EVERTON V. CHESTER
January 1, 1944. The Evening Express
Everton Win Again
Hat-Trick By Stevenson
By Pilot
Everton introduced Cuthbert Tatters, am amateur outside-right, against Chester in the League War Cup-Tie at Goodison Park today, Tatters had been recommended by Tommy Jones and is in the R.A.F. Grant dropped back to right back in place of Mercer, who was unable to get away. Chester were without Hughes, the Welsh international. Bates being at centre half and Hancock, of Walsall and Brown of Stoke, at outside right, and right-half respectively. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (T.G.) (captain) and Watson, half-backs; C. Tatters (Amateur),Wainwright, Boothway (Manchester City), Stevenson, and McIntosh, (Preston), forwards. Chester; Scales (Manchester City), Walton (Leicester City) and McNeill, backs; Brown (Stoke City), Bates, and Tagg, half-backs; Hancock (Walsall), Newsome (West Bromwich), Loxham, Astbury and Dwyer, forwards. Referee; Mr. F. Lee (Newcastle-Under-Lyme). Chester showed the way with two promising raids, initiated by Astbury, but Burnett was not seriously troubled. Boothway, of Manchester City, playing his first game for Everton, went through enterprisingly but his shot, taken as he was tackled, swung outside. Brown a coloured player, delighted the crowd with his footwork. Stevenson and Watson got McIntosh away, and Tatters came in to hit the centre on the volley, Scales doing well to turn the ball around the post. Boothway provided another thrill when he raced through from Tommy Jones’ pass to shoot from the edge of the penalty area, but the ball struck the foot of the post and went behind.
Opening Goal
Immediately after the ball was pushed up the middle again and there was a race between Scales and Stevenson. The latter got the better of the argument and with Scales on the floor, Stevenson turning the ball over for Wainwright to place into the empty net to give Everton the lead in seven minutes. Tatters responded well to a call by Wainwright to cut in, and let go an excellent shot which Scales pushed over the top, and when Boothway outwitted Bates and ran on to shoot to the far corner, Scales dived to fist clear. McIntosh got the ball into the net but only as the whistle sounded for offside. Everton were getting a grip on the game, despite some nice middle passing by Chester, and Stevenson took one first timer, but the ball sailed over. McIntosh beat Walton and shot for the far corner, Scales going full length to make a magnificent one-handed save to turn the ball around the post.
Tatters Impresses.
Tatters was certainly making an impression and how he came across field to open up the way for McIntosh, but offside spoiled a fine movement. Tatters trickled Astbury and then Tagg in delightful style. McIntosh was again a deadly Everton raider, but the Chester defence covered his many centres expertly. Chester raided through the agency of Hancock, but Burnett dashing out pulled the ball down. Next, Astbury shot from the edge of the penalty area, but Burnett was in position. Brown survived three tackles in a goal ward race, before Stevenson shot, through the middle. As Scales advanced he cleverly pushed the ball wide of the goalkeeper, but McNeill kicked clear. Loxham nipped through to strike the side netting –his eagerness to shoot affected his direction –and when Loxham got away again Burnett came out to take charge of the centre. Dwyer missed a reasonable chance through attempting the extra pass, and Bates shone in some splendid interception when Everton were looking dangerous. Hancock ran through well to force a corner, and from McIntosh’s centre Wainwright headed just by the post. In 42 minutes Everton increased their lead, when Boothway edged the ball through for Stevenson to run on and score as he was tackled.
Half-Time; Everton 2, Chester, 0.
Chester started the second half as they had started the first, but once again found Jones and company impregnable. Everton were soon back attacking, and Scales made two magnificent full-length saves from Boothway and McIntosh. Everton kept up the pressure, and in 55 minutes they took their third goal through Stevenson. Jackson’s long kick was cleverly flicked through by Boothway, and Stevenson ran on to dribble Scales and place into the net. Stevenson almost completed the hat-trick when he hooked through a pass by tatters, but Bates dashed across to turn the ball aside, and then Stevenson’s shot from the edge of the penalty area and flashed inches over the top. Everton were striving hard to bring Stevenson that third goal, and when the Irishman ran clear from Tatters’ pass, McNeill managed to turn the ball from his toe as he was about to shoot.
Grand Goal.
Stevenson duly completed his hat-trick at the 69th minute when, after some fine building-up work by McIntosh and Boothway, he dribbled through to the goal line well wide of the goal, turned back, cut inwards and scored with a right-foot shot between two players. In two minutes Stevenson had brought his bag to four, to complete Everton’s nap hand. From McIntosh’s curling centre Boothway nodded the ball across for Stevenson to let it run down his body and slat it home. Everton did not relax, but Boothway’s goal-luck was certainly out. Boothway had been leading the line magnificently, and when he shot on the run Scales managed to flick the ball over the top, and from the corner Boothway’s splendid header struck the bar and went over. In 78 minutes Boothway reaped the reward for his grand display, when he scored Everton’s sixth goal. Jones fed Tatters, who glided the ball forward for Boothway to crack it home, via the underside of the crossbar. For a change Chester came into light as an attacking force and almost snatched a goal, for in trying to turn over the top a shot from Newsome, Burnett turned the ball against the bar but was in position to catch the rebound. With two minutes to go McIntosh ran half the length of the field from Watson’s pass to score Everton’s seventh goal. Final; Everton 7, Chester, 0.

CHESTER-EVERTON CLASH SEEN BY 9,000
Chester Chronicle - Saturday 01 January 1944
Chester 3, Everton 5
In one of the best games of the season and before nearly 9,000 spectators, Chester went down 5-3 on Boxing Day. They were meeting Everton in the first game of the Cup qualifying series. They were not disgraced, for they faced a team of "stars” —a side prewar First Division standard. That virtuoso, Joe Mercer, was the top of his form and, with Tommy Jones and Watson, Chester faced a formidable middle line. Unfortunately for the City, chances were enforced by the absence of Walton, Cole, Roberts, and Harris. One of Chester’s junior players, Tilston (now in the Navy), came in at right-half. Apart from a tendency to over-dribble, he played well if Burnett had not turned up a few minutes before the game. Everton would have fielded strange side, for full-back Jack Jones was already prepared to play in goal. Everton's impressive attack included Lawton. Stevenson, and Mclntosh, and it was completed by two good juniors, Grant and Wainwright. Loxham again led Chester’s attack, Veacock and O’Neil doing valuable work on the wings. In all, Chester’s side included five amateurs who, before coming to Chester, had not played in “big” football
THRILLS GALORE
Chester attacked first. Then the Blues launched a full-scale offensive. They played the ball to the wings and caused the home defence some concern. During the early period, Bates held Mclntosh quite well, but in the second half lost all contact with him. In the middle. Billy Hughes policed Lawton fairly well but times had to leave him unmarked to straighten out matters in the re-organised defence. This later gave Lawton the opportunity to score two grand goals. Despite this, it was Chester who took the lead within five minutes. Newsome took a free-kick from outside the penalty area and O’Neil snapped the ball to put it past Burnett. Everton returned to the attack, keen to equalise, and Grant shot over the bar after having a fine opportunity. In a goal mouth scrimmage Wainwright also shot over. Then the visitors had free-kick for a foul on Greenhalgh. Tommy Jones took it and the ball went to the feet the uncovered Lawton who, with a first-time shot, scored excellent goal. About five minutes later he was similarly placed and gave Everton the lead with another great shot. Soon afterwards O’Neil, Chester’s left wing sent over shot which Burnett just saved. He pushed the hall against bar, lost his balance, and while the excitement lasted Astbury clinched matters bundling the ball into the net. This was the state of affairs at half-time. In the second half both sides strove again for the lead. Seales distinguished himself by saving from one Mclntosh’s best, shots. At the Everton end a low centre came across the goal and Newsome and Veacock in succession threw themselves at the ball, only to miss.  Had they succeeded it would probably have changed the course of the game. Just after this, O’Neill sent a drive into the side net. Then Wainwright gave Everton the lead in a goal mouth struggle. Again the lead was not long lived, for Neil equalised shortly afterwards with a shot from a free-kick by Newsome. Everton began to exert more pressure, but the next goal effort came when Veacock almost scored in a goal mouth scramble; this resulted a free-kick for Everton. But the Blues were now drawing away, although they were fortunate in their last two goals scored by Mclntosh.  The first of these two goals came when “Mac” took the ball from a right-wing centre. Being uncovered, he slammed home a powerful shot.  Although Chester pressed hard for an equalizer, Mclntosh placed the issue beyond doubt when dived full-length to head the ball from Lawton.
WORTHY LOSERS
The large Boxing Day crowd could not have been disappointed by this exhibition, and Chester can certainly not complain of losing to a side which plays Everton's class of football. Full marks to the Everton wing-halves and "Mickey Mouse" Stevenson for brilliant football.  In Chester’s defence Hughes was outstanding. Everton fans will not be disappointed if the return game to-morrow (Saturday) provides only half as many thrills. Lawton is playing in a representative game and this will lighten Billy Hughes’s task, but even so the City s chances still appear to rather thin. However, let it never be forgotten that the team that included five amateurs did well against the illustrious Blues. Chester G. Scales: H. Bates, McNeil; .J. Tilston, Hughes. Tagg: J. Veacock, Newsome, W. Loxham, Astbury, G O’Neil. Everton; Burnett; .Jackson, Greenhalgh: Mercer, Jones (T. G), Watson, Grant, Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson, Mclntosh.

STEVENSON’S BEST
January 3, 1944. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 7, Chester 0
Everton Forwards’s Four Goals.
Chester Fall Away
By Ranger
Though Chester were no match for Everton in their return game at Goodison Park, the home side’s 7-0 victory hardly did justice to the visitors. Despite a goal to Wainwright inside nine minutes Chester made a fairly stiff fight of it in the first half and promised to give Everton a good run for their money, even though their disappointing finishing prevented them ever looking dangerous in front of goal. Everton did the major portion of the attacking, but good work by Scales prevented a second goal until just on half-time when Stevenson get the first of his bag of four. Chester faded right out of the picture on the resumption, when a spell of sliced clearances and narrow escapes seemed to sap the confidence of their defence, and thereafter, apart from two short periods, they were confined almost entirely to the defensive. Stevenson who was in his most brilliant form, added three further goals between the 58th and 73rd minute. Boothway and McIntosh getting once each to the closing stages. The goal which completed Stevenson’s hat-trick was a characteristic effort for the first dribbled right to the goal line on the left flank before turning back to the middle and calmly placed the ball out of Scales’s reach. Chester made a few isolated sorties, this half which brought them within striking distance of Burnett, but with two exceptions the Everton custodian was not seriously troubled. Chester missed Hughes at centre-half, for Bates, who deputised was very disappointing, and his failure to cope with Everton’s inside men, coupled with the fact that Tagg also had an off day, threw too big a burden on the backs. Brown, a right half borrowed from Stoke was Chester best defender, and Scales made many brilliant saves. Astbury and Newsome were the best of an indifferent forward line, which frequently nullified possible attacking openings by faulty passing, Everton were sound in defence and brilliant in attack.
Excellent Wings
Stevenson, who delighted with his amazing ball control, was the star of the day, and McIntosh and Tatters were excellent on the wings. Tatters is 23-years-old R.A.F amateur who has played occasionally for Spennymoor United and Durham. He was brought to Goodison on Saturday by T.G. Jones in case of emergency, and quickly distinguishing himself by his speed, dribbling and canny positioning. Boothway started as though he was going to be a second Lawton, but faded out somewhat later, though he kept play moving nicely all the time and delivered some good scoring efforts. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (T.G.) (captain) and Watson, half-backs; C. Tatters (Amateur),Wainwright, Boothway (Manchester City), Stevenson, and McIntosh, (Preston), forwards. Chester; Scales (Manchester City), Walton (Leicester City) and McNeill, backs; Brown (Stoke City), Bates, and Tagg, half-backs; Hancock (Walsall), Newsome (West Bromwich), Loxham, Astbury and Dwyer, forwards. Referee; Mr. F. Lee (Newcastle-Under-Lyme).
• Liverpool lost 4-2 to Wrexham, Done, and Campbell and Bremner (3), Mala for Wrexham.

HEARTS STAR TO PLAY FOR EVERTON
January 3, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton will introduce a new Scottish star into their team shortly –one of the finest inside forwards North of the Tweed. This is Andy Black, of the Hearts. Black played in the Army match at Ayr on Saturday and had a talk with Tommy Lawton, who made the first approach that Black should play as a guest for Everton. I spoke to Lawton on the telephone and passed the news to Mr. Theo Kelly, secretary of Everton, who, with customary enterprise, contacted the Hearts club and secured permission for Black to play for the Blues. This is indeed an important capture. Black played for the Hearts today, but may be here for next Saturday’s match with Crewe Alexandra. The arrangement with Black about whom Everton made inquires for transfer purposes in 1938 is another indication that the soccer spotlight on Merseyside is swinging to Goodison Park in the first half of the season, Liverpool dominated the local stages but it appears now as if it is going to be Everton’s turn. Message wishing the spectators a Happy New Year was printed on the field at Goodison Park on Saturday –a nice thought on the part of Mr. Kelly –and it seems as if Everton are to have quite a successful time in 1944. Everton share with eight other clubs the distinction of a 100 per cent record in the League War Cup Qualifying Competition. Although it is early to raise hopes, a good start is half the battle Everton and Crewe are the only Merseyside clubs with full points, and if the experience of the past two seasons can be accepted, the clubs now require only six and possibly seven points to make sure of qualifying.
Everton followed up their 5-3 win at Chester with a 7-0 win at Goodison Park on Saturday, but it was not so much the victory as the manner of the victory which proved so satisfying. A Chester weakened by last minute changes were made to appear in a worse light simply by the football brilliance of Everton. So perfectly did the Blues’ dovetail that the forwards could adopt the “five-pronged” attacking scheme, and the matter of their exploitation of cute ideas was delicious. The brain behind the whole fabric of the attacking force was that of Alex Stevenson. Stevenson was quick to spot the penchant of newcomers Boothway for moving to the wings quickly, and so formulated a ruse which made Alex generally the goal maker, into a superb goal taker. Stevenson scored a personal triumph in getting four goals in succession. The plan? SIMPLE, Boothway who by the way had a grand debut, as leader, would cut away either to right or left to draw Bates, the Chester centre-half, and then the ball would be slipped through the middle for Stevenson to dash into the open space. The expedient of first drawing the Chester defence completely out of position was a marked success so that Bates who opened soundly was repeatedly drawn away from the scene of action and Walton and McNeill were so often left covering the wrong spot. Fortunate for Chester that Scales was in such brilliant form in goal, and that the fates were hardly kind to Boothway and McIntosh when it came to shooting. Chester can be blamed for some faulty finishing early on and right up to the interval the Cestrians always gave promise of making a real fight of it. It was that the class of Everton told in the end and Chester need not take this defeat too much to heart. They will not always be facing such a smooth working football machine.
Newcomes Shine
I mentioned that Boothway of Manchester City, was a distinct success. Well so was Cuthbert Tatters, the former Spennymoor United amateur, whom Tommy Jones brought along to play outside right. Tatters was one of the most successful right wingers Everton have had since Billy Lowe, who was at the match walking with a stick and going along nicely. I state this bearing in mind that Jackie Grant is better at wing half, where he played another storming game in this encounter. Tatters showed good control and bright ideas, while Boothway carried the weight of the line willingly, used the ball well shot excellently with either foot and with ordinary luck, would have had more than one goal. That also goes for the dangerous McIntosh who provided a thrilling finale with a half the length of the field run and scoring shot. The ever-improving Eddie Wainwright took the first goal thanks to Stevenson dashing down the middle, beating Scales for possession and turning it back for Wainwright to score easily. Altogether this was a grand quintette and club followers will be delighted to know that both Boothway and Tatters will be available for future games. I was particularly pleased with the play of Gordon Watson, who is obviously right back to his 1939 form, while the work of Tommy Jones, Grant, Jackson, Greenhalgh and Burnett left nothing to be desired. They were faultless. Naturally the defeat came as a blow to the Chester contingent headed by chairman Sir Thomas Brocklebank, vice-chairman Mr. Harry Mansley, the man who keeps the Northern Section on the man” Messrs Rowley, T.C. Griffths, Smith and Frank Brown (manager) as well as many loyalists, but they must have been pleased with the display of Brown the coloured wing half from Stoke who so delighted the 13,944 spectators (receipts £874 with tax £323). Scales was the Chester star with Loxham a rare worrier at centre-forward, but Chester were generally playing second fiddle. Chairman Mr. Will Gibbins of the Blues was supported by Messrs Ernest Green, George Evans, Dickie Williams, Bob Turnbull and Dick Searle and Captain Tom Percy home on leave, and Mr. Cecil Baxter, whom it was nice to see again, after some week’s absence through indisposition.

