Everton Independent Research Data
A LONG LANE
February 2, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton have done so badly against Portsmouth in their pre-war games that the long line of defeats –several of them very heavy ones –must surely come to an end soon. With 14 points from their last ten matches, Everton have proved themselves a vastly improved side in the last couple of months. Whether that improvement cam be continued on the ground of a side of Portsmouth caliber remains to be seen. Portsmouth may not have lived up to the expectations of their followers this season, who had entertained hopes of a third successive League championship, but they are not an easy lot to beat at Fratton Park. Liverpool won there a couple of months ago and as Everton later defeated Liverpool with a considerable margin to spare, Everton’s chance would look reasonably bright if football form worked out on the same unalterable lines and euclid’s’s propositions. Luckily for the Pools punters it doesn’t. Everton will do well if they bring back a point, if they win it will be their third successive away victory. Portsmouth; Leather; Stephen, Ferrier; Scoular, Gaillard, Dickinson; Harris, Reid, Clarke, Phillips, Gaillard. Everton; Sagar; Moore, Rankin; Grant, Jones, Farrell; Fielding, Hold, McIntosh, Potts, Englington.
Everton Reserves v. (Bury at Goodison Park 3.15) RM Taylor; Clinton, Saunders; Donovan, Forshaw, Lello; Harris, Lewis, Catterick, Hampson, Buckle.
FOUR-MINUTES GOAL BLIZ HIT EVERTON IN SEE-SAW GAME AT PORTSMOUTH
February 3, 1951. The Liverpool Football Echo
Portsmouth 6, Everton 3
By Contact
Portsmouth; Leather, goal; Stephen and Ferrier, backs; Scoular, Froggatt and Dickinson, half-back; Harris, Reid, Clarke, Phillips, and Gaillard, forwards. Everton; Sagar, goal; Moore and Rankin, backs; Grant, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Fielding, Hold, McIntosh, Potts, and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. W.B. Rogers (Birmingham). The pitch was heavy and looked certain to churn up badly. Portsmouth played their Belgian signing from Crystal Palace, Gaillard, at outside left. Everton were as they were-in a league sense. Among the Everton directors present was Mr. Harold Williams – still the incorrigible follower of the club despite the fact that be is convalescing after a serious illness. Everton played in white. Gaillard with a useful through pass to Phillips began well, but Jones read his intention splendidly and intervened at the critical moment. A second or two later Gaillard was giving Sagar his first test with a low and none-too-easy ball to take. Hold charging down a clearance by Froggatt passed to McIntosh and was put clean through in the inside right position. He shot too quickly and yards wide. Yet, Everton were to score after seven minutes, McIntosh had forced a corner from Froggatt , and Fielding pulled his cross so cutely the big McIntosh made it a perfect heading change. Even so, there was not a great deal of pace about the effort as it found the net just under the bar. Clark had smashed a great shot inches wide when a minute later a free kick from Scoular brought the equalizer. Clarke caused this on to Phillips and although Sagar came out and stretched out to try to deflect the ball, he could not make it. Reid all but through found Sagar bravely coming out to his feet to make a desperate pick-up.
Lively Portsmouth
Portsmouth became enlivened after this quick recovery and Dickinson from far out hit a magnificent shot on the turn. This flew wide of the angle and Sagar must have been relieved. Portsmouth were in the middle of a sustained attack, and Reid got a corner from a good Sagar save, and then headed over from the corner kick by Harris. Fourteen minutes had gone of this eventually match when Phillips chasing a cross ball parallel with the penalty box confine, turned his shot so sharply that all including Sagar were bamboozled by it. The ball in the end had hardly the power to cross the line, but it did just inside the post. Everton’s only real attack for about 10 minutes produced a shot from a fine angle by McIntosh. He hit it so hard Leather could not escape conceding a corner at the foot of the post. A classic intervention and an immediate clearance by Rankin led to Hold equalizing at 18 minutes. Froggatt misjudged the flight of the ball, and Hold, anticipating it better, went on all alone and with all the impudence in the world rammed home a wonderful shot. Four goals in 18 minutes –and the likelihood that there were plenty more to come. Froggatt’s work at centre half was patchy and uncertain and with Leather mishandling the ball occasionally Everton were near to going ahead again. McIntosh hit the same spot from an Eglington centre, after Fielding had indulged in a lovely controlled cross-field run with the nicest of passes to his outside left. In a game of near misses Galliard, by unorthodox means found a shooting opening and hit the side netting with a shot which seemed to take Sagar’s by surprise.
Oh, So Near
Everton by degrees were settling down to play good stuff, having weathered that first 10 minutes storm and regained some of their poise. Galliard at his most practical nearly brought another goal to the Everton debit. He opened the way so completely that Phillips had all the time in the world to make his centre. Sagar got his hand to this but it spung over his shoulder and was on the point of becoming a goal when Farrell had his big clearance kick. Farrell edged one away again from the goal line off a Galliard centre shortly afterwards and Sagar happened to be right on the spot to take Clarke’s close in shot which came as a sequel. It was a game which came in surges of supremacy – first to one side then the other. If all the good chances of the game had been taken the score would now have been about 6-6. Portsmouth’s turn on top produced so many shots and menacing centres that Sagar was the busiest man on the field. His judgment was excellent. It had to be. Scoular’s free kick –the decision of a foul against Farrell was as bad one, I thought –had Sagar mishandling but the ball went for a corner. A great run by Harris –half the length of the field –ended in Sagar saving from Reid when all seemed lost. Eglington from McIntosh pass, after Fielding had done all the prompting hit a grand shot close up but Leather produced the save.
Half-time; Portsmouth 2, Everton 2.
When the teams had lined up for the second half the referee ordered that a new ball be brought on. Eglington exploited a cross-field pass very well and it was remarkable that so little came from these openings. Moore with a delicious pass to Fielding opened up an inward path for the player but to all Everton’s dismay his centre fell far behind.
He Pooxled
Farrell riskily kicked away a big shot with Sagar standing immediately behind him and then he let one pass so Sagar could make the pick-up. Jones was playing extremely well and Moore opened well in the second half. Forwards had all the advantage on such a day and they were making good use of them. It was not surprise when Harris, at 61 minutes, inched and edged the ball to his liking and then shot it home for a nice goal. Froggatt tend McIntosh fell in collision and the referee ruled a free kick to Portsmouth. Potts was so determined in his protest that he caught the referee’s arm and had to stand and take a warming. Worse followed. At 64 minutes a Harris cross was headed in by Clarke and Moore was adjudged to have handled the ball over the angle. But this decision across only after the referee had consulted a linesman. Farrier scored from the spot. Straight from the kick-off, Reid made it 5-2. Thus the astonishing tale of Portsmouth’s wins against Everton was maintained and judging by the way Portsmouth were playing they were going to rub it in still more. By this time however both teams were pretty well pumped out. Harris had to leave the field for attention but was quickly back. But Everton narrowed the issue with a Potts goal –the lead being from Fielding’s lofted through pass –at 70 minuets. By this time the mud was sticking like glue and all progress, except on the extreme wing areas was a plugging business, Everton still had thoughts of a draw, and Eglington’s along the bar centre caused Leather some worry before he put it over the top. Everton claimed against this one probably on the grounds that Reid pulled himself up into scoring position over the back of an Everton defender. Everton fought on to the bitter end to narrow the margin and went close to doing so. And so were Portsmouth in the Everton goalmouth with a sixth goal –this one to the head of Duggle Reid from a Galliard centre. Final; Portsmouth 6, Everton 3.
EVERTON RES V BURY RES
February 3, 1951. The Liverpool Football Echo
Everton Res- R.M. Taylor, goal; Clinton and Saunders, backs; Donovan, Forshaw, and Lello, half-backs; Harris, Lewis, Catterick, Hampson, and Buckle, forwards. Bury Res; Evans, goal; Fairclough and Hayman, backs; Jackson, McPherson and Bardsley, half-backs; Heaney, Worthington, Mansey, Daniel, and Speele, forwards. Referee. Mr. G. Ollerton (Preston). Everton stepped into the lead after ten minutes, Harris putting well out of Evan’s reach. Bury retaliated strongly and two fine shots by Daniel were well dealt with by Taylor, who was displaying grand form. Everton were the better side and Buckle and Harris proved fine wingers. Half-time; Everton Res 1, Bury Res nil. Bury got on level terms, Daniel netting a fine goal. The game was now a scrappy nature, but the visitors were unlucky in not taking the lead when Daniel hit the crossbar. Full time; Everton Res 1, Bury Res 1.
PORTSMOUTH 6, EVERTON 3
February 5, 1951. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Leslie Edwards
And so to recollections of Portsmouth and their 6-3 defeat of Everton. I propose in view of Portsmouth’s appearance at Anfield next Saturday, to tell you of then latest discovery, the Belgian outside left Galliard. At the time of Dunkirk he was a boy refugee from the Nazis, and it was a doubt lucky break for him that he should reach England.
Recommended By Player
Having learned to like football at school, he was on the books at Crystal Palace. Then he went to Tonbridge. It was Clarke the Portsmouth centre forward who linked up with him so well, against Everton who first confirmed the up received by manager Bob Jackson, that here was a player worth having. Portsmouth took a second look at him, and then last Wednesday Bob Jackson went to see Tonbridge at Gillingham, and was so impressed by Gailland’s first half hour he brought him on the spot. If he can reproduce anything like the form he showed against Everton he is a potential great. But what do Portsmouth do with Froggatt when Flewin their captain and centre half becomes fit again? Though their position is still unhappy, Everton are likely I think to secure their position finally in their next two matches, both at home and Manager Cliff Britton is hardly likely to consider making any change as a result of a 6-3 beating. For two thirds of the way at Portsmouth no one could say which way the game would go indeed Everton played some grand football on an unresponsive pitch for long spells. In the tacky mud it was a splendid game to watch –hard, exciting, with plenty of scoring and opportunity for four or five other goals had either attack been a more punishing. Everton led Portsmouth equalized and went to 2-1. Then Everton made it square and finally Portsmouth had a three goal five minute spell, which broke our hearts. Even then Everton finally made it 6-3 and wound up with a last five minutes rally which all but produced 6-4.
Bigger Stronger
Portsmouth’s bigger and stronger X1 were able to snatch the initiative at the vital stage when they stood 2-2 and several of Everton’s most open attacks not only broken down, but broken in such a way that Portsmouth were able to surge through to the other end immediately. No one would want to detract from Portsmouth rally – and all the goals I thought were good ones – but some of the referee’s decisions were puzzling not only to spectators but to Everton, who seemed to get on the wrong end of so many of them. Though beaten Everton did so much that was right one can hardly do other than praise them. They were beaten in a good game and never stopped trying when the tendency must have been to call it a day and leave Portsmouth to cavort alone, through the mud and murk. Goals in order of their arrival McIntosh, Portsmouth (2), Hold, McIntosh, Phillip, Portsmouth (2), Hold, Harris, Portsmouth; Ferrier, Portsmouth (penalty), Reid, Portsmouth Potts, Reid, Portsmouth.
