Everton Independent Research Data
EVERTON AND SUNDERLAND WATCH HIB’S FORWARDS.
January 1, 1938. Evening Express
By Lomond.
Everton and Sunderland were represented at the Kilmarnock v. Hibs, match on Wednesday. The attractions, no doubt, were Arthur Milne and Young McLean, the visit-forwards. Milne, it will be remembered had a spell with Liverpool last season, McLead is a youth in whom Manager McCartney feels he has another Tommy Walker.
ARSENAL 2 EVERTON 1 (Game 1627 over-all)-(Div 1 1585)
January 2, 1938, The Liverpool Daily Post
Arsenal In Luck
Everton Leave It Too Late
Morton’s Mixed Display
By Stork.
Arsenal were extremely fortunate to beat Everton 2-1 at Highbury on Saturday. At the half stage when the Londoners were leading by two clear goals, Everton appeared to be in for a sound beating, for they had shown no signs of testing the Arsenal goalkeeper with anything likely to cause him any serious trouble; he had not had one shot to save. He had to come out of goal and pick up a stray ball here and there, but a drive of any power he never saw, let alone handle. Was it to be wondered at that the Everton party anticipated a more solid beating? Came the second session and complete reversal of things. The Arsenal actually had to resort to the kick into touch to save themselves from being overrun. That is not the Arsenal we know of; not the one that played superlative football at Goodison Park in August. They were just as ordinary side playing ordinary football against a side who showed no bite until it was almost too late. The Arsenal undoubtedly the more definite team in the first “45” even though one could not say that it was classical football which brought them their success. Let me take the first goal scored at the 12th minute. I admit young Lewis took his chance well, but Morton should have saved the shot which bounced its way into the net. Morton had evidently set himself ready for a powerful drive and was not able to alter his stance quickly enough to prevent that bouncing ball from entering his net. Everton claim that Hunt’s goal was scored from an offside position. Hunt undoubtedly looked to be offside from the stand, but I have it from a man who was standing dead in line that when Lewis pushed the ball to Hunt, the later was just onside. T. Jones had misjudged the flight of the ball which passed over the head, and although Morton rushed out in desperation, Hunt slipped the ball neatly into the net at 36 minutes. The opening of the second half was not comforting to Everton, for Morton completely missed a Bastin shot which sped across the face of the goal, and I began to wonder just how many goals would find their way into Everton’s net. In the stands it was not possible to estimate the power of the wind, but from all accounts it had a big bearing on the game, much more than we had anticipated. For another 15 minutes Arsenal dictated the terms, but Everton gradually got hold of themselves, and finally took the initiative from their opponents, who became o panic stricken that Hapgood, Male and others who had used the ball when clearing were glad to get rid of it at any cost.
Everton Gain Ascendancy.
Everton had gained the ascendancy, and with the slightest bit of luck would have taken a half-share of the points if not a clear win. Cunliffe scored at 63 minutes, and from then on the Arsenal’s only danger came from occasional breakaways and from two of them Morton made great saves, helping us forget his first step. I am one of those folk who have nothing but admiration for the Arsenal’s defensive cover, but on Saturday Male and Hapgood and Sidey had to use the methods of any ordinary defenders –get rid anywhere, anyhow but get rid. That will explain the state of affairs more than any words of mine, and with less than two minutes remaining for play, the Arsenal’s big stroke of luck loomed up when Gillick shot and no Arsenal man could have prevented the ball from going into the net, and it was the crossbar which came to their aid. It was bad luck for Everton, for while they had been definitely inferior in the first half there was no disputing their superiority in the last half-hour. Who do Everton leave it so late? It was just the same against Leicester City a week ago. Why did they not set about the opposition with the same snap and bite as they pull out after their opponents have dug themselves in? I am sure that had there been another 10 minutes left they would have beaten the Arsenal, who were run to the standstill. Boulton, when he was under pressure, was none too safe, and both Male and Hapgood had to kick away to save their keepers face.
Jack Jones Stands Out.
I put Jack Jones as the best player on the field. He never made a mistake. Mercer showed improved constructional ideas while Britton came into his own in the second half, after a lean first session. Cunliffe’s goal was well taken and Gillick was ever on the lookout for a half-chance, but the left wing was again weak. Lawton did not have a single shot, but headed well. Team: - Arsenal: - Boulton, goal; Male and Hapgood, backs; Cartwright, Sidey and Copping, half-backs; Kirchen, Hunt, Lewis, Jones, and Bastin, forwards. Everton: - Morton, goal; Cook, and Jones (JE), backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG), and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, and Trentham, forwards. Referee Mr. W. G. Harper, (Stourbridge). Everton are staying in the south to prepare for their cup-tie with Chelsea. They are staying at Bushey Hall and will follow their usual routine with probably a little golf.
EVERTON RESERVES 4 SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY RESERVES 1
January 3, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 23)
Everton’s victory at Goodison was a curious mixture s was Bell’s contribution of a capital second –half and some earlier misses. There was much streakiness in Everton’s make-up before they took the lead in 20 minutes through Westlater diverting a centre from Geldard into his own goal. From that stage to the end of the game was of one way course, even though Everton had to wait for a Bell hat-trick –the second a great volley –in the second half to give them their rightful margin. Luke got a goal for Wednesday J. Davies, the debutant from Haydock on the left wing showed promise. Dean did much scheming. Bentham had a good innings, Jackson got much length into his clearance and Thomson looked after a winger who might have done a lot of damage. Everton Reserves; Lovett, goal; Jackson and Thomson, backs; Bentham, Gee, and Watson, half-backs; Geldard, Bell, Dean, Dougal and Davies, forwards.
Everton “A” 2 Hoylake 0.
Liverpool County Combination
Ineffective forward play and a shaky defence were responsible for Hoylake being two goals in arrears at the interval. Catterick headed past Sherlock after half an hour, and Cuff added a second goal two minutes later. Hoylake improved in the second half, and were almost continuously attacking, but failed to score.
EVERTON FAULT SLOW STARTING
January 3, 1938. The Evening Express.
Highbury Rally Comes Too Late
By Pilot.
If Everton show the pace, and endeavour they did in the second half of their game at Highbury against Arsenal on Saturday, they will not be defeated at Chelsea in the Cup-tie this week. The trouble with the Blues was that they left their rally too late after an indifferent exhibition in the opening half. For the last 35 minutes they had Arsenal penned in. So hard did the Blues press that every Arsenal player was back on defence –and the mighty Arsenal rearguard was reduced to a state of complete panic. Everton deserved a point, even allowing for their first-half weaknesses. I was convinced after watching this match, that the danger to Everton’s cup hopes is slowness in starting. As against Leicester they played poorly early on and it was not until they “rolled up their sleeves” that they were in the game with a chance. At Chelsea it is imperative this fighting spirit characterises their work from the opening whistle. The defence stood firm against a colourless Arsenal and Jack Jones was the finest player on the field. He received excellent backing from Cook, Morton and Mercer. Tom Jones was not so assertive as usual, and Cunliffe, Stevenson, and Gillick took the forward honours. This was a poor game, with Everton by no means second best. Lewis and Hunt scored first half goals for the Gunners and Cunliffe reduced the lead later.
LUCKY ARSENAL
January 3, 1938. The Evening Express.
By Stork.
When one goes to Highbury one naturally expects something brilliant; something commensurate with the palatial surrounding, but at the moment the Arsenal team does not fall into line with the super-appointed offices, at least team they sent out against Everton did not look like Arsenal or play like it. “Lucky Arsenal” they have often been called by those in the North, and to some extent it was deserved; at other times it was not warranted. It was fully merited on Saturday, for they were the most fortunate team in the world to take the full points from Everton, for in the last half hour of the game they were pulverised and thankful to hear the final whistle. But don’t let us forget they had laid the foundation for their victory in the first half, when Everton did little of nothing. They themselves were just a mediocre team, with the ability to snap up two goals, whereas Everton could not produce a single shot worthy of the name to bother Boulton or even disturb the even calm of Hapgood, and Male. Later these self-same players were so nervous about things that they actually resorted to kicking into touch to bring them relief –uncommon for the Arsenal defence. Why did not Everton strike right away? I expect you to ask that question, and I have no answer or you, unless it was that the Arsenal dictated the run of the game during the first half. That first half was unusually void of good football from two sides recognised as masters of good class “footer.” Was the forthcoming Cup-tie at the back of it? Chelsea representatives were there looking over Everton. They must have gone back to Stamford Bridge in a happy frame of mind, for Everton’s display would give them no cause for pessimism. Bolton Wanderers need not worry their heads bout visiting Highbury if the Arsenal cannot produce something better than this, for it was wishy-washy stuff, the only redeeming feature being two goals. Morton might have saved the first one and there was a suggestion of offside about Hunt’s goals. I am not making excuses for I frankly admit that the Arsenal were the better team for sixty minutes. It is all very well to say that Everton fought back gallantly, but that does not let them out.
Liable To Break.
They should have been up and doing from the first minute and not allowed the Arsenal defence to dominate matters. With the scoring of Cunliffe’s goal the Londoners lost their grip of things, and Everton got on top with a vengeanance, both Male and Hapgood having to scratch the ball away without thought of where it was going and Boulton was not at all safe in dealing with high balls. Then came the unkindest blow of all the Everton. Gillick who had previously missed from a good position had another go, and he cracked the ball on to the crossbar with every Arsenal player beaten to a frazzle.
Faultless Display.
I have no hesitation in placing Jack Jones above all others. His was a faultless display, and Cook rendered him every assistance but it was not until the second half that Britton, Jones (T), and Mercer got their teeth into things. Mercer’s passing was greatly improved. Of the forwards I rated Cunliffe first favourite and Gillick coming more to the game. Lawton did not have a solitary shot. He made several useful headers and the left wing suffered because Trentham did not known how to edge away from the experience Male. It was no earthly use him standing longside such seasoned campaigner and expecting to beat him. Later he did roam away and did much better. Stevenson cannot strike his true form I saw little of him, that explains a lot for on hi game the Irishman forces himself into the picture. The team went on to Bushey Hall Hotel for special training.
EVERTON’S PROGRESS AT BUSHEY
January 4, 1938. The Evening Express
By Pilot
The Everton players were given a hard spell of training at Bushey today. Golf was forgotten in the early part of the day, and with Trainer Harry Cooke they went off for sprinting and ball practice. This was followed by gymnasium work and baths. All are well and the players are enjoying their stay in the south. Long walks are being made a feature of the preparation and tonight the players will walk in Watford –it takes about half-an-hour –for a visit to a theatre. Afterwards they intend to walk back to Bushey.
EVERTON IN TRAINING
January 4, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
The Everton players at Bushey Hall are having a happy time. So far the weather has been kind and yesterday’s golf was thoroughly enjoyed. Today they start in real earnest. By the kind permission of the head master of the Central School, Watford, the players will use the school ground for their training which consists of the usual curriculum, sprinting, ball practice, &c. Last night they visited the local cinema, walking there and back, a matter of four miles. All the players are fairly well. One or two of them are suffering with sight colds, but nothing to worry about. I asked Mr. Secretary Kelly if there was any possibility of the Everton players challenging the Brentford club to a round of golf. We have no such thing in mind, he said. The only time we will join in with Brentford and Bolton Wanderers –they arrive on Thursday –will be on Friday night when there is to be a white drive in the hotel. The boys are very confident that they will beat Chelsea and so prove beyond all doubt that their League victory over the Pensioners was no fluke. They realise the magnitude of their task, but are not worried over it. On Thursday they will be taken up the ice hockey match at Wembley. The air at Bushey Park has a wonderful toning up effect, and Everton will take the field at Stamford Bridge fir to battle for their life. The team will be chosen tonight.
• An F.A Commission will sit at Leeds next Thursday to inquire into the ordering off of “Duke” Hamilton, Tranmere’s full back and former Evertonian, which took place in the match against Hull City at Prenton on December 18.
EVERTON DELAY SELECTION
January 5, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton are preparing for their tie with Chelsea at Bushey, Hertfordshire. I understand it has been decided not to select the team to play at Stamford Bridge until Friday.
GELDARD FOR BUSHEY HALL
January 6, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Geldard left Liverpool yesterday to join his Everton colleagues at Bushey Hall. The directors will decide on the team later and it may be that Geldard will have a chance to resume. Everton have oppose Chelsea twice in previous Cup-ties. In the semi-final of 1914-15 Everton lost 2-0 and in the third round of 1929-30 also lost 2-0. Everton’s task is a difficult one especially at Stamford Bridge has not been a happy hunting ground. They drew 0-0 and 3-2 in 1931-32 and 1935-36, the other meetings ending in Chelsea’s favour by 1-0, 2-0, 3-0, and 4-0. So far this season Chelsea have gathered 17 of a possible 22 home points, the only side to succeed at Stamford Bridge being Wolverhampton Wanderers (2-0), Arsenal (2-2), Manchester City (2-2), and Sunderland (0-0) have drawn at Stamford Bridge.
THE LAST MEETING
January 7, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
It will not be out of their turn if Everton beat Chelsea, for the “Pensioners” have won both the ties played between the clubs. They won the semi-final at the Villa ground in 1915, and beat Everton in the third round at Chelsea in 1929. In both cases the score was 2-0, the goals being obtained in the second half, and in each instance Everton were handicapped through having a half-back injured; Makepeace at Birmingham, and Virr at Chelsea.
The Teams.
It may be of interest to give the teams of the last Cup meeting –on January 12, 1929 between the clubs. They were: - Everton; Davies; Cresswell, O’Donnell; Griffiths, Hart, Virr; Ritchie, Dunn, Dean, Weldon, Stein. Chelsea: - Millington; Smith, Low; Irving, Townrow, Fergus, Crawford, Thain, Thompson, Miller, Pearson. Chelsea scored through Thompson and Miller in the last ten minutes.
Injured Chelsea Player
It is rather curious that Everton and Chelsea should be among the last of the clubs to select their teams. Chelsea have had players injured; Everton are doubtful as to the constitution of their attack, or rather the extreme wing positions. Chelsea have had O’Hare, Mitchell (who played so well against Liverpool last Saturday), and Argue injured. O’Hara will not be able to play tomorrow, and Barkas will remain at right back. If Mitchell is unable to play Allum or Miller will be at right half-back. When Everton beat Chelsea in the league game at Goodison Park by 4 goals to 1 in November, Geldard was too speedy for the Londoners’ defence but in making comparisons it should be noted that Chelsea played Allum at right half for Mitchell, who crossed to the left, Weaver going inside left in the absence of Burgess, and that Chitty was handicapped all the second half by an injury that kept him out of the side for several matches afterwards. Chelsea were a vastly different side on their form at Anfield.
START RIGHT AWAY
January 7, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
Although Everton do not select their team until tonight. I expect the team which will line up against Chelsea tomorrow to be: - Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, and Gillick. Geldard joined the Everton party at Bushey Hall, on Wednesday and in view of his fine display against Chelsea in the League game at Goodison Park it is more than likely that he will be included in the team. The boys have benefitted from their stay at Bushey, where the air is invigorating and the report from there is that they are all fit and well and quietly confident that they will beat Chelsea perhaps not at the first attempt. Everton must go straight to business against Chelsea. It should not be necessary to have a goal scored against them to make them pull out their best. That should be given from the word “go.”
Slow Starters.
Chelsea are not likely to be so poor as they were in their league game, when Everton gave them a sound thrashing, so it behoves Everton to get in the first blow, were often the winning one in either Cup or league game. Why they should have become such slow starters is not only my worry, it is causing some deep thinking in some often quarters. Chelsea are no club’s meat at Stamford Bridge, where they have lost but one game, but if Everton will go straight to their work they may unsettle their defence just as they did at Goodison Park. If they allow Chelsea to dictate matters, they may find themselves right up against it; perhaps with a goal or two to wipe of the deficit side of the ledger. I don’t think the Chelsea defence is quite so fool-proof as the Arsenal’s, which crumpled up when Everton got to close grips with it. Chelsea played well against Liverpool at Anfield last Saturday, and a colleague tells me that they played good football to obtain a draw. They were very poor in the league game with Everton, but there is always a bit more “bite” about a Cup match. Well, I will say that Everton players are determined to prove to Chelsea that their League game result was no fluke. Buchannan, the new Scottish star, will have to be good to get the better of jack Jones who this season has no superior at right back and Mills will find the other Jones quietly effective. It is up to the Everton forwards to play their part. Test Woodley and his backs straight away and not allow them to settle –that’s the way to victory.
EVERTON HAVE FIGHTING SPIRIT
January 7, 1938. The Evening Express.
By Pilot.
Everton have never been called on to face a harder Cup task than that at Stamford Bridge tomorrow. Twice before they have opposed Chelsea in the competition and have suffered defeat on each occasion without so much as scoring a goal! I saw the last battle between them and late on Everton made defensive lapses, which enabled the Pensioners to win 2-0. Tomorrow I go back to Stamford Bridge knowing that Everton have not such a good team as that of 1929; that Chelsea have a better; but that the Blues have more spirit and endeavour than most teams. It is because of that fighting spirit, that will to win, that faculty for fighting back no matter how hopeless the position, that I expect the Blues to survive. Against Leicester and against Arsenal the Blues showed themselves as a great fighting side, and I say, definitely, that Everton have only to show this second half form against Chelsea to escape defeat. Everton must make up their minds to be first to the ball; to prevent the methodical Chelsea from settling down, and to exploit their wingers purposefully. Chelsea have a good half-back line –consequently the far flung pass is needed, but their backs are slow! Current form indicates Chelsea as winners, but team work can count a lot. Everton have team spirit. Therefore I do not think they will lose. Everton; (from); Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Gillick, Trentham.
Cliff Britton, Everton’s captain;
The change of quarters for training has helped us considerably. It is the tonic we needed. After the manner our players set about Arsenal last week after being two goals down and the fine spirit shown, there is no other thought in our minds except victory tomorrow.
Mr. A. Leslie Knighton, manager of Chelsea; Everton beat us thoroughly a few weeks back, but we do fancy our chances in the Cup-tie.
EVERTON’S BID AT STAMFORD BRIDGE
January 8, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Merseyside is in direct opposition to the South and the clashes between Everton, Liverpool, Tranmere Rovers, and New Brighton on the one side and Chelsea, Crystal Palace, Portsmouth, and Plymouth Argyle on the other side. Everton visited Stamford Bridge determined to make every effort to achieve success. In two previous ties between the rivals Chelsea came back on top and Everton feel after the way in which they defeated the Pensioners in the League game at Goodison Park, that their turn may come. Whatever the result it will be a great struggle and I am hoping that Everton will at least earn a replay. Allum takes the place of Mitchell in the Chelsea team, which is otherwise the same as that which met Liverpool last week.
Geldard’s Return
The Everton directors met at Burnley at Bushey Hall Hotel last night to settle the composition of the team. There was no usual surprises in the bringing back of Geldard, who has been out of the team for two games, and the switching over of Gillick to outside left in placed of Trentham. Geldard left Liverpool on Wednesday to join his comrades at Bushey, and Watson travelled down yesterday with the chairman, Mr. W. C. Cuff, and directors Messrs A. Goffey, T. Percy and Dr. Baxter. All the players are fit and well and are quietly confidently that they will win through. Everton play in their cup winning colours, white shirts and black shorts. Trentham injured his ankle during training in the week. Along with Everton at Bushey Hall were Bolton Wanderers and Brentford, who last evening joined up in a whist drive. Chelsea; Woodley; Barkas, Barber; Allum, Griffiths, Weaver; Buchanan, Gregg, Mills, Burgess, Chitty. Everton; Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Gillick.
