Everton Independent Research Data

 

HEADING FOR A GOAL RECORD
January 1 st 1931. Evening Express
Everton and Tranmere out to beat 128
By the Pilot.
Everton and Tranmere look like breaking all goal scoring records in the Football League. At the moment Everton have registed 70 goals in 22 matches, an average of 3.181 goals a match. Tranmere Rovers claim 69 goals for a like number of games with an average of 3,136 goals a match. The highest number of goals ever obtained by a club in Football League football is 128. These were secured by Bradford City in season 1928-29, the year they won promotion from the Third Division (Northern Section). Bradford City's average for the 42 games was 3,047 goals a match. Therefore; although it is always hard to keep up such a good average as Everton and Tranmere Rovers have at the moment over a long period, I think Bradford City's total will be pulled by at least one of the present leaders.
Scored in every match.
Everton, so far have scored in every match played in the Second Division, and Onoda only on three occasions have they failed to found the net more than once. They scored one goal against Cardiff City, at home, and against Barnsley and Bradford away. Their total has been contributed to by no fewer than ten players, with Dean and White as the highest scorers. Tranmere's Rovers 69 have been obtained by 7 of the Rovers, three of whom, Kennedy (J), Watts and Dixon, have to date scored 60 between them. Arsenal and Aston Villa are close on the heels of Everton and Tranmere Rovers 68 and 67 respectively, but the Villa have played 23 matches. This seems to be the season when all records are destined to be beaten –points as well as goals.
Sport Pie.
Everton have decided not to undergo special training in preparation for their Cup-tie with Plymouth Argyle on January 10.

EVERTON'S BID.
January 1 ST 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel
Everton are favorably placed for the task of gaining promotion. Their lead is such that their supporters believe that the goal will be reached, as anticipated, at the first time of asking. Today Bury are the visitors to Goodison Park, and though the Gigg-lane club are likely to make leaders go all the way, the Evertonians are, I believe strong enough to add 2 points to their record. Dean and his colleagues appear to have struck their best form. It is particularly pleasing to note that Dean is regaining that high standard of play, which earned for him at an early age international honours, and he has only to keep it up to lead England once more. The ground, after the soaking it received earlier in the week, benefited by the comparatively dry spell, and if the rain kepts off today the going should not be too difficult and a lively game is anticipated. Everton will be without Griffiths, who was injured last week, and Gee takes his place. The kick off is at 2-30, and the teams are; - Everton; - Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McPherson, Gee Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. Bury; - Hardy; Chester, Bradshaw; Porter, Bullock, Robinson; Robbie, Hope, Smith, Grass, Amos.

EVERTON CHAIRMAN GIVES FULL FACTS OF DIX CASE
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 01 January 1931
UNDERSIRABLE EVIDENCE
AGREEMENTS AND THEIR ESSENTIALS
Bee’s Notes
The public are very interested in this Dix business. It is very acceptable, therefore, to get a letter from the chairman, Mr. W. C. Cuff, who has handled the matter throughout for the Everton Club, and this letter gives the arrangements made from the opening bid, it if were:—
The facts are that in May last, Mr. Boxall called upon me unexpectedly and expressed a keen desire to secure the services of our player, A. A. Attwood. The transfer and terms were quickly and satisfactorily arranged, and I broached the question of the transfer to my club of Dix and Britton. Mr. Boxall was good enough to express his appreciation generous manner in which my club had dealt with them and in return gave us the option (in writing) of securing the professional and League registrations of Britton and Dix at a fee for each player of 1,600. Arrangements were made that the transfers should be completed in London at the time of the annual meetings of the League and F.A.
"TWO DIFFICULTIES"
Britton's transfer was duly completed. Dix did not attend, the reason given being first, that he was in employment; and secondly, that the serious illness of his mother precluded her consent to her son leaving home being then obtained, but that so soon as her health permitted the matter would be carried through. The end of August was suggested, and accordingly on or about the 28th of that month I interviewed Mrs. Dix and her son Ronald and obtained their consent to the boy becoming our player. Ronald Dix and I then saw Mr. Dix, senior, at his place of employment, and I had there two difficulties to contend with; first, that in view of possible improvement in his sphere of employment— Mr. Dix, senior, was anxious that nothing should be done to jeopardize the boy's chance of such promotion, and, secondly, that Dix, senior, could get no definite statement from the Bristol Rovers' Club as to what share would be given by them to Dix in lieu of his presumed accrued share of benefit, Mr. Dix felt somewhat aggrieved in this point.
"WE AGREED"
We willingly agreed to postpone the completion of the transfer until such time as the result of the reorganization of the staff would, so far as it affected Dix, be disclosed. It must not be forgotten that at the commencement of the current season Dix was practically an unknown quantity, or, at any rate, his abilities appeared to be such that his directors did not deem him worthy of being played in their first team.
"IN A NUTSHELL"
From September onwards we have repeatedly asked the Bristol Rovers' Club to announce their intentions with regard to Dix and his presumed accrued share of benefit; but this they have not so far done. All that we can obtain from the Bristol Rovers' Club is that Dix has no intention of leaving Bristol. The condition is, in a nutshell, my club have performed every condition of their agreement—they have transferred Attwood to Bristol Rovers. They have exercised their option with regard to, both Britton and Dix. The Rovers have performed so much of their contract as relates to Britton, and it now remains for them to do so in the case of Dix. When they say they are prepared to do this we ourselves will interview Dix and ascertain his intentions towards my club, If, on the contrary, the Rovers' club violate their agreement, my club will take such measures as to them may appear expedient to meet the injustice done.
"MY ONLY OBJECT"
In an interview with Mr. Prince-Cox, which appeared in the "Liverpool Echo" on Monday, that gentleman is reported to have said that the agreement with my club is invalid because it is unstamped. To set the mind of Mr. Prince-Cox at rest, I would inform him that the agreement is duly stamped, and if it were not so it would not thereby be an invalid agreement. I enter into this controversy with extreme reluctance, as in my view, it, importance has been greatly exaggerated by the many and inaccurate accounts which have appeared in the Press. My only object is that the true facts should be known, and also that the courtesy and fair-mindedness of Mr. Harry Boxall should he duly acknowledged.-I am, yours faithfully, W. C. CUFF, 6, Castle-street, Liverpool.

SENSATIONAL GAME
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 01 January 1931
GEE WINS MATCH IN LAST MINUTE
BURY TWO IN TWO MINS
EXCITEMENT AND TIIRILLS
By Bee
Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McPherson, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein.  Bury; Hardy; Chester, Bradshaw; Porter, Bullock, Robinson; Robbie, Hope, Smith, Grass, Amos.  Referee; Mr. Harper (Stourbridge).  The Goodison Park ground was a glue pot, but fortunately play was possible, and the Lancashire battle began with Everton winning the toss and making much play early on, Dunn and Critchley being hard to control or catch, and equally the Bury side on the right wing was effective, Robbie making a corner and a possible goal after Stein had crossed and outpaced a full back, and Hardy, the former Everton player, had to punch away. Stein a second time went through with a full back labouring after him, and Hardy made a save, what time three forwards were waiting for a pass. Dunn claimed a penalty for a muddled-up offence, but got nothing for his labour, and Dean waded through to drive in a good-paced ball, which Hardy punched away. In spite of the mud there was some extremely dainty dishes, Johnson, Williams, Thomson, and McPherson in turn revealing trickery and craft that was very pleasant to the eyes of 20.000 on the ether side. Amos was a bit below par, but Bullock was a sound, experienced pivot.
A HOT SHOT
Gee, making his debut in Everton's first team, headed very confidently the first time Amos swept through, and made his usual accurate centre, added to which Grass drove a hot ball that was cannoned out.  There was a suggestion of fog as well as mud, but probably it was not so dense around the field as it was in the stand. Everton's best chance of scoring arose through a very fine run and centre by Critchley. Stein headed to Dean who hit the photographers, not net, the result being in the negative, but after the referee had twice got in the way of the ball, Dean scored with comparative ease as a consequence of a pass straight up the middle, from Gee.  Hardy tried to stretch his right hand to the affected part, but it was in vain. Hardy made a save a minute later, that is the nineteenth minute, from a header by Dean. Porter from the touch line made a difficult, deceiving shot or lob and Coggins did not get up to the angle of the bar, and was fortunate to be able to rat-crawl along to the right hand side of the goal and get the ball away. Chester, the big Bury back, now made a very fine individual tackle and clearance. J. R. Smith may be a veteran, but his heart is still beating true, and he is not averse to work as was shown when he took a throw-in.
THE RIGHT IDEA
I reckon Gee got the idea of finding the right length in these awful conditions by the use of the old fashioned half volley.  Bury could not understand or cope with the conditions, whereas Everton had a first-hand knowledge of the brake force of the mud patches.
ROBIE UNLUCKY
Robbie was very deadly and unlucky. He drove in a long straight ball that hit angle of the crossbar, and Coggins much have been delighted to find the issue safe. Hardy saved Johnson's ferocious drive and then Robbie made centre far too fast for even little Amos catch. J. R. Smith was clogged near goal and Bullock was justified in complaining of a charge in the back which did not bring a free kick. Dean made one of his old-fashioned single-handed efforts, after pretending he was not going for the ball. He back-heeled the hall and then Ploughed on beyond three men, but fortunately he had to shoot too hurriedly, and he had not got his head over the ball when he fired in. The result was a sliced effort and a corner. J. R. Smith, forsaking all thought of trapping the ball or fancy work, made one of his famous first time drives with a ball that swung over. Half-time.—Everton 1. Bury 0.
A CUP-TIE FEAR
Griffiths, the Everton centre half, is finding his ankle injury very troublesome, and is afraid he will be unable to play in the Cup-tie at Plymouth. One goal lead should not be sufficient to win this game, and Everton played a trifle too confidently, especially when both defenders were faulted. Cresswell kicked over the ball and Williams was caught in the meshes of Smith and Robbie. Cresswell's free kick was a model of length, strength, and direction, but Dunn missed a chance and a goal when six yards out.
A comic interlude was provided by the referee, who waved his handkerchief frantically to indicate that he was giving a free kick. His whistle was clogged with mud and could not pipe a tune.
HARDY DECEIVED
Coggins only handled the ball once in an hour, and Everton were certainly having most of the attacks, yet it was not until an hour had gone that the lead was increased in a very simple manner. There was a free kick, which Bury rightly contested for a supposed offence on Dunn. It was about a yard outside the penalty area, and McPherson made a simple lob that deceived Hardy, who came out of his goal, tried to go back, and finally had to lift the ball out of the back of the net. Dunn had to have the game stopped while he borrowed a referee's' handkerchief, as his eyes were filled with a mud splash. Gee was next on turn for the use of the handkerchief. Thomson had to leap into the crowd to escape knocking his leg against the concrete wall, and then a duplicate of the position at Bury was witnessed by a bewildered crowd. At Bury, Everton were down 2-0, but scored two goals in two minutes; now Bury, two goals down, scored two in two minutes. J. Smith beautifully gilded the ball beyond Coggins from a left wing centre after Williams had been beaten on the touch line, and within a moment Robbie had scored a joyful goal, the beginning of the goal being a corner kick that need not have been it a defender had ultised that Coggins was at hand ready to receive the ball. Robbie dashed up and hit a unstoppable shot equalize, so that Bury’s persistence had been rewarded. Everton tried to crowd on a third goal, but they were nettled, and anyone who is nettled is rash. In fact, Bury were now playing more suitable football than at any point previously, and Everton were keeping the ball in the middle where the mud was thickest. Bury were on their toes, and had a chance, but lofted the ball and a second later he was a yard out. Stein was unemployed this half. In the closing minutes. Cresswell won a free kick a yard outside the penalty  line. Hardy turning the ball over bar.  Gee scored with the last kick of the match from a corner taken by Critchley.  Final; Everton 3, Bury 2.

EVERTON 3 BURY 2
January 1 st 1931. Evening Express.
Everton's Year Start.
Goodison Park Surprises.
Dean 25 th And McPherson's First Goal.
By the Pilot.
Bury renewed acquaintance with Goodison Park after a lapse of one season in the return Second Division match with Everton. At Gigg Lane on Christmas Day the Blues managed to draw after being two goals down 16 minutes from time. Griffiths was unable to play owing to the thigh injury received against Plymouth Argyle, which may keep him out of the team for a week, but this allowed Gee, the former Stockport pivot, to make his first appearance at centre half. This change and Williams, for Lowe were the only ones from the teams which met at Bury. Teams; - Everton; Coggins, goal; Williams (captain) and Cresswell, backs; McPherson, Gee, Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, and Stein, forwards. Bury; - Hardy goal; Chester, and Bradshaw, backs; Porter, Bullock, and Robinson, half-backs; Robbie, Hope, Smith, Grass, and Amos, forwards. Referee; W. Harper (Stourbridge). There were 30,000 spectators present. The ground had been swept of some of the mud, but the remaining in the centre was so thick that the players sink ankle deep in it, and it was impossible to mark the field out evenly. The sun shone, and so did Critchley, for the winger opened proceedings with ascirtillating dash through on the right, but Dunn's first timer crashed against an opponent and away went Robbie to level a low centre, which Williams intercepted neatly. Stein caused a thrill when he rounded Chester in wonderful style and cut through to aim for the far corner. It looked a goal from start to finish, but Hardy dived out to make a fine save at the expense of a corner. From this Dunn headed inches wide of the post and after Williams and Cresswell had been put to their wits ends to outwit Robbie and Smith, and Robbie had won a corner, Stein again outpaced Chester, and his shot swerved in deceptively, Hardy having to fist around the post.
Lively Struggle.
The corner led to a desperate scramble, kicking, shouldering, buffering and slipping, and the mud won in the end. This was real, exciting fare. Dunn was dribbling on the proverbial sixpence when he was bowled over, and from the free kick on the edge of the are, McPherson tried to reach Dean, but Chester headed out in the nick of time. Bury lacked dovetailing between departments, but the forwards were dangerous when they broke through, the Everton defence having to be extremely lively. Critchley was having a good game, and after Stein had headed back one of his centres, Johnson and Dean got in each other's way and a possible chance was lost.
Dixies 25.
Dean reached his quarter century of goals, when he gave Everton the lead at the 17 th minute. The ball stuck in the mud in midfield and McPherson lobbed it up the middle to Dunn. A mere flick was all Dunn contributed, but it had the effect of outwitting the Bury defence, and putting Dean through unchallenged. Dean ran on to score at will, though Hardy's saving attempt was so good that he touched the shot en route. Everton were on their toes, next, Gee doing some fine work, and Johnson and Dunn both hit the referee with well intentioned passes. Everton had an escape when a lob from Porter was misjudged by Coggins, and after striking the bar the ball fell in the goalmouth, Coggins quickly covering his mistake. Robbie tried to take Everton by surprise when he dropped a centre close into goal. Goggins turned the ball against the crossbar before cleaning. The game was always lively, but the Bury backs were hardly a match for Everton's speedy forwards. Dean was injured, and Referee Harper attended to him in professional style before the trainer's arrival. Dixie was soon right again. Hardy ran out to kick away from Stein in further pronounced Everton pressure before Johnson let go one of his best efforts, a left-footed rising shot, which Hardy tripped over in dramatic fashion. Smith threw away a good chance for faulty shooting after Robbie and Hope had won him an open goal, and when Dean went through on his own he disappointed by weakly placing behind. Cresswell came a cropper in the mud, and to prevent Bury getting through punched the ball this way and that while lying prone, but the free kick came to nothing. Dean displayed perseverance when he beat five men and ran through to shoot, but the ball touched Bradshaw's foot and ran for a corner. Just before the interval Smith placed high over the bar with a long drive.
Half-time Everton 1 Bury 0.
There were early thrills in the second half for following Cresswell free kick there was a hectic scramble, but Hardy was enterprising enough to run out and put paid to it all. Stein raced through from Dean's pass, and his low centre was snapped up by Dunn, who looked to be a scorer until Bullock turned his shot aside in the nick of time. Everton were attacking when Johnson's pass hit Referee Harper on the elbow, causing him to drop his whistle in the mud.
Referee controlled game with a Kanderchief.
Dean ran forward to cause Hardy to save low down, but the referee had his whistle clogged with mud, and controlled the game with a handkerchief until a linesman gave him another one.
Bravo, McPherson.
McPherson' secured his first Football League goal for Everton by driving home direct from a free kick after 67 minutes. Dunn had been fouled on the edge of the penalty area, and McPherson lobbed the ball in deceptive style to the goalmouth. Bradshaw misjudged the flight and so did Hardy. They ran out from goal, but the ball dropped over their heads into the net. Robbie charged Thomson right into the crowd.
Bury score.
In 69 minutes Bury, in their first really serious attack this half, reduced the lead through Smith. Amos prevented Williams from clearing out on the touch line, and Grass outwitted the Everton defence with a fine centre, which Smith headed in while on the run. Bury kept up the pressure, and Robbie equalised in 72 minutes. Williams conceded a corner unnecessarily, for Coggins had the ball covered and this lead to a fierce passage at arms in the Everton goalmout. Thomson received but instead of clearing first time played with the ball, and as it bounced Robbie dashed in to score with a grand drive to the roof of the net. Everton were not lasting well, and as the end approached Bury were doing most of the attacking. Everton had a free kick on the edge of the penalty area for pushing, but Hardy tipped Cresswell's shot over the bar. Gee scored a third for Everton right on time.

GEE LAST MINUTE GOAL
January 2 nd 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Everton beat Bury in Hard Game.
Dunn Two Assits and Critchley One.
Bury Hit Crossbar twice in First half.
By "Bee."
It is given to few centre half backs to make their debut in senior football, or in new colours, and to score a vital goal that brings victory instead of a drawn result. This was what happened at Goodison Park, yesterday, when Everton won their return game, with Bury 3-2 after being 2-all one minute from the finish. Critchley spotted the ball for a corner kick and took it very slowly, and with much deadliness for Gee to head through a mass of dirt-ladened players. And that is how a coupling incident was ended, for on Christmas Day Everton, after being two goals down at Bury, had got two goals, in two minutes, and yesterday Everton had taken a lead of two goals per Dean and McPherson and were "riding easy "-perhaps too confidentially.
Two Goals in Two Minutes.
Bury fought back never stopped trying, and finally got two goals, in two minutes about the seventy minutes period. Smith headed the first from a left wing move and Robbie crashed the second goal. After that Bury were unmistakably the superior side. They had got a notion of how to loft the ball, to escape the sea of mud. Everton were rattled, and nervy, and though they fought gallantly, it must be said that one's sympathise went with Bury in such circumstances, and it was really hard fortune for them to lose the game in the last moment of play. The standard of play had been quite good considering the barrier of the ground, which was a mass of churned up mud. The ball had to be driven hard to make shy progress and the decent bits of turf on the wings were not used successfully in the second half, Stein having little or no chances to show his pace, as he had proved he could in the first half, when hardy, the former goalkeeper of the Everton club, stopped him getting two goals.
Hardy's Display.
Hardy took his usual risks by kicking away instead of handling, but he kept goal well until the free kick awarded to Dunn and taken by McPherson who made a half-lob and Hardy was deceived by the flight of the ball, which passed over his hands into the net. Dean's goal in eighteen minutes was the result of a pass upward by a half-back, and the ball dropped dead at Dean's foot. Dean did much fine close dribbling against Bullock; in fact these duels in the middle were the salt of the first half. Chester, after being outrun, completed a fine day's work, but it was in finding touch that Bury sank their chances. They kicked into touch in the last few minutes, and it was one of these wild Innges for safety's sakes that led to the corner that caused the winning goal. Playing at home must be worth a goal lead to Everton these days, and knowing the mud-heaps as they did they seemed to tire or become over confident in the threequarters stage –it struck me, that they imagined two goals lead was ample. It was nearly their undoing, albeit Bury were not good in front of goal and had not taken their easy chances.
Good Fortune.
Coggins had little or nothing to do all day, yet he was helped by the bar angle first per Porter's shot and finally through Robbie's excellent drive. Therein lay Everton's good fortune. Hardy had kept out many shots. Coggins had few if any yet he had twice been "angled" by a very difficult ball, and had paid the penalty of a goal. Gee, acting for Griffiths, was an able forager, but like some others, he tired near the finish, and it was at that point that J.R. Smith was most dangerous. Grass was not prominent till he missed two reasonable chances, and Robbie was distinctly the best forward on the losing side.
Teams; - Everton; Coggins, goal; Williams (captain) and Cresswell, backs; McPherson, Gee, Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, and Stein, forwards. Bury; - Hardy goal; Chester, and Bradshaw, backs; Porter, Bullock, and Robinson, half-backs; Robbie, Hope, Smith, Grass, and Amos, forwards. Referee; W. Harper (Stourbridge).

EVERTON PLAYER TRANSFERRED
January 2 nd 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury
McCambridge Goes to Cardiff City
The Everton last night transferred WG McCambridge the Irish International inside-left to Cardiff City, and he will play for his new club against West Bromwich Albion tomorrow. McCambridge went to Everton last March from Ballymena, he played for his County against Wales and Scotland last season, and was watched by several clubs. The fee paid by Everton was said to be the highest ever received by the Ballymena club. He stands 5ft 9 and half inches and weights 9 and half stone. McCambridge played at inside-left for Ireland against Wales at Belfast last February and in the same month assisted his Country against Scotland at Glasgow, within a fortnight he was playing for Everton. McCambridge has played some fine games in the central league this season, and at Blackpool he obtained five of his side seven goals.

THE FIRST SHOW OF EVERTON AT SWANSEA AGAINST FORMER MERSEY PLAYERS
Liverpool Echo - Friday 02 January 1931
McCAMBRIDGE TRASFERED
Bee’s Notes
W. G. McCambridge, Everton's Irish international inside-left, was last night transferred to Cardiff City, and he will play to-morrow against West Bromwich Albion. He joined Everton last March from Ballymena, and has played for Ireland against Scotland and Wales.
THE MAN WHO CHEERED
After reading your notes this evening, I just have to write to you. I remember the Everton-Blackburn match very vividly indeed, although but fifteen years old at the time. Last season I told several people about it, especially the few days before Everton played Grimsby. I was, indeed, tempted to write to you then, because I felt it was going to be Grimsby's day of revenge (say “Satisfied "). Everton v. Blackburn was played on an Easter Monday, and I was standing leaning against the boards behind the Stanley Park goal it was indeed barefaced! Tom Booth kicked over his head towards his own goal, and to crown all, this is what happened: Kitchen, the goalie, got a soft shot and saved it, but, picking the ball up, threw it between his legs into the net! You should have heard the remarks from the spectators. Nowadays I am unable to get to see many matches, and last, season I managed to see the Blues twice, the Arsenal, and, to my great joy, the Grimsby match. Even whilst watching that match the Everton-Blackburn affair was being played in my memory, and I am not ashamed to say I cheered and cheered each time Robson got those pile drivers. I hope it will not be for twenty-seven years, of course, because they are too good to be out of the First Division. I am glad you hate mentioned in your notes about this, because some of the spectators who ragged me for cheering Grimsby last season, although I told them of the affair of long ago, may now see that I was right in my statement. Now. “Bee." Everton did play Southampton in a Cup-tie at Goodison Park, and won 4-1; and Frank Jefferis played for the Sotons. I remember a very curious goal being scored that day. Hardman taking a corner and Settle facing him with his back against the goalpost, just a little flick of the head putting the ball into the net.
AT SWANSEA AGAIN
The last time (aye, the first time, too) I was down at Swansea it was for an international, and England's centre, Dean, got a tight-lacing effect in one minute. The ball-lace, swinging out, cut his eye, and he could see nothing for the rest of the game. Since then a lot of things have happened. Manager Thompson, of Bury, has gone to Swansea; he has taken men like Easton from Everton and Lindsay from Liverpool; the club have Ernest Edwards as trainer—what more would you save in the ill-luck that such a name carries? Swansea three years ago threatened to be everything; to-day they fear to be anything, and realize that nothing succeeds like success. They have lost their Cup-tie triumphs! they have lost caste in the League chart; they have lost their first Derby game with Cardiff for ten years. Yet they are sure to put up an extra special effort against the leaders to-morrow at the Swans-down ground. Everton get this reception everywhere they go. Everyone says “So glad to see you; come again—we love you and the money you draw into our coffers." The appeal of such names as Dean, Cresswell. &c., make for big drawing cards, and, as McPherson is going to the club he left, it will naturally create an atmosphere of interest when he steps out to-morrow on former fields of fun and fury—if any! Everton are hanging out their washing after last week's mud-larking, on the top rung of the ladder. It is good to see them unmoved.  It is encouraging to them, and it is disconcerting to the others. Still, theirs must be a long pull to the end. Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McPherson, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. 

GEE-O-A-L! –AND JUST IN TIME
January 2 nd 1931. Evening Express
A Trip Everton Might Take From Bury
By the Pilot.
Gee! What a finish. Everton and Bury were two goals each at Goodison Park with a minute to go. Bury were kicking out. They kicked out wrongly and Everton had a corner, Critchley took it perfectly and Gee burst through a bunch of players and shouldered through the winning goal. Bury deserved a point for their great second half rally after being two goals down eighteen minutes from time. They scored two goals in three minutes and continued right on top until they made a tragic error of trying to save a point by kick out. McPherson scored his first Football league goal for the Blues by netting from a free kick in the second half, and Dean's successful effort was his 25 th of the season. Everton have proved themselves mudlarkes, but they must take the tip from Bury and keep a little reserve up their sleeves.
Those Downy Swans.
Everton will find them Warlike at the Vetch.
Two Everton players at least will enjoy the club's visit to Swansea. For Williams and McPherson, it is virtually a trip home for both players were favourites before they established themselves at Goodison. The Welsh team are a great side at home –they lost only one game there and have gathered 18 out of a possible 22 points –and Everton are faced with one of their hardest tasks of the season. Gee continues in Griffiths position at centre-half, which means the Blues will field the same side which defeated Bury yesterday. A victory for Everton will leave them with a long lead, and therefore an easy mind for their Cup-tie next week. Swansea's great strength is in defence, and they have conceded but six goals more than Everton. It should be a great clash between the Welsh defence and the Everton forward line, which has scored more goals than any Football league side in the country. I believe the Blues will be good enough to avoid defeat. Everton; Coggins; Williams, Creswell; McPherson, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein.
Sport Pie
•  Everton have transferred Jimmy McCambridge, their Irish international forward, to Cardiff City, and he will play against West Bromwich Albion at the Hawthorns tomorrow.
•  Everton now hold five points lead over their Second Division rivals, all clubs having played the same number of matches.
•  Central league Match at Goodison Park Tomorrow (Saturday), Everton v West Bromwich. Kick off 2.30. Admission 6d, Boys 3d. stands extra (including tax).

GOODISON GAME OFF
January 3 rd 1931. Evening Standard.
Everton Reserve match against West Bromwich, due to be played at Goodison Park, has been postponed owing to the state of the ground.

