Everton Independent Research Data

 

WALTON-ON-THE-HILL PARISH CHURCH
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 01 January 1925
Bee’s Notes
“The first historical mention of the church is found in the Doomsday Book, where a priest belonging to the church of Walton is stated to have been in possession of a carucate of land in Bottelai or Bootle; this entry cannot refer to a later date than the year 1084.  It is, however, known that the church of St. Nicholas was under the mother church of Walton until 1699, and that a chapel stood on the site of St. Nicholas Church as far back as 1050.- Rev. H. J. Chaytor, in the “Liverpool Diocesan Gazzette.” 
Mr. G.H. Parry, the librarian, kindly supplies the following answer.

EVERTON RECOVERY AFTER A BAD START AGAINST BURNLEY
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 01 January 1925
IN THEIR CUP-TIE REHEARSAL
WEAVER SCORES AGAINST HIS OLD COMRADES
EXTRAORDINARY TRANSFORMATION SCENE AT GOODISON
TABLES TURNED IN A SUPRISING WAY
Everton ware delighted to find the morning "dew-drop" turn to an afternoon of sunshine.  The game was most important, because in less than A fortnight Everton meet Burnley in a Cup-tie; today's rehearsal was witnessed by a big crowd. Teams; Everton; Harland; Macdonald, Livingstone; Peacock, Reid, Hart; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Williams, Weaver.  Burnley; Dawson; Smelt, Waterfield; Basnett, Hill, Tresadern; Tonner, Cross, Roberts, Beel, Lancaster.  Weaver was playing against his old side, and when he had some corner kicks to attend to he made trouble for Basnet, but Williams could not squeeze the ball beyond the goalkeeper.  The ground, all things considered, was, surprisingly good, and was better than on Saturday, the wind and sun having done their work well. Hill was able to plough through pretty readily, and on one occasion he became a forward and made a lovely opening for Roberts.  The Burnley captain called for a return pass, but Roberts was more intent upon shooting. He was strong enough, but his direction was bad. Tonner was surprised by Livingstone, and when beaten he tackled Williams unfairly. 
A CHANGE OF TACTICS. 
It was good to use Irvine change his tactics, even though his first effort was so strong that it went over the touchline.  However, the Irishman later matte a very well-judged pass to the line, and Chedgzoy was on the doorstep of a goal.  It was a fast and friendly game, and when Broad tried a first-time shot far out he made Dawson produce a superb save to prevent a goal. As a matter of fact, Dawson had wisely come out of his goal about two yards in anticipation of a shot; he would not have saved the shot but for this decision. 
"HELD" BY THE NET. 
Broad was a barrier to the backs and goalkeeper, a rare hustler, but not one bit more earnest than the Burnley centre.  Roberts, ex-Preston, who dashed into goal to try to meet a centre from Lancaster, and, missing his mark, went into the back of the net and stayed there so that he should not interfere with play, which went on a moment or two all too close toEverton’s defence to be comfortable.
One of the most notable individual items  Hurter Hart is order to round Tonner Hart swerved around his rival, and Tonner chased behind and elbowed the local can once or twice without putting Hart off his pass. Unfortunately all the good work came to nought, as the ball was put too for far Weaver to reach. There was a pretty gusty wind blowing, so much that one of the slates from the roof of the grand stand fell and hit a spectator on the head, but fortunately without doing him any harm. 
CLEVER FORWARD LINE. 
Irvine travelled over to outside left in a desperate run, and Chedgzoy shot over with a chance shot. About this time the Burnley defence was not impressive, but their forwards were a clever lot, and enjoyed some nice runs of passing. Cross was agood dribbler, and Hill was better in attack than in defence. Peacock made a useful forward effort, and Weaver followed it up by hitting the ball against the side net. Weaver, with one of a number of free-kicks that fell to his lot, centred the ball to the far side of the post, and Dawson was awkwardly placed to punch away.  However, he managed his clearance, and he certainly had more work to do than Harland, in spite of the latter seeing Macdonald and Reid in turn miskick in front of their own goal.  However, this had no sooner been noted than Harland was beaten. It was at the half-hour that Livingstone tripped Cross in a manner that, aroused no debate about intention, and Hill took the free kick very speedily before the Everton defence had got itself positioned. 
ROBERTS SQUEEZES THROUGH 
In a second the ball was on the left, and Cross was able to make a push, to the goalmouth, where Roberts squeezed the ball beyond Harland and an assistant.  It was a lesson in the value of taking a free kick instantly. It was also a lesson in the consequences of a trip. Everton had thewind behind them and also had the wind up. However, they showed signs of improvement when Peacock made another lovely shot, and Dawson punished away. Hill had formed the habit of heading back to his goalkeeper, and once he did it, forgetting that Chedgzoy was lying on the penalty box line as a consequence of having strained himself when making a rousing attack toward the middle, but probably Chedgzoy did not realize that Hill was presenting him with a goal. The first stoppage came through Broad receiving a kick on the head from Tresadern, who had, by the way, played splendid football.  While Broad was off Macdonald became an extra forward, and made an upward run that suggested that he could manipulate the ball. 
BROAD IN CLOSE QUARTERS.
Close on half-time Treasdern Showed how he gained fame down South by lovely half-back work.  Right on the interval Broad, following up, bothered Dawson to the extent of beating him when the keeper was out of his goal, and the old Stoke man was left with an open goal.  He had to shoot at once, and everybody thought the ball was in, but when a closer view was taken it was seen that it had pulled to the left.  Thus Burnley crossed over with a lead.  Half-time. Burnley 1, Everton 1. 
Chedgzoy did not turn out in the second half, and Everton had another cripple when Harland, at the foot of his goal, prevented Roberts scoring No.2.  Irvine fell back among the defenders until Harland had recovered, and did not clear too cleverly, so that Hill had a long shot, the ball passing over.  Chedgzoy limped back at this stage, but he did not look as if he would be as comfortable or convincing.  Burnley had not caused Harland much trouble, saving the one goal incident, in the first half, but now the Irishman had to time a punch-away to a nicety to prevent a goal.  There was no enthusiasm in the crowd, no encouragement, and little prospect, although Macdonald by fiery tactics and punts, put some life into the 25,000 spectators. 
EQUALISER BY IRVINE
Just before the hour mark Everton equalized by Irvine handling
(Page torn from bottom of Echo, missing about 7 or 8 lines)
an orange at him Chedgzoy remonstrated with the offender.  This was one joyful act, but there was  an even inure joyful scene when, at 68 mins, Broad got the ball from the left and making one solitary dribble he then helped himself to a first-time and first-class shot.  His joy was doubled when, within two  minutes, he dribbled just sufficiently to trouble Hill and his partner and otopen a way for Weaver to close in and hit a ball to the right-hand side and make the score 3-1. This was a surprise that did not seem at all likely at any point up to an hour.  Weaver thus scored against his old companions, and the goal was to him very sweet. Livingstone let in Tanner through a blunder, and a goal would have arisen if Tonner had passed to Roberts instead of shooting outside.
ROBERTS SCORES
Five minutes from the finish, Tom Roberts made the score 3-2, and Harland and Tonner came into collision and had to be repaired.  This made the situation open once more.  Harland’s trouble was a ricked neck.  The final, however, came without any further scored.  Final; Everton 3, Burnley 2. 

EVERTON 3 BURNLEY 2
January 2 1925. The Daily Courier
BLUES' SECOND HALF RALLY.
WEAVER'S PART IN DEAFEAT OF BURNLEY.
By S.H.H.
Everton improved their position in the table yesterday at the expense of their companions in misfortune, though it took them quite a long time to get on top; in fact, when the Blues opened the second half with Chedgzoy it looked any odds on their being beaten. Chedgzoy did resume after five minutes, but he was nothing more than a passager, his right leg having given way. However, as invariably happens when play is going all one way the defending side got a goal. This came from a corner which Smelt had conceded and which Weaver placed neatly for Irvine to level the scorers, Burnley having got a goal though Roberts in the opening half. Everton needed the tonic of a goal, and having got it a different complexion came over the game. Instead of the dispirited side of the first half we saw a line full of vim and go-aheadness, even Chedgzoy forgetting his pain to force the ball into the middle. Here Broad used judgement and tact for the conditions down the centre of the field were bad, and by swinging the ball out to the left he enabled Weaver to make ground repeatedly. The left wing played a big part in the victory, as it was from this quarter all three goals came. Weaver and Williams by deft touches left Broad in front of Dawson, and the Everton centre gave his side the lead to he followed two minutes later by a third goal from Weaver, the outside left beating Basnett and Smelt in turn before placing it past Dawson. Burnley reduced the lead five minutes off time, Roberts putting the finishing touches to a drive from Tonner that had struck on the goal line with the winger and Harland knocked out, and with the whistle blowing shortly afterwards Everton secured two welcome points. On the run of the play Everton can consider themselves somewhat fortunate in getting away with the spoils, for up to a point Burnley were the better side. The visitors showed the better judgement in opening out of the play, but, like the home forwards, failed when it came to the finishing touch. Pit-pat moves on a ground that was thick with mud was playing into the hands of the defence, and this was generally where Everton lost many openings. However, as the Blues gained both points, their shortcomings can be overlooked. Broad led the line well, and was ably supported by Williams and Weaver. The right wing pair were not so prominent, largerly as a result of Chedgzoy straining his thigh. At half back Reid and Hill, the respective pivots, took the eye while further behind McDonald and Livingstone, though none too sure in their kicking, were a better pair than Waterfield and Smelt. Both Harland and Dawson kept clever goals. Teams: - Everton: - Harland, goal, McDonald, and Livingstone, backs, Peacock, Reid, and Hart (captain), half-backs, Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Williams, and Weaver, forwards. Burnley: - Dawson, goal, Smelt, and Waterfield, backs, Basnett, Hill, and Tresadern, half-backs, Tonner Cross, Roberts, Beel, and Lancaster, forwards.

EVERTON BRING IN KEER AND PARRY V. ALBION
Liverpool Echo - Friday 02 January 1925
Everton have been forced to make a change though Chedgzoy’s injury, and the customary reserve winger, Parry, will play at the Albion ground to-morrow.  In addition, Kerr, the young Scottish boy, replaces Livingstone.  At Goodison Park to-morrow Everton Reserves meet West Bromwich Albion Reserves in a Central League match, at 2.15.  The match is particularly interesting because both clubs are in the running for the championship, and this match will have a direct bearing.  Everton have chosen the following team;- Kendall; Raitt, Hamilton; Brown, Bain, Virr; Forbes, Wall, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. 
Everton “A” play Poulton Rovers at Clubmoor, 2.15, with the following team; Jones; Caddick, Rankin; Gray, McGrae, Rooney; Harrington, Martin, Green, Houghton, Chadwick. 

A GOALKEEPER WHO WENT TO THE TOUCH-LINE IN EVERTON’S GAME
Liverpool Echo - Friday 02 January 1925
Bee’s Notes
BURNLEY’S ORIGINALITY
Locally we were all delighted to find Everton winning, and, considering there was a gale blowing, the fare provided was quite good.  The goalkeeping of Jerry Dawson, for instance, was of a very high standard.  The Burnley man refuses to leave his goal to the reserve man, but he does not refuse to leave his goal in a match, and when a free kick is being taken you will find big Hill in the goalmouth and Dawson in front of him.  It is not a new idea, but it is done more frequently by Burnley than any other side, and it must pay its way.  On one occasion we had the novel spectacle of Dawson going outside the penalty area and dribbling against the old comrade Weaver, and eventually the Burnley man was forced to put the ball into touch.  I fear there was a little bit of gallery play at the back of it, but that incident apart, no one could gainsay that Dawson played a very brilliant game.  It was the persistence with which he hit out shots in the first twenty minutes that served to threaten a defeat for Everton, once Tom Roberts made good a free kick offence.  Fortunately some of the new Everton players are dealing in practical wares, and Broad has infused into the attack a first time shooting effort that is gaining for the whole side by steady degrees a confidence that had “gone west.”  Broad’s long-distance goal was the best goal of the match.  Weaver’s was the sweetest because it was against his old side and Irvine was the most important, because it broke the ice.  Irvine altered his tactics from the previous game and, as a result, did better.  Unfortunately Irvine’s wing was crocked through Chedgzoy’s accident.  I thought Peacock played particularly well, and was a very live shooter, while Macdonald, the full back put in that desperate strain that inspired the other players.  He is the one man this season who seems to be able to fight back and give his comrades punch.  Burnley only had two forwards, Cross and T. Roberts.  The Cup-tie rehearsal ended favourably for Everton, but the way the losing side shaped in the last five minutes left us still wondering what will happen in the Cup-tie to-morrow week. 
To-morrow Everton go to the Albion, and the Albion Reserves come to Everton.  Both are leaders of their respectable leagues, and, therefore, must be respected. 

EVERTON'S STIFF HURDLE.
January 3 1925. The Daily Courier.
CHANGED FORTUNES OF TWO CLUBS.
Everton have a stiff hurdle to negotiate at the Hawthorns this afternoon, where they meet the leaders West Bromwich Albion. When the pair met earlier in the season Everton gained a somewhat lucky win. Since then there has been a marked change in the fortunes of the two clubs. The Albion have seen their youthful team serve up surprisingly good football, which has had the effect of sending them to the head of the table. On the other hand, Everton, while playing well, have met with a series of exasperating defeats, which landed them among the bottom clubs. Since Boxing Day however, there has been a marked improvement in the fortunes of the Blues, and they have gathered in five out of the last six points. Against Burnley on New years Day Chedgzoy sprained his leg, and it is unfortunate that the only club will have to take the field without him. Still Parry is a capable substitute. Livingstone is another who is standing down, and his place is to be filled by Kerr, who in his previous essay with the first team did well. He is up against this afternoon, but I think he will come out with flying colours and help his side to bring back a point. The teams are: - Everton; Harland, McDonald, and Kerr; Peacock, Reid, and Hart; Parry, Irvine, Broad, Williams, and Weaver. West Bromwich Albion: - Ashmore; Smith, and Perry; Richardson, Rooke, McNeal; Gidden, Davies, James, Wilson, Byers.

FAMOUS OLD-TIMERS.
January 3, 1925. The Liverpool Football Echo.
VICTOR HALL DIPS INTO THE RECORD OF BILL STEWART, HE OF THE MIGHT THROWS.
Bill Stewart, will always be in Everton history by reason of his wonderful grit in throwing in the ball from the touchline. It was often said that a throw-in by Stewart was equal to a free kick, and contemporary players of those days claimed that he could drop the ball into the goalmouth from a touchline throw-in. Certainly he had a wonderful are power, and the muscular development of chest and arm, with him give every credit to the Army training with which his football career commenced. Stewart was one of those born footballers that Scotland supplied so plenteously in the later years of the last century, and although early taking to the Army for a soldier's career, his native football speedily marked him for distinctions, and in the Army team he was early discovered as a coming and developed accordingly. Playing for the regimental team of the "Black Watch" he attracted the attention of senior officers of the Army selection Team and thenceforward his career was made. Every honour came his way as a football player in Army teams, and great regrets were expressed at their lost when his discharge was obtained in order to follow a career as a professional player.
CEASELESS VIGILANCE.
Everton signed Bill Stewart early in his playing career, and practically for his best playing days, he wore the Everton colours. During his most successful days at Goodison Park the half-back line consisted of Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, and on their day, and in their usual form, this line was as good as any combination playing in England. It comprised in a wonderful degree strategy, skill, and movement. Holt and Boyle we have paid tribute to; in former articles. The superb destructive genius of Holt in breaking up enemy attack, and the matter strategy and worrying tactics of Boyle. To these were added the untiring skill and ceaseless vigilance of "big Bill" Stewart, not only in tactical defence, but inventing and developing constant attack, which it, of course the most perfect form of defence. Stewart had developed his football under Army conditions, and speed, strength, and stamina were the prime essentials. He had learned in the hard school of experience to stand up to grueling players, to take hard knocks, and to give them in return. There is or was, no school so serve for testing perfect physical fitness as the Army gyms, and playing fields, and Stewart had come through the ordeals with honours. Therefore, professional football had nothing to teach him in a strength, stamina, or physique, and the skill and intuition of the finer points of the game were born in him. It was often noted when Everton and Sunderland met, how Gibson of Sunderland and Stewart of Everton, vied with each other in their respective throws. Gibson had the reputation of having the longest "throw" of any player in Scotland before he joined Sunderland, but Stewart often exceeded his rival by ten yards, and with less apparent effort. As a stylish Bill Stewart had few points of character play to distinguish him from the average first class half-back of today. It was in his results for the team that he can best be judged. One point may be taken as a standard. Practically for the whole of his playing career for Everton. Stewart had never to be left out of the League team for a single match due to lack of form or ability. To realise this at its value, is to visualize the player going though the whole of a season and playing first class League football every Saturday, and repeating the sequence season after season for the whole of his playing career. Barring, of course, an odd injury, or an exhibition game, when it paid to "rest" an important or overstrained player. Abe Hartley, the old Dumbarton player, and Stewart were great chums at Everton, and both felt the parting when, in the course of time Hartley went south and severed his playing career at Goodison Park. Stewart was exceedingly popular in the North-end of Liverpool, where he resided, and where he still has many happy associations with Everton and Liverpool players. A story used to be old of one of the practical jokes of Milward and Chadwick, who were great cronies of Stewart's. The Everton team were in Belfast to play a match with either Linfield or Glentoran, and Stewart had been inquiring where he could find a barber's as he wanted a "hair cut" before the match. Milward and Chadwick, who were just going out, offered to do scouting work. Having found the barber they discovered he had installed a photograph in the shop and was demonstrating the making of records. They obligingly experimented with the instrument and then invoked his assistance with their scheme and hastened back to the hotel for Stewart, with the glad tidings that they had found a barber just ready to do the needful. Stewart hurried back with them, and was dutifully installed into the chair, only to hear confused murmurs of "Good old Stewart!" "Play up Stewart" "Get your hair cut Bill," repeated at regular intervals to the delight of the assistants and waiting customers. The barber did good trade that day, as most of the Everton party visited the shop to bear Stewart's invisible admirers, and, indeed, for many a day afterwards the Belfast people who heard of the yoke had to have an "audition." Stewart was in the famous line at Fallowfield, when Everton went down to Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-0. For the interest of enthusiasts so may recall the team. Williams, goal, Kelso, and Howarth, backs, Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs, Latta, Gordon, Maxwell, Chadwick, and Milward.
THE BAND STORY.
Gordon was familiarly knows as "Paddy" Gordon to the club supporters and figured in many First Division matches for Everton, while Alan Maxwell in the centre was a brilliant individualist who, in other surroundings, would have taken high place. The story is often told about the band engaged for the triumphal march home that day after the cup had been "won." The story has lost nothing in the telling, and London newspapers are still fond of reviving the incident. There is really very little to tell about it. Everton certainly did expect to win, what team that enters the final does not? On every record they seems value for a few goals more than the Wolves in any match; and although all Liverpool seemed to have made the journey that day to Manchester to bring "home the bacon," there were still a good few thousand at the Combination match at Goodison Park earger to hear the good news come through. Telegrams were to be dispatched every quarter hour from Fallowfield. Telephones direct from the ground were a novelty these days. Well, the wires came at irregular intervals, and the early Wolves score of one goal was just a staggered, but was soon expected to be wiped off. But the result never changed and when all hope was lost a heartbroken official rang up the local bandmaster: - Don't meet the train –we've lost. But Everton lived to fight and win another day.
"Evertonian" (writing from Memory) says: - I was interested in the description of Everton's famous right-wing trio – Latta, Brady, and Kirkwood in the article headed "Famous Old Timers." They were, I believe, the originators and the most perfect exponents of triangle wing play the game has ever seen. But your confrere is wrong in giving the impression that Latta, simply centred the ball for others to score. If one out of every fifty of present-day centre forwards could score goals as often and as consistently they would be worth a Jew's eye. I wish to correct a mistake in the article re the match in which Latta received concussion of the brain, the result of a contemptible foul on the part of Allen, the centre half of Wolverhampton Wanderers, who prodded Latta in the back of the head with his elbow. The match was Lancashire v. Birmingham and district, and the Lancashire forwards were Latta, Brady, Jamieson, (of Bootle), Chadwick, and Milward. Geary, the Everton centre forward had been injured else he would have been selected. The result was a draw of one goal each. "Nomad" writes of the match Lancashire v Dumbarton: The result was Dumbarton 4, Lancashire 1. The preceding year the Lancashire Assoication committee selected ten Lancashire lads one from Oswestry, viz. George Farmer, of Everton. They beat Dumbarton four goals to three and George Farmer was described as the best forward on the field. Again in the match to which "Nomad" refers, he had no superior on the field.
Allow me to correct “Nomads” Lofhouse, of Blackburn Rovers, not Accrington; the Accrington outside-right of the time was Mackereth.  And now, “Bee,” once for you; when you are giving replied to questions, on which very likely a few hoblets may depend, be careful.  You claimed that Kelso did not play for Everton before he played for North End.  Your reply was “No” You were wrong. 
“Bee” thanks the correspondent for the correction.  It is difficult to get records of very ancient history.  Some of the questions asked can only be answered through the kind of help of old men of the game. 
Mr. Wm. Green, writes;- Re Old Timers, I saw Dumbarton (4) Lancs (1).  I saw the match from a Kemlyn-road back-yard wall, as I could not raise the necessary penny for boys’ entrance.  The same day Lancashire played a so-called county match at Birmingham.  A draw? Re Bob Jamieson-he came to terms on the following Sunday morning with Bootle, at the latter’s dressing-rooms.  I have no Press cuttings, but simply reply on memory. 