EVERTON SPOIL CHESTER’S NEW YEAR
January 3, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Stevenson Sparkles
Ranger’s Notes
The only drawback to war-time Cup fare is that success achieved by one side are invariantly at the expense of near and friendly neighbours. Pleasure at Everton’s opening “double” for instance is tinkled with regret that it had to be at the expense of Chester who now have to get eleven points from their next eight games to make sure of qualifying. The points may come, but its doubtful. Three clubs with ten last year didn’t get through. Chester were a disappointment at Goodison. They were weak both in defence and attack and though they but up a fair show in the first half, there was only one side in it afterwards. Hughes was badly missed at centre-half and Bates who filled the breach had a sorry outing against Everton’s lively inside forwards. On top of that Tagg was also below par and the backs gruelling and anxious time was reflected in frequent faulty clearances when the strain began to tell in the second half. Add to that the fact that Chester’s attack was weak on the left, and that Loxham was securely held by Tommy Jones, and it is pretty obvious they were only a shadow of the side which had put in such good performances in the three previous games against Everton. I reckoned Brown the coloured half-back; Chester’s best defender, Scales brought off some grand saves in goal and was a bit unlucky with two goals.
Letting The New Year In
Star of the home side was Alex Stevenson. Since McIntosh came along as his partner Stevenson has been getting goals with increasing frequently, and this time he let the New Year in hectic manner with four beauties, none better than the characteristically cheeky one which completed his hat-trick. Wainwright, Boothway and McIntosh got the others, the latter’s being a popular point for he had played a grand game all through. Just to settle impending augments, this is not Stevenson’s first four, he got four against Stockport at Goodison in the first war season. You noticed McIntosh bandaged hand? The story behind it might have been tragic. Some days ago he stepped into a lift that wasn’t there and would probably have been killed by a three-storey fall if he hadn’t grabbed the guide ropes in the nick of time and hung on until his justly S.O.S brought help. He sprained his wrist tendons in doing so. The war has provided us with many examples of unknown players crashing into the senior limelight! Cuthbert Tatters Everton’s R.A.F amateur right winger, adds to the number. Tatters was brought along by Tommy Jones “in case” and filled the bill admirably. He is 23-years-old and hitherto his experience apart from R.A.F games has been limited to occasional appearances for Spennymoor United and Durham City. He played like a veteran, has good ball control, is a canny dribbler, and positions himself brilliantly at times, we ought to be seeing more of him before long.
It was Ted Storey’s happy thought to mark the New Year wishes on the touch-line. Trust Everton to think of something novel. There is a chance that Andy Black, Heart’s international forward, who is in the Western Command area may play for Everton. As I understand Liverpool also have approached him, however the last word will be with the player. Black has helped Crewe once or twice this season.

BLACK INCLUDED
January 4, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Andy Black, the Hearts inside forward, will probably make his debut for Everton on Saturday when they entertain Crewe Alexandra at Goodison Park. Secretary Mr. Theo Kelly is not quite certain about his attack, but Black is among the six players named. Boothway, of Manchester City, will be at outside-right, but Tommy Lawton returns to the leadership. Consequently, with McIntosh at outside left, Everton will have the two tallest wingers in football. As a matter of fact, with Black alongside Lawton, Everton would hay the tallest attack in the county. Black is of the Lawton build, so there would be four six-footers lowering besides diminutive Alex Stevenson. What an attack! Wainwright the youngster from Southport, who has been doing so well, is in the list. Black is a Scottish international who will delight. Tommy Lawton assures me that Black is a great player. Andy was capped by Scotland against Czechoslovakia in 1937, and against Holland in 1938. In 1938 Black also played for the Scottish League against the Irish League. He is a native of Stirling, whom many English clubs –including Everton –sought before the war. Hearts, however, preferred the player to the cash. Everton’s defence will be unchanged, Jackie Grant remaining at right half, where he is providing such a terrier. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Jones (Tommy), Watson; (from); Boothway, Black, Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson, McIntosh.

BLUE OR RED?
January 4, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
The heading above isn’t a snooker problem, but refers to the position of Andy Black the Hearts inside forward who has been approach to assist Everton and Liverpool. Everton are slightly ahead of their Anfield rivals, in the fact that they have actually obtained telephone permission from Hearts to play Black whereas Liverpool, who wrote for permission have had a letter from the club saying they will leave it to the player. Black of course, has the last word in any case, and until he returns from leave in Scotland to his Cheshire depot it will not be possible to say definitely his favour will fall. Meanwhile it looks as though the odds are on Everton, who have also taken the bull by the horns and included him in their probable forwards for the home game with Crewe on Saturday. For this match Everton will be unchanged in defence but will be strengthened in attack by the returned of Lawton, Boothway, of Manchester City figures at outside right. Tatters the R.A.F amateur who did so well against Chester is not available this week. Team; Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Jones (Tommy), Watson; (from); Boothway, Black, Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson, McIntosh.

ANDY BLACK TO ASSIT LIVERPOOL
January 7, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Andy Black the Scottish international inside forward has decided to play as a “guest” player for Liverpool instead of Everton, and so fulfil a promise given two weeks ago to Don Welsh the England player who is also an Anfield “guest”. Black made this decision yesterday after having an interview with Mr. Theo Kelly, secretary of Everton. Mr. Irvine the chairman of Heart’s Black’s mother club, told Mr. Kelly that Everton were the only club to apply for Black’s services, and so he gave Black permission to assist the Blues. Apparently Liverpool however, had received their “permit “some time before and when Blues said he would play for Liverpool the Reds went ahead with arrangements. Mr. Kelly emphasised to Black yesterday that on no account he break his word with Liverpool, much as he would have liked to have had Black in the Everton side.
100 Per Cent Clubs Clash
At Goodison Park tomorrow Everton and Crewe Alexandra the only two of the seven Merseyside clubs to claim a 100 per cent record in the League cup qualifying competition, will clash as the competition reaches the third of its ten-stage duration. Everton will now retain Wainwright at inside right with Boothway as his partner, for Lawton returns to lead the attack. I cannot recall that Everton have fielded such a tall attack for years. Three of the players are six-footers and Wainwright is not far short. I think Everton will go forward to a nice win against a team they defeated 8-0 at Crewe and then drew with 5-5 at Goodison on league business. The Blues half-backs and defence are unchanged, but Crewe may be without Poskett, their regular goalkeeper, so Davies will deputise if Poskett cannot get away. Taking a line through the league games here between the clubs this should be a fine struggle. Jimmy McIntosh got all five Everton goals that day, but now Lawton returns to take a hand with the scoring business. Lawton requires four goals to reach the 330 mark in his career. The match is due to start at three o’clock. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Jones (Tom), Watson; Boothway, Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson, McIntosh. Crewe Alexandra; Poskett or Davies; Jones, Glover, Hayward, Cope, Still, Inskin, McCormick, Blunt, Aldersey, Hopley

BLACK JOINS L’POOL
January 7, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
All the same, it will be one of the surprise results of the day if Crewe manages to get a point this time. With Watson quite fit and back at his best, Grant now an established half, and Jones and company in the rear. Everton’s defence should be good enough to keep the visitors attack well in check while the home forwards make the issue secure. Andy Black of Hearts is not, after all, to assist Everton. As I indicated at the beginning Liverpool were also on his track –I understand their request to both club and player was the first in –and Black has decided to throw in his lot with the Anfielders. Boothway’s introduction at outside right may solve one of Everton’s biggest problems this season. Wainwright carries on at inside right and Lawton’s return will strengthened the attack. Team; Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Jones (Tom), Watson; Boothway, Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson, McIntosh.

A DISAPPOINTING GAME
Chester Chronicle - Saturday 08 January 1944
CHESTER AND EVERTON BELOW FORM
Everton 7, Chester 0
That this game was one of the most disappointing of the season was due not only to the failure of Chester, but in no small manner to the display of Everton, who were certainly "off colour." .The clockwork precision of the play that made the Boxing Day game one remembered was sadly missed, and the play of both sides was more than a little patchy. It was Chester's misfortune that Hughes was unavailable. In fact, fewer than five changes were made from the previous Monday’s side. Everton were without Mercer and Lawton, but they are able to call on many first-class players to fill gaps. Any hopes Chester may have had of reversing the result of Monday’s game were dispelled by the fact that Hughes was unavailable. Take away also Veaeock and O’Neil and replace them with untried men and the prospects are obviously not too bright. Cheater managed to hold their own in the first half and, until Stevenson’s goal just before half-time, were returning attack for attack, but shooting very widely. Most of their attacks were initialed the right wing, where Hancock (of WaJsall) gave Greenhalgh a worrying time. Behind him was a coloured wing-half, Brown of Stoke City, and on the opposite wing, Dwyer, formerly in Irish football. Bates took Hughes's place as pivot, and Walton returned as right-back. The latter was disappointing, giving Mclntosh too much scope and only showing his real form for a very short period. Boothway replaced Lawton in the Everton attack, and Grant was right-half instead of Mercer. A protege of Tommy Jones, C. Tatters (an R.A.F. boy) who came in at outside-right, was not eclipsed by Mclntosh on the other wing.
SCALES AT HIS BEST
Chester made the first attack and kept it up for a few minutes. Brown sent the ball back to the opposing half with neat headers, strong kicks, and clever touches. Attacks soon came from Everton, and Boothway led them with dash.  He has a deceptive appearance, but very few defenders can catch him. He confused Bates, who tried hard but could not tighten up the defence. The Everton inside forwards did almost what they liked. In these first attacks Scales played brilliantly from Boothway made one the finest full-length saves. Unfortunately was responsible for the first goal, in a goal mouth scrimmage he took the ball from Stevenson, fumbled it, and allowed Wainwright to get in the first goal. But on the whole he gave a grand display.  Shortly after this, Tatters came in from the right wing and Scales saved from him at pointblank range. Mainly the attacks now came from the Blues, for whom McIntosh and Boothway were outstanding taking every opportunity that came his way Boothway sent in powerful shots, some them only just off the mark and others skillfully handled by Scales. With half-time not long away the visitors came more into prominence, but their shooting at close range was feeble. On more than one occasion thoughtlessness in front of goal robbed them of reward. In fact, had they been quicker to seize their opportunities they would probably have established a lead. The best forward was Hancock sent in some grand dropping centres only for Tommy Jones to stop them with his head. Just before half-time, Everton broke away and Stevenson had easy job in finding the net—the first of four goals which he scored on the run.
THE GOAL RUSH
In the opening minutes of the second half the game slumped to a series of throws-in, misdirected clearances, and mistakes of all kinds. Then came the Everton goal parade. After Scales had saved twice in succession from Boothwav and McIntosh, Stevenson increased the lead in the twelfth minute. More defensive errors enabled Stevenson to complete his “hat-trick” shortly after wards. Chester received a further setback when Stevenson added another goal. All the interest had gone out of the game, for Chester’s raids were few and far between and even Everton’s football was far from perfect. The indefatigable Boothway increased the score —a just reward for his efforts and shortly before the end Mclntosh made the score seven. Not only the absence of Hughes contributed to Chester’s defeat. Even Astbury, who has had a good enough season to earn him a Welsh cap, was badly off form, and the backs were wild In their clearances. The City now have eight games in which they can qualify for the Cup. In succession they meet Wrexham, Crewe and Tranmere. Then they meet Liverpool. It seems that three successive doubles will be necessary to put them into the competition—and at least three of the side must meet are strong home sides. More punch in the inside-forward positions might give that extra which makes all the difference between victory and defeat Chester, however, were not altogether blame in this game, and the result certainly flattered Everton, whose play was not seven goals better than the City’s. Everton: Burnett; Jackson, Greenhaleh; Grant, Jones (T. G.), C. Tatters, Wainwright, Boothway, Stevenson, Mclntosh.  Chester: G. Scales: Walton, McNeil, Brown, H Bates, Tagg; Hancock, Newsome, W. Loxham, Asthury, Dwyer.

GOODISON GOAL RUSH
January 8, 1944. The Evening Express
All Blues Attack Score
By Pilot.
The two 100 per cent Merseyside Cup clubs, Everton and Crewe Alexandra were in opposition at Goodison Park, today. Everton having Lawton back leading the attack, with Boothway of Manchester City, who has played many games with Crewe at outside right. Crewe had Davies in goal in place of Poskett, with Hopley at outside left. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (Tommy) (captain), and Watson, half-backs; Boothway (Manchester City), Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Crewe A;- Davies, goal; Jones (R.) and Glover, backs; Hayward, Cope and Inskip, half-backs; McCormick (Tottenham), Roberts, Blunt (Northampton), and Hopley, forwards. Referee; Mr. F.W. Baker (Manchester). Everton started in hurricane style, Boothway centred, and McIntosh tried to run the ball through, but Davies came out to smother the ball and clear. Everton came again with a fine individual effort by Lawton, who however, found Cope flinging himself in front of the shot to save a lot of trouble for Davies. Boothway also had a shot charged down before Roberts got the Everton defence guessing and it was only a timely tackle by Jackson which cleared an awkward situation. Inskip came again thanks to grand work by McCormick but his centre swung over the top. Lawton got away and shot from just outside the penalty area, the ball passing just outside the near post. Jones (T.) came up for McIntosh’s corner and although he reached the ball the header passed straight across goal and over the dead line.
Opening Goal
Crewe were sticking to their task well, but in 10 minutes fell behind when Lawton took a centre from the right on the half volley as he turned around. The ball struck the underside of the bar and bounced down over the line. Crewe responded promisingly, Roberts outwitting Tom Jones and passing across for Inskip to try a first-timer from close range. Burnett, however, was dead in line to make a safe catch. The Everton forwards were combining excellently, yet it was Roberts who assumed the danger role when he darted in only to head wide. In 17 minutes Everton increased their lead through McIntosh. It was a curious goal, for McIntosh instead of coming up the goalline with the ball, cut inwards and in endeavouring to find Lawton by the far post “pulled” the centre and the ball entered the net, Davies being deceived. Within two minutes Everton were three up when Boothway, not to be outdone, cut in from the right, and when five yards outside the penalty area let go a left foot shot into the top far corner. Twice Burnett ran out to thwart the lively Crewe forwards, and then Lawton shot outside from six yards with only Davies to beat.
Grand Tackling
Everton continued on top, and it was only the strength of the Crewe tackling which kept them in check. Lawton headed beyond the far post before he put Wainwright through, only for Glover’s strong tackle to prevent the youngster getting in his shot. There was a penalty claim but this was rightly turned down. Davies saved at full length from Stevenson, and fell on the ball as Lawton dashed in to apply the finishing touch. McIntosh and Stevenson served up some delightful inter-passing, and from Stevenson’s centre Wainwright headed just outside. After 35 minutes the referee Mr. Baker, in trying to get out of the way of Grant, fell and injured his leg, so that Trainer Harry Cooke had to come on and attend to him. Mr. Baker was unable to continue, and left the field, Mr. Bostock, one of the linesen, taking the whistle, and Jack Jones, the Everton player, going on the line. Play was held up four minutes. Lawton had a header saved by Davies before placing high and wide with a first-timer.
Half-time; Everton 3, Crewe A. 0.
Within a minute of resuming Everton were four up, when McIntosh dribbled to the line and placed the ball back along the floor in inviting style. Lawton obligingly slipped out of the way to allow the in running Stevenson to take the goal. In 53 minutes the Blues completed their “nap” hand, Boothway survived two tackles on the goalward run, and although Davies and Wainwright failed to connect with the centre, the ball ran on to McIntosh, who played into the unguarded goal. McCormick raised a cheer when he shot from just outside the penalty area, but Burnett made a safe catch, and after Crewe had failed to profit from a corner they were soon back playing their defensive role again against a magnificent Everton forward combination.
Six Up
The sixtieth minute saw Lawton beat three men inside the penalty area, and finish with a right foot shot which brought good number six. It was Lawton who paved the way for Everton’s seventh goal in 64 minutes. He broke away to send in a rocket like shot which the heroic Davies saved magnificently. Unfortunately for Davies the ball ran loose, and Wainwright pounced on it to place into the roof of the net, to bring the total to seven, with every Everton forward claiming a goal. The goal rush continued, for in 71 minutes a shot from Tom Jones struck Cope on the hand and the referee gave a penalty. McIntosh converted the penalty, and when ordered to retake it because the ball was not on the spot, he did it neatly all over again, and so for the second time this season Everton have second eight against Crewe. Burnett was brought into the game when he came out to pull down a centre from Hopley, and in 83 minutes Everton brought their score to nine with another penalty. Wainwright enterprisingly took over from Boothway but was fouled. McIntosh was going to take the kick, but Everton changed their minds and Stevenson took it to score. Burnett saved magnificently from Roberts, and again from Hopley, in the space of a minute. Two minutes from time Roberts and McCormick paved the way for Inskip to get a consolation goal for Crewe.
Final; Everton, 9, Crewe Alex, 1.
Fazackerley v. Everton Res
Lapham and Nelson gave Fazackerley an early lead. Everton drew level through Wyles and Ashley, but Nelson and Baxter restored Fazackerley’s lead. Half-time; Fazackerley 4, Everton Res 2.