EVERTON IN FOURTH ROUND
January 8, 1938. The Liverpool Football Echo
Stevenson’s Point Decides
Shout Meant A Score
By Stork.
The score does not tell of Everton’s superiority. The score should have been 3-1. Chelsea’s attack fell down to Everton’s quick tackling defence. Teams: - Chelsea: - Woodley, goal; Barkas, and Barber, backs; Allum, Griffiths, and Weaver, half-backs; Buchanan, Gregg, Mills, Burgess, and Chitty, forwards. Everton: - Morton, goal; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG), and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson and Gillick, forwards. Referee Mr. E. Woods, Sheffield. As I forecast in my notice yesterday Everton recalled Geldard for the match with Chelsea today, Gillick going over to the left. Trentham injured his ankle on Thursday. Watson came down with us yesterday, o that 13 players left Bushey Hall this morning. The weather was glorious when we left, it being more like spring than winter. It was interesting to note that Everton had their Cup final referee, Mr. E. Wood, in charge. There was every indication that the crowd would be a big one in spite of the many counter attractions in the metropolis. Everton and Liverpool exchanged telegrams wishing each other success in the Wembley match, Chelsea and Everton had previously met here in the cup, and Everton were more than hopeful that the third time would be lucky. I met many Liverpool people as I entered the round including the much travelled H. Williams and the Bryant and May bothers. Everton played in white jerseys and black knickers, and Chelsea in red jerseys, white facings and white knickers. The winning of the toss meant nothing, but Chelsea won that honour.
Gillick’s Trickery
Everton got to work immediately and Barber miskicked and Gillick’s shot was charged down by Grifiths, but it was good to see the Merseysiders start as they did. Britton allowed the ball to go dead, and T. Jones set the Everton attack moving nicely, and Gillick showed some trickery when beating his man, but wanted to do it once too often and that was his undoing. Whenever Buchanan got the ball there was a roar from the crowd and he once made a nice length centre which Cook cleared cleanly. The game thus far had not reached Cup-tie fervour, but it was likely to do so at any moment, and when Buchanan swept the ball over to Chitty something was expected of the outside left who however, lost his chance by misjudging the run of the ball. Geldard, who played such havoc with the Chelsea defence at Goodison, was without the right ball for some time until Jones (T) placed the ball up to Lawton, whose header was helped along by Cunliffe whose header, who made a good centre only to see it cleared. Chelsea’s defence did not impress and when Stevenson got through he hit a nice shot to which Woodley stretched out his long arms to clear. There had been an evenness about the first 16 minutes and while Morton had nothing to do Woodley had little more. Geldard sprinted round Weaver and dropped the ball into the goalmouth and a corner was almost won until Barber slipped back and prevented it needed a goal to liven it up. Chelsea’s forwards had found the Everton defence a barrier and Everton looked the more likely tam to get the goal.
Cunliffe’s Miss
Everton should have got it in the twentieth minute, when Geldard and Lawton collaborated for Cunliffe, who was left with an open goal from four or five yards out. It should have been a certainty so easy was the change, but Cunliffe screwed the ball wide. It was likely to prove a costly miss, for Chitty found the goalmouth and Buchanan and Gregg ran in anticipation, but Morton beat them to it. Everton had been the better side for 25 minutes, but when Britton gave away a throw-in near the corner it was as good as a corner kick with the big thrower Weaver there to put the ball into the goalmouth. It just goes to prove how a little thing can become something big, and had not the referee been on the spot, and seen an infringement might have gone hard for the Everton goal. Chelsea shooting was distinctly chancey and poor, and when Barkas put the ball back to the goalkeeper Woodley had to dive full length to prevent a corner. Mercer was very stern when he went out to tackle Buchanan and Gillick got in the way of a well-intentioned centre Stevenson went on to the wing of deliver a fast pass right out to Geldard and a goal seemed probable. Geldard shot over, Chelsea took two quick corners and Jones raced back to cover both Cook and Britton who had been beaten by Chitty. Barber was handling Geldard much more convincing than at Goodison. Buchanan was Chelsea’s chief raider, and he once gave Burgess an opportunity to distinguish himself, but all he could do was to win a corner.
Gillick Injured.
Jones (J.) with a big clearance enabled Lawton to pass out to Gillick, whose shot was cleared by Woodley, Gillick was injured and lay prone for some time while play proceeded. He later went off for attention, but was absent only a minute or two. The Everton rearguard were apt to over kick their forwards; Mercer was right on the mark with a long effort. Woodley punching the ball from off Lawton’s head. Lawton, had not had many opportunities, but he made a shot from 30 yards which caused Woodley some anxiety. Everton than had escape of their lives. Jones (J.) had headed away from Chitty, and with Morton out of goal, Gregg took a shot which was labelled goal until Britton dropped from the clouds and kicked off the line.
Stevenson Does It.
Almost immediately afterwards Everton attacked with great determination and Geldard supplied a centre which provided a goal at 43 I thought the chance was going to be lost, but Stevenson shouted Lawton left it to him and from Stevenson’s header the ball flew into the net well wide of Woodley.
Half-Time; Chelsea nil, Everton 1
Chelsea resumed with fire, but Everton soon accepted the challenge and two perfect passes by Stevenson to Geldard had the Chelsea defence unbalanced, Geldard’s second effort finishing up against the side netting. Everton came a third time, and Woodley had to save from a Gillick header. Gillick’s plan of moving into the centre forward position was disconcerting to the Pensioners defence apart from the fact that it was ever likely to bring a goal, or at least a shot.
Gillick Shoots Over.
It should have produced a goal when Geldard swept the ball over to him and he was standing all by himself right in front of goal. It was the chance forwards sigh for, but, to the amazement of all, Gillick shot high over the bar. The groans from the Everton supporters must have been heard in the City. Everton appeared to have their teeth into the game at this point. Everton were better in attack, and their defence was very steady so much so that Morton had a happy time in goal. Jones (T.) and Mercer cleared when Chelsea looked dangerous, and although Lawton had not got many opportunities to shoot he made some fine passes. The Britton-Geldard combination almost brought another goal. Woodley turning aside a powerful drive by Stevenson from the inside right position. Jones (T.)Cut across to peg down Buchanan, but in effect the Chelsea attack had been fastened down by Everton’s quick tackling. Chelsea fought hard, but it was not their day, at least not up to this moment -65 minutes. Some of Chelsea’s football was of good class, but not spiteful enough to break down the Everton defence. I had one fear and that was that Everton would take the Chelsea attack too lightly.
A Header From Woodley
At the moment the Londoners were attacking with Everton all on defence, Everton saw the error of their ways and resumed their attack, and Geldard and Lawton missed from close range. Cunliffe tried a hook shot from the wing and Woodley did something I have never seen before. He was challenged by an Everton man and had the audacity to head the ball to Barkas, who peddled it over the line to safety. A shot from Mills touches Jones (T.), foot and went for a corner, which Chitty placed well but the Everton defence prevailed. Weaver “held” Cunliffe as he was about to shoot. Morton was a long last called upon, having to save from Burgess, I give Stevenson best with Geldard, Jones (T.G) and Britton in that order. It was a great victory. Final Chelsea 0, Everton 1. Attendance, 41, 946, receipts £2,689.
STEVENSON PUTS EVERTON IN ROUND 4
January 8, 1938. Evening Express, Football Edition
First-Half Goal, “ K.O’s” Chelsea
Blues Sound Winners
Despite Bad Misses
By Pilot.
A goal by Stevenson after 43 minutes put Everton in the fourth round of the F.A. Cup at Stamford Bridge today. Everton’s speed on the ball enabled them to win 1-0. They were always the more effective side. It was a triumph of team work with Stevenson the big star. Everton had thirteen players in their partly at Chelsea, Watson having travelled down yesterday in case he was needed. Gillick went back to outside left, Trentham having broken down in training on Thursday afternoon, and this brought back Geldard to outside right. Everton wore their Wembley colours, and their Wembley referee was in charge. There were good wishes for a Bushey pals, Brentford and Bolton. Tom Cooper and Cliff Britton exchanged telegrams between Stamford Bridge and Selhurst. It was a perfect day for the game. Teams: - Chelsea: - Woodley, goal; Barkas, and Barber, backs; Allum, Griffiths, and Weaver, half-backs; Buchanan, Gregg, Mills, Burgess, and Chitty, forwards. Everton: - Morton, goal; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG), and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson and Gillick, forwards. Referee Mr. E. Woods, Sheffield. Everton were first to get going, and swinging passes from Cunliffe, and Gillick brought Chelsea defence into play. Barber missed his kick in clearing from Lawton and the ball flew to Gillick, whose quick shot was charged down. The most menacing attack was via Everton’s right flank, thanks to Cunliffe’s daring header-pass, and Barkas had to head away as Gillick came in to header Geldard’s centre. Everton came again, this time by the speedy of Stevenson, whose 20 yards low shot was saved at full length by Woodley.
Cunliffe’s Miss.
Cunliffe missed the chance of a life-time just after. He had sent Geldard away adroitly, and was right in position three yards in front of goal, when Lawton’s hook touched Barkas and dropped to his feet. How he missed must ever remain a mystery. He had hit the ball with his right foot and it screwed out well beyond the far post. Burgress nipped through unexpectedly, but the Everton defence was playing well, and the whole team was exceptionally quick on the ball. Chelsea went dangerous near when Weaver introduced his famous long throw from the corner flag. Mill’s back-header it and as Gregg was dashing in, Britton took command as Chelsea were called up for a foul. Stevenson contributed a fast run, with Chelsea moving back, and the cross-field pass let in Geldard, who, however, drove over the top. Chelsea gained three corners without bringing Morton into action. For the best 35 minutes Morton had not had a shot to save.
Gillick Hurt.
Cunliffe created a thrill when he lobbed the ball forward for Gillick to shoot on the run right into Woodley’s arms. Gillick was injured in the progress and lay on the ground for some minutes before the referee pulled up the play, a decision which aided Everton in their efforts to force home an advantage. Gillick was off for less than a minute, Lawton shot from twenty yards and Woodley fielded the ball low down. Just before Woodley had taken a chance by double-fisting away from mercer’s quick centre. Everton were more than holding their own, despite a tenancy on the part of their half-backs to over kick their forwards. Britton saved a certain goal near the interval, when Chitty’s centre was headed right to the feet of Gregg, who drove it along the floor at lightning speed. Morton was beaten by this but Chelsea shot, but Britton kicked away right on the line. The Blues took the lead in 43 minutes, the lead was deserved. Stevenson was the scorer. He dashed a “through” ball to Cunliffe, who turned it over to Lawton. Lawton in turn touched it to Geldard, who took his time for the centre, and then drove it to the far post. Stevenson shouted “All right” Lawton, and headed it into the far corner of the net in glorious style. It was a grand goal, from the first kick to the last, and was Everton’s first goal scored against Chelsea in a cup-tie.
Half-Time Chelsea 0, Everton 1.
Chelsea tried to open up the game on resumption, but it was Everton who played the tune. Gillick failed to reach the ball, but Stevenson was playing right on top of his form, and he fed Geldard, who cut in to the middle, only to have his shot forced outside for a corner. Stevenson next swung the ball out to Geldard, who hit a terrific shot from a narrow angle to hit the side netting, Geldard was away again to beat Barber, but dropped a centre on the head of Gillick, Woodley was on the spot to save.
Oh, Gillick!
Geldard was away again like a hare, and cut close in and passed to the unmarked Gillick. Gillick had nothing to do, but to place the ball into the net, but he blazed it a foot over the top. Geldard often beat Barber, but Gillick was not responding well to good openings. Stevenson almost snatched a second goal after a fine triangular movement which ended in Geldard slipping the ball along the ground for Stevenson, the Irishman hit it like a shot from a gun, but Woodley turned it over the bar in miraculous fashion. Tom Jones held up Bachanan in cute while Jack Jones used effective if strong methods. Geldard was away again, but this time he dragged the ball back to Woodley, and Gregg headed outside from a Chelsea corner. Final Chelsea 0, Everton 1. The attendance was 41,946 and the receipts were £2,689.
EVERTON “SCOUT” SEES PROMISING LEFT WINGER
January 8, 1938. The Evening Express, Football Edition
Everton were represented at the Abroath v. Partick Thistle fixture. If an outside-left in understood to be the Goodison’s Park club’s principal need, they saw a promising youngster in Picken (Patrick Thistle).
EVERTON R V. CHESTERFIELD R.
January 8, 1938. Evening Express, Football Edition
The first incident to enthuse the big crowd, which must have been in the region of 15,000, was a full blooded drive by J. Davies, the ball striking the angle of the upright with the Chesterfield keeper hopelessly beaten. A Foul on Dean led to the other Davies firing in a terrific shot which was well saved, and then a good effort from Dougal swung just wide of the upright. The visiting forward could do little against the sturdy defence of Jackson and Thompson but on one occasion Harper had a clear opening, but shot wide. Everton were playing brilliantly, and when J. Davies passed smartly across goal. Dean missed his kick –a decided left-off for Chesterfield. After 23 minutes Dean atoned for his previous mistake when he netted from a header by Bell. Near half-time Chesterfield had a free kick for an offence by the Everton keeper, but Weightman shot over the bar. Half-time Everton Res 4, Chesterfield Res 0. Clever combination between Bell and Harper led to the former player adding a second goal. Just on the half-hour Bell went through and added a third. Chesterfield’s full back could do little to stop the smart movement of the Everton forwards and Dougal from good range added a fourth. Roberts in the Everton goal, had few anxious moments, but made one sure catch from Salder, being fouled in the process of saving.
CHELSEA 0 EVERTON 1 (F.A.Cup Game 150)
January 10, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
A Long Cup Shot
How Everton Brought It Off.
A Solid Victory
By Stork.
Everton brought off a long shot when they won their game at Stamford Bridge by a solitary goal, for not many people thought they would beat the Londoners on their own ground, but let me tell you that the bare score does not truly represent Everton’s superiority. They were masters throughout; they started as they meant to carry on, and those folk of Merseyside who had come to look upon their team as slow starters were overjoyed at the way they set about their business in the first few minutes. In recent games Everton have made it a habit of allowing their opponents to dictate matters, and then had to stage a final rally to make up the leeway. On this occasion they got to work immediately, and it had a great influence on the run of the play, for it had the effect of upsetting the Chelsea defence defence and had Cunliffe not missed with a “sitter” in the first few minutes, Everton might have gone on to score a more convincing victory, for the pensioners forwards never threatened any real danger, except on one occasion when Britton had to drop down from nowhere, as it were and kick away a shot from Gregg off his goal line.
Quick Tackling.
In the League game at Goodison Park, Chelsea struck me as one of the poorest sides in the League and after witnessing this cup-tie I see no reason why I should after that opinion Chelsea had perhaps, two direct shots –that one of Gregg’s and one by Burgess in the last few minutes. How came this stage of affairs? Quite simple. The Everton half and full backs tackled quickly and effectively, so that Chelsea had the ball taken from them before they ever came within sight of Morton. It was one of the quickest Cup-ties I have ever witnessed. It lacked the favour usually associated with a first round match and Chelsea were moderate that their own people became caustic in their remarks. I did not think that they could possibly reach the low standard they set at Goodison, so was surprised at their feeable attempts to beat the Everton defence. Barber was more settled against Geldard than he was in the League game, but even so Everton did almost as they liked in fact they made me tremble when they went into defence in the second half when there was really no need for it. What would have happened had Gregg’s shot found a landing place? No one can tell. It may have had an entirely different affect upon Chelsea for it would have given them the lead. They needed something to lift them from their low state, and Stevenson’s goal immediately afterwards was not the sort of thing to send them into raptures. It only reduced their enthusiasm, and Everton went on to a solid victory, a victory more convincing than the score denotes.
Stevenson’s Goal.
But let me tell you of Stevenson’s goal scored at 43 minutes. Geldard, served by Lawton, put over a grand centre, and Lawton calmly awaited its coming. Stevenson was alongside him, and it appeared that between the pair they would miss the chance. It was a high ball perhaps a shade too high for Lawton to have got true direction with his header; so Stevenson called to his colleagues to stand aside. Lawton stood aside, the ball dropped on to Stevenson’s head, and he put it right away from Woodley, who no doubt had expected Lawton to make the effort. It was a lovely goal and worthy of winning the match, but Everton may, and should, have had others. Woodley turned out a great drive by Stevenson in the second half, and later should have been beaten to a frazzle when Geldard slipped the ball over to Gillick who had closed in. The ball came to his “right” foot and we all expected a goal, so simple was the chance. You can, therefore, imagine our feelings when Gillick sent the ball flying over the crossbar. As it happened, his miss did not matter, but it was nevertheless a tragic slip. The band of Everton supporters will not forget it for some considerable time. However, as all’s well that ends well we will not dwell on the affair. The win was complete in every sense of the word, and unless Chelsea show better form I can see them struggling later on in the season. The excuse was that they missed Mitchell and Argue.
No Excuses.
They had no excuse only that the Everton defence was too good for them. A side that delivers only two shots throughout a game does not deserve success. Morton does not remember having one, so well covered was he by his backs, and half-backs. There lay the secret of Everton’s win. The half-back line of Britton, Jones and mercer took complete charge of Chelsea’s forwards and if they were beaten there was always Cook and Jack Jones to cover their tracks. Stevenson was the best forward on the field. He made perfect passes and always Geldard responded. Lawton was too well watched yet got in one long-length drive and kept his line moving smoothly. Cunliffe worked hard, but Gillick had a poor match because his passes went wrong. Much was expected of Buchanan. He is a good player, but was rendered ineffectual by J. Jones; yet he and Burgess would have been dangerous against a less effective barrier than Mercer and Jones. Griffiths and Barber, and goalkeeper Woodley served Chelsea well. Teams: - Chelsea: - Woodley, goal; Barkas, and Barber, backs; Allum, Griffiths, and Weaver, half-backs; Buchanan, Gregg, Mills, Burgess, and Chitty, forwards. Everton: - Morton, goal; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG), and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson and Gillick, forwards. Referee Mr. E. Woods, Sheffield.
EVERTON RESERVES 5 CHESTERFIELD RESERVES 1
JANUARY 10, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 24)
Four goals in ten minutes midway through the first half knocked the bottom out of a game that promised to be a test for the Central League leaders. One of Everton’s closet challengers. Chesterfield were made to look very poor fry by the direct incisive methods of the home forwards ably supported by a half-back line of neat constructive notions. Everton took the lead through a reverse process whereby Bell headed the pass from which Dean scored at the twenty third minute, and then in quick succession they added three more per Bell (2) and Dougal’s spectacular long-range drive. J. Davies got his maiden goal in the second half after being denied the honour by the woodwork earlier on, and Harker took a difficult chance for Chesterfield. Everton shaped like champions without a weak link.
