Everton Independent Research Data
LAWTON FOR EVERTON.
January 1, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton yesterday made an important capture from Burnley the transfer of T. Lawton, their much-sought centre forward, who is only seventeen years of age. Lawton, who first played for Burnley last March at the age of sixteen, has scored eleven goals in eighteen matches this season. He stands 6 feet and weighs 12st, 5lbs. The fee paid by Everton is stated to be in the region of £3,000. Lawton may appear for Everton in a Central League match tomorrow. Everton have been fortunate in their choice of boy centre forwards. First was “Boy Browell” who created a stir when he joined Everton from Hull City. Then Dean, came along to eclipse all records and it is stated that Lawton has the making of another Dean. The boy has certainly made a good start. Everton and other clubs have been showing an interest in Lawton for some weeks, but the Burnley directors have been holding on in the hope that home gates would improve and that they would be spared having to realise on this valuable young player. Lawton has had meteoric rise in the football world. A native of Bolton, he learned his early football with the Foulds-road Central school, Bolton. He played for the Bolton team in the English schools Shield and also for the Lancashire schools team, and he had three international trials with the English schoolboys. He played for Lancashire against Yorkshire at Bradford in 1933, and against Yorkshire at Nelson, in 1934. In three seasons in junior football he scored 570 goals. After Burnley had seen him in a Lancashire Combination match in which he played for Rossendale United, they signed him on amateur forms and gave him a job on the office staff.
Notable Hat-Trick.
Lawton quickly gained entry to Burnley’s reserve team in the Central League, making his debut in September, 1935. In March last, when only 16, he was promoted to the first team and made his debut against Doncaster Rovers at Burnley. In seven first team matches that season he scored five goals. He started this season as Burnley’s regular centre forward and when he attained his seventeenth birthday at the beginning of October, he was signed on professional forms. He celebrated the event by scoring a hat-trick in the first match he played as a professional against Spurs, at Burnley. In eighteen first team matches this season he has scored eleven goals. Despite his youth Lawton has been a member of Burnley’s Lancashire Cricket League team. He is a hard hitter, and has figured as a match winner on several occasions.
EVERTON SAVE HOME RECORD
January 1, 1937. Evening Express.
Preston Better All Round.
O’Donnell’s Two Goals.
By The Pilot.
A Goal in two minutes failed to inspire Everton against Preston at Goodison Park today. Everton were fortunate to make a draw 2-2, with a goal by Gillick two minutes from the end. This goal preserved Everton’s Everton unbeaten home record. Everton gave a poor display against a team that had to be reshuffled and ere an hour elapsed the Blues were behind, thanks to two goals by O’Donnell. There was little semblance of combination in the Everton attack and practically throughout North End were much quicker on the ball and in development. Tom Lawton, Everton’s new centre forward, was a spectator. Influenza and minor injuries accounted for the North End reshuffle which allowed Atherton, a local boy, to make his debut, and the brothers Gallimore to appear in double harness at full-back. It was Frank Gallimore’s first appearance since the match at Goodison last season. Hugh O’Donnell missed his first game of the season. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Jones (JE); Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Leyfield, forwards. Preston North End: - Holdcroft, goal; Gallimore (F.), and Gallimore (L.), backs; Shankly, Tremelling, and Milne, half-backs; Dougal, Atherton, O’Donnell (F.), Beresford, and Fagan, forwards. Referee Mr. Mr. J. Rennie (Oldham). Thirty thousand spectators saw Everton take the lead in two and a half minutes, Leyfield being the scorer. The goal was born of the free kick for a foul on Britton. Britton took the kick an Holdcroft ran out to punch away. The former Everton goalkeeper was sorely troubled by Dean, so that he missed the ball which struck Gallimore (F) and rebounded for Leyfield to head forward and then run the ball into the vacant net. Everton had an escape when their off-side plan failed to work, and O’Donnell was left with a clear chance. Sager ran out of goal and succeeded in diverting the ball sufficiently to force Beresford to place outside. L. Gallimore was cautioned for a foul on Gillick and this time Britton’s kick failed to bring grist to the mill.
Gillick Hurt.
Gillick had to go off and even when he returned he was still suffering from a stomach injury and did not look at all happy. Dean sent Leyfield away in style, but the winger made his mistake of blazing away over the bar instead of returning to the unmarked leader. Preston were using their weight to some purpose, but their forwards could make little progress against Everton’s offside trap carefully engineered by Cook. This offside game was curious in that Preston have the reputation of being classic exponents of this delicate art. Mercer, shot outside after a thrilling run, then Preston attacked with rare skill. Fagan forcing a corner. Sagar made an excellent double catch off this, only to be dispossessed by O’Donnell. The ball travelled out to Shankly, who let go a terrific shot only to find that Sagar had got back in time to fist away brilliantly. Holdcroft and Sagar made some safe catches, but Holdcroft was beaten all ends up with one of Britton’s famous lob centres, which came back of the bar. The game, in which Preston more than held their own without being able to bring much thrust; into play, was marred by general offside tactics. O’Donnell Equalised for Preston after 41 minutes. Cunliffe had a great chance of increasing the Blues lead, but shot straight at Holdcroft, and it was from the clearance kick that North-End went away to score a goal that was thoroughly deserved on the run of play. Dougal broke through, cut in, and levelled a centre which O’Donnell, coming in at top speed, headed into the net in great style. Everton fought back through Gillick, but Frank Gallimore put an end to the Leyfield touch.
Half-Time Everton 1, Preston North End 1.
This was one of the poorest displays I have seen from Everton for a long time. Apart from lack of combination, there were an absence of ability to take chances. Leyfield paid the penalty for over-dribbling soon after the resumption, when Dean was right in position, then Gillick hesitated with a clear shooting chance and was crowded out by Gallimore. Preston, without doing so much of the attacking, were infinitely quicker on the ball, and their first-time tackling set the Everton defence at defiance. Sagar had to run to beyond the edge of the penalty area to kick away, and in 57 minutes North End took the lead, O’Donnell again doing the trick. The Everton defenders withheld their tackles in surprising manner, and Atherton and O’Donnell had them in a state of bewilderment. Atherton eventually slipped the ball to O’Donnell to run on and beat the advancing Sagar with ease. O’Donnell was going through again when Cook brought him down, and frank Gallimore’s free kick sped yards wide. North End’s pace completely upset Everton, whose machine never functioned with accuracy. Twenty-five minutes of this half had gone before Everton levelled a direct shot at Holdcroft. Then Dean took one first-timer, but the ball swerved by the post. Britton’s free kicks brought more danger to Preston than anything else, and from one of these Dean sent a great header against the bar. Everton were pressing hard now, and Holdcroft had to fist away, but they gave little indication of their ability to break down a stone wall defence. Gillick equalised two minutes from time after a fierce attack, during which four shots were charged down before the ball fell loose to Gillick who crashed it into the roof of the net. Final Everton 2, Preston North End 2.
LIVERPOOL “A” V. EVERTON “A”
January 1, 1936. The Evening Express.
Liverpool had the best of the first half but found the Everton defence in great form. Tyrer made a good shot which passed over the bar and White saved from Patterson and Veacock. At the other end Flowers saved at point-blank range from Arthur. Half-Time Liverpool “A” 0, Everton “A” 0. After the interval Everton took the lead through Jackson.
EVERTON 2 PRESTON NORTH END 2 (Game 1585 over-all)-(Div 1 1543)
January 2, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
An Everton Escape.
Gillick’s Goal Saves The Day
Preston Lead Till Last few Seconds.
By “Bee.”
Everton kept their home record intact by an intensive set of raids at Goodison Park yesterday, when 30,000 spectators watched their brave effort to keep a defeat from Preston a possibility. It appeared as of nothing could save the home side, and it must be said the endeavour of Everton in the last ten minutes when they were being led 2-1 by Preston was something which has not been common to the side. The plucky persistence and knee striving had its reward in a dramatic finale when Gillick equalised after a lot of scrambling defence had kept the all-in-attack at bay. Gillick’s goal was poetic justice because this young winger had been badly knocked out by an unwarrantable tackle on the part of L. Gallimore in the opening moments of play. Until the second half Gillick had been in such pain he could not hope to do himself justice. Time was ebbing, Preston were all for defence and willing to accept that role rather than take the attacking vein which they had supplied with such happy results for them.
Leyfield’s Early Point.
It was a sensational ending, which sent the crowd hysterical and Preston courted the possibility of an equalising goal by their tactics. Everton scored in three minutes through Leyfield, taking a chance offered through Holdcroft’s weak goalkeeping. For an hour afterwards it did not seem likely Everton would take another goal because their forward movements had been of poor character and bore no resemblance to the work of the Preston line. Yet it took Preston till a moment before half-time to equalise the gift goal. F. O’Donnell was the scorer and his headed goal was quite a picture effort from a pass to the right which had deceived Mercer’s ideas –he imagined the ball must pass out whereas the right winger in his stride was able to go on and centre. Early, in the second half F. O’Donnell took the lead with a sharp sure shot from close in after he had taken two of his big strides towards goal to accept a pass through –a lead which sent the Everton backs and half-backs into a period of intensive ruggedness bothering to the now tiring Preston defence. The Preston centre continued to threaten much danger and his completion of a hat-trick performance from centre forward, but his headed effort by a supreme endeavour turned the ball just outside, and there followed the fight back by the home side encouraged by the crowd. The left wing was not reliable; Dean was in the grip of the old-timer. Tremelling. Cunliffe was variable, the half-backs forced the issue in the greatest possible manner. Britton continued to throw the ball towards centre, varying this move with a pass to Gillick, who, all through the second half was the one dangerous forward on the home side.
A Packed Defence
It was apparently impossible to penetrate the Preston defence, which had packed its bodies in the goalmouth. Holdcroft often dived to make saves when the ball had struck a defender and came not to his goal-region. It did not seem that Everton’s erratic attack could frame a goal even by superhuman endeavour till the ball came out of a “scrum” and Gillick, at inside right, shot into the right-handed corner of the net, pulling the defeat out of the fire and saving Everton’s face. If the forward lines, had been changed Everton could have won this game by a margin. F. O’Donnell was a star forward with many astute moves and tricks, with fine, big striding methods of entering the goal range. Fagan was a trifle tender at outside left, and Beresford found the pass too hot after a breezy opening half. Dougal was consistent and all the forwards, found it hard work to pass by Cook and Jones. At half-back Shankey was the visitors’ toughest and Tremelling the soundest, while the brothers Gallimore, at back were practical if not interesting or so sure as the Everton backs. Everton’s best half-back was Britton, Mercer’s tackling being attached to faulty passing, and some unnecessarily long winding runs. The forward five had little shape, and Stevenson, till he caught the closing stages of earnestness, was not his true self possibly because his partner and Dean were below form. The line as a line had no settled policy, and was easily dispossessed. A very hard match, a thrilling finish, with offside traps being laid to excess by both sides at various stages of play –negative football not to the liking of the crowds. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Jones (JE); Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Leyfield, forwards. Preston North End: - Holdcroft, goal; Gallimore (F.), and Gallimore (L.), backs; Shankly, Tremelling, and Milne, half-backs; Dougal, Atherton, O’Donnell (F.), Beresford, and Fagan, forwards. Referee Mr. Mr. J. Rennie (Oldham).
LIVERPOOL “A” 0 EVERTON “A” 1
January 2, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Liverpool County Combination.
Everton completed the double over Liverpool at Anfield yesterday when they won by the only goal. This came soon after the interval when, in a melee in the goal, Jackson forced the ball into the net. During the first half Liverpool were slightly the better side White saving from Patterson, and Veacock, while Tyrer was only slightly wide of the mark with a good shot. Everton did better afterwards, Flowers saving on several occasions, one from Arthur being especially good.
EVERTON TACKLE BRENTFORD
January 2, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton have a very still task in visiting Brentford, who are racing along in the front flight. The Goodison Park team has not been able to reproduce their home form in away games, and it seems that their chances today are not great through in this season of surprises anything may happen. Brentford, however, will have much the better of the handicap, as they were not engaged yesterday, and they are keen to make the most of their home games. Still, I am prepared for a hard flight.
STUB MARKS
January 2, 1936. The Liverpool Football Echo
By Louis T. Kelly.
• Everton have tried 22 players in the senior side.
• Furious that the four ex-footballer son in the recent Everton-Derby match (Scattergood, Nicholas, Mercer and Hagan), occupy the same team positions that their fathers did –goal, back, half back, and forward respectively.
EVERTON HOLD BRENTFORD TO A DRAW.
January 2, 1937. Evening Express, Football Edition.
After Leading At Interval.
Forwards Brilliant In Great Fight.
By The Pilot.
Everton gave their best display of the season in away games when holding Brentford to a 2-2 draw at Griffin Park today. They led Brentford by Coulter’s goal at the interval. Later they found themselves behind, but fought back in great style. Sagar gave a wonderful display in goal, while the forwards throughout were brilliant. Everton had to make three changes. Coulter came in at outside left for Leyfield –this being a voluntary change, Jones and Mercer were injured, so that Thomson played his first game at left back and Watson made his first appearance in a Football League game. Watson, who figured at left half, has been on the Everton’s books for nearly four seasons. Manager George Kay, of Liverpool and Mr. W. Cartwright were at Norwich today running an eye over Liverpool’s Cup opponents. Teams: - Brentford: - Mathieson, goal; Bateman and Poysert, backs; McKenzie, James and Richards, half-backs; Hopkins, Scott, McClulloch, Holliday and Reid, forwards. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Thomson, backs; Britton, Gee and Watson, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean (captain), Stevenson, and Coulter, forwards. Referee Mr. G.C. Benton, (Northampton). Spectators numbering 20,000 were given a fright at the outset, for Coulter took over from Gillick’s centre, and bringing the ball to his liking delivered a cross shot which beat Mathieson to pass beyond the far post. The Bees produced their sting when Holliday drove over the top an excellent shot, taken on the half-volley. Everton’s opening play was highly encouraging. Attacks were carried out neatly and speedily, but Mathieson’s only worry was to catch a lob-shot from Cunliffe. Brentford were rather the more incisive force, and twice McCulloch got through only to shoot outside.
Thrill In Blues’ Goalmouth.
There was a thrill in the Everton goalmouth when Cook miskicked, but McCulloch was not quick enough to take advantage. Sagar twice had to fist away from Reid, then to drive at a cross shot when Gee stepped in and headed the ball towards his own net. It was a clear case of misunderstanding, but, fortunately for the Blues, Cook had dropped back and was able to clear the danger. Everton had a great chance of forging ahead when Gillick got through, but instead of shooting he elected to feed Coulter, whose shot lacked pace and direction. Everton had a narrow escape when McCulloch, out headed Sagar. The ball was going into the net when Cook again came to the rescue, heading over the top. Everton were getting their chances, thanks to excellent forward play. After good work by Dean, Coulter came through but turned his shot aside. Britton played his famous lob pass, which branches over James, and Dean in trying to shoot into the net placed just over. Sounding tackling by Everton kept Brentford at bay.
Everton Lead.
In 32 minutes Coulter gave Everton the lead. The goal emanated from a throw in, Britton, Cunliffe and Gillick participating in short interpassing before Gillick was sent away. Gillick survived a foul by Poyser and middle a short centre, which Dean nodded across and Coulter pushed the ball home for a goal from a narrow angle. Everton forced two corners, in succession, and Mathieson almost carried Coulter’s second kick into his own goal. Over-eagerness ruined the possibility of a Brentford equaliser from the foot of Holliday. When Gillick contributed a run of half the length of the field, only the pace of the ball beat him. Everton exerted terrific pressure near the interval, Cunliffe just failing to put through a short centre from Gillick. Cunliffe dribbed up the goal line, and turned home a terrific left-foot shot, which Mathieson saved by throwing himself through the air. Cook broke through to join Everton’s sprightly attack and sent a pile-driver outside.
Half-Time Brentford 0, Everton 1
The pace in the second half was terrific and Brentford opened up with electric attacks. Everton’s defence covered magnificently, and I noted even Coulter kicking away from the goal area when the Bees were doing strong work. Britton made a wry back pass, but McCulloch failed to take advantage. Then the Everton machine got working again and Watson came through with an excellent dribble only to find his shot lacking pace. Cunliffe tried a glide header off Coulter’s centre, then when Hopkins was racing through, Thomson fouled him; McCulloch headed outside from the centre.
Off-Side Goal? In 65 minutes Brentford drew level with a goal which in my opinion should never have been allowed. Reid appeared to be standing yards offside when he received McClulloch’s pass. Reid’s centre dropped near the far post and after Scott had failed to take advantage Hopkins put through by the post. Everton were unfortunate to be behind in 73 minutes, when Brentford took the lead, McKenzie scoring from a penalty. Brentford had launched a fierce attack and a shot from McColluch was going in at top speed, when Thomson seemed to turn the ball aside with his arm. The referee at first gave a corner, but the Brentford players appealed and after consulting a linesman, gave a spot-kick from which McKenzie gave Sagar no chance. Sagar saved brilliantly from McCulloch’s first time drive, then flung himself out to turn aside a brilliant shot by Hopkins.
Shock Equaliser.
Everton raced away to score a shock equaliser in 75 minutes. Britton lobbed the ball up to Gillick, who unhesitatingly put the ball forward. Cunliffe ran on and with a first-time lob shot spun the ball over Mathieson’s headed into the back of the net. There was a perilous moment when the referee bounced the ball in Everton’s penalty area, but Everton managed to keep Brentford off the goal mark. Dean missed a glorious chance of clinching the game off Gillick’s pass but he “sliced” his shot with only Mathieson to beat. This was Everton’s first away draw this season, final Brentford 2, Everton 2.
BRENTFORD 2 EVERTON 2 (Game 1586 over-all)-(Div 1 1544)
January 4, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
An Everton Surprise.
Well Earned Point At Brentford.
Success Of New Left Flank
By “Bee.”
Everton must have surprised themselves, First, by reason of their stamina and standing away from home, where they have generally crumbled up in obnoxious form and with regularity. Then they must have surprised themselves and Brentford by daring to take a point away from home and leading for a long spell. Finally, Everton’s greatest surprise was forced on them. They had taken but two reserves to the match, and it was only on the morning of the game, at Brentford they found their difficulty to fill important places vacant through Jones’s and Mercer’s injuries becoming troublesome. One moment they thought of chartering a plane to fly Jackson from the home town, and eventually wiser counsels prevailed, and it was decided to put Jock Thomson’s great height and experience to the defensive portion and bring in Watson, the North-East Coast by, who has been at Everton nearly four seasons, and had not once had a first team chance through the special pleasure of Mercer. The Everton officials must have squirmed at the thought of visiting anyone in such straitened circumstances, but the occasion showed them valuable evidence of the talent at their disposal, notably in the case of Watson, whose intelligent, use of the pass made up for any physical deficiency he may have. He is not a big fellow, and he must needs use his craft and precise passing, and in this he had a wonderfully good first-division send off. Thomson saved a goal which brought about a goal –in short, he got his left knuckle to a shot that must have gone in if had not used his hands. The quickness of the hand deceived the referee’s eye, but the equally appeals of the Brentford players led the referee to a quiet conversation with a linesman, and so a penalty kick became the result, and the wing half-back, McKenzie, scored with this.
Dramatic Goals.
Three dramatic goals in the second half kept the game fresh to the bitter end. It was fine sporting football, with hardly a stop, except for Gee’s kicked arm, and the goals, and tenseness of play made it a pulsating game to watch. The 24,000 spectators were very shocked to see Everton take the lead early on, Coulter bring the shooter and Gillick and Dean his helpmates. Everton’s chances in this early spell were so numerous it was a sin to find but one goal to their list, but away from home this was a novelty lead for a team that had a hoodoo upon their efforts, save at Bolton. Finally Hopkins squeeze the ball through to equalise the score, and the penalty kick sent the home spectators into a frenzy of delight. Now came the battle from a team with five matches in eight days. One would have thought by the earnest and tireless effort of the visitors they had fewer matches then Brentford –the opposite was the case –and one was particularly glad to see a new spirit in the Everton side –as a whole –a spirit so far removed from their earlier visitations it had to be seen to be realised and recorded. A lead of 2-1, on a mud and sand sprayed ground –once more, the though must have entered the minds of the players that Everton can do nothing right away from home –when Cunliffe took up a Britton job and using it without hesitation sent it edging alongside ways and gaining pace, instead of height to enter the net. A most uncommon goal heartened Everton and to Dean came the golden chance to make the game a victory, Dean, however, cannot stand the train as he used to, and here he was taking part in his fifth game in eight days –age wither a worn man who is 30 years old in a few in a few days. Thirty years seems a small span even for a footballer until one remembers what Dean has put into those years of football –personal endeavour and life and pounds in thousands for the club he serves. So one just looked on this fluffing of a golden goal, and said. “Pity we had to see it, but no recriminations.”
A Draw Earned.
Everton had earned their draw and no Sagar must be given highest praises to astounding saves in the second half, when Brentford were unmistakably going for the goals and making every possible use of their target. McCulloch always dangerous, found his greatest shots saved. Hopkins offered many angled shots which Sagar held, Reid, was variable as was Holliday, and Brentford’s best was their half-back and back line. Neither side took advantage early on, and both sides made a battling finish in which any semblance of moderate goalkeeping would have counted the goalkeeper’s side as out. In the Everton ranks one has to notify Britton’s customary game –then Thomson’s aid to the sure footed Cook. Add little spice of Stevenson, much bright and dogged football art and craft from Gillick –Everton’s most dangerous forward line these days –and there is left but one word. Leyfield deposed by Coulter let in to the outside left position a certain neatness of touch and more settled method of play than had been seen against Preston. Coulter still lacks deadliness with his shots (spite the goal he got), but week by week I can see the stronger ties he pulls for his continued inclusion in the top team. It was Everton’s first draw away this season, and never was a draw a more fitting termination of a game with a top-notch team like Brentford. Teams: - Brentford: - Mathieson, goal; Bateman and Poysert, backs; McKenzie, James and Richards, half-backs; Hopkins, Scott, McClulloch, Holliday and Reid, forwards. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Thomson, backs; Britton, Gee and Watson, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean (captain), Stevenson, and Coulter, forwards. Referee Mr. G.C. Benton, (Northampton).
