EVERTON HOPES OF A WIN.
January 1 st 1929. The Daily Courier.
GRIFFITHS FIT FOR TODAY'S DUEL WITH DERBY
RECORDS REVIEWED.
Griffiths, the Welsh International right half-back, who, had his shoulder dislocated a litter before the interval in the match at Villa Park four weeks ago, is now fit again and will play against Derby County at Goodison Park today, instead of White, who has filled the breach in the middle line admirably. The Champions expect to climb still higher in the first division table –they are at present seventh from the top –as a result of the match, as Leciester, who are a couple of places above the Blues, are not engaged today. This will enable Everton to rise by winning, even if the other clubs above them who are playing today succeed while Derby Count's home record is a sound one, their away record is poor, having nine points only from a possible 22.
NO FEAR.
Everton have only dropped 25 per-cent of the total points, possible at home, so it is unlikely in view of the splendid form shown against Bolton and despite the strong Derby bid for First Division ascendancy, that there will be any few today in the Goodison Park camp of disaster. The Derby players have been resting at Southport sine Saturday, and will chosen their team today. Griffiths reintroduction is Everton's only change. Kick off will be at 2-30, and the teams are: - Everton: - Davies; Cresswell, O'Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Virr; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Martin and Stein. Derby County: - (probable) –Wilkes; Cooper, Collins; Nicholas, Barker, Storer; Fereday, Whitehouse, Bedford, Stephenson, and Robson.

EVERTON 4 . DERBY COUNTY, 0.
Hartlepool Mail-Tuesday 1 January 1929
In fine weather, at Goodison Park, before 40,000. Derby had Alderman and Nicholes for Fereday and Mclntyre. Everton took the lead alter 11 minutes, when Cooper raise kicked and DEAN had an open goal to shoot into. Whitehouse missed a fine chance of equalizing, and then Derby were lucky to see the ball hit the post with Wilkes on the ground. DUNN added second goal in 30 minutes and DEAN third and fourth in the last four minutes of the first half. Everton started the second half in storming fashion, Wilkes turning a shot from Dunn behind the post Derby's best work came from the left wing, Hobson getting the ball across smartly A free kick to Derby just outside the penalty area was charged down. Dunn hit the bar. and Wilkes saved from Critchley near the end.

BEE’S NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 01 January 1929
Everton have just taken a Tyneside boy from the North- Matthew Dixon, centre-half of Walker-on-Tyne.
OH!
Oh for a Hannen Swaffer in football journalism! (Cries “Clubmoor”).  Had that candid critic transferred his activities from the theatrical to the football world, his opinions of the Everton v. Bolton match would have made rich reading.  Dean, I fancy, would have received an approving pat on the back for what was, in a real football sense, his best game of the season; mention also would have been made of the short, sharp passing between Everton’s leader and Dunn, which these two players have exploited so successfully of late (Dunn’s last-minute release of the ball for Dean to score the second goal was a joy); and doubtless the wondrous first half triangular stuff of Nuttall, Gibson, and Cook would have been benevolently reviewed.  But if I know anything of H.S., he would have devoted most of his space to the outstanding and most disquieting feature of the game- i.e., the neglect of Stein.  Now, it sometimes happens that the run of a game leaves a player practically idle; and, again, a player may be so well marked that it would be folly to put the ball his way; but neither of these two factors can explain the starvation of Stein, obvious at least to the crowd on the clock side, who expressed their disapproval.  Loyalty to a chum is a splendid virtue, but not when it reacts to the hurt of someone else.  You must, in your long experience, have seen the disastrous effects on a young player through the mistaken policy of keeping safe for an absent chum, and I know of no more certain way of souring a man than to give him the impression that certain members of the team do not want him to be a success.  There is not a winger in England- not even Alec Jackson –who can teach Stein anything about crossing a ball taking corners; and if he isn’t another George Wall in the making, then I am very greatly mistaken.  Dean was above this stuff, and was responsible for the chances that Stein did get.  Did you read the heading or the fact that Dunn “gave” Dean a goal by a side of the foot pass, and that Cook and Gibson would lead many defenders a “dog’s life by their mystifying play).  Hannen Swaffer would probably have featured Butler’s “starvation,” being of an unbiased mind.  I will grant you that Stein was neglected occasionally, but I would not say it was intentional, for Martin served up some great passes to his partner, and Virr divided his attention between Dean and Stein.  I don’t think your “grouse” is warranted.  All the winners were “starved” in the first quarter of an hour, save Cook who was over-fed.  I deny that any player of our clubs would wittingly keep his comrade off the ball. 
SHIELD TIE AT GOODISON
Football enthusiasts who are at leisure tomorrow afternoon will thank me for the reminder that the Liverpool and Manchester schoolboys are to contest the third round of the English schools championship at Goodison, with kick-off at 2.45 p.m. 

HOLIDAY GOALS
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 01 January 1929
EVERTON ROMP HOME AGAINST DERBY C
A BRIGHT NEW YEAR
DEAN SCORES THREE OUT OF FOUR GOALS
By Bee
Everton; Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Virr; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Martin, and Stein.  Derby County; Wilkes; Cooper, Collin; Nicholas, Barker, Storer; Alderman, Whitehouse, Bedford, Stephenson, and Robson.  Everton and Derby County had a perfect day for the game and well-nigh 45,000 people began the New Year with a view of the game controlled by Mr. Charles Lines, of Birmingham.  Derby had been struggling for a team owing to injuries, an eventually they played Alderman at outside right.  Nicholas appearing at right half back, and recalling to old timers, the remembrance of his father in the Derby colours years ago.  Everton kicked off, having lost the toss, and turned their attention to the Aintree goal-end, and in the first movement Griffiths was prominent with headwork.  It was his first senior game since he broke his collarbone at the Aston Villa ground.  From this moment Martin made a sound pass to Stein, and the centre from this tall long-striding winger led to Dunn taking a first-time shot that spun to such an extent that after the Everton players had walked away thinking the ball had sliced for a goal kick they had to come back to attack through Critchley seeing the ball pull in a full half yard. 
“SEND THE NEWS TO MOTHER”
There were some neat points, notably when Hart put his foot to push the ball away with the sole of the boot, and when he gave Critchley a glorious pass.  All went well until the eleventh minute, and then Derby County got into a knot.  It began with their goalkeeper being charged out of possession by Dean.  They never became balanced from that moment and the result was that a mistake by Barker allowed Dean a close-in chance that he accepted with 1929 smiles.  He rammed the ball to the top of the net and was heartily to be congratulated in thus early in the New Year breaking the news to mother, who was in the grand stand.  Nicholas and Alderman were lively customers, typical of Derby’s reserve strength and when Alderman crossed the ball Bedford had a priceless opportunity six yards from goal, but to his own astonishment, he kicked round the ball, and no one was more surprised than he that he could not even make a shot of it.  More remarkable was the pass straight up the ground by Dean to Martin.  Martin made a slight dribble to the right and fell over a full-back as he edged the ball towards goal.  Wilkes was not in goal, and the ball travelled from a defender towards an –it seemed an abnormally long time before the ball travelled the five yards towards goal, and when it did land there unimpeded it struck the foot of the upright and rolled out for a corner.  This was an escape which was followed by a further escape on the part of Everton when O’Donnell and a partner “left it to each other” and the Derby forwards were lax in getting to a ready-made chance. 
LOOKING FOR A GOAL
There was much hot work from Robson, the Derby County left-winger, but all this would have been discountenanced if Dean had accepted a mistake on the part of his friend, Cooper, Dean’s left foot put the ball outside at a time when everybody looked for a goal, Martin was stranger, and almost as close with a try-on shot of some length, where-as Stephenson was remiss in the height of his shot.  One of the tit-bits of play was Dunn’s feint to take a ball and let it travel on.  Another was the way Martin cleverly dribbled, the referee allowing him to go on in spite of a trip, this being the beginning of a goal.  Critchley having centred so that Dean could head the ball, and Dunn, racing up, scored in the left-hand side of the goal in spite of the goalkeeper and the full-back being on the line.  The time was thirty minutes, and in the tinkle of the clock Critchley used his speed to attempt a headed goal and applied plenty of force to his effort, but it was out of direction.  Bedford did well in solo work, although Alderman, a youngster, did not always know his prospective moves.  By degrees Everton settled to their best plan of campaign –draught-board movements, and the ball along the ground.
POOR MARKSMEN
Derby were poor shooters Whitehouse and Stephenson being off the mark and lacking strength; in fact, there was not a great deal to enthuse about in the game, because Everton were so much on top and yet gave Wilkes an easy passage.  Davies up to now –that is nearly half-time –had not had a single effort, and Wilkes had not had a direct shot to handle.  Cooper warmed to his work and made a very dogged run, and Dean once found himself with only Wilkes to beat, but the goalkeeper had placed his body in such a way that Dean could hardly hope to burst the ball beyond him.  However, when Stein close in and nearly got a goal a corner arose, and the Scottish left winger took the kick, Dunn sending the ball towards goal, and Dean by heading it sent it over the goalkeeper’s hands.  Three minutes later, that is to say a minute before half-time Dean scored his third goal of the day and the fourth for his side through a centre by Critchley, which led to Wilkes leaving his goal and Cooper and the goalkeeper being well beaten by Dean to make an enthusiastic and rousing finish to the half. 
Half-time; Everton 4, Derby County 0. 
In the second half Everton played with the confidence borne of a good lead, and Derby were earnest triers, but for nearly twenty minutes they had no chance of getting to their opponent’s half.  There was only one stoppage in the clean game, Martin being hurt and off for a time, and only once during the game, until the point, which was three-quarter time, did Davies have to make a catch or a save.  Goals did not come so easily this half, however, Cooper playing a dominating game. 
DOMINATING INFLUENCES
In fact, Cooper, O’Donnell and Griffiths were three dominating influences, the last-named completely subduing his wing, and Dean adding a number of dashing raids that did not product a final shot.  Wilkes made one good save when Dunn shot.  The same Everton player had a half-volley effort of the old-fashioned type that went quite close.  Derby were disappointing for a side of their standing of the league chart, but it must be remembered they were playing five reserves.  Final; Everton 4, Derby C 0. 

BLACKBURN RES V EVERTON RES
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 01 January 1929
Blackburn had the better of the opening play, but Kennedy held on well and the home goal had a fortunate escape when Meston eluded three men and shot hard at goal, Cope just turning his show down.  Webster, after a good run, shot a foot-wide.  Hardly dealt confidents with shots by Wilson and Cunliffe and near the interval Everton did most of the attacking, Webster once missing an open goal.  Half-time; No score. 

DERBY COUNTY LOSE 4-0.
Derby Daily Telegrapgh-Tuesday 1 January 1929
One Change After Blackburn Defeat
LOST HOPE
The Goodison Park to-day, Derby County brought in Alderman on the extreme right for Fereday, who was rested. This was the only change from the side that was defeated by Blackburn. Everton decided to play T. P. Griffiths at right-half, the Welsh international making his first appearance alter dislocating his shoulder at Villa Park. The champions, with Dean at his best, looked like giving the weakened Derby side stiff fight. The County, however, came to Liverpool refreshed by the breezes of Southport, where the week-end had been spent, and there were hopes that the New Year would open auspiciously. was hoped, in fact, that at least a win would be forthcoming from today's game. Alderman is the best player the County have introduced to League football this season. The teams were:— EVERTON. Davies Creswell O'Donnell Griffiths Hart Virr Critchley Dunn Dean Martin Stein o Robson Bedford . Alderman (J. C.) Stephenson Whitehouse Storer Barker Nicholas Collin Cooper Wilkes DERBY COUNTY. Referee: C. E. Lines (Birmingham). BIG CROWD. The teams turned out in wonderfully fine weather, before holiday crowd of 40,000. The County skipper was successful with the spin of the coin. A smart run down the middle saw Dean sprint away Collin clears, but Everton remain in the visitors' area, and Dunn is off the mark when the ball goes off his toe. Eventually the pressure is relieved when Cooper intervenes Griffiths gets the ball away with Whitehouse in close proximity. The County put in good spell of pressure, aud pretty football on the left provided Whitehouse with chance. Unfortunately the ball comes to him awkwardly, and it goes well outside. Dixie Dean, lying between the halves was very alert, but he was finding Cooper and Collin a rare pair.
TOO MUCH AIR.
Collin is leading the ball dowji in masterly style and has completed a great clearance with a hefty kick down the right. . Generally speaking, the sides have not settled down to their work. The ball is kept in the air too much to provide the forwards with anything beautiful. The Rams make ground when Barker slings the ball out to the left. Robson is grounded by Griffiths, but the corner conceded. It is of no to the County. Everton are on the offensive, and there are some dangerous moments before goal. Just when we were settling down to a long goalless period, there comes a tragedy for the County. Cooper, usually a trustworthy defender, makes big blunder. He clean misses his kick. DEAN is handy. He snatches up the chance in an instant. fierce drive and the ball passes under the bar. Everton are a goal up in eleven minutes. County retaliate, but find the defence coping easily with close passing. Everton are away again. Dean evades Cooper, and Wilkes is called upon to kick out.
AN ESCAPE.
Cooper puts the ball to Dean, and it rolls slowly towards the Derby goal and hits the post. A great escape 1 Having had sample of Dean's deadliness the County give him little scope for time. Derby are not shooting often enough. and upto now the forwards have not played at all well together. Improvement is needed here. Robson is away again. He manages to get the ball across to Whitehouse, but Whitehouse cannot shoot as he would like. The inside right gets the ball across again. Bedford gets his head to it, but O Donnell "deals with little difficulty. County's forwards are shaping better now, but Davies still has very little to do. Stephenson supplies Robson with a great pass, but winger loses in a duel with Griffiths. Everton attack in line. Cooper, in attempting to clear gives Dean a great chance, but he shoots hastily and the ball goes well wide. Whitehouse does a, lot of useful work when the County come again. The attack fizzles out when Bedford fails to get past Hart. Stephenson has the next chance. Bedford sends the ball back to him. but he shot high over. Robson is finding Griffiths great stumbling block, and makes little progress when challenged. Everton still hold the mastery. It is enhanced after 28 minutes. A ! high centre from the right proves the County's undoing. Critchley puts the ball before the Derby goal. Wilkes j and Dean go for it. Wilkes partially punches away and falls. DUNN snaps up the ball and shoots into the untenanted net. A cross-shot easily finds the mark with Cooper on the goal-line vainly attempting to stop the progress of the ball. There is a quiet interval, until pretty pass from Whitehouse sets Robson going. The winger's pass is too square, but Hart is only partly successful in his clearance. Stevenson again supplies Robson with a pass, and corner is gained. This wasted, for Robson. when the ball goes back to him, makes very poor attempt to improve on the move. Stephenson gains possession unmarked, but once more shoots badly, and Davies had the satisfaction of seeing the ball travel harmlessly wide. Bedford worked up a concerted movement, but again is tihe old story. Working in perfect unison to a point the County break down before defenders who are lightning tacklers. Everton have not been so much in the picture, and here they come again. W ilkes is seen advancing, and throws himself at the centre-forward's feet to effect a good save. But this looks decidedly dangerous. The County are badly in trouble. The Everton forwards crowd into the goal. A back-header by Hart and a big jump by Dean with another header, and Wilkes is again beaten. Everton are three up. In three minutes Everton further ahead. DEAN follows up a long pass, and Wilkes running out has no earthly chance of stopping his effort. The interval comes with the County well down. Dean has displayed great opportunism, an object lesson to Derby forwards. HALF-TIME. EVERTON 4 DERBY COUNTY 0
EVERTON CONFIDENT.
Davies, in the Everton goal, had long periods of inactivity, for Derby's forwards see the termination of their hopes time after time in the penalty area. Everton are playing with great confidence. Robson gets a solitary centre , across and Davies gathers it before the chance can be followed up. Martin looks like getting through when is charged off the ball, Collin saving the situation. Martin has to be attended to on the touch-line, but soon resumes. The County strive desperately to make impression upon a strong defence. In a sense the "Rams" play into their opponents' hands by keeping the ball close when near the objective.
ALERT COOPER
Derby have withstand pressure immediately on the restart, and Cooper and Collin have to be very alert. County make great attempt to break through, but the Everton defence is sound. The Goodison men are beginning to pile on pressure again. Dunn makes Wilkes go full length to turn away a snappy cross-shot. Alderman and Robson can rarely make ground. Alderman is supplied with a perfect Whitehouse pass, and O'Donnell puts an tackle to to stop progress with flving clearance. From a free kick Griffiths places swerving ball in the goalmouth. Briliant work by Cooper sends Bedford away. The centre transfers to Alderman. Another vain hope> for Bedford cannot get in shot to wind up good work. Wilkes runs out at the other end to stop Dean, and once more the County defence has bad time before the attack is cleared.
UNTROU SLED STRETCHES.
A free kick for a foul on Whitehouse causes Everton to line their defenders, and the move proves effective, for Bedford's shot is charged down. County put in long spells of pressure without success. Davies remains untroubled for long stretches. Everton, i too, are resting on their oars now, and Dean is not finding so many chances i to shine. Bedford, at last, causes Davies to " jump to it" with a hot surprise drive, but the goalkeeper sees the ball pass just wide. All the same, little more direction and Derby would have been happier. An appeal for hands against Storer is ignored, and Hart displeases by an apparent jump at Whitehose with the ball nowhere in the vicinity. Everton miss a great chance when Dunn hits the horizontal with a "header." Dean lying in wait, but cannot get the ball to his foot a yard or so out. Critchley tested Wilkes with a hot shot from close range, the Derby keeper saving smartly., Whitehouse and Bedford come into the picture in determined solo efforts. Critchley . causes Wilkes to put over the bar from a fast drive. Result— _ EVERTON 4 DERBY COUNTY 0

Comments on the Game Derby's forwards were extremely disappointing in the first half. They lacked finish and some of the work front goal was weak. There were bad mistakes which led to goals. Everton were far from perfect, but they certainly took their chances. But Derby did not. Their movements were worked up by the Derby vanguard, but in the goal area there seemed to be a lack of confidence. and Bedford seldom got in a good shot worth the name, but it was not all his fault. Whitehouse and Robson worked hard enough in midfield, but were not at all effective in finishing. Derby had quite as much of the play as their opponents. County's finishing did not improve after the interval, and the defence played valiant football. The halves had a better grip on the Everton forwards, and Dean found his chances stinted. The County were very weak on the wing, and the inside men although doing well individually rarely find chance to test Davies. Much praiseworthy work was frittered away , against strong defence,

THREE MORE FOR " DIXIE."
Nottingham Evening Post -Tuesday 1 January 1929
HAT THICK BY DEAN AGAINST THE " RAMS.''
COUNTY FINISH FOUR DOWN.
Everton had 45,000 people to see a cutup Derby County side, which Alderman payed at outside-right, and a son of their old player Nicholas appeared at right half. Both those men did fairly well. Derby unfortunately found " Dixie" Dean snappy form. He did not do a great deal against Barker and Cooper tho matter of running about, but he was very practical, and his second and third goals of the four scored tho first half were excellent samples. He was, nevertheless, quite human, for ho missed two " sitters." Bedford and Robson were very lively pair in the early stages, but eventually Griffiths got tho better of Robson. As soon as that happened the Derby side went back a good way. Stephenson and Whltehouse were poor shooters. DEAN scored eleven minutes through blunder Barker, and DUNN qu'ckly converted a centre from Critchley, while DEAN headed a third. The last-mentioned player contributed a fourth minute later when he took another centre from Critchley, and with the goalkeeper ten yards out of his goal, the rest was easy. Collin, Bedford, ond Robsrn were best men on the Derby side in the first half- HALF-TIME :-Everton 4. Derby County 0. RESULT:—Everton 4, Derby County 0.

COUNTY BADLY BEATEN AT EVERTON
Darby Daily Post-Wednesday 2 January 1929
"Dixie" Dean's New Year Goals
DERBY FORWARDS' WEAKNESS
the New Year did not bring a change in the County's luck! meeting a team like Everton to open their programme in 1929, was realised that the " Rams " would have to pull ou something very good to gain anthing in the nature of points.. Before a crowd of 45,000, the 44 Hams' " front line gave probably jts worst display of the season as regards finishing, and there were long periods when Davison, the Goodison 'keeper, must have thought better employed in the crowd ! Although the County had but one change from the side that went down Ewood Park three days before, this cannot have had anything to do with the result, for Alderman, who, by the way, was the " Rams' ninth debutant of the season, did not let the side down. Perhaps it will surprise to say that the County had almost as many scoring chances as the Toffeemen, who have rare spearpoint to their attack in “Dixie " Dean.
DEAN'S TRIO.
Dean got three goals, and Dunn, the polished inside forward, the other, and as they all came before the interpal, one can imagine that the contingent of Derby enthusiasts present pretty sorry for themselves. Happily, however, there was a tightening up of the Derby defence— thsre was something magical in it as ei matter of fact—and Dean and Co. found themselves meeting with more resistance. Cooper, who made at least one big blunder which led to goal, found form in keeping with his reputation, and Dean, his international chum, knew all about it.
WILKES ATONES.
Wilkes, too, brought off some brilliant saves, and Collin seemed to find a new lease of life. Wilkes had made mistakes of judgment which Dean had been quick to translate into goals, but the County 'keeper did much to atone in the later stages of the game. Storer was the hardest worker in the side. He plodded along inceasingly and never gave up, while his comrades appeared to be disheartened. Barker was none too reliable in the middle, while Nicholas too found his task difficult. But the reserve men, and in this I include Alderman, did not give the worst exhibitions. Certainly Alderman and Kobson did not get the ball over at all satisfactorily, but the inside forwards, when in possesion It seemed to have little idea of finishing. Bedford's best work was done in approach, but like Whitehouse and Stephenson either dribbled himself into a tangle or shot badly. Only once did I>«iford shoot as Bedford can. Perhaps we should have seen better things if Davison had been there behind the leader, for Bedford has certainly had a lean time since the break up of the intermediate line consequent upon injuries. Everton were workmanlike, and the value of Dean a leader in the real sense of the word was exemplified. Dunn and 1 Martin played foi their centre, and Stein and Critchley were direct in their methods. Hart and Griffiths shone in a superior halfback line, Griffiths being in brilliant form. Both backs were sound, and Davies had one of the easiest matches ever. Ninth Promotion Alderman is the ninth young player the County has introduced to League football this season.