EVERTON’S DEAN-STEIN THEORY
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 03 January 1931
SWANSEA TOWN’S BEST GATE SEES RELATIVITY OF GOALS AND NO GOALS
THE BLUES BEST EXHIBITION FOR MONTHS
By Bee
Swansea; Ferguson; L. Williams, Milne; Sykes, Hanford, Miller; Lindsay, Easton, Williams, Armand, Bell.  Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McPherson, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein.  Referee; Mr. Bryan, Willenhall. 
Swansea told the usual tale of an Everton visitation. They welcomed the side with both arms. They desired to see Dean and Company. They had seen him in an international here, but he had been injured and could not do himself justice. They welcomed Ben Williams and McPherson with musical honours, " Should Auld Acquaintance be Forgot, - and we, in our turn, welcomed the former Mersey players, Lindsay and Easton. So it was a happy gathering. The ground was in perfect condition, and Swansea keen to make revenge for the 5-1 defeat at Goodison Park. Everton had to bring up Hunter Hart as twelfth man through the number of injuries they had suffered. Hart is fit and never fat. Ben Williams had a remarkable reception when he went to toss the coin. Within two minutes Everton had obtained their confident measure by a beauty of a goal scored by Stein. Stein headed through definitely and well to the extreme right-hand corner of the goal, and thus made his fifth goal in seven Saturdays—a remarkable performances from an outside-left. The making of the goal was as good as the breaking of it. McPherson moved the ball along the wing, and Critchley made a well-defined and competent dribble, passing to Dunn, who sized the position and passed slightly forward. Critchley anticipated the move and centred in a way that invited a header. Stein supplied the header and a goal. The remarkable thing was that there were not four goals in ten minutes. Ferguson made a grand save from stein, who made a brilliant right-foot shot, and the save was equally worthy. Then there came a further series of extraordinary happenings. Dean, from a yard to the right of the goa, made an astonishing hook and angle, the goalkeeper being surprised, also the spectators. Then Gee tackled R. Williams too heartily, and as the player, got off the ground Williams deliberately elbowed Gee in the mouth. None of the officials saw the offence.
DEAN ATER STEIN
Swansea claimed loud and long for a penalty kick when McPherson seemed to cross the legs of the home centre-forward. This brought a nettle-rash into the game, and for a time tempers were short. Dunn made an excellent straight shot that the goalkeeper pushed away, and Dean scored in six minutes. A solo sort of goal, in which he was baulked twice, but finally, after shooting, he got the rebound, and hit an unstoppable shot. Swansea's centre-forward was spoken to by Ben Williams, and there was a protest, but the referee allowed the players to go on to the other end, while he stood arguing with the other Swansea players. Lindsay was hurt, but resumed play in one minute, and Swansea should have scored with ease when Armand stood in front of goal, but could not convert an easy chance. Everton’s combination was pretty and full of value, and Dunn served up a beautiful forward pass for Dean, who had just a shade too much loft on the ball. On the other hand, Armad made a shot but had no luck. Actually it was passing towards goal when it struck R. Williams' head. Perhaps this would quieten that fiery forward.
REFRESHING
Everton have lately been so refreshing. They walked through Swansea's defence almost at will, and they have done nothing better this season. Dunn made a peculiar back-heel touch, with good results, and Johnson made one of his own Manchester drive, which merely served to show how able this man Ferguson is in goal. Ferguson caught the ball in the extreme right hand corner, and in a minute Johnson had made another sound and sharp shot at the same point, but not so high. Ferguson stopped this one, and Johnson got an injury to his thigh in the process. He left the field for a moment or two, and in the meantime one had a chance to appreciate the skill of Milne.  Swansea were not lying down to a two-goals deficit, and the 25,000 spectators who formed the best gate of the season were fair enough to appraise Ben Williams' skill for what it was worth. Dunn was a box of tricks, and he showed the spectators some football wares they had never seen before. Stein was a shade angled, and Swansea were a shade naughty, some of their tackles being unfair. Armand tried to break the Swanseaites lack of success by a desperate first-time hook. The fact that the ball went over the bar was as nothing. Swansea had a great chance to score, although Coggins had to withstand two men from the right. At this point Thomson made an ideal along-the-touch-line pass, and followed it up by going to help his left wing player. This was the beginning of the third goal, and what is more a triumph of combination. Dean went to head the ball, and as usual was stoutly cannoned by an excess of numbers.
EASY FOR CRITCHLEY
He got a knock on the back of the head, but the pain was as nothing when he saw the ball travel out to the right, where Critchley had the easiest of tasks. Critchley has rarely had such an easy task, thanks to the methods adopted by Dunn. Dunn was just about as good as at Wembley in the famous Scottish rout. Swansea were very rugged, but not convincing in attack, and I rate this as the best exhibition I have seen Everton for a year.
R. WILLIAMS REPLIES
They played first-class football, entertaining, enterprising and enthusiastic; but it was good to see Swansea pegging hack, and after B. Williams had saved Everton twice there was a short, sharp raid on the left, a centre from the wing, and a pretty goal scored by Ronnie Williams. This set the Welsh folks afire. It showed them that they could get a good return for good football rather than blustering and unwise rushing. Easton now began to make use of his able little dribbles.
DOUR SWANSEA
WELSH SIDE STRONG IN SECOND HALF
AN EVERTON VICTORY
BLUES FINE EXHIBITION OF FOOTBALL
Everton were not tired at Swansea, but they were tried by a rugged, enthusiastic side that would not accept defeat without a battle. Once again Everton scored in the first minute of play, and the goal to Stein, the outside left, was an encouraging featured. In the first half Everton's display was the best they have given for over a year; but once Williams had scored for Swansea, the horns team became a menace.  Dean, who with Critchley, had scored in the first half, made a perfect heady., and apparently the game was won. Swansea fought back, and Easton scored against his old club. Thus the game was bristling with excitement to the finish.—A hard, continuous battle, with skill triumphant.
In the first-half Stein, Dean, and Critchley ,scored for Everton; R. William; for Swansea. Swansea began the second half with refreshing attacks. They were very determined, and were now playing better than at any previous point of play. Lindsay's fast drive was smartly patted away by Coggins. Easton was crowded out by Cresswell, and although Dean made a header from Thomson, and Cresswell made his usual deadly length with a free kick, Swansea were rousing and roaring, and needed a lot of attention to prevent them making the issue a mere goal. Armand was just over the bar after Williams had headed out, and on the contra account Critchley escaped a full-blooded charge, and centred a shade too sharp, so that Dean's header swung to the left instead of the right. Dean had three solo runs, each full of thrills. In his first he beat a back, one of two that came at him, and shot hard, the long Ferguson throwing himself full length and catching the ball with his body to prevent a further goal. Again Dean was on his own, and was near putting Stein flying through. The game was hard, and Everton did not feel so comfortable as in the first half, probably tiring. Yet Dean found time to surprise a back who thought the ball must pass out, and he went out wide on the right wing to make a centre of such good length that Ferguson had to be sharp to save. It was at this point that Everton resumed their best combination all along the front line, Ferguson making another good save, and at the same time pushing Critchley some yards off. Cresswell began to move up many paces, and helped in the work of throwing in.
A DEAN HEADER
There was tine understanding on the left flank, and Dean scored with a header in 20 minutes, through admire able play on the left and a centre from Stein near the corner flag that asked for the net and soon got it. This was welcome, because it relieved the tension that had been made by the persistence of the Swansea trio. McPherson was delaying his parting with the ball, but one remembered he had been suffering a damaged thigh. No one was more earnest and thorough than Ben Williams against his old side, he gave a very hearty display. The issue hung in the balance a second time when Easton scored with a resounding smack after R. Williams had hit the crossbar with a terrific shot. The game was now harder than ever, although Everton had a two-goals lead. Armand and Bell were resourceful, and Critchley good on the wing even if his left-foot shot swung over the bar. Dean and Dunn made a dual turn that threatened a goal for Dunn at a period when Everton were on the upgrade. It was plain; however, that Everton had tired and felt they had the game well in hand. Johnson sprang to life with a superb pass for stein, and when the centre came across Critchley sliced a shot that went over to Johnson, who had no hesitation, putting the match beyond dispute with a score of 5-2. Gee was carried off with a damaged leg so soon as the game was over. Final; Swansea 2, Everton 5. –Everton res v West Brom Res postponed.

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 03 January 1931
By Louis T. Kelly

SWANSEA TOWN 2 EVERTON 5
January 5 th 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Forwards Shine at Swansea.
Everton Show Their Best Form
By "Bee."
It has been the fashion for Second Division sides to flash and thrust in the first of their games with Everton. The leaders in all their away games, until Saturday, have formed the habit of stemming the torrent and winning by waiting. After the game against Plymouth at Goodison Park and Saturday's game at Swansea they have been forced to realise that there are exceptions to these Second Division processes in the initial stages of play. Everton played so well in the first half that they made the Welsh team look more commoners. Their half-backs could not hold or cope with the ability of the Everton forwards, who were in their daintiest and therefore, their deadless demeanor. Probably the Everton forwards enjoyed the novelty of working a ball on a ground that was in an extremely good condition, which is a state quite foreign to Goodison Park.
Goal in First Minute.
The fact was soon made evident that Everton were in their best form, and were apparently keen to take a big leeway, so that they could rest on their oars when they tired against a team that has had no midweek match. The final score of 5-2 was no exaggeration of Everton's superiority, but it does not tell the public how manfully Swansea battled in the second half. The game was apparently won when Everton scored in one minute. It was seemingly ended when Everton led by three goals, but the inspiration of a goal to any Welsh side is electric, and R. Williams scored a first goal near half-time and this served to light the way to the Swanseas side. Their football may have been crude in front of goal, yet their persistency and pluck to the finish was praiseworthy. In fact, they made a deep impression in the second half, and it needed Everton's best defensive lung to starve of further goals, especially as the somewhat damaged McPherson and the overstrained young player Gee could not cope with two heavy engagements in three days. While it is quite true to say that Everton could have got four goals in the first ten minutes, it is equally a feature of the play that Swansea should, and could have got two or three, but for hasty finishing and wretched direction in shooting.
Williams Stands Out.
It was a triumph of the arts of the game over the artisan of the game. Swansea did everything in a full-blooded manner, whereas Everton forwards got their goals by the flick and sleek move of the draughtmen. The goal order was Stein 1 minute, Dean 6, Critchley 30, R. Williams 35, Dean 65, Easton 70, Johnson 88. There was no better back on the field than Milne, even if we allow that Ben Williams against his old side was in his more rugged mood –an earnest defender and an everlasting worker, and a man who inspires team spirit. One may say of Williams –"Here is a club man." Swansea were chiefly faulted in the forward line, where R. Williams their useful centre, showed inclination towards temper, which created free kicks in front of goal; while on the winning side the frost rank lived up to the title of front rank, Thomson was Everton's best half in a line that was not altogether satisfying . Teams; - Swansea Town; - Ferguson, goal; L. Williams, and Milnes, backs; Sykes, Handford and Miller, half-backs; Lindsay, Easton, R. Williams, Armand, and Bell, forwards. Everton; - Coggins, goal; Williams (captain) and Cresswell, backs; McPherson, Gee, and Thomson half-backs; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson and Stein, forwards.

SKELMERSDALE UNITED 3 EVERTON "A" 3
January 5 th 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Liverpool County Combination
Colier –the Skelmersdale United centre forward, performed the hat-trick, but the visitors were capital raiders, and after being two goals in arrears, rallied to share the points. Davies (2) and Chedsgzoy scored for Everton. Skelmersdale Boardman, who has signed for Burscough and his place was taken by Cronk, Hayes, their left winger, was injured and Skelmersdale played the best part of the second half with ten men.

THE BRILLIANCE OF EVERTON FORWARDS
Liverpool Echo - Monday 05 January 1931
Bee’s Notes
The effect of Saturday's games was to bring a Mersey double. Everton, on their part, did a rather notable thing in beating Swansea at the Vetch Field by a margin that was worthy and was suited to the displays given by both sides. Swansea deserved to score; they might not have scored if there had been a little steadiness in a certain part of the Everton side; but the fact remains that there was a brilliant display by the winners, and they earned the praise of the home people, who were keen to show their appreciation even if it went against the grain to suffer a home defeat. Few clubs would have lived with Everton as they played on Saturday. I have not known them so refreshing for many a month, if not many a season. Actually they walked through the Swansea defence, in which Milne did uncommonly well, and is worth noticing for future dates and references. Everton’s forward line revelled in the good going, and they appreciated that it gave the chance to get their passes to the right spot. They had the correct notion, keeping the ball low; they had the final touch which means so much. When near goal they hit the ball very hard and it would not have been surprising had there been a double figure score. I have many times talked of Everton's victories away from home in a manner that has suggested that while one was glad to see the win one was sorry to have to say the win was not satisfying. I am glad to be able to put on record that on Saturday they gave their best display, and the result proves that they can go through a tiring match against a rousing, tousy side with good heart. Swansea would have run most teams off their feet in the second half. Everton's defence was overworked during that period but the defence stuck to their work and the backs deserve commendation for this feature. Ben Williams, acting against his old club, put in every ounce of his great weight, and Cresswell, in a minor degree, kept up his end in a differing manner but with sure, steady foot and head. At root this game was won by the forwards, because they refused to play down to Swansea's rush style. They kept the hall low, they drew a defender before they made a pass, and they went the way the spectators did not imagine they would go. That wee their canniness. I cannot mica out one of the fire in this praise. They all worked with a will, but with a skill that would have carried them to Fucce66 anywhere. Swansea, fresh as paint through having had an off day on New Year's Day, met a side leg wearied through the mud and through the travel to far-off Swansea, vet they fought back finely, and wearing down the sturdy lade of Wales they won a famous victory.
WON BY FORWARDS
Dean worked with unusual dash, and his persistence against the crushing backs was good to see. Critchley had a quiet game. Stein revelled in his long stride and the smashing shot, and Dunn acted the little part so necessary in these Second Division matches—he hugged the ball and kept falling hack to help a flank that had gone a hit "wonky through McPherson having muscle trouble. McPherson is a rare delight with the ball, but the need for coming' back to make and take a tackle is absent. It is not a new complaint against him, but it is one that has he put on record. Gee, in the middle, played extremely well until he tired through excess of effort. It was a big task to tackle two days such as he had to go through. Thomson was the complete half-back, and in front of him was the dominating wing of the day—Stein and Johnson. Johnson has never played quite so well since he left Manchester City. Here was cute pass, an inter-change of position, and wisdom that carried Stein into the corner almost unmarked. Johnson made Stein play, and Stein replied with refreshing vigour and deadliness. Coggins was also a rock He was not often bothered but the shots were of extremely difficult character. Swansea are a better side than their record suggests. They have youth and some experience; they have the will and the willingness, but I did not fancy their extreme wingers as they played on Saturday. Lindsay got a bang and was generally a trifle tender for a man who has been buffeted at centre- forward, and should have a good innings at outside right. Easton did not do much better, but the centre half-back and the rousing little centre-forward Ronnie Williams were a menace.  Williams spoiled his game by not giving his whole attention to the game. There are no prizes for such tactics. Ferguson, in goal, is a huge fellow, and his goalkeeping stamps him as a truly great goalkeeper. He kept the score down, kind kept Johnson from three and Dean from four. Directors Green and the newcomer to the board (Mr. Clarrie Hayes) were with the happy party that trekked home at midnight on Saturday. Next on turn is Plymouth,  but I have no great doubt about this Cup tie, because, well as Plymouth can play, Everton are in a mood that brooks no interference with their continued march to victory and the championship. Remembering last season's wind up of eleven points from five games, and tacking that on to the present record, we find Everton with 47 point from 29 matches. That is a record of which they can be proud. But lam the more proud and pleased because they played so extremely well on Saturday. Had they lost and given the same stylish exhibition one would have been content. This was football. And Ben William, one could rightly say, " Here is a club man."
BETTER THAN RECORD
Swansea's Richards, a boxing referee, well known in Liverpool and South Wales, was at the match. He had been down at the old home to celebrate the birth of a son. For the first time in Everton's history, so far as I can recall, the Everton players were called up to-day for Cup-tie work. Monday has been looked upon as saints' day, but the Everton club and players are very keen, and for once in a way they set upon their task from the first moment, though that day is looked upon as a holiday.

SWANSEA COULD NOT STOP THEM
January 5 th 1931. Evening Express.
Everton Forwards Work Like a Machine.
By the Pilot.
Five forceful forwards finishing finely. That sums up Everton's sparkling 5-2 victory at Swansea, a graveyard of many hopes. I cannot recollect such perfect forward work as that of Dean and Co., on Saturday. Right from the kick-off they developed a flawless understanding and bewildered the Swansea defence. It was football of the copy-book variety. I do not blame the Swans for being so overrun. There can be few defences, which could have repelled the Everton forward line as seen in this exhilarating "cocktail" to the forthcoming cup-tie. Individually brilliant, the Everton forwards combined with wonderful precision. Short-passing or long passing, it all came alike to them. They interchanged positions with remarkable foresight, and yet made it look all so effortless. The Everton half backs, too, gave ideal support, but the crowning piece was the marvelous triangular work of the left wing –Stein, Johnson, and Thomson.
Gee's One Fault.
I admired the home side for their pluck, but it required a great deal more to stop Everton, who, as a Swansea official remarked to me after the game, "Were far too good for the Second Division on that showing."
Swansea people think a lot of Ron Williams, their young centre forward. He was made to appear small fry when ranged alongside Dean, who was a fine leader. Gee was a forceful robust pivot whose only fault was a tendency to get out of position and McPherson had a good first half. Thomson was the pick and I cannot remember him having been guilty of one error. I have seen few things better than his inward pass to Johnson.
Thoughts of Other Days.
Ben Williams' display made the spectators think of days when he wore the all-white attire. His tackling was beautifully timed and ruthless, he kicked a pretty length and had a fine understanding with his colleagues. Cresswell was the studious defender who ability to look two moves ahead enabled him to make interception save the tackle. Coggins had three or four nasty shots to deal with, but was another master in a team of masters. Swansea had a good goalkeeper in Ferguson, and a brainy back in Milne. Miller was the best of the intermediates, and in attack Bell and Armand were better than the right flank composed of the ex-Merseysiders, Easton and Lindsay.
Now for the Cup-tie.
Everton began their Cup-tie preparation today, the players going for a gentle walk in the charge of Hunter Hart.
Sport Pie
•  Everton are in the proud position of having won more matches and scored more goals than any club in the Football League. They have obtained full points on 17 occasions, and have secured 78 goals.
•  Mr. Dave Ashworth, the former manager of Liverpool and now manager of Lianelly, went across to Swansea on Saturday to renew acquaintance with his Everton friends.
•  Some of the spectators at Swansea were not typical of the general body, who obviously appreciated Everton;s cleverless. When Trainer Harry Cook went to attend to Stein for an injury clinkers and small stones were thrown at him, cutting his left ear and hurting his back.

EVERTON’S MARCH BACK TO FIRST DIVISION
Athletic News - Monday 05 January 1931 
PROMOTION FORM
SWANSEA SWAMPED BY SPARKLING LEADERS
EVERTON 5, SWANSEA TOWN 2
Swansea Town disappointed the biggest crowd that has watched their displays this season, when they jailed lamentably against the leaders.  One side played football in the true sense of the word, and that was not the Welsh side.  There was something ironical in Swansea’s defeat, for amongst those who contributed to it were Williams and McPherson, both of whom, Swansea transferred to Everton for a substantial fee.  Against Everton’s stylish attacks, and their delightful half-back and forward combination, Swansea pitted a most unimpressive defence.  For long periods the home side were held in almost complete subjection, followers of the team having seldom witnessed such a lack of initiative.  Although in nil the finer  phase play there were times, especially  in the first half,  when Swansea should  have got goals.  The forwards, however, were inept in front of goal, and chances were lost unaccountably.  The Welsh side were visibly staggered before the game was very old the referee refused to award penalty when Armand was fouled in the area, and there were other decisions that caused surprise.  Apart from these incidents, which irrigated the spectators, there was general recognition of the class which marked the day of Everton. Particularly pleasing was the smooth work between their half-backs and forwards.
EVERTON SCORERS. 
Among the latter Dean and Stem were very conspicuous. It was the outside-left who opened Everton’s scoring account with a brilliant goal, and Dean eluded the careful attention of Hanford to increase his side lead. At this stage Everton were supreme. Critchley scored third goal. Williams (R.) reduced the deficit before the interval, but Swansea in the meantime had lost some easy scoring chances.  Dean got Everton’s fourth goal, and though Easton got second for Swansea the latter never appeared likely to hold their own, and Stein scored a fifth.  Swansea closely watched Dean, but Everton had other forwards who knew how to get goals, and they took full advantage of their opportunities revealed true promotion form.  Swansea's half-backs and backs were very unimpressive against a skillful attack.  Williams, the Swansea Town back, was very sound, and be coupled skillful placing of the ball with his virile clearances.  In some respects Everton were fortunate, especially in the first 15 minutes, but they fully merited their success, for they proved themselves a 90-minute team. They were speedy and clever, and whenever Everton half-back passed the ball there was a forward in position to receive it.  Swansea were crude in their attacks, and weakness at centre half was very noticeable.  The defence, too made many lapses, and their play generally was poor.  Swansea Town; Ferguson; Williams (L.), Milne; Sykes, Hanford, Miller; Lindsay, Easton, Williams (R.), Armand, and Bell.  Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McPherson, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, and Stein.    Referee; Mr. T.G. Bryan, Willenhall. 

"WE SHALL WIN," NOTE AT GOODISON.
January 6 th 1931. Evening Express
Griffiths and Rigby Still Under Treatment.
By the Pilot.
"we shall win." This is the confident expression of all the Everton players, with regard to their cup tie with Plymouth, at Home Park on Saturday. The Blues have every reason to be optimistic about their journey to the west. Already they have defeated Argyle twice this season, and, incidentally, registered their biggest victory against them. Unlike other seasons, no special training is being given to the players. "We are just carrying on in the usual way at home," said Mr. Tom McIntosh, the secretary today. "There is absolutely no change whatever in the procedure." The team will, I expect be much the same as that which has gained nine out of the last ten points played for. Two first team men are on the injured list –Griffiths and Rigby. Both are suffering from foot injuries, and while it is doubtful whether Rigby will be fit if required, Griffiths is making good progress, and there are hopes he will take the field. The Everton directors will meet tonight to consider the question of the team.
Plymouth won't be tired this time.
Plymouth Argyle are confident that the score of nine goals by Everton, when the Argyle visited them last month, will not be repeated. All are confident of being able to extend the League leaders to such purpose that victory will go to the Argyle. Owing to the lightness of weight Argyle may be hampered. They will miss the effective thrust of such a centre-forward as Bird, but otherwise, with the rearrangement of the forward line and the half back division, Argyle hope to reverse the result of the home game with Everton. Enthusiasts say that the crop of goals in the match at Goodison Park was largely attributed to the state of the ground, couple with the fact that the Plymouth team had travelled to Liverpool during the night, after their strenuous game with Cardiff City on Boxing Day.
Sport Pie
•  B. Howard Baker, Liverpool, will keep goal for the Corinthians in their cup tie with Port Vale at Crystal Palace on Saturday.

CAN EVERTON COMPETE "HAT-TRICK."
January 6 th 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
Everton have already beaten Plymouth Argyle on two occasions this season, by 3-2, in the opening game at Plymouth and 9-1 at Goodison park on Saturday week. It is expected therefore, that when they visit Home Park on Saturday for the cup-tie they will compete the "hat-trick" of victories at the expense of the Devon team. There can be no two opinions as to the excellence of the Everton side just now, and though cup-ties and League matches are different propositions the Goodison men should win at the first time of asking. They gained a triumph at Swansea on Saturday against a side that had previously suffered only one home defeat and won eight out of eleven games. Bury got six goals at Plymouth on Saturday, and I think the Everton attack will again prove too good for the Argyle defence. But the visitors must not take too much for granted.

REVIVING A MEMORY
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 06 January 1931
Bee’s Notes
I would like to call to your attention the Everton and Blackburn match 1903, bays “Anfield." It was played on Easter Monday, which our friend “Satisfied” tells us; but he has forgotten one little thing. Everton, just previous to this match, had transferred their centre - forward, Bowman, to Blackburn, and he scored all the three goals, and that was the correct score— Blackburn 3, Everton 0. This letter has a bearing on the question of Grimsby being pushed out of Division 1 by a fake at Goodision Park is 1903.
PLYMOUTH HO! ARGYLE PLAYERS GO TO DARTMOOR
SPECIAL TRAINING FOR THE CUP-TIE
PROSPECTS AND VIEWS FROM THE SOUTH
It can truthfully be said that the followers of Plymouth Argyle are not looking forward to next Saturday's Cup-tie with Everton with any feelings of confidence. They realise, of course, that their form at Goodison Park was altogether too bad to be true, and after their convincing four goals victory at Barnsley on New Year's Day their prospects in the Cup-tie seemed brighter. But after their inglorious display on Saturday against Bury, who beat them at Home Park by six goals to three, hopes have dwindled again. Argyle were more overplayed by Bury in the second half than they have been before their own supporters for many years, and Bury seemed to toy with them and score at will. Each time Argyle scored a goal Bury had replied with another within the apace of a minute. Their forwards went through the Argyle defence just like a knife going through butter. The whole reason for the defeat rested with the Argyle halves, who have not given a worse exhibition this season. Not only were they slow, but they simply could not “find " their forwards, and another great weakness was that there was always too great a gap between them and their front line whenever an attack was in progress. This defeat has given the Argyle management something to think about, and there may be many changes in the side for the Cup-tie. Fred Titmuss, the popular captain, has been confined to his home for nearly a week with an attack of tonsillitis, but it is likely that he will be fit again before next Saturday. It is doubtful, however, if Bird, the young Irish centre-forward, will have recovered from an injury sustained at Barnsley, when he pulled a thigh muscle, after giving his best display since he joined the side three months ago, and at the moment it is impossible to say how the forward line will be composed.
VIDLER MAY PLAY
There is just a possibility that Vidler, who injured his knee badly against Burnley in October and has been out of the side since, may be fit. He had a run with the Reserves on Saturday at Taunton, stood the trial well, and got a goal, and he may be brought in. If Bird has recovered it is possible that he will play inside right with Bowden, who has recovered his goal-scoring form of last season, at centre forward, and Vidler inside left, leaving Leslie to drop back to left half. Leslie played at half for the first time in his life when the team was depleted against the Spurs the other week, and his work was a revelation. It is thought that he may make a better half than a forward (though he has scored over a hundred goals for the side from inside left), but owing to injuries to other forwards it has been impossible to experiment with him again so far. All the grandstand tickets, which have been priced at 5s 9d, were sold before Christmas, and it is certain that if the weather is fine the attendance record will be broken, and that the gate will be somewhere in the region of forty thousand. It is equally certain that Everton will receive a real West Country welcome. They probably still remember the warm greeting which they received when they stepped on to Home Park to open the present season, and in Plymouth they are still regarded as the best and cleanest side who have been seen here. The Everton players will find the playing surface in a different condition, in what it was when they were last here. Water which has drained down from the high ground on which the new stand has been built has swamped the playing surface, but two successive dry days have put it in a more improved condition.
TRAINING-AT DARTMOOR!
The general slowness of Plymouth was so apparent against Bury that the management have decided on an innovation for the Cup-tie. They agreed yesterday to take the players to a quiet spot on Dartmoor for two or three days. This is the first time in the history of the club that any special form of training has been undergone for a Cup-tie. It is likely that the players will leave Plymouth to-day for the hotel at Two Bridges, a quiet spot right in the heart of the moor, two miles beyond the convict prison at Princetown, and about eighteen miles from Plymouth. The spot is really “quiet," for the hotel is the only habitation within an area of two miles—in the midst of a district which is beautiful in the summer but cold, wild, and cheerless in the winter. The Argyle players spent Christmas Day and night at this hotel, for they had no holiday fixture until Boxing Day. Mr. Bob Jack told me to-day that the invalids are progressing satisfactorily. Titmuss, the captain, who has been down with tonsilitis, is much better and is commencing light training, and it is almost certain that he will turn out in his accustomed position at left back.

McCLURE'S CHANCE.
January 7 th 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel
Everton have made a surprise change in their team to meet Plymouth Argyle at Plymouth. McClure the North-Eastern half-back, who has played in several League games, being preferred to Britton and McPherson at right half-back. McClure is a robust type of player whose style in a cup-tie may be calculated to be effective. Griffiths, who has been on the injured list, is fit again and returns to centre-half in place of Gee. These are the only changes from the side that beat Bury 3-2 and Swansea 5-2. The team is Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Griffiths, Thomson, Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. That side should be good enough to win.
Plymouth's Doubt.
The players travel to Plymouth on Friday, after the usual home training. The Plymouth team is at the moment doubt over players who are injured. Bird, the centre-forward and who played at Goodison Park on December 27 th , is likely to be an absentee owing to a thigh injury, but Titmiss the left, back and captain who did not play against Bury on Saturday when the Argyle lost six goals will turn out. The Plymouth players are training at Dartmoor.