EVERTON RESERVES 2 BURNLEY RESERVES 0
January 4, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 23)
Burnley offered stern opposition t Goodison Park, and although Everton’s victory was by two clear goals it was a hard struggle throughout and it was only late on in the game that the home team scored the goals. Laidman opened the score at the sixtieth minute and ten minutes later Lawton scored the second following brilliant work by Geldard. Lawton incidentally, who was making his debut for Everton against his former club, had few opportunities but proved capable in sole efforts. Actually the goal he scored was chiefly due to Geldard, who cleverly outwitted three defenders before centring and enabling Lawton to find the net. Lawton deserved a goal, however, for previously he had the misfortune to see his shot strike the foot of the post when the Burnley keeper ran out and deflected. Laidman was always prominent, while Geldard was a source of worry to the opposing backs almost throughout. Jackson was a strong defender and made one or two timely interventions. Kin, in goal, had several remarkable saves to his credit. Everton Reserves: - King, goal; Lambert and Morris, backs; Bentham, White and Not know, half-backs; Geldard, Jones (TG), Lawton, Laidman and not-known
B.I. Social 3 Everton “A” 4
Liverpool Challenge Cup
A strong Everton side, which included Joyce, Dickinson, and Hurel had to fight hard for victory at Prescot. The Social had much the better of the early play, but their erratic shooting lost them several chances. A goal by Hullett gave Everton an interval lead. In the second half both goals underwent strong attacks, Heaps and White bring off many daring saves. J. Burke (2), and Matthews scored for the Cables, Dickinson scoring three further goals for Everton.
EVERTON’S BEST-EVER “AWAY” FORM.
January 4, 1937. The Evening Express.
By The Pilot.
“The finest team seen at Griffin Park this season.” That was the verdict after Everton had forced a 2-2 draw against Brentford. The Brentford folk were unanimous in this opinion and considering themselves fortunate to retain point. Everton would have won had they taken some easy chances early on, and had Dean not been too hasty with his shot when he was clean through a few minutes from time. I have seen Everton in better shooting form, but not once this season have they displayed such grace and charm and yet contrived to play aggressive football. Brentford were bewildered by the speed and accuracy of Everton’s approach, and the sternness of the defensive make-up. It was not until the second half that Brentford were able to hold an Everton whose display was as good as some of their best and brightest at Goodison Park. The Londoners cannot understand Everton’s poor away record after this fine exhibition in which every player enhanced his reputation. I hope that the display is but the forerunner of many such games on grounds of opponents. The First Division debut of Watson was highly encouraging. He excelled in ball distribution and kept perfect position. Thomson behind him did well at back. Playing with a Cresswell flair for anticipation and interception. Cunliffe came right back to his best form and was quick to take advantage when Dean by dropping back among his half-backs, drew James out of position half-backs, drew James out of Position. Gillick was the finest forward, and Coulter and Stevenson formed a potent left flank. Britton was the inspiring force behind the clever right flank, while Gee dominated the centre of the field. I have never seen McCulloch have such a lean day as he had against Gee. Coulter gave Everton the lead, then Brentford scored through Hopkins and McKenzie (Penalty). Before Cunliffe levelled the scores. Yes, a captivating display by Everton against one of the bests teams in the country.
SPIRITED AWAY WORK BY EVRTON
January 4, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
Watson’s Passion For Passing
Thomson The Full-Back-And Goalkeepers.
Bee’s Notes
Shusssshhh! No longer can it be said Everton go away to their football matches with their hearts in their socks. You have been told how well they played at Derby. I can add a new chapter – a draw at Brentford that could have been a win if Dean had not been so near his 30th birthday on the 22nd of this month. More than all, however, was the pleasurable sight of the spirited endeavoured the whole side, the refusal to picture a visiting card with mourning edges. It was a grand match to watch when one had made allowances for the golden opportunities missed early on by various forwards. The directors (Messrs Green, Coffey, “Uncle” Gibbins and G. Evans) studied the team sheet in the morning. Mercer and the jolly Jones could not play. Should they send a plane to fly Jackson to the scene? It was decided that having two reserves present, they should blend them into the side. So came to defensive life one “Harry Hibbs” Thomson, the nicest of wits and fellows. His height and nodding acquaintance with goalkeepers –you know how many years he has been on the shooting range helped to keep the defence portion right. At left half back Doug Watson, the man so near First Division regularly but kept put by force to circumstance. Not a big fellow, but broad of shoulder and having four years’ service with the Central League side. His debut –on a day when Everton had four gruelling games in seven days. He must have pictured this as anything but a happy debut-day. I recommenced him with customary earnestness to Chesterfield less than two months ago, on the main plea that “Here is the user of a ball.” They looked, wondered, and went elsewhere for their talent. They left Everton with a rare bit of wing of the chicken. Watson is not a flash player, and does not fire the imagination by more than one solo run per match. He does something more tangible; he is a beautiful purveyor of the ball, getting sure length and direction and in his unflurried way he took high honours for his constructive play into a team which boasts the best of all moderns, Britton, who today has grown into a strength of tackling, making his half back work of all-round merit. McCulloch got no change out of Gee, who suffered a sharp knock to the arm, which I feared must have broken. Cook was masterly and sturdy, and Sagar in the second half did some of his best learning and catching. The quickness of the hand deceives the eye, and when Jock Thomson made a back-hander save of a shot entering the net-Sagar on the ground elsewhere –the referee missed the incidents, and after a acqually interview from all the Brentford players the answer from the linesman’s evidence was “penalty” S. McKenzie scored –this after Hopkins had taken one I vow was begun in an offside position. However, in the New Year I must promise myself not to argue false goals –all goals have some if and but about them, nothing prevents them going to the records, so I do not propose to say anther word about the legality of the goals.
Personals.
Sufficient is that we pay tribute to the Everton defence and to Gillick for his continued sprightliness and dangerous intakes. Gillick is now plying as he played when I saw him act for Rangers at Manchester. He is quick to stride (ast in shot, carves a way towards the penalty box, and takes knocks without the thought of a knock-knock. Cunliffe scored a remarkable goal, and by his incisive workaway when he collects the ball, he takes yards of space off the defensive members. I could wish he would look, where is passing. I could wish Coulter had shot better, and Stevenson been a busier little man. That Coulter can come back admits no doubt in my mind. Every game he played suggest it. Time marches on, and with it Coulter comes forward. A waiting policy must be adopted. Odd how the goal-getter goes out of the ranks. Leyfield got a goal and was omitted from the team. Coulter obtained two and was left out –now Coulter has got a goal –but the end of the sequence is here notified. Coulter has earned further chances to make appearance. Brentford as a side have gone back a little, unless we are forced to believe their ability with a light, dry ground is their especially. They are good people, hood sports and if not bearing the hall-mark of football, they bear the “Allman.” The club’s attention to Press needs is an example to many others. I am sorry to record Manager Curtis’s illness on the ground. If the flu spreads one little bit in the Brentford camp the whole team will be sent to the now famous Bushey Hotel. I wonder if Liverpool could gather any good by accompanying them to that salubrious and lucky spot where the Burrell golf pro, presides. It seems as if we cannot escape Arsenal ; they stayed at the same hotel as Everton; this week-end, and I must say they have shown their team is built upon fine physical attributes, except for an attacker or two. Male, Compton, Crayston, Roberts, etc., are likeable and sizeable fellows!
LAWTON NO STRANGER
January 5, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Seventeen-years-old T. Lawton is no stranger to Goodison, as many folk will imagine him to be. On March 18, 1933, I saw him give a tip-top display for Bolton schoolboys against the local lads (Says “A.H.D”). He got a couple of goals that day and helped his side to win by a margin of four clear goals. No doubt Lawton will recall the occasion. Everton were playing their historic semi-final against West Ham at Wolverhampton, and what with the scores going up telling of the Blues’ progress and the delight of the 10,000 spectators at the charm of these lads football, there, was much to occupy the attention. We who watched Lawton in action that day never dreamt that but three years ahead his name would be linked with Everton, albeit you could see the future star in the making. Lawton played his first game for Everton Central League side on Saturday, and though he had few opportunities, he made a good impression and scored a goal.
EVERTON’S SIDE TO MEET BOLTON
January 6, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Bolton Wanderers have played many fine games at Goodison Park, and though they are not the power they were in the days of Jack Smith, and Vizard, the side representing the Wanderers at Goodison Park on Saturday is sure to give Everton a good run. With 20 points from 24 matches they are particularly anxious to make a strong bid to hold Everton, so that a desperate struggle may be looked for. The team to oppose Wanderers shows two changes from the side which took a point from Brentford. Jones returns to partner Cook instead of Thomson, and Mercer resumes in place of Watson. The side, therefore: - Sagar; Cook, Jones; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. The kick-off is at 2-30. The Central League eleven to meet Bolton Wanderers, at Bolton, will again include Lawton. The team is King; Jackson, Thomson; Bentham, White, Watson; Geldard, Jones, Lawton, Laidman, Trentham.
JONES AND MERCER IN EVERTON X1
January 6, 1937. The Evening Express.
By The Pilot.
Everton will be back to full strength for their match against Bolton Wanderers at Goodison Park on Saturday. Jack Jones and Mercer have recovered from their injuries –injuries which kept them out of the side at Brentford –and return to left back and left half-back respectively. They displace Thomson and Watson respectively. Coulter continues on the extreme left as partner to Stevenson.
Sagar; Cook, Jones; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. Trentham, the 19-year-old outside left and brother of Trentham, the West Bromwich Albion back, makes his Central League debut in the match at Burnden Park against Bolton Reserves. Thomson will be played at left-back in this game, and Lawton again leads the attack. Everton Reserves - King; Jackson, Thomson; Bentham, White, Watson; Geldard, Jones, Lawton, Laidman, Trentham.
GEORGE BREWSTER RETURNS TO THIS CITY
January 6, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes.
George Brewster, former Everton centre half back, descended upon me yesterday. He had returned from his Scottish luir, where he has been works manager for eleven years of an Inverness Tweed factory when has how closed down. George was a bonny defender of the Everton faith and a good companion who could take it. In recent years he has been playing in a line styled Brewster. Brewster And Brewster. Father was in the middle and his two boys played by his side. The name of Brewster recalls many of the happy moments in his company and also with the Fleetwood, Fazackerley, Hunter Hart (still with the club, as is also Fleetwood). Chedgzoy regime. George’s is nowadays looking with a sorrow eye upon present day football. The great need, says he with a twinkle in his eye, is “esprit de corps.” A very interesting transfer angle has arisen from the signing of Lawton, of Burnley, by Everton F.C., A Manchester paper tells us Lawton’s grandfather will be working at Everton in a short time, I suppose one can call this “ground hait” as he is working on the Goodison ground staff. Other clubs have acted similarly and the question has arisen whether such additional signing is wise or proper. It goes back many years since Everton, brought Tommy Browell’s brother from Hull to Everton “to look after the boy wonder,” as he was then called. “Therefore, what possible objection can be lodged against the appearance of a relative of Lawton to “see after a boy of 17.” Lawton’s people were entitled to make the suggestion, if not the demand, because the boy has been used to town life and was now entering big city. It is a feature of signing-one that many find new companions, new interest in life, and a wasteful mode of living through, being flung from the humber places of England and into First Division football life and among hoteliers. I am all for the control of these youngsters; indeed I beg leave to suggest two important rules of life for any football pro, of 16 upward; Bar them reading any newspapers till evening –the race will then be over –and bank half their wages each week. The retiring period would then let the clubs be showing a profitable outlook. As it is the boys just slide into flash clothes, expensive tastes and slovenly through about a pound note, forgetting that very shortly they must return to the ordinary walks of life without their £8 a week and bonuses. Let those who run read.
EX-EVERTON JIM McCAMBRIDGE MAKES A FURTHER MOVE
January 7, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes.
Jim McCabridge, well remember at Everton, has also left Sheffield, and has gone to Hartlepool United. This family man with the rosy cheeks has in a short while played for Larns, Ballymena, Everton, Cardiff City, Bristol Rovers, Exeter City, Sheffield Wednesday, and now Hartlepool
“Spectator” says; There are men in Everton Reserves who have the ability and the experience and some of them more weight and bodily vigour than the regular side, and to be promoted in the away games would give them every incentive to earn their places for the home matches. Everton have one poor method of using the throw-in. Has no one any new ideas.
“A.J.S” send this; - I have one complaint to make Officials of both clubs in this city should see that more than two gates are open for the benefit of the half-time spectator, who happens to work late, and cannot be in time, with the result he finds a large crowd there and it is nearly ten minute later after half-time before he gets in. I think that they should open four gates, two t each end of the ground and so save time. PS –The old cry, write to “Bee” about it and he will do the best he can.
HULLETT JOINS NEW BRIGHTON.
January 8, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton yesterday completed the transfer to New Brighton of W. Hullett, their twenty-year-old reserve centre forward. Hullett, who stands 5ft 11ins and weights 11 stone, will play against Lincoln City tomorrow.
EVERTON’S CHANCE OF SEASON’S FIRST “DOUBLE”
January 8, 1937. Evening Express.
Star “Away” team In Lancashire Derby” At Goodison.
By The Pilot.
Everton have a great chance of recording their first “double” of the season tomorrow when Bolton Wanderers appear at Goodison Park in an attractive Lancashire “Derby” game. The only away victory of the Blues this season was recorded at Burnden Park last September when they won 2-1. Now they tackle Bolton at a time when the Wanderers are lacking confidence and struggling against an injury bogy which has taken toll of some of their best men. Can Bolton spoil Everton’s unbeaten home certificate? I think not if Everton play half as well as they did at Brentford last Saturday when they were unfortunate not to win. Yet the Wanderers come as one of the most dangerous away sides in the land. Their record this season is astonishing. They have played 13 games at Burnden Park and have won only three, suffering seven defeats and figuring in three draws. Now look t the away “returns.” They have played 11 games and lost only three. They have had a bad run, however, gaining only one point out of ten played for over the Christmas and New Year holiday period. Three of those games were played at home. Only four clubs have succeeded in escaping defeat at Goodison Park in 13 games –Birmingham, Stoke City, Preston North End, and Arsenal –but all those sides have a better playing record than the Wanderers. The chief trouble with Bolton is their apparent inability to score goals. In their 24 games to date they have scored only 27 times! Yet the defence has conceded 42 goals. Compare that with Everton’s record. The Blues require only one goal to complete their half-century of the season. There is a chance that Jack Atkinson, one of the Bolton stalwarts, will be back to duty tomorrow. Atkinson broke a leg early in the season –against Preston –but has made a good recovery and has stood up well to tests with the Reserves.
Westwood Absent.
Westwood, the international, however, will be an absentee. He was injured last week and I fear his absence will greatly affect the Wanderers. He is their most potent force. Two former Merseyside players in Bobby Jones, the goalkeeper, and Jack Tennant, right back, will be assured of a warm re-welcome. Jones was formerly on Everton’s books, and Tennent left-Liverpool for Bolton. Halford, the Ex-Derby County player who plays at outside-left, makes his first appearance since last September.
• League Match At Goodison Park Tomorrow (Saturday) Everton v. Bolton Wanderers. Kick-off 2.30. Admission 1/- Boys 4d. Stands extra (including tax) Booked Seats, Sharp’s Whitechapel.
EVERTON’S FULL STRENGTH AGAINST GREAT AWAY SIDE.
January 8, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes.
Tomorrow Everton hope to reproduce some of the form they displayed at Brentford in order that they can live up to the sweet things said about them in the London Press, which has not been given to handing out bouquets to our teams, no matter how they played or what the result was. Bolton Wanderers were beaten by Everton 2-1 at Bolton –admittedly the most astonishing result Everton have been gifted this season. They had no thought of saying they had earned a point –which was sensible. This was the starting point of Bolton’s infamous results at home away from home they are a vastly different proposition, and, therefore, tomorrow the Everton team will need to be at their very best to take their first double win of the season. The form Everton are developing in attack, and the way they battled back to the task against Preston, has set a new hearty seal upon the Goodison effort, and the home record should be in safe keeping tomorrow, even allowing for the freakishness of the game as a whole. The return of Jones at back and Mercer means added tenacity –both are of the same mould –strong, relentless. Everton’s win can be obtained if there is the same dash and wise position as was seen in London. Punch to front of goal only bring with it some rousing effects for the benefit of the large crowd supporting Goodison Park matches and getting ready for a Cup-tie shout against Bournemouth. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Jones; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter.
Vital To Both Sides.
Everton “A” v. Skelmersdale, at Bellfield, Eaton-road West Derby, 2.45; White; Allen, Morris; Lambert, Lindley, Tunney, Arthur, Hurel, Dickenson, Webster, Hannon. This is the first time Everton “A” have played an all professional side for a very long time. The game with Skelmersdale is always a keen one, but this game has a league championship beating of import to both sides.
• League Match At Goodison Park Tomorrow (Saturday) Everton v. Bolton Wanderers. Kick-off 2.30. Admission 1/- Boys 4d. Stands extra (including tax) Booked Seats, Sharp’s Whitechapel.
BOLTON TACKLE EVERTON.
January 9, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton showed vastly improved form in their match at Brentford, and their supporters hope that they will defeat Bolton Wanderers, who have a good record away from home, at Goodison Park today, when the kick-off is at 2.30. Everton’s only away win was gained at Burnden Park, so that there is a chance for the Goodison Park team to complete their first double. Jones and Mercer return to the home side. In the Bolton team, Goslin moves from half-back to full back. Atkinson has recovered from a broken leg, and he is due to play at centre half. The following are the teams: - Everton; - Sagar; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean (captain), Stevenson, Coulter. Bolton Wanderers: - Jones; Goslin, Tennant; Hurst, Atkinson, Taylor (G); Taylor (GT), Howe, Milsom, Eastham, Halford.
DEAN TO EVERTON’S RESCUE WITH MATCH WINNERS
January 9, 1937. The Evening Express, Football Edition.
Two Great Goals Against Bolton.
Rally Of Reshuffled Attack.
Stevenson On The Target
By The Watcher.
Two fine headed goals by Dean won Everton a hard fight by 3-2 against Bolton Wanderers at Goodison Park. Everton had n interval lead with a goal by Stevenson, but fell away somewhat when Bolton equalised. Then a reshuffled attack, inspired by Dean, made certain of the points. Bolton got their second goal half a minute from the end. Gee played great game at centre half-back for Everton. Everton made a last-minute change, Red Sagar, their international goalkeeper, was found to be suffering from a knee injury, and this meant that Frank King made his first senior appearance of the season for the Blues. Atkinson reappeared at centre-half back for Bolton for the first time since he broke his leg in September. Teams: - King, goal; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Coulter, forwards. Bolton Wanderers: - Jones, goal; Goslin and Tennant, backs; Hurst, Atkinson, and Taylor (G), half-backs; Taylor (GT), Howe, Milson, Eastham and Halford, forwards. Referee Mr. H. Dedham (Blackpool). There was plenty of action in the early day, during which period Everton concentrated too much on close interpassing. The Blues right wing trio were prominent, but all too often their combination came to nought because of lack of a final lob into the centre. Britton showed up well against Taylor (G), and Cunliffe cleverly circumvented Tennant, but all to no avail. Dean came well up to back pass to Gee, but the Everton pivot’s shooting effort from long distance, was too high, and, following this, Jones, in Bolton’s goal, was too quick on his toes when Coulter snacked through hopeful of a possible chance. Everton had a remarkable escape during one concerted Bolton attack; both member of the Wanderers inside trio had shots which either hit an Everton defender’s knees or were intercepted on the line.
Everton lead.
This attack, which certainly had sting, reached favourably, Everton taking the lead in 16 minutes, Stevenson scored the goal, clever work by Coulter and Dean giving him the chance to shoot into the roof of the net from about six yards out. By the way, the Blues have never failed to score against Bolton in a League match for 37 years. Cook’s head served good purpose in dealing with a short cross from Taylor (GT) with Eastham on hand, and next to aid Everton was Britton, who cleverly intercepted a ball squared to the line by Atkinson. Dean and Gillick inter-changed for a moment, the Everton captain making Hurst go all the way for a line ball. Bolton came through and matters looked dangerous until Howe sent a low ball sizzling past the upright. Offside proved Bolton’s salvation when Gillick was clean through from a Dean pass. The Trotters’ defence was at sixes and sevens when Everton came back again, Coulter taking two centres, one at which was punched away from Dean’s head by Jones. There was no doubt that Everton had held the whip hand so far, and if only they had swung the ball about more, their lead would surely have been greater. Another goal seemed likely to accrue from a long kick by Everton’s Jones, but, like other promising efforts, it faded out against a Bolton defence which was quick if unceremonious. Everton’s definitely deserved their first-half lead.
Half-Time Everton 1, Bolton Wanderers 0
Thrills were often lacking, and so was the final shot, when the sides resumed. Halford drove against the foot of the post, and at the other end Gillick ran into the net in a vain attempt to convert a centre from Coulter, after the Irishman had been sent through by Dean.
Bolton Lunge –A Goal.