ALL CLEAR
Sports Argus - Saturday 03 January 1925
ALBION WIN, BUT FAIL TO CONVINCE
JAMES’S USUAL GOALS
By Mavis
For the second successive Saturday, Albion had an opportunity of avenging a defeat suffered in the first week of the campaign.  Last Saturday they repaid, with interest, the defeat administrated by Notts County, and to-day they received Everton, who won a dramatic last minute victory at Goodison Park in September.  In the hope of consolidating their position at the head of the League table, the Albion fielded practically their full strength and with Everton also strongly represented, there was every prospect of a good game.  Teams; W.B. Albion.- Ashmore; Smith, Perry; Magree, Reed (Captain), Richardson; Glidden, Carter, James, Wilson, Byers.  Everton.- Harland; Macdonald, Kerr; Peacock, Reid, Hart (Captain); Parry, Irvine, Broad, Williams, Weaver.  Referee; Mr. W.F. Turnbull (Durham).  Considering the heavy rain of the week the ground was in a fairly good condition, but it was, of course, on the soft side and promised heavy going.  When the players appeared there would be about 10,000 spectators, and the weather held fine.  Reed spun the coin three times before it fell level, and then he lost the toss.  Albion defended the Birmingham-road goal.  Carter promptly set out in his characteristic way, but Kerr repulsed the attack, and bright football by Williams transferred operations, Magee finally putting into touch.  By clever changing of positions, Glidden and Carter made another advance, and Byers placed the former’s swinging centre at Wilson’s foot, but before he could take stock of his position, Macdonald intervened with a lively kick.  Everton forwards showed excellent ball control, Irvine and Williams indulged in clever footwork which led them through the Albion defence.  Parry came into the picture by beating Reed on the touchline, and his pass came so accurately to broad that he was able to get in a perfect first-time shot, but luckily for Albion it passed inches out of its intended course, although it beat Ashmore in its flight.  Carter and Glidden continued to be responsible for Albion’s aggressive play, and provided James with a possible opening, and Macdonald again cleared.  Everton, however, played the more interesting football, and their forwards had decidedly the better of the argument with the Albion defence, which was not so solid as usual.  The crowd which had grown to 18,000 was obviously disappointed by the Albion’s early play.  Wilson and James worked hard to develop a plan of campaign, but the stubborn Everton defenders repelled every advance.  A burst by Everton’s right wing ended in Parry placing across the goalmouth, and just when Weaver was shaping to accept a gift goal, Ashmore thrust out a hand and diverted the ball, effecting a clever save.  Ashmore also had to deal with a dropping centre from Parry, and in the scrimmage which followed, Reed was hurt, and had to retire to the touch-line for repairs to his knee.  So well was Parry playing that Chedgzoy was not missed.  Magee and Smith were more successful curbing the activities of the Everton left wing, and there were some exciting tussles between Weaver and Magee.  Wilson gave Byers an excellent pass, which was wasted, and then darted on the wing himself without achieving anything for his enterprise.  Play had not much sparkle about it, the rival halves having to strong a hold on the opposition for then to be able to get to close quarters.  Glidden, who had been neglected for some time, served up two capital centres, from one of which Wilson headed into goal for Harland to clear safely.  There were occasional flashes Albion’s real form, but they were very frequent.  Joe Smith and Reed were exceptions to the rule, and Glidden also made good use of his chances, but the best of the talent reposed in Everton’s team.  Glidden gave proof of his skill with a pass which sent James through, but at the instant he shot he was tackled, and a barren corner resulted, although this brought an exciting scrimmage in its train.  Nearing the interval James, Wilson and Glidden gave Harland a little trouble, but the goalkeeper had no difficulty in preserving his charge.  Five minutes of the first half remained when Byers accepted a pass from Wilson and landed a centre which dropped dead in the goal area.  It presented no difficulty, and JAMES drove it in the net. 
Half-time; Albion 1, Everton 0. 
The wind was in Albion’s favour when play was resumed.  Both forward lines were quickly in action against obstinate defences, and Byers forced a corner, but placed it badly.  Weaver achieved much better things.  He beat Magee in a race and finished with a shot which would have beaten Ashmore had he not advanced a few yards in anticipation.  Play was very scrappy and there was a lot of touch line tactics, so that the game was indifferent as a spectacle.  Everton enlivened matters with a breezy raid, and Williams went through the Albion defence with only the goalkeeper to beat.  He was harried by Magee, but it was largely due to Ashmore that he failed to score.  After 58 minutes play Albion went further ahead by a superb piece of football by James.  He raced ahead of all opposition, and almost beat Harland with his shot.  Harland, however, pushed the ball away for a corner, and Glidden’s placing was so skilful that JAMES’S header beat Harland all ends up.  Everton were by no means disturbed by this reverse, which was not in strict accord with the run of play, and they proceeded to storm Albion’s goal, Ashmore achieving a splendid save from Broad, who apparently had the goal at his mercy.  Magee also did well to arrest Weaver’s progress, and with Richardson playing the watch-dog on Parry, Albion’s defence was more stable than in the first half.  Play continued whilst Magee lay on the turf injured, and a spectator ran to give him his overcoat, during which time Everton attacked with vigour, and Ashmore effected a brilliant clearance from Williams, and also deal with a volley from Broad.  The next thrill was at the other end, Carter dribbling through and placing the ball or James to deliver a mighty drive which went past the goal at a rare pace.  Albion now appeared to be well on top, and James and company proceeded to show some of their normal form.  Everton made several lively advances on the Albion goal, and a glorious chance fell to Irvine, but from three or four yards he lifted the ball over the bar.  Broad went nearer, planting the ball against the post, but errors at the opposite end balanced these.  In the last minute WILSON scored from a free kick, and Albion were quite satisfied to win. 
Result West Bromwich Albion 3, Everton 0. 
THE GAME AT A GLANCE
After 40 minutes;
West Bromwich Albion 1, Everton 0 (James scored)
After 58 minutes;
West Bromwich Albion 2, Everton 0 (James scored)
After 89 minutes;
West Bromwich Albion 3, Everton 0 (Wilson scored).

EVERTON RES V WEST BROM RES
Sports Argus - Saturday 03 January 1925
Played at Everton.
Everton; Kendall; Raitt, Hamilton; Brown, Bain, Virr; Forbes, Wall, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. West Bromwich Albion Reserves; Pearson; Baugh, Chamberlain; Fryer, Rooke, McNeal, Smith, Mulcahy, Davies, Jones, Fitton.  Everton had an ex-senior left wing on view, and they early proved dangerous to the Albion.  Troup made a clever run and tricked three opponents until Baugh became a barrier and cleared.  Davies and Fitton replied with several storming attacks, but found Brown a ready forager and Raitt a stolid defender.  From a free kick 30 yards out Chadwick shot, Chamberlain heading out from the goalline.  Troup made a brilliant run and centred to Chadwick who gave Pearson a terrific drive to deal with, the custodian making a wonderful save.  COCK and CHADWICK scored for Everton.  Half-time; Everton 2, West Brom Albion 0. CHADWICK, VIRR and WALL scored for Everton.
Result Everton Reserves 5, West Bromwich Albion Reserves 0 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 03 January 1925
By Louis T. Kelly

EVERTON SCOUTING
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 03 January 1925
PARRY AND KERR MAKE FIRST TEAM APPEARANCES
TILT AGAINST LEADERS
F.E.H’S REPORT OF WEST BROMWICH MATCH
Everton; Harland; Macdonald, Kerr; Peacock, Reid, Hart; Parry, Irvine, Broad, Williams, Weaver.  West Bromwich Albion; Ashmore; J. Smith, Parry; Magee, Reed, Richardson; Glidden, Carter, James, Wilson, Byers.  Referee; Mr. W.F. Turnbull, of Durham.  Everton had their stiffest task to-day- against the leaders of the League, West Bromwich Albion.  Chedgzoy was absent and Parry took his place, while Livingstone’s absence let in young Kerr, who was doing well till damaged through taking a toss.  A gusty wind blew fitfully across the ground, and it was obvious that it would prove disconcerting to a thorough control of the ball.  There were 20,000 spectators present when the Albion started.  They made immediate play on the right, but were well checked, and the Everton left wing pair were dangerous when a long shot from Williams was kicked clear.  The Throstles were not slow to respond, for they got going on the left, and Carter essayed a shot.  The wind carried it wide of the mark, but not out of play, and Byers passed to Wilson, who was cleverly robbed by Reid just as he was about to shoot. 
PRESSING THE ALBION.
The pace had speedily developed, and both sets of forwards attacked strongly in pairs.  The home right wing made smart progress, but were upset in the nick of time.  The visitors retaliated with a brilliant solo effort on the part of Broad, who got clean through and topped the bar by inches with his first shot.  Parry and Irvine were next in the picture, but the inside man failed at the last moment.  He tried to make amends with another laudable effort, but Perry proved an effective stumbling-block.  By this time the playing pitch was beginning to cut up, but the Everton forwards were displaying dash, and once Parry had to put the ball back to Ashmore in order to save his lines from the advance of Broad.  Parry, showing a fine turn of speed, got along very like a greyhound, forcing Perry to kick into touch, and this led to an exciting situation in the home goal.  The ‘keeper eventually cleared with difficulty.  The next episode was a duel between Weaver and Smith, in which the home back only just got the better of the argument.  The visitors were now in very happy mood, for they were shooting hard and often, and two drives from Williams and Broad were rather luckily intercepted by the Albion defenders.  The home forwards took up the running with renewed vigour, but for the most part they were well held by the Everton halves, and when on one occasion Carter got through Kerr intervened at the critical moment. 
INCREASED ENERGY
It was not long before the visitors, who had evidently benefited by their fortnight’s stay at Heswall, were again attacking strongly, and I am delighted to be able to say that up to this point of the game they had shown more strenuousness and vigour than I have seen so far this season.  They were up against a very solid defence, however, Smith being particularly cool and confident in his tackling and clearances.  Reid once put Broad in possession, but the thrustful Everton centre was not permitted to get through.  At the other end the Throstles were busy on the right, where Glidden beat both Hart and Kerr, and finished with a timely pass to Wilson.  The latter shot strongly, but Harland got to the leather and cleared.  For some time the Everton left wing pair were rather starved, and when at length the ball was passed out to Weaver, he lost possession.  A combined breakaway on the part of the Albion vanguard looked ominous for Everton, but Harland saved a hot shot from James.  The Throstles reduced, and two corners were forced in quick succession, both these led to exciting scenes in front of Harland, but the visitors eventually cleared their lines, and Williams made another dash for the home goal on his own.  He was, however, out manceuvrel, and we next saw the Albion hammering at their opponent’s gate where both Carter and Wilson got his hot shots that were cleverly diverted. 
ALBION’S LEAD
Five minutes from the interval the Throstles took the lead as a result of a fine movement of Wilson getting past Peacock and Macdonald to pass the leather to Byers, who in turn swung it back to James for the last named to score at short range.  Everton got off the mark in fine fashion on the left, but Weaver’s shot went wide.  Half-time-West Brom 1, Everton 0. 
The first half had provided us with some rattling good football and Everton were unfortunate at being one down at the turn.  The forwards had shown vastly improved form, and were good value for at least one goal.  The enclosure was full when the second period was entered upon. 
CLIPPING THEIR WINGS
West Bromwich were the first to attack, but Byers finished tamely; while at the other end Weaver go in a couple of shots that were skillfully and safely handled.  For a time they exercised extra pressure, but to no purpose, and when the Throstles began a second flight towards the Everton goal, they had their wings clipped by Macdonald. 
SCOUTING
Everton have made inquiries for a young man in Shropshire.  The man required has Welsh interest and is on a double-form.
LOSE AT THE HAWTHORNS
EVERTON’S FORWARDS IN IMPROVED FORM
JAMES SCORES TWICE
WILSON SCORED A THIRD CLOSE ON TIME
The home right wing looked dangerous when they came through, but Hart and Kerr were on te qui vive, and matters were not improved when Richardson drove wide with a wild drive.  The visitors were soon on the go again, Broad and Williams both trying gallantly to equalize, the latter was hurt in the course of his endeavor but did not leave the field. 
JAMES PLAYS UP
Further pressure on the part of the visitors led a section of the crowd to cry, “Play up, Albion!”  The response was electrical, for James got off the mark at top speed and sent in a drive which was saved at the3 cost of a corner.  This, however, was only delaying their triumph, for from the place kick James scored his second goal with a terrific shot.  Everton, however, were by no means down hearted.  They came away in sweeping fashion, and Broad delivered a lightning-like shot which caught the home custodian full in the stomach, and temporarily put him out of action.  After being attended to he returned to duty.  After falling off for a time the Everton forwards bucked up smartly, and one especially pretty bit of play on the part of but unfortunately it was ineffective.  The Parry, Irvine, and Broad was applauded, home players were much more dangerous by reason that they swung the ball about, thus nullifying Everton’s inclination to the close-passing game.  In the last ten minutes Everton made desperate efforts to effect a recovery, and Irvine had the goal at his mercy at three yards’ range when he missed the target, and a few minutes later Broad missed a golden opportunity. 
WILSON SCORES
A shot from Carter was well saved in the last minute.  Then just on time Wilson scored from a free-kick. 
Final; West Bromwich Albion 3, Everton 0. 

EVERTON A v. POULTON ROVERS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 03 January 1925
At Townsend-lane.  The opening exchanges were even.  The visitors were first to press, but Upton mulled a good chance.  Chadwick next made ground on the left, but Barton fired over.  From a free kick, Collins forced Jones to save.  Houghton went close with a first-timer.  Offside spoiled the Rovers from taking the lead.  Rooney opened the score for Everton from a penalty, and a few minutes later Houghton scored a second.  Half-time; Everton 2, Poulton 0. 

EVERTON RES v. WEST BROM RES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 03 January 1925
A GREAT CHANCE FOR LEAGUE LEADERSHIP.
As expected, the Albion proved a great attraction at Goodison, and the home left wing, comprising Troup, Chadwick, and Cook, were early prominent with some excellent combination.  The latter, after tricking three opponents, had the misfortune to be robbed of his shot by the intervention of Baugh.  The Albion in the early stages rarely got away, and when they did Brown and Raitt defended stolidly. Chadwick had an opportunity of testing Pearson from a free kick 30 yards out, but luckily for the keeper Chamberlain was on the goal line and headed out.  Kendall, at the other end, saved a free kick from Rourke, and then Troup, with wonderful ease, tricked both Fryer and Baugh.  Chadwick hitting the winger’s centre first time, for Pearson to make a wonderful save.  Although Troup was responsible for most of the Everton raids, it was a centre from Forbes that brought the first goal, Cock scoring from close range.  Chadwick missed a good chance when he had only the keeper to beat, the Everton man shooting straight at him.  Everton’s prospects of leading the Central League now became very bright when following persistent attacks which led to the visitors’ defence being kept busy, Cock provided Chadwick with a scoring chance, and he obliged by scoring Everton’s second. 
Half-time; Everton Res 2, Albion Res 0.
A REMARKABLE DECISION
On resuming the ire of the spectators was reused when Forbes receiving a pass, was allowed to go on, despite a linesman’s signals for offside.  He passed to Chadwick, who scored with a nice drive.  After the goal Mr. Shackleton, the referee, consulted the linesman, and then, after he had allowed the man to go on, mark you! to the astonishment of the crowd he pointed for an offside kick.  Chadwick was revenged five minutes later when he scored Everton’s third, and Virr followed a minute later with a fourth goal.  Wall scored fifth for Everton Res.  Final; Everton Res 5, West Bromwich A Res, nil. 

WEST BROMWICH ALBION 3 EVERTON 0
January 5, 1925. The Daily Courier.
ALBION FLATTERED BY SCORE.
BLUES MISS CHANCES AT HAWTHORNS.
By S.H.H.
Everton's visit to the Hawthorns was a fruitless one. At the same time, the score rather flattered the League leaders, for there was no three goals margin between the sides on the day's play. A truer reflex of the run of the game would have been 3-2 in the Throstles' favour. In the first half play, rather favoured Everton, and they were much more dangerous than the home side, but luck was against them on at least two occasions, when Referee Turnbull happened to be in the way of drives that looked like troubling Ashmore. In addition, Broad topped the bar with a great drive following an excellent centre by Parry. After the turn round Irvine, when almost under the bar, tipped the ball over, and Broad struck the post. Had these chances been availed of it is possible that a different result would have had to be recorded.
FIRST GOAL.
The Albion had also chances, but the shooting of the inside forwards was painfully weak, and it was not until just on the interval that they scored. This was the result of a well conceived move by the two inside wingers, for they gave the defence the dummy, as they say in Rugby, and, having got them unbalanced, James made amends for his previous mistakes. Thus Everton crossed over a goal in arrears, which the play had not warranted. In the second half Weaver who had been starved by his partner in the first portion, got more of the play, and it was indeed hard lines to find Irvine make the mistake referred to. Williams also had a great chance of scoring, but hesitated when in front of goal, and Ashmore coming out, smothered his effort. The Albion got their second goal from a corner conceded by Harland, James who had been the shooter in the first instance, heading through Glidden's place kick, while the third came on time from a free kick given against Peacock. The referee in this instance made a mistake, as from the stands it appeared as though the Everton man had been fouled.
LAST MINUTE GOAL.
However, having been granted, Harland was somewhat to blame for allowing the goal that followed, as he had full view of Wilson's drive, but fell too late, the ball going under his body. Still Harland was not altogether to blame for the defeat. Kerr, of whom much was expected, started well, and then petered out. The result was McDonald had a most grueling time of it, and it was not surprising to find him cracking under the strain. The halves, moreover, were none too safe in their tackling. Peacock being the best of the trio, while forward Broad and Irvine were the pick though the last named spoiled his work by too much dribbling. Parry was more trustful than Williams, and in the opening half the first named got the ball across in excellent manner. The Albion were a youthful side, and work well together but if Saturday display was their best, then they will be lucky if they find themselves on top of the League when May comes round. The forwards, of whom Glidden and Byers were the pick, are over inclined to elaboration, and while such movements undoubtedly take the eye of the onlookers, I doubt much whether they pay. Certain they would not against a hursting defence like Huddersfield's. Magee did not impress me as being the player he once was, and of the halves I liked Reed most. Smith and Perry kicked and tackled well, while further behind Ashmore showed sound tactics in leaving his goal when danger threatened. By so doing he saved two certain goals. Teams : - West Bromwich Albion: - Ashmore, goal, Perry, and Smith, backs, Richardson, Reed, and Magee, half-backs, Byers, Wilson, James Carter, and Glidden, forwards. Everton: - Harland goal, McDonald, and Kerr, backs, Peacock, Reid, and Hart (captain), half-backs, Parry, Irvine, Broad, Williams, and Weaver, forwards. Referee Mr. WF Turnbull.

EVERTON RESERVES 5 WEST BROMWICH ALBION RESERVES 0
January 5, 1925. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 24)
Everton's forwards were too good for the Throstles' halves on Saturday, and this resulted in the backs being overworked. The result was they were uncertain in their tackles and cicarances. On the other had the Everton backs both played well, as did all the halves. The first goal was scored by Cock, who steered the ball past Pearson from a pass by Forbes. Shortly afterwards Chadwick scored a second. Almost immediately after the interval, Chadwick netted again, but the referee, after previously allowing the goal, reversed his decision. Beyond occasional raids, West Bromwich were seldom in the picture, and Virr scored again with a great drive. Near the end Wall gained the fifth goal.

VICTORIOUS BUT NOT CONVINCING
Birmingham Daily Gazette - Monday 05 January 1925
ALBION FLATTERED BY SCORE AGAINST EVERTON
ASHMORE EXCELS
WEST BROMWICH ALBION 3, EVERTON 0
By the Throstle
"Victorious but not convincing "would be an apt description to apply to West Bromwich Albion, who won their match with Everton at the Hawthorns on Saturday by a more decisive margin than the general character of the play warranted.  Three goals is pretty conclusive evidence, as a rule, that one team is superior to the other, but impartial reflections on the incidents of this game lead one to the admission that Albion got a little more than their due.  With so many available reserves, it is difficult to point to one set of players and label them Albion's best eleven, but, on paper at any rate, Saturday's side could not easily be improved upon.  They did not realise their top form, however, and a very delicate adjustment of Fortune's pendulum might have awarded one of the points to Everton. 
GROUND TO BLAME? 
The ground was probably accountable for the moderate form displayed by Albion for the greater part of the contest.  Without being " treacly,' it was sticky enough to impede the progress of the players, and one of Albion a most consistent forwards found it difficult to develop any ball control.  The defence also floundered at first, and altogether the opening half-hour was a profound disappointment to the spectators.  Everton, seemed to be much more at home on the treacherous surface, and had they possessed a forward of James's calibre in the middle of the line they might easily have won an early lead.  Broad once went close with a masterly cross-shot, but on all other occasions his marksmanship was within reach of Ashmore.  Just before the interval there came an unmistakable revelation of the Albion's normal form, and a swinging transfer from Wilson sent Byers away. Be lifted the ball into the centre, and it fell practically dead in the penalty area. It was a chance such as imaginative centre-forwards dream about, and James treated it as a penalty kick and drove the ball hard, into the net.  When play was resumed Everton again had the better of the opening exchanges, but Ashmore covered his goal so skillfullywhen Williams, Broad and Weaver bore down on him, that he was able to smother their shots, and Everton's failure to profit by any of their skillful approaches was rubbed in when James dashed ahead with the ball under perfect control. Be almost scored with a shot delivered in his stride, but Harland gave a corner, and James achieved his purpose with a superb “header.”
A GREAT GOAL. 
It was one of his best efforts, and evoked a storm of applause. Even then Everton were not done with; they fought grimly, and it took all the energies of Smith, Reed, and Magee to check them.  Occasionally the visitors eluded their opponents, and Irvine once had an open goal, but volleyed overhead.  Towards the end the home team asserted themselves to better purpose. They had bigger reserves of energy than their opponents, and had they shot at all well they might easily have doubled the more. They had to thank Everton for the chance of scoring a third point. More than one defender transgressed the rules, and eventually Reid upset James close to the penalty line. The free kick was taken after a lot of officious ceremony by the referee, and the visitors' irritation was not mollified when Wilson bit the ball into the corner of the net—incidentally bringing his name into the scorers' list for the first time since the West Ham match.  Albion thus won comfortably, but they have given more impressive exhibitions.  Reed, Magee, Smith, and Ashmoreexcelled in the captain working tremendously hard to break up Everton’s combination, and Magee keeping a tight hold on Weaver.  Forwards, Glidden, and James were the most consistent, but Wilson was a tireless craftsman, and created many menacing situations.  Albion.—Ashmore; Smith, Perry; Magee, Reed, Richardson; Glidden, Carter, James, Wilson, Byers.  Everton.—Harland; McDonald, Kerr; Peacock, Reid, Hart; Parry, Irvine, Broad, Williams, Weaver. Referee W.S. Turnbull (Durham). 

