FEBRUARY 1891

EVERTON 1 BOLTON WANDERERS 0

February 2 1891. The Liverpool Mercury

Both these teams having received the ‘'order of the knock'' in the competition for the English Cups, thereby causing an unlooked for gap in their fixtures card's, it was arranged that the ‘'Trotters'' should visit the Anfield enclosure on Saturday. The day was all that could be desired, while the ground was excellent condition. The attendance of the spectators was, however, much less than which, witnessed the previous visit of the Wanderers last October in the League contest. A fact which perhaps one can be accounted for by the unwillingness of many to pay the same charge of admission for a friendly, as they are required to do in League game. There would be about 6,000 assembled. Everton were without the services of Hannah, Parry Kirkwood, and Geary, whose places were filled respectively by Mcleans, Hammond, Campbell, and Elliott, whilst the Wanderers came with their strongest force. Lossing the toss, Milward start towards the Oalfield road goal. Chadwick and Elliott were the first to show up on the left, when Sommerville neatly intercepted by driving the sphere over to McNee, who however, failed to beat Doyle. Milward was now conspicuous as he beat Gardiner, and racing along in the centre, sent a beauty over the bar. The Wanderers from the goal kick, were soon towards Jardine, and opened a sharp attack on his citadel, causing Doyle and McLean a great amount of work to prevent a downfall. The two burly backs, however, rose to the occasion, and by the able assistance of Holt a clearance was effected. The visitors, with the sun and wind at their backs, continued to make matters lively for the home defence, Jardine having to direct a scorcher from McNee, which was followed by another from Turner. Holt was now cheered for upsetting the calculation of the visiting front rank, and neatly giving to Milward, Elliott was enabled to make a fine sprint on the left, and he cleverly centring to Latta, a good opportunity was lost by the latter, missing his mark. Wylie now put in a fast run on the right, but his pass was not taken advantage of and Jones getting hold sent well over to McNee and Turner who forced a fruitless corner, from Boyle. After Jardine had been tested by Munroe, Hammond gave Wylie, and Latta a chance to get away, but their efforts proved too feeable for ‘'Bob Roberts who in turn placed his side on the attack, The play of the Everton forwards at this stage was far from pleasing, their passing being most faulty. Their defenders however, were in grand form, and had it not been for their clever tactics the Wanderers would have been through on several occasions. Continuing to hover round Jardine the Wanderers experienced hard lines, owning to the shady yet clever tactics of McLean, who on one occasion handled in front of goal, and on another vigorously stuck to the ball with his foot, when on the ground, thereby enabling his half-backs time to get up to avert danger. Nearing the interval Everton by the determination of Chadwick showed some splendid combination, which brought them round Sutcliffe, and after Milward, Chadwick and Elliott had made attempts, the whistle blew with not points for either side.

Restarting the Anfielders showed much improvement form and Milward feeding his right wing, received a hearty cheer, as he nonplussed Roberts, and dashing along with rarespeed, made a beautiful centre to Milward the Marlow boy being most unlucky to hit the bar. This spurt seemed to do wonders with the Everton front, as immediately after another ground run was made by Elliott, who received the pass from Campbell, and after beating Sommerville he centred the ball right to Milward's foot, who in an instant drove through the one goal of the game, the performance being thoroughly applauded by the onlookers. With this success Everton again went to the front, Wylie and Chadwick centring Sutcliffe, to propel a couple of slow shots. Then Elliott was again even to advantage sailing along the line. His centre however, was lanced on the wrong side of the upright. The Wanderers left wing now got smartly away, and after some tricky play by McNee, Doyle despoiled Cassidy. Hands against Everton looked very suspicious when Jardine saved grandly from Turner, after a shot from Cassidy had hit the crossbar. Doyle now put in a powerful kick, and the Everton front were again near Sutcliffe, Roberts heading away a well directed centre from Elliott. Sutcliffe now lifted two beauties over the bar from Chadwick and Wylie, but the corner kicks were successfully got away by Jones. Play from this point eased down and after some midfield exchanges had taken place, time was called with the result in favour of Everton by a goal to nil. Teams- Everton: - Jardine, goal, Mclean. and Doyle, backs Hammond, Holt (captain), and Campbell half-backs, Wyliie, Latta, Milward,, Chadwick, and Elliott, forwards, Bolton Wanderers:- Sutcliffe, goals, Summerville, and Jones, backs, Paton, Gardiner, and Roberts, half-backs, Barbour, Munro, Cassidy, McNee, and Turner forwards.

Everton with an experimental team did very well to defeat a thoroughly representative eleven of the Bolton Wanderers and balancing the first half, when the visitors played the cleverer game, with the second stage, which as much in favour of Everton as the poor period had been against them, the contest must be dubbled a very even one. The crowd not being so large as customary and the play remarkably void of special incidents, enthusiasms was not great, more specially so the earlier part of hostilities tended indeed towards a Boltonians success. The Wanderers indeed for a long time were repeatedly hovering in front of Jardine, and had it are been for the excellent back play of Doyle and McLean and the sterling work of Holt, the probability prevented a heavily score. Everton however, were not alone in rallying forward, and clever centers from Eliott was witnessed by Milward, who scored the only goal quarter of an hour from the restart. Everton were strong in their forward department. Elliott made an effective partner for Chadwick and the left wing was as smart as ever, but the right wing proved deficent, Latta taclked, and over tried with skill and handicapped . The halfbacks too, did not enjoy much against the forwards, excepted for Holt, who was happy in defensive work of Gardiner and Cassidy. Everton salvation was in defence. Jardine had much employment in the first half, but made no misstakens while Doyle and Mclean gave a clever display of back play covering each other with splendid kicks. The wanderers were a clever team; Sutcliffe confirmed the good show of form of his abilities, when at Anfield in the league match. Somerville and Jones went only shield lame less brilliantly than the Everton back. The halves were more tremendous than those of the home team-Roberts the most conspicuous of the trio. The Wanderers forwards made powerful attacking force, and combined quickly, there were beaten off, as the game progressed.

 

BOOTLE WANDERERS 0 EVERTON RESERVES 7

February 2 1891 The Liverpool Mercury

The Liverpool Senior cup first Round

The Everton Club sent their second team, to fight out the Cup tie with the Bootle Wanderers, it beening played at the ground of the latter at Marsh lane, before a capital assembly of spectators. The home team soon spurted pluckily, Teebay making a good attempt to score. Everton than settled down to a lengthy assault, but were well checked by the home defence, and Teebay was again to the fore with a futile, but smart run, while from a return raid later on Smalley was called upon to save from Parr. Play was them even bit afterwards tended in favour of the visitors, and E.Jones goal was attack frequently. At half-time Everton were leading by 4 goals to nil, from goals by R.Jones two from Gordon, and McMillan, The whole of the scoring in the second was from Everton, who won by the emphaus score of 7 goals to nil. Everton: - Smalley goal, McLean, and Cresswell backs, Martin (captain), R. Jones, and Hammond, half-backs, Gordon, McGregor, Robertson, McMillan, and Elliott forwards .

EVERTON V BOLTON WANDERERS

February 2, 1891. The Birmingham Daily Post

A friendly game took place between these clubs at Liverpool, and was witnessed by about 4,000 spectators. The result was a victory for Everton by one goal to nil. The point being obtained late in the game.