CUP-TIES SURPRISES
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 07 January 1931
Bee’s Nots
Everton have also surprised us by their team-sheet.  They have McPherson injured, a thigh trouble, I believe, hence the inclusion of McClure.  Griffiths returning after his injury is a pleasant surprise, well as Gee has played in his initial bouts for his new side.  Actually there are those who believe that the day may not far distant when Gee stays put as pivot and Griffiths moves on to the wing.  However Everton are not keen about making experiments this season-they are treading the glory road and the spirit of the side that had no heart last season has risen to a confident point which leads the men to go on believing they will and can win.  And we are led to believe they win who believe they can.  Everton believe. 
And their records prove their belief. The team sheet will be much discussed, because it produces things unexpected and names believed to be impossible for Saturday. The team leaves at 9.10 on Friday morning, and having had Swansea trial they can withstand any long-distance journey. They return on Saturday night as far as Weston-super-Mare and complete the journey on Sunday, arriving at about 6 p.m. If McDougall eventually finds himself unfit, it is certain the able and versatile Thompson will walk in. The office is open till 8 p.m. for the rest of the week for the sale of tickets. Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein.  
McClure's inclusion reminds me that he is a son of a footballer, and his bulk and build suggest that he is ideally fitted for a half back berth. He has been angled by a number of clubs, Sheffield Wednesday, and others, but Everton hung on in the belief that he would be required, and here is his first real test. He has had League experience of a trifling character, just as the Liverpool centre, Scott. has had his League tests, but in Cup-ties the young folk are generally on a hiding to nothing, and therefore the Cup try-on becomes extremely difficult. I do not think either of our young men will let us down —they are dependable men.
EVERTON’S OPPONENTS
On Saturday Everton go to Plymouth to meet the Argyle in the third round of the English Cup, and although the Goodison Park side has already twice defeated the Southerners in league games, they may find it much more difficult to do so on this occasion, for cup warfare is much different from that of league warfare. Founded in 1903, Plymouth Argyle figured prominently in the Southern League, of which section they won the championship in 1912-13. They afterwards entered the Southern Section of the Third Division of its formation in 1920-21, and proved one of the most consistent sides in that division, being' runners-up during the successive season, of 1921-22-23-24-25-26-27, finally win the championship in 1929-30 with 68 points, and thus gaining promotion to their present category. Like all newcomers to the Second Division, they have found the struggle to make headway much harder than anticipated, and in their opening game-against their rivals of next Saturday—they lost 3-2 at home. Many other defeats followed, including still another one by their Cup rival, to the extent of 9-1 a fortnight ago at Goodison Park, while last Saturday they were beaten at home by Bury 6-2 These defeats have left the club hovering near the foot of the table with 19 points for 24 games, and thus it would appear that, in spite of the fact that most teams play quite a different type of game in cup-ties, Everton will once more prove too strong for their rivals.

SQUARES OF LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 07 January 1931
NO.14 –POWNALL SQUARE;
A MARKET, A BREWERY, A CHURCH
By Michael O’Mahony
Like the Crosbys, Clevelands, Hockenhalls, Shaws, and Sparlings, who have left us in our older thoroughfares memorials of the fact that they at one time were not as the rest of men, the name of William Pownall, who was Mayor in 1767, is commemorated in not only a street but a square.  There is a reason for this double distinction; he died during his year of office.  He was called up one March night at his house in Liver-street to suppress an alarming riot which was raging in a place called the “Devil’s Acre,” near the corner of the Salthouse Dock.  From the character of the denizens of the quarter it required no small amount of courage to push boldly in amongst them, but Mr. Pownall so gallantly exerted himself to restore order that he took a severe chill, from which he died a few days afterwards.  The old Leather Hall, in which there was a market for bides every Wednesday, and which gave its name to Leather-lane, stood near to the site of the square. 
FLYING TO ARMS
After this business was removed to Gill-Street, in 1833, the square continued to be occupied as a general market until 1849, when, for some unaccountable reason, the Town Council thought fit to supplies it.  The whole neigbourhood metaphorically flew to arms.  It was a year of revolution, thrones were shaking all over Europe, and what had now become a crowded district rose in defence of ancient rights against upstart tyranny.  Indignation meetings were held, processions marched, angry crowds surged up Castle-street, and, though they did not shout “A la lantern!” the wild smashing of crockery hurled at the closed doors of the Town Hall was a bit disconcerting to councilors who desired to return home with whole heads.  The Market Committee of the period was not as our one.  It possessed no William Wallace Kelly to suggest harmony with the united fragrance of bouquet and cigar, and restore a town to reason with a wave of his jeweled hand, but it hurriedly gave way, and the old square blazed with bonfires for a week.
A PLACE OF AFFECTION
Not only was the square, from the time in which it was formed, a hub of business enterprise, but a place to which the first residents were greatly attached James Hargreaves had a brewery there about 1780.  Having acquired an ample fortune he wished to build himself a suitable house, and said he could find “no site more appropriate than the spot on which he made the money.”  There accordingly, in a crowded neighbourhood, with the noise of the engine clattering in the rear, and the smell of the hops and grains ever in the air, he erected a noble mansion and lived in style, with numerous servants, horses, and carriages.  This state of things died with him.  The glory departed, and the story is forgotten.  His daughter became the wife of Dr. Raffies, the well-known Congregational minister.  The wealthy brewer was not the only resident of the locally who attained a pretty wide distinction.  A sloop of war putting into port had some repairs carried out by a local tradesman of Key-street, round the corner, and in due time an account was made out to the Admiralty which ran “Mister King George Dr. to Robert Seddon.”  The story of the unique document got wind, and from the hour it did so and to the end of his days the author was known as “Mr. King George,” his son reluctantly responding to the title “Prince of Wales.”  Curious to know if a trace of this tradesman existed in the recently reissued Liverpool directories by Mr. and Miss Shaw, I turned up the volume for 1767, and sure enough there he was set forth as “Robert Seddon, an anchorsmith at Key-street.”  The principal buildings in the square to-day are St. Mary’s Church and the large offices of Messrs Meek Thomas and Co., printers, in front of whose gates thinly flourish a line of the most heroic city-bred trees in Europe.  They deserve success.  The church, which is a successor of several of the same dedication in the immediate neighbourhood, being the oldest post Reformation Catholic parish in Liverpool, is not without history.  The immediate predecessor of the present church stood for many years in Edmund-street, a building of such severely Gothie outline that its architect, the elder Pugin, was known to walk to and from along its dusky arises murmuring “My child, I am proud of you.” 
STONE BY STONE
When, owing to railway extensions, this church was taken down, the numbered stones of the fabric were removed to Pownall-square, and the present St. Mary’s erected.  Religion and letters, however, were not always dominating factors in what was once a distinct notorious for fights; not for nothing does Cockspur-street bear its name,  quite close to the square was a cock-pit which in 1790 had to be closed because of the scenes of violence, depravity, and robbery which took place there.  This history of the place is curious.  In 1782 it became the first chapel of the Scots congregation who moved from there to Oldham-street.  Subsequently it was taken by a congregation of Independents, then a body of Kilhamites, a new connexion of Methodists founded by Mr. Alexander Kilham, then by the Swedenborgians, who worshipped there till 1819, when the Independents again occupied it, the Baptists rented it in 1820.  In 1824 it was left to the Primitive Methodists, and it closed its changeful career with the final meeting there of a sect called the Christian Society soon afterwards. 
A YOUNG PREACHER
It was then pulled down, and the site built over, but its memory is perpetuated by a stone tablet at the end of the street near Vauxhall-road, which bears the inscription; “Chapel-place 1839.”  The most notable religious leader who ever ministered in the old Cockspur-street chapel was undoubtedly a youthful preacher named Thomas Spencer.  His evident fervor and oratorical powers gave rise to such extensive popularity that it was said of him by an admirer “that he was the best game bird the Dissenters ever had to pit against the Devil.”  The crowds who flocked to listen to his ministry were so great that the present GT. George-street chapel was built to accommodate them.  The brilliant career of the young preacher had a melancholy close.  Before the new chapel was opened he was drowned while bathing on the south shore.  The Pownall-square market was a populous place, especially on Saturday nights, down to the end of last century, but now all is changed; the square is that desirable oasis, a children’s playground.  The islands of crockery, and naphtha lamps are gone and where the wag known as “Cups-mugs-jugs-and- saucers” shouted out raucous witticisms, the careless voices of happy children mingle with the pealing of At. Mary’s bells.  Next Week;- Liverpool Exchange.

"WE HAVE DONE IT TWICE, WHY NOT AGAIN?"
January 8 th 1931. Evening Express.
"What we have accomplished twice this season we can do a third time. We are playing better today then we won at Home Park in August, and even allowing for improvement in the Argyle ranks, I think we are certain to win at the first time of asking."
Ben Williams, the Everton captain, said this to me when I visited Goodison Park to see the Blues preparing for their cup-tie at Plymouth. "I cannot see the Argyle defence stopping our forwards if we play anything like we did at Swansea." The froshbound ground and the fog did not deter the players in their training and under the care of trainer Harry Cooke and his assistance, Andy Tucker, they enjoyed their work.
Own methods.
The players each have their own particular methods of training, and, knowing the brilliance of the Argyles left wing –Black and Leslie –I watched Williams and McClure with more than ordinary interest. Williams wonderful double-tackle and McClure's sturdy clean shoulder charging are bound to be a menace to the Argyle forwards. Critchley and Stein are the fastest players on the books. Critchley is a matter of inches in 100 yards faster than Stein.
Dean on the Mark.
Dixie Dean demonstrated how he acquires accuracy in shooting. He was shooting into goal from all angles and distances with unerring precision. He showed me his training boots, too. Old, patched, torn and tattered, Dixie would not part with them. Why? You may ask. Well, they are the boots with which he broke all goal-scoring records in season 1927-28 with 60 goals. Dixie will not pension off his old favourites. Tommy Johnson revealed in training a marvellous shot with both feet, hitting the ball when it was about two feet from the ground.
"Somewhere in Devon."
Plymouth Argyle go into the country today and will not return until just before the match. A quiet spot "somewhere in Devon" has been selected, but its exact location is being kept a secret. The exact composition of the Argyle team will most certainly be a last –minute affair, and it is doubtful whether it will be decided until the players get back into the dressing room from their stay in the country. An interesting position has arisen with regard to the leadership of the attack. It is now possible that the directors will be able to make their choice from either Vidler of Bird. Vidler pronounces himself fit from the knee injury he sustained early in October. Bird, who was thought to be out of question after his injury at Barnsley last Thursday, has made a surprising recovery, and announces himself as perfectly fit. Thus the forward line will be; - Grozier, Bowden, Vidler, or Bird, Leslie, Black. The halves will be the same as played at Everton, namely, Mackay, Pullen, Hardie, with McKenzie, kept in reserve should his service be required at the last moment. There is some doubt about the left back position. In the hope of holding the speedy Critchley it is thought possible that Bland will be retained there in preference to Titmuss, the captain, who has just got over an attack of tonsillitis. Roberts will be at right back and Cann in goal. Cann, Mackay and Black are the three players in the side who have not missed a match this season.

REST CURE FOR PLAYERS
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 08 January 1931
PLYMOUTH ARGYLE'S TEAM V. EVERTON
From Our Own Correspondent Plymouth, Thursday.
Plymouth Argyle players went to Dartmoor, to-day, and will remain there until just before the Cup-tie v. Everton, on Saturday. They want to enjoy complete rest from the usual form of training. The order for them is simple fare, quiet rambles, fresh air (and they will get plenty of it), and early to bed. Meanwhile everything possible is being done to ensure that the surface of Home Park will be in a fit a state as possible. At the moment there are hard ridges on the ground, but, with the first trace of thaw, heavy rollers will be used to do the requisite levelling. The club are in the happy position of having a clean bill of health. Titmuss has resumed full training after his attack of tonsillitis, and Bird has made a remarkably quick recovery from his thigh injury Vidler, too, has been pronounced fit. It is probable the team will be: — Cann; Roberts, Titmuss; Mackay, Pullen, Hardie; Crozier, Bowden, Vidler, Leslie, Black. And it is probable that Everton will find the greatest weakness in this side at half-back.

EVERTON NOT SUPERSTITIOUS
January 9 th 1931. Evening Express.
13 players travel to Plymouth
It is evident that Everton believe they not superstitious. Can Everton record their third successive victory over Plymouth this season? League form suggests they can and will, but the Cup is full of shock results. The Blues must leave nothing to chance. The Everton players were given a cordial send off at Lime-Street Station today, when they set off to seek their Cup fortune in the West. The train left at 9.10 and was due to arrive at Plymouth at 6-30. After their game with the Argyle, the Everton men journey to Weston-Super-Mare, and after spending the night there, they return to Liverpool where they are due to arrive at 6-50 on Sunday evening. Mr. A. Coffey, Dr. Baxter (directors), and Mr. T. McIntosh (secretary) travelled with the men. Gee and Rigby accompanied the team as reserves. Griffiths is a doubtful starter, as his ankle injury, received against Plymouth Argyle in December 27, still troubles him. The injury affected him when he turned on the field, but he said he was hoping to play in the tie. Gee will deputise if Griffiths is not fit. Ben Williams, the captain said; "We are certain to win." The thaw should soften the ground and make it to our liking."
Mr. McIntosh, said; "Our players have a good chance of pulling through. There is just a doubt about Griffiths being fit to play.
Everton's Third Win?
Two League victories over Plymouth have given the Everton players great confidence. The Blues' great away record suggests that they have an excellent chance of reaching the fourth round. Plymouth are a hard side to beat at home, but the tonic of a previous victory there will not be wasted on the players. Plymouth's preparation have been restricted owing to the conditions of the ground, which was badly churned up last Saturday and is now completely frozen. Intervals of sunshine have failed to thaw the ground, and 50 tons of sea sand are being spread over the pitch, while steam rollers are endevouring to flattern the surface of the ground. Ball practice has been out of the question, and the Argyle players have restricted their training to sprints and physical exercises. The team were taken away yesterday to a quiet spot on the moors to rest and get completely for Saturday's match. A definite selection will not be made until Saturday, but Bird will probably lead the attack in preference to Vidler, owing to the hard state of the ground. Everton's team will be; - Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein.
Sport Pie
•  If Everton draw at Plymouth tickets for the replay at Goodison Park on Wednesday will be on sale on Saturday night and the following week.
•  Central League match at Goodison park Tomorrow (Saturday)Everton v Blackpool, kicks-off 2-30. Admission 6d, Boys 3d. Stands extra (Including tax).

EVERTON "CARRY-ON" IN LEAGUE AND CUP-TIES
Liverpool Echo - Friday 09 January 1931 
Bee’s Notes
EVERTOR AGOG
Everton started the season at Plymouth. They took their soundings there, and though they won 3-2 no one present could deny that the first half was Plymouth's. It is not wise to forget these facts in the joy of a victory-memory. After that Everton went sailing along merrily until they came to the Port Vale and Cardiff "stretch” in the Marathon week. They failed. They went on to get moving in the upper circle again, and victories made them a five points lead over all the others.. They were not playing well; they won at Millwall after a goal-exhibition that was merely funny! They knew they had played badly; they did not hide their faults; they said, " Thankit for sma' mercies." And so they went on to the December portions of play. The grounds got heavy, and Everton's goal-bag did likewise. It was fine football that won them their games in recent weeks, and at last the complete satisfaction arose—they had won away from home against Swansea, offering that deadly frontal attack that means so much relief for an already overworked full back line. I reckon that backs and goalkeeper have had more than their share of work. They have strained the gnat, and the forwards have generally won through in the second half. Lately, Everton's forwards have moved off sweetly and smartly in the early portion of play, and they have made good on their confidence was unbounded.  I think they will do something similar at their third meeting with Plymouth.  The Argyle have plainly gone back, a bit, and the change from third class to second class has not exactly suited some of the members who had been starring engagements of the third division.  Everton are agog with excitement.  They see no reason why they should be made a sacrifice on the altar of Cup-ties for the purpose of making sure their League promotion.  Rather do the players says;  “Get on with the bonus,” which, after all, is the player’s ruling factor in all these things, just as your wage is a compelling force- if I might mention it!  The changes made by Everton will be discussed fiercely if! But there should be no if about this visit to the South of England.  Plymouth hardly know what formation to put on the field.  If Vidler is there, then Everton will have to be smart down the middle.  However, the introduction of McClure seems to have been brought about solely for the purpose of increasing the ant-force of the half-back line.  All can and should use the ball well when they get it, but it had been felt that the captain had a lot of work to attend to on his own through facing two  men. In short, there wasn't sufficient link of defence between the wing halfback and his back. So McClure finds a way into the camp and he is against the strong wing of the Argyle side. A fortnight ago I thought Everton would draw. Now I think they are sure to win, if they continue to make every post a winning post. Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. 

RONALD DIX AND EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Friday 09 January 1931
BRISTOL GOALSCORER NOT FOR GOODISON
Frame Our Own Correspondent, Bristol, Friday .
Ronald Dix will not leave Bristol Rover, for Everton. On the eve of the Cup-ties, the latest chapter in the Ronald Dix transfer story was unfolded in a private house at Bristol—the home of the Dix family -late last night, when Mr. W. C. Cuff, chairman of the Everton F.C., and a , colleague, believed to be a director, interviewed the Bristol Rovers' player and his father, and tried to persuade them to change their mind about the lad going to Everton. Dix is still a minor. Captain Prince-Cox, the secretary-manager, and Mr. Harry Hovall, director of the Bristol Rovers Club, were present. The parties concerned were not, closeted together all the time, but there were several conferences which in all lasted nearly three hours.  Mr. Hovall assured me that whatever Mr. Cuff and his colleagues said to young Dix, the player stated definitely that he would not go to Everton, and so did his father. All through the negotiations the Rovers have been insistent on the fact that Dix does not want to go to Everton, and that the final word rests with the player himself, plus the approval of his father.

EVERTON’S HAT-TRICK SHOW
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 10 January 1931
GOALS TO SCOTLAND’S SONS-STEIN AND DUNN-AT PLYMOUTH
THE BLUES DIG IN WITH TWO NEW HALF-BACKS
By Bee
Plymouth;- Cann; Roberts, Bland; Mackay, Pullen, Hardie; Crozier, Bowden, Bird, Leslie, Black.  Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein.  Referee; Mr. Rouse, of Hertfordshire.
Everton travelled all day yesterday for the visit to Plymouth. They were an hour late getting in this being due to frost and fog. There was an eleventh-hour change, not surprising in ordinary circumstances, yet very surprising remembering that Griffiths tried himself out this morning on a ground nearby belonging to the Army, and, having kicked a very heavy ball for some time, declared himself fit. He was, therefore, the choice, but on arrival at the ground Griffiths cried off than half an hour before the game started. The damaged ankle began to swell, so Gee took his place. The team were awakened this morning at eight o'clock in an unusual manner. One heard the uncommon strains of the Funeral March in "Saul." With steady step and slow the procession moved off from the front of the hotel to the railway station. It was a military funeral.  Some players looked upon this as an omen of no special pleasure, but Rigby, on reserve, said that Blackburn never passed a funeral but what they won a Cup-tie game. It was good to find the air thawing. The ground, which had had a Corporation steam-roller on it, was in capital condition, considering the intense wintery visitations they have had here. Actually, it was so had that the manager of the Argyle side could not go to the training quarters on Dartmoor, as the hairpin bends threatened to put the car overboard. The people down here looked upon this as one of their greatest tests. They were faced with the fact they could not play Vidler and Tatmuss, dropped or injured. There were two stories about Titmuss. At any rate he did not play. The corners of the ground were grass-covered, but the middle portion had been sanded. It looked a drab picture compared with the fine view we had here on the opening day of the season. However, the sun shone brightly before the game started, and I, for one did not have an overcoat.
THE CUP DRAWS
The crowd rolled up and forgot about the Bury riot of a week ago and the fact that Everton had already beaten Plymouth 3-2 and 9-1. It was estimated by the locals that there were 30,000 spectators half an hour before the start of the game.
OFF THEY GO
Leslie won the toss. It meant nothing. Off they go, and the first move showed there was a treachery about some parts of the ground. Gee slipped up twice in what seemed to be a welter of mud, yet the first impressions had suggested there was nothing to fear. Dean's first shot came when he anticipated a pass back to the goalkeeper; the pass was made, but it hit another back, and Dean shot, but the attempt was saved. Crozier was trying to get away when he slipped up, so that there was no doubt about the ground being a deception. The ball was out into touch half-a-dozen times in three minutes, and Dean hooked the ball ably to Stein and Dunn, and these slipped up in trying to make headway, stein was next offside, and the game was deadened again. Dean made the first telling solo. He called for a pass, and used it to fine effect. He turned inwards and made one his place shots- beauty—so difficult that when Cann got it he came near sending it over his own goal-line. Then followed another opening full of shooting fear. Johnson stood close in, and was about to shoot when the ball “kicked." He moved it to his right foot, but was then covered. On the other hand, Plymouth came away on the right flank, and McClure came across to kick away from the goalmouth when no one else was there. Everton went again to the attack, and a goal seemed a certainty if Hardie had not got the McClure idea. Hardie was alone as a sentinel, and made a save to be remembered. Stein worked out of position, and from near centre forward he made a finely-judged hooked shot, which Cann caught. Stein tried another hook a moment later, after Crozier, like Critchley, had centred far too fast. Dunn was making the ball talk. He was a bundle of tricks, and had got the defence on toast, or at least on the rack. However, Plymouth were at times very smart, and Leslie started a movement that brought a black outlook, Gee kicking over the ball: but Plymouth, close in, got stuck in the mud. Critchley outpaced the left flank easily, but his centre was too low, and Dunn, after making two over-ankle taps, could not get in his shot. Dean was fed by a straight through pass, and his shot, taken at random, beat Cann, who had advanced, but it travelled half a yard outside the post. It was interesting football, not cup-tie breed, so far, because combination was often attempted and often done. Dunn, for instance, wheeled round and round and made raid after raid. Johnson let out a drive that knocked Pullen over, and the referee, hastily thinking the player had been stunned, stopped the play, only to find Pullen get up unhurt. Cresswell slipped up, and by this means Coggins had his first handle-nothing to worry over, however. Critchley, after good play by Dunn, went wheeling up a little too far, and the ball crossed the line as both he and the back went to the ground. Everton claimed a corner and Leslie a goal kick.
DUNN GOALS
The ball went behind, and the referee unmistakably gave a goal kick, and then the linesman on the spot of the incident gave his version to be a corner kick, and that was the birth of a goal. Critchley took it, a deadly spot ball kick, as he did the final against Bury, and Dunn got his head to the ball and glided it with some degree of pace. The ball entered the net in the extreme right hand side, only just squeezing into the net. Time, 16 minutes. Plymouth fought back soundly and hit the crossbar when Coggins had to handle the ball upwards. Pullen running up from centre half tried to emulate Dunn with his head, from a corner. To show you the difficulty of the turf, Cresswell, near goal, made a clearance kick, and set the ball near an adjoining field. This was the beginning of a rally that sent Plymouth wild with delight. A noteworthy case arose now. At my side sat Mr. Bob Jack, the manager of the Argyle, and though he is slightly deaf neither he nor anyone else could escape the outburst of a parson, who shouted at Pullen: "Get rid of it, you silly ass."
STEIN INCREASES
However, in the thirty-fifth minute. Gee came to his best heart mood. He put the ball far, fast, and onward towards Stein. Roberts was too late, so he stretched his leg in the hope of curbing the movement. Stein was apparently keyed up by his move, and, escaping the trip, he ran in end from an acute angle he let out a fierce shot to score the second goal. It was a real smashing goal, made in quick time by a wise pass from the pivot, and a single-handed goal to the left winger, who has thus collected 5 goals against Plymouth, and his sixth in three weeks. A remarkable feat for an extreme winger. Half-time.—Evertorn2, Plymouth nil.
JIMMY DUN BREAKS COLLAR-BONE
ONE-ARMED HERO PLAYS ON AT PLYMOUTH
EVERTON’S CUP VICTORY
ARYGLE’S PLUCKY FIGHT OF NO AVAIL
Jana Dunn scored a goal for Everton in their Cup-tie. He stayed on to link up with the victors at Plymouth, but he was suffering intense agony. He had broken his collar-bone, and played right through the second half with splendid spirit, although his arm was trussed up. It was one of the pluckiest things in Cup history. There was not a foul in the first half-the cleanest Cup-tie I have ever seem. Plymouth were plucky, but suffered their hat-trick defeat from Everton. Stein scored again—his sixth goal in three weeks. Plymouth – shot very hard and fairly often, but Coggins was safe. Everton won through combined force in the first half-hour. They go from victory to victory.
In the first half, Dunn and Stein scored for Everton. No one saw Dunn leave the field, but actually he was off for a time through a fall that led to a shoulder injury that was so painful that I wonder he came back again. He did come back with his arm dressed up, and I hear the doctor's report is that he has broken his collar- bone. This was a tragic misfortune, because he had played with all his best cunning and football skill, and now he was merely walking around, and plainly unable to do anything save show great heartiness. Plymouth started the second half with some fine raids on the left wing. They made Coggins jump high to catch a ball, and they called for a corner, but then the blom fell—the first foul of the match. The referee had allowed some infringements to go by the board to help the innocent side, but the game had been a spotless one. Johnson, Dean, and Critchley led the charge and a back went headlong over line. The local people encouraged Argyle to go is sod succeeds, but Williams was very dour and deadly, and came through three men with the ball at his foe, while Cresswell took the ball off Bird's Joe. He did more, he cut across like a grey-hound to stop the right wing. Next Dean beat his way beyond Roberts, carried the ball at his toe right up to the goal area. The goalkeeper came out, Dean shot, the ball was a cannon-back, and as Dean and the goalkeeper crashed, so Stein, with an open goal, lobbed the ball over the cross-bar. This was a double blow, a miss and an injury. Dean went off a moment, and then returned to the hard work on hand. Cresswell faced three men alone, and Gee, running back, headed away. A timely save.
DEAN OFFSIDE.
Dean now scored, only to be vexed that Stein had been given offside, and the three-decker lead curbed once again. Dunn had to take great care when he went in that he did net connect with a charge. He helped Stein to make a More than useful header. Pullen mis-kicked and nearly put through his own goal, the ball being tipped over for a corner. Gee was fast and dogged to the last kick, and Crosier, on the wing, was not nearly so happy as when we met here last time. Bird did better. He made it first-time drive that went outside. Bowden put in Plymouth's best shot right along the crossbar. Coggins helped it along, and the following up move was a grand shot by Harlie that clipped the angle of the bar. Thus Plymouth by their pluck and persistence were making the game strong, although two goals down. Naturally Everton's attacking line had become unsettled and unreal. Black showed as one of his best sinuous dribbles until the warning note of Warney (Cresswell) came across his pass. This held up his trafficking. A wag from the home ground said. “Cresswell ought not to be allowed to play.  He is too sure-footed." Dunn made a pass that jerked hit shoulder, and he was plainly pained. Yet he stayed on.
HEROIC DUNN
Dean burst through twice, once with no one to help him and again when Cann brew himself full length and made a smart save. The referee was well off the mark when he once more gave Dean offside. McKay haying put him well in be rightful position. Dean was right through, so the point vas a vital one. Dunn made his passes perfectly to the last gap His was an heroic display.  Cresswell was also an outstanding feature of the play and players in a defence cool and pure.   Cresswell took the ball off Bird’s toe with wonderful calm.  The crowd was 35,000 and the receipts are £1,614 18s. These figures are a record for the ground, the previous best being when Everton were here for the first match of the season.  Johnson was baulked of a goal by a superlative save by Cann.  He narrowly missed a moment afterwards.  It was a victory hard earned and well earned, and taken by a superior side.  Everton’s Cup record since the war has been a dismal one.  May this be the turning point?  Final; Everton 2, Plymouth Argyle 0.

EVERTON RES V BLACKPOOL RES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 10 January 1931
WHITE IN SCORING MOOD; THE SEASIDERS OVERPLAYED
Everton practically overplayed Blackpool during the first half, and a little more steadiness and accuracy in front of goal would have resulted in a very big interval lead.  As it was Everton’s superior football craft enabled them to take it easy, and although Blackpool didn occasionally reveal progressive thrust that was dangerous Sagar and the defenders were sound.  White scored after five minutes, Martin at the 17th added a second; and prior to the interval White added two more goals.  Half-time; Everton Res 4, Blackpool nil.
Broadhurst and Ritchie scored for Blackpool, and Leyfield added a fifth and sixth for Everton.  Final; Everton Res 6, Blackpool Res 2. 