SWEEPING WIN FOR EVERTON
January 8, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Crewe Outclassed At Goodison Park.
By Stork.
Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (Tommy) (captain), and Watson, half-backs; Boothway (Manchester City), Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Crewe A;- Davies, goal; Jones (R.) and Glover, backs; Hayward, Cope and Inskip, half-backs; McCormick (Tottenham), Roberts, Blunt (Northampton), and Hopley, forwards. Referee; Mr. F.W. Baker (Manchester). Crewe made two changes in the side, Davies deputising for Poskett in goal and Hopley taking the outside left position in place of Aldersey. There were a biggest crowd to see the opening phases, during which Everton were decidedly on top. Roberts the Crewe leader, was in a wide position to go into action against Burnett, but the Everton defence held him up. Boothway went close with a header and Inskip made a nice run and centre.
Lawton Scores.
Lawton brushing his way beyond several Crewe defenders, shot hard but not quite true enough, the ball going out, but the Everton leader made amends a few minutes later when he took up a pass from Stevenson, appeared to lose control of the ball, but finally lobbed it into the net with Davies making a frantic effort to drag the ball from under the bar. Crewe mainly concerned in defence occasionally made a quick raid into the Everton penalty area, but they found the defence of Jones. Jackson, and Greenhalgh too much for them, although Burnett had to save a great shot by Roberts. Everton, having tasted the sweets of a goal, went on to score two more in rapid succession. McIntosh well plied by Stevenson, made a centre which curled in towards goal. Glover, the Crewe full back, who was standing almost alongside the goalkeeper on the goal line, went up to head the ball away and no doubt interfered with his goalkeeper, for the ball passed both of them and into the net, after seventeen minutes. Two minutes later R. Jones the Crewe left back took a goal kick and put the ball straight to Boothway out on his right. Boothway went forward a few steps and then hit with his right foot a brilliant shot which beat the Crewe goalkeeper. Roberts was the only man in the Crewe attack who had so far caused the Everton defence any trouble and his heading was particularly good.
Referee Retires
Everton should in my opinion, have had a penalty when Wainwright was brought down, and then occurred an uncommon incident which ultimately saw the referee retire from the game. He slipped and fell, and in doing so injured his leg. The Everton trainer attended to him, but he found he could not proceed and called upon a linesman to take his place. The linesman was Stan Bostock, of Liverpool. Jack Jones the Everton full back went on the line.
Half-time; Everton, 3, Crewe, nil.
The second half was not many minutes did when Stevenson scored at 48 minutes quickly followed by a McIntosh goal at 53 minutes. Crewe were completely outclassed and, had Everton taken all their chances they would have built up an enormous goal drop. Lawton scored at 59 minutes –a clever goal this –and Wainwright a seventh goal at 64 minutes. Everton were awarded a penalty for hands. McIntosh netted with his first spot kick, but the kick had to be retaken because the goalkeeper had moved, McIntosh crashed home the second to give Everton an eight goal lead. Everton were rewarded an another penalty for an offence on Wainwright. Stevenson was entrusted the kick, and although the goalkeeper touched the ball he could not keep it out of the net. Almost on time Inskip scored for Crewe. Final; Everton, 9, Crewe, 1.

EVERTON’S CUP LEAD
January 10, 1943. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 9, Crewe Alexandra 1.
Nine Goals Against Crewe.
By Stork.
Merseyside football supporters had cause for celebration in Saturday’s League North cup-ties, for between them the local clubs, Everton and Liverpool, totted up 15 goals. Everton are enjoying a great run. Their last five matches have brought them 30 goals and they lead the cup qualifying table with the fine average of 21 to 4. A few weeks ago Crewe Alexandra, at Goodison Park, created a surprise by sharing 10 goals equally with the home side, but what chance they had of repeating history in the first of their cup games at the same venue was knocked on the head very early, for Everton scored three goals inside 20 minutes, and finally Everton ran out winners to the extent of 9 goals to 1. Crewe for a quarter of an hour gave the impression that they would contest the issue strongly, but I am afraid they got the inferiority complex and never again did they promise even a goal. That they got one in the late minutes was not satisfying, seeing that the opposition had nine on the credit side.
Defensive Error.
I am not surprised that the Alexandra lost faith in themselves; they realised that Everton carried too many guns for them, for the Goodison boys played excellent football. The heart was taken out, of Crewe in the first quarter of an hour, when Lawton, McIntosh, and Boothway scored, the second goal being the result of a defensive mistake between a full back and the goalkeeper. The fact that the defences went up to take McIntosh’s curling centre obviously balked Davies, the ball consequently beating them both. It was all go simple through excellent to watch, even allowing for the fact that Crewe were really no match for Everton, who, at times, did exactly as they wanted. Everton went on their way rejoicing, cutting all manner of capers to outwit a harassed defence. It was a rarity for the Crewe forwards to cross the half-way line. Two of the nine Everton goals stood out in bold relief the third by Boothway for the magnificence of his shot, and Lawton’s second goal, as he had to beat three opponents before he obtained his shooting position. Two others were from the penalty –spot –one of which was to my mind, ball to hand, “and not “hand to ball,” therefore hardly warranted the extreme penalty.
Few Crewe Shots
Everton made football look easy, and I don’t think they ever had an easier game. Had they taken full toll of their chances, Everton would have run up a cricket score for the “Railway-men” had not the ability to hold them in check, prevent them making scoring positions by intricate combination, which often had the rival defence spread-eagled. Crewe’s shots should be counted on the fingers on one hand. McIntosh and Stevenson were a grand wing pair, with Lawton keeping the line running smoothly with fine passes. Wainwright and Boothway paired off nicely, and the half-back work of Watson and Grant was such that the forwards were well served. It was team work brought to a fine art and Crewe had no answer to it. Just after the half-hour the referee, E.W. Baker, pulled a calf-muscle and was unable to carry on calling upon the linesman, S. Bostick, Liverpool, to take over the whistle. Jack Jones, the Everton full-back went on the line. Here are the goals their scorers and times, Lawton 10 minutes, McIntosh 17, Boothway 19, Stevenson 48, McIntosh 53, Lawton 60, Wainwright 64, McIntosh 71 penalty, Stevenson 85 penalty, Inskip. Attendance 11,162. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (Tommy) (captain), and Watson, half-backs; Boothway (Manchester City), Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Crewe A;- Davies, goal; Jones (R.) and Glover, backs; Hayward, Cope and Inskip, half-backs; McCormick (Tottenham), Roberts, Blunt (Northampton).
• Liverpool beat Tranmere 6-1, Campbell (2), Welsh, Polk, Done (2) for Liverpool and Paterson for Tranmere
• Everton Reserves beat Fazackerley 6-5.

100 PER CENT. EVERTON LEAD QUALIFERS
January 10, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
I suspect that Chairman Mr. Frank Cottrell and his colleagues from Crewe Alexandra will be rather thankful when they have completed their fixtures with Everton. Their lot has been three defeats this season, but in remaining pointless they have been forced to concede no fewer than 22 goals. Yes, and Jim McIntosh the Everton outside left, has scored ten of them. The Crewe folk took their 9-1 defeat at Goodison Park on Saturday in customary sporting manner. Never was there a word of grumbling or criticism, but rather praises to Everton for another excellent display of highly effective football carried through with a grace and power which thrilled even if the game was too one-sided to be really interesting. The 11,162 spectators had their money’s worth all right and in the hope of seeing the Blues touch double figures there were not many who left before the finish. The Merseyside fans are indeed lucky for just when Liverpool stopped getting their eights and nines, Everton came into their own so that we have sustained interest. Everton have now scored 30 goals in their last five games. Not a bad average that. Had the Blues carried through all their attacks on Saturday they must have scored many more, but naturally they pandered to ball jugglery rather than shooting when the score was mounting so high. Mr. Stan Bostock, the Liverpool referee, had a curious experience. At the last minute he was called in to take the line in place of Mr. Jacobs, and then after 35 minutes he had to become referee because Mr. Ernie Baker injured a leg in falling and had to go off. Crewe had themselves to blame for the defeat to a certain extent. Crewe opened well with their forwards showing nice ideas and smoothness of motion, but once Lawton had started the scoring the concentrated so much on destruction that their whole play suffered. Roberts was always an alert and purposeful leader who came out well in the close tussles with Tom Jones and actually made the consolation goal per Inskip, late on. Cope, Glover and Still were also rare graters, while Davies in goal had not much chance with the scoring shots and certainly kept the score down. No, Crewe failed not so much because rather a of lack of individual ability, but in method. However, they can console themselves with the though that few clubs would have been able to stave off defeat against this well-nigh perfect Everton.
Wainwright’s Progress
Let us forget for the moment the established stars like Lawton, Stevenson, McIntosh, Jones and the three defenders who all played in their merriest and cleverest vain, and look at the others I include Gordon Watson among these because he has been out of the game so long and is now only list coming back. Take it from me, Gordon has come back. Yes, this brilliant half-back is playing as well as ever he did, and absolutely forcing Stevenson and McIntosh to play. Grant, too, is proving a brilliant wing half-back and the tall Boothway, so nonchalant, and yet so deadly, has solved Everton’s right wing problems while showing his liking for the left foot. Then there is the boy who might have been watching the game, Eddie Wainwright. Wainwright would have been stood down had Andy Black decided to play for Everton instead of Liverpool, yet he turned out, and proved one of the big success of the game. This lad is making such rapid progress and aborting the hints of Lawton and company that he is quickly telling the club officials that they need not worry about inside-right any more. Yes, a most encouraging show. Everton’s team work was also a delight and their skilful manoeuvres were carried through with a high degree of speed. McIntosh bagged three goals –one a penalty –Lawton added another to his opener. Boothway and Wainwright got one apiece and Stevenson took two –one from a penalty. And the best goals were Boothways –a mighty 25-yard left foot shot –and Lawton’s second in which he beat three men inside the penalty area, and then rammed it home with his right foot in the manner of a world-beater.

EVERTON RIDING HIGH
January 10, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Class Will Tell.
When a team is hit for nine by the opposition they usual outcry is “It was too one-sided a game to be interesting.” Naturally one would have preferred to see Crewe Alexandra put up a stiffer front to Everton, but the fact that Everton played such attractive football prevented the game from becoming dull (writes Stork). It was football of the best type which enabled Everton to cut through the Crewe ranks at will, and had the forwards taken up every chance they made for themselves, I am sure they would have put up a record breaking score. I am not one who likes to see a side punished unnecessary, but in this cup competition goal average may mean qualifying or being knocked out. Last season Everton only qualified on goal average. They do not want a repetition so who can blame them for scoring as many goals as possible. Crewe got a consolation goal at the death to whittle down Everton’s average but there was little enthusiasm displayed over Inskip’s goal. I have no intention of describing the ten goals but will pick out the best of the bunch for special mention. Lawton’s scored topped the poll for he had to beat three men on route. Boothway’s grand shot from 25 yards out and Stevenson’s crack-a-jack first goal. Two others came from the penalty spot, and one of the best shots of the match failed by inches. It was an angular drive by Boothway which whistled over the angle of the woodwork. Goal scoring became as easy as smelling peas. The astonishing thing was not the scoring of nine goals, but that so many were missed. That is not uncommon in a game of this character, for having built up an impregnable lead Everton became somewhat flippant in their shooting. Crewe were helpless against such football. They did not know how to tackle it; they were bewitched and bewildered by the intricate of the Everton players who did almost as they liked even to the point of lover-indulging in finesse. It was all so pretty to watch, and that kept the game ineffective, otherwise it would have fallen to a low ebb.

EVERTON UNCHANGED
January 11, 1944, The Evening express
Pilot’s Log
Everton will be unchanged for their visit to Crewe Alexandra at Gresty-road on Saturday and should be able to complete the “double” following their 9-1 win at Goodison Park. Boothway, the Manchester City forward, will continue at outside-right, a position he occupied so well last Saturday. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Jones (Tommy), Watson; Boothway, Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson, McIntosh.

‘MIRACLE' SPA FOR OUR FORCES NEAR
Liverpool Evening Express - Wednesday 12 January 1944

Near a famous North African sea resort, about a mile from the surf, and hemmed by date palms golden with fruit, a convent school has become a remedial hospital for British troops. It is known among the cures as Miracle Spa.” The patients are soldiers, stiff limbed after wounds and burns, or cramped by exposure, tensed through shell shock. In the cream and pale blue building, patients sleep in dormitories supervised Royal Army Medical Corps orderlies. There are no nurses. All treatment is given men. In the grounds, mar q u ees are equipped with devices for exercising limbs, torsos, and spines not yet in control. Mats, rings and dumbbells, barbells, pushball, hobby horses, and boxing gloves are ready for patients after the cure. in the training schedule, Army physical training is now subject of serious study in all spheres, physical and mental and Corps personnel are chosen almost entirely from professions that teach and require sane mind in a sound body.

SOCCER STARS IN CHARGE

Company Sergeant-Major Instructor Andrew Beattie, famous Scottish International football player for Preston North End, is in charge of the remedial exercise and massage division. student of the British Institute of Swedish Massage, he practised during his professional days when livelihood depended upon fitness of wind and limb Limbs that have stiffened through breakage or wounds are gently massaged to remove adhesions and tone up the muscles to a point where they will do their jobs again. Fibrositis is simply coaxed away by persuasive fingers and distilled oil. This with the goodwill, certainly the faith, of the patient, completes the cure. Chest and lung cases live a fresh air life under canvas, in sound of the sea, among the formal gardens ringed about by statues that might have come from the nearby Roman ruin. The Miracle men are warrant officers of the Army Physical Training Corps. one time a mere item Sergeant-Instructor Albert Geldard, Army Physical Training Corps, of 10, Standring-avenue, Bury, International footballer for Everton, Bolton. Wanderers, is another of the staff.

BLUES HOPES BRIGHT
January 14, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton must start favourites at Gresty-road, where they face Crewe Alexandra, the club against whom they have scored 22 goals in three goals this term. When Everton went to Crewe in the League they won 8-0, but were held to a 5-5 draw at Goodison Park. Then came last week’s 9-1 win at Goodison. On that form, it will be a rare “turn-up” for the book if Crewe manage to smash Everton’s 100 per cent record tomorrow. Personally, I do not fancy Crewe, for Everton, go with an unchanged team and international Tommy Lawton thirsting for goals to help celebrate his wedding anniversary. The main danger to Everton lies in over-confidence, a fault which has cost, them several precious points in the war years. If Everton will just reflect on the strong play of Crewe in the opening phases of last week’s game they will realise that given any latitude Crewe can be a dangerous force. Crewe; Poskett; Bateman, Glover; Jones, Cope, Still; Inskip, McCormick, Roberts, Blunt, Matthews. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Jones (Tommy), Watson; Boothway, Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson, McIntosh.

EVERTON AT CREWE
January 14, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
With the same team which cut and carved its way through Crewe, at Goodison Park, Everton should face the return full of confidence. I knew Crewe created a mild sensation by sharing ten goals at Goodison recently, but Everton’s team that day was weak. With the present eleven on duty the “double” should turn up all right. For weeks Everton’s right wing has been their sore spot, but matters took a change for the better last week when the right was almost as effective as the left, Boothway and Wainwright getting along splendidly together. Boothway moved rather nonchalantly it is true but when he had to act he did so cleverly and with judgement. Everton won’t have to take any risks tomorrow, and must set themselves out to get goals early, so that they are not working-against the collar later on. If they do that they should win. Crewe; Poskett; Bateman, Glover; Jones, Cope, Still; Inskip, McCormick, Roberts, Blunt, Matthews. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Jones (Tommy), Watson; Boothway, Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson, McIntosh.

WILLE COOK SAY “THANK YOU.”
January 15, 1944. The Evening Post
Pilot’s Log
Willie Cook, Everton’s Irish international full back, takes his leave of first class football in a letter to me from an Indian theatre of war, and he pays excellent tribute to Merseyside football enthusiasts, both Blues and Reds. It is a letter typical of Willie, who, throughout his career, was a great lad for giving the fans full value for their money. I think the letter comes right from the heart, and I take pleasure in giving it in full. Here it I; “First of all, I want to thank the Liverpool public for the good sportsmanship shown me while I had the good fortune to be playing for Everton, my first and only club in England. I may say that if I had my time to go over again it would be to Goodison Park that I would go. Everton stands out as one of the best clubs in the country, and to me, the best of all. “In thanking the Merseyside supporters let me start with the Evertonians. They were lenient with me during my bad games, and lavish with praise in my good games. You could not wish to play before a better crowd of supporters. When I return I am going to be one of you.
Outstanding Games
“Two games with Everton stand out in my memory. The first was when we won the cup at Wembley against Manchester City (and the coincidence is that the paper has just come in with the news that the Blues have beaten the City 5-3), and the second was, of course, the cup reply with Sunderland. What a game to play in, and what a game to watch. The Liverpool lads out here still talk about that game. “Now I come to my friends, the Liverpudians, I want them to know that if I had been a Liverpool player I would have played just as hard for them. The more they shouted at me the harder I played, and I enjoyed every tussle we had. “I want also to thank the directors, officials, players and members of the ground staff for all the help they gave me, and also the friends of the Press, particularly yourself. We had some great times together on our many journeys. Memories of those trips and all the good people I met on Merseyside help you when you are so far away from home. My best wishes for 1944 to you and everyone.”