Football Notes

The half-back, who took Parry's place in Everton eleven v Royal Arsenal and Chatham was E. Shaw, the well-known Marlow half. Shaw is an old school fellow of the Everton left winger, Milward, and may play with the Liverpool club occasionally as an amateur.

 

SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY V EVERTON

February 3, 1891. The Birmingham Daily Post

Played at Olive Grove, Sheffield, in favourable weather, before 5,000 spectators. Wednesday had the wind in their favour in the first half, but at half-time Everton had scored three goals to one. In the second half Wednesday scored, and, no other goal accruing Everton won by three goals two.

SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 2 EVERTON 3

February 3 1891. The Liverpool Mercury

The return fixture between those two clubs took place yesterday at Sheffield Wednesday. The teams were composed of the following; Sheffield Wednesday: - Smith, goal, Thompson, and Brayshaw, backs, Brandon, Betts, and Groves, halfbacks, Hadder, Woodhouse, Mumford, Ingraw and Winterbottom, forward. Everton: - Jardine, goal, McLean and Doyle backs, Kirkwood, Jones (r), and Campbell, halfbacks. Wylie, Gordon, McGregor, Hammond, and Milward, forwards.

About 5,000 were presence. At the interval Everton lead by 3 goals to 1, Gordon scored twice, Brandon for Sheffield club, and Hammon scored the third for Everton. Sheffield Wednesday scored the only goal in the second half, Winterbottom doing the desired effect. The match resuled in favour for Everton by 3 goals too 2.

 

EVERTON V THEATRICAL CHARITY MATCH

Febraury 4 1891. The Liverpool Mercury.

The well appointed ground of the Everton Football club, the scene of so many eleemosynary entertainment's- was once more set apart in the interests of charity yesterday afternoon when the third annual pantomimic carnival was celebrated. The two previous joint venture of the pantomineartistes and the Everton Club proved very popular with the result that the Royal infirmary and Stanley Hospital, to which insistutions the proceeds were devoted benefited to the extent conjointly of something, like £500. Fine weather happily favoured the fun yesterday, and the attendance was a large one, as on previous occasions numbering 10,000 or 12,000. The gate were thrown open at one o'clock the ‘'match'' being set down for two, and whilst the company were assembling, the Liverpool Police Band whiled away the time with a selection of popular music. The Everton team made an early appearance, while the artistes were not slow in entering the arena, and a very formidable grotesque, and motley force they were embracing most of the familiar personations of the various pantomimes. The ‘'visitors'' of course had their preliminary skirmishes. Some took an initial trial, apparently at goal kicks; others touched up their tackling qualities by way of somersault leapfrog, and funny antics. In the meantime the public were appealed to for alins in so persuasive a manner by a bevy of fair artistes, organ grinders, and ‘'street singers''' that a rich harvest of cooper and other nimble coin was reaped, to swell the pile that is destined to glades the hearts of gentlemen in charge of the treasury of the Royal Infirmary and Stanley Hospital. The commandants did not take up their places until half-past two, when the ‘'profession'' kicked off and packed the right wing. Everton managed to get through the solid ranks, but no streak of light was visible in the back line, and even if the opening had been diseaovered, behind and in goal were a troop of half a dozen mounted custodians astride donkeys, fortified with umbrellas, wherewith to party the highshots. Still all the well-conceived achieves of the artistes in defence ‘'gaed aff agley'' for a wily Evertonians achieved the ‘'impossible.'' And scored the first goal. Play went to the other end in double quick time, the special stylist football demonstrated by theburlesquers telling effectively, and Jardine was forced to admit that he had been ‘'baboozed'' out of goal. Another desperate siege was waged on the Everton goal, but Jardine had learned his lesson by now and was not to be ‘'had.'' Those at the Anfield road goal next had a Speciality served up the delectation in the shape of one of the most compact scrimmage over amassed and in the crisis, as dernorr reasort the cavalry in goal dismounted from their ateesds, with the desired effect. Pongo, when the play was tending in favour of the Theatricals made a ‘'fair catch''a la Rugby and was chaired to a more likely spot for a telling aim, but the shot, through hard and straight was just such a one as Everton except in stopping.' Throughout, Joe Burgess, regardless of the intricacies of the offside rule, ran a ‘'ball'' of his own, and caused immense merriment by repeatedly harassing Jardine, who naturally felt some diffidence in charging an opponent encased in rare armour studded with spikes of, as the Yankee would put it, most business like points. The interval came with the record even, the lengthily breathing time being much appreciated by the sock and buskin men, not Accustomed to strut such an extensive stage as the Everton field of play. The attisters bent on winning, honestly if they could but win they must strengthen their defence on turning round by reducing the height of the bar from the orthodox eight feet to one of yards, and resting the pole on the back of the docile donkeys, an ingenious move that proved too much for all the tricks of even League experts, and there were no more goals for Everton. pressed they never so hotly. On the other hand, the clowns brought down the house for some smart runs, which excited a suspicion that experienced footballers had joined the enemy, and if os their disguise was very successful. More reveres befel Everton, and then Campbell banged in so strongly that the umbrella opened out for the reception of the shot crushed before the impact. Nothing more serious than injury to this weapon to beloved by Mrs Gamp occurred, and to avenge the pugnacious spirit of the home warriors the visitors went away with a wet sail in a fine passing movement on Rugby principles, checking from one to another with surprised accuracy and scored with a throw. Aud so the buffoonery went on, some incidents being doled out every moment, but fun like toothsome moruals soon palls on the taste, and some spectators leaving their seats. This indicting that they had lost their appetite. Mr. A. Smith, the master of ceremonies gave the signal that ‘'hostilities should cease, the Theatricals retiring victorious, presumably of a humorous and financially successful diversion. The Everton team was composed of the following :- Jardine, goal, Doyle annd McLean, backs, Campbell, Holt, and Jones, half-backs, Wylie, Gordon, McGregor, McMillan, And Milward, forwards. The pantomime artists accordingly to the official programme were presented in addition to several ladies, who enjoyed a good trade in selling flowers and photographers by the following :- P.G.Farlie and Mounted Police goal, J.H.Booth, A.Bialey, W.Earnest, W.Groveas, S.Harvey, J.H.Milters, J.T.McMillan, W.Roaching,, and Vaughan, backs, C.M.Ashing, Jor Burgin, F.Estman, J.Gothey W.Morgan, C.Phydos, J.Lea and Gale St, half-backs, C..Smith (captain), centre W.Collier, C.Courtney R.Douglas, W.Ferguson, E.C.Arnold, H. Flenton, F.S.Griffens, A.Hall, A.lea, F.H.Parker, Pongo, W.Pastnost, F.Ferguson, W.Pydors, J.Phydors, Quickman Turle, and Volto forwards.

 

BLUE REVIEW

February 7 th 1891. The Liverpool Courier.