THE SPORTS LOOKING-GLASS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 10 January 1931
TWO HARRYS OF EVERTON-THE BANKS WITHOUT THE BRAYS-AND THE COOKE-By “Bee”
He who does not mix with the crowd knows nothing.
Flattery won’t hurt you, if you don’t swallow it.
Let’s go into Harry-ing details? No? Well, let's hurry into two calm young men whom it is good to know. One is the veteran young director. Mr. Harry Banks, of Everton; the other is the man, not with the duster, but the man with the sponge.  Both have a charm of personality that worth our study. Each is a man of deeds, not words, and each fills an important niche in the Everton football register.
Mr. Banks has retired from business life but he is today the most consistent visitor to the ground. He took the place of the late Mr. Ben Kelly when the board had one of its many jerks from the then—pleasant path. Mr. Banks stopped where he was wanted. He has a household knowledge that would be useful to all of us. He knows how to get to the bottom of things and if you had seen him crawling outside the roof and window of the Everton grand stand you would agree that he knows how to balance matters be they ever so high. A very useful member of the Everton board, and a friend of the players. Perchance he is of that type that is too friendly with the players, I remember a new Everton director getting a very emphatic telling-off because he had, after one match, offered a cigarette to a player. The head of the club approached him, saying, Don't ever do that again; it is not done in the best of clubs. You will learn to treat these professional footballers as they should be treated. You can't give them an inch." Those were the bad old days. To-day , the players appreciate, but do not sully any kind inquiry, or talk. Mr. Banks never brays, he often stays to praise, for he is keen to show his appreciation. Mayhap he is too keen to suggest to anyone that a defeat came through a wind blowing—as if the wind didn't blow for the side one period as well as against it. That only shows the kindliness of the man; his thought and concern. He has been a valued member of the Everton board for a number of years-speaking from memory, it is over ten years. Illness caught him two years ago, but he goes on his complacent way. Long may be do so.
The man from Cook’s is nothing compared with the man from (or with) “Andrews.”
Harry Cooke was a fine inside forward twenty-six years ago. He played for Liscard C.E.M S., and an Everton friend. Mr. "Quinn" Wallace, took a belief that Cooke would fit the Everton style. He struck Everton at a time when their forward line was a thing of beauty; Sharp, McDermott or Settle, Young. Settle or someone else, and Harold Hardman. The result was that Cooke didn't get many chances. He was a great individualist, had a grand command of the ball, and was not a talker-he got on with his work and enjoyed his football.  Came the day when are withered his football wares. He became the assistant trainer, and eventually the trainer of the club. He is the man who knocks you up it eight or thereby, and says “Andrews?”  Which means he does not think much of your liver. He offers salts as a solace! I have never yet been salted, but the opportunity is there every week-end we spend away from Goodison Park. Harry Cooke is a model of consistency and ability in his own sphere. He may suffer the huge clumps on the back of the neck, but only once in his whole has he been unable to attend to his duties. And they are multifarious. If woman's work is never done; Cooke's work is never done. I like to see him during the return journey sorting out the collars, the stockings, the what-nots. It's a wholesale washing-up and clearing away. Yet his "kit" is so kept that he can put his hand on anything he wants in a second—without any tumbling. Everything has a place, and everything is in its place. He is more valuable to the club than many a player. Which means much. I am told that Cooke and a Liverpool journalist (Budge, of the "Journal of Commerce") ones formed a dandy left wing as junior players. Everton were attracted by them, and wanted to sign the two men. Cooke was willing, but Budge didn't want to, and didn't. On Saturday last Cooke was stoned when he went to attend the needs of Stein. He took no notice though the pain on the neck mat have been severe.  So like the man—he gets on with the work on hand, and ulterior things never bother, him.

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo-Saturday, January 10 1932
By Louis T. Kelly

PLYMOUTH ARGYLE 0 EVERTON 2
January 12 th 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury.
Everton's Treble
Dunn's Gallant Effort After Injury
Plymouth Make a Rallying Finish.
By "Bee."
Everton won at Plymouth Argyle's fine ground and thus made new history. They have beaten Argyles three times this season –twice in the league 3-2 and 9-1, and now in the cup-tie 2-0. And the hardest match of the three was the cup-tie, which was a desperate but clean battle right to the end. It was a spendid match to watch, because both sides forsook the supposed cup-tie style and depended upon their usual league fashion of play to carry them through. Although there was a margin of two goals for the visiting side, the result does not give a fair idea of the work Everton went through to catch this lost thread of cup victories. They had to work desperately hard to win the this fine sporting game, and moverover, Plymouth come into the congratulations because they fought very ably against the deficit of two goals obtained in half an hour. They had their chances, they did not take them. When they were fighting hardest near the end of each half, Coggins was producing his best form.
Argyle's Early Fault.
Argyle were at fault early on when they should have given the defence no chance of saving. This was most noticeable, when Crosier missed fair opportunities, and when Leslie, the acting captain for the absent Titmuss, failed to take a definite shot from an easy position when the score was 1-0. This was a turning point of the game. It is good to place on record the novelty that there was not a fool given all through the first half. The great failure of the match was the fact that Dunn stayed the distance. He was thrown, heavily in the first half, and late on got a second bang on the affected part and this time the full extent of the injury was realised. He was found to have a cracked collar bone and although it seemed madness for him to stay on the ground, he returned in the second half and went right through to the finish, giving a bright exhibition of usefulness, even when he knew that every kick of the ball meant a twinge of bain to him.
Dunn's First Time Methods.
Dunn was expert in his dribbling, and his provisions of the first half, but I verily believe he was more useful in the second half as a "passager" because he did everything first time, each time his ankle pass or his direct push forward meant that an unmarked player received the ball so that he could take it. Dunn also got a valuable goal. He scored with a beautiful gliding header into the right-hand side of the net from a corner taken by Critchley –a corner given by a linesman after the referee had ordered a goal kick. The second goal arose through a well judged pass by Gee, who was called in at the last minute owing to Griffiths finding his damaged ankle not respond to the trial of the morning. Griffiths had said he was fit to play, but arriving, at the ground he had found a swelling, and so wisely decided to give up. Gee came in, and continued the good work he started a few weeks ago. It was his pass right out to the wing that let in Stein. A back attempt to trip Stein, who leaped up, and escaped the foul, and close in to make an angled but studied and stunning shot that left the capable Cann helpless. The game was not won; it was only just beginning –Plymouth saw Dunn ambling about with his arm strapped up, and they believed they where they had failed in the first half they could not improve and make good. Their efforts on the left wing were very able and their half-backs all through had a good innings but Crosier was off his game, thanks to the way Cresswell and Thomson kept him closed down.
Cresswell's Polished Display.
This was one of the secrets of success, because Cresswell gave one of his easy, polished display, taking the ball off the toes of the opponents and heading and clearing with his accustomed brilliance. Williams was little less below him, but did not stand out in the same bold manner that Cresswell and Coggins stood out. I have mentioned Gee. He is very good with his head and uses his wing half-backs with passes that must be valuable. He keeps the ball on the ground. McClure had an excellent first half and then petered out a trifle, but he too, was sound in his use of the ball, which is the main art of half-back work. More than all, however, in the berth there had been need of a tackle and an attempt and McClure provided then both. In the forward line there was brilliance for half an hour by Dunn, and the line altogether worked with a fine positional power, and some good shooting, but after that Dean got a hurt and the line became ragged, which was not surprising because the link of the line had to lie back towards the half-back portion. Stein was perhaps, the most dangerous forward, albeit Critchley did well for a time, and both wingers had the speed and craft to carry them through. Plymouth made a grand rally in the last twenty minutes, and remembering they hit the woodwork twice, it will be conceded that they put up a very good fight in a match that had many congratulatory notes and very few jars –the worst being the injury to the best of the side, Dunn. Teams; - Plymouth Argyle; - Cann, goal; Roberts and Bland, backs; Mackay, Pullen, and Hardie, half-backs; Crozier, Bowen, Bird, Leslie (acting captain), and Black, forwards. Everton; - Coggins, goal; Williams (captain) and Cresswell, backs; McClure, Gee, and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, and Stein, forwards.
Winners Return
Last night when Everton arrived home they were received by a big crowd of enthusiastic supporters and some officials who had not been able to make the journey. Three of the players Dunn, Dean and Williams –went straight to Dr. McMurray for attention.

EVERTON RESERVES 6 BLACKPOOL RESERVES 2
January 12 th 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Central League (Game 21)
Everton's interval lead of four goals, and the manner in which the home side had so completely overplayed Blackpool throughout the first half, gave promise of an overwhelming victory, but Blackpool after the interval were a much sterner opposition. The winners first half goals came from White (3), and Martin, and had all the opportunities offered been accepted Everton's lead would have been of much larger proportions, for Blackpool were unsteady at half-back and the heavy greasy ball was proving a handicap. After the interval the Seasiders enjoyed a good proportion of the pressure and deserved goals were scored by Broadhurst and Ritchie, but Leyfield, who had been one of Everton's most prominent raiders, added two more goals for the winners. A good victory.
Everton "A" 4 Southport High Park 3
Liverpool County Combination
At Stopgate lane. The visitors scored first through Ball, but Davies gave Everton the interval lead with two splendid individual goals. The same player immediately following the resumption added a third goal, thus completing the "hat-trick". The visitors however, scored twice though Hulmes but Davies netted the winning goal near the end.

EVERTON OUR ONLY REPRESENTATIVES
Liverpool Echo - Monday 12 January 1931
Bee’s Notes
Our confidence in Everton wasn’t misplaced, and although the game was hard, the battle long, and the casualty list rather severe, the party that emerged from the friendly hosts at Plymouth tame home in joy and with power to add to their numbers in future rounds
WELL DONE, WELL WON
Take it from me, believe it or not, that it was a gallant victory. It was against a side that had already been "murdered” at Goodison Park, but in the home game we formed the view that Plymouth was a capital side. They have not quite lived up to that promise, chiefly through slowness, but I make bold to say that the way they played on Saturday was good enough to have led and shocked and bled many teams of the First Division. When you are two up at half-time you feel a Cup-tie is finished. Not so the Plymouth test; they never stopped and were always dangerous. Right to the final kick they gave us a merry dance and Cresswell was M.C. of that dance; otherwise there might have been some kicking over the traces. Plymouth shot far more insistently than Everton; their forwards near goal could not force a passage, out of goal they hit the ball very hard and Coggin takes full marks for a very excellent display with a ball that shot extremely fast off the treacherous pitch. In addition, Dean limped his way through and yesterday Joined Captain Ben Williams and Dunn in a visit to Dr. Murray's "shop" for repairs. Dean has a bang on the shoulder-blade as well as a cut mouth: -Dunn has a broken collar-bone which will keep him out of the game for some three weeks; Williams, who crocked in the first five minutes of play, carried on with one leg and “a swinger." Thus Plymouth played a worried and wearied side whose forward line had worked in priceless fashion in the first half-hour but naturally was missing in one cylinder when Dunn had to take a chance and work with a care for his shoulder. Actually his display when hurt was a masterpiece; I think he made one miss-pass, and some of his ankle-flicks were gems of class football. I put Leslie, the coloured captain, as on this same plane as Dunn—his trapping of the ball was deadly and beautiful, but he has lacked pace through increasing years of service. Black was with him and played his best game against Everton for the first time. In opposition were the try-on half-backs McClure and Gee. PLAYED FOR LIVERPOOL AND EVERTOR
Although McClure is but a young man, his travels have been extensive. He played under Charlie Wilson for Liverpool A, was not wanted, being then a " bit frail" in build—totally different to to-day- and he has played with Preston North End, not forgetting a year's play in Canada, where he was farming, and games in the North-East with Wallsend, &c. His father and his uncles I remember as famous players; this strong young man can, on Plymouth showing be in the same category, providing he remembers that this is a very good but a hollow world, and one must needs continue to learn one's business, no matter whether the first team hall-mark has been offered. McClure played quite well; he was not a huge success, yet was successful, and the other reserve team man, Gee, played uncommonly well. Gee goes into it body and soul; he comes out of it with bruised body-but with the ball. He is hearty, yet he makes discretionary passes which are the salt of half-back life. He made Stein's excellent goal after Critchley had cornered the defence (aided by the linesman's overruling of the referee's goal kick notion) and given Dunn a headed goal. Dunn scored most of his goals with his head when he was in Scotland. The pity is that Dunn should now be out of work—a likeable fellow and a great little footballer who has had to wear down a bias that was as big as a boil.
JOYFUL MEETING
This was a joyful meeting, a Cup-tie that was not a Cup-tie; a game that found a referee (Mr. Rous) who released a tripped player and let him go on—if he could—without, calling everyone up for a senseless free kick. Not a foul first half, a few breezes second half, a fine rally by Plymouth at the back end of each " 45," and the game in doubt to the finish. But if Dean's able goal had counted there would have been no laments at Plymouth; they would have taken the game for granted. As it was they took record receipts for ordinary prices and extended good wishes. Dean's goal was good until one remembered Stein had got on the move along the wing. I call that " interference' in the lawful acceptance and, therefore, a good goal became null. However, two sufficed, and let it be said that while Cresswell and Coggins took the main honours Thomson was out best half back—the best, on the field-and Stein was our most dangerous forward. He has awakened to a belief in himself; he has got goals that have added sparkle to his nature; he is playing better to-day than at any previous point. He closes in to make shots or centres; he hits the ball awfully hard, and the goal he got was one of the best seen at Plymouth, because the angle was bad. The shot was terrific, and the whole double movement of Gee and the scorer was accomplished in doubly quick time, in spite of a leg-throw that would have meant a bad throw if Stein had not jumped or swirled out of the way, don't want to meet nicer people, in spite of a barracking parson; I don't want to have more joyful reception than that offered by Argyle officials and friends, in the number being the old friend Mr. John Chapman, who had the pleasantry to add " peasantry " to his gifts to the Hive. For which many thanks.
Everton hope to have Dunne, Dean and Williams fit for a week on Saturday when the next round of the Cup is due. Dunne was X-rayed this morning. At the moment Everton do not know what his injury is. It may be a cracked shoulder blade, but there is no sign of a break Dean although badly bruised will probably play on Saturday. Williams has a slightly torn muscle. "

EVERTON AWAY AGAIN
Liverpool Echo - Monday 12 January 1931
THE EIGHT TIME IN SUCCESSION
By Bee’s
Everton have reason to remember Crystal Palace. They went there in 1911 when Magnall was their centre forward, and Everton won 4-0. However, there is a ghastly memory from 1922 when Fazackerley, Chedgzoy, Harrison, and company were members of the Everton side. Crystal Palace were then a " minor " side and they were looked upon as easy prey for the crack Goodison Park side, but actually Menlove, the Palace centre, plus J. T. Jones, a daring Welsh international half-back, turned the tide, and the Palace goalkeeper was able to stand by the upright and accept the kind gift of a lady from Scotland—oranges which he munched throughout the second half, what time Menlove, standing high up the field, was taking every conceivable chance and slamming goals beyond Fern, the goalkeeper. If Palace beat Reading then Everton would need to go to the ground where they have already won this season.
HOME OF THE FORMER FINALS
Everton took a long time to best Reading this season; the cramped nature of the ground was a barrier to the Everton players. Generally speaking, it is thought probable that Everton will need to go to the one-time home of the Cup final- Crystal Palace. Callender, of the Palace, is the goalkeeper. It was he who was beaten eleven times at Manchester twelve months ago in a replayed Cup-tie on the City ground. They have no outstanding names, but Harry has been “wanted by a lot of the first-class clubs for a long time, and Manager Goodman, ex-Villa official, has a goodly collection of young men in his eleven. Everton, asked whom they would like to meet, said "Anyone; let 'em all come. But we would like to be at home, not having been drawn home right efforts."

EVERTON ADVANCE
Athletic News - Monday 12 January 1931
EVERTON 2 PLYMOUTH ARYGLE 0
(half-time; 2-0)
IT was a hard game, and in the first half play was above cup-tie standard. The pace was great and the control of the ball on the hard, slippery ground was remarkably skillful.  Argyle showed much improved form in attack, but punch was still lacking, and although they advanced more than their opponents, they failed in front of goal.  On the other hand Everton played with masterly touch, their placing being finely judged, and when they got into scoring position there was no error in shooting.  Dunn scored the first goal and Stein the second, the ball in each case striking the upright and entering the net. 
PLUCKY DUNN. 
Dunn gave a remarkable exhibition of pluck, for just before half-time he suffered injury to his collar-bone.  With his shoulder strapped up he appeared in his usual position after the interval, and though obviously in pain he justified his place with deft little touches of the ball which gave his colleagues opportunities.  Though able to do nothing approaching his usual form he certainly rendered valuable service to his side.   In the second half play did not reach the level the earlier stage, but it never lacked interest. Argyle did most of the attacking, but still could not score.  Sometimes their efforts front of goal were crude, and at others they experienced bad luck. Three or four times the ball struck the crossbar pitched on the net from their shots, and  Coggins also played big part in cheeks-mating the Plymouth forwards. Some shots turned over the crossbar. Once Pullen put the ball in but was penalised for impeding the goalkeeper.   With so much play in their favor Argyle's inability to score was disappointing, and as the game wore on there were indications that some of players were becoming a little rattled.  Everton always proved able raise siege, and in contrast the Argyle defence was poor. Bland especially was erratic, and it was amazing that Everton did not profit by his miskicking. Probably dislocation of the front line by Dunn's inability to play his customary role was partly the reason, but they also failed counteract Roberts’ offside traps, into which they repeatedly fell. Two or three times additional goals seemed probable, but Dean, Critchley, and Johnson each shot wide.  On the run of the play Argyle would not have been flattered had they drawn, but Everton deserved their success because they were the faster and more finished side.  Dean was a clever leader, full of resource, and was splendidly supported on either side by Dunn, until he was injured, and Johnson, while as raiders Stein and Critchley were terrors to the defence.  Gee was an effective centre half-back, distributing the ball with power and accuracy, and holding Bird well. Thomson and McClure did their work with success both in attack and defence. If Cresswell has the appearance of the veteran there was youth in his tackling and kicking, and little sign loss of pace. There was fine collaboration between him and Williams, and their steadiness had a great deal do with the discouragement the home attack.  Coggins made no error in goal. 
GREAT GOALKEEPER. 
Cann played a great game in goal for Argyle, some of his saves being remarkable.  Bland was weak at left back, often misjudging and missing the ball. His place is really on the right, and no doubt his transfer to left is largely the cause of his falling off. Roberts made one mistake; he let Critchley get away, but otherwise played a sound game. Hardie was most successful at half-back.  Bird, coming into the team again after injury, led the line sturdily, and Bowden at inside right was easily the cleverest forward. Some of his efforts deserved a better fate.  Grosier was completely off form, and the left wing was not effective though Black tried hard.  Plymouth Argyle; - Cann; Roberts, Bland; MacKay, Pullen, Hardie; Grozier, Bowden, Bird, Leslie and Black.  Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, and Stein.  Referee; Mr. J. Burcher, Bristol. 

EVERTON’S SIXTH?
Athletic News - Monday 12 January 1931
LACKERBY, Blyth Spartan's left-half, will probably join Everton shortly.  Everton have been watching him for some time past, and a transfer’s imminent. Should this materialize, he will be the sixth Spartan to join the Goodison Park club. The others were Wilkinson, Easton, Robson, Common, and Cook.

PREVIOUS TILTS WITH THE PALACE
January 13 th 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Everton draw Crystal Palace or Reading
By John Peel
If the Goodison side has to visit Crystal Palace, it will recall other previous Cup games. In the 1906-07 season Everton beat Crystal Palce 4-0 after a 1-1 draw. They were the holders of the Cup, and reached the Final for the second successive season, only to be beaten by Sheffield Wednesday. In the First round of 1910-11 Everton again beat the Palace 4-0, this time in the South, but in the first stage of 1921-22 the Palace won at the Everton ground by 6-0 and created the sensation of the season.
"Playing with One Hand."
That was the occasion when someone spread the story that fern would keep goal for Everton with one hand. It is true the goalkeeper had a damaged hand, but I happened to know that the Palace players rather resented the suggestion that the game was regarded as such a good thing for Everton that the goalkeeper could "play with one hand." Still, it was a hint, which they took, and they never failed to shoot when anywhere near goal. The score told its own tale. But whether it be Reading or Crystal Palace, I think Everton will prevail this time. The Palace by the way, have won nine of the ten home Third Division matches this season and dropped only one point there.

"AMONG THOSE PRESENT"
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 13 January 1931
Bee’s Notes
Bring in a late corner and be sure he will sweep the sweepstake prize from your board. On the return journey from Plymouth, Everton ran into the Liverpool Mr. J. R. Barnes, the Lancashire cricketer, and his wife. I had been asked to type a sweep-stake for the team that would be drawn against Everton in the nest round. Last in the compartment, last in their "sweep," Mr. Barnes takes the prize. In the same journey we met theatrical friends and others. Messrs, R. Searle and H. Corry made the journey, together with the lights of Day—or should it be Day-lights?—and arriving at Plymouth one had greeting from the former football manager and greyhound member. Mr. John Chapman. The directors present were Messrs. Cuff, Green, Coffey, Sharp, Baxter, and C. Hayes. Talking of theatricals reminds me that last night I espied a friend in the orchestra John Southworth, golfer, Payer of the famous 80's with Everton, Rovers, &c., and nowadays pulls a tube in the Empire pantomime wherein our old Brum friends, Dorothy Ward and hubby Glenville, trip the light fantastic in one of the customary Empirical panto, shows—clean and good. John Southworth will doubtless take the first chance he gets to see Everton as they are, and compare them with Everton as they were. The man's vitality and skill in every sphere of influence amazes me. He never gets any older. Everton's Cup-tie can be left out of consideration until we learn more of Wednesday. Let us find which is which—Palace or Reading—before we bother any more about the tie. Which- ever way it goes, I feel sure Everton will go into round five, albeit no one is sensible who takes a thing for granted these stirring days. I think the best story of the much-talked-of Everton- Palace game at Goodison has yet to be told. We have all heard of the goalkeeper who sucked oranges while Menlove scored goals.  We have all heard that Fern had a damaged hand, and was supposed to be not fit enough to keep goal.   But we have not heard the story of the boardroom meeting when special training was being considered. The presiding genius suggested that the men should he sent away for special training—to Blackpool or thereby.  And a wrathful director got up, saying, "If we can't beat this lot without going into special training, then we don't deserve to be in the competition any longer." And they went out with a boooomp!

DUNN HAS NOT BROKEN A BONE
January 13 th 1931. Evening Express
Good News for Everton.
May be Ready for Cup-tie
By the Pilot
Jimmy Dunn, Everton's Scottish International forward, has not fractured a bone in his shoulder. This encouraging news for the Goodison Park club and players followed an examination by a specialist in Liverpool yesterday. Better still there is a possibility he will be fit to play the cup match on January 24 against either Crystal Palace or Reading. Dunn was injured in the closing stages of the first half or the third round tie with Plymouth Argyle at Home Park. During the interval he was examined by the Plymouth club doctor and Dr. Cecil Baxter, an Everton director, and his shoulder was strapped up.

KEY GAME THAT OPENS DOORS TO PROMOTION
January 14 th 1931. Evening Express.
Everton's One Change Against Throstles
Williams Chosen but –
By the Pilot.
Martin for Dunn and Gee to continue at centre-half and McClure to play his first League match this season. These are the features of Everton's team to meet West Bromwich Albion at Goodison Park on Saturday. This game is Everton's key-match of the season. The Throstles are Everton's most dangerous rivals. At present they are five points behind the Blues for a similar number of games. If Everton win their lead will be increased to seven points, and this would make their championship prospects reasonably secure. Ben Williams, the Everton captain, who injured a leg muscle at Plymouth, and was expected to be out of the game for some time, has made such a good recovery that he has been selected to play. Personnel, I had the impression that Williams's injury was pretty bad, and although he has been chosen I should not be surprised if Everton did not risk him on Saturday in view of the forthcoming cup-tie. Griffiths, who had to call off at the last minute at Plymouth and Arthur Rigby, who was injured in the match against Wolverhampton on Novemeber 8, will be given a trial run with the Central League team on Saturday against Birmingham. Dixie Dean was another Plymouth casualty, receiving a nasty kick in the face from Pullen, the Argyle centre half, but though the flesh was cut inside his mouth he is ready for Saturday's engagement at Goodison Park. Dunn is certain non-starter. Today his satisfactory progress was continued. Everton's team; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Martin, Dean, Johnson, Stein.

EVERTON BRING IN MARTIN
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 14 January 1931
GOOD NEWS OF DUNN-HOPES FOR THE CUP-TIE
Bee’s Notes
On Saturday Everton receive West Bromwich Albion, their chief rivals in the race for promotion. Martin takes the place of the injured Dunn, this being the only change from the team which defeated Plymouth Argyle in the Cup. Dean and Williams have made good progress and the team chosen is; Coggins; Cresswell; McClure, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Martin, Dean, Johnson, Stein. The Central League side due to meet Birmingham at St. Andrews is:— Sager; Cook, Lowe; Britton, Griffiths, Towers; Wilkinson, Webster, White, Rigby, Laylield. It will be seen that Griffiths and Rigby, who have been on the injured list, are having a try-out. I learn that the injury sustained by Dunn, the Everton forward, turns out to be a torn shoulder muscle. It was at first thought that the collar-bone was broken or cracked, but the specialists on examination reveals the injury mentioned. This will require rest, but it is hoped that Dunn will make a quick recovery, and be fit to take his place in the team for the Cup-tie on Saturday week.
Mr. Torn McIntosh and a director went to the Crystal Palace and Reading Cup-tie at Reading to make arrangements for the visit of Everton.

SQUARES OF LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Echo- Wednesday, January 14 1931
NO.15 –LIVERPOOL EXCHANGE
THE PULSE OF THE CITY
By Michael O’Mahony
“Change.”
The familiar name of this hub and inner pulse of a city’s life is a short word with a long history.  Mention it and you visualize not merely space dominated by a monument and surrounded by graceful colonnades and imposing offices. Your mind reverts to a misty past, when in the shadow of the thatched “Towne House" which stood in front of the present Town Hall. "The forty honest and discreet men" met to do business.  That this thatched building was improved is clear from a description of the borough in 1673 by de Blome, who says: “There is a famous town house placed on pillars and arches of stone and underneath the public exchange." Samuel Derrick is clearer. Describing the old town in 1760 he wrote: "Their Exchange is a square structure of grey stone supported by arches. Blocked up on two sides with old houses it is so dark that little or no business can be done in it, but the merchants assemble in the street opposite to it as they used to do before it was erected, and even a heavy shower can scarce drive them to harbour. In the upper part are noble apartments where the Corporation transact public business." From time out of mind hum of business would seem to have natural to the air of the slope above the Pool. From the High Cross at the southern end of Castle-street, to the White Cross at the corner of Old Hall-street was on most days a line of hucksters' stalls. Juggler-street running along the east side of the Town Hall was the busiest end, and if generally crowded we can imagine what a thoroughfare like our present Cable-street would be like on market day.  Winning its name from the fact that it was at one time a favourite pitch for strolling conjurors, who, no doubt, performed outside its principal inn.  “The Black Horse and Rainbow,” it continued to be quite a lively spot after its name was changed to High-street, for vendors, cordwainers, fruit folk, fishwives, boatmen, and balled singers, saw that no mildeweddullness resigned on its cobbled pavements.  From the steps of the Town Hall was proclaimed the opening of the annual Fair, “the mayor, bailiffs, and public men going in procession with a band of music from the Exchange to the middle of Dale-street, where they passed round a stone whitewashed for the occasion, and thence to another stone in Castle-street and back to the Exchange where they dined.”  For ten days before and after the Fair protection from arrest was secured within the scared precincts of these whitewashed stones for all coming to the Fair on lawful business.  Those were days when on a mere pretence of debt a man might be literally shoved into goal and kept there, and the benison of protection in Liverpool had for its symbol a huge hand thrust out from the front of the Town Hall, as if in the act of blessing.  With usages less innocent this quaint custom ceased with the passing of the Municipal Reform Act.  Those who know what |Liverpool has been capable of in uprooting the relics of her past will not surprised to now that the boundary stone in Dale-street (it stood at the end of Stanley-street) has long ago been stubbed up and cast aside as useless.  Their surprise may be that the Castle-street one has been spared.  Some 50 yards from the present Town Hall, and in front of the Westminster Bank Building, may be seen embedded in the roadway, between the kerb and the tramlines, this enduring memorial of a grace which will never return.  About 1750 there was a general feeling that it was high time that a town which possessed no less than three docks should have a new Exchange.  No fewer than three successive Exchanges was the response to that laudable desire.  The first, a noble building supported by Dorio and Corinthian columns, opened in 1754, had its interior destroyed by fire in 1795.  A second one, opened in 1808, one for which William Roscoe, in three hours of one morning, raised 80,000 pounds; and a third one, opened in 1862 which exists to-day.  Of the dignity of the first building Picton speaks with rapturous approval; of the second he says that, though it did not approach the grandeur of its predecessor, still its distinction was that it formed part of a group from Castle-street to Oldhall-street which, as a combination of municipal and commercial buildings, has never been surpassed.  Of the one which we know best, he will only say; “Those who remember the stately dignity and quiet repose of the former building will be inclined to sympathize with the Jews who wept in comparing the second Temple with first.” He does admit that the present Exchange, whose style is a sort of Flemish renaissance, is well calculated for the purpose of minute division of stories and offices, and while in comparative mood he might have added that, while its predecessors were hemmed and packed in befouled and darkened by parasitical rookeries, long swept away, the arcades and colonades of “change” to-day are ever open to a bracing air which makes for clear thinking.  It is a place where, in terms of coal an cotton, Lancashire and Louisiana may be said to rub shoulders, and where to visitors to the port the alert-eyed throngs ever moving through it cloisters offer less fascination than do the desultory groups strolling in its ordered spaces and whose quietly-spoken decisions may affect interests of climes severed by estranging oceans.  In the centre of the Flags stands the Nelson monument, in which, rising above a base of Westmorland marble, are figures representing Nelson, Victory, and Death, Brittannia is shown with laurels in her hand but learning regardless of them on her appear and shield. Some years ago now, I interviewed an old man who, from his keeper’s lodge as an eyrie, had looked down on the moving crowds of the Exchange for many years.  He remembered many famous visitors there.  “Yes he remembered Queen Victoria in ’51.  She stood bowing to the crowd from the railings of the Town Hall in all the lashing rain.  It was dripping down off her gloves, and when she went to Manchester next day the sun was shining but, according to what he heard, Manchester was weeping tears of repentance for it “from that day to this.”  I shook hands with him very heartily. 
Next Week; The Old Haymarket.