CREWE V. EVERTON
January 15, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
Crewe;- Bradbury, goal; Bateman and Dryer, backs; Jones, Cope and Still, half-backs; Inskip, McCormick (Tottenham), Roberts, Blunt (Northampton), and Aldersey, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (captain), and Watson, half-backs; Boothway (Manchester City), Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson, and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Referee; Mr. A.C. Hall (Chester). Crewe should most promising form in the first ten minutes. They were definitely the more dangerous side during that period, and the Everton defence had some hard work to do to keep Roberts and company at bay. McCormick once shot wide, and Roberts also was only just beaten in time as he was rushing his way through the Everton defence. Stevenson and McIntosh got together in a round of passing which produced a corner, and from this Boothway headed into the goalkeeper’s hands. There were plenty of strong midfield play, and Crewe maintained their heavy pressure, but gradually Everton got into their proper swing and Boothway made a poor pass to Lawton, who was only inches off making contact, and had he done so the outlook for Crewe would have been black. Bradbury sensed the danger and came out and grabbed the ball literally off Lawton’s toe. McIntosh made a fiery drive, and than Stevenson shot over from a Boothway pass. After 25 minutes Crewe took the lead, Roberts heading in from a corner. Before the interval Everton had recovered, and were leading 2-1 at that stage. Lawton scored the two goals, and at this period Everton were certainly sounding the Crewe’s defence, in which Cope stood out among his hard-working colleagues. Everton’s first goal came at 32 minutes from a header to which the goalkeeper got his hands and edged on to his crossbar, but he could not keep it out. Lawton’s second was of the unstoppable type.
Lawton’s Hat-Trick
He took up a pass from Wainwright and crashed the ball into the net with lightning speed.
Half-time –Crewe Aleaxandra 1, Everton 2.
Early in the second half Boothway went through, only to have the ball taken off his toes by Dyer. He had a similar experience when Cope held him up. At 57 minutes Lawton got his hat-trick of goals. The opening phase of this goal was a throw-down, and the Crewe defence faltered and Lawton rushed in to score. Five minutes later the England leader totted up his fourth goal of the game, heading McIntosh’s centre right away from the goalkeeper. Wainwright added a fifth at seventy minute and Lawton after heading against the crossbar scored a sixth goal. After Mcintosh had shot and the goalkeeper had failed to gather, the ball, Lawton had to simply tap the ball into the net. Burnett had to punch over a good shot by McCormick. Final; Crewe Alexandra 2, Everton 6.

LAWTON’S FIVE GOALS
January 15, 1944. The Evening Express
Everton Win At Crewe
Everton, who visited Crewe Alexandra, today, fielded the side which defeated Cheshire team by nine goals to one at Goodison Park last week. Crewe introduced Dyer, Bateman, and Aldersey. Crewe;- Bradbury, goal; Bateman and Dryer, backs; Jones, Cope and Still, half-backs; Inskip, McCormick (Tottenham), Roberts, Blunt (Northampton), and Aldersey, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (captain), and Watson, half-backs; Boothway (Manchester City), Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson, and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Referee; Mr. A.C. Hall (Chester). Roberts started for Crewe, who at once made a raid on the right. The ball came into the middle from Inskip but Jones relieved a difficult situation by passing back to Burnett. Roberts came again and passed to McCormick who shot over. Crewe continued, in the Everton half and the visitors defence was put to a severe test. Aldersey got in a neat centre, but Blunt’s shot was not on the mark. The Everton forwards at length got away on the left, and some clever passing was witnessed between McIntosh and Stevenson. The latter caused Bateman to concede a corner. This was accurately place by McIntosh, but Davies made a good clearance. Play was carried up the Crewe right wing, but Greenhalgh was not to be easily beaten and the effort fizzled out. Crewe were doing most of the attacking, but the Everton defenders gave nothing away and Burnett was rarely troubled. A spectacular bout of head play was witnessed hereabouts, five players heading the ball before it touched the ground. Smart play by Aldersey was nullified by his partner running into an offside position. McIntosh was making good progress when he was successfully tackled on the touch line by Jones. Everton forwards came more into the picture with smart passing movements which repeatedly threatened danger.
Quick Goal.
A well-timed pass by Boothway found McIntosh, who tried a first time shot which was well off the mark. Lawton next had a try but a tackle by Bateman caused him to shoot widely. At the end of 25 minutes Crewe took the lead, Roberts heading into the net from a corner kick by Aldersley. Seven minutes later Lawton equalised, Bradbury knocking the ball on to the underside of the bar and it fell behind him into the net. Just before the interval Lawton gave Everton the lead.
Half-time; Crewe A, 1, Everton 2.
Everton were quickly on the offensive when the teams turned straight round, and Boothway looked a certain scorer when Dyer took the ball off his toe, conceding it pointless corner. At the other end, Blunt was breaking through when he was brought down just outside the penalty area. The free kick was charged down. Crewe attacked in promising style on the left, and Aldersley’s centre was dangerous, but the inside forwards were well marked by the defenders. After 12 minutes of the half Lawton completed his hat-trick and added a fourth shortly afterwards from a centre by McIntosh. Lawton and Wainwright scored further goals for Everton, and McCormick one for Crewe. Final; Crewe 2, Everton, 6.

SIX GOALS FOR EVERTON
January 17, 1944. The Liverpool Daily Post
Crewe Alexandra 2, Everton 6
Lawton’s Dashing Display
By Stork.
Crewe Alexandra will not forget Everton this season. In their four meetings to date Everton have scored 28 goals against the Alexandra and yielded only eight. Everton have produced some rally high-class football against the Railway men. On Saturday Crewe started off with such high promise that they threatened to extend Everton and they did for twenty minutes, during which time they played football which made them look really good. They attacked Everton by the fire and ability brought into their game, and had they taken one or two of their chances during this time a different tale might have had to be told. They eventually lost 6-2. Crewe had but such heartiness into their early play that it was impossible to maintain it for ninety minutes. Nevertheless it was good while it lasted, and the 5,000 odd people had a grand time watching their side master Everton at least for twenty minutes. Crewe scored first at twenty-five minutes when Roberts headed a goal from Aldersley’s corner kick. That goal shock Everton. They had not anticipated such a happening against a side which had been beaten a week previously 9-1.
Lawton’s Triumph
It brought Everton to the realisation that they must be up and doing and once the Goodison men got their teeth into the game the result was a forgone conclusion. Battle how they would, the Crewe defence could not carry through their heavy burden without yielding goals. The game was a triumph for Lawton, for he scored five of Everton’s six goals. Wainwright obtaining the other. Lawton had a difficult task against Cope, the Crewe centre-half. Everton’s equaliser came at thirty two minutes when Lawton made a header from which Bradbury got his hands to the ball and turned it against the inside of the crossbar before it finally dropped to the back of the net. From then on goals came fairly regularly, Lawton picked up a Wainwright pass at forty-two minutes to score the second goals, so that Everton were leading 2-1 at the interval. The England leader got his hat-trick at fifty-seven minutes and his fourth goal at sixty-seven minutes. This was a finely place header from McIntosh’s centre. Wainwright sandwiching in goal number five at seventy minutes, and three minutes later Lawton obtained Everton’s sixth goal after the goalkeeper had completely misjudged the ball, from Mcintosh’s centre which went on to Lawton, who simply had to tap the ball in the net. Most of the fight had gone out of the Crewe side long before this, but they produced a finishing effort at eight-five minutes, which produced a goal for McCormick. Crewe rallied upon the quick and long pass, and it proved highly successful for a time. Everton indulged in greater finesse which was often cut into by the Crewe defenders, but in the end class told its own tale. Crewe;- Bradbury, goal; Bateman and Dryer, backs; Jones, Cope and Still, half-backs; Inskip, McCormick (Tottenham), Roberts, Blunt (Northampton), and Aldersey, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (captain), and Watson, half-backs; Boothway (Manchester City), Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson, and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Referee; Mr. A.C. Hall (Chester).
• Everton Reserves beat Randle 3-1
• Liverpool Beat Tranmere Rovers 5-1; Balmer, Beattie, Done, Black, and Campbell for Liverpool, and Heydon for Tranmere. Jones (J.E) and Birkett played for Tranmere.

NON-STOP BLUES
January 17, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton are having an amazing ran and their 6-2 win over Crewe Alexandra at Gresty-road was their sixth off the reel. And in the cup they have collected all eight points and scored 27 goals to six in the process. Crewe put up a rare battle for the opening quarter and shocked Everton by taking the lead with Roberts’ headed goal from a corner. Once Lawton had equalised however a lot of the fight went out of Alexandra, and Lawton had placed Everton in front before the interval. A perfect volley gave Tommy his third and hat-trick and he made it four with a remarkable acrobatic header. Wainwright got a fifth and then Lawton scored again. Another corner enabled McCormick to reduce the lead. Apart from that opening this was always Everton’s game and much of the football was of the highest standard. The Blues were good fore and aft against a side which lost heart too quickly. Everton have now scored 28 goals against Crewe this season. Five was not Lawton’s best scoring, feat of the season for he got a six with Aldershot. Tommy has now reached the 333 mark in his career, and his season’s bag is 41.

CLASS WILL TELL
January 17, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Crewe Alexandra started off the game like lions, but finished up like lambs. Why? Simply because it was impossible for them to maintain such a crack-a-jack for the full ninety minutes, and secondly because Everton’s class told in the end. Nevertheless I can tell you quite frankly (writes Stork) that Everton were amazed at the spirited play Crewe produced for twenty minutes. They had seen them a week previously and rated them on that standard, but the Alexandra were an entirely different lot during their bright spell. They played capital football –good combination and quick movements –and had Everton perplexed for a time. But in their frenzied efforts they took great toll of themselves and having expended themselves in their mighty effort it became rather easy for Everton in the end. It was honest-to-goodness football that Crewe played, but it got them there just as readily as Everton’s class eventually carried them to victory. The “Alex” actually took the lead after having Everton down in their own half, and the crowd begin to wonder how this Everton had scored nine goals against them the previous week. Well they were soon to see, for after having enjoyed their moments their saw the well-knit Everton side pull itself together after taking the full brunt of Crewe’s blows, and yielding only one goal, and got about their adversaries with a sample off football that proved too much for the home defence. Tom Lawton, who has now scored 41 goals this season, got five of Everton’s six goals, and gave Wainwright his. This will not hearten the Scottish selectors, who will have to find the correct answer to Lawton in the forthcoming international match. Everton were finicky early on –played too close –but once they decided to open out the play they had Crewe where they wanted them. Lawton scored the first four goals to successful, his fourth one being a bobby dazzler with his head. A spectator seated next to me said. “He’s as good as Dixie ever was.” At the death McCormick, Crewe’s best forward, scored a second. Anyone who scores five goals in a match naturally comes in for most of the praise, but there was one player in the Everton side who to my mind, stood out on his own in this match. It was Gordon Watson. The excellency of his passes had to be seen to be judged. Rarely did he put one wrong. In four games Crewe this season Everton have totted up twenty-eight goals.

Dean Injured
Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 19 January 1944
Dixie Dean, the former Everton and England centre forward, now In the R.A.C.. Is In the St. James’s Hospital, Leeds, suffering from a head Injury sustained in regimental football match. He had to have several stitches Inserted in the wound.

Everton Reserves will at home to Kirkby.
Liverpool Evening Express - Thursday 20 January 1944

Everton Reserves; Canavan; Woodcock, Doyle; Ashley, McDonnell, Rainford; Linaker, Wooton, Wyles, Scott-Lee, Fowler.
Everton Colts (v. Rock Ferry St. Annes. Orrel-lane, 3 15 p.m.): Prince; Shone, Lever; Barrett, H. Williams, Melling; Higgins. D. Lane. Dalby. R. Williams.

IN ANFIELD DERBY AGAINST LIVERPOOL
January 20, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Shortly before midday today Mr. Theo Kelly received a telegraph from Torry Gillick confirming that he would be able to play against Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday. Gillick’s appearance will add further lustre to an already attractive match and another few thousands to the gate, for the local folk haven’t had a chance to see him for nearly four years. So far as Stevenson is concerned, definite information is not expected before the evening. Spectators should note the gates open at 1.50 and as an inducement to early arrival the West Lancashire Home Guard Band will do their stuff in their usual accomplished manner.

STARS OF ANFIELD DERBY
January 21, 1944, The Evening Express
Pilot’s Express
Eight and possibly nine, stars, representing national association and one Dominion, will figure in tomorrow’s grand Merseyside “Derby” match at Anfield between Liverpool and Everton –with League (North) War Cup Qualifying Competition points as the prize. This is building up into one of the finest of all the many rousing “Derby” games we have had since the war. For one thing the clubs are now just about on a par, whereas in the past two seasons Liverpool have stolen most of the “thunder.” Liverpool have generally been entering these duels with the consoling thought that they had the better record, and that things were running their way. At the moment that is all changed.
True that Liverpool again finished above Everton in the League No 1 championship but since the turn of the year, Everton have dashed away in front and at the moment stands as leaders of the 56 clubs, battling for qualification and with a 100 per cent record. I can picture the Liverpool players saying. “We’ll soon mess that record up,” but will they? That is a question which the game alone can answer. Let me say that I feel this test will end in a draw, but maybe your guess will be as good as mine. The match will be notable in that it will be the first occasion a party of American Army representatives will attend a Football league game in the country accompanied by an official who will explain the game to them. This is under the auspless of the British Council. Twenty officers make up the party and will be instructed by Mr. Ernest Edwards, and later entertained to tea by the directors. Our American friends will certainly see football at its best, for I can visualise no better soccer baptism than a keen Merseyside “Derby” –and possibly before a crowd bordering on 30,000.
Gillick Returns.
The game also marks the return to Merseyside after three years’ absence of Torry Gillick, Everton’s Scottish international forward, who after playing regularly with the Rangers at centre-forward, comes specially to play outside-left. It will be a refreshing treat to see this master ball player again. Tommy Lawton, danger man to the Liverpool, hopes; Tommy Jones, and George Jackson are other international certainties for the Blues. Stevenson is called to play at Bristol for the R.A.F and Cuthbert Tatters, of the R.A.F. will be at inside-left. Turning to Liverpool, there are two questions to be settled. First, who is to play right-half in place of Kaye? My tip is Berry Nieuwenhuys, the South African international. This plan may be changed, for now word comes through that both Liddell, the Scottish international, and Fagan may be here to help. Fagan becomes a possible right-half, and with such forwards strength maybe the club could risk taking Welsh out of the attack. However, Niewenhuys at right-half seems the most logical conclusion. This would be Liddell’s first appearance since breaking his leg last October.
Plenty Of Goals.
It will come as a surprise if there are not plenty of goals with such potential goal-getters as Lawton, the season’s leading scorer, Balmer, Welsh, McIntosh, Gillick, Beattie and company. It looks as if goalkeepers Burnett and Hobson will be right in the thick of the fray. I am certain both forward lines will not only provide us with an abundance of good approach football, but all the shot and “fire” needed and the game rests rather on which defence can better stand the strain. For experience Everton hold the balance here and if anything is to turn the scales in their favour it is this important factor. The Reds at the moment have six qualifying points to eight by the Blues, who will be seeking their seventh successive win. Liverpool have lost only once this season at Anfield. Liverpool have the encouragement of knowing that in league games they registered a “double” over their rivals, scoring 6-4 at Goodison Park and 5-2 at Anfield. And to save “arguments” on the kop here are the “Derby” records in brief; in all competitive matches between the clubs to date. Everton claim 44 wins, Liverpool 37, and 21 draws. In wartime competitive matches Liverpool have 11 wins to Everton’s eight with three draws. There will be pre-match and interval entertainment by the West Lancashire Home Guard Band, so if you listen to the plea to get to the ground early you will not find the waiting weary. The gates will open at 1-30 p.m, as the clubs are nooling gatemen resource there should be no difficulty in packing the crowd –provided the spectators will assist by forming orderly queues. And here’s to another epic between these rivals;- two of the best clubs in the country at the present time. And a point apiece will satisfy everyone. Liverpool; (from); Hobson; Westby, Gulliver; Niewenhuys, Hughes, Pilling; Fagan, Liddell, Balmer, Beattie, Done, Welsh, Campbell. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Jones (Tommy), Watson; Gillick, Wainwright, Lawton, Tatters, McIntosh.

TOUGH LIVERTON’ FIGHT IN PROSPECT
January 21, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Even in the darkest hours of the blitz any game between Liverpool and Everton pulled in the biggest gate of the day throughout the Football League, for the afraction of a “Liverton” Derby makes respectable appeal, to Merseyside folk. Now that gates have gone up everywhere with such rapid strides, Anfield is register its own record, for the season when Everton present Cup-qualifying leaders and one of the three 100 per cent creators visit there tomorrow. Everton’s disappointment over Stevenson and Boothway, wanted by the R.A.F and Manchester City respectively, is largely counterbalanced by the inclusion of Gillick, whose appearance after nearly four years –his last game here was in May, 1940 –is a big attraction. Tatters, Tommy Jones, portage, fills Stevenson’s place, and though he won high praise when he made his debut three weeks ago, I’m afraid Everton may miss the gliding rein of wee Alec, whose subtly and craft, since he has had good material to work on, have had much to do with Everton’s improvement. Thanks to the improved balance in their attack and the deadly marksmanship of Lawton and McIntosh, Everton latterly have been getting bags of goals, and while I don’t put too much store by the size of recent victories, because the opposition hasn’t been of the strength, the psychological affect has undoubtedly been seen in strengthened confidence.
Blow To Defence
Liverpool have suffered a blow to their well-knit defence, whose solidity and understanding has been the rock on which so many victories have been based. In the absence of cartilage suffer Kaye, and now that the virtually unchanged half back line loses a bulwark one wonders what the effect will be. The Liverpool attack gains much in strength from Beattie and Welsh there’s Balmer to contribute, but cannot like drives if the ball runs to his liking with Done as harass the rearguard –but not, if Liverpool hope to win to repeat his point-blank misses last week. The gods won’t give third and fourth changes against Everton like they did against Tranmere. The Reds must grasp their opportunities without wastefulness, otherwise the penalty may be severe. No matter who wins or loses the game has the hallmark of a thrilling tussle. “Liverton” war-time games, invariably have been keen, but clean. I recall only one incident which ruffed the post match boardroom tranquillity –and ruffled it so severely that somebody though fleetingly in the heat of the moment of a step which would have been sensational. I hope tomorrow’s game attains the highest standard, and so long as the best team wins we’ll all be satisfied. My record show this as the 28th war-time “Liverton” Derby, with honours so far exactly even-twelve wins to each, three drawns and goal balanced at 65 apiece. Liverpool; (from); Hobson; Westby, Gulliver; Niewenhuys, Hughes, Pilling; Fagan, Liddell, Balmer, Beattie, Done, Welsh, Campbell. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Jones (Tommy), Watson; Gillick, Wainwright, Lawton, Tatters, McIntosh.