THE REASON THEREOF
January 10, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
I’ll wager you were surprised when you saw the result column on Saturday night which told you of Everton’s success at Stamford Bridge, but those two figures 1-0 did not tell you half, nor yet a quarter of Everton’s great win over Chelsea. No doubt it was sufficient to send you home rejoining, for prior to Everton’s win Chelsea had only suffered one reverse on their own ground and I will be perfectly honest with you and say I did not think Everton would win. It is not the first time I have been found wrong; I was pleased to be found so on this occasion. A one goal margin does not read convincing yet I have never seen a team more completely mastered than were Chelsea and the score card, therefore, did not do Everton full justice. In actual fact Everton should have won 3-1; they were that much better aye, perhaps more than the Londoners. When they visited Goodison Park, I stated that Chelsea were the poorest team I had seen, I do not withdraw that statement, for they were no better, no, not one whit, in their cup challenge. This may serve to detract from Everton’s victory. I cannot detract, for it was there for all to see, even including the Chelsea crowd, who were unanimous that the better side had won through. Of course they had. No augment could be produced to prove otherwise, not even the absence of Argue and Mitchell.
Not Good Enough.
Everton won because they started right, because they were determined to be the dictators of this game instead of being dictated to, as has been their wont in recent games. It was good to see Everton get a grip of things right from the start, and so closed down were The Chelsea forwards that only two shots finished me near the Everton goal. In ninety minutes football that was not enough, will never be enough to win any match. The first one Britton kept out of the Everton net when it was certain to cross the line had the Everton captain not dropped from out of the blue to kick Gregg’s shot off the line. The second was of little account for Morton saved with ease. It was immediately after Britton’s save that Stevenson claimed the winner. My heart was in my mouth when Geldard dropped in his centre for I saw two Everton players going for the ball, and likely to interfere with each other’s intentions to the satisfaction of the Chelsea goal. Lawton prepared himself to make a header and it was not until he heard a shout from Stevenson that he stood down so that the Irishman could nod the ball into the net. Woodley no doubt suffered through not knowing from which source the blow would come.
The Plan Which Paid.
It was a grand goal and worthy of winning the match, but the men who really won for Everton were the halves and backs. They had made their plans well and carried them through to the letter. What were they? Get right on top of the Chelsea attack; tackle quickly and so prevent any semblance of combination. Well, you know how it worked –two shots in ninety minutes. Do you require any further evidence? Everton should have scored early on when Cunliffe was perfectly placed only to shot the ball wide, but an infinitely worse miss was that of Gillick in the second half when Geldard ran round Barber and slipped the ball over to him. It must be a goal, for the ball came to the Scot’s right foot. It wasn’t, because Gillick lifted it over the bar and from only a few yards out. Did I hear the goalkeeper’s sigh of relief? No, but I can well imagine it.
Honourable Mention.
I bunch the Everton half backs and full backs together when sorting them out for honourable mention, for there was not a pin-prick among any of them. Jones and Mercer had the most dangerous forward, Buchanan to deal with, and they reduced him to a moderate standard. Stevenson stood out head and shoulders among the forwards of both sides. It was the best game for some considerable time, and he was frightfully bucked about his return to form after his lean patch. Geldard came next because he was the spearhead of the line, Lawton for his worrying tactics, and Cunliffe for his penchant for work. Gillick was poor. He could not fine a true line with his passes in fact, he seemed ill at ease on the left. It was an uncommonly quiet Cup-tie, probably because the Chelsea fans could not see their side offering any resistances, and therefore had nothing to shout about. If they did cry out, it was in despair at the poor showing of their favourites.
TEAM WORK TAKES EVERTON TO CUP TRIUMPH
January 10, 1938. Evening Express.
By Pilot.
“Everton revealed everything that goes to make the ideal cup team.” A noted Scottish critic made this remark to me at Stamford Bridge on Saturday after Everton had gained one of the greatest wins of the third round of the F.A. Cup by beating Chelsea 1-0. I agree. Everton may not have been the perfect football side at Stamford Bridge, but they showed all those qualities which are needed to prove successful in the march to Wembley. If ever a match was won by team work it was this. Following the matches against Leicester and Arsenal, I said if the Blues showed the willingness, endeavour, and fighting spirit which characterised their second-half play in those games, they would not lose to Chelsea. Well, they did show those qualities, and from the first whistle to the last were far more superior than the score suggests. In no department except goal could Chelsea be compared with Everton, and in general tactics the Merseysiders were far superior. Everton were a yard faster on the ball, stronger in tackling, kept better position and were a much more penetrative side.
Galliant Defence
Everton’s galliant defenders never gave Chelsea a chance to settle down. They were on the ball before the Chelsea men had an opportunity to make it their own. Similar tactics will take Everton a long way in the Cup, no matter whom they are called on to face. The defence was well-nigh perfect and Morton was so well covered that he had an easy time. Chelsea made only one direct shot all day and that was kicked off the line by Britton! Another factor in Everton’s success was the return to top form of two of their key men –Stevenson and Britton. Everyone knows they have not been at their best in recent matches, but they came back to their game here. Stevenson was the genius in attack; the weaver of subtle schemes allied to the ability to finish them off. He was Alex James and Tommy Walker rolled into one. Britton was the precise constructionists, which power of tackle, keen sense of anticipation and speed in recovery. Tom Jones never allowed international Mills to have a kick at the ball, and although this was his first big Cup-tie he was just about the coolest lad on the field. Mercer and Jack Jones were two of the most zealous battlers I have ever seen. Cook’s accurate kicking was the highlight of his sound display, while in attack Cunliffe and Geldard constituted a splendid wing. Geldard’s centre which brought Stevenson’s headed goal at the 43rd minute was a peach. Lawton worked hard in opening up the road for others, but Gillick has played better.
EVERTON CUP-TIE
January 11, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Had they been given free choice of opponents for round four Everton could not have picked a more attractive pairing than that which the luck of the draw has dropped in their lap. Cup meetings on the draw last night referred to the Everton-Sunderland reply of three years ago as the greatest Cup-tie ever at Goodison. The ink was hardly dry on that before a caller, a man who has followed the game up and down the county for half a century, told me I had erred on the modest side. He has seen most finals since those far-off days when Blackburn won the Cup for the fifth time in 1891 a score or more semi-finals, and countless earlier ties, and said he, “not one of them touched this Goodison game. I should have called it the best Cup-tie even in the history of the game.” However, that may be, it certainly was a game packed with a thrill a minute, one of these rare exhibitions to which the superlative of the film folk might be applied without exaggeration. And yet thousands of people were disappointed –but not with the play. With Everton leading 3-1 and ten minutes to go a large number of folk left early to avoid the crush, and robbed themselves of the scintillating extra half hour. When they saw the Echo, and realised they had missed six goals –you can imagine the rest. That year Sunderland finished League runners-up and Everton eight. Both have gone back meantime, but all the same the tie will attract a tremendous crowd, with the possibility of a record if the weather is good. Goodison’s best so far is 66,865 (receipts £5,967) for the Cup-tie visit of Bolton a month after the Sunderland game.
EVERTON SIDE UNCHANGED
January 12, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel
Everton are due to meet Blackpool at Goodison park on Saturday, when the home side will be the same as that which defeated Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the Cup-tie, namely; Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Gillick. Against Blackpool Reserves at Blackpool the Everton Reserves will be P. Lovett; Jackson; Thomson; Bentham, Gee, Watson; Arthur, Bell, Dean, Dougall, J Davies.
BLUES CUP-TIE WINNERS TO FACE BLACKPOOL
January 12, 1938 The Evening Express.
Points Are Vital To Both Sides
By Pilot.
Everton Football Club directors have not yet made a decision with regard to special training for the big Cup-tie against Sunderland, at Goodison Park, on January 22. Prior to the Chelsea game, the team trained at Bushey, but it is not expected that the players will go away this time. The preparation will probably take place at Goodison Park in the ordinary way. The success of the attack at Chelsea on Saturday, when Geldard played outside-right with Gillick on the left wing, has prompted the directors to give the line another run on Saturday, when Blackpool visit Goodison Park in search of Football League points. There will be no team change, so the supporters will have a chance of giving the victorious cup team a big cheer. This a highly important game, for both teams are struggling to reach a safe position in the table. Everton; Morton; Cook, Jones; Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Gillick.
Reserves Chosen
Everton Reserves may further consolidate their position at the head of the Central League table when they visit Blackpool on Saturday. They will have Gordon Watson back on duty at left half. Everton Reserves; P Lovett; Jackson, Thomson; Bentham Gee, Watson; Arthur, Bell, Dean, Dougal, J. Davies.
EVERTON’S “ALL WELL.”
January 12, 1938. The Liverpool Echo.
By Stork
There was never any likelihood of there being any change in the Everton team which pulled them through their Cup-tie and only I only hope that they play a similar type of game so that those who were not at Stamford Bridge will have some idea as to how their team defeated Chelsea. In meeting Blackpool they are up against one of the most improved sides in the League, and a victory for Everton would be tantamount to four points. They are not unmindful of their League position, and are out to improve it. Since the seasiders took F.O. O’Donnell from Preston North End and Buchan from Scotland, the team has gone all one way. Buchan is said to be one of the best inside forwards in the game, and is capable of winning a match off his own bat. The game is as important as any Cup-tie be, and I look forward to an attractive game. If the Everton defence, which played such a big part in the victory at Stamford Bridge employs the same tactics I don’t think Blackpool will break it down, although their attack has more punch than that of Chelsea:- Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Gillick. Against Blackpool Reserves at Blackpool the Everton team will be; P. Lovett; Jackson, Thomson; Bentham, Gee, Watson; Arthur, Bell, Dean, Dougal, J. Davies.
EVERTON’S CUP-TIE PRICES
January 13, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
“Disgusted” writes; -! I see from your notes the Everton directors have more than doubled the prices for the Cup-tie with Sunderland, I along with several others have decided to stay away as a protest. “What about the “stuff” we have seen week after week and not asked for our money back?
EVERTON-BLACKPOOL BATTLE FOR VITAL POINTS
January 14, 1938. Evening Express.
Fateful Duel At Goodison Park Tomorrow.
Revitalised Seasiders.
By Pilot.
Everton, at home to Blackpool, tomorrow, engage in one of the most important League games of the season. Blackpool, like the Blues, are in a lowly league position, and each club is striving to secure a rise in the League ladder. Two months ago one would have regarded this as an easy game for the Blues. Today it is different, Blackpool stand out as one of the most improved teams in the First Division. Since Blackpool secured Buchan, from Celtic, and Frank O’Donnell, from Preston North End, they have been gathering points with fair regularity. They have lost only one of their last four games and include Arsenal among their “victims,” Last Saturday they scored a splendid Cup victory at Birmingham. The side is playing with renewed confidence, and will make strong effort to record a “double” at the expense of the Blues. Personally, I think it will be just beyond their powers, for Everton are also showing welcome improvement and are playing with such endeavour and earnestness that they are capable of beating any side at the moment. Certain it is if Everton play as well as they did at Chelsea, last week, Blackpool will not be able to settle to their improved game. Buchan is the danger man in the Blackpool side. His subtle scheming is liable to upset and defence, if Everton can blot out Buchan they will be well on the road to victory. The Blues are fortunate in being able to field their full cup team, and the same spirit which characterised their work at Stamford Bridge should enable them to gain these two vital points. At the moment Everton are level with Blackpool so far as points are concerned, but they have one match in hand and a superior goal-avenge. Everton; Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Gillick.
EVERTON’S VITAL GAME
January 14, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
There is no getting away from the fact that Everton’s position is not a pleasant one. Placed as they are at the lower end of the table, it would not be quite so bad if those below did not show such healthy signs of lifting themselves out of the depths by improved form. No one can dispute that Portsmouth have made a gallant flight of it in recent weeks, while Blackpool promise much on their most recent displays. The amazing thing is that “Pompey” have struck a winning vein with the self-same team that a few weeks ago could do no right. On the other hand, Blackpool have spent their money extensively in their effort to rise a few steps in the League chart. Everton have given us no such promise, for they still continue to lose away and have only won home points through their late-on rallying power. Has the tide turned with their victory over Chelsea in the Cup competition?
Cup and League.
There are some people who hoped that Everton would fall at the first fence in the trek to Wembley, but I am not one of them, for it is my firm belief that success in the Cup very often brings success in the League. A victory like that obtained at Stamford Bridge should give Everton a deal more confidence in themselves. It was no small task that was set them in round 3 but they rose to it, and brought off one of the surprises of the day. Nothing succeeds like success it is claimed. Well, Everton were highly successful against Chelsea, and must bear in mind that a win over Blackpool is as good as 4 points over a club situated above them. The Seasiders, however, are just as much in need of those 4 points as Everton, so the Goodison Parkers must tackle their task on Saturday with the same determination as they took to London. The “Pool’s” attack is definitely of better quality than that of the Pensioners which never got out of the stranglehold of the Everton half-backs. Prior to the Cup game, Everton had been slow to start, and so handed over the dictatorship to their opponents, and then naturally had to pull out a little extra to save their faces, in Town they took charge immediately, and the result was “in the bag” from that moment. That must be their modus operandi” against Blackpool, tomorrow.
A Bird In The Hand
They must strike while the iron is hot. It is not flattering to think that they have to stress and strain to pull the game out of the fire because they allowed themselves to be pegged back through their penchant to take things easy. What they can do late on they surely can do in the early part of the game. To beat Blackpool they must start as they intend to go along, by making the pace, I don’t mean that they must run themselves to a standstill, but it is something to know that you have a goal or two in hand at the half stage, and that it is the opposition who must do the rallying. A team that is “pressing” usually finds things going wrong, whereas the team which continues along normal lines invariably finishes on top. Blackpool’s attack is full of craft and pace, but Everton need have no fear of it if they will get together as they did at Chelsea. I personally have no fear that the defence will fall. Would that I could say the same of the forwards. Easy chances must not be missed; that has been a great falling recently. To beat a defence and than fall is annoying, but I would rather a miss than no shot at all. You can win this vital game if you have a mind, Everton. Now let me commend you, Mr. Spectator, to a good cause. Our hospitals are greatly in need of funds. What about making it a penny in the £ affair at Goodison Park tomorrow? The veterinary students will do their panto Day “Stuff” and I ask you as sportsmen to give what you can. If it is a halfpenny let it be a halfpenny; if it can be more –well I leave it to you. Team; Everton; Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (T), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Gillick. Against Blackpool Reserves at Blackpool the Everton team will be; P. Lovett; Jackson, Thomson; Bentham, Gee, Watson; Arthur, Bell, Dean, Dougal, J. Davies.
BLACKPOOL’S VISIT
January 15, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton’s position in the League is such that full use must be made of their home games, and to relieve the situation it is essential that they should win today. Blackpool are the visitors to Goodison Park, and as the seaside club is also badly placed they will be equally keen to get the points. Eighteen points for 24 matches is Blackpool’s record, compared with 18 points for 23 games by Everton, so that there is little between the teams. Everton will have their Cup side in view, and they ought to win. Blackpool sustained a great loss in the tragic end of Hampson, who on the previous Saturday had played so well in the Cup-tie. F. O’Donnell, the dashing Scottish centre-forward, is to turn out for the visiting team. The kick-off is at 3.45 and the teams are: Everton; Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (T), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Gillick. Blackpool; Roxburgh; Blair (D), Butcher; Farrow, Haywood, Johnston; Munro, Buchan, O’Donnell (J), Blair (JA), Finan.
EVERTON RACE THROUGH
January 15, 1938. Liverpool Football Echo
Double Value Points From Blackpool
Britton’s Great Run
By Stork.
Everton won “four” valuable points from Blackpool, who played football without a finish, due perhaps to the solid, half-back display of Everton. This line is going to play a big part in the next week’s Cup-tie. Team: - Everton: - Morton, goal; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG), and Mercer, half-back; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, and Watson, forwards. Blackpool: - Boxburgh’s, goal; Blair (D), and Butcher, backs; Farrow, Haywood and Johnston, half-backs; Munro, Buchan, O’Donnell , Blair (JA), and Finan, forwards. Referee Mr. E. Hartley, Bolton. The day could not have been worse and if naturally had a big effect upon the attendance, but Everton are fortunate in their covered accommodation, so there would be more people present that one would anticipants. There was some amusement when the high wind got at the sandwich board men, and made them cut some funny capers. The strength of the wind could thus be well gauged by such a happening. Everton found it necessary to make two changes. Geldard is nursing a cold, so that Gillick went over to the right and Watson was brought in to partner Stevenson. This was a vital game to both sides for a victory meant a big lift in the League table. A win was tantamount to four points. The ground was in a bad state. The first five minutes gave us some inkling of the Blackpool attack, while it also told us that the Everton defence was also right on its mettle and Jones (J) had to be very secure when the Buchan-Munro wing were on the move. All the players by the way wore black armbands as a token of respect to their late colleague Jimmy Hampton, who met with so tragic an end this week.
Goal And A Quick Reply.
At the sixteen minute Blackpool took the lead. Munro who was over on the left wing, (Blackpool’s forwards were inclined to change position) snapped up the ball from a faulty clearance by Cook. Morton came out but the Blackpool man worked his way round him and although T. Jones ran back into goal in an effort to cover up his full back’s mistake he was unable to keep Buchan’s angular shot out of the net. The ball actually hit Jones in its travel. This was a blow but it was softened within two minutes when Cunliffe equalised, for Everton. Butcher had failed to make a clearance and Cunliffe pounced down as the ball and had it in the net in quick sticks. Gillick was having a good time whereas Watson seemed unable to get the net in quick-sticks. The Blackpool goalkeeper had much more to do than Morton. He edged the ball from a shot by Gillick over the bar while later Stevenson was within an ace of carrying through a header by Cunliffe. One pretty piece of combination on the part of Blackpool came to a sudden end because Munro’s centre was much too speedy as it crossed the Everton goalmouth.
Watson Misses A Chance.
Munro made a shot which only lacked power, and when Everton broke loose from the clearance a goal should have been made. Lawton and Gillick gave Watson the simplest of chances but he screwed the ball wide –a bad miss. O’Donnell and Munro got together in such effect that the Winger made a fast shot which passed in front of Morton, who had failed to intercept it. The insides forwards of both sides tried to work the ball close. Half-time Everton 1, Blackpool 1.
Britton’s Lead To Watson Goal.
O’Donnell gave me the impression that he had pulled a muscle in the first half and this seriously affected the Blackpool front line’s play. Everton soon got to work and adopted the right plan by playing the open game and within five minutes had taken the lead through Watson. In actual fact it was Britton who made the goal possible for he ran the ball down almost to the corner flag before he made a lovely centre from which Watson had simply to tap the ball into the net after Roxburgh had scooped the ball but from Britton’s centre. Within, two minutes Lawton, had obtained goal No3. Gillick paved the way for this one and Cunliffe’s centre was shot on to the upright by Watson, and although Roxburgh made a galliant effort to get the ball away Lawton came down on him so quickly the ball was in the net before Roxburgh realised it. Blackpool played some nice football from this point, but it got them nowhere, for there was no finish to it. The only shot they had was by Munro, who was wide of his objective. Cunliffe was through, but shot wide while Stevenson, when he was right through shot in such a manner that the goalkeeper was able to drop on the ball. Gillick was off the mark from a good position, and Cunliffe from off the goalline saw his centre caught securely by the Blackpool goalkeeper. Morton had to pull under his bar a long shot by Farrow, but Everton were now masters of the situation.
