STOCKPORT V. EVERTON
January 1, 1917, The Liverpool Echo
Friendly Match on the County's Ground. This friendly match was played today at Stockport. Clennell scored twice for Everton, and Peck once in the first half. Half-time; Everton 3, Stockport County 0
Immediately after the resumption Rodgers scored for Stockport. End.

BEE'S SPORTS NOTES.
Liverpool Echo - Monday 01 January 1917
Yes. Liverpool have got into their stride and would seem that our clubs are more certain of victory away than home, invert on, for example, should have beaten Southport Central on the run of the ball. Ninety per cent, the attacks came from Everton's much-strengthened forward line, yet Wright was not unduly pressed, albeit there were times when he brought off some fine catches of hot.
A Winged Forward.
Chedgzoy's return to the forward line lent such interest and his natural centre, judged and timed a nicety, should have brought goals.  But Clennell was not in his best stringing  trim, and with Blair damaged and Peet sometimes wasting good chances the Everton line became ragged, and played into the hands of stocky defenders representing Southport. Some of Chedgzoy’s runs were thrilling, and centres were such that was a pity schoolboys were not present to take the lesson to heart. He does not bang the ball —he places it. He screws back with deadly accuracy, and rarely puts ball behind—one the greatest faults of present-day wingers. Nevertheless, Chedgzoy is not a rutty player. His one sweeping pass to showed Peet that, fact plainly jefferis lent Sam much assistance. 
Lively Shrimper
To the team capable drawing against such a strong side as that fielded Everton, one must award much merit. Southport cannot be blamed for Everton's lack of direct shooting. To Southport one must give credit for sterling defence and a wealth of good half back play, Abrams in particular getting through a tremendous amount, of work. little Caulfield was hard to hold, but Schofield did not get much change out Fleetwood and Smith. Rigsby made a good full back when clever Wright had to leave the field, and maybe Rigsby is a full back and doesn't yet know of it.  Hooper and Clennell were the scorers, and if Mitchell had had any work to keep him warm up to concert pitch, I don't think the cross shot of the Nottingham winger would have beaten him nineteen times out of twenty. As a match, there was a fair amount of interest in it, but in the main lost chances in or around goal were blots, and Chedgzoy's reliability was the prime feature, together with the work of Wright in goal and back, and Abrams.

EVERTON DRAW
January 1, 1917,. The Evening Express.
By C.R.L.
And they should have won. For about sixty minutes of the game the ball was bobbling about in the Southport half of the field. After Clennell had beaten W. Wright with a finely-judged shot in the first half the Central goalkeeper and backs were being worried almost constantly, and it seemed “money for nothing” that the visitors would go away empty handed. But the boys from Southport were full of “sand” ad in a breakaway Caulfield passed back to Hooper, who found the net with a slashing drive. When Central's left full back, “Dossy” Wright, went off a few minutes before time, Chedgzoy nearly did the trick, but in the end Southport went off with a point. This was largely due to their sterling defence, W. Wright “keeping” with great skill, whilst the backs and Abrams strove valiantly against heavy odds. Chedgzoy signalised his return-he was home on leave from the Grenadier Guards –by some very deft touches, and Clennell gave Wright some hot shots to deal with. The Halves generally had the Southport vanguard well in hand, ad MaConnachie and Smith kicked with precision. Except for a few long drives, Mitchell had a restful afternoon.

CLENNELL'S FOUR GOALS
January 1, 1917. The Evening Express
Everton's Friendly with Stockport County
Lively Game at Goodison
Fleetwood put the Ball into His Own Goal.
By C.R.L.
Everton wasted no time in getting to work in the New Year, and as if they had not had enough football during the festive season, fixed up a friendly on the “pooling” arrangement with Stockport County. There are so many ex-Everton players in Stockport that the game was bound to be a good attraction; in fact, since Stockport rose to the senior ranks the matches between Everton and the Cheshire team have aroused keen interest. The teams were;- Everton; Fern (captain), goal; Smith (West Brom) and MaConnachie, backs; Fleetwood, Wareing, and Bradbury, half-backs; Chedgzoy, Jefferis, Kirsopp, Clennell, and Harrison, forwards. Stockport; Evans, goal; Goodwin and Robson, backs; A. Waterall, Fayers (ex-Blue), and Stuart, half-backs; Crossthwaite, Gault, (ex-Blue), Garrett, Nuttall (ex-Blue), and T. Waterall, forwards. There was nothing of the “Up late last night” about the opening exchanges and in the first minute MaConnachie and Gault, in attempting to head the ball crashed their oreheads together, and had to come off for attention from the trainer. The County men soon showed their determination to have a happy New Year at Everton's expense, if it was possible to do so.
Visitors Draw First Blood.
After four minutes T. Waterall opened the score for them from short range. Everton endeavoured to get going, and both Kirsopp and Chedgzoy gave Evans something to do. There was a surprising incident when the game had been in progress ten minutes. Fleetwood was being bustled and passed back to fern without having noticed that the keeper was running out to his assistance, , and in consequence Fern was taken by surprise and ran past the ball, which just crawled over the goal line, putting the County two up. This unlooked-for reverse put the Goodison team on their mettle, and they were sailing straight for goal when the ball was handled in the penalty area! Clennell took the kick, and beat Evans with a fast ground kick. The goal was greeted with loud applause by a fairly large holiday crowd.
Clennell Equalises.
Everton were now having a much greater share of the game. The halves and forwards combined splendidly, and at the end of 30 minutes the home team met with the reward of really smart football. Chedgzoy sent in a very hot shot which the keeper parried, the ball coming to Clennell, who scored with a beauty. From the way the County opened it looked as though Everton were to be swept off their feet, but the latter gradually assumed the upper hand, and as the interval drew near it seemed as though Stockport had shot their bolt. The “Blues” simply swarmed around the County goal and twice as many minutes Kirsopp looked like scoring, but first slipped, and then shot outside. Chedgzoy, also threatened, but Robson somewhat luckily charged the ball behind with the goalkeeper on the ground.
Half-time; Everton two, Stockport two.
Two minutes after the resumption Clennell scored a third goal for the “Blues” thus performing the hat-trick. Clennell scored a fourth goal.

