LIVERPOOL 1 EVERTON 1 (Fac Game 46)
February 6, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Fa Cup Round One
The great Cup-tie between Liverpool and Everton at Anfield proved indecisive, the result being a draw of one goal each. There had been a rumour afloat during the week that a drawn game and actually been arranged. Such a story was absurd on the face of it- so absurd that it would be superfluous to set out any of the facts which could be easily and decisively adduced in opposition. No one who witnessed the natch wood need further proof of its genuine character. The game was a whole hearted and strenuous struggle for victory, not only vigorous but fierce, a typical Cup-tie game, realising to the full the expectation of what such a match would be. A draw was a fair and natural outcome. On the whole Liverpool should certainly have won. It is not only that they held a lead of a goal until eight minutes from time, but the forwards missed two or three quite easy opportunities for scoring. The opportunities were missed, and Everton were entitled to the benefit. Then again, the penalty by which the equalising goal came was the natural outcome of illegitimate play. The particular offence was not a glaring one, but it followed others of a similar kind. At that period the Reds were inviting the censure of the referee, and when judgement came it seemed quite fitting. Everton therefore, were entitled to a draw, but nevertheless Liverpool should have won.
THE RUN OF THE PLAY.
Coming to the game in detail, it should be mentioned that Everton were without W.Balmer at back, R.Balmer taking his place, but with the exception both teams were at full strength. When they got together there would be 28,000 spectators present, the ground was crowded, and the gate money realised £1,070. This constitutes a record for Anfield. Winning the toss, Everton had the aid of a very useful breeze. In this case the luck of the toss was an undoubted advantage, for the wind was of a moderate kind, calculated to give the kicking assistance without interfering unduly with the flight of the ball. The ground was a capital conditions, just a trifle soft, but rather better than worse for that. Aided by the wind, the Blues had all the better of the play for the first fifteen minutes. During this period the Anfield defence was of a high order, Dunlop, West, and the halves, especially Raisebeck, doing grand work. The Everton forwards were skilful and tricky, but they were lacking in dash at the finish. Their fine passing always threatened danger, but danger seldom came. It came on one occasion when there was a bully in the goalmouth, but Doig tipped out dexterously with one hand a ball which McDermott had sent apparently well out of the custodian's reach. After this the game opened out, the home forwards for the first time taking up the pressure. When the Anfield quintette attacked they were always dangerous, for there was no lack on their side of dash and determination in front of goal. In 26 minutes, Parkinson received from the right wing, and shooting high up in the corner of the net, beat Roose and scored the first goal. Everton went off with a rush after this, and with a little more steadiness and methods in front of goal, they might have scored, but they over eager, and the defence was still cool and solid. Then Raybound worked through, and had a grand chance, but he lost control of the ball at the last moment, and shooting weakly Roose easily cleared. From this Everton pressed to the interval, but with the forwards content to pass and repass without any individual daring and enterprise the Anfield goal was never in real jeopardy and at half-time Liverpool still led by a goal to nil. At this time it might he said that Everton had the play, but Liverpool had scored the goal. In the second half Everton had a full share of the attack, but seldom pushed it home although Doig had to clear twice. The home side, too, were now showing greater confidence. They had fully their share of the play, and Roose was called upon more frequently, while he was a trifle fortunate more than once. On one occasion Parkinson failed to control the ball sent to him by a long punt from the backs and thus missed a chance, while later the same player received from Goddard in front of an open goal. It was only necessary to tip the ball forward. Put by some means the managed to screw it sideways to Roose, who thankfully threw away. Afterwards there were many objectionable incidents. Both sides were culpable, but Liverpool were probably the most to blame. Their tactics when Everton were closing in repeatedly called for free kicks, and at length Young was brought down in the penalty area by Raybould, Makepeace took the penalty kick , and put the teams on an equality, this being the position at the finish.
SOME DETAILS.
Taking the game as a whole Everton had the bulk of the play, but Liverpool had the most chances of scoring. The errors of Parkinson and Raybould alone make a replay necessary, and its therefore the weakness of their opponents rather than their own strength which saved the leaders of the First Division from defeat. Despite his slipe Parkinson played a great game for his side, although Taylor especially in the first moiety, was splendid at centre half. Liverpool's wing men were lacking, neither Cox nor Goddard doing themselves full justice. The same may be said of the Everton forward line, the best work being done by the inside men, although Young would have been more effective with holder and less “finichy” methods. Sharp was disappointing, and Hardman was not often in evidence. Settle and McDermott were the most useful of the five. Liverpool had the best halves despite anticipations, Raisebeck was better than Taylor, and Parry than Abbott, although Makepeace was cleverer than Praise may be given to both sets of backs, and to the respective goalkeepers. The Liverpool defence had the most work, and they did it splendidly, while in goal Roose would not deny that he was fortunate on those occasions to which reference has been made. The teams meet again at Goodison-park on Wednesday. It is rather singular that the course of events on 1902, the previous occasion when the local clubs met in the cup competition, should have been repeated. At the time Liverpool led at half-time by a goal to nothing, and the result was a draw, this time of two goals each. In the replay of that year Liverpool won at Goodison-park by two goals to nil. Teams: - Liverpool: - Doig, goal, West and Dunlop, backs, Parry, Raisebeck (captain), and Fleming, half-backs, Goddard, Robinson, Parkinson, Raybould, and Cox, forwards. Everton: - Rosse, goal, R.Balmer, and Crelly backs, Makepeace, Taylor (captain), and Abbott half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle and Hardman forwards. Referee John Lewis.
STATISTICAL DETAILS
A contributor sends the following statistical details: - Roose saved on 10 occasions, 4 in the first and 6 in the second half; Dig saved on 9 occasions; 7 in the first and 2 in the second half. Everton took 7 corners kicks, 4 being in the first half, and Liverpool 3, of which 2 were in the first half. Everton had 30 “throws in” and Liverpool 46. The ball crossed the Everton line 7 times, twice in the first half and five times in the second, and the Liverpool line 16 times, 10 in the first and 6 in the second half. Liverpool took 18 free kicks, of which one was for off-side, and Everton 25, of which 4 were for off-side, in addition to the penalty kick.
EVERTON IN TRAINING
In preparation for the replayed English Cup-tie at Goodison-Park next Wednesday, the Everton players are leaving this (Monday) morning for Stafford. They have previously experienced great benefits from their stay at Stafford and they are in hopes that the benefit they will deprive from the baths there will make them fit to meet Liverpool at Goodison-park next Wednesday afternoon.