EVERTON v. DERBY COUNTY.
Dundee Courier -Wednesday January 2 1929
Everton, 4; Derby County, 0.
In fine weather, Goodison Park, before 40,000 spectators. Everton took the lead after 11 minutes through Dean. Whitehouse missed a fine chance of equalising. Dunn added a sccond goal in 30 minutes, and Dean a third and fourth in the last four minutes of the first half. Everton started the second half in storm

EVERTON 4 DERBY COUNTY 0
January 2 nd 1929. The Daily Courier.
DEAN ADDS TWO OF GREAT EVERTON HOLIDAY HAUL.
FOUR MORE GOALS WITHOUT REPLY FROM DERBY.
NO OFFSIDE DECISION.
50,000 CROWD SEE POLISHED GOODISON DISPLAY
DEAN HAT-TRICK.
Everton started the New Year well, yesterday, when they defeated the clever Derby County side to the tune of four clear goals at Goodison Park, before an attendance bordering 50,000, and incidentally wound up a most successful holiday programme. In their four home matches they have collected seven of the points at stake and have scored 12 goals to their opponents' two. This gives excellent premise for the stern cup-tie encounter down for decision at Stamford Bridge on Jan 12. The Champions thoroughly deserved their victory, although just as against Bolton, they took the lead after play, which had certainly not favoured them. Derby opened the game promisingly, their forwards displaying remarkable “hooking” powers, which led to many awkward situations near goal. They could not direct a ball on the target, however, and when Dean gave the Blues the lead after 12 minutes, the leaders never once looked back.
DUNN'S GOAL.
Dunn shortly after added number two, and then it was that the spectators were treated to the best and most highly polished football of the game, for, with the goals giving them confidence, the Evertonians played and combined with remarkable exactitude, the three hard-working yet thoroughly halves giving good support. Despite all the level football, however, it was surprising that so few opportunities fell to the home team to beat Wilkes. As a matter of fact, they only had four chances during the whole of the first half. And yet, by the time the interval was called they had four goals to their credit. Dean, who is playing to his best form of last season, scored a trio of goals. Play in the second half fell away a great deal and there was little chances Wilkes had to deal with three or four praiseworthy shots near the end, but he proved the master, so the Blues had to be content with their first half advantage. Derby played better than the score would suggest they lacked the science and understanding between the departments. Griffiths who reappeared for Everton after his shoulder injury sustained at Villa Park was easily the best of the halves.
MARTIN INJURY.
Hart and Virr were also well in the picture, the former keeping a tight hold of Bedford and also finding time to help the attackers while Virr's strong play was always in evidence. Cresswell was the best back on the field, but this does not detract from the play of O'Donnell, whose dashing methods completely unnerved the youthful Aldermar, who was making his first appearance for Derby on the extreme right. Forwards Martin from the time he was injured midway in the second half, vied with dean for chief honours. He had not played better for several matches for he decivetual passes cleanly and generally to the right man, whether that transfer was Critchley or not. Dunn was clever and scored a good goal. Critchley was the better of the wingers, for Stein, until his moved to Martin's place never got into his stride. Critchley has come on by heaps and bounds in his finishing, which again was excellent. Dean was everything that a good centre-forward should be, and the way in which he snapped up his chances was an object lesson. Davies had little to do owing to the faulty finishing of the County. This was the second match at Goodison Park this season in, which there was not a single offside decision although it was only the foresight of Dean that prevented it on several occasions. Teams : - Everton: - Davies, goal, Cresswell (captain) and O'Donnell, backs, Griffiths, Hart, and Virr, half-backs, Critchley, Dunn, Dean Martin and Stein, forwards. Derby County: - Wilkes, goal, Cooper, and Collins backs, Nicholas, Barker, and Storer, half-backs, Aldermar, Whitehouse, Bedford, Stephenson, and Robson, forwards.

BLACKBURN ROVERS RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 0
January 2 nd 1929. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 24)
Everton's strong defence in which Common and Kennedy shore, saved them from a heavier defeat. The only goal came three minutes from the end through Wilson. Weldon and Webster constituted Everton's best wing, Forshaw was too well covered by O'Dowd. Everton: - Hardy goal, Common and Kennedy (captain), backs, Scott, Dixon and Curr half-backs, Meston, Webster, Forshaw, Weldon and Lewis, forwards.

GRIFFITHS RETURNS
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 02 January 1929
Bee’s Notes
The rise of Griffiths, of Everton, has been rather astounding.  He was a player in a junior league at Wrexham which was born of the fertile brain of Mr. George Lerry, of the Welsh Association, and they call themselves the rather happy name of Chums Football League.  In the course the boy Griffiths outgrew his strength but grew stronger in football tactics, and went to centre-half for Wrexham.  He had no sooner made his name there through a Cup-tie at Anfield than he was signed by Everton, became a comrade of Dean, and faced him in an international match at Wrexham.  It isn’t long to wait for promotion, but few anticipated that it would come on the right wing rather than centre-half.  He told me, when he came from Villa Park with a broken collarbone, he had never before known injury.  Well, he showed the crowd at Goodison yesterday what he could do with a high ball and a high brow.  The ball that the little forward has to jump to he reaches in effortless manner, and when he goes up to the ball he must be getting within the region of eight feet in the air.  This is a very commanding help, but Griffiths is doing more than using his height, he is using his brain, and against Derby County one noticed the understanding and the influence of Cresswell upon this young half-back.  As a game it was just a goal memory.  There were four in the first half, three for Dean, but the second half was really dull, and I don’t remember another game where four goals were scored, and neither goalkeeper had more than one severe direct shot to save.  Apart, of course, from the four that beat Wilkes.  It may have been that the crowd had bene keeping unduly late hours, and this, with a foggy atmosphere in the later stage of the game, led to a sort of simple second half, in which Cooper, O’Donnell, Griffiths and Dean were bright lights.  It was a pity Martin was hurt, because he had played excellently, and I was rather interested to look for the suggested starving process quoted by a correspondent yesterday.  There was no trace of it, and Stein in the first half made centres of admirable strength and direction.  Derby were uncertain, and even Cooper came into this category on rare occasions.  Five reserves cripped their resources and their confidence, and this was not the form that has brought them into the first three.  Nicholas will come on, and so will the nineteen-year-old boy Alderman.  Baker was disappointing at centre-half, but that can easily befall a centre-half if Dean is on his toes, as he has been in the last two matches. 

EVERTON TEAM
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 03 January 1929
Bee’s Notes
Having gained a good position in the top flight of the First Division the next few matches will largely decide the question as to Everton’s ability to repeat their championship success of last season.  There is still a long way to go, but the matches in the immediate future are vital.  On Saturday the champions go to Portsmouth, where they have won before, and the players may be depended on to make a great effort to win.  Portsmouth are in the last three, and it is obvious that they will be in desperate mood, and particularly anxious to beat Everton.  The Goodison Park directors last night decided to rely on the side that defeated Derby County.  Martin was injured on Tuesday, but it is expected that he will be all right for this game.  The team is;- Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Virr; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Martin, Stein.  After the match at Portsmouth on Saturday, the players will go on to Brighton for a change of air and a rest.  
The big queue was lined up for the tram service at Victoria-street.  The policeman arranged the queue in good manner.  He espied a big tall man in his working “costume.”   “Go home, mate, and get your dinner and a change.  Dean’s not playing today’ he’s got indigestion.”  He was talking to Dean’s father and knew it not!
7,000 SEE THE BOYS
Boy’s football is becoming a greater draw than some senior football.  In Liverpool yesterday 7,000 people paid to see boys’ matches at the Liverpool and Everton ground.  The 4,000 at Goodison must have been sadly disappointed at seeing the city team go out of the School’s Sheild third round tie to Manchester with so little chance of winning.  The result-Manchester won 3-1. 

DIXIE DEAN AT FRATTON PARK.
Portsmouth Evening News - Friday 04 January 1929
Pompey’s Match with Everton.
[By “SENTINEL”]
Pompey’s critical game against Everton tomorrow is one of the most interesting in the day’s League programme. Portsmouth have already lost three matches at home, and if they do not win tomorrow their position will, indeed, be serious. Fortunately, all their players are fit and well, and the team chosen the same lost at Huddersfield last week—are prepared to all out for victory. It will be a great game. Everton just now are in splendid form, and they are reaping the benefit of Dixie Dean at his best. England’s centre-forward has scored a hat-trick in each of his last three matches, and is as deadly as ever. Mcllwaine’s task will not be easy one. Everton had Martin injured Wednesday, and it is doubtful if he will be able to play, but they are so well off for reserves that they will have no difficulty in filling the vacancy. Last season they won at Fratton Park by 3—l, Dean scoring all their goals and proving much too quick and clever for Foxall. Away Pompey got a valuable point, no goals being registered, and it is noteworthy that on this occasion Mcllwaine was playing The kick-off is at 2.30 and the probable teams will be;— PORTSMOUTH. Glifillan, Mackie, Bell;  Nichol,Mcllwaine,Thackeray; Forward, Smith, McNeil, Irvine, Cook.  Everton; Davies; Cresswell, O'Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Virr; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Martin, Troup. 

EVERTON’S LONG TREK
Liverpool Echo - Friday 04 January 1929
EVERTON AT PORTSMOUTH
Bee’s Notes
Everton hope George Martin will be ready for service to-morrow.  In the middle of the week there was a doubt about it; to-day there is a belief that he will be fit-which is good, because he was playing great stuff when he was bowled out at Goodison Park against Derby County.  I think I have found the secret of Derby’s failing form on that day- they went to the gymnastic room at the Adelph Hotel and went through the course of “gym” novelties they have instituted there.  We must send all our visiting teams to see this new institution in the hope they will use muscles that are due to be used in the match.  Everton at Portsmouth have a big welcome.  There is a high following of Mersey people down there and the sailors’ ranks produce an army of Liverpool lads crying out for the “good old Blues.”  Dean has already got a hat-trick there at his only appearance, but since then Bobby Irvine’s team has been strengthened at centre (McNeal for Weddell) and there have bene so many one-nil failures on Pompey’s part that they have become really desperate about their lowly position, and Everton, by striking this side at this particular moment, run right into a fierce team battling for its very life in First Division football.  So one can expect a hot time in Pompey to-morrow.  Everton left tonight and after the game they go to Brighton to rest for the Chelsea Cup-tie.  Three away victories have come Everton’s way; one tomorrow would be thankfully received, but it ca only be won by very definite football and continual effort.  Team;- Everton; Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Virr; Ritchie, Dunne, Dean, Martin (?) Stein.

EVERTON, WITH DEAN
Portsmouth Evening News - Saturday 05 January 1929
A STRONG ATTRACTION AT FRATTON PARK
ANOTHER BIG GATE
Dixie Dean, who scored “hat-tricks” in successive matches against Newcastle United, Bolton Wanderers and Derby County during the holidays, was a great attraction to-day at Fratton Park, where Portsmouth entertained Everton in an important home game.  Pompey, having already lost three home matches this season, were desperately in need of points, and the seriousness of their position imparted more than ordinary interest to the encounter.  Everton won the corresponding game of last season by 3-1.  Dean, who was opposed on that occasion by Foxall, scoring all three for the visitors.  He did not play in the return match, when Pompey got a valuable point in a goalless draw at Goodison Park, so that to-day was the first occasion on which McIIwaine had opposed England’s centre-forward.  Portsmouth decided to play the same team as did so well against Huddersfield and Aston Villa away, and Everton made once change, Martin, who was hurt on New Year’s Day against Derby, being unable to play, and Weldon, who played centre-forward against Portsmouth last season at Goodison Park, taking his place.  The teams therefore lined out as under;- Everton; Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Virr; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Weldon, Stein.  Portsmouth; Gilfillan, Muddle, Bell; Nichol, McIIwaite (Captain) , Thickeray, Forward, Smith, McNeil, Irvine, Cook.  Referee; Mr. H. Kilshy, West Bromwich.
The weather was bitterly cold, but notwithstanding this there was a fine gate which numbered well over 20,000 at the start.  The ground, except in one or two places, was on the soft side, and afforded a good foothold.  Both sides were accorded an enthusiastic reception when they turned out, and McIIwaine lost the toss and had to play from the Station end of the ground with a keen breeze against him.  The game opened in sprightly fashion, and after a “preliminary canter” Portsmouth got through, but Cresswell brought off a nice clearance from which the visitors tried to break away, but were neatly stopped by the home defenders, McIIwaine getting in a timely kick.  Then Forward and Cook got through and from the latter’s centre Davies was brought into action to dispose of a header by McNeil.  At the other Gilfillan came out and fisted a centre from Critchley away, and for a time play was in the Portsmouth half, but not for long, Cook and Irvine making a break on the left which Griffiths, a tall, lean Welsh International, who only recently got his chance in the team, nullified.
THACKERAY IN COLLISON
Everton set a strong pace on the left, but Mackie cleared, and the game proceeded at a fast pace from end to end, backs and half-backs putting in sterling work.  Cresswell and Bell were conspicuous with long kicks which afforded temporary relief, and Thackeray and Cook initiated a movement which was full of promise, but which Irvine spoilt by a faulty pass. A temporary stoppage was necessitated through Thackeray being hurt in a collision with Dunn, but was able to resume after attention from Warner, and Portsmouth resumed their aggressive work on the left, but could make little progress against the sterling half-back play of Everton, Hart being particularly prominent with some quick tackling and feeding.  Eventually Cook got a chance from a weak clearance by Cresswell, and dashed through between the backs, but his final pass was too hard, and Davies came out and cleared easily.  Directly after he had to stop a smart header from Irvine, and then Everton went through on the left, Weldon and Stein putting in a nice combined run which Bell effectually ended Dunn and Dean both sent wide from long range, and directly after, from a centre by Forward, the Everton goal had a narrow escape, Davies coming out just in time to prevent McNeil getting in a shot.  After clever play by Forward and McNeil, Irvine had a lovely chance to open the score for Portsmouth, but shot at too high an elevation, and the ball travelled over the bar. 
FAST, DESPITE HARD GROUND
Play was tremendously feat, considering the conditions, and on one occasion Dean tried hard to manoeuvre an opening, but was smartly tackled by Mackie. However, he slipped the ball icely to the right, and Dunn returned a well-placed centre  which Bell got away. At the other end  McNeil was almost through, but Cresswell  and O’Donnell formed an impassable  barrier, and from their clearance Critchley  sprinted away and had a fine opportunity  of centring, out turned the ball behind.  Gilfillan saved a beautiful long shot from  Weldon, and again from a free-kick taken Cresswell, and then Critchley sent behind  from another lovely pass by Dean.  Davies came out and cleared a centre from  Cook, and Mackie cleverly prevented Dean  going through from a long pass, while  directly after Weldon sent over the crossbar  with a swift rising shot which was admirably directed.  Free kicks to either side for minor  offences led to nothing tangible, but eventually  Everton exerted smart pressure on  the left, which resulted in Dean heading  wide of the post with a fine effort. By a series of short passes Portsmouth menaced  the visitors’ goal, but offside against  McNeil spoilt the effort, and straight away  from the free kick Everton went through  and Dean narrowly missed with quick  cross shot, which travelled across the goalline outside the far post.  Thackeray put Cook clean away with a  lovely long pass, but O’Donnell cleared  the centre, although directly after, from a  return by Forward, Irvine dashed in and headed just wide of Davies. It was a wonderfully  clean game, with splendid movements  and clever footwork, and so far the  defences were superior to the attack. 
A Pompey Goal and Tremendous Cheer. 
After half-an-hour’s play, McNeil got the  better of tussle with O’Donnell, and this  led to a desperate assault on the Everton  goal which culminated in Portsmouth  scoring their opening goal after 33 minutes’ play, SMITH getting the ball from the  right-wing and putting in a terrific shot,  which the goalkeeper caught but could not hold and allowed to roll over the line  before he got it out.  Tremendous enthusiasm greeted Pompey’s  success.  (The cheering that followed the scoring  of this goal was heard in the centre of the  town, and even further away from the  ground than the Guildhall.)  For some minutes afterwards Pompey  monopolized the attack, and the Everton  defence was very much inclined get  “rattled,” with the result that Davies was  very nearly beaten second time close  quarters by McNeil, from a pass by Cook,  a shot beating the goalkeeper but going  just over the bar. O’Donnell was “given  the bird” by the crowd for a foul on  Irvine, and this led to a corner which was not improved upon. Portsmouth kept up the pressure, however, and from a free-kick Davies had a warm time, and had to concede a corner in stopping a rush following Forward’s flag-kick. At this stage  Portsmouth were playing superior football  to the visitors, and were giving the  defence a grueling time. Davies, however,  was safe in goal, and after he had dealt  with a header from McNeil, Irvine put in  a fine shot which went just over the top  of the bar.  Forward and Smith gave O’Donnell  plenty think about, and he was constantly  in difficulties, and Irvine, on the  other wing, opened the play out beautifully.  Meantime very little was seen of  Dean, both Mcllwaine and Mackie keeping  a particularly watchful eye his movements  and tackling before he had a chance  settle. Bell also did some splendid defensive  work, his tackling and kicking  being both quick and thoughtful.
PORTSMOUTH’S SECOND
Gilfillan had a regular teaser to stop when he got down to  terrific shot from Virr, but he saved, and just before the interval arrived Portsmouth scored another goal from a sensational breakaway, McNeil slipping the ball out to Cook after getting the better of a tackle, Cook galloping through and centering across the Portsmouth and FORWARD running in and scoring, finishing up in the back of the net. 
HALF-TIME; Portsmouth 2, Everton 0
Portsmouth maintained their attack straightaway from the kick-off, and the first incidents of note were shots by Smith and Cook, the latter’s effort being saved  the expense of fruitless corner. Just  afterwards Davies saved a shot from McNeil, which was taken the turn, and from a pass by Mcllwaine the young  centre-forward got away again, but was this time cleverly stopped by Cresswell.  However, Portsmouth kept up the pressure, the forwards being cleverly supported by  the half-backs, who played forceful and  smart football, and never allowed Everton to settle down.
BUSY TIME FOR BACKS
Mackie and Bell were also safe, but one occasion Dean pounced the ball in characteristic style, and was going through when Mackie tackled him and cleared cleverly. For the next few minutes there was not a great deal of incident yet the ball travelled up and down the field at a terrific pace, and the backs bore the brunt of the clearances. At length McIIwaine conceded a corner in stopping Stein, but the flag-kick was cleared, and  Portsmouth took up the running, combining  beautifully in a hot attack which resulted Cresswell kicking clear from  Smith.  The Everton defence was very clever under pressure, both Cresswell and O’Donnell doing some fine work at close quarters, but they were no more effective than Mackie and Bell, whose clearances were always characterized by good judgment and sound kicking. The halves also  tackled smartly, and completely prevented  the Everton forwards developing their swift passing movements for which they are famous, and for some time Portsmouth continued to have much the better of the argument, and were always playing like a  winning team. 
Final:—  PORTSMOUTH 3  EVERTON 0 

EVERTON DOWN SOUTH
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 05 January 1929
WELDON COMES BACK AGAIN
J. SMITH & FORWARD SCORE
PORTSMOUTH INTERVAL LEAD
By Bee
Everton; Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Virr; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Weldon, Stein.  Portsmouth; Gilfillan, Muddle, Bell; Nichol, McIIwaite (Captain) , Thickeray, Forward, Smith, McNeil, Irvine, Cook.  Referee; Mr. Kilshy, West Bromwich.  A wintry day, ground well sanded, Martin damaged, and Weldon reappears.  Troup not likely to be right for the Cup-tie.  Everton play Motherwell at home Easter week, the Celtic being unable to come, and Everton players go to Brighton to-night for a week prior to Cup-tie at Chelsea.  It may have been a tribute to Everton that the band played “The more we are together the happier we shall be.”  Portsmouth’s position was such that they needed a great lift to make themselves secure.  There were 20,000 spectators, many of Liverpool descent to cheer Everton when they appeared in white jerseys.  Everton won the toss, Dunn slipped up in the first moment, showing that there was some ice on the ground, Critchley, Dunn, and Griffiths were early prominent, and Cresswell headed away against his old clubmate, Irvine, and the same back aided hos comrade back when O’Donnell was in difficulties. 
A DANGEROUS FORWARD
J. Smith was Portsmouth’s most dangerous forward in the early stages, and O’Donnell once back-headed a ball very cleverly.  Davies was called upon by McNeil, who made a nice hook over his head, Critchley trying to follow suit, but getting too far under the ball.  The Portsmouth goalkeeper got his hands to Stein’s centre when Dean looked dangerous, as he always does when near goal.  Griffiths was doggedness and cleverness combined against the home left wing.  Dean nearly broke through twice after going to the left wing to make a fine dribble and pass McNeill.  The home centre was keen and his height should have availed him something.  Cresswell, however, beat him by sheer skill, and O’Donnell followed up with a mighty kick.  Hart was putting up some fine passes to the centre, and Dean tried to head a ball halfway across the field to Critchley.  Everton so far were the more accurate and convincing in the way they used the ball.  Portsmouth were too hasty to be accurate.  Dunn and Critchley should have moved off what time Thackeray was on the ground hurt.  In the breathing space Virr took the opportunity of having his left leg rubbed. 
COOK SPOILS A CHANCE
Everton in every department were especially strong in leading, and Weldon made two good samples.  Cresswell was caught napping only to find Cook push the ball too far forward and ruin the chance.  J. Smith and Irvine made the best effort so far, Irvine heading crosswise soundly, and Davies making a good catch.  Virr was very smart to escape McNeill’s leg and made his pass, and generally speaking there was not much incident and plenty of passing till Dunn shot outside, Dean following suit with a high ball.  Irvine went close again, Davies having to run out and kick away, and the forward who headed as the ball came back to him did the best thing possible under the circumstances, even though the ball travelled outside.  O’Donnell made a rush up, and half gathered the ball, lost it, and then Hart had to race back and clear.  The ball was eventually centred, and McNeill let it pass through his legs so that Irvine could have an easy chance.  The former Everton player, however, wasted his chance by shooting high over- a bad miss.  Dean watched the ball cleverly and closely, and got his pass to critchly to find an offs-side decision stop a good combined bit of work.  Close to goal Cresswell indulged in some excellent juggling, and Critchley failed in the knack of centring.  The cool and collected defence of Cresswell and O’Donnell was a study, and a chance shot by Weldon bore his old-time sting, and made the goalkeeper make a grand catch. 
PORTSMOUTH’S TURN
Dean made a pass back with his head and Weldon drove in brilliantly, the ball rising in its flight and passed over.  There was a collection of free-kicks, and Dean’s accurate head was quite a feature.  He at last got a header near scoring, being just outside the post. 