Great Day For Full Back
Jones (J) had a great day against what is acknowledged as Blackpool’s best wing. Watson with a fierce shot hit the crossbar, and when the ball was returned Blair stood in the path of an Everton fourth goal. Gillick got through but again failed to find the target. O’Donnell went to outside left, which rather bears out what I had previously said. Half back strength had won this game for Everton, for Britton, Jones and Mercer had done valiant work, but in making this statement I am not unmindful of the great display by Jones (J) and Cook. Final; - Everton 3, Blackpool 1.
WHERE EVERTON SHOULD PROVE MASTERS OF SUNDERLAND
January 15, 1938. The Liverpool Football Echo
Great Defensive Battle Promised In Goodison Cup-Tie
Wearsiders’ Away Record Not Impressive
Tommy Jones, key Man To Victory
By Stork.
Let us forget the last Cup-tie between Everton and Sunderland at Goodison Park, for I feel that is not going to help us find the result of the meeting next Saturday. The power of each team has been considerably reduced since those days. I don’t expect to see such another game as that, but if next week’s tie is half as good, there will be no complaint. I take Everton to win, and I base my judgement on the fact that the Cupholders’ away record makes bad reading. They have won but one game on foreign turf. And the fact that Goodison Park is not one of their good grounds and you will agree that Everton’s prospect of gaining admittance to Round five is particularly rosy. When the Everton players heard they were drawn against Sunderland they cheered; that does not suggest they had any fear of meeting the Cup holders, providing it was on their own ground. While the Sunderland attack has lost some of its sting the defence has been stiffened up, and that is something which is sure to give the Everton attack room for thought, for the Everton front line is not very fast these days. So the game promises to be a grim battle of defences. When Sunderland lost the services of Connor they lost what I considered the best outside left in the country, and his place has never been filled as Connor filled it. Then Gurney one time a nightmare to opposing goalkeepers has lost some of his effectiveness. Of course, he may blaze out at any moment, and if he chooses this game to do so, I can promise Tommy Jones a heavy day’s work. But the young Welshman will not be unnerved by a mere name or reputation. He completely blotted out Mill at Chelsea, and may do the same with Gurney. He is capable of it, for be improves with each game, and very soon will be wearing an international jersey. Friend Mr. Ted Robbins must know all about him. At half-back line is an important part of a football team, and both teams are blessed in that direction. The Roker trio is perhaps more “tousy” than the Everton “three” who proved beyond all doubt that they can bottle up an attack as effectively as any in the land by the way they handled the Pensioners front line which was reduced to two shots in 90 minutes. Sunderland’s forwards however are likely to be better balanced than those clamped down at Stamford Bridge. Two man whom Everton’s defence will have to hold down are Gallacher and Carter, the inside left and inside right. This is where the Cup-holders will hold the whip hand for each is a danty player in every phrase of the game. They exploit their wing men, and see to it that Gurney has his fair share of the ball so that Everton attack must hit hard if it be to keep in line with the contemporotaries. Stevenson ran into his best form in the previous round and this is good news, and if only Gillick would give him average support Everton’s left wing –the club’s weakness since Coulter was injured –would be well up to standard. It is usual for the Cup-holders to go out at the first round. Sunderland escaped that indignity by a one-goal victory over Watford, the Southern Third leaguers. Not very convincing; not nearly so as Everton’s success in London when the odds were greatly against them. It was the “bite” in the “Blues” game which did the trick the same thing will be needed on Saturday next. Exploit the same tactics. Everton, and all will be well, for those were right for a Cup game. You can imagine how pleased I was to see Everton get into their stride from the commencement, for you know how I have harped about the way they have allowed others to lead the play for half the game, and then had to roll up their sleeves to pluck the game out of the fire. Don’t let us have any more of that, for one day the strain may prove too great. Although Everton won comfortably against Chelsea I have to admit that there was not a lot of shooting. More will be required to beat Sunderland, but it should come automatically, without my begging it. Sunderland is one of my pet sides, for they play good class football. A few seasons ago, I rated him the best footballing side in the country and that was when the Arsenal were cutting their capers, winning Cup and League. It is progressive not negative football, as it was so often with the Londoners. They do not get a goal and then play ten full backs. They maintain what they have done once they can do again, so Cook, Jackie Jones and Morton must be on their toes expecting heavy work, which is sure to come their way. I was wrong in my last Cup prophecy; I hope I am right this time in giving my vote to Everton. A reproduction of their Chelsea game will bring the right reward. Well, all is set for a thrilling game. May the better team win, and may that team be Everton is all I wish.
EVERTON 3 BLACKPOOL 1 (Game 1628 over-all)(Div 1 1586)
January 17, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
A Four-Points Victory
Everton Good Winners Against Blackpool
Half-Back Strength.
By Stork
There was as much relief felt at Goodison Park on Saturday night after Everton had beaten Blackpool 3-1 as there will be over any Cup-tie success we may have to witness on the ground, for the simple reason that the winners could look upon their victory as worth four points. You will therefore see the great need for an Everton win and success over their near-relations. Blackpool’s recent form had pointed to a keen battle, and that it was so was partly due to Blackpool’s own, inability to turn reasonable chances into goals. In point of play I through the Seasiders’ first half exhibition of football was better than that of Everton, but near goal they were woefully weak, and the Everton defence must have been thankful; it was so. One could well judge the strength of the wind by the buffeting about the sandwich men received prior to the opening, and the heavy rain of the morning had made the centre of the ground soggy and difficult to work. In the first half both sides made the mistakes of trying to play close football which was almost well-nigh impossible. Blackpool were perhaps the worst offenders in this respect. They opened smartly and the Everton defence soon got inkling as to what they must expect.
Lead-Lost
Everton, however, are soon into their stride these days and hit back to Blackpool’s bid and, although the Seasiders scored the first goal, the affect of it was not seen, for almost immediately Everton had rubbed Buchan’s goal off the slate, when Cunliffe took full advantage of a hesitant. Butcher and popped the ball into the net. The score stood like that until the interval and as Everton then had the advantage of the wind it was only natural that most of the spectators anticipate and a solid victory. Blackpool still displayed good, sound, and clever football in midfield, but there was nothing definite about it, and the Everton goalkeeper had little to worry about. When Buchan scored, it was due to a slip by Cook, who made a faulty pass back to Morton, who found Buchan too slippery for him, and although JE Jones stood in the goal-line he could not prevent Buchan’s shot from entering the net. That was the last real effort enjoyed by Blackpool, for the Everton half-back line was the power behind the team, and when O’Donnell seemed to pull a muscle it reduced Blackpool’s prospects considerably.
Might Have Been Seven
With more accurate shooting, Everton would have won by 6 or 7 goals. They were that much better in the second half, so Blackpool must have considered themselves fortunate to get off so lightly. Two goals came in a matter of a few minutes. Britton with a glorious run down the wing, found Roxburgh unsafe in his handling of his (Britton’s) centre, and the ball flew from the goalkeepers’s hands and went on to Watson, who promptly put it into the net to score his first League goal from outside left. Straightaway, Everton, who were now wearing down Blackpool’s resistance, scored a third goal. Gillick slipped the ball to Cunliffe, who pushed it across to Watson. The winger drove fiercely for goal, his shot rattling the upright and bounding back into play. Roxburgh made a desperate effort to clear the danger, but Lawton’s was on top of him and after a short struggle the ball was in the net. Everton’s victory was complete in every sense of the word. They had worm down Blackpool to such an extent that Morton’s only calls were from long shots by Munro. Gillick, Watson, and Cunliffe missed simple chances of adding to their side’s score, for the Blackpool defence had been rendered impotent by Everton’s determined attacks. All things considered it had been quite a good game, but Blackpool disappointed many, for they had promised so much.
Secret Of Success.
But don’t let us forget the great work of the Everton middle-line. Here lay the secret of Everton’s success. Britton, Jones (T.), and Mercer are all powerful these days, and Jack Jones kept such a tight hold on the Buchan-Munro wing that it never threatened danger near goal. It was effective in midfield, but that was all. I liked the way that Blackpool forwards, interchanged positions, but unless something comes of it there is little to commend it. Morton, for the second week in succession had an easy time, so well was he covered, and Gillick proved beyond all doubt that outside right is his rightful position. His value is lost on the left, but Geldard cannot be left out on his present form, and that is one of Everton’s big troubles. Watson was uneasy in the first half, but improved in the second, and is worthy of consideration for the outside-left position if only because of his shooting ability. Stevenson revelled in the mud and Cunliffe worked hard, while Lawton was a continual worry to the Blackpool defence. Jack Jones with his relentless and clean kicking, held up Blackpool’s danger wing, and Cook, apart from his error which produced a goal, was never in any further trouble. Blackpool must give a thought to goal-scoring. Fancy football in midfield will not take them up the table away from relegation zone. Perhaps they were upset by the tragedy which had struck their club a severe blow earlier in the week. All the players wore back armbands as a token of respect to the late Jimmy Hampson. Team: - Everton: - Morton, goal; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG), and Mercer, half-back; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, and Watson, forwards. Blackpool: - Boxburgh’s, goal; Blair (D), and Butcher, backs; Farrow, Haywood and Johnston, half-backs; Munro, Buchan, O’Donnell , Blair (JA), and Finan, forwards. Referee Mr. E. Hartley, Bolton.
BLACKPOOL RESERVES 3 EVERTON RESERVES 0
January 17, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 25)
Everton Reserves found Blackpool Reserves in very lively mood and their 3-0 defeat was one of the surprises of the Central League matches. Everton played their usual spirited game and had a good share of the play, but the forwards were unable to take advantage of scoring positions, of which there were not too many. The fine understanding in the Blackpool defence repeatedly prevented the Everton plans from maturing. Two of the Blackpool goals were from snapped up chance by Murray and Forster, and the other was a penalty goal scored by Sam Jones, Arthur and Bell were a clever Everton wing, and J. Davies was entertaining in solo efforts, but there was not the effective teamwork in the side that Blackpool showed. Everton Reserves: - Lovett, goal; Jackson and Thomson, backs; Bentham, Gee and An Other, half-back; Arthur, Bell, Dean, Dougal, and Davies (JW), forwards.
South Liverpool Reserves 1 Everton “A” 2
Liverpool County Combination.
At Holly Park, subsidiary competition match. Everton scored twice in the first 10 minutes through Jones and Merritt. South struggled gamely against the wind, but the Everton defence was rarely troubled, whereas Rotherham, ex-New Brighton goalkeeper, was constantly in action and made a number of commendable saves. The home side played much better after the interval, and Wilkinson, Lindsay and Felton were kept fully extended, the goalkeeper, making some brilliant saves. Bond reduced the lead during strong pressure but despite further attacks the home side failed to drew level.
THE STUFF TO GIVE F.A. CUP RIVALS!
January 17, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Watcher.
If Everton can reproduce the form which enabled them to defeat Blackpool 3-1, they should account for Sunderland in next Saturday’s F.A. Cup battle. The Blues overcame, had ground conditions to reveal themselves as a lively side strong in defence and quick to take up attacking positions. So many shots were levelled at both goals that if 50 per cent, of them, had been on the target, double figure goals aggregate would have been the result. Gillick showed up more prominently than in recent games, yet at the same time, he was at fault on several occasions when excellent scoring chances were presented to him. Stevenson and Lawton were stars in the home attack, Stevenson being roamer-in-chief. Lawton, who got the final goal –Cunliffe and Watson notched the other two –led Haywood, Blackpool’s pivot a merry dance and shot with power. Half-time honours go to T.G. Jones, who once again pleased with an all-round display. O’Donnell was never able to get much change from Everton’s burly centre half-back, and with Britton playing strongly the home halves gave the officials little cause for worry. The other Jones –Jack, from Ellesmere Port –shone in a defence which adopted first-time tackling methods. Taken all round, this Everton side was one capable of accounting for almost any team at Goodison Park, and there is no doubt Sunderland will have to be “on their toes” to prevent the Blues going forward in the cup next Saturday.
Everton Decide Local Air Good Enough
Everton’s Opponents Prepare At Birkdale.
The news from Goodison Park is that Albert Geldard is labelled “doubtful,” for Saturday’s game against Sunderland. He had a temperature of 103 on Saturday. Whether he can turn out depends on the progress he makes in the nest two days. The players will be at Goodison Park tomorrow to undergo their preparation –ball practice, sprinting, gymnasium work etc. The directors meet tomorrow night to select the team, and they may also decide to include something special in the week’s programme. Mr. Theo Kelly, secretary of Everton states that there are some 5s and 7s 6d tickets still available, but that early application is necessary. The Sunderland players arrived at Birkdale by motor coach yesterday and well remain there until the day of the match. The only casualty to report from the “camp” today was that Gorman, the Merseyside-born full-back, received a knock in Saturday’s game against Derby County. He is undergoing electrical treatment and there is not the slightest doubt that he will be fit for the Goodison Park battle. Golf and Walks will constitute the principal features of the Wearsiders preparation.
EVERTON ALL THE WAY
January 17, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
Everton got through their vital match with Blackpool much earlier than I expected, and there was a feeling of great relief in the board-room after the match. All had realised the importance of winning the game, which in effect meant the winning of 4 points. If the score had been Everton 6, Blackpool 1 the Goodison Parkers would not have been flattered one whit in fact, they should have won by that margin, but not for the first time this seasons have their forwards missed the simple chances and scored from the more difficult ones. It is hard to understand, but I suppose it is the human elements which causes such slips. Blackpool promised Everton a hard flight; they did not live up to their promise for Everton won as they liked despite the fact that the visitors had the pleasure of opening the day’s score, but their joy was only short lived, for within a mature it was a case of “as you were.” A mistake gave Buchan his goal just as Butcher’s hesitancy gave Cunliffe his opportunity, but after that it was Everton all the way.
Worn Down.
Once Everton set their mind to it they simply ploughed their way through an unrealisable defence were it down until it became thread-bare and unable to with stand the strain of continued pressure. Goals loomed up for the Everton forwards many times. Three were scored, but at least four simple chances were missed. Gillick, Stevenson, and Watson will be wondering up to this moment how they failed with the chances that lay at their feet and the Blackpool defence will be wondering the same thing. There was some more thrust in the Everton attack than I have seen for some weeks and it bodes well for this weeks cup-tie. But if Sunderland are to be beaten and you know by now that I think they will I have a feeling that the Everton middle line will be the chief reason. The work of Britton, Jones (T.), and Mercer in the last two weeks has been magnificent. Brilliant forwards have been rendered impotent by the quick, determined tackling of this trio, and here lies the secret of Everton’s success. Blackpool forwards could not find a way to escape from the Everton defence when near goal. They were smart enough elsewhere, but near goal they were never closured
In Merry Mood
Let me come to the forwards. They were in a merry mood. Was it that the mud suited them? I know Stevenson was in his element; that Gillick played one of his best games. That is going to set the selection committee a task. They will have to decide between Geldard who was down with a cold and Gillick. It is very plain that the Scot is wasted on the left. But it is not my business to pick the team, Gillick ducks, and drakes with the reserves back Butchers, and while Watson was some time in finding his feet at outside left, he was a great menaced to Roxburgh later on. Lawton got a goal because of his worrying propensities, and also kept his line running smoothly, while Cunliffe was tireless in his effort. I am fully aware that Sunderland’s defence is better than that of Blackpool’s, but if the Everton attack will get right on top of Gorman and Hall they can unsettle them just as they did Butcher and Blair and Barber and Barkes. The defence will do the rest.
SEA-AIR TONIC FOR RIVALS OF EVERTON
January 18, 1938. The Evening Express.
By Pilot.
Sunderland the opponents of Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday, in the fourth round of the F. A. Cup, began their training at Birkdale today. The directors of the club meet later today to select the eleven. Usually the directors meet on a Thursday for team selection, but sir Walter Raine, the club’s chairman, and Mr. John Cochrane are travelling to Southport on Thursday. The Sunderland team selects itself if Gorman is fit. The right back is at present in bed at his home. He got a knock on the knee against Derby County and as a precaution was ordered to bed so that he could rest it. The club’s masseur has been giving him radiant heat twice a day since Gorman will certainly be selected because he is expected be perfectly fit in a couple of days, but if there is any doubt Feenan, the Irish back, will be played. Feenan is a two-footed player, and is more at home on the right them on the left. He has frequently deputised for Hall and it can be taken for granted that this is the team which will be selected. Mapson; Gorman (or Feenan), Hall, Thomson, Johnston, McNab, Duns, Carter, Gurney, Gallacher, Burbanks. There will be more than 1,000 travelling from Sunderland. The feeling on Wearside is that Sunderland will get at least a draw. Geldard is making good progress towards recovery from his attack of influenza but is still included in the list of doubtful starters.
• Dugald Livingstone mentioned in Evening Express, as Sheffield United coach, the former Everton and Tranmere Rovers player.
TRENTHAM IN EVERTON SIDE
January 19, 1838. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Teams were selected last night for the fourth round of the Football Association Competition to be played on Saturday. Everton had had to make a change in the team that won at Chelsea in the third stage. Geldard, who had a cold during the week-end and a temperature of 103, will not be able to play against Sunderland, the Cup-holders, at Goodison Park. Gillick will be at outside right with Trentham on the left. Trentham takes the place of Watson, who played against Blackpool last Saturday. At Chelsea, Gillick was at outside left with Geldard on the right. It may be recalled that Geldard scored two goals against Sunderland during the extra time in the epic game of 1935, when Everton beat Sunderland 6-4, after a draw at Roker.
Sunderland Unchanged.
Sunderland, who are staying at Birkdale in preparation for the tie, have selected their team, which shows no change from last week. Gorman, the right back, who was born in Liverpool, received a knee injury last Saturday and did not travel to Birkdale with the other players, but he is expected to be fit for Saturday and has been included in the team. Should he be unable to play, Sunderland have a capable reserve in Feenan. The teams selected for the Goodison game are- Everton; Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. Sunderland; -Mapson; Gorman, Hall; Thomson, Johnston, McNab; Duns, Carter, Gurney, Gallacher, Burbanks. This will be Trentham’s debut in a Cup-tie. Dean, who led Everton to victory in the Cup in 1933 has a birthday on Saturday. An Everton victory would be a nice birthday present.
EVERTON’S CUP CHANGE.
January 19, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
Both Everton and Sunderland made known their teams for their Cup meeting, on Saturday, last night. Whereas Everton show one change from last Saturday, Sunderland have selected the same team which brought them safely through the last round. They have one doubt and that is Gorman, the Liverpool born full back, who is not with the party at Birkdale, but is undergoing massages treatment in Sunderland. It is anticipated that he will be fit for Saturday, and if not the Irish back, Freenan will deputise. Everton have brought back Trentham to partner Stevenson. Geldard is improving, but it would not have been safe to include him in such an exacting game as this. The experiment of playing Watson, the half-back at outside left was not quite a success. He scored a goal, and was a menace to the Blackpool goalkeeper, but his midfield play left something to be desired. This will be a big test for young Trentham, but Sunderland have a firm belief that they can at least force a replay, but I am not so sure about that, for at the moment Everton are playing sound football; perhaps not of the same quality as that of two years ago, but quite as effective.
