Everton Independent Research Data
MERCER’S “OWN GOAL”
January 1, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Goodison Game
By ranger
Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Bentham, Mercer and Watson (G.), half-backs; Elliott, Bell, Catterick, Stevenson and Boyes, forwards. Bury;- Bradshaw, goal; Griffths (W.) and Griffiths (G.), backs; Jones, Hart and Halton, half-backs; Moss, Watson (J.), Herbert, Tomkins, and Davies, forwards. Referee; Mr. F. Snape (Manchester). Everton started with only ten men, owing to Boyes being late in arriving. They were a goal up in the first minute. Stevenson started the movement with a wise cross pass to Bell, who helped the ball forward to Catterick, and when Bradshaw and Hart hesitated a split second it was just sufficient to gave Catterick the chance to pip in and steer the ball pass the Bury goalkeeper. Boyes took the field, a couple of minutes later. Had he not arrived in time it was Everton’s intention to give a trial to Jack Wright the reserve team winger, a former Venice Street school boy who had just been demobilised. Both goals had narrow escape in the opening stages when the respective custodians lost contact with the ball after running out. Burnett managed to recover in the nick of time, and Bradshaw did like wises in the visiting goalmouth at the expense of a corner, which proved non-productive to Everton.
Jone’s Good work
Jones was doing great work for Bury backing up his forwards in splendid fashion and when he shot from an acute angle Burnett had to be quick to get down to his effort. “Bunny” Bell making his first appearances since he played two games at centre-half in the early part of the season, headed against the crossbar from a centre by Elliott, Boyes and Stevenson resuming their old-time partnership served up some attractive moves without Bradshaw being troubled with a shot, though he had to be nippy to cut out a dangerous –looking centre from the winger. Jones was again prominent for Bury when he rattled the side-netting after changing places with Moss. Straight from this Everton dashed away when Stevenson opened up play with a long cross pass when Elliott was only a yard of the mark. Stevenson was more on the target a moment later, though his shot from well outside the penalty presented no difficulty for Bradshaw.
Absolute “Sitter”
Herbert after being robbed in canny fashion by Greenhalgh, had two good chances later on. This first he asked over the bar, and the second, an absolute “sitter” from three yards range, he “muffed” in an endeavour to transfer the ball to his right foot instead of mapping it in first time. Bury were playing good, attractive football, and it took the joint efforts of Mercer and Greenhalgh on several occasions to hold them in check.
Picture Crosses
The crowd, which was only about a third of Saturday’s attendance had not much in the way of shots to enthuse about and the lively ball on the bone hard turf was difficult to control. Bell served up a grand pass to Catterick, and when the Everton centre-forward slipped up when challenged by Hart, bell was in close attendance to try a shot though without success. Elliott was just failing to get his centres across in approved fashion, and play for some time had been of a rather aimless and harassing character. Boyes had better luck, and one of his picture crosses saw Catterick and Bell go up to head it together without either being able to contact.
Bury Level
Two minutes before half-time Bury got on level terms and although the point was a rather fortunate one they certainty deserved it on the general rust of the play. Jones, their right half-back, who had been the starting point of four-fifths of Bury’s attack was the initiate of the one also when he set Moss going on the right wing. Moss’s centres came across without any special danger attaching to it, but in attempting the elder Mercer had the mortification of putting the ball through his own goal.
Half-time; Everton 1, Bury 1.
BURY RES V EVERTON RES
January 1, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
On the frost-bound Bury ground play was only possible at half speed. Bury had most of the opening play, but Everton’s right wing made some dangerous raids. The Bury defences held fast against the raids of Lowe and Higginson and Whitehead headed up the line from Higginson. At the other end McGill shot yards wide with only Birkett to beat. In the 44th minute Bury went ahead, a loose ball in the centre being collected by Waters who gave Burnett no chance. Almost on time Birkett saved brilliantly a low drive from Greenhalgh. Half-time; Bury Res 1, Everton Res 0.
EVERTON BEAT BURY AFTER POOR DISPLAY
January 2, 1946. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 3, Bury 1
By Stork.
Everton were a long time in winning their match with Bury at Goodsion Park yesterday. In fact had the visitors shot with the same balance as they played in midfield Everton could not have won, for Bury were definitely the better side for well over an hour. Everton’s form made one wonder. A few days previously they had put up a display, the like of which had not been seen for year. Against Bury they almost touched rock-bottom until well after the interval. By comparison, Bury played enterprising football. They had Everton well and truly beaten at their own game, but they had one fault, and a big one it was. They could not shoot. Had they a marksman in their front line of any account whatever, they would have laid the foundation stone for victory well before the finish. Their misses were tragic. How such simple chances came to be spooned away from the goal instead of into it no one will ever know. Everton took the lead in a minute. That would have been enough to have knocked Bury off their balance. Instead of which they got together and by dint of good football, made Everton look distinctly poor. Passes went wrong, the forwards never really got together and the defence was often nonplussed as how to deal with this fast moving and good class Bury side. True, had an escape when Bell hit the crossbar, but that miss was nothing compared with those missed by Bury.
Attacked Changed
Things were going so poorly for Everton that it was decided to change the constitution of their attacks midway through the second half Stevenson went outside-right. Elliott inside-right and Bell, inside-left, and, almost from that moment. The scene was changed instead of all the action taking place around the Everton goal, it was transferred to the Bury goal area, and Boyes and Elliott added to Everton’s score. Bury’s goal was actually scored by Mercer. In an effect to kick clear, he turned the ball into his own goal. So, despite all the pressure, Bury had brought to bear they could not even boast of scoring a single goal. Herbert, in the first half, had two glorious chances while in the second, Davies had one grit-edged opportunity a few yards out. Davies shot outside as he did again later. Shooting was the only fault with Bury, who have a nicely balanced side. Everton’s form was too had to be true, but one had to credit them with staging a last minute effort to pull the game out of the fire. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Bentham, Mercer and Watson (G.), half-backs; Elliott, Bell, Catterick, Stevenson and Boyes, forwards. Bury;- Bradshaw, goal; Griffths (W.) and Griffiths (G.), backs; Jones, Hart and Halton, half-backs; Moss, Watson (J.), Herbert, Tomkins, and Davies, forwards. Referee; Mr. F. Snape (Manchester).
Everton Team News
With Jones and Rawlings on the injured list, Everton did not pick their team last night to travel to Preston on Saturday, but have delayed selection until Friday. Jones was present at Everton’s game with Bury yesterday, but was walking with the aid of the stick, and it does not appear likely that he will be fit to take over the pivotal duties in which case Mercer may again fill the centre half breach.
BLUES DELAY
January 2, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton cannot, at the moment announce their team for the cup visit to Preston North end because of the injury bogy. Tommy Jones must be regarded as doubtful, although he said yesterday that he was troubled only by stiffness in his knee Syd Rawlings had a kick in the hip and has high hopes of being fit. Secretary Mr. Theo Kelly says he may not too able to make announcement until Friday, but let us hope there is some good news before that Mr. Kelly’s painstaking ways had much to do with Everton’s 3-1 win over Bury at Goodison Park yesterday –a win which places them in the position of joint league leaders with Chesterfield. As a matter of fact Mr. Kelly’s afternoon was one of alternations. The non-arrival of players forced him to make late changes here and there, and 20-yar-old jack Wright, a recent local signing, was called from the stand to strip because of the non-appearance of Wally Boyes. Humphreys could not get away, and so it was quite a shuffle. As the teams were going out Boyes headed up, so Wright changed his clothes and went back to the stand, while Boyes stripped and went out to find the Blues leading by Catterick’s neat goal. For a time it appeared as if Everton would run away with it, but after Bob Bell’s winner had come back off the bar the Blues faded away, and Bury came bang into the game, being heartened when Joe Mercer accidentally allowed Moss’s centre to bounce off his foot into his own goal. Bury played like a team possessed for twenty minutes of the second half, and that they did not score was due entirely to their own poor shooting and Burnett’s brilliant goalkeeping. Some “sitters” were missed as Bury revelled in their work against an Everton playing far too close. Mr. Kelly busied himself and sent a message to Coach Mr. Jock Thomson for team switches. One was unnecessary because the first was so successful, but it was there if wanted. The changes were the swopping of forward positions, bringing Elliott inside and Stevenson to the wing. It worked wonders, for while Stevenson tied up G. Griffiths, Elliott being flinging the ball about, others followed his example, and in just two minutes Bentham –not Elliott –swung the ball away to Boyes, who glided through to restore Everton’s lead. That, virtually, was the end of this good Bury who had played so well. Everton reassumed control of a keen and exciting game, marred only by the biting wind. Elliott celebrated with a finely-taken goal; fully six winners were charged down, and Bell once again found the woodwork depriving him of a goal. Buy played better than the score suggests, and yet in the end the tally against them might have been more empathic. It was one of those games. For instance; in the first half Bentham and Watson were excellent, and yet for a sticky period later they were ball-chasing. Jackson and Greenhalgh were clever in forcing Bury to shoot from distance, and Burnett ate up his work avidly. Burnett is now in Sagar’s class in catching a high ball. Sagar, incidentally travelled with the reserves as 12th man yesterday. Mercer had a mixed game. One minute he would show uncertainty and the next raise the cheers by a glorious recovery. In attack Boyes was just the same, for a grand first half was followed by a patchy spell, and then he crashed back to his best to turn the tide. Catterick was consistently good, and Bell suffered only because he kept it a little too close. Elliott was in high feather at inside-forward, and amongst other things Stevenson demonstrated just how corners should be taken. Chairman Mr. Will Gibbins, and his colleagues once again had the Lord Mayor (Alderman Luke Hogan) as a guest –an unofficial visit –and seeing that he is such a good mascot they will hope to honours the cup-tie next week. There was 20,600 spectators and they, like myself, must have deemed the braving of the elements well worthwhile. Bury manager Mr. Norman Bullock, was quite pleased with his team’s field work and justifiably so. And Norman was right when he averred that Bury should have won early in the second half. Well, he has a good team far better than the chart indicates and a star of the future in Moss, the Chorley steelworker, who shapes so well at outside-right.