SKELMERSDALE U V. EVERTON ‘A’
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 05 January 1929
On a hard frost-bound ground, Everton adapted themselves to the conditions, and they were soon around Scott, who fisted out from Jones, while Vaughan narrowly missed by heading over.  Skelmersdale retaliated and Bailey caused Calvert to handle. 
EVERTON LOSE
START WELL BUT FINISH BADLY
BACKS TO THE WALL
IRVINE SCORES AGAINST HIS FORMER SIDE
Portsmouth now made their best move through Irvine, McNeill, offside, being the barrier.  Much nearer was a try-on shot by Dean, who went to inside right, and pulled the ball in his shot.  The goalkeeper was beaten and a goal did not arise because the ball screwed a foot outside.  O’Donnell stopped a Cook effort in cheeky manner.  O’Donnell had a great duel with Forward, and the latter got the ball across with a fine centre, J. Smith hit out with all his might, and the rocket-like shot was partly saved by Davies.  He found the pace of the ball too severe, and the ball curled over his hand against the upright and cannoned back just far enough to cross the line, even though Davies scooped it out at the second effort.  It was a terrific shot and no blame could be attached to Davies.  It seemed a very near thing whether the ball was over the line, and the Portsmouth players anticipated a debate which did not eventuate.  Portsmouth should have scored again when McNeill was beautifully placed, but he shot over. 
THE PORTSMOUTH CHIMES
Portsmouth originators of the chimes, began now to sing their team to success, Davies made a well-judged edge away from a free kick, and giving a corner proceeded to clear that as well.  Irvine and Cook made further play, and Davies made a sure catch when Irvine put over his best effort so far.  Little had been seen of Stein, although Weldon had done well, and had been working on the worst piece of icy turf on the ground.  Virr made a long shot to bring the goalkeeper to earth.  The last incident of the first half was another goal.
FORWARD GOES INTO NET
Cook beat Cresswell after making a fine run, and centring the ball travelled along the goalmouth, and it looked as though no one could reach it.  Forward, the outside-right, rushed up, however, and pushed the ball into the back of the net, his body following likewise.  There was no time to take the kick-off, and Everton went off having had quite as much of the game as their rivals but two down.
Half-time; Portsouth 2, Everton 0.
BACKS TO THE WALL
Everton had their backs to the wall, J. Smith tried another half volley shot, but this time it went wide.  Davies gave a corner needlessly from a surprise shot by Cook, a goal nearly arising.  Mackie passed back a great distance to his goalkeeper rather than risk a Dean break through.  Portsmouth were applying much pressure.  Irvine ended one raid by shooting outside when unbalanced.  McNeill got a high and strong ball to the mark, and Davies brought off a fine catch.  The biggest crowd of the season roared as Dean went through from Dunn’s pass upwards, and drawing to the right, hit out heavily to the extent that he simply pushed the ball from his right foot to his left-no shot at all.  Irvine scored third goal for Portsmouth.  Final; Portsmouth 3, Everton 0. 

EVERTON RES V BOLTON RES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 05 January 1929
Everton reintroduced Hardy.  The hard ground made accurate combination difficult, but Bolton succeeded in securing an early goal, Taylor being the scorer with a header.  After this it was Everton who did most of the attacking, without being able to provide the necessary finish against a strong defence.  Dixon was inches out with a header, and Webster found the ball bounce awkwardly when a couple of opportunities arose.  Half-time; Everton Res nil, Bolton Wanderers Res 1. 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 05 January 1929
By Louis T. Kelly

• Curiously, at one period of the holidays the Everton League team, Liverpool League, Everton Central team and Liverpool Central League teams stood identical with 23 points apiece.
• Dean has registered all Everton’s six goals v. the Trotters this season-which represents a double hat-trick against Pym.
• Everton have called upon 18 players to date for League team duty
• Four men have not once been marked absent- Davies, Cresswell, Hart and Virr
• Two of them locals, you will note
• There is not a more improved man in the team than the first-named, and his success is giving immense satisfaction on Merseyside whilst the consistency of Hunter Hart and Albert Virr has been worthy of all praise.
• The Everton and Liverpool directors are a happy family these days- no adverse critics “worth speaking of!”
• The last time Everton visited Portsmouth they won 3-1, Dean doing the hat-trick just as he did against Pompey at Goodison early in September last-thanks, in one instance, to a wonderful “flick pass” from Dunn
• This is Everton’s jubilee season; also their championship-holding year, and, be it known, it is the year wherein they have turned their faces towards that other goals of the ambition-Wembley, to wit.
• Dean has had a merry Christmas with three hat-trick performances.

POMPEY’S BRILLIANT VICTORY OVER CHAMPIONS
Portsmouth Evening News - Monday 07 January 1929
“Dixie” Subdued
By Sentinel
Pompey’s brilliant victory over Everton on Saturday has made their position in the table much safer.  There is still a good deal to be done, but a team that can play as well as Portsmouth did in this match should not have the bogy of relegation dangling in front of their eyes.  I have seen every team in the First Division this season, and I can name quite a number who cannot hold a candle to the Southerners, whose one trouble has been lack of leadership and forcefulness in front of goal.  This seem to have solved their difficulties at last, and the advent of McNeil has synchronized with a forward movement which there is every hope will be maintained.  Pompey seldom get full marks for their performances and I was somewhat amused yesterday to read the remarks of a well-known sports writer, who seemed to infer that their victory over the Champions was in no way due to their own merit, but to the fact that Everton played badly.  Well I thought it was a real good match considering the condition of the pitch, and if anyone wants better he should give up going to football.  I wonder what would have been said by the same writer if it had been West Ham and not Pompey who had won so easily?  It would not have been Everton’s weakness then, and doubtless the merit of the Hammers would have been lauded to the skies.  Personally I was very pleased to see Pompey’s extraordinary good form assert itself.  There was not only keenness but the right team spirit manifest throughout, and the excellent understanding between Mcllwaine, Mackie, and Bell had the effect of blotting Dean out of the picture.
Why Everton Failed
The fact that the centre-forward did not get his usual scope reduced Everton to quite a normal side.  That was what was the matter with Everton –they were mastered and could only play as well as they were allowed.  If you want better full back play than was served up by Cresswell and O’Donnell on the one hand and Mackie and Bell on the other you must be a glutton.  What a back Cresswell is; what a tactician.  He seems to get the maximum amount of effort, and it is a delight to watch him.  A really great back is Cresswell.  Cook and Irvine gave him something to do, however, and he did not always have his own way.  On the other wing Forward and Smith were in splendid form, the first named doing some clever scheming and the latter putting in some forceful and clever runs which had Virr guessing.  I liked McNeil; he is getting acclimatized and better acquainted with the quick-moving style of football he is now experiencing.  I like the way he traps a ball and his control over it, and also his quickness to shoot.  He did not get a goal himself but he paved the way for all three that were scored, and on each occasion he displayed the football mind.  The defence was splendid and there are few better half-back lines than Pompey’s.  I thought Thackerey played quite his classiest and best game, but all three were good, and Dean will supply a testimonial to Mcllwaine if it is required!  Gilfillian was quick and clever in his work, but he had a few real chances of displaying his ability, whereas Davies in the other goal was always at it and did not always impress.  Indeed, I thought the third goal might have been prevented, and one or two other clearances were not above reproach.  Everton’s forwards were the weakest part of the team, but that, as I have said, was largely due to the mastery of “Dixie” Dean, who is a great player but can be held. 

PORTSMOUTH’S TREASURE
Athletic News - Monday 07 January 1929
McNeil’s Great Centre Forward Display Against Everton
By the Mystery International
Portsmouth 3, Everton 0
This match at Fratton Park was contested in bitterly cold weather and with plenty of “bone” in the ground.  I have seen and played under worse conditions.  Still, the ground was very hard, and the players had difficulty in keeping their balance and controlling a lively ball which at times bounced to a great height.  To get a line on either team’s chances in their respective Cup-ties on Saturday from this game is rather difficult.  The conditions then may be totally different.  At the start the visitors moved in smooth fashion and with more cohesion than the home team.  Dean was very prominent during this period, giving delightful passes with head and feet to each of his colleagues in the front rank.  He also made one fine attempt to score from a very difficult angle, the ball going just the wrong side of the post. 
The Turning Point
Than an incident happened which, to my mind, had a great bearing on the subsequent events, Mcllwaine, the Portsmouth centre half-back, started to “deal it out” to the Everton inside forwards.  Dunn promptly retaliated, and being seen by the referee, was cautioned.  This reprimand apparently upset Dunn so much that he was practically never in the game afterwards.  A few moments after smith, the “Pompey” inside right took a fine first-time shot from a cross by Forward and the ball spun out of Davies’ hands and over the goal line.  From this goal being scored Portsmouth were a different team.  There is no tonic like a goal to most teams, and Portsmouth afterwards played with an enthusiasm and keenness which was undoubtedly lacking on the Everton side.  Not only was this enthusiasm most marked, but it brought with it a distinct improvement in the play of Portsmouth.  Portsmouth scored again in the first half, and led at the interval by 2-0.  The second goal was scored by Forward after a very fine piece of play by McNeil and Cook.  The Everton defence got into an awful tangle when this goal was scored.  The home team were full value for their lead at the interval, and they so dominated play in the second half that it was a wonder they did not score more than an additional goal.  Their football on such a surface was very skilful, and in great contrast to the labored movements of the Everton team. 
Dean’s Lonely Furrow
Most of the Everton players seemed to have no liking for the hard ground, whereas Portsmouth, inspired by success, seemed to revel in the conditions.  I must except Dean from this criticism.  Throughout the game he endeavoured, to the best of his ability, to get his forward line going, but without success.  The other four Everton forwards steadily deteriorated the longer the game went.  The two wing men, Critchley and Stein were woefully weak.  The third and final goal which Portsmouth obtained was scored by Irvine after a very clever and unselfish bit of footwork by McNeil.  I thought Davies should have saved this shot, though he slipped as the ball came to him.  This goal completed the scoring, though Portsmouth attacked incessantly.  On the slippery surface accurate shooting was very difficult, otherwise they would probably have increased their lead.  On the form displayed in this match it is difficult to understand the lowly place Portsmouth occupy in the League table.  They undoubtedly caught Everton on an off day, and this may have made Portsmouth appear a better side than they are.  Everton can seldom have played so poorly.  I was not impressed with Davies, their goalkeeper, and Cresswell and O’Donnell were really weak.  Throughout Cresswell overdid the coolness business and would have served his side better if he had got the ball away with more promptitudes.  His methods enabled the Portsmouth forwards to play right on top of him, and he was often easily brushed aside by Portsmouth’s keen raiders.  O’Donnell was weak under pressure, though he kicked with more vigour than his partner.  I felt sorry for the two Everton wing half-backs, who worked hard, throughout trying to retrieve other people’s mistakes.  Everton had only one forward –Dean, who in spite of the close attentions of the Portsmouth defenders, was always trying to get his line on the move.  I think Portsmouth have a good full back in Bell, though both were flattered by the room the Everton forwards gave them.  The half-backs are a good trio of hard workers, with Thackeray as the most mindful of his forwards’ requirements.  The forwards played a very spirited game once they scented the weakness in their opponents. 
McNeil The Complete Leader
Irvine and Smith served their wing men well, and their efforts were responded to with enthusiasm.  In spite of the close and persistent tackling of Everton’s wing half-backs, Forward and Cook managed to get plenty of centres into the goalmouth.  Though practically all the Portsmouth team played well, especially after they obtained their opening goal, the man of the match was undoubtedly McNeil, the centre-forward.  He did not score, but he gave a most impressive display and was responsible for the second and third goals being scored, and throughout the game he was the mainspring of the Portsmouth attack.  McNeill who was only secured from the Hearts of Midlothian a few weeks ago, was always doing the right thing in a most unselfish manner, and simply made the rest of his colleagues in the front rank pull out their best.  On this form he is comparable with the best centre forwards I have seen.  He was easily the most complete forward operating in this match and was unlucky not to get a goal or two.  If Portsmouth can maintain this form they must soon rise in the League table.  I hope to see the Cup-tie between Swindon Town and Newcastle United on Saturday, and by the way, I would like to correct an error in my report of the Arsenal and Sheffield Wednesday match a week ago, I was made to say that there was lack of class in all positions in the Wednesday team, but what I wrote was a lack of class in one or two vital positions.  Portsmouth; Gilfillan; Mackie, Bell; Nichol, Mciiwaine, Thackerlay; Forward, Smith (J), McNeill, Irvine, and Cook.  Everton; Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Virr; Critchely, Dunn, Dean, Weldon and Stein.  Referee H. Kilsby, West Bromwich. 

PORTSMOUTH 3 EVERTON 0
January 7 th 1928. The Daily Courier.
CHAMPIONS FADE AWAY
FRATTON PARK FORWARDS TOO WELL LED.
Everton disappointed a large following at Fratton Park Portsmouth, where they failed to reply top three unsatisfactory goals by the home side. The Champions appear to rise to brilliant height's one week and the next to touch rock bottom. They touched rock bottle on Saturday with a vengeance. Portsmouth it is true, have greatly improved since they were defeated at Goodison Park, and on this showing must surely escape from the danger zone, but it was the inability of the Evertonians to adapt themselves to the frosty conditions which contributed to their success.
“FROSTY “ OUTLOOK.
This was yet further proof that the Champions dislike a frost-bound ground, and this ground was as hard as iron. In the present conditions continue the outlook will not be promising. Portsmouth worked excellently, in fact their nippy forwards occasionally displayed marvellous ball control and trapping capabilities, and they thoroughly deserved their success. The Champions did well at the start, and one was anticipating a close struggle, but gradually they faded out of the picture when the intermediaries failed to give that necessary support to the forwards which is essential. The only two men on the Everton side to really do themselves justice were Cresswell and O'Donnell although Virr rose to greater heights than either Hart or Griffiths, and Dean was only prevented from doing good things because he rarely received a workable pass, and was so closely shadowed. Cresswell was easily the best back on the field, and O'Donnell was not far behind.
DEAN ALL ALONE.
Forward, neither Dunn nor Weldon, “came off” and they generally gave one the impression that they were frightened to make a pass because they feared it would go astray. Critchley and Stein were held in subjection by the determined Portsmouth backs, and so poor Dean was “alone in the world,” having to make all his own openings. On one occasion he had bad luck, for after working across his favoured position, he miskicked when about to deliver his shot. Davies seemed to be infected with the same complaint as the majority of his colleagues, for two of the Portsmouth goals, the first and last, were of a single character. He stopped Smith's first shot only to allow the ball to drop just a foot inside, and when Irvine gently propelled the ball forward on being forcefully tackled, Davies fell all too late, and it trickled slowly over the line. When forward ran the ball into the net from Cook's pass just before the interval, the goalkeeper had not much chance of averting the disaster. Portsmouth played with high enthusiasm throughout, and it was pleasing to see the way in which the agile, wily forwards including Irvine, the old Everton player, responded to the excellent leadership of McNeil. Irvine, incidentally, proved that he can cut out the “tricky” business when the method of attack demands incisive play. Teams: - Portsmouth: - Gilfillan, goal, Mackie, and Bell, backs, Nichol, McIIwaine, and Thackerlay, half-backs, Forward, Smith, J. McNeil, Irvine and Cook, forwards. Everton: - Davies, Cresswell (captain) and O'Donnell, backs, Griffiths, Hart and Virr, half-backs, Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Weldon, and Stein, forwards.

EVERTON RESERVES 1 BOLTON WANDERERS RESERVES 2
January 7 th 1929. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 25)
The result was hardly in accordance with the run of the game, but although Everton did a great deal of attacking the forwards failed to finish against a strong defence. the Blues claimed two penalties, but were allowed only one, for Easton to fire against the bar. Bolton took the lead through a capital header by Taylor. Jones scored a second, and in the closing stages, when Everton strode desperately Lewis reduced the deficit from a pass by Meston. Webster was the most successful Everton forward.

WHEN WALTER HAMMOND WAS WANTED BY EVERTON F.C
Liverpool Echo - Monday 07 January 1929
Bee’s Notes
It would have been rather remarkable if Everton had, as they desired, signed Walter Hammond, the famous English cricketer, because we should then have had in this city two cricketer-footballers.  It has never been stated before, but I have the authority of Mr. W.C. Cuff, the Everton chairman, that Hammond was actually recommended to them by Dennett, and Makepeace took stock of Hammond, who would have been on Everton’s books but for the call of cricket.  The matter was considered for some time, and it was agreed that Hammond, while a genius as a cricketer, was certainly a very fine footballer.  I only mentioned the matter because cricket and Cup-ties are in the air at the moment, and I should like to say” Well Done!” to the English cricketers who bore out my remarks when the English team was chosen. 
Portsmouth to wit, soundly defeated Everton at Fratton Park, and possibly the whole of the Goodison world “wondered,”  That Chelsea should have lost, and that at home, would encourage the Blue-fan.  But I can go further; the defeat of Everton has no bad outlook for Saturday, unless it happens that there is deep frost.  I would not take Everton to win anything where the ground is difficult through ice or snow.  Everton are not showy on snowy grounds.  They adopt the ultra-gentlemanly style of “After you, sir” Which is good manners, but does not bear any fruit when football is concerned.  For half an hour until a pot shot had scored-a very fine drive it was, and it curled beyond Davies –Everton struggled hard, and gave a display of easy grace, notably in heading.  The heading of the side all day was really wonderful with O’Donnell and Cresswell excelling themselves. 
IMPORTANT OF EARLY GOAL
But the first goal settled Everton.  They went back to bed, as it were, and slept the sleep of the just.  They had little heart, less combination, poor half back ideas, lack of ability to bring the ball down into the command of the known clever player, and finally trooped off the field, content to hope the conditions will be better after a week at Brighton.  I could never fancy this eleven on hard turf.  They “won’t have it- “-a phrase that has grown on us and needs a lot of explaining, yet fits the Everton bill.  Portsmouth were in such a position in the chart that they stood not upon the order of their going- they went.  They raced in, kicked hard and lustily, they set their minds on victory and forgot that a fall might provide a sore accommodation for the passer-by.  Portsmouth took their chance; they earned the points by this means and played good, rousing football, swinging the ball out- “at sight,” as it were, and standing no nonsense when the Everton flickers began to attempt to flare up.  Everton were really unlike themselves.  Weldon produced good shots in the first half, Stein was out of work, Critchley was in the uncertain mood that makes him a commoner in the senior class, yet no one is quicker than Critchley, no one drives in with much greater pace when he runs inwards towards goal- and no one has had a more ardent man to stand up for him than the writer.  It is just the “knack” that Critchley needs- plus encouragement. 
FINE BACK PLAY
It was not his play on Saturday; in fact, it was no one’s day, save the two backs, whose work was of fine standing.  Cresswell did many amazing things, and O’Donnell took those enormous risks with the joyous heart of an Irishman, born in England, and having service with the Scottish regiment! O’Donnell has developed a method of chasing through and taking a ball he has pushed forward six yards.  It is good from a tactical point of view, and when it costs him a goal we must remember the goals he has saved by this means and balance the two things.  Even Davies might have gripped the third goal.  The second was the blow that spread dismay around, because Everton could always believe in their chances until this 45th minute goal.  Everton went off with no heart and no confidence.  The goal has killed them.  So, let us pray for rain or for an absence of the wintry visitation or else we shall have a Cup shock.  Portsmouth are a much better side than their record suggests.  The extreme wing men were very fast and useful and got our half-backs wondering which way to go and how to turn sufficiently quickly to catch these January hares.  The Sailors’ half-back line is very fine, and I like Thackeray very, very much.  Add the benefit received through McNeill displacing Tweddle, and note the change of goalkeeper to Gilfillan –a smart young man –and you have a reason for Portsmouth’s prospects to rise.  The return from London on Sunday is always a study.  One treks cheek by jowl, as it were, with Cinderella’s companions- touring companies whose youngsters find in travel a rare delight-city councilors and schoolmasters, and a professional boxer, judging by the latter’s cauliflower ear.  My especial fortune was a conversazione with some members of the executive of the Schools Association, a trinity that attends frequently for the purpose of helping the School Union, and in the number was Mr. Walter Shimming; and in the topics of discussion swimming had a part, golf had a part and human nature had a large part.  Someday the B.B.C may surprise the world with a running commentary from this world-famous 12.30 from Euston. 

