hand, and then O’Donnell, always hasty to shoot, soon took the pass from Bain and rattled it with his left foot into the right-hand corner of the net.  This “goalful” joy was nearly added to by Peacock.  There was plenty of life in the game, especially when Crisp made a lovely centre, and in the foggy atmosphere it looked as though Mackay was the shooter.  Whatever else could not be seen a great save by Hardy from point blank range could not be mistaken.  It was one of the greatest piece of football work in the match, and it was a pity therefore the former Stockport man somewhat tainted his work by giving the dummy unnecessarily. 
A WORDY ARGUMENT
Sewell got the full tilt of O’Donnell’s tilt, when the little man banged into him with all his might, and then Bain, according to Puddefoot, stuck up his foot unfairly.  They had a few words about the matter, but all went peaceful again.  Everton ought to have been well in front on the chances they had, but their great fault was that they would attempt to make one more pass before shooting. 
A ROCKET FROM IRVINE.
Irvine, just before half-time, let out one of his best rockets and Sewell made a picturesque save, and was thankful for a corner, which Bain, however, very nearly converted. 
Half-time; Everton 1, Blackburn 0.
SECOND BY O’DONNELL
The interval over, Everton scored within half-a-minute of the kick-off.  Troup with the instep, made a nice, sensible inward pass, and O’Donnell made another of his left foot low shots that travelled so quickly that a goalkeeper had no chance to take time by the forelock, one more evidence of the ease which attends the man who is prepared to risk his all by making a shot before the ball has been pitted and patted.  O’Donnell’s motto is “shoot first and think afterwards.”  Blackburn were discouraged and played like a team that was tired.  Puddefoot, however, contrived to get the opposition into a knot by bringing a crowd of players on to him and then making a subtle pass to left or right.  He was presented Mackay with a priceless pass, and the little man could not accept it because Harper got into the way.  It is a pretty state of affairs, when one of one’s own side gets in the way of a scoring chance.  Moreover, when hardy failed to pick up a ball that was slipping out of his grasp, Rigby shot into the goal, and Everton can count themselves fortunate that the referee, Mr. Kirby, had blown his whistle for a foul charge on Hardy. 
ROVERS OFF THEIR FORM
Blackburn had plenty of chances, and it was astonishing that so far had failed to pick up ant advantage from them.  It was remiss work in front of goal and means that the Rovers were throwing away a faint chance of draw.  Talking of “feints” a spectator became an ambulance case at this moment.  It seemed to be an ordinary faint.
IRVINE SUCCEEDS.
One of the most difficult shots that Hardy had to master was from the half back Campbell, and at the other end Sewell could not hope to cope with Irvine’s scoring point at the 65th minute.  Little had been seen of Dean, who had few chances of doing anything excepting heading, when at last the home centre got a move on.  He baffled two men and then offered Troup a pass which led to a prompt centre.  Dean was up for the centre, headed it, without moving it into the goal, but eventually the ball went to Irvine, who scored with the greatest case.  Thus was Everton’s continued uplift made more than ever patent and pleasurable.  As a week ago, so now, the Everton half-backs had been a great factor in the successful issue.  Sewell continued to do splendid work in the Blackburn goal, and he made a wonderful save from O’Donnell.  Then Puddefoot made a brilliant solo effort that really deserved a goal, and only the alertness of Hardy kept him out.  Final; Everton 3, Blackburn 0. 
BLACKBURN RES V EVERTON RES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 26 December 1925
At Blackburn.  In the first minute McBain hit the crossbar with a fast rising shot, and at the other end Ball tested Harland with a high drive, after Holland had scored an offside goal.  Hope scored from a free kick and Ball added a second soon afterwards.  Half-time; Rovers 2, Everton nil. 

CHRISTMAS DAY
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 26 December 1925
EVERTON DRAW
Against Blackburn Rovers Reserves at Goodison Park, yesterday, Everton were two goals down after twenty minutes’ play, McKay and Ball scoring.  Before the interval, however, Kennedy reduced the lead from a penalty, and Murray scored the equalizer.  Murphy made his first appearance for Everton, who were unlucky not to win, the game ending 2-2. 

EVERTON 3 BLACKBURN ROVERS 0
December 27, 1925. The Daily Courier.
THREE GOALS FOR EVERTON.
HOW THE ROVERS WERE BEATEN.