PRESTON WILL SELECT FROM FIFTEEN
January 3, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Preston North End directors meet this evening to select their team to oppose Everton in the F.A. cup third round at Deepdale on Saturday. They will make their final choice from 15 players – a blend of youth and experience. North End are fully alive to the magnitude of their task, but Secretary Mr. Billy Scott is certain that if North End have one of their “on” days then they will progress. The point is that Preston are an unpredictable side. At Middlesbrough they played glorious football for instance and yet the following Saturday fell to the depths against Middlesbrough at Deepdale. Up one week and down the next, said Mr. Scott. “That is typical of North End. We have good serviceable side capable of playing choice football, and whatever happens. I am confident that this will be just about the best actual football game of the round. I agree there. Most of the North End players are well known on Merseyside, in fact two actually played for Everton, for some time as guest. They are Jimmy McIntosh, the outside-left and George Mutch, the Scottish international inside-right. Mutch is now the captain of North End, and seems now to have come right to his brightest and best. Wharton, Tommy Lawton’s former school mate is now at inside-left, and leading the line is Jimmy Dougal, who in the pre-war days earned the nice name of “Quick silver.” Jack Livesey is new youngster among the forward possible, and at outside right may be Harry Anders, a St. Helen lad who has just turned 17 and whose younger brother is also with North End. Choice will be made from three backs including 24-year-old Scott – a splendid player –Andy Beattie, the brilliant Scottish international, who has been sports-coaching in Italy with the Services and Reg Simpson, a youngster who is last making the grade, Willie Shankley, the star Scottish International half-back is a probable and Bob Batey who played as a guest with Liverpool for a time, is included among the intermediates with Willie Hamilton, Summerbee, and Williams. From those players North End should be able to sot a combination capable of giving the Blues a rare test. Preston North End; (from); Fairbrother; Beattie (Andrew), Scott; Simpson, Shankley, Hamilton, Batey, Williams, Summerbee; Anders (H.), Mutch, Livesey, Wharton, McIntosh.
Everton Reserves, for the match against West Bromwich Albion Reserves at Goodison Park, includes Purvis, a 22-year-old left back from North Shields, who has been playing with Chelsea and Reading as a guest. Everton Reserves; Sagar; Goulding, Purvis; Cookson, Falder, Grant; Lowe, Bell, Barker, Lyon, Davies
Everton “A”; Jones (J.A.); T.E. Jones, Prescott; Hill, Farrar, Dunroe; Dalglish, Corkhill, S. Wright, Rothwell, J. Wright.
Everton “A” team as been draw to play South Liverpool Reserves in the Liverpool F.A. Minor Cup, which attracted nearly 40 entries, will be played on January 19, and the first round on February 2.
IT WON’T BE EASY FOR EVERTON
January 4, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
The luck of the draw has left this city without a senior game tomorrow, Everton journeying to Preston and Liverpool to Chester. The titbit of the round is the Preston-Everton tie at Deepdale. Of the players who did duty for Everton last time the pair met in the F.A. Cup, ten years ago, only Mercer and Bentham again appear. Everton will not find Preston an easy side to overcome, despite the distantly in their League positions. Should the Blues reproduce the sparkling show they gave against Stoke and Blackpool their chances will be bright, for they would beat anybody on that form. But they fell a little from grace against Liverpool last week, and still more in the Bury fixture on Tuesday, and will need more punch in attack than the latter game displayed to overcome Preston’s solid defence which has experienced players like Fairbrother, Andy Beattie, Bob Batey and Bill Shankley to give it “stiffening.” Everton’s best bet will be to move the ball about freely, not hold it too close and to indulge in all, the first-time shooting possible, they have the talent to pull off a victory if the front line properly supported by the wing halves will stick to the all-up-together plan – always providing they do not rest on their oars as soon as they get a goal or two in front. Every goal tomorrow will lessen their task in the return at Goodison on Wednesday, for which reason there should be no slackening of afford at any period. Liverpool showed them the folly of taking too much for granted. With Humphreys available for centre half, and Bentham on his right, Everton are enabled to have Mercer in his England position at left half. Rawlings now fit, returns to outside right, with Elliott as his partner, and Fielding comes in after his trip to Scotland. Preston will have Livesey at centre forward, Dougal going out to the extreme right flank. Emlyn Williams a Crewe guest during the war, is at centre half, and Shankley, who is being demobbed today, is a definite starter. Preston; Fairbrother; Beattie, Scott; Shankley, Williams, Hamilton; Dougal, Mutch, Livesey, Wharton, McIntosh. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Humphreys, Mercer; Rawlings, Elliott, Catterick, Fielding, Boyes.
Sagar Plays at Goodison
In view of the absence of a senior attraction there should be good crowds at each of the reserves games. Everton Central League side are at home to West Bromwich Albion (2.30) when Ted Sagar makes his bow once more to Everton supporters. Sagar; Goulding, Purvis, Cookson, Falder; Grant, Lowe, Bell, Barker, Lyons, Davies.
Everton “A” (v. South Liverpool Reserves); Jones (JA); T.E. Jones, Prescott; Hill, Farrer, Dunroe; Dalglish, Corkhill, S. Wright, Rothwell, J. Wright.
DEEPDALE DUEL
January 4, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
I look forward to seeing a classic duel at Deepdale for this, my first away match of the season. Let me sat at once that on form Everton should at least avoid defeat, and pave the way for clinching the tie at Goodison Park. At the moment there is not a better side in the north than these Blues who since the loss of stars like Lawton, Gillick and Caskie have lost only one match – that against Blackpool on Christmas Day. During this period – dating from November 10 – Everton have won six games, drawn three and lost one – a brilliant run. Preston have not approached Everton’s consistency in fact brilliance one week has been followed monotonously by mediocrity the next. However on their day North End can be “world-beaters” and Everton will find them a better side then when they took three League points from them. The Blues last visit to Deepdale marked Fielding’s league debut, and brought a 2-0 success. As compared with those days North End now have Shankley and Beattie available, but that is all, and I see no reason why Everton, playing much better than in September, should not win at a ground which has been rather lucky for them. One thing is certain – we shall get a feast of constructive football for both teams are of the creative mould. Elliott to secure leave for Eddie Wainwright have proved unsuccessful, and so Elliott the young Scott will be at inside right with Rawlings now recovered from injury on the wing. Wally Fielding returns to inside left, following his good display at Ayr on Tuesday, and there are three half-backs changes as compared with Tuesday. Humphreys comes in at centre-half in place of Mercer, who goes right half for Bentham, who in turn crosses to left half for Watson. The defence is the same as usual, just as it has been for every match this season. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Humphreys, Mercer; Rawlings, Elliott, Catterick, Fielding, Boyes.
Preston North End, after four successive defeats have made several changes. Fairbrother returns to goal after being away injured and Shankley is available at right half displacing Summerbee. Hamilton is at left half in place of Batey, and the forward line has been completely reshuffled. Wharton returns and Anders (H.) is omitted. Preston; Fairbrother; Beattie, Scott; Shankley, Williams, Hamilton; Dougal, Mutch, Livesey, Wharton, McIntosh.
EVERTON TRY FOR LEAD
January 5, 1946. The Evening Express
Cup Struggle
By Pilot
Rawlings reports fit for Everton’s F. A. Cup Third Round tie first leg with Preston North End at Deepdale today. Everton were able to play as selected against a team strengthened by the return of Willie Shankley, the Scottish International, who was demobilised yesterday, Alex Stevenson should have travelled on reserve, but he was in Birmingham being demobilised and was unable to appear. Preston; Fairbrother, goal; Beattie (A.) and Scott, backs; Shankley, Williams, and Hamilton, half-backs; Dougal, Mutch (captain), Livesey, Wharton and McIntosh, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Bentham, Humphreys, and Mercer, half-backs; Rawling, Elliott, Catterick, Fielding and Boyes, forwards. Referee; Mr. W. B. Nixon (Manchester). The overnight rain had made the ground extremely heavy, a change from expected conditions. Despite a promising opening by North end, Everton were a goal up in six Minutes, thanks to Catterick. A wry pass by Mercer had given Preston the early initiative and shankley and Mutch exploited Dougal without, however, getting the best of response. Mutch went through with a quick shot which struck Bentham on the arm, but the Referee rightly waved play on after this ball to hand incident. During the heavy Preston pressure the Everton defence struck me, although interfered with by a dog which repeatedly ran on the field. Bentham at last got Everton moving nicely, and after some glorious work by Elliott, Catterick dashed through for Fairbrother to beat away his shot. Rawlings and Elliott came again and after calling on Boyes, Catterick burst through, but Fairbrother leapt out to beat the ball away. In six minutes with the North End defence well spread-eagled Everton went ahead, when Fielding slipped the ball to Boyes, who centred accurately to the goalmouth. Fielding was hauled, but Catterick fore in and getting the ball to his liking banged it into the roof of the net, Fairbrother having no chance from this short range.