FRIENDLY FIXTURE AT THE EVERTON GROUND
January 1, 1917. The Liverpool Echo
Clennell in Form
“Bees” writes of the Everton-Stockport County fixture at Goodison Park today as follows;- The game was a friendly, outside the League run of friendly fixtures and it created a fair amount of interest, probably because Stockport with their ex-Everton men always appeal to the Walton public.. A pooling arrangement between clubs was fixed, and the first game on Boxing Day was at Stockport, Everton winning 4-3. The day was dull and the going in good order when the following teams lined up;- Everton;- Fern, (captain), goal; Smith (West Bromwich) and MaConnachie, backs; Fleetwood, Wareing and Bradbury, half-backs; Chedgzoy, Jefferis, Kirsopp, Clennell, and Harrison, forwards. Stockport County;- Goodwin, goal; Goodwin, and Robson, backs; Waterall (A.), Fayer, Stuart, and Crosswaite, half-backs; Gault, Garrett, Nuttall, and T. Waterall, forwards. Mr. Peets was referee, and there was a series of amazing incidents. First there was a nasty collision, MaConnachie and Gault injuring their heads. Gault was more seriously damaged, but each man was able to resume. As in the first match, there was a good number of goals scored. T. Waterall scored in the fourth minute. The Everton defence got hopelessly mixed up when Fayers made a solo run. Incidentally he handled the ball during this run, and the ball trickled over the Everton goal line, Stockport being two up in ten minutes. Kirsopp was through when Fayer handled the ball, Clennell making no error with the penalty kick, the score being 2-1 for Stockport after twenty minutes play. Fern made one nice punch away, and Harrison and Chedgzoy were trueworthy wingers. Everton tried hard for the equaliser, Bradbury, Chedgzoy, Kirsopp, and Clennell shooting in with pace, but none were quite as strong and surprising as Chedzgoy.
Clennell made the score level after thirty three minutes his chance being due to a rebound from a drive by Chedgzoy. If Kirsopp had been swift enough to take a chance offered by Clennell Everton would have led at half-time instead all square. However the delay was temporary for at the 42 minute Clennell scored brilliantly from Chedgzoy’s centre. For the time being Everton were all over their opponents, and Harrison had the misfortune to hit the crossbar.
Half-time; Everton 3, Stockport County 2
In the first game game between the pair Clennell performed the hat-trick and when he repeated the performance today the crowd of 5,000 and the players, on the home side joined in hearty congratulations. Goalkeeper Evans played a capital game and a full length save from Clennell gained him applause as did also a save from Kirsopp. It is worthy of mention that Evens is home on leave after a long spell in the trenches. Therefore his form was surprisingly good. Of course, he relished the muddy area in which he operated today. Fleetwood passed the ball to Clennell, who scored his fourth goal of the day. Chedgzoy went near, and crocked his right foot by the effort. Clennell scored just before the finish from a centre by Chedzgoy. It was a remarkable day’s work for him.
Final; Everton 5, Stockport County 2
Goal scorers
T. Waterall scored after four minutes for Stockport
Fayers scored a second goal
Clennell scored or Everton after twenty minutes
Clennell scored a second for Everton
Clennell scored a third for Everton
Clennell scored a fourth for Everton
Clennell scored a fifth for Everton

EVERTON A1 MEN.
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 02 January 1917
TWO FORWARDS PASSED FOR G.S. TO-DAY.
The Everton forwards. Kirsopp and Harrison, were passed for general service to-day.

CLENNELL’S FIVE GOALS
January 2, 1917. The Evening Express
Clenell’s Crop
By C.R.I
There are days when one cannot do wrong. Such was the experience of Clennell yesterday which he scored five goals, against Stockport County. Somehow he seems to have a grudge in for the Cheshire X1, as in the previous game he performed the hat-trick against them. He played rattling football, and shot like a Lewis gun, but great praise is also due to Chedgzoy. Sam was at the top of his form, and his passes were well-nigh perfect. He made the chances and Clennell did the rest. The whole team played a delightful game, and Stockport were lucky not to be beaten by more than 5-2, seeing that Fleetwood scored once for them by an unfortunate pass back which took Fern by surprise.

BIG SCORES FOR EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 02 January 1917
Bee’s Notes
Our clubs have started the New Year as though they meant business. Their victories yesterday were tall, and when both against good sides. Far away, Newcastle, Liter pool triumphed over Leeds City the in the Cameron benefit match, and at home Everton romped home against Stockport—a capital side—after being two goals down. Everton started in quite slovenly manner, and Stockport were quickly two goals up, Fayers leading one raid —aided by a case of handling that was not noticed —T. Waterall being the other scorer. Then Everton set to work, and their machinery went smoothly.
Clennell's Five Goals.
Clennell was in sparkling form. Latterly he has been having a lot of his shots blocked, but the right wing serving out some sweetly-judged centres. Clennell's timing was right, and the old Rover had a field day scoring the whole of his side's goals. In view of his feat of three goals out of four in the first of the two “pooled” games between their sides —the first game was played or Boxing Day—CLennell’s bag is big for goals.  Eight out of nine goals scored by his side is a striking testimony to his prowess when near goal.
Straight From the Trenches.
Mark you, the Everton forwards were up against a powerful defence. Evans, the long goalkeeper, made many fine saves—some full length and spectacularly very exhilarating goals. Evans has only recently left the trenches, and his form was therefore all the more remarkable. Before him were two-steady backs, Fayers—a worker of workers this little chap—a weak half in Stuart, and a good one in A. Waterall, who left Harrison little chance of shooting centring.
The Star That Shone.
Although Clennell got the goals, he would be the first to admit the assistance he received from Chedgzoy, the star the day again, and Jefferis, and once from Fleetwood.  Chedgzoy’s subtle dribbling, practical foot work, and sensibly-judged centres were a treat to the crowd of 5,000 spectators, and they longed for a goal from his foot. He longed for it, too, but the match, as on Saturday, did not give him any fortune with his tremendous shots. At any rate, Chedgzoy has given us some brilliant football during the week-end, and are grateful for opportunity of his artistry once more. Maconnachie, despite injury through collision with Gault (badly knocked out and finally a passenger, although he and Crossthwaite changed places)  was astute, and Wareing was our best half-back.

EVERTON 5 STOCKPORT 2
Leicester Daily Post - Tuesday 02 January 1917
At Liverpool, in fine weather, before 10,000 spectator. The visitors started in Good style, and Waterall scored. Stockport secured another goal through Fleetwood putting through his own goal. Everton then attacked, and Clennell scored twice, the first, being from a penalty. Interval: Two each. The second half was all In Everton's favour, and Clennell scored three more goals, and thus scored all Everton's goals.

EVERTON’S ALTERATIONS
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 03 January 1917
For Saturday’s game v Blackburn there are some changes in the Everton side, which will form up thus;- Mitchell; Smith and Thompson; Fleetwood, Wareing, and Grenyer; Lloyd, Jefferis, Morris, Clennell, and Williamson.  Williamson is the Tranmere winger who has helped Everton before this season at out-side right and centre forward.  Everton “A” this week will play Bootle Juniors on Dominion’s ground. 
YOUNG FOOTBALLERS CHOOSEN
Liverpool Union of Boys’ Clubs have a North and South charity match in aid of the Liverpool branch of the Red Cross Society, on the Everton Football Ground on January 20 (3 p.m). Teams; North;- Goal A. Tatham, St. Margaet’s, Anfield.  Right Back; W. Stewart, Netherfield U.M.  Left Back; C. Bissell, St. Margaret’s, Anfield.  Right half-back; G. Jeacock, Ivydale.  Centre half-back; W. Snape, Netherfield U.M.  Left Half-back; J. King, St. Albans.  Outside right; L. Furlong, Royal Albion.  Inside-right; J. Jones, Ivydale.  Centre forward; W. Aikin, Royal Albion.  Inside-Left; F. Drinkell, Ivydale.  Outside left; J. Smith, Netherfield U.M. South; Goal; N. Greaves, Telegrapgh Messengers.  Right back; P. Smith, St. Agnes.  Left back; J. Dalgleish, Holt Juniors.  Right Half-back; J. May, telegraph Messengers.  Centre half-back; W. Newell, All Saints.  Left half-back; A. Hogan, St. Francis.  Outside right; F. Miller, Garston Primrose.  Inside-right; E.J. Salt Avendale.  Centre forward; T. Williams, Liverpool Cadets.  Inside-left G. Trueman, St. Philemon’s.  Outside left; A. Whittick, central Coal Alliance. 

BOOTLE TEAM
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 04 January 1917
The Bootle team, who are undefeated so far this season, meet Everton “A” and the proceeds are to be handed over to the local hospital.  Bootle (from);- Stratton, H. Parker, Brown, Learmouth, Smith, Webster, Beatty, Campbell, Bibby, Allan Jones, R. Parker, Wadsworth. 