BILTZKREGS
February 5, 1951. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Everton’s hopes were bright at Fratton Park when McIntosh made full use of those Langling corners from “Nobby” Fielding to nod home a leading goal in seven minutes. This was however followed by the first of two Portsmouth “blitzkriegs” which brought two goals from Phillips inside six minutes. Hold’s equalizer four minutes later was a bonny effort and for the remainder of the first half Everton if anything were the more impressive combination, especially in their quick movement of the half into the open space. Twice within a minute Fielding and McIntosh beat goalkeeper Leather only to miss the target by a matter of inches. “They were still moving sweetly for a spell in the second half, that I thought the turning point in this incident packed game came around about the 50th minute McIntosh bore out to the right to force a corner of Ferrier. His header from Fielding’s corner was mishandled by Leather and Potts leapt in only to hit the ball over the angle with his hand. I feel that had Everton gone in front at that stage they might have gone forward in hit the jackpot for six instead of Portsmouth. From that time onwards Pompey’s strength on the ball on the churned up surface told its tale. When Clarke and company get the bit between their teeth they take a tremendous amount of stopping and while the Everton defender although find it hard on the glue like turf.
BLUES WILL COME BACK
February 5, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton have slipped a bit but they will “come back” (write Contact). They must succeed in their mission if they continue to play as well as they did at Portsmouth. Discount the impression that 6-3 was a disgracing result and take it from me that no one could say, for a good two –thirds of the ninety minutes how the result would go. The reason for the swing to Portsmouth was probably because they had the edge for size and for ability to last out a grueling match on very heavy turf. With two home game in succession. Everton must win both to complete the season –long drudgery of saving their status. I think they will do it and that we shall see them to better and better when their load of responsibility is finally removed. No one could complain of either side’s football in the circumstances. On the contrary the match lacked nothing. There was good goals, fluctuations in the scoring, and a fight to the end by an Everton who would have consoled themselves and their followers had they snatched a fourth goal in the last five minutes. If all the chances in the game had been taken the score would have been nearer 10-7 than 6-3. Besides their goals –and Hold’s was a particularly good shot –Everton enjoyed at least three other moments when they seemed certain to score. They were the equals of Portsmouth in all respects for the greater part of the game. Often one can sense a turning point, and in this one it seemed to come when Everton three or four times “fell down” on good open attacking movements which looked most likely to succeed. The ball came back quickly into the other goal and three goals in five minutes by a Portsmouth crazily enthusiastic over the turn of events, and over their new Belgian winger, Gaillard turned the game inside out. I would not be critical of any Everton player. They not only played well and got three goals in an away fixture but seemed to get the raw edge of some odd decisions. Fielding was particularly good in the first half but Eglington’s supply of cross-field stuff in the second half often came to a sticky end on the right wing. That Sagar’s for the most part, sound judgment and Pott’s foraging should get so little reward, on such a plugging ground was hard. Rankin played well, too, indeed there was nothing wrong with Everton that a normal ground and a little better luck in finishing cannot be put right.
MANY HAPPY RETURNS
February 6, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Many happy returns to Ted Sagar Everton’s goalkeeper, who tomorrow celebrates his 41st birthday, yet contrives to remain as youthful and agile as ever. It was a lucky day for Everton when Hull City, after giving Sagar a trial lost his address and neglected to give him the second chance they had promised. Ted was sent along to Goodison by one of the club’s North-Eastern friends and signed for them on March 26, 1929, so that next month he will have completed 22 years service with the Blues. No club ever had a more capable custodian or a greater loyalist. He has been an ideal player in every respect. When the time does come for him finally to hang up his boots I trust that his wonderful service will be suitably recognized. The League Management Committee can be counted on to look on any such proposal with a kindly eye, for the domestic side of the game would be shorn of much argument if it had more of Sagar’s type. Ted has taken part in 442 Football League promotion –and-relegation matches for Everton, 32 cup-ties. Dozens of tour and charity games, and well over 100 war time regional games. He has won all the honours possible in the game and established himself firmly in the affections of all football followers. “We are all proud of Ted’s record,” said manager Cliff Britton. “He has been an example to all in the game always putting the club’s interests before his own and he still retrains the same zest for football, that he had when he first started.” Good hunting for the future Ted. May the years ahead pass as highly over you as that which have already gone. Here’s wishing you and your family all that you could wish yourself.
EVERTON’S TEAM
February 8, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Sagar’s “Birthday Present”
Ron Saunders Turns Pro
Ranger’s Notes
For their friendly game against Notts County at Meadow Lane, Everton will gave Ted Sagar a well earned birthday present in the shape of a day’s rest. The Irish boy O’Neill who did so well earlier in the season, take his place and elsewhere the side is unchanged. Everton should drawn a good crowd at Nottingham where they have not seen a First Division eleven except in an occasional cup-tie for many years apart from war-time regional games. Everton; O’Neill; Moore, Rankin; Grant, Jones, Farrell; Fielding, McIntosh, Potts, Eglington.
Everton Reserves (v. Huddersfield Town at home 3.15) R.M. Taylor; Clinton, Saunders; Donovan, Humphreys, Lello; Harris, Lewis, Catterick, Hampson, Parker.
Lawton’s New Role
Tommy Lawton will play at inside left for the County. McPherson being given a further run in the middle after his impressive showing at Goodison. There are also other experiments in the home team as Simpson moves to left back and Chapman and Adamson return. Team; Notts County; Smith; Dean, Simpson; Chapman, Leuty, Adamson; Broome, Sewell, McPherson, Lawton, Johnston.
Everton Signing
Ronnie Saunders
Ronnie Saunders one of the most promising young centre forwards on Merseyside has signed professional forms for Everton. Saunders who is just 18, 5ft 8 ½ in, and 12st 13lbs. He is due to join the Army next week, so that Everton will only have his help occasionally for the next years or so, but he will return to Goodison when he has done his term of service. Saunders got four goals for England in the youth international against Scotland at Kilnarnock on Saturday, thus bringing his total for the season to 49 goals, 39 of which have been scored in Everton’s “A” and “B” sides. A product of Birkenhead Park High School with whom he gained his colours for Rugby and cricket and did well in athletics. Saunders once had a short trial with Tranmere but decided to throw his lot with Everton last season in order to be with his uncle George Saunders the Goodison full back. He seems to have a great future before him once he get downs to full time training and regular games.
EVERTON’S FRIENDLY
February 9, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton will fill in their blank date with a friendly game against Notts County, at Meadow lane, when the only change will be that O’Neill comes in to give Ted Sagar the rest which he has so well earned. Everton should prove a big attraction at the Midland Club’s ground, and this fixture provides an opportunity for the Blues to further perfect their team work and Combination, which has improved so much since Manager Cliff Britton made certain alterations and the absence of injuries has enable of him to field an unchanged side for so long. Notts County; Smith; Dean, Simpson; Chapman, Leuty, Adamson; Broome, Sewell, McPherson, Lawton, Johnston. Everton; O’Neill; Moore, Rankin; Grant, Jones, Farrell; Fielding, McIntosh, Potts, Eglington.
EVERTON THE BETTER TACTICIANS
February 10, 1951. The Liverpool Football Echo
Watch Kept On Lawton
Early Goal
Notts C. Nil. Everton 3
By Stork.
Rather a comfortable victory for Everton who were the better tacticians but the County suffered a blow when Deans had to go off. Lawton was uncommonly quiet. Notts County; Smith, goal; Deans and Simpson, backs; Chapman, Leuty, and Adamson, half-backs; Broome, Sewell, McPherson, Lawton and Johnston, forwards. Everton; O’Neill, goal; Moore and Rankin, backs; Grant, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Fielding, Hold, McIntosh, Potts and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. J.G. Williams (Arnold).
Lawton, former Everton international, was at inside-left for this friendly game with his old team before a crowd of about 25,000. Everton’s team was unchanged from that which met the County at Goodison, but there were changes in the County eleven. Some of the football was of top-class quality. The display of Lawton was keenly studied. At 27 minutes Everton took the lead through a goal by Hold, who was perfectly placed by McIntosh. So far Grant, about the size of Lawton had kept him well under his thumb, but there were other danger points in the County attack so that the Everton defence had to be on its toes all the time. Everton were slightly the better tacticians for they used the open space to better advantage. With the slightest bit of luck Everton might have held a three goal lead at the interval for Hold had another glorious opening when he shot over. O’Neill made a daring save when he threw himself at the feet of Sewell to snatch the ball from the Notts man’s toe. Lawton as an inside forward did not appeal to me thus far. The best of the Notts attack was Sewell, but on balance Everton were well worthy of their interval lead. Half-time; Notts County nil, Everton 1.
More Menacing
The County looked a more menacing side in the second half and O’Neill had bring off yet another good save from Broome. But the County did not maintain their more aggressive policy and Everton took command once again. One of the best movements of the game came unstuck when Fielding shot tamely for Smith to make an easy save. Everton, however, were able to increase their lead at the 68th minute when Eglington glided home with the side of his head a perfectly placed centre by Fielding. The County lost the services of Deans after ten minutes of the second half, and they played Johnston in his place. It was only natural that Everton should take command. At times they simply walked their way through but their shooting was not in line with their approach work. With five minutes to go Eglington took up a pass from Farrell and, with a left foot shot, chalked up Everton’s third goal of the day. Attendance 20,832.
Everton had been the dominant party for the last half hour, but I cannot close without mention, of Broome, who had been the one bright forward in the Nottingham attack. Final;- Notts County Nil, Everton 3.
EVERTON RES V HUDDERSFIELD RES
February 10, 1951. The Liverpool Football Echo
Everton had much the better of the exchanges in a fast game in which the Huddersfield goal had two narrow escapes with great shots by Harris and Parker. Huddersfield, however, played fine football but Clinton and Saunders worked well in conjunction with Taylor. The Everton amateur goalkeeper, R.M. Taylor, had to leave the field through what appeared to be a twisted knee and Clinton deputized. Half-time Everton Res 0, Huddersfield Town Res 0
In the 58th minute Huddersfield took the lead, when Morgan, firing in a long range shot, completely beat Clinton.