A WELL-KNOWN SPORTSMAN
January 7, 1946. The Liverpool Daily Post
Death of Mr. E.A. Bainbridge
A great Liverpool sportsman died yesterday in his ninety-third year in the person of Mr. Edward Askew Bainbridge, who had the unique distinction of having been a director of both the Everton and the Liverpool football clubs, and was a familiar figure in the directors stands at both clubs every week. He was chairman of the former club when they won the Cup in 1906, and was a Liverpool director in 1914, when the Anfield team made their only appearance in the final. Everton, on the other hand, played in four finals while Mr. Bainbridge was on their board. Although football was his greatest love, there was hardly a branch of sports in which he was not keenly interested. As a bowler he was of international class, for in 1904 he was sub-captain of the England team against the Canadians, and played against Scotland in that year and in the two following years. In his younger day. Mr. Bainbridge was a sprinter of more than average ability, and competed in the Northern championship sprint at Widnes against some of the most famous runners of the day. Until a few years ago he was a regular attendant at the Waterloo coursing meetings. In 1898-99 Mr. Bainbridge took charge of Everton’s Combination or Reserves team, and they won the championship of the Combination, in which they were entered, losing only one match in the whole series – and the matches, strangely enough, was the only one at which Mr. Bainbridge was not present. A charming raconteur and a delightful companion, he was born in Liverpool of a Westmorland family. He had been ill only a short time and died at his son’s home at waterloo.
PRE-WAR CUP TIE FERVOUR
January 7, 1946. The Liverpool Daily Post
Preston North End 2, Everton 1
Everton Unlucky
By Ranger.
Everton’s Tussle with Preston North End at Deepdale thrilled the crowd of 25,000 spectators, particularly in the second half when it developed into an intense struggle of pre-war cup-tie fevour. In the end the visitors could rightly regard themselves as being unfortunate to lose 2-1 for, while there was not a great deal in it territorially, Everton were definitely the superior side for, the first hour and in the last desperate ten minutes. Everything they did in the first half had that touch of class and polish which denotes the artists and by comparison Preston were made at times to look almost amateurish. In addition, Everton produced six shots for every one from Preston, though the heavy ball took so much moving on the “glue-pot” surface that there was not the sting beltered them were normal, would have been. They view also unfortunate in striking Fairbrother in his most brilliant form. He started a trifle shaky but the more work he got the more confident he became and his smart anticipation foiled the visitors time and again. Preston were rarely dangerous in the first half. They certainly produced some bouts of good combination, but never a single shot of note. They trip-tapped in the penalty area in most exasperating fashion, trying always to “walk” the ball in preference to shooting and against Everton’s quick tackling defence these tactics were hopeless.
Goals Gives Confidence
It was not until they got the winning goal that they were really came into the hunt in a dangerous fashion. That goal gave them the confidence they had previously lacked. They got on top fight away, hammered the defence mercilessly, and though Everton’s rearguard did not exactly falter, it was badly harassed. It was touch and go for a time with the possibility of further goals to Preston looming ominously on the horizon. But Everton managed to weather the storm and in the last ten minutes again took the upper hand in such an extent that they were unlucky not to force a draw. During the final period Boyes had a brilliant header saved in supplative fashion and Catterick was three times baulked when he had only Fairbrother to beat. The soft ground cut up so badly in the second half that the game was as much a test of stamina as skill and the standard of play, naturally fell away on the “ploughed field pitted. The first goal came to Everton after six minutes scored by Catterick when Fielding had failed to gather a centre from Boyes. The manner of Preston’s equaliser was fortunate for when Burnett and Humphreys both tried to scramble the ball away s it was slowly running towards the line, the latter’s clearance bounced off Burnett into the net. Had either left it to the other, the goal might never have arisen.
Winning Goal
This happened as the fifteen minutes and the winner came at the sixty-seventh, the result of the first half really open movement Preston had produced up to that time. Livesey was the scorer. Everton were well served by their backs and Burnett who put up a good shot under difficult conditions. The wing halves were excellent alike in defence of initiating attack and Humphreys through impetuous did his part satisfactorily Catterick a terrific worker in the forward line deserved more than his one goal. The ball ran unkindly for him on several occasions and late on, he was unable to find a way of overcoming Fairbrother’s uncanny anticipating. Both inside men were clever schemers and accomplished dribblers, but their finishing was not always of the best and in the later stages both were inclined to attempt too much. The best use with not made of Boyes, who languished for not long periods for want of the ball. On the home side Beattie and Shankley were outstanding in defence. Williams was effective with his rugged methods, and in attack. Wharton stood out for the manner in which he tried to open out play with long swinging passes, Livesey was a literally leader of unorthodox ideas, and McIntosh the best of the wingers. Preston; Fairbrother, goal; Beattie (A.) and Scott, backs; Shankley, Williams, and Hamilton, half-backs; Dougal, Mutch (captain), Livesey, Wharton and McIntosh, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Bentham, Humphreys, and Mercer, half-backs; Rawling, Elliott, Catterick, Fielding and Boyes, forwards. Referee; Mr. W. B. Nixon (Manchester).
• Liverpool beat Chester 2-0, Liddell, Fagan
• Everton Reserves beat West Bromwich 2-0
HEROIC CATTERICK
January 7, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Of all the Everton players who trudged through the sticky Deepdale mud I thought Harry Catterick stood out on his own. Yes, and the fact that Harry failed three times in the last four minutes with only Fairbrother to beat did not cause me to change my opinion that in Catterick, Everton have a great leader in his ability and enthusiasm. Do you know why Catterick missed those openings which would have given Everton a nice lead? Well, Fairbrother’s cunning in narrowing the shooting space, and more important, the fact that for 85 minutes Catterick had been subjected to the toughest buffeting I have seen for a long time. Harry was bumped by everything and everybody, but he still battled on to the last gasp of his endurance. And it shows the wonderful spirit of Catterick when I tell you that as soon as he got into the dressing-room after the game Harry said, “Sorry, boys, that I missed those chances.” No excuses, no alibis just a genuine expression of regret. Yet Catterick as he was assured quickly by his colleagues need have no cause for regret. He did all that was human; possible and to my mind, he was something of the hero of the game. Of course, they were all heroes to a degree for it needed doggedness to stick a hectic pace on that morass. Everton were infinitely the better football side and should have been three goals up at half-time. Catterick took his early chance finely, but faulty finishing came to Preston’s aid, and then North End levelled with a fluke goal. The ball squirmed past Burnett who dived back to catch it just as Humphreys dashed in to boot it away. Had either left it to the other it would have been all right but they said to me afterwards that they did not see each other, and so when Humphreys kicked the ball struck Burnett and rolled over the line. The second half was Preston’s until the final stages when Fairbrother stood between Everton and a tie winning total. The reason was that the Everton’s wing half-backs. Bentham, and Mercer, threw everything into attack with commendable “goal-thirst” and so there were gasps on the centre which Preston found readily with their big booting. This gave them the initiative for recovery was difficult in the mud. The winning goal mid-way through the ball came from a Wharton lob up the middle, and Livesey was first into his stride to drew Burnett’s and tap it home. For long periods in the second-half it was like a nightmare for Everton. They simply could not get the ball away, and there seemed to be two white shirts to every blue one. However, sound defence held at lay, a Preston who were not really impressive and only as good as Everton’s tactics allowed then to be. Given any latitude North End can be dangerous and that is why Everton must be right on their toes on Wednesday if they are to succeeded. If the Blues will open it up just a little more than on Saturday they will be all right. I am confident there will be better service from the wings for neither Boyes nor Rawlings finished well and too often fed Fairbrother. It was not one of Fielding’s brightest days, but Elliott did excellently until it came to finishing. Bentham and Mercer did tremendous work, and ran themselves almost to a standstill, while the backs and Burnett could not be faulted. Preston were delighted with this home win which broke a long run of non-successes at Deepdale where austerily days continue. Believe it or not they do not issue programmes. Now that McIntosh is cup-tied I do not anticipate that North End will be doing business and certainly I am not expecting Everton to take up the offer. It was nice to be travelling again with all Everton directors present except Mr. Fred Lake who was in charge of the Reserve game and Mr. Cuff. Quite a number of the enthusiasts went along and at the match I saw two stalwarts of yester-year –Peter McBride and Joe McCall. Joe Mercer came in for many congratulations on his continued appointment as England’s captain, despite southern propaganda for a change. The best tackle of the day on Mercer was made by the referee. Fact. When Joe was going through the referee just stood in his path, and Joe was “robbed.”