A FATAL STEP AT ANFIELD
Athletic News - Monday 06 February 1905
By Tityrus
Liverpool had the globe of fortune at their feet in their battle with Everton, but they persisted in courting disaster, and saw the “sliddery ba” roll away from them.  Only ten minutes remained for the conclusion of the grim struggle, when the Anfield club, who had been trip, trip, tripping with comparative impunity, infringed the law within the area which is associated with the penalty kick.  Mr. John Lewis instantly pointed his index finger, a fatal semaphore signal, to the dreaded spot where the ball had to be placed, with one man against another, while the other twenty players looked on-Liverpool sparkling from every eye.  Liverpool were in the ascendancy when Raybould made his fatal step, and Makepeace made the records equal.  So the score became one goal each, and there was a dramatic denoucement, in which every muscle was strained for those last ten minutes.  But nary a point more was notched, and the rivals of Liverpool meet again on Wednesday to continue the argument at Goodison Park.  Everton showed such dash and persistence in attack at the outset that they quite eclipsed their red-shirted antagonists, and good Master Doig twice parried shots portentous of danger, especially a ball that was headed in by McDermott after a corner-kick.  A quarter of an hour elapsed before Liverpool showed any real capacity to play the part of the raiders, and then Cox could only pass the ball to Robert Balmer, which was a foolish thing to do.  Gradually the home club asserted themselves more strongly, and at the end of twenty-seven minutes Parkinson had the honour of scoring.  After a throw-in from touch Cox made himself a position and transferred to the right, where sturdy Robinson of the lint locks headed in front and towards the centre.  Parkinson pounced on that ball like a cat on a mouse.  The backs were on either side of him, and Roose was prancing about in goal.  But Parkinson drove hard and high into the angle of the goal where even Roose with his long loose arms could not reach, and the deed was done.  It was well done, and quickly.  Everton became desperate, and Doig had to beware, but Raybould was soon placed on a clever course owing to the clever mancoeuvring of Cox and Parkinson, Raybould, had only Roose to bamboozle.  This, of course, is not an easy matter, but he assisted Roose when he shot too soon, and that feebly.  Raybould caught to have decided the match at that stage, but at the interval Liverpool led by a goal, and that despite the fact that the balance of play was in favour of Everton, who had been far more on the aggressive than the defensive.  Afterwards the war was waged with fury, and how Parkinson failed to score when Dunlop, with a fine lob into the mouth of goal, placed him in possession, passed comprehension.  But this was not Parkinson’s only office.  Once Goddard dribbled away.  The right winger was partially tripped but Mr. Lewis allowed him to rush ahead.  When Goddard centred, Parkinson was so beautifully placed that a speculator would have wagered a whole granary to a hayseed on his netting the ball, which could have been blown through.  A side foot to the right would have seen Roose powerless, but Parkinson shot to the left and Roose scooped out the ball.  Thus was the chance of the match neglected, while a moment afterwards Roose repelled a splendid drive by the valiant Raisebeck.  Whenever Everton boded danger they encountered heavy opposition, and trips were painful frequent, and free, I must say that I was surprised that Liverpool should adopt such tactics.  They were leading and had nothing to gain by these breaches of fair play.  On the contrary, their exposed themselves to onslaughts.  At last, with ten minutes to play, Young was likely to score, being only a dozen yards at the most to the right of Doig when Raybould both pushed him and swept his legs from beneath him.  It is said that Raybould was only blocking the ball, but Mr. Lewis was on the spot, and never thought a second time about awarding the extreme sentence.  Makepeace feinted once, but he equalized, although the ball just grazed the underside of the cross-bar in its flight.  Such an incident as this roused the rivals and they both fought gallantly for the major point.  Everton were the stronger at the finish, but, as I said, when the last signal sounded there was equality but not fraternity.  The game presented a curious coincidence when compared with the last Cup-tie on this ground between the same clubs, for that produced a draw of two goals –and one of the points was obtained from a penalty kick, when Wolstenholme pushed Raisebeck in the back.  Thus to some extent history repeated itself.  Saturday’s struggle was never tame or lifeless, but I hardly regarded it as much a slashing race as in January two years ago.  The game was more desperate than scientific, and I regret to say that I was disappointed with Everton and not altogether satisfied with Liverpool.  My impression of the conflict was that Liverpool ought to have won almost as decisively as when they carried off the Liverpool Cup about New Years by 4-1.  Raybould, and particularly Parkinson, certainly ought to have credited their club with goals, and if either of them have such each chances at Goodison Park they will be lucky men.  Liverpool are more suited to the method of Cup-tie football.  They never spared their opponents; they played on them all the time.  Everton have a preference for being left alone, so that they can weave their sinuous way towards goal.  But Liverpool are strong and weighty, and they have a firm belief in the application of matter in the right place.  Their half-backs and backs do not scruple to employ methods which entail a series of free kicks.  These are sops to the side which suffers, but, to my mind, the punishment does not fit the crime.  Cup or no Cup, let us be men and play football, not tripping and ankle-rapping.  If Liverpool are beaten on Wednesday the fault is on their own head.  They ought to have triumphed on Saturday; they had the honours in their grasp, and they threw them away by deserting the motto of all sportsmen;- “Fair Play is a Jewel.”  Those are my impressions.  They may be right, they may be wrong; but they are my convictions.  The defence of Liverpool was characterized by dash and good judgement.  Veteran through he be, Doig has still a sharp eye and a cunning hand, while Dunlop and West generally obtained the ball when they advanced.  What cared they for the oncoming forwards?  They brushed them aside in most cases, and they kicked with the strength of mules, but with the discretion of tacticians.  In difficult positions they reveled, and I am bound to say that, on the whole, I preferred West.  In a rare half-back line Fleming worked with wonderful resolution and all the fire of youth which he seemed to have renewed. I am not so sure that for pure effectiveness as between man and man that Fleming was a whit inferior to Raisebeck as a breaker-up of combination.  But the famous Scot was the strategist in the positions that he took up.  At the same time, Raisebeck should have ordered his comrades to depart from those methods which eventually brought retribution.  With his long legs Parry was all-pervading.  He can play the game as he likes.  That line supported their forwards, too.  Of the Liverpool forwards I am bound to say that I was not greatly charmed by the extreme wingmen.  Neither Cox nor Goddard is large-hearted.  The latter is slow in taking a pass, and the former is prone to dalliance and to doubling back with the object of beating his man a second time, which is a waste of energy and skill, and gives the other side every opportunity to reform in goal.  AS ever, Robinson is a worker, and the three inside men of Liverpool are a rarely strong trio of clever forwards.  Parkinson is a firmly-knit young man who is an enthusiast, and bids fair to make a name.  He is not afraid of foraging and making his own openings.  When once on the ball he is most tenacious and most difficult to dislodge.  In midfield he dribbles dexterously and slashes out of his wings with a thrilling swish.  During the season he has scored 19 goals and however, such a marksman as he failed to utilize two of his chances is beyond explanation.  He did not lose the ball, but I have a notion that he rather lost his head.  Raybould too, played a fine game at inside left.  I cannot say so many nice things about Everton as I should like.  I have the disposition to be charitable, but the shortcomings lay with Everton not with me.  Their forward play was weak, for Sharp and Hardman were no more convincing than Goddard and Cox, and the inside forwards were not so thrusting and penetrative as those of Liverpool.  Young, who had a severe grueling, seldom excelled, and Settle was but mediocre for him.  The cleverest was McDermott but even he did not play well up with his men, for he was often hovering about between Sharp and Makepeace in a sort of hybrid position.  The Everton attack was spasmodic, ill-conceived and seldom carried to a legitimate conclusion.  Of the middle men Taylor alone reached the standard of his best League form.  His play was vigorous, occasionally too much so, but he was eminently serviceable.  Well as he acquitted himself, Makepeace has given finer exhibitions, and Abbott was not quite himself.  The defence of Everton was exceedingly reliable, but the whole team were to my thinking below their real form – due undoubtedly to the excitement inseparable from such a battle.  However, Everton on their native heath will have a chance of redeeming their reputation.  Liverpool; Doig; West, Dunlop; Parry, Raisebeck, Fleming; Goddard, Robinson, Parkinson, Raybould, and Cox.  Everton; L.R. Roose; Balmer (R.), Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor, Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Referee; J. Lewis, (Blackburn). 

THE GREAT CUP-TIE
Athletic News - Monday 06 February 1905
By Junius
The tie dealt with by “Tityrus” will be replayed at Goodison Park, on Wednesday next, at 3-15.  Liverpool would have been better served had it been settled at the first time of asking.  They have an important League match at West Bromwich next Saturday, and another tussle with their neighbours is not exactly a fitting preparation for such an engagement.  About 28,000 persons were present at Anfield, and the receipts totaled close upon, 1,079 pounds.  The Liverpool players will probably return to Southport today, and the men have certainly derived considerable benefit from their stay their.
A BENEFIT MATCH
Earlier in the season the proceeds of the League game between Everton and the Villa were allotted to the Fund which is to be divided between Sharp, Abbott, Settle, and Kitchen.  The two latter will appeal for support this week-end, when Bury are due at Goodison Park, and the complete success or otherwise of the fixture will depend to a considerable extent upon the result of the Cup-tie.  In the Villa match about 600 pounds was taken at the gates, and the four beneficiaries are thus assured of a goodly sum already.  Kitchen has been playing a grand goal for the Combination team this season, and has several years of football in him yet.  Settle likewise has shown capital form, though, near goal, he has not been seen to such prominence as in previous years.  Both men deserve a bumper. 
REDS RESERVES RECOVER
While their seniors were disputing the right to enter the second round of the Cup-ties, the Liverpool and Everton Combination teams were playing their return match on the Goodison Park ground.  Had Everton been able to arrange any other fixture for the day they would certainly have played this always attractive match on some other afternoon.  In the first meeting Everton won, this being the only occasion the Reds have lost at home this season.  The latter reversed the verdict, however, on Saturday, and deservedly won by four goals to one. Chorlton opened the scoring froma penalty and Rankin equalized from a similar kick.  In the second half Carlin registered three goals, and Liverpool thereby gained a most decisive victory.  Carlin played a fine game at centre forward, dribbling well and keeping his wings ably under control, whilst his shooting was immense, and Scott had no chance with his efforts.  Dudley likewise gave a good display and the work of the forwards all round was far in advance of that of the home quintet.  Rankin was the pick of the latter, but as a body they could never get the upper hand of the Liverpool defence.  Liverpool fully deserved their success, and their performance was one of the best they have accomplished this year.  They are going strongly for the Combination championship and are hoping to emulate the feat achieved last year by Everton. 

EVERTON RESERVES 1 LIVERPOOL RESERVES 4
February 6, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 24)
Liverpool at Goodison-park on Saturday fairly turned the tables on their local rivals and atoned for the reverse they sustained at home earlier in the season. It is somewhat singular to find a team loses at home by six goals to two, and then to win the return game by four goals to one. While the Reds did not deserve to win by so pronounced a margin they were much the better side, especially in the second half. There was a gate of fully ten thousand people, many of whom had been unable to gain admission at Anfield, and they saw a fast and vigorous game. In the first half, end to end play was the order, and the half-time score of one goal each fairly represented the run of the play. Each side had a penalty kick, and Chorlton and Rankin netted. On changing ends, however, the Liverpool forwards showed fine form, and assisted by weakness on the part of the home defence, they were not long in taking the lead through Carlin. The visiting centre forwards added two further goals the last being the result of a wretched mistake on the part of the defence. Thus Liverpool triumphed, and as a result now head the table with a capital record. On the home side Rankin was the only man to do himself justice. Time after time he beat the opposing defence single handed, but the other forwards could do nothing right, Evans in particular, throwing away some fine chances of scoring. Hanlin was the best half. Littlejohn being clever and weak in turn. The backs were uncertain and gave Scott no support, and he had no chance with the goals scored. The forwards were the strongest part of the Anfielders side, and set the opposing quintette an example, which might well have been followed. They lost no time in going straight for goal, and were well supported by the intermediate line. The backs were none too safe until Chorlton changed places with Wilson, and it fortunate for them, that the home forwards were so weak. The Liverpool custodian had little to do, but did his work well. Everton: - Scott, goal, Wildman and McCartney backs, Hanlin, Chadwick, and Littlejohn, half-back, Rankin, McLoughlin, Roberts, Dilly, and Evans, forwards.

Everton v. Liverpool.
Western Daily Press - Thursday 09 February 1905
Played at Goodison Park. Carlin played vice Robinson for Liverpool About three minutes from the start McDermott scored for Everton. Liverpool played a strong game, and effected several smart saves. Nothing more was scored, and Everton led at the interval: Everton, 1; Liverpool, nil. Four minutes after the resumption Goddard equalized with a beautiful shot right into the comer the net. The game was splendidly contested, but Roose was more frequently called upon than Doig. Five minutes from time Hardman gave Everton the lead, and line game ended in the defeat Liverpool. Everton will now meet Stoke.

EVERTON DEFEAT LIVERPOOL.
Dundee Courier - Thursday 09 February 1905
This match was played at Goodison Park yesterday in fine weather before 25,000. Carlin played instead of Robinson. Soon after the game commenced M'Dermott scored for Everton. After this Liverpool played a good game, and Roose had plenty to do. Interval—-Everton, 1; Liverpool, 0. Shortly after the resumption Liverpool obtained free kick in a favourable position, and Dunlop passed to Goddard, who equalized with a brilliant shot. Play was very exciting, Liverpool, if anything, being the more dangerous side. Five minutes from the finish Hardman converted centre from Sharp, and this gave Everton the victory. Result Everton, 2; Liverpool, 1.