Their Great Strength.
Their great strength is at half back where Britton, Jones, and Mercer have attack their best form. They will need be at their best, with such players as Gurney, Gallacher, and Carter to contend with, but you can take it from me that they know what they are up against, and will prepare their plans accordingly. Everton’s victory has had an excellent effect on the players, who say they could not have been drawn against better foeman than Sunderland. They know they are faced with a big task, and are not afraid of it. As a matter of fact they think they have a good chance of landing the Cup. There is a long way to go, and Sunderland have to be got rid of, but if wholehearted endeavour will carry them forward they are already in the fifth round.
The Rival Attacks.
The game promises to be a fine one. It may not touch the heights of the last Cup meeting of the pair, but the nucleus is there for a thrilling battle. Whoever wins will know they have been playing Sunderland’s attack many be a shade better than that of Everton’s, but the way the Everton defence has got together in recent weeks is encouraging to their success. Chelsea were unable to find a way through, and it was only a fluke that Blackpool got the ball into Morton’s goal. A lot will depend upon Stevenson. He has struck his form at the right moment. Goodison Park is not a favourite ground for Sunderland at any time, and with home advantage I expect Everton to quality for round five. Everton; Morton, Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. Sunderland; -Mapson; Gorman, Hall; Thomson, Johnstone, McNab; Duns, Cater, Gurney, Gallacher, Burbanks.
EVERTON CUP TEAM
January 19, 1938. The Evening Express.
Everton against Sunderland, will be unable to play the team that scored a brilliant victory of over Chelsea. Geldard is the player who will be absent, Geldard during the week-end had a high temperature owing to an attack of influenza, and, although he is making a good recovery, he will not be fir enough to take his place at Goodison Park on Saturday. Consequently, Gillick once again plays at outside right –his favourite position –and “Duggie” Trentham comes back to outside left in place of Watson, who was given a run in the position against Blackpool. It will be the first time Trentham has appeared in an F.A. Cup, and his ambition will be follow in the footsteps of his brother, who gained winners and runners-up, Cup medals with West Bromwich Albion. Trentham has played in 14 Football League games this season and has scored six goals.
Gorman Fit.
Sunderland, announce that Gorman who joined them via Burscough Rangers and Blackburn Rovers, will be fit to play at right back, and so the Wearsiders will be at full strength. Therefore, Sunderland will field the side that won the Cup at Wembley last May. Everton; Morton, Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. Sunderland; -Mapson; Gorman, Hall; Thomson, Johnstone, McNab; Duns, Cater, Gurney, Gallacher, Burbanks.
EVERTON CUP’S OPPONENTS.
January 20, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Sunderrland, the Cup-holders, who visit Goodison Park on Saturday, have not been quite as prominent as usual this season, especially when playing away. So far 12 away League fixtures have been fulfilled, and half have been lost. Their one away victory was over West Bromwich whom they trounced 6-1; but they have drawn with Chelsea (0-0), Derby County (2-2), Huddersfield Town (1-1), Preston North End (0-0) and Stoke City (0-0). In League football Sunderland have visited Everton on 42 occasions, with the result that Everton have won 24 times to their rivals 13. Division 2, in 1931-32 however, Everton have beaten Sunderland at home by 4-2, 6-1, 1-0, 6-2, and 3-0, Sunderland winning 3-0 three seasons ago. In addition, Everton won the Cup-tie of 1935 by 6-4 after extra time. The clubs have met in the competition four times previously as follows; 1891 (1st round), Sunderland 1, Everton 0; 1910 (2ns round), Everton 2, Sunderland 0; 1935 (2nd round), Sunderland 0, Everton 0, (replay) Everton 2, Sunderland 1; 1935 (4th round), Sunderland 1, Everton 1, (replay) Everton 6, Sunderland 4, after extra time.
EVERTON’S TONIC.”
January 20, 1938. Evening Express
By Pilot.
Everton will be given the “Liverpool tonic” prior to their game against Sunderland at Goodison Park. After massage and the tactics talk at the ground tomorrow morning, they will go to Holylake for a breath of sea air. Liverpool players were at Hoylake yesterday and today. “All quiet” was the report from Mr. Theo Kelly, secretary of the club, to me today. Geldard has made a good recovery from his attack of influenza, but he is too weak to be inclined in the team. “You can tell Everton and the public of Liverpool generally that Sunderland are 100 per cent fit.” Said Mr. Andy Reid, the Sunderland trainer, at Birkdale today. The training today considered of spiriting in the hotel grounds, while there was also light ball practice simply with a view to muscle loosening and keeping their eye in. The players later visited the Corporation baths on the promenade. Tonight a visit to the pictures is the programme. A little sprinting and massage tomorrow, and the boys will be ready for what they know will be a great battle,” and Mr. Reid, “and the final word now is everything going well.
READY FOR A BIG CROWD AT GOODISON
January 21, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
With the new stand complete, the Everton ground will now hold 80,000 spectators, so that there will be plenty of room when the tie with Sunderland is staged tomorrow. Admission to seats, of which there are 15,000, is by ticket only, while there is room for 13,000 in the paddock at 1s 6d, and for 53,000 in the 1s enclosure. The gates at Goodison-end, Gwladys street, and Bullens road will be open at one o’clock. There are plenty of tickets at 7s 6d and 5s.
EARLE TOWN AMATEUR FOR EVERTON
January 21, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton F.C have signed, on amateur forms, two Liverpool County Combination players from Earlestown Bohemians club. There are Gallacher, centre half, and Leicester, outside right. H. Smith, the Bohemians forward, has signed an amateur form for Bolton F.C.
GOODISON’S TIT-BIT
January 21, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
Goodison Park should see its biggest gate tomorrow; for the meeting of Everton and Sunderland in the fourth round of the Cup is one of the plums of the day; almost as big in appeal as the game at Wolverhampton, where the Arsenal are visiting. We who saw the last tie between the pair will never forget it, for it was voted and quoted as the best game ever; it was the most pulsating game no matter what we thought of the actual play and the finish of it one of the most sensational in recent history. Hundreds of people had left the ground in the belief that Everton had won through, and did not know that extra time was played until they got home and saw their evening newspapers. The cause of the “extra” was Bob Gurney, who with an overhead kick, scored in the last minute of the ninety and Gurney will be here again to show that he has not lost his art as a goal scorer, although he has not been so prolific this season. He will have with him many who took part in that memorial match, and Everton too, have players in their ranks who helped to make that game historic. It is enticing bill to put before any man, and the outcome just as open as it was two years ago. Both Sunderland and Everton are not the power they were. They may frame another thriller, but one can hardly expect to witness such another game. It does not seem possible, but what has been done can be done again. I hope it is done tomorrow; then there will be no grumbles on any points. Everton’s recent form has been encouraging. They struck a severe blow at London when they defeated Chelsea and followed that up with a smashing victory over Blackpool, who were expected to test them to the full. Sunderland showed by their defeat of Derby County, the team of all the talent that they have struck a streak of their true form, so that the game bids to be a worthy successor to the previous encounter. We will miss the scintiating Connor who I am pleased to hear may soon be back in the striped jersey of Sunderland, and the droll play of Coulter, but there are people in the team sheet which should be sufficient guarantee of high class football. Sunderland Gallacher and Carter and Everton’s Stevenson will vie with each other for constructional play Ironours, and I think that young Tom Lawton is much more virile than Gurney these days, for Bob has been doing his stuff for Sunderland for thirteen years. The Northerners may have a slight advantage on the wing, but they have nothing on Everton behind. I rate the Everton half back line as it is playing today, second to none Thomson, Johnston and McNab are good, but give me Britton and Mercer every time. There is construction and destruction in it.
Times Have Changed.
For years Sunderland were weak in defence. They relied on attack as the best form of defence, yet there came a time when the attack was not quite up to snuff; then it was seen that the defence could not be trusted. A big cheque brought the Liverpool lad Gorman, playing with Blackburn Rovers, and he has made a deal of difference. He was doubtful earlier in the week, but will play. Here again, I think Everton hold the whip hand, for Jackie Jones is in international form and Cook such a powerful ally that Morton has not nothing to do for two weeks. It is an intriguing situation, and although the home team has an advantage, Sunderland are convinced in their own minds that they will win at the second attempt. They will be perfectly satisfied with a draw but their Goodison record does not encourage one to think they will get it. No I think Everton will rise to this occasion as they did at Chelsea and win at the first time of asking. Teams: Everton; Morton, Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. Sunderland; -Mapson; Gorman, Hall; Thomson, Johnstone, McNab; Duns, Cater, Gurney, Gallacher, Burbanks.
EVERTON CUP-TIE
January 21, 1937. Evening Express
By Pilot
Sunderland come to Goodison Park as cup holders, but if Everton reproduce the brilliant form which characterised their work at Stamford Bridge when they beat Chelsea in the third round they should oust the Wearsiders. Against Chelsea, Everton made sure they were first to the ball, that their tackling had tenacity, and that there was the maximum of team work. It is a new Everton these days, for two “key men” – Britton and Stevenson – have come right back to their best form at the right time. The genius of Stevenson has welded the attack into a fine smooth-working machine, while no half-back line is playing with such consistency as that of the Blues just now. Everton must bear in mind that the power of Sunderland lies in the attack. For some seasons Sunderland have concentrated on goals, goals, and goals, and it has brought them honours. Therefore, I regard this match as a great duel between the Everton half back and the Sunderland attackers. Can Everton blot out the inspiration of the Wearsiders -”Raich” Carter? If they can keep Carter in subjection they will be half-way to the fifth round. Sunderland may be as good as a team as the Blues, but I am certain they have not better spirit or understanding. The Blues will be without Geldard, so Gillick figures at outside-right, with Trentham, the only Cup debutant, on the left. Everton have been training at home without any deviation from ordinary preparation apart from today’s visit to Hoylake. Sunderland have been at Birkdale all the week, and their preparation has been anything but strenuous. Walks and golf have constituted the main items. With Everton’s new stand completed I think the gate record of 66,865, established in 1935, will be broken. I look to a great game and a great crowd –and with the Blues securing another triumph. Everton; Morton, Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. Sunderland; -Mapson; Gorman, Hall; Thomson, Johnston, McNab; Duns, Carter, Gurney, Gallacher, Burbanks.
What the Captains Think
Cliff Britton (Everton); If this match is as good as our last cup-tie against Sunderland then everyone will be happy, I think this will prove the match of the round, and our boys are playing with such fine spirit and endeavour these days that I think we can once again enter the fifth round.
Horatio Carter (Sunderland); Anything can happen in a cup-tie, but the boys are confident that if we play as well as we did against Derby last week Everton will not win. A draw would suit us, but a win outright would be better, and enable us to avenge the defeat we received in that classical replay two years ago.
EVERTON’S PROSPECTS
January 22, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
We on Merseyside have three strings to our bow and whether all three can bear the strain has been a theme of animated discussion during the week. We shall soon know the verdicts. On paper, at all events, Everton have the best chance of coming out on top. They are due to face Sunderland at Goodison Park, and though one cannot rely too largely on the weight of home advantage, the Everton team has been playing well enough to arouse confidence in their ability to succeed. It must not be forgotten that the Roker Park team have a better League record than that of their rivals and that the teams played a memorable tie two seasons ago when Everton won 6-4; It should be a great tussle today, and I hope to see the local side earn a place in the last sixteen.
How They Line Up.
Everton players had a trip to Hoylake yesterday and they will take the field in the fittest possible conditions. It is interesting to note that the Sunderland team is the same that which won the cup last season, while the referee today Mr R.G. Rudd (Kenyon, Middlessex) had charge of the Wembley game last April. The kick off in this and all other cup-ties is at 2.45. With the new stand ready, there is room for 80,000 spectators (53,000 at a shilling), and the gates will be open at 1’ o’clock. The teams are: - Everton; Morton, Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. Sunderland; -Mapson; Gorman, Hall; Thomson, Johnston, McNab; Duns, Carter, Gurney, Gallacher, Burbanks.
SUN SHINES FOR SUNDERLAND
January 22, 1938. The Liverpool Football Echo
Everton Beaten By Cupholders.
Gurney’s Goal.
By Stork.
One goal sufficed to put Everton out of the Cup. They tried hard enough for an equaliser, but taken right through the game was a poor replica of the previous one. The football never at any stage reached any great heights, and Sunderland will have to do better than this if they are to retain the trophy. Teams: - Everton: - Morton, goal; Jones (JE), and Cook, backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG), and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson and Trentham, forwards. Sunderland: - Mapson, goal; Feenan, and Hall, backs; Thomson, Johnston and McNab, half-backs; Duns, Carter (captain), Gurney, Gallacher, and Burbanks, forwards. Referee Mr. RG. Rudd, Middlesbrough.
This was the one game in the fourth round of the Cup which had a back ground, for a couple of seasons ago Sunderland and Everton provided what has been called the game of the century. It was good to see such a great crowd at Goodison, today, for the repeat order and the Everton club must feel mighty proud that they had their new stand ready for this great occasion. It was needed, for before the start I think the old record figure of 66,000 was reached and there were still many to come in. Although Sunderland had made every effort to get the Liverpool full back, Gorman fit to play they found it impossible so that the Irish defender Feenan took his place at right back. Everton lost the toss and were out to kick off towards the double Decker goal, but it was Sunderland who made the first move and had not Duns put the ball a shade too far forward there would have been early trouble for Morton. The excitement during the swift attack was high, and the Everton left wing came into being and Everton kept Sunderland penned in their own quarters for a moment or two.
Early Thrills.
Britton and Cunliffe indulged in some inter-passing, which brought little or no result, and then Gurney showed that he is still a dangerous centre-forward when he swept the ball out nicely to Burbanks, whose cross was only temporarily cleared.
A Break In.
Hereabout the crowd broke in at one corner. They were quite orderly, however, and the police allowed them to sit with their backs to the concrete wall. When Gillick and Lawton changed places with the original centre forward going to the wing and passing the ball beautifully to Gillick, there were prospects of an Everton goal, but the Scot was ultimately outnumbered. Stevenson beat Feenan in a heading bout, and nodded the ball to Lawton and although the ball was knee high Lawton got home his shot, but Mapson was in position to take the drive. Everton now had a narrow escape and Gurney was penalised for a foul on Jones (TG). Gurney finding himself unable to shoot, offered the gift to Carter whose shot was cannoned away for a corner. When Cunliffe ran around Hall to sweep the ball across it was only Stevenson’s lack of inches which prevented him from getting a goal. Gillick, hoodwinking the Sunderland defence and Johnston, found the ball rattling between his legs a few yards out of goal. It was a tense moment until Johnston finally kicked the ball for a corner.
Gurney’s Goal.
Gallacher and Burbanks beat down the Everton resistance, and when finally Burbanks thumped the ball into the middle, Jones (TG) was too much under the ball to make contact so that it went on to Gurney standing at the far side of the goal for him to head beyond Morton at 34 minutes –a nice goal, whichever way one judged it. Lawton almost snaked an equaliser by a surprised shot which had Mapson well beaten. Gillick tried a shot from 20 yards and the ball flew over the crossbar as Mapson fell back into the goal. Gurney gave Carter another chance but this thrustful forward shot wide and not like Lawton who was dead on the mark with half the chance that Carter had. Cunliffe was within an inch of a goal and got a corner. Everton had done more shooting than Sunderland but it was not all of the right quality.
Half-time Everton 0, Sunderland 1.
Fatal Delay
The first incident of note in the second half was a spearpoint attack by Everton and it should have produced a goal. If there was ever a chance to equalise it was then. There was no one near Gillick or Stevenson, but a slight delay in the taking of his shot undoubtedly robbed Stevenson of his chance. He hit the ball hard and true, and it crashed up against Johnston, and there was an immediate claim for hands. The linesman waved, but upon being consulted by the referee there was no alteration in the proceedings. Everton were hitting back with great determination, and Lawton was only inches off the mark. The football was full of bite but not of a high standard.
Tremendous Pressure.
Everton took three corners in quick succession, and I noticed that Gurney was the only man left up the field when these corner kicks being taken. Everton made tremendous pressure and Mapson was lucky to get in the way of a Stevenson shot, and when the ball came out Lawton drove it fiercely, and again it hit the goalkeeper on the legs. Gillick was sandwiched and Jones (TG) put the free kick outside. Everton deserved a goal for they had been hammering the Sunderland defence incessantly for ten minutes, but the consolidation defence of the visitors proved too big a barrier. Lawton gave the “dummy” to Hall and then gave the ball to Stevenson whose header was pulled from under the bar by Mapson. One or two of the Sunderland players were very childish when it came to a matter of free kicks, they kicked the ball out of the field. A free kick put the Everton defence under the hammer, but it got out of the difficulty after some hot work in which Jones and Duns got at cross-purposes. There were one or two things which would not make nice reading, and the referee saw fit to take the name of Thomson the Sunderland half back. The pace had slackened a bit, and play become scrappy. Trentham was pulled down from behind and a free kick produced nothing more than an injury to a Sunderland defender. One could not compare this game with the last one. As a matter of fact a spectator close at hand said that Crystal Palace played better football than either of these teams, and he did not think he had seen the Cup winners today. At this stage Everton did not promise to do anything. The life seemed to have gone-out of them. One advance by the Roker men almost brought them a second success. Morton having to dive at Duns to save the situation.
Last Chance Lost.
It was drab stuff now with football at a premium. Mapson prevented Cunliffe nodding a goal by making a perfect catch and Britton, who had been taking all the corners on the right flank for some time, offered his inside man a last chance of equalising. It was not taken so that Everton are finished with the Cup for this year. Just on time Carter netted for Sunderland but the referee alleged he had previously handled the ball. Final Everton 0, Sunderland 1. There was great cheering by the Sunderland people as the players left the field, and one enthusiast went up to congratulate Mapson on his goalkeeping. He had earned it, for he had been the best player on the field. Receipts £5, 877, 9s 10d. Attendance 68,158. Both records for the ground.
GURNEY GOAL OUSTS EVERTON
January 22, 1938. The Evening Express, Football Edition
Blues’ Great Fight
Sunderland Survive Terrific Onslaught
Mapson Brilliant In Goal.
By Pilot.