WEST BROM COME TO GOODISON PARK WITH A MEMORY AND A DESIRE
Liverpool Echo - Friday 16 January 1931
GOODISON PARK “CLOSING DOWN?”-IN DUE COURSE
Bee’s Notes
With the rainfall that has occurred recently the Goodison Park ground cannot be much better than it was in recent games; and yet I don't know, for the ground has been hardened through the frosty period and to-morrow it will possibly play better than we ever dreamed or could imagine. I learn that the Goodison Park ground is to be closed down on April 17, or thereabouts—at any rate immediately after the last home game. The idea is that the ground shall not be used for charity and other games as in the past, and the work of remaking the turf will take place. Thus it is hoped the ground will have time to recover before August and be more like, say, Formby's ground, which to-day bears beautiful grass and perfect condition spite the weather we have suffered. Goodison Park has been in an almost hopeless state lately, but steps are being taken to "close it down" and re-open it for the return of the First Division series-as it were! To-morrow Everton should go a step further towards these Firs: Division games. They are up against the lively West Brom side, and though the Albion have had a sorry time this week, working overtime on the Cup issue, they are not going to let that cause them worry or make them forget the match at the Hawthorns, when they reckon they scored a perfectly legitimate goal. When I was at Aston, on Wednesday, they were still arguing that goal and saying things that were not complimentary to the referee. West Brom said at the beginning of the season: " We shall be very glad to have Everton accompany us to the First Division—or any other side—if they are good enough to gain promotion." Saucy, but a touch of the Everiss secretaryship. And Albion are a menace. The crowd have seen little of Everton lately through Cup-ties and the like; and, after the wins at Plymouth and Swansea, there will be a big crowd to gather at Goodison to welcome them especially as Williams and Dean are improving after their "crashes" last week. Dunn, of course, cannot play, but Martin is to take his place: and be fills the bill in a similar manner to James Dunn. The game is really a First Division test of Second Division top-notchers. Everton, by winning this game, can take toll of four points. It is a vita measure. This is the side that believes it can win; Coggins; Williams (?), Cresswell; McClure, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Martin, Dean, Johnson, Stein.
GOODISON PARK MUSIC
Aigburth Silver prize Band (conductor, Mr. Harry Waering); -March, “Loyal Hearts” (Anderson); fox-trot.  “If youn were mine” (Feldman); waltz, “The kiss waltz “(Feldman); song match.  “The song of the Guard” (Feldman); selection, “Rigoletto” (Verdi); foxtrot “When you’re smiling” (Feldman); march, “For freedom and honour” (Rimmer). 

EVERTON'S CHANCE TO MAKE SURE
January 17 th 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
One of the most interesting tests of the day is promised at Goodison Park, where West Bromwich Albion oppose Everton in what might easily prove the deciding match for the championship of the Second Division. The teams are first and Second in the table, with Everton holding a lead of five points and a victory today, therefore, would mean a commanding lead. Form is deceptive, but the handicap is undoubtedly in favour of Everton, for their opponents had a strenuous two hours' Cup-tie in midweek, and must replay again on Monday. On the face of it, Everton ought to win. It is bound to be a strenuous game, on a heavy ground. Everton bring in Martin in place of the injured Dunn. The kick off is at 2-45 and the full teams are; - Everton; - Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Martin, Dean, Johnson, and Stein. West Bromwich Albion; - Pearson; Shaw, Trentham; Magee, W. Richardson, Edwards; Glidden, Carter, WG Richardson, Sandford, and Wood.

GLIDDEN FLIDES A GOAL FOR ALBION
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 17 January 1931
EVERTON IN ARREARS AT THE INTERVAL-CHANCES THAT WERE MISSED
By Stork
Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Martin, Dean, Johnson, Stein.  West Bromwich Albion; Pearson; Shaw, Trentham; Magee, Richardson (W), Edwards, Glidden, Carter, Richardson (WS), Sandford, Wood.  Referee; Mr. W. Walden, Derby. 
The visit of West Bromwich Albion was one of the big things of this season for Everton, for a victory to the latter would put the Merseysiders well on the way to promotion. The Albion, who hold second place to Everton, also found this match of vital import, for they are desperately keen to come up along with Everton. Considering the importance of the game, the crowd was not a big one, and it was hard to tell the reason why, for the weather, although cold, was gloriously fine. If looks were anything to go by the ground was in grand trim, but to those who know their Goodison, there was a doubt as to how it would play. We soon got an insight as to that when the players crossed the field, for they left footprints wherever they stepped. The first opening was made by the Albion, and If S. Richardson, their centre-forward, who, by the way, is not related to the centre half-back, had not been nervous of Cresswell, there was a possibility—nay, a probability—of a goal.
A TOO-HASTY PASS
Cresswell put him off his stroke, in that he forced the centre-forward to veer over to the right and make a too-hasty pass, so that Williams was able to move up and clear. Thomson sliced his attempted clearance, and this led to a little trouble; but a movement more to the point was made by Everton, and Dean, after he had circumvented Trentham, essayed a shot that was off the mark. Some of the Albion's football was pretty to behold, and following good work by their right wing pair, Richardson was given a chance. He had to race after the ball and was only a shade late, Coggins beating him and picking up the ball from his opponent's toes. Everton then began to take bold of the game, and at this point Dean's distribution was excellent. Whether he put the ball to right or left it went to its objective with uncanny accuracy, and this once led to an attack on Pearson's charge, but for some reason Dean was penalized for a foul when I thought the decision would go the other way. For quite a time Everton were clustered round the Albion penalty line, and when Pearson ran out of goal to make a clearance he travelled a yard or two too far, with the result that he got too much under the ball, and to save himself he sprang high in the air and punched away. Naturally, he got no distance, so that Martin was able to take a shot which cannoned out to Critchley, who hit a fine drive which struck the inside of the upright. Pearson pouncing on the ball as it dropped on his goal-line. Everton claimed the ball had gone over, but the referee had other ideas.
A PROMISING ROUND
Dean, Critchley, Johnson, and Martin were concerned in a round of passing that promised well. In fact, I thought Johnson should have shot himself instead of trying to get the ball across the gluey goalmouth to Martin. Of course, the idea was a sound one if the turf had been of a more solid nature. Wood and Sandford were the Albion's most dangerous wing pair, and the outside man brought danger with a
square pass that was not taken up as it should have been. At this stage of the game the Midlanders  were making progress by the "open road"- the long pass, and while this was disconcerting the Everton defence was standing its ground so solidly that Coggins was not called upon.
S. Richardson once again got himself offside, and then the Albion goal had a narrow squeak. Stein, who was doing extraordinarily well against Magee, dropped the ball on to the mud patch, and Martin, in trying to get the ball under control, found himself dispossessed by a defender who came up behind and kicked the ball towards his own goal. Glidden, sizing up the intention of his left wing, closed in when they were making play, and but for Thomson he would have had a grand opportunity to run close in and take a shot, but the tall, hard-working Scot does not allow any men to have a " free" kick. Still this only went to prove that the Albion, despite their tiring week, were opponents who could not be taken lightly, for there was much in their play which was exceedingly interesting.
A GLIDDEN GOAL
The Cresswell- Coggin combination got Everton out of a bit of a hole, but a free-kick given against Gee put than in a hole by a goal. W. Richardson took the free-kick and sent the ball to his right wing, Glidden gliding the ball into the goal as Thomson threw himself in front of the scorer in a last despairing effort to save his charge. Everton did not like the look of things, and for a minute or two they crammed on all sail, and Pearson was called on: while Trentham did a dive “a la Dickie Downs," to stem Everton's rush. The Albion were certainly not a tired team. Their goal was a tonic, and Glidden, with another fine effort, forced Coggins to tip over the bar to save further trouble. It could not be said that Everton had much of the luck in the game, for there were many promising movements which were blacked out through the intervention of an Albion man’s body or the failure of the ball to come off the turf desired.
Still, one could not but fail to admire their lighting spirit, for they went after the equaliser with a determination that was foreign to them at one point of their career, and McClure tried a long shot from fully forty yards' range that had the beating of Pearson if it had not pulled slightly in the last stages of its flight. As it was, it was not more than a yard off its mark. Stein was in capital form, and he and Johnson got on well together; but I liked nothing better than the work of Dean, which did not meet with its due reward. That W. S. Richardson knows when the goal lies was made apparent when he squeezed his way beyond Williams and Cresswell and then let loose a left-footed shot that passed a foot over the crossbar.
EQUALISER MISSED
Everton should have had an equaliser at forty minutes, for both Dean and Stein missed tine openings, especially the winger, who was in all probability prevented from shooting by the awkward run of the ball. Martin shot over. Coggins tried to bounce the ball in his goal-mouth and was astonished to find that it stuck in the mud and he had to make a quick dive to prevent S. Richardson from collecting; this was practically the concluding goal incident of the half.  Half-time.—Everton nil, W. Brom 1
WON ON THE POST
EVERTON’S ANXIOUS GAME WITH ALBION
DEAN’S DECIDER
Not for the first time this season, Everton won their match in the last few minutes. West Bromwich had made them fight all the way through a great defence, and they were as good As Everton until the last quarter of an hour, when they seemed to tire. Until the equaliser arrived there was no great anxiety in the Everton camp. It was only fitting that Dean should get the winning goal, for he had played excellent football.
For fully ten minutes after the resumption Everton dominated the play, and with a little steadiness Critchley should most certainly have made a goal. Johnson and Dean between them originated a movement, and when Dean nodded the ball down to Critchley the winger was standing bang in front of the goal-mouth, and had only to tap the belt to have sent it across the line. Whether it was more than over-anxiety I don't know, but it was undoubtedly a terrible blunder. Trentham, one of the Albion's sturdy backs, was hurt a second time. He and Shaw had been mainly responsible for holding up Everton’s attack for 61 minutes, when Martin, beautifully "placed" by Dean, slammed in a shot that Pearson touched but could not hold. Just prior to this Everton had had a narrow squeak when W. S. Richardson sot on to the legs of Coggins who could have known but little of what was happening. Everton's goal was well received, and this was really the first occasion the crowd had become excited. They urged Everton on, and Dean in his desire to beat Pearson, injured the goalkeeper, quite accidentally of course, and he had to go to the fringe of the field to receive attention. A free kick enable Johnson to put in a volley shot, Pearson saving smartly, and Everton were right on their toes after goal No. 2 and the lead, but for all their fireworks the Albion defence stood its ground to a man. Everton have left the winning of many of their games until the last moment, and there was every indication that they might snatch the spoils by these methods to-day, for they were well on top, and McClure, not for the first time, produced a fine drive, and Pearson had to make a good save.  Coggins had to save from a corner, and had some difficulty in getting away with the ball, eventually doing so by throwing it well up the field. The Albion were not done with by any means, and Richardson (W.), with a perfect up-the-  middle pass, started a round of passing that was only checked in its very last stage.
EVERTON LEAD
With seven minutes to go Everton took the lead. Dean was the scorer, and it was a grand goal at that, for the Everton centre had to race like mad to pick up Gee's pass. Pearson was also chasing the ball, but Dean was first there, and his shot just sped past the goalkeeper and high into the net. Final; Everton 2, West Bromwich Albion 1.

THE SPORTS LOOKING-GLASS
THOMSON’S NOT WEEKLY; A BONNY YOUNG MAN FROM DUNDEE MAKES GOOD AT EVERTON
By Bees
He who does not miss with the crowd knows nothing
Flattery won’t hurt you, if you don’t swallow it.
A DOUR ROOT
Meet here a dour Scot, a lovable Scot, not the unspeakable Scot. Jock Thomson of Dundee. He was signed in that fatal back-and rush when Everton wanted a wing half-back to amend their ways and keep them in their proper sphere. He did his bit, though I believe when he was signed the signess did not quite know whether they were taking the right man. They had to take a chance—and a half-back. They had to get someone; they could not wait. So they went to Dundee and took their pluck in both hands and three railway tickets for Liverpool. And since then Thompson's Weekly has been a succession of sound, stirring football. It used to be said that it was hard to play behind and in front of Cresswell. It was said he killed goalkeepers and overworked the half-back in front of him. Well, Thomson and Cresswell are forming one of the greatest flanks the club has known—it is likened to the combined efforts of Maconnachie and Makepeace. It is different in so far that Thomson has the stock and shock that Makepeace could never employ. When Thomson goes in the forward goes out. He is not unfair, he is devilishly harsh in his tackle, but fair, and I know of no fouls he has committed. The spirit of the man can be gauged by an incident when he was being watched by Everton. He was helping Dundee; they said he handled deliberately. The referee gave a penalty kick, and it carried the game and the result. Thomson was righteously indignant; he was furious; he was a sixth forward, a third back; he was here, there, and everywhere; he was venomously inclined to win the game back off his own boot and bat—so vexed was he that he had been the cause of a penalty award that was no penalty. That's the man—Mr. Whole-Hearted, Unlimited!   Cresswell speaks in glowing terms of Thomson. It is good to hear one pro, speak so highly of another, because the congregations of players during the week sometimes makes them jealous of each other, even to a babyish demeanour. Thomson has no such thought; he is happy to be earning good money at Everton—more than he could have earned at Dundee, where they have " jam on it " but where the football stock is not high and the financial side gets steadily I think Thomson would make a forward, so sound is his ball knowledge and control, but although he gave a glimpse of also making a pivot—in a recent game—he once played against Leicester in that berth, and the order soon became necessary for a quick change to the wing post. The club has a strong, tall, rousing half-back, a shooter, and an engaging personality. When his full-back speaks well of him he must be good! And, mark you, his back during play will offer some severe words to comrades-what time the reply will come forth: “You! You! I've put five years on your life through joining Everton!" Come on, lads, cut the cackle. Harry, where's the cards?  Let's have a quiet solo school with “no inquests." And so they leave us—for our “school “joins the talkies when it starts to play cards!

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 17 January 1931
By Louis T. Kelly

EVERTON 2 WEST BROMWICH ALBION 1
January 19 th 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Dean's Goal Decides.
Everton's Hard Fight With Albion.
Although West Bromwich Albion's thoughts may have been centred on todays Cup-tie with Charlton, they put up a very strong fight at Goodison Park, and Everton, with a little to spare, just about deserved their 2-1 victory, the winning goal being obtained by Dean seven minutes from the end. As expected, the contest provided a very satisfying display of sound and clever football. At times the Albion stood out as a smart attractive side with sterling defenders, and clever forwards, but they lacked the driving power such as Dean infused into the Everton attack. Without doubt Dean was a protent factor in Everton's success. He was the power behind the machine, and it was a characteristic Dean effort that provided the winning goal. Early in the game Critchley might have given Everton the lead when he sent a fine shot against an upright, and the ball spun back across the goal for Pearson to effect a lucky clearance.
Formidable Attacks.
Both sides had plenty of chances before Glidden scored for the Midlanders following a free kick against Gee at 26 minutes. Throughout the Albion defenders played with admirable courage and determination, and although the Everton forwards developed a number of formidable attackers they could now find an opening. Sixteen minutes after the interval, however, Martin equalised and Dean provided the opportunity when he sent Martin through with a clever header. If the Midlanders had a fault it was that they relied rather too much upon their defence and Everton having once drawn level went for the lead with great spirit. Seven minutes from the end came just such a chance as Dean lives for. A long punt down the centre from a free kick, a quick dash by Dean, and the ball flashed into the net before Pearson had time to prepare his defence. Some of the sparkle went out of the Albion side before the end, although occasionally they threatened to be dangerous. They fought with commendable spirit, and the game was one of the best of the season.
A Masterly Leader.
Everton had a sound, and efficient defence, the cool, heat, and effective work of Cresswell being admirably balanced by the dashing, resolute methods of Williams. They made a splendid pair. Gee was useful without being outstanding in the centre, and both Thomson and McClure did much good work. Dean was a masterly leader, and he was well supposed by Johnson, but Critchley and Stein rather spoiled their good efforts by poor finishing. The Albion had a splendid pair of backs in Shaw and Trentham, and while Glidden and Wood were capital raiders, the inside forwards lacked dash and the power to finish well. Teams; - Everton; - Coggins, goal; Williams (captain) and Cresswell, backs; McClure, Gee, and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, Martin, Dean, Johnson, and Stein, forwards. West Bromwich Albion; - Pearson, goal; Shaw and Trentham, backs; Magee, Richardson and Edwards (W), half-backs; Glidden, Carter, Richardson (WH), Sandford, and Wood, forwards.

BIRMINGHAM CITY RESERVES 3 EVERTON RESERVES 2
January 19 th 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Central League (Game 22)
Griffiths Carried Off
Everton Centre Half Again Injured.
In the Central League match at Birmingham, Everton were beaten in a rough and tumble game by 3-2. In the first minute Griffiths, the Everton centre-half, had a recurrence of his ankle injury and was carried off. A last minute goal by Calladine gave Birmingham the victory. Firth (2), for Birmingham, leyfield, and White for Everton, also scored. The visitors were unlucky to lose. They had a full share of the game, Webster, White and Sagar were prominent for Everton. Birmingham were best served by the defence; in which Tewkesbury and Randle shone. Everton; - Sagar goal; Cook and Lowe, backs; Britton, Griffiths, and Tower, half-backs; Wilkinson, Webster, White, Rigby, and Leyfield, forwards.

DEAN'S WINNING GOAL
Liverpool Echo - Monday 19 January 1931
By Stork
Everton have never been nearer defeat and yet won than they were against the West Bromwich Albion team—the alleged Cup-tie tired side. The latter did tire a shade towards the close, and it was not until then that Everton took a real grip of the game, and eased the anxiety of the crowd with an equalising goal. That rather suggested that a division of the spoils would have satisfied, and, truth to tell, that was all Everton were entitled to on the score of the play. Even those who had become conversant with Everton's propensity to win their games this season in the fleeting minutes of the game could not see their favourites beating down the stout Albion defence which had previously held the upper hand, and but for a free kick and a desperate and brilliant effort by Dean, when he chased between the backs and slammed the ball home beyond the oncoming goalkeeper, a point would have had to suffice. During my morning coffee one day last week I was dragged into an argument as to the part luck played in football. My assertion that luck and doubtful decisions were pretty well levelled out during the season (Cup-ties barred) was not accepted wholeheartedly by my listeners, but that is my firm belief, anyway. The first words spoken to me at Goodison came from a Birmingham scribe, who whispered, “You were the luckiest team in the world to beat us at The Hawthorns." Well, I was able to reply shortly afterwards that Everton were, not getting much of it this game, for the Albion were a lucky side not to have been in arrears in the first five minutes, for even their sturdy defence could have done nothing with the shot Critchley slammed on to the inside edge of the upright, and Pearson was lucky to find the ball drop on to his goal line, whereas nine times out of ten it would have hurtled into the back of the not. Then there were occasions when good shot were cannoned out of goal by a defender getting in the way
BARRING THE WAY
Still, there were times when there were no shots from the Everton forward, when their approach work had led us into the belief that here was the makings of a goal, but the only goal of the first half went the other way and set Everton the difficult task of getting two goals to win, and that was no easy job, for the Albion defence is undoubtedly one of the best in the division: look at their goals against column if you want proof of that statement. It was, however, not only in defence that West Bromwich showed up well, for some of the poising movements of the forwards was of high class. Yes, superior to that of Everton. But here again a defence barred the way of Richardson and company for over half an hour, when a free kick enabled Glidden to score a simple, looking goal. One could hardly believe that the Albion had a two-hour 'game on the previous Wednesday, and another grim struggle in prospect to-day. They certainly did not give the impression that they had Monday's game on their minds. A man who follows the Midlanders week in and week out told me that the Albion had not played such a game for an age, and I feel sure that Everton are nightly glad that they have finished with them this season. Everton have played much better, but don't overlook the fact that this was one of their biggest tests. To win was of vital import to them, and it was none the less so to their opponents, who don't mind Everton gaining promotion so long as they accompany them into the senior circle. The Albion played fine football—the type of game which would grace the First Division, and with Everton of it, similar nature it was not surprising that the game was an attractive one, if it gave the Everton people the heartache for a time. They were faster on the ball than Everton, who found the mud patch-which they should know by now—just as troublesome as the Albion, who, however, saw the futility of continually dropping the ball into the middle, and exploited their wing men, who certainly had the best pieces of turf to work upon. Glidden and Wood were the chief setting-off points, and W. S. Richardson, although he got himself offside frequently, was a danger man. He shot on to Coggins's legs, went near with a strong drive, hilt his best move was when he feinted to go over to the left, took the Everton defenders with him, and then slipped the hall to the right, where Carter and Glidden got themselves tied in a knot, when one or the other should have taken a goal.

EVERTON MASTER STROKE FOILS PROMOTION RIVALS
Athletic News - Monday 19 January 1931
DEAN’S WONDER GOAL
ALBION WORN DOWN AFTER GREAT STRUGGLE
SPURS SLUMP AFTER FINE START
EVERTON 2, WEST BROMWICH ALBION A 1
(Half-Time 0-1)
Albion’s challenge to the leaders was no half-hearted affair in a game worthy of two great fighting teams that would give nothing away.  The match and the result came up to expectation, and Everton, winning by two goals to one, further widened the breach.  But they had to struggle desperately hard for advantage on a mud-covered pitch, and when the Albion took the lead through Glidden after 26 minutes, against the run of the play, I thought, and retained it for 15 minutes in the second half, there was a dour tussle, the like of which has not been witnessed on the ground this season.  It became a struggle fierce and continued, with Albion heavily bombarded.  Both Trentham and Shaw were hard worked, and had some luck, but did well, and seemed to be in the right place at all critical times. 
TWO GREAT GOALS
The equalizing goal was a gem.  Stein, Dean, and Martin each participated in a movement that troubled Magee and Shaw.  But Dean’s goal, seven minutes from the end, was one which will remain long in the memory.  For once in the game Richardson (W.) took his attention off the centre-forward, who, taking a long pass from Stein, bounded ahead with Shaw and Trentham challenging, and on Pearson advancing the ball was driven swiftly into goal.  It was a great effort, and the reward of a good afternoon’s striving by the centre forward.  Subsequently Everton were definitely on top, having worn down a very stout and keen defence by superior footcraft and combination.  The Albion in this game showed no trace of their hard Cup-tie clash in mid-week.  They were dogged, holding on after securing the lead against almost uninterrupted pressure, with great tenacity, and were terrier-like in defence. 
The forwards went to the ball with intrepid dash, and were splendidly supported by Richardson (W.), whose constructive work and clever defensive tackling were impressive features, while be found his forwards with precision and was a great initiator of attack.  But there could be no overestimating the value of Cresswell’s cool, calculating work, which was a fine foil to the strong first-time methods adopted by Williams.  Trentham and Shaw, too, were a staunch pair, who with head and foot worked wonders in repelling attacks.  Everton’s left half-back, Thomson, stood out impressively against a clever wing pair in Glidden and Carter, who caused most anxiety in approach work, and Everton’s reserve half-backs, Gee and McClure, got through a good afternoon’s work with distinct credit.  Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Martin, Dean, Johnson, and Stein.  West Bromwich; - Pearson; Shaw, Trentham; Magee, Richardson (W.), Edwards; Glidden, Carter, Richardson (W.S.), Sandford, and Wood.  Referee; Mr. W. Walden, Derby. 

SIX SEASONS; SIX GOALS
Athletic News - Monday 19 January 1931
Everton have no link with Reading, whom they may have to visit, but if Crystal Palace qualify, memories of one of the biggest sensations of Cup football will be revived.  In 1906-7 Everton drew in London  (1—1) and then removed the Palace at  Goodison Park by 4-0, proceeding to  the Final-tie and being beaten by  Sheffield Wednesday by the odd goal  of three.  In 1910-11 Everton again won by 4—0, this time on the Palace club's ground.  Crystal Palace bore their grief for six football seasons, and then, in the first round of 1921-22, went to Everton and won by six clear goals.  Nothing like doing things thoroughly.   They were then a Second Division side, having just earned the distinction of being the first club to win promotion from the newly-formed Third Division (South).

PALACE OUGHT NOT TO WORRY EVERTON
January 20 th 1931. Evening Express
Revenge after 9 years?
Dunn not Yet a Certain Starter.
Londoners Summed Up.
By the Pilot.
We have waited nine years for this chance of revenge for that 6-0 defeat in the first round of the cup and we shall take it, mark my words. –Mr. Tom McIntosh, the Everton Secretary. We are not so silly as to say that we shall beat Everton, but at least we shall try and you can be certain that we shall give them a good game –perhaps better than they imagine. –Stan Charlton, the Crystal Palace Captain. My own opinion, after seeing Crystal Palace beat Reading at Stamford Bridge yesterday, is that Everton should win comfortably. Crystal Palace are not as good a team as Plymouth Argyle They have a habit of waiting for the ball to come to them instead of stepping in first time and making it their own, and when developing attacks their sole idea appears to be "give it to Simpson." The result is that the young Scot's task is made all the more difficult. In a short space of time every opponent knows where each pass will be directed, and they can concentrate on fighting Simpson.
Great Leader.
Simpson is a clever, dashing leader and one of the few Palace players who can take the ball cleanly. How much better it would be for the Palace, however, if they made more use of two good wingers in harry and Clarke. Understanding and dovetailing, except between the full backs, is not up to the standard of a team such as Everton, and the Palace ideas of progress struck me as being rather stereotyped. In a nutshell, Crystal Palace are good in defence, have a strong centre half, a first class centre forward, and two wingmen who can take chances. Charlton, the captain, told me after the match that I had not seen Palace at their best. Perhaps not, but even allowing for 33 per cent improvement, I shall think Everton much the better team. Charlton, by the way, is Lancashire born. He knows Everton – he played against them when he was with Oldham Athletic. He has no illusions concerning the disparily between the two teams, but he holds the opinion that no match is lost until it is won, and that Crystal Palace, even though they had three hard struggles with a poor team like Reading, will play better football against a team like Everton, who always develop the finer phases of the game.