Gee – a barrier in the middle –held up Halford and then Eastham, when Bolton threatened on their left, but the first time the Trotters tried a lunge on the left it came off Taylor (GT) equalising on the 57th minute. Holford was the originator, crossing so long ball to the far side of the goalmouth, where eventually, at the end of cross of bodding heads, Taylor (GT) fine it easily to convert. Everton decided to reorganise their attack, Gillick went to inside right, Britton came up on the wing, and Culiffe fell back to right half. Thus we have the spectacle of three players of international class playing in different positions. The Wanderers were finding the Halford-Eastham wing a paying proposition; time and again this wing threw out a challenge. At this stage Everton’s attack appeared to have broken down, and yet curiously they took the lead just when it was least expected.
Dean’s Goal.
Dean was the scorer, the point coming after 68 minutes. The Everton captain touched with his head a long from Jones, “Slicing” the ball hotly under the bar. It was the tenth time he scored with his head this season. The game became much livelier Everton doing the pressing and Dean and Coulter in turn aiming jut past the post. The came two outside chances to home side in two minutes. Gillick nearly converted a nice effort by Coulter, but Eastham seemed a little slow to challenging Cook and Jones for a high ball, went out of goal. The Blues increased their lead within nine minutes of the end, Dean heading in the third goal after Gillick had failed from an easy chance. Bolton made more excursions into Everton’s goalmouth and with only half a minute to go Halford scored a second goal for Bolton. Final Everton 3, Bolton Wanderers 2.
DEAN GETS A DOUBLE.
January 8, 1937. The Liverpool Football Echo
Thrill Of A Back Header.
Home Record Intact
By Stork.
Everton were a long time clinching matters with Bolton. They would have won with greater ease had they not been so fanciful, for they were Bolton’s masters in the matter of craft. Teams: - King, goal; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Coulter, forwards. Bolton Wanderers: - Jones, goal; Goslin and Tennant, backs; Hurst, Atkinson, and Taylor (G), half-backs; Taylor (GT), Howe, Milson, Eastham and Halford, forwards. Referee Mr. H. Dedham (Blackpool). There was a surprise for the Evertonians when they found that Sagar was not in the Everton goal. He was down with an injury, so that King came in to guard the goal against the Wanderers who had the former Everton goalkeeper Jones under the bar. The attendance was small ten minutes before the start, but it quickly grew, and these was quite a nice crowd when Everton opened in an attacking frame of mind, and Cunliffe, with a beautiful feint, beat Tennant and centred into goal, where Atkinson, making his first appearance since he broke his leg, cleared the danger. The Wanderers replied with an attack through their left wing, and Halford centred, but Eastham, who had gone out to that wing, was lying hurt. There was a lot of sand on the ground. Britton, Cunliffe and Gillick played entrancing football, even though it did not lead to any shooting. Both Gillick and Cunliffe put across some nice centres, which were not met in true fashion. Twice Britton was fouled when he was indulging in his intricacies, and when Bolton were awarded a free kick I was astonished to see Milsom attempt a shot from forty yards range. When Cook with a free kick just opposite the Press-box, lobbed the ball in front of the goalmouth Dean was ready with his head, but Jones knows his Dean, and although Coulter had closed in anticipation of something happening the Bolton goal remained intact. The Everton goal then had a narrow escape. It was sheer good luck that it did not fall, for King was actually running back to his lair when Milsons shot, after Halford had lobbed the ball high in the air, and the ball struck the Everton goalkeeper.
Coulter-Stevenson Combine.
The danger was still there, however, for Halford had a shot which was also cannoned out. In fact it was a tense minute for the Everton defence and it supporters. From the ultimate clearance Everton went on to take a goal. Coulter was the startling point, and he put the ball into the centre so sweetly that all Stevenson had to do was take a crack at the ball. This he did and it was in the net at the 16th minute. There was a strong appeal for a penalty when Goslin handled. It was a case of ball to hand, and not hand to ball. I do not see how he could have prevented the bouncing ball from hitting his hand, which was by his side. This the referee’s decision was a good one. The Everton right wing was in dazzling form. Britton’s passing was machine like, and the response of Gillick and Cunliffe was such that the Wanderers defence was only too glad to give away corners rather than anything more vital. There was no comparison between the sides in the matter of football artistry yet the play of Halford was particularly good. He wasted he time in getting the ball into the middle. The tackling of Taylor (G) was also admired. Eastham and Halford indulged in a movement which always had a dangerous look about it. It was dangerous too as it turned out for Milsom headed the ball almost out of King’s hands as the Everton goalkeeper was waiting to catch Halford’s centre; the ball went behind. Mercer made one of his attacking moves, and having reached the centre of the field just outside the penalty area pushed the ball to Gillick, who had run into the centre, but Jones got his foot to the ball first. Eastham and Halford had a rare opportunities, and they engineered an chance which ended in Taylor (GT) sent a shot to the side netting. Coulter the “Dummy” just as he did a moment later when Jones rushed out of goal to prevent Dean and others from doing any serious damage. Jones was particularly good in catching from high centres. Eastham beat three Everton men in a small space while Britton must have been sick to death of Taylor (G), whose tackling was very keen. The Wanderers had their lucky moments near the interval when Gillick centred and Jones misjudged the flight of the ball with Coulter and Cunliffe lying handy, but they could not get a kick at the ball.
Half-Time Everton 1, Bolton Wanderers 0
Everton were much too fanciful. They had enough chances to have won his game without any great effort, but they attempted too much. Everton eventually adopted a more open plan of campaign. Halford and Eastham were Bolton’s big men in attack, and it was the outside left who eventually supplied the wherewithal which enabled the Wanderers to become all square at 67 minutes. He raced down his wing, and centred well, but King should have made a connection with the ball, for there was nothing with the ball for there was nothing really menacing about the centre, missed it, and Taylor (GT) ran in, and shot into the net, the ball grazing the underneath part of the crossbar. Dean brought the game back to life with a marvellous back-header which took Jones so much by surprise that he hardly moved to a ball which went to his left hand and into the net at 68 minutes. For the first time this half the spectators had been thrilled, and it was well that they got it for they were becoming rather disconsolate. It was a goal that will be talked about for many a long day, and when Dean tried a left hook shot which went near the mark there was another cheer for the Everton centre. Hereabouts there was a change in the Everton formation, Cunliffe was at right half Britton at outside right with Gillick as his partners, and Britton made one find shot which Jones pattied down. At 81 minutes Everton increased their lead through Dean, who got his chance after Gillick had struck the crossbar, the ball bounding high up in front of goal and as it dropped Dean flashed it into the net. King had not been at all confident, but he made a wonderful catch when Taylor (GT) drove home a pile driver. Halford scored for Bolton almost on time. He hooked a centre from the right into the net without allowing the ball to touch the ground. Final Everton 3, Bolton Wanderers 2.
STUD MARKS
January 9, 1937. The Liverpool Football Echo
By Louis T. Kelly.
• James Atherton who made such a promising debut at inside right against Everton is a local recruited from the now defunct Dick Kerr’s F.C.
• Three of Everton’s last four “away” draws have been played on London club grounds –Chelsea, Arsenal and Brentford, Number four at Sunderland.
SPORTS MAN
January 9, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
Mr. Charles Wright is known outside the Everton F.C shareholders’ meetings, where he has led many interventions and some votes of thanks. His record is remarkable –he is celebrating his golden wedding this week. Congratulations Charles. He had the honour of his colleagues at Chalmer’s Hall a little over twelve months ago –the recognition his fifty years’ work among the poor children of Kirkdale. Also he had presented to him by the Shaftsbury Society in the Queen’s Hall, London, the Sir John Kirk’s prize for long service with poor children. Mr. Wright is living in the same house he was married from, and so like the Irishman, “We knew Goodison Park before there was one,” Charles is an old St. Domingo-boy. In sport, beside football, Mr. Wright took an interest in model yachting and was one of the originators of the Stanley Park Model Yacht Club, and with colleagues was successful in moving the City authorities to make the present boating lake into a model yacht sailing lake. In football he has always wanted the best –the reason he became prominent in the affairs of the E.F.C, of which he is one of the original shareholders and at one time earned the reputation of being the chairman of the renowned syndicates, which led us to these meetings of shareholders and directors which caused a lot of comments and the unseating of several directors. He was not afraid to say what he though when things were not going as one liked.
EVERTON 3 BOLTON WANDERERS 2 (Game 1587 over-all)-(Div 1 1545)
January 11, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Dean’s Crafty Headwork.
Timing Skill Helps In Everton’s Success.
More Shooting Needed.
By “Stork.”
Bolton Wanderers should consider themselves fortunate to run Everton to such a close decision, at Goodison, for the final score, in Everton’s favour -3-2 –should have been doubled, but Everton’s forwards these days seen to have lost the art of shooting. In the first half they were swarming round the Wanderers’ goal for the major portion of the time, but for all their attack Jones in the Wanderers’ goal had few really dangerous shots to deal with. His greatest difficulty was the cutting out of centres from the wing, yet he could be claimed to have played a good game, and it was well that he did for the Bolton defence was anything but confident. They were caught out of position too often, but Everton did not take the advantage this offered them. Had they done so, Everton’s goal crop would have been considerably higher. On a ground that was smothered in sand, which clogged the ball’s progress, the wise game was the open way, but Everton do not seem to make any allowances for the conditions of the ground. They poked and pushed the ball from one to the other, when a swinging ball out to the wings, the only decent bit of turf on the ground, would have been more valuable, for Gillick and Coulter were very secure in their work.
Confidence Returning.
Coulter’s confidence is returning. He did not try so many tricks, but contented himself with getting the ball in the middle, and his good length centres should have produced goals. Gillick too, was a source of trouble to Tennent, but the inside forwards were much too finical. They excelled in the matter of ball control, but how often did they hold on too long? Even Britton was guilty in this respect, yet I thought his play the acme of perfection. Bolton did not wait to make the tackle. Once they determined to challenge they did so in such a manner that they invariably came through with the ball. For 16 minutes they were made to look an ordinary side by the ultra-clever Everton. The Goodison team, however, were lucky just before Stevenson got his goal at the quarter hour, for several shots levelled at their goal were charged down. One actually hit King, who was deputising for the injured Sagar, as he was falling, and he could have known but little about it. He had saved a certain goal, and that was all that mattered to him. A goal to the Wanderers then might have made a world of difference to the game. It was straight from the melee in front of the Everton goal that the home side went on to score the opening goal. The opening was engineered by Stevenson, who piled Coulter, who in turn slipped the ball nicely forward for Stevenson to crack the ball into the net. Everton started to put their passes wrong, whereas the Bolton left wing, Halford and Eastham, were gradually settling down to play clever convincing football. They carried play along the left with ease, and had Britton and Cook running willy-nilly in their endeavour to get into touch. I would place this wing as the best on the field, and when at 57 minutes the Wanderers obtained the equaliser it was due to the linking up of this pair that the Everton goal fell. King, however, was not from blame. He ran out of goal missed the ball from the centre from Halford, and although Jones had fallen back the ball sped over his head and just under the bar. King had not been convincing at any point, and there are some who though he should have prevented Bolton’s second goal, which came in the last minute. I was not one of them, for Halford swept the ball into the net with great rapidity. Prior to that Dean had scored two goals, the first of which was a masterpiece of timing and judgement.
Dean’s Great Goal.
Jones made a long-length punt up the field, Dean had his back to the goal, and Jones the Wanderers goalkeeper, did not foresee anything dangerous, but Dean, with that marvellous head of his, glanced the ball backwards, and it curled into the net well wide of Jones. It was a grand goal, the sort which remains in the memory. Gillick later cracked a shot onto the crossbar, and the ball spun into the air in front of goal. Dean beat Jones with a perfect “nodded” goal. In the main Dean was well held, but his first goal undoubtedly turned the scales in Everton’s favour. Still, they had to fight to the bitter end to hold their lead, when by right they should have held such a position, at the half stage that they should never have been in the slightest danger. Gillick and Cunliffe started well, but the inside men fell into his old fault of over-dribbling and the Scot got most of his chances from Britton, while Mercer showed a desire to be up in the attack. Stevenson was clever without being outstanding, but there must be more shooting before Everton can be considered a good side. There was little fault in the Everton back division. Goslin was not a success as a full back for Bolton, but Atkinson, making his first appearance since he broke his leg, did well against Dean. Milsom got little scope but G.T. Taylor and G. Taylor were very good. Teams: Everton: - King, goal; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Coulter, forwards. Bolton Wanderers: - Jones, goal; Goslin and Tennant, backs; Hurst, Atkinson, and Taylor (G), half-backs; Taylor (GT), Howe, Milson, Eastham and Halford, forwards. Referee Mr. H. Dedham (Blackpool).
BOLTON WANDERERS RESRVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 1
January 11, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 24)
Over-elaboration cost Everton a point at Bolton. Much the superior force in the first half, they gained the lead and then played into the hands of their quick tackling opponents by too much close passing in front of goal. Geldard, Trentham, Laidman and Bentham showed up well. Bell headed Everton’s goal and Jones the Wanderers outside left equalised. Everton Reserves: - White, goal; Jackson and Thomson, backs; Bentham, White and Watson, half-back; Geldard, Jones (TG), Bell, Laidman and Trentham, forwards.
Everton “A” 1 Skelmersdale United 3
Liverpool County Combination.
At Bellefield, West Derby. The visitors forwards worked the better together and the Everton defence had a busy time. Higham gave Skelmersdale the lead in ten minutes Allen headed through his own goal near the interval. Dickinson headed through to reduce the lead. Both sides fought strongly during the second half but too many offside decisions against Everton spoiled the game, Baldwin netted Skelmersdale third.
BOURNEMOUTH CUP TEAM WITH CAST-IRON DEFENCE
January 11, 1937. The Evening Express.
Everton Skipper Faces Pivot Who Never Has An Off-Day
By a Special Correspondent.
If a defence can win a cup-tie –and it is generally recognised that a strong one is half the battle –then Bournemouth are as good as in the fourth round of the F.A. knock-out competition. Bournemouth make no secret of the fact that they expect to surprise Everton in the third round tie at Goodison Park, on Saturday –if the “Cherries” defence plays up to form; and there is no reason to doubt that it will not. Not in any previous season during their short career as a League club have Bournemouth been better equipped in defence than in the current campaign. Their record confirms this view. In 24 Cup and League matches only 26 goals have been conceded. In 10 games a blank score sheet has been preserved. Apart from two lapses –hen Watford scored four against them and Torquay scored two –Bournemouth’s defence has stood up to its work splendidly all this season and there is considerable confidence in their ability to withstand the Everton attack, clever as it is. Bournemouth, at their best, are good enough to spring a surprise. Riley, a Sheffield-born player, whose previously experience has been with the two Bristol clubs, has been getting among the goals this season. Though small in height for a centre forward, Riley is sturdily built and is not lacking in trustfulness. He marceurves skilfully and usually leads the opposing centre-half a merry dance.
“Surprise” Marksman
Riley has got many of his goals by taking up position cleverly and getting in an unexpected shot from awkward angles. Provided his colleagues play up to him., he can be dangerous. On his day, Parris, the former Bradford player and one of the few coloured men in the game, can be a match winner. There is not a wing forward in the Southern Section with more twinkling feet and his tricks and speed make him difficult to keep in check. He flashes in a deadly left-foot cross shot on occasions.
Right Wing Problem.
Kilear, who has been out of the side since Christmas Day owing to injury, has proved the most trustful inside right tried this season, but the outside right position has not been adequately filled. Since his transfer from Doncaster Rovers in November, Keating has been tried there, but as all his experience has been gained as an inside forward, he has found it difficult to accommodate himself to the berth, for which he does not appear to possess the necessary pace. The defence consists mainly of young players, two of whom, Pincott (centre-half), and Marsden (left-back) gained much valuable experience with the Wolves. Marsden did not get into the team until November, but he cannot be displaced on his present form. King, his partner, is of the robust type, whereas Marsden is stylish and always thinking out his game. Pincott with Dixie Dean, so that he should stand as good a chance of getting to the ball in the air. Though not strongly built, Pincott never tires and he has rarely been known to have an off-day. Mellors is a thoroughly experienced goalkeeper. who is probably playing as well as ever he has done in a long career, and he and Lawrence, the captain and left half, are the “veterans” of the team. Lawrence exercises a wise and steadying influence on the side, and sets an example by his whole-hearted play throughout the 90 minutes. Another player of the same type is Chalmers the inside left, who is unobtrusive in his work. Gilmore, a well built young Irishman, did not make his League debut until December 5, and he has surprised most folk by the way he has seized his chance.
Sagar Will Be Fit.
Mr. Theo Kelly, secretary of Everton, stated today that Ted Sagar, the international goalkeeper, definitely will be fit to play against Bournemouth and Boscombe. “Sagar received a slight leg injury in the game at Brentford,” he said, “and it was deemed better to take no risks. He will be all right for Saturday.”
DEAN’S “WONDER GOALS.”
January 11, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes
Everton do tantalise their supporters. Here they were in the first half of their game with Bolton Wanderers going through the Wanderers’ defence at will by their clever combination, and than having nothing to show for it, because they either retrained from shooting or over elaborated and any marksman in the front line should have riddled the uncertain Bolton defence, but all they got in this half, which was theirs practically throughout was a goal by Stevenson (writes “Stork”). What would have happened had the Wanderers have done so, and it was only rank bad fortune that they did not, for several smashing drives were charged down, and goalkeeper King, in the act of running back to goal was struck by a ferocious shot which was undoubtedly booked for the back of the net. It may have made an immense amount of difference to the game, for it would have given the Wanderers a confidence where there could have been little judged by the way they were driven back into defence. The centre of the ground was heavily sanded, which negatived the close passing game, but Everton seemed to make no allowance whatever for the state of the turf. Close dribbling and passing is their game, so they just went on with it, when to everyone else the open game is the correct one. They were held up time and again after they had reached the penalty area just because they would not open up the game and so spread-eagle the defence. They courted the tackle by their methods, and the Wanderers were now slow to make them; and make them with a determined that usually brought success. It was all wrong, and the Wanderers showed them it was all wrong, when they swept the ball about and made ground at a much more rapid pace.
Coulter’s Confidence.
If Everton had three or four goals to start the second half they would not have been flattered, for they had that many chances and more to have beaten Jones in the Wanderers goal. But what had they; a Stevenson goal made entirely by the scorer and Coulter, who by the way is gaining in confidence, and put across lovely centres which went begging because the inside men were much too fanciful. Admitting that Jones had some intricate work to do in the Wanderers goal, it could not be said that he had to make any marvellous saves. They had to make any marvellous saves. They were in fact just the sort he likes, close to his crossbar where his height was of immense value. His catching of the ball was a feature, while he was coolness himself. The same remark could not be applied to King, playing for the injured Sagar, for King had a poor match. He ran out too much; his handling was not convincing and he was undoubtedly responsible for the Bolton’s first goal, for he completely missed Halford’s centre and then set out to chase a ball which was never his. G.T.Taylor captured it, and although Jack Jones had dropped back into goal he could not keep the fast rising ball from going over his head into the net. One all, which meant a new start and for some time there was never a suggestion of another goal until Dean although with his back to the goal flicked the ball with the back of his head and Jones was beaten. It was a perfect bit of timing and judgement, and goalkeeper Jones, must have been meanerised when he saw the ball curling into the net.
A Splendid Wing.
I have seen Dean score some remarkable goals with that head of his, but this was one of the best, and he augmented it when he again nodded the ball past Jones after Gillick had rattled the crossbar with a piledriver. All seemed well, but the Wanderers left wing was playing sparkling football, and had not Milsom been well held their work would have produced better results. Eastham and Halford were splendid. They made up the best wing on the field, and I am not unmindful of Gilick’s opening half exhibition, when he had Tennant all at sea. The inside forwards of Everton, however, must act more quickly; must shoot more often if they are to bring better results.
FAMOUS EVERTON HALF-BACK
January 12, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Death Of “Soldier” Stewart
William Stewart, famous as an Everton footballer, died yesterday, aged 69 years. He suffered for many years through an injury he received at the docks, where he worked for a long time. His death took place at smith-down-road Hospital. Noted as a half-back, Stewart was a member of the famous Everton trio. Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, one of the best half-back lines the game has known. Stewart, who was known as “Soldier” served with the Black Watch before going to Everton. He captained the team that reached the Football Association Cup Final in 1897, when Everton were beaten by Aston Villa at the Crystal Palace by 3 goals to 2. The Villa that season won the League championship in addition to the Cup.
EVERTON’S CUP TEAM
January 13, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton and Bournemouth are among the first clubs to announce their teams for the Third round of the Cup on Saturday, when two enthusiastic sides will take the field at Goodison Park. Everton will be at full strength and the following expect to clear the first obstacle in the race to Wembley; Sagar; Cook, Jones; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter.compared with the side that defeated Bolton Wanderers, Sagar for King is the only change.
Bournemouth X1
Bournemouth have decided to reply on Keating as inside right. Up to last Saturday he had played on the wing, but he is regarded as a better inside player. Kilcar, who occupied the position in two previous ties, is unfit. The team to oppose Everton, therefore will be; Mellors; King, Marsden; Gilmore, Pincott, Lawrence; Burns, Keating, Riley, Chalmers, Parris.
Everton Reserves
Everton reserves meet Oldham Athletic in a Central League match at Oldham on Saturday, when the team will be:- White (F); Jackson, Parker; Bentham, White (T), Watson; Geldard, Jones, Bell, Laidman, Leyfield.
EVERTON WILL FIELD BEST TEAM IN BIG CUP-TIE
January 13, 1937. The Evening Express.