ALBION’S SIXTH
Athletic News - Monday 05 January 1925
EVERTON CLEVER BUT POOR MARKSMEN\
WEST BROMWICH ABION 3, EVERTON 0
By Hawthorn
Everton are one of the clubs who habitually do well at the Hawthorns, but the tradition is gradually undergoing adjustment.  They lost heavily last season, and their visit on Saturday ended in a three goals defeat.  They had quite as much of the play and as many chances of scoring as their conquerors.  The margin was more emphatic than the play warranted, and the visitors may well feel that the fates were unkind to them.  Albion owed their success- their sixth in succession –to the dash and opportunism of JAMES, who credited himself with two more goals, both scored at periods when the home goal was under-going a somewhat stern ordeal.  His first came five minutes from the interval, and was of the sort centre-forwards dream of.  The ball came from the left and remained dead on the turf a yard or two f4rom the spot.  James transformed it into an unofficial penalty, and shot past Harland.  Fourteen minutes after the interval James raced between the backs and ended with a shot which Harland gratefully pushed out for a corner.  Glidden placed this skillfully, and James’s header carried it beyond the goalkeeper’s reach.  In the last minute of all, Reid fouled Albion’s centre-forward, and a free kick, taken by WILSON, after a lot of players between the referee and the defenders, sped into the net. 
WEAK NEAR GOAL
This decision score would not have been returned had Everton been as accurate in front of goal as they were in midfield and in their concerted advances.  These moments were marked by exactitude in passing and enterprise in method which Hawthorns people more frequently see in the West Bromwich team, but these qualities were not clinched by effective shooting, despite isolated efforts by Broad and Williams.  The second half saw Everton’s slight advantage dissipated.  Play ruled more in the Albion’s favour, and the rapidity with which thrusts were dealt proved rather disconcerting to the visiting defenders.  They found some relief, however, in their spirited raids of their own forwards, and it was largely due to Ashmore’s sterling work that the goal did not fall.  Williams was the chief agent in these movements, just as the man who filled the corresponding berth in the opposing team was the mainspring of their attacks.  Team for team there was little to choose.  Both sides found that the heavy ground imposed a severe task upon them, and the defenders, in particular, were disposed to take the line of least resistance and put into touch.  Ashmore was the strong man in the Albion’s defensive operations, and some of his clearances were models of anticipation and judgment.  Smith, the best back on the field, gave further evidence of his consistency, and Reed played a dominating game in the centre.  James’s dashing leadership blended admirably with the speed of the wingmen and the guile of Carter and Wilson.  Everton’s defence in which Kerr was introduced to the exclusion of Livingstone, served the club well under difficult circumstances, but the frequency of free kicks in the last half-hour was evidence that the earlier resistance had taxed the players to the full.  Reid saved a certain goal by tackling James at a critical moment, but otherwise he was not a conspicuous figure.  The forwards, who included Parry in the absence of Chedgzoy, gave a capital show, Williams being the outstanding player.  He came nearer than any colleague to beating Ashmore, but Irvine spoiled his good midfield play by spurning the gift of the game.  West Bromwich Albion.—Ashmore; Smith, Perry; Magee, Reed, Richardson; Glidden, Carter, James, Wilson, Byers.  Everton.—Harland; McDonald, Kerr; Peacock, Reid, Hart; Parry, Irvine, Broad, Williams, Weaver. Referee W.S. Turnbull, Durham. 

AGAINST THE TOP TEAM
Liverpool Echo - Monday 05 January 1925
By F.E.H
Philosophers will tell you that there is no use railing against Fate.  It is cold comfort I admit-especially when the verdict of the gods seems unduly hard.  Everton certainly did not deserve a clear three-goals beating at the Hawthorns, on Saturday.  That the Throstles were good value for their win, on the general run of play, I admit, but the margin was not more than one goal.  Everton were beaten mainly because they did not adapt themselves to the prevailing conditions.  They persisted in the short passing game, while their opponents swung the ball about in a way that frequently put their antagonists completely out of action.  In the first half, which was very fast and full of good things, there was nothing to choose between the rivals.  Yet the goal got by James, just before the interval, seemed to disconcert the Evertonians, and in the second period the visitors obviously lacked confidence.  They played, however, with unfailing gameness, though without success; while shots from Broad and Irvine went awry, the Throstles, by the help of Dame Fortune, added another couple.  James headed his second from a corner, and Wilson found the target from a free kick on the dot of time.  The Everton forward line showed considerable dash, though there were certain weaknesses.  The half-back line was occasionally “wobbly,” and the defence might have been better, though McDonald worked hard and well.  The Throstles are a blythe, singing lot, and my old friends, Mr. Harry Keys and Mr. “Billy” Basset –two of the most enthusiastic and assiduous directors-are quite optimistic as to the position of affairs at the conclusion of the season.  Following heir example Everton must take heart of grace. 

EVERTON F.C.’S FLARE UP
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 06 January 1925
Bee’s Notes
It has been a long time coming to publicity, but here it is.  There has been a flare-up at Everton –not the sort the average follower of the Goodison Park club would imagine, but a flare-up at Heswall, where the club a week ago was going in for a special rest cure at Tom Parr’s hotel.  It appears that the Nautical School nearby was the scene of some gymnastic shows from the boys of the school, and the Evertonians used to enjoy watching these lads going through their course of intense training.  But there came a day when things went wrong.  One boy hurt his back while vaulting the “horse,” and when the Everton footballers stripped ready for action, two boys meddled with a fire and used paraffin.  Wall and James Broad were in the line of fire, and were startled out of their wits, if not their clothes, when they felt the fire at the back of their legs.  Flames shout out, and it is said that Wall made a record long jump.  Fortunately there were only minor hurts, and Harland’s Irish training in the force stood him in good stead, for he it was that subdued the flames.  The players were not attired, so that they got off very lightly under all circumstances. 

FOOTBALL BOMB
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 08 January 1925
STARTLING EVERTON TEAM SHEET. 
CAPTAIN NOT PLAYING. 
ENTER VIRR, MCBAIN, RAITT, AND CHADWICK. 
Everton Football Club win create much surprise and some astonishment when their team-sheet is read today. The side has not been doing well this season, many experiments have been made and dropped, but the Cup-tie team against Burnley is probably the biggest daring experiment and change that the club have offered for many years.  Chadwick, McBain, and Brown return to the side, Chedgzoy is a probable starter—rather surprising, this, as his injuries were very severe—and Hart, captain of the side, is unableto play, which means that Virr is included—he is the tall local boy who did well at Bolton in a Lancashire Cup-tie semi-final.  But there is more to startle the local enthusiast—Peacock is to be tried at inside right, where Irvine has in the past earned big praise for skilled dribbling. Peacock is also a skilled dribbled, and there was a time when he played inside-right, and also centre-forward. He was tried as a centre years ago and scorer, three goals. Now he is brought to the inner attacking division again, and Brown reappears after a long absence at right half-back.  The full team is, -- Harland; Raitt, Macdonald; Brown, McBain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Peacock, Broad, Chadwick, Weaver.  If Chedgzoy finds himself unable to play, Weaver will possibly turn to outside right, and Troup reappear at outside left.  
BUNRLEY’S CHANGES
Our Burnley correspondent wires;- Burnley are hoping to have Kelly available for the Everton Cup-tie, though, like Tresaders, he is still doubtful through injuries.  With Wheelhouse and Evans injured.  Waterfield will again partner Smelt.  Should Kelly and Treasdern not turn out, Parkin and Tonner will take their places.  Kelly’s inside partner is Williams, from Rossendale, a centre forward, whose first appearance it will be.  Cross has been transferred outside left. 

KELLY NOT TO PLAY FOR BURNLEY IN CUP-TIE
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 08 January 1925
FREEMAN TO BE BURNLEY MANAGER?
Bee’s Notes
The news of Kelly's from the Burnley side will be as nought, I imagine, when the Everton side is announced.  I understand that there are some striking changes made, and that the club have even gone the length of experimenting for the game.  The item of news concerning Bert Freeman will also be interesting to readers. The Burnley team is;- Dawson; Smelt, Waterfield; Basnett, Hill, Tresadern; Toner, Williams, Roberts, Bell and Cross.  Kelly's name has been included in ateam sheet, but my information, given above is that there is no chance of his playing. 
FAMOUS CENTRE AS OFFICIAL
An Interesting announcement is that which tells us that there is a probability of return to the game of Bert Freeman, the famous Everton, Burnley, and England centre-forward, in the capacity of secretary-manager of the club with which he completed his playing career. Freeman was possibly me of the most trustful and dangerous centre-forwards of modern times, and when at the height of his form with Everton was a terror to every defence in the country. It was he who put up the goal-scoring record of 38 goals in the season. His great year was 1911-12, when he played for England in all three international matches.  Previous to this, however, he also turned out against Scotland and Wales in 1909.   He scored the only goal for the Burnley team which beat Liverpool in the Cup final of 1913-14. If he is successful in securing the post for which he is stated to be an applicant he will be a valuable asset to the club, for he must have a splendid knowledge of the type of man who is liable to get the goals.  It would, moreover, be an exceedingly popular selection, as no man playing held the esteem of his fellows more than did Freeman.
Everton supporters are anxiously awaiting the Burnley game, which, after the previous display of New Year’s Day, is sure to be a big attraction and an even game.  Everton folk would have more confidence if Sam Chedgzoy were fit for service.  Sam has made recoveries before to-day, and I am glad to state there is a good chance of his appearing with his side.  I remember the day, years ago, when Sam was in hospital at Bolton, and he surprised us all by climbing the stairs at Goodison park and seeing one of the home games.  Then there was another famous case where a Cup-tie and Chedgzoy were paired off.  I mean the Brighton defeat last season, when Chedgzoy was plainly not fit to do himself justice, but engaged in the game.  It is odd that when the next round comes along with any concern for Everton Chedgzoy again should be a doubtful starter.  I believe that, spite of fears and troublous muscles.  Sam is pretty confident that he will be able to take his place.  If he does this will solve to a good degree the question of whether Weaver shall become outside right and Troup outside left. 
Everton “A” play Prescot in a Liverpool County Combination match, at Townsend-lane, on Saturday, 2.45 when shareholders’ tickets will be available, and the team will be; Jones; Caddick, Hamilton; Gray, McGrae, Rooney; Harrington, Martin, Green, Houghton, Chadwick. 
Everton F.C. have the half-share of a pitch at Clubmoor to let for the rest of the season.  Apply to Mr. McIntosh, Goodison Park. 

EVERTON AND BURNLEY TROUBLES.
January 10 1925. The Daily Courier.
Everton and Burnley met as recently as New Year's day, when the first named won 3-2. The game on that occasion was a somewhat surprising one, for Everton, after appearing well out of the running, finished with a burst that gained the day. It would be a wise man that would say they will do the same to day, though we all hope they will come out on top. For one thing, the Blues' side is something in the nature of an experimental one. The changes made, and they are numerous –for only the goal position is left unchanged –may turn out trumps, in which case Everton will win. On the other hand, they may not, and Burnley will win, while Everton will not only be out of the Cup, but the problem of escaping relegation will be no nearer solution. However, I have faith in the Blues coming out on top this afternoon, even though they will be without their leader, Hunter Hart. Neil McBain nevertheless will make a capable understudy. Burnley. Like Everton are making changes, their biggest one being the introduction of Williams, the former Rossendale forward. Owing to injuries the visitors may also be without Kelly and Tresadern, in which case Everton's chance will be all the brighter. The teams are: - Everton; Harland; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, McBain and Virr; Chedgzoy, Peacock, Broad, Chadwick, Weaver. Burnley; Dawson; Smelt, Waterfield; Basnett, Hill, Tresadern; Kelly, Williams, Roberts, Beel, and Cross.

FAMOUS OLD-TIMERS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 10 January 1925
THE OLD-TIME SUPPORTERS WHO TOOK THE ROUGH WITH THE SMOOTH
By Victor Hall
There is an apparent difference between the real supporters of both Everton and Liverpool Clubs, and those of former years.  It is because it is only an “apparent” difference that it is worth while making that distinction.  At this mid-season point in the year’s football progress one can be forgiven for drawing attention with a view to propounding a remedy.  Briefly, it is that we in Liverpool are being criticized outside for having lost that fine sense of sportsmanship which has been our boast for more than one generation.  There is a portion of our “crowd” at football matches of to-day who are not always as fair or considerate to the players as a former generation were.  There are other towns, and critics, too, where strong prejudices exist among the spectators.  A visiting team, for instance, can never do anything right, and the referee is always wrong.  Every move by the home team in their towns is always good and clever; every move by the visiting team is criticized, praise is rare, blame plentiful.  One time, not so very long ago, either we were proud of our Liverpool and Everton spectators.  They were not blind partisans, seeing merit in their own side only.  Visitors to our matches marveled at the strict impartiality of our crowds, and complimented us because our people showed such a real spirit of sportsmanship.  In those days it was with a feeling of real pride that we noted week after week how the cheers went up for all good and clever play.  It was not all confined to the home team.
A LEAD IN SPORTSMANSHIP
Sometimes we were just a little bit jealous how fine a receptions the visitors always got on our home grounds at Anfield and Goodison, and how different the reception our team got when they were the visitors and playing away.  The very directors of the visiting clubs were the first to admit that our spectators were the finest sportsman in the League and they apologized because their own people did not equal our standard of real sportsmanship.  That was very creditable to us.  Now, why the changes?  We are still good judges here in Liverpool of the true sporting tradition.  We have not lost our sense of equal praise to both home team and visitors.  It is just this; that a few noise people are more often heard than many silent people who don’t shout.  There are no finer gentlemen at heart than our dock men and Liverpool tradesmen.  Week in and week out they g=have spent their leisure Saturdays and their money in keeping two of the best clubs in the country going.  By heir single-hearted loyalty to the game of football, Liverpool has been able to provide two of the finest teams in the League.  The support and loyalty of our Liverpool workmen to both local clubs has been beyond all praise.  Why, therefore, should we allow a few noisy malcontents spoil our good name? It is the personal duty of every man who pays to see a football match to keep that game clean and decent.  Clean to admire, decent to carry on.  How can it be kept at this high standard if a few vulgar rowdies are allowed to blacken our characters as lovers of fairplay?  You have heard that in some places a section of a crowd take a sudden dislike to one of their own players.  For some reason, real or fancied, once that spirit has set in the poor player never gets a chance again.  If he does right he is jeered at; if he does wrong he is reviled; this goes on week after week, until all that fine spirt of loyalty to club and directors is killed in the player and realizing that no matter how hard he tries, his efforts will be unappreciated, he applies for a transfer to another club.  A promising career is often ruined in that way, and many a brave-hearted player is denied the chance of getting his livelihood.  The very men who do this kind of thing, this foul, un-English action, would be the first to whimper if in their own work their foreman or “boss” had what they call a “grudge” against them.  They would squeal of the “injustice” of it, and yet they are sensible that they are themselves guilty of vileness in treating a football player with spite.  No one wants praise or bouquets for players whether they play ill of well.  Approval by all means when the play deserves it, whichever the side.  Regret or dismay when the good chance “goes west” or a bad miss mulls the hard work of the other players.  That, no one will ever complain of.  Not would we. 
ACCEPT THE REFEREE.
But we do want to kill that spirit that makes a dead set against any one player, that jeers him, that shouts hurtful taunts at him, who, being but one, cannot retaliate to a crowd.  We want to say to our sportsmen, whether behind the goal or on the stand, that the good name of Liverpool and Everton football crowds is at stake, and we look to the individual spectator himself to keep that good name clean.  We want the “howler” or the barracker to be made feel at once that he is not among supporters, but that he is only himself, and that the good sense of the crowd is not with him but against him.  It is not necessary to row with him, or even forcibly eject him.  But it will do him no harm if he is told that other people have other opinions, and don’t want to hear his.  It is not often that referees have to complain of our crowds in Liverpool, but sometimes a referee gives, and has to give, a decision that everybody does not agree with.  Give him credit for doing his best.  He cannot see everything.  He has not as many eyes as has the crowd.  For what he does see he acts.  And he has to act quickly.  He has no time for weighing evidence, or appealing to the finer points of the law.  His decision must be instant, and is given in the heat and not blood of great excitement.  If occasionally you don’t agree with him, at least give him credit for being impartial, and doing his best to be fair.  You are not impartial always remember, he is bound to be or he would not be there.  The League has no place for referees who ever show favoritism.  A referee has to go long as a linesman before he gets his first job as referee, and if he were not strictly fair and impartial he would not be appointed.  After all, it is worth striving for to keep that fine clean name we have held for so long in Liverpool! We are at heart real lovers of the spirit of sportsmanship.  Let us show it, and get back the good name that made us years ago “Famous Old Timers.” 

THE LONG THROW
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 10 January 1925
In your notes referring to famous old timers, by Victor Hall in the “Football Echo,” Bill Stewart is said to be the best throw-in.  He mentions Gibson, of Sunderland.  I beg to contradict him.  There was no man of that name in Sunderland who could throw in.  His name was Hughie Wilson, and he played right half-back.  They called him the pride of Newcastle road; I have seen him play about a dozen times.  He could beat Bill Stewart (says “Solo”). 
   It is a pleasure to read in the Football Echo” the exploits of the “Old Timers” and I trust you will pardon me for correcting your correspondent on two points in his last article (Writes Mr. T. Nolan). 
  “Soldier Bill Stewart” did not play in the Fallowfield final against the Wolves; it was a former Burnley player of that name who was Everton’s left half that day; he hailed from the “land of cakes,” and played as a left wing forward for Burnley.  Later he was tried, and became a great success at left-half before being transferred to Everton, for whom he played some very fine games.  “Soldier Bill Stewart” was a playing member of the Black Watch (Army) team before North End obtained his release, and after spending some time at Preston, was transferred to Everton, where he won fame in a half back line, which included Johnny Holt and Dick Boyle.  If my memory serves me aright he captained the Everton team which met the Villa in that memorable Cup final, when the latter won 3-2.  My second point; Your correspondent mentions Gibson, of Sunderland, as a great thrower of the ball.  He is evidently confused over names, as no doubt he means Hugh Wilson of that team, who was a dandy at this particular game? In fact, the three outstanding players at that period of throwing were Hugh Wilson, Bill Stewart, and Bob Roberts, of Bolton Wanderers. 
Louis Kelly, the well-versed and versatile correspondent writes;
  Re Victor Hall’s articles on “Old Timers”; Bill Stewart, the noted Black Watch half-back, I fancy, played for Preston North End for quite a considerable time before joining Everton.  Again, it was not Gibson who was noted as a Wearsider for his throw-in, but one Hugh Wilson, their famous Newmilus Scot, one of the grandest and greatest wing halves the game has known –a regular Crabtree at his best- and good judges of the “Tityrus” brand would tell you that there wasn’t a pin to chosen between Stewart and Wilson in the matter of long-distance throwing. 
LOFTHOUSE MEMORIES
“Nomad” writes;- In last Saturday’s “Football Echo,” “Evertonian,” writing from memory,” referred to what he termed an error in my notes re the Lancashire v. Dumbarton match at Anfield in 1887.  The erroring describing Lofthouse as of Accrington, if an error, was not mine; it was thus given on the card.  I was careful to add that Lofthouse made fame with Blackburn Rovers.  It may be of interest to note that while Lofthouse played for the Rovers when they won the Cup in 1883-84 and 1884-85, he was not in the side that gained the third Cup victory in 1885-86.  But her helped the Rovers in their successes in 1889-90 and 1890-91. 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 10 January 1925
By Louis T. Kelly