EVERTON NEARLY BROUGHT HOME THE POINTS
February 10, 1951. The Liverpool Football Echo
Peter Farrell Writes;-
Everton’s efforts to move away from the danger zone received a serious setback at Fratton Park where Portsmouth decisively beat us 6-3. I do not intend making excuses for such a heavy defeat, which I am sure came as a surprise to our supporters in view of our recent performances but I can assure you it was not as bad as it looks. Up to midday through the second half we looked as if we might come away with a point or two. However, they slammed in three goals in the space of a few minutes and although out lads fought on gallantly to the end, it was a losing battle from them on. I don’t think there is any danger of us being dishearted by this reverse and with two home games coming up consecutively, against Chelsea and Fulham, we hope to get back on the winning path again and move further up the table.
Lello In Training
Our supporters will be very glad to hear that Cyril Lello is back in full time training with us again after spending a few weeks at a rehabilitation centre near Wolverhampton and I know we all hope that it will not be long until Cyril is his old self again and fighting for his placed in the first team. Eddie Wainwright has also some of his long road to recovery behind him. He has had more than his share of misfortune during the past couple of seasons and hears it all with a smile. Although it will probably be a long time before he is in action again, we all hope will be sooner than expected as we sadly miss the services of two such grand club men as Cyril and Eddie. Apart from their football abilities you would want to know them ultimately as we do at Goodison for realize their value to the club.
Sagar’s Birthday
During the week we had occasion to congratulate Ted Sagar on yet another notable achievement –that of celebrating his 41st birthday while still in football. There is nothing unusual about a man reaching 41, but there certainly is when that man is still able to command a regular place in League football at his age. It is getting monotorious but pleasantly to congratuting Ted on his many achievements and judging by his recent performances, it looks as he has many more in store. It is amazing how popular golf is becoming among professional footballers. Nearly all our first team and most of the reserves are very keen golfers and although we have not many stars among us we certainly like it very much. I very often the club takes us out to a local golf course for the day as part of bun-training. It is a grand change from the general routine of our weekly programme, and it affords us some very beneficial and relaxing exercise in contrast to the more strenuous work necessary to have us in the peak of condition for Saturdays. Most of us take full advantage of a couple of afternoons early in the week to have a round also I would like to mention here that the Everton club pays for all our golf any time we wish to play on any links we like. Of course this is only what we have come to expect from a club of Everton’s prestige and standing, and is only in keeping with their general treatment of their players.
Younger Players Progress
It is very pleasing to hear that grand progress most of our younger players are making in the reserves and in the other sides attached to Goodison. I can assure you that the youngster element at our club among the full time professionals are, for the most part, a grand crowd of young lads and, judging by the enthusiasm they put into their training it will not be long before some of them will be staking a claim for a place in the first team. Unfortunately all the young fellows who start off on a professional career cannot make the grade. It must be very disappointing for and lad who has his mind set on becoming a top-class footballer to find he is not quite good enough. Those who cannot make good in First Division football, however, have outlets in other directions, and the experience they gain while with a top-class club stands them in good stead in a lower sphere. I was delighted to hear that Laurie Hughes had such a grand game last week, I am told that by his display he proved that is almost his old self again, so here’s hoping that he will find again the form which made him England’s number one centre half, and which we all hope will make him his county’s first choice for their next international.
HOLD SCORERS ON HIS OLD GROUND
February 10, 1951. The Evening Express
Eglington Increases Blues’ Lead at 68th Minute
By Radar
Everton delighted the Nottingham folk with a display of stream-lined football, in the return “friendly” against the County at Meadow Lane today. An unselfish pass by McIntosh, who led his line brilliantly, and who was never mastered by Leuty, enabled Hold, who formerly played for Notts County, to open Everton’s account against his old colleagues in the 27th minute. Despite the fact that little was seen of Lawton in the first half, the County had their share of the play, and O’Neill, who is rapidly gaining in experience, deflected at least three top-class saves. County lost the services of Deans their right back, with a knee injury in the second half and Eglington headed a picture goal from Fielding’s centre in 68 minutes. All Everton’s younger element had a good day but neither winger struck his best form. Eglington scored a third for Everton five minutes from the end. The County tried Simpson at left back, and Chapman resumed at right half. The only change in the Everton ranks was the substitutes of Jimmy O’Neill for Ted Sagar, who was rested. Conditions were as near perfect as they could be and there was a sizeable crowd to greet Everton. Notts County; Smith, goal; Deans and Simpson, backs; Chapman, Leuty, and Adamson, half-backs; Broome, Sewell, McPherson, Lawton and Johnston, forwards. Everton; O’Neill, goal; Moore and Rankin, backs; Grant, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Fielding, Hold, McIntosh, Potts and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. J.G. Williams (Arnold). Lawton, making only his third appearance in the inside-left position, was soon in the picture, but he was over strong with his attempt to “find” Johnston. Then Lawton and McPherson paired of to enable Sewell to move forward and drive narrowly wide of the near post from an awkward angle. After a quiet start, Everton began to go to work and a lobbed forward pass by McIntosh almost led to an opening goal, Smith just managing to beat the in running Hold to possession. Simpson was hurt in tackling Hold, but was able to resume after attention. Then the Potts-McIntosh link up sent Eglington away, but his first time shot flashed across the face of the goal. Everton kept up the pressure and a side header by McIntosh was pick up by Hold who hit a tremendously hard drive on the half volley.
Looked Winner
It looked a winner all the way, but Smith flung himself full-length, and just managed to parry the ball in great style. When County eventually broke clear, McPherson was rather slow to appreciate the possibilities of Johnston’s inside-header. He gained a corner all the same. This was taken by Lawton and placed perfectly to the far post, but O’Neill pulled it down confidently. Another County raid saw McPherson take over from Sewell and let go a fierce acute angled drive, which O’Neill did splendidly to edge round the post. This was attractive fare in every respect and now Rankin’s long clearance eluded Leuty, but Hold, in striking in on the volley, only succeeded in kicking the ball wide of the far upright from no more than six yards. So far the terrier like Grant had kept Lawton unusually quiet, but Tommy suddenly sprang into the picture, with a beautifully placed drive, which was sailing just underneath the angle of the bar when O’Neill came from nowhere to affect a superb save. Again went Everton, for McIntosh to find Hold a gilt-edged chance near the penalty spot, but Hold delayed his shot the vital second and was dispossessed. It seemed from the Press box as if Hold had been pulled down from behind, but there was no strong claim for a penalty from the Everton players. Everton continued to serve up delightful on-the-ground football but Fielding over-hit his centre, when McIntosh slipped the ball out to him. McIntosh was leaving his line with the utmost enterprise, and he played a vital part in a leading goal to Everton in 27 minutes. Full back Simpson with all the time in the work to clear, elected to pass back to his goalkeeper but did not hit the ball hard enough, and McIntosh who was hovering near took possession and squared the ball for Hold to race in and gave Smith no chance with a low drive. This was indeed a grit goal, for the Blues, but it provided a sample of quick thinking by McIntosh who originally have tried to shoot from an awkward angle instead slipping the ball aside to Hold. Everton were almost completely in command but when the County defence clear, O’Neill had to dive daringly at Sewell’s feet to prevent an equalizer. In the next minute Fielding’s dropping shot caused Smith concern and the County goalkeeper, just succeeded in tipping the ball over the bar. From Fielding’s corner Farrell raced into his vicious first-timer a yard wide with Smith scrambling. Gradually the County began to have a bigger say and Moore appeared heavy in his tackle of Lawton a yard inside the penalty box, but there was no award from the referee. County’s Johnston found the ball running from him at close range when however swept it across from the opposite side and a good chance went begging. A perfect Johnston centre was met strongly by Broom with his head, but with O’Neill beaten the ball sailed the wrong side of the post. Everton should have increased their lead when both Adamson and Simpson failed to intercept a long pass, Smith saved the day. Even Leuty went up to support Lawton and McPherson for the second or two quick corners to the County, but O’Neill, who had given a grand display was equal to all calls. Half-time Notts County 0, Everton 1
Everton were first to make progress on resuming but McIntosh in trying to convert a through pass from Farrell, only succeeded in dropping the ball behind. A second goal came Everton’s way, however in the 68th minute. Eglington swept the ball across to Fielding and then cut into the middle to beat Smith with a perfectly directed header from Fielding’s accurate centre. County tried hard to make an impression on the Everton defence, and another choice Lawton through-ball gave McPherson a great opportunity. He hit the ball hard, but into the side netting. A short-passing duel between McIntosh and Fielding should have brought a third goal, but Fielding drove wide from no more than five yards. Final; Notts County 0, Everton 3.
EVERTON’S SEVEN-UP ATTACK
February 12, 1951. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Stork
Notts County 0, Everton 3
This game was not nearly so attractive as the first game at Goodison Park and Everton’s victory did not give a true reflection of the superiority. They might very easily have run up a dozen goals instead of three. Not even the inclusion of Lawton could help stave off the inevitable defeat which faced Notts County almost from the start. Yet O’Neill made magnificent saves in the first half hour, some of them as good as any I have seen. Lawton produced nothing of the form that took him into England’s international team in fact, I have not seen him so ineffective. An inside forward is expected to fetch and carry, Lawton did neither. Having made his pass he stood and watched its effect instead of backing up. He did have one shot at goal and O’Neill made a miraculous save. There may have been an element of luck about it but that the young Irish goalkeeper got his hands to the ball to send it over the bar is sufficient acknowledgement of his prowess. Sewell, McPherson, and Broome gave O’Neill plenty of good practice and O’Neill gave me the impression that he is gaining in confidence.
Farrell, Grant
Pin-pointed the reason for Everton’s success I would place my finger on Farrell and Grant. They hacked up splendidly and I would like to see them do it more often. What is more the forwards responded to their promptings. At times there seven Everton attackers. McIntosh had the whip-hand of Leufy more often than no and Leuty will have to produce something better than this to oust Laurie Hughes, of Liverpool, from the English team. True County were hard hit Deans had to leave the field after the interval for he had been the most reliable defender and kept Eglington in subjection but with retirement the Irish winger came along with two goals to augment Hold’s first half rocket-shot. Hold should have had others against his old comrades –at least-three. Fielding was much too strong in his use of the ball, sending many behind but taken all through the Everton team played sound constructive football win as they liked in the end.