All Fit For Game Against Bournemouth.
Sagar In Goal Again
Britton Sound.
By The Pilot.
Everton are all set for their third round F.A. Cup-tie against Bournemouth and Boscombe Athletic at Goodison Park on Saturday. Their best team will tackle the tough Third Division proposition. Ted Sagar, the international goalkeeper, who could not play against Bolton Wanderers owing to a slight leg injury, has reported perfectly fit, and so returns to the side, this being the only change from last Saturday. Cliff Britton, another England player, is also quite sound. He strained a groin in the Bolton match and had to go to outside right in the second half, but he has reported fit again. The team includes all players who have played for the Blues in cup-ties previously, and six players who played for Everton in last year’s only cup-tie –against Preston North End. They are Cook, Jones, Britton, Mercer, Cunliffe and Gillick. Cunliffe and Gillick, however, will form the right wing of attack on Saturday, whereas against Preston Cunliffe was at centre forward and Gillick at outside-left. Everton; - Sagar; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. In Everton’s reserve side to visit Oldham Athletic in a Central League game, Parker, the Marine defender, will play left back. This is his first appearance for the Blues in the competition.
BOUREMOUTH’S CONVINCING CUP PROGRESS
January 13, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes
Everton’s secretary, Mr. Theo Kelly tells me all is well for Saturday. He believes the visit of Bournemouth for the first time in their history will create as big a crowd as gathered at Anfield when Liverpool played them in a midweek match, well remembered for Jim Blair’s captaincy and Bournemouth’s great display. The Everton ground has housed some mighty crowds this season and I think the tie on Saturday will be another. The 3,000 tickets already sold represent but a few of the stand seats available, but not fixed for ticket purposes. There are 8,000 seats at 2s 4d and 2s –Mr. Kelly tells me –pay at turnstile. In the near future I am confident Everton will do more than toy with the idea of crowd-control by mechanical measures. A machine being considered which tells the control room just how many are in a sector of the ground, and they can allow so many more in till it is full. And when one sector is full, announcement can be made of the room available in Block 6-or whatever number it is. It is a machine founded on the Greyhound Tote mechanism and should be greatly helpful to the club and the police.
Our Visitors.
The visit of Bournemouth and Boscombe United to Goodison Park to tackle Everton in the Third round of the F.A. Cup competition will no doubt prove a big draw, especially as Liverpool are drawn away to Norwich City. The meeting of the sides will mark the occasion of the first clash between the clubs, and although the Hampshire side are members of the Southern Section of the Third Division; they can be relied upon to make a bold bid to earn at least the right of a replay. Founded in 1899, Bournemouth were elected to Division Three (South) in 1923, and at the close finished second from bottom with 33 points, but since then they have steadily made progress and last season finished in the eight position with 43 points, 23 of which came from away successes by seven victories and nine drawn games. So far this campaign the United have collected 27 points from 22 games, and are seventh in their division. Twenty of their points have been won at home by nine victories and two draws, their seven away points being picked up by successes over Aldershot Town (3-1), Millwall (2-0), and drawn games with Northampton Town (0-0), Crystal Palace (2-2), and Southend United (0-0).
A Scoring Leader.
Although by no means a prolific scoring side, Bournemouth possess a consistent goal-getter as leader of their attack in Riley, who last campaign was the club’s top scorer with 25 goals to his credit. He is again leading the way this season with 17 goals, a total which includes “hat-tricks” against Bristol Rovers, Torquay United and Aldershot Town. Harris, a lively left winger and Kilcar, inside right are also forwards of note who often figure among the goals.
Cup Progress.
In the Cup competition this season Boscombe have won their way through to the meeting with Everton in decisive fashion. In the first round they defeated Harwich and P’ton by 5-1 at home, their scorers being Marsden (2), Parris, Riley, and Kilcar, while in the second round they travelled to Mansfield and created a surprise by vanquishing the Town by 3-0, the marksmen on this occasion being Parris (2), and Riley. This, in spite of the fact that they are called upon to face such famous rivals as Everton away from home. It would seem that Everton will have to be at their best if they are to go further in the tourney this season. Bournemouth’s team is; - Mellors; King, Marsden; Gilmore, Pincott, Lawrence; Burns, Keating, Riley, Chalmers, Parris. A great improved display on the right wing against Millwall removed any doubt as to the constitution of this flank. Kilcar, who was inside right in two previous ties, is unfit. Keating, who played at outside right until last Saturday is a much better inside man.
Everton At Full Strength
Everton will be at full strength for their game with Bournemouth at Goodison Park, and the following players expect to clear the first obstacle in the race to Wembley. Sagar; Cook, Jones; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. Compared with the side that defeated Bolton Wanderers Sagar for King is the only change.
FIRST HAND NEWS ABOUT EVERTON’S CUP-TIE OPPONENTS.
January 14, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes.
Bournemouth come Cup fighting at Goodison Park on Saturday. Few uphere know what manner of team Bournemouth field this time of year, but their reputation has gone before them, and Evertonians know too well the South has in former years just crumpled many of our best notions and intentions and. Therefore I propose to lay Bournemouth at your feet to-night, through the agency of Mr. Harold Jones, whose Liverpool knowledge is large and whose Bournmouth football knowledge may be helpful –he has been down there ten years. Read on –I am still a staunch supporter of both teams, even though I do not know now have the chance of seeing them play, and the first result I look for on Saturday is Liverpool’s, then Everton’s. Now I only see Third Division (South) football, and of course I am a follower of the local team, Boscombe. I have not missed a match so far this season, and I can assure you that the Blues will not have to take things ease on Saturday in the Cup-tie against our local team. The difference between First and Third Division football is not so very great, especially in Cup-ties, so I would say; Everton, beware. “Dixie” will find Pincott, Boscombe’s centre half a hard one to pass for the (Pincott) is, with about two exceptions, the finest centre half in the Third Division. Lawrence the left half, and captain, is almost the equal of Britton as an attacking half back, and Gillmore, right half, is very little inferior. While I do not think Everton will lose I do think that they, together with the Goodison Park spectators are in for surprise as regards the quality or the football which will be displayed by Boscombe. Greater experience should count, and Everton should come through about 3-1. But remember the Palace!
EVERTON “COVERING” WILL HOLD BOURNEMOUTH
January 15, 1937. The Evening Express.
And Forward Finesse Should Do The Rest
Athletic Doughty Cup Fighters.
By The Pilot.
There is many a slip in the Cup competition, but if Bournemouth escape defeat at Goodison Park it will constitute one of the biggest sensations of the round.
Bournemouth’s Strength.
Bournemouth are a side well above the average for Third Division clubs. They play fast, strong football, but if there is steady covering on the part of the Everton defenders the Hampshire men should do no better than did Southport and Luton Town when they visited Walton on Cup business. For sturdy tackling and quickly developed moves the Athletic will gain “points” but I do not think they will compare with Everton in studied approach. The Blues, too, are full of goals when in the mood, and if they once strike the goal route, they may win in comfort. Bournemouth have the reputation for being doughy cup-fighting –I had experience of them in the competition, when they were known as Boscombe –and they play attractive football. Both teams will be at full strength, for Sagar returns to the Everton goal in place of King. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. Bournemouth; Mellors; King, Marsden; Gilmore, Pincott, Lawrence; Burns, Keating, Riley, Chalmers, Parris. There will be a collection by the Veterinary Students at the match on behalf of the “Panto Day.”
What The Captains Say
Dean (Everton); You never can tell what might happen in a Cup tie, but I think everyone will agree our chances seem rosy.
Lawrence (Bournemouth); We shall put up a good right. If we fail, it will not be owing to lack of team spirit, fitness, or enthusiasm. I am hopeful that we shall spring a surprise.
EVERTON’S GAME ATTRACTS ALL PARTIES
January 15, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes.
A Long Run In The Cup
Everton have struck virility in recent visit to Brentford and Derby suggestive of a good run in the Cup. This is the convenient time to “leap forward,” as they did when they went to Leicester and won in Billie Cook’s first season. The Cup portion was a very pleasant one that year. Having been drawn at home against complete new-comers to this ground at Goodison Park, it is necessary Everton should accept their gift of Fate (Home is so pleasing to then) and ask for more –starting on Monday at the meeting of the F.A. Councillors. Everton’s team is at full strength. Bournemouth as shown yesterday by one who follows then each week are capable of doing well against any First Division side. The knock-out blow of the cup means more to the hearts of players than any talk of what has been done in the past. Here is a meeting of eleven versus eleven call either club whatever name you like call Bournemouth, Arsenal, if you will, and call Everton. Kidderminster Harriers; the facts are the same. Every club has its grand chance and nothing but severely practical earnest football will get Kidder-Sorry; Everton –further on their Cup way. It is necessary for Everton to do better than they did against Bolton, to start earlier than they started against Preston, and to carry on the rather epic exhibition which caused London to shower praise upon the Everton team as a whole. Sagar is well –he had a knock and “flu-Cook is back home, Britton is sure; Bournemouth are a sporting and able side –what more could we wish from the following side; Everton; Sagar; Cook, Jones; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. The vet, student of the University will “vet” spectators at Everton tomorrow for their charity collections.
NEW FACES AT GOODISON PARK
January 16, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
The Cup provides opportunities of meeting teams fresh to the district and the visit of Bournemouth and Boscombe to meet Everton in the national Trophy thus takes on an added interest. Apart from the importance of the occasion, there are new faces and styles to study. I have no doubt that the Goodison Park ground will be taxed to the full, and while I expect Everton to win the game, the southern representatives are sure to make a fight of it. Dean and his colleagues are keen to make progress in the competition once more, and they should take full advantage of his opportunity of clearing the first hurdle. The kick-off is at 2.30, and the teams are: - Everton; Sagar; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. Bournemouth; Mellors; King, Marsden; Gilmore, Pincott, Lawrence; Burns, Keating, Riley, Chalmers, Parris.
I understand that there are 3s 6d reserved seats still available, and these will be on sale before the match at Bullens-road and Goodison-road. There are 8,000 unreserved seats at 2s and 2s 4d, admission through the turnstile.
EVERTON’S CUP ROUT OF ‘CHERRIES’
January 16, 1937. The Evening Express, Football Edition.
Blues Score Five Without Reply
“Shock” Goals By Gillick.
A “Double” For Stevenson.
By The Watcher.
Everton smashed their way to the fourth round of the F.A. Cup with a 5-0 victory over Bournemouth. The Blues got off to a flying start with a goal by Gillick in two minutes. Another Gillick “shock” goal a minute after the interval and there was no holding the Everton forwards. Further goals were scored by Stevenson (2) and Cunliffe. Gee put up a grand display at centre half-back. Everton: - Sagar, goal’; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Coulter, forwards. Bournemouth: - Mellors, goal; King, and Marsden, backs; Gilmore, Pincott and Lawrence (captain), half-backs; Burns, Keating, Riley, Chambers and Parris, forwards. Referee Mr. E. F. Brown (Scunthorpe). Everton opened on a high note, taking the lead within 100 seconds. Coulter and Stevenson combined prettily to force King to clear a high punt, and then, after Cook had easily held with a threat from Chalmers, he came along to challenge Mellors, as the pair of them leaping for the ball. Mellors managed to half-punch away, it was of no avail, for Gillick pick-up to shoot low into the far corner. Everton and Gillick might have been to up in another half-minute, Mellors only just managing to grab and clear a ball with Gillick nipping behind Marsden and racing past the goalkeeper into the net. Britton stepped in cleverly to rob Parris of a fine chance near goal, and next in the picture was Jones, whose ever interception ended a promising movement between Keating and Burns. Mercer shone against a strong left wing lunge, holding the ball well before dashing it down the middle, but the crowd of 30,000 was disappointed when, with a fine ball slipped to him by Stevenson, Coulter shot against the net with Dean looking on.
Dean’s First Timer
Dean got away in the centre, and his first time shot sent the ball flashing past the upright, but when the Blues till took up the attack Cunliffe’s shot was pushed out by Mellors for a fruitless corner. Bournemouth were exhibiting plenty of enthusiasm and it struck me at this stage that Everton were taking things put a little too easily. The ground was heavy, and also slippery a fact which caused many well-directed passes to go astray. Parris was proving a box of tricks; with understanding with Lawrence sent him through the home defence, but his final hit from a glorious position, only eight yards out, sent the ball on the half volley past the far post. Mercer robbed and eluded Burns, but barred Coulter’s path, which Mellors also did when Cunliffe sneaked and shoot against the Bournemouth goalkeeper’s hands. Twice within three minutes Sagar had to leap high and punch away, with Bournemouth forwards challenging.
Bournemouth Fight Hard.
Bournemouth were fighting hard and giving no quarter. Parris and Riley were their “danger” men. Coulter, who by the way, seems fast to be recovering his best form, tripped along the line to set up an Everton siege with a low cross, following which another Everton attack saw Dean, Cunliffe and Gillick all manoeuvring for openings. Two free kicks, three headers and a corner were proof of the pressure the Blues were able to exert when they wished. Everton’s extreme wingers were usually too fast for Bournemouth’s defence, and Dean’s “head-work” –in two senses –often left the opposition in two minds. Charlie Gee had been an outstanding centre in the Goodison team this half, dominating the middle of the field and also finding time to assist his wing men. His was a studious game.
Half-Time Everton 1, Bournemouth 0.
Everton resumed in a sensational a start as they had begun. A free-kick for a foul on Coulter gave Mercer the opportunity to level the ball into the goalmouth and Gillick nipped in to shoot it low into the net. This goal came after the second half had been in progress only 60 seconds. Everton, who in the first half had been shared 23 throw-ins and nine free kicks were now exhibiting more lively. Mellors came to Bournemouth’s rescue with clever anticipation when Dean was coming through, and when shortly afterwards the Everton centre and Cunliffe were well set, Mellors defeated their charge by going down to pick the ball off Gillick’s feet. Sagar’s role had been a quiet one since the interval, yet when Riley found himself in a favourably placed between his own forwards, Sagar proved his worth by collecting neatly with arms outstretched. Dean enlisted Gillick’s aid in an endeavour to outwit Lawrence and Marsden, the winger’s turned-in ball and hitting against the side netting. Everton flocked into the Bournemouth penalty area when they were awarded a free kick –their 11th –from a nice position and Britton dropped the ball at the middle. Stevenson dribbled close in and hitting the side netting.
Everton Bombardment.
Dean gave Mellor trouble with a driver from 15 yards out, and then again Cunliffe, Mellors had to be smart for a close range effort. In the 67th minute Everton made really certain of Fourth round football. Cunliffe dribbled through in the penalty area, and although several Bournemouth players were on hand, he beat Mellors. Bournemouth had lost much of their spring; Everton were masters, and the main question seemed to be how many goals Everton would get. Stevenson gave Everton a fourth goal after 72 minutes. Dean started the movement, flicking the ball to Gillick who took it forward and squared inward to Stevenson. The Irishman cut through like a flash. His first shot was pushed out by Mellors, but his second taken on the instant, found the net. Only 12 minutes remained when Everton registered their fifth goal. It was obtained by Stevenson, who followed up during a fierce attack easily to beat Mellors from close range after Coulter has seen his effort beaten out. Chalmers shot across the goalmouth in a solitary Bournemouth attack and the end came with Bournemouth well beaten. Final Everton 5, Bournemouth 0. Attendance 35,468 Receipts £2,221 11s, 4d.
NEW BRIGHTON V EVERTON “A”
January 16, 1937. The Evening Express.
New Brighton lost the services of Foulkes owing to injury 15 minutes after the start of the friendly game at Rake-lane today. Hullet and Small missed chances of putting the “Rakers” ahead, while Ingham headed against the Everton crossbar. Half-Time N. Brighton o, Everton “A” 0.
EVERTON GO NAP.
January 16, 1937. The Liverpool Football Echo
Bournemouth Swept Out Of The Cup.
Goalkeeper Star.
By Stork.
Everton won as they liked. The score would have been doubled had it not been for Mellors, who was the one bright light on the Bournemouth side. Everton: - Sagar, goal’; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Coulter, forwards. Bournemouth: - Mellors, goal; King, and Marsden, backs; Gilmore, Pincott and Lawrence (captain), half-backs; Burns, Keating, Riley, Chambers and Parris, forwards. Referee Mr. E. F. Brown (Scunthorpe). It was a glorious day, but the heavy rain during the night had softened the ground to a considerable extent. Nevertheless, the pitch looked in wonderful condition, and when the teams came on to the field they each got their full share of cheering, for the Bournemouth club had brought up quite a happy hand of followers. Their happiness, however, was somewhat dampened when in exactly one minute Everton had struck their side a severe blow, Gillick scoring to send the Everton people into ecstasy. This is how it happened. A long ball was put into the Bournmouth goalmouth and both Dean and Mellors went up together for the ball. The goalkeeper was so harassed by the presence of Dean that he only half punched the ball, which went out to Gillick, who fired it low into the net. This was undoubtedly a blow to the Southern side, and if they had the will and the ability there was ample time to wipe away this blot. As things turned out, Bournemouth were lucky to escape when Mercer put the ball goalwards. Gillick saw the trend of affairs, so bounded forward and was only just beaten in the last fraction of a second by Mellors. So far the Everton defence had been equal to anything the Bournemouth attack had served up. In fact ten minutes had passed without Sagar having to make a single handling case, and it was due in the main to the strong half back play of the Everton team, which not only kept a straight hold on the Bournemouth attack but was also able to engineer things for their own forward line. At this point the visitors took a corner and Parris pulled the ball back so far that it belonged to an Everton man almost from the time it left the winger’s boot.
Solid Everton Defence.
A second corner to Bournemouth saw Sagar punch away Parris’s flag kick and almost got the same distance with his fist as he would have done with his foot. Bournemouth were now doing somewhat better, but generally they were well held by the solid Everton defence. Dean was once allowed to move forward and shoot when he was offside but he acted wisely in playing to the whistle so was entitled to make the fiery drive which passed a foot outside the upright.
A Great Save.
The ball had become heavy even at this early stage needed a strong propelling boot to take it any distance. The most exciting moment up to this point had been the save by the visitors’ goalkeeper. He did not seem to have a thousand to one chance when Cunliffe dashed through to within six yards and then delivered a shot to his left hand side which seemed all China to a toffee apple to be a winner, but Mellor’s shot out his left hand and turned the ball away. The ball came back to Cunliffe, who had a second attempt and again the goalkeeper stood adamant and was fully entitled to the ovation he got. Coulter once ran into the middle, and when everyone expected him to make a pass he let go a fine drive which failed in its object because Mellors advanced and narrowed his shooting angle. Parris volleyed the ball across the Everton goal face, but there could be no denying Everton’s great superiority, and once again Mellors came to the rescue when he got in the line of flight of a Cunliffe effort which was so not the goalkeeper could not hold it, but he did the next best thing –he got it away to safety. Cunliffe, Gillick, and Dean got together, but Dean found himself in a sitting posture when the ball came to him in front of goal. Bournemouth’s main prop was Parris. He was very direct in everything he did, and it was this fact which made him the danger man to Everton, but he got little support from his inside man. Pincott was once palpably offside, but was allowed to go on, and Sagar had to come out and punch away to prevent an equaliser. Later the Everton goalkeeper made a clever catch from Burns. To have lost that ball would have been fatal, for Parris and Chalmers were there ready to pounce upon it should Sagar fall. Mellors was again the stumbling block to Everton; in fact, he had been the outstanding man of the Bournemouth side. The game was clean, there being few fouls, and none of a serious nature, and I liked the work of Gilmore, the Bournemouth right half, whose tackling was sure. Gillick had a chance to add to his opening goal when Mercer dropped the ball close into goal, but the Scot got too far under it and the ball went sailing over the crossbar. When Dean went for Goalkeeper Mellors, who was in possession, he gave the Everton captain a frightful look and that was the end of the first half.
Half-Time Everton 1, Bournemouth 0
As in the first half Gillick opened with a goal inside a minute. The goal came originally from a free kick, which was taken by Mercer, and Gillick had so placed himself to receive the ball that all he had to do was flick it into the net with the side of his boot. This he did, and Everton’s case was much stronger, not that Bournemouth were ever likely to create a surprise for they were held on a tight rein, and this allowed Everton to indulge in a great deal of finesse which, while being good to look upon did not bring much result in the way of goals. Only on fleeting occasions did Bournemouth show any bite, and then they were so well handled that Sagar’s work was easy. Mellors was still the man of the moment so far as Bournemouth were concerned, and he fingered a Dean header from under his bar. Mellors got in the way of a terrific Dean drive but shortly afterwards (57 minutes) he had to yield to Cunliffe, with ran close in before he tapped the ball to the side of the goalkeeper to put on goal number three. At 72 minutes the fourth goal was registered when Stevenson crashed in a tremendous drive which struck Mellors and rebounded to the shooter, who with his second attempt landed the ball in the net. Everton now had a firm hand on Bournemouth. Coulter hit the crossbar and the nap hand was made when Stevenson at 80 minutes plotted the ball into the net after the crossbar had been hit again. Pincott missed a goal by inches. As the players left the field Mellors got a fine reception all to himself. He had undoubtedly earned it. Final Everton 5, Bournemouth 0. Attendance 35, 468. Receipts £2,221 11s 4d.
STUD MARKS
January 16, 1937. The Liverpool Football Echo.
By Louis T. Kelly.
• Everton V Liverpool, seven days hence, weather permitting! It will hardly be a 6-0 win for the Reds this time however. Last Season Everton “weren’t in it” after the first 16 minutes, although unlucky in that Dean met with a broken toe and Ben Williams with groin injury. That, by the way, was William’s last appearance with the Everton senior team whilst the inimitable Cresswell closed his wonder innings two weeks later.