Everton got down to the job against Blackburn. There were no half-hearted measures in this latest conquest. The Everton side have a leavening of real hustlers, well known by now, who butted in and swept aside opposition. One of the most improved clubs in the League, supporters are now hopeful of them before long challenging some of the top sawyers. The 45,000 supporters were highly delighted with this thoroughly convincing victory. Everton have been on the up-grade since the home defeat early in November, and in the eight subsequent games they have secured 12 points.
HALF-BACKS.
To the repeated question, “What is making Everton?” we have to answer; “Largely the half-backs. There were no flaws in the middle-line. Bain and Virr are getting better and better. These two, who stand for resolution and strength, generally had the grip of the Puddlefoot and Crisp wing. They put devil into their play, and the home forwards flourished on their support. They are, liked O'Donnell, of the masterful type, who will go till they drop. They will be an asset, particularly when it comes to Cup-tie football, and thoughts are turned in that direction just now. Peacock's methods were not so robust; he had quite a few ideas in bringing about what he desired and stood up well to a wearing game on the clayey, glusy surface. Even towards the end he remained cool and unalarmed when the Rigby and McKay wing occasionally had the defence on the run. Despite the freedom with which the Everton forwards moved, 24 minutes had gone before O'Donnell got the opening goal with that characteristic left foot first time shot, but the sturdy Rovers' backs contested every inch of the ground. To this opening success the Everton halves had contributed. His second goal directly after thew restart was scored in a similar way from an instantanous shot. The Everton forwards were happy. They combined skill with dash, which was an achievement on the mud. When the wings found passing along the ground impossible, they lifted the ball into the centre, giving the inside men a better chance.
DEAN MISSES.
It was the most surprising, therefore that Dean did not get his customary goal this time, although he tried persistently with head and feet. The Rovers' defence, however, were up and doing whenever the young forward was in possession. Nevertheless Dean's performance was a good one, his generalship is improving with experience, and Blackburn declared him one of the best centres they had been up against for some time. It was just a toss up whether he or Irvine should score the third goal, and it was left to the latter. Fortunately there was not a repetition of Blackburn's irritating mistake to them just before, when Harper, their outstanding forward, got in McKay's way in trying to help him, as he was shooting. Irvine, Dean, and O'Donnell are three of the youngest forwards in the League, and the experience of older men like Chedgzoy and Troup is valuable. Chedgzoy chaperoned his forwards with useful little gestures of advice. Time after time he went twinkling and smiling down the wing, rounding the back in his usual style, but evidently disappointed when several of his passes went astray. Chedgzoy, older in years, but not in play, had the making of Irvine, who was not afraid to shoot. Troup was persistent and tricky, and made the most of his chances. Raitt and McDonald were a pair of sound backs, with Hardy behind in his best form. The methods of the Rovers' forwards must have sorely tried their supporters. They would persist in passing and dribbling, though this style of play led them nowhere. It was not worthy of the reputation of the Rovers. Pudderfoot was not the Pudderfoot of days past, although his skill occasionally penned out. Harper has got some goals this season, but in the game he did not suggest the marksman. Forrest, and Rollo had a grueling time, and the former's endurance was tested to the limit. Teams: - Everton: - Hardy, goal, Raitt and McDonald, backs, Peacock, Bain, and Virr, half-backs, Chedgzoy (captain), Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, and Troup, forwards. Blackburn Rovers: - Sewell, goal, Rollo, and Forrest, backs, Campbell, Healess, and McIntyre, half-backs, Crisp, Pudderfoot, Harper, McKay, and Rigby, forwards. Referee Mr. AP. Kirby.

BLACKBURN ROVERS RESERVES 5 EVERTON RESERVES 1
December 28, 1925. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE
Despite the soft and treacherous turf at Ewood Park, the football between the Rovers Reserves and Everton Resevers was of a vigour order. The gate was one of the best if the season, nearly 10,000 persons assembling. The home side deserved their victory of five goals to one, for thought the visitors were conspicuous at certain stages of the first half, the Rovers made greater use of their opportunities. There was none of the lucky elements about any of the goals registered by the Rovers. Hope and Ball scored the only two obtained in the first half, and in the second half Shaw twice beat Harland, and Ball contributed another clever goal before the close. Walker, the Cumberland youth, who made his debut between the posts for the Rovers, had little to do. The backs were sound, and the halves were solid, Low being outstanding of the forwards, Holland, Ball and Shaw were active throughout. For Everton Harland did well in goal despite the heavy margin against him. But for several of his great clearances, the odds against his side would have been much greater. The backs gave a good display, but the half-backs did and not feed the forwards as they might have done. The few passes which came they way were quickly snapped up by McBain and Houghton, Murphy in the centre was prominent, and before the close he scored Everton's only goal.