BEE’S NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 08 January 1929
Everton “A” have a vacancy for an away game on Saturday.  Write or phone Mr. McIntosh at the Everton ground.

SCOTS FOOTBALLERS IN TROUBLE IN ENGLAND.
Dundee Evening Telegraph -Monday 9 January 1928
Scots players in England have been getting into trouble. At Goodison Park, where Middlesbrough were Everton's visitors, two players— of Middlesbrough, and Weldon, of Everton—were ordered off the field for an alleged kicking duel, while it is learned that Hugh Gallacher, of Newcastle United, has been reported by the referee for an alleged offence during and after the Newcastle-Huddersfield match on December 31. It is understood that Gallacher's offence followed the referee's refusal to grant penalty kick late in the game. Weldon and Gallacher aro ex-Airdrioonians players, while M'Clelland played one time for Raith Rovers.

SKELMERSDALE UNITED 4 EVERTON “A” 1
After a blank first half, French scored for Everton, but Bailey (2), and Green (2) scored for the home team, the third goal coming from a penalty given against Platt.

CUP LINES
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 09 January 1929
Bee’s Notes
Everton are enjoying themselves at Brighton, but the selectors are apparently, not so pleased; in fact, they have left over the selection of their team till late in the week.  There is no surprise to me in this delay, remembering how the team played at Portsmouth.  There were many faults at Fratton Park, and one does not envy the directors their job –unless the team eventually chosen wins at Chelsea. 
THYE RESERVES’ “DERBY”
Everton have chosen a strong Central League side to play Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday.  Team; Hardy; Common, Kennedy; Kelly, Dixon, Curr; Meston, Forshaw, C.R. Webster, Easton and?

NO STARTER FOR EVERTON SUPPORTERS
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 10 January 1929
Bee’s Notes
Someone has asked me whether there will be startling Everton changes.  I don’t know where he gets his “cue” from, but Everton can hardly make startling changes, because it matters now what the extreme wing position is it will hardly be a surprise.  Troup will not play- he has had a most awkward accident through the simplest of means; and possibly Ritchie will play for Critchley and Martin (now fairly fit) for Weldon.  These are merely ordinary changes, with no alarm or sensation; in fact, they are automatic changes, looked upon as quite natural by spectators. 

'Dixie' Waxes Fame
Derby Daily Post -Friday 11 January 1929
A portrait model of H. R. "Dixie" Dean, the Everton and England centre forward, has been added to the hall of fame at Madame Tussauds. Dean is we wing his international costume.

CHELSEA’S GOOD DEFNCE V EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Friday 11 January 1929
Bee’s Notes
Really there is no excuse for Everton losing at Chelsea.  Blackburn have beaten them at Stamford Bridge.  Andy Wilson will not be playing against Everton, and the Goodison side is at full strength whether Ritchie is at outside right or Critchley; whether any other change is made; there is a trifling difference between many of the men engaged by Everton, and if Everton are not sufficiently clever and convincing to beat Chelsea then the side must make its exit.  Given fine weather, in the sense that the ground is rational and not a roller-skating risk, I have no fear of their Everton defence holding up a forward line like that of the London side.  But make no error about the defence of the Chelsea Club.  They have that very fine little fellow Law at full back, and he is a bit of a host in himself in this sort of match, just as he was when he helped Scotland to beat England at Wembley.  Law’s fault, if fault it can be termed in view of the way O’Donnell and Jackson have worked the trick this season with success, is that he has a habit of roaming upward and out of position.  That may suit the Everton forwards very nicely.  But if Law stays behind then Everton will have to work hard for a victory. 
SOMETHING OWING TO LONDON
Since Everton lost to Fulham vexatiously, and Arsenal after the most gallant flight that led the wireless broadcaster-a director of Arsenal –to suggest that Everton were indeed most unlucky, Everton have made appearance at West Ham and given one of the brightest exhibitions one could wish to see.   They lapsed after that period but Newcastle and Bolton saw something of the even tenor of their way and the ease with which they made goals, and Derby also suffered a heavy defeat.  Everton have not been consistent and when one man goes off his game the whole lot seem to go off their game, if we except the defence.  However, Everton know what is needed of them to-morrow, and judging by the “fit-as-fiddles” report received from Brighton, I have no qualms about the success of the side, without a replay, much as we should like to see the Chelsea side at Goodison Park-work and other things being equal- or equally unimportant!  But I do not hope it is not an iced turf, for Everton have not the dash and flair for such conditions.  Everton (?) Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Virr; Ritchie, Dunn, Dean, Martin, Stein.  Chelsea; Millington; Smith, Law; Irving, Townrow, Ferguson; Crawford, Thain, Thompson, Miller, Pearson. 
A Battersea friend writes;- Just a line.  Expect you will be with Everton at the Bridge.  Well, we both lost last Saturday, but I expect a fine game between the two Blues, don’t you?  In Miller, the Chelsea inside left, the Pensioners appear to have one of the finest dribblers in the country.  But perhaps (fortunately for Everton) he can’t “net”
EVERTON TEAM’S VIIT
Arrangements have been made for the Everton team, who are now staying at Brighton, to visit Madame Tussaud’s after the match at Chelsea to-morrow.  So far neither “Dixie” not any of the members of the club or the team have seen the model.  Efforts are being made to get a film of the Chelsea Cup-tie with Everton, and if this can be done the Everton team will be able to see themselves on the screen at the cinema attached to Tussaud’s new building.
LIVERPOOL RESERVE TEAM
At Anfield, to-morrow, Liverpool Res field a strong Central League side against Everton Res;-Scott; Shears, Flanagan; Barton, Miller, McFarlance, Race, Kelly, Cup-tie scores will be shown periodically. 

Changes Which Paid
Derby Daily Mail-Saturday 12 January 1929
Barnsley's reintroduction of George Caddick to the centre-half berth against Swansea Town, and the playing of Atkinson at right half, made for a vast improvement the whole effectiveness of their side a week ago. Caddick is a product of the Bootle club, and had four seasons with Everton before he went to Stockport, and thence to Oakwell. It was at Goodison Park where he learned all the stylish touches he still imparts his play.

Chelsea v Everton
Dundee Courier -Saturday 12 January 1929
What is generally agreed be the match of the afternoon will be fought put at Stamford Bridge, where Chelsea and Everton line up in oppositi in. London is agog over this game. Both teems suffered unexpected reverses last Saturday, but the possess match winner in Dean, and the Chelsea defenders fail to get a grip of the visiting forwards difficult to imagine the Londoners figuring in the next round.
Everton Chairman's View.
Mr W. Cuffe. the chairman of Everton, speaking last on the match, said : "We have a sporting chance of either winning or forcing draw. Chelsea plav much the same advanced type of football as ourselves, and it will be a game worth watching. I think we have the better side, but they have the ground advantage, and shade of luck on either side might decide the issue."

FALLOWFIELD FOR ATHLETICS.
Yorkshire Post-Thursday 12 January 1928
Fallowfield, Manchester, famous for over 30 years for its athletic gatherings, to continue to be sports arena. has just been purchased from Lord Egerton bv tno Manchester Amateur Athletic Grounds. Ltd., company, to which the chief subscribing parties are tho Manchester Athletic Club, the Manchester Wheelers' Cycling Club, the Manchester City Police Athletic club, and the North of England Lacrosse Association. Tbe district has been the scene of much building activity recently. Fallowfield was the scene of the memorable F.A. Cup final of 1893, when Wolverhampton Wanderers beat Everton, and thousands of people failed gain admittance to the ground.

DIXIE DEAN'S NICHE OF FAME.
January 12 th 1929. The Daily Courier.
FIRST FOOTBALLER TO HAVE EFFIGY IN TUSSAUD'S.
Dixie Dean, the dashing Everton and England footballer has achieved a Niche of fame in Madame Tussaud's world famous London Waxworks. His effigy in way is to be placed in the exhibition. His colleagues in the Everton team are anxious to see what “Dixie” looks in wax, and arrangements have been made for them to visit the exhibition after the Cup-tie with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge today. Dean, in his effigy, is wearing his international garb with the England badge in his breast, and, he occupies a prominent position among the famous sport men exhibited. He is shown as the front of the Daiswith a football at his feet, on his immediate left are Jack Hobbs and WG Grace while on his right are Jimmy Wilde, Joe Beckett, Jack Dempsey and Steve Donoghue. Dixie Dean's is the first footballer model to be added to the exhibition “said the manager of Madame Tussaud's yesterday; “we are anxious –to hear what his verdict of it will be.” “We are hoping to make models of many more famous footballer's past and present “ he added.
DIXIE SURPRISE.
This model was made from a photograph, and Dixie Dean knew nothing about it until a Daily Courier representative informed him at Brighton yesterday that it was to be shown in Madame Tussaud's exhibition “no body” is more surprised at this event than myself” he said. “I am looking forward and anxiously to our visit at Tussaud's tomorrow” “ I want to see myself as other see me.”
FILM OF MATCH.
The Everton team have accepted an invitation to be present at Tussaud's cinema this evening to see a special film of the Cup-tie with Chelsea this afternoon.
EVERTON FACTORS THAT SHOULD BEAT CHELSEA.
SUPERIORITY IN DEFENSIVE AS WELL AS ATTACK.
There is no disparagement in saying that Chelsea and Everton are well matched, and while the Champions should win or draw at least they will have to put every ounce they can muster into the task. The Pensioners loss of Bishop and “Andy” Wilson is a grave matter for the Stamford Bridge officials, and the team selected by the Everton directors should repeat Blackpool's performance last Saturday, even if the conditions today place the visitors at some disadvantage. This, however, cannot be so serious as one is led to believe from the tons of bulletins issued during the week, and perhaps the only effect of a heavy ground will be to put the rivals off their usual subtle game. If this happens, then Everton being more versatile than Chelsea, must prevail. They have in the opinion of the writer, just the same advantage in defence as in attack, and the pensioners will find that ground advantage and playing conditions may not suffice to balance these factors. Everton's display against Portsmouth recently has not been excluded in coming to the foregoing conclusions. Everton have fared badly when drawn against Clubs outside the First Division. In 1919-20, Birmingham (Second Division) beat them in the first round 2-0, in the following season they were defeated by the Wolverhampton at Goodison park 1-0, and they lost 6-0 in the first round at hope to Crystal palace (then in the second Division). Later Bradford (Third Division) beat them 1-0, after a draw 1-1. Brighton follow, and Hull City are other teams who have knocked them out of the cup. But Chelsea while outsiders as far as the First Division is concerned are in a better strata if football class, as the teams mentioned were in the days of their triumph
TWO GOALS WIN
CHELSEA CAPTAIN SURE OF EVERTON DEFEAT.
Jack Townrow, the Chelsea captain; “said he thought Chelsea would beat Everton.” “In the first place, he added, “we are well in the running for promotion, and if a side is good enough to win promotion, it is usually good enough to do well against the best in the First Division clubs. Townrow said he though Chelsea possessed one of the best defence's in the country and they were bracketed with stone, in having conceded fewer goals than any club in the League.” “I think that said our defence is capable of holding Everton's brilliant line of forwards. Coming down to the attacking side of the game, I believe the Chelsea forward line is faster and more dashing than that of our opponents, and though we do not posses a marksman of the caliber of “Dixie” Dean, “We have a couple of sharp-shooters in Thain and Thompson. “We shall probably win by a couple of goals.”

EVERTON AT CHELSEA
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 12 January 1929
DIXIE DEAN AS MARKED MAN
NO SCORE AT INTERVAL
LONDON’S DEFENDERS IN WARM QUARTERS
By Stork
Everton; Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Virr; Ritchie, Dunn, Dean, Weldon, Stein.  Chelsea; Millington; Smith, Law; Irving, Townrow, Ferguson, Crawford, Thain, Thompson, Miller, Pearson.  Referee; Mr. L.B. Watson (Nottingham).  Chelsea, Saturday. 
London was in the grip of frost, although I am given to understand that the turf was not nearly so hard as would have been thought.  In the out-lying districts the ground was like iron, but this district had not suffered to the same extent.  The tie had got hold of the London folk, and it was more than probable that new figures for the ground would be put up.  One could hear on all sides that this match was to be a football treat, for both sides have a scientific style.  The turf was not very likely to rob the game of many of its thrills.  Ten minutes before the start I estimated the crowd at 50,000 with many more thousands coming along the road.  The Everton team picked itself.  Martin and Troup were not fit, so Weldon and Stein retained their positions on the left. 
THE APPEALING GLANCE
Everton played in white with blue facings.  Everton got in the first blow by winning the toss, and they straight-away made for the Chelsea goal, Virr slipping the ball forward so that Stein could make a charming centre which Dean moved up to take with his head, only to find himself bundled off by two defenders.  He looked askance at the referee, who took no notice of the Evertonian’s appealing glance.  Chelsea were set on the defensive for some minutes, and when Pearson and Miller did suggest danger with an upward move.  Cresswell quickly took charge and took the ball kicking clear with a beautiful punt that set the Everton attack in motion again.  Stein was being well supplied with passes; and I must say that he made capital use of most of them, and from one Dean elected to allow the ball to pass beyond him so that either Ritchie or Dunn could have a pot shot. 
THE MARKED MAN
Ritchie gathered it up and made a centre that pulled back and fell at the feet of Smith, who immediately cleared.  It was evident that Dean was not to have a comfortable afternoon, for, immediately the ball came his way, there was a gathering of the Chelsea clan, which quickly barred his way.  So far little or nothing had been seen of the Chelsea attack, although they had plenty of vocal support, and when Pearson
Found a way past Cresswell he brought a groan by wasting a chance by sending behind the goal.  Everton were soon back in the Chelsea penalty area, and Griffiths took a chance shot, which was cleared.  Law made an error that might have given a goal away when he stuck his boot out to a centre from the left and saw the ball bounce away to the right of his own goal.  Dunn tried a snap effort which could never have scored, such was the weakness of it.  O’Donnell brought praise for himself by a wonderfully clever little touch which completely defeated Crawford. 
A NARROW SHAVE
At the end of twenty minutes the Everton supporters –and there were many present –had their hopes lifted when Griffiths made a perfect long pass to Ritchie, who glanced the ball with his head to Dean.  Law came up to make his tackle, miskicked, after Dean pounced on the chance like lightning and, veering over to the right, drove in a beautiful shot which Millington put his hands to, but could not hold.  He managed, however, to deflect the ball and save a certain goal, but whether he know much about it is another matter.  The Everton half-backs kept a very tight hold on the Chelsea defenders, and little had been seen of Thompson, the sharp-shooter.  Dunn tried another and better shot than his first, and Millington only succeeded in turning the ball round the post with his outstretched hand.  It was, nevertheless, a good save. Weldon was playing very practically football with deft but useful touches.  One piece of his work was as pretty a maneuver as I have seen for a long time. 
AN UNINTENDED PASS
Chelsea were given a free kick about ten yards outside the penalty line, but Thompson kicked the ball and the turf at one and the same moment, and it went to an Everton man.  The Londoners’ defence had a stiff half-hour, but they had stood up wonderfully; and it was well for their side that they did, for the Everton forwards were very quick at snapping up a chance.  So consistent had been the Everton pressure that the crowd went wild when the Chelsea forwards made one swoop on the Everton goal; and I have to admit that matters looked awkward for Everton, but it was not so bad as it looked, for it brought little work for Davies, who had nothing worse to do than pat a long dropping shot from Thain.  This he caught in his usual fluent manner.  There was a tremendous thrill five minutes from the interval, and it was thoroughly enjoyed by the Londoners, for it nearly brought a goal; in fact, there is no excuse for Pearson missing from such an opening.  I will give you the incident from start to finish.  Thain got possession at the half-way line.  He went forward before he drifted the ball out to Thompson, who got Cresswell and O’Donnell in a bit of a tangle, and out of that tangle came Pearson’s grand shot, for he was standing all alone when the ball came to him, but in his anxiety he slashed at the ball instead of taking his time, and it went soaring over the bar.  Half-time; Chelsea nil, Everton nil.
EVERTON GO DOWN
FAIL TO TAKE THEIR CHANCES
CHELSEA’S TWO GOALS
THOMPSON AND MILLER DO THE TRICK
It had been Everton’s half, and it was not until the last ten minutes that Chelsea had shown any aptitude to overcome the Everton defence.  The crowd had increased considerably, 60,000 being the estimate of a local colleague.  Chelsea, with their last ten minutes triumph in their minds, set up an attack immediately on resuming, and Cresswell had to stop Thompson while Davies had to save from Pearson and Thain.  In fact, Chelsea played more progressive football at this juncture than at any other point of the game.  Griffiths endeavoured to give Dean a chance, but three men stood alongside the centre-forward when the ball came to him.  Everton hit back, and Millington had to catch a short-rage shot from Dunn Chelsea, however, had gained in confidence, and a centre from Crawford seemed to have the beating of Davies, who appeared to have run too far out to make his catch.  I, along with many others, expected the ball ton escape his outstretched hands, in which case a goal must have come, for both Thompson and Miller were waiting, but Davies caught the ball splendidly and went on to clear. 
DESPERATE MOVES
Griffiths was well off the mark with a shot, and when Dean stood back so that Dunn could have a go, Millington should have been tested, but was left alone, because of Dunn’s direction.  Dean banged the ball on to the side netting, and Virr had to withstand a dangerous rush by the Chelsea right wing Chelsea had a glorious twenty minutes, after which Everton once again took command, and Smith and Law were kept on the collar for long spells, with Millington making an occasional save.  Thompson, by knocking the ball with his hand, ruined his prospects, and when Dean joined Ritchie at outside he centred right across, but Stein, who sent the ball back across the month of the Chelsea goal, but there was no Everton player close enough up to put it into the net.  A corner kick proved of no value to Chelsea because Griffiths foiled them Dean charged Millington, who lost his grip of the ball, but this was all that came of the incident.  Ritchie placed Dean perfectly and all the Evertonians looked for a goal; but he did not get the face of the ball, which passed over the bar.  Dean had hard lines a few minutes later when he crashed a shot on to the upright with Millington beaten, O’Donnell came up to take the free kick, and Millington had to make a sure catch from Dunn. 
THE CLINCHING POINT
With ten minutes to go there was a sensation.  Thompson had just missed a great chance, but when he saw a second opportunity he scored a goal which sent the crowd frantic.  It was a fluky goal; just the sort that creeps into cup ties.  This is how it happened.  The ball went up to the Chelsea goal, O’Donnell and Miller went to head it, and the ball dropped at the foot of Thompson, whose shot passed the advancing Davies.  Final; Chelsea 2, Everton 0

LIVERPOOL RES V EVERTON RES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 12 January 1929
At Anfield.  Teams;-
Liverpool; Scott; Lucas, McKinlay; Gardner, Shears, Flannagan; Barton, Miller, McFarlance, Race, Kelly.  Everton Res;- Hardy; Common, Kennedy; Kelly, Dixon, Curr; Meston, Forshaw, C.R. Webster, Easton, Lewis.  Liverpool moved off before a large crowd, but Meston provided the real first thrill, when he opened the way for an early Everton goal, but Mackinlay cut in to avert the danger.  Kelly next participated in two raids, and it was the first that provided McFarlane with a goal-scoring chance.  The Liverpool centre took the ball and cleverly back-heeled it beyond Hardy, but Referee Angus ruled that there had been an infringement-offside, apparently.  Liverpool were gradually asserting command, and the home left again harassed the Everton defence.  It was Hardy’s wise move in leaving his goal that prevented Liverpool’s forwards finding a way through.  Barton next rounded Curr, and his centre gave McFarlane a glorious chance to draw first blood, but the home centre lofted the ball too much, and Hardy made a safe catch, whilst the next minute found the Everton’s keeper stopping a shot from Race. 
McFARLANE’S GREAT EFFORT
It was Liverpool who were doing practically all the attacking up to this period, and Common and Kennedy had, by wise anticipation, saved Hardy a lot of work.  A big thrill was provided when Race took the ball off Forshaw, and then accurately dropped it near McFarlane, who raced between the Everton backs and finished with a great drive that, fortunately for Everton, struck Hardy’s foot and passed outside.  Everton at last attacked, and Lewis forced a corner.  Scott made a brilliant save from Lewis and was then penalized for carrying-unjustly to the minds of many.  However, Gardner safely negotiated a clearance.  Liverpool’s defence was proving too good for the Everton attack.  It had been a hard first half, full of interest throughout.  Liverpool had shown more promise of a goal in the early stages by reason of McFarlane’s good run, aided by Kelly, Reid, and Barton; but near the close of the half it was Everton who were masters of the attack.  They had gained confidence, and by clever ball distribution had made amends for their poor opening-as far as the attack was concerned.  Half-time; No score. 
A GOAL APIECE
A crowd of about 25,000 were rewarded with a couple of early second-half goals.  Race opened the way for McFarlane to score for Liverpool and within a couple of minutes Easton had drove a fast ball beyond Scott to equalize.  A level score, twenty minutes to go, and the crowd worked to pitch of excitement-such was the setting for the close of the local junior Derby.  Barton scored a second for Liverpool reserves.  Final; Liverpool Reserves 2, Everton Reserves 1. 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 12 January 1929
By Louis T. Kelly

• On the Cup eve Everton were by no means impressive
• Hope the Everton defence has won the “D.C.O,” (Davies, Cresswell and O’Donnell).
• After opposing the Navy and going under last week Everton were due to tackle the Army to-day in a do-or-die battle
• It was feared that long-distance shooting would be ineffective in this instance
• After stormy Portsmouth came a choppy Chelsea
• They say you can’t put an old head on young shoulders but what price Dean’s?
• Dunn, Weldon, and Martin had each scored but three goals to date during 1928-29
• Birmingham, who visit Everton a week hence, have only won one home game for nearly four months past
• Everton won 3-1 at St. Andrews in September
• I wonder will Dean be soon to the fore with another three?
• Portsmouth’s Cook helped to put Everton in the soup.  He’s regarded as a broth of a boy down South.
• As a pair, Everton’s backs, Cresswell and O’Donnell have the best attendance record in Division 1 for the current season

LAST-MINUTES LAPSE BY EVERTON.
Yorkshire Post -Monday 14 January 1929
Tho tie at Stamford Bridge where as many 61,316 people paid for admission, had a stirring finish, when Chelsea, after theif defence had experienced exacting test, suddenly developed strong attacks and tho last nine minutes scored two goal for victory. The rally came a real surprise, for the home forwards had received hardly any decent opportunity getting the ball past Davies, and the Everton defenders had been very reliable, and did not make a mistake until the late breakdown.