• Everton’s two biggest “First Round” surprise defeats were probably those sustained when losing 2-1 to Glossop, in 1914, and 6-0 to Crystal Palace, in 1922. In the long history of the competition Everton have suffered eight home defeats, four since the war.
• The Everton secretary has a birthday tomorrow, “Dixie” on Friday next and another far-framed Everton centre forward of the older school Fred Geary this day week.
• In their 37 league match visits to Everton, Bolton Wanderers have never managed to keep a clan sheet.
• Everton claim the record of being the only club to parade local-born pair of full backs in a Cup-final team. That was with W. Balmer and Crelly in 1906. A year later they had brother-backs in W and R Balmer in the final v. Sheffield Wednesday. But on this occasion the Blues stumbled at the last hurdle.
EVERTON 5 BOURNEMOUTH 0 (F.A. Cup Game 146)
January 18, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post.
Easy Victory Over Bournemouth.
Mellor’s Save.
By “Stork.”
A goal in one minute by Gillick was all that Everton obtained in the first half of their Cup-tie with Bournemouth, but in my opinion it was the winning, shot for it look all the spirit out of the visitors, and Sagar was never once in danger of defeat. To win 5-0 looks a comfortable victory; it was a comfortable victory, and had it not been for Mellors, the Bournemouth goalkeeper, that five might have been ten. Everton were frivolous; they gave the impression that they could win when and how they liked, and that is what they ultimately did, for in the second half they simply toyed with Bournemouth, who had by that time many leg-weary players in their ranks. They has been worm down, whereas Everton came into their full might late on in the game, when they pattern-weaved, dribbled, aye, and did almost as they liked against a side which had admitted that their case was hopeless.
Only A question Of Time.
That does not mean to say that they ever give up trying, for they did not, but they were so well held by the Everton defence, that only by uxorious lapse on the part of the latter could they have given any trouble. Everton sundered through to victory. Never at any point did they to pull put their best; they knew it was only a question of time before they most ultimately smash down the Bournemouth defence in which Mellor played a hero’s part, and one of the greatest saves of the season went to his credit when he kept out a Cunliffe effort by stretching out his left hand. It was small wonder that he received an ovation for that save. But in the main, most of Everton’s shots were driven straight to him; he could not have saved them otherwise. I am not trying to belittle Mellor’s work, but my note book shows that time and again the Everton forwards crashed the ball on to him rather than he saved. True, he got in the way of them and that was something; it showed his judgement in his positional play. When he was beaten in one minute by Gillick he was severely harassed by Dean and only half-saved the ball, so that Gillick was able to stride forward and slap the ball into the net. It was the only occasion he –had any chance, for the other four shots would have beaten any goalkeeper. During the interval there was some talk that Everton “must have a care” A solitary goal lend was too slender, it was said, but I held the opinion that Everton would eventually crush Bournemouth, and that is just what happened. They always had the measure of Bournemouth, and when they decided to be “strictly business” they collected goals without any great difficulty. I admit they annoyed by their desire to show off against Bournemouth, but if they had gone on to “murder” their visitors there would have been just as big an outcry. There was no need to rub it in. They had the game well won long before the finish. Yes, I should say that first goal did the trick.
Gillick’s Goals.
It was a coincidence that Gillick should score a goal in the first minute of each half; he got his second 30 seconds after the start of the second half, when he flicked a free kick into the Bournemouth goal. Mellors was still putting up a brave exhibition, but his task was an unenviable one. He must have seen that his colleagues were being rather easily mastered, and that, as a consequence the brunt of the work must fall to his lot,. He tackled it bravely, and made some capital saves, but he had no chance when Cunliffe strode along to take the third goal, while Stevenson left him helpless with the two he put to his credit. Mellor’s goal bore a charmed life in the last fifteen minutes. Twice the crossbar was struck by Coulter before the rebounding ball was eventually driven home. As compared with Mellors, Sagar had an afternoon “off.” His best save was from Chalmers, who made the shot of the match, but Sagar caught the ball as through it was of no account. That and a few crosses from the wings was the extent of Sagar’s afternoon’s work, and that will give some idea as to the great superiority of the Everton team. Bournemouth were beaten by greater experience, greater football ability, and a wearing down process.
Bournemouth Players.
Their forwards were never allowed to become a menace, although Parris and Riley –he made some shits –and Chalmers promised well in midfield, but the Everton half-back line never let them get very far with their combination. Lawrence was a tireless half back, and King a solid full back, but the reason Everton did not run up a cricket score was Mellors, who rightly got a reception as he left the field. Bournemouth had put up a fight against a side which carried too many guns for them, but Everton will have to show more aggression against a side showing more fight. It was a spotlessly clean game, but the offside “trap” was brought in quite a lot. Here is the time table of the scoring; Gillick 1 minute, Gillick 30 seconds after the interval, Cunliffe 67 minutes, Stevenson 77 minutes, Stevenson 80 minutes. Everton: - Sagar, goal’; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Coulter, forwards. Bournemouth: - Mellors, goal; King, and Marsden, backs; Gilmore, Pincott and Lawrence (captain), half-backs; Burns, Keating, Riley, Chambers and Parris, forwards. Referee Mr. E. F. Brown (Scunthorpe).
OLDHAM ATHLETIC RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 1
January 18, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 25)
Playing without their goalkeeper who was injured before the interval, Everton did well to share the points. T. White who was deputised in goal, had good saves to his credit. Jones scored for Oldham after 30 minutes and Bell equalised two minutes later. Everton were always the clever side with Geldard the outstanding man on the field, but good defence saved them in the later stages. Everton: - White, goal; Jackson and Parker, backs; Bentham, White and Watson, half-backs; Geldard, Jones (TG), Bell, Laidman and Leyfield, forwards.
WATCH THAT OFFSIDE TRAP, EVERTON.
January 18, 1937. The Evening Express.
By The Watcher.
Everton’s forwards will have to keep their eyes open for the old offside trick. They have fallen victims to this move 27 times in the last two games! In defeating Bournemouth 5-0 in the F.A. Cup third round tie at Goodison, the Blues fell into the offside trap on 18 occasions, and, in fact, it was this trick more than anything else which prevented them adding to their goals haul. Bournemouth were a well-beaten side, They never possessed the artistry of Everton, nor did they shoot so well. Yet they had one of the best players on the field in Mellors. This goalkeeper affected several brilliant saves, although it must be pointed out that at times the ball was sent whizzing straight at him. An early goal to the Blues and the ease with which most of the visitors’ attacks were beaten off, made it perfectly obvious to everyone that unless Bournemouth could scramble in an equalising goal, the result would definitely go against them. Everton took things a little too easy in the first half, but they came out of their shell on the resumption. The home defence was rarely faulted. Sagar was always sound, and often spectacular. Cook and Jones kicked strongly and cleanly, the Irish international having the most difficult task in facing Parris. Bournemouth’s coloured winger, who was the best player in the Cherries’ front line. Once again, Charlie Gee takes the palm for a brilliant display at centre half-back. He was a big barrier and yet found time to assist his wing-halves. Another who shone in this department was Britton, whose consummate artistry broke down movements almost at the start. Gillick and Stevenson starred in Everton’s forward line. Both were 90 minute atoms of energy. They got four goals between them, Cunliffe taking a fifth and although Dean failed to find the net, I must say he plotted and planned to advantage of his colleagues.
EASY FOR EVERTON
January 18, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes.
A goalkeeper took the honours from the Everton-Bournemouth Cup-tie, but is that so uncommon? I can recall many ties that have made a goalkeeper. Who will ever forgot Beecham, of Fulham, helping to put Everton out of the Cup? Well, Mellor tried desperately hard to keep Bournemouth in this season’s competition, for it was he alone who prevented Everton running up a cricket score against his side, and was the one shining light in a side which was never a trouble to Everton’s march to round 4 (writes Stork). Everton played with the Southern side just as a cat would play with a mouse before making the kill, but never was there a greater certainty that the mouse –Bournemouth –would eventually meet its doom. True, Everton had but a goal lead at the interval, and there were many who thought that it was too slender a lead in a Cup-tie, but I held the opinion that Bournemouth would shortly be completely blacked out of the picture, and my protination came true, for Everton swept their visitors right out of the Cup by their better football and all round superiority, and despite the brave work of goalkeeper, Mellors. His work had been so good that he got a great hand as he left the field, but had you stopped to consider how fortunate was the Bournemouth goalkeeper? Probably not. Well, I think back and recall the number of times the ball was banged right at him. I am not trying to make light of Mellor’s goalkeeping, but it was often the case of the ball hitting the goalkeeper and not the keeper making the save. Oh, so, I have not forgotten his mighty save from Cunliffe with outstretched left hand. That was masterly; it earned him the ovation he received. To be in the right place at the right moment was either good fortune or excellent judgement. Whichever it was it undoubtedly saved Bournemouth from a double-figured defeat.
Not A Cup Tonic.
A goal against you in a minute is not a good Cup tonic and this is what Bournemouth suffered, and in my opinion it was the winning stroke, for it weighted heavily on their shoulder and at the same time lightened Everton’s burden. They were free to indulge in their finery, and they indulged themselves to the full, but they knew that their time would come, and when it did they cut through the Bournemouth defence with ease and not even Mellors could keep them out. He saw his full backs ultimately mastered and knew it was up to him to keep the score down, but at the end he had been beaten five times –it might have been ten. There was a little bit of showmanship in Everton victory. They dribbled they interpassing, they pulled out all manner of tricks; they were able to do it against Bournemouth, who could only hope to be let off lightly. They never had the opportunity to bring off a sensation, for the Everton defence pinned them down to midfield play, and Sagar rarely had anything to do. His best save was from Chalmers, and the way he made it made the shot look an ordinary one, whereas, it was a splendid drive directed just underneath the crossbar. That and a few centres from the wing was his day’s work, which tells in a nutshell how the Everton defence handled the Bournemouth forwards.
No Challenge the truth of the matter is that Everton ambled to victory. They may have seemed lackadaisical; they may have been a trifle precocious, but they had Bournemouth so well battened down that they could afford to be flippant in the full knowledge that a comfortable victory was there for the taking. It was a happy position to be in, but they must not think that such tactics will carry them far, for few teams will allow them to trip such a fantastic step without a serious challenge. That early goal had taken the spirit from Bournemouth; they were fighting a losing battle from that moment for Everton were much too skilful for them. Everton’s wearing out process had its reward late on, for many of the Bournemouth players were leg weary chasing man of ball, and three goals were scored in the space of thirteen minutes. It was bound to come once Everton got down to serious business. Five goals were scored yet Dean name was not among them, but it was he who harassed Mellors when Gillick got his opening goal.
JACK McGILL’S DEATH
January 18, 1937. The Liverpool Echo.
First Professional Signed By Everton F.C
The death is announced of Mr. Jack McGill, the first professional Everton F.C. ever signed. He had been ill for some years now, but prior to that had been a great helper in football matters, having been a life member of the Liverpool Football association, and a scout for Everton F.C. Jack McGill was playing for Everton in the eighties, in the days when there was a six forward formation (says “Bee), and his death occurs just a week after another of his comrades –Billy Stewart.
MEMORIMS OF A CORRESPONDENT AND EVERTON’S FIRST PRO
January 19, 1937, The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes.
Liverpool v Everton Saturday next, with a cup-tie as Everton’s portion the following Saturday –at home, too, where they receive all comers with geniality conviviality and a merry optimism about the result of the game. Stoke and Preston have been alone in worrying Everton at home. Sheffield Wednesday should worry about the league position –in common with some others –but I think Everton will be able to step up another stage, in the F.A. competition. The “Derby” game due at Anfield on Saturday comes at the moment distress is upon the Anfield brigade. It was similar when the pair met early in the season. Liverpool had touched some bad fortune, but every Everton player and spectator must have realised how well Liverpool played and how Sagar saved the day. So, approaching the next League fence, do not let us imagine this to be the walk-over recently results suggest it might be. These “Derby” games have a habit of creating more surprise than Cup ties.
Law and Order.,
The meeting of Sheffield Wednesday and Everton in 1907 produced one of many Everton F.C., annual meetings of a bear-garden character. George Wilson had been in England a year. He and his brother David were forwards of merit. Dave not so good as George, whose little stiff-built body bowed legs, crack shot –like that of Harry Chambers –winding-way with the ball had left an indelible mark on the Goodison Park crowd. The public just loved George smaller Wilson. The final tie came, and Wilson was not picked to play. He had missed, but one game before that –through the death of his mother –and the Everton shareholders were in their bubbling and defiant mood. Why was Wilson not in the final team? A player had told me the side was beaten by the big, did D – which was indicative of the directors action being responsible for the team being upset a few minutes before the game started. The team wanted Wilson in. It was left to the last gasp before it was decreed he should not appear. Of course there was a reason for this. Shareholders, however, talked of sacking the lot –and guns not being handy they could not say “Shoot the lot,” The annual general meeting duly arrived. The air was tense the tempers were frayed. Discussion began so soon as the agenda had reached question time. Then up spoke Mr. W. C. Cuff, then secretary. He offered to tell them everything. “Do so then,” said the shareholders, Mr. Cuff dallied with them a little to explain that if the shareholders would take full responsibility for any law case arising through the notification of details of this business, he would tell every detail, but –said he with that somba awe of the law –but, gentleman the responsibility is yours. Shareholders had been stiffed and a trifle stunned. They did not purpose to bear any responsibility and the discussion ended. Actually George Wilson was not played because he refused to sign for the following season, and Everton had made it a law their players should, before appearing in a final tie, sign for the club for the next season. Ah, me, memory is very good to me! But that does not allow me to state an overheard conversation piece that came my way when I went home that night. Someone said something about shareholders being shy –and someone else replied, “Not shy” just kidded. Well, it was up to the shareholders, was it not? Everton have decided to charge ticket admission of 6s and 3s 6d for the Cup-tie.
“Chimming Bells”
At a lecture I had the misfortune to give, a questioner asked “Please tell us who and what is the Chimming Bells, who contributes to your columns?” I will tell the world. “Chimming Bells” rang true. He was a friend for many years. He had an urge or itch for writing to this column and was always welcomed by me, because, at least he showed care and was not a killer by nature. His love for football in this city had no equal, he wanted to see our teams win the trophies, but not at any price his desire was for the city’s football to bear honours in their visits. He had followed the game all his life, although he had spent so many years at sea with the Elder Dempster Line, as purser. Willie would sing song of the sea with the gusto of his kind; musically his taste ran high, and his voice though at times rather shall I say eruptive, was pleasant. He travelled far to see his Everton or Liverpool team, his later-day burly form would be remembered at Anfield and Everton, and his call for sport had a newish angle. Last season he took up the baseball work in this city with such whim and pulling power I am sure he would have done the cause of the game in this city a lot of good. He had a facile pen, a genial chuckle he debunked a lot of trivial folk and memorised the most notable things of sport life as that he could answer any question asked. As showing his fairness to all-comers, I need but name two points –one a distinct turn-round on me when he got into touch with the former Everton chairman Mr. W. R. Clayton, second his inquiry in a recent case to try to show a player had been guiltless of certain action. He was endless in his trouble to make satisfaction to all parties. I Mourn a good old pal, who leaves behind a wife, daughter and son. Jack McGill as I stated in last night’s paper has passed to his rest soon after his chum, Billy Stewart. Jack McGill was Everton through and through, having been their first professional signing and he did a lot of scouting for them.
EVERTON’S TEAM TO MEET LIVERPOOL
January 20, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Liverpool Football club officials are said to be looking for new players following the Cup defeat at Norwich on Saturday, and the side to meet Everton in the return League game at Anfield on Saturday has not yet been announced. The Everton team, selected last night, is the side that beat Bournmouth 5-0 in the Cup-tie namely Sagar; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. When the clubs met at Goodison Park on September 19, Everton won by two goals to nothing. Last season’s game at Anfield resulted in a 6-0 victory for Liverpool. The reserve teams to meet at Goodison Park on Saturday, Kick-off at 2-45. Everton will have Thomson at back and TG Jones at centre half. Lawton, the former Burnley player, will lead the attack, while Leyfield appears at outside right. Geldard has influenza. The team is; White (F); Jackson, Thomson; Bentham, Jones (TG), Watson; Leyfield, Hurel, Lawton, Laidman, Trentham. The result of the first meeting of the Central League side at Anfield was a 1-1 draw.
EVERTON’S CUP-TIE TRAINING PLANS.
January 20, 1937. The Evening Express.
Blues To Prepare For The Wednesday At Home.
Team For The Big “Derby” At Anfield.
By The Pilot.
Everton will train at home for their fourth round F.A. Cup-tie against Sheffield Wednesday at Goodison Park on January 30. This was decided by the directors at their meeting last evening. The preparation will not deviate from the preceding ordinary League matches. There will be the usual sprinting, road walks, ball practice, massage and baths –not forgetting the electric foam baths which have become a regular feature of Mr. Harry Cook’s methods. Mr. Theo Kelly states the tickets for this big match are now on sale at Goodison Park. Tickets for the shareholders’ and members’ stands (Bullens-road) are 5s and tickets for the north and south ends of Bullens-road stand and block D,E and F of the Goodison road stand will be 3s 6d. Postal applications must contain remittance and stamped addressed envelopes. Shareholders and members should endorse their envelopes as such.
Everton Unchanged.
Everton’s successful cup-fighting team will oppose Liverpool in the big “Derby” at Anfield on Saturday. Up to now we do not know the men Everton will have to tackle. Mr. George Kay, the manager said to me today; “We shall not announce our side until later in the week. Intending spectators of this game should take note that the kick-off has been altered to 3 p.m, instead of 2.45 p.m. Officials of the clubs took special note of the light last week, and decided that visibility was good at Anfield as late as five o’clock. The Liverpool players will go to Hoylake for a breather on Friday and visit the Empire pantomime on Friday night. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. The Central League “Derby” between the local rivals takes place at Goodison Park. Tom Lawton the new “star” from Burnley will lead the Everton attack, and Leyfield will be at outside right, as Geldard is suffering from Influenza. Everton Reserves; White (F); Jackson, Thomson; Bentham, Jones (TG), Watson; Leyfield, Hurel, Lawton, Laidman, Trentham.
LIVERPOOL’S FOUR CHANGES FOR ANFIELD “DERBY”
January 22, 1937. The Evening Express.
Riley In Goal Against Everton.
Bradshaw Returns To Centre-Half.
Dabs And Phil Taylor Recalled
By The Pilot.
Liverpool will place their trust in experience in tomorrow’s big Merseyside “Derby” match against Everton at Anfield –the 72nd Football League game between the clubs. Trusted stalwarts in Arthur Riley and Tom Bradshaw, internationals, will reappear in the side in a match which is of vital important to Liverpool owing to their lowly position in the League table. The side shows four changes as compared with that which was defeated at Norwich in the Cup last Saturday. Riley, who has had a cartilage operation, makes his first appearance of the season in goal. He displaces Hobson, who has been an “ever-present” up to now. Riley has been playing with all his old skill in the Central League side. Bradshaw comes back to take the place of Savage at centre half, and Dabbs is once again recalled to left back in place of Harley. The only change in attack affects the inside right position where Phil Taylor is preferred to Eastham –the pick of the inside forwards at Norwich. So no new players will be on view, but this is not the fault of the Liverpool officials.
Manager Mr. George Kay said to me, “We have made bids for players is several directions, but at the moment we have not been able to secure the men we want. We have not been idle and will pursue our quest until we get the players needed.”
Against Old Club.
The Liverpool attack differs in only one respect from that which played against Everton at Goodison Park, when the Blues won 2-0. Balmer plays instead of Wright, and so the Reds have an ex-Everton left flank in operation against their old club –Balmer and Hanson. I have no doubt that the Liverpool defence will prove a match for the Everton attack, but I wonder whether the Reds’ forwards will be subtle enough to outwit the Everton intermediates. The fact that Liverpool have scored only five goals, and secured only one point in the last seven matches does not inspire confidence, but the Reds have a happy knack of rising to an occasion and dumbfounding the critics. Finishing ability, so far as Liverpool’s is concerned is going to prove the turning point of the game. The Everton forwards know their goal-way. Liverpool do not. There you have the difference. Liverpool; Riley; Cooper, Dabbs; Busby, Bradshaw, McDougall; Nieuwenhuys, Taylor (F), Howe, Balmer, Hannon. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. Referee Mr. G. Gould (London).
DERBY DAY AT ANFIELD
January 22 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Bee’s Notes
There is so much to be said and all has a forecasting fore-taste of Derby Day games that for once in a way I propose to curb elongated notes on the big matches. Some team are not yet chosen, and the Cup blows add to the difficulty of sizing up the morrow’s meetings. Everton and Liverpool are expected to give another of their grand sporting events without malice aforethought –an example to those who talk about the rough play on our soccer grounds . Everton have chosen their usual team, a team welded together in the course of weeks of meetings, and just now at the height of its form. Liverpool contrariwise, have struck one of their lowly, if not meek, positions. To them League points are more important than gates. The position is serious. At the moment there is a chance of a newcomer being signed for their attack. The directors will need to “play for safety,” and that being so I imagine they will being back men of the stamp of Riley, Bradshaw, and; maybe, Dabbs. At the beginning of the season Everton’s chance of winning seemed to be ten to one on; Liverpool suiting their well-known character, gave one of the greatest exhibitions they have shown to their neighbours, even though victory or a draw was not their lot. That was Liverpool, that was! They may pull out something similar tomorrow quite unexpectedly when the following team-framed is due to be recorded; Liverpool; Riley; Cooper, Dabbs; Busby, Bradshaw, McDougall; Nieuwenhuys, Taylor (F), Howe, Balmer, Hannon. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. Many happy returns of the day to Dixie Dean, who attained his 30th birthday today. Many of em, William Ralph.