Latterly there has been much said, and still more written that remained unsaid, about the killing of the goose that lays the golden egg, and with last Saturday's experience it will be admitted that the Everton committee are now able to speak with a considerable amount of authority in a matter which aroused such underspread howality towards the club. The public mind is provability sensitive when the pocket is touched, and deserting a grieveson. Controversy it seen, and with extraordinary unauirity, become intensively keen. But the opponents to the continence of the League certainly had the best of the arguments, and with the substation of the original prices for ordinary games it is greatly to be hoped that the boycott –for such it was in the case of Everton v Bolton Wanderers –will be removed and that today the most interesting of fixture, Everton v Bootle will receive the support it so well deserves. There were probably not more than 5,000 persons –if indeed to many –at Anfield on the occasion of the match against the Wanderers, and no marked was the change from the customary state of affairs in a fixture of the description, that the effects of the outer still would seem to have possessed the players, whose exhibition of football could hardly be =said to have been in keeping with the high reputation of the teams. But Everton was not represented by a full League team, and in the absence of Hannah, Parry, Kirkwood, and Geary, an opportunity was presented of putting some of the recent players though their drill. The game was nearing its close when Everton scored, and as there was no response the Wanderers, after experiencing some hard luck, were beaten by a goal to nil. Everton have now won four games off the reel, which, however, is an inadequate set off the momentous defeat incurred on the banks of the Wear.

 

EVERTON 2 BOOTLE 1

February 9 1891. The Liverpool Mercury

Saturday was given up in Liverpool to the great local struggle once more between the Everton and Bootle, and the event, mainly owing to the improvement that has latterly come over the spirit of Bootle play, excited as much interest as ever, and considerably more than any of the recent contests between these old neighborly rivals. The tariff, in deference to the clamour of those who like to enjoy their sport at a minimum of expenditure was reduced, and so the ground was well filled with 11,000 or 12,000 spectators. The Bootites taking possession as custonary of the stand at Anfield road end. Bootle left out Brown and gave Dodd another trial, and were otherwise fully represented; but Everton, as will be seen from the following names were not quite up to full strengthen . Everton: - Jardine, goal, McLean, and Doyle, backs, Kirkwood, Holt (captain), and Campbell, half-backs, Latta Gordon, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Bootle: - Dunning, goal, Lambert, and Cain , backs, Grierson, Hughes, and Dodd half-backs, Moriis, Murray, Kilner, Jamieson (captain), and Hasting forwards. Geary started what turned out to be a very hard and stern affair, and Bootle once went to the front, a cornted run by Morris Kilner, Hasting and Jamieson resulting in the latter putting over the line. Bootle returned and McLean interposed timely. Everton left wing then became dangerous, but Dodds slipped round to the goalmouth and cleared a warm shot. Back returned the home left, and Bootle in trouble, Dunning saved grandly, then Latta made poor use of a chance, whilst Gordon lifted over the bar only a few inches too high. Cain fouled Latta, and during hard pressure Geary received a nasty knock in the eye, which caused him much pain and inconvenience during the subsequently play. The visitors made many gallant efforts to shift the secene of operations, but Holt especially tackled well, and fouled Kilner, who was displaying much energy at centre. Chadwick and Milward were often running prettily, but a fine centre from the latter found no one ready to receive it, and gave Kilner a chance of getting away, he was not slow in utilsing. Hasting took up the ball, but lifted strongly over the bar. Hughes, and a moment later Milward was charged and fell heavily against the fence, but both testumjed play, which tended in favour of Everton, now accidentally kicked Holt. Chadwick missing an opportunity. Kilner, Jamieson and Hasting combining strongly gave Bootle a temporary advantage, when Campbell came to the rescue, and Chadwick and Milward beat Lambert and Grierson, though with difficulty. Cain rushed in, but Chadwick shot, and only missed goal in the narrowest shave. Dodd tackled the Everton right wing effectively, once or twice, with the result that Hasting and Jamieson were unabled to bring pressure to bear on the home goal, but McLean was safe. Dodd again rushed Latta and Gordon and though Holt gave a check Bootle closed up, and so well did Morris shoot that Jardine was drawn out to clear. Playing up fearlessly, corners fell to the visitors, a free kick by Cain sending the ball over the line. Everton found relief on the left, where Grierson tackled with much success, but the home team stayed in front until Geary had shot and missed. Cain was applauded for smartly taking the ball from Geary's feet, but an clearance came, and Gordon gave Dunning a warm armful. Everton continued to bother the Bootle defence, during which, exciting play Kilner inclined to retaliate a kick from Geary, the incident calling forth a reprimand for the former though both were at fault. Play sward to and fro, with much equality. Dunning cleverely saved a double-barreled attempt to capture his charge. At the other end Hasting shot low, and Jardine had much difficulty in evading Jamieson and at the same time throwing clear, and Latta having put just behind with a characteristic shot, the interval arrived with nothing scored. Everton were the first to show up on resuming, but Geary went too fast for the wing, and the ball rolled out. Cain took a free kick, and from the Bootle left wing raced off, Hughes shooting over the bar. Keeping on the attack, Hasting shot hard, whilst Jamieson was attending to Doyle, Jardine clearing with his fist, but Bootle could not be driven back, and Murray and Morris skipping in on the right secured the first goal of the match, and Bootle received an ovation on assuning the lead of their old opponents. This reverse acted as a wholesome turn to Everton, and Bootle were to have no more quarter. Dunning's charge being eventually in espardy, but grand all round defence neutralised the good work and after a while the onlookers having an unpropitious one, Geary after making a bad shy, gave way to Milward at centre, and though Everton still had the upper hand, the defence of the visitors presented a solid impenetrable barrier. Dunning was hard pressed, several times was cool and safe, and it was a quarter of an hour before time when Everton at Length found the long combination for a loophole, which arose from a corner. A strong appeal that the ball had hit the post, and rebounding into p-lay, and not gone through the goal, not being favourably considered by Mr. Gough. Then came a fierce struggle for a decisive point. Bootle had a turn at attacking in earnest once more, and failed and then Everton settled down in the visitors quarters, where a delay occurred on account of Gordon falling against the boards. On restarting there were ten minutes yet to play. Hughes seemed always in the way, and repeatedly spoiled the home attackers, and a draw promised to be the outcome but a final effort to win was made, and Latta running shot hard, and nonplussed Dunning just on time, some thought a little after time, and Everton thus won on the post by 2 goals to 1.

Bootle were unlucky in their claim or the issue might have been different, but they have the consolation of having thrown a capital fight against their great rivals, and thus confirmed their display in the Blackburn Rovers match of Monday last. They seemed more determined than Everton at the outset, and were certainly quicker on the ball. The first half was very even. Bootle playing the prettier game, but after they had scored the initial goal, the visitors were almost continuously on the defence in a measure from their own choosing they seldom showing fight until Everton had drawn up level. Dunning and Jardine both contributed fine bits of goalkeeping, and there was plenty of chance of seeing that they were equal in resources of the Bootle man having most work to fulfil. Cain and Lambie both excelled, the former in kicking and the latter in tackling, and they were scarely inferior to Doyle and McLean. In the halfbacks Bootle were superior. Hughes was ever scoring successive over Geary and others, and was the most conspicuous and capable player on the field, whilst Grierson and Dodd compared well with Kirkwood and Campbell. Bootle were more ever than Everton in their attack, the left wing and Kilner causing most trouble, though Murray and Morris were always fearless and unselfish. Geary was weak, and shot unaccountably rash, unless it was from, his injured eye or that Hughes was too wily for him. Everton were strongest on the left wing the concerted runs and shooting of Chadwick and Milward being generally high class. Gordon was too slow for Latta, who was in his old place, and played one of his old-fashioned games, his aims at goal proving as keen well directed as in the past. Although, the match, though inclining to roughness at times, was a success, and invests the next meeting with much interest.