CHELSEA 2 EVERTON 0 (Fa Cup Game 124)
January 14 th 1929. The Daily Courier.
EVERTON F.A. CUP DEFEAT BY LUCKY CHELSEA GOALS.
FIRST-GOAL SHOCK TOO MUCH
FORTUNE AGAINST EVERTON AT STAMFORD BRIDGE.
“Fickle fortune” never plays so great a part as in the Football Association Cup, and it took a leading role in the great struggle at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, when Everton, the Champions of the League, failed to overcome the promotion candidates, Chelsea. The better side lost –even the most biased Londoner would admit this –for the Champions were superior to their opponents in everything but the matter of goals. And what goals! It is cruel fate to have two-thirds of the play, serve up the prettiest and more scientific football, and then to find your opponents pilling on a brace of goals in the last 10 minutes to march a step farther on the long, weary trail to Wembley. Such was the experience of Everton. Everton opened up as if they meant to apply the knock-out to the Pensioners in the first round, and for minutes on end they were swarming around the home goal fighting strenuously to find a loophole. Stein, in particular, profited by many a glorious pass from Dunn and Weldon, and also the men behind, but desperate defensive tactics alone pulled Chelsea through.
DEAN'S THRILL.
Dean once broke through and banged in a pile-driver which had Millington beaten to the wide world, but the ball struck his bent arm and bounded away to safety. Chelsea, it is true, occasionally made spasmodic incursions into the Everton territory, but they were a trifle anemic as compared with the sharp raids by the Goodison brigade. Miller had a golden opportunity with Davies out of goal, but he hooked over the bar in tame fashion. It was not until ten minutes before the interval that Chelsea began to display promise, and then they gave as much as they took. The football at this stage was thoroughly exciting, and kept the watches at fever heat. The same state of affairs prevailed for about ten minutes after the interval, and then dean and company restarted their storming tactics over again, and one wondered how it was that they did not take the lead. All the forwards were shooting on each and every opportunity and a series of sharp terror-laden sallies ended with Dean crashing in a great shot which human hands could not stop, but the ball hit the post. Sympathetic souls were beginning to have pity on Chelsea, but when they fought back to try and regain some of their lost prestige, the Pensioners had the audacity to notch the goal which really won them the match. Players of both sides went up to head a great clearance kick, and as it happened O'Donnell just managed to touch it, only to see it travel towards his own goal right to the feet of Thompson, who was waiting in front of Davies. The leader had no difficulty in driving low into the net. It was all so simple, and the onlookers were so dumbfounded at the remarkable turn of events that it took them some seconds to realise that Chelsea were in front.
EVERTON STING GONE.
Everton never recovered from the shock, for, though they pressed, there was not that sting about the movements, which had characterised their earlier play. The add almost insult to injury, when Chelsea reached striking distance again, and Miller ran in to take over a lovely low forward pass, the Evertonians stepped, appealing for offside, and Miller was able to proceed at will and trouble Davies a second time to retrieve a ball from the net. That was the last straw to the Champions and to all their camp followers. Beaton, not by merit, but by two unconvincing goals. There is some consolation in the fact that, though victory was denied them, the champions lived up to their name and went down fighting. They played the game to the last, and were truly gallant losers. Some of their football was excellent and it generally bore the stamp of brains, but their finishing could have been stronger. It was invariably left to Dean to put all the virility into the vanguard, and of course, he was well watched, especially after the interval. Millington had twice as much work to do as Davies –the latter was only seriously troubled by centres –but so many of the best Everton efforts sailed either a few inches too wide or too high. The respective defences, were excellent, though one must hand the plums to Cresswell and O'Donnell, who gave as splendid an example of thoughtful and wholly effective back play as one could wish to see.
HART A PERFECT PIVOT.
Hart proved a better pivot than Towrow, and some of his judicious feeding early on was the acme of perfection. Griffiths was only seen at his best when participating in corners at either end, but Virr cleverly combined brains and weights, much to the discomfiture of the tricky Thain-Crawford wing. Dunn was the best inside forward on the field and no winger did better than young Stein, who made a splendid deputy for Troup. Weldon played his best game for weeks, and the manner in which he collaborated with Dunn to place Dean in possession was delightful. Dean had great difficulty in eluding Law and Smith, but he left a great impression on the Pensioners, though hardly able to give of his very best. Ritchie was on the slow side, though he managed to drop over one or two inviting centres, which almost produced goals. Davies did all that was required of him in a clean, cool manner. Teams: - Chelsea: - Millington, goal, Smith and Law, backs, Irving, Townrow (captain), and Ferguson, half-backs, Crawford Thain, Thompson, Miller, Pearson, forwards. Everton: - Davies, Cresswell (captain) and O'Donnell, backs, Griffiths, Hart, and Virr, half-backs, Ritchie, Dunn, Dean, Weldon and Stein, forwards.

LIVERPOOL RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 1
January 14 th 1929. The Liverpool Post and Mercury.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 26)
A crowd of over 20,000 at Anfield saw Liverpool avenge the earlier season defeat at Goodison Park, and although there was only a goal in it at the close, the winners throughout display the greater trustfulness and undoubtedly deserved the victory. Everton were much indebted to Common, Kennedy, Dixon and Hardy, who by resolute defensive work was able to hold off Liverpool's many onslaughts. It was a typical Derby encounter and even it. Liverpool were the more frequent attackers, the result was in doubt to close, because Everton proved by spasmodical spasms of brilliant attacking that they could be dangerous. Liverpool, however, were the more consistent forward, the halves and forwards combing to good purpose. The first half provided good, interesting football without a goal, but on resuming McFarlane scored a perfect goal and Easton levelled the scores. Barton eventually obtained Liverpool's second goal. Lucas, Mackinlay and Scott formed a triangle of stern defensive ability. Gardiner was a brilliant half-back. Race worked the ball adroitly and with McFarlane, Barton and Kelly formed a good attack. Lewis alone of the Everton line did well, Scott, having to make a number of good saves from him. Hardy in goal demonstrated that he is fast regaining his confidence. Teams: - Liverpool: - Scott, goal, Lucas, and Mackinlay, backs, Gardiner, Shears, and Flannagan, half-backs, Barton, Miller, McFarlane, Race, and Kelly forwards. Everton: - Hardy, goal, Common and Kennedy (captain), backs, Kelly, Dixie, and Curr, half-backs, Meston, Forshaw, CE Webster, Easton, and Lewis, forwards.

RELYING ON DEAN.
Athletic News - Monday 14 January 1929
CHELSEA EXPOSE FOLLY OF EVERTON’S ONE-MAN TACTICS
CHELSEA 2, EVERTON 0
By Tityrus

The cleverest footballer on the field at Stamford Bridge had the satisfaction of deciding the match against the holders of the League Championship.  Little Miller, who is at inside-left instead of Andrew Wilson, has always been a bonny forward, with a rare touch in the dribble.  Two things have been urged against him.  He is easily moved off the ball, and he is not usually a scorer.  Still, Chelsea have a late trusted him, and their renewed faith in the St. Albans man has been rewarded.  He was the schemer of the line, holding the ball, drawing the defence, and passing to his mates.  He this compact youth, was the fly wheel of the attack , just as Townrow was the piston rod of the half-back section, and Law the anchor of the defence.  Townrow and Law- the latter a thinker who always knew what he was doing- must have been satisfied, as the match developed, with their frustration tactics.  But Miller had no such pleasure.  He saw no fruition to his labours, and he was blamed, just before the interval, that he did not volley into goal instead of over the goal when Crawford spun the ball from right to left.  The opportunity was not so enchanting as it looked for the ball fell awkwardly, had a lot of spin upon it, and Miller had to jump and hit it as he could- hit or miss.
MILLER’S REWARD
Everyone moaned but Vivian Woodward, who was full of sympathy and did not think that Miller was to blame.  In the last eight minutes Miller got his reward, and had a foot in both goals.  It was his pass to Thompson that got the Everton backs near goal in a state of tanglefoot; indeed, the ball seemed to jump over one defender’s foot, and Thompson, rising to the occasion, placed the ball beyond Davies reach.  There was no marked rallying power in Everton’s eleven, and just at the end Dandy Thain passed to Miller, who was thought to be off-side.  But the referee made no sign, and while Everton were wondering Miller who was close in, dribbled on and shot a goal.  Perhaps both looked soft things to decide so big an issue, but the shooting had been feeble.  The goalkeepers were rarely really tested.  The match was not distinguished by cohesive work and fine play.  The frozen and treacherous turf, which became worse as time went on, troubled many players who feared to go all out and thrust themselves.  It was easier for defenders than attackers.  Everton lost because their plan of campaign was too dreadfully obvious.  Dean was always laying well to the fore.  He did make much play.  Those on his right and left played to him, and Dean was the Don Quixote, who was always playing the part of trying to charge a windmill over.  He did not succeed, for he was carefully marked.  He made one fierce drive from the right of the goal in the first half, and a few minutes before Thompson scored he made a splendid shot from a difficult position that rebound from the bar and the post.  This was a near thing, and if Dean’s effort had been successful there would have been another story to tell.  
NOT A UNITED LINE
Now if Dean was countered in this way one looked for either Dunn or Weldon, or both, to shoulder the burden, but they lacked initiative and thrust.  It would seem as if Dean is expected to carry the whole burden of attack to the finish desired every time.  He cannot do it, for he is not supported in the right way.  The Everton line was not a line.  It was a centerpiece to which everybody tried to play.  The Everton forwards were not a united line, and their backs could easily be disturbed.  The Everton half backs were big and good, but the ball was too much in the air.  There was more headball than football.  Hart was a tireless worker and Virr good.  Everton were not half such a force as when they met Arsenal last year.  Chelsea were considerably overplayed, even for periods, but they held out and won through.  Law, Townrow, Ferguson, Thain, and Pearson were prominent, but so clever as Miller.  On a heavy ground Chelsea can play better still.  Chelsea.- Millington; Smith, law; Irving, Townrow, Ferguson; Crawford, Thain, Thompson, Miller and Pearson.  Everton.- Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Virr; Ritchie, Dunn, Dean, Weldon and Stein.  Referee; L.B. Watson, Nottingham. 

WHY EVERTON WERE BEATEN
Liverpool Echo - Monday 14 January 1929
By Stork
Everton are out of the Cup and by a score which suggests a fairly comfortable victory, but never has a score proved such a misrepresentation of the flow of the game, and even the Chelsea people had to admit that their victory bore the tally of good fortune.  Chelsea had been overplayed practically throughout, but ten minutes from the end they started to score goals, and as Everton had failed to do so in the preceding seventy minutes, the honour must go to the Londoners, for goals are the very essence of the game.  London had banked on this game producing a football classic, but I am afraid they were disappointed with the actual game, while being overjoyed at the bare result.   What little bit of class there was in the game must be credited to the losers, who were complete masters until the fatal eighteen minutes, and all Everton’s finessing, their dominating attack, and their great defence had to be shelved and the laurels handed over to a side that was capable of scoring goals. 
THE WINNING GOAL
Not for the first time in history has a lucky goal been the cause of a team going out of the tournament after it had demonstrated that it was a superior organiastions in a football sense.  Cup finals have been won with a goal which bore the hallmark of luck, and Thompson’s goal, which was the deciding factor in this game, for Miller’s goal did not matter, can be added to the list of lucky Cup goals. It should never have been scored- that is my frank statement –and it was the one and only time that the Everton defence had faltered, and Thompson was not slow to take advantage of the slip.  Cresswell and O’Donnell had played so well together, and had stepped in and cut out much more dangerous-looking movements, that it came as a shock to the system when it was seen that a ball punted from the Chelsea end beat them and was turned into a goal when there did not appear any cause to suspect a goal.  It was a tragedy; more so because Chelsea had been very poor in everything but defence.  All Davies had to do was catch a few centres from the wings, which gives you some idea as to the strength of Chelsea’s attack, which, prior to the goal-scoring episode, had been held up with ease, although Miller missed a “sitter” in the first half.  It was a game of defence, and the rear lines held the whip hand, for, despite Everton’s continual pressure, there was not a lot of gunpowder in their shooting.  Even Dean did not get much target practice, but he had wretched luck with a shot that hit the upright, and again when he shot strongly, and I doubt if Millington knew where the ball was after he had flung his arms up in desperation to stop the shot.  True, he had positioned himself well, but it was instinct more than anything else which saved his goal.  The turning point, however, was when Dean hit the woodwork, for a goal at that point would have settled Chelsea, who had been pasted unmercifully, without the goalkeeper having a lot to do. 
STRENGTH AND WEAKNESS
The Everton attack opened well, and went through the Chelsea defence at will but there their work finished, and gradually the Chelsea defence settled down to their stern task, and Law, in particularly, stood up manfully to every Everton invasion.  Dean was not “policemaned” by Townrow, but he had three and sometimes four men clustered round him when there was a chance of the ball coming his way, so his task was an unenviable one.  He got good support from Dunn, whose craft was canny, with his shooting weak; while Weldon was just as canny with his passes to colleagues Stein, and the pair got along well together.  Stein wasted but one centre throughout the ninety minutes, and is proving a rare deputy for Troup; but there was a weakness on the right where Ritchie was very ordinary.  His half-back, Griffiths, was poor, and that may have affected Ritchie’s game.  I know Ritchie can shoot, and why he did not do so once or twice is beyond me.  He had the opportunities.  Griffiths gave one the impression that he is still “scared” by his accident.  He was rarely in position, and his best work was when corners were taken, when his height came in useful.  Hart was O’K., and Virr, up to the time of his injury, was a fine tackler, Cresswell gave a bonny exhibition and “O.D.” gripped Crawford and Thain so hard that they rarely got out of hand, and but for that one little flaw it could be said that they were perfect.
A POOR ATATCK
Chelsea are considered in the light of a First Division side.  On their display they are not worthy of it, which makes the Everton defeat all the more galling.  They were poor in attack, and Thompson is nothing more nor less than a dashing centre-forward.  There is no ball control about him, but he has a useful shot, and that counts a whole lot.  Pearson and Miller made up the better wing, but really the Chelsea attack was just an ordinary one.  The half-backs were effective without being brilliant, and the secret of the team’s success was the work of Law, Smith, and Millington.  Law did not put a foot wrong, and he was always up and doing when the tide was flowing against his team. 

CORRESPONDENCE ARISES THROUGH SUPPOSED DEAN FETISH
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 15 January 1929
Bee’s Notes
Mr. D.B. Mackie writes; - I follow Everton keenly, and I know very well the old saying,”There’s no use greitin’ over spilt milk” but this is my first criticism.  I have read six reports in the newspapers, and they can’t all be speaking falsely on the game at Chelsea.  These are what meet the eye; “There is far too much playing to Dean,” “Relying on Dean,”  “Everton’s obvious play.”  Now, I have no kick against Dean personally, he is quite a good player, and puts all his energy into the game.  What I am incensed over is this method, style, modus operandi (call it what you like) tactics of the Everton team.  One man never could win a football match, and the sooner this idea is eradicated from the players’ mind the better.  It kills personal initiative and ability in the finest of players. A team must play as a whole, and no part must be concentrated on more than another, unless for drastic reasons.  My old team, Glasgow Rangers, is a living example of this.  I am sure you concur with my “fumings,” so hammer away at it until we get the remedy.  I am happy to give the correspondent’s letter, but I am quite against this belief that Dean is a fetish to the other forwards or half-backs.  For over two years the London Press have told us of this singleness of purpose by which Everton becomes a one-man-band instead of a team-whole I admit that Dean has got the goals, but I do not believe there has been an incessant demand upon the centre forward, but rather that when the forward line failed, the criticism hung upon the customary peg, which had become a by-word down South- “This Dean fetish.”  I do not forget that one athletic paper went so far in the February period to suggest in flaming heading.  “Too Much Dean.”  They did not continue with their theme when the player resumed scoring in lumps.  No, Everton’s attack has not been convincing for some weeks or even months, and it is pretty plain, as far as the season has gone, that the blend is not there- that’s all.  It is absurd to suggest that the line is failing because the attack looks for one pass (to Dean) all the time.  Their play does not warrant the suggestion. 

BLUES LEAGUE SOLACE.
January 16 th 1929. The Daily Courier.
EVERTON CUP TEAM TO OPPOSE BIRMINGHAM.
Everton have selected their luckless Cup team to meet Birmingham in the League campaign at Goodison Park on Saturday. (Kick-off 2-45). The Champions will, no doubt, now concentrate on a bid for the retention of the League laurels they won last years, and while the results in the corresponding matches last season (5-2) is unlikely to be quite so substantial, the Blues appear to have a fairly safe couple of points nearly within their grasp. It is coincidence that the referee who officiated in the Cup-tie at Stamford Bridge Mr. L.B. Watson (Nottingham), will have charge at Goodison Park. The Everton team will be; Davies; Cresswell, O'Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Virr; Ritchie, Dunn, Dean, Weldon, and Stein. The Everton Reserves team to meet Birmingham Reserve at Birmingham, will be Hardy; Common, Kennedy; Kelly, Dixon, Rooney; Critchley, Webster, French, Easton, and Lewis.

BEES’ NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 16 January 1929
Everton receive the strong Birmingham side at Goodison Park on Saturday, and a severe test for the champions may be expected.  The Midland team has improved considerably since their defence has been strengthened by the inclusion of Barkas, the former Huddersfield Town full-back.  Martin and Troup are not yet available, and the team will be the same as at Stamford Bridge, viz; Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Virr; Ritchie, Dunn, Dean, Weldon, Stein.  The Everton Reserves team to meet Birmingham at St. Andrews is; Hardy; Common, Kennedy; Kelly, Dixon, Rooney; Critchley, Webster, French, Easton, Lewis. 