Everton passed out of the F.A. Cup at Goodison Park today, when Sunderland, the holders, beat them 1-0 with a goal scored by Gurney after32 minutes. Everton did everything but score in a non-stop onslaught in the second half but Mapson in the Sunderland goal, made miraculous saves. The attendance was 68,158, and the receipts were £5,877 –both records for ground. Sunderland made a last-minute team change. It was found that Gorman the Merseyside lad was still unfit, and so Feenan came in at right back. Three days ago Gorman had been reported fit. There was plenty of pre-match excitement with balloons and rattles, and the crowd laughed when the mascot scored with a penalty against a loyal Evertonian with umbrella and cap. There must have been at least 2,000 from Sunderland and they made their presence heard. Teams: - Everton: - Morton, goal; Jones (JE), and Cook, backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG), and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson and Trentham, forwards. Sunderland: - Mapson, goal; Feenan, and Hall, backs; Thomson, Johnston and McNab, half-backs; Duns, Carter (captain), Gurney, Gallacher, and Burbanks, forwards. Referee Mr. RG. Rudd, Middlesbrough. Everton at the start got into a tangle trying to “nurse” the ball, but Duns prevented developments by getting off side. Trentham came in neatly to head beyond Thomson, only for Lawton to be forced to touch. Then a swinging centre from Jack Jones was hurried aside by Lawton, but Gillick had come too far in. Britton out in some wonder work with a sharp tackle and pass, and this brought Stevenson into the game with a quick shot which swept wide. Gillick got through, only to place his centre much too near Mapson, who saved as Lawton came in. Gurney took a throw-in, when he had no right to and Stevenson tried to stop, the ball with his hands he caught Gurney in the face, so that Gurney had to receive the trainer’s attention.
Carter’s First-Timer
Jack Jones clearance kick went awry and Carter came through with a first-time shot which Morton held well. Trentham came into the game –his first real cup-tie touch, and he survived the tackles of Feenan and Thomson to middle a ball which Lawton took on the turn and placed over the top. So far, this had not been exciting football, but the Everton halves had been a dominant force, so that the Blues were the more aggressive side. Everton almost took a goal when Stevenson handled back to Lawton, but Lawton’s first time shot travelled direct to Mapson. Trentham made the mistake of an individual run instead of a quick cross pass to Gillick, who was standing unmarked. Sunderland began to have more of the game now, as Carter’s genius asserted itself, and three times the Cupholders’ skipper was baulked in the nick of time by speedy tackling. This was a hard, rather than a classic struggle; in fact, apart from flashes there was little constructive art. Gillick was fouled, but the referee rightly waved play on, as Stevenson was in possession. Stevenson flung himself through the air to get Cunliffe’s centre, but just failed to connect. The biggest thrill so far came from Gillick’s short centre, which Johnston trapped but allowed to trickle under his feet. As the Everton forwards dashed on business bent Johnston took the safety route and placed behind for a corner. Cook was robbed by Burbanks, but through Jack Jones came across to retrieve the incident was the prelude to the opening goal scored by Gurney in 32 minutes. Gallacher was persistent enough to withstand strong tackling, draw the Everton defence out of position, and middle a wonderful centre to the far post for Gurney to head home. It was a beautiful goal, neatly executed and contributed to by Everton holding off the tackle. Everton fought back with great spirit, and Lawton’s surprise shot had Mapson beaten, but it went just by the far post. Gurney went out on his roving commission again, and his quick centre found Carter in perfect position for the goal, yet his shot sped outside. Following a free kick, Lawton hit a shot on the turn which almost swerved away from the alert, Mapson. Lawton came again, and this time the ball swung outside.
Everton Out Of Luck
Everton were still playing the better football, but were not having the slightest luck in their finishing. Cunliffe came through with a full-blooded effort before Gallacher went away on his own to flash a shot across goal.
Half-time Everton 0 Sunderland 1.
Everton had enjoyed more of the game in the first half but their shooting, though quick, was not accurate enough. Owing to the crushing several spectators left their positions in front of his new stand and left the ground through the players tunnel. Everton had cruel fortune when Gillick placed Stevenson in possession, Stevenson ran on a couple of yards and his point-blank shot, in my opinion, was punched down by Johnston. Everton made strong appeals for a penalty and even induced the referee to consult a linesman, but all to no avail. Mapson saved from Cunliffe at full length, and from Britton’s corner, Cunliffe hooked the ball inches wide. Everton applied terrific pressure without bringing grist to the mill. Then Gurney in an isolated raid broke through the line only to place into Morton’s hands. Gillick got through to earn a corner after a stumble, and this led to two flag kicks to the Blues, one of which Mapson lost possession of, but Stevenson placed wide. Lawton hit home a terrific shot which Mapson saved in great style, despite an injury. How the Sunderland goal escaped was surprising. Everton at this stage were doing everything but score.
Sunderland Stand Firm.
Jones’ penalty line free kick went outside and Everton continued this repeated battering at the Sunderland goal without avail. Rarely have they exerted so much pressure with so line result. When Gillick kicked the ball in, Mapson saved on the line from Stevenson. Lawton broke away on the right and Stevenson’s flying header was caught high up by the reliable Mapson.
Resolute Roker Defence
Thomson had his name taken and Everton lost a little of their fighting spirit against a resolute Sunderland defence. Duns broke through and Morton came out to smother the shot. The ball rebounded to Carter, who placed outside. Everton had a corner in the last minute, and Cunliffe’s header was speeding home when Johnson headed it over the top. Carter ran through from Gurney’s centre, and ran the ball into the net but the referee negative it on the grounds that Gurney had handled the ball in bringing it under control. Final Everton 0, Sunderland 1. Mapson was given a wonderful ovation as he left the field.
EVERTON 0 SUNDERLAND 1 (F.A.Cup Game 151)
January 24, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
Mapson Foils Everton
No Reward After Strong Pressure.
Gurney Puts Holders In Next Round.
By Stork
The eagerly awaited game between Everton and Sunderland, which the Cup-holders won by the only goal, was not the classic exhibition anticipated, but it was a thriller which provided much excitement, and many heart-throbs. Sunderland will have to play better than this if they are to retain the trophy they now hold. I thought it was a very ordinary exhibition because of the lack of constructional football. The best movement produced the winning goal at the half-hour. It was first-time passing by Gallacher and Burbanks which opened up the Everton defence so wide that Gurney had little to do when Burbanks swept in his centre. Everton never at any time got hold of the game as they did at Chelsea, not even during the time they were hammering at the Sunderland defence in the first fifteen minutes of the second half when they were well worth a goal. In London they beat down the Chelsea defence often against Sunderland they were never the masters. They deserved a goal because of their fighting quality, but what of Mapson? Was not he entitled to a break for some excellent goalkeeper.
Sunderland Barrier.
Mapson was the real cause of Everton’s outgoing. He had his spot of luck, but any goalkeeper is entitled to that, but on his general play he was entitled to keep a clean sheet. When all others were beaten, Mapson stood unbeaten, parrying shots and headers that might have beaten any goalkeeper. That would seem to suggest that Everton were on top. They were in one sense, but not another. If a side is good enough to get to close grips with a rival defence it should be good enough to complete the task –the getting of goals. But it was not Everton’s day. Sunderland’s defence had pulled them through and so made some atonement for that historical defeat some two years ago. Perhaps we were inclined to judge the game on that standard. If we did well we ate to blame for that was an outstanding display. I have not seen a game where the ball was so much in the air, where there was so much wild kicking, nor the ball sent out of play by Sunderland in their effort to keep their goal lead. Everton claimed that they should have had penalty. I have no doubt that Johnston handled the ball when Stevenson shot, but my reading of it was that it was a case of ball to hand, and not hand to ball. Nevertheless Everton were a shade unlucky not to have at least qualified for a replay, for I can recall one time when Everton’s pressure so terrified the Sunderland team that only Gurney was left up the field.
Giving Up The Ghost
Having had their fling, Everton seemed to give up the ghost under the impression that it was impossible to break down Sunderland’s resistance. At all events never again were they the menace to Sunderland they had been. The winners were thankful of the respite. They had been severely handled. The all important goal came in this way Carter snapped up the ball not far from the penalty line. A quick pass out to Burbanks, took the Everton defence, just turned the half hour, to that point. Burbanks were deliberate with his centre and the ball cruised over T. G. Jones head to Gurney standing near the far post. A nod was all that was needed and, as it turned out Everton were out of the Cup. It was the one time when the Everton defence had been led into the trap. While Everton were willing triers afterwards, the Sunderland defence had no intention of losing what they had gamed. Everton had by far the greater share of the attack, and Morton had a comparatively easy afternoon so compared with Mapson, who saw many fine shots flash by his goal. Morton once had to dive to check Duns, but Sunderland only concern was the holding of the lead. Mapson was fortunate when Stevenson shot and the ball hit him and rebounded out to Lawton who cracked home a scorcher which also struck the goalkeeper. That will give you some idea as to how the ball ran for Everton. There were other occasions when Mapson would have been helpless had the Everton forwards shot with any discretion. I did not like the way Sunderland wasted time; acted childishly in kicking the ball off the spot. Burbanks and Duns were rarely seen, and it was Carter and Gurney who did most of Sunderland’s work forward. The half back line proved stronger than that of Everton’s. T. Jones never knew where Gurney was, for he roamed all over the field. Mercer was the best of the Everton middle line. Gillick was clever, but there was no reason why he should run into the centre so often, Stevenson was the pick of the home forwards. Lawton did some shooting and Cunliffe was wholehearted in his work, but I fear the Everton forward line, as at present constituted is lacking in weight. Teams: - Everton: - Morton, goal; Jones (JE), and Cook, backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG), and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson and Trentham, forwards. Sunderland: - Mapson, goal; Feenan, and Hall, backs; Thomson, Johnston and McNab, half-backs; Duns, Carter (captain), Gurney, Gallacher, and Burbanks, forwards. Referee Mr. RG. Rudd, Middlesbrough. The attendance of 68,158 is a record for the ground, but the receipts, £5,877 were below those of the Everton v Bolton tie in 1935 when £5, 957 was taken. Everton met Brentford at Brentford on Wednesday, when the team will be the same as on Saturday.
MAPSON’S DAY
January 24, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
Let me introduce you to Mr. Mapson, the Sunderland goalkeeper the man who put Everton out of the Cup. He, more than anyone else, kept Sunderland in the Cup for at least another round by his fine exhibition. With his team leading by his slender margin of a goal and the Everton forwards crashing their way through the Sunderland defence after the interval it, needed a strong man in goal. Sunderland had him in the person of Mapson, and should the Cup-holders go through to Wembley again, I hope they will give a thought to Mapson, who was the main plank over the precipice which led to the fifth round. He was the hero of the day, for he gave a grand display, when the others had failed to make this a classical game.
Disappointment.
We had hoped that this game would be such another as the one between the two-teams a couple of seasons ago, when the display of football set the blasé critic shaze, and caused superlatives to be sprinkled as though from a pepper-box all over the sports pages. How we were doomed to disappointment. Perhaps we had expected too much for such games only come once in a lifetime. This was not good football, football as it should he played. Searching through my notebook, I can find but one instance of a really classical movement, and it produced the goal. Of the remainder it was slashing football not at all commensurate with the standard of the two teams engaged. Hard, oh, yes, it was hard enough typical Cup-tie stuff –what is Cup-tie football –as we know it in the Barnsley days, but we had been led to expect something much better, and we had a right to expect it. Balloon ball it was most of the time with players hitting or heading it with more hope that judgement. The goal was a good one, nicely made; so nicely made in fact it could be “seen” before the ball actually passed into the net. Had Cook not hesitated with his clearance the goal would never have been scored. Sunderland were entitled to their victory because they were able to land the ball into the net, but on this form I don’t think they will see Wembley in May. For one thing I did not like the way they slashed the ball into touch without reason, kicked the ball from off the free-kick spot, and the wicked waste of time. One naturally expects a side holding such a slender end as a goal to use every means in their power to keep it, but there is such a thing as sportsmanship.
That Penalty Claim
Everton were unlucky. After having nearly all the play they went out of the Cup through one slip –such is a Cup tie. Morton had no more than four shots the whole afternoon, yet one of them must seal Everton fate. I felt sorry for Lawton. With very few chances, he made some rasping drives and Stevenson was unlucky to find either a leg or a body hold him up when he was making his big drives. Many will claim that Everton should have had a penalty. Many referee’s would have given them one when Johnston handled the ball in the area, but was it not a case of ball to hand? Everton’s lightweight forwards found the Sunderland half-backs too strong for them. Gillick was clever but way would he run into the centre without having an understanding with a colleague that his vacated position should be filled? Everton visit Brentford on Wednesday and will be represented by the same team. This match is of great importance to Everton.
EVERTON HAD THEIR CHANCES
January 24, 1938, The Evening Express.
By Pilot.
Everton have decided to play the team beaten in Saturday’s F.A. Cup-tie by Sunderland at Goodison Park for Wednesday’s postponed Football League match against Brentford at Griffin Park on Wednesday. Geldard is still unfit, and so Gillick remains at outside-right, with Trentham at outside-left. The Blues are felling the loss of Geldard. Everton passed out of the cup because of forward weaknesses. They had sufficient chances to win half-a-dozen cup-tie and yet could not accept one. Despite the fact that the Blues had only two good forwards –Stevenson and Lawton –they enjoyed fully three-parts of the attacking without being able to thrust one home. The dominance of the idea may be appreciated from the fact that Morton had only four shots to stop all day. This attack is not good enough for Everton. Stevenson and Lawton shot as hard and as often as possible, but then they were foiled by the wonderful Mapson, a young Birkenhead boy, who developed with Reading and who would have come to Anfield had not Sunderland stepped in. Mapson was almost miraculous and once affected four brilliant saves inside a minute. Mapson, backed up by the consistent Johnson, Feenan, Thomson and McNab, won this tie for Sunderland, but they were helped by the poor finishing of Everton. Apart from holding off the tackle occasionally the Everton rear divisions played well until they tired towards the end of a game which, the longer it went, the more certain it became Sunderland’s. Everton had no attacking genius like Carter, while the Wearsiders were better served on the wings. For the most part, however, the cup-holders were content in defend. And how they did it! So once again Everton have failed to take advantage of the home draw. In four successive seasons now the Blues have passed out of the Cup after having ground advantage!
STREET SCENE AFTER EVERTON CUP-TIE
January 24, 1938. Evening Express.
Sunderland Supporters Fined.
An incident in Church-street, Liverpool, on Saturday night, after the Everton-Sunderland cup tie, was referred to at Liverpool Police Court, today, when six Sunderland men were accused of disorderly behaviour. The men did not appear, but were represented by Mr. Sydney Price. Mr. A. Rawlinson, prosecuting, said the men were very excited and were jostling people off the pavement. One of the men was waving a wooden cup on a stick. The men were spoken to by the police, but after moving on they again behaved in a disorderly manner. The chairman (Alderman J. C. Cross) I suppose this was “cup-tie itis.” Mr. Price, defending, said that the men were not drunk and had only allowed their enthusiasm to get the better of their judgement. They were all men of good character. The men were each fined 5s.
EVERTON’S LEAGUE POSITION.
January 25, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
Everton are in dire need of points. Their League position is not at all satisfying, for although Blackpool have fallen away in recent weeks, the fact that Portsmouth are rapidly improving make Everton’s position perilous. To take points from Griffin Park is no easy task, but it can be taken for granted that Everton will make a bold bid against the League leaders, Brentford. I am told that the “Bees” were lucky to beat Portsmouth in the Cup-tie, which rather suggests that Everton may not make the trip in vein. The directors decided that the Cup team should remain unchanged, whereas Brentford may make one change in their side. Eastham may deputise for Holliday has been decided. This game is as important to Everton as any Cup-tie. Team: Everton: - Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (T.), Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, and Trentham.
EVERTON’S VISIT TO LEAGUE LEADERS
January 25, 1938 Evening Express
By Pilot.
Everton will continue their fight for League safety tomorrow when they oppose the leaders of the First Division, Brentford, at Griffin Park, in the game postponed from last Saturday. The Blues are only two points ahead of the bottom teams in the table, and a tremendous effort will be needed if the club is not to be overshadowed by the relegation bogey. Their midfield play in previous games has gained them opportunity after opportunity, but the forwards –apart from Lawton –have not been getting the goals. An improvement in this respect, and Brentford may be surprised. Everton’s policy must be to adopt the open methods of attack. The Blues are faced with a hard task, but they have yet to visit Griffin Park and out up an indifferent display. Team: Everton: - Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (T.), Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, and Trentham.
EVERTON AT BRENTFORD
January 26, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton have much leeway to make up if they are to be spared a struggle later on in the season. At the moment they have but 20 points for 24 matches and are sixth from the bottom of the table. In tackling Brentford in London today they are set a very still task, as Brentford lead the way by four points. Brentford: - Croszier; Wilson, Bateman; Brown, James, Sneddon; Hopkins, Eastham, McCulloch, Scott, Reid. Everton: - Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (T.), Mercer; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, and Trentham.
IMPROVED FORM OF EVERTON
January 26, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
But Brentford Score The First Goal.
By Stork.
Teams: - Everton: - Morton, goal; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton (captain), Jones (T.), and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson and Trentham, forwards. Brentford: - Crozier, goal; Wilson and Bateman, backs; Brown, James, and Sneddon, half-backs; Hopkins, Eastham, McColloch, Scott and Reid, forwards. Referee Mr. H.M. Mee, (Mansfield). Everton were in search of points at Brentford, today, to help lift them up the table. They were evidently in search of something else, for several directors along with Mr. Hunter Hart, were at Tottenham’s Cup-tie with New Brighton. It is well known on Merseyside that they have displayed great interest in the Rakers’ left-back, Greenhalgh. It will take a big figure to get him if what I hear is correct, for quite a number of other First Division clubs also have an interest. It wasn’t a bad attendance for a midweek game, my impression being that there would be 15,000 present at the start. Cunliffe came right to the front when he used a back heel kick to steer clear of a tackle and Everton’s first two minutes play produced good class football and something even better might have been had Gillick been in position for Lawton’s pass. Cook again stepped in to clear away a dangerous centre from Scott. Then came the promise of an Everton goal. Gillick was clear of the Brentford defence and we naturally expected a goal, but Gillick shot straight at Crozier who made a great save. Everton’s football was of higher quality than that of Brentford, who were rarely dangerous until Eastham broke loose and made a shot of power which went close to the Everton upright. What a different Everton this was to last Saturday. The ball was kept low, the passing accurate and the tackling clean and sure, so much so that the Bees’ forwards were held down quiet easily. Stevenson was doing grand work, keeping Trentham well supplied, and if the winger had not kicked right round the ball a good opening might have been made.
Reid’s Header.
Hereabouts came Brentford’s effort to make a goal, Reid making a header of immense power which Morton pounced down upon and saved at the foot of the post. Eastham then sent a far-flung shot wide of the mark, I have not seen the former Bolton player shoot so much. Brentford came more into the game at this point, but the Everton defence was giving nothing away. Stevenson went close following a cute Everton move, and then T. Jones beat McColloch when danger was imminent. Scott shot feebly from a scoring position. Cunliffe was dead on the mark from long range, Crozier taking the safe was over the bar, to save himself further trouble. When Brown passed the ball it seemed to swing away from Morton, but he succeeded in turning the ball away. He did well a minute later when he swept from under his bar a header by McColloch.
McColloch Scores.
McColloch was pining for a chance. He shook his head in disappointment when Eastham failed to get the ball through to him –at least where he seemed to expected it. With two minutes to go McColloch scored for Brentford after Jack Jones had missed his chance. Morton had no chance. It had been Everton’s half in spite of the goal. There was nearly an equaliser when Cunliffe forced Crozier to make a great save. The goalkeeper made another great save to retain the lead for his side. Half-time –Brentford 1, Everton 0. Scott scored a second goal.
BRENTFORD TAKE THEIR CHANCES.