THE DERBY GAME.
January 23, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Liverpool and Everton are to entertain their followers for the seventy-second time under league auspices this afternoon at Anfield, and in view of the precarious position of the home club the match is more than usually attractive. The form of the team has proved one of the puzzling features of the season, and it remains to be seen whether they can strike the play which resulted in the defeat of Sunderland earlier in the campaign. It is a distinct point in Liverpool’s favour that Everton have won only one match away from home this season, and that at Bolton earlier on. Nine of Everton’s eleven away matches have been lost, and their supporters will hope to break in the spell today, when Everton visited Anfield last season Liverpool won by six goals to nothing. The Goodison Park game in September resulted in a 2-0 win for Everton, and on recent performances another Everton success is forecast, but it seems futile to attempt to anticipate the mood of Liverpool, who have so frequently risen to great heights at unexpected moments, and it would be in keeping with tradition if Everton fell victims to one of the “Reds” periodical bursts of brilliance. Whatever the result, the game, which starts at three o’clock, is likely to be one of outstanding interest. Liverpool make four changes in the team beaten at Norwich in the Cup-tie. Riley, who has had a cartilage operation, makes his first league appearance in goal instead of Hobson. Dabs returns to left back in place of Harley. Bradshaw resumes at centre half to the exclusion of Savage, and P. Taylor comes in at inside right for Eastham. Everton rely on the team that defeat Bournemouth in the cup. The teams are: - Liverpool; Riley; Cooper, Dabbs; Busby, Bradshaw, McDougall; Nieuwenhuys, Taylor (F), Howe, Balmer, Hannon. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. The reserve teams meet at Goodison Park, kick-off 2.45. Kemp, the South African goalkeeper, will play for Liverpool. The teams are:- Everton Reserves;- White (F); Jackson, Thomson; Bentham, Jones (TG), Watson; Leyfield, Hurel, Lawton, Laidman, Trentham. Liverpool Reserves: - Kemp; Harley, Fitssimmons; Savage, Ramsden, Bush, Taylor (H), Browning, Collins, Wright, Lang.
LIVERPOOL CONQUER EVERTON IN THRILL-A-MINUTE
January 23, 1937. The Evening Express.
Reds’ Well Worth 3-2 Win
Howe, Taylor, and Balmer Score.
Goodison Men Reply With Goals By Stevenson.
Liverpool triumphed in a thrill-a-minute “Derby” with Everton by three goals to two at Anfield today. Liverpool, in a flying start, were two up in the first 11 minutes though Howe and Taylor, and Everton replied in the 16th minute with a goal by Stevenson. There was little to choose between the teams for the rest of the first half, but shortly after the interval, Balmer scored a third for Liverpool. Thrills followed in quick succession and after 79 minutes Stevenson got his second goal for the Blues.
By The Pilot.
There was not so much of the Derby enthusiasm at Anfield today when Liverpool met Everton for the 72nd time in League auspices. It was interesting to note that Dean the Everton captain was 230 years old yesterday and seated in the stand was Fred Geary, former Everton centre forward who was celebrating his 69th today. There must have been 40,000 spectators just when the game opened on a rainfall pitch. Teams: - Liverpool: - Riley, goal; Cooper (captain), and Dabbs, backs; Busby, Bradshaw and McDougall, half-backs; Nieuwenhuys, Taylor (P), Howe, Balmer, and Hanson, forwards. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Jones, backs; Britton, Gee, and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean (captain), Stevenson, Coulter, forwards. Referee Mr. G. Gould (London). Liverpool won the toss and defended the Kop end. Everton made the first attack. Stevenson bored through and shot by the post. Then Stevenson took over from Coulter to let go a sharp shot which Riley pushed aside for a corner. From this there was a rousing raid at the Reds’ goal with Bradshaw in the thick of the fray. Eventually he dashed in to clear before Coulter could connect and away went Howe on the Reds left flank. Jones came across to tackle but Howe shot quickly and the ball sped across in front of goal. Sagar had to run out to pick up and clear. The conditions were in keeping with Liverpool’s luck this season –they could hardly have been worse –and so expected good gate was spoiled. Cooper tackled well and disarmed couther. This early football was a struggle between Everton’s footcraft and the length of Liverpool’s tackling.
Liverpool’s Quick Goal.
The first big thrill came in eight minutes with a headed goal by Howe finish in typical fashion. Taylor and Nieuwenhuys were proving dangerous and Mercer came back to concede a corner which was well centred by Nieuwenhuys to the far post, were Howe, leaping high, nodded the ball into the near corner of the net, Sagar being slow to come out. Within three minutes the Reds were two up, this time due to a bad mistake by Sagar. Bradshaw sent out a perfect pass to Hanson, who crossed a low centre which travelled back to Taylor. Taylor took his shot first time and Sagar had the ball covered with his body. Much to the consternation of the Everton supporters, however, he allowed the quick-travelling ball to pass underneath his body and over the line. Liverpool were playing with tremendous enthusiasm and the Everton defence was far from a settled quantity. Balmer and Taylor again threatened Sagar and them Stevenson forced Riley to save near the post. Everton recovered and launched a good attack through Gillick. The winger’s centre was turned away without a shot being levelled. In 18 minutes Everton took a goal –good one –through Stevenson. Dean stared the way with one of his choice headers and Stevenson shot the ball first time into the net from 18 yards’ out. Riley had no chance. Three goals in 16 minutes was sufficient to satisfy the most exacting. There had been fouls, mainly due to over enthusiasm, but the standard of football had been high. I had watched Liverpool’s exhibition thoughts travelled back to Norwich and the side failed in the Cup-tie. It was a pity we did not see a quarter of this last week. Liverpool fell victims to Everton’s tactics, Cooper’s strong tackling was to much for Coulter. When McDougall had recovered from a injuries Balmer cut through, but this time he was offside. Then came a big thrill when Cunliffe came inwards following a throw-in and struck the bar with a perfect curling shot which deceived Riley. Coulter was on the spot to receive the rebound, but he got too far under the ball. Nieuwenhuys headed just outside from Hanson’s flying centre before Nieuwenhuys returned the compliment, this time Hanson heading over the top.
Gillick Injured. Gillick was carried off after receiving the full volley in the body. Liverpool were swinging the ball around in refreshing style, while Everton mastered the close method of application. The Reds’ defenders were very keen and Dean was being held in subjection by Bradshaw. The Blues, however, were having more of play territorially and again toke command when Gillick returned. Then came for Phil Taylor for a swerving dribble. He beat four men in succession, but advanced to smoother the shot. The ball rebounded to present Nieuwenhuys with an open goal, however he failed hopelessly, the ball going yards over the top. It was one succession of thrills and now Dean, who had been lurking around at centre half, seized on a ball, cut through and hit the foot of the upright with a shot which Riley, and practically everybody, thought was going outside. There was an unfortunate incident 10 minutes before the interval –the first blot on the proceedings, Gillick received a long pass and was working his way up to the goal line when Dabbs brought him down just outside the penalty area.
Gillick again Carried Off.
Gillick was taken off. The referee spoke to Dabbs and the crowd booed for several minutes. The free kick came to nought, thanks to Bradshaw, whose height was proving a great asset to the Reds. Howe nearly took another goal in another of those spontaneous and devastating Liverpool raids. Cook upset his shooting effort which developed into a lob, and Sagar’s fists did the rest. Gillick returned nursing his jaw in time to see Gee play one of his favourite forward roles with a well-timed dribble which, however, failed to bring the goal response. Cunliffe made good ground on the right and Riley fisted away the centre in style. The game was becoming upsetting for Dabbs, who was being booed every time he approached the ball but he continued to get through his work. This was a game to thrill and satisfy everyone, with hardly anything to choose between the sides. Liverpool, on this form, belied their League position, and it showed what adepts they are for rising to the occasion.
Half-Time Liverpool 2, Everton 1.
It had been one of the greatest 45 minutes of football seem on Merseyside for some time. It was artistic, go-ahead football allied with concentrated endeavour. The sides were evenly matched in practically every respect and the ball control on the treacherous surface was remarkably accurate. Everton were once again the quick starters on resuming, Cunliffe heading inches wide from Coulter’s centre. Britton then linked up with Cunliffe, but was forced away for a corner, and twice in quick succession Riley had to fist away. McDougall brought out a wonder tackle to harass Gillick when the Scot was making ground at great pace. At last Liverpool got going with a swinging pass from Balmer and Sagar was ready to deal with Hanson’s half centre-half shot. Everton were holding the ball rather a little too long –a fatal mistake in face of Liverpool’s perfect tackling.
Sagar’s Saves.
Sagar leapt outwards and upwards twice in quick succession to pull down centres, then Bradshaw again saved the day for Liverpool when he took charge of a high ball with which Coulter was trying to find Cunliffe. Bradshaw was there again when Cunliffe was dribbling through, and away went Howe on his own to shoot over the top as Gee challenged. Cunliffe’s turn came next with a shot that slipped through Riley’s hands but passed outside for a corner. Riley made amends for this with the power of his punch. Cooper moved a place up in class with a fine tackle when Coulter had been given his “passport” by Dean’s quick forward pass. Liverpool turned a long a spell of attacking into a third goal after 59 minutes through Balmer. Nieuwenhuys cut through when the Blues were expecting an offside whistle and he turned back a low pass to Taylor. Taylor managed to scramble the ball across the goalmouth and Balmer, taking the chance on the half turn, glided it home just inside the post. Everton at this stage, as during one period in the first half, were keeping the ball much too close, while their defenders were not marking cleverly. Dean tried a back header without success then, when the Everton captain who had been singularly quiet, tried to break through. Dabbs made a winning tackle. Stevenson worked for his shooting chance diligently before failing with the shot then Everton’s twice-taken corner failed. Everton had lost some of their power following that third goal, but Mercer revived hopes with a good dribble, and strong shot, which found Riley ready. Riley made a fine save from Coulter’s quick shot after Mercer, now, strange to say, Everton’s prime attacker, had once again shown his versatility. Sagar ran out to save from Howe, then he saved a great header from Balmer. Everton reduced the lead 11 minutes from the end through a grand goal from Stevenson, who took over from Dean’s short pass, raced beyond Cooper, and scored with a wonderful right foot shot into the far corner. Riley saved brilliantly from Cunliffe and in practically the last minute Everton forced a corner but Dean headed outside. Final Liverpool 3, Everton 2. The official attendance was 37,636. Liverpool scored a deserving victory.
LIVERPOOL SURPRISE EVERTON
January 23, 1937. The Liverpool Football Echo
And Balmer Helps To Beat His First Senior Side In The City
Nothing So Quaint As Football
By Bee.
A great and glorious game, with uncertainly of football form made still more emphatic through Liverpool’s win when they looked to be a 10-1 against chance. Balmer was outstanding against the first senior side that give him his chance, Everton and this was surely the quietest game Dean and Britton have ever played in this series. Teams: - Liverpool: - Riley, goal; Cooper (captain), and Dabbs, backs; Busby, Bradshaw and McDougall, half-backs; Nieuwenhuys, Taylor (P), Howe, Balmer, and Hanson, forwards. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Jones, backs; Britton, Gee, and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean (captain), Stevenson, Coulter, forwards. Referee Mr. G. Gould (London). Liverpool with four changes looked more like their own selves and Everton kicking towards the Kop, opened with a bitterness and resolution not exactly customary to their sweet life. Irishman Stevenson seemed to have a deep grudge against the Anfield defence and in sixty seconds he had delivered a rocket shot round the post and another one that made Riley fly high, and turn the ball out for a corner. Riley’s up-and-over effort produced a corner kick of bustling impression. Bradshaw had to head the ball away from under the bar of the kop. After which Howe got a beautiful pass from Phil Taylor turning away as a left winger, and Sagar picked up the ball that was crossed dropped it, but was never in danger of a goal arising. There had been rumours about Dean not playing probably because he dressed so late for the task. However, Dean survived and was out headed for a time By Bradshaw. Liverpool had weathered the early storm and the first portions of play had been symptomatic of the good conduct that arises so often, especially when the teams came out to the field side by side.
The High Jump Act.
It was Liverpool, encouraged by the relief of their three minutes of Mafeking siege, who went up to score the opening goal of the day in eight minutes. Balmer toyed over to the right wing and set Nivvy” a –centring. At first the low centre was slogged and Liverpool appealed for a corner kick without result, but the ball was kicked out by an Everton player with the result that there was no argument about the corner kick. “Nivvy” took this, and Howe doing his famous high jump act, beat Sagar and turned the game out of the avenue in which if had started. Joy among the lowly Liverpool club supporters until Coulter offered the sort of centre Dean used to make his position secure as the top scorer of the League.
Sagar’s Slip.
But Dean did not snap into it, and Riley was able to take the ball, Coulter continued with finesse and some fluency, particularly in front, but one could picture the flaming ned, the robbin red breasts, who had spent the week reviling their team, forgiving everything when! Liverpool increased their lead to two goals in the 12 minute through Taylor, realising the sticky muddy nature of the ground, especially down the middle, letting out a low, longish shot. Sagar seemed to have the ball covered but it slipped beyond him, underneath his body, and the consternation in the Everton camp could be felt. Everton came back chiefly through the agency of Stevenson’s magnificent deadly marksmanship. Stevenson’s shooting came without thought of delay, and had accuracy as it first link and strength as the second. Riley had to finger at that the foot of the post another Stevenson shot, after which Gillick burst through, and the ball struck Busby and passé out safely and rather luckily. Cooper and Dabbs had to do much work against the revived Everton side, and it was no surprise when Stevenson got the value of his work by scoring Everton’s first goal in 15 minutes. It was a shot of extraordinary power. Flashed to the right hand side of the goal, and its pace must have made the Kop spectators purver. Dean had slipped the ball back for the little Irishman to crown his success. So that the game was now anything but a certainty for the Liverpool side, who had spells of play lacking in confidence. There was a free kick against Cook, and there was a definite show off youthful folly when Jones dropped Howe, and followed up with the spirit of Christmas out of date.
Run or The Match.
“Nivvy” shot against the side net and Balmer, after two pokey shots, came right into his real best form with this best solo run of the match, the shot ending the issue, passing just over. Next on the agenda was the misheader by McDougall, who was laid out; and Everton had really bad fortune when Cunliffe struck his best shot and the ball cannoned against the right side of the crossbar and goalpost. Coulter ran forward to try and complete the issue and the header sent the ball slightly over the crossbar. A “Nivvy” header and a Hanson header went almost as close as Coulter’s had done, after which Gillick had to retire through a damaged knee caused in collision with Dabbs. The first half-hour had been quite the best of its kind seen for many a year in “Derby” games, and Gillick’s return was welcomed so that these should be no suggestion of lack of numbers. Balmer’s display had been one of the best features of the day, but Dean had been unable to be suggestive or pointed his pants were dry and his shooting powder was wet –until now, when his shot was handled with a good deal of ease by Riley.
Long Trail Ends In The Air.
One could hardly recognise the Liverpool side, remembering the Norwich display. Phil Taylor found the ball into a knot. He got his chance through the offside tactics of the Everton backs Howe stood still, Taylor went on. He commanded the ball all the way to goal in a long, winding run. Taylor turned the ball to right and left and finally shot against the oncoming Sagar. The ball struck Sagar’s body passed out to “Nivvy” who with a empty goal to shoot at, sent his shot high over the bar. And that was how Liverpool forsook a 3-1 margin. Still more sensation in the beautiful game came at the moment Dean, hanging back at the 25-yard line, drove the ball through the mud and sand, and although Riley was at the foot of the post and seemed to picture the ball passing out the Kop crowd saw the ball strike the foot of the upright –an escape.
A Bad Note.
Unfortunately they now came into the game a further blow to Gillick, who was tripped up and taken off the field with a damaged jaw. Dabbs being rightly spoken to by the referee, who consulted his linesman regarding the trip. This was a sad note and Jones, of Everton, did not add to the prospects of improvement when he committed a wild foul which escaped the referee’s notice. What a pity either man should attempt to damage this well nigh perfect exhibition of play. Stevenson was prevented taking the equaliser by a tricky bit of work by Bradshaw neat and sure work Britton and Cook were finding Balmer’s passes go all one way –straight to Hanson, but arriving there the Liverpool forwards had an attack of surplus passes for no apparent reason, because ground was not gained. The damaged Gillick was still Everton’s livest wire now that Stevenson had gone quiet, and through this quietness one could hear the solid roar of disapproval from the Kop against Ben Dabbs. A Kopite never forgets. Jones, the Everton back, did better work when he made a forward run and centre, not being closed out, as was Mercer in one of his infrequent runs Coulter forced Riley to a corner kick right on the interval and the skidding free kick might easily have been turned into a goal. And so to a rest for five minutes, with Liverpool winning 2-1.
Half-Time Liverpool 2, Everton 1.
The second half opened with renewed spirit and Cunliffe came near equalising in the initial bout. It has to be recorded that the crowd at the Anfield road end now started to show their displeasure of Dabbs. A little bit of by-player between Coulter and “Nivvy” was a featureful point in the grandstand view, and Everton could have made still more impression if Britton had not gone beyond wise lengths before making at attempted centre, he having joined the forwards in a very full-fledged raid. Dean was lying in wait like Brer Rabbitt, as a sort of three-quarter forward. Naturally the pace and the gluepot of the first half was taking toll of all the players, and for a time the unsettlement of all ranks prevented the easy flow of play.
Bradshaw’s Good Work.
Balmer now found Britton showing up strong so the local lad reverted to his long pass to Hanson, whose reply with a shot from far distance, about which Sagar was not trembling. Bradshaw had a splendid day, lying in wait for Dean and Company, and Busby and McDougall were doing valiant work on the wings. Everton’s defence was no less confident. “Nivvy” best was a sweep along swing along run in which he passed Jones at will and centred a shade too low although one must not discredit Sagar’s part in this catch, and also in a subsequent catch from Hanson. Howe made a bustling, rustling run, but was unbalanced by the attentions of the Everton defence, so that he had to fire anywhere the ball speeding over. Balmer had stored up his best form for the benefit of his first senior club, Everton. Cunliffe flashed a low ball which bothered Riley to the extent that he was glad to see a corner the result the difficulty of grasping the sticky ball having been too much for him. The first time Bradshaw moved up and out after “Nivvy” had fouled Mercer without notice from the referee Coulter threatened to score until Cooper closed the bidding. Liverpool went to 3-1 at the stroke of the hour. Bradshaw started to help in attacks and he and Busby between them dwelt upon the ball near the half-way line, Busby eventually being left in charge and making a pass that sent the ball forward to the right.
Making It Three.
Taylor tried to back-heel the ball, and merely smuggled it through a mast of legs, and when it arrived at Balmer’s foot the shot was not noteworthy by means of its strength. Indeed the reverse was the case; it was a weak effort, but found its resting place in the left hand corner of the net, touching the foot of the post before entering the haven. A moment before he had gained the rich reward of his services, Balmer had made a flurried single-handed run, winging his way in and out the opposition, but meeting one too many when he came to Cook. This Half Gillick was not often seen, and it was realised that Stevenson must resume his hitting methods if Everton were to have a chance. Mercer joined him in the shooting range business without laurels of notches in the goals department. There was tenacity about the Liverpool defence that kept the Everton forwards in order. Riley picked up a Coulter and a Stevenson effort after Phil Taylor had gone through without the strength to complete his shot from the easiest of positions. “Nivvy” wasted another shooting chance, but Liverpool were now riding easy, and proving their Norwich form utterly all wrong. Sagar’s best save was from a header by Balmer, “Nivvy” having centred excellently. No doubt Everton followers would console themselves with the fact that Liverpool have beaten the good sides of this season when least expected, namely Sunderland, Arsenal and Everton.
Stevenson Scores.
Stevenson scored eleven minutes from the end gain through the agency of Dean, not only to keep the game alive, but bristling with possibilities. Jones brought down Howe to join at last in the disfavour that had been the lot of Dabbs. Final Liverpool 3, Everton 2. Official attendance 37,632 spectators.
BILL STEWART –AN APPRECLATION
January 23, 1937. The Liverpool Football Echo
Ex-Sergeant Goodwillie writes –it was with feelings of profound regret that I read of the passing away of William Stewart, Everton’s famous half back. I have many happy recollections of him as a footballer. In my view he was one of the best and most graceful moving player in the country. He was tall and strong; and a thrower-in from the line he had only one equal in Hughie Wilson, who played for Sunderland. I have seen Stewart throw a ball well into the middle of the playing pitch with the greatest ease. Of course these were the days when footballers could position themselves and excel by putting their weight behind the ball. Ate, they were also the good old days when there were considerably fewer rules and restrictions than are applied to it today. I think too, that there is some logic in the deceased players view in that the modern footballer is pampered and speeded up instead of being allowed to show natural football ability. “Soldier” Stewart has gone from us, but he in that half back line in the nineties, with Boyle and Holt, will never be forgotten by those whose pleasure it was to see them disporting themselves on the field of play. In their time football was a hefty robust, go-ahead game, and I never once begrudged the tanner for admission because I always got full value for it.
STUD MARKS
January 23, 1937. The Liverpool Football Echo
By Louis T. Kelly.
• Since the war Everton have only put on one goal from inside-right in their thirty-odd League bouts with Liverpool.
• Curiously full backs Jones and Jackson signed professional forms for Everton on the self same day.
• Charlie Gee may be Everton’s leading humorist, but he takes his football seriously.
• In the last eight League meetings with Everton, Liverpool have run up eighteen goals at Anfield, yet not a solitary one at Goodison Park.