A 1 EVERTON" FORWARDS CLASSED A1
Liverpool Echo -Thursday 4 January 1917
Bee's Notes
George Harrison (married,) and Billie Kirsopp (single), who passed A1 (General Service) yesterday, have become attached to of one the crack regiments, the Scots Guards, thus copying their popular Sam Chedgzoy. The Al forwards will probably journey southwards to-day, and when not assisting the regimental team may offer their services Crystal Palace or Clapton Orient—the " record" Army club. Lance Johnston was sent back to his work account of his bad leg, the legacy of Christmas match Manchester some years ago.
A Letter from Tim Coleman,
"Tim" the Tartar has written following from France-:
Dear Bee —Just a few lines during the festive season just to let you know we are still going strong. We have been having a great time lately - all sorts of sports -boxing, cross-country running, sprints and nearly everything in sport you can mention. We had a splendid Christmas, thanks to our colonel, who spared no expense so that the boys should enjoy themselves. Our second in command Major Walsh, who came from the King's has also been splendid, officiating in the boxing tournament and being real good in his judgement. He also amused the boys by donning the mittens in a real slam, and he showed he is quite an adopt in the art of self-defence. m As a matter of fact, all the officers vied with one another in doing the best for the comfort of the "Bhoys.: The battalion team has reached the final in the Divisional Cup, and I think they will pull it off. They beat the King's 10 to nil, Sattfords by 6 to 1, and the Oxford and Bucks by 1 goal to nil. Have just heard that Peg Evans the Clapton full back will not play football again owing to the wound to his knee, and that he is in Blackburn Hospital. "Bunny" Martin (Grimsby) is having some trouble with his wound, having to go through another operation. Just missed Sandy Turnbull the other day when we went to play a match in the "Ham and Egg" League. They tell me he is playing for the battalion team, and they had reached the semi-final of their brigade. I should have loved to have exchanged a few Christmas greetings with him. I suppose that's about all we could have exchanged. This is all this time. Wishing you and all my Liverpool friends a Merry Christmas -if it's not too late -and a Happy and Prospervous New Year. From your old pal. "TIM"
P.S. - Have just left Sandy and I asked him how he spent Christmas. He said “How the - can you spend Christmas out here?" He is looking well, and his team is in special training for the final.

DEATH OF INDIAN MUTINY VETERAN.
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Thursday 04 January 1917
Father of Famous Footballer.
A well-known Vale of Leven native has passed away the person of Mr. Robert Robertson. Deceased, who was in his 78th year, was the father of Jocky Robertson, the famous Rangers internationalist half-back. He served about 17 years with the colours. Enlisting when he was 13 years, he served in the 71st Highland Light Infantry. He volunteered for the Crimea, but was drafted to India, where took part in the Indian Mutiny and the first Punjab Frontier War.

A MISUNDERSTANDING
January 4, 1917. The Evening Express
By C.R.I
I received a notification today that an interesting match is taking place next Saturday at Moss-Lane, the Bootle team, who have escaped defeat so far this season, having fixed up to play Everton “A”, the receipts to be handled over to the local hospitals. By the same post comes a note from S.W. Killips, hon., secretary of the Orrell Athletic F.C. He writes as follows;- Bootle v. Everton “A “with referenced to the above match we Orrell Ath F.C, are sorry to state that owing to a misunderstanding we are unable to lend our ground for Saturday’s next, but could lend sae for January 13, and Mr. Abbott’s sanction. Apologising for having inconvenienced the respective clubs.”

EVERTON AT BLACKBURN
Liverpool Echo - Friday 05 January 1917
Bee’s Notes
Everton go to. Blackburn, where they have latterly been striving to find a side. Rovers are paying the penalty of their period of idleness of a season ago. Everton have capital side doing duty, and I fancy they will make Blackburn give full points. F.E.H. will give the "Football Echo" the full report. The ''Football Echo" the only local paper giving complete reports away matches. Mitchell; Smith, Thompson; Fleetwood, Lloyd, Jefieris, Morris, Clennell, Williamson.  
Everton Juniors (v. Royal-St Juniors,  Queen’s drive; 3); Brindley; Eager, W. Jump; Evans, T. Jump, F. Jones; A. Jones, Forshaw, Taylor, Smith, A. Taylor. 

BOOTLE V. EVERTON
January 5, 1917. The Evening Express
Following on my notes yesterday that Orrell Athletic F.C., owing to a misunderstanding could not let Bootle and Everton “A” have the use of their ground on Saturday, comes another notification from the secretary today in which he now says that the match will take place tomorrow at Moss Lane. This is good news, as Bootle are undefeated, ad intend to remain so, if it is possible by fair means to do so.

STUB MARKS
January 6, 1917. The Football Echo
• The re-appearance of Sam Chedgzoy on local awards has been as a cup of water to thirsty ones. His football has been refreshingly superb, and yet one hears that he even surpassed his New Year Goodison Park form when operating in southern waters during the earlier months of the season. It is improbable that Chedgzoy will be going on to French soil, at any rate, this side of May, and he is looking forward to paying a return visit to Goodison in April.
• Appropriately, Sam visited Goodison in “Navy” blue, but departed London wards on Wednesday in splendidly equipped khaki.
• What neat and untiring partner Jefferis made for him this past week! The chief beauty of Frank’s work in that he cares not for personal goals and glamour as long as he can give the men on either side of him plenty of opportunities. Chedgzoy’s centres, on Monday were of the right sort brand –such as an astute inside left can snap up should it be slightly too high for his centre forward to reach.
• The “A.N.” odd “stray leaf” on Alec Latta will be read with especial interest by old local sports lovers. There never was in the writers opinion anything more superb or thrilling than Latta’s hand-to-hand corner flag fights for supremacy with “nick” Ross nigh quarter of a century ago. Latta’s praises were often sung in those days before local footlights.
• Everton’s full back, Smith, has developed superb form in recent weeks. The Blues will be sorry when this Throstle flies Hawthorne-wards once again.
• MaConnachie has that wonderful self-possession and “collectedness” so essential to the success of an airmen.
• Kirsopp as centre forward was a trifle hesitant and “late”