January 26, 1938. Evening Express
Gillick Shines For Everton
By Watcher.
Everton in need of League points were hoping to complete a “double” when they met Brentford at Griffin Park today. Several Everton directors and assistant secretary Mr. Hunter Hart were at White Hart-lane this afternoon, watching the replay Cup-tie between the Spurs and New Brighton. I understand they were there to make further notes on the play of Greenhalgh, the Rakers’ left full back. Teams: - Everton: - Morton, goal; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton (captain), Jones (T.), and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson and Trentham, forwards. Brentford: - Crozier, goal; Wilson and Bateman, backs; Brown, James, and Sneddon, half-backs; Hopkins, Eastham, McColloch, Scott and Reid, forwards. Referee Mr. H.M. Mee, (Mansfield). Everton opened promisingly, a bout of triangular passing between Cook, Cunliffe, Britton and Lawton looking dangerous until ended by Sneddon’s sliding tackle. Cook relieved pressure on the Blues’ goal with a cleverly taken overhead kick, and when the Bees came through next time Jones (T.G) sprinted back to hold to Scott. When Gillick enlisted Britton’s aid on the line, the England half-back gave him a perfect return, and Gillick swung the ball across, only to see Bateman nip the plan in the bud, with a full blooded clearance. But Everton were soon back again, studied half-back play proving Lawton with the chance to square the ball to the waiting Trentham, who from easy range, screwed the ball outside. Brentford had spent much time on defence, yet they went within an ace of taking the lead, only Morton’s agility in getting across, and throwing himself at Hopkins’ drive saving the day. It was heads up when Everton threw out another challenge and after Trentham and Lawton had put in good head work, Wilson had to send over for a corner. Mercer took a risk in back passing with McCollouh on hand, but Jones (T.) covered the gap down the middle Everton were playing a grand type of attacking game. Every forward shot for goal several times before the end of the first quarter. Gillick had the best goal-scoring chance, Bateman’s habit of roaming out of position giving him plenty of room. Terrific cross drives by Gillick forced Crozier to fling himself across the goal to push the ball round the foot of the post. Trentham disappointed when he lacked distance with a cross for which the unmarked Lawton was signalling. Morton fully deserved the 30,000 crowd’s applause for the confident manner in which he caught a well-taken header by Reid, but he had only to watch the ball sail over the top when Hopkins, after persuading Jones (J.) to run the wrong way, took a chance shot from long range. Brentford were now showing up better. Most danger came from their right wing pair –Hopkins and Eastham, the winger winning most of the duels with Jones (J.). Stevenson made a fine run, which took him past Brown and James, but he finished badly, sending the ball on to the stand roof. Scott seemed likely to chalk up a Brentford goal when Sneddon passed to him in the penalty area, but he hastiness resulted in bad range. The next time the Blues went through they cut out a passage on the left, complete understanding between Mercer and Trentham enabling the half-backs to send Stevenson away. Crozier was the stumbling block, as he also was when a few second later Gillick almost got his head to a Trentham corner.
Narrow Escape For Blues.
It was a near thing for Everton when Morton half swinging round, almost turned the ball into his own goal. With only three minutes to go before the interval, Brentford took the lead via McColloch. A miskick let in Brown who squared to Hopkins, and when the wingers low centre flashed goalwards. Morton, harassed by Eastham. Failed to catch it and it went on to McCulloch, who ran it over the line. Just before the interval Cunliffe put in a powerful rising drive, which Crozier pulled down. Everton contended the ball had gone under the post, but the referee did not agree. Morton stopped Brentford scoring again in the second half, but he failed to emulate this feat next time and Scott put the Bees two up. Brown gave Scott the chance and the winger closed in before releasing a fast cross drive from an acute angle 12 yards out. Morton jumped out, but the ball glanced off his body to flash into the far top corner. The goal came in the 47th minute. Had it not touched Morton’s jersey it would not have entered the net. Mercer had to receive attention for a thigh injury. Cunliffe raised Everton’s hopes with a terrific drive from behind the penalty spot, but Crozier pushed the ball out.
BRENTFORD 3 EVERTON 0 (Game 1629 over-all)-(Div 1 1587 )
January 27, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Play Well
But Brentford Take The Points
Cunliffe At His Best.
By Stork.
Although Brentford defeated Everton 3-0 in their rearranged game at London, yesterday, the score was not a true reflection of the game. In fact, it was a false result, for Everton gave one of their best displays for some time and Brentford were flattered by their victory. The officials of the club themselves readily admitted that Everton’s first half exhibition of football was as good as anything they had seen previously this season. They were definitely better than Brentford up to the interval despite the fact that the London team led at that stage through a goal scored by McColloch two minutes from half-time. I was pleased at Everton’s form, and had they held a lead at the half-stage they would have been fully deserving of it for apart from their clever football, there were shooters in the front line.
Crozier Bars The Way
It is many a day since I saw Cunliffe make so many fine shots, and had not Crozier, the Brentford goalkeeper, been at the height of his form his goal would have fallen many times before McCulloch scrambled home a pass from Scott. It was really surprising to see the way Everton cut through the Brentford defence, and only through the work of Crozier were they prevented from running up a nice goal crop before Brentford had scored. In the first 15 minutes Crozier kept out at least half a dozen worthy efforts, most of them from Cunliffe, who has not played so well for some considerable time. He was the best forward on the field. Scotland’s centre forward led the home attack, but so sure was the Everton defence that McCulloch only had one opportunity during the half and took it.
Players Hurt.
In the second half Brentford scored again in two minutes, and this was due to an unfortunate happening when Britton turned a ball from Scott out of the reach of Morton. It was bad luck, for the ball only just struck the Everton captain’s boot, but it was sufficient to turn the ball away from the goalkeeper, who had positioned himself well to receive the shot, and would no doubt have saved but for the slight deflection. Hereabouts Everton ran into trouble. Jack Jones twisted his knee and had to go on the wing, which meant a wholesale organization. Cunliffe went full back, but this move took away from the attack its best member. Later, however, Trentham took over the left back position. Everton fought gallantly against a side which had now got on top, and Crozier had more than one good save to make to prevent Everton reducing the margin. They were always in the game with a chance, but when Hopkins scored in 83 minutes, Everton’s star had faded. The ball seemed to go behind Morton from Hopkins’s foot and at no great pace, for the shooter was almost on one knee when he made his shot. I am not, however, greatly concerned with this defeat for I saw in Everton’s play something which has been missing all too long. If Cunliffe can only retain this form I can promises opposing goalkeepers much hard work.
Lawton Ill
Lawton had a poor game and got a nasty blow in the stomach. During the journey home he had an attack of vomiting and was not at all himself. When Crozier pulled a ball from under the bar from a Cunliffe effort just after McColluch had scored, Everton claimed that the ball had gone underneath the bar and that Crozier was standing well over his line when he scored the ball out. The referee however, refused their claim for a goal. Teams: - Everton: - Morton, goal; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton (captain), Jones (T.), and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson and Trentham, forwards. Brentford: - Crozier, goal; Wilson and Bateman, backs; Brown, James, and Sneddon, half-backs; Hopkins, Eastham, McColloch, Scott and Reid, forwards. Referee Mr. H.M. Mee, (Mansfield).
EVERTON LOST, BUT –
January 27, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
Everton will play much worse than they did at Brentford and win. Their display against the leaders was their brightest and best for some weeks, for not only was their football good, but there was any amount of shooting, good shooting too. For the second week in succession, however, they ran up against a goalkeeper who was inspired and to Crozier goes the laurels of Brentford’s victory it may seem ridiculous in view of the Londoner’s three goals to say that Everton were the better team until an injury came along to reduce their chance, but it is not. Everton have often enjoyed the bulk of the attack in other games and lost, but they lost because there were no shots coming from their forwards. Yesterday there were any amount of shots –good shots, too. No the kind that gives a goalkeeper a chance but the sort which forced him to make sensational saves. Brentford are just having that slice of good fortune which often settles on a side without any worries and if it remains with the “Bees” there is a big chance of them bringing off the double. I am rather inclined to think that their worries started yesterday, for they cannot have a great belief in themselves after the way Everton cut through them and made them look a moderate. It was rank bad luck that Everton were not leading by three goals before McColloch scrambled the ball into the net two minutes from the interval from his first real chance. Cunliffe instantly replied with two great efforts the second of which Everton maintained pulled from under his bar with his hands well over the line.
Cot Of Injury.
McColloch’s goal turned Brentford from an all-defensive side into one of attack, and a goal within two minutes of the interval did not help. Here again there was a spice of luck, for Scott’s shot struck Britton on the foot and deflected the ball beyond Morton. Injuries then entered into the matter Jack Jones was injured, and had to go on the wing, which to some extent disorganized the attack, but even so Cunliffe came along with further hot drives to which Crozier put up a barrier. Ten minutes from the end Hopkins sealed the issue with a third goal. Tommy Lawton had a moderate day. He got a blow in the stomach, and during the journey home had an attack of vomiting but had recovered a great deal by the time we had reached Liverpool Jack Jones’s injury is a twisted knee.
BRENTFORD NOT THREE GOALS BETTER THAN EVERTON
January 27, 1938. The Evening Express.
By Watcher.
Everton supporters take heart! The team’s 3-0 defeat at Brentford yesterday was undeserved. It was all Everton in the first half. Fortune favoured Brentford in the second half. In the early stages Everton played in refreshing style, and the relegation bogy will soon be banished –if only the Blues keep it up. Everton spent three parts of the first half on attack. They peppered Crozier with shots from all angles, and had not Brentford’s goalkeeper been in brilliant form, there is no doubt the Blues would have chalked up three goals before McCollouch ran the ball over the line just before the “break.” Cunliffe’s rising shot late in the first half appeared to have passed under the bar before Crozier pulled it down. Brentford were seen to better advantage in the second half. Yet even then the Goodison boys seemed likely to pull the game out of the fire until Scott notched a second goal. Hopkins scored their third. Yes, a division of the points would have been a fairer result.
EVERTON CHANGES
January28 1938, The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton resume their home league engagement to-morrow when Bolton wanderers play their return visit. It is pleasing to note the Geldard has recovered and that he will turn out as partner to Cunliffe, Gillick crossing over to the left wing Trentham dropping out. J.E. Jones who received a knee injury in the game against Brentford is reported fit. The team I: Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Gillick, Bolton will have Westwood and Taylor in their side which is as follows; Swift; Tennant, Hubbick; Goslin, Athkinson, Taylor, Carruthers, Grosvenor, Calder, Westwood, Anderson. Everton have the opportunity of securing their first “double” of the season they defeated the Wanderers at Burnden Park this term by 2-1.
JACK SHARP DIEDS AT FITY-NINE YEARS OLD
January 28 1938, The Liverpool Daily Post
Mr. Jack sharp the well-known former cricket and footballer died this morning at his residence queens drive Liverpool, after a short illness. He was fifty-nine years-of-age and leaves two’s son’s and a daughter. Mr. sharp was born at Hereford, and at the age of seventeen became attached to the cricket staff of Aigburg. In the ten season 1899-1908 he played 347 innings for lancashire, making 9,582 runs and taking 344 wickets, at a average of 26-68 runs in 1905 he was in five partnerships each providing over 100 runs for lancashire and he had nine wickets in a inning against Worcestershire. He once bowled unchanged against the powerful Kent side in 1910 he was given a benefit, which realized £1,679. Some years later Mr.Sharp played as an amateur, and in the season 1920 acted as captain in place of Mr. Myles Kenyon who was unable to play owing to an injured knee. His best year was 1909, when he scored four centuries for the county and played in three occasions for England against Australia. He headed the English batting average and scored the only century for his country in the five test matches. Mr. Sharp has also had brilliant career as a footballer, and was twice ‘’capped’’ for England. It was Aston villa who brought him out as a forward, and he became a fast and clever outside right. Later, as captain and player he rendered the Everton club many years of valuable service for which he was rewarded with two benefits. He was a director of the Everton club, after relinquishing his sporting activities he started business at a sports outfitter in Liverpool in which he has been engaged for many years.
GREENHALGH FOR EVERTON F.C.
January 28, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
New Brighton Full Back Signs Today
By Ranger.
Everton F.C have today, signed Norman Greenhalgh, New Brighton’s left full back and he will play for his new club tomorrow at Goodison Park against Bolton Wanderers. He takes the place of Jack Jones, who at the last moment following a trial this morning, has had to cry off. Greenhalgh thus makes his debut against his old club. Everton had been in negotiation with New Brighton for some time but had to meet competition from several other clubs including Blackburn, Bury and Coventry. Everton’s final bid, however, clinched the deal. The amount of the transfer fee has not, of course, been divulged, but in view of the competition for the players signature, it is sure to be a substantial one, probably not far short of £3,000. The previous record fee received by New Brighton was £1,500 when Peter Kelly went to Notts County some ten years of so ago. Greenhalgn thus follows other notable Rakers who have worn Everton’s colours. First there was Glover, then “Duke” Hamilton (now at Tranmere), Leo Stevens, a centre forward, and goalkeeper Bradshaw, who subsequently went to Arsenal and Doncastle Rovers. Standing 5ft 10 ½ and weighting 11st 7lb. Greenhalgh, who is only 22 years of age, is the best left back New Brighton have had since the days of Jimmy Jones. They both reached Sandheys Park via Bolton through, whereas Jones was the finished product when he arrived, Greenhalgh was only in the making. Joining New Brighton in October, 1935 just before Billy Wright, the Rakers right half backs, another ex-Wanderers, Greenhalgh, who had figured in the Bolton Wanderers Central League side, both as wing half and full back, was for some time after going to Lake Lane filling a role in the middle line. He eventually became settled in the defence when he has operated on either wing with equal success.
Fearless Tackler.
A keen safe and fearless tackler, with splendid powers of recovery, he sizes up a situation very quickly which, allied to a good sense of positional play, makes him a very difficult man to evade. A sure kicker with either foot, and capable with his head, he is not prone to overkicking though, when needed, he can drive a ball with power. He aims at placing the ball to his forwards, or to an unmarked half back. He is a skilful dribbler and using such tactics has many times initiated attacks. Quiet and unassuming in manner Greenhalgh is a non-smoker and a teetotaler. A versatile player, he has also figured successfully in the forward line, and last season, after Hullett now with Plymouth Argue was injured, Greenhalgh stepped into the centre forward position, scoring six goals in six matches.
Everton A’s Team
Everton “A” meet Runcorn at Bellefield, tomorrow (2.45) and will play –Burnett; Saunders, Felton; Hill, Edwards, Webster; forwards, from Merritt, Hurel, Catterick, Cuff, Laidman, Sharp, and Wilcox.
DEATH OF MR. JACK SHARP.
January 28, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
The death of Mr. Jack Sharp, Everton director and former international footballer and cricketer has come as a terrible shock to the sporting world and to Liverpool and district in particular. With his passing gone one of the finest sporting personalities we have known for years. Mr. Sharp had not been well for some time, and had been taking things very quickly, but he was down at business only a week ago. The name of Jack Sharp has been a household one in the realm of sport for forty years. Always scrupulously fair clean and straightforward as a player be carried the attributes which made him so popular in his early days into his business and directorial life later, and his death, the more affecting because of its tragic suddenness will leave a blank in sports circles which will be acutely felt. His life was a model and example to all. His services to Everton have been inestimable, and the club has lost one of the greatest pillars. Mr. Sharp’s career is given in detail on another page. His death will cast a sad gloom over the game at Goodison Park tomorrow when Bolton Wanderers provide the opposition. Bolton have slipped back a bit of late and have averaged only a point a game from their last ten matches. There is hope for a home victory if Everton will come down from the clouds and forsake their ballooning tactics, work their interchanges with intelligence, and be less watchful in front of goal.
Everton’s Team Changes.
Everton have reverted to their old formation for their match with Bolton Wanderers at Goodison Park, tomorrow Geldard having recovered from his influenza, comes in on the right so that Gillick can cross over to the left wing. (Writes Stork). This match is of great importance to Everton, who must improve their League position in the next few weeks. It is really bad, and a strong and long pull must be made to take the team from the lower region. Bolton Wanderers at their best can play attractive and forceful football, and if Everton can reproduce their Brentford form they should win. They not only played around football, but had any number of shots which would have beaten most goalkeepers. They were decidedly unlucky not to have won at Griffin Park, for they were much the better team for an hour. Recently there has been a dearth of good shots from the Everton forwards, and that has been the cause of many of their defeats. In actual play they have held territorial advantage, but something more than that is required. Tommy Lawton, who was sick after the London game, and Jack Jones who strained his knee, and both reported fit, so apart from the return of Geldard there is no change in the side. Everton; Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (T), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Gillick. Bolton: - Swift; Tennant, Hubbick; Goslin, Atkinson, Taylor, Carruthers, Grosvenor, Calder, Westwood, Anderson.
EVERTPN SIGN RAKERS’ STAR FULL BACK
January 28, 1938. The Evening Express
Greenhalgh Will Play Against Bolton
By Pilot.
Everton today secured the transfer from New Brighton of Norman Greenhalgn, the 22-year-old left back. Greenhalgn will play against Bolton Wanderers in the First Division match at Goodison Park tomorrow. The deal was carried through today, but Mr. Theo Kelly, secretary of Everton. Dr. Tom Martlew, chairman of New Brighton, and Mr. W. Sawyer secretary manger of the Rakers. Greenhalgh will have the remarkable experience tomorrow of playing against the club which discovered him. He played with Bolton Wanderers at the same time as Tommy Lawton, the present Everton centre-forward. By signing Greenhalgn, Everton have disappointed several Football League clubs. Greenhalgh is certainly the most promising young back I have seen this season, and he should do well with the Blues. He went to the Rakers on a free transfer three seasons ago, and is 5ft 10 ½ ins and 11st 8lb. Everton watched him in action against Tottenham Hotspur in the Cup-ties. Greenhalgh was one of the outstanding players in the games. I know New Brighton were asking a fee of £2,000 for Greenhalgh. His opportunity to make an early debut arises from Jack Jones not having fully recovered from a kick on the knee received at Brentford on Wednesday. Greenhalgh went to the Rakers as a right back, but then changed over to left to accommodate Vaughton on the right. He is a brilliant tackler and positional player, and this season has improved beyond all knowledge.
DEATH OF MR. JACK SHARP
Gloucestershire Echo-Friday 28 January 1938
FORMER ENGLAND FOOTBALLER AND CRICKETER
Mr. J. Sharp, one of the select band of sportsmen who have played for England at both Association football and cricket, died at Liverpool to-day at the age of 59. As a footballer he played for Aston Villa and Everton, and when his active career finished he became a director of the Goodison Park Club in 1903. Sharp was "capped" against Ireland, and he played against Scotland in 1905. He achieved equal fame as a crickter. First appearing for Lancashire in 1899 he was then 21—Sharp altogether scored well over 20,000 runs first-class cricket and took over 400 wickets. In 1909 he played in three of the five Tests against the Australians, and in the final encounter at the Oval he scored 105, thus being the only English player to make a century in the Tests that year. He captained Lancashire in 1923-25, and eventually retired from county cricket at the age of 47. A resolute, free-hitting batsman with a variety of strokes at his command, Sharp scored 38 centuries for Lancashire. He was a fast bowler. Sharp was concerned in an incident at Old Trafford in 1925 which led to him threatening never to play again on that historic ground. In Parkin's benefit match with Middlesex, Sharp, fielding at short-leg, missed Lee off the first ball of the game and an opening partnership of 121 between H. W. Lee and J. W. Hearne helped Middlesex to a decisive victory. Sharp, then Lancashire's captain, was greatly upset by the attitude of some of the spectators over the dropped catch. The Lancashire Committee managed to get Sharp to change his mind, but at the end of the summer he sent in his resignation. He leaves a widow, two sons and a daughter.