EVERTON V BOOTLE

February 9, 1891. The Birmingham Daily Post

The second meeting this season of these great local rivals took place at Anfield, in the presence of 12,000 spectators. Geary resumed his place in the Everton team, and Bootle were represented by their full strength. Immediately after the start Jardine, the Everton custodian, had to fist out, but after that the Bootle goalkeeper was called upon several times. Bootle were able to do much, whilst some magnificent play took place between Milward and Chadwick, the latter eventually shooting over the bar by about an inch. Everton attacked strongly just before half-time, but could not get through, and the interval arrived without any score having been made. Five minutes after the interval Bootle attacked, and after Jardine had one saved, he had to let one pass from Murray. Everton could not equalise until twenty minutes later, when they scored from a corner. They managed to get a second a minute from the finish, Latta obtaining the point. Final Result Everton 2, Bootle 1.

HEYWOOD CENTRAL 4 EVERTON RESERVES 1

February 9 1891. The Liverpool Mercury

The Everton team visited Heywood Central. In the first half the scoring was even, a goal each, but afterwards the home team playing a most finished game, did all the scoring and won by 4 goals to 1. This is a capital performance of the Central, as Everton had only lost two matches previously against Bolton Wanderers and Crewe Hornets the score in each of these matches being a goal to nil . Everton: - Smalley, goal, McLean and Cresswell, backs, Martin (captain), R. Jones, and Hammond, half-backs, Wyllie, Murray, McGregor, McMillan, and Elliott forwards.

 

EVERTON RESERVES 4 BURNLEY UNION STAR 0

February 10 1891. The Liverpool Mercury

Lancashire Senior Cup round one

This match, which according to ballot ought to have been played at Burnley took place on the Anfield ground yesterday afternoon, in the presence of nearly 2,500 spectators. The Everton team was considerably strengthened they having a fair allotment of the League players. The following were the teams. Everton: - Smalley, goal, McLean, and Cresswell, backs, Martin (captain), Jones, and Campbell, half-backs, Wylie, McGregor, McMillan, and Elliott, forwards. Burnley Union Star: - Wilkinson, goal, Tattersall (w), and Redhead, backs, Hunt, Whittaker,. And Tattersall (r), half-backs, Nutter, Holden, Tatterson (Roberts), Dodd, and Sharples, forwards.

Losing the toss, the game was started by the visitors against the sun, and coming on the left by some pretty passing, they reached McLean, who placed his forwards on the attack. Wylie finishing up by giving Wilkinson a warm handiful. Smalley was next called upon by Dodd, and from the clearance Everton settled down in the visitors quarters, thereby causing Wilkinson Tattasal, and redhead to have anything, but a plseant time of it. The ‘'Star'' defender, however, were found all there, and after all sort of shots had been peppered into Wilkinson, 25 minutes of the game had gone before Elliott found an opening. Wylie was so conspicuous with some really good passing, he fairly walking round Redhead time after time, but his centres were badly taken advantage of. Geary now put in a couple of his well-known sprints, and both occasions looked like certain downfalls for Wilkinson, but that custodian excelled himself by his smart clearance, for which he was loudly cheered. No further points being added before the interval, Everton crossed over with a goal to the good.

Restarting the visitors endeavored to pass McLean and Creswell, but were unable, and by some clever tackling by R.Jones and Campbell the Everton front against diverted themselves by sending in to Wilkinson a seres of weak attempts, which, however, were easily got rid of by that custodian with the assistance of Redhead. Packing the goal with players, the Star were able to keep the attackers at bay for fully 15 minutes, when a free kick falling to Everton close in enabled Geary rather cleverely to add the second point for his side. After a very amusing scrimmage had taken place in the visitors ends, Jones put on a third. These reverses did not seem to dead on the energy of the Burnley men, as they continued to play with great pluck and spirit, but could rarely get behind the home defence. Nearing time, Elliott and McMillan got away grandly to the left and, completely non-plussing all opposition, the latter tipped to Geary, who scored the fourth goal with a stinging shot. Everton thus being the victors by 4 goals to nil. The game throughout though greatly in favour of Everton, was neveraless well fought and was of an interesting character. A word of credit must be given to the visitors whose defence was full of resource, the performance of Wilkinson, and their custodian being especially creditable.

ROTHERHAM TOWN V EVERTON

February 11, 1891. The Birmingham Daily Post

Played at Rotherham. Everton pressed from the outset, and continued doing so throughout the first-half, Rotherham playing a very soft game. After the change of ends the home players improved, and in the last half-hour gave a good deal more than they had to take. Everton, however, had got too big a lead to be overhauled. Rotherham having to be content with a couple of goals. Result Everton 5 goals, Rotherham Town 2

ROTHERHAM TOWN 2 EVERTON 5

February 11 1891. The Liverpool Mercury

Played at Rotherham, yesterday, thus being the League cracks first visit to the town. The visitors pressed throughout the first half and though Wharton kept goal splendidly. He was beaten thrice. Afterwards Everton added another couple of goals. Rotherham roused themselves, and played in good style. Twice they beat the Everton defence and were a bit unlucky not to do oftener. Result Everton 5 goals, Rotherham Town 2 goals goals Wylie Chadwick, Geary (2), one not known, Rotherham Scott, and Langden. Teams Everton: Jardine, goal, McLead, and Hammond, backs, Kirkwood, Holt (captain), and Campbell, half-backs, Wylie, Gordon, McGregor, Chadwick, and Geary forwards. Rotherham Town: - Wharton, goal, Hill, and Broadhead,backs Pye, Rodgers, and Damms, half-backs, Longsden, Eachy, Bire, McCormack, and Scott, forwards.

 

THE EVERTON CLUB AND THEIR PLAYERS

February 11 1891. The Liverpool Mercury

A speical meeting of the committee of the Everton Football Club was held on Saturday last to inquire into the serious charges made against certain members of the team in the North End match, and it was unanimously resolved-‘'That such charges are entirely without foundations, and the committee further take this opportunity of expressing their full confidence in their players. Everton League team will meet Accrington at Anfield on Saturday afternoon, when Everton will be represented by the following: - Jardine, goal, McLeaod, and Doyle, backs, Kirkwood, Holt (captain), and Parry, half-backs, Wylie, Gordon, Geary, Chadwick, and Milwar. Reserves Brady, and Campbell. The Everton committee wist it to be stated that they must regret those circumstances renders it impossible for them to make the charge 3d. To the ground, when a League club play here, seeing that the said clubs require such large guarantees to induct then to come to Everton, together with the fact of the heavy expenses for which the club are liable week by week.