EVERTON 2 LIVERPOOL 1 (Fac Game 47)
February 9, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Fa Cup Round One Replay
SUCCESS OF THE FIRST LEAGUES
At the time of asking the Liverpool and Everton Football Clubs were unable to decide as to which team would participate in the Second Round of the English Cup ties. Saturday's draw of one goal each at Anfield-road necessitated a replay at Goodison-park, and in view of League fixtures at the end of the week, it was decided that the teams should meet again yesterday afternoon. Owing to the possibility of extra time having to be played the start was fixed for three o'clock. While Liverpool players had been in training at their Southport quarters, the Evertonians had spent a couple of days at Stafford. Only one alteration was made from the sides, which met at Anfield-road, Robinson, Liverpool's inside right being replaced owing to injuries by Carlin, who so greatly distinguished himself in the reserve match at Goodison-park. The teams therefore were: - Everton: - Roose, goal, R.Balmer, and Crelly, backs, Makepeace Taylor (captain), and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young Settle, and Hardman forwards. Liverpool: - Doig, goal, West, and Dunlop, backs, Parry Raisebeck (captain), and Fleming, half-backs, Goddard, carlin, Parkinson, Raybound, and Cox, forwards. Referee John Lewis. The intense interest which game shown by the fact that long before the time for the kick off thousands of people made their way to Goodison-park, and when the teams made their appearance the turnstiles were still clicking merrily. There would be fully 25,000 spectators when the game started- a splendid gate for a mild-weather was nice and genial Everton won the toss, and had the advantage of a slight breeze. Parkinson started a few minutes before three o'clock, and the first aggressive movements came from the Reds. It was only momentary and when the Everton forwards tried to get away Young was pulled up for offside. Though Raisbeck was conspicuous with smart tackling, the home right became dangerous, but a shot could not be got in at Doig. Then Cox raced off in great style only to be cleverly robbed by Crelly at the critical moments. Everton again beat back their opponents, and after the ball had passed between Sharp and McDermott, the latter with Dunlop apparently at fault beat Doig all the way. This early success was greeted with tremendous cheering from the Everton section of the crowd. Liverpool, however, were not dismayed, and a smart attack ended in Carlin being adjudged off-side just as he had put in a fighting shot at Roose. Everton soon asserted their superiority and Doig and his backs had an anxious time of it, but the danger was averted. Raisebeck passing well forward, Cox festened on to the ball, and with Balmer slipping, had a clear shot at Roose, who fisted away in his best style. Each side attacked in turn, and if anything, the Liverpool forwards were the more dangerous. Roose's position was no sinecure, but he was never in difficulties. Fleming ended a rather prolonged spell of pressure by the Reds through a foul, but they were back again, and once more Roose had his work cut out to save his charge. The amateur fisted out all kicked away, with equal certainly, and it was well for his side that he was in his finest form. A dash to the right found Dunlop hard pressed, and though Sharp got in a centre, Hardman was obviously offside when he tried to intercept the pass. A period of midfield play followed with shouts from the crowd for their favourites and “play up” Sharp was too clever for Dunlop and leaving him standing still the home outside right called upon Doig with a high dropping shot. The veteran dealt with it successfully, but no persistent were the attentions of the Everton front line that the ball hovered dangerously near the Liverpool goal. Raiesbeck was the main factor in removing the venue, and from a throw-in Parkinson missed a splendid chance of equalising. A moment later an exciting bully occurred in the Everton goalmouth, and it was marvellous how the goal was not captured; Parkinson eventually shot wide. Raisebeck was a tower of strength to his side for he not only kept his eye on Young, but he fed his forwards on every possible occasion. So far the Reds had enjoyed more of the play than their First League antagonists, although they were a goal behind. Once a foul was given against Roose for putting a back to an opponent, and amid intense excitement, the ball was sent safely over the Everton line. A hugh kick by Dunlop placed Liverpool on the offensive, and after Goddard had centred. Roose effected a marvellous save, from Cox's header. Everton retaliated, and had the advantage of a free kick, but there was little sting in their efforts. Again the Liverpool forwards were swarming round Roose. Their persistency deserved to be rewarded. Crelly intercepted a lofty centre from Cox in the nick of time, and then with a long shot, Raisebeck sent over the bar. Hardman could make little impression on West, but by the aid of free kicks, and thrown-in, Everton kept the play in their opponents half. The game was temporarily stopped owing to an injury to Fleming, who, however, was soon able to resume. Abbott was prominent with fine defensive work, and the excitement was great when from a free kick, West planted the ball in dangerous proximity to Roose. Crelly at one end and Dunlop at the other attracted attention by reason of their admirable kicking, and for a time play was fairly even. Doig easily negotiated a long shot from Taylor, and once more the Liverpool forwards made strenuous, though unsuccessful, efforts to gain the equalising point. A miskick by West found Dunlop ready to cover his fault, and immediately afterwards the Liverpool left back distigusished himself. From Sharp's centre Settle headed over. Then the interval arrival with the score, Everton 1 goal, Liverpool nil.
When the game restarted the attendances was estimated at nearly 40,000. Liverpool quickly forced a corner, and from the flag kick Cox placed the ball behind the post. A run down on, the Everton right did not mareralise, and the Reds again advanced on the left. Cox was brought down, and from the free kick the ball was passed back to Dunlop, who sent the ball crosses the field to Goddard, who equalised with a capital shot, the ball finding a resting place in the corner of the net. This was four minutes from the resumption, and it had the effect of intensifying the keenest of the struggle. Each end was visited, and whilst Raisebeck shot amongst the spectators a brilliant effort by Makeapeace was only diverted by Doig at the expense of a fruitless corner. Liverpool pressed hard, Raisebeck in particular playing a grand game. At this period Liverpool were unquestionably the superior team, and Everton were fortunate in escaping further downfall. Next Liverpool were lucky, a shot from Hardman being diverted over the line by the merest chance. Both sides were straining every nerve to gain the leading point, and the incitement was maintained at fever heat Cox was winded, and was attended to by the trainer' at the side of the field. After some uneventful play Everton obtained a corner, which was not improved upon, and at the other end Roose punched away a high dropping centre from Goddard. Young was too well watched to cause much trouble, but for all that the Everton attack showed signs of improvement, both Settle and McDermott being responsible for dangerous efforts. At the other end Roose exhibited good judgement in running out to meet Parkinson. Liverpool tried desperately hard, and with a little luck might easily have scored. Abbott banged the ball against the side of the net, and then, after West had kick a cross the field, Sharp centred to Hardman, who defeated Doig five minutes from the finish. This was practically the end of the game, for though Liverpool made strenuous efforts they were unable to draw level. When the whistle blew, Everton had gained the victory by two goals to nil.

EVERTON 2 BURY 0
February 13, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Benefit Match at Goodison-Park
There was no particular satisfaction to be derived from Saturday's League match at Goodison-park beyond the fact that Everton added a couple of points to their already admirable League record, and that the “gate” is to be devoted to deserving members of the club. With characteristic generosity the Everton directors, and the season started, decided to set apart two League matches for four of their players who have served the allotted five years with the organisation. Sharp and Abbott, both having had associations with Birmingham, naturally selected the Aston Villa game, while Settle and Kitchen the other beneficiaries, chose the game with Bury. After the Liverpool public had spent upwards of £2,000 during the week in witnessing English Cup-ties, a gate of £450 in the Bury match must be considered satisfactory. At any rate, with the £800 taken at the Villa match, the quartette of deserving though fortune players, will each be able to place about £300 to his credit in the bank. After this it cannot be said that Everton are unmindful of the welfare of their servants.
A MEDIOCRE DISPLAY
Perhaps it was on account of the glamour of the Cup-ties with Liverpool, but unquestionably the game with Bury was by no means satisfying. It failed to arouse that feeling of excitement, which gives zest to a struggle to the dealt between two determined sides. Incidents of real interest were few and far between, and only occasionally were the spectators genuinely pleased with the football fare provided. In some measure this was due to the disappointing show which was made by the “Shakers”. Their old Cup-tie fire, which one season carried them through to the Crystal Palace without a goal being recorded against them, was conspicuous by its absence, and somewhat naturally this had an effect upon the play of their opponents. During the first half especially Bury were weak in attack, and though Everton did the great bulk of the pressing their attempts at scoring were for the most part unaccountably feeble. It was not until the interval was in slight that the Bury goal was captured, the plucky Hardman being the one to pilot the ball into the net during a regular melee in the goalmouth. In the second portion Bury were more effective, and on two occasions a slice of luck might have given them a goal. As it was they were unable to get the better of the brilliant Welsh custodian, and with Settle doing the trick a couple of minutes from the finish the East Lancashire club had to acknowledge defeat by two clear goals.
CONCERNING THE PLAYERS
As will be gathered from an indication of the general run of the games none of the twenty-two players engaged can be singled out for special distinction. Roose, though a trifle lucky defended his charge gallantly, but in the first half he had practically nothing to do. Montgomery too, was a reliable custodian, and could in no way be blamed for the reverse, which Bury sustained. Indeed his work and that of the two full-backs were the outstanding features of Bury's display, for although Simpson in the centre was a success the attack generally rarely rose above mediocrity. Everton had numerous chances of scoring, but their shooting was far from being accurate. Sharp and Settle were the best of the bunch, and the former; s centres ought to have been more successfully utilised. The half-backs work was only moderate for such as Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, while at back the younger Balmer was decidedly off colour. These signs of staleness must be got rid of before next Saturday's Cup-tie at Stoke. Teams: - Everton: - Roose, goal, W.Balmer (captain), and R.Balmer, backs, Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott half-backs, Sharp, Rankin, Young, Settle, and Hardman forwards. Bury: - Montgomery, goal, Mollinex and Slater, backs, Johnson, Thorpe, and Ross (captain), half-backs, Richards, Wood, Simpson, Sagar, and Leeming, forwards. Referee J.A.Smith

BURY RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 0
February 13, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 25)
While their seniors were going down before Everton at Goodison-park, Bury Reserves were making amends somewhat by getting the better of Everton Combination, the score in this case being also 2-0. On the play the Shakers deserved their victory. The Everton forwards missed Rankin and never settled down, while the backs were none too steady. Bury opened their score somewhat luckily, the ball going through off one of the defenders, but their other goals in the second half was the outcome of capital play. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Wildman, and McCartney backs, Hanlin, Chadwick, and F.Littlejohn, half-backs, Rankin, McLoughlin, Thornburn, Hutchinson, and Dilly, half-backs

EVERTON v. BURY
Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer - Monday 13 February 1905
Fifteen thousand people witnessed this match at Goodison Park, which was set apart for the benefit of Settle and Kitchen. Everton were without Crelly and McDermott, -while Plant was replaced by Leemmg. Play fell below the ordinary standard, both sides missing easy chances. It was nearly half-time before Hardman scored for Everton, who were the better side. Interval score:—Everton 1 goal. Bury none. In the second half play was more even, but Everton had more chances of scoring, Sharp's accurate centres being feature of the game. Roose saved splendidly from Richards, although he was penalized for carrying the ball. Everton were the more dangerous side, and Settle scored again three minutes before the finish. Result:— Everton 2 goals. Bury none.