EVERTON SURPRISE LIVERPOOL
January 22, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Triumphant Defence –Telling Goals
By Stork.
Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Westby and Gulliver, backs; Neiuwenhuys, Hughes and Pilling, half-backs; Balmer (captain), Beattie, Fagan, Done and Liddell, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Jones (J.E.), backs; Grant, Jones (T.G.) (captain) and Watson, half-backs; Wyles, Wainwright, Lawton, Tatters, and McIntosh, forwards. Referee –Mr. W.B. Nixon (Manchester). The Everton team suffered a severe blow in that Greenhalgh was unable to play in the first of the “Liverton” Cup ties at Anfield today. He met with an accident during the morning and hurt his leg to such an extent that it was impossible for him to play. He fell down car pit. The teams came out in pairs, and it was not long before we saw some excellent football, for almost in the first minute Tatters dribbled his way through the Liverpool defence but his final pass was smothered out. The 30,000 people were soon roused by the spirited play of both sides. Everton should have drawn first blood at the 10th minute when Wyles, only a few yards out, and with only Hobson before him, shot straight at the goalkeeper, who was thankful for any sort of chance to save.
Wyles Scores
It was a bonny battle but the pace of it was good, and defences were well up to the many tasks they were called upon to perform, with perhaps one exception and that produced a goal. Gulliver and Wyles went for a ball together but neither could claim the distinction off getting it; eventually it curled up and went over the head of Gulliver, which let in Wyles to score at 16 minutes. It was a bad bit of defence, because there was no covering method to Gulliver’s slip. So far little had been seen of Liverpool’s international forward line, if exception is made of Liddell, who did some excellent things, but one of the surprises of the game thus far was Tatters, who played like a veteran even to the point of ordering his colleagues what to do. There was a strong claim for a penalty against Everton when Watson handled the ball as he was falling but the referee was on the spot and must have seen everything and the play went on. Fagan headed over the bar, but so far Lawton had not had an opportunity to try a shot.
Wainwright Runs In.
At the half-hour Everton increased their lead to two goals. McIntosh centred right across the field to Wyles who from close in twice shot, only to find Hobson holding him up on each occasion. The goalkeeper was not able to make the complete clearance the second time, and the ball went out to Wainwright who ran in and scored. Immediately after this Tatters left the field for attention. Everton were undoubtedly the better team, and in 35 minutes they took a third goal, a beautifully made one. Lawton swept the ball over to the left for Wyles, who neatly lobbed it across for Wainwright to score with his head, simple looking but most effective. Within a minute Liverpool had reduced the lead, Fagan, who had changed places with Done, collected a pass from Liddell and with great deliberation directed the ball to the far side of the net. Burnett could not get over to it so that the ball travelled just inside the upright. Tatters was still off the field.
Half-time; Liverpool 1, Everton 3.
Both sides changed the formation of their attack for the second half, Tatters limping badly, went to outside left, and Beattie changed places with Balmer for Liverpool. Hughes and Lawton had some rare tussles and the youthful centre half come out with colours flying. Liddell forced a corner, and his flag kick caused a melee in front of the Everton goal, which was fortunate to escape. Tatters was again troubled with his leg and went off altogether at the 7th minute of the second half. A free kick taken by Niewenhuys went a yard over the crossbar, Liverpool were attacking for all they were worth, but the Everton defence stood their ground. Balmer went close with a good drive and Liddell shot straight into Burnett’s hands. It was a great game considering that Everton were playing with only ten men, Tatters was back again but was a passenger. Lawton scored the fourth for Everton. Final; Liverpool 1, Everton 4.

EVERTON WIN GREAT ANFIELD DUEL
January 22, 1944. The Evening Express
By Pilot.
Everton beat Liverpool 4-1 in the first of the seasons Merseyside War Cup “Derbies” at Anfield today. Wyles, Wainwright (2) and Lawton scored for Everton and Fagan for Liverpool. Everton had to make last minute team changes. Norman Greenhalgh, just before leaving work to get to the ground, fell down a motor inspection pit and damaged a knee. This withdrawal –coming on top of the Gillick-Stevenson disappointments –was bad luck for such a feature game. Liddell, Fagan, and Niewenhuys made welcome reappearances for Liverpool, and, as I forecast, Niuwenhuys was at right-half. News of the day is that Kaye, of Liverpool, will not be operated on till next week, and that Stan Bentham of Everton, is making good progress following his operation, but his ankle is still weak. This was the 28th war-time “derby” between the clubs, with a fine crowd, reminiscent of peace days. Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Westby and Gulliver, backs; Neiuwenhuys, Hughes and Pilling, half-backs; Balmer (captain), Beattie, Fagan, Done and Liddell, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Jones (J.E.), backs; Grant, Jones (T.G.) (captain) and Watson, half-backs; Wyles, Wainwright, Lawton, Tatters, and McIntosh, forwards. Referee –Mr. W.B. Nixon (Manchester). Tatters made the opening thrust, but after beating two men he was crowded out, and away went Liverpool with one of their high speed moves, which saw Liddell come inside and let go a right foot shot from 20 yards which was only inches over. Lawton beat three men in a cross field run, and then Burnett dashed out to pull down a dangerous centre from Liddell, with Fagan in attendance. Tommy Jones was brilliant in holding up the quick-moving Liverpool inside forwards in a keen game. Nieuwenhuys was deceived by Lawton’s quick back-heel, and after seven minutes Everton should have taken the lead. From McIntosh’s centre, Wyles found himself over four yards from goal and unattended, but he placed straight to Hobson, with the right hand side of the goal gaping at him. This was a lucky escape for Liverpool. Done put Fagan through, but Jackson came dashing across with the winning clearance kick.
Quick Exchanges
Wyles hit one first-time as it came from the left but failed to get hold of the ball properly. Then Liddell placed the Everton goal in jeopardy and when Done took a hand Tom Jones had to pass back to relieve pressure. Jackson lobbed one in from the half-way line, and the ball dropped just over the top. In 17 minutes Everton took the lead, thanks to the enterprise of Wyles. Wyles surprised Gulliver, who was facing his own goal, and bustled him to such an extent he gained possession and ran forward unattended to score with an unstoppable left foot shot. Liverpool battled back in characteristic style, Done and Fagan having shots charged down after Liddell had made the play. Then Tatters bore through magnificently, only for his shot to go by the near post with Lawton waiting in position. Grant had to leave the field, and while he was away Burnett fisted away from Liddell’s corner. When the clearance was being completed Liverpool claimed a penalty when Jack Jones tackled strongly, but play was waved on. Fagan’s flying header, went sailing over, before Burnett dashed out to kick clear as Done was racing in. Wyles was now at right half, but Everton’s four forwards continued to make a pleasing show, although lacking the quick cohesive art of the Reds.
Tom Jones’ Fine Display
Balmer came racing in from the right and looked a potential goal-scorer, until Tom Jones came through with another magnificent tackle, to give further colour to one of the finest exhibitions of centre-half play seen on the ground for a long time. Grant came back after ten minutes absence. Everton increased their lead in 30 minutes through Wainwright. It was a remarkable goal. Wyles took over a handing centre from McIntosh, ran to the line and cracked in a shot which struck Hughes and rebounded for Wyles to have a second go. This time the ball rebounded off Hobson’s body, and when Wyles made a third effort, the ball struck Hughes and came out for Wainwright to step in and drive low into the far corner. Everton, two up, was a big surprise in view of their last minute enforced team changes, but they were certainly fighting magnificently, and their defence was much superior to that of the Reds. After the scoring of the second goal, Tatters had to go off. Everton continued to call the tune, and their ten men brought the score to 3-0 in 35 minutes.
Second For Wainwright.
Lawton drew the defence and slipped the ball across for Wyles, who neatly lobbed it in for Wainwright to head in just under the bar. Within two minutes Liverpool had reduced the lead through Fagan. The Reds as anticipated, changed their forward formations, Fagan going inside left, and after Liddle and Done had improved on Beattie’s quick thrust through, Fagan received on the edge of the penalty area, made a body swerve and scored with a low shot to brighten the hopes of the Reds. Tatters came back limping immediately afterwards. Right on half-time Lawton’s header flew wide as Everton continued the more effective side.
Half-time; Liverpool, 1, Everton, 3.
Both teams made alterations on resuming. Liverpool put Balmer inside, while Everton had the injured Tatters at outside left. Liverpool started to put on pressure but Everton remained unruffled and actually became the more dangerous side again. Lawton had three shots charged down before Hobson gathered a header from him, and then a right foot shot found Hobson still in position. Liverpool raided strongly through Liddell, who forced a corner, which brought danger to the Blues when Burnett could not make a complete clearance, but the defence packed so well that the Reds could not find a loophole and the ball was got away to safety.
Great half-Backs.
Tatters went off after 56 minutes and the Reds sprang to the attack. Balmer making two fine efforts, but for the rest the home forwards could not shake off the super brilliant play of the Everton half-backs, who can never have given a finer exhibition. Watson, ones, and Grant were master players. Nieuwenhuys was over the top when Everton gave him a clear shot to goal from a free kick and when Beattie darted in Burnett was nicely placed to clear. Hughes who had been rather unsettled in the first half, now came into the pictures with some masterly tackles at the expenses of Lawton, who was finding little room in which to operate. Tatters came back after 78 minutes and this coincided with Liddell coming to outside right with Beattie on the left. Balmer took a first timer which flashed wide, and then Burnett confidently pulled down a long centre. Grant drew the cheers by dashing over to hold up Liddell, after the international had beaten three men in succession. Although Tatters was on the field, he was practically helpless owing to his injury, yet Everton continued to keep a grip on a Liverpool losing their style because of their desperate position. Lawton was too light with a distance shot, and then McIntosh came through with a left foot shot which Hobson fielded well. Jack Jones neatly headed the ball back to Burnett when under pressure after a nice run by Beattie. Lawton came to outside-left and centred accurately for Wyles to drive across the face of the goal, and when Wyles was going through again, Pilling pulled him up just in time. Everton were in the wars again when Watson received the ball full in the face, but he recovered quickly, and quick-thinking and quick movement again had Liverpool worried. One minute from time Everton made it game and rubber with a goal by Lawton. Final; Liverpool, 1, Everton, 4.

WHY EVERTON WON
January 24, 1944. The Liverpool Daily Post
Liverpool 1, Everton 4
Strong half-Back Play
By Ranger.
In defeating Liverpool 4-1 at Anfield in their first cup qualifying encounter Everton were worthy of the points, for they were the methodical side, played the more attractive football and won in spite of being virtually a man short for three-parts of the game. After Grant had been of 10 minutes in the first half, they lost Tatters for a similar period and although the latter returned, an ankle injury made him a passenger. It was a hard, rather than a brilliant game, with the defence on top for the most part and though it produced comparatively few thrills the pace and keenness maintained the interest. Everton’s 3-0 lead after thirty-five minutes rather flatter them, for they had not been that much better than the opposition and it was not more than Liverpool deserved when they reduced the leeway just before the interval. There the score remained until a minute from the end when Lawton got the best goal of the day.
Weathering The Storm.
Liverpool, fought back with such determination in the early stages of the second half that they got on top for a period, and with Everton handicapped it became problematical whether they could weather the storm. Thanks to the inspiring example of the halves, the soundness of the backs and the invaluable help of McIntosh as an extra defender, they did so and actually themselves came back to the attack with such vigour that the home rearguard also had its anxious moments. Slackness in Liverpool’s defence helped Everton with their two goals. Wyles not the opening minutes when a ball game on to him that should have been cleared and this was followed at the half-hour with a Wainwright goal, also somewhat tinged with luck, for after Wyles had one shot blocked and two partially saved, there should have been a Liverpool defender on the line, in case of need, before Wainwright got his chance. A. Watson-Lawton-Wyles effort which ended with a beautifully-placed centre from the latter enabled Wainwright to get the third goal at the thirty-fifth minute. This was a blow for Liverpool, who tried to meet it my making the first of many forward rearrangements, and the only one to bring reward which came when Fagan beat Burnett with a well-placed driver. It’s a desperate effort to get on level terms. Liverpool switched their forwards about repeatedly in the second half without making any noticeable impression on Everton’s solid defence which was always first to the ball and tackled with speed and precision. True Liverpool had the better of matters territorially, yet the sun total of their efforts was a near miss by Nieuwenhuys, two hot drives by Balmer which were just outside and a couple of odd shots which lacked sting –a poor return for much hearty, if rather disjoined endeavour. Lawton’s late-on goal was a beauty for he gathered an awkward waist high ball from Wyles in brilliant fashion to beat Hobson with a terrific shot.
Half-backs’ Fine Work
Though Everton have to thank their intermediate line for a big contribution to the victory, the whole side played with method and style. Jones (T.G.) put the stamp of his immaculate artistry on every move and was the biggest individual success. Grant and Watson were equality as effective, though not so polished; McIntosh was as sure prop to the defence and always a dangerous raider. Wainwright has never played better. Tatters was brilliant up to his injury and Wyles did all that was expected of him. Lawton was not as prominently as usual, thanks to the attention of Hughes, but when he found the middle closed he repeatedly opened the way for others by his judicious passes and by spread-eagling the defence with his dashes to the wing. Though it paid dearly for half-slips, Liverpool’s rear defence could hardly be faulted unduly but the half-backs line was definitely below par, and sometimes left wide areas in which the opposition could work at will. Balmer was the only Liverpool forward with a shot worthy of note; Fagan and Done were well held, Beattie was slow and hesitant and Liddell after starting briskly, tired long before he finish, which was not surprising considering this was his first game for so long. The American soldiers who saw the match, with Mr. Ernest Edwards as guide, thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The attendance was 34,221 and receipts £2,672. Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Westby and Gulliver, backs; Neiuwenhuys, Hughes and Pilling, half-backs; Balmer (captain), Beattie, Fagan, Done and Liddell, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Jones (J.E.), backs; Grant, Jones (T.G.) (captain) and Watson, half-backs; Wyles, Wainwright, Lawton, Tatters, and McIntosh, forwards. Referee –Mr. W.B. Nixon (Manchester).
• Everton Reserves beat Kirkby 6-0