MASTERLY O’NEILL
February 12, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Considering that Everton won their friendly with Notts County 3-0, and should have made it much more convincing it may seem strange to say that their goalkeeper, O’Neill had the more saves to make then his vis-a-viz, Smith in the opposition goal, but that is the plain fact (write Stork)
Notts were nothing like so good as they were at Goodison Park, not even with Tommy Lawton in the attack, for they did not show the enterprise not skill in the second meeting. Had Everton run up half-a-dozen goals, and they should have done, they would not have been flattered, for they played the County out of the game in the second half when Eglington with two great goals –head and foot-augmented Hold’s first half goal. But let me tell you of O’Neill. This young Irishman is getting better and better. He was as confident as a Sagar when the County were slashing in all manner of shots at him –good shots too –but he dealt with them all in masterly style. McPherson, Broome and Sewell all had a go at him, but he stood defiant to everything they leveled at him. He put the zeal to his ability when in the second half he parried a point-blank shot by Lawton and turned it over the bar. Lucky? Yes a little but, nevertheless a magnificent effort and one which made Lawton stroke his sleek hair in amazement. I thought Lawton would change places with young McPherson after the interval for “Mac” did not impress as in the previous meeting. I still think there is plenty of scope for improvement for I don’t consider he got the best of support. He was well held by Jones but the County attack did not use the open spaces with the same skill as Everton. McIntosh took Leuty all over the field yet there was a man in the place vacated as witness Eglington’s goal from inside right. The Everton forwards interchanged with rare effect, but the two men who stood out in my view were Farrell and Grant. They backed up their attack wonderfully well making the pass and then running into position for the return. Such tactics had the County defence unsettled but it was not until Deans – their best defender –had to leave the field that Eglington came into his best with two goals to consolidate Hold’s first half goal. The Everton inside forwards will played well but after seeing Grant and Farrell in such grand prompting mood I would like to see them do this more often in League matches. Lawton had a poor game. He is not an inside forward on this shooting, although he sent out some nice passes but instead of following up he stood and watched their effect. Nottingham and district are all for Leuty in the next England team. Not on this showing, for McIntosh not only beat him in the air, but on the ground too. He will have to show something better than this –only a friendly I know –to keep Laurie Hughes’s name out of the England team to meet Scotland. Broome was by far the best of the County attack with Sewell a good second. Rankin played the “veteran” exceptionally well in fact the whole of the Everton defence –all youngsters –are coming along very nicely thank you.
EVERTON VICTORY AGAINST CHELSEA WOULD STREGTHEN THEIR HAND
February 15, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
For the tenth successive competitive game, including the Cup-tie at Hull, Everton will field an unchanged side when they entertain Chelsea at Goodison Park on Saturday, as Sagar takes place of O’Neill, who kept goal in last week’s friendly game at Nottingham. This will be one of the most vital games the Blues have played for the past couple of moths. Victory to Everton would mean that Chelsea, who are two points worse off but with three games in hand, would then be four points below them. Everton also have home games against other relegation candidates later in the season, namely; Fulham, Aston Villa, Sheffield Wednesday. They are also away to Sheffield Wednesday on the last Saturday of all, though long before that time. If Everton play as well as they have been doing in the past couple of months, they should be well clear of danger. They have taken 14 points from their last 11 matches, and have scored 17 goals to the oppositions 18 it was a pity about the half-dozen Portsmouth slipped past them. But for that, the goal average would have been considerably more favourable. Everton; Sagar; Moore, Rankin; Grant, Jones, Farrell, Fielding, Hold, McIntosh, Potts, Eglington.
TWO POINTS TO EVERTON TOMORROW WILL HELP A LOT
February 16, 1951. The Evening Express
Fielding Doubtful; Buckle Stands By
By Pilot (Don Kendall)
Everton will be engaged in a vital bottom-of-the-table battle with Chelsea at Goodison Park tomorrow. Chelsea are two points behind the Blues, and only fourth from the bottom, but they have three matches in hand of Everton to whom victory is important. Nine of the players who have brought about the recent Everton revived will be on duty. Fielding pulled his back in training and is doubtful. If he cannot play Ted Buckle deputises. Chelsea come seeking a “double” having won 2-2 when they met at Stamford Bridge sparkling under their FA Cup dismissal from their rivals Fulham. Billington comes in to head the Chelsea attack and Hinchelwood the Pensioners new outside right from Fulham, will be on duty. Chelsea have won only two away games this season, but they were recorded at grounds were Everton lost –Charlton and Portsmouth. Everton have lost no fewer than seven matches at Goodison this season, but if they can’t produce the form they revealed when defeating Liverpool at Anfield, then Chelsea will be defeated. There should be an abundance of good constructive football in this game which makes a note, starts at 3p.m. to allow Chelsea to catch the evening train back to London. Everton; Sagar; Moore, Rankin; Grant, Jones, Farrell, Fielding, Hold, McIntosh, Potts, Eglington.
Chelsea; Pickering; Winter, Hughes; Armstrong, Harris, Dickson; Hinchelwood, Williams, Billington, Bentley, Campbell.
DOUBLE-EDGED VICTORY?
February 16, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Everton’s Chance against Chelsea
Ranger’s Notes
Victory for Everton against Chelsea tomorrow will have somewhat greater significance than usual, for it would peg back one of Everton’s chief competitors in the struggle to get away from the bottom half of the table. Like Everton, Chelsea have been too long identified with the lower rungs of the post-war football ladder for the comfort of their followers in the last four years they have never once been in the upper section of the chart at the end of the season. In the absence of an early improvement, they look destined to suffer the same fate this campaign. Weaknesses in attack, have been their greatest trouble. The defence has not been at all bad, apart from those occasional lapses which the best of sides suffer now and again. Chelsea have been going a little better lately than in the earlier part of the season, when at one period they were bottom of the chart with only six points out of 13 games. They have suffer defeat only once in their last seven League outings, five of which have been at home. Their full return from opponents grounds is limited to two wins and to draws out of 12 games. Due to having ricked his back slightly in training. Fielding is a rather doubtful starter if he is not fit, Buckle will take his place. Kearsley, a 17-year-old former Runcorn outside left, has now signed professional for Everton. Everton; Sagar; Moore, Rankin; Grant, Jones, Farrell, Fielding, Hold, McIntosh, Potts, Eglington.
Chelsea; Pickering; Winter, Hughes; Armstrong, Harris, Dickson; Hinchelwood, Williams, Billington, Bentley, Campbell.
HALF-BACKS PUT BLUES ON ROAD TO VICTORY
February 17, 1951. The Evening Express.
Grant, Farrell, Both Find Net
Chelsea Never Took The Goal Chances Hinshelwood Provided #
By Pilot (Don Kendall)
Goals by wing-half-backs Grant and Farrell placed Everton on the victory trail in their vital match at Goodison Park against Chelsea today. Both clubs were battling to get away from their lowly positions, but there was no doubt that Everton were the more commanding force. Chelsea refused some glorious openings early on when Hinchelwood was in his brightest mood. Chelsea should have had an early goal, but once the Everton matches began to rotate there did not appear to be any danger. Grant scored two minutes before the interval with a 35 yard free kick which skidded through a group of players into the net and in 51 minutes Farrell added a second with a great shot. Hold made it three in 88 minutes. Everton; Sagar, goal; Moore and Rankin, backs; Grant, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Fielding, Hold, McIntosh, Potts, and Eglington, forwards. Chelsea; Pickering, goal; Winter and Hughes, backs; Armstrong, Harris and Dickson, half-backs; Hinshelwood, Williams, Billingham, Bentley, and Campbell, forwards. Referee; Mr. F.L. Overton. Everton were almost on the collar from the start, for Hinshelwood moved too quick for Farrell and darted inside to place the ball back across the floor to the in-running Billington who, however, failed to make contact. Harris but cut out Hold’s pass to McIntosh before the ball ran nicely for Bentley to move forward and from 18 yards, a flash a terrific left foot shot over the top. Everton were in luck’s way after McIntosh’s quick swerve had outwitted Harris only for the pass to go astray. Petrograde play opened up the way for Hinshelwood to go through and square pass the ball to Bentley, Bentley missed the ball completely and Campbell then lobbed far beyond the goal to Hinshelwood again. Sagar ran out and flung himself in front of the ball, that being sufficient to end a menacing attack. Eglington’s inward run brought in Fielding who centred to the far post for McIntosh to make a flying header over Harris, but the ball hit the side netting. Hinshelwood was creating sufficient chances for Chelsea to have been nicely in the lead, and after Pickering had Hold Farrell’s fierce drive, Hinshelwood raced through almost in the line before pushing the ball back to Billington. Billington task was near enough but he failed to get hold of the ball properly. Hughes rescued Chelsea when Potts went through at inside-right. Than Hold was fouled on the edge of the penalty area, but the free kick faded out after Eglington had tried to improve on it.
Penalty Appeal
Fielding and McIntosh changed places delightfully and from McIntosh’s centre the ball came back to Fielding who let go with his right foot. Pickering leaping up to turn the ball over the top for the first corner of the day. Everton were justified in their appeal for a penalty when Hold was pushed in the back by Armstrong but referee Overton took seconds to make up his mind and then waved play on. Hinshelwood forced a corner which was cleared by Hold, who with the help of Fielding went right through to make a cross shot which Pickering saved low down. In keeping with the pace of this game, away went Chelsea for Billington to let go a right foot shot to which Sagar flung himself to divert and then clear. There was little wrong with these Chelsea backs who kept such perfect positions that even Everton’s choicest passing movements broke down rather disappointingly. Everton had another escape when Bentley’s first centres to which Sagar came out, spun between his hands, over his shoulder and away towards goal where Moore was positioned to ensure that no damage was done. The game was now showing a tendency to become scrapper but the coalitions had a lot to do with this, Hold and Fielding combined well for Hold to centre from the line only for Harris to prevent Potts getting to work with his head. Pickering was lucky when Hold made a fast centre which was spreading to McIntosh. Pickering leapt out and got one hand to the ball and it spun away to safety. A free kick led to Everton taking the lead in 43 minutes through Grant. Potts had been fouled just beyond the 10-yard circle and Grant took the free kick. Grant lobbed the ball into the goalmouth. Potts raced forward, and all Chelsea ever were on Potts. Consequently Pickering was beaten when the ball suddenly dipped, touched the turf and scooted into the net. Half-time; Everton 1, Chelsea 0.