EVERTON OUTCLASSED AT BURY
Athletic News - Monday 13 February 1905
Two apparently strong teams were placed in the field by the Bury and Everton directorates at Gigg-lane, but the visitors gave a disappointing display.  Bury had most of the play throughout, and a victory that ought to have panned out 4-0 was registered as 2-0.  Wilson is a very haphazard centre, whose very eagerness robs him of the power of scoring goals.  Brown played a fine centre-half game, and Gregory and Hodson made a pair of strong, resolute backs.  Everton failed to reach their average form, and were quite overwhelmed in the second half. 

TAME DISPLAY AT GOODISON
Athletic News - Monday 13 February 1905
By Junius
After the excitement attendant upon the Cup-ties the League fixture with Bury seemed somewhat stale, although the attendance was quite up to the average of League gates on the Everton ground this season.  This was no doubt due to the fact that those excellent performers, Settle and Kitchen, were to benefit thereby, and the magnitude of the assemblage must be reckoned as indicative of the appreciation in which the players are held by the Liverpool public.  Owing to the death of his sister, Plant was unable to appear on the extreme left wing for Bury, whilst on the Everton side McDermott and Crelley were compelled to stand down.  The play for thirty minutes was devoid of incident, for the Bury forwards seemed utterly unable to settle down, and Everton enjoyed the bulk of the attack.  But there was little sting in their efforts, and with anything like an intelligent adaption to the needs of the various situations the home side must have held a good advantage at the interval.  After about half an hour’s dull and inert play Everton moved more strongly, and Montgomery proved his worth by deftly tipping out a cunning shot from Settle, who was nearly under the bar.  A scrimmage ensued around the goal mouth, and eventually Young skied the ball yards away from its intended billet.  The only goal of this half came ten minutes prior to the charge of ends, Sharp, who had all along been the most dangerous of the Everton forwards, got clean away and centred to Hardman, who, in endeavouring to net the ball, sent across the goalmouth.  Montgomery cleared but failed to relieve the pressure, and Hardman again receiving during an exciting scrimmage carried the ball along with him in his rush into the net.  Two minutes later Sharp put across another fine centre, and Young had only the keeper to beat, but he failed wretchedly.  Bury did much better in the second portion of the game, and their forwards brought to light a few weaknesses in the Everton defence.  Fortunate was it for the Everton defence.  Fortunate was it for the home team that Roose was in goal, for he effected a grand clearance from Simpson at short range, and again saved from Richards, though he was penalized for carrying the ball.  At this juncture the visitors seemed as if they would equalize, for the Everton full backs were often at fault, but Roose proved an impassable barrier.  Then Everton again asserted themselves and as before, missed several fine chances of strengthening their position, Taylor sending the ball into the stand whilst Montgomery was endeavoring to get back between the posts after being drawn out.  Two minutes from the finish Settle converted a centre from Hardman, and thus Everton won by two clear goals.  Taking the play throughout, it was insipid and spiritless, and Everton appeared as if they had participated in enough football for one week.  The forwards were disjointed, and much of this was due to the feebleness of Young in the centre.  Rankin was not seen to advantage at inside right, and though he has a personal liking for the position, he has not displayed any special ability to fill the post.  In drawing the defence and opening out the game for his partner he did not create a favourable impression.  Sharp made the most of his opportunities, and the feature of his work was the excellent manner in which he finished his sprints along the touch.  He placed the ball in front of goal with remarkable accuracy, and this is certainly his strong point, Settle was the best of the forwards, and gave a most appropriate exposition seeing that the match was labelled for his benefit.  Hardman played pluckily as usual.  He never gave anything away for want of trying, and in this respect furnishes a commendable example.  In the rear ranks there was a falling away in ability.  Makepeace was about the most effective of the half-backs, and he is developing a capital habit of giving his forwards every opportunity.  The brothers Balmer did not offer the same resistance to their opponents’ advances, as had been anticipated, but the elder brother has been far from well recently, and his doubtless affected his play.  The younger of the family has not yet thoroughly settled down to consistent League life, but he possesses the ability.  Roose had practically a sinecure in the first half, but afterwards he had several difficult shots to negotiate and came out of the ordeal unscathed.  He is proving a rare find for Everton, and is making a vast difference to their defence.  Bury were distinctly disappointing, especially before the interval, and they never got thoroughly into their stride.  Simpson made many creditable attempts to get his forwards going, but there was little combination shown by the line, and they were easily dispossessed.  Near goal they were even worse, and Bury have rarely been seen to such disadvantage on their visits to Liverpool.  Johnston and Thorpe strove hard, but, like their forwards, they made some unaccountable blunders near goal.  Mullineaux played well at full back, his returns being clean, but Slater had more than he could manage in tackling Sharp.  Montgomery kept a good goal, though he was not tested to the extent that he ought to have been.  Everton; L.R. Roose; W. Balmer, R. Balmer; Makepeace, Taylor, Abbott; Sharp, Rankin, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Bury; Montgomery; Mullineaux, Slater; Johnston, Thorpe, Ross; Richards, Wood, Simpson, Sagar, and Leeming.  Referee; H. Ward, Nottingham. 

CUP-TIE CHATTER
Athletic News - Monday 13 February 1905
By Junius
The replayed Association Cup-tie between Everton and Liverpool ended in favour of the former, who were, however, fortunate in being able to claim qualification for the second round.  As in the previous game, the Anfielders displayed the better quality of football, and it played the better quality of football, and it was only their impulsiveness near goal which led to their being beaten.  By their excellent exhibition at Goodison Park, Liverpool have demonstrated to all that they are too clever a team to be in the second Division.  Raisebeck set his men a grand example in both matches, and was one of the most prominent players on the field.  Another stalwart was Roose, who fairly excelled himself at Goodison Park, and much of the credit of the victory was due to his clever and judicious keeping.  The complete return to form of West is one of the most pleasing features to recall; his speed is rapidly returning, and there can be no two opinions about the efficiency of his tackling.  Although beaten, the Anfielders are now hoping that Everton will make a great show in the competition. 
THE SECOND ROUND
Everton have to visit Stoke in the next round, and there is a quiet feeling of confidence as to the result.  Nothing has yet been decided as regards special training for the Blues, though something may be determined upon this evening after the Lancashire Senior Cup semi-final with Bolton Wanderers at Goodison Park. 

SCOTLAND v. WALES.
Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer - Tuesday 14 February 1905
Last night the following team was selected to represent Wales against Scotland at Wrexham March 6:— L. R. (Everton), goal H. Blew (Wrexham) and C. Morris (Derby County), backs ; M. Parry (Liverpool), M. Morgan Owen (Corinthians), and J. Hughes (Everton), half-backs; right wing. W. Meredith (Manchester City) and R. H. Atberfoo (Middlesbrough); left wing, A. G, Morris (Notts Forrest) and A. Oliver (Bangor); centre, M. Watkins (Sunderland), forwards.

LANCASHIRE CUP.—Semi-final
Leeds Mercury - Tuesday 14 February 1905
At Liverpool, in wet weather. Everton beat Bolton Wanderers by two goals to one . Everton had the best of the opening exchanges, and McDermott scored after ten minutes’ play. The visitors occasionally got away, put could not score. Interval: —Everton one goal, Bolton nil. In the second half Everton pressed continuously, and Rankin scored a second goal. Even play followed, and just time Featherstone scored for Bolton.

EVERTON 2 BOLTON WANDERERS 1
February 14, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Senior Cup Semi-Final
Miserably wet weather attended this match at Goodison-Park yesterday, but there was a fair attendance a couple of thousand people turning out. Everton had only five of the first team (counting Rankin as a reserves), while the Wanderers played their second eleven and included R.Taylor and Eccles, two ex-Evertonians. The teams were as follows: - Everton: - Scott goal, W.Balmer (captain), and McCartney, backs, Makepeace, Taylor, and Chadwick, half-backs, Rankin, McDermott, Young, McLoughlin, and Dilly forwards. Bolton Wanderers: - Broomfield, goal, Taylor, and Eccles, backs, Robertson, Yenson, and Freebairn, half-backs, Gaskell, Howell, Featherstone, Abbott, and R.Taylor forwards. Young started. Fairbairn clearing and Balmer shortly afterwards pulled up the Bolton left, Rankin centred well but Dilly was offiside as he headed in to Broomfield. A little later McDermott ran the ball over the line after beating Taylor, while Dilly forced a corner, from which the goal had a lucky escape. Twice Makepeace stopped the Wanderers left wing in clever fashion, and Everton resumed the attack. Broomfield saved well from McLoughlin, who headed in from Rankin's centre. A little later, however, McDermott got possession close in, and gave Broomfield no chance of saving. Everton pressed for some time after their success, but the defence held out. Then R.Taylor got away only to shoot from long range, and Scott easily cleared. Everton were, however, having much the best of matters, and Dilly gained a corner, which was worked away. Bolton rarely cross the half-way line, and once Taylor nearly scored with a fine long shot, the backs successfully negotiated Broomfield conceding a corner, which. Bolton got away, Scott saving from a corner, and the Wanderers made their best attack so far, Scott turning a fine shot from Abbott over the bar. Following the corner, Robinson handled, and the free kick led to Everton again putting on pressure, Rankin shooting across the goal, and outside. Later Rankin centred finely, McLoughlin missing a good chance of adding to the score. On the slippery ground, however, the forwards could not be blamed for missing openings. Young made a capital attempt to get through, but the only result was a fruitless corner. The Trotters made one of their brief attacks, Balmer soon sending them back again, and the visitors backs were kept busy for some minutes, Broomfield saved splendidly from Young, and near the interval Bolton put on pressure, R.Tarlor sending a fine shot on the wrong side of the post. Half-time Everton 1, goal, Bolton Wanderers nil . Everton again took up the running when play was resumed, and Dilly had a good shot charged down. Scott had to leave his goal to clear from a rush, the visitors, and then Young was going through the Wanderers defence in promising fashion when Freebairn dashed in and averted disaster. The Wanderers defended pluckily, but on one occasion Dilly and McLoughlin nearly got through, a shot from the latter being turned over the line by one of the backs. The corner was badly taken and Eccles cleared Young sending high over the bar a moment later. Another goal to Everton was not long in coming, however, passing between Young, McDermott, and Rankin led to the latter scoring an easy goal. Everton had all the game, and Rankin, made two splendid though ineffectual attempts to add to the score. The Wanderers improved and Balmer gave away a corner which, was easily cleared. Bolton held their own well for some minutes the home side taking matters rather easily, but the visitors were seldom dangerous. Everton again took up the running, Taylor trying a couple of good shots, the first being charged down, and the second going just over the bar. Just before the close, Featherstone scored for Bolton. Result Everton 2, goals, Bolton Wanderers 1.