SKILL ON MUD
Athletic News - Monday 28 December 1925
ADAPTABLE EVERTON AND ROVERS
O’DONNELL’S DECISION 
EVERTON 3, BLACKBURN ROVERS 0
By Impressionist
From a flint like playing surface to the glue-pot of Goodison park was a tremendous contrast which the footballers of Everton and Blackburn Rovers met with commendable resource.  The ball often outwitted the most adroit foot, and in a punishing game the heavy ground palpably took a toll of the stamina, but the pace was always stern, much of the combination delighted, and incident abounding. The one profound criticism to be passed is the weakness either side when it came to the matter scoring.  For it was a simple process time after time, with defences awkwardly placed on the turn in response to attacks perfectly constructed. As Everton scored three goals may appear that nothing was seriously amiss.  Really they should have had several more, and perhaps it was little fortunate for them that they found the Rovers in a similarly reluctant mood.  The position was insecure for Everton at the interval, with only a goal to show for a deal of skill and an avalanche of raids. Whatever the Rovers had to concede in the margin of the exchanges, they at least revealed greater possibility of goals. They had the will to shoot, and it was only a masterful one-hand save by Hardy, when McKay, at close quarters, tried place the ball beyond his reach, which saved Everton qualms.
MAN AND EMERGENCY. 
Peculiarly enough, the Rovers, who had suggested things in the goal area, completely lost their virtues when for a period they dictated the play though two goals behind. The superior team were worthy winners the end, but it was the erstwhile full-back O’Donnell in whom they found relief. Apart from the fact that he has developed the qualities for supporting Troup, O'Donnell imparted to the attack a practical zeal, and he was always radiating the will to shoot.  Thus it was O’DONNELL surprise shot which skidded into the corner after twenty-three minutes of expectations unfulfilled, with a dash of Blackburn menace. McIntyre was the man of most account in driving for goal, while in addition to the one inspired save by Hardy referred to, the Everton goalkeeper was splendidly to the rescue of a ball from Puddefoot bound just for the right side of the post.  Sewell was more in the picture in turning away centres, leaping, fisting, diving, and smothering, but was given too much license, until directly after the interval O’Donnell again intervened. It was a quick thought and an adept foot that made the most of a through pass by Troup. Even so, craft of Puddefoot, placed McKay a yard or so from Hardy, and still the inside left could not resist the temptation to dribble the ball on.  While he and Harper got in a tangle the ball was scrambled away. Such prodigal waste gifts deserved punishment, and it was forthcoming in a goal from Irvine, made easy by the deft head Dean. A host in himself, Puddefoot evidently felt the futility of foraging and presenting the openings to others.  So he went through the defence, working a passage up the goal-line, and then suddenly wheeling in front and giving Hardy an awkward shot. 
SOUNDER REARGUARD. 
This was one the most spectacular incidents in a match which provided an interesting study in individuality,Raitt and McDonald have struck up a sound partnership which has been lacking in Everton back play. The new half-back line may not have the classic poise of that preceding, but there is an air of command about it. Bain, tenacious worker, showed that he developing the finer arts without losing the first principal of effect, and in the tall youth Virr the club are making one of their best for years in this department.  The left wing was better than the right, because the driving force of O’Donnell was infectious to Troup. both wings was a tactical change position, but Chedgzoy and Irvine were inclined to be too ornate, or perhaps was that the former suffered in waiting for the embroidery of Irvine to find a way out.  The ability of Dean, especially in heading passes, was only occasionally glimpsed, so poor was he played to.  Sewell was heroic in the Blackburn goal, and backs stood up to a hectic time, especially Rollo, but when in desperate straits they were given too much scope to recover. Of the half-backs, who never really got to grips with rival attack, Mclntyre, cool and possessed, was easily outstanding. But the wizard of the team was Puddefoot, artistic to the point all through. But what is one genius among many interiors? Rigby and Crisp on the wing extremes at timesdid clever things, which only proved their inconsistency.  Everton.—Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Peacock, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, and Troup. Blackburn Rovers.--Sewell; Rollo, Forrest; Campbell, Healless, McIntyre; Crisp, Puddefoot, Harper, McKay, and Rigby.  Referee A. P. Kirby, Preston. 