THE CUP OUTLOOK FOR EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 20 January 1931
WHAT THE MATCH YESTERDAY SUGGESTS
Bee’s Notes
It is to be Crystal Palace. Well. I for one, am glad because the name sounds cupping, and we don't forget a certain inward desire to meet the side that thrashed us at Goodison Park in what is known as “The Orange Procession." Let it be Crystal Palace, then. A fair field and no favour. Everton have made their arrangements. They go on Friday night at 5.20 and return Sunday. Palace used to play at the palatial home of the final ties (I spare the mark, for at the final ties one ring of spectators could never see the ball unless someone had given it boot): nowadays they play at the ground where Wales had her big triumph over England. It is all getting brisker and more interesting, and the note I was able to give yesterday about Jimmy Dunn being much better made the prospect all the better for Everton, who have that winning feeling that comes of persistent victories and few team changes, so that each man knows the other's desires and requirements. It will be no walk-over. Crystal Palace have a Maley as their mentor; they have Mr. Goodman, who was with the Villa club when I was in Birmingham—they know the tricks of the Cup-tie trade and traffic. They will be just as hearty against Everton as if they were up against the Barnsley side. It is all the same to them. These Southern Third Division sides have Cup blood in their veins. Their whole financial life and outlook depend upon these games, So Crystal Palace will need to be beaten by football craft, energy, and enthusiasm—or not at all will that much-desired victory come to the Goodison club. The Everton players yesterday expressed pleasure that it was the Palace side they had to meet, and they are keen not only to win, but to have the chance of a further show in the Cup-ties at Goodison Park, which has not known the luck of the draw in the last eight games. The tide has turned, I feel.
CRYSTAL PALACE POINTERS
When Crystal Palace and Reading had been struggling for an hour at Stamford Bridge, yesterday, Jimmy Lofthouse, that dapper little winger who had much experience with Sheffield Wednesday and Reading, said : " If Everton are as good a team as their record suggests, they would probably  beat both these sides put together. " That, of course, was an exaggeration, but some such feelings must have run through the minds of many of the people who watched the game on the Chelsea ground yesterday. For the most part it was poor football, and actually Reading appeared to have the much better constructive ideas. Indeed, it would have been Reading and not the Palace.  Everton would now be preparing to meet if the biscuit men had been anything like so good near to goal as they were in getting into position. The Palace failed to reproduce their beet form until the opposition had begun to show signs of weariness. They did not score until only five minutes of extra time remained for play. Then Clarke made the most of a chance, and immediately afterwards Simpson put on the second goal. So far as could be judged by this game, the forwards are the best part of the Palace team, and Clarke the best of those forwards. Though the Palace did not attack a great deal, Clarke found opportunities to test the Reading goalkeeper with great shots even before lie got the one past him. Simpson in the centre was dangerous, and capable of holding off opponents with his broad shoulders, hut he did not show much real cleverness in controlling the ball, was told that Butler is usually the brains of the attack, but that recently he has been far below his heat. This was certainly the case yesterday. Harry on the right, wing is usually a man in a hurry. When the Reading forwards were doing their clever scheming the Palace half-backs were hurried and flurried, and much of the kicking of the full-backs was wild. The weakness of the Reading men in front of goal left me without a chance of judging the capabilities of Callender. By the way, it is quite likely that the goalkeeper may not be able to play on Saturday as he was badly injured during extra time yesterday and was limping painfully as he left the ground after the match. My summing up of the Palace from this match is that Everton have little to fear. The side as a whole showed signs of staleness, of having had too much football (says my London correspondent). Excursions are announced for the Everton Cup-tie at the Palace ground. Our advertisement shows that a train leaves Lime-street at 7.20 am, for Euston (arrive 11.25); return 12.40 midnight.  Meals can be had. 

EVERTON'S TEAM.
January 21 st 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury.
By John Peel.
Everton's chances of making further progress in the competition have been enhanced by the fact that Dunn, the Scottish International inside right, has been chosen against Crystal Palace. Dunn had an arm in a sling last week as the result of the injury he received in the third round tie at Plymouth, but he is reported fit again, and will take the place of Martin, who played against West Bromwich Albion on Saturday. Dunns inclusion will add strength in the attack. The team will therefore, be the same as at Plymouth namely; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. This side should be good enough to finish on top. The Palace were beaten at home on Saturday, by Bristol Rovers, but League matches and Cup-ties are different propositions. Still, it took the Palace five and half hours to dispose of Reading, and Everton ought to be capable of winning at Selhurst at the first time of asking. The players travel to London on Friday afternoon. Everton visit Port Vale on Monday for the return League match unless a Cup replay is necessary in midweek.
Britton as a Forward.
The Everton team to meet Stockport County Reserves in the Central League match at Goodison Park will be; - Sagar; Cook, Lowe; McPherson, Hart, Towers; Britton, Baxter, White, Rigby, Leyfield. It will be seen that Britton the half-back is fighting at outside right, and that Hunter Hart is at centre half. The kick off is at 2-45.

WILL THAT CORK BOTTLE, EVERTON?
January 21 st 1931. Evening Express.
Mascot That has Not Failed Palace.
By the Pilot.
Will a champagne cork prove Everton's Cup bogy? The officials and players of Crystal Palace think so. The men from Selhurst Park have one as a mascot. It will be in Trainer Jone's pocket for Saturday's match between Everton and the Palace. Trainer Jones was given the champagne cork some weeks ago by a well wisher, and whenever he has carried the cork in his pocket during a match Crystal Palace have not lost. As a matter of fact, the absence of the cork might easily have enabled Reading to beat the Palace in the last round. Trainer Jones explained this to me at Stamford Bridge on Monday. "On Saturday morning, before we played Bristol Rovers in the League match, the cork was missing" he said. "I made a frantic search everywhere, but there was not a sign of it. "The game was played and we lost our ground record by two goals to nil, one of which was scored by one of our players. "Knowing we had to play Reading again in the Cup on Monday, I was worried. I know I had to find the cork. It did not turn up through Sunday, but on Monday I searched an old pair of trousers, and there was our lucky tailsman. "I took it along to the match, and we won. I have faith in my old cork, and am going to make sure I do not lose it again."
He proudly showed me the cork and put it away in his bag ready for Saturday.
Faith in Simpson.
The Palace officials and players are optimistic about their chances of success, against Everton. They attack great faith in the goal scoring powers of Simpson, who, by the way, is a Scot, not an Englishman as so many imagine. Simpson was formerly with Hearts of Midlothians and spent two seasons with St. Bernards before moving to Kettering, from which club he was secured by the Palace.
What Palace Players Think.
Imrie (who is likely to play in goal in place of Callender who was injured on Monday); if our boys in front can get a goal we shall win.
Crilly. (right back); There is not a great deal of difference between Third Division (South) and Second Division football. We hope to prove that against Everton.
Charlton (left-back and captain); it is chiefly because Everton play real football that I think we have a good chance. we like opposing men of ability.
Rivers (right half). The Stein song will not be sung on Saturday.
Wilde; (centre half); After the match they will be saying, "Where was Dixie Dean?"
Greener (left back); Given our fair share of luck we shall at least hold Everton.
Harry (Outside right); The better the opposition the better we play. Everton will not have it all their own way.
Turner (Inside-right); I am an optimist.
F.A. Cup Fourth round –Crystal Palace v Everton Saturday Jan 24 th Tickets for the above match will be on sale at Sharp's Whitechape; Cook's Lord Street; and the official Goodison Park up to Thursday evening. Prices, 5d, 9d, and 3s 6d.
Dunn is certain to Play
Side that Beat Argyle to tackle Palace.
Jimmy Dunn's Scottish international inside right, will play against crystal Palace. Dunn fell on to his right shoulder during the previous cup match with Plymouth Argyle, and though it was at first feared he had broken the collar bone, the bone was badly bruised. The arm was strapped up and such excellent progress was made that the straps were taken off during the weekend, and he will be fit to take his place on Saturday. Consequently the same team which defeated Plymouth will be on duty. Gee, continues at centre-half –Griffiths injured himself again on Saturday at Birmingham in a Central League match –and McClure is at right half. The players will travel to London on Friday, and Martin, who deputised for Dunn against west Bromwich Albion, will be on reserve. Team; - Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Gee, Thomson; Critchley; Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. While I was at Goodison today, Dunn's shoulder was being messaged by trainer Harry Cooke. Dixie Dean told me that every kick on Saturday was going to wipe out the big defeat in 1922. "I have no doubt that we shall beat them easily. I don't think they are up to our standard." Was his definite view. Ball practice will be concluded tomorrow and then the players will take it easy until the journey on Friday.

EVERTON WILL FACE A YOUNG GOALKEEPER
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 21 January 1931
CALLENDER NOT FIT
ENTER IMRIE, THE HUGE FELLOW
Bee’s Notes
Everton’s chances of making further progress in the competition have been enhanced by the fact that Dunn, the Scottish international inside-right, has been chosen to play against Crystal Palace. Dunn had an arm in a sling last week as the result of the injury he received in the third round tie at Plymouth,  but he is reported fit again, and will take the place of Martin, who played against West Bromwich Albion on Saturday. Dunn's inclusion will add strength to the attack. The team will, therefore, he the same as at Plymouth, namely: Coggin; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. This side should be good enough to finish on top. The Palace were beaten at home, on Saturday by Bristol Rovers, but League matches and Cup-ties are different proposition. Still, it took the Palace five and a half hours to dispose of Reading, and Everton ought to be capable of winning at Selburst at the first time of asking. The players travel to London on Friday afternoon. Everton followers will find the Cup scores hoisted at the reserve team game, and, as our advertisements show, the tickets for the Palace Ground are on offer only until to-morrow night at the club offices and Messrs. J. Sharp's, and Cook and Sons. I had word with Mr. Goodman, the Palace secretary, this morning, and he says:— "We have net sold all the tickets, but it is plain we are going to have a very famous crowd and a great game. We would be foolish if we suggested we didn't know Everton's danger-marks; they are a good side. But we have eleven, just as they have, and, we shall make every yard of the running, and every post a winning post, it at all possible. We are out to add to our very extraordinary Cup-tie history—in which the name of Everton figures rather extensively with one very great smile," Everton visit Port Vale on Monday for the return League match, unless a Cup replay is necessary in mid-week. The Everton team to meet Stockport County Reserves in the Central League match at Goodison Park will be :Sagar; Cook, Lowe; Macpherson, Hart, Towers, Britton, Baxter, White, Rigby, Layfield. It will be seen that Britton the half-back is figuring at outside' right, and that Hunter Hart is at centre-half. The kick-off is at 2.45.

SQUARES OF LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 21 January 1931
NO.16- OLD HAYMARKET
THE BALLED-MONGER’S PITCH
By Michael O’Mahony.
Though square enough now, it was not always so; indeed, it started life as a triangle, and it was not originally a Haymarket.  A stranger stepping on shore from a ship at the Old Dock anytime towards the end of the 18th century and strolling up Frog-lane (now Whitechapel), would come upon a three-corned space at the foot of the Great Heath, whose principal building was a row of picturesque almshouses.  Following the widening of the space towards Byrom-street, and the erection of new almshouses in the open country just above Mount Pleasant, the new square was appropriated for the sale of hay.  This was soon discontinued.  The scene of sale and barter was shifted to Lime-street and from there to the new markets at both ends of the town, namely Olive-street in the South, and Cazneau-street in the north.  Whether it was that the latter being in direct line to the Northern farmlands, flat but fruitful, ensued its lasting success I don’t know, but the South market was a failure from the first. 
STILL LIFE
Dominated by a large clock, which was like a Government- it wouldn’t go –its most salient feature was still life, and it was soon abandoned.  The demolished almshouses, which stood on the line of the present tram terminus (and around which during the football season something like civil war rages every Saturday afternoon), were replaced by a line of shops and cottages, which, after the erection of the church, came to be known at St. John’s Village.  The gardens of the “village” ran back to the wall of the churchyard, but the villagers were ever careful to point out that, unlike the householders on Shaw’s Brow, no one was ever able to accuse them of association with the grisly work of the resurrectionists.  The “village” disappeared in time to give place to merely a boundary wall, not the present one, which in my own day was a place of real interest.  It had been for long years the privileged pitch of a balled-monger, among whose wares I traced many old folk songs now better known for their tunes, which have come back to us through the fruitful labour of such tireless enthusiasts as Lucy Broadwood, Kate Lee, and Cecil Sharp. 
SUNBRONZED SHEETS
The broadsheets, originally white, but mostly sunbrowned as the ballad merchant himself, were pinned in orderly rows to sacking hung in widths from rolls, and fastened to the churchyard wall (the rolls were broom handles), and when dusk fell, and the printed page grew dim, the sacking was folded up, taken home- not far off- and re-fastened to the rails in the morning.  There I re-discovered such quaint titles as “Greenmount Smiling Anne,”  “Bold Traynor O,”  “The Wexford Lovers,” and “The Maid of Lisburn Town,” as well as such local effusions as “The Prescot Poacher.”    If the ballad-man was not a fervent Jacobite his stock belied him. There was ever an unfailing display, not only of Scottish songs associated with the ‘45, but the less-known Irish ones of the period. The latter were rare, but numerous enough to reveal the varying moods of two nations devoted to the same cause. Ireland hid her love for her hero in such allegories as, "The Royal Blackbird," and "The Green Linnet", Scotland flashed a drawn sword, but when she wept, " Wae's me for Charlie," and " Will ye no' Come  Back?" Ireland sang defiance to the incomparable tune, "Leather away with the Wattle O!"  Progress did not look on this corner in rhyme with an approving eye, and one January evening some forty years ago the ballad rolls were folded up and appeared no more.
 A Local Cicero 
The Old Haymarket was long the Forum of a local Cicero named Alexander Phillips, who for years conducted there a vigorous outdoor temperance crusade.  He was always at concert pitch in his rostrum on Sunday afternoons, to the delight of a large clientele, who relished his rugged wit not less than his denunciations of drunkenness.  He had a tremendous voice.  I have often on quiet evenings heard his resonant periods quite easily at the end of Cook-street.  The ill-natured called him “Leather Lungs,” and he gloried in the nickname, making it the boast of a man who physically throve on cold water.  Genial enough in conversation, his satire in the rostrum was unsparing, and his scorn covered a range which might extend from the case of the wealthy lady brewer who left a fortune for the upkeep of homeless seagulls to unjust employers.  A fair example of his styles was an allusion I overhead him make on the death of Bismarck. “Bismarck is dead and gone to –heaven, and when meets there with a contractor I knew who gave my father fourpence a day for cutting rocks at Augnacloy, in Ulster, boys, oh boys, what a shake hands they’ll have.”  But, like the ballad man, the orator is gone and the crowds which thronged round him come no more.  Instead of a peaceful enclosure within chained posts and surrounding picturesque almshouses the stranger to-day coming up what was Frog-lane would fine himself on the verge of a maelstrom of traffic, into whose tides adventurous spirits, taking their lives in their hands, are frequently plunging from side to side.  Whoever approaches it by coming up Dale-street for the first time, well he won’t see it at all.  His eyes will be lifted to the accumulated grandeur rising behind it against the eastern sky, and which at this point is one of the fine sights of Liverpool; while whoever would search for the last real remnant of the Old Haymarket will find it straight before him if he walks down Shaw’s –brow, and he will have to come soon.  Even as I write the handful of old roof-trees still standing are trembling on the edge of the precipice.  What the visitor to our streets will find at what bids to be the most interesting point of a great port it is premature for me to say.  For while Lancashire links herself to the sister county by bridges at Stockport, Widnes, and Warrington her greatest city, with profound gesture, undermines the Mersey.  It is a gesture so characteristic that, after a long and chequered career, one may hope for the Old Haymarket that the best is yet to be.  Next Week; Derby-square.

PANIO DAY BADGES AS EVERTON MASCOTS
January 22 nd , 1931. Evening Express.
Dixie Dean wants to score six goals against the palace.
And believes he can do it.
All the Everton players are wearing Panto Day immunity badges. Will they act the part of mascots and keep them immune from defeat when they visit Crystal Palace in the F.A.Cup on Saturday? The players believe they will. Dixie Dean is optimistic. He say's he is going to score all those six goals, which will wipe out the bitterness of the 6-0 defeat of 1922. One thing is certain. Eleven men, trained to perfection, will carry the Goodison banner on the fourth stage of the journey to Wembley.
Training completed today.
By the Pilot.
Everton completed their preparation today with some heading practice, and they will not see a football again until they step on the field at Selhurst. "All fit" was the message I received when I visited Goodison Park. Dunn was being treated by Harry Cooke, who is taking no chances about his shoulder not being perfectly. With a plentiful supply of oils the shoulder was slowly swinging Dunn's arm around, massaging the while.
What they say.
Here are the views of the Everton players and officials on the match; -
Ben Williams (captain); I think Everton will win. We have the ability and team spirit.
Warney Cresswell; Everything ties for a victory for Everton, and if we can steer clear of bad luck we will pass on to the fifth round.
McClure; it does not worry us, we will win.
Charlie Gee; Besides preventing Simpson getting goals I shall try for a goal myself.
Jack Thomson; it looks a good win for us.
Ted Critchley; We are told that the ground is large, and that will suit us. I think we shall prove too good for the Londoners.
Jimmy Dunn; as long as we do not worry about it, but just take things slow and surely it will be our match. I want to get a couple of early goals, as we did against Swansea, and them we shall go all the windows in at Crystal Palace.
Dixie Dean; Crystal Palace –and Pipe down Palace,
Trainer Harry Cooke; it's Everton for round five.
Tom McIntosh (Secretary), I think the utmost reline in the boys, and we will win.
Gee, who is taking tips from Dean and Griffiths in regard to heading, says that Simpson cannot score unless he gets the ball. Ben Williams and Warney Cresswell are unperturbed by the reports from Selhurst that the Palace have two fine wingmen. Warney is already thinking moves ahead. Clarke, smiles and says; "Wait and see."

THE COCK-EYED CUP
Liverpool Echo - Friday 23 January 1931
PITFULLS AND POSSIBILITIES
SELECTIONS AND FEARS
HOPES AND IDEAS
ON, EVERTON, ON?
Bee’s Notes
Off we go for another knock-out blow —or a joyful return to the city with honours through a win from the famous name Crystal Palace. It's a great game, this cock-eyed Cup competition, which has already provided fifteen rich surprises and has a lot more in its locker. For our part we follow the winning star land we take train to-night for London. thence to the Palace, where many goals have been scored by a side that fields a Simpson and has an attacking strength needing our defence's best attention.  Palace may need a Sampson to stem their defeat; but whatever they may lack in the finer arts, they will not be wanting where rash and rush attack and defence are concerned Crystal Palace have been living that way for quite a long time. Let us forget history; the present state of affairs is our main concern. The juice of the orange has gone dry; the 6-0 result has been paraded round the Palace boards with hopes that there is to be something similar. But I remember a very definite 4-0 victory at the Palace ground—the old Cup-tie ground, not Selhurst—where Everton ,walked through the ranks after stemming the usual Crystal Palace method of racing through for twenty minutes or so. Everton have got the hang of these tactics. There was a time not so long since when they met Third Division Fides ' and they fell into their clutches. They had never had a chance, but in Cup-tie troubles, to learn what to do with such notions of football.
TO-DAY
To-day they stand a united side, a victorious side, a side that has gained much knowledge of the needs of senior sides when tackling Second Division racers. The period of learning has done them no harm; they have got a confidence that was lacking all last season and part of the season before. The absence of team changes got the players knowing each other's post and pattern; the half, back changes became necessary through injury and what not, and with Stein realising how well he can play and how hard he can drive a ball from the left wing the attack has gained where it was most needing additional strength. Today Everton go to the Palace ground in the hope and belief; the Bradford, Fulham and Chelsea periods found them making a journey with fear and trembling. Someone has dared to suggest they should concentrate upon the League and forsake the Cup at the convenient moment. The loss of the bonus is the main thought of the footballer. One round brings up another round—and a bonus with it. Everton are really a Second Division team “in name only." and they feel that it would he absurd, with their League lead strong, to think of forgetting the Cup for the sake of the League. May it not he that they can surprise most people by going far into the tournament and yet not soiling their League status. It is good they are so far ahead in the League. It makes them forget for the nonce the question of promotion which in November and December was bothering them by reason of their knowledge that they were not always worth their victories.
TO-MORROW
To-morrow they go to London with Martin as reserve. It is believed Dunn will be fit for service. If he is not, at the last moment, then Martin will not be lacking because he made his name in cup ties. Dean has been troubled with a heavy cold—few of us have escaped'— but he is throwing that off for the weekend. When last Everton went south for a cup tie they came back to find a rare greeting from the crowd at Lime-street. I expect something similar, it not, larger, will occur at Lime-street on Sunday evening when the London train brings its load of football strength back to the city. The interest in the club is growing each week and so long as they keep in the cup the interest will accumulate. It can never get out of bounds, save in the case of a Wembley appearance. But I am jumping too far ahead. I have seen the Palace in recent years in their cup struggles at Manchester and elsewhere, and I think that if Everton start their games as they have done in recent games, that they will win. Palace will be hard; Palace will be insistent, dour and dogged.  But their talent should not be too much for Goodison, even though League forms are thrown into the fire when the cup ties bring all manner of teams together. Everton have generally gone in for special training. This season the players and officials have cut the special out of it: they are merely carrying on as they have been during the season of “all cup ties." Everton indeed have got thoroughly used to big crowds, to special endeavour being pitted against them and to a seemingly everlasting call to steadiness and skill spread over ninety minutes I have no fear about the result if Everton attack methodically and play their normal, natural game, allied to the definiteness of all the forwards when they get goal. Whenever a new goalkeeper is brought into a cup tie he generally manages to set the local stream afire. Imrie has such a chance, for as I was first to tell you, Callender has little chance of playing. Imrie's height is impressive and his record with the second team is good. However, I prophesy that he is going to be busy to-morrow and that he will be the last line of a losing side. For the rest get your "Football Echo” and see how the game went. Judge it the best way—for yourselves, by the best medium, the ' Football Echo." Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein.  Crystal Palace; Imrie; Crilley, Charlton; Rivers, Wilde, Greener; Harry, Turner, Simpson, Butler, Clarke.
I am hoping that we shall not have a draw at Selhurst because I abominate drawn cup-ties. Besides, if the game is brought to a successful conclusion we shall be at Port Vale's ground—a new one on me!—on Monday with the Everton club. If there is a draw, then the game would be played at Goodison Park on Wednesday, and the ticket rush at the office and Sharp's on Monday morning would break all records made by the January sales.
EVERTON AND DUNN
WINGER TO PLAY TO-MORROW
TRY-OUT SATISFACTORY
All through there has been a doubt about Dunn taking his place in the Everton team to-morrow in consequence of his damaged shoulder. A try-out this morning, although it left some pain, proved satisfactory, and it is now an assured fact that Dunn will play in the Cup-tie against Crystal Palace.

EVERTON'S BID.
January 24 th 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury.
By John Peel
Merseyside's hope is centred in Everton, and on their displays during the season they are worthy representatives of a great centre of football. The exacting School of the Second Division has had a hardening effect on the team's methods, as it were, and though the record of Crystal Palace in the Southern Section of the Third Division commands respect. I shall be greatly surprised if Everton are beaten. The team, fore and all, is well-balanced, and, with Dean returning to his best form, they seem to be in line, for the fifth round. Still Cup warfare is full of pitfalls, and Crystal Palace on their own ground at Selhurst will make a bold bid for victory. As Second Division leaders, Everton are undoubtedly a power, and with Dunn again in the side, I look to the Goodison team to win today. Crystal Palace, in addition to being without their regular goalkeeper, will lack the services of Greener, the left half-back, who has severely injured his knee. Teams; Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. Crystal Palace; - Imrie; Crilly, Charlton; Rivers, Wilde, Wilcockson; Harry, Turner, Simpson, Butler, Clarke.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 STOCKPORT COUNTY RESERVES 3
January 24 th 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Central League (Game 23)

THE SPORTS LOOKING-GLASS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 24 January 1931
The Member For Everton—Mr. Andrew Coffey;.—By "Bee"
Picture John Bull faces peering out of the porthole, and take it for granted it is Mr. Andrew Coffey, the Everton director. He’s been to Ireland or the Island-one or the other. The gale? He hasn't heard it. The rocking? He hasn’t felt it. The bed? He's never left it. No beds?
Then he's snoozed in a corner seat. Complacency—on board a boat. But watch him at a match. He is all lighted up. Lit up is a phrase indicating drink-excess. He is not lit up; he is alight with concern and perhaps fear. He is the veteran member of the board—not the oldest member-this applies to Mr. A. R. Wade, who is not often seen at matches these days. Mr. Coffey is the longest server in the Everton boardroom office. That is a difference with a distinction. Was chairman years ago when the Fazackerley's were being bought up. I told him Fazzy wanted to leave. I told him by the same method that I told you—per the paper. Mr. Coffey was vexed. He didn't believe it; he couldn't believe it. He was chairman. The same thing occurred when a week before I said Kenny Campbell would go to Stoke: also when I said Mr. W. J. Sawyer had resigned the hon. Secrestaryship of the Everton Club. The archives tell us what happened. Fazackerley had asked a friend to find him another club. So there! But those ancient lights don't create any legal trouble—nor animosity—when a sufficient time has elapsed. They merely tend to make a man say, “Where does he get the news." Well, one night I was in a Seacombe boat when I heard the deputy manager and Mr. Coffey's voice ring out, and I not help “absorbing “an interesting Item! Football life is very queer. If you doubt me ask Mr. Coffey about the loss of two pheasants which tickled him last week-end Mr. Coffey peers over his cards and his eye -glasses; he churtles his happy laugh and he gets his solo or abundance; he's a sure man. Warren Drive may fascinate him, but at heart his address is “Goodison Park."

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 24 January 1931
By Louis T Kelly

EVERTON CAPTAIN AND CRYSTAL PALACE "PUT TO RED"
Liverpool Echo - Monday 26 January 1931
CUP'S GREATEST TRAGEDIES AND COMEDIES
EVERTON G0 MARCHING ON
THE ADDITIONAL GOALKEEPER AND THE REVERSE ACTION AT SEL HURST 
Bee’s Notes
And Everton go marking on. They might easily begin to fancy themselves a bit; it's a dangerous proceeding, yet their continuous victory performance will take a lot of knocking off or knocking about. Since Christmas Day they have won all their games, Cup and League. I am nothing if not hypercritical  about this side, because I am  looking not so much for the moment as  to the reintroduction of the side to the  First Division, and desiring they shall  not back-back, as it were, to the Second  Division which entails far too many  long journeys for me, at any rate. It is a selfish outlook, you see. Candidly, what did Everton beat on Saturday?  They beat a reserve goalkeeper, who fluffed his first endeavour and was at  fault when Dean scored his first goal;  they beat a reserve half-back, making  his debut in the first team; they beat a  team that had a man off for some  moments; and they beat a side that had  to rearrange its best wing through this  injury. They beat Crystal Palace 6-0.  Six was the lucky number, as witness the Westhead “information " that helped to another six-hit.  Yes. I put the blackest view on this victory to show Everton that in the matter of futures they need not expect so easy a task. They beat nothing, see you! That's so. Allowing for the  remembrance of Cup-tie shocks and the  folly of forgetting that all Cup-ties  become eleven versus eleven, with luck  intervening. I say that this tie, like Blackburn’s, was a simple matter and there was not an Everton supporter present who did not sit at ease when the third goal had arrived. Till then there was a grievance against our finishing ideas. To be on top in skill and territory is not helpful unless the front-of-goal chances are being taken.  It took Everton too long to start their goal mission. 
TOO SOON? 
Perhaps Dunn went in a trifle too early. He lacked his own sure touch in the first half when the wind was  “with "—which, in some opinions, makes the ball more difficult to control  or hold. I don't agree, but I give both sides of the case. Certainly two goals came through a Dunn helping and one from Stein's corner kick was a model of the Dean action. Everyone leaped up to this priceless offering.  Dean connected and did not look round to see where “that one went to," he knew—and right away began to walk to the centre line. That was one of four, one a neat dribble against backs spread out, one simple and easy, one  made by McClure who, with Gee and  Thomson and Johnson, took very high marks, for skill. McClure and Gee had an idea that they could do this dallying dribbling business anytime, anywhere.  It was a mistaken notion in a cup-tie.  They must learn this lesson. Yet both the young men played extremely well, and Gee kept a tight hold on a very fine leader. Gibson, who, with Harry, was the real danger to the Everton side till they got up to the backs. Cresswell just walked through this game, and by his side Williams played, although flu ridden.  The Everton stalwart and captain was rushed off to bed so soon as he got hark to the hotel, and there he “stayed put “for the week-end, full of aches and pains. 
EVERTOR PLAYED TWO GOALKEEPERS 
Once upon a time Bill Coggins, the Everton goalkeeper, found a man invade the field Coggins talked to “he" in his own Bristol fashion, and the crowd and the man took offence. The invader would have struck Coggins with a walking-stick. So Coggins nowadays stands dumb when there is an outbreak of a similar character. He was dumbstruck when an enthusiastic young man of good physique joined the Everton “board" and kept goal with Coggins for fully two minutes. Coggins said nothing. The man had his coat off, and his cap was thrown into the corner of the net, in approved fashion! The interrupter stood at attention, with Coggins a yard away. No one seemed to see the interrupter come on the field of play because play was fast and exciting at the other end, and we were all gluing our eyes on the matter of the moment. The referee, taking his first game, was very calm in his handling of the game and in the way he handled this man. It is odd, however, that all football enthusiasts imagine that they can do two things worthily-keep goal and write "a report" of the match. They say all good goalkeepers are made when this man entered the goal I said. "It's a case of like to like!”  Well, Coggins did his part with a very fine judgment. He hadn't much to do, but his leap and his grip and body action to a high ball were perfection, save one incident in the opening phase.  Tom Johnson was the best forward on the field. This may he deemed an extraordinary selection when one thinks of the goal-chart. But you know your Dean: you know his standard and yon know his high calling where heading and goal getting are concerned. I reiterate that Johnson had a great time, and if Stein did not get the goals in his sequence take it from me that it was pure fortune that kept him from at least two on his own account. This left wing has “got to know each other." There will be no stopping it. Johnson scored one—with his right foot offence again, but his general game and his excellent “touch in flicking passes was the means by which he stood out best of all in this tie. The right wing had the reserve left half-back to face and did not do it well until the second half got well on its way. We need not talk of revenge  in the hour of victory; but the players  remember their history books and, when  they thought of the 6-0 defeat at  Goodison they said they would make it  six at Selhurst. They kept their word, and the favourite phrase at Everton is:  “Do you reverse?" 
Cook takes Williams's place at Port Vale to-day when Everton play the team that knocked them off their home-perch in September.  Port Vale are the only side that has beaten Everton at Goodison Park.  I have seen but one Everton defeat thus far—at Bradford. 