BLACKPOOL PLAYER FOR BOLTON.
Lancashire Evening Post - Thursday 16 February 1905
McEwan. The Blackpool outside left, was transferred last night Bolton Wanderers. McEwan came Blackpool last season from Everton, his transfer being part of the arrangement for Hardman going Everton. Whilst Blackpool he has played at times magnificent game, but others his efforts have been most disappointing, and he has not been doing so well late, the regret his departure from the Blackpool team will not so great would have been earlier the season. McEwan perhaps the best paid player the Blackpool club has ever had. And was in receipt of summer pay: but in Blackpool's position could not continue this, and it had been anticipated for some time past that would transferred. Blackpool have received a handsome fee for transfer. Several clubs were after McEwan. And it was generally thought he would have gone to North End.

STOKE v. EVERTON.
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 18 February 1905
At Stoke, before 20,000 spectators. Stoke had the wind at the start, and Whitehouse tested Roose with a long shot. After seven minutes' play, however, McDermott shot in just inside the Stoke post, and scored with a shot which Whitley ought to have saved. Even play followed, but after 23 minutes Makepeace scored a second point from a penalty. Makepeace saved grandly from under the bar with Roose out of goal. Half-time; Stoke 0, Everton 2.
On resuming, Stoke attacked, but were obtained, Hardman and Settle ran beautifully. The former placed the ball forward for his partner, and Settle went on and scored. Hartshorage and Whitley thinking he was offside, and making no attempt to stop him. The point was allowed. Everton attacked again, the forwards playing brilliantly, and Hardman hit the post, Sharp nearly scored after grand passing, McDermott scored. Result Stoke City 0, Everton 4

STOKE CITY 0 EVERTON 4 (Fac Game 48)
February 20, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Fa Cup Round Two
STOKE DECISELY BEATEN.
There was just a little trepidation in Liverpool as to the outcome of Everton visit to the Potteries. Everyone admitted that in the ordinary way the Blues were much the better side; a glance at the League table shows the disparity between the teams, for while Everton are leaders with 34 points for 25 matches, Stoke have but 19 points for 24. But cup-ties are not League matches, and there was the same wide gulf between the teams when Stoke pulled off the event on that famous occasion's ten years ago. The event showed that all fears were groundless, for the Blues ran out the easiest of winners by 4 goals to nil. The result afforded huge delight to hundreds of habitues of Goodison park, who formed a not in considerable proportion of the 20,000 spectators. Trains loads of them travelled into Stoke, and during the drenching downpour of the second half their gainty of spirit was expressed in good cup-tie fashion by the chanting of means of praise. The game was rather a curious one.
DECIDED IN 45 MINUTES.
It was fought out entirely in the first half, which was a good deal more even than the score of 2-0 for Everton suggests, but in the second half the Potters took it lying down, the victors merely toying with their opponents winning the toss, Stoke had what advantage there was in a wind blowing diagonally across the ground. The pace at once became a warm one, and the Everton left wing, moving along in business like fashion, soon threatened danger. Checked once or twice, they came again persistently, and when Hardman centred across to McDermott, the inside man shot past Whitley into the net, the game being only seven or eight minutes old. After this the game was all in favour of Stoke, but try as they would they could not get through the defence. The Everton halves were in splendid trim, and the backs were sturdy and reliable, although Crelly was occasionally in difficulties with the smart right wing of the Potters. Dashing off to the other end, Evertom were awarded a penalty kick , Benson having kicked Young. Makepeace for a wonder missed, the leather striking the upright and rebounding into play, Abbott pounced on it, and sent in a fierce shot, which Whitley repelled brilliantly. Then there was trouble amongst the spectators, for the referee Mr. P.R.Harrower ordered the kick to be taken again, on the dual ground that the ball had been kicked before he had given the signal, and that Whitley was standing over the line. This time Makepeace scored. This was a disheartening business for Stoke, but they played up manfully, and more than once the Everton citadel was not assailed.
A NARROW ESCAPE.
On one occasion Roose had left his charge, and a shot was sent in during the absence, but Makepeace had dropped into goal, and he managed to keep the ball out. Give and take play of a rousing kind followed, but nothing further happened before the interval. Heavy rain now descended, and continued for the major portion of the second half, Everton had matters all their own way. The Stoke team fell to pieces, and the Everton forwards and halves gave an exhibition of scientific and pretty football, highly delightful to the Goodison-road contingent, but as far removed as possible from the accepted of a cup-tie. But of decent opposition there was none, and for the rest of the game, Everton amused themselves almost, as they liked on turf now sudden and slippery. Settle scored a goal very prettily worked for, and a few moments from the finish McDermott put on the fourth.
SOME DETAILED CONSIDERATIONS.
As already indicated, there was not a great deal between the teams in the first half, but the advantage decidedly lay with Everton, and especially in their front line. The visiting forwards were more effective than the home quintette, and the left wing was much the better. Settle played a brilliant game, the inside men generally being the best of the line, although Hardman put in much clever work. The halves played in splendid style, and their combination with the vanguard was at times as near perfection as needs be. All three earned high praise, but Taylor bore away the palm, his tackling and placing being of a high order. Balmer was the better of the backs, although it was a faulty kick from him nearly let in the Potters. Roose in goal effected some smart saves, but he showed rashness more than once in leaving his goal. The Stoke team were overmatched, chiefly in the front division, their backs were very capable, and Whitley in goal was more unfortunate than efficient on the whole, it must be admitted that Everton were in luck in the first half, their superiority not being value for two goals, but a match is for 90 minutes and taking the game through, 4 goals to nil was a fit reward for their merits.
Teams: - Stoke City: - Whitley, goal, Benson and Harts backs Horne, Baddeley, and Holford half-backs, Bradley, Whitehouse, Rose, Gallimore, Holdcroft, and Fielding forwards. Everton: - Roose, goal, R.Balmer, and Crelly backs, Meakepeace, Taylor (captain), and Abbott, half-backs Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle and Hardman, forwards. Referee P.R.Harrower

EVERTON RESERVES 2 NORTHERN NOMADS 2
February 18, 1905. The Liverpool Football Echo.
There was an absence of first class engagements at both of the premier football enclosures to-day, but a couple of thousand spectators turned up to support Everton Reserves contingent against Northern Nomads, who are on means exponents of the football art. The men were programmed as follows:- Everton: - Kitchen goal, Kerr and Rothwell, backs Stott, Chadwick, and Evans half-backs, J.L.Jones, G.Rankin, Thornburn, Dilly, and Phillips, forwards. Northern Nomads:- Wilson goal, Bucknall, and Gow, backs, Littleton, Brown and Taylor, half-backs, R.Lloyd, Edwards, Stephension, Gillmore, and Another, forwards. The Nomads led off, in good style and put in some pretty work, which took the Everton defence by surprise. Stott and Keer were immediately in difficulties, and a smart pass at close quarters by Stephenson to Gillmore led to the defeat of Kitchen by the latter in the first few minutes. Restarting the Blues did not make a special effort to amend this intrusion, but after a number of mild exchanges, Jones, Rankin, and Thornburn worked together smartly, eluded Littleton, Bucknall and Brown to turn and Wilson made hardily an effort to oppose Rankin, who netted. The Blues were not long after restarting in assuring the upper hand once more. Littleton and Brown made a feeble effort to oppose a smart advance of the home right and centre, and Buchnall was equally unfortunate in misjudging his header, for Jones whipped round him, and Thornburn racing up at full speed met his centre, and Scored with a fine straight drive, Wilson again succumbing in gloriously. The game was well contested for sometime after Everton's second goal. Wilson ran out and made a capital save from Thorburn when he looked dangerous. Jones proved a capital partner for Rankin, and his wing worked well with Thorburn. Taylor was the most tenacious of the Northern halves, and worried Caldwell and Phillips considerably. The Nomads shooting and kicking was erratic, and Kitchen had an easy time, being well covered by Kerr and Rothwell. After the Nomads had taken a corner, Scott fouled, and from the ensuing free kick, Kitchen was hotly pressed. Half-time Everton 2 goal, Nomads 1. Five thousand spectators were present after the interval, and Everton's success at Stoke was enthusiationally cheered. The Nomads were the first to advance, but Evans back up the attack, and then a fine dash by Jones was foiled by Littleton, and the Leather was carried off, without due exertion. The Everton forward' work was very tricky, but the defence of the Northerns were very strenuous. Fifteen minutes was put to waste, in mild exchanges, neither side making any really dangerous moves. At last a foul gave the Nomads an opening, which Chadwick utilised smartly. At last a foul gave the Normads an opening, which Chadwick utilised smartly. Some capital forward work brought a couple of corners to the Nomads whose outside right managed to equalise very cleverly. Final score Everton 2, Nomads 2.