CLOSE GAP
January 8, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
If Everton can contrive to do two things I think they will beat Preston with something in hand. First they must close the wide gap which was seen too often at Deepdale, due to Everton’s all-in attacking policy. In other words, it behoves wing half backs. Bentham and Mercer to make the pass gave their legs for wandering too far afield can bring danger when it is so hard to recover on muddy grounds. Second the Everton forwards must not again scorn the good things the gods of fortune offer. There were five instances at Deepdale when Everton had only Fairbrother to beat yet felted. They say opportunity knocks only once, but I cannot visualise such openings being frittered away again. From a football point of view Everton are much superior to North End, having a better understanding and great faith in their own abilities. It was not until that gift goal that Preston came into the game with potentiates. Of course, Preston are riding high at the moment thanks to that goal lead, but a quick start by the Blues tomorrow with soon settle them. Chief barriers to Everton progress are the astute Beattie and Scott, who make positional sense compensate for lack of speed, and the tall agile Fairbrother. Fairbrother was in high feather when the Everton wingers repeatedly lobbed the ball into his hands instead of finding their colleagues, and this is a point Rawlings and Boyes must watch. Catterick is so much the master of Williams in a “straight deal” that I think excellent successor to Lawton can soon place Everton in a winning position. I am glad that the Blues are making no team changes, for knowledge of North End gained on Saturday will stand the side in excellent stead, and they go out knowing they have the confidence of all. I hope Everton will not overdo the holding and drawing, for conditions demand that to get one opponent to move out of his ground is sufficient, and knowing the methods of the Preston defence, I am confident that the crossfield pass by the wing half or inside forward will prove a winning move. It is up to the spectators to play their part in creating the real cup atmosphere which tells so much against a visiting team; so do not forget to play your part in carrying Everton to round four. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Humphreys, Mercer; Rawlings, Elliot, Catterick, Fielding, Boyes. Preston North End; Fairbrother; Beattie (A), Scott; Shankley, Williams, Hamilton; Dougal, Mutch, Livesey, Wharton, McIntosh.
TODAY GAME
January 9, 1946. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel
Everton’s task will be by no means an easy one, but they reproduced form displayed at Deepdale, I expect them to quickly wipe out their deficit and finish in front, especially if Catterick has a little more luck with his shooting. The Goodison Park side shows no change from the one beaten at Preston, nor will the visitors side show and alterations. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Humphreys, Mercer; Rawlings, Elliot, Catterick, Fielding, Boyes. Preston North End; Fairbrother; Beattie (A), Scott; Shankley, Williams, Hamilton; Dougal, Mutch, Livesey, Wharton, McIntosh.
EVERTON HAVE TO PLAY EXTRA TIME
January 9, 1945. The Evening Express
Penalty Wins Tie For Preston
By Pilot
After 90 minutes in the Everton-Preston Goodison duel Everton led 1-0, which made the aggregate 2-2. During the first half of extra time Everton took the lead but North End promptly drew level and the sides went on for a deciding goal after 200 minutes play. This was scored by Shankley, and Preston was on aggregate 4-3. The weather affected the attendance but the stands were practically full at the start. Teams; Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Bentham, Humphreys and Mercer, half-backs; Rawling, Elliott, Catterick, Fielding and Boyes, forwards. Preston North End;- Fairbrother, goal; Beattie (A.) and Scott, backs; Shankley, Williams and Hamilton, half-backs; Dougal, Mutch (captain), Livesey, Wharton and McIntosh, forwards. Referee; Mr. J. Ward (Altrincham). Everton started with real vim and after Fielding had found the ball running too fast for him, Boyes took advantage of a neatly headed pass by Greenhalgh and after clever interpassing with Fielding, slipped the ball across and it travelled just a little too fast for Catterick who tried to swing past Scott. Elliott was fouled, and from Jackson’s well placed free kick, Catterick headed in strongly, but Fairbrother saved. Everton were doing most of the attacking and after a grand run by Fielding. Boyes shot in at close range, but Fairbrother turned the ball around the post. Boyes drove in first time a centre from Rawlings, but Fairbrother caught the ball with the skill of a cricketer. Mercer was glorious with two grand sweeps through before Mutch shot first time, but the ball swung outside.
Blues’ Penalty
In 17 minutes, when Elliott was trying to go through, Scott handled the ball and the referee unhesitatingly awarded Everton a penalty. For this Mercer, the England captain, gave Everton the lead with a grand shot to make it all square on aggregate. Preston came more into the picture with some really nice open attacks, and when Livesey turned the ball back to Mutch the inside right shot along the floor for Burnett to push the ball against the foot of the post and behind. Mutch next shot outside and then Boyes dashed away to make a grand centre, which Fairbrother fisted away as Catterick dashed in. Mercer was pulled down when he was going through, and when Catterick dashed in to head home the free kick he was unceremoniously bundled over. Livesey was fouled and from the close-up free kick Wharton shot in magnificently, but Burnett went down to save on the goal-line. Rawlings had a great chance from Catterick’s perfect pass, but allowed the ball to run to touch. Then Boyes came back to surprise three opponents and go through with a shot which went over the top. Fielding’s corner almost swung under the bar, Fairbrother just managing to push it outside. Livesey swept past Humphreys, but Burnett was well positioned to dive and take the shot. Then Fairbrother had come far out to hold up Catterick. Catterick was bundled over by Williams, and had to receive attention, but was able to continue.
Half-time; Everton 1, Preston North End 0
Everton had a grand chance to increase their lead immediately on resuming, for after Fielding had shot over Rawlings ran straight through almost to the post, but instead of turning the ball back to unmarked colleagues; he tamely put the ball into Fairbrother’s hands. Preston had changed their forward formation McIntosh taking over the leadership, with Livesey on the left. Wharton engineered some splendid moves when Everton stood firm and then Catterick raced away to turn the ball inside to Rawlings who however failed to get in his shot. Fielding contributed a grand cross field run but three times his centres was crowded out. Everton were still the more impressive but they were falling to spilt wide a good solid defence held together by Beattie. Preston had a great chance of drawing level when from a perfectly placed free kick Mutch had all the goal to shoot at but allowed the ball to sweep past him with no one to beat. For a spell North End were the more dangerous side. Everton’s attacks repeatedly breaking down in disheartening style. Then Mercer ran clean through but instead of shooting tried to find Boyes but offside came to Preston’s rescue. Shankley was proving the inspiration of Preston who were more than holding their own in a tense game which had many inaccuracies, due more to Cup nerves than anything else. Twenty minutes from the end Preston again switched their forwards, McIntosh going back to his original position. Dougal to centre forward and Livesey to outside right. Elliott cut in with a grand shot which was going home until Fairbrother dashed out to push the ball behind for a corner. From this Mercer headed just over the bar.
After 90 minutes; Everton 1, Preston 0.
Within two minutes of the restart Everton had taken the lead when Fairbrother fisted away a centre from Elliott, but the ball went far across to Boyes, who promptly centred for Elliott to head into the net, to gave Everton the lead on aggregate. Everton hammered away at the North End goal, but suddenly Wharton went away and equalised on aggregate with a glorious goal by McIntosh. From 20 yards McIntosh let go a right foot shot which swung high into the top corner of the net. Burnett being much too late in making a move to save. Burnett mis-fielded a centre from McIntosh which went behind for a corner and then Rawlings went to outside left to take over from Boyes but he was brought down on the edge of the penalty area. From the free kick Fairbrother saved Catterick’s header.
Half-time (extra time) Everton 2, Preston North End 1 (Aggregate 3-3).
Both teams had gone back to their original formation and on the restart Mutch swept past Mercer, but Humphreys came across to make a grand tackle. Livesey broke clean through, but his shot cannoned back off Burnett when a goal seemed certain, and Humphreys completed the clearance. Final (after extra time); Everton 2, Preston North End 1. Aggregate 3-3.
The teams played on for a deciding goal. After 207 minutes Shankley scored for Preston from a penalty awarded for hands. Final; Everton 3, Preston N.E. End 0.
STERN STRUGGLE
January 10, 1946. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Fail After Extra Time
By Ranger
Everton 2, Preston North End 2 (Aggregate 3-4)
Everton and Preston North End put up one of the sternest cup tie struggles seen at Goodison Park for many years, which went on for 117 minutes –seven minutes after the conclusion of the normal extra time – before Preston won by the aid of a penalty scored by Shankley for hands against Greenhalgh. It was a pity that Everton had to go out in such a manner, the more so as they had ample chances to win the game without any thought of extra-time, but their finishing left much to be desired. While Rawlings was the chief offender in this respect he was not the only one, and Fairbrother in the Preston goal, must have been thankful more than once that his task was not made more difficult. The visitors also were farred with the same brush, though they had not quite the same number of chances that Everton had in the first ninety minutes of play. Later, and rather belatedly, Preston realised that on such a surface the ground was very heavy with a gusty wind –the more they kept play open the more likely they were to succeed. On the other hand, Everton except on rare occasions kept the ball far together right on the last and took a lot out of themselves but “working” it too much. The home side starting a goal down from the previous Saturday’s game, got on level terms in the aggregate when Mercer opened the day’s scoring from a penalty after seventeen minutes. Rawlings and Elliott were going through on the right when Scott handled inside the area and the referee; Mr. Ward of Altrincham who handled the game extremely well throughout had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. So sure was he of his decision that he refused Preston’s plea to consult his linesman.
Preston’s Protest
As this was the only score at the end of ninety minutes, and extra time of ten minutes each way had to be played. Curiously enough after battling so long for only one goal, two came in the first five minutes of the extra period. Elliott scoring for Everton and McIntosh almost immediately putting the visitors back where they were. Preston protested against Elliott’s goal on the plea that Catterick who was on the ground when it was scored had held Fairbrother down, the Preston goalkeeper having fallen after pushing out a centre from Rawlings. Once again the referee turned them down. McIntosh’s goal was the best shot of the day; a fierce drive from well outside the penalty area. But it seemed to me that Burnett might have made a better effort to save than he did. He was late in going for the ball and only made a rather half hearted attempt at the finish. This made the score 3-3 on the aggregate at the end of normal extra time and the sides turning round again, securing to play to the finish, it was still anyone games but with seven minutes gone Greenhalgh the home captain seeing a shot from Livesey apparently entering the goal, fisted the ball out. It dropped at the feet of the goal and was promptly hooked it into the net but the whistle gone for a penalty kick. This being successfully taken by Shankley, and naturally finished the game and Everton’s Cup hopes for the season. Everton went down fighting gallantly. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Bentham, Humphreys and Mercer, half-backs; Rawling, Elliott, Catterick, Fielding and Boyes, forwards. Preston North End;- Fairbrother, goal; Beattie (A.) and Scott, backs; Shankley, Williams and Hamilton, half-backs; Dougal, Mutch (captain), Livesey, Wharton and McIntosh, forwards. Referee; Mr. J. Ward (Altrincham).