Pickering To Rescue
Chelsea reopened brightly but once again Hinshelwood’s centre along the floor skidded past attackers and defenders alike to safety. It was Pickering who prevented Everton from increasing their lead when McIntosh calmly brought the ball back around Harris, and then shot from 15 yards with his right foot. Perfectly positioned, Pickering was able to bend down and take the ball in both hands. This was splendid anticipation when it looked odds on a goal. Farrell secured possession and went through as if to shoot. Instead Farrell slipped the ball aside to Eglington. Eglington drew Winter and then pushed the ball back again for Farrell to go on and score with a terrific right foot shot, the ball going into the roof of the net. Farrell’s leap of delight even exceeded that of Grant’s when he scored. Everton defied Chelsea’s had for a goal by strength of tackle and speed of invention and then went away for Hold to almost make it three, the positional sense of Pickering making possible a save where none seemed likely. Twice only desperate interventions held up McIntosh when Harris was finding difficult to Hold. McIntosh beat three men and then brought Fielding into action but Pickering dashed out to catch high up. It was remarkable how the players were maintained the terrific pace under such bad conditions. Billington had a go with his right foot but from a Sagar nicely positioned as had Williams just before. Billington who throughout had repeatedly been changing places with Bentley to try and bewilder Jones shot from 35 yards the ball skimming the top. Everton continued a command but were experiencing difficulty in getting the ball through on the ploughed up ground against such a strong defence. Potts was getting through a tremendous amount of work being always there to support the defence and yet had time enough to be there to fling his weight into the attack. Dickson not for the first time became an attacker and he went through with a fast right foot shot which Sagar saved at full length with no little difficulty, before we were thrilled by Eglington’s fifty-yard run. Everton continued to make attack the best defence to bring about their first home win of 1951 , their almost reduced the lead when Billington shot bounced awkwardly for the saving Sagar. The ball went off his chest to Bentley who shot first time but Sagar slung his arms in the way and saved. In 88 minutes Hold increased their lead to three with a Potts centred goal. Final; Everton 3, Chelsea 0. Official Attendance 33,005.
GRANT’S “CANNON-OFF-THE-SLUSH” PUT EVERTON ON VICTORY ROAD
February 17, 1951. The Liverpool Football Echo
Everton 3, Chelsea nil
By Contact
Everton; Sagar, goal; Moore and Rankin, backs; Grant, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Fielding, Hold, McIntosh, Potts, and Eglington, forwards. Chelsea; Pickering, goal; Winter and Hughes, backs; Armstrong, Harris and Dickson, half-backs; Hinshelwood, Williams, Billingham, Bentley, and Campbell, forwards. Referee; Mr. F.L. Overton. Chelsea, for half the game, played well and enough to promise to win, but once Everton got in front they became the better side and finished up right on top. Nevertheless, 3-0 was too wide a margin to represented the game as it was played. Chelsea’s finishing was terribly weak. Everton; Sagar, goal; Moore and Rankin, backs; Grant, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Fielding, Hold, McIntosh, Potts, and Eglington, forwards. Chelsea; Pickering, goal; Winter and Hughes, backs; Armstrong, Harris and Dickson, half-backs; Hinshelwood, Williams, Billingham, Bentley, and Campbell, forwards. Referee; Mr. F.L. Overton. Chelsea made several forward changes, Williams coming in at inside right and Campbell moving to outside left with Billington taking the place at centre forward of Smith (R.). Among those present was Mr. B. Howard-Baker, who as an amateur, kept goal for Everton and Chelsea in between spells of winning British high jump championships and keeping goal for Corinthians. Everton found that Fielding’s back injury had improved to such an extent that he was fit to take his place. Farrell in the first minute, in trying to use the ball, rather than punt it for a straightforward clearance, in Hinchelwood, who shook off all challenges and delivered a low centre of much menace. Fortunately for Everton no one was up to collect this chance.
A Cracking Shot
A cute inside pass by Armstrong to the light-haired Williams, who invariably seems to catch the eye here made Williams way so plain that he was able to go forward a few yards before hitting a cracking shot over the bar. So far Chelsea were playing more like league champions than potential relegationists. From a through Farrell pass Hold made a perfect feint to half open the way for Eglington but his pass was faulty. There followed another telling run by Hinshelwood who instead of shooting as everyone anticipated he would, turned the ball across the face of goal to Campbell’s whose lobbed centre looked like beating Sagar. The goalkeeper, however, stretched hard and high and turned the ball away towards the corner flag, where Hinshelwood was certain to make a second centre. Sagar’s anticipation in getting from goal to smother Hinshelwood was as valuable as his one-handed save had been.
McIntosh’s Header
Pickering’s first work was to field a low and tentative shot by Hold. Almost immediately afterwards Eglington with a lateral past enabled Fielding to centre to the far post, where McIntosh made a praise-worthy effort to head a goal. Dickson got a body blow when struck by a clearance by Grant and had to match to the line accompanied by the Chelsea trainer for a few minutes. Meanwhile, Grant had nearly been involved in a penalty against Campbell –the free kick was given only a few feet outside the box and Farrell made a too direct shot which Pickering fielded easily. Hinshelwood had improved 100 per cent since he played for the Army against Everton at Aldershot three years ago. Today he was fast and full of ability and was always ready to turn the ball across goal rather than waste chances by the use of fine angled shots.
Good Fielding Effort
From a headed clearance Fielding made one of his ready good shots and Pickering did well to turn the ball over the bar. Chelsea did even better to find the referee waving play on when Dickson moved Hold with a charge from behind when standing well inside the penalty box. Everton were not playing nearly, so well as at Portsmouth and the story looked as though it might be the same. The bigger and stronger side in the mud, looking the more likely winners. Another good chance came to the feet of Billington but after turning the ball sharply to his right foot and delivering a hard cross shot he found Sagar bringing off a beautiful save. There was another escape for Everton when Bentley, drifting to outside right hit across a centre so fiercely that Sagar who tried to make a catch only turned the ball over his shoulder and towards his own line. The ball was spinning close to the post when Moore picked it up to save Everton further anxiety. Everton claimed a penalty again when Armstrong and Potts tangled when going for an Everton free kick and Potts was the one who came down, but the referee again refused Everton’s request. Williams shot the ball just over the bar after a Bentley shot had rebound. Fielding made some telling passes, none more so than the side-footed one which gave Potts an open invitation to go forward and shoot at his leisure. He was right on the mark, but so was Pickering to make a first-rate save. Everton were close to a goal when Pickering palmed down Hold’s shot and Winter was only just in time to Hold off Eglington as the winger came in to pick the ball up. Right on half-time from a free kick in the centre circle, Grant lobbed the ball in, and to everyone’s surprise bounced once and then skidded to the far corner of the net. Half-time; Everton 1, Chelsea nil.
The Chelsea defence in the early moments of the second half was far from certain, but again Hinshelwood became the danger this time when he crossed a low ball which beat both Billington and Williams at a moment when either could have scored had they managed to connect.
Pickering’s Wonder Save
Everton would have gone two up but for a wonderful save by Pickering, McIntosh caught the defence at sixes and sevens and unhurriedly moved the ball to his liking and came into lethal range before decideding to make his effort. It was a good shot, but Pickering with the tips of his fingers, brought off a remarkable fine save. It was Pickering who denied McIntosh by going full length to push away a dangerous-looking centre. Then Everton scored again Farrell sent Eglington cutting in and when Eglington turned the ball inside the improve his angle at danger seemed to have disappeared. But instead of shooting, himself Eglington turned the ball back to Farrell standing plumb in front of goal, and Farrell did the rest with as solid a shot as he has ever made. Chelsea’s prospects now, with Everton playing immeasurably better, were as bleak as the weather which at the moment was bitterly cold with the say full of snow and drizzle.
Might Have Been Three
Potts could have made it three, but in common with many others his aim was at the goalkeeper rather than away from him. Though two down, Chelsea fought hard and well, but without much decision when they had worked the ball well to within shooting range. Rankin, with a pass-back which swerved almost out of Sagar’s reach gave his side a heart attack, and the Chelsea defence now became so flustered and slow that Everton looked dangerous every time they moved up en masse. With the game three parts old Chelsea did what they might well have done earlier. They played Campbell at centre forward, with Billington at inside right and Williams at outside left. Billington had been rather expensive for his missed chances, although twice in the last few minutes he made useful shot, the second of which threatened to creep between Sagar and the underside of the bar. Some of Chelsea’s tactics displeased the crowd and when Harris came through as an inside right and was dispossessed his enthusiasm out ran normal bounds.
Mud Taking Toll
It was hard and interesting football in bad conditions with the mud taking greater toll of stamina every moment. Much of Chelsea’s fire had departed but they still plodded away hopefully and there was always a chance of them securing a goal to open up the game. Fielding played trick with Welsh international full back Hughes and did almost as he pleased but Sagar misfielding a Bentley shot had a look lively to resume his grasp with the ball as Campbell came again. It was all Everton now and with any luck they would have added to their tally of goals, Jackie Grant of the Everton defence reverted in the going and in hard work. The most laughable goal came two minutes before the end, when Hold and McIntosh combined to make a goal for Hold. I have never before seen a centre forward stand so close and need three bites of the cheery. Final; Everton 3, Chelsea nil; Official attendance 33,005.
SCOPE FOR OPTIMISM ABOUT EVERTON FURTURE
February 17, 1951. The Liverpool Football Echo
By Ranger
As these notes are written before today’s Goodison game, and the ability to accurately foretell all results beforehand has not been granted to me – I should be a wealthy man if it had – I cannot say whether Everton’s position in the League chart by the time you read this has been improved or not. I hope it has been. Their recent form has encouraged hope that they are due for a further upward trend, and Chelsea previous away displays have hardly made the Pensioners look a particularly redoubtable lot. These remarks are speculative and Page one may falsify my opinion but I’ll take the chance. What isn’t speculate is the list of fixtures which Everton have still to fulfill and this seems an appropriate time to cast an eye over what the Blues have still to face before the season ends. Everton have double edged games against no fewer than five teams who at the moment are no better placed then themselves and in some cases worse off, and where victory to the Blues would serve to greatly enhance their own prospects. Four of these matches are at home against Fulham, Charlton, Sheffield Wednesday and Aston Villa –and only two Sunderland and Sheffield Wednesday are away. Apart from today’s match Everton have taken 14 points from the last eleven engagements. Assuming the same return from the remaining 14 matches that would given them a total of 37 points at the end of the campaign, plus whatever they have earned today. They might do better. It would be nice if they did. Taking an optimistic view they might beat the four anti-relegation candidates at Goodison and draw with Blackpool and Wolves giving them 10 points at home and average a point each away match, which would give them an aggregate of 39 again plus today’s return. Since the war no club has been relegated which has totaled 34 points. Several have got considerably less, such as Leeds United’s 18 in 1947 and Grimsby’s 22 the following year. Generally speaking 36 has been the total regarded as a reasonably “safe” margin. Everton should be able to reach that level at least, and possibly exceed it, assuming they maintain recent form with an encouraging margin. Everything is n the lap of the gods, but them are several sides in the bottom half of the table who have not been playing in anything like so well-balanced and effective manner as Everton since they started their revival campaign. Bar a sudden improvement, some of these are more likely to be concerned with the vital question of relegation than the Blues by the time the next half dozen games have been wiped off the list.