• When at Goodison the other week, Jones offered to bet his wages that Dean wouldn’t head one through. “Dixie” however, hoodwinked him twice.
• It will be ten years come next month since Tommy White left Southport for Everton, as an “outside left” Has never played there for Everton senior team.
• Britton, Gillick, and Stevenson are Everton’s only ever-present.
• Everton and Glasgow Rangers playing in the Cup in 1886-87. The two clubs did meet that season at Anfield road (Oct 30, 1886), Rangers winning 1-0. But let it be known that before the start Everton scratched to their famous opponents owing to the fact that among other players like Dobson, Dick and George Farmer were ineligible. So Everton fielded a “full strength” eleven in what was after all only a “friendly” or exhibition match played chiefly with a view to whetting the local appetite in this now growing soccer hotbed of Liverpool and district. Note, too, how the Rangers goal was scored. Centre forward Heggie put in a shot, which time his club mate Buchanan was busy bundling Charlie Joliffe the Everton keeper into the net (no protection for goalkeeper in those far off days).
• Other interesting feature of that 1886 match; Fifteen minutes after the advertised time to start neither team had appeared on the ground. “Also” the Rangers drove up ready stripped for the fray. Again a big crowd fully 6,000 strong was present, every available space of vantage ground being occupied. It was also the occasion of a new Everton stand being opened, whilst the match was refereed by the famous Mr. J. J. Bentley who later in life became president of the League. There was no linesmen; merely club “umpires” Mr. J. Richards being the Everton flag-welder (in those days a handkerchief). For the special occasion the Press had a corner reserved for them to do their scribbling, which was something unusual in those days. After the match the teams adjourned to the Sandon Hotel, where “the visitors were entertained in the usual hospitable manner observed by Everton towards clubs coming from a distance.
• Everton in the Cup in 1887-88, they met Bolton Wanderers four times (each club in turn protested regarding players). Everton won in the end, but it was Bolton Wanderers who had the last laugh. Everton’ charge was re a certain Wanderers being ineligible. But Bolton’s was a much more serious business –“veiled professionalism” and offering players jobs to induce them to join. Terrible sequel, Everton found guilty thrown out of the Cup, ground suspended for a month and seven players declared professionals. “Those were the days them was,” Nothing half and half, but real fizzy stuff. Next thing that happened the local F.A went along to the Sandon and “Seized” the Liverpool Cup, of which Everton were the then holders. So much for “ancient history, whilst it is interesting to add that several of that 1886 Everton eleven v Glasgow Rangers re still happily with us.
• Neil McBain, ex-Liverpool and Everton was in these parts during the week. He wanted two inside forwards and was prepared to pay but as Everton wanted £2,000 for “Bunny” Bell, so Neil went elsewhere.
LIVERPOOL 3 EVERTON 2 (Game 1588 over-all)-(Div 1 1546)
January 25, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Liverpool Tactics Prevail
Everton Keep Ball Too Close In The Mud.
Balmer’s Brilliant Display At Anfield.
By “Stork.”
Was there ever such a team as Liverpool? When they stepped on the field at Anfield the “form” book said they must surely be beaten, but once again the Anfielders proved that form could be all wrong, for they scored a magnificent victory over their near rivals by 3-2 in a game which was voted one of the best “Derby” meetings of the long series of clashes between the pair. Don’t think Everton were saving themselves for the Cup-tie next Saturday, as I heard some suggest, for that would be a libel on the winners who took their victory against a team which tried might and main to collect the points. It was a worthy victory, too, only made possible by grit, determination, and correct procedure on a ground which was all against good football. The conditions down the centre of the field were atrocious, but Liverpool overcame them much more readily than did Everton, simply because they deemed it necessary to play the open game, as against Everton’s close pattern-weaving, which was all-wrong on such a day. Everton need to take note of ground conditions, and fit their game accordingly. As craftsmen Everton were slightly superior to Liverpool, who, however, made no bones about the fact that they intended to sweep the ball forward by long, lengthily passes, which would, undoubtedly, be more unsettling to a defence than to be tapping the ball about. Balmer showed the advantage of such methods by flinging the ball out to Hanson to such effect that Britton and Cook had a worrying time. Had Hanson finished as he should have done, the Everton defence would have been more sorely tested than it was. It was a great game. There were some things I would have liked to have missed, but apart from the foul on Gillick by Dabbs, which brought him a warning, and a series of infringement by Jones, who was not taken to task, I saw some really classical movements. Two different styles were being exploited. Everton started as though they would sweep their adversaries out of the game, and Riley had to save smartly from Stevenson, but having got over Everton’s stormy opening they proceeded to give Everton a taste of their own gruel, and had obtained two goals in the space of eleven minutes. Balmer was the starting point to the opening goal of the day. He plied Nieuwenhuy, whose first centre was turned adrift by an Everton player, and once again Howe, who is becoming quite famous for the way in which he rises to the ball, leapt a tremendous height and nodded the ball beyond Sagar at the eight minute. It was a crushing blow to Everton, who had not thought such a thing possible in view of Liverpool’s lean time during the past few weeks, but Liverpool are a law unto themselves, particularly so when it comes to “Derby” games.
Sagar Deceived.
Liverpool believed that now was the time to strike, and within three minutes goal number two had been marked up, and Everton’s cause was not a happy one, I though Sagar was at fault when this goal came, for P. Taylor’s shot travelled under his body. Here was a nice state of affairs; the outsiders well in the lead and shaping as though they would hold it, Everton, however, faced up to their heavy task, and mainly through the excellent work of Stevenson, who carried the ball through the mud at the tip of his toe, suggesting that the turf was firm. The little Irishman had been Everton’s main prop in the matter of shooting, and he got some reward for his endeavour when at sixteen minutes. Dean neatly turned the ball back to Stevenson, who slashed home a vigour drive. That lightened Everton’s burden to some extent, but Britton and Cook were bothered so much by Balmer’s dazzing form that it always appeared that Hanson was given too much rein by the Everton defence. It was not that, but simply that Balmer had drawn the defenders to him before he swept the ball with amazing accuracy to the outside left. Hanson should have had a joy day, Alex James never gave Bastin better support than Balmer gave to Hanson, who, however, did not finish as well as he might. The course of battle raged first this way than that, and had Phil Taylor who “walked” around three Everton challengers shot a second sooner than he did Liverpool’s goal tally would have been increased. His delay enabled Sagar to make a frantic dash from his goal and get in the way of Taylor’s shot. Then Nieuwenhuys missed badly with an empty goal ahead of him. His header sent the ball spinning over the crossbar and into the crowd.
Gillick Hurt.
Everton had got back to something approaching normal, and Gillick was having a good innings while Coulter astonished by cool and cheeky way he tried to beat Cooper. His ball control was deliberate but he was inclined to over-dribble instead of getting on with his job, and this negatived a lot of what he did. Then came the first blot of the game. Dabs thundered into Gillick as the latter was heading goalward and the Scot was so badly hurt that he had to leave the field. The “Kopites” were not slow to let Dabbs see that they resented such action, and the referee deemed it necessary to speak to the offender. Gillick had damaged his jaw, and he was never the same afterwards. It had been a grand first half, and just as it started so it concluded for Everton, eager to level matters before the half-stage gave Riley some intricate work to do, and he was somewhat fortunate to see Coulter hit the crossbar, and later erred in his judgement when he allowed a Dean shot, which he thought was travelling outside, slap up against the foot of the upright. It was a near thing and rank bad luck for the Everton captain, who, truth to tell, not had much chance against Bradshaw, who had out headed him. Bradshaw, in fact, had done invaluable work in holding up the middle of the field. Stevenson had been one of his greatest difficulties, for he had swerved, feinted, and dragged the heavily laden ball along with him as though he had it tied to a piece of string. Resuming, it was plain that Gillick had lost some of his fire by his injury. Cunliffe resumed by just missing a goal and it was noticed that Dean, not for the first time this season, had dropped back to become a centre three-equarter. That was nothing new to those who have seen the majority of Everton’s home games. He stayed back and pushed the ball through to either Cunliffe or Stevenson, who had moved up. Riley had to scrape the ball away when Cunliffe shot a low ball to the right of the goal, but it was Liverpool who set the spectators alight when with the game in hour old, Taylor, although surrounded by a forest of legs, got the ball through to Balmer. The inside left did not hesitate, but he did not bit the ball with any great power, but power was not needed; it was direction which produced the goal, for the ball was put wide of Sagar’s right, so far away that it slithered off the inside of the upright before it finally settled into the back of the net. Balmer had earned his goal, for he was the best forward on the field. It was in my opinion, his best display since he joined Liverpool, and it was the irony of fate that he should save his best until he met Everton, to whom he was indebted for his entry into first-class football. Rarely did he attempt anything which ended in failure; few mistakes were his lot, and a goal was a fitting climax to a perfect exhibition of progressive football under trying conditions.
Stevenson’s Second.
But the match was not yet over, and Mercer, aye, and Jones, thought it worthy of them to go among the forwards and lend a hand. Mercer tested Riley, as did Coulter, but the one man in the Everton front line likely to do any further damage to Liverpool’s defence was Stevenson. Whatever does he get the power to drive in such terrific shots? But before he obtained his second goal Sagar had to keep out a fine header by Balmer. Again Dean was Stevenson’s provider. A neat downward header fell right at the Irishman’s feet, and without a moment’s hesitation he smote it hard and true and the ball went hurtling into the net like greased lighting. This was at 81 minutes. There was the time for an equaliser, if nothing more, but Liverpool fought on to the end, to score another magnificent victory. Riley had to make a noteworthy late on save from Cunliffe. Liverpool had redeemed themselves to some extent in the eyes of the spectators, who, prior to the match, had little hope that they would see such a splendid exhibition by their team. Tactics had won this battle-royal just as they had defeated the Arsenal, Sunderland and Grimsby, but this latest victory over Everton is the sweetest of them all. Congratulations are due to all for giving us a magnificent game, but to Balmer in particular, Stevenson, Gillick, until he was injured, Cooper, Bradshaw, Phil Taylor, McDougall, and Cook must get the honours of the game. The heavy rain had its effect upon the attendance for there were only 37,632 people present. Teams: - Liverpool: - Riley, goal; Cooper (captain), and Dabbs, backs; Busby, Bradshaw and McDougall, half-backs; Nieuwenhuys, Taylor (P), Howe, Balmer, and Hanson, forwards. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Jones, backs; Britton, Gee, and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean (captain), Stevenson, Coulter, forwards. Referee Mr. G. Gould (London).
EVERTON RESERVES 2 LIVERPOOL RESERVES 2
January 25, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 26)
A draw of 2 goals each is a fair reflex of the hard-fought game at Goodison Park, although if Everton had made the most of their opportunities they could have taken both points. Everton opened the score after 15 minutes with a surprise goal. Hurel had floundered in the mud in the Liverpool goalmouth, and when the ball went out to Lawton the Everton leader’s shot struck Hurel before entering the net. Five minutes later Liverpool had levelled matters, Collins helping a shot by Taylor into the Everton net when the ball appeared to be already over the line. Just before the interval Everton took the lead again, Lawton scoring from a penalty following an appeal for a foul on Leyfield. On turning round, Everton kept Liverpool in their own half for lengthy periods, and it was only the superb goalkeeping of Kemp Liverpool’s latest South African that prevented further score. Near the end Bush, who had gone to the inside left position scored for Liverpool, thus levelling matters. Thomson appeared to touch the ball as it went into the net. Thomson had given a good display. Lawton and Hurel were prominent for Everton, the former was always dangerous, but shot twice over the bar. The Liverpool forwards were unconvincing, and their passing was poor. Lang worked hard, and Collins made several openings. Towards the end tempers became frayed. Everton Reserves; - White (F) goal; Jackson, and Thomson backs; Bentham, Jones (TG), and Watson, half-backs; Leyfield, Hurel, Lawton, Laidman, and Trentham, forwards. Liverpool Reserves: - Kemp, goal; Harley, and Fitssimmons, backs; Savage, Ramsden, and Bush, half-backs Taylor (H), Browning, Collins, Wright, and Lang, forwards.
Northern Nomads Reserves 1 Everton “A” 9
Liverpool County Combination.
Northern Nomads were no much for Everton “A” at Burscough. Arthur scored direct from a corner kick after 20 minutes, and Davis added a second, Dickinson headed a third from a long pass from Tunney. Joyce and Dickinson added further goals before the interval. Nomads were weaker, and after the interval further goals were scored by Dickinson (3), and Joyce. Pritchard reduced the arrears for Nomads, for whom Robertson and Blackledge alone played well. Everton were strong in almost every department.
ALL HEROES IN GREATEST-EVER “DERBY”
January 25, 1937. Evening Express.
By The Pilot.
“Never have we felt so wholly satisfied after having been defeated.” An Everton official made this comment to me in the Anfield boardroom on Saturday after Liverpool’s brilliant victory over Everton’s by 3-2 in the local “Derby” game. It summed it up exactly. Everton, so far from being despondent, had every reason to be proud of the exhibition put up by their team. They were defeated, but not disgraced, and had figured in a match which will do the game a great deal of good. Liverpool, playing like an inspired force, were deserving winners –if only just –and I know that no Everton follower begrudged the Reds the points. The most satisfying point was that Liverpool, in seven short days, should be able to o forget their Cup failure at Norwich as to put up their best display of the season. While congratulating the players, let me also congratulate the team selectors in deciding that seasoned experience is an essential to success. The recall of Tom Bradshaw, for instance, laid the foundation for success. Bradshaw was the keystone of the Liverpool side; the player who instilled utmost confidence in the defence, and who encouraged his attackers in every phase. Yet he also found time to blot out Dean, who, apart from one shot against the post and two choice passes which brought goals, accomplished little. He could not escape Bradshaw, even when he moved from his orthodox position.
Man of the Match.
Yes, among 22 heroes I single out Bradshaw as the man of the match –the dominant power. The re-introduction of Arthur Riley also did much to instil confidence in the side. Although he mishandled on occasions it could be seen that the defence was comfortable in the knowledge that this great goalkeeper was “on guard.” The return of Dabbs and Phil Taylor also made for improvement; Dabbs was every inch the fighter. Taylor has rarely revealed such good ball control and speed. It was refreshing and yet it was Balmer who took the Liverpool forwards honours. The improvement at inside-forward was reflected in the happier position of Howe. For once Howe had the right support and proved himself a menace every time he was in possession. The wingers played their parts well, even though Nieuwenhuys was once again off his shooting line. Now a great big cheer for Tom Cooper who, relieved or worries, was able to concentrate on his own job, instead of trying to divide himself into several roles, as of late. He was superlative. Busby was the unobtrusive provider and delicate ball artist, while McDougall was every inch the genuine fighter. The Blues delighted with their subtlety of approach; their ability to think two moves ahead. Their one outstanding fault was a propensity to hold to the ball too long. Chief culprit was Jack Coulter who would persist in changing to the ball when the Blues had a great chance of saving the game. However, I was charmed with Everton who right up to the last kick, were always threatening danger. Stevenson was the outstanding man of the team –the prime marksman of the game, and the clever personality in approach. He claimed both the Everton goals. Gillick was also in fine form, but suffered through lack of attention later on for the Blues concentrated solely on the left flank. Cunliffe was always a useful forager. Mercer was the best half back, being the keenest of interveners and then at the right moment throwing everything into attack in a fighting finish. Gee found Howe elusive, but stuck to his task well, and Britton contributed neat touches without striking his best form. Cook and Jones were solid and solid backs, and apart from one mistake, Sagar was good in goal on a day when the greasy ball presented terrors to all goalkeepers. His mistake was when he allowed Taylor’s shot to pass under his body to add to Howe’s headed goal. These scorers came in eleven minutes, and Balmer added the third in the second half.
THE THREE-TWO DERBY DAY AT ANFIELD
January 25, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes.
Some time ago Liverpool beat Everton 7-4. The result sheet could have been similar on Saturday. Everton twice struck the woodwork, twice Dean landed back a pass to Stevenson to crack beautiful goals, and Phil Taylor having shown his control and ability to go through single-handled missed his way with the choice chances. The verdict of 3-2 sufficed for the harassed Liverpool followers and I am perhaps indebted to this surprise victory for freedom from a car crash. You see, our party got wedged in the crowd just outside the Lake-road stand, and for a time suggestions of overturning, threats of smashing fell on our ears. Fortunately the packed crowd eventually took compassion on us and no real damage was done. The experience was not nice, nor was the memory of some booing that went on in this grand game from both sides. The marked men at the start was Dabbs, who hurt Gillick. Everton’s soundest and surest raider till his jaw was affected. Later on younger Jones saw “Red” and did many things without bar of spectator or referee till the moment came late on when he, too, was booed. It was a thousand pities such a grand game, taken in the best spirit by all others concerned, should be tarnished in this way. For weeks Liverpool had been on the slide. Overnight I felt in my own mind Everton would have a Palais Glide to victory over their rivals. The recall of Riley and Bradshaw meant much; but the memory of the forward line’s ideas of goal-making and goal-taking had been indelibly writ upon my mind. How could they get goals by such methods? What hope was there? And would a Dean, Stevenson or other member be baulked one, during the day? That was the overnight gallop of thought. The following afternoon showed us one can never be certain of these local “Derby” day meetings. Wearing down Everton’s first fruity five minutes, keeping the issue clear to the end when Everton were pilling on the agony in the last 10 minutes, notably by Mercer’s forward play and Coulter’s best response, Liverpool can be said to have fought with a timely strength and virility where timidity had been noticeable in previous weeks.
Stevenson’s Goals.
One could not wish to be more enthusiastic about goals then when Stevenson banged home two beauties, the result of the Dean offertory. Liverpool’s goals were not so pretty. There was the header Howe delivered, there was the ball under the body for Sagar from Phil Taylor, and finally there was Balmer’s finale which lacked pace, scrambled its way against the upright, and landed in –not a picture goal, yet a perfect answer to those who have so openly expressed their anti-views about Balmer’s possibilities. The formation of a goal is not so very important; every goal has its blot, if one of the other side touches the ball. However, the goals counted, and those who had decried Balmer’s game had to confess here was his greatest game since leaving Everton and joining up with Liverpool –a curiously ironic time to make his mark! And how odd this game went in other directions. Surely Hanson has never been better served with the through and forward pass than in this game. And the response there; too, was not exactly Hansonian. On the other wing, Nivvy spurred sprinted and splurted, only to how once more he has lost his angled shot and is finding the side-net instead of the back of the net. Having said that let us do discredit to Sagar for two of the timeliest of catches he made when Nivvy was about to send over a golden chance to his forwards. Goalkeeping was the most difficult of all jobs on Saturday, because the water-logged ground caused the ball to play tricks, and the shooter-ball is the most dangerous of all to handle. Riley looked surprised when one from Dean appeared to be passing out and touched the foot of the upright. Cunliffe’s best took the paint off the woodwork, and Coulter’s effort to complete the goal was inches too high. This was a fluctuating flying game with splendid working of the ball in the heaviest of mud-turves. It was a match in which everyone deserved the greatest praise.
“One For The Losers”
Liverpool do not bother about a vote of thanks –the welcome two points after a dreary passage of two months are sufficient enthusiasm for them. They had earned these points too, by means of the half-back strength in everyone of the three positions. The work of Cooper was also of striking character, and in the forward line there was a notion of movement and forwardness quite uncommon for those members. Everton-nevertheless merit praise for their continued effort; for their stocky back division; for the hold-up down the middle and for Mercer’s prime display. Britton has rarely had as hard a task –the ball seemed to be put just out of his reach all the time. In attack Dean was plainly below form, and his display gave colour to the suggestion bout his being able to play t all. Gillick did no good from the time he was thrown, and thus the attacking five became the Unitarian Two –Stevenson and Coulter –the former’s shooting being of outstanding ability and direction; while Coulter, having cleared the Cooper fence, was always dangerous with his swinging centre. The division between winners and losers was at half-back; and I pass a vote of thanks to both sides for a priceless afternoon’s sport, spoiled –I must say it again, sickening though it may seem to some concerned –for a moment by quite unnecessary fouls by Dabbs and Jones. Now let us start over again, with a fair mind and all the fun of the football fair. Everton’s task against Sheffield Wednesday in the Cup next Saturday appears to have brightened up by recent events. My colleagues at Sheffield pointed to the gross misfortunes Manchester United suffered against Wednesday, and how frail the Wednesday attack was. Without depending upon this League game for a Cup angle, it is nice to know Manchester United should have beaten Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough.
EVERTON AND THE WEDNESDAY
January 26, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton and Sheffield Wednesday will be meeting for the eight time in Cup warfare when they take the field at Goodison Park on Saturday in the fourth round of the season’s tournament. So far honours are even for each side has won three times while one affairs prevailed in their League matches this season, each team being successful at home. Everton won by three goals to one at Goodison Park in a game which will enabled Dean to break the League goalscoring record of 352 goals set up by Steve Bloomer. At Hillsborough a week later, however, Everton were beaten by six goals to four. Everton have one thing in their favour on Saturday. Whereas they have yet to meet with defeat at Goodison Park this season, Sheffield have not won a single match away from home and their five points obtained on foreign soil, were secured by draws at Manchester United, the Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Birmingham. At home they have taken part in fourteen League games and one Cup-tie of which they won seven and divided the points on three occasions, scoring 25 goals against 19. On opponents net only 14 times in 11 games, and have had 21 goals netted against them.
BEATING FLU’ THEN TACKLING EVERTON
January 26, 1937, Evening Express.
Blues’ “No Change” Training.
Team Selection Tonight
By The Pilot.