 

GRIMSBY TOWN 1 EVERTON 5

February 12 1891. The Liverpool Mercury

Played at Grimsby yesterday, in the presence of over 2,000 spectators. The home team won the toss, and elected to play with the wind, which blew very strong in their favour. After some good play in which the visitors had the best of it, half-time ended with 3 goals to 1 in favour of Everton goals beening scored by Milward twice and Geary, for Everton, and Rose for Grimsby Town. In the second half play was the usual order, Grimsby bring unable to score, while the visitors scored twice, Geary, and latta doing the desired effect. Result Everton 5 goals Grimsby Town 1 goals. Teams Grimsby Town: - Farmery goal, Lundie, and Langley, backs, Taylor, Reid, and Sutherland, half-backs, Ross, Rose Walker, Riddock, and Black forwards. Everton: - Jardine, goal, McLead, and Hammond, backs, Kirkwood, Holt (capt), and Campbell, half-backs, Latta, Gordon, Gear, Chadwick, and Milward forwards.

 

BLUE REVIEW

February 14 th 1891. The Liverpool Courier.

There was a characteristic resuscitation of old times at Anfield on Saturday, and the event goes to show that whilst the Everton against Bootle reunion have lost none of their interest, the keen spirit of rivalry which marked the early games still survives; but although one or two episodes arose which called for official intervention, the match in the main passed off remarkably well. Again the crowd was mammoth proportions, and so lively as in the olden times, but fortunately there is a distinctly redeeming feature about a hugh Liverpool crowd. Bootle played their usual selection whilst the Evertonians were short of Hannah, Parry, and Brady, and these abstractions, it was thought would equalies the chance of the teams. If the play was not always of the best, it was nevertheless interesting, and the Bootle after crossing over with a clean sheet, were the first to score, the excitement intense. But Everton rose to the occasion and appearance favoured a draw until within the last minute of play, while Latta, as the sequence of a piece of brilliant passing scored the winning point amidst such a scene as is rarely witnessed even on the Anfield ground and for the second time this season the Hawthorn road team was beaten by the narrow majority of a goal. Dunning in goal, played grandly, and compared favourably with Jardine. Some of his “saves” bordered on the marvellous, and to the latest acquisition Bootle are undoubtedly indebted for coming so handsomely out of the fray.

With the exception of Geary and Campbell Everton played their reserve team against Burnley Union Star in the Lancashire Senior Cup ties. The “Stars” played a very plucky game, but were overmatched in the second half, and were beaten by four goals to nil.

EVERTON V ACCRINGTON

February 16, 1891. The Birmingham Daily Post

Played at Anfield, in the presence of about five thousand spectators. The home team started well, and quickly obtained a couple of points. Subsequently Accrington improved, and pressed their opponents severely. At length they scored, but could not get on terms. The result was a victory for Everton by two goals to one.

EVERTON 2 ACCRINGTON 1

February 16 1891. The Liverpool Mercury

The visitors at Anfield on Saturday were Accrington, who had given such a good game with Everton on Boxing day. The charge for admission was at the higher rate, and this will account foe the comparatively meagre attendance of the public, who numbered but some 5,000 or 6,000. When play commenced by the following teams; Everton: - Jardine goal, McLean, and Hammond, backs, Kirkwood, Holt (captain), and Parry, half-backs, Wylie, Gordon, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward forwards. Accrington: - Hay, goals, McDermit, and McLennan, backs, Shuttleworth, Haworth, and Tattersall, half-backs, Wilkinson, Whitehead Gallacher, Pendergest, and Kirkham, forwards.

Geary started, and going past Howarth gave Milward a chance badly responds to, and Wilkinson and Whitehead beating Parry, became dangerous until Hammond stepped in and cleared. Wylie and Gordon quickly transferred play to the other end, and Geary taking the ball, again sent it to Milward, who made a better aim though still wide. Everton pressed hard, and Wylie shot twice grandly-once just behind, and the second time accurately, Hay fisting from near the post. Effective play by Howarth gave Accrington a short turn, the visiting forwards combining very neatly. They were strong on the left, and Kirkwood found himself often beaten by Pendergast and Kirkham; but McLean and Parry in turn cleared off the raiders, whilst in a return visit Gallacher shot splendidly, only to find Jardine in a safe mood. Milward and Gordon had shot for Everton, and Pendergast for Accrington, which incident led up to a fine piece of work on the home left, Chadwick shooting with precision, and causing Hay to concede a corner in iuching the ball over the bar. It was a grand shot, and a grand save; but a moment later Chadwick had ample revenge as he scored with an identical shot Hay this time only partially diverting the course of the ball. Wylie with a flying shot was near putting his side further ahead, whist another fine attempt was met by Wilkinson. Play tended more in favour of Everton than it had done previously; but the shooting not bring of the best it was some time before a second capture could be made. This was the result of fine bit of play. Milward sent in a curling shot and Hay fisting out Geary drove in hard, Wylie heading a goal from the custodian's attempt to knock the ball clear. Holt next manorovred the visitors left wing, whom going strongly, and the most striking feature between now and the interval were a couple of brilliant saves by Hay. Everton with a lead of 2 goals despite splendid efforts of Pendergast and Kirkham to make ground, opened the second half with a determined scrimmage, during which Howarth came off with flying colours, until the right wing found an escape, when Pendergast received the pass, and tested Jardine. Keeping up the attack, Gallacher also took a fairly good aim. Geary at length cleared with a characteristic run, but shot very mildly. Chadwick made better use, however, of a chance, which fall his way, going narrowly over the bar. Gordon next failed at an easy opportunity, and then a free kick was conceded. Accrington at midfield taken by McLeannan from which, Gallacher essayed a long high shot, which dropped just under the crossbar and so scored a fine goal. This being the last goal scored and Everton winning by 2 goals to 1.

The game was carried on quietly, was always interesting, and all through it was evident that both sides were striving their utmost to improve their respective positions, so even if the match was an ‘'ordinary'' there was no ground for intinsations that the players disported themselves in a perfunctory manner. Everton, on the whole, played a superior game to Accrington, and this was observable more especially in the forward work. The attack was strong, especially in the first half, the whole of the Everton van combining and working together very cleverly, though the shooting was a mixture of the ‘'good, bad, and indifferent.'' Geary the greatest failure in the essential quality of good aiming. Both wings were effective, Gordon and Wylie giving the livest satisfaction for the way they co-operated, and both made play and shot keenly. Wylie particularly narrowing for goal with spirited kicks. Chadwick and Milward, with Geary in the early stages, contributed some pretty movements, but only Chadwick of this trio was uniformly accurate in his shots. The half-backs were not seen to advantage Parry, who played with a bandaged thumb being of most service; but Mclean and Hammond made reliable backs, the former especially tackling and Kicking cleanly. Whilst the latter showed much promise of usefulness though prone to occasional slowness. Jardine had little to, and was beaten only by a grand high shot. The Accrington forwards were pretty in their action at times, and were not far behind Everton in combination, the most troublesome to the home defence being Gallacher and Pendergast. Wilkinson and Whitehead also did some smart running on the right and centred well, but several times found their efforts nullied through the weakness of Kirkham in taking the passes at close range. Howarth was very clever in an undemonstrative way at centre half, and scored many a truimp over Geary, but his wing supports were not strong, Shuttleworth giving little resistance to the sturdy rushes of Milward, McDermit and McLeannan were smart in defence, whilst Hay made marvellous saves, and succumbed only to brilliant aims at his charge.

 

SALTNEY 0 EVERTON RESERVES 1

February 16 1891. The Liverpool Mercury

These teams met on the ground of the former. Owing to a late start, two ‘'35s'' only were played, and finally Everton won by a goal to nil, the point being scored in the second half.