EVERTON
January 6, 1917 The Liverpool Football Echo
Well Known Players Absent at Blackburn
F.E.H. Special
Everton went to Blackburn today, and contrast to former years was very pronounced, both in the matter of attendance and teams. Blackburn have latterly experienced great difficulty in raising a side, and today Everton were minus a number of their best known players. Jefferis was absent through the illness of his mother, Williamson could not play, Donnachie was “called” as his deputy, and Harrison and Kirsopp assisted an another , have a transferred to southern air. After a lapse of time, that seem longer than it actually is the Evertonians renewed acquaintance with Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park this afternoon. The new train arrangements meant a tedious journey of nearly two hours, but Blackburn was reached in good time, and the players proceeded leisurely to the scene of operations. The Everton eleven was rather a missed one, but it was expected to prove eminently serviceable. The Rovers were at considerable pains to make up a team, and I am betraying no secret when stating that several of the names officially supplied were polite aliases. The weather was fine, though cold, and there was a fairly sprinkling of spectators present when the players referred by Mr. Arthur Pellowel made a very tardy appearance as follows;- Everton; Mitchell, goal; Thompson and Stewart, backs; Fleetwood, Wareing and Grenyer, half-backs; Lloyd, Bradbury, Morris, Clennell, and Donnachie, forwards. Blackburn Rovers; Cunliffe, goal; Crompton and F. Duckworth, backs; W. Duckworth, Sgt Duckworth, and Bradshaw, half-backs; Byrom, Waterworth, Jas Duckworth, Green, Kehoe, forwards. The start was twenty-five minutes late and even then the home side were minus three of their team. Thus handicapped, the opening ex-changes of the struggle were very much in the nature o a farce. The Rovers set the ball in motion, but Clennell at once gained possession, and racing clean through the depleted ranks of the homesters banged the ball with a swift ground shot into the corner of the net out of reach of Bradshaw, who was acting as a custodian, pending Cunliffe’s arrival. Following upon this the visitors made rapid ground outright, but were checked, and when a few moments later Morris came sailing through he was very smartly robbed by Crompton. A spell of midfield work saw the Rovers trying hard to make headway against over whelming odds, but of course, they could make little serious headway against the Everton defences, who were having quite a primrose time of idle dalliance. It was not long before Morris got going again, and this time the burly Crompton was unable to impede his progress. He dodged round the famous back and steadying himself, scored with a shot which the keeper got to, but which he could not hold.
The Second Reverse strung the Rovers redoubted action, and for some time they carried war into the enemy’s camp. All attempts at combination were however, quite out of the question, and Mitchell was not seriously troubled. It was not long before the Evertonians were again knocking at the Rovers gate, but Morris was offside when he tried to covert a pass. At this period, the game having been in progress just a quarter of an hour, the three late comers trotted into the arena to an encouraging cheer, and the struggle began in real earnest. The rearranged and reinforced Rovers vanguard at once moved down in business-like fashion, and for the first time in the contest the visitors defence was given an anxious time. Thompson eventually cleaned from Green, and another movement by Morris and company terminated in a third goal. A dropping shot from the right wing was partially cleared by the goalkeeper, but before Crompton could complete the defence movement, Morris pounced on the leather, and put his side three up. The next item of interest was a breakaway by the Everton left wing pair, who forced a corner. This was safely negotiated, and Kehoe and Green overran the ball, and play was especially transferred to the opposite end, where Cunliffe saved a swift grounder from Lloyd. The wearers of the Blue Jersey kept pegging away, and after further pressure on the right in which the home custodian as easily hampered, Clennell netted at close range. Being four goal in arrears the Rovers made desperate efforts to make some impression, and James Duckworth was going through when he was tripped just outside the penalty area. The free kick was well taken, but the ball dropped on the top of the net. Just before the interval Blackburn made another valiant effort to get going, and they were on the aggressive when the ball being –a rather un usual incident nowadays.
Comments.
Under the circumstances comment on the play would be quite superfluous. Even when the Rovers had completed they ranks, they showed lack of cohesion, and Everton were always the better side. The quantity of goals were well scored, but their intrinsic value was of course, impaired by reason of the weak defence.
The Second Half.
The second half was entered upon in gathering mists and a decreasing light. It was however most auspicious from a Blackburn point of view, and after Everton had attacked the home forwards got going in nice order, and James Duckworth getting between the Everton backs scored with a well-judged shot. In the latter stages the Rovers gradually got into something like into their stride, and the three inside forwards all had shots at Mitchell, who gathered each with nimble agility. In spite of Blackburn’s improved form, the Evertonians still played the cleverer football and at times they were rather too easy going. Grenyer in one occasion to score when he drove the ball yards wide. Donnachie was once given a nice opening, but he threw away, and a little later Bradbury experienced hard lines in seeing a dangerous shot pulled from beneath the bar by the home keeper. Play was made in the Rovers half, and Donnachie once came very near adding a fifth when the ball hit the cross bar.
Final; Blackburn Rovers 1, Everton 5
Goal scorers
Clennell scored for Everton
Morris scored a second for Everton
Morris scored a third for Everton
Clennell scored a fourth for Everton
James Duckworth scored for Blackburn
Just before time Clennell scored a fifth for Everton.

EVERTON “A” V BOOTLE
January 6, 1917. The Liverpool Echo
This friendly fixture was played today on Dominies ground, Moss lane, the proceeds from which will be vetted to the local hospital. Bootle who have yet to taste defeat were most anxious to try conclusion with their more experienced opponents. The opening play was very even, both teams having chances which were not utilised. Everton grained two fruitless corners, Bootle were persistent and gave the Everton keeper many anxious moments. After twenty five minutes play, Bootle opened the score through Bibby, who beat the Everton keeper with a fast rising shot. After this reverse Everton attacked strongly and gave the Booth backs plenty to do

CLENNELL AGAIN
January 8, 1917. The Evening Express
By C.R.I
Yes, he been at it again. There’s no suppressing this lad, who bottled up again against the redoubtable Bob Crompton at Blackburn and yet did the hat-trick what time Everton’s centre forward Morris helped himself to a couple. However it was only Blackburn Rovers by name for although at home they had to start 25 minutes late with only eight men. Need more be said except that Lloyd was one of the best forwards on the field, and that Everton were easily the superior eleven. Clennell’s ability to find the target has been simply remarkable of late, and Saturday’s feat brings his some total to date up to 30. Some total.

PITY THE POOR ROVERS
January 8, 1917, The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes
If evidence were needed of the folly of closing down the shop for one season, the Rovers of Blackburn give their evidence. They are seriously perplexed to find a team and supporters. Everton on Saturday took heavy toll of the side. F.E.H. comments thus on the game; as the season progressed the problems of team building becomes increasingly acute. At Blackburn on Saturday the officials of the famous Rovers were extremely hard pressed of raising a completed eleven, and as it was the game was played delayed half an hour. Even then the Rovers could only fill eight men to start with, and as may be imagined the first stage of the contest were vim, far removed from the sphere of first class football. When the three late arrivals did complete the complement, only for the rest of the initial half was ragged and most unsatisfactory –except of course, from an Everton point of view. The Goodison Park forwards had not failed to make light, while the sun sheltie, and they were four up at the turn. In the second period the Rovers went off in very promising style, and James Duckworth, nipping between the backs scored a capital goal. But after that the Blackburn bridge tailed off in the bad fashion, and with the Evertonians also going easy the game eventually fizzled out, the dismounting darkness. Under these circumstances serious criticism in beside the point. It may be said, however, that the rearranged Everton forward line played admirable football at times. Donnachie and Clennell made a rare wing, and Morris led his forces with skill and judgement. Clennell continuous to display an inordinate capacity for goals and on this occasion he helped himself to three, the other two going to Morris. The half backs played a sound football, and the backs did do that was asked of them, Stewart tackling and clearing with great cleanness.