EVERTON CRITICS
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 17 January 1929
Bee’s Notes
Everton should sign some good big scoring forwards to take the weight and watching from Dean; men who when they see Dean at a disadvantage with the opposition defence will take the responsibility of carrying on and score themselves days “Evertonian” at Chelsea.”  Until the management work on different lines than they have done in the past the club’s prospects of further honours is quite remote. 
  How is it (asks “Secker”) that in nearly every case where an Everton player has gone to another club after being discontented with them, has gone elsewhere and made good?  To mention just a few –Jack Cock, Alec Wall, Livingstone, Forbes, Harrison, Weaver, and Chadwick.  Then again, why is it that, when the Everton defenders are badly pressed, the at times are all of a tangle, till they are like the song says, “Don’t know where they are,” and lastly, why have Everton always gone in for small inside forwards?  Let the team play its own game and better results will accrue.  But, oh for a Jack Cock and Walker alongside Dean!” 
GOODISON MUSIC
The following programme music will be given at Goodison Park on Saturday, by the Aigburth Silver Prize band (conductor Mr. Harry Wearing). 
March “The Repulse,” Hawkins; fox-trot, “After my laughter came tears,” Feldman; waltz, ‘Why am I blue?”  Feldman; selection, “Community Land” (by request), Feldman; fox-trot, “When day is done,” Fieldman; fox-trot,” Roselie” Feldman; march “Kneiley Hall’ Greenwood. 
LATE SPORTS WIRES
Harry Houghton, the ex-Everton player, was badly injured in the replay between Exeter and Leeds United yesterday.  He kicked a concrete wall, and although no bones were broken his injury was so painful that he had to be carried everywhere in Leeds after the match.

EVERTON’SHOME TASK
Liverpool Echo - Friday 18 January 1929
Bee’s  Notes
Tackling Birmingham, or “Bairninum,” as the stars call it, is no mean order these days.  Time was when I told you the team was called a lot of lemons.  That suggestion was put forward publicly and their players were advised what they had been called.  So they rolled up their sleeves, got busy, and beat Liverpool at Anfield.  Since then they have made a judicious choice –they have signed Barkus, is Barkus the man who played for Huddersfield against Sheffield United in the Cup-ties and Blackburn in the final tie; they signed him but eighteen days ago, and so far he has taken part in one home defeat –but he scored with a penalty kick against his old side-and two victories against Manchester City in League and Cup.  Therefore the big, brawny fellow is doing very nicely, thank you; and the shades of night do not fall so fast at St Andrews, for which, many thanks.  Birmingham can be most enlivening through the agency of Hicks, Joe Bradford, Briggs, and Crosbie.  Stern defence will be needed at Goodison Park, tomorrow, when the defeated Cup side has a further chance to make good.  It is up to the Everton players to strive even more earnestly tomorrow against a side desirous of away victories so that the relegation bogey can be left behind them.  We shall see.  Everton; Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Virr; Ritchie, Dunn, Dean, Weldon, Stein. 

RANDOM REFLECTIONS.
Falkirk Herald -Saturday 19 January 1929
By " SCRUTATOR.”
It is to expected that the immutable of Nature should now be liberal toll of football players who were the zenith of their fame about half a century ago. and In recent a few those who were famous the Falkirk district In their day have “crossed the bourne." Last week the death was recorded the Press “Danny" Kirkwood, who, since the early '90's, had been located in Liverpool, where for a good number of years was hotel keeper. I observe in a Glasgow contemporaryan old player refers to the death Kirkwood, and with his appreciation of the little man and bis then Liverpool confreres I heartily agree. But when it comes facts there another story to tell. The article in question was a signed one. and the writer a well known internationalist. After stating that Kirkwood played for Broxburn before he crossed the Border, and that was out of work owing a shale miners' strike, the writer states that Kirkwood and another great Dan —Dan. Doyle—decided take the road Liverpool. 'And they walked all the way." with the lapse of time, the writer must have got his facts mixed up a bit!
Neither the players mentioned travelled direct from Broxburn to Liverpool. They joined East Stirlingshire about the year 1887, and it was during a return Journey from Airth Games and Falkirk that the two Dans agreed to join East Stirlingshire. The then secretary of East Stirlingshire, who still takes interest in the old club, was one the "interviewers" on the “horse shay" that did duty as the mode of conveyance from Airth Games in these days. Football players were "amateurs" then, and all worked more or less a job apart from football; but it was an open secret that in not a few plavers received payment for playing by finding “something in their boots" at the close of the game. I remember receiving information—but which l never appeared in print—as the first club committee the Falkirk district that proposed to “lift" a player from an adjoining clüb—and pay him. It was before the day of the two Dans.Doyle and Kirkwood did yeoman service for East Stirlingshire in 1887 and 1888, the former as a left back and Kirkwood as a half back, and later as inside forward. Doyle had as a partner at back Bob Wilson, now a director of the Falkirk Club. Doyle left East Stirlingshire a considerable time before Kirkwood, and instead of going to Everton. he went to Sunderland Albion, a club long since gone. Doyle had a perio with the Grimsby Club ere he landed at Liverpool. It was then that he sent word north for Kirkwood come south. In mean time Kirkwood had become a bit of an expert in the moulding trade, and before left he was one of the best paid moulders in Castlelaurie Foundry, where he was engaged in making rice-bow's. This goes to prove that “Danny” did not tramp Liverpool, and it certain from the files of '”Falkirk Herald” that Kirkwood achieved what was cosidered a great honour —namelv. To plav for the Stiringshire Association in an inter county" match, such as then took place against Forfar, Fife, and Linlithgow shires. Doyle's travelling days were not finished at Liverpool, as he was subsequently a famous player for the Celtic. Kirkwood, however, remained in Liverpool. He played on until a broken leg terminated his football career the on the field, but he was subsequently director of the Everton Club—one of the wealthiest clubs in England. There was big difference physique between the two Dans—Doyle was a big hefty player, who could use his weight advantage; Kirkwood was a somewhat small insigniflcant-looking chap, with great speed, but a grand manipulator the ball. I think the appellation applied to the two the man the street fitly described the two —in the one case it was "Dan" Doyle (a player whose appearance one could admire), but In the case Kirkwood it was the more lovable “Danny." The wee man was always smiling. The last occasion which I saw him was at English International Hampden Park, when he came along to the box and we had few words together. Now both Dana are gone. "Peace to their ashes.”

EVERTON AT HOME
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 19 January 1929
BIRMINGHAM SPEEDIER SET
GOAL BY NICKS
VISITORS LEAD AT THE INTERVAL
By Stork
Everton; Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, White; Ritchie, Dunn, Dean, Weldon, Stein. Birmingham; Hibbs; Barkas, Randle; Liddell, Cringan, Morrall; Briggs, Crosbie, Bradford, Pike, Hicks.  Referee; Mr. L.V. Watson, of Nottingham.  Everton had to make one change, White coming in at left half in place of Virr, who was injured last week at Chelsea.  It was rather a coincidence that Birmingham also had to make a change in this position, Morrall deputizing for Leslie, who missed his first match since he joined the club two seasons ago.  There was a good crowd, and the turf was in good condition.  There was, however, a slight haze which made it difficult to follow some of the movements on the far side of the field.  Everton were first to make a forward advance, and Dean was shade late to a ball that came up the middle, Barkas cutting across to clear.  The Birmingham left wing got muddled up when they promised to become a menace to the Everton goal; while Everton’s left wing was held up when it launched an attack. 
BRUM’S CHANCES
The next few minutes were hectic and Birmingham should have had at least a couple of goals with the chances which presented themselves.  Bradford with a perfect pass to his colleague, Hicks set the machinery in motion, and when the former Manchester City winger cutely pushed the ball forward Bradford was in an almost unassailable position for scoring.  He was out on his own, and had but to hit a true ball to find the net, but his effort to beat Davies was very poor.  He only half hit the ball, which screwed well wide of the mark.  It then became Everton’s turn, and it was only bad fortune that prevented Dunn from opening his side’s account.  The Birmingham defence was somewhat tied up when Dunn hit a hot shot from close in, which banged against Randle’s body, and away to safely.  Hicks was having a fine innings against Griffiths and Cresswell, and I thought that Bradford would have been wise to allow the winger’s centre to travel on to Briggs rather than try and get it down for himself, for that loses valuable time, at the same time allowing the defence to concentrate.  It was Bardford, however, who was nearly responsible for a goal when he burst between the backs and tried an oblique shot, which travelled across the face of the goal to Briggs who came along at a rare dash and hit a sterling drive on to the upright. 
ASPEEDIER SET
It was, to say the least a very close shave for Everton.  Birmingham seemed to be much faster on the ball than their opponents, while some of their footwork was just as canny.  Ritchie tried a shot with his left foot which Randle volleyed away; and Dean was finding Cringan, who was assisted by Barkas and Randle, a difficult obstacle to overcome.  He once had them all beaten, however, when Stein dropped in a long centre that dean glanced goalwards and Hibbs made a catch. The fifteenth minute proved fatal to Everton, for it was at that moment that a goal was registered against them.  Briggs, who is getting very study in his build nowadays, centred such a lengthy ball that it went to Pike, at the other end of the line. 
 AFLICK FROM HICKS
This player quickly placed it in front of the Everton goal, and Hicks, who was standing close in, simply flicked it into the net.  The Birmingham forwards were much better as a line than that of Everton.  Their passing was done with greater speed, and to some extent they were more accurate.  I will give you a case in point.  It looked more like a slow motion film as compared with the Birmingham methods.  Stein gave to Dean, Dean transferred to Dunn and while the latter was waiting for Dean to move up a Birmingham defender cut in and took the ball away.  Hicks, who had a rather joyous time against Griffiths and Cresswell early on, now found his job slightly more difficult, for the Everton man had to some extent got the hang of his play, but for all that Hicks was one of the real danger spots of the Birmingham attack. 
AN “OFFSIDE” GOAL
Briggs scored a goal which was not allowed to count owing to an offside infringement.  Dean twice put a ball back to his inside forwards without anything coming from the idea, because the said forwards were hanging too far back, and Ritchie, “placed” admirably by Dunn, wasted a golden opportunity by centring behind.  Griffiths was the recipient of some applause for juggling act which enabled him to defeat Hicks and offer Dean a possible chance.  It was a grand pass, and if Dean had but known Randle was going to misjudge it, it would have opened up an awkward predicament for the Birmingham defence.  The best shot of the match came at the seventy-fifth minute, Bradford getting tremendous power behind his boot; and although the shot was of long range, Davies had to be very accurate in his timing and his catch to save his charge.  This was followed by a move that lifted the Everton people’s hopes, for Dean appeared to have a grand opening, but he veered over to his left a trifle too far, and when he back-heeled there was nobody up to carry on the work.  Half-time; Everton 0, Birmingham 1. 
EVERTON OUTPLAYED
DIVE BY HIBBS THAT FOILED DEAN
HICKS SCORES TWICE
BIRMINGHAM CLEVER WIN FROM HOME
Birmingham might have had a goal in the first 30 seconds of the second half, for Bradford made one of his successful bursts, which carried him through the defence.  A goal looked a certainly, for he was not more than six yards out when he shot, the ball crashing on to the upright and into play.  Dean made a good effort to score from off the goal-line, but he had an even better try a little later, when a fine left-foot shot was admirably saved by Hibbs diving across his goal to turn the ball round the post.  Hicks made poor use of a chance by shooting behind.  Play was getting very difficult to follow now, especially when anything took place in the Walton end goalmouth. 
DESPERATE EFFORTS
The Birmingham attack went into its shell, and special attention was paid to defence.  This, of course, meant that Everton enjoyed a greater amount of success in attacking sense, and there were several good shots directed to the Birmingham goal, but without any measure of success.  Dunn, Dean, and Weldon all tried desperately hard to find a way past Hibbs, but none could manage it, and when the Birmingham attack once more came to life, a goal should have been the outcome, for Hicks had the chance of a lifetime, but the best he could do was to slam the ball on to Davies’ shin.  The rebound came out to Bradford, who scooped the ball over the bar.  Another incursion by Birmingham should most certainly have ended in the defeat of Davies.  A poor pass-back by Cresswell was the starting point, and three Birmingham men in quick succession found the simple task of placing the ball in an empty net beyond them, the reason being that they wanted to walk the ball through.
DOUBLE BY HICKS
Briggs when chasing a ball, twisted his knee and had to leave the field.  With 10 minutes to go, Hicks scored Birmingham’s second goal.  Griffiths was at fault for he allowed Crosbie’s wild pass to go beyond him, evidently in the belief that Cresswell was behind him.  It was Hicks that was behind him, however, and that was the trouble.  Bradford was pulled for a thin off side, and Crosbie was only half a yard out with a cross shot.  This is four points the Birmingham club have taken from the Liverpool district.  Final; Everton 0, Birmingham 2. 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 19 January 1929
By Louis T. Kelly

• Everton’s dream o lifting the Cup in their Jubilee year has seen vanished
• Country-road Wesleyan holds its fifth big annual Football Sunday service tomorrow afternoon at 3, when the irrepressible Jas Jackson will be the speaker.
• Mrs. David Pratt is to be the soloist and there is a possibility of Mr. Stud Marks occupying a similar role.  We shall see.
• Then a number of our Liverpool and Everton players will be present again
• Also our old friends, David Pratt and Jasper Kerr, &c. 
• Everton –stampeded at Stamford
• Chelsea were last members of Division 1 in 1923-24
• Five of the players who assisted them that season, figured ion the Cup-tie against Everton, namely; Smith, Ferguson, Crawford, Thain, and Miller
• Dixie Dean has registered 165 goals from 158 League matches
• Everton won 3-1 at St. Andrews earlier in the season, this being the only match that Critchley has scored in during 1928-29. 
• The Wolves, let it be said, bemoaned the absence of their skipper, Wilf Chadwick

BIRMINGHAM RES V EVERTON RES
Sports Argus - Saturday 19 January 1929
Owen took Tremelling’s place in goal for Birmingham’s Central league match with Everton at St. Andrew’s.  There were about 7,000 spectators present.  Teams;- Birmingham Res ; Owen; Thornton, Stainton; Fillington, Thompson, Coxford; Bond, Firth, Morfitt, Powell, Ellis.  Everton Res;- Hardy; Common, A.L. Kennedy; Kelly, Dixon, Rooney; Critchley, Webster, French, Easton, Lewis.  Referee; Mr. J. Willetts (Wolverhampton).  Birmingham met with early success.  The ball came back from the home end after five minutes and the Birmingham forwards made a united rush on the visitors goal.  Firth eventually scrambling the ball past Hardy.  Five minutes later Firth got a second goal from a similar goalmouth scrimmage following a fine centre from Bond.  For a while the visitors seemed completely subdued by the snappy methods of the Birmingham forwards, and in the succeeding period the Everton goal underwent a series of escapes.  It was against Birmingham, however, that the next scores was registered.  A sudden raid saw French well placed, and the centre-forward made no mistake with a vigorous shot.  Five minutes later French was unlucky in not equalizing with a shot that hit the bar.  Play soon swung back to the Everton territory and Firth obtained another goal and registered his “hat-trick” cutting right through on his own, and neatly deceiving Hardy. 
Half-time; Birmingham 3, Everton 1.
Early in the second half Birmingham continued their pressure, but were less enterprising in front of goal.  A surprise attack saw Everton reduce the arrears, French putting in a weak shot that Owen failed to touch.  The home play seemed to have gone to pieces, and Easton equalized for Everton with a ground shot that Owen failed to reach.  The last half-hour witnessed a grim struggle for the elusive decider.  During this period Everton showed up as the stronger team, but could not carry off full honours.  Under pressure Stainton worked hard for Birmingham, and proved a stumbling block to the visitors dangerous right-wing.  Result- Birmingham 3, Everton 3. 

EVERTON 0 BIRMINGHAM CITY 2
January 21 st 1929. The Daily Courier.
FORMER MANCHESTER CITY WINGER WINS TWICE AT GOODISON PARK
CHAMPIONS RUN OFF THEIR FEET AT TIMES
LUCKY FAVOURS THE BLUES
BRUM ATTACKERS MISS OPEN GOAL.
Hicks, The former Manchester City player, helped Birmingham to their revenge for a home defeat earlier in the season by scoring the two goals in the match at Goodison park on Saturday, when the game was witnessed by a crowd of 40,000. Birmingham proved the superior team throughout. The Champions were almost run off their feet at times, and in their showing Birmingham will soon experience a lift in the First Division table. Hicks, returning after his recent injury, transformed the Midlanders' team. As well as scoring both goals, he afforded his colleagues some glorious chances which should have been put to better use. The centre, Bradford, missed two or three easy openings, while he and Briggs touched the posts twice when Davies was well beaten. On another occasion three Birmingham forwards successively failed to put the ball into the empty goal from close range. The visitors' greatest fault was poor shooting, but they were not such great offenders in this respect as the home side. Dean was the best of the Everton forwards, but he was slow at times on the mark. The Birmingham wingers' attack was well backed up by the intermediate line, in which Cringan especially proved himself a canny schemer, while Randle and Barkas were sound backs. Birmingham fully deserved their victory. They were quicker on the ball, tackled with more deadiness and moved up by direct and trustful measures. Briggs, the Birmingham outside right, netted once when offside. Teams: - Everton: - Davies, goal, Cresswell (captain) and O'Donnell, backs, Griffiths, Hart, and Virr half-backs, Ritchie, Dunn, Dean, Weldon and Stein, forwards. Birmingham City: - Hibbs, goal, Barkas, and Randle, backs, Liddell, Cringan, and Morrall, half-backs, Crosbie, Bradford, Pike, and Hicks, forwards.

BIRMINGHAM CITY RESERVES 3 EVERTON RESERVES 3
January 21 st 1929. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 27)
Everton gave an excellent display at St. Andrew's where they halved the points with a powerful side. First scored twice and Bond once in the opening half, French netting once for the visitors, but later Everton showed remarkable dash and French and Easton managed to secure a drawn game. Critchley French, and Easton were the best of the Everton forwards, and Common, Kelly, and Dixon shore in defence . Everton: - Hardy goal, Common and Kennedy (captain), backs, Kelly, Dixon, and Rooney, half-backs, Critchley, Webster, French, Easton and Lewis, forwards.

BIRMINGHAM EXCEL IN ATTACK AND DEFENCE
Birmingham Daily Gazette - Monday 21 January 1929
ANOTHER FINE VICTORY SECURED ON FOREIGN SOIL
LEAGUE CHAMPIONS HUMBLED
EVERTON 0, BIRMINGHAM 2
By Forward
Their well-deserved success over the League champions at Goodison Park should gave Birmingham even greater confidence for next Saturday’s Cup tie against Chelsea who in the previous round, had the satisfaction of giving the knockout blow to Everton.  The fact that some 23 years had elapsed since Brmingham last won on this well-equipped ground did not tend to make one look hopefully at the visitors’ chances, but, as had been the ease on several previous occasions this season, the team revealed their best form on their opponents’ ground and brought off a notable victory. 
BRIGGS INJURED
They accomplished this despite the fact that for the last quarter of an hour they had to battle with ten men, Briggs sustaining a rather severe injury to the thigh muscle when making a quick dash for the ball.  Incidentally, his injury is likely to keep him out of the team for probably a month.  There was never any doubt as to the superiority of Birmingham.  When Everton found their early efforts were of no avail against a particularly solid defence, they showed every sign of being fairly rattled.  The various departments of the side lost touch with one another and there was almost a complete lack of understanding in the team especially in the opening half, when the finishing of the forwards was of the poorest possible description.  Their defence, too, was uncertain, and on occasions knew not what to do with the keen and resourceful Birmingham raiders, who every time they approached the home goal, were really dangerous.  Cresswell was especially poor in defensive work, and had no understanding whatever with the man in front of him.  While the finishing of the home forwards was poor, the play of the Birmingham attack near goal was just the reverse.  It was quick, sharp and decisive, and the Everton defenders were lucky to get out of several tight corners into which they were forced by the lively visiting raiders. 
HICKS’ BRACE
Birmingham’s opening goal came at the end of 18 minutes ‘play, and was secured by Hicks, who was quick to realise the opportunities the hot attack provided and was in a certain scoring position when the ball ultimately came to him from Pike.  Hicks also got the second goal, late in the match, a few minutes after Briggs had left the field through injury, Crosbie, always clever in his placing of the ball sent across a pass to Hicks, who, taking the ball in his stride, easily beat Cresswell and then shot hard into the net.  Although Everton had somewhat the better of the play in the second half, they found themselves up against a rock-like defence and never once did they get anything in the nature of a real scoring chance.  Their best effort to score was when Dean fired in a beautiful low shot, with plenty of force behind it, but Hibbs throwing himself full length, brought off a magnificent save and turned the ball round the foot of the post. 
DANGEROUS RAIDS
Birmingham’s raids were fewer in number than those of their hosts, but they always carried greater danger, and the home goal should have been penetrated on at least two other occasions.  Hicks, Bradford, and Crosbie all missed chances in turn, and Bradford also hit the upright as well as missing by inches from a difficult angle when only Davies faced him.  The match provided the 25,000 people present with an opportunity of judging the respective merits of Dean and Bradford for the honour of international leadership, and the unanimous vote went in favour of the Birmingham man, who made it appear a simple matter to beat the home defence.  His work was brilliant, and he had hard lines in not adding to the champions’ humiliation.  Dean was poor in the extreme.  Apart from the one effort mentioned, he was seldom in the picture.  This was due mainly to the fact that Cringan never allowed him much room to operate, but even when he did get time to get the ball under control he failed to profit by it. 
VALIANT DEFENDERS
Birmingham held a distinct advantage in all departments and deserved to win by a larger margin, for Briggs got the ball into the net from a perfectly legitimate position, only to be ruled offside.  Where the conquerors were most superior was in defence.  Barkas and Randle played magnificently, and never yielded an inch even when the pressure from Everton was at its greatest.  The half-back provided an effective line, with Morrall well up to the standard of the other pair, and all the forwards gave of their best.  Everton; Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, White; Ritchie, Dunn, Dean, Weldon, Stein.  Birmingham; Hibbs; Barkas, Randle; Liddell, Cringan, Morrall; Briggs, Crosbie, Bradford, Pike, Hicks.  Referee; Mr. L.B. Watson (Nottingham).