 

BLACKBURN ROVERS 2 EVERTON 1

February 17 1891. The Liverpool Mercury

Walton's benefit. Played at Blackburn yesterday, before 8,000 spectators. Neither side was fully represented. Geary scored for Everton after ten minutes play, and 20 minutes later Fecitt equalised, with a grand dropping shot. At half time the game stood a goal each. Eight minutes before time Townley scored for the Rovers, who had the best of the game, and the victory was very popular Result Blackburn Rovers 2 goals, Everton 1 goal. Teams. Blackburn Rovers: - Gow, goal, Brandon, and Southworth, backs, Dewar, Almond, and Barton, half-backs, Facitt, Walton,, Southworth (j), Hall, and Townley, forwards. Everton: - Jardine, goals, McLead, and Hammond, backs, Jones (r), Holt (captain), and Parry, half-backs, Wylies., Gordon, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.

 

BLUE REVIEW

February 21 st 1891. The Liverpool Courier.

The British public –Evertonians in particular –is slow to comprehend the laws, which regulate supply and demand, especially when a particular impost is laved in opposition to the popular will. The “demands” at Anfield on Saturday last, for instance, took the form of sixpenny gate, but it would appear –as was the case on a former occasion –that the residents of the district, who have undoubtedly been generous supporters of the club, entered a somewhat vigorous protest by absenting themselves in each numbers as to virtually constituted a boycott of considerable dimensions. Previously, however, the Everton committee had publicly stated their case, which was to the effect that owing to the heavy expense attent and upon the working of the club, together with the large sums paid over to visiting teams, they could not see their way clear to fall back upon the original charge for admission to the ground. This, no doubts is sticky view from a managerial point of view, but of course there is always one side to the criticism and the comments of the public mind affairs that whilst there is a cheerful disposition to pay the higher tariff for League games, in which the interest is widespread, there is an equally strong indisposition to comply in the one of an one with no or little importance's attached to the result. Anyhow, it is extremely significates when only four thousands spectators, more or less, turn up to witness a match between such teams as these of Everton and Accrington, but the fact remains and it is therefore to be hoped that a satisfactory solution will be arrived at. Everton were without Hannah, Doyle, Latta, and Brady, consequently Wyllie and Gordon were deported to do duty on the right wing whilst Hammond partnered McLean at back thus giving an experimental tone to the team. This was the third meeting of the clubs, and as will be remembered Everton won each of the previous games by a narrow possible majority. Everton put on a couple of points during the first half, whilst the “Reds” scored their only goal after the change of ends. The game was a pleasantly contested one, and the score of two goals to one indicates this run of play. Everton were seen to the best advantage in forward play, but the “Reds” excelled at back, the Everton rear-guard for once playing below their real form. On the following Monday the Evertonians were at Blackburn, being engaged in a benefit match in behalf of the veteran Nat Watson, of the Rovers. The game furnished an attractive exposition of football, but although the visitors were not fully represented the Rovers won by only two goals to one.

EVERTON V BOLTON

The Lancashire Cup tie will be played at pike Lane Bolton, today, and the Everton players will travel to that town this morning by an early train. The Everton executive had originally intended to play the following team: - Jardine, goal, Doyle, and McLean, backs, Kirkwood, Holt, and Campbell, half-backs, Gordon, Wyllie, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Several important modifications will, however, be necessary. Jardine is ineligible to represent Everton in any cup-tie, and his place will therefore necessarily be taken by Augus. Doyle is still incapacitated an injury to the knee preventing him from taking his place in the team, and Campbell will therefore probably act as his substitute. Parry, although still suffering from an injury to his thumb, will nevertheless be called upon to take the place of left half-back. It will be very creditable under these circumstances if Everton manage to gain a victory.

 

BOLTON WANDERERS 6 EVERTON 0

February 23 1891. The Liverpool Mercury

Lancashire Senior Cup round Two

Parry replaced Jardine, when five down

Like their experience in the National Cup competition, Everton were unlucky enough to be drawn to play their Lancashire Cup tie away from home, and accordingly they met their old rivals the Bolton Wanderers at Pike's lane on Saturday. There was a great gathering of people, numbering about 12,000, included among whom were some hundreds of excursionists from Liverpool. Everton, as will be seen from the following names, were anything nut strongly represented, whilst the Wanderers were fortunate enough to be on a position to avail themselves of their best men all fit and well from a wise indulgence in essential practice: - Wanderers: - Sutcliffe goal, Somerville, and Jones, backs, Paton Gardiner, and Rodgers, half-backs, Barbour, Brogan, Cassidy, McNee, and Turner forward. Everton: - Jardine goal, McLean, and Campbell backs, Kirkwood, Holt (captain), and Parry, half-backs, Wylie, Gordon, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards . Mr.Helmes of Farnworth, acted as referee, and prompt to time he gave the signal for Geary to start the ball on a ground of the heaviest and stickiest character imaginable with a cross, neutral wind. Everton opened promisingly on the left, and so dangerous did Milward seen that Jones rushed across to use his head effectively. Away went the Wanderers in a determined and well conceived formation that proved only a sample of many and many such telling bursts that were to follow, Campbell, too gave hands to increase the trouble, but McLean got the ball out of a tangled position, and danger was averted. Milward soon retaliated from a dribble by Geary, with a shot that went but a little wide of the mark and this escape served as a prelude to a fierce onslaught by the Wanderers of fully ten minutes duration. The Everton defence stood the test grandly, both McLean and Campbell rushing in with much effect while when these failed, Jardine proved a safe pilot over turbulent waves that ensued, one piece of Jardine's play, when Campbell slipped and missed the ball, being especially smart with so many men bearing down, upon his charges. Everton rallied, but Chadwick's shot went wide. Whilst Wylie and Gordon returning, Gardiner easily robbed than before growing dangerous. Bolton renewed a strong attack, skipping over the mud with ease. Barbour centred finely,but no one seemed quite reach the ball, and McNee having tested Jardine with a straight drive. Everton right made ground, though only to find the goal line crossed. A more likely attempt followed as on Milward sending across to the right a free kick fell to Everton. Geary, from a severe fussle, in front, shooting well, so near, in fact, that Sutcliffe was only just in time to divert the ball round the post. Kirkwood who had resumed after a temporary withdrawal, made a splendid clearance at a critical moment, and Everton pludded through the mud, the effort offering a chance to Gordon, Hot utilized. Exciting play across in front of Jardine, whose goal was literally pelted with shots many of them wide ones, but at length Brogan guiled one low down near the post that scored. Jardine finding that greasy ball slip through his fingers. The game was just half as hour old when the disater befell Everton. The next item of interest was in Geary placing over the line from a fine centre by Milward. The Wanderers were quick and keen as ever, and never faltering, were soon maneuvering in front. Cassudy hit the bar with a terrific bang. McNee called upon Jardine twice, and then Gardiner hit the post on the inside, the ball bounding through. From Wylie, Geary aimed nearly straight, and McLean having cleared an agly rush, and a futile corner to Bolton having been tided over, the interval came with the Wanderers leading by 2 goals to nil.