THE NORTH V SOUTH
Athletic News - Monday 20 February 1905
The North and South match at Bristol did not realize the expectations of the Southerners, who found their defence some disorganized, for neither Herbert smith nor George Molyneux could appear at back.  Thus Walter Bull was the right back, and Stevenson appeared on the left.  So both men were out of position and the Northerners won with considerable ease by 3-1.  Parkinson who created a capital impression, scored twice, and Wilcox and Walton each added a goal towards the close.  What the authorities thought of the players may be assumed from the team selected against Ireland. The match takes place at Ayresome Park, Middlesbrough, next Saturday, and the rival forces should be constituted thus;-
England; R.G Williamson (Middlesbrough); W. Balmer (Everton), J. Carr (Newcastle United); S. Wolstenholmes (Blackburn Rovers), C. Roberts (Manchester United), A. Leake (Aston Villa); R. Bond (Preston North End), S. Bloomer (Derby County), V.J. Woodward (Tottenham Hotspur), S.S. Harris (Corthinthians) (Captain), and F. Booth (Manchester City).  Reserves;- J. Brearsley (Tottenham Hotspur) and E. Bluff (Southampton). 
Ireland;- W. Scott (Everton); W. McCracken, A. McCartney (Everton); J. Darling (Linfield), Jas Connor (Gelntoran), H. Nicholl (Belfast Celtic)’ P. Murphy (Queen’s Park Rangers), Hames Sheridan (Stoke), T. Shanks (Brentford), Chas O’Hagan (Tottenham Hotspur), and John Kirwan (Tottenham Hotspur) (captain), reserves; McConnell (Glentoran), and H.A. Sloan (Dublin Bohemians).  Referee; T. Robertson, Glasgow, Linesmen; F.H. Dennis (Middlesbrough), and J.M. Wilton (Derry). 
WILLIAM BALMER
Although fresh to these honours, William Balmer does not need any introduction to football folk.  Born at West Derby, in 1877, Balmer entered junior football when 15.  After playing for his native district for some time, he migrated to Blackpool South Shore, whence he was brought back to Everton in 1895.  From November, 1897, he has been considered one of the Everton stalwarts.  He played for the North in 1900, and in the Inter-League against Scotland in 1901, so that his cap has been somewhere delayed “en route” For a man of 5ft 8 and half in, and 11st 7lb Balmer is a dashing, strong tackling back with judgement and clean kicking power. 

LANCASHIRE CUP SEMI-FINAL
Athletic News - Monday 20 February 1905
By Junius
Everton qualified for the Final of the Lancashire Senior Cup by defeating what was practically the reserve team of Bolton Wanderers by 2-1 which might easily have been increased.  I don’t suppose Everton were particularly anxious about the result of the tie, but they carried out the wishes of the Association in selecting their team.  Despite the wretched weather, nearly four thousand persons were present, the receipts amounting to 92,10s.6d.  It is quite time, however, that some change was made in the rule that regulate this competition, which will make it compulsory for clubs to play their full strength.  If League teams are to complete, let it be the League eleven, though were the tourney restricted to the League reserve and the better class junior clubs in the county, ‘twould be preferable.
EVERTON’S MAGNIFICENT VICTORY
Everton gained a great victory over Stoke, and should they be favoured in the draw for the next round I fancy the Goodison park team will make a bold bid for the Cup, as they are a clever side, and their position in the League amply demonstrates this.  Still, no one expected them to prevail at Stoke by four clear goals, and had they drawn no surprise would have been occasioned.  The policy of the directors in keeping their players at home has been amply justified, and it will be a happy party that foregathers this evening, when the team will be dined and entertained at the theatre.  But experience has taught is that to be too sanguine in matters pertaining in the National Cup. 

THE TRIUMPH OF EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 20 February 1905
By Onward
The great meeting between Stoke and Everton at Victoria Grounds, Stoke, on Saturday, recalled to mind two previous Cup-tie fights between these two rivals.  The first was just over eleven years ago – on January 27, 1894-and on this occasion Everton, with a talented team, were the favourites.  It will be interesting to the many football folk who like to dip into the records of bygone years to have the names of twenty-two contestants who took part on that day; They were Everton; Williams; Parry, Howarth; Stewart, Holt, Kelso; Latta, Bell, Southworth, Geary, and Milward.  Stoke; Rowley; Clare, Eccles; Christie, Dowds, Brodie; Naughton, Dickson, Robertson, McReddie, and Scholfield.  
I have a vivid recollection o the scene of wild enthusiasm on the Stoke ground when Dickson by a magnificent and resolute effort beat three of four opponents and gave Scholfield the pass which enabled the little international to score the only goal of the game three minutes from time.  This was a great triumph for Stoke.  On February 12, 1898 the two teams again met in the Cup and after a goalless draw, the Goodison park team five days later triumphed on their own ground by five goals to one.  Of the players of both teams who took part in that particular tie, only two participated in last Saturday’s game, and both were wearers of the blue jersey.  W. Balmer again worthily filled the right-back position and the evergreen Taylor was seen in a new place at centre half.  In 1898 he played on the extreme right with Cameron, the present secretary-manager of Tottenham Hotspur, as his partner.  There had been all sorts of rumors as to changes in the Everton team during the week, but eventually they turned out absolutely at full strength. In the Stoke team there was only one change from the side which defeated Sheffield Wednesday, Gallimore operating in the room of the ineligible Hall at centre-forward.  There was a “gate” to gladden the hearts of the Stoke executive.  From two o’clock until long past the kick-off the music of the turnstiles was heard continuously, and 25,076 people paid for admission, accounting for something like 920 pounds.  The playing pitch was in splendid order, looking from the Press Box as green and as level almost as a billiard table, and the conditions could not have been more favourable when a start was made.  The first chance of the game fell to Stoke.  Fielding, after beating the half-back, raced down the right, and put in a long cross to the right.  Six yards from goal Whitehouse had a splendid opportunity of drawing first blood, but there was just one moment’s fatal hesitation, and Crelley had cleared at the expense of a corner.  Stoke played most resolutely in this early period, but, as is often the case, the first score went to the team which had done least of the pressure.  Eight minutes from the start Young drove the ball out to Hardman, who was lying unattained on the line, and apparently in an offside position.  The amateur returned the ball like a flash to the right wing, and McDermott, taking a pot shot at goal, whizzed the ball past Whitley.  To my mind, and I was in a very good position to judge, Hardman was clearly four or five yards offside.  The Stoke players protested, but it is the referee who decides, and that official pointed, without hesitation, to the centre. 
The earnestness of Stoke’s efforts to get on terms after this reverse could not be gainsaid, but, truth to tell, their work in front of the posts lacked method, and Roose had no shots of a dangerous character to deal with.  Mr. Harrower again put himself on bad terms with the Stoke section of the crowd by a decision giving Everton a penalty kick after the play had run its course about 23 minutes.  When the whistle was blown most people were under the impression that a free kick had been awarded to Stoke owing to Settle jumping at Benson, and astonishment was general when all the players, except Makepeace and Whitley, were seen to retire to the 18 yards line. 
Makepeace took the kick, and shot the ball with great force against the left-hand post.  Abbott closed in quickly and volleyed the return into goal, where Whitley accomplished a superb save by throwing himself at the ball and diverting it into touch.  There was considerable hooting when the referee was seen to be pointing to the penalty “spot” for the kick to be re-taken, and on this occasion Makepeace made no error.  None of the Pressmen were able to form an opinion why Mr. Harrower ordered the kick to be taken again, but on inquiry afterwards two reasons were advanced, one being that he had not given the signal, and the other that Whitley had overstepped the six-yards boundary before the first kick was taken.  I have given these incidents at length because they had a vital effort on the issue, and made a deep impression on the spectators.  With the energy born of desperation, Stoke were strenuous in their efforts to extinguish the arrears, but they met a defence which was equally resolute.  Once, when Roose was out of goal and beaten, Balmer made a magnificent clearance right on the goal line.  Holdcroft did succeed in getting the ball into the Everton net just before the sound of the half-time whistle, but as he had clearly handled a goal was not allowed.  In this first half Stoke were distinctly unfortunate, and they had not deserved to be two goals down when the interval was taken.
Two minutes after the change of ends, saw whatever remaining chances Stoke might have possessed vanish into thin air, and from this point they were a hopelessly beaten and disorganized side.  Settle, in a suspiciously off-side position, received a square centre from Hardman and drove the ball low and true into the net.  Stoke were never in the game after this, and the only wonder was that the magnificent play of the Everton forwards was not rewarded with a large crop of goals.
For half an hour following this third success, the Everton half-backs and forwards gave an exhibition of footwork which was delightful to watch, and this was more remarkable for the fact that rain had begun to fall heavily, and the ground was in a treacherous condition.  A minute from the final sound of the whistle McDermott distinguished himself by scoring a goal to which no exception could be taken, even by the most critical and Stoke retired well beaten by four goals to none. 
The superiority of the winners was clear and unmistakable, and on the game, as a whole, the margin of goals does not exaggerate the difference between the two teams.  That Everton were fortunate in getting on a winning tack early in the game admits of no dispute, but once they struck the victorious vein, they were irresistible.  I have not seen better football than the Everton team gave us for a full half-hour in the second “5.”  Their defenders played without a fault. Roose had not a busy time, and was fully equal to the demands made upon his skill and resource.  The clean kicking in all sorts of positions and the effective tackling of Balmer and Crelley alike commanded admiration. The excellent half-back line took no mean share in the victory, and if I were inclined to single out one man amongst the sterling trio for a special word of commendation, it would be young Makepeace.  The youngster played with all the coolness of a veteran, and despite his lack of weight and inches, I feel certain he has a great future before him.  In the first half the forwards were indifferent but they made full compensation after the change of ends.  One is apt to associate the Everton forward play with close passing, but, for once in a way, they gave us a variation by alternating these tactics with wide swinging passes.  The combination of the two styles proved very effective, and gave the Stoke half-backs a terrible time.  Not only did Young make long sweeping passes to the extreme men, but Hardman and Sharp passed almost from touch line to touch line on several occasions.  Each man of the five was an artist. 
Stoke never recovered from the severity of their early reverses.  Rightly or wrongly, the players felt they had been most unjustly dealt with in the case of the first two goals, and that they were disheartened was reflected in their play.  It struck me that the only two men on the side who did themselves justice were Whitley and Benson.  Baddeley was the best half-back, and the forwards, after showing some determination in the first half, were a disorganized rabble after the change of ends.  The decisions of the referee excited much hostile criticism.  I am only a poor writer, but I take the liberty of expressing my own personal opinion for what it is worth, that the first goal was undoubtedly offside, whilst there was great suspicion as to the legitimacy of the third.  Many competent judges shared the same opinion.  I must, however, give Mr. Harrower credit for not being in the least intimidated by the hostile attitude of the crowd and for not allowing the untoward incidents to affect his grip on the game and the players.  Stoke- Whitley; Benson, Hartshorne; Baddeley, Holford, Bradley; Whitehouse, Rouse, Gallimore, Holdcroft, and Fielding.  Everton; L.R. Roose; Balmer, Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Referee; P.R. Harrower, London.