EVERTON LEAVE IT VERY LATE
Liverpool Echo - Monday 26 January 1931
PORT VALE AGAIN A TOUGH PROPOSITION 
By “Bee" 
Teams: Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, and Stein.  Port Vale; Davies; Shenton, Oakes; Cope, Round, Jones; Griffiths, Roberts, Jennings, Marshall, Spencer.  Everton won the toss for the second time this week-end, and by that means had the value of the wind.  Coggins had the first important save to make and even though the shot was a long distance one the forwards merited encouragement. Coggins, however saved calmly and took a charge with impunity and from his kick the ball was made into a goal getter.  Dean put the ball up to a point to which Johnson could run and not create an offside call. Johnson ran through two yards and then very wisely made a square pass from which a child could have scored. 
CRITCHLEY'S HONOUR 
Critchley was responsible for the honour of the goal, although the credit of it, of course, was due to the centre man and his sparring partner on the left.  This was just what Everton wanted, but well as our half-backs played, there was an inclination to be short in their passes by McClure and Critchley.  Port Vale were in the same category,  and they scored a very sound vat in 13 minutes through Roberts, who  smashed the hall to the right-hand side  of the goal after good working had carried  the hall from the left position to the  right flank. Stein not only got a hang on the heart, but he was also pitched so hard that he must have collided with the dangerous railings that surround this ground. 
A GOAL AND ENCOURAGEMENT 
Port Vale, with the encouragement of 8,000 people and a goal, were a transformed team after twelve minute, but gradually Everton wore them down, and Cresswell took the liberty of joining the forwards and in the struggle he tore his pants and then found Stein was well offside.  Jennings netted the ball and fortunately the whistle had gone a second before. This was comforting, Coggins was hurt on the hand by an unwarranted foul by one of the home forwards, and this gave Crewmen time to change his pants, the process of disrobing being a public affair.  Once again a player went off, and remained off. Spencer injured his ankle in a severe tackle, and left the field shortly before half-time. He was taken to the infirmary, and it is believed that a small bone is broken.  Although Port Vale were nippy and more than useful, Everton had the chances.  Stein dug up a shot from an excellent corner made by Critchley, a corner that Dean might have converted. Just before half-time Dean stroke through while the  home defence wrongly cried for offside, and finished with a bad shot.  Half-time: Port Vale 1, Everton 1.  TRAINER IN A SCENE 
The second half had been going but a minute when Johnson fell six yards from a "certainty." McClure was then the subject of a scene of an unusual character, in which the home trainer, Tom Halford, became an important person. McClure tried to kick the ball into touch, and the ball struck the head of one of the home players and injured him. The trainer ran up to give his  attention, and having done so, he must  have said something, because the linesman  reported him to the referee, and  Holford, who is the former Stoke and  Manchester player, was admonished by  the referee.  The game held up for some minutes in the process, and the crowd booed McClure for some time. Williams was limping and Gee was hurt in a game which now developed considerable sting.  Port Vale with their ten men were very insistent, and Everton had rare chances to take the lead; yet Cresswell made a close header at the goalposts to stop Griffiths making the score 2-1.
THE SHOT AND THE SAVE 
Jennings shot into Coggins's hands and actually the goal-keepers had had an easy passage all day until Dean shot with ferocious force and Davies made the save of the day.  The Port Vale goalkeeper was now hurt in a match that was far too scrappy and contentious. Everton were not strong in front of goal.  Dean took a bumping ball as a means of shooting and sliced his drive. No one played better than Gee. He had infinite confidence in himself. It was ferocious fighting.  Dean scored from Critchley's centre, and gave Everton the lead.  Dunn and Critchley worked ably, and Critchley on the touch line made a lovely double-back, raced ahead, and with a perfect centre found Dean slightly to the left of the goal, the centre-forward pushing the ball to the extreme right-hand corner.  Thus, for the second time in the week-end, Everton have performed their revenge act.

PERFECT PLAY OF EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 26 January 1931
FIVE GOALS AGAINST THE WIND
DEAN GETS FOUR
EVERTON 6, CRYSTAL PALACE 0
(Half-Time; 1-0)
By Vagrant
In the long ago, ‘tis said, a certain goalkeeper of Crystal Palace stood between the goalposts on the Everton ground and ate oranges while his while his  colleagues rattled on six goals. The orange story has been sweet in the intervening years, bat it has now lost its flavour.  Everton went the Palace ground on  Saturday, and in the most precise way  rattled up six goals while their own  keeper, in not actually regaled with  oranges, was certainly able to take  matter, easily.  Not only did Everton reverse that old score precisely: they did it by most previse football. Indeed. I am under a strong temptation to offer very abject apology to this Everton team whole.  Watching them daring the first half of the match I was inclined to be critical of their efforts; made note that they were being too precise.
PRECISE FOOTBALL. 
Not hearing my criticism they took no notice it, and by precise football went to win the game by six goals. Forget all that yon have seen or heard of typical Cup-tie football and listen to the tale of how Everton took their revenge from the Palace. When the full-backs were pressed they didn't bang the ball among the spectators.  Cresswell, on the one side  particularly, and Williams, on the other,  beat opponents in a close dribble and  “handed “ the ball on to their half-backs.  These half-backs held it, too: or alternatively passed it each other ere it was eventually transferred to the real attackers.  And the forwards—a touch here, a tap there. All so pretty, unlike the Cup football on which have been reared.  My apology to Everton is complete and wholehearted they provided me with a football entertainment of the kind which I did not expect to see in a Cup game.  Their display in general will be recalled possibly long as the orange story has been recalled—as football classic.  With it all there was a punch, as the store of goals will reveal. With the wind Everton scored once, and Dean was credited with the goal, though actually he didn’t know much about it. Rather should lmrie be debited with it the goalkeeper failed to hold a centre from and the went into the goal off the body of the centre-forward.
FIVE AGAINST THE WIND. 
Against the wind Everton scored five goals, once again proving that to the skilful players a wind against is of more assistance than a following wind.  Dean started the second half business with a really fine effort.  Then Wilde pat out foot intercept a center from Stein, and the ball went past his own goalkeeper.  Dean then headed through from a corner-kick, and it was also Dean who put on the fifth goal with a fine, low shot. The sixth just before the finish went to Johnson.  When there is no weak spot in a side; when every man has supreme confidence in his own ability and does his work for the team really well, there is no call to be invidious.  Dean scarcely had a shot which did not count, and that is another way of showing how completely each effort had the opposing goalkeeper beaten.
TURNER’S MISHAP. 
Also, of course it pays tribute to the manner in which the rest of the team played up to him.  You can’t have “too much Dean” when the centre-forward is in such goal-scoring form.  The Palace failed to reproduce their best form.  A word of sympathy for the losers though.  Wilcoxson, playing as emergency left half, reduced their strength in the middle, for the substitute, while feeding intelligently at times, was seldom “there” with the tackle.  Widle and Rivers were fairly good in the first half, and full back Crilly was very good, but they crumpled and failed eventually.  The possible effectiveness of the Palace attack was reduced by an early injury to Turner, who first went to outside right and then to the dressing room.  But while a thoroughly fit inside right might have kept the Palace in the picture long enough he could not have taken them into the draw for the fifth round on Monday.   Outside left Clarke was the man who had  the chances to make the score look little  more respectable, but he would not trust  himself to shoot and ns Simpson has a  reputation as a goal-getter, Harry, on the other wing might with advantage have slipped the ball into the middle much more apidly.  Crystal Palace;  Crilly, Charlton; Rivers, Wilde, Wilcoxson; Harry, Turner, Simpson, Butler, and Clarke.  Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, and Stein.  Referee; Mr. J.H. Whittle, Worcester. 

PORT VALE 1 EVERTON 3
January 27 th 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury
More points for Everton.
Port Vale players breaks a leg
Lively Incident at Burslem
By "Bee."
Everton won again yesterday, and by beating Port Vale they made their position at the head of the League table still more "settled" towards the championship. It was a very hard game at Port Vale. Burslem turned out about 10,000 strong, and while the locals had a reserve left wing at their command, the leaders had their usual side, their captain, Williams, determining that he would play in spite of his undoubtedly poor state of health. Everton won 3-1, but the score does not tell how difficult was their task. Indeed the game was not won until very late in the ninety minutes of strenuous hard fought effort. It was not a dirty game, but it was essentially a very keen and hard game, and it must be conceded that the home side had all the misfortunes that were passing.
Spencers Misfortune.
They lost Spencer, their outside left, shortly before half-time with a broken leg –near the ankle. This was a severe blow, because in 1931 it is well nigh impossible for any side to win or even draw with depleted forces. Port Vale rallied under their difficulty, and they made stern endeavours to get on terms. The score at the interval was 1-1. It was well in the game when the leading goal was scored, and as Critchley scored with a smashing drive right on the close of play the score suggests something that was not justified by the way play went. Port Vale had beaten Everton at Goodison Park –their only home defeat -early in the season after leading by two goals, so Everton during the weekend, worked off two revengeful acts.
Unusual Incident.
Talking of revenge reminds me that this game was somewhat noteworthy in view of the incident that occurred during the early portion of the second half. McClure had made a strong kick towards keeping the ball out of touch. A Port Vale player fell at the same time and the ball struck him on the head. Possibly the local trainer, Holford, had his temperament troubled by the break which led to Spencer being taken to the local infirmary. At any rate, Holford no sooner reached the scene of the distress of this second occurrence than he did something to players not concerned in any injury to lead a linesman to take notice and report the occurrence to the referee, Mr. Smith of Ashton-under-Lyne. This was a strange scene –the second uncommon and almost unprecedented some Everton defence had suffered in the week-end, and while the one invasion was a comic one, this was more serious.
From this point there was a lot of spleen in the nature of the game. There were bumps of venom developing in the players minds, and the game as a consequence merely became hard and unruly rather then desperate. Port Vale merit sympathy and much appreciation for the way they fought against odds and a medicum of misfortune, but the standard of play taken during the whole afternoon showed Everton just on top of their rivals, whose backs played well and had a good goalkeeper at their backs. Everton all round played good, hard football, and as usual, were just about to show their second half revival, when the McClure incident occurred. The young half-back, who had done so well, was plainly upset by the course of events, and consequently he petend out a little, while Thomson ran into a strong and quick and virile right wing.
Gee's Surpreme Skill.
Gee, however, kept a tight hold upon the mercurial Jennings, and his display was quite the best he has given. He has a most startling confidence –and he has a belief in a ground pass that is not at all common. He passes to his wing half-back or to his full back, and when he gets into a defensive vein he does not merely kick away anywhere –he has control of the ball that allows him to move it hither and thither with Supremes joy and cleverest –if it is not overdone, as a work of defence rather than a habit of self complacence. So far so good –very good, indeed –that is the verdict in the case of his young, strong fast half-back, whose use of the ball in one of his greatest features. None did better in these bot raids than Cresswell, who has never had to steady and successful a season. Coggins was beaten once –he is playing his part manfully, and the ball that beat him sent in by Roberts was fast and touched the goalpost before it entered the net. It was a well-gotten goal by a lively forward line that swept the ball from wing to wing. After that the Port Vale forwards were unsteady in front of goal –none more so than Jennings, while Marshall fell into the same disfavour working the ball well close in, yet shooting moderately. There was much moderate shooting in the game. Everton were the chief sinners –rarely does Dean miss three gilt-edged chances of scoring such as he lt. slide by in this game. Once he had but to stretch out his leg to make the game safe. He also ballooned a ball badly, as did Stein, but Stein in this a quiet day for him had a shaking up through a throw towards the railings, which are far too near the touchline at this ground. Johnson was again our best and most consistent forward, and Dunn, having got over his fear about his shoulder, had a moderate first half, but kept Critchley moving very sweetly in the second half, and the sequel to this was a great goal scored by the extreme winger who like Stein, hits a ball very hard. Critchley's goal on time was the work of an artist and a finisher. Dunn helped him, and the scorer banged the ball into the net with such force that few of the spectators knew the ball was at the back of the net. Early Defeat Reversed.
Dean worried a good deal; he had to take strong defenders and he appeared to me a trifle rattled, and this is a means by which his surely in front of goal is lost. However, he scored the second point to take the lead eight minutes from the final whistle. Critchley having scored the opening point in simple and easy fashion in eight minutes through Johnson's kind invitation. By winning at Burslem, Everton repaid their early defeat from this side. It took them a long time to shake off this undoubtedly strong eleven, whose Round at centre-half has the height and the stretch to combat the best of forwards, and whose backs, Oakes in particular, are more than average Second Division backs. Oakes appeared tired through cup-tie effort at Birmingham. There is no doubt about his ability. Griffiths was the home side's best forward, with Roberts a good helpmate. It was Roberts was equalised the score in thirteen minutes. Everton will not have a more difficult match this season –I place it in front of the terrors that came through the home and away games with West Bromwich Albion. Teams; - Everton; - Coggins, goal; Williams (captain) and Cresswell, backs; McClure, Gee, and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson and Stein, forwards. Port Vale; - Davies, goal; Shenton and Oakes, backs; Cope, Round and Jones half-backs; Griffiths, Roberts, Jennings, Marshall and Spencer, forwards.
Revenge season?
By John Peel.
Is this going to be Everton's "revenge" season? They beat Crystal Palace on Saturday 6-0, and wiped out a 6-0 Cup reverse at home by the Palace nine years ago. Now they are drawn against Grimsby Town, a side they have never met in the Cup competition. But the Town won the League match at Goodison Park last season 4-2, a result that really meant safety for Grimsby and relegation for Everton. The Blues thus have something to wipe of the slate, and I think they will do it. Grimsby beat Scarborough, at Scarborough 2-1 in the third round, and defeated Manchester City at home on Saturday. Everton's 2-0 and 6-0 victories at Plymouth and Selhurst respectively should encourage them to dispose of the Fishermen and reach the last eight.
Sport pie
By the way other ex-Everton players are figuring in the Cup-ties, Davies (goal) and Houghton (inside-left), of Exeter City. Kendall (goal-keeper), of Sheffield United and Caddick (left-half) of Barnsley, were also formerly at Goodison Park.

SO TO HOME AND GRIMSBY
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 27 January 1931
A RICH HARVEST AND OUTLOOK
EVERTON'S AWAY FORM PRODUCES NINETEEN POINTS
A HARD-WON GAME 
Bee’s Notes
There is plenty of time in which we can carve a way through the cup-tie draw at a later date. Sufficient for the moment is it that we welcome Grimsby, we welcome the first home draw for an eternity, and we welcome the people who come to us because they have been friends in distress in recent years, and, we do not forget that this is a score-year. It is the year when Everton are paying their compliments and some old debts.  The victory of 4-0 by Grimsby at Goodison lark last season—the debut of Coggins—is a memory that cannot be effaced. As I pointed out recently, that game was a reminder that years  ago Grimsby were pushed into Division  Two through an extraordinary happening at Goodison Park, and Grimsby,  languishing ever afterwards in the  Second Division till a year ago, had no chance to wipe out the stigma. They won 4-0.  A very impressive performance, and  a team that as recently as the Christmas  holiday showed us at Anfield how good  they can be—a good, dependable goalkeeper,  backs of merit and a forward  line boasting Bestall, the midget player,  and also boasting the fine striding outside  left, Fielding, who more closely  resembles W. H. Smith than any winger  I know. We are glad to be at home; we realise the strength of the opposition, but Everton have got used to the stiff task, and they have a heart nowadays that has been licking in their work for ever two seasons. Thus the players say.  “Let 'em all come; we will tackle anyone."  They have graded their Cup tasks by meeting a Third Division and a Second Division side, and now the sequence is kept up by the opposition of a First Division club. That club, being near the foot of Division 1., must be on a par—putting it almost unfavourably-with Everton, so we are sure to have a big Cup-tie engagement in three weeks, as the interest In Everton has increased week by week till now it is at boiling point. 
STIFFEST GAME THIS  SEASON 
I reckon Burslem people very good sportsmen. Their officials are the acme of decency. There are few  directors who could withstand a snarl  at a referee, or at circumstances, when  their side had been beaten at home 3-1  after fielding ten men for the best part  of the game—and that player unfortunately  had sustained a broken leg.  Port Vale showed their pluck on and off the field. And I give them further credit—the only team that has beaten Everton at home this season put up the stoutest game Everton have had to face this season. West Bromwich were severe twice, but Port Vale have a never-ending flow of enthusiasm, pace and determination. They are a bit clever, notably at full back, where Oakes is or will be the supreme full back. They showed a good goalkeeper and a right winger of no mean merit.  They showed great heartiness against fate and misfortune, and went down with their colours still flying. It was a terrific contest, and would have been  " easy meat –you I’ll pardon me!—had the Everton forwards been on the mark with easy chances in the first half hour.  But there was a Monday feeling abroad, I fancy, and the difficulty of the turf and the quality of endeavour of the opposition made it an extremely difficult match to win.  The score does not represent the labour entailed. A margin of 3-1 reads handsome until you remember what went on and how time fled to within eight minutes of time before Everton took the lead, Critchley's grand slam goal coming at the last moment. Critchley hit that ball so hard that most of the spectators did not believe it had gone into the net. Naturally, Everton are  tiring under the great strain of perpetual  Cup-ties, and I consider that in  removing the Port Vale obstacle they  not only took the big lead in the League  and also their 19th point in away games  —a magnificent record—but also ended  their most serious away engagement.  All games bear an import to Everton it is the natural outcome of the high-broken leg; at any rate, be burst forth to the far touchline and took command of the proceedings.. The linesman miss what happened, and gave his verdict against Tom Holford, the former Manchester City and Stoke warrior.
GEE UP 
The game was never dirty, but it was always tremendously keen and severe, and maybe some of the crack forwards dismissed their easiest chances through being rattled. Dee, the debonair young man acting as pivot, showed the same control and charm of decision—never hasty and generally very clever in his manipulation. He took the situation in at a glance, and was by a fine forethought able to run through from the half-way line when the defence tried to make a whole half-field debarred by offside to Dean, the worker. Gee stood so near goal that the gift made by himself for himself was too easy. He shot outside, and his face lighted up with a smile at himself. However, Critchley’s simple start of the goal-making, plus the crash shot at the finish, and Dean’s sandwich goal made • very good meal for the leaders, for whom Critchley had a hand in the three goals. McClure felt the difficulty of playing as well as, he had done in the first half-hour through the accident, and Cresswell walked through the game with that flair for doing the right thing in the easiest manner—he's like that at golf; he seems to be doing nought, and actually lie is keeping the straight path and taking your half-crown from you.  Johnson is touching the high spots in the last two months. He was again our best forward, and Dunn, apart from misses early on, took a grip of the game and sent Critchley along with all-telling passes. The captain did marvels when one remembers his sick state, and Coggins and Thomson were the usual safe two-some. Stein fell by the wayside—which is a railed place dangerous to wingers, and Dean worked himself to bits showing speed and energy one does not always associate with him; he was  “pressing"—and he was pressed by a  hard defence.  So Everton go marching on, and in their march they meet many old friends.  At the Palace they met Messrs, Crosbie (aged eighty-two and " in at the birth “of the club, father of the Liverpool police inspector; Hendenum, of insurance remembrance; Councillor Swift, of Walton: &e. It is good to meet old friends.

EVERTON SQUARE ANOTHER ACCOUNT
January 27 th 1931. Evening Express
Blues' Chance of Beating Spurs' Record.
By the Pilot.
Everton's cry quits again! In these days they have squared they accounts. On Saturday they wiped out them memory of a six and cup defeat by Crystal Palace men nine years ago. Yesterday they beat Port Vale (3-1), who are the only side to win at Goodison Park this season. This was Everton's seventh so in Cup and League. In these matches they have set up the fine average of 30 goals for and seven against. The Blues with 42 points, now have a clear lead of seven in the Second Division. With 16 matches to play, they can secure in all 74 points. The record for the Second Division is 70 points, established by Tottenham Hotspur. Thus Everton can afford to lose three points and still beat the "Spurs" total.
Deadly Tackling.
Port Vale are one of the most difficult sides in the competition. Swift in thought and action, they tackle in deadlier fashion than any side I have seen this season. Everton's skill, and craft proved superior to them. Nothing should shakethem. The Vale were unfortunate in that their outside left, Spencer sustained a broken leg before the interval. The affair was quite applented. Eleven Midlanders had held their own with the Evertonians, but only just. Ten were overplayed for periods in the second half, and had Everton finished off their work with their customary execution the result won't not have been so long in doubt. Dean missed three of four fine changes. Dunn could get no power into shots from positions, which should have brought goals. In the second half, the Vale like most of the Blues opponents, were not quite so sprightly and Everton were often attacking. Yet their finishing was so indifferent that I thought a draw was certain. Dean left his atonement until eight minutes from the end, and Critchley got another. These goals represented the difference between the sides as matters stood, but should never have been left so late.
Gee Shines.
The Everton defence was a s strong a rock and I was delighted with Cresswell's coolness and keen judgement when Thomson was having a shaky start. Williams, too, was a deadly tackler and good kicker, as well did the pair cover that Coggins had a fairly easy time.
Gee was not only the Blues' best half-back, but the best player on the field. He has shown wonderful improvement since he came into the first team against Bury. He never once failed to make good use of the ball and the manner in which he controlled it with his head was superb. McClure tackled strongly, and Thomson adhered to strong football, once he had taken the full measure of the deadly Roberts-Griffiths wing. Johnson, who is playing at the top of his form, was again the outstanding forward. Inclined to be erratic in front of goal, Dean was a robust leader who was invariably demanding attention. This was an entaining game marred by too many free kicks.
Sport Pie.
•  The gate receipts at the Port Vale-Everton match was more than £600, the second highest at the Recreation ground this season.
•  Until Everton and Grimsby Town agree to the price to be charged for the forthcoming Cup-tie, no applications can be received by Everton for tickets.

CRYSTAL PALACE 0 EVERTON 6 (F.A.Cup Game 128)
January 28 th 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury.
Dean's bag of Four.
Everton Revenge after ten years.
Players who stood out in Rout of the Palace .
Everton won 6-0 at the Crystal Palace ground before 36,000 spectators. The hundreds who went from Liverpool were able to say they had taken part in the act of revenge, for a famous defeat sustained by Everton at their own ground in 1922, when Crystal Palace pranced around the Everton stars and went home with the joy of a 6-0 victory. The result nearly wrecked the Everton board of directors, and some of the players caught the blow in the signing on season. On Saturday the two clubs came together again, and by a trick of fate Everton won by the exact margin that had been their grave failing –6-0. So was retribution complete. Candidly, the victory was always seemingly possible throughout the course of play, but when the game had gone to within five minutes of the full score no one present imagined the score could reach the half-dozen. It seemed impossible as well, as improbable, but so badly had the Palace team become after their labours and extra time against reading the previous Monday, that they tired to break-up point and the effect was to provide goals in the closing minutes Johnson, our best forward, spite score register, getting his full deserves when he scored with practically the last kick of the game.
In Suspense.
Everton do not know defeat, they played with the assurance and powerness hardly warranted, for this season; Palace were a poor side in most departments, and when Everton won the toss, and took the value of a very strong wind, there should have been more than a goal lead to the visiting side. It is quite true that Everton have so many of their games, through waiting and weaving out the first half fury of their winds but in moment play have begun to take a goal crop in the first half when they had the chance. Everton did not do this on Saturday, and as a consequence they kept their supporters on tenterhooks for a long spell. In fact I would go so far as to say they were unsatisfactory as a side. The defence was excellent throughout, but while the half-back line was included to dribble unnecessarily and closely when short. But methods should have been adopted the forward line did not knit properly. They were certainly not "hitting it," and this in spite of the admirable methods adopted by Johnson and the continued effort of the working centre-forward, Dean, who never created his endeavours to head a goal. Dean needed much watching, and well though he scored in the register –he took four, and with Wilde putting through his own goal he was stopped taking five out of the total of six –I would put Johnson down as having given his best game since he left Manchester City. He had the control and methods by which the Palace armour was damaged. Their backs always did well in the awkward circumstances of having a second team goalkeeper and a reserve half-back to pull them from their previously high estate. I think the home backs permit high praise. The goalkeeper had missed fire more than once; he had been effected by the occasion, and doubtless the name of Dean was a nightmare to him. He had made some good saves, and had his bit of fortune. But he could not take it with him. Reserves team goalkeepers called up for big matches in the cup series are either dramatic successes or arrant failures? Imrie was not a failure, he just did not connect, and his comrades felt that he might fail; hence their endeavour to shield him, which cost him a goal and nearly three.
Dean's Easy Goals.
Dean's goals came with some degree of easy. His first was a present from the half-back, McClure, who became a sixth forward, and getting the defence tangled, opened a way for Dean to head in. This was the vital goal of the day, (it came when Everton had become slip shod, and had remembrances of Cup-tie crashes that have been their lot in London after they have had most of the play. Once the second half had started we could see Palace had gone dry, they had some shots at Coggins, and found him very dependable, but the game soon lost its point and purpose. Dean took his second through a solo dribble of very few yards against two defenders and a bewildered goalkeeper, and the third followed a case of Wilde putting through his own goal in trying to stop the ball going to Dean. The Everton centre's this was a prime sample of his heading; his fourth was close in, and Johnson made the score-sheet bear a memorable margin –6-0. However, it must not go unchallenged. One wondered whether Dunn's reappearance had been hurried a week too soon. He seemed shy of the tackle, and much of his passing went astray. He had his shots at goal, and two were near the mark; the remainder were not successful. His partner too, had variable moments, and the poor moment rather frequently. Best of all was Johnson, with Dean's goal-getting ramp a personal triumphant against backs, who knew not how to stem the torrent of his goals.
Success of Young players.
The greatest pleasure of the tie was the way the young half-backs played. Gee at centre half, took quits a dominating influence over the crack Third Division goal-scorer, Simpson, a more than useful player who had no one to aid him in his side. One was clever, fast and his methods of passing was full of value. Not only did McClure make the first goal but formed a good link with the forwards, and possibly both these men did too much dribbling when they found they could weave pattering and show "forward" notions. It was a dangerous game, and the young men must remember that such artistry is not called for in the knock-out competition. At back, Cresswell and Williams did all that was necessary. Cresswell was a joy; Williams did specially well when one remembers he wanted to cry-off through an attack of the flu, on the morning of the match. He had so, go straight to bed when the game was over, and it is plain he will not be able to play in the League game at Port Vale today.
Everton's Extra Player.
Coggins Sentry
Coggins did four very special things, and will always remember the game for the outburst on the part of a spectator who leaped the rails and almost unseen by anyone, police in particular, took off his coat and hat and them threw the latter in the back of the goal as per goalkeeping notice and stayed sentry by Coggins for fully two minutes. The referee was called upon to decide what to do, and the man was removed. It was a funny situation in a game that had many dull moments owing to the character of play. Everton swept through the Palace with great easy later on, and that was how a escape that did not produce score than one goal. By fifty-four minute finally become a rout. I was a clean game; but Palace lost time of their best forward when Turner left the field five minutes before the end. He had been damaged some time, and as a consequence the home team had played their lively winger Harry as inside forward instead of outside right. Palace eventually outplayed had to bow to superior football, and much better finishing. Teams; Everton ; - Coggins, goal; Williams (captain) and Cresswell, backs; McClure, Gee, and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, Dunn, Dean Johnson and Stein, forwards. Crytsal Palace; - Imrie, goal; Crilly and Charlton (captain), backs; Rivers, Wilde, and Wilcockson, half-backs; Harry, Turner, Simpson, Butler, and Clarke, forwards.