EVERTON v. BURNLEY
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 10 January 1925
KEELY TURNS OUT AND GOES THE PACE
A COOL GOAL SCORED BY ROBERTS
A SPLENDID DOUBLE BY CHADWICK
PEACOCK MEETS WITH AN ACCIDENT AND IS TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL
By Stork
Peacock was unfortunate to most with an accident in the of the Cup-tie, and was first takento the Stanley Hospital, where it was discovered that he had broken his leg, and he was then afterwards removed to the Northern Hospital. The fracture is a simple one, and Peacock is not likely to suffer permanently. Everton; Harland; Raitt, Macdonald; Brown, McBain (Captain), Virr; Parry, Peacock, Broad, Chadwick, Weaver.  Burnley; Dawson; Smelt, Woodhouse; Basnett, Hill, Treasdern (Captain); Kelly, Williams, Roberts, Beel, Cross.  Referee; Mr. W.F. Bunnell, of Preston.  Everton’s rather startling team changes added spice to the Goodison Park fixture to-day.  The appearance of Virr, for Hart (limping still), and the reappearance of McBain (captain for the day), Brown, Chadwick, and Raitt, in the senior side, set tongues wagging.  It was found at the last minute that Chedgzoy was unfit to take his place, and Parry deputized. Kelly, who has been under special treatment throughout the week, was passed out by the M.O. as fit to play.  Burnley won the toss, but there was little advantage to be derived from it. 
KELLY IN FORM.
Parry created a stir in the Everton camp when he accepted a long, swinging pass from the left and middle with care and precision, only to find Smelt nip in and punt away.  This was the forerunner to a determined effort on the part of Kelly, who amazed everybody by his speed and accuracy of his centre, and Harland had to punt away a dangerous looking ball when surrounded by a bunch of players –friend and foe alike.  This was a narrow escape, but not near so narrow as a following effort by the Everton front line, Broad showed admirable foresight when he directed a ball to Parry, for the winger was clear of everybody, and, taking the ball in his stride, he drove hard and true for goal.  Dawson, however, had sized up his intention and turned the ball round the post with his outstretched hand.  It was a capital effort on the part of both shooter and goalkeeper.  Judged on his play this half, there was little wrong with Kelly’s physical fitness, for when he received from Tresadern he left his opponents behind, but his centre was not made use of.  This followed one of the hottest bombardments I have seen at Goodison for many a long day, and Jerry Dawson was a lucky man to get away without a shot. 
LUCKY ESCAPES.
No fewer than three Everton forwards had shots at goal, but Smelt and Waterfield, if a trifle luckily, turned them all away before they completed further damage.  On another occasion Smelt had to put the hall back to Dawson to prevent Broad getting in his shot.  There was some capital football displayed by both sides, and if Burnley had been lucky in not conceding a goal, Everton were just as fortunate, for Roberts got round Raitt and stood alone in front of Harland not more than eight yards out.  He shot only a fraction of an inch over the Everton crossbar.  Roberts deserves highly commending, although he missed a goal, for he had but a matter of seconds in which to make up his mind.  Peacock had to retire through a collision, and during his absence Burnley applied greater pressure, and Cross found Raitt rather easy to circumvent, and this meant work for Harland, who did well to push away a stormy shot that was travelling across his goal for Brown, who was entrusted with the free-kick, placed the ball underneath the crossbar, where CHADWICK in one of the same movements knocked Dawson out of the way and headed into the net.  The point brought mighty cheers from about 25,000 people.  To my mind, I thought the ball would have entered the net without Chadwick’s aid, for the driving effect of Brown’s free-kick had puzzled Dawson.  Peacock was still off the field, and Everton were playing four forwards, but, despite this handicap, they were not only holding their own, but giving Smelt and Waterfield plenty of real work to do.  Roberts was the one Burnley forward likely to score, and he had hard lines for the second time when he grazed the Everton woodwork.
A COOL GOAL
Broad was the third Everton player to get into the wars, fortunately for his side, however, his injury was not so bad as it at first appeared.  With only four minutes left for play, Burnley got on equal terms, Cross had evaded Raitt and made a capital oblique drive which Harland fumbled and dropped.  Williams who was steady close in, hooked the ball to the crossbar, when it dropped, Roberts, the old Preston forward, coolly placed it in the net. 
DOUBLE BY CHADWICK
Within a minute Everton had climbed ahead once again through as brilliant a drive as one could wish to see.  Chadwick was thirty yards out when he shot, but Dawson was beaten from the moment it left his foot, the ball travelling in the corner of the net.
Half-time; Everton 2, Burnley 1.
Weaver was out to shine against his old comrades, and he made some brilliant runs on resuming, and although placing the Burnley defence in jeopardy, Dawson was not called upon.  The Burnley forwards did not seem able to get the hang of the sterling Everton halves, so keen were the latter in their tackling.
PEACOCK IN HOSPITAL
During the interval I heard that Peacock had been taken to Stanley-road Hospital.  The nature of his injury is not exactly known, but there are fears of a broken leg.  Virr, the new man, had done useful work, and for some time play ruled in midfield, although Brown took it into his head to have a shot, and although there was little power behind it, it bumped so awkwardly that Dawson had to keep both eyes on it to prevent it playing pranks with him.  McDonald was kicking with amazing confidence and power, and all came alike to this enthusiastic defender.  The absence of Peacock was undoubtedly having an effect upon the Everton attack.  The strain they had undergone was too great, but they never gave way an inch, and when Weaver got the better of Basnett he had a chance of scoring against his old side.  He would, I feel sure, have relished it, but Smelt was not going to allow it if he could help it, and Weaver was robbed as he entered the penalty area with the ball at his toe.  No player did better than Chedgzoy’s substitute, Parry.  He was go-ahead in his methods, and his centres were always of the type that forwards crave for, and on one occasion he beat three men before closing in and offering Broad a gilt-edged chance, only to see the ball travel over the bar. 
EVERTON THROUGH
VICTORY OVER BURNLEY DESPITE LOSS OF PEACOCK
Under pressure I was no enamoured of the Burnley full backs, and I feel that if Everton had been at full strength more goals would have come their way, for the work of Weaver and Parry was often wasted through there being no colleague there to turn it to account.  Still the victory was all the more enjoyable through the fact that it was obtained against tremendous odds. The Burnley men were never allowed one solitary second in which to make their plan.  To show the keenness of the game Kelly had to run a ball over the line through the close attention of Weaver, who knew that to let Kelly loose would have been fatal.  Final; Everton 2, Burnley 1.  Attendance 28,315, receipts 4,787 pounds. 

EVERTON 2 BURNLEY 1 (Fa Cup Game 112)
January 12, 1925. The Daily Courier.
FA CUP ROUND ONE.
TEN MEN BEAT BURNLEY.
PEACOCK BREAKS A BONE IN THE LEG.
By F. McN.
It is a difficult thing for ten men to beat eleven at any time, but in an England Cup-tie the task is rendered more strenuous, for the reason that the knockout competition is fought with greater desperation than League games and therefore requires the existence of stamina. Everton's feat, therefore, is all the more praiseworthy, for they defeated Burnley with ten men. There are few more pulse stirring events than a plucky set of footballers striving against odds, and the 28,000 spectators at Goodison Park were certainly stirred by the galliant and happily successful, efforts made by Everton to retain the lead they had secured in the first half. Jack Peacock had the misfortune to break a small bone in the leg after ten minutes' play, and he was taken to the Stanley Hospital and thence to the Northern Hospital for further X-ray examination and treatment. The injury was sustained following a dash down the middle Peacock colliding with an opponent. For 70 minutes therefore Everton laboured against a great handicap, and in the circumstances they deserve the highest praise for keeping their colours flying. The ten players realised that an extra effort would be necessary to hold their opponents, and every man put the last ounce of energy into the fray. McDONALD.
If one man stood out above his colleagues that man was McDonald, the Everton left back. The Scot tackled and kicked like a Trojan, and exhibited the greatest dash in his first time clearances. He has never played a better game since he crossed the border. It was rather against the run of the play when Everton scored half an hour, but it gave the home side the necessary encouragement. Parry had beaten two men and found it necessary to double back. In doing so, he was fouled and temporarily knocked out. When he retired to the touchline for attention Brown placed the free kick under the bar. Hill, Dawson, Broad, and Chadwick all went for the ball together, and if it was not over the line in the first instance, Chadwick and Broad between them, gave the necessary touch to make it so. Chadwick was adjudged to be the scorer. Just before the interval Harland failed to effectively parry a shot from Cross, and Williams lobbed the ball over the keeper's head only to see it strike the crossbar, but Roberts, coming up, drove into the net. What proved to be the winning goal was scored just before the interval. It was a 40 yards' range shot from Chadwick, which completely deceived Dawson, the ball travelling into the net at a surprising pace. Chadwick has scored many fine goals in his day, but he has never obtained a finer or a more valuable point than this one. It was one of the best scoring shots seen on the ground.
GRIM STRUGGLE.
The second half was a grim struggle between the Burnley forwards on the one side and the Everton halves and backs on the other; but so tight a grip did McDonald and his colleagues retain, the visitors, never gained the mastery. Indeed, Everton's four forwards raided the visitors' territory in daring fashion, Parry and Weaver, by their swift runs down the wings, not only endangering the Burnley citadel, but giving their own backs much needed relief. Although the visitors enjoyed more of the attack, it was only rarely that Harland's charge was seriously menaced. Everton wisely retained their rear formation, declining to adopt the one back game, and the tactics paid admirably. Raitt rendered McDonald able assistance in subduing the Burnley vanguard. Harland, too, did well except that he misjudged the shot from Cross after which Burnley scored. The halves were a great trio. Brown returned to the team, to play one of his most resolute games, while McBain too, was in good form, giving assistance to his backs. Virr, the local boy, showed great promise, his defensive tactics, under trying conditions, being extremely good. In the depleted line, Parry who deputised for Chedgzoy, exhibited the dash and confidence of a seasoned cup fighter. His plucky swift advances on the wing were of the utmost value to the side. On the opposite extreme Weaver was an equally live force. He ran and centred in spirited fashion. Broad was ever on the look out for openings, and pushed the ball out to the wings. Chadwick's great work is represented by the two goals and general utility in the vanguard. Burnley lacked cohesive methods, and failed to find the necessary ability to ram home the advantage, which the fortune of war gave them. Roberts was a dashing leader, but he missed a great chance when he shot over the bar in the first half. Attendance's was 28,287, Receipts £1,727. Teams: - Everton: - Harland, goal, Raitt and McDonald backs, Brown, McBain (captain), and Virr, half-backs, Parry, Peacock, Broad, Chadwick, and Weaver, forwards. Burnley: - Dawson, goal, Smelt, and Wheelhouse, backs, Bassnet, Hill, and Tresadern, half-backs, Kelly, Williams, Roberts, Bell, and Cross forwards. Referee Mr. WF. Bunnell.

EVERTON’S EXPERIEMENT
Athletic News - Monday 12 January 1925
ALBERT ERNEST VIRR
Everton’s valiant victory against odds naturally brought joy amid Goodison Park’s many worries. 
Parry, who had to act as deputy for Chedgzoy, is now new to senior football, but it was a hold stroke to introduce in a Cup-tie a left half-back of small experience –Albert Ernest Virr, who filled the place of the injured captain, Hunter Hart.  His display was full of promise.  Virr, a product of Liverpool football, is 22 years of age, and splendidly built, he stands an inch over 6ft, in height and weighs 11st 10lbs.  Joining Everton three seasons ago from Lyndholme, a club in the Anfield district, he played first in an “A” team practice match at centre-forward, then his recognized position.  He also figured at inside-right, but in a friendly match was tried at left half-back.  Later, Everton allowed him to assist Chester –for whom he also appeared at entre-forward-but retained him on their list of players.  His display at left half-back had so impressed some of the directors that he was recalled and preserved with in that position in Central League games last season.  Prior to yesterday his most serious test was against Butler and Jack in a Lancashire Cup-tie this season. 
ONLY HALF A GAME
Ninety-five stoppages –in the Cup-tie at Everton there were no fewer than 95 stoppages, apart from goal-kicks.  Fifty times the ball went into touch, there were nine corner kicks, 29 free kicks (14 for offside), and seven times the game was suspended for injuries to players. 
JAMES MILLER
SWANSEA PLAYER’S RECORD
James Miller, the Swansea Town outside right must have established something approaching a record, for he has had ten clubs in ten playing seasons, ranging from Everton, in the First Division of the League, to Pontypridd, in the Welsh and Southern Leagues.  He joined Swansea for this campaign on a free transfer from Bournemouth and Boscombe United, and has proved the best of the West Wales club’s investments.  Although somewhat of a veteran, Miller is still very fast. 

EVERTON’S MERIT
Athletic News - Monday 12 January 1925
CONQUER BURNLEY WITH TEN MEN
EVERTON 2 BURNLEY 1
By Rovers
Everton are justly entitled to regard their Cup-tie with satisfaction, not merely because they won, but because in achieving success they revealed that admirable quality, grit.  To deprived of the assistance of a player is a big handicap in any match; in a Cup-tie it would seem to be increasingly so, for it involves a heavy strain the men remaining, and should serve to encourage the opposition pull out that bit extra vital in a “do or die” struggle.  After the game Goodison Park had been in progress about ten minutes Peacock was so badly injured that he retired and took no further part in the game. In fact, he spent the remainder of the afternoon in Liverpool hospitals, for when taken Stanley Hospital it was found that he had broken a small bone in the leg and was removed Northern Hospital. Especially regrettable was this happening, as Peacock had been introduced as inside-right—a position which, I am told he fancies—in the hope that he would infuse thrust into forward line that had been more clever than effective.  Add to this that Chedgzoy was unable play and that youngster named Virr was operating for Hart, Everton seemed to be faced with a stupendous task. But they tackled it with grim determination, and if there was an element of luck about their goals it must be said that their triumph was deserved. 
QUICK GOALS
The vital period of the game was in the eighteen minutes preceding the interval, during which all three goals were scored.  Parry, who came in for Chedgzoy, was concerned the first. He had outwitted Waterfield and was about to centre when Tresadem, rather recklessly, dashed into him. Tresadern did not escape injury, but it was a foul beyond doubt. Parry had to be taken off for a minute or so, while Brown, from a position at right angles, and a yard or outside the penalty area, lobbed the ball into the goal mouth.  I thought Dawson should have punched the ball away, but it curled, and appeared to be going over the line when Chadwick dashed and helped it forward.  Hill hooked it out again, but the referee had hesitation in awarding a goal. This goal came after 28 minutes, and four minutes later Burney equalised.  Cross got away the left, and Harland pushed out his shot to the foot Williams.  He tried to lob the ball into the net, but it hit the crossbar and rebounded to the feet of Roberts, who readily scored.  Another two minutes and Everton were in front again, this time from a gem of a shot by Chadwick from fully forty yards out.  The ball travelled from his foot at lightning pace, and Dawson appeared both surprised and deceived.  This was a goal worthy to a Cup-tie, as it eventually did.  The Burnley inside men were closely watched by dour full-backs and tenacious half-backs. Tom Roberts made two or three good shots, and was unlucky with one swift volley, for it could only have been inches too high with Harland beaten. Again the second half Burnley did more pressing, but without promising to on terms.  Hill sent forward some good passes, only find them promptly returned.  The Everton forwards also realized their mission splendidly. Wide, sweeping passes to two fast wingers enabled the Evertonians to attack frequently.  Weaver in this half played brilliantly against his old colleagues. Basnett could not hold him, and often had Smelt in difficulties. Parry, too, was equally assertive, and Dawson had to deal with shots more in number and more deadly sting and direction than those which reached Harland.  Everton generally were much the quicker on the ball, and employed the more direct methods. Harland in goal did his work well, but was not as severely tested as should have been. 
MASTERLY McDONALD
The outstanding figure in the Everton defence was never McDoanld. He never flinched under extreme pressure; his interventions were timed with unerring accuracy, and kicked with power and direction.  Without being so impressive Raitt was sound. Well as McBain played, I thought Brown the most effective half-back, great in defence and attack. Virr showed promise, adopting the right policy in vigorous kicking, which he did with fair amount judgment.  McBain was probably wise in not adopting the one-back game, for the defence reeded all its strength, and the four forwards did excellently. The wing men have been referred to, and Broad and Chadwick were equally energetic and effective.  Dawson was not free from reproach in regard to the goals, and all round the Burnley defence did not impress. The backs kicked fairly well, but complete understanding was missing. Hill was the pick of half-back line that was not a good connecting link. The forward methods were distinguished by more earnest, endeavor than cohesion, and only Roberts and Kelly were really successful.  Yet the latter seemed wasted on the wing with thrust so necessary near goal.  Everton; Harland; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, McBain (Captain), Virr; Parry, Peacock, Broad, Chadwick, and Weaver.Burnley; Dawson; Smelt, Waterfield; Basnet, Hill, Tresadern (Captain); Kelly, Williams, Roberts, Beel, and Cross.  Referee W.F. Bunnell, Preston. 

EVERTON AT ROKER
Liverpool Echo - Monday 12 January 1925
Everton go to Sunderland, which is always a big barrier, because Buchan and his men are known for their competence and their skill, and although the side has varied its form for the last two seasons in the League, Sunderland have always been near the top rung, and Saturday’s victory against Bury was a complete reversal of the League fixture, which had been won by Bury 3-0. 
FORERUNNERS
Everton have admittedly an extremely hard task on hand.  It may be remembered that a few years ago Sunderland played Liverpool at Sunderland, and after a draw Sunderland came to Anfield and were well beaten on a stormy day.  That was the match that led to Longsworth resigning his position as captain.  Let us hope what Liverpool did with the Roker people Everton will imitate.  Everton played Sunderland in a cup-tie in 1910 at Goodison Park, and beat them 2-0, going on that year to the semi-final stage. 

EVERTON’S GOOD WIN IN SPITE OF DIFFICULTIES
Liverpool Echo - Monday 12 January 1925
Bee’s Notes
Stork, whose notes are given below on the Everton –Burnley game.  Everton’s was one of the best performances of the day, because they had to trade with ten men, though the most unfortunate accident to Jack Peacock, who lies in the Northern Hospital.  This is crass bad luck for player and club, and it is the more unfortunate because Peacock was appearing as a forward instead of a half-back.  One is glad to know that it is a small bone that is damaged, but the hospital state that it will be months before he can turn out again.  We wish him a speedy recovery, and a sure one, too. 
THE BEST PERFORMANCE
By Stork
Judged upon the score, my headline would hardly seem correct, but Everton’s win over Burnley was affected against great odds.  The forward line was knocked out of joint through an unfortunate injury to Jack peacock, who had to leave the field after ten minutes’ play, and later was found to have broken a small bone in his leg.  A team needs its full weight in the field in a cup-tie, and to be deprived of one of its forwards so early in a game most times would have meant defeat; and for some minutes it appeared as if Burnley would take full toll of their advantage, but the Everton boys tightened up their belts and fought with a will and a keenness that has not been seen at Goodison Park for some time.  It speaks highly for Everton when it was seen that the one back game was not to be brought into being, as in nine cases out of ten it would have been.  They continued with four forwards and although the strain must have been enormous they never flinched under it.  Parry, Weaver, Chadwick, and Broad fought back gallantly, and, assisted by a sterling defence, they won through two goals scored by Chadwick against the one gained by Roberts.  That is why I consider Everton’s victory the best of the day.
CHADWICK’S GOALS
With regard to the goals the second one scored by Chadwick was the best seen on the ground for many moons.  When he essayed his shot he was fully 35 yards out from goal, but such was the power and the surprise of it that Dawson was beaten by its pace and unexpectedness.  He made a valiant attempt to get across his goal and stays it progress, but it was in the net before he realized it.  The opening goal was the result of a free kick for a foul on Parry.  Brown took the kick and the ball seemed to hang underneath the crossbar.  Broad and Chadwick were right on the spot, as Dawson made a “swipe” at the ball Chadwick got his hands to it and placed it in the net.  I question if Chadwick’s aid was needed, for Dawson seemed puzzled by the hang of the ball, and from my angle it seemed over the line before Chadwick headed it through.  It was just as well that Chadwick helped it in, for it saved any further argument.  Burnley got their goal through a defensive lapse.  Cross had shot and Harland did a fumbling act which enabled Williams to turn the ball on to the crossbar, and as it dropped Roberts met it and placed it into the back of the net. 
ABOUT PARRY
So the score ended, and Everton had qualified for round two.  If Everton could have retained their full strength I think their win would have been a much more decisive one.  Often the superb work of Parry and Weaver on the wings was wasted through the want of another forward.  Chedgzey’s deputy was the great player of the attack.  His recent performances in the reserve side did not suggest such a happening, but he came out of the shell, and with butt, pass and centre, he was the embodiment of accuracy.  His go-ahead method was too much for the opposition and he would have only got his debut if he had scored in the first two minutes, Dawson alone spoiling his effort.  Weaver, too, was in good form.  He was out to show his old comrades what he could do, and Smelt and Basnett were not always able to hold me.  He paired off with Chadwick nicely, the latter being just as keen to goal as he was during his record scoring season. 
A SUPER DEFENDER
Broad was forceful and kept Hill on the go throughout.  The half-backs were strong, McBain’s passes up the middle being excellent, while he was more robust in his defence, Virr, the newcomer, has both height and skill.  He tackled smartly and made fine use of the ball, too.  Virr has the making of a tip-top left half-back.  In defence no man on the field could compare with McDonald.  He stood out above all others.  He kicked with an assurance that has always been one of his traits.  Under the heaviest of pressure he was never bewildered as to what he should do.  His length was amazing, and he went into a tackle full of confidence.  Raitt after a bad start, came to his game and rendered his partner great service.  Harland made one mistake only, otherwise his play was all that could be desired.  Burnley’s best was Hill at centre-half.  His length and height assisted him no-end.  He intercepted the ball a smaller player could not have reached.  Kelly started off well, but thereafter was ill fed, but it must be remembered he was facing McDonald.  Cross often got clear of Brown and Raitt with sweeping runs to finish with dangerous centres.  Roberts was always dangerous, and would have had a couple of goals early on if he had a little more time to take aim.  The full backs were only moderate, in spite of having only four forwards to contend with.  Smelt was the better of the two, for Wheelhouse was not at all sure of himself against Parry.  Dawson was more to be pitied than criticized, for he was not covered as he should have been. 

PEACOCK DOING WELL.
January 13, 1925. The Daily Courier.
BUT NOT LIKELY TO PLAY TILL END OF SEASON.
Jack Peacock, the Everton player, is making satisfactory progress in the Northern Hospital. A small bone has been broken just above the ankle, but is not expected to affect his playing ability when the limb is sound again. This will tale a few weeks and Peacock may not be fit to play again till near the end of the season. Peacock has received a number of messages of sympathy from his colleagues and also from the Burnley club, which have cheered him up in his enforced absence from the game.