EVERTON TO VISIT VIENNA
Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser - Thursday 23 February 1905
Negotiations have been pending for month between representatives of the leading clubs Vienna and Everton with respect to the Goodison Park team paying visit to the Austrian capital. Already the preliminary arrangements have been agreed on. Everton open their programme on April —they leave Liverpool on the 28th—and conclude on May 21. Seven matches will be played during the three weeks in Vienna, Prague, and Budapest, and on one day they meet Tottenham Hotspur, who are touring there at the same period, in exhibition game.
Dent signs for Southport
Southport Central have secured the transfer of F. Dent, of Everton, and he is to appear for his new club Saturday, when they play Rossendale United. Dent was tried by the Central at the beginning of the season, but subsequently went to Everton.

J.T JONES SIGNS FOR ST. HELENS
February 23, 1905. Manchester Courier
J.L. Jones who played for Everton Reserves on Saturday last has been signed on by the St. Helens Town Club. He will figure for his new club in their match with Accrington Stanley on Saturday.

F. Dent signs for Southport
Southport Central have secured the transfer of F. Dent, of Everton and he is to appear for his new club on Saturday when they play Rossendale United. Dent was tried by the Central at the beginning of the season, but subsequently went to Everton.

J.L. JONES AND F. DENT
February 23, 1905. The Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser
J.T.Jones, who played for Everton Reserves on Saturday last, has been signed on by the St. Helen's Town Club. He will figure for his new club in their match with Accrington Stanley on Saturday.
Southport Central have secured the transfer of F. Dent of Everton, and he is to appear for his new club on Saturday, when they play Rossendale United. Dent was tried by the Central at the beginning of the season, but subsequently went to Everton.

ENGLAND v. IRELAND.
London Daily News - Saturday 25 February 1905
The series of this season’s international matches under Association rules commences this afternoon at Middlesbrough, where England and Ireland meet for the twenty-fourth time. Recently the game has made rapid strides in Ireland, but as usual most of the visiting eleven to-day belong to big professional clubs in England. At present no changes have been announced in either side, and it may hoped that the elevens will appear just originally selected. The Football Association chose team representing the strength English football, and no doubt can be felt to the ability of England to win. Teams: England: Williamson (Middlesbrough): W. Balmer (Everton) and Carr (Newcastle Unitea); Wolstenholme (Blackburn Rovers). Roberts (Manchester United), and Leake (Aston Villa); Bond (Preston North End). Bloomer (Derby County). V. J. Woodward (Tottenham Hotspur), 8. 8. Harris (Corinthians) (captain), and Booth (Manchester City). Ireland: Scott (Everton); McCracken (Newcastle United) and McCartney (Everton): Darling (Linfleld), Connor (Gientoran), and Nickel (Celtic); Murphy (Queen’s Park Rangers). Sheridan (Stoke), Shanks (Brentford). O’Hagan (Tottenham Hotspur), and Kirwan (Tottenham Hotspur; (captain). Referee: Mr. T. Robertson (Scotland). Drizzling rain fell at Middlesbrough yesterday. But expected that the ground will excellent condition unless the downfall should become heavy. Both teams arrived yesterday evening, and it is expected that they will take the field as selected, though Sloan (Bohemians) may replace O'Hagan, who is troubled by an injury to one of his knees, on the Irish left wing.

EVERTON TO TOUR
London Daily News - Saturday 25 February 1905
During May the Everton team will play a number of matches in Vienna, and will there meet Tottenham Hotspurs. Settle, Sharp, Abbott and Kitchen, the Everton players, will each receive about $320 as a result of their joint benefit matches.

BLACKBURN ROVERS RESERVE V. EVERTON RESERVE
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 25 February 1905
Nearly 3,000 spectators witnessed this match at Ewood Park, in fine weather. The home team included a new centre forward from the Glasgow district, whilst Everton had a strong combination. Teams; Rovers Reserve; Penston, goal; McDonald, and Riley, backs; Birchall, Shutterworth, and Brindle, half-backs; Duckworth, Turner, McAllister, Watson, and Dawson, forwards. Everton; Kitchen, goal; Wildman, and Kerr, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Littleton, half-backs; Roberts, Rankin, Thornburn, Cauldwell, and Dilly, forwards. Although the Rovers had the advantage of a slight breeze they failed to make much headway in the opening stages, Dawson the Crosshill youth was several times conspicuous and he tested Kitchen with a well-placed shot. Everton then retaliated, and Rankin sent in a fine ground shot, but Penston was ready. Thornburn, however, got possession in a good position. He took a big lunge, but his effort was inaccurate. The visitors left wing pair combined with marked precision but Thornburn fouling Riley., play was transferred, and from Dawson's centre Kitchen had to kick away. The Rovers outside left continued to be dangerous and they had hard lines in a shot which struck the upright. Watson and Kitchen straggled for possession and the custodian came out on top. Everton then started off in real earnest and Dilly beat Preston after 20 minutes play. From the knick-off the visitors were again dangerous and a miskick by McDonald gave Thornburn a fine opening, which he soon converted. These revers tended to put more vigour into the Blue and Whites, and they took up the aggressive. Duckworth was making rapid progress towards goal, when he was brought down by Wildman just outside the penalty area. McDonald took the free kick, and called upon Kitchen to negotiate an awkward shot. The pressure still continued and the good play of the Rovers' extreme end was causing much.
Anxiety to the visitors Defenders
Watson made a brilliant attempt and finished up by passing to Turner who opened the Rovers account. The homsters seemed like equalizing, but Kitchen saved in fine style from Duckworth, Birchall, and McAllister. Everton then made some headway but Cauldwell kicked over with a glorious chance. Just on the interval Kitchen was loudly cheered for a miraculous save from a grand low shot from the foot of Hodgson.
Half-time; Everton Reserve 2, Rovers Reserve 1
The opening of the second half was characterized by the activity of the Rovers who immediately took up the pressure and continued to have the best of matters. Dawson at close quarters cleverly beat Wildman and shot well from an awkward angle. Kitchen however, was keeping up his form of the first half, and did not allow himself to be beaten easily. The Rovers were just as eager to prolong bombardments and for fully ten minutes shot after shot was sent in by the home quintette. Some were well saved and others cannoned against opponents. It was evident to all that the pressure could not long continue without success. The Everton forwards did once break away, and Preston had to clear, but then the Blues and Whites returned to the other charge and the equalizer came. Davidson centred, and the ball was returned to him. Then he headed right in and the ball was forced through by his colleague, Duckworth seeming to earn the credit of the point. The Rovers were now anxious to get the lead, and McAllister tried hard to gain this end, but Kitchen made another brilliant save. Everton then got more dangerous than at any other period in the second stage. Hanlin finishing up with a fine low punt which Prenston only saved at the expense of a fruitless corner. Result; Rovers Reserve 2, Everton Reserve 2

THE COMING CUP-TIE
Athletic News - Monday 27 February 1905
By Junius
Next Saturday we shall have quite a surfeit of football, and it is somewhat unfortunate that Liverpool’s return League match with Blackpool should clash with the more attractive Cup-tie fixture at Goodison Park.  The Everton directors have decided to keep their players at home for their preparation to meet the leaders of the Southern League, and in this matter they are gaining the approval of their supporters.  There are vast possibilities before the Everton men this season but they must shoot better than they did against the Blackburn Rovers.  Extensive preparations are being made for the accommodation of a large crowd on Saturday, and even the ample space at the disposal of the Everton directorate will no doubt be severely taxed.  No more attractive visit could have been desired than that of the “Sotons,” and they will receive a rare welcome, as all Southern teams have done in the past.
TIES, TOURS, AND TANGLES
Their sojourn in Cup-ties is likely to seriously interfere with Everton’s League programme, and they look like experiencing a busy time towards the close of the season, especially if they succeed in reaching the semi-final stage.  On that date they should meet Woolwich Arsenal at Goodison Park and already they have the initial fixture with the “Gunners” to arrange, owing to the stoppage by fog on November 26th.  Next Saturday they were due to meet the Foresters at Nottingham and this will of course, have to be put back for further consideration.  Fortunately they have some vacant dates in April, though whether these will suit their opponents remains to be seen.  For some time past the Everton secretary, Mr. Cuff has been in communication with the managers of certain clubs on the Continent, and last week terms were arranged by which Everton will tour in Austria during the early part of May.  Matches will be played at Prague, Vienna, and Budapest, and the team will be away for about three weeks.  They will most probably play an exhibition game with Tottenham Hotspur in Vienna, for I believe the Southerners will be on tour in Austria at that time also. 