DEAN IN THE SHADE
Athletic News - Monday 21 January 1929
CHAMPIONS WORRIED OFF THEIR GAME
EVERTON 0, BIRMINGHAM 2
By Junius
There was no disguising the dissatisfaction engendered by Everton’s defeat in this game, though failure in the Cup-tie had partly prepared the supporters of the club for such a possibility.  Birmingham won by dash rather than any marked advantage in skill, and worried and harassed Everton off their game to some purpose.  It was in the forward line that the Champions compared least favourably with the opposition.  The slogan “Too much Dean” did not apply in this test; in fact, there was not enough Dean, for the diminutive players on either side of him were simply brushed aside by the well-equipped Birmingham half-backs.  Thus Dean became a pale imitation of his usual self, even when he got possession, which was all too rare.  Cringan covered him to such an extent as to almost blot him out of the game, and yet Dean was the one Everton player to seriously test Hibbs.  He propelled the best shot of the match five minutes after the interval, and the goalkeeper was lucky to save at full length on the turf. 
POOR WING WORK
The Birmingham team all round gave me the impression of being more eager and enthusiastic.  The forwards followed up keenly, ever alert to a possible slip on the part of opponents; the half-backs were capable supporters, and the work of the last lines was solid, alike in aim and character.  Had the margin of victory been of a more pronounced nature, few could have taken exception.  Everton’s wing forward play did not compare favourably with that of the Midlanders, and both Briggs and Hicks called for the full resource of O’Donnell and Cresswell.  It was the work of Briggs that led to the first goal after seventeen minutes’ play, as beating White, who was deputizing for the injured Virr, he flashed the ball into goal, and following efforts from Crosbie and Bradford to force it through, it eventually went to Hicks at close range.  Briggs strained leg muscle twelve minutes from the finish, taking no further part, and Hicks again clinched matters two minutes later.  Everton were at their best just before the interval, and though they had the greater share of the play in the second half, fortune was not with them.  The defence put up by Barkas and Randle was very difficult to penetrate, and when the occasion demanded a fine working arrangement existed between them, Barkas was not at any time found waiting.  His returns were of good length, and his positional play left little to be desired.  Everton’s defenders, too, gave a clever display. White could not always hold Briggs, causing much work to fall upon O’Donnell, who got through his task in highly successful fashion. 
UNCONVINCING FORWARDS
The forward work of Everton was rarely of a convincing nature.  The ground was against dainty footcraft, and with few exceptions the players refused to test Hibbs when a possible opening came along.  Hart put up a big resistance to Bradford, who was a potential anger carrier, and but for one error, which led to misunderstanding with Cresswell that cost a goal, Griffiths played a sterling game against Hicks and Pike, who were among the successes of the Birmingham sides.  The psychology of the Cup defeat was quite apparent, particularly in the earlier stages of the game, when the Everton forwards appeared to play without confidence in themselves.  Everton; Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, White; Ritchie, Dunn, Dean, Weldon, Stein.  Birmingham; Hibbs; Barkas, Randle; Liddell, Cringan, Morrall; Briggs, Crosbie, Bradford, Pike, Hicks.  Referee; Mr. L.B. Watson (Nottingham).

WHAT’S WRONG WITH EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Monday 21 January 1929
By Stork
After Cup defeat it is usual to hear the phrase.  “They can now centre on the League.”  This was the case after Chelsea’s victory over the champions, the statement being dragged out once again and appended to Everton, and most of us, aye, practically all of us, expected Everton to gather a couple of points at the expense of Birmingham, who have been rolling about the bottom of the League table since the season opened, but once again Everton cast a gloom over their followers, who left the ground with their hearts in their boots.  Very often a critic has to thrash his brains to find an excuse for a side’s defeat, but it was unnecessary to probe far into the grey matter to explain Birmingham’s victory, which was obtained because they were the better team, and whichever way one looked at the match it became impossible to take away from Birmingham any honours for the victory.  The Midlanders evidently find the air of Liverpool to their liking for they also took two points from Anfield, and on this showing they are on a false mark, for the bare result does not do them full justice, for they were more than two goals superior to Everton, who gave one of their poorest displays of the season. 
THAT “W” FORMATION
Everton’s attack let them down.  It was not good; in fact, it has not been good for some considerable time, and the cause is not far to seek.  It was made up of three men –the two wing men and the centre-forward, for the two inside men are not of the forward line in a true sense, having become slaves to an exaggerated “W” formation which robbed the line of punch near goal and at the same time left the centre-forward to the mercies of the two full backs and the centre-half, so much so, that Dean got in one shot and a couple of headers.  Try and imagine a defence concentrating its forces on brown, the Huddersfield centre-forward, and leaving Kelly, Jackson, Stephenson, and W. H. Smith to their own devices.  What would be the ultimate result- goals and more goals but, not so at Everton, where the scoring is left to one man, a man who, owing to the close watch set upon him, should have less chance of scoring than his partners.  At any rate that is the way I look at it.  Weldon and Dunn are clever manipulators of a ball, but they must be more than that to make a successful line.  Ritchie, too, was moderate, and Stein was the best of the line.  This line (the italics are mine) was well and truly held by Randle and Barkas, and on the day’s play Bradford was a much better leader than Dean, even though he missed a couple of gilt-edge opportunities.  True, he had better helpers in Crosbie, a bonny player, Hicks, Pike, and Briggs, but the secret of Birmingham’s success was that they had a forward line. 
EVERTON’S ONE SHOT
Hicks scored the two goals, the first one after he had made the centre which he eventually turned into a goal through running into the goalmouth.  The second was given to him through Griffiths allowing a pass to travel beyond him in the belief that Cresswell was behind him.  Hicks also hit Davies on the shins, and Bradford slashed a short range shot against the upright when he should have made certain of a goal.  Briggs too, struck the upright, but apart from the one shot by Dean, which Hibbs dived at and turned out, little could be said of Everton’s marksmanship, while the half-backs all too often gave the ball to an opponent.  Hart bad a good half hour and White did not do badly, but Griffiths and Cresswell found in Hicks a difficult man to hold, his speed being a handicap to Cresswell, who was rather easily beaten, with Griffiths just a little prone to overelaboration.  O’Donnell was not free from errors, but he was, to my mind the best of the Everton defence. 

OUTBURST OF CRITICISMS AGAINST EVERTON PLAYERS AND MANAGEMENT
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 22 January 1929
Bee’s Notes
MAKE HASTE AFTER McPHAIL
Mr. D.B. Mackie writes; - First allow me to offer many thanks for the compliment you paid me.  Now, I am going to infringe on your valuable time once more.  Please do not be angry with me.  Enthusiasm is a fine thing, either in business or sport.  After business my second love is sport, I address you thus as a sportsman; therefore know you will accommodate my humble pleadings.  Again to the breach! I would like to see Everton attain a higher pinnacle of fame. I would like to see a better possible result made of the fine leadership of Dean.  “Give it to Dean” is a policy that pays, granted, when he is up against a poor centre-half; but when opposed by a type of player such as McIIwaine, of Portsmouth, or Kean, of Sheffield Wednesday or Hunt, of Burnley, Dean is useless, because he has no forward who can score goals alongside him; therefore the opposing defence simply needs to concentrate on Dean and Everton’s attack is useless.  Dunn and Weldon are clever with the ball, but they were never great goal-scorers like, for instance, Cunningham (Rangers), Walker (Hearts), Stevenson (Motherwell), or McPhail (who is now with angers).  If they could again persevere, and try to persuade McPhail to change his mind –yes, Everton, I make prophecy to say, would be at the head of the League table!  This is the player of the moment in Scotland.  Last Saturday Queen’s played Rangers, and one of the best goals ever scored in football was witnessed.  Let me describe it.  It was McPhail’s third and last goal.  He got the ball in his own goal area, and took it straight up and through the Queen’s forwards, halves, and full backs, and then past the goalie!  You could have heard the cheering miles away.  He is something after Tommy Cairns’ style, but is a bigger chap and far more deadly than Tommy.  I think he is just the man Everton could do with.  In passing, I wish Liverpool luck.  I honestly think they will “lift” the Cup this year. 
FORCEFUL SHOTS
Mr. Lithton writes; surely it is about time the directors endeavoured to find some decent support for Dean.  For three consecutive matches they have failed to score a goal, and yet we have the same inside forwards selected.  What is wanted is more forcefulness, and may I suggest that the following team should be played providing, of course that they are fit; Davies; Cresswell, Kennedy; Griffiths, Hart, Virr; Ritchie, Martin, Dean, O’Donnell, and Troup.  Each of the forwards can shoot and clever as well as forceful.  “What is wrong with the championship side?”  This question was asked at Everton, says “Waxy”  Please allow me in a very few words to explain.  My contention is that bad management is playing a big part in Everton’s defeat!  After getting a championship side together, the board were not satisfied; they must spoil the team by bringing a right wing in.  If the side that won the championship was good enough why not this? Is not this logic, dear “Bee.”  Let’s get to grips with the people who elect the side.  Championship side; Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Kelly, Hart, Virr; Critchley, Forshaw (Or Easton), Dean, Martin, Troup.  Critchley is the faster and cleverer, Forshaw is an old head who works openings, Martin is a brainy player, and Troup knows how to dig them up for Dean.  Why hang on to Easton if he is not going to get a show? 
LOP-SIDED?
Could you grant me room in your column for this Everton outburst? (says “Lawton”).  What a pity the Blues have bene pushed unfairly out of the Cup competition by Chelsea, according to a contemporary.  It was almost akin to “hitting below the belt” that Chelsea should score after Everton ad most of the play.  How dare Chelsea stoop so low?  In heaven’s name, let us have fair play.  What must the Chelsea supporters think of such drivel?  We are told that Everton played as champions, and can console themselves with the fact that they gained honour and glory.  Why this tommyrot?  The Blues may have been unfortunate in this game, but champions should be capable of altering their tactics when it is obvious that their plan is frustrated. A great neutral authority tells us that “the Everton forwards made Dean their centre-piece, and expected him to do the necessary each and every time.” I wonder how often these tactics have bene the reason of Everton’s downfall?  If Dean has engaged the attention of more than one opponent, obviously one of the others must be unattended.  Is it not up to this forward to place himself in shooting range when he is so often unmarked?  It is not ill-luck all the time, but rather inability to vary their plans, which a champion and scientific side should be capable of doing.  Thrust, allied to skill, is essential, as science alone leads to a cul-de-sac these days.  Dean is the only Everton forward possessing both, which leaves me rather curious to know how Everton would have fared without his thrust lasts season.  A championship side should not be lop-sided or dependent upon one unit, and until this fact is realized, Everton will continue to be frowned upon by Dame Fortune. 
I give you the space, “Lewton,” and ask you to give “my regards to Everard Square.” 
A NEW NON DE PLUME
“Blue from Birth” writes; - I have refrained from voicing a complaint before in the hope that the Everton club would see their glaring weakness; but they still go on playing the same men.  After Saturday’s display, it is high time complaints were made, for I have never seen such inept inside forward play in the long career of the old club.  A few weeks ago they played refreshing football with Martin in the side, and injuries have unfortunately weakened the left wing.  But why were Critchley and Forshaw dropped from a successful side in favour of men who live on reputations only, and have never shown it at Goodison Park?  The greatest centre in the game is being wasted.  Dean must have inside forwards to help him to score.  What about Easton, the reputed strongest kicker in the Central League?  Now, Everton directors, I appeal to you, and I’m sure all Blue supporters second me.  Be practical and courageous, and remedy the obvious-to-everyone weaknesses. A glance at the League table indicates forcibly the points of the team.  Only two teams, Blackburn and Cardiff City, have fewer goals against, and practically all teams except the bottom four have scored more, and yet we have the greatest centre forward in the game.  Figures cannot lie.  Publish this in your valuable Sports Notes, since you have the reputation of being a fearless critic, and I believe a reputation deservedly earned. 
 “Woolton” writes; Everton needs a willing and a winning side.  Here it is; Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Common, Hart, Virr; Martin, Griffiths, Dean, Kennedy, Troup, or Stein
An Everton story has been circulated and billed.  It is suggested that Everton have been to Scotland to see a famous boy centre, named Syme.  They know nothing of the affair, have made no such journey, have never courted the club for the transfer –so that this paragraph is a denial.  Scotland has a habit of pretending transfers –to get other clubs chasing after a player they desire to sell. 

Everton Bombshell
Derby Daily Telegraph-Wednesday 23 January 1929
Everton management have dropped something of a bombshell on their front line players (comments "Brigadier"'). Drastic forward changes have been ordered for the League match with the City at Manchester, Dixie Dean alone being retained. Critchley, Forshaw, Easton and Troup displace Ritchie, Weldon, and Stein, while left 'half Rooney is preferred to White. Rooney has recovered from an injury and makes first appearance of the season.

FIVE CHANGES.
January 23 rd 1929. The Liverpool Post and Mercury.
Five alterations in the side to meet Manchester City at Maine-road on Saturday, fit and well again Troup is selected for the outside left berth in place of Stein, three additional forward changes have been made, however, Critchley and Forshaw forming the right-wing to the exclusion of Ritchie and Dunn, while Easton comes in as partner to Troup instead of Weldon. Meanwhile Templeton, is a local player for the “A” team, is to play for the Reserves at Goodison Park against West Bromwich Albion Reserves on Saturday.

WHOLSESALE
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 23 January 1929
Bee’s Notes
Everton critics have been writing yards of complaint, criticism, some constructive ideals, and general comment on a team that has fallen from a very high estate to a lowly standard of play.  However, most of the dozens of letters I have had, which could not find inclusion yesterday, now fall to the ground, because the directors have taken a stern measure.  They have rearranged the side, and in bringing back Forshaw and Critchley to the right wing they have gone back to the time of their success lasts season so far as the right wing is concerned.  But there are other changes.  Rooney gets a show at left half-back.  He has only recently come out of hospital through an operation for cartilage trouble.  He is a local like Virr, and he has had no great chance in the senior ranks.  Certainly he played a great game in the Cup-tie at Villa’s ground, when Hull beat us with a goal scored with a bursted ball!  The changes are striking and the chief of the lot is the appearance of Easton, a good worker of the ball, at inside left, together with the return of Sandy Troup.  The public would be foolish to expect an inspired change of results in a week through the altered team- the men brought in will be still fighting for their places, and that knowledge may make them inclined to “press.”  They are entitled to an extended trial.  Everton F.C. team is;- Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Rooney; Critchley, Forshaw, Dean, Easton, Troup. 
Everton Reserves team to meet West Bromwich Albion Reserves at Goodison Park in a Central League match on Saturday is; Hardy; Common, Kennedy; Kelly, Dixon, White; Meston, Webster, French, Templeman, Lewis.  Templeman is a local player from the A team. 

CHEER BOYS, CHEER
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 24 January 1929
Bee’s Notes
“Floreat Evertonia” writes;- All are agreed that Everton have not come up to expectations and it is patent that the players who were signed at last back-end have not yet blended into a working combination.  Still you cannot blame the directors for that.  If you will cast your minds back two years ago you will find Everton in the doldrums, scarcely knowing which way to turn to escape relegation (a situation not so dishonorable now, as say, twenty years ago).  The perspicacity and sound judgement of the directors not only prevented this indignity, but also paved the way to last year’s championship.  Now on collasterall form everybody expected the blues to sweep the board this season, and it has not come off Ergo, scurrilous remarks in the Press and so forth.  I will admit sadness over the temporary lapse of my favourite team, but instead of railing at them, I am off to Maine-road on Saturday to cheer them.  Whilst feeling that there are misfits in the team, I honestly think that the directors have done their best to provide players worthy the great traditions of a very great club. 
EVERTON AWAKE
Awake ye players big an’ small
Who wear the Everton colour
Dispel yer fears an’ dinna thraw
But doe yer wark wi’ valour
Ye are a team o’ classy players
But lookers on want goals;
Tak heed o’ a puir rhymer’s prayers
An’ score them hoo-in shoals!
I’m suir it’s no for want o’will,
Or want o’ fit-craft either
Nor is’t support that lacks a yell
When ye put foot too leather
Here’s what is wrang, an I hae watched
Yer play for weeks an’ weeks;
If things fist dinna gang, as hatched
Yer heart is in yer breeks-
   0 Robb (Walton)
THE ITCH TO WRITE
It makes me marvel at your patience (says “Blue Shirt”) First it is Liverpool, and then Everton, until, if the directors of these clubs read your notes, they must be positively jealous of each other for having such an advisory board, and I am certain that the F.A selectors have not seen some of your correspondents’ letters or they would feel grateful for the solution of all international teams and problems.  With regard to Everton and Dean, I guess if I asked “Dixie” his opinion about Everton’s team builders, it would be interesting.  Seriously, I quite agree that supporters have a right to their opinions, but why waste time, ink, and paper in such a manner?  The men that know their job are the directors, so leave ‘em to it. 

EVERTON’S TESTING POINT AT MANCHESTER
Liverpool Echo - Friday 25 January 1929
Bee’s Notes
Tomorrow Everton tackle Manchester City with a side much removed from that which lost at home to what seemed a great side.  Manchester City did nothing wrong that day; to-morrow Everton, with earnest young men trying to oust seniors, will put forward strong endeavor.  Manchester City is not one of Everton’s best places, but at least the forward line should do some damage against the City backs, whom I do not fancy with the ball a little bit heavy Everton’s experiement is one of the biggest they have attempted.  We shall watch this side with unexampled interest; Everton; Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Rooney; Critchley, Forshaw, Easton, Troup. 

EVERTON AT MANCHESTER
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 26 January 1929
CRESSWELL MAKES A BAD STROKE
DOWN AT INTERVAL
“STORK” DESCRIBES A DOUR GAME
Everton; Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Rooney; Critchley, Forshaw, Dean, Easton, Troup.  Manchester City; Barber, goal, Ridley and McCloy, backs, Barrass, Cowan, and McMullan, half-backs, Austin, Tilson, Tate, Johnson, and Brooks, forwards.  Referee; A. Howarth, of Blackpool. 
Considering there was an important Cup-tie at Old Trafford, there was an uncommonly good crowd at Maine-road to see the vastly changed Everton attack.  Manchester made one change, Tilston coming in for Roberts.  There was little grass on the ground, which had been well sanded.  The kick-off was three o’clock, and this, to my mind, was late enough, for the light was none too good at the start.  Everton have not scored a goal since they defeated Derby County on New Year’s Day, but it is now hoped that the reorganization of the front line will change matters.  Both teams played in Blue, the City in light and Everton Royal blue.  City made a start through their left wing, but Brook made a hash of things when he tried to lob a ball into the goalmouth.  Everton’s answer to this was a spirited attack, which ended when Dean made a header that Barber saved, but when in the act of kicking clear the goalkeeper slipped up and lost possession, and another possible opening was made for Everton.  Critchly lobbed a ball close in, but the City defence cleared the danger.  Cresswell was applauded for taking the ball off Johnson’s toe, and although he cleared the Manchester men were soon back again, and Davies had to make a catch from Johnson.  Dean once got the better of McCloy, and headed over to Troup, and the position looked rosy for Everton, but the wee Scot could not act in his accustomed manner on the hard ground, and the City defence was able to extricate itself from the difficult predicament.  McCloy and Ridley, in an endeavor to keep Dean of the ball, hampered each other to such an extent that a corner was made for Everton. 
REFEREE IN THE WAY
A dangerous-looking Manchester attack was ruined through the referee getting in the way of the ball, and enabled Griffiths to kick clear.  The players found it difficult to keep their balance, for it was a tricky business to keep their feet, and Brooks could do nothing right.  Easton with a long up the middle enabled Dean to glide the ball out to Troup, who in turn made a short pass inward to Easton, who was coming up too fast to collect the ball. 
CRESSWELL’S MISFORTUNE
After fifteen minutes Manchester City’s account was opened in a strange and unfortunate manner, Cresswell turning the ball into his own goal, Cresswell was lying on the ground, and in his endeavor to hook the ball away from Tate he scored against his own side.  Everton nearly drew level when Griffiths jumped up high to a corner kick and headed.  Troup also went close with a left-footed drive, shaving the underneath of the woodwork.  Elston made a high lob that caused Barber to give away a corner, which brought a lot of work on Ridley and McCloy, and Griffiths had two headers converted into corners before play was transferred to Everton quarters, when Davies had to save from Johnson, and at the same time got out of the way of a rush by Tate.  Ridley was kicking like a horse, but no player did better than Griffiths, who often joined the attack, and made some really good drives that deserved a better fate.  Rooney, too, was showing up well; in fact, the Everton team as a whole displayed more goal head methods than for some time.
A RUSH ON DAVIES
The haze was thickening, and it was difficult to get a true view of things when they were interesting in the goalmouth, although one could not help but see Davies dashing out to stop a dangerous rush by Tilston and Tate. 
LOSS FOR EVERTON
MANCHESTER C. SPURT AFTER INTERVAL
FORSHAW’S GOAL
Forshaw and Dean joined hands in a movement that opened up the way for Critchley, but the winger pulled his centre too far for it to be of any use.  A centre by Troup brought a gasp from the home spectators, but Barber dashed out to meet it, only to find it bounce too high over his head.  Dean dashed in and tried to head into the empty goal, but found the angle against him.  It was not such an easy chance as some of those in the stand imagined.  Critchley’s centres had been so good that it was a pity to see them wasted, but he made Barber make a superb one-handed save when Dean was standing on his doorstep.  Just on the interval Rooney put a ball up so that Easton could make a header, which barber edged over the bar.  This was the last incident of the half, and Everton were unfortunate to be a goal in arrears.  With the light so bad, and likely to be worse, the referee turned the teams right round. 
CITY DEFENCE TESTED
The Everton forwards made a dash straight from the centre, and Barber had to fling himself at a Dean shot to make a grand save. Easton also made a shot which flashed by the foot of the upright.  For some minutes the City defense was severely tested.  Rooney and Easton had shots at goal, more shots being delivered in five minutes than there was the whole ninety minutes last week.  Brook once went to centre-forward, then, instead of shooting, glanced the ball to his left, and so lost a grand opportunity. 
FORSHAW EQUALISES
Such an attack as Everton had launched was bound to bring its reward and at 57 minutes Forshaw rammed home a hot shot that ran round the back netting.  The City defence had been on the collar for fully fifteen minutes, and they were not quite so sure as formerly, sometimes two men going for the same ball.  The City in a breakaway got the Everton defence hot and bothered and Davies had to come out to kick away from Brook.  Dean only half hit a shot, and Forshaw with some delightful passing gave Critchley every opportunity to shine, and he took them, and Barber had to tip over a centre that would have curled under the bar if Barber had not been watchful.  But for Cresswell hampering Tate who had a clean run through it would have been hard for Davies.  Tate could do with a little more ball control.  He has plenty of dash, and can shoot.  City’s attack brightened up, and Davies made a lucky save from Austin by throwing up his hands and turning the ball over the bar.  Brook scored fifth for City after 87 minutes.  Tilston scored for the City after eighty three minutes.  Final; Manchester City 5, Everton 1. 