EVERTON’S SENSATIONAL “DERBY” WIN
January 24, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton’s sensational run of success which has enabled them to establish themselves at the head of the Football League War Cup Qualifying Competition, made them the highest scoring team of the 56 qualifiers, and enjoy perhaps their brightest run in wartime football, reached a new high on Saturday, when the Blues went to Anfield, and conquered Liverpool 4-1 in the first of the Cup “Derby” games. It was a remarkable victory in the face of the most formidable odds, but thoroughly deserved. Everyone connected with the Liverpool club, from Chairman Mr. Lawson Martindale down, agreed that on the day the points went to the more deserving team. Mr. Martindale went out of his way to congratulate the Everton players and officials after one of the most sporting encounters we have had in the series for a long time. I do not assert there were no grumbles, Liverpool contend, and rightly, that they should have had a penalty when standing one down. Everton agree, and I agree. The Everton players, as a matter of fact, stopped playing thinking the award had been made, and they were much delighted when they realised their escape. A goal then would have made a tremendous difference, not that I believe it would have been sufficient to hold up the Everton victory. Truth to tell, Everton were superior to Liverpool in points of tactics, endeavour and effectiveness. Some may aver that the Reds played below form. Forget it. Liverpool were made to look the poorer by the workman like manner in which Everton went about their job. It was the Blues’ day –and not out of its turn, for the Reds have been the dominant side in the past two seasons.
All’s Well That...
It was a case of “all’s well that ends well” so far as Everton were concerned. The victory was a glorious finale to a week of uncertainly and bad luck, and the man who must have been most delighted was Secretary Mr. Theo Kelly, who, right up to the minute the side kicked off had been meeting bad luck and difficulties at every turn. Looks at this chapter of “tragedies.” Manchester City recalled Boothway on the City being “primed” how good Boothway was playing the R.A.F, took Stevenson for the Bristol game. Gillick was unable to come after all and Norman Greenhalgh fell, and injured a knee at work an hour before the kick-off, meaning two team changes just before the start. Phew it was enough to make anyone feel that fates were combining to mash Everton’s 100 per cent record. During the game the troubles continued for Cuthbert Tatters, who was doing exceptionally well at inside left, so badly damaged an ankle that be twice left the field, and finished up on the wing a helpless passenger and Grant was off for a spell and Watson was laid out flat. Yet Everton played in a manner, which gave the impression that they meant to defy the gods of fortune. I do think all these happenings absolutely made them fight harder. They just refused to be beaten even though playing with practically ten men for 80 minutes. Tatter’s injury, I am sorry to say, may prove serious, and an early examination will be made on his ankle to ensure no bones are broken. Let me hasten to emphasise that these injuries were not bourne of rough play. As a matter of fact this was a remarkable clean game fought in great spirit. There were only five free kicks for fouls –three against the Blues and two against the Reds. That for a needle “Derby” is highly testimony to the players.
Three In Twenty
One for a short spell were the team evenly balanced, but once Everton took the lead, after Wyles had surprised Gulliver, the Blues took a grip on the proceedings which they never for a moment lost. Young Eddie Wainwright followed with two goals from good work by Wyles, so that in a space of 20 minutes the lads from Goodison were three up and, to use a Kellyism, “laughing bags.” Billy Fagan jolted the Blues out of their “we’ve-won-it” mood with a fine goal two minutes later, but Everton quickly recovered, and went their merry way confidently and unruffied. I expected Liverpool, facing the Kop and backed by the famous Kop roar, to make a bold bid in the second half, but it was just as if Everton had them all shacked. The more the Reds tried to bring a semblance of combined skill; the more they switched their attack, and the more they worried, the stronger became the Everton strangle-hold. The longer it went the poorer became the Reds, for their desperation caused them to lose ability. Yes, and so readily did the Kopites see the way things were going that their famous roar was never heard. Everton withstood all tat Liverpool could throw in against their two-goal lead “bridge-head” and then at a fitting finale Tommy being Lawton –that ever-present menace to the Reds. Fagan –treated the 34,221 spectators (receipts intrepid £2,676) to one of those goals to remember – a 25 yarder taken on the full volley with the right foot as he swung round. Hobson could never have seen it such was the pace on the ball. Yes, a wonder goal, and a grand climax to another epic not without its lessons for both clubs.
About Balmer
Let us take Liverpool first. The outstanding lesson for the Reds is that last they must realise that Jack Balmer, one of the game’s greatest forwards, is being wasted on the wing. For half of this match Balmer was left languishing at outside-right, put out of the game by allocation of position. This must be changed. Extra speed for possession will be needed next Saturday too, if Liverpool are to turn the tables. Everton were generally first to the ball and what is more stronger on it. Further, Liverpool must open up their attack more, for Saturday’s closer formation was wrong against such a relentless half-back combination as that of Grant, Tom Jones and Watson. The chief glory for this win goes to that trio. I have no hesitation in saying that Tom Jones’s display was one of the finest exhibitions of the pivotal art I have ever seen. It was an epic, and if young Laurie Hughes will remember it is the perfect example it will help him in the career which lies before him. Watson has come right back to his best, and Grant as a wing half is one of the discoveries of the season. Oh, lessons for Everton? Yes. That Eddie Wainwright has amply justified the faith Mr. Kelly has always had in him. Wainwright is going to make a name for himself, for he is steadily improving; getting that extra “nip” and as cool as a cucumber. Wainwright –and Tatters while fit –were alive to step in when Lawton found himself “surrounded” of when Nieuwenhuys, as he did times innumerable nipped over to dispossess the international. Despite the policing Lawton’s very presence was generally unsettling the home defence. Before the game I wrote that Everton’s greater experience in defence might turn the game into their favour. That is precisely what happened. Jackson and Jack Jones were grand full backs, so accurate in kicking deadly in tackling and inexhaustible in recovery. Burnett, like Hobson, did his part well while one recalls the weight of McIntosh and the potency of Wyles, who did those vital things well. Liverpool definitely missed the forcing powers of Kaye and Welsh while appreciating that Nieuwenhuys was the pick of the half-backs. Kaye’s loss, however, is tremendous. The Reds missed the link between backs and half-backs, and in attack there was a lack of method and dovetailing. Balmer, when he moved inside proved the best forward, Done being blotted out while the subtle schemes of Fagan and Beattie were wretched on that intrepid. Everton half-back trio. Liddell started well and was always a danger man but it was not the real Billy we know. Still it is grand to reflect that Liddell has made a complete recovery from that broken ankle. Oh, a pat on the back for Westby, who was outstanding in the Reds’ defence. The American Army representatives seeing their first big game, were delighted with it. They described is as “a real he-man’s game” and want more. They are going to get it for Mr. Ernest Edwards, who is acting as instructor to them, states he will have another party at Goodison Park on Saturday, and will be going to grounds all over, the country with American visitors under the auspices of the British Council. And one of the Anfield party was named George Allison. He should know something about soccer. There is not much doubt about either Reds or Blues qualifying, but Liverpool must be up and doing on Saturday for peace of mind. Everton are seeking a star outside-right for this game, but Mr. Kelly will not make any early announcements because of last week’s disappointments. Alex Stevenson will return to inside-left and either Greenhalgh or Jack Jones will be at left back. Otherwise the side will be the same. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh (or jack Jones); Grant, Tommy Jones, Watson; A.N. Other, Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson, McIntosh.
Jack Humphreys, the Everton half-back, who has been playing with Crystal Palace, has been operated on for acute appendicitis, and will be out of the game for some time. Manager Mr. George Kay is not able to make any definite announcements about the Reds team, but Welsh and Black, the internationals, will be back, and applications will be made again for the release of Liddell and Fagan. Nieuwenhuys is certain. Liverpool (from); Hobson; Westby, Gulliver; Nieuwenhuys, Hughes, Pilling; Liddell, Balmer, Welsh, Fagan, Beattie, Done, Black.

EVERTON’S DERBY WIN
January 24, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Reds Pay Dearly For Half-Slips
Ranger’s Notes
Everton crossed the “if’s of their claim to be stars of the Cup qualifying tourney by their victory at Anfield, and Liverpool will have to serve up something stronger in the return game to proved Everton pressing the “t’s” as well. Everton’s head-of-the-table position had been criticised hitherto’ in some quarters because of the weakness of the opposition. That goes by the board now, and more so because they who despite being a man short for three parts of the game. True Tatters was on the field, which is about all one can say for his ankle injury –he is having it X-ray today –made him a passenger. Up to then he had given a grand display. His ball control and dribbling were first class, and Everton need not no further whenever Stevenson is an absentee again. Liverpool contributed to their own downfall by half-slips in defence. They were the sort of things which often enough would have no serious consequences. On this occasion Liverpool paid dearly for them. Both Hughes and Gulliver had a chance to avert Wyles’s opening goal; somebody should have taken up position on the line while Hobson and Wyles were striking their “me-to-you-to-me” act which led to Wainwright’s goal, and it was Hughes’s too tender clearance in the last minute which gave Wyles the opportunity to put over the centre leading to Lawton’s goal. Having said that one must add in all fairness that otherwise the Liverpool rearguard played quite well. Hughes has no need to worry for he put up a stout show against Lawton, who wisely sought to spread-eagle the defence and make openings for his colleagues by veering left or right and serving up some brainy passes when he found the middle closed to him. Lawton’s last minute goal was another of those amazing shots which he keeps pulling out of the bag, and does into the museum of memorises along with others of the “specials.” Fagan’s goal was also a gem of its kind, for he “placed” it in most deliberate manner out of Burnett’s reach with only a small part of the goal to aim at.
T.G. Jones The Star
Outstanding performance on the winners side came from Tommy Jones whom I still reckon the finest centre half of modern times. Everything he did had the hallmark of consummate artistry. Jones visualises the game moves ahead of anybody else which is why he’s always in the right spot at the right time, and can play his game in that nonchalant half-speed fashion which takes so little out of him. He is always as fresh at the end as the beginning. Grant and Watson, if not such stylists, were quality effective, and it was chiefly to his department that the foundation of Everton’s success was laid. That should not detract however, from the grand work of the forwards where McIntosh-a gallant extra half back in times of stress as well as a dangerous winger –surprised the Liverpool folk, who remembered his indifferent displays when hesitated the Reds and where Wainwright distinguished himself by a brilliant display, I confess I was not impressed by Wyles, but a man who gets a goal and helps to make two more in a game; like this must be accounted as having done his part well. There was one period in the second half when Liverpool, hammering away with all their might were definitely on top and with memories of the August friendly game in mind I wondered whether we were to see another sensational turn-around. But it was not Liverpool’s day. Against the speedy and deadly tackling of Everton’s defence they could not turn the territorial advantage to proper account, and Burnett got away with less to do than he might have had. The Reds displayed plenty of hearty endeavour, but little else and though they switched their attack several times it brought no improvement, they just couldn’t get going in their usual smooth-working fashion. Liddell found the going too hectic after being out of the game so long and Beattie faded right out, so that the already disjointed attack became less unified than ever, with Fagan and Balmer working on the collar all the time. If Welsh and Black are available for Goodison as Liverpool hope there should be a forward strengthening. Liddell, who may also play, will have benefited from the outing. The American soldiers who saw the game described it as the highlight of their experience in this country. Mr. Ernest Edwards “toured” them behind the scenes, introduced them to local sports celebrities, and made the afternoon a memorable one. Believe it or not, there was a George Allison among the party! The visitors are contemplating returning the compliment by staging exhibitions basket ball games for our entertainment later.

EVERTON PLAYER’S OPERATION
Liverpool Echo - Monday 24 January 1944
John Humphries, the young Everton centre half, who has been assisting Crystal Palace, is likely to be out of the game for two months. During the weekend he underwent an operation for acute appendicitis.

LITTLE MEN IN FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 25 January 1944
While watching the whole-hearted terrier-like efforts of Tatters and Grant in the Everton match at Anfleld on Saturday, one reflected that these fine little players make up for their lack of inches with enthusiasm and spirit, and it seems that they are worthy to rank among the great band of little men who have played the game so well. Lack of height is undoubtedly a handicap with the ball In the air—though Holt, the famous Everton player of years ago,  had his own methods of getting up to head the ball from a much taller opponent—but craft and enthusiasm long way In other directions. Everton have enjoyed the services of many little men in the past, and it has been proved time and again that lack of stature is not necessarily a bar to success on the football field. Holt was perhaps the most famous in his day in this respect. Yet his during play in taking the ball from burly opponents caused much merriment, the impudence of his interventions being amazing. Apart from this great asset, however, his constructive and defensive skill placed him high in the ranks England half-backs. In later years Wedlock, of Bristol City, was strong and lively enough in his play to hold the centre-half position for England. Everton have often specialized.” as It were “little men.” One has only to recall Troup and Caskle, among others, and the subtle skill of the Irish international Stevenson to arrive the conclusion that very often small players turn out giants the game.
Grant And Tatters
Up to the time he had become incapacitated on Saturday Tatters had proved a most accomplished forward, his worrying tactics on the left wing causing the Liverpool defenders great concern, and there was no doubt that his play appealed to the vast majority of the onlookers. Tatters played for Durham City and Spennymoor United before the war and then Joined the R.A.F. Grant has on many occasions this season impressed his defensive work, and on Saturday. In the second half, during Liverpool’s onslaught which seemed likely to turn the scale, he appeared to be here, there, and everywhere, and was undoubtedly a strong link in the very capable play of a most effective half-black line. Grant has the distinction of having played only one trial game for Everton and that was when he was fifteen Two years later one of Mr. Theo Kelly’s friends in Durham reminded the Everton secretary of the player, who was then seventeen, and the directors, on what they and Mr. Kelly had seen this player as a mere boy, and without a second trial, decided to sign Grant as professional. That decision two years ago so far has proved the correctness of their Judgment. Grant halls from High Sten. Durham.
Everton Player’s Operation
Humphries, the young Everton centre half, who has been assisting Crystal Palace, is likely to be out of the game for two months. During the week-end he underwent an operation for acute appendicitis.
The Return Derby
The teams for the return game between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park on Saturday are in certain respects subject to revision, according to circumstances. Everton, for instance, are endeavoring to secure a prominent wing forward and Liverpool must await the Service requirements in one or two Instances. Fagan, for example, may be called for Command side at Luton; if not, he will be available for Liverpool. Stevenson of course, will be ready to resume for his club, and Black and Welsh will be In the Reds' ranks. Players from whom the teams will be chosen are: Everton.—Burnett: Jackson, Greenhalgh or J. E. Jones; Grant, T. G. Jones, Watson: N. Other, Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson, Mclntosh. Liverpool.—Hobson; Westby, Gulliver; Nleuwenhuys, Hughes, Pilling; Liddell, Balmer, Welsh, Fagan, Beattie, Done, Black. T. Garner and W. Twist, two young players from the St. Helens district have been signed as professionals by Liverpool. Garner, an outside right, has been totting up a big goals’ total with Liverpool A. and Twist is a utility half-back. Both are eighteen, and joined Manager George Kay’s Anfield nursery amateurs last August.

“McNAMARA’S BAND.”
January 25, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
During Everton’s 1938-39 championship season it was always the custom before each game for the players to congregate in the dressing-room and sing “McNamara’s Bands” as a harbinger of good luck. And at the conclusion of the game –win, lose or draw –they would all sing “Over the Sea.” Well, McNamara” was revived last Saturday at Anfield. And its 2magic” worked. The many team disappointments forced home to the Everton players that they were up against it in facing the strong Liverpool. The older players decided that they must do something to make the younger lads feel quite at home and not dwell too much on the game ahead. So... before going out on to the field they all sang the old song. It gave them heart and confidence, and the result you yourselves saw in the sound exhibition of the Blues. In the pre-war days Liverpool too, had a couple of songs we used to chant on away journeys –“We’re so pleased” and “Any Old Iron.” Maybe the Reds will decide to bring them back on Saturday, when they go to Goodison Park just to bring them a little luck. Directors George Richards will I am sure, be only too pleased to lead the “choir” in Harry Champions’s famous ditty. Writing of superstitions, George Jackson, the Everton back, is never happy unless he can do one thing on match days. Have you spotted what it is? No? Well, on Saturday just watch, George will be the last Everton player on the field. George makes it a definite rule to be last out of the dressing-room and last on the field. Willie Cook, when captaining Everton, would never lead the team out until the chairman had been down to say “Good luck.” Now you know how seriously these great fellows take their game. Enthusiasm. They are brimming over with it.

HANSON COACH
January 25, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Big American Baseball League
There will be a tremendous revival in baseball on Merseyside this season. The National Baseball League –under the title of the National Baseball Wartime League –will function with a competition of pre-war standards and interest. Everton last summer turned over Goodison Park to American ball game, and featured an international game, and weekly matches between American Services and English teams. That was the pioneer work, and proved there is a demand in our area for all the thrills of the American ball parks. You are now going to get them properly organised and perfectly staged.
Eight Club League
The hard-working officials have been planning for weeks past to give us a tip-top competition and I am able to announce that the League will be comprised of eight good clubs led by experts. And I hasten to add that the League committee will not interfere with any American Services games. They will go on as usual. The directors of Everton have once again decided to give full support to the game, and Mr. Bob Trueman, chairman of Tranmere Rovers, is giving all cooperation on behalf of his club. Birkenhead will come into being as one of the most important centres. Here are the eight clubs, which will constitute the League. Everton, Caledonians, Tranmere Rovers, Birkenhead, Formby, Liverpool Police, I.C.L (Widnes) and Rootes. Goodison Park will be the home ground of both Everton and the Caledonians, while Prenton Park will be the home ground of both Tranmere Rovers and Birkenhead, Rootes will play on their own ground, the Police at their spacious Prescot-road enclosure, the I.C.L will delight the Widnes fans, and Formby will be playing in their own township.
All clubs are now bust going ahead with their team building and many professional footballers will be seen in action.
Everton for instance, have appointed Alf Hanson, the Liverpool and Chelsea international outside-left and England baseball international as their captain and coach. Hanson, is one of the finest ball players in the North, and was a prominent figure in last season’s games. Everton have done well to secure such a versatile player, whose knowledge of the game will be invaluable to the club. Of course, all eight clubs will have the advantage of expert coaching, for there will be instruction sessions with diagrams and “diamond boards” so that the game is open to players who may never have participated in the American game before. Yes, baseball wants recruits, so if you fancy your chances the best thing is to apply to one of the clubs right away. Five of Everton’s footballers have already decided to play for the Blues with the bat and ball. They are Norman Greenhalgh, George Jackson, George Burnett, Jackie Grant and Jack Jones. Others may also follow this lead.

MERCER OUTSIDE RIGHT
January 26, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton tell me this morning that Joe Mercer, home on leave this week-end will play outside right against Liverpool at Goodison Park on Saturday. This is a sound move for it not only avoids distributing the half-back line, which has settled down into a brilliant combination but gives Mercer a chance to exploit his penchant for attack to the full without leaving those sometimes ominous gaps which throw extra labour of the backs when the ball is spotted back quickly. Mercer has played outside right once before for Everton against flury in October, 1941 and in the latter part of the following season had quite a run of appearance at inside right. Joe has all it takes to make a first class winger. The only problem now remaining in the Everton side is at left back. With Jack Jones standing by, however Everton have no qualms if Greenhalgh is not fit in time.

AMAZING TATTERS
Liverpool Evening Express - Thursday 27 January 1944

For pluck and endurance commend to Cuthbert Tatters, the R.A.F. amateur forward, who played for Everton against Liverpool at Anfield last Saturday. Just after Everton bad taken a two-goals lead Tatters was injured and went off. Tatters returned after Everton bad made three and Fagan had reduced the lead, but he could only hobble at outside-left. It was a surprise to find Tatters returning to the game again outside left after the interval, but ha could do little more than hobble, and it was only with difficulty that he could kick the ball at all. Still, he stuck it out to the end and even limped over to pat Lawton on the back after the scoring of the fourth goal. Now comes the dramatic announcement. X-ray examination has revealed that Tatters is suffering from a fractured ankle! This north-eastern lad, introduced to Gqpdison Tommy Jones, played for an hour with broken leg!