BURNLEY PASS OUT OF CUP TOURNEY
Burnley News - Wednesday 14 January 1925
BEATEN BY TEAM OF TEN MEN IN FIRST ROUND AT GOODISON PARK
EVERTON GALLANT SECOND HALF STRUGGLE
DISPUTED GOAL DEPRIVES CLARETS OF THE CHANCE OF A REPLAT
EVERTON 2, BURNLEY 1
By Kestral
Once again Burnley are out of the F.A. Cup competition at the first round asking, and what makes it appear all worse is they  were beaten by a ten team. Yet but for a very bad decision on the part of referee they would have lived to replay at Burnley.  One have liked them to do that for one reason and that was that for the first for many years the Clarets were represented in a Cup-tie by an all English side.  That they were by far the better side in the first half could not denied, and had they maintained their form later on there would have been nothing but sympathy with them. As it was, in the second half they fell away to tatters, demoralized completely, and Everton, if only for their plucky and never-say-die game, deserve every congratulations for their win, even though their victory was not secured by good goals.
A TYPICAL CUP-TIE. 
The day was a fairly good one for the purpose, though an hour before the start fears were entertained for the match being played to a finish on account the swirling fog which driving grey and thick at times, was ultimately dissipated a fair breeze. It was evident that Cup-tie fever had not reached any great height, for though there was moderate display party colours, and a few "rick-racks,” there was not that ebullition of party feeing which was so noticeable even in the early stages of the competition not very  many years ago. That a good number of Burnley people had made the journey to  Goodison was evidentby the good reception Tresadern obtained when, he led the men on the field, McBain and his side coming in, naturally, for a rousing cheer shortly afterwards. It looked like a good augury when Tresaden guessed the spin of the coin which McBain tossed.  The game which followed was typical of Cup-ties, and especially so in the first half when it was grueling and thrilling, and ding-dong to the last degree. Indeed, at no time was it anything approaching tame. -Starting out at a good pace it gave early promise of a titanic struggle, far beyond the anticipations of either set of supporters. During first "forty-five'" the styles of the sides approximated each other more than at any other period.  The ball was swung out in wide raking passes as the sides surged from end to end with Everton predominant at the beginning, and  a shiver went through the Burnley crowd  when Parry, taking a long searching pass from the left, put in a shot which Dawson fumbled, but luckily turned just around the post. 
AN ILL BALANCED ATTACK. 
Even at their best the Burnley forwards did not carry a great deal of conviction, due to the constitution of the line.  It could hardly be expected that three centre-forwards would at all times keep away from the position which they had been accustomed to, and the consequence was that there was too often a congestion in the middle which hampered anything like effective approach play. Kelly opened very promisingly, and some of his centres at the start were full of hope for his side, but the promise did not hold out, and for the greater part of the gamehe seemed to be fearful of throwing in his full weight and risking a strong tackle. On the other side Cross was wasted, for had not the necessity speed for a winger, and the consequence was that the line was ill balanced and shaky, giving only rare glimpses of coherent  operations.  Unfortunately in the heat of the game in which neither side was giving any quarter, injuries occurred to both sides with rather alarming frequency, the first and most serious of these being when Peacock and Smelt went for the ball together.  The Burnley man blocked the ball as Peacock was kicking it, and the Everton man was assisted off and taken to hospital suffering from a broken bone in his foot.  For some time after this the trainers of both sides were kept busy, and the Burnley players, especially Smelt, Basnett and Tresadern were booed loudly on several occasions as in their grim determination to afford no loophole, they worked with stern resolve, and opponents went down more by their own impetus than by any illegal play.  The latter two were cautioned by the referee who wriggled his finger to give no doubt as to what he was doing.  Why he did so to Tresadern was a mystery. 
HOW EVERTON TOOK THE LEAF
With Peacock off Burnley threw themselves into the game with renewed vigour, and distinguished as the forward line was, it was driven back by the half-backs in menacing fashion, and when Roberts at the end of a quarter of an hour made a great effort he got away from McBain.  Raitt came out to challenge him, but the Burnley leader side-stepped the ball, and swerved round the defender.  Then he made a fatal error, for instead of taking the ball a few yards further in, as he could have done, he attempted a shot from inside the penalty area with only Harland to beat, and the ball slammed over the bar, to the great disappointment of the crowd.  There was no doubting the superiority of the side at this time for the Everton forwards had not settled down, and the defenders were ballooning the ball.  Time after time the Burnley attack swarmed into the area, but found luck dead against them.  It was only a lucky touch by Harland that stopped a shot by Kelly, and he was equally fortunate when Williams dashed in to meet a lobbing cross pass, the custodian only just scooping the ball away from the Burnley man’s foot. 
Bad blood increased as the excitement grew more intense.  Men were bowled over, and things were assuming an ugly aspect when Tresadern stopped the ball as Parry was going forward.  It did not appear to me that when the Evertonian went down that punishment was justified, but a free kick was given, Brown, from close to the touch-line, and almost on a line with the penalty area, lifted the ball right in front of goal, and before it had arrived Broad dashed into Dawson and bundled him into the net, leaving CHADWICK nothing to do but nod the ball over the line.  When Jerry picked himself up out of the net he protested to the referee who pointed to the centre line.  How he had failed to observe such a glaring foul it is impossible to say, but it was thus that Everton took their lead after 27 minutes play. 
DAWSON SURPRISED
If up to that time Everton had not allowed the absence of Peacock unduly to depress them, the goal acted as a tonic to them and their buoyancy was added to by the sheer bad luck which Burnley continued to endure.  Not long after the opening goal, Hill pushed the ball forward to Roberts who took it forward a few yards before firing in a terrific shot which struck the corner of the woodwork in Harland’s left.  There were promises of an equalizer as Burnley maintained their efforts, sweeping down on the home goal in desperate fashion, and expending any amount of stamina and though Everton retaliated smartly and were cheered with the cry “Come on the ten” the Burnley defenders plodded soundly along, repulsing their efforts in fine fashion.  It was somewhat surprising that the Burnley men did not attempt more long shots and drives at the least opportunity, as Harland was not safe in goal.  Four minutes from the interval Cross took the ball down the line and very trickily beating Raitt, he essayed a shot.  Harland fumbled the ball, and Williams crashing in, shot hard from close range, but lifted the ball which cannoned off the crossbar, leaving ROBERTS with nothing to do but put it over the line.  Within a minute Everton had regained the lead.  The ball was taken up the left, and after a brief tussle, it was put to Chadwick on whom Hill was in close attendance.  The Burnley pivot, however, instead of going to the tackle, immediately allowed the Evertonians to fasten on the ball, and CHADWICK spying his chance, took a speculative shot at goal from 35 yards range.  The action appeared to take Dawson by surprise, and he was not in time to reach the ball which, going away from him, and perhaps deceiving him by its flight, dropped into the net at the angle of the framework to his left.  The shout had hardly died down when blood was sent to boiling heat again by another strong thrust on the part of Burnley, and Bell tried an almost similar shot which looked like entering just under the far corner of the bar, but Harland managed to get his fingers to it, and to turn it for a corner. 
THE CLARETS SUBDUED
Whatever promise had been by Burnley the first half faded almost completely away after the resumption, it could not be said that once did they look like scoring a goal. Everton, with the lead, took a tight grip on the game and completely subdued the Clarets who gave a most depressing and disappointing exhibition. The chief reason for this was that they adopted the wrong tactics against a virile side, for the close passing game—which was attempted, but which was neither quick enough nor accurate enough succeed, though the ground was fairly suitable for it—simply played into the hands of a quick moving defence who never hesitated, in the tackle and coming through intercepted passes galore. There was never any sign despondency about Everton side in this half, and they added a determination and enthusiasm to the proper methods. Quicker on the ball than Burnley were, they drove forward in long passes, making light of the half-hearted opposition presented by the Burnley attack.  Whilst mostof Burnley’s passes were ill placed, and driving force was lacking. Everton kept the ball moving, and there were of bright raids, especially right, where Parry, the most prominent- and most reliable forward on the field, made things very lively.  Happily for Burnley, Waterfield was in great fettle, and he played a skillful and well considered game throughout.  Cool in the tackle, crafty in getting out of a difficult situation, and thoughtful in his placing of the ball, he was a real asset to the side.  Stern defensive measures were opposed to Burnley’s painfully scrappy attempts to advance, no opportunity being afford to settle on the ball by McBain and his wing halves while McDonald after a somewhat shaky opening became a tower of strength.  “Towards the other end” seemed to be his motto, and kicking powerfully and accurately, he drove Burnley back repeatedly, and enabled his forwards to dash in and further endanger the Burnley goal. 
EVERTON’S PLUCKY FIGHT
Very little indeed was seen of Burnley, even when Williams became damaged and had to go to the left for Cross to resume the inside right position.  Driving force was lacking on Burnley’s part, and one could not but admire the magnificent and plucky fight which the home side put up.  Chadwick was not slow on occasions to repeat his speculative drives, and some of these caused Dawson a lot of anxiety but on very few occasions did the Burnley forwards copy this practice.  In addition to being barren of ideas, badly supported by the halves and attempting too much pretty pretty, the Burnley forwards were relentlessly held.  Happily, at this time, the last lines of defence held out.  Smelt played strongly, and the consequence of the watchfulness of himself and Bassnett, was that Weaver did not have the liberty that he would have liked and was, therefore, not seen a great deal of.  But there was very little understanding between Burnley’s halves and forwards, and owing, in a measure, to the failure of the forwards to hold the ball effectively, the halves were too often called to defend to be of much assistance to the forwards and there was at no time very much strategy or constructive work.  On the other hand almost all that Everton attempted in midfield came off.  Not for once did they relinquish their efforts, and if there was little thrill for the Burnley spectators the Everton side got it in plenty as they saw the Clarets bamboozled and bewildered.  Long before the end Burnley seemed to have accepted their fate, their forward efforts were well smothered.  Just once there was a gleam of hope when Cross was foul outside the area and near to the goal line, but from that short distance he put the ball against the side net.  As time went on Raitt and McDonald did not hesitate to kick into touch.  Everton earned the right to pass into the second round more by their gallant display in the second half than by anything else for in that period they were the superior side, with greater strength and resource. 
A RAGGED FRONT LINE
As already indicated the Burnley front line was ragged.  Kelly was of little assistance after the first quarter and wen later he might have done more good by a quicker parting with the ball.  Williams was altogether out of his lass, Roberts was an energetic worker, but had a disjointed attack to lead, whilst Beel played vigorously but here, again, co-operation on the wing was absent, and Cross was wasted. Bassnett was his usual hard working self, a great defender but without being of a very great service to the halves, and Hill after a fairly successful first half, was upset by the methods of the home side.  Tresadern was very smart in his work, but, the his colleagues in the half-back line there was too much effort wasted in trying a short passing game instead of sending the forwards ahead.  Waterfield was the better of two sturdy backs and Dawson did well in goal but for his one slip.  Parry was the best forward on view, and McDonald the most outstanding back with McBain a rare worker, who distributed the work grandly, and was well supported by Brown and Virr.  The teams were; Burnley; Dawson; Smelt, Waterfield; Bassnett, Hill, Tresadent (Captain), Kelly, Williams, Roberts, Beel, and Cross.  Everton; Harland; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, McBain (Captain), Virr; Parry, Peacock, Broad, Chadwick, and Weaver.  Referee; Mr. W.F. Bunnell (Preston). 

EVERTON CHANGES
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 14 January 1925
Bee’s Notes
The injury sustained by Peacock, who broke a bone in his leg during the cup-tie with Burnley. Necessitates the only change in the Everton team to meet Tottenham Hotspur at Goodison Park on Saturday.  Wall is introduced, the team being;- Harland; Raitt, Macdonald; Brown, McBain, Virr; Parry, Wall, Broad, Chadwick, Weaver.  The Sunderland directors have decided to increase the charges for the grandstand for the Cup-tie.  The centre grandstand, now at 3s 6d, will be booked at 5s, and the two end portions now at 2s 4d will be booked at 3s 6d.  Paddock charges will be as before.  Booking opens on Friday, and the charges include both tax and booking fees. 

EVERTON’S NEW FORWARD AGAINST THE SPURS
Liverpool Echo - Friday 16 January 1925
Bee’s Notes
Amid the rush of cup-ties and trial games and replayed tests comes the welcome note of another popular London side in our midst.  Everton have a great claim on us this week- they have got through a cup round in spite of the odds being against them and Peacock lying in hospital.  They have shown more “spirit” than for many a week and they have promised things for the future.  The morrow may find them a confident side whose Cup-win has turned the players from unbelief in themselves to their best vein of football- and that vein is full-blooded, as anyone who followed them last back-end knows.  When I hear the anti-Everton cry I always remember how the opening of the season was silent; not a cry could be heard.  Yet when the team, that looked like being a starring engagement began to fall away, up came the critics and they brought with them powder and shot.  It is very absurd.  The faults at Everton have been over-cleverness, a testy period in goal, and a thorough inability to fight back after a slap-dash goal had been scored.
THE TURN.
Those who saw Everton against Burnley say that there was more spirt shown by the Everton fellows than at any other time this season.  The ability is there, the confidence has come, goals have been scored and I imagine that the side has a comforting feeling for the first time this season.  They are my nap selection to beat the Spurs at any rate.  Spurs, like ourselves, have suffered many injuries, and when Tom Clay was tried out and went out through a recurrence of the trouble, Spurs, thought their last straw had been imposed.  But Peter McWilliams went on with his team-work and team-building, and now Spurs have got together a very useful eleven, which will be on the parade ground at Goodison Park at 2.45 p.m. prompt to-morrow. 
WALL’S CASE
It is good to see Alec Wall being given a chance.  He, like Virr, is a local of size and sense.  Alec Wall has overcome severe blows, and that waiting period that is sometimes a bar to some young fellows.  He has a dribble of infinite variety and a shot of strength, so that he is worth a further trial.  Few people, I should imagine, know how often Wall has been watched by other sides, and how keen they have been to get his transfer, if he has a fault, it is the excess of dribble.  However, he is older nowadays, and will probably part with the ball a shade earlier, once he has drawn the defence.  It must be years since last we saw Everton field a side that included two pure locals on the right wing, and a semi-local, Weaver on the left.  Spurs, always an attractive side to watch, will command big attendance figures to-morrow at Walton.  Teams; Everton; Harland; Raitt, Macdonald; Brown, McBain, Virr; Parry, Wall, Broad, Chadwick, Weaver.  Tottenham Hotspur; Hinton; Forster, Poynton; Smith, Skitt, Skinner; Osborne, Seed, Lindsay, Elkes, Thompson. 

TRICKY 'SPURS AT THE PARK.
January 17, 1925. The Daily Courier.
HOPES OF A HOME WIN FOR EVERTON.
Everton are at home to a London club in the 'Spurs. The 'Spurs have one of the trickiest forward lines on the League, but suffer like a good many other clubs from a lack of penetrative power. Two of their best men are Seed and Elkes, and it is from these inside men Everton will experience most danger. The extreme wingers, Osborne and Thompson are clever ball controllers when on the run and Raitt and McDonald will have all their work cut out this afternoon. Lindsay, who made his reputation as a forward, has appeared at half-back, full back and today will lead the attack. However, I still think that Everton will gain the day. It was an excellent performance on their part to beat Burnley in the Cup-tie with ten men, and the confidence they gained on that occasion will stand them in good stead now. Peacock's unfortunate accident has necessitated a change in the forwards, but he directors have shown wisdom in giving young Wall a chance. With Chedgzoy still unfit, the right wing will be composed of reserve players, but this will not weaken the side in any way. The game starts at 2.45, and a big crowd should be present to witness what will probably prove a home victory.

FAMOUS OLD-TIMERS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 17 January 1925
ANOTHER OLD-TIMER DISCOVERED
INTERESTING CHAT WITH BILLY McOWEN, LIVERPOOL’S OLD-TIME GOALKEEPER
By Victor Hall
Of the original playing members of Liverpool F.C, not the least illustrious was “Billy” McOwen, who distinguished himself under the bar in many a keen encounter.  “Billy” was a football prodigy.  As a schoolboy of 15 he kept goal for Blackburn Rovers, when he joined in 1886, and with whom he remained four years.  Before then he was associated with Blackburn Olympic.  McOwen had the honour of being the youngest goalkeeper in the England League, started in 1888.  For 14 years he was in the first flight.  During that period he saw service with various clubs.  In his early days custodians were afforded no protection.  It was customary during attacks, especially when corners were taken, for opponents to floor the keeper if he was not quick enough to avoid their rushes.  Many a time McOwen found himself on the ground, with three or four opponents on top of him.  Hard knocks were given and accepted as a matter of course.  While with the Rovers McOwen deputized for “Herby” Arthur in a remarkable game at Blackburn against West Bromwich Albion.  At the time (October, 1887) he was a mere schoolboy.  That memorable afternoon no fewer than 13 goals were scored- seven by the Rovers and six by their opponents.  It was a ding-dong struggle right up to last second, but the Birmingham eleven just managed to emerge victorious.  Both sets of forwards were in such sparkling mood that neither custodian would readily forget his experience, because, though often beaten, they saved far more shots than those that passed them.  From Blackburn McOwen went to Darwen, and then joined the team of “All Macs,” on the formation of the Liverpool club, in 1892, the Mersey side including nine “Macs,” all Scotts except “Billy,” who is a native of Blackburn.  The new organization soon made their presence felt in sporting circles.  They began by carrying off the Liverpool Cup and heading the Lancashire League in their first season.  Then they were promoted to the Second Division of the Football League, and to the astonishment of their contemporaries walked off with the championship, earning 50 points out of a possible 56.  As Birmingham were second with 42 points, and Nots County third with 39, the superiority of the “all Macs,” was unquestioned.  What made the performance strand out in bold relief was that it was accomplished without Liverpool sustaining a single defeat.  It was a wonderful achievement, largely due to a brilliant rearguard, consisting of McOwen, Andy Hannah (a Scots international) and Duncan McLean.  Those men had a perfect understanding, and their stirring exploits have not yet been forgotten.  “Billy” missed but three matches that season, and he only had thirteen goals scored against him.  On the conclusion of the campaign Liverpool were anxious that he should devote the whole of his time to football instead of following his profession as a dentist.  As he could not see his way to thus jeopardize his future prospects, he retired from the side, though he club were very desirous that he should accompany them into the First Division.  Subsequently Mr. McOwen was reinstated as an amateur, after which he assisted Blackpool.  While wearing the West Lancashire club’s colours he distinguished himself in a Lancashire Cup-tie against Everton at Goodison Park.  Everton fielded their full League side.  Blackpool were not in the same class as their First Division opponents, who incessantly bombarded the visitors goal.  But McQueen and his backs put up a grand fight, and when the backs were almost worn out by their exertions “Billy” still kept his charge intact.  The crowd heartily cheered the plucky defenders, who repulsed all onslaughts until the last two minutes, when, in a desperate finish, Everton scored twice.  One of the goals was due to a miskick by a back, and the losers claimed that the other one ought to have been disallowed for offside.  During his career “Billy” had to face thirteen penalty kicks, and he saved twelve of them, a truly remarkable record.  Curiously enough, the solo one that beat him was taken by Jimmy Forrest in a Lancashire Cup-tie between Blackburn Rovers and Liverpool.  Mr. McOwen, who now rides in Blackburn, considers that Jack Southworth (Blackburn Rovers and Everton) had not an equal as a centre-forward, either as a shot, in providing opportunities for his colleagues, or in opening out play.  G.O. Smith (Old Carthusians), Johnny Goodall (Preston North End and Derby County), and Jack Devey (Aston Villa) he ranks as magnificent attackers, but in his opinion they were inferior to Southworth.  During the time he was with Darwen he had leisure to study John Ralph Leach, the right back, who was such a skilful player that Mr. McOwen is convinced that if Leach had been with the Rovers he would have been another Crompton.  Joe Marsden, who afterwards migrated to Everton, was another outstanding member of the Darwen rear division when “Billy” was associated with the club. 

THE LONG THROW
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 17 January 1925
Excuse my butting in again; this time in defence of Victor Hall (says “Evertonian of Forty years”).  “Solo,” T. Nolan, and Louis T. Kelly are wrong.  There was a half-back named Gibson who played for Sunderland, and could throw the ball just about as far as Wilson.  The team of all the talents were; - Kirton, goal; Porteous and Oliver, backs; Wilson, Auld, and Gibson, half-backs; Harvie, Miller, Campbell, A. Hannah, and Scott or J. Hannah.  This, unless my memory plays me false, was the team that met Everton in a League match at Anfield-road in the season 1890-91, the day that Hope Robertson made his debut for Everton as centre forward, with Fred Geary at outside right.  Everton won (after the two players named changed places in the second half) by 1 goal to none.  The reason your correspondents have made the mistake is that Hugh Wilson was longer before the public in the position of half-back, as Gibson was succeeded by Murray, when the half-back line read; Wilson, Auld, and Murray; then followed by Wilson, McCreadie, and Murray.  Gibson was, after leaving Sunderland, the burly Notts County full-back, and Murray succeeded Forbes as left full back for Blackburn Rovers.  After this memory-reviving digression, let us revert to the big throw-in artists.  I will name a few contemporaries of Stewart who could throw the ball as far, nearly as far, and one who could throw it further (him I will name last); - J. Graham, Preston North End, whom Stewart succeeded; R. Kelso, his clubmate; Bob Roberts, Bolton Wanderers; H. Wilson and J. Gibson, Sunderland; George Howarth, of Accrington, the neatest of them all; and Ted Corrie, of Everton, the half-back who played on the right wing behind Waiter Richards and Jack Whittle, and, I think, for a time behind W. Briscoe and George Fleming.  Many a time have I seen Corrie throw the ball into the goalmouth, and quite a number of goals were scored as a result. 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 17 January 1925
By Louis T. Kelly

COLOURS WITH A BODY IN IT
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 17 January 1925
Bee’s Letters
I have been deceived (says “Kay”).  I understood Everton’s colours to be registered Royal blue, and my spirits fell when I saw the team against Burnley wearing upper garments appearing to me like perished purple.  Until a call from the crowd “Play up the Blues,” reassured me, I feared my sense of colour had become defective.  How can any self-respecting player respond to such a call when he knows he is sailing under false colours?  He should be the proud wearer of Royal blue, and he is masquerading in an anemic shade suggestive of a ladies’ seminary.  If Everton’s position in the League has given the directors the “blues” it need not make them colour blind.  We will never learn to yell “Play up the Purples,” so let them give us back our Royal blue, an inspiration to the players and spectators alike- a colour with some “body” in it. 