EVERTON RES V ALBION WEST
Liverpool Echo- Saturday, January 26, 1929
West Bromwich opened with a raid that suggested an early goal; but Hardy punched away Fitton’s centre, and away went Everton to score an early goal.  Webster set Meston going, and the winger seized the ball at the second opportunity to beat Pearson with a shot from close range.  The Midlanders were very dangerous by virtue of good wing work, but when once Everton had become accustomed to the lively ball, they had most of the play, and French scored a second goal- a shot that Pearson should have saved.  On the interval Webster scored a third goal for Everton.  Half-time; Everton 3, West Brom 0.
James scored for West Bromwich.  Three-quarters time- Everton Res 3, West Brom Res 1. 
EVERTON A v. SKELMERSDALE
The visitors had the best of early play, but Maher was really not troubled.  A melee in Skelmersdale quarters almost brought a downfall, but Templeman shot over.  Causfield later shot wide when well placed, and at the other end Maher saved splendidly from Birch.

EVERTON RES v. WB.ALBION RES
Sports Argus - Saturday 26 January 1929
Everton had West Bromwich Albion as visitors to Goodison Park, before a good crowd, the neighbouring Cup tie supplying an overflow;- Teams;-
Everton; Hardy; Common, Kennedy; Kelly, Dixon, White; Meston, Webster, French, Templeman, Lewis.  West Brom Albion Res;- Pearson; Whitehouse, Corbett; Pattison, Evans, Fryer; White, Edwards, James, Murphy, Fitton.  Everton’s first attack brought an early goal.  Webster fed Meston with a long pass.  Corbett headed the winger’s centre, but Meston again seized on it and scored with a shot that hit the upright before entering the net.  Albion made desperate endeavours to equalize, Common and Kennedy undergoing a spell of hard work.  Everton came near increasing their lead when Lewis found a way through the visitors’ right flank.  French and Webster later added goals for Everton.  James scored for the Albion after 20 minutes of the second half.  Result; Everton 3, W.B. Albion 1.

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 26 January 1929
By Louis T. Kelly

• The Toffees didn’t appreciate Saturday’s “sticky’ going
• Three Saturday’s and not a goal was Everton’s disappointing record to date
• Curiously, too, Davie McBain, who helped Watford to overthrow North End in the Cup, was at centre half in the Everton side that overcame the Deepdale club in the Cup at Goodison five years ago
• O’Donnell was handicapped on Saturday in that he has a heavy could just developing
• Everton were a Cup-tired lot on Saturday

MANCHESTER CITY 5 EVERTON 1
January 28 TH 1929. The Daily Courier.
FOUR GOALS IN THE LAST QUARTER.
SENSATIONAL COLLAPSE OF EVERTON'S DEFENCE.
MAINE-ROAD “AGONY.”
The sensational collapse of the Everton defence 12 minutes from the end of their match at Maine-road, Manchester, on Saturday, forced the club suffer one of their heaviest defeats of the campaign, Manchester City running out flattered winners by five goals to one. Seeing that the City defeated Everton six goals to two at Goodison Park early in the season, they have every reason to place the Champions among the list of their “lucky team.” This was a remarkable encounter, viewed from any angle, but Everton played a great deal better than the score against them suggest. The ground was like iron, and for the most part the match was contested in a think fog. As a matter of fact, not the referee decided to eliminate the interval, it is doubtful whether the game would have been finished at all. Any bad luck that was going went to Everton this being examphfied in the opening session, when Warney Cresswell had the misfortune to shot through his own goal to gave the City the lead. It was cruel luck, for he simply had to play the ball or else Tait would have “broken the net,” but in trying to hook it aside he slipped it just inside the post. The Champions had by far the better of the argument later, their experimented team serving up clear-cut fast, open football. In addition everyman on the side was eager to bring Barber into action and it was disheartening that so many commendable shots travelled either inches too wide or too high. Just before the interval the prowess of Barber alone kept the Goodison brigade at bay, and everyone admitted that the City were fortunate to be leading at the change over.
ALL EVERTON, BUT-
Matters at the start of the second half were more in favour of Everton than ever. They seemed to have the full measure of the home side, and the 40,000 spectators were honestly, only waiting for the equaliser. It came following a free kick taken by Griffiths, for Forshaw was right on the spot to do the needful. This upset the City still more, and it was a case of all Everton. The halves gave the forwards excellent support, and the front line thrived on it. Goals were missed by a fraction only, in fact, the City seemed utterly demoralised. When the final quarter-of-an-hour was embarked on, however, the City developed one of those haphazardous attacks, which put the best of defences in jeopardy just because of its unorthodox nature. Cresswell and company simply could not get rid of the ball and it bobbed about the goal in ominous fashion. When O'Donnell received one felt relieved, but the left back, instead of giving the ball air, essayed one of those dribbles of his, and Johnson easily robbed him away on the right. That did it, Johnson centred nicely for Tilson to shoot pass Davies, the goalkeeper making no effort to save. Two minutes later the City piled on the agony for, when the ball punted forward O'Donnell stopped thinking that by holding off the eager attackers someone else would be ready to clear. There was no one handy, however, and Austin walked through to increased the lead. In another two minutes, when the home forwards came down in massed formation O'Donnell and Hart mistimed their interception, and Tait came away solo. His high shot was parried by Davies, but the ball dropped over his head, and Tilson walked the ball into the net. Then in heavy fog Brook audaciously walked through to add number five after collaboration with Johnson. It was the final blow!
MORE EVERTON SHOOTING.
That is the sad tale! Everton had the better of the proceedings, because the new formation did not think so much of the abilities of Dean, and one feels certain that dean was truly thankful. There was more shooting from the five forwards than on any occasion for weeks, and the half-backs also joined in the onslaught. It was a pity that the thrusts were not more accurate or goals must have occurred. Then of course, Barber performed miracles in the home goal, the manner in which he utilised his fists being truly remarkable. There is no excuse for the unaccountable collapse of the defence near the end, and although O'Donnell was directly to blame for some of the final mistakes, he was not the only one at fault, for Cresswell, Hart, and Davies were guilty of errors. One admired the work of Rooney and Easton, who were playing their initial games with the seniors, for their passing was accurate, and they stuck to their work with zest. Critchley was better than Troup, because he had more opportunities and with Dean having more room in which to operate and Forshaw serving up the most delectable passes, the attack was good. Griffiths played an excellent forcing game and though a 5-1 defeat takes some explaining away this team was certainly better than those which have represented the champions recently. They earned the right to further trial. It was in keeping with the way things are running with Everton at present that the foundations of the club –the defence –should capitulate when victory was looming on the horizon. Still, even the best of us make mistakes, and it is certain that the virile play of the City forwards was the outcome of mistakes rather than their own ingenuity. Teams : - Manchester City: - Barber, goal, Ridley and McCloy, backs, Barrass, Cowan, and McMullan, half-backs, Austin, Tilson, Tait, Johnson, and Brooks, forwards. Everton: - Davies, goal, Cresswell (captain) and O'Donnell, backs, Grifiths, Hart, and Rooney, half-backs, Critchley Forshaw, Dean Easton,, and Troup, forwards.

SHOCK FOR EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 28 January 1929
DEFENCE COLLAPSES IN HECTIC RALLY BY MANCHESTER CITY
MANCHESTER CITY 5, EVERTON 1
By the Pilgrim
I don’t know which was the more remarkable feature of the match at Maine-road-the crowd or the sensational victory the City achieved.  It was a wonderful tribute to the popularity of the City that they should have commanded such a gate with a “Derby” Cup-tie on the other side of the road, so to speak.  Close upon 35,000 spectators actually paid for admission, the full attendance, with members, approximating 38,000, which for a team that had not won a match at home since October 6 is, in my opinion, well- more than some clubs might have expected.  But to the game.  If anyone had asked me a quarter of an hour from the finish which side would have won I should, without the slightest hesitation, have said Everton.  The teams were then on level terms, and Everton were not only playing the better football but having considerably the better of the game.  How came it then that they were so soundly thrashed?  There were two reasons for the debacle- a change of tactics by the City forwards and a complete collapse by the Everton defenders.  The one was the cause of the other.  So long as the City forwards contented themselves with manceurving for openings they were well held; when they opened out the game and went pell-mell for goal they were simply irresistible. 
WHERE EVERTON FAILED
It was all done in the twinkling of an eye- three goals in the short space of four minutes.  Everton never looked up afterwards, for the simple reason that they never had a chance.  The City had them down and the kept them there.  Though the defence was primarily responsible for the disaster the Everton forwards were not immune from blame.  I did not perceive the obsequious service to Dean that has been complained about, but one thing was very noticeable, and that was the absence of grit and thrust in front of goal.  With the ground hard and treacherous and the ball difficult to control, much could be excused, but Everton’s great need as revealed in this match was a vigorous defender and a forward of the neck or nothing type.  They were too anemia in front of goal and too academic in defence.  In the open they played well, but they had no punch, and the defence, which to a man had been so good up to the interval and particularly Cresswell and the wing half-backs, simply wilted under the shock tactics of the City in the second half.
CITY’S GLORIOUS RALLY
The City must be congratulated on their spirited revival.  They had their bad periods, but they never gave up and it was a great tribute to the pertinacity that they won as they did.  Cresswell assisted them to the goal by which they led at the interval.  He was bustled into turning the ball into his own net. Weakness in the home defence enabled Forshaw to equalize ten minutes after the restart, and as Everton were playing at this stage matters did not look at all well for the City.  The change was dramatic.  Once Tilson had headed the second goal for his side there was simply no holding the home forwards.  The Everton defence was lot in the maelstrom, and two more goals followed from Austin and Tilson in as many minutes while Brook put on the fifth just before the finish when a fog which had threatened all the afternoon and which had led the referee to discard the usual interval, was rapidly enveloping the ground.  Everton; Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Rooney; Critchley, Forshaw, Dean, Easton, Troup.  Manchester City; Barber, goal, Ridley and McCloy, backs, Barrass, Cowan, and McMullan, half-backs, Austin, Tilson, Tate, Johnson, and Brooks, forwards.  Referee; A. Howarth, of Blackpool. 

GOAL STORM AT MANCHESTER
Liverpool Echo - Monday 28 January 1929
ELEVEN MINUTES OF HECTIC FOTOBALL
By Stork
The football critic is not supposed to become excited over anything that may happen on a football field, but I would not readily believe the men who said he had sat tight and witnessed Manchester City’s mowing machine cut through the Everton defence and put on four goals in eleven minutes without a quickening of the pulse.  It would be unnatural to do so, for it was sensationalism at its best, and anything which savours of sensation is bound to cause a fluttering of the nerves, that is if you are human.  Try and imagine yourself seated at a match which had fourteen minutes to run with the score standing one all, and with the prospect of your team drawing if not actually winning outright, as, for half an hour, Everton had obtained such a stranglehold on the City attack that goals from them seemed the most unlikely thing in the world.  Then step eleven minutes into the future to the realization that your team had been beaten 5-1.  Would it not need a cast iron nerve to sit unconcerned during that goal storm?  I think so. 
LIKE A TORNADO
When I was younger, I saw Liverpool defeat Newcastle in a now famous match, and I had never seen such excitement before nor since until Saturday last.  It was amazing the way the City’s attack, which had been so well held, cut loose and swept through the Everton lines like a tornado for, up to the scoring of Tilson’s first goal, they never promised a goal, their opening point being given to them by Cresswell turning a ball into his own net;  but once they found they could find a way through to goal they carried everything before them by their ‘go-ahead methods, and had the Everton defence all jumbled up and unable to stem the tide.  How did it all happen you will no doubt ask, and in view of what the Everton defence had previously accomplished it becomes hard to tell.
QUITE SATISFIED
I was quite satisfied with Everton up to the hour, for they had been a slightly better side than the Citizens, their football being of a more crafty nature, and this despite the hard ground.  Cresswell’s goal was unfortunate for he was on the ground when he attempted to scoop the ball away from the oncoming Tait.  Barber had to make several sound saves, while shots by Troup and headers by Griffiths narrowly missed their mark.  Griffiths’ first-half display was excellent and he, along with Cresswell, was well up to the task of holding Johnson and Brook.  Tait whom I noted at Southport, may not be the ideal centre-forward-he lacks ball control- but he is the type that will trouble any defence by his speedy burst down the middle, while he hits a powerful shot, as Davies will tell you, for it was from a drive of his which Davies was unable to hold, that enabled Tilson to breast the ball into the net. 
THE EVERTON FORWARDS
Hart could not hold Tait during the City’s storm tactics in fact, Hart could not cope with his job at that point, petering out to nothing.  Rooney did remarkably well some of his constructional moves being of high class.  Forshaw does his work so quietly that many people cannot see the true value of it.  He scored the goal, but it was his passing that was of most value, and Critchley had the benefit of it, and made some good centres, and was not nearly so wasteful as formerly.  Easton should be given another chance, for he was for ever having a tilt at the home defenders, but Troup, for once in a way was quiet the hard conditions being against him.  Still he did some useful work.  Dean led his line well, but got little chance in the way of shooting. 

EVERTON RESERVES 3 WEST BROMWICH ALBION RESERVES 1
January 29 th 1929. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 28)
Everton by reason of better combination, were the more frequent attackers, and were dangerous near goal. The visiting side fought hard, and had dangerous raiders in Fritton; but both Common and Kennedy were strong in defence for Everton. The Blues took the lead after Two minutes through Meston. French scored a second and Webster a third, all three goals coming in the first half. Afterwards James scored for West Bromwich, and later missed a penalty kick at the second attempt. Everton: - Hardy goal, Common and Kennedy (captain), backs, Kelly, Dixon and White, half-backs, Meston, Webster, French, Templeton, and Lewis, forwards.
Masters and Their Methods : Centre Forward.
Bucks Herald -Friday January 25 1929
"DIXIE" DEAN
Few players who have come into football in recent times have been talked about quite so much as William "— Other name Dixie—the leader of the Everton attack. Of course he has insisted on being talked about During last season it was impossible to get away from him as subject tor very long at time. In the first place he was member of the attack of the League champions. In the second place, and as a member of that attack, he broke all previous goal-scoring records for one player in one season. His total of goals from League games during the last campaign was sixty. To get the best impression pf what these goals meant to Everton, well as something like the proper perspective, it should added that the total of goals scored by Everton League matches during the season was 102. unless you want to be pedantically accurate you can say that Dixie , Dean scored two-thirds of the goals which fell to the Everton side. There are indications that during the present season this centre-forward will not touch his last season's record in the goal-scoring line. But don't think any reasonable or logical person expected him to do so. It is one thing making a reputation as a goal-scorer, and that one thing isn't easy. But it is easier to make a reputation than to keep on adding to it. Fame carries with it certain penalties, especially fame on the football field. And the first penalty is that opponents get to know. It is hot going too far to say that every team which has run up against Everton this season has started with the central idea that it was necessary to stop Dean from getting goals. "These opponents have often played as though they felt that if they stopped the centre-forward they would also have stopped the whole of the Everton attack. One might add that this unfortunately, has proved partly true on several occasions. Dean has often suffered from the too close, and not always scrupulously fair attentions of his opponents, and the Everton team has sometimes suffered from Too much Dean.” The other players have not taken full advantage of the special watch which has been set upon the centre-forward. ‘‘Give it to Dixie” is all right its way as a spectators' war-cry, but giving it to Dean is not necessarily a paying game if Dean is surrounded opponents. Personally, think the centre-forward of is a better footballer—in the all-round sense—than he was last season. He has learnt some of the lessons of experience. But he has need a much better footballer than he was in the early days of last season because he has so much more against which to contend. Actually, there should be many years of useful service still in front of Dean, because he only recently passed his twenty-second birthday. actually led the attack of England before he had attained his majority, and his rise was certainly phenomenal. He has told me that as lad his first idea of a career” was to become an engine driver on the railway, this ambition being no doubt due to the fact that his father was employed on the railway. His early days were different from the early days of the great majority of the lads of our country. He played some football as he went to school in his native Birkenhead, and climbed the various rungs the ladder until, at the early age of seventeen, became a “pro” player for Traumere Hovers. Tranmere is, of course, one of the clubs to which managers look when they want more or less ready-made footballers, because those managers know that Tranmere are seldom in a position to refuse a big cheque. said that Derby County were among the clubs to take first interest in Dean, but though they went to watch him officially, they were not particularly impressed. However, there was a manager who saw the possibilities of Dean; who realised that it might be worth while to take chance. This was the manager of Everton. So the cheque book was brought out; three thousand pounds written across the face of one of the forms, and Dean became Everton player in March 1925. A day or two later he made his debut—at Highbury, against the Arsenal—and was forthwith relegated to the reserves. However, he was tried several occasions between then and the end of the season. His form, though, was such that the Everton officials must have wondered, more than once, whether that three thousand pounds cheque was going to be worth-while. It is now such common knowledge that the Everton directors are convinced that they have got their money back on Dean several times over that there is no necessity to into further details concerning his career. For a minute or two let us consider the methods of the man; the secrets of his success. Naturally it goes without saying that lie can shoot hard and true with both feet. No man is likely get sixty goals in a season who can't do that. But with Dean it is not all a question of foot-work. He scores goals with his head too. I have seen him get remarkable goals with forward headers, and I have seen him get one or two with backward headers made such a way that the surprising thing was that he did not break his neck in performing the acrobatic feat. The suggestion, if carried into effect, that heading should be barred from football—made a punishable offence—would immediately reduce the goal-scoring capacity of this best of present-day centre-forwards. But such a reform would also take much the joy out of the game: the sheer delight of perfectly headed goals. Don't let it be imagined, however, that Dean is the mere Macawher-like type of centre-forward who just hangs around waiting for something to turn up. He goes in search of openings, and what is more he can work openings for himself, for he is not merely the man with the gun” who shoots when others have brought out the “bird.” Quick off the mark, he can round opponent with the best, and that is why wo still find him registering hat-tricks in spite of all the policeman business indulged in by opponents. Sometimes recently it has been said that he has not served England quite so well as he has served Everton; that his International form has been below his club form. Well, maybe his goal-scoring propensities nave not always been revealed in International games, but this may be as much due to the shortcomings of strange colleagues, to deficiencies in the play of the centre-forward. Any failures in International games are not due lack of the big match temperament. He doesn't know what nerves are .And let not forget that he scored both the England goals against Scotland at Hampden Park in 1927 to enable his side to register the first win over Scotland on Scottish soil for many years. Tee-total, and a non-smoker. Dean loves golf as recreation, and is also interested in greyhounds. But these are side lines. Football is his real love, and like all the other big men in the game he has “got on” because his hearts is in it.

GIBSON’S BIRTHDAY WISH
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 30 January 1929
Bee’s  Notes
A birthday greeting to Andy Gibson, the famous old-time player, who is sixty-five years of age today.  He sends me a card, “Good luck to Liverpool, today.  Well do I remember the great tussles we had at Anfield and Bolton, finally beating them at Anfield –in 1887, I played left half for Everton.  The club eventually got suspended!” Many happy returns, Andy.  Talking of old players I should like to put on record the fact that at the funeral of Mr. W.R. Williams yesterday, Maurice Parry and Walter Wadsworth, two old Anfield players were among those to pay their last respects.