Everton reserves
Everton reserves gone to Wyncote to tackle Liverpool University.
Everton Reserves; Prince; Woodcock, Doyle; Lamb, McConnell, Rainford; Turner, Ashley, Wykes, D. Jones, Makin.
Everton Colts; R. Woodward; Meilling, Lever; Barrett, H. Williams, R. Williams; Nolan, Perrin, Buckle, Bergin, Leeming.

EVERTONIAN’S INJURY
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 27 January 1944
Everton have received word that Tatters, the R.A.F. forward, who was injured at Anfield last week, is in hospital with cracked ankle bone, which will, have to be kept in plaster for five or six weeks.

GOODISON MAY STAGE RECORD ‘DERBY’
January 28, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
The 24th wartime Football League “Derby” game between Everton and Liverpool is expected to draw the record attendances for the whole series at Goodison Park tomorrow. This will be the 29th actual match between the clubs since the outbreak of war, but so far only 23 have been under the auspices of the Football League. In my opinion this should produce one of the greatest matches of them all. There will be a galaxy of international stars from the four national associations our regular experts will be on parade again, and we shall welcome back pre-war favourites to a game which will have all the old atmosphere, excitement and tense issue. Everton go into the game, which is the sixth of the ten matches in the League War Cup Qualifying Competition with a 100 per-cent record. The achievements of the Blues in taking major points and scoring 31 goals to seven in the process has established them as joint favourites for the Cup with Blackpool. The Blues certainly will start favourites for tomorrow’s game, having beaten the Reds 4-1 at Anfield last Saturday, but that is no definite indication that they will do it again. In war league games Liverpool have registered 11 wins to nine by Everton leaving three matches drawn so you can appreciate that this return to the ascendancy of Everton is not out of turn. In my opinion Liverpool, last week, missed George Kaye, more than anyone. Tomorrow, the right-half position will be filled by the return of the Reds” pre-war captain, and one of the finest craftsman in the game –Matthew Busby. This will be Busby’s first game with his own club for two years, and since being at Anfield, Matt has covered a lot of ground. Between his journey’s overseas in connection with military duties Busby has staged such a come-back in football that he has become Scotland’s captain, and with Hibernian, Reading and other clubs has been playing inspired football. Willie Fagan told me last week that Busby was “brilliant” when helping Reading against Chelsea couple of weeks ago. It was a treat to see Matt in action,” and Willie. Busby will get a tremendous welcome when he enters the field, and it is almost certain that he will take over the reins of captaincy again. Wartime skipper Jack Balmer, will generously step down for this big occasion. And maybe we shall see the old pre-war Liverpool right flank in operation for Nieuwenhuys is here on leave, and Balmer, after the lessons of the past match or two, should be returned to inside-forward. What will be the constitution of the remainder of the Liverpool side is a matter for conjecture. A decision will not be made until just before the match. The Reds can take consolation from the fact that they have plenty of players from whom to choose including Don Welsh who returns to duty. Welsh’s presence will make a tremendous amount of difference to the attack. Don has proved the inspiration of the line in recent months, and he will find the means of opening things out more than last week when Liverpool erred by keeping the ball all too close. Of course, the directors will have some worry about whom to leave out with all their “guests” and home players, but Liddell is certain and Black will not be playing.
Mercer –Winger
Everton go out on the field with a much stronger side –on paper –than last week. For instance Alex Stevenson, star of the R.A.F at Bristol last week, will be at inside-left to renew that potent partnership with McIntosh, and over on the right we shall be welcoming back international Joe Mercer. Joe is such a good ball player that I feel confident he will make a hugh success of the outside-right berth the position which has been troubling Everton for so long. Joe is a master-dribbler and adept at lobbing over those curling centres which should delight Lawton and McIntosh. Whether the Blues will have Jack Jones or Greenhalgh at left-half is not settled, but revolving around the immaculate Tommy Jones and with there terrier Grant and Watson at wing half there should be no faulting Everton’s defence. Defence may again decide the issue in favour of the Blues, but the returns of Busby and Welsh should bring the improvement in the Reds which will enable them to force a draw. And believe me, the points will be welcome at Anfield, for Liverpool have only six points out of ten. Their position is easy, but another couple will make it comfortable. Now a word to the spectators. The gates will be opened at 1.30 p.m. and all impossible turnstiles will be used. The fans are asked to tender correct money, especially at the 2s, 3d and 2s 9d stiles. The tendering of a three penny piece in their cash will help no end. The Bullens-road stand and Paddock will be opened for the first time since the war, so all the ground will be utilised. The seven penny turnstiles for soldiers and boys will all be in Goodison-road, and they are particularly asked to arrive early. The kick-off is at three o’clock. Everton; Burnett; Greenhalgh, (or Jack Jones); Grant, Tommy Jones, Watson, Mercer, Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson, McIntosh. Liverpool (from); Hobson; Westby, Gulliver; Busby, Hughes, Pilling; Nieuwenhuys, Balmer, Fagan, Welsh, Beattie, Liddell, Done.

DOCTOR IN CUSTODY THE ALLEGED LIBELS ON CITY
Liverpool Echo - Friday 28 January 1944
J.P. Dr. John Tryweryn Lloyd, aged 64, of Hotham Street, Liverpool, was accused at Liverpool Assizes, to-day, of having on five occasions published defamatory libels, knowing them false, concerning Mr. George Evans, a Liverpool magistrate and a director of Everton Football Club. The alleged libels were on postcards. Dr. Lloyd, who pleaded not guilty, asked the judge to adjourn the case, as he had written to the Medical Protection Society and it would take some time to prepare his defence. . I have been gaol awaiting trial, he said, and it was not until yesterday and through the kindness of the governor and the medical officer, that I was able to write to this society to defend me.” Dr. Lloyd complained the police had taken from him certain papers, including two letters. One of these letters, with an enclosure, he said, was addressed to Dr. Mort, the Liverpool City Coroner. Mr. Justice Oliver said that, as Dr. Lloyd was arrested on a warrant, it was the duty of the officer who arrested him to take possession of anything which appeared relevant to the case. Dr. Lloyd said he did not wish to apply for bail at this stage, “until I have instructions.” The judge directed that he should remain in custody, but said he could apply for bail later if wished to do so. If Dr. Lloyd wanted any letters of which the police had taken possession, all he had to was to give the police notice, and he (the judge) was sure they would be supplied to him. The case was adjourned to the text Liverpool Assizes.

TITANIC STRUGGLE AT GOODISON PARK
January 28, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Although Liverpool’s cup equalisation would scarcely be endangered if they lose at Goodison Park tomorrow there would be just a tinge of anxiety about the future. Ardent Anfieders, of course will tell me that they are not going to lose that this time, with Matt Busby making one of his rare appearances to strengthen the half backs, and Welsh bringing his subtle skill to suit the attack together. Everton are going to be shown just where they get off. That may be so, Indeed. If Welsh and Busby do make the difference one can reasonably anticipate then Everton’s task is going to be severe and the defence will have to pull out another sparkling exhibition, to keep the opposition at bay. Tatter’s injury, since diagnosed as twin to Liddell’s cracked ankle tone disorganised Everton’s attack last week and was the main reason they utilised McIntosh as an extra half back –to hang on to what they had. Other things being equal, however, I’m a firm believer in attack being the best form of defence. Tommy Jones is the rock on which Everton stake their defensive hopes, backed by the terrier Grant and the quiet but equally effective Watson, and aided by backs –whether it be Greenhalgh or Jack Jones isn’t yet definitely known –and a goalkeeper who all did their stuff right only last week. Can Liverpool equal this sextet? Last week they couldn’t and half slips brought a heavy toll in their train. There must be none of those tomorrow if Liverpool are to get their revenge. Hughes stood up well to Lawton and blocked the middle effectively most of the time. Now Liverpool have the incomparable Busby to engineer those masterly offensive at which he is such an adept. That should make a big difference and Niuwenhuys should get the type of passes by which Stevenson has made “McIntosh –the low ball put in front of him in an open space where speed gets a chance.
Mercer As Forward
It will be interesting to see Joe Mercer footing it in the unusual position of right winger. Joe has all it takes to make a big success here, and with Wainwright in his present brilliant mood the right wing, so long Everton’s bugbear, should bear favourable comparison with the left. Just what Liverpool’s forward composition will be I can’t say. They’re almost embarrassed by a surplus of riches. With possible seven internationals –including war-time once –to chose from plus Done, Campbell, if necessary and maybe Hulligan, the directors main problem will be whom to leave out, not whom to play. I could make some suggestions; but it isn’t for me to usurp the board’s functions, so I give you below the long list of forward “possities” and leave it at that. At the risk o being branded a false prophet I’ll add that I think Everton will win, but so long as the game’s as enjoyable as last week’s I shall not worry either way. American officers and men will again be visitors at the match under the auspices of the British Council, but this is no innovation so far as Everton are concerned. For each home match for the past two years the Goodison club has sent a big batch of invitation to officers and men of any of the Allied Forces a gesture which has been greatly appreciated. You may have noticed that the second half of tomorrows match is on the air, I should have been commentator, but as I am telephoning from bed with a bad dose of flu and high temperature there looks like having to be a change, which is a bit of bad luck for me. Sorry. Everton; Burnett; Greenhalgh, (or Jack Jones); Grant, Tommy Jones, Watson, Mercer, Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson, McIntosh. Liverpool (from); Hobson; Westby, Gulliver; Busby, Hughes, Pilling; Nieuwenhuys, Balmer, Fagan, Welsh, Beattie, Liddell, Done.

LIVERPOOL AVENGE
January 29, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
A Penalty Goal Decides
Goodison Derby
By Stork.
Everton:- Burnett, goal; Jackson and Jones (J.E.), backs; Grant, Jones (T.G.) (captain), and Mercer, half-backs; Wyles, Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Westby and Gulliver, backs; Busby (captain), Hughes and Pilling, half-backs; Nieuwenhuys, Balmer, Welsh (Charlton), Done, and Liddell, forwards. Referee. Mr. W.F. Nixon (Manchester). A crowd of 40,000 watched the return meeting of Liverpool and Everton, at Goodison Park, today. Everton opened with a confident sort of attack, but Liverpool were just as sure when they attacked. Grant once covered up his captain when things were looking dangerous for the Everton defence, and when Jack Jones made a back-pass to his goalkeeper Burnett had to drive on the ball to prevent the Liverpool man from making contact. Both sides produced excellent rounds of passing, and Stevenson made a header, which, however, did not reach its, objective because Wainwright in attempting to improve matters, turned the ball away from the goal instead of towards it. A goal came for Liverpool at five minutes, a goal similar in type to Lawton’s of last week. Welsh gave him a perfect ball, and having steadied himself, Nieuwenhuys put in a great drive which sped to the far side of the net. There were many sorties full of promise but not fulfilled, although the play was of an excellent quality. McIntosh made a rasping shot which flew over Liverpool’s crossbar, and when Wyles centred to Hobson’s hands Stevenson challenged the goalkeeper who lost possession but was able to sweep the ball away as he was lying on the ground.
Liddell’s Game.
Liddell was having an excellent game, and it was he who had the honours of making the opening for Liverpool’s second goal. He swept through the Everton defence, crossed the ball into the goalmouth, and Welsh, although harassed by two Everton men, was able to push the ball back to Balmer, who left with a simple chance, and made no mistake, scoring at 15 minutes. Grant was inclined to undertake too many duties. He was here, there, and all over the place, with the result that Liverpool’s left wing often had a free course to goal. One could forgive his enthusiasm, however, for he often got the ball that was destined for another quarter.
What A Shot
Jackson once kicked-off the Everton goal line when Done shot following a corner, and at 21 minutes a run by McIntosh culminated in the ball running to Stevenson, who sent it further forward to Wyles. Wyles had moved in time, and although tackled he was able to get in his shot –and what a shot. It put a bulge in the back of the net as big a barrage balloon. Everton were striving all they knew for an equaliser, but Liverpool’s attack were made with such precision that there was a danger of them striking another bow. Welsh made some great passes, so did Busby. Lawton from just outside the penalty area, tried one of his cannon balls, but was off the mark just as one of Liverpool’s big shots failed in this direction. They were some near misses and some good shots, none better that Stevenson’s which Hobson turned over his bar. Liddell had at least two chances but failed with them both. Everton were now more “together” and one’ particular round of passing by Lawton, Stevenson, McIntosh, was a delight to the eye even though it did not produce anything. Balmer put over the woodwork.
Lawton’s Levels.
At 42 minutes Lawton picked up a ball close to goal where it had been bandled about for some seconds and swinging round, drove it into the net. Hughes had played brilliantly against the Everton leader and from one stoppage during which the referee spoke to both Stevenson and Jones (T.G.), the game ran along smoothly until half-time.
Half-Time; Everton 2, Liverpool 2.
Almost in the first minute of the second half Balmer ran through from a Welsh pass and Burnett had to take a flying leap to turn the ball outside. The danger was not cleared and during a hot scrimmage in front of the Everton goal Jackson was hurt as Burnett was saving. For some moments Everton clustered around the Liverpool goal, and the Anfielders took their turn and gave the Everton defence quite a lot to do. Wyles perfectly placed, shot badly, but taken all round the game was strenuously fought out.
Welsh’s Penalty
Balmer twice appeared to go through only to be checked at the final moment. He came again, however, and as he centre Jones (T.G.) handled the ball, and the result was a penalty kick. This was taken by Welsh, who scored at the 66th minute. Everton did not seem greatly perturbed about this, and McIntosh should have equalised, but kicked round the ball and it sliced away behind the upright. Busby was as active as ever with his ground passes, and Mercer followed his example with hook passes to his outside left. Lawton headed narrowly over and then Liddell swept in with a great shot which Burnett turned outside, while Wainwright from long range, out the ball under the Liverpool crossbar for Hobson to save. Everton were inclined to play too closely in the penalty area which was in distinct contrast to the Anfielders, for whom Done shot against Burnett as the Everton goalkeeper rushed out to save. Final; Everton 2, Liverpool 3.