• Liverpool beat Chester 2-1. Fagan (2), and Astbury for Chester.
BLUES FAIL IN STERN FIGHT
January 10, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
It’s no use crying over spilt milk, and nothing is less satisfying as a salve to disappointed hopes than lingering over what might have been, so we won’t unduly labour the inquest on the Goodison “corpse” The body’s in the bag all right – Preston’s bag – and time will show weather the label on it is “Wembley.” If Everton had the chance to play yesterday’s cup-tie again I think we should find them employing very different tactics. And I’m sure we should not see Burnett being beaten again by a 25-yarder, good as McIntosh’s effort, was. Unfortunately, there is no second time, Soccer’s sins of combination or omission have to be paid for on the nail. They can’t be put “on the slate” and wiped out at leisure. Everton however, can lusty say that the gods did not smile on them. They presented Preston, with a gift goal in the first game at Deepdale, let them off others by their failure to take good shooting chances, and then contributed to Preston’s success yesterday by adopting wrong tactics on another “sticky wicket.” This was a day above all others, when the long sweeping passes should have been operated, not the close-bugged ball and over-elaborated move. Two moves should have been rolled into one. We got far too few examples of this. Most notable was one Humphreys-Mercer-Catterick afford which in five seconds transferred play from one penalty area to another. The lesson was obvious. But enough of the inquest business. Let us give credit here it was due, and it was due just as much o the vanquished as the victors. This was a Titanic struggle between two sides so evenly matched that it took 117 minutes yesterday to tip the scales – and then only by a penalty goal. Curious that the first and last goals should have been from the spot. In the fading light I couldn’t swear whether the ball which Greenhalgh “handled” out after seven minutes of extra time would have entered the net or not. But it made the difference that Preston now appear in round four instead of Everton, for Shankley’s spot kick ended this stirring test of stamina on one of the worst days for football we have had this season.
Keen Endeavour
Mercer’s penalty goal after 17 minutes put the sides level on aggregate. Then came Elliott’s goal in three minutes of extra time, McIntosh quick one two minutes later to wash out its value, and then Preston’s penalty – shade of the 1938 final – to ring down the curtain on the Blues. The game produced considerable flashes of fine football, a lot of mediocre stuff, but from start to finish a tremendous amount of keen and courageous endeavour. It was one of the hardest games we’ve seen on this ground for a long time, and a tribute to the 22 lion-hearted players considering today’s restricted opportunities for training, that they kept it up at such tempo to the bitter end. Thrilling at it was I doubt whether we should relish that sort of football all the season round. There was too much stop-the-other-fellow-at-all-costs about it. That doesn’t mean it was “dirty.” It wasn’t, though it was certainly though and vigorous, and there were plenty of fouls of the usual cup-tie type, due mainly to over-zealousness in defence. There was too much anxiety and endeavoured on both sides, particularly in the last hour, for either of these to play really constructive football. Over-eagerness spoiled many good chances “though Everton should have had at least one penalty, possible two, when Catterick and Elliott were grassed, but Referee Ward, who handled the game extremely well, though otherwise, which is all that matters. Mercer and Bentham again stood out for their attempts at real constructive moves. The former has the defects of his virtues, namely, that his strong command for attacking sometimes leaving an undue burden on his backs when the ball in returned quickly, but one must take risks to get goals in such a game, and that was always Mercer’s aim.
Tame Finishing
Humphreys gave his best-ever display at centre-half; the backs could not be blamed for the defeat; unless the hyperemotional want to include Greenhalgh’s efforts and Catterick again pulled his inside out in his endeavour. The inside men up to a point were excellent yet sometimes nullified all that had gone before by the fatal extra move. Othen the heavy going meant that after a bit of good work they hadn’t the strength to blow the top of custard, and could only finish tamely. Rawlings was below bar, frequently shooting from a bad position when two unmarked men stood waiting for the pass that didn’t come. Boyes was neglected. He made good use of the ball whenever he got it, but saw it for too seldom. Preston’s best were Fairbrother, who for the second time got the hoo-doo on Everton’s merriment; Williams a rugged defender who affectively if not stylishly blocked the middle avenue, Beattie, Shankley, McIntosh and Wharton.
BLUES’ MISTAKE
January 10, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Pilot’s Log
Everton to a large extent, have themselves to blame for going down to Preston after 117 minutes’ play, making that a marathon tie of 207 minutes. The match should have been in safe keeping long before full time, but several times the ball was taken right into the North End goal area, and then tamely placed into the hands of Fairbrother. There were two occasions when Rawlings got right through with his inside men in position and unmarked, but elected to try and score. There were gifts from the gods which should never have been scorned but Everton’s finishing generally was well below par, and there is no doubt that the striking force of Wainwright was missed. Elliott worked like a Trojan and to fine purpose, but he had not the size to draw the attentions of Williams off Catterick, who had only two shots at goal Williams, I thought, was the man who really won the tie for North End for he bottled up Catterick, and refused to be enticed out of his ground by the joyous manipulation of Fielding. Fielding made out of the outstanding successes, while Wally Boyes always accepted a potential match-winner, yet somehow the Blues kept it far too close at periods when they had North End on the “collar,” and when the far-flung pass would have proved a winner. In defence Everton were not as good at closing the gaps as Preston, or was it that Preston’s methods created those gaps better than Everton’s. I think so. In Preston we saw an adaptable team employing the old Liverpool swatch time after time, and making sure that the unmarked winger always got possession Everton appeared cramped by comparison in a game which could have gone either way and which neither side really deserved to lose. I would say that North End deserved the “points” decision,” and the manner of its attainment was highly dramatic. This is how the game went in brief. First half it was Everton in command with Mercer’s penalty goal in 17 minutes making it level on aggregate. From the 60th minute Preston came with their best, and Everton did not appear happy. Final whistle; yes, everyone agreed that it should be all-square. Extra time; In two minutes the quickness of Boyes in crossing with Fairbrother on the ground saw Elliott leap to head a goal and leap, for joy. The cheers were still ringing, when McIntosh –big Jim of all people, for he has so often been hero of Everton – let go a shot from 20 yards which Burnett could see all the way, but to which he moved too slowly. I think Burnett was convinced the ball was going outside otherwise he must have gone for it and got it. So we were on terms again, and extra time was actually “played out” for neither side would take a chance. So into “play-to-the-first-goal” to which we on Merseyside have become so used. Everton almost snatched it, and then McIntosh yes, Jim again dribbled close into the penalty area, and crossed a low centre which drew Burnett. Greenhalgh dived at the ball, and played it with his arm so that just as Dougal flashed it into the net, the whistle went for a penalty. Up came Bill Shankley, the main inspiration of North End, to make no mistake and off went Preston in a state of jubilation. So the long match ended with the rain pouring down to drown Everton’s someone said to Mr. Jim Taylor, chairman of North End. Well, congratulations, and I hope you will the Cup. Mr. Ernest Green, the Everton director, in a flash came back with “What about Liverpool.” And so say all of us. I rated Jackson, Mercer, Humphreys, Fielding, Boyes and Elliott, the Everton successes in this game and in the North End ranks there was an one better than the brilliant Shankley. I liked also Beattie, Williams – a rare pivot- Wharton and Livesey, while McIntosh came to life at the vital moments. Attendance was 35,561. Everton go to Blackburn Rovers on Saturday and select from 14 players. Everton (from); Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Humphreys, Bentham, Watson, Grant; Rawlings, Elliott, Catterick, Fielding, Boyes, Stevenson.
EVERTON’S LATEST SCOTTISH SIGNING
January 10, 1946. The Evening Express
Everton have secured another junior from Maryhill Harp, the Scottish Club from which they signed Tommy Elliott recently (writes Pilot). This is Allan, a brilliant full back who has been watched by several League clubs. Allan is due for demobilisation shortly. He plays for the Blues Reserves against Bury, at Goodison Park on Saturday when the team will be; Sagar; Allan, Prescott; Cookson, Falder, Archer; Barber (A.), Sweeney, Barker, A.N. Other, Trentham.
Everton “A” (v. Formby); J. A. Jones; T.W. Jones, E, Goulding; Hill, N. Farrar, Dunroe, Lowe, Corkhill, S. Wright, Rothwell, J. Wright.
Everton Colts (v Whitby Arrow Cadet’s at Ellesmere Port); R. Kay; Rankin, Rigby; R. Borrows, McGrail, J. Tansey; Heath, W. Burnett, G. Crabb, G. Hannah, W. Myers.