EVERTON V SPURS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 17 January 1925
COCK ASKS FOR HIS PAPERS
HUNTER HART GOES FOR AN OPERATION
WEAVER’S WINNING GOAL
By Bees
Everton; Harland; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, McBain, Virr; Parry, Wall, Broad, Chadwick, Weaver.  Tottenham Hotspur; Hinton; Forster, Poynton; Smith, Skitt, Skinner; Osborne, Seed, Lindsay, Elkes, Thompson.  Referee; Mr. Vickery, Birmingham.  Everton, after their Cup victory, got quite an old-time attendance for the attractive game with the ‘Spurs.  The home side had Wall for Peacock, who, by the way, is doing very well, one is glad to hear, and ‘Spurs content with the eleven that run away with a Cup-tie victory at White Hart Lane.  The ground was in perfect condition, and favoured a fast game because there had been frost overnight and there was every chance of the ball running true.  Early on the Spurs’ defender Forster made a mistake and let in Weaver, and the position looked very dangerous until the goalkeeper Hinton punched away.  This was a lively start, and a forerunner of other lively things.  The Spurs got busy on the left through Thompson, but his passenger was stopped through the ability of Brown to fall back and size up a situation.  Seed, the artist with the pen and with the foot, made a lovely sweeping pass to Thompson, who once again failed to improve the position, Raitt nipping in. 
OSBORNE SUFFERS IN TACKLE
Then followed another opening scheme on the part of Elkes and Bert Smith, and Osborne made a wonderful run that was checked by McBain, who was clever an men.  Unfortunately the South African born Osborne was caught by McDonald in a tackle and was limping pretty badly.  Fortunately Osborne was able to resume again a moment’s delay, but it looked as if for some time he would be unable to do full justice to his side.  Harland handled a couple of east chances, and when Chadwick sent Weaver up the left wing, the former Birkenhead man could not find pace to beat the full-back.  Sours were playing a delightful open game, and the crowd to the number of 30,000 applauded a pass from outside right to the outside left and they also applauded the surprise turn of events on the left, Lindsay, Elkes and Thompson entertained.  Matters were not going too well for the Spurs when a wrong offside decision stopped them, and on another occasion they were helped to an attack by McDonald’s rather uncertain deliverance kick.  Osborne had the applause of the crowd for his neat dribbles, but when he crashed into McDonald the public looked upon it as a very unfair action.
HARLAND PENALISED.
One does not often see a goalkeeper penalized for picking up outside the penalty area.  Harland fell for this offence, and when the free kick had failed Harland made a particularly good save, when all seemed lost.  Elkes was the main instrument in the making of the chance, and Lindsay, with one short, sharp dribble and shot made Harland fall to the turf to stay the progress of the ball.  This was an escape, and when McDonald was left yards in the rear by the speed merchant Osborne, a goal seemed a sure item.  Lindsay got the ball passed square to him, and Osborne eventually drove hard against the side netting, following which Weaver made a welcome change for Everton, and put in a swerving shot, which Hinton caught.  However, in spite of offside, the crowd was glad to see some semblance of an Everton attack, because in the first fifteen minutes Spurs had matters all their own way.  Wall at last came into being with a nice first-time shot which Hinton caught.  Everton took a turn for the better, and after Broad had a rat-tat effort, first with the left and then with the right foot, both shots going near, Parry made a fine twist of the ball covering the ground sharply and then a strong centre, which Chadwick headed in, Hinton making a fumbling save.  Then followed a rather extraordinary thing. 
WEAVER AGAINST THE POST
Broad made a pass with a downward header, and the ball went up to Weaver, who, in trying to shoot, made a centre, Wall headed towards goal, and Chadwick, following up, seemed to turn the course of the ball out of goal, and Weaver, dashing in a frantic effort to open the score account, ran into the goalpost and damaged himself for a time.  This was unfortunate, coming as it did at the moment that Everton were finding their feet, so the Spurs got busy again in attack, and after Thompson had wasted one and good chance and Lindsay had completely missed his kick in front of goal, Seed clinched matters with a first-rate drive that everyone present was glad to see catch the side net rather than the back of the net.  McDonald ended Lindsay’s run half the length of the field; Raitt misheaded, and presented Elkes with a chance which was not accepted; and then there were two welcome attacks by Everton which should have meant goals.  McBain, with an upward pass, gave Broad the ball and a good view of goal.  The centre forward went ahead and shot, and the force of his shot when it cannoned against a defender was such that the ball “broke back” a distance of five yards. 
THE LUCK OF THE SPURS
Next Weaver should have scored almost on the goal line.  Forster falling back and kicking clear.  Spurs had even greater luck when Chadwick with his first shot of the day made the ball smack against the crossbar.  The second half opened with more good work by that brainy forward Elkes, who was not good enough for Birmingham, and thus was a parallel case to James Windridge, who was too small for the Brums, and went to a London club just as Elkes has done.  Hinton was seriously challenged by Wall, and at the third effort got the ball away.  Everton had five minutes of special heartiness, in which Parry was inclined to over-dribble and Broad hit a hard shot at the base of the goal, the ball cannoning back along the goal-line for twelve yards.  Hinton, the Spurs’ goalkeeper, was not convincing in his handling, and there was an occasion when he took a goal kick so poorly that Broad found himself presented with a shooting chance. 
A STARTLING MOMENT.
Weaver was quite out of luck with his shot, and Seed could also complain because he went right through, only a useful effort by Raitt preventing a goal.  Raitt had not recovered his confidence, however, when he stood in front of his goalkeeper and with his head jerked the ball up and over for a corner.  Harland and the crowd were started but Raitt’s general play had suggested that he was too anxious.  Hinton, the former Bolton Wanderers’ goalkeeper, improved when he ran out and caught Parry’s wide centre, and at the other end Harland taking an easy kick, hit the back of the Spurs man, and Elkes, trying a long-range shot, yet the ball’ outside.  Osborne had not been employed much in this “45” and his first pass led him to a corner, when Skitt’s 30 yards shot was caught by Harland. 
A QUESTIONED RULING
I am extremely doubtful whether the referee did not make a mistake in ruling a goal scored from Seed offside.  It appeared to me that Lindsay was behind the ball when Seed made the pass, and Seed had similar ideas judging by his protest.  Perhaps matters were levelled when broad was charged in the middle of the back in the penalty area on the blind side of the referee.  McBain made a glorious goal drive, which Hinton collared at the foot of the post, and Wall had a good try to head a goal.  Everton would have done better if Skinner had not been so good at left-half.  He is not speedy, but everything he does has point in it. 
WEAVER IN THE WEB
At the eightieth minute Weaver scored for Everton.  Parry made the opening, and, after dribbling to what seemed an excessive amount, he got the better of the defence and centred within a couple of yards of goal. Weaver having an easy task in converting.  Two minutes later Broad was brought down as he was dashing through, and the Spurs narrowly missed conceding a penalty.  As it was the free kick was taken just outside the line, and Forster, standing on the goal-line, kicked the ball away as Broad shot.  When Broad was brought down it looked as though the referee had decided that a penalty kick should be awarded, but, on the protest of the Spurs, be consulted, a linesman and changed his opinion to a free kick.  Hinton made brilliant saves from Chadwick and Weaver, and without question he saved Spurs from much heavier defeat.  Final; Everton 1, Spurs 0. 
EVERTON SURPRISES
Jack Cock has asked for his papers.  Everton have not yet determined what action they will adopt. 
A return to London football is fore-shadowed.  It is said Cock will go to a First Division London club.
Hunter Hart, everyone is sorry to hear, is troubled with cartilage, and proposes to go into hospital this week-end.  He will not play for months.
Jack Peacock has so far recovered as to be able to return home. 
George Brewster, ex-Everton captain, has been booked up for another year, as player-manager for Inverness.
Lacey, of New Brighton, goes into hospital this week-end for knee trouble. 

THEIR OWN FAUL
Reynolds's Newspaper - Sunday 18 January 1925
SPURS FAIL TO TAKE THEIR CHANCES AT GOODISON
EVERTON 1, TOTTENHAM HOTPSUR 0
By Toffeeman
The Tottenham forwards showed dazzling footwork at Everton, but failed to turn it to practical account. 
Liverpool people looked on in astonishment at the ability shown by the Spurs’ forwards and marvelled that such a side could go through so many attacks without taking the lead.  In spite of having practically the whole of the first quarter of an hour’s play, the Spurs had only made Harland handle the ball once.  True it was that Thompson, Elkes, and Seed had hit the side netting, but what a paltry return for a bundle of combined and cohesive attacks.  The Spurs lost their chance of taking the lead through sheer uncertainty in front of goal, and Everton, during the latter part of the first half, came to their normal game, and Weaver nearly pushed the ball and the goalpost through with his head.  Chadwick hit the crossbar, and Broad, with a first time shot was right on the mark, so that the Spurs began to fear that they would not have a second chance to show their worth. 
NOT TO SECURE
Forester started rather shakily, and Poynton was not too source in a latter effort, but the half-back work of Smith and Skinner was altogether too good for the young Evertonians, and Elkes and Osborne were very competent in tactics, feinting, and engineering attacks.  It was capital football to watch, because Everton rallied when it seemed they were in for a really big deficit.  However, the London side had only themselves to blame for not taking their chances so early on that Everton would not have been able to reply.  Weaver scored late on in the game, and it was a flimsy sort of goal, but the ‘Spurs could not be vexed, because they had thrown away so many golden chances.  Broad once hit the woodwork and was generally useful in opportunist efforts, but the home forward line was readily repelled and if the ‘Spurs’ forwards had finished off their skilled initiation there could have been but one result.  They complained smartly that the referee was wrong when he said Lindsay’s goal was offside, and certainly it seemed that Seed, who made the pass, was in front of Lindsay, and therefore the goal was a good one.
SECOND THOUGHTS.
However, later on the referee gave a penalty decision and on consultation reversed it to a free kick outside the box.  It was an intriguing sort of game because both sets of forwards were poor in the vital aspect.  Even so, Hinton was a busy goalkeeper and did well with awkward lobs and corners, whereas Harland had an easy passage.  The ‘Spurs improved in the full-back division, whereas Everton’s pair went back.  Raitt being terribly uncertain and unnerved.  In fact, he nearly gave away a goal.  The best drives of the match came from Seed, McBain, and Elkes, with Chadwick unlucky to hit the crossbar with his one shot during the day.  Weaver was a worrying type of winger, and without him a goal would never have come.  Parry over-dribbled to such an extent that it was wonderful Weaver should get the goal from such a move.  However, he did, and thus got recompense for crashing into the post earlier in the game. 

EVERTON 1 TOTTENHAM HOTSPURS 0
January 19, 1925. The Daily Courier.
BLUES' SEVENTH VICTORY.
'SPURS MASTERED IN A HARD GAME.
By F. McN.
Everton's seventh victory in the League campaign gives the club a valuable lift in the table. The margin over the 'Spurs was the smallest possible, but the Goodison Park side deserved to triumph by a greater score, so pronounced was their superiority for two-thirds of the game. Hinton saved many fine shots, and the 'Sours owe much to their goalkeeper, who displayed excellent judgement, anticipation and tact. His saves from Chadwick and Weaver were masterly, while his interception of centres from the wings were neat and clever.
'SPURS LACK FINISH.
Had the 'Spurs' forwards been as finished in their work in the first half hour, when they had the better of the play, there would have been a different story to tell. As it was all the craft and elusive dribbling of Seed, Elkes, and Osborne went for nought in the absence of accurate shooting. After the first 30 minutes' Everton were aggressive and once the halves had mastered the London attack, the remainder of the play was in the home side favour. Chadwick struck the bar with a 40 yards' range drive, and Broad was unfortunate when a good shot cannoned off a defender. In the second half Everton gained complete mastery. Lindsay netted from Seed's pass, and the "goal" appeared to be a legitimate one, but the referee ruled that Seed was offside when he made the pass. The official was up with the play, and he was in a much better position than people in the stands, where the view is deceptive. If the 'Spurs considered themselves a trifle unfortunate on that occasion, the scales were levelled when Everton were awarded a penalty and the decision altered following a consultation with a linesman for which Hinton, the 'Spurs keeper strongly appealed. Broad had been brought down, and it appeared a clear case of a spot kick, but all Everton got was a free kick just outside the penalty area. The goal came in the last ten minutes, when Parry cleverly beat the backs and centred for Weaver to score. The 'Spurs did not stay the course in a hard game. They set a pace, which they were unable to maintain. Elkes and Seed were the best forwards, while the halves played well. especially Skitt, and Forester and Payton were sound for three-parts of the game, and then faltered. Hinton, however, was the man of the match. Everton took some time to settle down, but afterwards played with skill and judgement.
PARRY'S DASH.
Parry again displayed speed and resource, and Wall on occasions, gave his partner good passes, but the inside man was inclined to delay his transfers at times. Weaver, on the opposite wing, was a fast and springtly raider. The Burnley man has recovered his best form, Chadwick's shot deserved a better billet. Broad hustled the backs, and was unlucky on one occasion when a strong shot cannoned off an opponent. McBain and Brown did well. The acting captain drove in one of the best shots of the day, which Hinton saved; Virr again pleased and he looks like making a good substitute for Hart, who owing to an operation for the removal of a knee cartilage, will not be able to play again this season. McDonald again showed dashing form, Raitt ably seconding his efforts. Harland did not have a great deal to do, but parried successfully the few shots which came his way. Everton: - Harland, goal, Raitt and McDonald backs, Brown, McBain (captain), and Virr, half-backs, Parry, Wall, Broad, Chadwick, and Weaver, forwards. Tottenham Hotspurs: - Hinton, goal, Forester, and Poynton, backs, Smith, Skitt, and Skinner, half-backs, Osborne, Seed, Lindsay, Elkes, and Thomson, forwards.

HUNTER HART
January 19, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
Everton have lost the services of Hart, for several months through cartilage trouble. Hart has decided to go into hospital and even should his cure be as rapid as it is hoped, his absence from the team will be a long one.

MANCHESTER UNITED RESERVES 0 EVERTON RESERVES 1
January 19 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 25)
Although the only goal of the match did not arrive until fifteen minutes' after the interval, the result was never in doubt, as Everton, who fielded a strong side, were quicker on the ball and displayed more clever football. Troup always had the measurement of Jones, and beat him for speed; while on the other wing Forbes, fed by Irvine, always had the defence gruessing. David Bain showed smart ball control and it was from one of his clever forward passes that the goal came. Irvine took the ball in his stride, and when everybody expected he would pass he went forward, with the defence in hot pursuit, and beat Mew with a low cross drive. Cock and Frank Hargreaves should have given Mew more work. Often they left two unreliable backs standing but dallied and lost the ball or allowed Mew to clear. Everton: - Kendall, goal, Caddick, and Livingstone, backs, Rooney, Reid (captain) and Bain, half-backs, Hargreaves, Irvine, Cocks, Williams, and Troup, forwards.

CRAFTY ‘SPURS.
Athletic News - Monday 19 January 1925
BUT NEVER A SHOT IN THE LOCKER
EVERTON 1, TOTTENHAM HOTPSUR 0
By Junius
Everton, although fielding their reserve right wing forwards, obtained.  Earlier play scarcely suggested the result, for the Londoners were exceedingly adroit in footwork and positional play, which caused the defence some tense moments.  They were a team combined, methodical, crafty, and workmanlike –but they had not a shot in their locker.  In the earlier play Everton were mere unis, but when they pressed there appeared possibilities, for Parry and Weaver delivered some telling centres, but the best of the advances of the line could only be designated as raids, and they were on the collar for the greater period.  They became more aggressive as the game wore on, and Hinton was quite beaten when Chadwick in the first half drove against the crossbar, and in the second portion when McBain drove against the upright. 
THE DECIDER
The only goal in the game came from some clever work by Parry, who outwitted Skinner and Poynton to cut in and deliver a square pass across the goalmouth, where WEAVER was handy, and gave Hinton no chance of saving.  This success was achieved ten minutes from the end.  Then followed an incident that was not relished by the onlookers.  Broad, making his way through, was tripped up by Skitt, some two or three feet within the penalty area.  The referee promptly whistled and pointed to the spot, and, in my opinion, his ruling was correct.  However, the official consulted one of the linesmen, reversed his decision, and ordered a free kick from a yard outside.  I interviewed the referee at the close, and his explanation was that the linesman was in a better position to judge.  However, there was a clear view of the incident from the Press-box, and the offence was undoubtedly committed within the area.  Everton’s goal acted as a tonic, for the players were a different side in the closing stages, when only the superb defence of Hinton prevented them from increasing their lead.  Everton’s stalwart, to mind, were McDonald and Brown.  The former carried a heavy burden with great credit, for he was opposed to a clever wing pair in Osborne and Seed, who frequently eluded the attentions of Virr, who was rarely able to cope successfully with the brainy schemes and cleverness opposed to him. 
WEAVER, THE ARTIST.
Brown had as much as he could manage in subduing Elkes, who dove-tailed with Thompson in masterly fashion, but the Everton half-back rose to the heights, and was always about when a parting shot was likely.  Lindsay did not impress, as his finishing was of a negligible quantity.  As a line, the Everton forwards were not convincing.  Weaver being the outstanding player with both dribble and shot, and got his deserts late on in the game.  Skitt was a successful pivot in a capable half-back line; behind which Forster and Poynton were variable, making mistakes occasionally, though always quick in recovery.  Hinton was a busier man than Harland, and played his part well.  Everton; Harland; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, McBain, Virr; Parry, Wall, Broad, Chadwick, and Weaver.  Tottenham Hotspur; Hinton; Forster, Poynton, Smith, Skitt; Skinner, Osborne, Seed, Lindsay, Elkes, and Thompson.  Referee; Mr. L. E. Vickery, Birmingham. 

MR. HOWCROFT’S STORE-LORE
Liverpool Echo - Monday 19 January 1925
REFEREE EXPLAINS A PENALTY DECISION WHICH WAS REVERSED
Bee’s Notes
There was a rushsomething similar to that which occurs at Everton's home games.  The meeting-place was not Goodison Park, however. It was County-road Wesleyan Church, where football enthusiasts gathered to hear good singing from a thousand hearty voices, solos from Mr. Stud Marks (Mr. Louis Kelly), and Miss Stud Marks (Miss Melba Kelly), with Tom Bromilow intervening read the lessons and Mr. W.  C. Cuff acting as chairman at the huge gathering, in which one noticed Mr. W. J.  Sawyer, another Everton director. Mr. Hebson gave tone to the affair with his well-governed organ work, and Mr. J.T. Howcroft, referee, talked manfully and straight upon “Football and Manliness,”  He had some good stories to tell and some striking matters to relate, the most poignant being a story of a player who had been warned that he was going to the gutter, and was reminded that he was not going there alone, he would be taking others with him, and, finally, a death-bed chat between the referee and the player.  I liked best of all the story of Vivian Woodward, one of nature’s gentlemen, who ran up against Bannister and got a severe mauling.  Finally, Mr. Howscroft said to Bannister, “Go to the tent,” Woodward intervened, and asked the referee not to send him off the field.  “Leave him to me,” said the famous amateur, and Bannister then got a simple chiding from Woodward in these trifling but biting words.  “You have hurt me,” Bannister felt the sting and the disgrace.  Am I to go off? Asked he of the referee, and Mr. Howscroft said “No, you can stay now.”  Mr. Howcroft had a good word for the sporting person, such as graced the platform that day, and also a good word for Everton and Liverpool spectators.  He thanked all crowds for their kindness in a period of 29 years referring, and he declared that referring was easier to-day than it used to be, and added that “if all players were like Bromilow there would be no need for a referee to be engaged.”  Then he declared that clean players would allow him to go on referring till he was a hundred years old, and paid tribute to the leadership and fairness of Hunter Hart, the Everton captain, who, I fear, will not be seen out again this season.  You know how clear our “Derby” games have been for many years past.  Here is the secret. –
Mr. Howscroft says that when he controls this particular game he knows he has 22 men engaged, showing the country how great a game football is. 
HEADS OF THE POLL
He played a strong card when he quoted such names as Lord Kinnaird, J.C. Clegg, J. Lewis and J. McKenna as heads of the game.  Those who said Christianity could not go hand in hand with sport could never have known Lord Kinnaird.  So long as the game was in such good hands it was bound to prosper.  It was true the coupon betting disease had gripped the country, but come what may there could be no doubt about the honesty of the game and its players in government such as football was blessed with.  He cited his own family case where a daughter asked him, “What do you think?”  and handed him a coupon which he filled up with disastrous results-two right in 14!  After that my Cup-tie prophecies read like real certs!  Mr. Cuff in introducing the speaker described him as “Prince of present-day referees,” and emphasized the fact that when Mr. Howcroft went on the field he had the respect of the plyers to commence with and he had the encouragement of spectators.  It was all very instructive and helpful. 
VICKERY, VICTORY “DOCKS”
Having heard the spokesman it perhaps ill becomes me to talk of Referee Vickery, who handled the game at Everton.  But frankness insists.  Besides, the public at Goodison Park are in the dark as to why a referee should point to a penalty spot and then change his decision on the strength of a linesman’s consultation, the linesman being in a worse position to see what happened.  Thus it is that Referee Vickery comes into “dock.”  He had referred admirably, but the last moment decision was vexatious.  Seen after the game by a colleague he explained that it was quite right that he pointed to the penalty mark.  He thought it was a penalty offence in the area; but on consultation with the linesman –on request of a Spurs player-he altered his decision and put the free kick outside the box.  I think first impressions would have been best for Mr. Vickery.  Fortunately no harm was done, as Everton had won through Weaver’s goal late on.  Weaver was the sparkling forward of our side, allowing for Broad’s impromptu bursts and opportunist ways.  What one likes best about the Birkenhead boy is his go-ahead style; he makes ground, goes forward, and centres sharply. 
‘SPURS PECULIARITY
Everton were not convincing by any means.  There was streakiness about the full back work until McDonald returned to his dogged way and commanded the Spurs’ forwards.  Virr, too, was out-paced by the sprinter Osborne, who showed spleen and spirit in turn.  McBain and Brown (the latter notably in the second half) did fine work, but in front there was a lack of cohesion, and the “winging” did not come off.  Chadwick had crass luck with one shot, and Wall willing worker, did not find the ball “come to him” as he could have wished.  A game often goes that way.  The result was that Parry was not so good as in the Cup-tie.  However, they did not let down the team, and Spurs proved a very useful side till they got into the goal-mouth when they seemed to suffer a fit of the staggers, as the vets, call it.  Elkes has no shot, but he has a scheming brain and cunning feet, and Osborne’s work was good enough for goals when Spurs were out-playing Everton in the first half hour.  Spurs can take their own blame; they gave the game away, and if Lindsay scored a good goal which did not count there was against that a very subtle back-charging delivered on Broad in the penalty area that missed the official view.  Everton have won two games in succession; they have shown spirit; they are coming on.  Let us give them still further encouragement in their stiff task.  Anyone can shy bricks; who has a helping hand to offer?  He’s wanted right now. 

CHEDGZOY AND IRVINE IN EVERTON SIDE.
January 21, 1925. The Daily Courier.
Everton visit Burnden Park on Saturday with what is probably their strongest side, and shows three changes from that which beat the 'Spurs. In the halves Reid takes the place of Virr, while forward Chedgzoy and Irvine return as the right wing pair. The side is: - Everton; Harland; Raitt, and McDonald; Brown, McBain Reid; Chedgzoy Irvine, Irvine, Broad, Chadwick, and Weaver. Everton Reserves team (v. Bolton Wanderers at Goodison Park); Kendall, Caddick, and Livingstone; Rooney, Bain, and Virr; Parry, Wall, Cock, Williams, and Troup.