GELDARD OUTSIDE RIGHT AGAINST BOLTON
January 28, 1938. The Evening Express
Everton Cup Conquerors Of Chelsea.
Blues Chance of “Double.”
By Pilot.
Everton will field the attack which enabled them to defeat Chelsea in the F.A. Cup when they entertain Bolton Wanderers at Goodison Park tomorrow in a match which is of paramount importance to the Blues. Albert Geldard, the international outside-right, has recovered from influenza and so returns to his usual position. This enables Gillick to revert to outside-left to the exclusion of Trentham. There remains a doubt about Jack Jones, the left-back. He received a kick on the knee in the match at Brentford on Wednesday, but has made a splendid recovery. Should he not be able to play, his place will be taken by the Scottish international Thomson. Everton have a splendid chance of completing their first “double” of the season, for when they visited Bolton early in the season, they scored a brilliant 2-1 victory. Bolton rank as one of the best sides in the country with a remarkable knack of picking up away points. They have made 12 journeys this season and only three times have they been defeated. They have recorded three wins and six draws.
Half-Back Power.
They have tremendous power in the half back line, and possess raiders in attack capable of riddling any defence. Westwood of course, is the scintillating star of that forward formation. Everton proved in the first half at Brentford that they are unaffected by their surprise dismissal from the F.A. Cup, and I look to them to put their best foot forward to reach a safer place in the First Division table. Matches between these clubs always produce a splendid struggle, and this should prove no exception, seeing that the Wanderers are in the race with a championship chance, and that Everton are fighting for league safely. Everton; Morton; Cook, Jones (Jack); (or Thomson); Britton, Jones (Tom), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Gillick.
EVERTON’S LOSS
January29 1938, The Liverpool Daily Post
The death of Mr. Jack sharp reported in yesterday’s daily post, is a great generally. I recall his many brilliant displays at football and cricket. Few men were so versatile as this fine sportsman his dashing batsmanship being a delight to watch while his flashes on the wing for Everton have had few counter parts in later years. His genial personality will be greatly missed at Goodison park to-day.
EVERTON’S NEW FULL BACK
January 29 1938, The Liverpool Daily Post
Greenhalgh Signed From New Brighton
Greenhalgh signed from New Brighton and he will play for his new club at left full back against Bolton wanders at Goodison park to-day, instead of J.E. Jones, who was injured in Wednesday. Greenhalgn has been one of the outstanding figures in the new Brighton team for some time, and several clubs desired his services but Everton clinched the transfer yesterday, it is stated that the transfer fee is not for short of £3,000. The previous record fee received by New Brighton was £1,500, when P Kelly went to Notts County some ten years or so age. Standing 5ft 10 and half inches and weights 11st 7lbs. Greenhalgn who is only twenty-two years-of-age, joined new Brighton in October 1935 he had played in the Bolton wanderers centre-league side, both as wing-half and full back was for some time after going to rake-lanefilling a role in the middle line. He eventually became settled in the defence where he has operated on either wing with equal success. He has also figured successfully in the forward line, and last season after Hullett (now with Plymouth Arygle) was injured Greenhalgn played at centre-forward scoring six goals in six matches.
BIG EFFORT NEEDED BY EVERTON
January 29, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
The time has come when those clubs low in the table must make their effort to climb if possible, out of the danger zone, which may be wider than usual because competition is becoming keener each week, and more clubs are likely to be involved during the last two months. Everton and Liverpool are not at all well placed, and the players are in for a hectic time. Today Bolton Wanderers visit Goodison Park, and as they are in the first flight it is clear that a big struggle for the points will be seen. Everton lost at Brentford after playing well, but more punch is required in attack, and they will need to improve in this department if they are to win against Westwood and his colleagues. Geldard resumes at outside right, and at his best this dashing winger should add more zest to the line. The fact that Greenhalgh, the New Brighton full back, is to turn out for his new club as partner to Cook, is an additional attraction. The kick off is at 3 o’clock and the teams are: - Everton; Morton; Cook, Greenhalgn; Britton, Jones (T), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Gillick. Bolton Wanderers: - Swift; Tennant, Hubbick; Goslin, Atkinson, Taylor; Carruthers, Grosvenor, Calder, Westwood, Anderson.
EASY WIN FOR EVERTON
January 29, 1938. The Liverpool Football Echo
A Double Over the Wanderers.
Greenhalgh Pleases
By Stork
This was an easy win for Everton, who took three goals in 12 minutes. They played good football allied to good shooting, whereas the Wanderers, except on one occasion when they scored did not show up well. Everton thus completed the double as the Blues won at Burnden Park in September. Teams: - Everton: - Morton, goal; Cook, Greenhalgh, backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG) and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, and Gillick, forwards. Bolton Wanderers: - Swift, goals; Tennant and Hubbicks, backs; Goslin, Atkinson and Taylor, half-backs; Carrruthers, Grosvenor, Calder, Westwood, and Anderson, half-backs; Referee Mr. E. D. Smith, Maryport. One wondered what manner of game we would see at Goodison today with such a high wind blowing. The stands to some extent broke the gale. All the players wore black armbands and stood silent for a few seconds in respect for the late Mr. Jack Sharp, one of Merseysider’s sportsman who was buried this morning. The appearance of Greenhalgh whetted the people’s appetites and the first time the former New Brighton player put foot to ball he was given a round of cheers for a clean and confident interception. Bolton were the first to show what they could do in a combined way, and Cook had to watch carefully Westwood and Anderson, who inter-passed with rare judgment, but once Everton got a hold of things they made matters troublesome for the left flank the Wanderers defence, and eventually it was from this quarter that Everton took the joy of an early goal, scored at six minutes.
Geldard’s Lead To Gillick Goal
It was Gillick who scored it, but his was a simple task after Geldard had run through the defence, forced Swift to leave his goal, and then aimed for the far side of the net. The ball went where he intended to within an inch, and that inch made the difference between the ball going into the net and striking the upright. It came back from the woodwork and Gillick had sensibly gone over to the right spot, and the tapped the ball into the vacant goal. This was a good start, and Everton found that by the use of the back pass to Morton they could easily hold up the Bolton attack which up to this stage had produced little or nothing of a fiery nature. I thought the referee dealt harshly with Tennant when he gave a foul against him when it looked more likely that Gillick had fallen over his own leg. The former Liverpool player adopted an attitude of disgust at the decision. Lawton shot wide from the free kick.
Two in Two Minutes.
Then came two quick goals to Everton as the result of good class football something like I had seen at Brentford, and two faulty clearances by goalkeeper Swift. When Lawton made a hefty drive Swift got in the way of it, but could do no more than push it out again, and Stevenson was on it like a flash and had the ball in the net. That was at 17 minutes, and within two minutes a similar sort of goal came from the foot of Geldard, this time after Stevenson had shot and again Swift had failed to hold the drive. It had been so much Everton that there was little to say about the Wanderers attack which had been securely pinned down on the few occasions it broke loose. When Westwood was placed in command right in front of goal, after a round of passing, one expected something hot from the foot of the English international, but the best Westwood could do with this gilt-edged chance was to lift the ball over the crossbar.
“Cheeky” Moves.
Everton were playing so well within themselves that they became quite cheeky in some things. As for instance when Stevenson, with two men on top of him, claimly “ankled” the ball across to Britton. Bolton had been most disappointing. Just on the interval Geldard was injured, and had to go to the much line for attention.
Half-time Everton 3, Bolton Wanderers 0.
Everton retained their grip and Swift had any amount of work to do, and did it well for some of the shots leveled at hire by Lawton, Cunliffe (twice) and Stevenson were good enough had it not been for his (Swift’s) work in goal. I have not seen the Wanderers so quiet in attack for some considerable time, but this was due in the main to the splendid half-back work of Everton. No sooner had Bolton shown any indication that they would launch an attack that Britton, Jones and Mercer stepped in to cut the attempted combination into shreds. I could visualize the Wanderers’ attack being decided dangerous given the least scope, but in this game they got little opportunity to show their wares. Only occasions did they cross the half-way line, which will give you some idea of the stranglehold the Everton defence had placed upon them. That they took a goal five minutes after the hour was due to a misjudgment of the flight of the ball by Jones. Up to this point he had not put a foot wrong, and it was bad luck that his first blemish should count so hard against him. At the same time I must pay tribute to Calder for the neat style in which he took his chance. Morton had advanced from his goal and Calder seeing his shooting space reduced, calmly lobbed the ball into the Everton net. This brought more fire to the Wanderers, who, however suffered a severe blow when Everton were awarded a penalty for a trip on Cunliffe. This was taken by Lawton at the 72 minute and he gave the goalkeeper no chance with his fierce shot from the spot. Everton should have had yet another goal when Britton ran the ball down the touch line and centred to the far side of the goal. Lawton hot the ball without any suggestion of hesitation and it clattered against the upright. It was hard luck yet it was bad shooting, for he should have scored from that distance –four yards out. Swift made a one-handled punch away save from Lawton and the same player scooped one round his upright, preferring to give a corner rather than take any risks. The Wanderers at times showed glimpses of clever play, but, there was no finality about then, no shots with which to finish off their promising attacks. There was a occurious incident when Stevenson got his hand to the ball to force Swift to make a save. The referee had not seen the handling case, for he gave a corner to Everton. Everyone else saw it, however, and laughed at the idea of Stevenson “getting away with it.” Greenhalgh had made a promising debut, being cool and confident in everything he did. Final Everton 4, Bolton Wanderers 1.
FORMER CAPTAIN OF LANCASHIRE
January 29, 1938. The Yorkshire Post
Mr. Jack Sharp who formerly played cricket and football for England, died from heart failure at his home in Liverpool yesterday, aged 59. Born at Hereford, he started his professional football career as an outside right with Aston Villa. He was then transferred to Everton and seven years later he helped his club to win the English cup. He gained his first International cap in 1903, when he played for England against Ireland, and two years later he was capped against Scotland. Shortly after he settled in Liverpool he began to lay the foundations of the reputation he subsequently made as a cricketer. He was a forceful batsman, a keen fielder and a useful bowler, and in due time he marked his debut with Lancashire with a score of 57 not out. During his career with the county he compiled 20,829 runs in 653 innings and captured 448 wickets. He appeared in three Tests against Australia in 1909, and was the only England player to make a century in that series of Test games. Altogether, he made 38 centuries in first class cricket. In 1920, following his assumption of amateur status, he was appointed to captain the Lancashire side, and in that capacity he proved to be one of the most popular leaders the county have had. Five years after his appointment he threatened to refuse to play at Old Trafford again in consequence of barracking by a section of the crowd. The incident that provoked the trouble arose in Parkin's benefit match against Middlesex, Sharp missed a catch off the first ball and was persistently barracked. It was the kind of catch, he stated afterwards that might have been missed by anybody, but he took the attitude of his critics much to heart, and for some time he remained firm in his resolve not to reappear at Lancashire's head-quarters. Eventually, however, he was persuaded to change his mind. In 1924 he was one of the England team selectors. Mr. Sharp maintained his interest in football as a director of Everton up t his death. He also became an enthusiastic golfer, but lately the state of his health prevented him from following the game. He has left a widow, two sons and one daughter.
SPORT REELS
January 29, 1938. Evening Express.
The British Army is famed for its song both old and new. Therefore it will come as no surprise to know that Harry Morton, the Everton goalkeeper, has an extensive repertoire. “Soldier” Morton as he is known to all his colleagues, enlivens every journey –especially by motor coach –with his comic songs. Torry Gillick is not far behind when it comes to a “solo” turn, while Jack Jones and Billy Cook are the leading crooners in the Blues party. If you have not heard Jack Jones singing “Broken-hearted Clown” you have missed a treat.
EVERTON 4 BOLTON WANDERERS 1 (Game 1630 over-all)-(Div 1 1588)
January 31, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton On The Upgrade
First-Time Shooting
Bolton Wanderers Eclipsed.
By Stork.
Everton sauntered through their game with Bolton Wanderers to an easy victory. The Wanderers gave one of their quietest displays for years. Three goals in 19 minutes was not heartening to them, and it struck me most forcibly that Bolton are only good when things are running their way. Had it not been for Swift in the Wanderers goal Everton’s goal tally would have been considerably augmented, yet it was the goalkeeper who was mainly responsible for Everton’s 4-1 victory, for had he been safe in his handling of the ball in the early stages of the game at least two of those four goals would have been saved. Afterwards Swift gave a grand display, saving some really fine efforts by the Everton forwards, but the damage had been done and Bolton’s championship bid was greatly reduced. Everton’s form bore out what I had said in this paper last week after they had been defeated 3-0 by Brentford. That if Everton could maintain their London form they would win more matches than they would lose”. The Wanderers had an old score to wipe out for Everton had won at Burnden Park, but they never suggested that they would trouble Everton at any point of the game. Fighting a losing battle from the start they showed little or no “kick.”
Greenhalgh’s Coolness.
The goal they got could be considered in the light of a gift, but one must give credit where it is due. Calder took his change well to lob the ball over the advancing Morton, who in recent times has had some easy games due to the excellent defensive ability of his colleagues. Greenhalgh, the new man from New Brighton was not in the least overawed by the occasion, and gave considerable assistance to a defence which always had the Bolton attack in its pocket, as it were. He kicked cleanly, tackled intelligently and bids fair to make a hit in first-class football. He went about his work calmly and confidently and was in no way ruffled under pressure, what little pressure there was. I would however, like to see him under more trying conditions. The wanderer’s right wing played in such a tame manner that it was not a true test but it was just the right type of game to “blood” a newcomer. Greenhalgh will do. In strange company and surroundings one could hardly expect him to set the place on fire, but he played his part in subduing what is acknowledged as one of the best attacking forward lines in the country. The Bolton directors must have wondered what had become of the forwards, for one could count the number of shots on the fingers of one hand.
Defensive Plan.
Even Westwood, a match-winner when all others had failed, could do nothing right. How was it? The explanation comes readily; Everton’s defensive plan, which has been highly successful in recent weeks. Jones made one mistake when he misjudged the flight of a ball which soared over his head and gave Calder his chance, but it was the speed into the tackle which reduced Bolton to rags and tatters. They were first to the ball; determined that it to be theirs, and that was the factor which pinned down the Wanderers attack. Grosvenor had one fierce shot, from which Morton caught the ball like a cricketer and Atkinson went close, but generally did not compare with the shooting of the Everton forwards. Swift was a busy man from the outset parrying direct hits crosses from the wings, and edging the ball neatly over his crossbar. Morton showed him how to catch a ball after he had twice failed to hold drives by Lawton and Stevenson. The rebounds were turned into goals by Stevenson and Geldard after the latter had hit the far post for Gillick to move up and tap the ball into the vacant place. There was a streak of good fortune in all three goals, but does it now show that good shooting can unsettle a goalkeeper and force him into making mistakes? Admitting that Bolton had one of their off days, Everton’s victory was gained by good solid football, football which should carry them up the scale if it is finished off as it was at Brentford and again against Bolton. Everton kept the ball to ground in the wind. The Wanderers followed suit, but there was no “devil” in their play. Those three early goals had set them too big a handicap. Lawton scored the fourth goal from the penalty spot after Cunliffe had been brought down on the penalty line. Gillick should have had at least two further goals, but in each case shot straight at Swift after he had taken up the correct position for Lawton’s headers. Still I had little fault to find with Everton on Saturday. Their greatest failings –bad shooting –has been remedied to a large extent. Teams: - Everton: - Morton, goal; Cook, Greenhalgh, backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG) and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, and Gillick, forwards. Bolton Wanderers: - Swift, goals; Tennant and Hubbicks, backs; Goslin, Atkinson and Taylor, half-backs; Carrruthers, Grosvenor, Calder, Westwood, and Anderson, half-backs; Referee Mr. E. D. Smith, Maryport.
BOLTON WANDERERS RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 0
January 31, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 26)
Everton did not show any of the forms that has won them such a commanding lead in the Central League, when they visited Bolton. Howe scored 10 minutes after the resumption. On the balance of the ply, especially regarding finishing, the Wanderers Reserves merited a great margin of success. Although they had the advantage of the wind in the first half Everton failed to make an impression, but Bell once headed against the bar. It was surprising that the home side did not score more than once during the first 20 minutes of the second half, for they carried all before them. None of the Everton forwards shone though, both inside men, Bentham and Dougal, started off well. Gee was a tower of strength, and both backs Jackson and Thomson defended stubbornly. Lovett had two brilliant saves.
EVERTON ARE RISING
January 31, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
Bolton Wanderers have their eye on the championship title, but on Saturday’s display against Everton that is about all they will get on it for unless there can produce something different they will never get their hands on the trophy. It was the poorest Bolton Wanderers I have seen for an age a team lacking in grit, for it failed ignominiously to fight back against an early reverse. I know only full well what three goals in nineteen minutes can mean to any side, but one has got to face up to such a contingency and not shirk the issue. That is the only way to put game out of the ire. A game is not won until it is lost, but in this case it was lost in less than twenty minutes. Three streaky goals unset the Wanderers such an extent that they never threatened to break down the Everton defence which these days has become something to ponder over. Don’t take me-to-task for that 3-0 defeat at Brentford, for any reply would be. It was a false result.” I know it looked bad, but it was not so bad, but it was not so bad as it was painted in the results column. I came away from London much more satisfied than has often been the case when Everton have won, and actually promised you that repetition of such form would lift Everton from the bottom steps of the League ladder. Everton played better at Griffin Park than they did against Bolton Wanderers but the great difference was that Crozier saved the Everton shots whereas Swift, the Wanderers goalkeeper could not hold them, and goals followed on his failure to do so. Everton took a grip on the game from the start, and soon found ways and means to subdue what is considered one of the most dangerous forward lines in the country. They did it so successfully that the forward line look a decidedly poor, and was poor, because it was not allowed to be anything else through Everton’s sharp tackling, but what was more pleasing to me than anything else was the shooting of the Everton forwards. I had become heartily sick of saying, “Everton had most of the game, but suffered through want of marksmen.” In their last two games they have prevented me trotting out that phrase, and I am glad of it. It was their hard shooting which caused Swift to falter.
About Greenhalgh.
You will want to know about Greenhalgh, signed only a matter of a few hours before the game. Greenhalgh will do. Among new friends, in strange surroundings he made a highly successful debut. Nothing flashy about his game, but clean and confident kicker, with a sure tackle and calmness withal. Would that the Bolton forwards had given him a greater test. They were so frail in their work that Greenhalgh may have looked better than he is, but it was just the right type of game to “blood” a newcomer. He may be fully tested before the season is through, and I don’t think he will be found wanting.
January 1938