ALL SQUARE
January 11, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
The top of the North table position is most intriguing for Chesterfield, Everton and Sheffield United each have 31 points from 23 matches, and so are a match in hand of Blackpool, and Stoke City, who come next in other two and three points behind respectively. Reaction after cup dismissal may affect Chesterfield – their fall at the hands of York City was the shock of the round – and Everton but Sheffield will be encouraged by their success over Huddersfield Town and are riding the crest of the wave. However, Everton can do no more than keep on winning their league games, and that is precisely what I expect them to do at Ewood Park where they oppose Blackburn Rovers, who will have our former favourites Cecil Wiles and Jack Campbell, in their attack. Everton have a splendid away record of five wins and two draws, whereas the Rovers, second bottom in the chart, have won only four a dozen home games. Everton select from 14 players and should win. Blackburn bring back Fairweather to inside right – he has been playing with Swindon Town – and Bell, a young Scottish left-half signed last season who has not played since September and who has been a Queen of the South guest. Everton (from); Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Humphreys, Bentham, Watson, Grant; Rawlings, Elliott, Catterick, Fielding, Boyes, Stevenson. Blackburn Rovers; Patterson; Hall, Green; Whiteside, Pryde, Bell; Campbell, Fairweather, Wyles, Stephan, Glaister.
BLACKBURN RUGGEDNESS BEATS EVERTON
January 14, 1946. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Bee (Ernest Green)
Blackburn Rovers 2, Everton 1
Without a thesis of theory one will not get far. Plain unvarnished effort, without forethought will not win football medals. In business life, Barnum and Bailey paired off attractions so that there was foil and counterfoil – maybe there was some counterfeit but the contrasting of two opposites accentuated the whole. The Colibris Midgets were alongside the Giant. Ethel Revnell towers over her partner, Gracie West; Flanagan’s bulk and ill-fitting suits are lighted up by the elegance of partner Chesney Allan. When pitted against monumental figures like Pryde and Jones one finds Everton’s attack needs heights and solidity. The intricacies of a Stevenson will always be acceptable if there is a big fellow around to continue the attacking movement. But in the attack, as produced a Blackburn Rovers’ ground, the absence of the counterpart was most marked.
Blackburn Hercules
Catterick was always willing to tilt his light frame against the Blackburn Hercules. Fielding continued his tip-tap style of dribbling till he was crowded out. Boyes, therefore, had few spells and oddly as it may appear, Rawlings made the best single run of the match, yet was not productive of the flowing centres one expects from a wingman, centres such as Campbell made. It was the irony of the day’s defeat of the top-notch team by the bottom-rung team that goals should come from the wise centring of Campbell, who is, of course, the recent Liverpool footballer. Campbell’s case is full of the strange ways of football. His father is a lifelong Evertonian; the boy an ardent Liverpool spectator and then an Anfield player. Time passes, Campbell is transferred to Blackburn and helps to beat Everton after they have given him a lift out and home in the chara. Lack of atmosphere and big crowd’s such as they are used to may have affected Everton. They started like giants; scored in a moment. Catterick thanking Stevenson for his opening medicine ball –a joyous pass through after drawing defenders towards him. Everton looked like going to the top of the League in two minutes. They could have scored three in ten minutes. And the sound? An atomic bomb dropped upon them by Wyles earnest ex-Everton trier, and finally a rich Glaister goal.
Foundations Shaken
Everton’s foundation were shaken. Their captain Greenhalgh, could not play through a severe cold, and Grant came in, with Bentham becoming a full back for 45 minutes. Have Everton no regular backs for the task, that they needs-must make a wing-half into centre half-back, and an ex-forward at full-back? As the game wore on –suited term to patches of it – Everton seemed lethargic. In the last 10 minutes they woke to their responsibilities and played well enough to have drawn. It was too late. Blackburn had earned their victory as all their side had pulled together with resolution and after starting like novices had graduated into a nice pattern of play. Everton made heavy labour of sample things – when they could pass they went on an excussion and signals were soon set at “Stop” Ruggedness and practicability caused Rovers to beat Everton, whose goalkeeper came out without flaw while the change at half-time –Watson as back and Bentham in his helpful post at half-back –had a marked effect, though it all, however, one sensed the need of the acquisition of fall, athletic figures to stand by the little men of the attacking line.
Four Hectic Moments
The game produced four of the most astounding hectic moments –the ball rolling towards goal and backs running back to kick the ball from the empty goalmouth. Manager Eddie Hapgood, of Arsenal fame, has much to work on the new task, and maybe they will not have to turn the picture in the boardroom “about face” when a season has passed by. Those pictures include and stars as Latheron, Percy Smith, Bob Crompton, Jack Simpson –days of Blackburn highest football notes. Everton can put its house in order by adding newcomers of size and football skill. I think they know their weakness has been a surplus of small, clever players congregating at the small moment. Time is on the Everton directors side, also the money needed to provide what Everton spectators have earned –the best being not too good for them. Blackburn Rovers; Patterson, goal; Hall and Green, backs; Whiteside, Pryde and Bell, half-backs; Campbell, Fairweather, Wyles, Stephens, and Glaister, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Bentham, backs; Grant, Mercer (captain), and Watson, half-backs; Rawlings, Stevenson, Catterick, Fielding and Boyes, forwards.
• Everton Res 2, Bury Res 1
• Formby 2 Everton “A” 0
• Liverpool beat Preston 4-2, Paisley, Liddell (2), Fagan and Douglas, Mutch for Preston
FLATTERED TO DECEIVE
January 14, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton lost their match with Blackburn Rovers in the first ten minutes of the game. Everton display was only a flash in the pan? An attack which had cut through the Rovers defence like a hot knife through butter became inept, without sting or power. Strive as they would, Everton could not revive the play which must have sunk the Rovers spectators hearts, into their boots and put the thought of a goal white in their minds. I really thought Everton would swamp the Rovers; they would have done had they been able to maintain that form. Unfortunately they failed to carry it on more than ten minutes which is paltry in a game lasting 90 minutes (writes Stork). Gradually Blackburn got over the shock of Catterick’s goal, and Everton’s classy football and started something of their own, and although their methods were not so intricate, they were every bit as dependable; so much so that they equalised in thirteen minutes and took the lead in seventeen, vis Fairweather and Glaister. It was a must amazing turnaround. How some? This is my reading of it. The Everton forwards not forceful enough. Outweighed and clever ball players but not progressive enough. Big Pryde was not always master of Catterick, who, however had no one to put the ball to when he found his own path locked against him. His was an unenviable task, for he had unusually to play a lone hand. Blackburn were worthy their win, yet their goal had three miraculous escapes when the ball was kicked off the line when nothing on earth appeared unlikely to prevent goals; Near misses admittedly but those sort of things are all part and parcel of the game. Don’t forget Watson’s save near goal-line when all seemed lost to Everton. We took Campbell and Wyles along with us in the coach. It would have been better had we left them behind for it was Campbell who “made” both the Rovers goals. There was “fire” to the Blackburn side. After those ten minutes Everton’s light almost went out, except for a short spell at the beginning of the second half and late on when they got together to an effort to “save their bacon.”
EVERTON IDEA TAKEN STAGES FURTHER
January 15, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Cup Ties Refs
Ranger’s Notes
A proposal by, Everton F.C., carried unanimously at a Football League meeting at a Football League meeting last year, is to be the subject of an inquiry by a joint committee of the Football Association and the League. Everton’s idea was that 50 per cent of the F.A.’s proceeds from all Cup Finals and full internationals matches should he handed over to the Football league. No speculation was made as to how the money should he used. Seeing that it is the clubs and players of the League organisations that make this revenue possible the suggestion seems fair enough, although it is a litter surprising that Everton should be asked to “state a case” for the joint committee. One would have thought that the League Management Committee would have undertaken this entry unless they feel it involutions to do so when they have members on the joint inquiry.
EVERTON CHANGES
January 16, 1946. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel
The Goodison Park eleven has five alterations, two being positional at left back, Greenhalgh now fir again, returns in place of Bentham, who goes to right half, with Humphreys filling the pivotal berth in place of Mercer, who is on international duty. In the attack Stevenson appears at outside right instead of Rawlings and will have Wainwright at his partner. The team is Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Humphreys, Watson; Stevenson, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Boyes.
KEEN STRUGGLE
January 18, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
In League warfare the struggle for leadership in the North section gets keener each week. There are four clubs grouped on equal points footing at the top, and very little between the leading dozen sides. Chesterfield and Sheffield United are both away but Blackpool entertain luckless Leeds at home, so whatever Everton do – and they ought to win with their re-arranged forward line –I hardly anticipate seeing the Blues on top this time tomorrow. Providing Wainwright is in the same sparkling form that he was up to the turn of the year. I’m looking to his return, and Stevenson’s inclusion as his partner, to put Everton back on the victory trail. Against Stoke City and Blackpool the attack was perfect. Everything is attempted came off, and they made their opponents look what they certainly are not, very mediocre sides. At Blackburn last week Everton opened in a blaze of glory, but soon shot their bolt. If they get a flying start again tomorrow I cannot see Blackburn pulling back the deficit a second time. Two wins and a draw out of eleven games is the sum total of the Rovers’ away record, which hardly inspires confidence or indicates another upset of form. The return of Greenhalgh will strengthened the home rearguard, and though Humphreys is not a Tommy Jones, he fills the pivotal position affectively and confidently. Blackburn hope to have Butt and Langton in their side together for the first time since the war, though there is a doubt about the first-named through injury. Owing to Hall being unavailable and Green injured, there are changes in the defence. Campbell, ex-Anfield, and Wyles, ex-Everton, are the side. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Humphreys, Watson; Stevenson, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Boyes. Blackburn Rovers; Patterson; Forbes, Wightman; Whiteside, Pryde, Bell; Campbell, Butt or Baldwin, Wyles, Stephen, Langton.