THE LEADERS’ POSITION STRENGETHENED
Athletic News - Monday 27 February 1905
By Harricus
Although on comparison with the performances of the two teams in the League table Everton should have secured an easy victory over the Rovers of Blackburn at Goodison Park, the Everton officials were none too sure about the result, for their players had only won 50 per cent of the 16 games between the clubs decided in Liverpool, the remaining eight having been equally divided between losses and draws, while the goal average was only in favour of Everton by 26-21.  Each team contributed a player to the International match, and the Rovers were still without Crompton, a deficiency which is a very serious matter to the East Lancashire club.  The 18,000 or so spectators were treated to some variable football, and they were denied their chief pleasure, the scoring of a goal until eight minutes from the close.  As, however, the point fell to the home team the crowd were inclined to overlook previous failures, and yet there was a touch of fortune’s favours in the acquiring of the goal which secured the maximum points, and which was the cause of Everton maintaining their exalted position at the head of the League table.  The game would have been none the worse had that goal never been scored at all, though after all Everton were rather the superior side.  The feature of the opening movements was the fine work of John Sharp, his dashing runs and fine centres being the subject of admiration.  And yet the best attempts at scoring came from a half-back on each side, for Moir rattled the ball at Roose, and Taylor struck the rigging on the wrong side.  Three minutes from half-time McLaughlin with a clever course looked like running right through, but McIver rushed out to check him.  He accomplished his object, for the ball rolled across an untenanted goalmouth and into touch, but the little custodian’s daring placing him hors de combat.  Again, in the last minute, he kicked the ball from Young’s boot when the centre forward was almost under the bar.  Everton found the net soon after the restart, but the whistle had previously gone for offside.  After the Rovers smartened up and gave a fighting display, but the home team pulled themselves together somewhat, though few thought that they would emerge successfully.  The unexpected happened though, some eight minutes from the close Cameron received a pass from one of his colleagues, and he committed a fatal hesitancy.  Believing that he had a clear field he steadied himself to place the ball instead of booting it forthwith, and the result was that the dapper young man Sharp dashed in and surprised him by securing possession of the ball and then taking a run for goal put in a shot which well deserved the success it met with.  Cameron’s face was as study, and I can well imagine his feelings.    It was a match in which the defence was superior to the forward play.  The Everton attackers are expect enough, but there is just too much passing in close quarters, while on the hand the Rovers’ five had not the ability to indulge in the movements of the Everton professors.  There was very little excitement in the first half, but we were favoured with some very entertaining variations after the interval, both sides giving an improved display.  Roose, however, was very little troubled, but his work was always good, while McIver kept out many shots, particularly when the home team were exercising pressure in the second half.  He is a smart keeper for his inches.  The feature of the Everton forward play was the clever work of the two outside men. On Sharp’s play on Saturday he is fit to play in another International match.  His trickiness in bringing the ball back and so disconcerting his opponents is a new feature of his play which he is developing with success.  His dashing runs, too, were very dangerous, for he crossed accurately, and, moreover, he shot well-so well, indeed, that he was the only man on the field to get a goal.  Therefore it may be said with truth that he excelled in every phase of wing play.  Like-wise Hardman, who crosses with excellent precision, even when forced almost on to the goal line.  When I first knew him he was a very timid youth, but he displayed the pluck of a 13-stone man on Saturday.  Sharp and Hardman are a credit to the club.  I should mention that Settle cried off at the last minute, his place being taken by McLoughlin, who plays a robust game.  The half-backs were a capital trio, and I do not know whether to give most praise to Makepeace or Taylor.  The veteran played his usual persistent game, and Makepeace showed such skill as stamps him as a first class player.  Like the two backs, Makepeace is a local, and though standing but 5ft 7 and half in, and weighing 10st 6lb he is a 90 minutes’ player, and has no particular position, and though but carving his way he has played in all positions half-back and at centre and inside left forward in the League team.  Robert Balmer is another player who will in the near future be regularly engaged in League matches.  Perhaps not so energetic in manner as his brother, whose place he took on Saturday, he plays good football and is a strong kicker for his size. 
The Rovers, who played in red shirts, did not give a bad display on the whole, though the old weakness forward was apparent.  Whittaker and Blackburn, once the mainstay of the attackers are not the men they were.  John Dewhurst once more proved that he is a better half-back than forward, he and Moir giving an excellent account of themselves in the middle line.  It will be hard on Moir if he has to be left out of the team when Wolstenholme and Crompton return.  Cameron, with the exception of that fatal mistake, was a stubborn defender and fully maintained his recent good form.  He seems to have taken the responsibility which was Crompton’s on his shoulders.  McClure made a fair deputy full-back.  He came out best when he had a free kick, or when there was a crowd for the ball.  When it came to a duel with Hardman he was rather bothered.  Everton; L.R. Roose; Balmer (R.), Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor, Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, McLoughlin, and H.P. Hardman.  Blackburn Rovers;- McIvor; McClure, Cameron; Moir, Dewhurst, Bradshaw; Whittaker, Pentland, Bowman, Smith, and Blackburn.  Referee; Mr. F. Kirkham, Preston. 

EVERTON 1 BLACKBURN ROVERS 0
February 27, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
TAME DISPLAY AT EVERTON
EVERTON STILL AHEAD
Everton are still in the proud position of topping the League. They advanced another couple of points as a result of their meeting with Blackburn Rovers at Goodison-park. True, it was a victory snatched with no small amount of difficulty- it was a goal to nothing in their favour- and at one period of the game it looked great odds against anything being scored at all. However, their supporters were satisfied at any rate so far as the result was concerned, if they were not compensated with a display of the highest class, the points were there, and that is the main consideration. In coming off victors, Everton were thus enabled to wipe out the defeat they sustained at Ewood-park in October last by a goal to nothing. Everton's prospects of retaining their present enviable position are decidedly improved by the misfortune that happened to Small Heath, who up to Saturday were only a point behind the Goodison team, with a match in hand.
ANTICIPATIONS.
The 20,000 or so spectators were not rewarded with a brilliant exposition of the game. Anticipation were in the direction of the Dark Blues on their own ground romping round the Rovers, but as it proved there were entirely dispatched. Balmer was away at Middlesbrough playing in the international match, his brother filling his place, whilst Blackburn could not avail themselves of either Wolstenholmes who was also playing for England, or Crompton, who was still on the injured list. With two such experienced footballers away, the Rovers were, if anything, in a worse plight than their opponents. Settle's inability to play at the last moment through his injury caused vacancy on the home side, which McLoughlin was called upon to fill.
MONTONOUS PLAY.
It was soon apparent that the Evertonians were not going to have matters their own way, and after the opening stages there were promising attacks by the visitors. Roose was twice called upon, and it was at this point that signs of weakness were first seen in the home defence, though it improved later on. After this the game was fought on fairly even lines for a time, though if anything, the Reds (The Rovers had donned red jerseys) were the more dangerous in their rushes. There were occasions when through the persistent efforts of Sharp, Young, or McDermott, the Rovers goal was placed in extreme jeopardy, but somehow or other the necessary goal never came. The latter portion of the first half was in favour of Everton, who however, failed to turn the advantage to good account. The game worked its weary length along for some time after the teams had crossed over with nothing scored. McLoughlin put through from McDermott's centre, but to the chargin of the home supporters he was offside. The Dark Blues did not seem to be playing with the smoothness and efficiency which, one expects from them, much of it was erratic, and invariably made absortive when the Rovers halves came to be encountered. In the last ten minutes, however, they asserted themselves, pressing forward several hot attacks on McIvor, and at length Sharp gave the Everton supporters a welcome parting tit-bit with a splendid goal, he having niceltly taken the ball from the foot of Cameron.
COMPARISONS.
Sharp's customary brilliance had only really shown itself in the closing stages of the contest. The goal he obtained seemed to inspire him, and from then until the final whistle blew he was a thorn in the Rovers side. Before, this, however, he was not so effective as usual, allowing himself more than once to be easily robbed of the ball by Dewhurst and Cameron. About the Everton forward play as a whole was a lack of cohesion, the passing was capable of improvement, whilst the shooting was capable of improvement, whilst the shooting was never deadly. Hardman on the left put in some nice touches, and McDermott occasionally got in some pretty centres. The Rovers halves seemed to be a more effective set on the day's play than the Everton trio. They checked many a promising move, and allowed their opponents little latitude. Makepeace however, tackled in splendid style, a fort also applicable tom Crelly. R.Balmer also proved his usefulness. The Rovers forwards were neither better nor worse than the home quintette. Whittaker was one who exerted himself most, and required watching, and Bowman was oftentimes effective. Roose was never seriously tested, his vis-à-vis McIvor having a far more anxious time. Teams: - Everton: - Roose, goal, R.Balmer, and Crelly, backs, Makepeace, Taylor (captain), and Abbott half-backs Sharp, McDermott, Young, McLoughlin, and Hardman, forwards. Blackburn Rovers: - McClure, goal, Cameron, and Moir, backs, Dewhurst, Bradshaw, Whittaker, Pentland, Bowman, Smith, and F.Blackburn, forwards. Referee Fred Kirkham

BLACKBURN ROVERS RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 2
February 27, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 26)
In view of Blackburn Rovers lowly position in the table it was expected that Everton would secure both points as the result of their visit to Ewood-park. They did fairly well, however, in dividing the points, considering they were not at full strength. Dilly and Thornton early gave Everton a two goal lead, but Turner scored for the Rovers before the interval. In an even second half Duckworth secured the only goal, and placed his side on level terms. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Wildman, and Kerr, backs, Hanlin, Chadwick, and F.Littlejohn, half-backs, Rankin McLoughlin, Thornburn, Caldwin, and Dilly forwards.

CAPS FOR WALTER BALMER, W SCOTT, AND McCARTNEY
February 27, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Ireland played England, and have yet to defeat in an Association game. On Saturday game at Middlesbrough, they did the next best thing to winning, they managed to draw 1 goal each. Everton players figured in the match, While Balmer and Ex-Evertonian wolstenholmes appeared for England, the sister Isle had the assistance's of Scott, and McCartney, aswell as Sheridan, and Kirwan the ex-Evertonian. More over Sheridan scored for Ireland, while an experienced judge expresses the opinion that Scott was the best man of the field. Yet of the six men named, Balmer is now the only regular member of the Everton League team.

DRAW AT EDOOD
Lancashire Evening Post - Monday 27 February 1905
Blackburn Rovers only secured a draw against Everton Reserve consequent upon an indifferent opening. For the first 20 minutes the visitors had all the best of matters, and by that time had obtained a lead of two goals. It is true one of their points came from a miskick by McDonald, but not until then did the Blue and Whites start seriously. After this stage they never looked behind, and right up to the finish, Kitchen and his colleagues had an anxious time. But only twice were they beaten, and the game ended in a draw. Kitchen was the savoir of the visitors, for he made numerous brilliant saves. The Rovers tried a new centre in McAllister but through he played a fearless game, he did not show good form. The most conspicuous attackers on the Rovers side when the two extreme men. Duckworth on the right, and Dawson the Crosshill amateur, on the left both of whom shot and centred well, and were always too good for the Evertonians, Watson was also good in shooting. The halves worked well together, and the defending trio, apart from the miskick by McDonald were reliable.

EVERTON IN TRAINING.
Lancashire Evening Post - Tuesday 28 February 1905
Yesterday, Everton in the course of their preparation for their English Cup-tie with Southampton visited Northwich, and again indulged in a brine bath. Twelve players and their trainer made the journey being accompanied by Dr. Whitford. Settle, who is nursing an injury, was an absentee.

ALFRED MILWARD
Portsmouth Evening News- Tuesday 28, February 1905
Alfred Milward, the ex-Everton, Southampton, New Brompton, and Reading player, is now located at Southampton. He is playing for the Southampton Cambridge F.C., the leading team in the local junior League.