PENALTY DECIDES; LIVERPOOL WIN
January 29, 1944. The Evening Express.
By Pilot.
A penalty in 65 minutes enabled Liverpool to smash Everton’s 100 per-cent cup record at Goodison Park, today. Everton fought back after being two goals down to draw level. Liverpool won 3-2. Mercer appeared at left-half –his England position –instead of at outside-right, where Wyles continued. Jack Jones was at left-back, Greenhalgh still being unfit. Liverpool waited until ten minutes before the kick-off before deciding on their team –waiting in the hope that Fagan would arrive. He did not, so Welsh led the attack, with Done at inside left and Balmer and Nieuwenhuys linking up on the right as in pre-war days. Behind them was Matt Busby making his first appearance for the club for two years and being made captain for the day. Busby was given a grand reception when he took the field. The gate looked to be a record. Tommy Lawton and Joe Mercer, of Everton, have both received notification from the F.A. that they with team mate Cliff Britton, have been selected to play for England v. Scotland at Wembley on February 19. Everton:- Burnett, goal; Jackson and Jones (J.E.), backs; Grant, Jones (T.G.) (captain), and Mercer, half-backs; Wyles, Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Westby and Gulliver, backs; Busby (captain), Hughes and Pilling, half-backs; Nieuwenhuys, Balmer, Welsh (Charlton), Done, and Liddell, forwards. Referee. Mr. W.F. Nixon (Manchester). Wainwright was the first to threaten danger, but he was held up by Hughes, and Liverpool swept away to almost take the Blues by surprise. When Burnett came out to pick up a back-pass, Liddell surprised him, but before Done could do the necessary Jackson had cleared. Lawton had a header turned aside after good work by Wyles. Then, in four minutes, Liverpool took the lead with a fine goal by Nieuwenhuys. Busby robbed Jack Jones, and pushed the ball through to Welsh. He quickly slipped it to Nieuwenhuys, who cut in and shot from the edge of the penalty area, and the ball flashed just under the bar, the pace alone beating Burnett. Liverpool took charge, their forwards playing some neat first time football with the ball being moved quickly to position.
Smart Moves
Mercer made one grand individual burst, but Hughes nipped in at the crucial moment, and when Lawton burst in to take charge of Tommy Jones’ free kick, Hobson made a superb catch. Burnett then dashed out to pull down a centre as the play swung like a pendulum. Lawton slipped the ball aside for McIntosh to put in a terrific shot which just skimmed the bar, and then Busby saved a certain goal. A low centre from Wyles passed between Hobson’s legs, but before Wainwright could reach it, Busby had kicked clear. The Reds increased their lead in 14 minutes, when Pilling surprised Wainwright and got Done away in the outside-left position. Done’s low centre seemed to be Grant’s or Tommy Jones’s, but Welsh surprised them, and as he was being tackled edged the ball back to Balmer, who promptly placed low into the net. The visitors two up was a repetition of last week’s Anfield drama, except that Liverpool had established their lead quicker.
Lucky Escape
Burnett punched out Nieuwenhuys corner to the feet of Done, whose prompt shot was kicked off the goal line by Jackson, with Burnett beaten –a lucky escape for Everton. Liverpool were playing with confidence and no little ability, against a side shaken but not bewildered by early disasters. It was Mercer’s persistence and the roving genius of Lawton which turned the tide in 23 minutes. From Mercer the ball went to Lawton at outside right, and in a flash the ball was whisked away to McIntosh on the left. McIntosh pivoted to outwit Westby, and his low centre sped across the floor for Wyles to smash it into the roof of the net with his left foot, before Gulliver could avert disaster. This was an opportunist goal, which so encouraged the Blues that they were soon back again, Lawton heading outside before he ran through to shoot a yard wide. The game continued at a cracker pace, with Everton now more than holding their own and, in fact, doing most of the attacking. Hobson saved from McIntosh before Liddell missed a good chance, after fine work by Done. But for Hobson it would have been all square in 35 minutes, when the right wing created an opening for Stevenson to let go a mightily shot from the edge of the penalty area, but Hobson just managed to flick it over the top, as he fell.
Hughes Shines
Hughes was playing excellently against Everton’s alert inside forwards, and once he held up Lawton in brilliant style with a grand last minute tackle. Three minutes before the interval Everton equalised through Lawton, McIntosh seized on in a ball which was turned aside as Wainwright tried to shoot. McIntosh centred along the floor and Wyles pushed the ball back to Lawton, who shot from close range, and although Hobson stopped the ball, he could not prevent it going a foot over the line. Referee Nixon was on the spot and his award was instantaneous.
Half-time; Everton 2, Liverpool 2.
The game reopened with a succession of thrills, Burnett driving to turn a high speed Balmer drive around the post, and then diving to grab the ball as Liddell dashed in to take charge of the corner. Jackson was injured, but resumed, and then came a remarkable incident. As Welsh shot, Tommy Jones got his foot to the ball which crashed against the bar, bounced up and then ran straight along the goal line to strike the corner flag and roll into touch. Welsh was hurt in a collision with Tom Jones, but quickly recovered. McIntosh forced two corners, and Everton got a third when Westby kicked away just as Lawton was going to say thank you to a centre from Wyles.
High Standard Play
The pace was really astonishing and the football always of high standard. The Blues were calling the tune at the moment and Wyles cut in past Gulliver to shoot by the far post. Liverpool brought their forward switch into play, Done going centre forward, but Everton were still doing that little bit extra, Mercer once heading off Balmer magnificently. Balmer got through but shot too quickly and the ball went by the far post. In 65 minutes Liverpool were awarded a penalty, from which Welsh restored their lead. Tom Jones came over to hold up Balmer’s centre, but he did so with his arm, and there was never any doubt the justice of the award. Welsh took the kick and placed to the corner of the net. Everton should have equalised immediately after, but McIntosh, with the goal yawning at him, placed by the far post. Everton were still forcing the pace, Grant and Mercer being brilliant driving forces, but it was Liverpool who provided the next thrills, Liddell letting go a corner shot which Burnett dived to and turned around the post. Everton then survived a close up free kick by Welsh, as Liverpool began to assert themselves. Final; Everton 2, Liverpool 3.

LOWE’S PROGRESS
January 29, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Billy Lowe, the young outside-right with Everton, who broke his leg when playing against Tranmere Rovers on November 6, is going along splendidly. The plaster was taken off his leg this week, and Billy will now have message treatment to strengthen the limb. There is every hope that Lowe will be back fit and ready to play again next season. Everton have not had the best of luck this season, for as I told you, Tatters broke an ankle last Saturday. Two players with broken limbs in one season is more than a fair share.

LIVERPOOL STRIKE EARLY
January 31, 1944. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 2, Liverpool 3
Players of the Match
By Stork.
Another Merseyside Derby game goes down to history, and like most of these meetings between Liverpool and Everton, there was much to commend. It has not been uncommon in the long series of Liverpool Derby games to find the visiting club successful; in fact, it was more often usual than otherwise, so that Saturday’s game lived up to tradition. Everton having won at Anfield, it was Liverpool’s turn to reverse the decision at Goodison Park, and this they did with a balance of 3 goals to 2. In this game were many internationals, both sides having a fair sprinkling of representative players, and much was expected of them. Yes, I don’t think many will disagree with me when I say that it did not produce the same skilful play as the Anfield game. It was interesting to see Busby in action again and Mercer in the Everton side, yet it was one of the newcomers, an unheard-of player a few minutes ago, who stole the thunder from the big-wigs of the game. I refer to Grant, Everton’s half-back from the North-East. The smallest man on the field –I think Stevenson give him an inch or two –he gave a display which will be talked about for weeks. It was a penalty goal which sealed Everton’s fate, robbed them of their unbeaten certificate. It was a crushing blow, but I have no hesitation in saying that it was a justifiable penalty award, for T.G. Jones undoubtedly “armed” the ball. That was the Everton captain’s one error, but what a costly one!
Play to Close
Liverpool won because they were more dangerous near goal. They did not need to work the ball or have to top it in a colleague near at hand. They tried a shot, whereas Everton tapped it about much too closely in my opinion. They had equally as much of the play –perhaps more than Liverpool –yet Burnett had the more intricate work to perform and did it well. He parried shots by Balmer, Liddell, and Welsh in a competent manner, whereas Hobson had little to do excepting on the occasion when Lawton scored. He stopped Lawton’s power drive but it was too hot to hold, and it took his hand which held the ball over the line.
Welsh’s Part in The Goals.
Liverpool after 15 minutes play, were two goals to the good, Welsh had a hand in both. He passed to Nieuwenhuys so that the South African could drive home a brilliant shot, something akin to that of Lawton’s a week previously, and Balmer’s goal was a grit-offering by the Charlton player. Welsh was crowded not so he tapped the ball back to Balmer, who crashed it into the net. Everton had not been idle, for they had put up some nice football, but there, was not the necessary finish to mit, and had not Jackson kicked one shot of his goal line Liverpool’s tally would have been three before Everton broke the ice. It had been good football, with rarely a single stoppage the play flowing freely from one end of the field to the other. Both sides missed chances, for I don’t forget Liddell’s slips, Wyles’s miss and there were others. Nevertheless there were plenty of other things to keep the interest. There was Busby with his lovely passes. Grant’s non-stop play, Welsh’s solid play against Lawton. Everton’s left wing was not so consistent as usual, yet it was from this point that Everton scored their first goal, McIntosh sending over the centre, which Stevenson helped on to Wyles. Tackled almost as he shot. Wyles, must have got his boot to the ball a split second before his rival, for it cracked into the net. With two minutes of the half remaining Lawton, who had few really good passes during the game, swung round at a ball and the very pace of the shot brought about Hobson’s defeat. Yes, the ball was over the line!
Raid Raids.
Liverpool’s great danger was in their quick raids in the first minute of the second half Burnett had to save grandly from Balmer, a Welsh shot struck T.G. Jones and bumped against the crossbar –a lucky escape. The second half was not nearly so hectic as the first. The pace was still fast and there was always a danger when the Liverpool forwards got within sight of goal. It was hereabouts that Wyles missed his big chance and shortly after came the penalty. Balmer was through and made a square centre which Jones obviously intended to take on his chest, but put his arm there instead. Welsh scored from the spot. Everton rallied their forces. They were battling determinedly for the equaliser. Lawton headed over, but the next best shot was made by Liddell; Burnett doing well to turn the ball over his bar. Near the end Wainwright tried a long one and Lawton, with a surprised hook, almost caught Hobson unaware. It had been an excellent day’s sport, I have told you about Grant, Busby and T.G. Jones, but there were other grand players who were outstanding. Mercer was at his best in the second half. Hughes all though was sound, likewise Westby. It was a bonny fight and the spoils went to the better shooters. Everton:- Burnett, goal; Jackson and Jones (J.E.), backs; Grant, Jones (T.G.) (captain), and Mercer, half-backs; Wyles, Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Westby and Gulliver, backs; Busby (captain), Hughes and Pilling, half-backs; Nieuwenhuys, Balmer, Welsh (Charlton), Done, and Liddell, forwards. Referee. Mr. W.F. Nixon (Manchester).

BUSBY WAS LIVERPOOL’S INSPIRATION IN DERBY GAME
January 31, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes.
Records are made to be broken. Two went by the board at Goodison Park on Saturday when Everton lost their 100 per cent, record, and at the same time broke all attendance figures for League clubs during war-time.
The Inspiration.
So this game was only living up to tradition. It must have been a happy day for Matt Busby, Liverpool’s Scottish international captain, who was making his first appearance for his club after an absence of near two years to see his side pull this plum out of the pie-and let me say, here and now, he was the inspiration Liverpool required Liverpool’s winning goal was obtained from the penalty spot, halfway through the second half. I had a few words with Matt prior to the match, and he seemed delighted to be playing for his own club and he must have been impressed by the great welcome he received from one and all. He looked as fit as the proverbial fiddle. (Writes Stork). I did not think the Goodison game was quite so good as that at Anfield. It was more level, but the standard of perfection was not so high. Liverpool were a much better side. Everton not so good, so the balance of play was much more evenly distributed. What a galaxy of stars were on the field, four on each side, and Jackson and Jones (J.E.) who toured Africa with an English team. One naturally expected something from such a gathering. Liverpool secured their victory because they were the better shooters. Everton perhaps had more territorial rights, but Liverpool were the more dangerous lot near goal. If you need emphases of that, I have simply to say that Burnett was a busier man than Hobson; had the more difficult shots to deal with taken all through. Liverpool’s early form was excellent; their speed into the attack and Westby’s canny passes enabled them to take a two-goal lead inside 15 minutes. Nieuwenhuy’s goal was a replica of Lawton’s Anfield goal. Balmer’s a gift from a back pass. I have an impression that Welsh obstructed T.G. Jones, and Grant before he finally slipped the ball back to Balmer. Wyles and Lawton levelled matters, and a draw seemed a possibility until that penalty award, Balmer centred and Jones, obviously intending to bring the ball down to foot got his arm to it. Welsh scored the winner. Busby’s play was a joy. He was just Busby. Need I say more? Another “hit” but of a different type, was Grant. He vied with any player on the field. His enthusiasm sometimes carried him out of position, and allowed Liddell the right of way, but he did so many other things that he can be forgiven. T.G. Jones and Higgins were again outstanding defenders, and Westby kept the Stevenson-McIntosh wing uncommonly quite. I understand “the Irishman” was feeling the effects of a pulled muscle. Everton’s right wing petered out and Lawton was all too often left to his own resources. Mercer came to his best in the second half. The Liverpool forwards, better served than Everton’s were a superior striking force, quicker off the mark, accurate marksman, more linked together. There was several astonishing cases of missed chances, but as a local Derby, it will go down as a good game.

BUSBY AVAILABLE FOR K.O. CUPTIE
January 31, 1944, The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Matt Busby, Liverpool’s Scottish international captain, is confident that he will be able to assist his club pretty frequently in the Football League War Competition proper which begin on March 4. Busby mentioned this to me after he had led the Reds to a hard earned 3-2 victory over local rivals, Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday –a victory which smashed Everton’s 100 per cent, cup record and toppled them off the pedestal of leadership. There is no question a counting chickens before they’re hatched, but this win of Liverpool’s makes it a stonewall certainty that they, with Everton and Wrexham, will quality for the competition proper. The two points enabled Liverpool to sit back and relax after a period of tension. As I anticipated this was the record breaking Derby all right. The game attracted 45,820 spectators, many of whom had to complete their journey to the ground on foot, and the receipts the £3,000 mark. This is the biggest gate of any match on Merseyside since the war; the biggest League gate this season, and the first time for years that a match has been graced by Dr. David, the Bishop of Liverpool; Dr. Downey, the Archbishop of Liverpool; and the Lord Major (Alderman Austin Hartford). American friends there were in plenty to add to the pageantry of a match we shall not readily forget and which gave us brilliant football and thrills a-plenty. While Merseyside is certain of three qualifiers the position regarding our other friends is doubtful.
Penalty Decided.
The only unsatisfactory part about the Goodison battle was that it should take a penalty to decide the issue. This was converted by Don Welsh in 65 minutes after Everton had fought back to half-time equality being two goals down in 14 minutes. It was one of the clearest penalties one could visualise. Tommy Jones handling Balmer’s centre in another clean game, which brought only one admonishment from the referee. Some ardent Liverpool fans argued that the ball did not cross the line when Tommy Lawton equalised, but it went a good foot over and the referee was bang on the spot and rightly gave a goal unhesitatingly. The Everton contention that Liverpool’s second goal should have been disallowed because Welsh was “holding” Tommy Jones, and Grant when he passed to Balmer, was actually backed up by some of the Liverpool players. Still the speed and accurately Balmer revealed is taking the opening deserved a goal. These Derby games always produce the varying opinions, and while Everton’s considerable territorial advantage may have entitled them to a draw I am certain that Liverpool deserved their success for their super-brilliance in the opening half-an-hour; their deadlier shooting, and the fact that their quick raids, were often more menacing than Everton’s laboured attacks, frequent as they were.
Time Rolls Back.
Time was rolled back during that opening half-an-hour. We were back in the happy pre-war days again, for fountain of Liverpool’s excellent football was the old right wing of Busby, Balmer, and Nieuwenhuys. Despite years of separation they fell back into the old scheme of things in a manner which thrilled. Each knew what the other was going to do a split second before it happened, and with Welsh elbowing his way to close grips with Tommy Jones, the Everton defence was not as settle as usual. Busby’s enterprise paved the way for the opening goal in four minutes, when Nieuwenhuys cracked home a mighty oblique shot with his right foot which Burnett could hardly have seen. Ten minutes later Welsh took over from Done’s centre to hold off Tom Jones and Grant, and offer Balmer the sort of opening Balmer never misses. The Reds were so much on top just then and playing so superbly that I never thought Everton could recover. Yet good work by Mercer and Lawton and a cuts pivot or McIntosh produced an opening which Wyles took magnificently in 23 minutes, and then, just on the interval, a Wainwright pass to the left was touched by Hughes to play McIntosh onside, and when the ball was slipped along the floor Lawton banged it hard from a couple of yards so that although Hobson’s got to it he could not prevent it crossing the line. This was a grand fight back by the Blues, demonstrating the high standard of their team spirit. The second half saw Everton doing most of the pressing, but Liverpool doing the more effective work, so that Burnett and not Hobson was the busier goalkeeping. The issue was in doubt right up to the last minute, but the Liverpool defence, expertly marshalled by Busby could stand the strain comfortably and so the Reds went on to win with which few could quibble.
Genius of Busby.
Whilst not detracting from the merits of other Liverpool stars like Balmer, Westby, Hughes, Nieuwenhuys and Welsh there is not the slightest doubt that Matt Busby was the man who really made this victory. I agree with Everton secretary Mr. Theo Kelly when he says “One could hardly imagine that the presence of just one player could make all that difference.” Busby’s genius in attack and defence transformed the rather tattered Liverpool of the previous week into a brilliant football machine. Matter not the goals or the result, the display of Busby was, on its own, worthy of the day and the crowd. Busby’s masters of the ball, his speed in which he changed the scene of action, and his uncanny positional sense in defence stand out like a beacon light as one reflects on the glories of this game. Thank you Matt. Balmer and Nieuwenhuys were a perfect right wing and surely everyone must now be in agreement with me when I contend, as I have done persistently for weeks, that Balmer is an inside-right, not a winger. Balmer was the game’s best forward, and if ever anything goes wrong with Ralch Carter, England need never look further than the ex-colleague lad. The English selectors have now named their team to meet Scotland at Wembley on February 19, and as fore-shadowed in Saturday’s Evening Express, four Merseysiders, in Lawton, Mercer, Britton and Cullis get their places, while Frank Soo, the former Liverpool schoolboy player is reserve.
Next to Balmer in the attacking sense was Lawton, who can hardly have worked harder with fewer results. The openings Lawton provided in the second half by the grace and accuracy of his passing were sufficient to win a dozen matches. Unfortunately Wyles became hesitant after his goal, and big Jim McIntosh simply could not shake off Jack Westby, one of the sensational successes of Liverpool’s win. Stevenson was handicapped by a slight muscle injury, and with Pilling holding Wainwright more effectively. Everton were mainly reduced to a one-man attack, the one being Lawton. Yes, and Tommy found Hughes holding him well. It was obvious that Hughes had renewed confidence in the presence of Busby, who covered and encouraged so readily. As a matter of fact Hughes stole the Tommy Jones “thunder,” for Tommy was not at his happiest against the worrying Welsh, who seemed content with that one job –unsettling the Welsh captain. The Reds left wing was not as good as the right, for Liddell was still lacking in confidence but... after a few more games Liddell will be back to his best. Done could make nothing of Grant, who, in my opinion, was the finest Everton player afield and second only to Busby in the game, Grant is one of the football discoveries of the season. Mercer had an excellent second half and defensive was always good, while Burnett played splendidly behind two good backs of which Jackson was rather the more effective. However, Westby was the outstanding back, and he has never served Liverpool better. “Riding strictly to order” Westby just struck to McIntosh, and by blotting out the tall winger did as much as anyone to make the win impossible. Gulliver had a good second half after a shaky opening; and Hobson never faltered for a second. I could go on writing on the charms of this match, but will just say “Thanks” to all who have contributed to two such glorious “Derby” games. And here’s to the next time.