SCORERS AND THEIR METHODS
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 09 January 1917
Bee’s Notes
Among the best scorers in the land I put the names of Abrams, Clennell, and Bennett. The last-named is rather new to us, but he has come to stay, as witness his hat trick at Newcastle (Cameron match) and his two points on Saturday. Clennell as a shot we and all defences in the country know and respect. Clennell's career has been a curious one. He made his name with Blackpool, and Everton went,'tis said, for his transfer, but were beaten by Blackburn Rovers. Blackburn could not play two insiders such as Latheron and Clennell, and finally they parted company with him. Oft have I heard a complaint made that letter from a correspondent to this Notebook prevented Everton obtaining Clennell's signature, but I have also heard that Everton had a chance to pick up Clennell at a "sacrifice" figure some time before that, and did not accept the chance. However, the fact remains that Clennell's booking Everton has proved itself a grand stroke of business.
The Men and their Shots.
Clennell is jumping to the lead in the country's records of goal-getters, even if one does not include the big figures (eight in two matches) recorded against Stockport County. He does not need much room, and will shoot at the slightest opportunity. Would that others would follow his example when he "hits" a ball. Unlike most forwards, Clennell can, take the ball as it comes to him. By that means he gets a great strength into his shot. Bennett is built similarly, and so are Abrams and Mcllvenny. But Abrams excels in that can direct heavy shot when the ball is "dead." That means a free kick becoming dangerous work for the goalkeeper to attend to. We saw at Everton and Anfield recently, and his free kicks were always a menace. On Saturday, Abrams got a pair of bulls' eyes, and both were gained at long distance. Forwards who are taking the game in a pro, way should cultivate the "dead" ball shot, as well the " ball-as-it-comes." Each style is needed, and, of course, a penalty kicker is apparently worth his weight in gold at Anfield, judging the experiences of the last two seasons! I forgot to mention Jenkinson, the South Liverpool back, in yesterday's critique, and should here like to pay him congrats, upon his sterling work. Ho is a back with ideas. 

EVERTON’S TEAM
January 10, 1917. The Evening Express
By C.R.I.
Everton are making one change in the team victorious at Ewood Park last Saturday to entertain Manchester City at Goodison Park this week-end. This insert full back where Stewart will displaced by Smith, who will operate on the right thereby enabling Thompson to resume on the left wing. The kick-off had been arranged for three o’clock. The chosen side is as follows: - Mitchell; Smith, Thompson; Fleetwood, Wareing, Grenyer; Lloyd, Jefferis, Morris, Clennell, and Donnachie.

MASTER MINDS AT EVERTON GROUND.
Liverpool Echo - Friday 12 January 1917
Bee’s Notes
There is treat in store for us at Goodison Park to-morrow, when, mark you, sir, the kick-off is advanced to three o'clock- The visit of a team which includes two personalities of the game such as Barnes and Wilhum Meredith is always sufficiency to local folk; but when add the names of Capper—the five-goaler—little Wynn, Lot Jones, and Brennan—you'll remember the last named as the player who got a nasty jar on the jawbone in the military international —we get a collection of football " fares " and " wares " that guarantee Everton a big crowd. The home side, with Donnachie and Clennell on the left, is happily framed, and the question is whether Everton's strong half-backs and backs able to hold City's line. Teams: Everton; Mitchell; Smith, Thompson; Fleetwood, Wareing, Lloyd; Jefferis, Morris, Clennell, Donnachie.  Manchester City;  Goodchild; Tyler, Fletcher; Bottemley, Brennan, Jones; Meredith, Wynn, Nelson, Barnes, Capper. 
Alexandra F.C., play Everton “A” on Saturday.  Alexandra supplied Liverpool with such players as Bamber, Lucas, Waine, and Murphy. 

EVERTON V CITY
January 13, 1917. The Liverpool Football Echo
City at Everton
Always a big draw, by reason of the inter city rivals and the inclusion of Meredith and other noteworthy players City today drew a large crowd to Goodison Park, when Clennell and Donnachie formed the left wing pair. Teams refereed by Mr. W. J. Heath;- Everton; Mitchell, goal; Smith (West Brom) and Thompson, backs; Fleetwood, Wareing and Grenyer, half-backs; Lloyd, Morris, Blair, Clennell, and Donnachie, forwards. Manchester City; Goodchild, goal; Gartland, and Fletcher, backs; Bottomley, Tylor and Parker, half-backs; Meredith, Wyan, Nelson, Barnes, and Fairclough, forwards. The City led off and the first forward move came from the Everton left. Wareing however put up an end to the movement by sending wide. Lloyd wasted a good chance by shooting from too great a distance, when Jones had blundered. Clever work between Morris and Lloyd helped the latter to get in a nice length centre, and Clennell with an overhead kick, found Goodchild unprepared but he managed by a lucky kick, to get rid of an awkward position. P. Fairclough was prominent with centres and shots, one of which went to hand and another inches wide, the Albion back with Fleetwood had for a time a rough passenger with a clever left wing in addition to which City’s left half held up Lloyd and Morris. City all round opened well, and their forwards made a sound and well-balanced line and with Fletcher in his finest form the City defence was rock like. One of the appointed linesman failed to turn up, and our local official (Mr. Halliday) deputised for him. Another prom noticeable was the formation of the City when a free kick was taken by Everton. City always relied on one back, and sent the other members of the side well up the field. There was a long spasm of scrappy footwork during which Blair went off the field for a while through an injury. Some improvement was noticed when Morris shot to hand and Mitchell effected a clean pick—up from a long pass back. Bottomley too, did well in a solo.
Bad Blood
Bad blood was introduced into the proceedings. It commented with Clennell and Fletcher getting at loggerheads ad ended with Clennell and Morris going off for injury. Blair returned, and Clennell and Morris did likewise a minute later. But the three injured men were plainly unable to do themselves justice. Morris for a long time looked to be seriously hurt, but on the return his rushing tactic showed that he was very desperate. Morris was foolish, in fact and a cooling influence was needed. The crowd very much resented Fletcher’s charge which put Morris out of action. But Fletcher was only giving what he had a minute before received from Morris and what is more when Fletcher was pitched into he did not retaliate with a kick. Morris when changed solidly retaliated with a kick –a black spot on the copybook o the home forward. There was a shuffling of the damaged attack and the has now read –Clennell, Lloyd, Morris, Blair, Donnachie. Even so the city could not get past the home defence, and the pity is that the players did not give up their football bickering. A minute before half-time Clennell was spoken to for a jump-charge on Fletcher. The latter player showed manse humour n applauding Clennell’s offence.
Half-time; Everton 0, Manchester City 0
With the exception of a fine drive from Tylor (a half-back) the first half had been hopeless from a shooting point of view, but the game had no sooner restarted than City scored. Fairclough was the scorer, and Barnes and friend Meredith had a hand in the goal which, in my mind was partly caused through Grenyer trying his hand as a forward. The path of the City’s right wing was made easy, and when Meredith centred Barnes nodded the ball towards goal where in a moment Fairclough rushed up and scored an easy point. Everton’s reply started with a solo run, and strong shots by Morris and Clennell in spite of his injured leg, put across a brilliant ball which Goodchild directed out with a one handed punch. Wynn, ever an earnest provider by M\Meredith tried to go through on his own and then Meredith followed with a brilliant Meredithian run. No fear that he would put the ball behind the goal! His centre however, was not timed aright by Barnes. Blair would have been better off the field although one had to admire his pluck. He now changed places with Grenyer and here abouts City were finding Everton’s defence extraordinarily tough. Certain it is that Grenyer infused a lot of life into the cup-up forward line, and it was good that he was on the left, as Donnachie’s power had been wasted. Thompson and Smith were also factors in revival of Everton’s spirit. The work of the Everton backs was terrific and I have not seen Smith play a stronger game since he started with Everton. The hour had barely gone when Barnes scored the second goal of the day with a header. It was a swiftly obtained point Meredith centred, Barnes nodded the goal through. There was no attempt to beat a dozen men Thompson and Mitchell were sufficient. The goal was the best of matters of the patent invented by Merediths and Sandy Turnbull, and the wonder was that it was not followed by another point from a penalty kick, Wynn having his feet swept from under him by Thompson.
Goal scorers
Fairclough 41 minutes
Barnes for City 62 minutes

ALL BAR EVERTON
January 15, 1917, The Evening Express
By C.R.I
All the senior football clubs of Liverpool –with the single exception of Everton –had a good day on Saturday, when a full programme was carried through and the failure of the Goodison men was quite executable. At one stage of their game with Manchester City they had only nine men to face the opposition –and what an opposition –whilst Blair was an absentee during the greater portion of the second half. Remembering that the City forward line included two in international in Meredith and Wynn and was further strengthened by Barnes, and it speaks volumes for the Everton defence that the visitors were able to find the net on only two occasions. With Clennell and Morris also passengers through injuries the whole attack was disorganised, so that although Fleetwood, Wareing and Grenyer made many openings, they went for nought. Smith, Thompson, and Mitchell came through the ordeal of the second half with flying colours and are deserving of every commedence. The evergreen Meredith proved himself still a power in the football world, he being the initiate of both the City goals scored in the second half by Fairclough and Barnes respectively and the City attack further added by Wynn and Nelson played a sparkling game which deserved to succeed. Fletcher was one of the best men on view, although his robust methods raised the ire of the crowd. With injuries to three men very early on Everton’s chance evaporated.