DYING YEAR BRINGS BIRTH OF NEW EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Monday 28 December 1925
Bee’s Notes
Well, as I was a-saying when, the comic man interrupted, the old year is dying out and Everton are helping it along by applying a kick.  It is wonderful the way Everton have spread their wings in the last two months, yet not wonderful when you see the energy imparted into the attack, the virility of half-backs, all of a comparative light type yet good goers and good-come-back half-backs, so necessary, and you know, in the new football.
KEY POISITIONS
I cast my mind back to Everton’s palmy and Balmer days on Saturday.  Makepeace, Taylor, Abbott; Booth intervening and Secretary Cuff surveying the landscape from his little hut with one car to the phone and the other to any new player whose markings were being broadcast.  Ah, those were the days.  The days of half-backs; the key position of the side-half-back.  We used to say so; we said it again, even three years ago, when Brown, McBain, and Hart were the trinity.  But times are hurrying on and perforce young Virr, who looks anything up to twenty-nine and is not in the same age street, young Bain, signed as a centre and brought to centre-half back; he had to come in; then Peacock, best as a half-back, gave up the outside right hunt and got down the brass tacks and thus the line was complete.  Add a little mustard from Darlington in the person of O’Donnell; spice with the sauciness of Dean and the trickery of Troup, the doggedness of the Irish terrier, and the everlasting effort-finding and through and through Everton winger, Chedgzoy, and you have still some Goodison points to redeem.  Dave Raitt, kicking hard as ever and more wisely than usual; Jock McDonald of the fear-no-foe strain- coming Jock, sing it! –and you’ve got left the newcomer, Hardy, the man who stopped Blackburn at their most dangerous moment; point blank it was, sirs; and a red-hot ‘un, a Gallacher shot from no mor’n five yards.  I had given it up; Hardy had not.  He may not have handled the sliddery ba’ quite to our liking and he may have offered a Christmas box to the Rovers’ forwards and then tantalizingly drawn it was’: but, man, that save; it was memorable, and do not forget that it arose when Everton had not scored.  It would have meant much had Everton been one down at that moment. 
DEAN’S NODS
The effects of blows such as those can only be realized when you see a side like Blackburn, clever in many parts yet humbled by a goalkeeper and then receding into the shell, as though much hurt and feeling that it is not, after all, a very merry Christmas.  Syd Puddefoot did enough work to have made three goals, but those miniature fellows who play for the Rovers’ frontal line had no heart to take the gifts offered them.  Oh, for a Dean, gloomy or otherwise, they cried!  Yet Dean was on this day strangely quiet.  He faced his own goal, he nodded back hose passes which are the essence of guardedness and unselfishness; he did all for some and got little in return; what mattered so long as he kept Harry Healless on the watch?  But the crowd was dying to make a solo call for Dean’s 19 for 19 record.  Fortunately, the boy is young and the enormous gate can await the pleasure.  It was a welcome victory; it was a hard game on a ground that sucked the strength, and studs, to boot! I congratulate Everton on their work; keep it up, lads.  Liverpool joined in the huge attendance, for the “leaving” from Goodison Park went over to Liverpool Reserves to see Sheppard, Baron, and Hodgson score-there were 5,000 spectators at this Central League game across the park.  Everton should be paid the entertainment tax on that gate! What say, Mr. Committee-man? No? It’s a hard wor-r-r-ld. 

NEW DIXIE STORY
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 29 December 1925
Bee’s Notes
Everton on Saturday drew a record of 48,000 –remarkable testimony to their popularity, and one way of proving how big the gates would be if Everton could get among the winnings way, as they have done in the last six weeks.  The Goodison list wears well, as you will see by the following excellent results;-
Nov 14-Notts County          A 3-0
Nov 21-Aston Villa              H 1-1
Nov 28 –Leicetser City        A 1-1
Dec 5 –West Ham U            H 2-0
Dec 12- Newcastle U.          A 2-3
Dec 19- Bolton Wanderers H 2-1
Dec 25- Blackburn Rovers   A 2-2
Dec 26- Blackburn Rovers   A 3-0
Dixie Dean stories are growing so fast that it is hard to keep up with them.  Yesterday an Old Scottish footballer asked me had I a minute to spare.  I readily fell for it.  “Yes,”
 “Well, give it to Dixie,” said he.
There is a better one than that, however.  What is the song the opposing goalkeeper at Everton sings when he takes the ball out of the back of the net?
   “Are you from Dixie?”
Smile, smile, smile! But don’t let us, in this happy period, forget that Dean is one of eleven, a very young one, too, and should not be spoiled.