BURNLEY RES V EVERTON RES
February 17, 1951. The Liverpool Football Echo
Burnley Res;- McNulty, goal; Hayes, and Kirkham, backs; Rudman, Binns, and Martindale, half-backs; Shannon, Samuels, Clarke, Spencer and Lyons, forwards. Everton Res;- O’Neill, goal; Clinton and Saunders, backs; Donovan, Lindley and Lello, half-backs; Harris, Hampson, Catterick, Parker, Easthorpe, forwards. Burnley had the better of the first half, but were allowed little scope by the compact Everton defence, O’Neill made some stylish saves particularly a drop shot from Samuels. Everton took the lead in the seventh minute through Harris, who netted from a through pass from Catterick. Half-time; Burnley Res nil, Everton Res 1. Everton were constructive in their approaches. Easthorpe shot over and then A. Harris’s shot skimmed the crossbar. O’Neill was beaten with an 18-yard drive from Clarke which hit the upright, and seconds later the goalkeeper saved at full length from the same player.
GRANT GOAL FROM CENTRE-CIRCLE
February 19, 1951. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 3, Chelsea 0
By Leslie Edwards
Two of the goals were curiosities. The first from a centre-circle free kick by Grant raised a laugh from 33,000 anxious Everton followers, but was “agony,’ for Chelsea in general and goalkeeper Pickering in particular. This long, looping Grant effort skidded once on the tacky mud, which comprised the pitch, and passed on into the net untouched in fight. Pickering turned and looked at it with the astonishment of a station-master seeing the Up-3.35 (stopping at all station) racing at express speed through his station with never so much as a wave of the drive’s hand. The third goal, by Hold, was as badly taken as it was engineered. Hold completely kicked round the ball when standing almost on the goal line then he tried again and again he “did not get hold” of the ball. Finally, almost in desperation and when we were prepared to see him miss again, he lashed it over the line and took congratulations from McIntosh donor of the feats. Farrell’s goal, by permission of Tom Eglington, was a far far better thing. When everyone expected Eglington to shoot-he cut and carved his way through to the necessary opening –he slipped the ball back beautifully for his captain to crack in the best shot I have seen from him. So Everton go into the record books with a 3-0 win. Nothing like that was in my mind on, first impressions. The doubt was then that Everton would win at all, much less by times goals. But Chelsea treated good chances lightly. Billington on three occasions should have scored, but did not. The thorn in Everton’s left flank defence was the effervescent winger Hinshelwood, whose speed and directness took opponents by surprise, Hinshelwood, in this, his best spell, always played unselfishly and on his centres alone, Chelsea should have scored twice early in the game. For the first time for some weeks one sensed the horrible hush evident at Goodison Park when the League table tells an anxious tale and the other side is plainly on top. Everton for a long time were without inspiration and only when they went ahead did they begin to play well. Most of the best contributions until then had come from Chelsea. Remembering that the ball had to be lofted over patches of holding mud and that once it got in the air the gale was apt to affect its flight, this was a splendid game. Notable for Grant’s great work from end to end for McIntosh’s fine control of the attack and for some good goalkeeping by Pickering. Only when Everton led 2-0 and they tired of talking the ball towards goal, without producing the telling pass at the crucial stages of attacks, did Chelsea finally appear to give up hope. On this display they are far from being likely to be relegated.
GOALS THRILLS
February 19, 1951. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
We shall resumed this latest Goodison. Everton scored three goals, each had its special appeal, and with two centing from the wing half-back, it was something which pressed itself on the mind. I do not know who was the more surprised at the first the second Jackie Grant or the Chelsea McIntosh’s. From fully 25 yards Grant took a free kick, hopefully into the goalmouth, intent on locating an Everton head, Potts who throughout was so eager to contribute anything to help the side, and that movement proved the undoing of Chelsea. Harris, Pickering, and company watched Potts and so forgot the ball that it dropped, touched ground and skidded away into the net. Grant looked to make sure it was in; gave a whoop of delight and then waved in the spectators at the Bullen road side. It was Grant’s second goal of the season. Coming two minutes before the interval it must have had a big psychological effect on a Chelsea already showing signs of the strain of Everton pressure in the mud. Six minutes after the interval Peter Farrell scored a goal. Moving through quickly he found Harris barring his goal path, and so called on Tommy Eglington. Tommy moved inwards as it to make a shot, but quickly charged round and direction and spare passed the ball for Peter to run on to it and crack it into the roof of the net with his right foot. Yes, possibly the best thing in the game. The third from Oscar Hold had its touch of comedy. This was three minutes from the end after a long Pott’s pass from his own half it, set Hold and McIntosh on an accurate passing movement which spread-eagled Chelsea. Mc’s final pass left Oscar only a few yards from goal, with only Pickering to beat. A side flick and it would and it would be all over, but Hold wanted to make sure and he lashed out with his right foot, Dickson making some contact, the third effort, however saw the ball safely into the net. The ground and tricky wind nullified against progressive accuracy but Everton varied their methods of approach and they switched positions to a purpose. Chelsea switched positions to no purpose whatever but with the effect of taking all the rhythm out of the attack. Each Everton player know exactly what his colleagues would do, but each Chelsea player had to guess what a colleague would do or where he would be. Take away Pickering, Armstrong, Dickson and Hinshelwood, and you take away the Chelsea team as it appeared in comparison to an Everton moving lower than usual because of the mud, but invariably moving to good effect. Two saves by Ted Sagar were great yet Ted had long periods of complete inactivity. Moore had a splendid game without blemish; Rankin had his moments of anxiety early on when he found turning difficult, Grant and Farrell were masters of the tackle and disputing McIntosh’s leadership was a example to Chelsea, while Hold was splendid in the first half in use of the ball and essayed on to bit form again in the closing stages. Fielding and Eglington played practical football and Hold made sure that the defence and attack always were in contact with each other. Eglington and Fielding pulled a few tricks which Chelsea must have nerviest, as such as they did the spirit and enthusiasm of this 1951 Everton.
BUCKLE WANTS AWAY
February 19, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton have acceded to a request by Ted Buckle for a move and have told him that as they do not wish to stand in his way they are willing to consider offers.” Buckle who has been out of the first team since he was indisposed in November and Fielding took his place, would like to join a Southern club. He is a native of London. He signed for Everton at a very modest fee from Manchester United in November, 1949, and has since made 49 League and Cup appearances, scoring 13 goals. He played in all last season Cup-ties including the semi-final against Liverpool.
Points Not Glory
No team will ever satisfy everybody. A staunch Evertonian who recently was bemoaning the club’s lowly position but praising them for good football has expressed to me his disappointment as what he considered to be a very ordinary display against Chelsea. While agreeing that it did not equal some of their previous performances surely the vital thing was that it brought two points and lifted them a couple of places in the League table. Everton are not yet in a position to look a gift horse in the mouth. Granting that they had nothing much to beat after the first half though they do no more than win. Far better in their present situation to bag two points from a somewhat indifferent display than to shine like they did against Spurs or Derby and yet be on the losing end. Everton need the points, not the glory. We can leave the latter for time later date. It will be a long time before the Blues get two more fortunate goals than those scored by Grant and Hold. But that should not be held against them. They have had their share of Ill-luck in the past. A little bit of “jam” helps to restore he balance. In any case Farrell’s goal alone would have sufficed to give them victory and that was good enough for anybody. Chelsea began as though they were championship challenge rather than anti-relegations but even at their brightest they were shockingly wasteful of scoring openings. Once their early sheen had gone Everton were never in danger, and but for some good, saves by Pickering and over-eagerness in shooting, with the usual concomitant of poor direction, the Goodison lads might have won by an even greater margin. In the end Everton proved to have more method in attack and greater solidity in defence and that was what counted. Sagar twice found the greasy ball slip out of his grasp and make the crowd gasp, but that apart he was never in trouble. Rankin may not have been as impressive as he has been yet, he made no real mistake while the half-back line not only did its stuff well in defence, but got goals when the forwards were unable to find a way through. Fielding and Eglington were good, and if the inside men were not so hot when it came to shooting, at least their approach work was well conceived and executed. Rather more passes than usual went astray but that was understandable on the muddy and treacherous surface. Chelsea will need to improve on this form if they also mean to climb. The right flank was not bad, with Hinshelwood, ex-Fulham, the only real danger man. The rest of the attack was very poor. Bentley has gone right off, Harris was sound and Pickering did some good work to retrieve his early error. Hughes had a good half and then seemed to lose his confidence badly in the second portion.
Everton reserves Foiled the Reserves
February 21, 1951 Burnley Express
Says Scouter
Burnley Reserves 1 Everton Reserves (1)
BURNLEY gave the Everton defence tiring time at Turf Moor on Saturday, but it took the Clarets minutes to find the way to beat goalkeeper O'Neill, and then it was from the penalty spot. Most of the thrills came in the second half, when Burnley laid siege to the Everton goal, but weak finishing on numerous occasions much as the strong covering the Everton defenders robbed Burnley of a victory they really deserved. OPENING GOAL Everton were quick to take their chances and moved well in spite of the sticky pitch. Catterick proved too experienced for Binns. And after only seven minutes was the centre-forward who worked the ball down the centre and sent HARRIS away with through pass which the winger turned past the advancing McNulty. Time and again the Burnley defence was penetrated, and but for one lapse it always recovered in time. The Burnlev attack opened well and their first raid left the Everton defenders wondering what was come and the Burnley forwards claiming for a goal. O'Neill missed Samuels's drop shot as Clarke closed in to turn the ball on to the inside of the post. , The promise this first attack did not materialise, Everton settled to their defensive plan. Lyons and Spencer formed the stronger wing, but Clinton, good full-back, did not allow them much scope. Lyons had one of the best chances to score when from six yards his shot was acrobatically saved by O'Neill. The goalkeeper made some fine saves, but his weakness was drop shots, and from three corners from Lyons he was fortunate to keep his goal intact. Again O'Neill missed a corner-kick and Resented Shannon with the best chance of the match, but the winger headed over. EQUALISER The goalkeeper was eventually beaten by HAYES. Although he saved the full-back's penalty kick he was beaten when Hayes recoved the ball to shoot through at the second attempt. Burnley were awarded the penalty when a shot from Spencer hit Lindley's hand in the crowded Everton goalmouth. Clarke, who was lively Burnlev leader, had the greatest misfortune when his terrific 18-yard shot struck the upright. Despite the continuous Burnley attack in the second half, it was McNulty who made the save of the match—a flying one-handed save from the last minute. Burnley Reserves: McNulty: Hayes. Kirkham; Rudman. Binns. Martlndale; Shannon. Samuels, Clarke. Spencer. Lyons. Everton Reserves: O'Neill; Clinton. Saunders. Donovan. Lindley, Lello; Harris. Hampson. Catterlck. Parker. Easthope. Referee: Mr. T. Walker (Huddersfleld). Attendance: 3,864.