FOOTBALL'S S.O.S.
Liverpool Echo - Monday 15 January 1917
SUMS SAID TO HAVE BEEN PROMISED.
In. reply to the S. O. S. signals of Bury and other poverty-stricken clubs, Liverpool, Everton, and Manchester City have each, it said, offered give £150 to the fund Mr. John M'Kenna to be "Minister.

CHAPTER OF ACCIDENTS
January 15, 1917. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes
It is not in the natural to squeal about accidents, but it is necessary and only fair to make know the list of injured Everton members. First Jefferis dropped out, Blair came in and within ten minutes was crocked. He tried his best at centre, inside left and half-back –and then retired for the rest of the game. In the meantime as valued a forward as Joe Clennell but become locked in the knee, and he had to try his “one foot” as outside right and excellently did his share there. Morris, a raider at all times gave Fletcher a pretty hefty charge which the back did not squeal over; but when Fletcher gave him a Roland for an Oliver there was an outcry. It was sorry Morris was hurt by the undoubted foul, but Morris, it must be remembered attempted to kick the full back. Fletcher made matters worse by “noting” the crowd’s remarks answering them, and clapping his hands when Clennell and he came into contact. Fletcher is a very quiet type of back, clever and clean and when Henry is playing alongside him he generally gets the spectators jeers. Even so, I real a hasty foul Fletcher perpetrated not so long since on Chedgzoy on the same ground. The whole business was unedifying and tended to spoil what should have been a good game.
Defenders, Your hand.
Mitchell in goal caught some red-hot shots and Thompson and little Smith performed wonders till they were pumped out. What ever one may think of the way Wynn was brought down in the penalty area one cannot but offer the glad hand to the defenders three. In addition Alan Grenyer played whole-heartedly, and when he joined the forward line he infused a lot of dash into the line. Donnachie up to that point had rarely been effective, for he had been swooping partner and had no passes sent his way. The best friend of the day was Meredith who, in spite of Thompson’s speed, mancurered finally and centred with all his old judgement. I should like to have played in side left to him –he made goals as easy for the man in that Perth. And after all what is more profitable than a centre over to the left? The defenders are handled many goal and the far wing always has an unmarked appearance. No wonder “Sandy” Turnbull used to get a large number of goals by nodding Merediths centres. Tyler at centre half took an eye.

FOOTBALL NEWS.
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 16 January 1917
Everton's team for Saturday, at Blackpool, will be:—Fern; Smith, Thompson Waring, Grenyer; Lloyd, Jefferis, Morris, Bradbury, Donnachie.
—Arrangements for the match in aid the Liverpool Branch of the Red Cross Society between selected teams drawn from the north south divisions the senior football league the Liverpool Union of Boys Clubs are proceeding satisfactorily, and a good attendance is anticipated. Through the generosity of the Everton Club the match will take the Everton ground Saturday (3 p.m.) A large number tickets are already out on sale amongst the various clubs, but hope that the general public will also be interested to watch what should prove a very good exhibition junior amateur football. 

EVERTON’S TEAM TO VISIT BLACKPOOL
January 17, 1917. The Evening Express
By CRI
The injury to Clennell, sustained in the match against Manchester City seems to have been more serious than was at first though as he has not been chosen to play at Blackpool. The team that will do duty against the seasiders is as follows:- Fern; Smith, Thompson; Fleetwood, Wareing, Grenyer; Lloyd, Jefferis, Morris, Bradbury, Donnachie. It is to be hoped that Clennell’s knee injury will not keep him out of the game long. It will be noticed by the above that Fern is substituted for Mitchell, and that Jefferis is expected to resume at inside right as partner to Lloyd, with Morris once more leading the attack.

EVERTON AT BLACKPOOL
Liverpool Echo - Friday 19 January 1917
Everton at Blackpool can look out for a hard game.  I have of a well-known player that Blackpool are better than their place suggests in truth the player concerned wonders how they come to be so lowly-Blackpool have ever gone all out to beat our sides, and Everton will know they have been playing when the eighty minutes are up-Teams;- Everton; Fern; Smith, Thompson; Fleetwood, Wareing, Grenyer,; Lloyd, Jefferis, Morris, Bradley, Donnanchie. 

EVERTON’S CHANCE
January 19, 1917. The Evening Express
By CRI
Under the head one would say “Fairly rosy” as the directors have been able to select a good eleven, although a substitution has had to be found for Clennell who had a knee injured last week and is not yet fit to turn out. His place will be taken by Bradbury, and Jefferis is expected to resume at inside right. the Everton eleven is as follows;- Fern; Smith, Thompson; Fleetwood, Wareing, Grenyer; Lloyd, Jefferis, Morris, Bradbury, Donnachie.

EVERTON
January 20, 1917. The Liverpool Football Echo
Meet Old Friends at Blackpool
F.E.H Special
Everton missed Clennell today. Strangely enough it was one of the games the crack scorer would have revelled in, nor was it at Blackpool that Joe made his name afterwards being transferred to Blackburn. Everton were much “cut up.” Last week and today they faced a side whose records did not do justice to the game served up by the Poolites. Of soldier spectators, there were plenty and partnership ran high when the following teams referred by Mr. McLachlan lined up. Everton; Fern (captain), goal; Stewart and Thompson, backs; Fleetwood, Wareing and Grenyer, half-backs; Lloyd, Jefferis, Morris, Bradbury, and Peet, forwards. Blackpool; Stanfield, goal; F. Dunn and Holmes, backs; Booth, Carlisle and Conner, half-backs; Williamson, Harland, Smith, Bold, and Clifton, forwards. The Evertonians left Liverpool in a state of semi-darkness which threatened snow, and on arrival at Blackpool that wintry element was in evidence for sleet was falling fitfully when the teams turned out. Everton were without Donnachie, who had apparently missed the train, and his place was taken by Peet, a local player of promise. The home side was the same as last week, and quite a strong combination. There was a fair attendance in which Soldier predominated when the game was started ten minutes late. Blackpool started against a slight breeze, and at once moved down on the left, where Stewart was called upon to clear. The home forwards immediately returned on the right, and this time they were well accounted for the burly Thompson, who punted out boldly to his forwards. This enabled Morris to get going and he was well placed when Holmes saved the situation at the cost of a corner. This was mulled by Peet, and for a time play of a desultory character ruled in midfield. Blackpool were the first to make ground, Williamson and Harland showing such a turn of speed that Stewart and Fleetwood were almost left standing but Harland mollified the effort by shooting wildly over the bar. Some clever combine work on the part of the Everton halves and forwards led to a sustained invasion of home territory, but first Morris and then Jefferis threw away likely chances and the battle again ragged in midfield. Everton made gradual progress on the right and Lloyd was closing in which he was knocked off the ball. The visitors then attacked strongly on the left, but Connor and Holmes presented a sturdy defence, and Stansfield was not troubled. End