EVERTON CHANGES
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 21 January 1925
Bee’s Notes (Ernest Edwards)
Everton are making three changes in the to meet Bolton Wanderers at Bolton on Saturday, compared with the side which beat Tottenham Hotspur at Goodison last week.  Virr is displaced by Reid, and Chedgzoy and Irvine return to the exclusion of Parry and Wall.  The team is;- Harland; Raitt, Macdonald; Brown, McBain, Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Chadwick, Weaver. 
Everton Reserves, who have not suffered defeat during the past eleven weeks, will be represented by the following team in opposition to Bolton Wanderers Reserves in the Central League match at Goodison Park (3 o’clock);- Kendall; Caddick, Livingstone; Rooney, Bain, Virr; Parry, Wall, Cock, Williams, Troup. 
BREEZY BUCHAN
“Bee’s’ compliments, and what do you think of the chances against Everton?” This is what our Sunderland representative put to Charlie Buchan, the Sunderland captain, as he was seated in the back premises of his shop lacing up a football, one of the hundreds he sends out to district clubs. 
Charlie smiled.  “My kind regards to ‘Bee,’ but tell him I am not having any-at any rate, he must not expect me to say we are going to win.  I am too old a campaigner to go that far.  But I can say that we are all looking forward to the game, more especially because it is Everton.  “That is not said in flattery.  At Roker Park, we recognize Everton’s side as one which plays pure football from start to finish, and I hope Everton have found that we can do the same.  I ought to be a real good tie, and I can tell you our boys are keen to win it.  I want to see that cup have Sunderland’s name on it before I go out of football, and we will play Everton to the last yard.  That is all I can say.” 
Bob Kyle, the genial Sunderland secretary is very hopeful.  “I hope we will be able to give my old pal McIntosh a big cheque-but mothing else mind you.”  Sunderland are training at home for their English Cup-tie with Everton at Roker Park.  Buchan, Oakley, Ellis, Dean, and Parker are on the injured list, and it is doubtful if Parker will be able to play against Tottenham Hotspur in London on Saturday. 

EVERTON MEET A HOT SIDE
Liverpool Echo - Friday 23 January 1925
Bee’s Notes
BOLTON SMITHIES
Bolton have ever been hailed as a good side, but there have been times when their side has broken out in a poorish manner.  At one time if Seddon was away the half back line went weak in every phase; if Ewart started to miskick it generally happened that Finney took a day off and so on.  Then there was the barrier supposed to be unbreachable between the Smith (J.R. and Joe) and Cassidy.  However, the ‘flu came along and swept some of the men down, and thus relived the directors’ committee.  Whatever else may be said of the team that Everton meets to-morrow, this much is certain- their forward line is one of the hardest in the league to control.  They have sweeping moves and striking shots, and the height of David Jack often gets a goal where others would be under the ball and not a bit dangerous.  Everton having their former right wing pair back to position, and David Reid taking Virr’s place, means that experience will be included in the forward and half-back line.  It will be needed in both places tomorrow.  Good luck to the better side when they line up in this order;- Everton; Harland; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, McBain, Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Chadwick, Weaver.  Bolton Wanderers; Pym; Chambers, Finney; Nuttall, Seddon, Howarth (N); Butler, Jack, Smith (JR), Smith (J), Vizard. 
Both reserves sides meet at Goodison Park, and as Everton’s string is trying hard to keep up a sequence of fine performances, and fields some well-known names, there should be a crowd to “push the business on” in the meeting of the Seconds.  Everton reckon they will top the Central League before six weeks have gone by. 

SIDE OF THE MONENT.
January 24, 1925. The Daily Courier.
BLUES' STIFF TASK AT BOLTON.
Everton twice since the war have beaten Bolton at Burnden Park, and if they can accomplished a similar feat this afternoon they will not only do much to establish their position in the League, but accomplish a fine performance. They meet the Wanderers with what is undoubtedly their best available side, but it is a stiff task that awaits them for Bolton are one of the teams of the moment and have eye on the Championship, an houour they have yet to win. Still, it must be overlooked that they won the Lancashire Cup in mid-week, and as it was at Burnden Park where Everton made their exit the chances again point to Bolton winning, though in justice to Everton it must be said they had a weak side on that occasion. Only one side has beaten Bolton on their own ground this season, and that Sunderland, who won as far back as Sept 27. Since then they have carried all before them, and although it should dearly love to see the Everton men spoil that record this afternoon, I fear they wind find the obstacle too big to overcome. The sides are - Bolton Pym; Greenhaigh, Finney; Nuttall, Seddon, N. Howarth or Jennings; Butler, Jack, Cassidy, Joe Smith, Vizard. Everton; Harland; Raitt McDonald; Brown, McBain, Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Chadwick, and Weaver.

FAMOUS OLD-TIMERS.
January 24, 1925. The Liverpool Football Echo.
"JIMMY" SETTLE, THE LANCASHIRE LAD WITH THE NIMBLE FEET.
By Victor Hall.
Few who ever saw Settle play will forget the characteristic style of his footwork. There was always a grim whimsicality about his play, a tenacity of purpose, and, withal a suggestion that he saw fun and humour in getting of goals that escaped many of his fellow-players. Reared in that Lancashire atmosphere (one might almost call it a "forcing bed") that has produced, and will probably continue to produce good players, win or lose, Settle came to Everton with a reputation fast made and secure as a player of skill and mette and one who had nothing to learn from even the highest professors of the art. Also he was understood to be a trier –and he was! Not many who saw Jimmy Settle in his prime would ever suggest that he was easy going. From the commencement to the finish of every game he was an electric needle of energy. The recollection will come back to thousands of memories of those sinuous twists and feints of his, those side taps and sudden turnings by which he missed the opposing players and worked himself into position. What a really enjoyable player, too, to watch in action. His build did not suggest speed or even pace, yet the keen judge would note that the robust well knit figure was of sturdy build and rippling over with muscular energy and enduring stamina. Settle too, had a temperament that naturally saw the humorous side of must things. Football, even to the players, has its lighter side, if they have the grit to see it. Settle in his day was probably the best shot in Lancashire, although his audiences would claim for him that his best work was done in midfield rather than in front of goal. Be that as it may he was certainly one of Everton's greatest forwards, and must always rank high in the list of famous players who have ever worn the Everton colours. He had another valuable quality in football the ability to make good friendship among his fellow players and even keenest rivals. In match between Everton and Liverpool which were at one time held to be rather "keen affairs" there was probably no individual on the field more popular with both sets of players than smiling Jimmy Settle. His chubby, happy expression, and his good humored grin, were an asset to the team that had a real value. In a losing match, there is nothing to be gained by looking sourly at referee and opponents alike, and it is no use glaring at your own side as if everyone were to blame but your self. Jimmy Settle was well aware of this psychological fact, and it entered into his view of things so thoroughly that he always beamed. He beamed in defeat, but he glows in victory. Who can ever forget that easy jog-trot of his back from the goalmouth after a winning shot with his broad grin for all the team and the world to see, as he hitched up his knickers for the ensuing kick-off? And who that revels in ball command can forget Settle's mastery over the ball? In many individual aspects of the play, it was very suggestive of that of the brilliant Edgar Chadwick; there was the same build of figure, the same short jerky run, with the ball on the toe, and the same sudden twist or turn at an imexpected angle, that brought frequent remainders of the earlier player. But where Chadwick had been a wing stylish more than a solo performer. Settle was distinctly an individual star. And by that it is not meant that he was a player who ignored his forwards. Far from that being so, he was prove by one of the most unselfish forwards, in his day. He knew and expressed to the full the value of combined effort and impartial distribution. No player was ever stared of passes or openings by Settle, and yet he was a real individual player in that he could both make his openings and take them when the fortune of the game demanded that he should. Settle too, was a rare philosopher as regards the science of the game. If he did not express himself in the cultured accents of the learned, his broad Lancashire dialect had all the wisdom of the sage. Once, for example, among the players themselves, one afternoon during a training spell at Norbreck Hydro, the talking about goalkeepers. Every player had his own views, and expressed them naturally, and to who was the best or "safest" custodian of the day. Some favoured one great player, other took other views, but one great international of that day had found most supporters in the discussion. Settle for once had been silent in the arguments. That fact alone was incliar. Someone wanted to "draw" Jimmy's opinion as he had played against each of the goalkeepers then under review. But still he had not ventured an opinion in the argument. "What do you say, "Jimmy" at last asked one of the critics "isn't – a rear good goalie." "He meet enough" was the non-committal reply. "Well" replied the questioner nettled "do you know a better?" "A" knows one shot, well always beat him every time "replied Settle, with a grin. "Well, if you do, why don't you try it when you play against him." Went on the player now interested. "A" do, replied Jimmy," and whenever I try it I score. "What's this shot Jimmy?" said half a dozen players together gathering round. Evidently they were going to get one of Settle's secrets. "Whenever a want to score against him, said Jimmy, taking his pipe from his mouth, 'a' watch just where he's standing –and then 'a; puts the ball where he is not. There was a roar, and even the curious one was satisfied. There was a good deal in Settle's philosophy and present day scorers would do well not to forget it when next the vital moment comes. As a stylist there have not been many second editions of Jimmy Settle in Lancashire football. Turton, the wonderful Lancashire nursery for talent, produced many a good player from its neighborhood, but there seems to be a drop in the production of talent just lately, and that is all to the loss of Lancashire football. J.C. Bentley, the famous president of the League, originally played football for the Turton club, as did his brother "Willie" Bentley –who recently retired with honours from the passager control at Exchange Station, Liverpool. Both brothers could reel of a list of Turton players who would supply a couple of international teams if need be. But the Settle tyre of brains and brilliancy in football is not by any means extinct, and Jimmy Settle (now in private life) was a worthy and creditable type of good Lancaster play. Victor Hall writes to thank his correspondents as to Gibson's name being given as the Sunderland player who rivalled Bill Stewart in "throwing in." The mane should of course have been Hugh Wilson. The famous "Boyle, Holt, and Stewart" half back line of Everton, however, was the "Soldier Bill" Stewart, although another Stewart, possibly from Burnley had previously played for Everton. Bill Stewart was with Preston before coming to Everton.

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 24 January 1925
By Louis Kelly

AT BURNDEN PARK
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 24 January 1925
EVERTON SUPERIOR BUT FALTER
JACK’S EARLY GOAL DECIDES
F.E.H. COMMENTARY ON THE PLAY
Everton; Harland; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, McBain, Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Chadwick, Weaver.  Bolton Wanderers;- Pym; Greenhalgh, Finney; Nuttall, Seddon, Howarth (H); Butler, Jack, Davies,. Smith, Vizard.  Referee, Mr. I. Josephs of East Bolden.  Everton to-day faced a strong Bolton side, a side that has championship ideas.  Bolton, by the way, have signed on Forbes, the Southport centre-half, who asked to be put on the transfer list as he could not strike his form at home.  Everton brought back Chedgzoy, Irvine, and Reid (last-named for Virr), and I am told that the side will again visit Tom Parr’s Hotel at Heswell next week in preparation for the Cup-tie at Sunderland.  Everton fielded their selected side, but there was one change in the home ranks, Idwal Davies, the Crosby amateur, coming in at centre forward for J.R. Smith.  Here were 20,000 people present when Bolton started.  The opening exchanges were rather a series of throws-in, the Bolton right being well checked.  Everton then settled down to a vigorous but correct style of play, and good work on the right enabled Broad to try a shot, which mis-carried. 
JACK BEATS HARLAND.
The Wanderers replied in lively fashion, and the forward line, by a series of swinging passes, opened the scoring after five minutes’ play.  The Everton backs appeared to be momentarily caught napping, and from a neat pass by Butler, Jack scored with a shot which gave Harland precious little chance.  The visitors attempted retaliation through Weaver and Chadwick, only to find Greenhalgh on guard; and when the Evertonians came through again Irvine, after a desperate effort, drove the leather just over the bar.  Although the playing pitch was gradually being churned up, the pace increased, and Brown twice put the right wing in possession, but neither Chedgzoy nor Irvine was permitted to put in telling shots.  At the other end the Wanderers were dangerous, and McDonald, was unable to hold Jack, who sent in a quick shot which was just off the target.  The Bolton left wing pair took up the running, and Vizard parted with the ball nicely to Joe Smith, but the latter missed his chance.  The Everton attack once more developed in promising fashion, and there was some pretty play between Brown, Chedgzoy, and Irvine.  The trio, however, were well watched by Howard and Finney and when the Everton winger attempted to get this on his own account, he was stopped by Seddon. 
NETTED FROM OFFSIDE.
The Wanderers again made progress, and gave the visitors’ defence some anxiety but they finished weakly.  The three inside forwards all missed chances.  So the game swung from end to end, and Chedgzoy put in another nice dropping centre which Chadwick just failed to reach.  The visitors at this period were playing much better football than their opponents, and once Irvine headed into the net, but he was obviously offside and smiled “Vizardly” which whistled to that effect.  Towards half-time the weavers of the blue jerseys showed even further improvement and there were times when they quite took command of the game.  McBain held Davies up in unmistakable fashion, and from forward passed by the wing halves.  Broad had two shots at Pym but neither of them was successful.  Bolton at length got down on the right, where Butler and Jack were busy, but McDonald managed to retrieve the situation, and the visitors once more became aggressive.  Chedgzoy twice put the ball up into the goalmouth, but first Broad and then Chadwick failed to administer the required finishing touch.  A minute later Chedgzoy again centred, and Irvine jumped over the leather, to give Broad a chance, but he was just too late, and the Bolton back cleared.  Everton were now having all the play, and Broad was fouled just outside the penalty line, Chadwick took the kick, and drove with characteristic directness, but Pym effected a wonderful clearance.  The Wanderers enjoyed a spell of attack, principally on the right wing, where Reid and McDonald were kept busy, but they attended to their work well.
AN ABLE CUSTODIAN.
Chedgzoy forced a corner, and following upon this Weaver drove in a singing shot, which showed once again the ability of the Bolton custodian.
Half-time; Bolton 1, Everton nil.
It must be distinctly stated that Bolton were extremely lucky to be leading at the turn; it was just a case of getting in the first thrust.  Throughout the bulk of the first period Everton were the superior side, much of their work being exceptionally clever, but it rendered nugatory by a fatal hesitation; in other words, a lack of finish.  On the resumption Everton raced along on the right, and Broad forced a corner of Finney.  This was charged, and subsequently Weaver put in a high dropping centre which was dealt with.  So far, by the way, the eclipse had not interfered in any way with the outlook, and a Bolton director sitting near to me made the factious suggestion that the only visible eclipse would be that of Everton.  The visitors did their utmost to remove this impression by more vigorous work on the right, and Broad was twice unlucky.  Butler and Jack were next in the picture with some trustful work, and here I may mention that little so far had been seen of either Vizard or Smith.  Subsequently however, they swept down at a great pace, the inside man being unlucky in not getting his attempted shot home.
QUICK INTERCHANGES
The Everton left wing made good ground, and Weaver again showed his ability to put in a dangerous dropping centre.  It was however dealt with, and at the opposite goal, Jack gave Davies the opportunity of firing in a great shot, which was cleared. 
WANDERERS ATTACK
For some time after this Bolton monopolized the attack, and from a centre on the right Davies came within an ace of scoring at close range.  Chedgzoy and Irvine paved the way to another assault on the Bolton goal, but the home backs managed to baulk Broad, and a subsequent long shot from Weaver came to nothing. In the closing stages Everton fell away appreciably, and missed at least two chances of equalizing through Weaver and Irvine.  Final; Bolton 1, Everton 0. 

EVERTON RES V BOLTON RES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 24 January 1925
Central league
At Goodison Park, before a large attendance.  Everton were up against a strong team to-day, in their endeavor to challenge the leaders for the premier position.  Everton played as selected, and the Wanderers made three changes.  The early stages of the play were in Everton’s favour, and Parry was soon in his stride with a fine run and centre, which Cooke just missed.  The next item of note was a fine piece of work by Troup, who dribbled past Forbes and Shipperbottom to place in a perfect centre, which Williams badly mulled.  Everton were enjoying all the pressure, and it was only on rare occasions that Bolton crossed the half way line.  Newton getting the better of Rooney and Caddick, ended in Kendall saving a smart drive from Jones.  Then Bourne, the Bolton keeper, was called upon to clear good shots from Cook and Wall.  From a breakaway Jones opened the score for Bolton through a miskick by Rooney and from then onwards Everton pressed strongly for the equalizer, and they could do all but score. 
Half-time; Everton Reserves 0, Bolton Wanderers Reserves 1.
Cook scored for Everton after a second attempt ten minutes from the resumption, Williams missed a penalty for Everton. 

JOHN THOMAS ATKINSON
The Scotsman - Monday 26 January 1925
John Thomas Atkinson, of 29 Anfield Road, Liverpool, principal of Messrs Joseph Atkinson, vehicle builders, of Liverpool and Leeds, one of the first directors of the Everton Football Club and the oldest member of the Lyceum Club. Net personalty, $27,331..$46.533

BOLTON WANDERERS 1 EVERTON 0
January 26, 1925. The Daily Courier.
POOR FORWARDS AT BOLTON.
WANDERERS GET THE ONLY GOAL .
By S.H.H.
Everton lost the game at Burnden Park in the first five minutes, when Jack, who had worked over to the left wing netted, for although they were on top from a playing point for fully three-parts of the subsequent play they could not get the better of Pym and his backs. To some extent Everton were unlucky, for Broad was brought down on the edge of the penalty line, and later was whistled offside with an open goal in front of him, while a cross drive in the first half from Chedgzoy was knocked down by one of the Bolton halves, the referee missing the incident. The pulling up of Broad was unfortunate in this way as although Mr. J. Josephs admitted his error, and threw the ball down, the Bolton defence had been given time to take up their positions, and the Blues' chance of equalising was made practically impossible.
POOR FINISHING.
However, allowing for all these incidents, I do not think had they gone on playing for another hour and half the Everton men would have scored. Like the Wanderers, they possessed one wing, the right, but even this was none too successful, and failed to get the ball across in a manner that made for goals. Much of the ineffectiveness of the Everton side was due to the methods of play; they persisted in keeping the ball close, whereas had they swung it about more the possibilities were that on the sticky surface goalscoring chances would have been more numerous. Defensive work on both sides reached a high standard, especially among the halves, with the Everton line a shade the superior. McBain "bottled up" the amateur, Idwal Davies, who led the Bolton attack, while Reid and Brown allowed the opposing wingers few chances of becoming dangerous. In this respect Brown was the more successful, and I should think it a long time since Joe Smith, and Vizard rendered so impotent.
McDONALD AND RAITT.
McDonald and Raitt were sure in their tackling, and always got the ball away first time, and in this respect did better than Greenhalgh and Finney, the latter spoiling good work by too frequently kicking into touch. Harland and Pym both kept good goals, and the first named could in nowise be blamed for the shot that beat him, which was a left-footed drive from an inside right who was out of position. The Everton man effected one really fine save in the second half when he came out to Idwal Davies and succeeded in turning his drive over the bar. Taking the game on the whole, it was not a great one to watch, and if this is the Wanderers' best I cannot see them winning the championship. There was a lack of cohesion between the front and middle lines that seemed impossible for a side that has done so well of late. People who have seen the Wanderers in most of their games said it was the worst display of the season. With this I feel inclined to agree. Teams: - Bolton Wanderers: - Pym, goal, Greenhalgh and Finney, backs, Nuttall, Seddon, and Howarth, half-backs, Butler, Jack, I. Davies, J. Smith, and Vizard, forwards. Everton: - Harland, goal, Raitt, and McDonald backs Brown, McBain (captain), and Reid, half-backs, Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Chadwick, and Weaver, forwards. Referee Mr. J. Josephs.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 BOLTON WANDERERS RESERVES 1
January 26, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 26)
By their victory over Bollton Wanderers at Goodison Park; Everton are only one point behind the leaders with a match in hand, Everton dominated the play throughout, and it was hard lines that they were a goal in arrears at the interval, the point being obtained by Jones through Rooney miskicking Everton fully merited couple of goals, and had Williams accepted the chance that came his way, the home side would have had a comfortable lead. Twice he missed open goals, and Wall also shot wide with only the keeper to beat. Everton started the second half in determined fashion and were soon on level terms. Cock sent in a strong drive which the keeper failed to hold properly and, following up, he regained possession to net easily. Cock gave Everton the lead in similar fashion for after heading in, he followed up when he dropped the ball. Troup was tricky in both dribbling and centring, and was Everton's most polished forward. Everton: - Kendall, goal, Caddick, and Livingstone backs Rooney, Bain and Virr half-backs, Parry Wall, Cock, Williams and Troup, forwards.

NEWTON COMMON RECS 3, EVERTON "A" 2
January 26, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
LIVERPOOL COUNTY COMBINATION.
Despite their defeat by Newton Common Recs, Everton "A" played a sound game. Green, the centre forward gave a sparkling exhibition scoring one of his side's goals after a brilliant solo effort. In the second half a penalty was awarded Everton, but McGrae failed to score from it. Jones was an excellent custodian and Matthews Woods and Brown played well for the Recs. The scorers were Matthews, Woods and Brown, for the Recs, and Green and Barton for Everton.

HONOUR IN DEFEAT
Liverpool Echo –Monday 26 January 1925
By F.E.H.
Bolton Wanderers got their blow in “first” at Burnden Park on Saturday, and so gained the fruits of victory.  But it would be idle to say that they really deserved it.  Everton were distinctly the better side, and they have only the weak finishing of their forwards to account for the defeat.  Just a little more accuracy and dash in front of goal and the verdict must have gone in their favour.  Why, when the playing patch is heavy and sticky, will they insist upon playing the short passing game?  As our Gallic neighbours would exclaim “I ask you!” And personally I cannot imagine any satisfactory answer being given.  Adaptability to prevailing conditions is the primary and essential step towards success.  Ignore these and you are undone.  If Broad and company had followed suit to the Trotters victory would certainly have been theirs.  As it was, dozens of opportunities were frittered away.  Still there was at times some dangerous shooting, and one must acknowledge the clever custodianship of Pym, who was a veritable wonder between the sticks.  He saved from Chadwick and Chedgzoy with conspicuous brilliance, and at other times he was well covered by the Bolton backs.  David Jack’s early goal you, no doubt, have already read about.  It was quite a good one, and well worked for, through the agency of Seddon and Butler.  Everton, on the other hand, could do nothing right- tried they never so hard- and as you know they retired unluckily beaten.  The irony of the whole thing is that on Saturday’s form the Wanderers are a very mediocre side, which shows once again that he battle is not always to the strong nor the race to the swift.  The outstanding feature of the match was the work of the Everton backs and half backs.  If they can reproduce the same form with a little extra “ginger” on the part of the forwards next Saturday, Sunderland may look out for squalls.  It is, I know, a very bold prediction-but it may come true. 