Sheffield Wednesday players have two big battles to fight this week. At Cleveleys, Blackpool, where they are in special training, they are fighting influenza. At Goodison Park on Saturday they will fight Everton for the right to enter the fifth round of the F.A. Cup. Three players are under treatment –Moss, Robinson and Nibloe –while the trainer, Urwin., is also a victim. Each is making good progress, and Mr. Billy Walker, the manager, states that he thinks all will be fit to return for the game. The only team selection difficulty if all report fit will be in regard to the half back line. The trio of Millership, Hanford and Burrows played excellently last Saturday, but there is a feeling that young Moss should be brought back, and Millership moved back to centre-half in place of Hanford. The Wednesday players felt so well after last week’s stay at Clevelys that it prompted Mr. Walker to take them back for another spell in the bracing air. Original plans were to train at home. The players are having long walks, sprinting and some ball practice, but the chief item in the curriculum is golf. All the players had two full rounds yesterday.
Everton As Usual.
There is no sign of cup-tie activity at Goodison Park where the Everton players are undergoing ordinary training. The men reported for duty today –after their Monday holiday –and all were fit. They underwent the usual gymnasium work, ball practice, and sprinting. The club have not even made any special arrangements with regard to golf. “The players are provided with tickets for golf if they desire to play,” said Mr. Thoe Kelly, the secretary today, “but they go entirely of their own volition. Our training will not deviate in any respect from that which the players undergo every week in the season.” The Everton directors meet tonight to select their side, and seeing that all the players are fit, it is practically certain that the team will be the same as that which lost against Liverpool at Anfield last Saturday. I expect the choice to be; Sagar; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. This would mean that eight internationals would be on duty. Mr. Kelly states that in the event of Saturday’s match being decided one way or the other, the Football League match between Huddersfield Town and Everton –which should have taken place on Saturday –will be played at Leeds-road on Wednesday, February 3. If a replay is necessary the game will take place at Leeds-road on Wednesday, Feb 10, when the Central League game between the reserves sides of Everton and Huddersfield will take place at Goodison Park. If Everton are forced to go to Sheffield for a replay, the match will be played at Hillsborough on Thursday, Feb 4.
AFTERMATH OF THE DERBY
January 26, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes.
Aftermath of the local Derby game at Anfield. Those behind the goal state Sagar caught the cross from Nivvy and was about to turn left when Howe and the keeper collided, the ball did not touch Howe’s head but was really a bump-off gaol, the ball passing from his hips to a point over the line. Let us also add a nice tribute to Billy Cook, the Everton back who was so interested in Phil Taylor’s famous corkscrew dribble to the goalmouth, beating four men and finally being smothered out by Sagar –Cook patted Taylor on the back as appreciation of the bonny winding run. That’s the way to play and enjoy football.
EVERTON’S CUP TEAM
January 27, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton will be at full strength for their Cup-tie with Sheffield Wednesday at Goodison Park on Saturday. The team which did duty against Liverpool and which has shown little change in the last few weeks has been chosen. Gillick, who received a knock on Saturday, is apparently all right again, and the team will be; Sagar, Cook, Jones; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. The kick-off is at 2.45. Sheffield Wednesday will be without their clever young forward, Robinson, who is suffering from influenza. His place at inside right will probably be taken by Thompson, a sturdy player, but who is not so clever as Robinson. It is also likely that Millership, usually a centre half-back, will play at right half instead of Moss, so of the old Aston Villa player. It is said that Millership is just the man to check the moves of Stevenson, the elusive Everton inside left. Wednesday’s probable team is; Brown; Nibloe, Catlin; Millership, Handford, Burrows; Luke, Thompson, Dewar, Hooper, Rimmer.
Everton A Ten-To-One Chance
Arsenal are now warm favourites at 6-1 to win the F.A. Cup. Everton stand at 10-1.
EVERTON ALL SET FOR THE BIG CUP-TIE
January 27, 1937. Evening Express.
Strongest Team To Face Sheffield Wednesday
By The Pilot.
Everton are set for their match with Sheffield Wednesday on the trail to Wembley. Of the 32 teams engaged in the F.A. Cup-ties on Saturday, the Blues are first in the field with their team selection. And it is a full strength side –the same as that which lost to Liverpool on Saturday, and which was forecast in The Liverpool Evening Express. Here it is: Sagar; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. The eleven includes four players who helped Everton to in the Cup in 1933, when they beat Manchester City at Wembley. They are: Sagar, Cook, Britton, and Dean.
Wednesday Doubtful.
Sheffield Wednesday, Everton’s opponents, are not so happy about their team. The club is unable to make any forecast of the side owing to illness to players. Moss, the young half-back, has been forced to go back to bed again through influenza, and Mr. Billy Walker, the manager, states that it is practically certain Robinson, the clever young forward, will be unable to play. This means that the Wednesday wing will be composed of little Thompson. Nibloe, the Scottish international back has not yet gone to Cleverly to join his colleagues in special training. If he cannot play Astley will be at right half.
EVERTON’S BIG CHANCE TO REACH LAST CUP IXTEEN.
January 29, 1937. Evening Express.
Feast Of Classic Football At Goodison Tomorrow.
Cross-Field Pass May Prove A Winner.
Blues’ Best Move Against Wednesday.
By The Pilot.
A move which enabled the club to win the Cup in 1933 can place Everton on the victory road against the Wednesday tomorrow. It is the long, raking cross-field pass. When Everton won the trophy a feature of their play was the long pass to the opposite wing by the inside forwards, Dunn and Johnson. I feel it is the ideal measure to upset the strongest part of the Sheffield team –the defence. During recent seasons the cross-field pass has not been feature of Everton’s play. They have been content to make progress by delicate –almost intricate –manoeuvre with the ball being kept close. Now I think the time has come for this variation of the attacking plan. Tomorrow’s battle is going to prove a great test between the skill and artistry of Everton opposed to the keen destruction of the Wednesday. The Sheffield men are brilliant in defence. They are tenacious tacklers, quick in recovery and Keen in their interception. Everton against such intrepid men at Catlin. Hanford, Millership and company, will be asking for trouble if they try their approaches in close order. There is alertness and individual brilliance in the Wednesday attacks though I think they lack the collaboration skill of the Blues. It is up to the Everton defenders, however, to cover better than they did against Liverpool last Saturday. From indicates an Everton win, for whereas the Blues are undefeated at Goodison Park in 14 games, the Wednesday have yet to record their first away win of the season. Everton have the better attacking record but their defence has conceded nine goals more than Sheffield. The Wednesday have had to make changes owing to influenza –bring back Luke, Grosvenor and Astley –but Everton will be at full strength. It should prove a great game of contrasting styles and I feel that Everton’s superior craft should decide. Now a word to intending spectators. The gate will open t 1.15 p.m., and there are stand seats available for 5,000 people -2s pay at the turnstiles. Those using the 1s accommodation are asked to form queues and, once inside, keep the entrances and passages clear. There are plenty of turnstiles at both ends of the Bullens-road stand. Everton; Sagar, Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. Sheffield Wednesday; Brown; Astley, Catlin; Millership, Hanford, Burrows; Luke, Grosvnor, Dewar, Hooper, Rimmer.
SCHOOLBOY PALS AT GOOISON PARK UP-TIE
January 29, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes.
Everton; Sagar, Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. Sheffield Wednesday; Brown; Astley, Catlin; Millership, Hanford, Burrows; Luke, Grosvnor, Dewar, Hooper, Rimmer.
Everton’s Cup task is severe and could have been much sterner. Sheffield Wednesday offer little perturbation because they have already been beaten with a degree of ease at Goodison Park, and away from home the 6-4 verdict was quite the best thing Everton have done in any away engagement; indeed, although there was margin of two at Hillsborough only those present could understand how near Everton came to victory. All of which augurs well for the morrow, providing the Everton forward line does not develop its close grained method of approach. A Mercer striding forward can sweep through opposition and eat up many yards of space. A Gillick, growing inclined to cut in can, with quick steps, carve a way through the strong backs. A Cunliffe with some faults –like all of us 0can with four raking strides carry the game into nether quarter while the Sheffield side is wondering where that one went. There is so much variety and pace in the Everton side if it is used to advantage, but if, as a week ago, the inclination is to dwell upon the ball and pircuette, then be sure a man of the stamp of Ted Catlin or Millership, or the thrustful Welsh International, Hanford, will make no sort of ceremonial about taking the ball as their own possession.
Teams Compared.
In goal Everton have the high ball safely caught or parried. Brown, of Sheffield, is not a young man, and it is often by his body strength he gets a ball smothered away. At back Sheffield can claim some marks, albeit Jones has ever been t his best. In Cup-ties, as witness the Sunderland game here. Cook and Jones are developing into two of a kind. At half-back it is all square with a leaning of the scales towards Everton’s line, but in attack many will see Everton’s line the superior. True, some of the youths have gone out of the Wednesday side, through sickness, &c, and Moss is not finding a place, but given the mind to be practical, the left wing centre and swift moving right pair can make more inroads to goal than Wednesday should make. Survey the team again and one finds how little there is “in hand” for any cup-tie. There had been a chance Rimmer would not play. He comes into the eleven, however, and is always a menace to us, just as is Mark Hooper. The tasty bits of football should be frequent; it should be a royal battle, and through it all the mind can cast back to the shadows of yesterday years, because Everton were recommended to sign Rimmer, of Tranmere, when they took Dean –Dean’s recommendedation –and one doesn’t forget these two boys, played together years ago for Birkenhead schoolboys. By a lucky chance I am able to give the complete team in which they played by means of tomorrow’s Football Echo, in which paper there will be the customary fair, outspoken criticism and comments and a host of reading matter obtainable nowhere else. The result can be scanned by the readers when he has looked at the unique and new feature “Chequers,” which appears in the Football Echo every Saturday. The cup game will take palm tomorrow in our city. The appeal of the Cup is unmistakable, and while it is true Charlie Buchan has put his “cold spell,” upon us by talking of Everton “as a cup team” all other critics nave very decently let Everton get on without hoisting them to unfortunate positions known as “Typical Cup sides.” The typical cup side wins with a slice of fortune and takes hit-for-six. Can Everton do that? I am content to wait a while and trust the form they showed at Anfield sufficient to carry them beyond the next round.
EVERTON SHOULD ADVANCE
January 30, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
The sixteen ties in the fourth round of the F.A.Cup will provide high-class fare. We on Merseyside are, mainly concerned with Everton’s effort to master Sheffield Wednesday, and I have no doubt the Goodison Park ground will be taxed to the full. The clubs are old rivals and their cup exploits have provided prominent features in their history, each having had their names inscribed on the trophy, the Wednesday three times to Everton’s two. The pair, too met in a memorable final, the Wednesday winning. Today’s event, however, is the main concern, and in this season of fantastic “form” who knows how the match will end? We all know that Everton have not been beaten on their own ground, and that of the two sides Dean and his colleagues have the more convincing record. While expecting Sheffield Wednesday to make a bold effort to spoil Everton’s record at Goodison Park I look to the home side to keep Merseyside’s interest in the next round. The game is likely to be a fast and interesting one with Everton going all out for victory. The Everton players have been preparing at home while the visitors have enjoyed a tonic at Cleveleys. The kick-off is at 2.45 and the teams are; - Everton; Sagar, Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. Sheffield Wednesday; Brown; Astley, Catlin; Millership, Hanford, Burrows; Luke, Grosvnor, Dewar, Hooper, Rimmer.
EVERTON WIN WITH EASE.
January 30, 1937. The Liverpool Football Echo
Wintry Snap Only Bite in Wednesday Cup-tie; Dean Damaged, See Britton gain Penalty Goal. Then Caps It With Chancey Drive.
Coulter Whips In One Of His Best
By Bee.
Everton have passed to the fifth parts of the Cup, and gain by fairly ease measures. As against Bornemouth, so against Sheffield they were a long time before they could lead, and it was a penalty kick upon Dean, taken by Britton, that started the goals rolling. Dean had no sooner returned to the field of play than he let out a chance shot, always a winner. Sheffield had their ten minutes of impastation, which was worn down and Coulter’s scoring the third goal took the battle out of the tie, which had never been a great thrill chiefly because the Sheffield forwards were so poor. Everton backs so good, and conditional thoroughly windy and object enable. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Coulter, forwards. Sheffield Wednesday: - Brown, goal; Ashley and Catlin, backs; Rhodes, Hanford, and Burrows, half-backs; Luke, Grosvenor, Dewar, Hooper, and Rimmer, forwards. Referee Mr. Jones. Sheffield Wednesday were in white jerseys, black knickers, white and blue stockings; Everton with their customary blue jerseys, white knickers and blue facings. It was a thousand pities the Goodison Park cup-tie Everton v. Sheffield Wednesday should have been attended with the iciest of blasts and a ground markings of which were easily seen, but a top layer of snow and perhaps a coating of ice made the task of all the players frightening and certainly difficult. The teams were as given here and Everton, having won the toss, decided to kick towards the park gaol. Catlin was bust with his head when Everton made their first attacked on the right wing through Stevenson and Cunliffe giving aid. Welshman Hanford attempted to go forward was baulked, but Sheffield began to hold the ball neatly from Brown’s pick up and clearance, and one could see the Everton backs framing up their well-known offside trap. Luke was caught like a rat in a trap and from the incident Gillick’s brain began to work the customary run and centre being forsaken for a through pass to Cunliffe, the defenders being out of place and the move promising a goal until Cunliffe’s attempt to make sure of the centres was closed out by Hanford. Ashley felt aggrieved that his height should lead to a free kick punishment when he had to face little Stevenson. Dean took a long distance shot without being on the mark. Sheffield early-on looked very dangerous when they set about their attacks. For instance, there was a surprise from Luke whose speed nonplussed Jones, till the home defence once more held them up on the monument of offside. Cunliffe tried hard to bore through and Cook had opened in his strongest Cup-tie methods. Britton, too, helped to the measured step and the wise pass. The petrified crowd was no more than 30,000 strong, and one could feel the Liverpool sector (there was many visitors from Sheffield) shake when Wednesday passed and repassed with judgement, and without denial from the defence, till Dewar from near inside left had Sagar beaten the ball passing a yard out and, moreover, resulting in an offside decision. Referee and linesmen failed to see a foul by Catlin, but Sheffield did not get away with it a second time, and soon after this freekick Cunliffe made the first task for either goalkeeper. Brown did not appear too comfortable in the way he handled the long and rather high ball, but having cleared it, Sheffield went off with one more threat and found, to their astonishment and disgust, they had been inveigled into an offside position. Sheffield were very good in heading, yet Coulter had appeared to hold the key to goal when he was brushed aside by Ashley. One of the best features of the match was a beautiful bit of trapping on the part of Grosenor, the former Birmingham star.
Mercer’s Strength.
Grosvenor was a menace until Cook, who had started in brave manner, ended the inside right’s innings. Mercer was another prominent personality his strength lying in his old solid tackle and scooping up a yards of space. Dean took a free kick against Hanford, for gently handling the ball again failing first against the wall of defence and second with the rebound. Sheffield looked dangerous when Dewar rounded Cook and closed in almost on the goal line. Dewar imparted just that fraction too much to his edging-forward to allow him to take up a shot or centre. But there was no end to this attack and Cunliffe, coming from the clouds as a defender put the ball to safely. All the players seemed a shade freighted of the conditions, and no wonder, and it would be foolish to anticipate a really great game with such foothold as winter had provided. Little Hooper came into the forward life with a pass to Dewar and Jones with one riotous kick t the ball and a good header, showed good defence. Hanford, the Wednesday centre half, had just one moment of attack and did not forgive himself when he found the ball going towards the unmarked Dean. He ran back like a hare and the ball was cleared to keep his conscience clear. Everton now had two promissory notes, one by Dean, who was charged rather fulsomely, and Coulter handling the ball towards goal for everyone to see.
Everton’s Plan.
After which Cunliffe claimed as a hand victim to the extreme left corner. The cries of the crowd had now aroused Everton’s enthusiasm and Hanford and Catlin had to be strong, sharp and sure to prevent Cunliffe scoring. For a time Cunliffe was acting centre, and Dean was nearer the centre ring than the penalty spot. This pre-arrangement and plan was liable to the disconcerting to Brown and others. Quite the best tackle of the match was made by young Jones on Luke at very vital point of attack. Cook was giving Rimmer no chance to show his form against his old friends and Cook was very happy to link up in a two-some with Britton. It was Briton who, from the throw-in line, made jack Brown save at the corner of the post; not a dangerous shot, but a difficult situation. Ashley looking for all the world like the Womack we knew of old, gave a corner rather than let Dean shoot, and a miskicked corner by Coulter brought no more than a poked shot from Mercer. The crowd was yearning for goals and excitement, forgetting that this was no day for arts and crafts, it find their place in the shop window. Indeed, I suppose we were fortunate to have a game at all. Stevenson and Gillick were buzzing and one remembered that it was on a showcase turf at Sheffield Wednesday’s ground that Gillick was rendered unconscious for some hours through pitching head first on to the icy turf. Cunliffe’s flicks, had been tasty bits of football, yet when Dean used the same ankle tap Cunliffe close in, shot with poor direction. Dean looked as if he might go right through in a solo call, the inability of timing the ball leading him to a kneeing process which ruined the chance of a shot. The Sheffield forwards were not being troublesome and in half an hour there had not been a striking shot from either side, and Everton were now holding on a shade too closely, a fault they displayed last week. The smallest flicker of excitement was fastened on as an important fact in this cup-tie. When Gillick centred their was a hullabaloo, Brown was called out of his goal, refused to approached, and from the goal kick Brown ran into Dean, whose header seemed to be passing through and over the goal line, given Ashley and Catlin dashed into the goalline, and were damaged in the act. This was the first stoppage, Ashley being the more troubled. Hilo Catlin hung on to the upright he found the ball pass half a foot outside. Coulter had two nibbles at a goal incident after the whistle had sounded for a foul. The Irishman could not squeeze the ball into the net even so.
Britton’s Penalty Score.
In thirty-seven minutes came a penalty... dean being knocked down and hurt, needing attention from the trainer outside the goalpost. Hanford appeared to be the culprit, and he was bitterly opposing the referee’s decision, but the latter was quite near the occurrence and he waved aside the appeal and also seemed to escape Hanford’s flurry when the Welshman was waving his hands about. Britton took the penalty kick and very coolly placed the ball to the right-hand side of the goal with little thought of driving force and more concern for “holding out.” Dean returned in a dramatic manner to see his side leading by a goal with a penalty kick given to him, but for once not taken by him. However, the Everton captain’s joy was complete in two minutes after hi resumption as with a loose ball coming out of the blue, he let out the old-time Dean drive with the hope it would connect. The ball this time fled into the right hand corner at the same point Britton had pierced the Wednesday goal. Two goals in three minutes; a slight argument between Cunliffe and Catlin, and Dewar netting the ball after being pronounced offside. It must be recorded as a sample of gesture on the field that Hanford and Dean shook hands the moment Dean was able to return after his injury.
Half-Time Everton 2, Sheffield Wednesday 0
In the second half Sheffield Wednesday began with a torrent of attack on the left where things had been so lack in the first half and Sagar had to leap high to catch the ball and escape somebody’s boot in his face. Sheffield imagined the whistle had gone for offside whereas it was plain Mercer had taken no risks and far from being offside play could have gone on in goal measure if Sheffield had been sharper.
Cup-Tie Cook
I am certain that Everton lead had been made possible through Cook’s characteristic Cup-Tie game; he seems to live for Cup-ties and he and Jones and the half-back line had made home victory possible. Not that one can excuse the Sheffield forwards for their part in this matter; they had been very fragile, and Catlin, Ashley, and Hanford had been the only saving grace of the Sheffield side. Coulter had closed in for corner kicks made and take by Gillick, and Jack Brown’s save of the Irishman’s well placed header was the goalkeeping feat of the day. A third time Coulter stood in the jaws of goal, the whistle going for a cessation through offside, not baulking him, but Brown got the ball in both hands. Sheffield had changed their forward line. Hooper and Luke having taken each other’s places, and the effect of this was seen when Hooper squared the ball and Grosvenor tried a shot of little strength, the marksmanship being wrong. So that Sagar had gone the best part of an hour without having a semblance of a test. The match was not over –especially when Hanford kneed the ball half the length of the field. Sheffield’s shooting was a by word. One goal to the visitors and the confidence which had been Everton’s would have evaporated. Rimmer at long last became a possible hero, his centre travelling the length of the crossbar, which is not a common football light. Everton were shocked to their roots when Rimmer and Luke between them made a hurry up job of a throw in and Sagar had his first real save of the day. It was a direct shot, and he punched away with both hands to prevent Sheffield’s really first class effort, their first time of really practical life. Everton were shaken and Jones had to head away from the goal-line when Rimmer swung his best centre. Luke was also crowded out by inches in Sheffield’s revival. Sheffield had caught an inspired ten minutes and there were many who feared a penalty kick for hands against Britton was going to be the verdict against the home side.
Coulter’s Rousing Point.
Sheffield refused to take their chances. Therefore at sixty-nine minutes, Coulter took charge from Dean’s pass and struck quite the most rousing goal of the three. This ended Sheffield’s bright effort of the second half and Coulter’s snap success was the result of his insatiable desire to close in towards goal and make a hook shot. The goal he now scored recalled the strength and the final touch he applied in his Cup-tie success against Derby County at the same end of the ground. After the game was practically won Dewar began to wheel in and out and show alertness and skill too late in the day. Rimmer trod over one goal chance and was stingless with another, yet Sagar had to make a nice one0handed out save from Dewar. Final Everton 3, Sheffield Wednesday 0.
January 1937