EVERTON’S GAME
January 22, 1917 The Evening Express
By CRI
My travelling colleague writes of the Blackpool v. Everton match as follows;- the contest between Everton and Blackpool ended in a division of the spoils, after a display that had been robbed of much of the attractiveness by an infusion of keenness that generated bad feelings. Several of the players had been allowed to get out of hand early on, and the climax was reached just before the interval when blows were openly exchanged. This was a regrettable incident and the wonder was that marching orders had not been given to at least one delinquent. Clifton opened the scoring with a raking drive, following a melee in the Everton penalty area, and the Pool retained the lead to the interval. After the turn, Grenyer when foraging for position was fouled in the dreaded limit, and Thompson levelled up matters from the penalty kick. Tight to the finish the play was earnestly and at times heartedly contested but no further scoring was forthcoming. The respective full backs acquitted themselves well and both Fern and Stansfield in goal did all that was possible. Everton had a pull in the half-back line where Wareing was a most capable pivot, and Fleetwood a rare stumbling block to the inroads of Williamson and Harland. Morris was the victim of somewhat severe brushing, still he continued with all his old dash, while Grenyer in his unaccustomed position was among the most successful forwards on view. Lloyd, well supported by Jefferis, also did well, but the line as a whole was not a combined force, and did not approximate the customary standard of efficiency. Clifton was the most aggressive and successful of the home forwards, who were backed up by vigorous half-back play. On the general run of the game, none could cavil at the result.

EVERTON’S POINT
January 22 1917. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes
F.E.H. says of the Blackpool match –All things considered Everton were distinctly fortunate in dividing the points with Blackpool, at the salubrious seaside resort on Saturday. The game fell distinctly below the average standard of even maritime football and it was marred by at least one regrettable incident. The home side did most of the attacking in eight minutes of vigorous and scrappy footwork. There were it is true intervals of combined and clever footwork on both sides, but these –like angels visits –were few and far between. The home eleven embraced no fewer than seven soldiers, and this may have had something to do with the robustness of style this characterised the major part of the proceedings. In the early stages there were occasional instances of surreptitious backing, and the storm broke when the home goalkeeper was accidently kicked on the head. One of the Blackpool defences retaliated by deliberately striking Morris the Everton centre forward, violently on the noise and he was roughly jotted by one or two others. The referee contented himself with mercy speaking to the delinquents. Blackpool enjoyed the bulk of the pressure in the first half and before the interval Clifton, who was frequently a thorn in the side of the Everton defenders, scored with a fast shot that gave Fern no chance. The form of a penalty kick, Grenyer had been fouled in the area, and Thompson scored with a fast and rising shot that passed through the keeper’s upraised hands. The Evertonians forward line felt the absence of Clennell and Donnachie and was distinctly below concert pitch. Grenyer took Bradbury’s place with a view to mending matters but without any very appreciable succeeds Peat a local lad was tried at outside left and showed promise though he was obviously nervous. The backs and halves played sound football, and Fern preformed wonders between the sticks.

JACK SHARP’S BEREAVEEMNT
January 24, 1917, The Evening Express
By CRI
The many friends and admirers of Mr. Jack Sharp, the Lancashire cricketer and former Everton captain, will learn with regret of the death of his father which came suddenly on Monday in Liverpool.

WELL-KNOWN INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALLER

January 26, 1917. Dundee Evening Telegraph

The relatives in Belfast of Private Donald Sloan, Black Watch, the well-known League International footballer, have received official intimation that he was killed in action on the 1 st inst. Sloan was one of four brothers who have made the supreme sacrifice –two in the Canadians, and the third in the Scots Guards. Goalkeeper for Belfast Distillery, he was a native of the Edinburgh district, where his aged parents reside. He leaves a wife and four children at Shettleston, Glasgow.

EVERTON’S TEAM
January 26, 1917, The Evening Express
By CRI
The directors of Everton are evidently in a quandary as to how their team will be made up. They have been unusually fortunate up to now, but they will play a strangely constituted forward line against Rochdale and at the time of writing still do not know who will figure at inside right. Lloyd and Clennell are both unable to appear, so a trial is being given to Challinor, the reserve half-back, at outside right and Jefferis goes to the inside left position. The team is as follows;- Everton; Fern; Smith, Thompson; Fleetwood, Wareing, Grenyer; Challinor, A.N. Other, Morris, Jefferies, Donnachie.

TEAM TROUBLES
Liverpool Echo - Friday 26 January 1917
Everton at Rochdale will be handicapped in more than one way. They have had chief trouble in the forward line, where the absence of Clennell, Harrison and Kirsopp is big blow. Rochdale on their own “spot" are hard to conquer. Can Everton spring surprise. Everton;- Fern; Smith, Thompson; Fleetwood, Grenyer, Challinor, A Other, Morris, Jefferis.
Grand Boys' Match at Goodison.
The E.S:A. Shield (Liverpool Schoolboys v. Birkenhead Schoolboys) is due on Saturday, at Walton.  Liverpool must win if they are to have any further part in the competition. The Birks. were victorious at Prenton by 3-1. They are relying the same team. The Liverpool team have been strengthened, and are playing much superior football, and hope to gain the victory. Kick-off 3 p.m. Referee, Mr. J. P. Crooke. Admission: Adults 4d scholars Id. Teams; Liverpool—Monteith (captain): McGreaq, Britain; Wilson; Morrissey, Martin; Clayton, Swindells; Stanafield, Barton, Reid or Quinn. Birkenhead. —Keill; Sutton, Sweeney; Moore, Chamberlain, Banks;  Long, Malone, E.  Roberta, W. Roberts. Lewis. 
Note
William Scott the old Everton goalkeeper playing as a guest player for Liverpool against Blackpool at Anfield.

SLOANE’S DEATH
January 27, 1917. The Liverpool Football Echo
Former Everton-Liverpool Goalkeeper
Bee’s Special
A Big Goalkeeper
I deeply regret to announce that another footballer has been killed. Although it must be seven years since Donald Sloane left our city, Mersey football enthusiasts will remember the big fellow. He was first with Everton, and later with Liverpool but he did not get a lasting grip on first team sheets, and finally went to Ireland. His death in action must cause great grief to his wife and large family. Sloan curiously enough was a Scot, but he played for the Irish League.
Familiar Figure Absent
By the way, Mr. W.C. Cuff, the Everton secretary has been off duty for over a week. He has been laid down by the flu. Jack Elliott the training has therefore been a busy man. Jack’s son, Alex is in hospital with a trench complaint –fever, I believe. He has been “out 17 months, and may get leave as soon as he is fit again.