EVERTON’S CHANCE TO BECOME NORTH LEADERS
January 18, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
The race for the championship of the Football League North is so intense that it is commanding as much attention as the F.A. Cup. Four clubs are locked together on the 31 points mark – Chesterfield, Everton, Sheffield United and Blackpool, in that order – but with Everton and Chesterfield the reigning “favourities.” The Blues and Chesterfield have no further cup interest, but the United and Blackpool are still in the Cup and so will have to play mid-week matches; to make up their League programme. The difficulty in securing the release of players for mid-week matches must re-act against the clubs. The top three have played 24 matches but Blackpool have played 25, and just below them we find Sheffield Wednesday with 29 points from 24 games, and the menacing Newcastle United who have 28 points, but a match in hand of the leaders. Several other clubs, including Liverpool ate handy, ready to dash in should the leaders slip. As a matter of fact three did slip last week –Sheffield and Chesterfield at home. Seeing that those two clubs have to visit the teams which defeated them, I think Everton have a gilt-edged chance of jumping into the lead tomorrow for they are at home to Blackburn Rovers who defeated them last week 2-1. Whichever way you look at it this reads like a good thing for a much-strengthened Everton who, the Blues themselves admit, put up their poorest display of the season when losing at Ewood. Chief interest will centre on the new right wing of international Alex Stevenson and new star inside-right Eddie Wainwright. This link-up intrigues me for although Stevenson will be playing out of position he is such a consummate footballer that he will make up in skill the lack of speed, and I expect him to carve out innumerable openings for the alert, quick-shooting Wainwright who will be playing his first game, since that revel against Blackpool. Eddie will take a lot of weight off Catterick, and so I think Bob Pryde will have a pretty “warm” afternoon. In the Rovers side will be Cecil Wyles, former Everton centre-forward and Jack Campbell who went to Ewood from Liverpool, so there is plenty of local interest in a game which starts at 2.45 pm, and which should bring Everton their 14th win of the season. A party of 60 Russians will see the match. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Humphreys, Watson; Stevenson, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Boyes. Blackburn Rovers; Patterson; Forbes, Wightman; Whiteside, Pryde, Bell; Campbell, Butt or Baldwin, Wyles, Stephen, Langton.
EVERTON’S FINE DISPLAY AFTER EARLY REVERSE
January 21, 1946. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 4, Blackburn Rovers 1
By Bee (Ernest Edwards)
Yes, this was the true Everton. It took them nearly an hour to adjust their skates and then they flew around the ground with the greatest of ease and with ease and the rare football gusto. Blackburn had shocked them (as a week before) by taking a goal –Wyles, the former Everton player, would count it a golden goal. How then, did the Everton side, lethargic and lost at Blackburn pick up the winning thread at Goodison Park? First of all Greenhalgh came back to captaincy, after a cold. Humphreys of Llandudno, stepped up to take Mercer’s role and give a stately and charming display of pivotal work, and, more than all. Wainwright was in the attack. This young Southport boy has the flair for dominating an attack. It is not so much what he does, as the way he leads the opposition from their recognised ranks. It needed all the guile of a Wainwright to bring Everton forwards back to sense and discretion. Till half-time Blackburn were quite the better side, moving the ball about with nice, flashy touches and always by the direct pass, made at the right moment. The efforts of Stephen and Wyles were exceedingly good.
Catterick A Worker
Everton caught their spirit of movement. They charmed a frozen crowd with intricacies by Stevenson (extreme winger instead of inside right). The non-stop worker, Catterick, got three goals, one an ace because he stated, carried on, and completed the goal, unaided. His swerve menacing and his shot was levelled at the spot at which little Patterson was not to be found. Fielding, tied through ploughing the mud fields and scattering divots in the cup-tie, has had a rest and now curbed hi desire to do wholesale work. His methods of drawing the defence was a great factor in the change of the Everton front, just as with Wainwright.
Pryde Not Guilty
Considering the worked state of the icy turf I think both sides deserve a medal for their earnest and their efforts. Plyde, the burly Blackburn captain, played a scrupulously fair game, therefore I shall correct many reports which talked of a foul against him. The free kick was against the goalkeeper for carrying the ball out of bounds; beyond his penalty area. It was very difficult to see the marked line, but referee Baker of Crew, gave it as his verdict that Patterson had committed an offence. It is not possible to score direct from the free kick, therefore the wily Boyes and Fielding planned their task. Boyes edged the ball forward and Fielding cutting along scored the goal.
Not Rationed
This game was full of football meat notably when Stevenson, breaking through, found the goalkeeper covering his view of the goalmouth. Stevenson very astutely lofted the ball towards the empty goal. He dared not be forceful with his lob or the ball would soar over the goal post. So his judgement was ideal unfortunately for him. Wightman came running back to make a desperate kick off the goal line this being the fifth instance of this in the two games played. Watson and Bentham added their quote to attack by sliding the ball ahead in their forwards and Jackson with his rousing kicks was in his element in this live hot game. Blackburn played so well they must rise in the League chart, they have style, but little fortune, not that they earned a point at Goodison this week-end.
Mother of Soccer
A remarkable happening this week-end? The British Council had 60 Russians at the game, I have taken UNO crowds for three years but this one left me wondering what would be done about interpreting. To our joy and surprise a 16-year-old boy from Waterloo and Seaforth School came to our help. He could speak French and German. Yes, but what of Russian? Well, said this strapping fellow, I think I shall get along all right. So John Nicholson, ex-Brighton and London (evacuated here five years ago), took us over the beautiful ship Molotov. This self taught linguist never had the slightest difficulty putting across my stories and football facts. The Russians were silent as the grave at the match, but at the end their spokesman came to me to say “England is the mother of all football countries.” I added “And father, too, sir.” The Russians want me to take England’s captain, Mercer, to the dock shed to give an exhibition in the art of ball control to the Molotov apprentices. Asked whether the Dynamos would be likely to beat Everton, the Russian spokesman said; “I fear we could not keep up your speed, and your defence is so much better than ours.” Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Bentham, Humphreys and Watson, half-backs; Stevenson, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding and Boyes, forwards. Blackburn Rovers; Patterson, goal; Forbes and Wightman, backs; Whiteside, Pryde (captain) and Bell, half-backs; Campbell, Fairweather, Wyles, Stephan, and Langton, forwards. Referee; Mr. A. Baker (Crewe).
• England beat Belgium 2-0 at Wembley, Joe Mercer captain the England side.
• Liverpool lost 2-1 at Preston, Fagan, and Mutch (2)
RIGHT ON TOP
January 21, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton made no mistake about securing leadership of the League North when, on Saturday, they received Blackburn Rovers at Goodison Park, but at one time it did not appear as if they would go through to a 4-1 triumph. However, the Blues learned lessons of first-half mistakes and now show the way home by virtue of superior goal-average over Sheffield United and Blackpool, who scraped home by odds goals on Saturday, while Chesterfield were going down by an odd goal. Chesterfield can regain the lead on Saturday for they visit Newcastle United, while their rivals are not on, matters leagues. Had not Everton changed their tactics in time against Blackburn the might not have won a ground all against delicacy in football and accuracy n control. Courage in going to possession were essentials to success and this the Blues did not show until after the interval during which they must have cogitated on the fact that the Rovers were so often in possession. Well, the Blackburn lads went to it instead of waiting for the bounce which, on a frosty ground, so often shot, the ball feet away. It was Harry Catterick more than anyone who forced Everton to change their ideas, and in the end it was all one-way traffic. Catterick proved what a splendid footballer he is by trapping “dead” a high up-the-middle ball, swinging round, and flashing past three opponents to score with an acrobatic cross shot at his feet were slipping way from him. That goal wiped out the characteristic Wyles’s goal and was only the second real goal-thrust, Everton made in the first half. The other was an adroit lob by Stevenson over the head of Patterson which looked all over a winner until Wightman dashed up to kick away off the goal-line. Catterick’s on-the-turn shot placed Everton in front, and than Everton exploited, the short transfer they have used for cover-taking so successfully after Catterick had been foiled. Boyes just slipped the ball though a few yards for Fielding to dash in and crack it home. Another short glide through by Boyes gave Catterick his third goal. This was a good game despite the abundance of slips and slithers on the ice, and I am convinced that while Stevenson is still getting his “legs” back outside-right is an ideal position for him. Wainwright did not settle until the second half, but Fielding had another great day and Boyes was the man who supplied the wiles. Humphreys was much more reliable than Pryde but, of course, Catterick was a better centre-forward than Wyles who was still the big-hearted trier. Humphreys hold the defences together during tense moments in the first half when the Boyes were infinitely the better side, and stood in the breach until his colleagues had settled. The Rovers would have done better to use, Langton more for this left winger gave Jackson more trouble than any other this season. That 23,558 spectators should turn up for a game on such a day shows the enthusiasm for a good side, and Everton are all that The Lord Mayor of Liverpool (Alderman Luke Hogan) was present, and kept up his record of not having seen either local side lose. And our First Citizen will be at Anfield on January 30. Good, I think Everton were doing a little scouting on Saturday, for at the game I saw only Chairman Mr. Will Gibbins and Colleagues Messrs George Evans, Tom Percy and Dick Searle.
Everton may bring in their young centre-half, Falder, for Saturday’s game against Fulham at Goodison Park. This is not certain, but if others are not available Falder may be given a run-out. Everton folk thing highly of this lad.