O’NEILL RETURNS
February 22, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton’s one change, for the friendly with Middlesbrough is that once again Jimmy O’Neill, the young Irishman, has a chance to show his goalkeeping prowess. Everton will have played the same side in all their three friendlies this season, with a clean bill of health; the choice of the other team was automatic. Sagar is quite fit, but it is felt that such a game offers good scope for O’Neill to gain further experience. Everton; O’Neill; Moore, Rankin; Grant, Jones, Farrell; Fielding, Hold, McIntosh, Potts, Eglington.
FOOTBALL’S OPTICAL AND OTHER ILLUSIONS
February 23, 1951. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Leslie Edwards
Two readers (one of who counsels me to take nothing for Granted from the directors stand) agree with my headline that Grant’s goal for Everton against Chelsea was kicked from the centre-circle. Everton manager Cliff Britton has spoken to Grant who thinks it was more or less where the Britton pencils marked it (mid-way between circle and penalty area) on the special pad he uses to sketch points at play during the game. So despite the fact that there were 33,000 people present the placement of the vital free kick is still not identified with certainty. Manager Britton adds; “If I were to ask eleven spectators to mark the spot, they would probably put it in eight different positions. “How true! That there can be optical and other illusions in football is too well established. I have known goals recorded when the ball has been shot into the side netting.
TREAT IN STORE?
February 23, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Goodison followers have another attractive “fill up” when Everton take part in their third friendly of the season, Middlesbrough providing the opposition. After their mid-week trip to Holland against the Borough are unlikely to exert themselves unduly, but there should be some good exhibition football, minus the hustle and bustle of league or cup war-fare. An interesting feature of the visiting side is that it includes Peter McKennanan, who will be making his first appearance in the Middlesbrough senior side after an absence of nearly a year, following as severe injury. ; O’Neill; Moore, Rankin; Grant, Jones, Farrell; Fielding, Hold, McIntosh, Potts, Eglington. Middlesbrough; Ugolin; Robinson, Hepple; Bell, Whittaker, Gordon; Delapenhia, McKennan, Spubler, Mannion, Auld.
Everton Reserves;- (away to Derby); Burnett; Clinton, Saunders; Donovan, Falder, Lello; Harris, Hampson, Catterick, Parker, Buckle.
FINER POINTS WERE LOST
February 24, 1951, The Liverpool Football Echo
Everton’s Game In League Spirit
Fielding Shines
By Contact
Everton; O’Neill, goal; Moore and Rankin, backs; Grant, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Fielding, Hold, McIntosh, Potts, and Eglington, forwards. Middlesbrough;- Ugolini, goal; Robinson and Hepple, backs; Bell, Whittaker, and Gordon, half-backs; Delapenha, McKenna, Spubler, Mannion, and Auld, forwards. Referee; Mr. F.H. Gerrard (Preston). It was wonderful to see Ted Sagar still doing his stuff, even though today he was only, assisting Harry Cooke. Nobby Fielding’s corner kick, which dropped on top of the bar, was a puzzling decision for the referee after Ugolini had slipped it over the top. He gave a corner, from which Eglington might easily have volleyed the ball home for a goal. Actually the ball passed across the face of goal and beyond the far post. McIntosh, clean through elected to pull the ball back rather than have a go himself and Gordon very nearly put through his own goal in steering the ball away from McIntosh and Hold. The best shot of the match to date was a half volley by Fielding, which Ugolini took comfortably. Another good Everton chance went West when Potts kicked right round the ball when standing slap in front of goal. Middlesbrough’s goal at 20 minutes –Mannion scored – was the result of spade work by McKenna who was being tried in his first game since he broke his leg. It was McKenna’s first contribution of note and all Mannion had to do was to beat O’Neill as he pleased. The match was fought more in the spirit of an ordinary league match than as an exhibition –a pity because the opportunity of showing us the finer points was lost. Fielding was having a particularly good time and so were the Middlesbrough wing halves, Gordon and Bell who are as good a club pair as one could find anywhere in the country. McKennan all but made another goal after feinting to shoot, and moving the ball four or five yards forward for Delapenha to hit a fast but wide shot, from a difficult angle. After half fielding at long looping ball from Rankin. Ugolini chased Potts to the edge of the penalty area, but having failed to regain the ball he had to return to goal quickly. Everton’s goal at 42 minutes was a good one. Potts put over the most acceptable of centres right along the ground and McIntosh slapped it home with a sliding movement of the foot. Half-time; Everton 1, Middlesbrough 1.
Fielding turned a ball back for Potts, whose shot sailed over the top. Ugolini unaccountably dropped a Fielding centre and was in no position to save a McIntosh shot, but both Whittaker and left-back Hepple stood on the goalline against the threat. Judging by the crowd’s criticism of the referee over one or two decisions, this might have been a cup final rather than a friendly match. The best move of the match was a sustained right wing one between Fielding and McIntosh, a beautiful round of direct passing, just like clock-work with Grant driving the ball wide of the goal with a long-distance shot. O’Neill made a splendid catch of a good free kick by Robinson and Middlesbrough rivaled Everton’s best football with moves which should have produced goals. Final; Everton 1, Middlesbrough 1. Attendance was 16,093.
DERBY COUNTY RES V EVERTON RES
February 24, 1951. The Liverpool Football Echo
Derby County Res; Brown; Barrowcliff, and Walker, backs; Mays, Bell, and McCachian, half-backs; McQuillan, Powell, Parker, Parry, and Mynard, forwards. Everton Res; Burnett, goal; Clinton and Saunders, backs; Donovan, Forshaw, and Lello, half-backs; Harris, Hampson, Catterick, Parker, and Buckle, forwards. Parkin made a flying dive to head in Powell’s centre and five minutes later. Brown was deceived by his high lob from Harris which dropped into the net over his head. Mynard scored for Derby after 23 runs and Derby kept on top until three minutes from half-time. Brown failed to told a shot from Catterick and Parker tapped the ball into the net. On the stroke of half-time Parry scored for Derby. Half-time; Derby County Res 3, Everton Res 2.
Three goals came in the first twelve minutes of the second half, Parker was again on the spot when the ball went loose after a misunderstanding between bell and Brown. Parry headed in a free kick from Mays to give Derby the lead again but this was short lived for within a minute Catterick raced through and beat Brown. Final; Derby County Res 4, Everton Res 6
• Bootle “A” 1, Everton “D” 3
EVERTON SPARKLE IN ATATCK
February 24, 1951 The Evening Express
‘Boro Lead at 16th Minute, But Blues Level
By Radar
Everton and Middlesbrough treated 16,000 spectators to a glorious display of attacking football in the first half of today’s Goodison Park “friendly.” Everton were the more forceful side in the early stages. The best scoring efforts were from the inspired Fielding. When the ‘Boro swung to attack McKennan slipped a perfect ball through for Mannion to score in the 16th minute. Not until the 44th minute did McIntosh place Everton on level terms. The only change in the Everton side compared with that which defeated Chelsea last Saturday was the inclusion of Jimmy O’Neill in goal, in place of Sagar, who was rested. Enjoying a “busman’s holiday” in the Press box was Arsenal’s captain Joe Mercer. Everton; O’Neill, goal; Moore and Rankin, backs; Grant, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Fielding, Hold, McIntosh, Potts, and Eglington, forwards. Middlesbrough;- Ugolini, goal; Robinson and Hepple, backs; Bell, Whittaker, and Gordon, half-backs; Delapenha, McKenna, Spubler, Mannion, and Auld, forwards. Referee; Mr. F.H. Gerrard (Preston). Everton might easily have taken a first minute lead, for straight from the off. Potts whipped not a perfect disgonal pass to the right, which Fielding promptly booked into the middle. McIntosh, moving in quickly, tried to hit it first time with a clear shooting space, but in actual fact he missed the ball almost completely. Twice in succession offside held up an Everton attack, which was moving briskly, after which a Mannion short-range centre caught the Everton defence on one foot, but the corner conceded by Rankin came to nothing. A corner kick by Fielding was so precise that Ugolini had difficulty in a punching the ball over the bar. From the second corner, McIntosh turned the ball aide for Eglington to race in and hit it hard and low with his left foot, but the ball sailed across the face of the goal.
Vicious Shot
At the other end, O’Neill had to leave his goal hurriedly to baulk Auld after Spuhler and Mannion had linked forces to open up the way for the ‘Boro left winger. There was no doubting the purpose and method of a scintillating Everton attack, and now McIntosh stood aside to permit Fielding to come in and let go a vicious right footer, which Ugolini did well to save, low down by the upright. Potts missed a glorious chance for Everton when he missed his kick from no more than six yards from an Eglington centre. In 16 minutes however against the run of play, Middlesbrough took the lead. McKennan up the Everton defence with a nice through ball which enabled the unchallenged Mannion to move forward and beat O’Neill at leisure. The Everton reply was determined and Gordon came along to beating his own goalkeeper with a back-header when Eglington lobbed one dangerously into the goalmouth. Everton came near drawing level when McIntosh took over from Eglington and turned the ball back for Fielding to his a tremendous drive, which appeared to shave the angle of the woodwork. There was a thrill in the Middlesbrough’ goalmouth when Whittaker headed backwards in tying to foil Potts, and Ugolini leaped sideways to make a remarkable save. The linesmen flagged for a corner, which, however, brought no Everton shot. Everton stepped on pressure and deservedly gained equality five minutes before the interval. Fielding sipped the ball up the wing for Hold to cut in and square the ball into the centre of the goalmouth. Potts failed to connect and finished up engaged with the goal netting but the ball rolled onwards for McIntosh to make no mistake from a couple of yards distance.
Half-time; Everton 1, Middlesbrough 1.
On resuming Everton might have scored almost direct from the kick-off for Fielding turned Eglington’s long range cross backwards, for Potts to hit a shot of great power narrowly over the bar, an effort which caused McIntosh to clap his hands in praise. Delaphena tried a savage first timer to round off a ‘Boro raid, but it curled well away from the target. Moore saved Everton’s a bacon when he nipped in to prevent, Auld capitalizing on a beautiful side flick by McKennan after Spuhler had moved to the right to join up with Delaphena.
Quick Shot
When Everton took the initiative again, Ugolini misfielded a free kick and it was fortunate for the ‘Boro that three defenders had dropped back to the goal-line to deal with McIntosh’s quick shot. The game was now rather scrappy. There were visions of a leading goal to the Blues when Eglington raced down the middle to a through pass from McIntosh and the Irishman seemed to be somewhat harshly treated when about to apply the finishing touch. Grant let go a cannon-ball shot from 30 yards but the ball swerved across the face of the goal. Final; Everton 1, Middlesbrough 1.