EVERTON
January 27, 1917. The Liverpool Football Echo
Tried a Soldier in Attack
At Rochdale
F.E.H writes of the Everton visit to Rochdale, tells how Everton played a soldier who in yesterday’s team sheet had been described as A.N.Other. The Blues were perplexed to find a forward line through Clennell, Harrison, Kirsopp, not to mention Llody being absent. They selected Jefferis and Donnnachie and hoped to return from Spotland with a point. However Rochdale had other ideas, and we know that their side has progressed all one way recently. Rochdale was reached by the Evertonians in good time this afternoon, and, in spite of the severity of the weather, there was a good gathering on the exposed Spotland ground when the contestants turned out. The playing patch was, of course, frost bound, but a liberal sprinkling of sand prayed the ground considerably. The visitors played the same as selected with the exception that the player at inside right was a dark horse, whose identity was veiled under the name of Elliott. Rochdale also had an unknown player, the custodian appearing as Biggar. It was five minutes after three when the men turned out in the following order:- Everton; Fern, (captain), goal; Smith (West Brom) and Thompson, backs; Fleetwood, Wareing and Grenyer, half-backs; Challinor, Elliott, Morris, Jefferis, and Donnachie, forwards. Rochdale;- Biggar, goal; Millership and Henderson, backs; Tully, O’Connell, and Tierny, half-backs; Rawlings, Meeham, Thomas, Halligan, and Smith, forwards. Referee; Mr. W. J. Heath (Birmingham). The home side started, but there was little advantage in the way of the wind. The home forwards were the first to make serious progress, but they were well checked by Thompson, and the Evertonians moved along the frozen ground in business like fashion. Jefferis worked his way cleverly through and eventually gave to Morris, but the latter was roughly intercepted by O’Connell and the home forwards again took up the running.
Goal scorers;
Halligan scored for Rochdale
Thompson equalised for Everton from a penalty
The left wing pair were particularly active, Smith showing a rare turn of speed, and twice he had Fleetwood well beaten, when the full back came to the rescue.

EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Monday 29 January 1917
Bee’s Notes
Everton at Rochdale went near but not near enough F. E. H. writes. The almost arctic conditions that prevailed at Rochdale on Saturday did not deter Everton and the home club from trying spirited strenuous conclusions the exposed Spotland enclosure. The adamantine state of the ground miltitated against accuracy, and a matter of fact the game was of a scrappy and haphazard character. On the frozen and lumpy turf it was extremely difficult to judge the flight of the ball, and there was a plethora of wild shooting. The struggle, however, was not without its moments of interest, and Everton, in the hope of making at least draw, kept up their energies right the eightieth minute. The Rochdale forwards set a merry pace the start, and they enjoyed the better argument in the first half, though the sides were all square at the turn. The opening goal was the result of a capital piece of combination, in which the defenders were caught napping. Meechan getting well in, passed the ball neatly to Halligan, who scored without giving Fern a chance. The equaliser came as the result of a penalty, Thompson converting the place-kick with nice judgment. In the second period there were occasional flashes of better footwork, and following upon determined raid Meehan scored the winning goal.  The Everton forwards were scarcely at their best, though Jefferis and Morris were frequently well in picture. Principal 'interest centred in the appearance of a right young soldier, who under the nom de guerre of Elliott, and who created a highly favourable impression. He was indeed, perhaps the best the quintet. The half backs all played well, and Smith was prominent in second line of defence.
Note
Dunn played for Blackpool against Liverpool started the season with Everton. 

EVERTON LACK FINISH
January 29, 1917. The Evening Express
By CRI
My colleague “Rover” writes;- At Rochdale, the Everton team, with a somewhat mixed forward line, were beaten by the odd goal in three, and the reverse they sustained was mainly due to inability to drive home an advantage that frequently came their way in the first portion of the proceedings. During this period they had the assistance of the wind and monopolised the bulk of the play, but their marksmanship left much to be desired and the Dalemen actually opened the scoring through Halligan. Still, after this the Blues continued to be the more aggressive side without securing anything of a tangible nature, and it was left for Thompson as was the case last week at Blackpool, to record a goal from a penalty kick. Meehan gave Rochdale the lead, and even after this point had been recorded the Blues had chances to at least get on lever terms, but there was no improvement behind at the finish. Taking into consideration the ground conditions and biting wind, the play, though rarely fast, was fairly interesting; but so far as Everton were concerned the remodelled attacking line was never convincing. The unknown quantity who rejoiced the sobriquet of “Elliott” gave a sound exhibition at inside right, and Morris led the line well. Still, there was no finish worthy the name when close quarters were reached. Challinor at outside right scarcely approximated the standard that in this quarter has been attained in recent games. Jefferis was the most artistic of the line, and many passes to his confreres merited better results. However, there was little blending of methods, and individual effort counted for nothing. The half-backs played well both in defence and attack. Fleetwood, Wareing and Grenyer were up to their old standard, but further behind Thompson was frequently beaten, and was well that there was no faltering on the part of Smith. Fern kept a good goal, as also did “Biggar” in the home breach. Defence was sound, and the dashing, if not skilful, methods of the forwards clinched the issue in their favour.

KEEN GAME AT SPOTLAND.
Rochdale Observer - Wednesday 31 January 1917
EVERTON SCORE FROM PENALTY.
BUT ROCHDALE WIN.
Rochdale 2 Everton 1
There was a fine game at Spotland on Saturday, when Rochdale defeated Everton by the odd goal. Both teams fully exerted themselves, and a fast pace was kept for practically the whole the match. Teams: Rochdale: Causer; Millership and Henderson; Tally, O’Connell, and Tierney; Rawlings, Meehan, Thomas, Halligan, and A. Smith. Everton; Fern; J. Smith and Thompson, Fleetwood, Wareing, and Greyner; Challinor, Elliott, Morris, Jeffries, and Donnachie. Referee: Mr. - W. J. Heath, Burslem.
The visitors won the toss, and Rochdale were set to face a strong, keen wind.  Immediately both teams commenced attacking, and the play was fast and interesting. Meehan set Thomas going, but Fleetwood intercepted a pass to Albert Smith. Another breakaway Rochdale ended in Hailigan being brought down Smith. Nine minutes after the start Thomas got possession again. He gave to Meehan, who took it out to the line and then centred beautifully for Halligan open the scoring with a header. Everton next gained corner, which Challiner placed behind and then Greyner shot into Causer’s hands with great force. Jeffries was fouled in the penalty area, and Thompson had no difficulty in equalizing the scores, with his shot. Smith drove into Fern’s hands, and then an exciting melee followed in the Rochdale goalmouth, an almost certain score being averted by Henderson giving away a corner. The flag-kick was cleared. When Everton advanced Morris was pulled up for offside, and later Fern saved cleverly a smart cross-shot from Rawlings. On the change ends Rochdale pressed, Thomas shooting wide. Fleetwood was injured, and play was stopped for a short time. On the resumption Challinor forced a corner, from which Warring unsuccessfully headed in. Rawlings made a good attempt.  Fern luckily fisting, out from the post. A corner to Rochdale followed, Rawling placing it well, and Fern as cleverly clearing. Later the visiting custodian was severely tested by O’Connell, he only just succeeding in stopping the ball on the ground. Morris advanced well with Millership at his heels, but shot wide, injuring Causer at the same time. Meehan was playing a great game, showing much keenness and a fine turn of speed. When Meehan tried to get in he was neatly robbed by Thompson. There was next a scuffle in the Everton goalmouth. The ball was kicked out, and Meehan, who was standing a little outside kicked it through the other players 'right into the goalmouth, thus giving Rochdale the lead. This nippy fellow troubled the visiting goaler again soon afterwards, but Fern got the ball away Henderson was very steady back, spite his wandering propensities and Challinor rarely got past him. Just before the close Fleetwood sent in a lightning shot, which was driven back with difficulty.