EVERTON’S WOE
Athletic News - Monday 26 January 1925
BOLTON WANDERERS AND A CHALLENGE
TENSE TEST
BOLTON WANDERERS 1, EVERTON 0
By Harricus
On two successive Saturdays Bolton Wanderers have secured maximum points by a single goal scored by David Jack in the first few minutes of the game. As at Nottingham, so, too, on Saturday against Everton, the Wanderers’ inside-right was the only scorer of the game with goal that was well worthy of victory.  The defence seemed bewildered with his juggling of the ball, and he ran right through until, with only the goalkeeper to face, he neatly tapped the ball into the net with his left foot. And for another 85 minutes neither side could again pass the goalkeeper in legitimate fashion, for though Irvine once headed into the net he was then in an offside  position. To be candid, the game was a very disappointing one from a football point of view, and I can readily understand the lowly position occupied by Everton in the table. They seem to possess the talent individually, but collectively they are quite moderate side.
POOR FORWARDS
For instance, they had the best of the field play the first half, but their pressure availed them nothing, for Pym’s chief saves were from his own defenders passing back to him.  When the Everton forwards made a good position they either shot wide or the ball cannoned off one of the home defenders.  James Broad was a hustling centre-forward, but with all his hard work he accomplished nothing value to his side, and really one saw little real good football from the Everton front line except on the right wing, and certainly Chedgzoy and Irvine were very troublesome pair to the home defenders. I thought McBain the best the half-backs, and McDonald a strong full-back, who never attempted any finessing.  Whilst Bolton deserved their victory, I was not enamoured with their play.  They introduced two players to League football at Burnden Park in Greenhalgh, the local full-back, and Idwal Davies, the amateur Welsh international. Greenhalgh was very unsettled for quite long time, and is only in the developing stage, while Davies was not a striking success. 
A THRUSTFUL RIGHT WING
AS on the Everton side, the Bolton attack was a one wing affair, as Butler and Jack were much ahead of their colleagues, for captain Smith displayed a tendency to play the part of defender.  The Bolton right wing pair have undoubtedly a fine understanding, and they gave the Everton quintette a lesson in the art of quick advance.  Seddon stood above his fellows in the half-back line, and on Wednesday in the Lancashire Cup final tie his forceful tactics prevent opposing forward lines from settling down to a system of attack,  Finney was the best back the field.  He is a fine and if he could only overcome his habit of kicking into touch he would be without superior in his particular position.  Neither goalkeeper was overburdened with work, and Everton’s nearest chance of scoring came when Chadwick took a free kick just outside the penalty area.  He shot true and fast enough, but Pym saved cleverly. Both clubs are away from home in the Cup-ties next Saturday, and I anticipate that one them at least will be in a different mood.  Bolton Wanderers—Pym; Greenhalgh, Finney; Nuttall, Seddon, Howarth (N.), Butler, Jack (D.). E. I. Davies, Smith (J.), and Vizard.  Everton. —Harland; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, McBain, Reid: Chedgzoy, Irvine,  Broad, Chadwick, and Weaver.  Referee: I. Josephs, East Boldon. 

EVERTON UNCHANGED.
January 28 1925. The Daily Courier.
Everton believing in leave well alone will, at Sunderland, play the side that ran Bolton Wanderers to a goal. This is a wise move, as apart from the debutable question of whether the club would field a better side, it will give the players the encouragement needed for tackling the Wearsiders at Roker Park. The players leave on Thursday for a point on the coast within hailing distance of Sunderland, the following being the side: - Harland; Raitt, and McDonald; Brown, McBain, and Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Chadwick, and Weaver. Everton Reserves to meet Stoke at Stoke, will be: - Kendall; Caddick, Livingstone; McGrae, Bain, and Rooney; Parry, Wall Cock, Williams, and Troup.

EVERTON UNALTERED
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 28 January 1925
Bee’s Notes
Everton at Sunderland will have the same side that ran Bolton to a goal.  The men are fit and well, and after a visit to Heswall they will go up as far as Darlington on Thursday and complete the journey to Roker on Saturday morning.  With Chedgzoy and Irvine back to the eleven there is a return to confidence that one hopes will instill itself into the players when they step out at Roker.  I have had word from the Sunderland secretary, Mr. Robert Kyle, and he says “People seen to imagine it is a gift.  We are neither taking nor giving chances that is our view of the cup-tie of Saturday against Everton.  And they’ve wise.  Blues;- Harland; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, McBain, Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Chadwick, Weaver. 
Everton Reserves visit Stoke Reserves in a Central League engagement, and will be represented by Kendall; Caddick, Livingstone; MaGrae, Bain, Rooney; Parry, Wall, Cock, Williams, Troup. 

SELECTING SUNDERLAND
Liverpool Echo - Friday 30 January 1925
Bee’s Notes
It will shock some of my friends, I fear when they see that I have stated my belief that Sunderland will win.  As the old song sung by Nellie Farren used to declare; “Say what you mean, and mean what you say.”  I did something similar last season when I selected Bolton to beat Liverpool, and the answer came back with a whopping success for Liverpool.  I hope I am as far off the mark in this case of Everton v. Sunderland, as I was with the case quoted.  But he who would say otherwise on what has happened this season would be foolish to his own inner thoughts.  We hope Everton win, we hope they draw; there is no doubt about that, but having seen Sunderland’s records and some of their play we, who study the matter pro and con, select Sunderland to win the game.  Nothing will give me greater pleasure than for Everton to break my selection.  What is the outlook?  Sunderland view it with a certain amount of confidence, but not for a moment with diffidence.  They have got to win against the side that is known for ability if not for finishing power.  Everywhere Everton go, save in that bad match at Blackburn, the cry is raised by the other side’s officials; “It is really surprising that you should be where you are on the form you are showing.”  That does not get the club very much further, but this much can be said.  Everton are playing with more fire nowadays, and there is evidence of a practical working style in the attack that was absent for some time.  In front of goal there has been a zip and a determined first-time drive by Broad that must be helpful and encouraging to the other members of the side.  McDonald’s “punch,” methods, together with Neil McBain’s return to high form, all tend to show that Everton have a chance if they will accept it when the offer is made.  Sunderland are a well-knit, well fit side, with stars shining brightly when allowed to do so by defenders who have dainty ideas.  Therein lies Everton’s big chance.  If they do not concentrate too much on Buchan but realize that Grimshaw can be held, and that Hawes is ma dribbler to excess they can hold up.  Let the Everton half backs as a whole part company with the ball first time to an unmarked forward, and let that forward get on with his upward movement, and the Sunderland defence will be challenged severely.  But let the half backs get wandering high up the field and a breakaway will show where Sunderland are especially clever, for Buchan is never so deadly as when he has had a sleepy period and is lying in wait.  He can dribble one man better than any other forward I know; but give him a crowd and he begins to make too many efforts, and he can be covered.  Thus it is not wise to leave Buchan lying idle up the field while your own side is pressing hard.  Good luck go with both sides.  Everton can do with a smile from Dame Fortune., and here is a chance for the good lady to make amends for some rather nasty tricks played on the Goodison Park club.  Everton; Harland; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, McBain, Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Chadwick, Weaver.  Sunderland; McInroy; Oakley, England; Clunas, Parker, Andrews; Grimshaw, Buchan, Rodgers, Hawes, Ellis.   In the event of a draw taking place in the Cup-tie, the replay will take place at Goodison Park on Wednesday (2.30).  The shareholders stand, centre of Bullens-road, will be booked, numbered, and reserves at 3/6.  Block F on the Goodison road, double decker, numbered and reserved, 3/6 the remainder numbered and reserved 2/4.  Goal double decker numbered and reserved 2/4.  The remainder of the ground; Pay at the gates. 

AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP
Aberdeen Journal, Saturday January 31 1925
The Amateur Championship was begun at Thurston's, London, yesterday, T.A. Booth, Manchester, the old international footballer and former captain of Everton F.C., opposing W. Dobson, Newcastle.  Both players who made their debut in the championship showed promising form.  Booth secured a lead of 157 in the afternoon session, making breaks of 29, 43, 32 and 38 (unfinished).  Dobson's best were 31 and 29.  Interval scores;-
T.A Booth (in play) 501
W. Dobson 344
Booth went further ahead at night, putting on breaks of 47 (full) 22, 41, 44, 43, 67 and 41 (unfinished). Dobson's best were 88 and 48. Closing scores
Booth (in play) 1000
Dobson 662

FAMOUS OLD-TIMERS.
January 31 1925. The Liverpool Football Echo.
BILLY BALMER AND BROTHER BOB SHOW THE VALUE OF ENCOURAGING LOCAL TALENT.
There was a sturdy sureness about the defence of the Brothers Balmer, Billy and Robert, that was both taking to the eye and consoling to those famous followers of the Everton club who took their pleasures each week on the goal stands. Robert, the younger brother, was of a slimmer build than his famous brother, but as he matured and developed in his play there was a finish, and a skilled diplomacy in his style that marked him as a player of resource and enterprise. Billy, on the other hand, always impressed as one of those rugged, stonewall players, who never know fear or funk, and who could be relied on, whatever, call were made on him to do justice to himself and to his team. Those who played with him were among his most sincere admires they knew the earnestness with which he did his work, and were skilled judges of the fairness with which he held his job. In the early days with Everton, he lacked the ripe judgement and experience that came to him in full measure in his later career; but almost from the first match he inspired and held the fullest confidence of the football public. Like many players of Everton and Liverpool also in later years, when Balmer came to the front locally his career as a first class player had still to be made. He had the asset of youth and sterling recommendation from the junior circles in which he had previously played, but as a first class player he was not yet in the charmed circle. This fact recalls one point in which credit must be generally given to the local directorate of both clubs. We have often been told by thoughtless critics that local talent is not encouraged, and a finger is often pointed at the career of those players from Merseyside who afterwards became famous elsewhere and never had a trial locally.
A GENERLITY.
Well there may be some truth in that as a generality –but sometimes these local juniors got trial matches elsewhere on their own or their friends recommendation. They may never have offered their servious to Liverpool or Everton. Directors, after all, are human, there are only a dozen or so for each local premier club, and where probably a thousand junior matches are played each week within fifteen miles of the Town Hall, they cannot cover each match. One statement can very definitely be made –no player, whose services have been offered or to whose play the attention of the club directors has been drawn, has ever been neglected without an opportunity to play a trial, and no chance has ever been omitted of watching a recommended player by either a director personally or by a skilled representative. Both clubs, and all first-clubs, are too eager to snap up the chance of developing a local junior. For one thing there is less risk of spending a big transfer fee uselessly, and less expense in time and money in negotiating costly transfers. But the greatest inducement to the directors to foster local aspirants has been the keen desire to benefit local clubs and players and build up a spirit of emulation among the juniors who aspire some day to move in the higher flights. Club committeemen and directors have ever given ungrudgingly of their time to watch promising players –sometimes for weeks on end –before coming to a decision, especially if that decision were adverse to a trial. As proof of this let it be noted how few good players that ever played a series of trial games with either Everton or Liverpool ever became real stars on other clubs, if for any reason they were not first made a fair offer locally. The number of such "misses" in the discrimination of local directors could be counted almost on the fingers of one hand. It was this spirit of sporting local talent that brought the Brothers Balmers to Everton from Aintree, and later brought George Crelly into the Everton team and also Harry Bradshaw into Liverpool. Let so much he said in justice for our local judges of form. Billy Balmer, at the top of his form, was an inspiring player, to watch. He resolution was quick, his methods' generally fair, his tenacity superb. With a good turn of speed he later developed a sound judgement, that was of good service to his side. One always thinks of his play as clean, forceful and plucky. He belonged to the later school of players, who began to pay regard to the increasing patronage of lady spectators to the League matches. It is laughable now to recall how at one time, when the innovation began there was a disposition to chaff those players in the dressing room who affected the club mirror before taking the field. There began to be a demand for the comb and brush among some of the dandiest of the team, and handkerchiefs –nothing less –because the fashion. Whereas before! -But that's another story! However, Billy Balmer belongs to the later school, who looked neat, and played neat, and the game generally was none the worse for self, respect the later school of players brought into the game.
BOB A STYLIST.
Robert Balmer, who later came to be a pillar of the Everton defence, was equally an attractive player to watch on the field. Both in style and tactics his methods left nothing to be desired, and during his active playing career at Goodison Park the club defence rarely gave ground. It is interesting to recall that during the playing career of those locally chosen players, they laboured under one disadvantage that modern players today do not meet. That is as regards their earning powers as professional players during the limited period of a professional's hey-day. To begin with, wages fifteen or twenty years ago were not today's average. The best paid players of those days rare got more than £3 per week, £4 was an exception. Transfer fees were on a more modest basic, and to a player coming from a local club, no fee at all was paid, but probably a friendly match was given as an added hate attraction. Therefore when a player transferred to a senior team from a junior team, beyond that he played at a fixed and regular weekly wage, he rarely received a penny as bonus for signing, and as to a share of the transfer fee –well, there was none! Suppose his playing career with care and baring serious accident lasted ten years. You can reckon up how much he would be able to save from his wages in that whole period. Especially if he were married and had a family to maintain. And then consider the modern wage standard, the bonus or bounty system, and the guaranteed benefit matches with the handsome three-figure cheques and sometimes a presentation as well. Then recall what our local Balmers Crelly, Kirwans, and others, whom we can all recall, have done for the game, and how little in comparison was their reward. Really we should be glad to honour some of those early players with some special award of merit. Say "for honorable service." The brother Balmers would figure on such a list.

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 31 January 1925
By Louis T. Kelly

THE CASTING OF THE DIE AT SUNDERLAND
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 31 January 1925
BROAD CARRIED OFF INJURED, BUT RETURNS
BLUES GALLANT DEFENCE
EVERTON’S FIGHT AGAINST GREAT ODDS
SPECIAL AND GAPHIC NARRATIVE OF AN ENTHRILLING STRUGGLE
By F.E.H.
The Everton players spent a quiet day yesterday at Darlington, and when I joined them in the evening I found the directors engaged in close conference with other gentlemen, and though I am not at liberty to say what the transactions were, I may mention that to-night there may be official news that the Everton ranks were to be strengthened by the acquisition of more than one player from the North-Eastern district.  My readers may make guesses meanwhile as a slight variation to the crossword craze.  We journeyed on to Sunderland this morning in brilliant sunshine, and found the town flooded with football enthusiasts, drawn from all the surrounding districts.  It is estimated that there were 35,000 spectators when play began, amid great cheering.  Everton; Harland; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, McBain, Reid; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Broad, Chadwick, Weaver.  Sunderland; McInroy; Oakley, England; Clunas, Parker, Andrews; Grimshaw, Buchan, Rodgers, Hawes, Ellis.  Referee, Mr. H. Griffiths, of New Sawley. 
The ground looked on the soft side, but it had been well sanded, and invited a stern and strenuous struggle
AN EVERTON VETERAN
Before coming up to see the match I had a friendly chat with Alex Grenyer, who thirteen years ago served with the Everton club: He is doing well, but rather regrets he ever left Merseyside. The Evertonians, no doubt in honour of so important an occasion, were brand new jerseys of royal blue, but this fact did not prevent them losing the toss. The opening exchanges were agreeably lively, end after Everton had been checked smartly on the right, Sunderland moved away on the left.  A few seconds later Ellis came through again, but on this occasion he was well beaten by Raitt. The visitors were then busy through Weaver, who got of the mark at full-speed, but the full-back kickedthe ball to the keeper, who cleared his lines.  The promise of a fast and exciting combat was being so far well fulfilled for the ball travelled from end to end with almost bewildering swiftness. 
BROAD CARRIED OFF. 
England twice cleared from Chedgzoy, and then a most unfortunate thing happened. Broad had seized upon the ball,and was making for goal, when he was tackled by Oakley the impact being so violent that the Everton centre was sent spinning some yards over the turf, and had to be carried off suffering apparently from some injury to the ribs. After this there was a temporary lull in the pace, though play was continued at high tension.  The Everton forwards, having learned their lesson, swung the ball about quite as well as their opponents,and two long centres from Chedgzoy might quite conceivably have been converted had Broad been available. Nevertheless they kept up the pressure with great pluck, and first Chadwick and then Weaver tried their luck, with sweeping shots. After an absence of seven minutes, Broad reappeared, and the great crowd gave him an encouraging cheer.  Again at full strength the visitors redoubled their energies, the right wing pair being particularly active, but they had to reckon with Andrews and England, who were proving themselves splendid defenders. Still the Blues kept up an aggressive attitude, and Broad, taking a forward pass from Chadwick, looked all over a winner when he was ruled offside. 
A SUNDERLAND RALLY. 
Sunderland now rallied strongly, and Ellis, evading Raitt, put in a dangerous shot which, however, proved ineffective. Another advance on the part of the home vanguard led to Reid breaking the rules, and Harland made a clever save from the free kick taken by Parker. Rodgers then came through, and McDonald only partially cleared, but Harland eventually saved his lines.  The Sunderland centre forward danced in again, and this time a corner war, forced.  This led to a tremendous "bully" in the Everton goal, and Harland was on the ground when he got the leather away, the Wearsiders going great guns. Everton were feeling the weight of their artilleryand from another corner Hawes put in a wonderful oblique shot, which Harland saved in equally wonderful fashion.  A minute later the home inside left was fouled by Raitt just outside the penalty area. The free kick was taken by Clunas, and the shot was rather luckily headed away by Macdonald.  For fully ten minutes the Wearsiders had been enjoying all the fun of the fair, but Everton now came through again, and Chadwick, after being once dispossessed, had another opening, but he spoilt it by driving the ball over the bar. 
STUBBORN DEFENCE.
Sunderland transferred play through good half-back work, and Buchan slipped the ball to Rodgers, who put it over the bar.  Subsequently Reed, in checking an onrush, conceded a corner, but this was cleared, and the visitors were once more on the offensive, but Broad, however, was obviously suffering from his injury, for when he was presented with an open goal he shot very feebly.  Meanwhile Sunderland tried hard to gain a lead, and the Everton back and half-backs were for a sustained period penned in their own half.  Hawes once did a pretty bit of solo work, but he took the ball just too far, and Ellis missed a golden opportunity.  Just before half-time Chedgzoy got off like greased lightning and was closing in when Ellis fouled him.  The free kick was cleared, and there was no score at the interval. 
EVERTON DRAW
STORM SWEEPS COUNTY FROM WEAR TO THAMES
The first period had provided us with typical cup-tie football, the balance of the attack had laid with Sunderland, but their ranks were splendidly held by the Everton halves.  The visitors’ attacking force had been thrown out of gear by Broad been put temporarily out of action.  McInroy had enjoyed an easy passage, having had practically nothing to do.  The ground appeared to be full when play recommenced. 
CHEDGZOY’S ATTEMPT
Sunderland were soon busy at work on the right where Grimshaw and Buchan were conspicuous on two occasions; in the first they were stalked off, and then from a throw-in by Buchan, Griumshaw sent he ball over the bar.  The Wearsiders continued to attack strongly and Hawes headed outside.  Everton then dashed off in their most approved style and Chedgzoy coming in cleverly shot point blank at the Sunderland ‘keeper, who effected a fine save.  Chedgzoy receiving a rather nasty tap on the knee, delayed the progress of the game for a time, but the visitors were now more than holding their own, and once Oakley in putting the ball back to the keeper could only put over the line, thereby giving a corner.  This was saved, and then Buchan made his way through.  McDonald and Harland between them missed clearing, and Raitt in desperation made a flying kick at the ball and nearly turned it into his own net.  This was a very fortunate escape for Everton, and the crowd was not at all pleased. 
HARLAND IN COLLISION.
The Wearsiders came through once more and Ellis and Harland collided, with the result hat the first-named had a nasty cut on the head and had to leave the field.  Ellis returned five minutes after his accident, and his reappearance synchronized with a renewed attack on the Everton goal.  They made ground on both wings and Brown fouled Ellis in clearing; the latter took the kick and with a strong drive struck the crossbar.  There was a short and stiff struggle to clear the Everton lines, but it was not long before Buchan tried to get through having taken up the centre-forward position in place of Rogers.  This, it was thought, no doubt would lend added vim to the home forward line, and for a time it certainly did.  The backs, however, were both sound, while McBain put forth his greatest efforts to keep the famous forward at bay.  At the other end Everton showed a falling away disposition and Broad again shot tamely when well placed.  Chadwick attempted to improve matters with a long, low drive, which the home keeper saved.  Just about this time, several of the Sunderland players changed places in consequence of England having to leave the field limping badly.  This had the effect of making play rather ragged, but it was none the less exciting, and great roars went up when Buchan and Grimshaw both sent in shots which were intercepted.  Buchan was next offered a gift goal but he put the ball yards wide.  In the last five minutes the pace was sensationally fast.  Chedgzoy got clean away and finished with a beautiful shot which McInroy saved on his hands and knees.  Chadwick them missed a likely opening.  It had been a boring struggle throughout, and a draw was perhaps the happiest solution.
Final; Sunderland nil, Everton nil.
Everton’s ability to make a draw to-day did not seem “on” to those followers who have seen them in recent months, but their performance is one of real merit, and an outstanding feature of the round.  It will give the team heart to go ahead with the League problem, which, although it may never be in doubt, is certainly uncomfortable to those who remember Everton as always in the top flight.  The club has had a lot of bad luck in the last six months, but today’s achievement will hearten spectators and everyone else at Goodison Park. 

 

 

 

 

January 1925