DUGGIE LIVINGSTONE
February 26, 1951. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Leslie Edwards
Duggie Livingstone, former Everton and Tranmere full back and Sheffield United trainer, who applied for the Liverpool job has signed to take over a coaching job in Jersey. When this ends he is likely to consider again a five year contract from Holland, a country in which he has already done spade-work. Some of the Dutch team which beat Middlesbrough last week were coached by Livingstone. When one considers the high standard put up by Middlesbrough and Everton in the friendly match at Goodison Park, it is odd that a man of Livingstone’s ability should need to go abroad to sell his talent.
EVERTON 1 MIDDLESBROUGH 1
February 26, 1951. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Leslie Edwards
There were three or four personalities in the Goodison Park game who made others look drab by comparison, though as a friendly, I suppose the match was entertaining enough. These were Messrs Mannion, Fielding, Bell and McIntosh with Mannion best of all. To sturdy his play at leisure with nothing at stake except the bonus was a special joy. The merit of his game is its fluency. There is never a moment where he gives the impression that his mind is being made up; like a Dean he senses the situation long before the ball comes his way. Like Dean too, he is moving into position a good two or three moves in advance.
Two Methods
Mannion has two main methods. The ball is passed direct with the sweep of a foot (it does not matter which) or is brought into subjection and made to do his bidding. One quick shimmy of the Mannion chassis and the half-back is going one way (the wrong one) and the ball the other. A great artist and I had the pleasant of congratulating him on his game at a moment when he was more concerned with discovering how Bishop Auckland had fared in the Amatuer Cup than in mercenary soccer. And now Fielding, Joe Mercer, says “He’s the best outside right in the game, kept Matthews” What a tribute to Fielding’s new (and enlightened) forward work. Not a move too many, nor too few good length centres hit with cut; passes on which there is sufficient drag to accommodate the speed limits of Jim McIntosh, who has slipped up the wing; a shot of strength and direction now and then and everything done artistically, easily and with no special physical effort. Add the dynamic Bell; the bidden arts of McIntosh and the return after long injury of that master of close footwork McKennan and the game provided many interests. But it was fought too much like a League match to be satisfying as an exhibition in which defeat and victory counted for nothing. Even the crowd’s censure of the referee added to the illusion that the score –would go down in the Football League book.
DERBY COUNTRY RES 4, EVERTON RES 6
February 26, 1951. The Liverpool Daily Post
Failure to play to the whistle spotted Derby County of victory after they had taken the lead four times. Twice in the last 12 minutes Everton forwards were allowed to rush through while the Derby defenders appealed for offside. Each time the trap was unsuccessful and Catterick and Parker scored. The last goal was a piece of unselfishness by Catterick who could have completed his hat-trick but preferred to pass to Parker, so that that player could score his third goal. A forward line which had Buckle as its most enterprising member did a grand job in equalizing four times and finally winning the game by opportunism. Scorces; Derby County, Parry (2), Parkin and Mynard. Everton; Parker (3), Catterick (2), Harris.
MANNION’S GENIUS
February 26, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Middlesbrough who had lost in Holland during the week came to Goodison Park on Saturday to fulfil a friendly match, and this time escaped with a 1-1 draw. Had either side pursued its chances punishingly there would have been other goals. Although nothing was at stake the game was hard-fought and was interesting with some lovely football by both sides. Two outstanding players were Mannion of Middlesbrough and Fielding, of Everton and one got to think how effective they would be as a wing. Fielding scarcely put a foot wrong and Mannion showed touches of genius. For Middlesbrough the game had special importance in that it was a try-out after a long spell of absence through injury of Peter McKennan. Though playing at half-speed for most of the game he did enough to suggest that all will be well in due course. Middlesbrough scored first through Mannion and Hold with a centre along the ground presented McIntosh with the equalizer.
BUCKLE IN EVERTON TEAM
February 27, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Victory For Everton Would Consolidate Their Position
Ranger’s Notes
Wednesday half-holiday folk have one of their rare chances of seeing a First Division match tomorrow when Fulham visit Goodison Park in a rearranged game which was originally down for decision last Saturday. This will be a vital fixture for both clubs. For Everton victory will mean another move upwards and their second double of the season, to say nothing of encouraging hopes that they may yet finish the season to the top half of the table. While I don’t like contemplating the possibility of defeat it has to be taken into consideration. It would be a nasty blow if it came for it would man that once again the Blues could be caught up by all except two of the clubs below them assuming these took maximum points from their outstanding games. At this stage of the season, and with so little margin dividing so many clubs in the bottom half of the table two points can make a big difference to a side outlook, particularly when they are gained at the expense of somebody lower down in the reckoning as is the case with Fulham. When they were at Craven Cottage in October, Everton created the surprise off the day by winning 5-1. Their attitude tomorrow may well be that what they could do away they can repeat at home I hope that belief is well founded if it is then at long last after much trial and tribulation. I think we can say that Everton are safe and sound for the rest of the season.
Blues Only Query
Everton’s only doubt refers to Wally Fielding, who is suffering slightly strained abdominal muscles. He is having special treatment in the new medical room, which has already so speeded up the return to fitness of other players that it is hoped for another success in Fielding’s case. Fielding has not made the anticipated recovery, and Ted Buckle will take his place. Sagar of course returns to the side which reads;- Sagar; Moore, Rankin; Grant, Jones, Farrell; Buckle, Hold, McIntosh, Potts, Eglington.
Fulham who have been staying at St. Annes since their cup-tie against Blackpool have one or two players suffering from minor knocks, but these are expected to recover in time for the Cottage to field an unchanged eleven namely;- Black; Bacuzzi, Lowe (R); Quested, Taylor, Lowe (E); Stevens, Bowie, Brennan, Jezzard, Campbell.
MR. THEO KELLY RESIGNS
February 28, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Everton Shock
Ill-Health Severs 21 Years’ Good Staff Work at Goodison
Ranger’s Notes
Mr. Theo Kelly, Everton’s secretary for the past 15 years, who has just returned to Liverpool after three months in a Manchester hospital, has intimated to the club his desire to relinquish his position on the grounds of ill-health. His resignation has been accepted. Mr. Kelly that joined the Everton staff in 1929 in charge of the “A” team and showed such enterprise and ability that five years later he was appointed assistant secretary. During the illness of the late Mr. Tom McIntosh he took charge of all the office affairs in very efficient manner, and to February 1936, following the death of Mr. McIntosh, he was appointed secretary. He continued in this role until March, 1946 when he took on the dual task of secretary manager. The double duty took considerable toll of his strength for he was a man who never spared himself. On top of that, he had the further anxiety that the side was not doing well in a playing sense due to inroads caused by the war and the fact that many of the pre-war players were getting on in years. Just over two years ago, with the appointment of Mr. Cliff Britton as manager, Mr. Kelly again confined himself to secretarial duties alone. These he has always discharged in a very competent and thorough manner, though during the past year or so he has been handicapped by ill-health. He will be missed by many regular Evertonians, and also by the players to whom he was always approachable and considerable. This marks the second major resignation in the city’s football government since the New Year and closely follows the departure, also through ill-health, of Mr. George Kay from the managerial chair at Anfield.
McINTOSH ON TAGET
February 28, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Buckle Opens up the Way
Everton Lead
By Stork
Everton; Sagar, goal; Moore, and Rankin, backs; Grant, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Buckle, Hold, McIntosh, Potts and Eglington, forwards. Fulham;- Black, goal; Bacuzzi, and Lowe R.), backs; Quested, Taylor and Lowe (E), half-backs; Stevens, Bowie, Brennan, and Campbell, forwards. Referee; Mr. T.W. Rand (County Durham). Many looked upon Fulham’s visit to Goodison Park today’s as vital to Everton’s safety for a win over Fulham would be tantamount to four points instead of two, due to the positions of the two teams in the table. It was a glorious afternoon. Neither side announced a change and there were all the ingredients for a tasty dish. The Everton attack was soon in working order, and they ripped a couple of holes in the Fulham defence without actually finding a hole to beat the Londoners goalkeeper. Potts was in one of those gracious moods when everything he did was done correctly and with the slightest bit of luck Everton might have been a couple of goals up in the first ten minutes. The play of the inside forwards was such that the Fulham defence could not have done much about it had Hold, who had gone forward in anticipation of the Potts plan, found the shot to beat Black.
A Lively Pair
Sagar had to watch with care a long dropping ball from Jezzard but tried and trusted Ted with his one hand safely put the ball away over the angle of the post. Bowie and Stevens were a very lively pair, but so far the main honours for goal making efforts went to Everton. Potts received the ball close in from Eglington hit it instantly obviously without looking, and his crackerjack shot went straight into Blacks hands. Buckle showed good form and one bit of “linework” was the work of an artist. He offered Potts a goal scoring chance. The former Burnley man swept his foot at the ball but kicked round it, and another reasonably good chance went astray. Fulham were handicapped by the bright sun, but they more than once had the Everton defence struggling in its own penalty area. Potts made an overhead goal attempt and the greatest save of all went to Black. I did not think it possible for him to get across his goal to prevent a McIntosh shot from crossing the line, but he did, and brought off a really sensational save. Not to be outdone, Sagar accomplished one of equal merit when he stopped a Bowie shot, which was speeding into the far side of the Everton goal.
Bowie Delights
There was some excellent passing and Bowie’s canny play was a delight and a menace to Everton, so that Farrell was only to glad to concede a corner. Bowie too saw a shot of his strike Jones and drop just behind the crossbar. From an equal angle Hold got in a fierce shot which Black could not Hold and the ball left his hands and passed behind him. Some thought the ball had crossed the line, but as Black was standing a yard or two out of his goal, this could not have been so. The Everton goal had an escape when Bowie put a ball into the goalmouth, and Fulham would have taken the lead had not Rankin dashed in to kick clear. In the next minute Sagar lost possession and it was only by good fortune that Brennan did not take full advantage. Again Rankin saved. Bowie cracked a shot over the Everton crossbar. Everton replied with a quick dig at the opposition defence, and Buckle shot across the face of the goal with no one at hand to apply the finishing touch.
Interval Miss
Just on the interval McIntosh and Eglington linked up in a movement which looked like providing Everton a goal and it was worth a goal, but McIntosh’s fierce shot flashed inches outside. Buckle might have provided an interval lead but it was not to be. Half-time; Everton nil, Fulham Nil. Everton started an immediate quest for a goal and Black was soon in action as was Sagar, when he had to save near the foot of the post from Stevens. Farrell offered Eglington the opportunity to deliver a long centre, which Buckle took on the volley, and hit a crack-jack shot, but Black made a grand save. A minute later the Fulham goalkeeper had no chance from a McIntosh goal from close quarters, Buckle having provided the pass.
February 1951