Everton were seen to better advantage on resuming, substituting longer kicking for their short passes, which were of no one on the stiff mud; but still play tended against the visitors despite good work by all there halfbacks, and McLean Milward, and Chadwick several times got within range, but the only good shot essayed was completely grapped with by Sutcliffe. By Wanderers renewed aggression, and several tussle was gallantly surmounted by Everon but no clearance cause, and Turner placing properly gave Brogan a chance he used with full effect. Paton followed with a similar shot, but went just outside. The home team were relentless in their attack. None of the Everton attempts to break away were of avail, so firmly was the defence of the Wanderers, and in a little while the ball was bundled through, and Jardine was seriously hurt in the tussle, causing some delay. Milward seemed to have a chance on resuming, but if he had he failed, and on Turner making the record 5 goals. Jardine was forced to give up, Parry filling his place. Then a deluge of shots, to one of which Parry succumbed and Everton hopes of cup honours received another annihilation with a reverse of 6 goals to nil, which is no exaggerated reflects of the rspectative merits of the two teams.

Bolton thoroughly deserved their victory. They were in excellent condition, and being a much weightier set than Everton, were happy on the heavy ground. Their defence was grand, alike in back and halfbacks play, whilst sutcliffe made no uncertain use of the few chances he had of showing what his capabilities were in goal. The forwards thus had a lot of worked served out to them and assisted by the men behind, they were ever scoring successes, being quick on the ball, and incisive in their long kicking and shooting. On Saturday the Wanderers would have proved a better bete nor to the first eleven that ever stepped on to a field, much more such a fixture team as Everton were compelled to rely upon. With Latta and Brady on the right, and Hannah and Doyle behind, the fight would have been more equal; but it is very doubtful if the issue even then would have beem revered. As Geary was dead out of it, and the only redeenig feature in the attack was that of the left wing though they were hot at their best. Holt and Parry came out of a severe ordeal at halfbacks with much credit, and both McLean and Campbell did some good work, at times particularly the former; whilst Jardine was only beaten by grand shots. In short, the Wanderers were stronger at each department, and three advantage combined to make them the superior team the score would indicate. There were reasons to be learnt in this match, which the Everton executive will no doubt observe, of the greater vains of heavy fast men to lighter and quick ones. And yet Lockhead (of the Third Lanark), their latest acquisition belongs to the latter school, we believe.

 

EVERTION RESERVESS 8 PRESCOT 0

February 23 1891. The Liverpool Mercury

Liverpool Senior Cup Semi-Final

These teams were engaged at Anfield in deciding their tie in the local Senior Cup competition. There was a capital attendance of 3,000. The home team bring strengthened with Latta and Brady. Teams as follows; Everton Reserves: - Smalley, goal, Dobson (g) (captain), and Cresswell, backs, Martin, Jones (r), and Jones (WH), halfbacks, Latta, Brady. McGregor, McMillan, and Elliott, forwards. Prescot: - Harrison, goal, Lyon, and Whitehead, backs, Woodward, Fairish, and Alcock, half-backs, Goerge, Presscot, Lawrance, Stockley, and Scott, forwards. The visitors were out classed, throughout in the first half, Brady scored, followed by three from McMillan and Everton lead by 4 goals to nil at the interval, in the second half, Latta scored, followed by Brady. Everton scored two more and Prescot once, and Everton won by 8 goals to nil.

BOLTON WANDERER V EVERTON

February 23, 1891. The Birmingham Daily Post.

Lancashire Senior Cup Tie.

An immense amount of interest was taken in the meeting of these famous clubs, at Bolton, and about 12,000 people witnessed the game. For a long time the Wanderers had the better of the play, but half an hour elapsed before they scored the first point. Another goal was then obtained and at half-time the home team led by two goals to nil. On recommencing Everton were hardly pressed, play being continually in their quarters. The Wanderers added point after point, and eventually inflicted the most crushing defeat on Everton that team has sustained during the present season, by six goals to nil.

 

EVERTON V WALSALL TOWN SWIFTS

FEBRUARY 24, 1891. The Birmingham Daily Post

There were about 5,000 spectators at the Walsall Chuckery to see this match, it being Everton's first visit to Walsall. The Town Swifts started the ball, but the visitors took up the pressing from the start. Stokes playing finely at back. Walsall then had a turn at the Everton end, Shaw calling upon the custodian to save. Racing away to the other end Everton obtained a corner, from which Elliott scored the first goal. A foul in front of the Everton goal was the next feature, Shaw kicking it out. Everton forwards rushed up, Gordon centreing to Geary, who registered the second goal. Two minutes afterwards McMillian secured the third point, and it looked as though Walsall were to be badly beaten. Walsall forwards rallied, and made matters lively for the Everton defence. Holmes and Shaw being conspicuous for some good attempts. Angus having to clear on two occasions. Everton quickly retaliated, calling upon Edge to defend. Two corners to the home team came to nothing, and after some beautiful passing by the visitors' forwards, McMillian added the fourth goal. Directly upon it half-time was called. Restarting both goals were soon jeopardised, Everton maintaining the upper hand, a protracted scrimmage ending in the ball being sent outside at the home end, but previous to this the ball twice struck the crossbar. Holmes got away for Walsall, and had very hard lines in not scoring. A period of interesting midfield play, in which Everton's superiority in neat passing was manifest, now ensued. McMillian made a fine run, and centred equally as well, Stokes clearing in the nick of time. Everton kept up the pressure, Geary and McMillan shooting over, but play was of an easy character. From a timely pass by Brady, McMillian scored the fifth goal for Everton. The Walsall forwards now made two capital rushes for goal, but Campbell frustrated their efforts on each occasion. A foul to Walsall in midfield enabled them to get dangerous, but the ball was promptly taken to the other end by Gordon, whose long shot went over the bar. Both goals were from this point freely visited, the home team playing with the greater dash. A free kick was given to the home team for Campbell unfairly charging Shaw, and this kept the ball well in the visitors territory, but without any definite result. They were not to be denied, however, and a scrimmage ended by Holmes obtaining the first point for Walsall amid much enthusiasm. Shortly after this Everton went away in fine form, Elliott placing the sixth point to the credit of his team. Walsall had two clear chances, and Geary almost scored a goal by himself for Everton, the game finally ending –Everton 6, Walsall 1. The teams were: - Walsall: - Goal, Edge; Backs, Stokes and Withington; Half-backs, Morley, Ball, and Tonks; forwards, Holmes, Shaw, Clarke, Wilson, and Forsyth. Everton: - Goals; Angus; Backs, Mclean, and Campbell; backs; Half-backs, Lochead, Jones, and Parry; forwards, Gordon, Brady, Geary, McMillian, and Elliott.

WALSALL TOWN SWIFTS 1 EVERTON RESERVES 6

February 24 1891. The Liverpool Mercury

Played at Walsall yesterday. After 20 minutes play Elliott scored for Everton, and Geary afterwards followed suit and from a fine run by Gordon, McMillan shot through. The visitors pressed throughout the first half, and at the interval the score was Everton 4 Swifts nil, Elliott scoring the fourth goal. On changing ends, Elliott and Mcmillan for the visitors, and Holmes for Walsall scored, and Everton won by 6 goals to 1.