EVERTON TEAM SELECTS ITSELF THESE DAYS
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 28 January 1931
What Remains To Be Done By Everton
Bee’s Notes
Mr. Hailes, of Acton, W. 3, writes Re Crystal Palace v. Everton Cup-tie!  I enclose a cutting from the London “Evening News." After attending the match and reading several reports I  thought that this report, in which is  stated that ' Everton were not really  six goals better than Crystal Palace, taking the teams all through and on  the run of the play,' was just about  the limit of pure bias. I don't know  whether you attended this match or  not, as I could not see the Press-box  from where I was sitting, but I have  never seen a match quite so easily won.  From the kick-oft it was very evident that there was only one team in it.  Apparently this writer overlooks the fact that the Everton inside forwards were trying all manner of fancy touches with the ball in mid-field and were not banging at the goal. This does not mean that they were not vastly superior, because it was very patent that Everton  were not all out, and that they avoided  as far as possible the risk (unnecessary  of course) of running into injuries. My own disappointment was that the game was far too easy, and we therefore had very little excitement. It is indicated that the difference between the two teams was the centre forwards, but I should say that the half-back lines was equally as big a difference. McClure, particularly, was good, with Gee a good  second.  The London man and the critic confirmed my view that this games was "easy meat."  Comprez? I.—What do you mean? "Everton have been disappointing, but much of their work has been of good character."  This is one sentence in your report  2.—Of course you did not see Stein pulled down; you had the Red Blind down. 3.—Cleverton. You surely made a mistake; not clever, they were only playing duds. 4.—" They beat nothing."  Still the only paper that says this is the paper from their home city. 5-1  have come to the conclusion, dear Bee,  that you are like a number of spectators, who congregate behind the Stanley  Park goal, who come to see the better  team win, but fervently hope it won't  be Everton. 6.—Another injustice. Port Vale 1. Everton 3, and Port Vale only had ten men for a time.  I tire of the troublous people who contend I can see no value in victory to a side that apparently is against my grain! I have been in this city for 28 years, and to-day it is as hard as ever to end the absurd taunt that I am Red or I am Blue.
 JUDGE BY FIRST DIVISION STANDARD 
Let me quote a little incident. At the week-end a Red follower heard me called Pro-Liverpool. - He replied to the statement by declaring that on the other side of the fence they were convinced I was all for Everton. Whatever I may be let me say again that when judging the Everton club and their victories I judge also the standard of the opposition. It would be folly to think otherwise; the future is our great concern, not the present. Wo must  judge standards of a high character,  otherwise Everton would soon be back  to the Second Division spot, in which, while we have had many excellent  journeys to new lands and new friends,  where we have always been heartily  welcomed, I for one think that this  Second Division football is not to be  compared with the first degree, and  Everton's proper place is in the highest  class. That will probably cause Reds to declare I must be an Evertonian.
My correspondent does not seem to think a team can be disappointing, yet have much of their work termed as of good character. He says 1 did not see a penalty incident. 1 did not, and nothing will make me say I did. But in fairness I gave the statement made at half-time by an official. It was afterwards amended to a trip, not a pull!  3.—They were playing a very poor side and a depleted force. 4.—See letter  above. 5.—You are welcome to your conclusion. 6.—lf Everton had the misfortune to play ten men and the outgoing member had broken a leg should state the fact. Port Vale had such a cave; they were our adversaries.  It was only fair to give due prominence to the fact. And now, sir, a very good night. Pull down your Blue eyes, and rest assured that we shall go on fearing no one and judging every game on its merits, whether the team sports blue, red, or claret, or what not.

SQUARES OF LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Echo- Wednesday, January 28 1931
NO.17 –DERBY SQUARE
A CRADLE OF COMMERCE
By Michael O’Mahony
If departing from the discreet reticence of such close neighbours as, say, Earth and Mars, Redcross-street and Cable-street were to start chatting together across the space which divides them, there would be no fear of boredom for some time to come.  What men and memories might they not recall?  If they did not see the rise of the feudal towers of the castle, they saw bastion and battlement laid low, the choking of fosse and moat, the felling of the castle orchard, and on its site arise St. George’s Church, to have its walls surrounded in time by the booths of market higglers, with the more sinister roofs of a lock-up, a stocks, and a pillory, between which ran the muddy, if fashionable, thoroughfare called Temple Bar.  Along this narrow passage –it was little better –which saw the retainers of two feudal families rushing headlong, ripe for blood-shedding, they have seen Royalist and Roundhead slashing each other down with their swords, infuriated sailors wrecking all before them in revenge for their wrongs, fierce privateers men, inhuman slavers, and the press gang- as vile a set of scoundrels as ever peopled Newgate –let loose upon the town, the tradesmen giving as good as they got with axe and adze; they have seen contests when election fights were fights, when extravagance, scurrility, corruption and bloodshed were the marks and tokens of a struggle in which a candidate required the courage of a lion and the income of a king. 
CRADLE OF COMMERCE
They have also seen many a brave and fair pageant.  They have seen –sight of sights –John Newton, the converted captain of a slave ship, ascend the pulpit of St. George’s to preach to a congregation of slave ship-owners, as well as many a memorable and stately church service;  they have mourned with a nation in woe and rang with the cheers which hailed the return of triumphant armies.  The space between these two old streets at the top of Pool-lane came to be called Derby-square, out of gratitude to the Earl of Derby, who secured a market grant for it in 1721.  The square was not only a cradle of  commerce in the nascent town, being  the first general market, but with the land leading to the Pool was ever in  the mind of that ambitious town planner,  Sir Edward Moore, who longed  for possession of it with something of the unwholesome yearning Ahab had for Naboth's vineyard.  Moore was a remarkable man. With a sagacity which was akin to vision he foresaw the coming greatness of the port. Not a plan of his for its improvement but was marked by unerring judgment; the hidden possibilities of the property lying from the Square to the Pool were so clear to him that his words ring like a prophecy. Yet he was an Ishmael to his neighbours. 
"Larkins Knaves" 
They distrusted him so much that sailors wrecking all before them in Parliament; they even denied him the civic chain, and he returned their distrust with a hatred as deep as it was bitter.  In his “Rental,” written for his son and heir –a human document if ever there was one- the very parchment seems top crackle with malice.  Almost every line in it is coloured by dislike of his fellow-townsmen, “lurking knaves, ill-contrived rogues, base and degraded deceivers,” he implores his son, “In the name of God, beware of them and never do them a service.”  Not a tenant on his property around Derby-square but is described cynically.  Even Widow Bridge, a poor, old woman, residing in Castle-street, does not escape.  “Her own sister Margaret Loy,” he writes, “being arranged for a witch confessed she was one, and when she was asked how long she had so been replied since the death of her mother, who died thirty years ago; and at her decease she had nothing to leave her and this Widow Bridge, that were sisters, but het two spirits, and named them the eldest spirit to this widow and the other spirit to this said Margaret Loy.  God bless me and mine from all such legacies.  Amen! “ weird superstition, ancient hates, greeds, “far off things and battles long ago,” it is difficult to even remotely associate them with the surging traffic and purposeful air of the moving crowds which make Derby-square what it is to-day.  Yet even one glance backward should confirm the fact that Liverpool owes much to Sir Edward Moore.  Despite canting insincerity, astute selfishness, and the rhetoric of the “Rental” – his hymn of hate- he was a man of foresight.  Although in his projects for the improvement of the streets with the deepening and extension of the Pool, the gain to himself and family always came first, still the immediate and lasting benefit to the town of his birth was inevitable.  Like a good many more of us, if he loved Liverpool he had his own way of showing it; indeed, I’d venture to think that as far as Derby-square is concerned he would promptly decide, like most people, that the fallen towers of the Castle, and the destruction of St. George’s clear spire are but poorly compensated for by the load of masonry dumped on the ancient site to-day.  Let all who love fine form and graceful details gaze on the beautiful Eleanor Cross which confers distinction on Hamilton-square, Birkenhead, and then look on what is called the Queen Victoria monument, and with the ever-present thought in their minds that while the Cross cost 1,400 pounds, the Monument cost 14,000 pounds, and it is doubtful if they will go on their way rejoicing.  Picton in his pride (a fine pride) longed for the day when Castle-street, from the Town Hall to the Customs House, should be a grand throughfare, a noble avenue of commerce which would rival the Via Nuova of Genoa.  That day can never dawn till the monstrosity unworthily commemorating a great age and which now encumbers the site of Liverpool Castle is swept away.  Next Week; The Pier Head.
I am more than interested by the very friendly note of Mr. John Hayton, Waterloo, and his genial tribute to a valued old friend.  Will W.M. kindly send his address? 

LONDON CALLING
Liverpool Echo - Friday 30 January 1931
THIRD SUCCESSIVE WEEK IN THE CAPITAL
Bee's Notes
London has become our football home in recent days. This week sees my second successive Saturday "in the village," and next week we have to go to Charlton for an Everton test prior to the Cup-tie against Grimsby. So many  times have Everton been drawn away  from home in the Cup series that there  is much talk of this borne-coming, and  there are those who have vowed that the  Goodison Park ground will be as good  as a goal start to the home side. All  of which shows the people do not know  their Grimsby grass—when I was there  last time the ground was a veritable  bog, and one imagines that these tough  and speedy fisherfolk will not be  troubled by the thickness of the turf-not even the Goodison variety which  has a gripping power all its own.  I remember the Liverpool half-back playing for the first time at Goodison Park some three years ago. He said after the game, “I am thankful I don't have to play there every other week; I should want double wages."  Everton, as I pointed out recently,  are to put to rights the question of the  ground, and by next season they hope  to welcome First Division clubs with a  very sure-foot on a sound piece of turf.  Meantime, let us get out of our minds the idea that Everton start a goal to the good. They are starting out to-morrow with the intention of making their League so secure and satisfying that they can concentrate upon the Cup. People talk as if Everton had long since decided to quit the Cup and tackle the vital matter of promotion.  The players and the officials have only had one view all through—to get on with the particular business on hand, whether it was Cup or League. They have never considered or hinted at releasing a Cup-hold for a League determination.  Those who put that story out do not know the appeal a Cup-tie makes to all professional footballers--apart from the bonus. One footballer has put forward the rather novel idea that the Cup is such a money-spinner that it ought to be productive of a gradually increasing fee or talent money. It will surprise him to  know that if Manchester City had got  to the final tie they would have had  clashing League dates with every Cup-tie  date, and the compensation they  would have had to pay would have been  such that they would have lost money  on every round until the final tie!  Which shows that all is not gold that comes out of the Cup. Still, the player from his point of view, looks upon the Cup medals as something apart from any other phase of success; the League medals stand for more, yet there is not one player who would not sacrifice or swap a League medal for a Cup Trophy.  Everton in tackling Bradford City remind of the days when the side used to come here to battle for First Division and Cup, and they used to put up some severe opposition. I think there will be a great crowd to welcome the Everton side, and they will revel in their new forward notions, notably on the left flank. They will also see the in a new light. Halt-back strength has been one of the means by which Everton have been winning handsomely in recent days. The team is the usual eleven: Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McClure, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. 

EVERTON ENTERTAIN BRADFORD CITY
January 31 st 1931. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel
The programme today is a most entertaining one, containing attractive features in all phases of the three codes, and the promise of fine weather will prove a spur to players and spectators a like. I can quite see that a day such as yesterday, for instance, will send increased thousands to Goodison Park, where, Everton undoubtedly one of the greatest forces in present day football are due to entertain Bradford City, a club which had reached the states of cup winners, only to decline in alarming fashion, but which is now recovering some of its old power. I expect a capital game, but Everton should come out on top. Williams is suffering from influenza and will not be able to appear. Cook has been called on to make his first appearance in the senior team. The kick off is at three, and the teams are; - Everton; Coggins; Cook, Cresswell; McClure, Gee Thomson; Critchley, Dunn. Dean, Johnson, Stein. Bradford City; Gill; Bicknell, Barkas; Moore, Summers, Bauld; Cochrane, Keetley, Hallows, Peel, Scrivens.

EVERTON TWO UP AT THE INTERVAL
Liverpool Echo, Saturday January 31 1931
DEAN AND McCLURE SCORE AGAINST BRADFORD CITY –A BOUT OF BLOWS
By Stork
Everton; Coggins; Cook, Cresswell; McClure, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, dean, Johnson, Stein.  Bradford City; Shirlaw; Partridge, Bicknall; Moore, Peachy, Bauld; Cochrane, Keetley, Hallows, Peel, Scriven.  Referee; Mr. J.H. Perks, West Bromwich.  Everton's Saturday weather, with few exceptions, has been pretty bad, but there has been nothing to compare with the conditions at Goodison to-day.  The ground had a coating of sleet, which would in a short time turn into a sea of mud, while the stand seats were saturated. On top of all this there was a blustery wind, so in the circumstances any grave errors could readily be forgiven.  Bradford City made one very early on, for Hallows missed an open goal after a run by Peel, a slip-up by Cresswell, and a perfect pass from Peel. Here was a goal—nobody expected otherwise, but Hallows, with plenty of time at his disposal, slashed the ball over the crossbar, so Everton were not a goal behind, as they should have been.  As against that miss, Shirlaw had to save from Stein and again from Johnson, and at this moment Everton were playing the right type of game for the occasion, in that they forsook the close game, knowing full well that it was not likely to pay to-day.  Bradford were very sharp, and when  Coggins did not get any length with a  goal kick Hallows tried to take fell advantage of it, but in his anxiety to gain a better opening for himself he  refrained from taking the quick shot  which undoubtedly was the correct mode  this afternoon.  McClure showed this after splendid work by Dean and Stein, and his long drive was not a mile away either, but a closer call was made when Johnson shoved the ball out to Stein, so that the winger made a perfect cross.
DUNN'S WISDOM 
It was just a shade too high for Dean, and Dunn had noticed this fact, so he closed in in case he could do anything.  What he did nearly brought a goal. In fact, many thought he was entitled to a goal on the score that the ball had crossed the line, but I must admit that the referee was close enough to the incident to know exactly how things stood in this respect.  Dunn' header was only partly saved by Shirlaw, who went to earth with  the ball lying on the ground two yards  in front of him, Dunn closed in again,  and just got his foot to the ball, which  seemed to hit the goalkeeper, who was  lying on the goal line.  It was here that many thought the ball had gone over the line. Whether it did or not does not matter now, for in another scramble the ball eventually went dead.  Everton were playing capital football all things considered, and the Bradford defence was many times tested to the limit, being on occasions somewhat fortunate in the way they got rid of the danger.  After their prolonged tension under the Everton hammer, Bradford, through Scriven, speared a way through, and as a result of his work Bauld was able to deliver a long shot, which soared narrowly over the Everton crossbar. It was immediately after this that Everton took the lead.
DEAN OPENS
Some say that Dean was a wee bit lucky to have his shot turned into the net through it touching Bicknell, the Bradford full-back.  I disagree, for the shot was of such tremendous power that I very much doubt if Shirlaw could have saved it.  This occurred at the sixteenth minute, and Everton were undoubtedly full value for their lead.  McClure, by the way, was playing a  sound game at right-half, and if  Everton had been awarded a penalty  they would only have got something  they were entitled to, for when Critchley, after having beaten two men,  was closing in to goal he was ruthlessly  brought down from behind.  To my mind, it was a palpable case for a spot kick, but the referee allowed play to proceed as if nothing had happened. Bradford did not stand on  any ceremony when Everton showed up  in a dangerous light, and to save his defence Peachy made a back-pass which was more in the nature of a shot than anything else, at least Shirlaw treated  it in a serious manner, which rather suggested that it was full of pace.  Cochrane made a centre that was too close in to be of any use to his inside men, for it was always Coggins ball, as was a long drive by Keetley, which the Everton goalkeeper fielded confidently.  Bradford were only seen in the light  of a defensive team, and were again  fortunate not to be concerned in another  penalty claim, for Partridge undoubtedly  handled when Dean shot. 
VIGOROUS 
The question to be decided, however, was intention, and the referee evidently thought it was purely accidental. It could easily have been so, too. The City were a tousy lot, and the crowd  got up against some of their methods,  which were, to say the least, a little  vigorous, till they could not prevent Everton  from dominating the play, neither could  they stop Johnson from making a grand  shot that Shirlaw ably dealt with. At times the City forwards showed wisdom in their placing, but they were inclined to he finnicky. They wanted to make doubly sure all the time, and while they were trying to do so the Everton defence was able to hand itself together, so that then was no way through at the conclusion of Bradford’s scheming.  McClure showed this after splendid work by Dean and Stein, and his long drive was not a mile away either, but ‘a closer call was made when Johnson shoved the ball out to Stein, so that the winger made a perfect cross. 
M'CLURE'S LONG SHOT 
In comparison, the Everton attack did not require any “place" kicks. Any old place was good enough for them, and McClure, following great work by Critchley„ took a shot from fully thirty-five yards range and it found its billet.  I think Shirlaw was half-afraid of  Dean, who was in close attendance as  McClure's shot was coming into the goal  area, and it is a most difficult task for  any goalkeeper to have one eye on the  ball and one on the man, and get away  with it.
FISTICUFFS 
There was a display of fisticuffs  between McClure and Peel, while it  little later the Everton half was guilty  of a foul against Peachy, and this also  went unseen Stein was bowled over, not for the  first time, and the referee had to take  Moore to task sad issue a few words  of advice.  Then can be no doubt as to Everted(  superiority, for they had played supe4  football on a ground that did not ler+4  itself to accuracy of movements, and it  making this statement I am not going  to single out any one man for honour for it was as a team that Everton shone  Half-time Everton 2, Bradford City 0.
EVERTON’S USUAL
HALF-BACKS SHARE IN GOAL-GETTING
BRADFORD CITY LOSE
AFTER DRAWING LEVEL IN SECOND HALF
By Stork
Bradford City offered Everton stouter opposition than was anticipated.  Everton played great football on a terrible turf in the first half  and took two goals.  This seemed likely to carry the day for Bradford had a promised Coggins any worry in the matter of shots.  In the ascend half Everton appeared to ease up and City actually drew level, and Everton had to start all over again. Goals by Dunn and Gee, however, turned the scales.  Bradford City brought too many fouls into their play, and this may have affected Everton a trifle. In the first half Dean and McClure scored for Everton,  Everton resumed as they had left off,  with a staunch attack, and Dean had a  shot in the first minute, but be applied  too much loft to it. Dunn also tested skill against the Bradford defence, the latter coming off the better, for Dunn’s shot was not of good direction.  Then Bradford showed that they were in the game by taking a goal at the fiftieth minute, Hallows being the scorer.  It was the left wing, however, which tied done the donkey work, and it was a splendid movement which provided Hallows with his opportunity, and the Bradford man made no mistake.  This put Bradford on their mettle.  They found they could penetrate the Everton defence, and for a minute or two Scriven and Peel made such play that the Everton defence had to be right  on its guard to prevent another snap  goal.  Everton hit back with a punch that was pleasing, and a grand shot by Stein only just missed its mark. In fact, it rattled up against the crossbar before rebounding into play.  Fouls were all too frequent, and from a free kick Dean went close with a header, bumping Shirlaw into the back of the net in his endeavour to restore his side's two goal lead.
PEEL EQUALISES 
Everton's lustre of the first half was strangely absent hereabouts, and when Bradford gained a corner which was a very doubtful decision, they minted an equalising goal, Peel heeding Scriven's flag kick beyond Coggins.  This was rather a sensational turnabout, for Bradford City had never at any time prior to this conveyed the idea that they would test the Everton defenders.  Football, however, is an uncertain game, and it never does to take things for granted, and I must tell you that up to this point of the second half Everton had played in a manner which suggested that they could win any old time.  Peel's goal, however, meant that they had to start all over again, and the goal also had its effect upon the Yorkshiremen, who went close to scoring a third  goal just afterwards.  Yet another free kick to Everton and a row as to the correct placing of the ball were the next features. Bradford expected a shot from Johnson, but the Everton man swung out the ball to his right wing, and although it was bandied about for half a minute, Shirlaw was without a shot.  Now that Everton wanted to get going they found it a most difficult thing to do. There was much more danger in Bradford City's sallies, and a shot by Cochrane was of such power that Coggins was only able to push the ball out to Hallows, but before the latter could get in his shot Coggins dived at him and the ball eventually went over for a goal-kick.
DUNN REGAINS LEAD 
Matters were looking none too rosy for Everton, but a pass by Johnson to Dunn restored Everton's lead and put a brighter aspect upon things.  Dunn took Johnson's pass with his right foot, pushed it over to his left, and then turned the ball wide of the Bradford goalkeeper.  Dunn was nearly put through again in similar fashion, and another breakaway by Bradford brought work for Coggins, who had to catch a stiff drive by Keetley.  Dunn tried to find Dean but Peachy saw the move and was through for the pass that Dean should have had.  The game at this point was of very ordinary character. Everton were without doubt on top main, but their display was very much behind that of the first half.  As a matter of fact they played as if they were tired, the heavy conditions having taken toll of their stamina.
GEE SCORES FOURTH 
Right at the death Everton obtained a fourth goal, which made the victory look more convincing. Gee was he scorer, and he received the glad hand from his colleagues, for it definitely put paid to Bradford’s account.  Final; Everton 4, Bradford 2.

SHEFFIELD UNITED RES V EVERTON RES
Liverpool Echo, Saturday January 31, 1931
At Bramell lane, in cold weather with snow falling.  About 3,000 spectators were present at the start.  Raynor scored for Sheffield after six minutes.  Sagar made several good saves, but Spicer added a second after 35 minutes.  J. Roberts replied for the visitors five minutes from the interval.  Half-time; Sheffield United Reserves 2, Everton Reserves 1.  In the second half Martin quickly equalized, but Sheffield took the lead again from a penalty converted by Spicer.  Webster immediately equalized. 

THE NEW SPIRIT OF EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 31 January 1931
BOLD NOTE ON CUP AND LEAGUE CHANCES
By Blackstaff
Next to the Arsenal. I should put Everton as the most interesting team of the year among time Big Leaguers, noting Southport for their Cup prowess and Tranmere for their promotion promise en passant.  What impresses most about Everton is their new spirit.  Even including their championship of but four seasons ago, there has been a strange element of uncertainty about Everton for a long time.  Supporters have declaimed on the virtues of the past as compared with the existing team, and were scarcely ever satisfied that the best team was out.  And, indeed, the Everton of recent years has seemed to lack " fight." to labour a stereotyped sort of football, pretty to watch maybe, but unsuitable to the needs of the moment, to believe that opponents should play to their style and not go crushing goals on in their own crude style, to be a bit sulky when the classic game did not succeed.  What a new sort of Everton we have to-day—a winning Everton, a bustling Everton, an Everton that can take a shock as it comes and give shock for shock! How much happier about it are both team and supporters.  For Everton is a team without a single doubt.  Make no mistake about it; Everton’s is football spirit as it should be.
JUDGED FROM AFAR 
Of course, I write as an onlooker from afar, judging Everton by results and by every line that is written about them. I have not seen this rejuvenated Everton play, nor am I likely to. Nor,  by the way, in ease the foregoing and  following be read as the irresponsible crowing of a partisan, am I an Evertonian by birth, fancy, persuasion  or adoption. I would simply pay I Everton their belated due.  Oftentimes, when the fluttering folios  on a Saturday afternoon have brought tidings of Everton being a goal down, the depression of Goodson Park  supporters has seemed to come with  them—" Was all up with Everton." It was too much to expect Everton to change their game and walk in in victory after that. And it was.  Now, as the news of Everton's fifth goal against bogey team on their own ground comes over the wire, we have the heart of Everton to say, “They have not finished yet—there will be a sixth." And there was! That is the new Everton: 
A BLESSING IN DISGUISE 
However sore a point it may be to people who have proudly admired and boasted of Everton's forty years in the First Division, I think relegation has been a blessing in disguise for the club.  If I am to say why, as I suppose I must, I am drawn into quite a list of fanciful topics for discussion, such as football fans delight in.  Is it really a new Everton! Surely.  A practically non-losing Everton is something we have not had for years.  In championship years Everton lost thirty-one points in 1927.28, thirty points in 1914-15, and fifteen points in 1890-91— in the latter case when there were only twelve clubs in the League. So far Everton has lost ten points in twenty-five games. This Everton has gained the will to win and the confidence to do it.  Would this Everton he any use in the First Division! I should pay certainly, but only by reason of the confidence and experience they have gained in the Second Division. Here's the secret, cribbed from another critic for short.  “With First Division skill Everton have blended Second Division thrust, speed, and first-time shooting.
THE GRIMSBY TEST 
For proof, we must wait for Everton to come up against some First Division clubs. Fortunately for our argument.  Southport and Exeter City have left some of that ilk in the Cup for us to have a try-out. The verdict will be given on February 14, when Grimsby Town come here for their physic. Let us wait.  There is truth in the saying that even a real team will play up or down to its opponents’ level. Bad football is Infectious. There must be real football in a team to resist it, and escape the dangers of contagion. The traditions of a team have great influence. Witness how Burnley, Bury, and West Bromwich Albion have risen in their Second Division serfdom this season to give fair battle to Everton, old-time rivals in a higher realm, and wrest a point or two from them.  Everton were relegated full of latent  good football—better football, perhaps,  than was being played generally in the  First Division just then, but, as so often  happens to good craftsmanship, it, was  smothered by the rougher, readier, more practical football of rivals.  It has been noticeable how Everton have either gone to victory with a bang this season, or withstood the slings and arrows of outrageous Second Divisioners until a late stage in the game, and then clinched victory with a telling goal or two. 
WATCHED AND WEIGHED 
This new Everton in its new sphere has learned to watch and weigh opposing side, then play upon its weaknesses.  For years Everton had dazzled and diddled with the ball without realizing the necessity of pitting it between the clicks—barring, if you like,  Dean's sixty-goal season.  Something rigorous` has come into Everton's play, and attitude towards play—a psychological change in team spirit which is not the gaining of a superiority complex (which, I should say, was the old undoing), but the losing of an unsuspected inferiority complex. A fading of the team feeling that "my football's better than theirs, why don't they let it beat them, and stop trying to score their silly tell-tale goals.'  It is a fancy of mine that, in their present mood, and with the knowledge of their tradition, Everton will prove good enough not only to win promotion but also to reach Wembley and lift the Cup.  They are a team without undue anxieties, a popular team, a confident team, a clever team on their day, and a winning team.  There is only one other team in the land with such favorable qualification:  as these or better, and that is the side that deserved to meet Everton in the Cup final or beat them on the way.  Can you put your finger on that team Blackburn Rovers and Portsmouth, whippers someone. Two of the tousy type. Well, if toussiness is to tell, leave me to the new Everton.

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 31 January 1931
By Louis T. Kelly

 

January 1931