 

FOOTBALL GLOSSIP

February 28, 1891. The Belfast News Letters

In Association circles the surprise of the weekend was the collapse of Everton at Bolton in the Lancashire Cup. The Toffee team had neither Hannah or Doyle, but the substitutes were capable men, and the absence of one or two cracks does not explain a six goal defeat. Not since Everton became a first class team has it received so severe a defeat. Exceptionally good from the Bolton Wanderers must have shown to smash the Liverpool men, but it requires a lot more than this to explain the Everton overthrown. Perhaps the team is played out, and want resting. Everton has just acquired a new player in the person of Alex Lochhead, late of Third Lanark club. The young Scotchman received £130 down and £3 a week to become a professional player for Everton. Lochhead had already gained a great reputation as a half-back, and he made his debut for his new club on Monday when Everton beat Walsall Swifts by six goals to none.

 

BLUE REVIEW

February 28 th 1891. The Liverpool Courier.

Fast and surely history is repeating itself as regards Everton's great ambition for whilst the fondly cherished. League Championship hangs trembling in the balance the English and Lancashire Cups have by a cruel fate passed beyond reach, and another and brighter season must dawn before the arduous struggle can be renewed. But then it was so in the case of North End, and only by the must-dogged resolution and marvelous skill was the programme even partially accomplished. The task of securing such trophies together with League championship honours is of such heronlean proportion that it may he questioned if the feat will be achieved, but no doubt the attempt will again be made, whatever the result may be. In defeat even a lesson may be learned, and certainly the events of last Saturday furnish a significant commentary on vaulting ambition. That Everton, after trice vanquishing Bolton Wanderers during the season, should have gone down a thoroughly beaten team by six to nothing, is marvelously strange; butt, then, the unexpected ever happen when least expected, and will do so to the end of time. Up to and including last Saturday the results were as follows, and it is somewhat suggestive that the majority was lessened in each succeeding match until at length the Wanderers had their full revenge: - Everton at Bolton (League) 5-0, Everton at Anfield (league) 2-0, Everton, at Anfield (Ordinary) 1-0, Everton, at Bolton (Lancs Cup) 0-6.

It is not penisable to attribute the defeat solely to the state of the ground, the defeats of which were or enable to influence the fortunes of the winning as the losing team, and it is just as well candidly to admit that the best team won –at least on the day. That Everton had no ends of bad luck during the after part of the game is certain, but the fact still remains that the match was virtually lost before ends were changed. Evertonians at home were incredulous, as well they might be, but when the imaginitude of the disaster was realised a thoroughly disquieting feeling prevailed which is occasionally found went in the plaintive dirge. “Listen to may tale of woo!” The question now uppermost in the local mind is whether the feat will be repeated at Anfield today. The Wanderers are undoubtedly a good team, but they will be in the midst of different surroundings and as the Evertonians are well-nigh irresistible on their own ground, the victory ought to be their.

Everton, or rather the reserves team, needs no mistake in the Liverpool Cup-tie with Prescot, who sustained their best defeat of the season. This was the first experience of the “villagers” as semi-finalists in the Senior competition, and as Everton, had the services of Latta and Brady –they perhaps would have been better employed at Bolton –it was scarcely to be expected that the Prescotians would cope successfully with the powerful team arrayed against them. Brady signalised his reappearance by scoring the first point, and before the interval this was followed by three others all from McMillan. The second half was all in favour of the Ervertonians and with further points by McMillan, McGregor, Latta and Brady, Erverton Reserves won easily by eight goals to one.

 

EVERTON CLUB.

February 28 th 1891. The Liverpool Courier.

Sir –As an enthusiastic supporter of the Everton Club permit me to deal with one or two of the strictures of your correspondent “Evertonians” in your issue of the 24 th instant. Last season, to the end of February, 1890, the Everton team scored 194 goals, as against 122 goals this season for a like number of matches, a difference of 72 goals in favour of last season's record. On this, therefore, “Evertonians” makes the sweeping assumption that the forward rank has deteriorated. Unfortunately, however, for his theory, “Evertonian” has overlooked the fact that of the 194 goals scored last season, no less than 62 were obtained against such clubs as Stanley, Witton, Denton, Earlestown, etc, clubs which are now being successfully opposed by the Everton second string. This season the League team has been engaged against clubs of the very highest rank, and that so great a number of goals has been obtained speaks volumes for the deadness of the attack of the vanguard. Again, the programme of the team, up to the present, has been of the most arduous and exciting nature –one week in the far North, the next at the Oval administering a drubbing to the crack southern orgainsations; then again disporting among the fishers of Lincolshire. Thinks to the exigencies of modern football the team has been kept at high pressure; but it is contrary to experience that such tension can always be maintained. Consequently these are periods of, shall I say nervous prostration and collapse, and at each times defeat, possibly severe, has to be accepted. It is, however, unfair it is unjust to the Everton lads to insinuate that when they are defeat, the match must, forsooth, have been sold. I have not the pleasure of being personally acquainted with the players, but from what I have heard and seen of them a more honourable body of fellows has never been brought together in the football arena. In no club is there such an artente cordiale between the players, and I am sure that my opinion of them would be confirmed by the habits of the Anfield enclosure, accept perhaps a small and disappointed clique of the betting fraternity, with whom originate such absurd and groundless accusations. I must apologise for the length of this letter, but it is surely time, in justice to the Everton lads, where brilliant performances may well make Liverpool proud of them –it is surely time, I say, that an end to but to such false inaccuracy –Yours etc James L. McCulloch, Hoylake February 26, 1891.

P.S. Let me hasten to assure “Evertonians” that I do not “hold a brief” for the Everton Committee –they are well able to defend themselves; nor have I even the privilege of being a member of the club –J.L.McC.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE LIVERPOOL COURIER.

Sir – A great deal of unfair criticism, unteassary twaddle, and abuse has been circulated with reference to the form shown by the above club. I should like to hear what they have done to merit such abuss. They have played so well right through the season that they now find themselves at the head of the League and have a better chance of remaining there than any other club, for Preston North End are now out of the hunt, or will be when they play their return match with Sunderland; and as Blackburn Rovers have to play the Wanderers at Bolton, where they have never won a match for years, Everton prospects are pretty good, and yet the Evertonians are getting slated right and left. It is not fair, and it certainly will not make them play any better. If the public were to give them sympathy instead of abuse we should soon see an improvement in the play of the Everton League champions. They will not make an effort to please the public when the public slate then right and left as there are doing. With regard to the sixpenny agitation, the committee has given a satisfactory explanation of the same, and the less said about it the better. I hope we have heard the last of this “easy up” about the football team which holds the best position in England –Yours etc, Fair play. Liverpool Feb, 27 th 1891.

TO THE EDITORS OF THE LIVERPOOL COURIER.

Sir –I shall deem it a favour if you will insert a few lines with reference to the charges for admission by the above club. Of course, I am assure that 6d is a fixed rate for League matches, but I consider that for friendly matches the charge should not be more than half that amount. A short time ago when Preston North End played their League match at Everton, there was an additional charge of 6d made for admission to the stands whereas on other League matches the ordinary prices only was charged. I really think that this is a great piece of imposition upon their supporters of football at Anfield, and the sooner this charge is reduced the better it will be for the clubs, as I have no doubt many will cease patronishing it if the grievance is not remedied –Yours, etc, Bogie Man. Feb 27 th 1891.

* We have received several other letters on this subject, but the demands on our space will not allow of the publications of further correspondence –Editor.