PRESENTATION TO MR. CIFF
January 22, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
The presentation to Mr. W.C. Cuff of his portrait in oils takes place on Friday evening February 1, at the Mecca cafe, Water Street –Tickets (5/-each) are still available to Everton shareholders and subscribers on application to Mr. A. Lomax, 7 Stopgate Lane, Liverpool 9. Many notable folk in Soccer circles will selected to pay a well-deserved tribute to one, who has served Everton for so long with such distinction and has contributed in so large a measure to the raising of the administrating standard of our national games. Football in general, and Everton in particular owe a great debt to Will Cuff. His services have been nationally recognised by both the Football League and the F.A. It is gratifying that his fellow-townsmen are also taking these steps to add their tributes. The subscription that is still open, and anyone wishing to be identified with this tribute may send subscription to Mr. C.E. Bainforth, 38 Belgrave Street Wallasey.
EVERTON TO TOUR DENMARK
January 23, 1946. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel
A number of Football League clubs have already made arrangements for touring other countries during the coming close season of have negotiations in progress with that object. Now I am informed that Everton may tour Denmark in the spring. It they should do so, it will be the third occasion on which a team from the Goodison Park club has visited that country, the previous ones being in 1933 and 1937. The Everton team to play Fulham in a friendly match at Goodison Park on Saturday will probably be the same that defeated Blackburn Rovers, but the side is not definitely chosen. Twelve players have been named; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Humphreys, Watson; Mercer, Stevenson, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Boyes.
BLUES AND DENMARK
January 23, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton directors are now negotiating for a tour of Denmark as soon as the present season ends. The matter was discussed at last night’s meeting. This would be Everton’s third visit to Denmark, for they were there in 1933 and 1937. The Blues named 12 players from whom they will select their team to meet Fulham at Goodison Park on Saturday. These are the eleven successful against Blackburn Rovers with Joe Mercer who returns after leading England to victory against Belgium. Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Humphreys, Watson; Mercer, Stevenson, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Boyes.
Alex Stevenson has been selected to play inside right for Ireland against Scotland in Belfast on February 2. Everton give a trial to Bob McGregor, an 18-year-old left back from Scottish junior circles in their Central League game at Blackburn. This is a further development in Everton’s intensive policy to find their own stars. Young Stanley Wright the former schoolboy star leads the forwards. Everton Reserves; Sagar; Purvis, McGregor; Grant, Farrer, Archer; Rawlings, Elliott, S. Wright, Lyon, W. Myers.
ABERDEEN JUNIOR TO PLAY TRIAL FOR EVERTON
Dundee Evening Telegraph-Thursday 24 January 1946
Bobby McGregor, left half of Aberdeen club Hall & Co., who has been sought after by several Scottish clubs, goes to Liverpool at the week-end, where he will play a trial for Everton.
ANOTHER EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB ELECTION THIS YEAR
January 24, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Plans are already being made for another “election campaign” in connection with the Everton Football Club, although the annual meeting is at least five months away. The Shareholders Association is, I hear, to place three candidates in the field for the three seats which become vacant automatically. Ever since the last annual meeting the Association has been organisation itself in a bid for greater representation on the Board on which they have only three members – Messrs W.C. Cuff, George Evans, and Tom Percy. This year three retiring directors are Mr. Ernest Green, Dr. Cecil Baxter and Mr. Percy, and had the Association decided to support all three an election might have been avoided for I am confident the Board would, as it has done invariably, support the retiring members. However, I think that you will find the Association appointing the re-election of Mr. Percy, and also giving their support to Mr. Tom Nuttall who was beaten by four votes last summer, and Mr. Norman Coffey, son of the late Mr. Andrew Coffey, a former chairman of the Club. This means that the Government will have to bring forward candidates to offset the moves by the “Opposition” We hear little these days of share-buying, but I can tell you that this continues – when they can be found – and a whisper reaches me that £2 has been paid for a £1 share – not by and sitting director either.
London Visitors
English internationals are included in Fulham’s team to oppose Everton in the friendly match at Goodison Park on Saturday – the season’s first North v. South clash. Bacuzzi the right back has made many appearances for England and some weeks ago returned after playing fine football in Italy. Another International is Pat Bessley, the former Arsenal winger who went to Fulham from Huddserfield Town. ‘Pat now plays inside-left. Rooke the sharp-shooting centre forward, who so bothered Everton in the League Cup at Craven Cottage in May 1940, when Fulham won 5-2 is another England player in a team which should serve up highly-attractive football. I have had excellent reports about Rambling, the outside-right while his partner McCormick is well-known on Merseyside for he played as a guest for Crewe Alexandra and Liverpool. Fulham; Rickett; Bucuzzi, Malpass; Freemen, Taylor, Wallbanks; Rambling, McCormick, Rooke, Beasley, Shepherd.
FULHAM VISIT
January 25, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
The visit of Fulham to Goodison Park provides Everton followers with something out of the ordinary, and though the game carries no League points it will be none the less attractive for that for both sides will be able to settle down to give of their best, in an exhibition sense, without worrying about the final outcome. Manager Jack Peart’s team has some good performances to its credit this season, and from all accounts is a very solid and well-knit side. There is plenty of experiences in it, from men like Bacuzzi, Pat Bessley, McCormick, and Rooke, with a good leavening of youth and speed from up-and-coming lads who have yet to make their niche secure. Everton look good enough to me for a victory, though really that matters little. This is a case where one can say without fear of contradiction that “the game’s the thing.” Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Humphreys, Watson; Mercer, Stevenson, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Boyes. Fulham; Rickett; Bucuzzi, Malpass; Freemen, Taylor, Wallbanks; Rambling, McCormick, Rooke, Beasley, Shepherd.
TEST OF MERIT
January 25, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
The season’s first test of merit between the League North and the League South will be staged at Goodison Park, where Everton, leaders of the North, entertain Fulham in a friendly match. Despite the fact that no vital issues are at stake, I am certain that there will be a good crowd to welcome the Fulham who knocked Everton out of the War cup in 1940 by 5-2 at Craven Cottage. Fulham boast three internationals and several other players who have representative match experience. In Bacuzzie, Rooke, and Beasley the “Cottagers” have players of universal repute, and with Everton’s galaxy of internationals –there are four in the 12 from which the side be selected - this should be a classic display “right up the street” of the Goodison habitués. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Humphreys, Watson; Mercer, Stevenson, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Boyes. Fulham; Rickett; Bucuzzi, Malpass; Freemen, Taylor, Wallbanks; Rambling, McCormick, Rooke, Beasley, Shepherd.
Everton F.C Board
“I would have no part in any campaign to oppose retiring directors,” said Capt Tom Percy, the Everton director and member of the Shareholders Association to me following my announcement that the Association intended nominating Capt Percy and two others for seats on the directors at the next annual meeting. The Association would only oppose retiring in exceptional only oppose retiring directors in exceptional circumstances and such a position does not arise this year. I joined the Association at a time when I deemed it a necessary authority as a balance and not as an opposition and we felt that we should have a say whenever a vacancy occurred on the Board. This year there is no vacancy. The Association is in a strong position, but the Executive have not even discussed nominations.” Mr. Tom Nuttall said “I have no desire to oppose anyone at all and I see no reason at the present juncture why I should oppose anyone. Mr. V.G. Winfield, chairman of the Association, writes confirming that the Executive Committee have not discussion any question of nominations Mr. Winfield states; “It is not the policy of the Association to oppose retiring directors except when issues of a fundamental nature are involved, and at this juncture no issue of this nature would appear to be evident. The position, of course changes entirely when a vacancy on the Board arises. This is all grand news and I have a feeling it will dispel all fears of an election, and that Mr. Ernest Green, Dr. Cecil, S. Baxter and Capt Percy will be re-elected unopposed.
FULAM AT GOODISON
January 26, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton More Skilful
After heavy rain, the weather improved and it was fine but dull for the friendly game between Everton and Fulham, at Goodison Park. Everton were a selected, but Miller came in at in place of McCormick in the Fulham team. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Mercer, Humphreys and Watson, half-backs; Stevenson, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding and Boyes, forwards. Fulham; Rickett, goal; Bacuzzi and Malpass, backs; Freeman, Taylor and Wallbanks, half-backs; Rampling, Miller, Rooke, Beasley, and Shepherd, forwards. Referee; Mr. J.E. Williams (Bolton). The game started five minutes late and almost immediately Boyes worked his way across the field, but his centre was intercepted and cleared. At the other end Rampling, well in front of goal, was provided with a good scoring opportunity when Miller made him a short transfer, but he turned the ball in towards goal for Burnett to make an easy pick-up.
Combined Move
Everton showed their football skill when Watson received from Greenhalgh, and seized to a combined movement in which Mercer, Catterick, Wainwright and Stevenson took part, before the latter put the ball across for Boyes to shoot just wide of the far post without a single Fulham player making contact with the ball. Shepherd made a brilliant individual run down the left and looked like scoring, but having got well into the penalty area he endeavoured to pass to Beasley, but Jackson intercepted. Everton were the more skilful and practical combination, and in 10 minutes they took the lead when Wainwright, receiving from Mercer, made a powerful low drive which glanced off the outstretched foot of Wallbanks to enter the goal. The cheering which greeted this point had not died down when Mercer put the ball beyond Fulham defence for Wainwright to run in and add a second with an unstoppable low shot.
A VERY “FRIENDLY” GAME
January 28, 1946. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 10, Fulham 1
Everton Score Ten
As a general rule, friendly games have little to commend themselves, the reason being that there is nothing at the end of them –a competitive spirit is missing. There was nothing like that in the game at Goodison Park where Fulham were the visitors. There was an abundance of high-class football and it was not all produced by Everton, even though they scored ten goals. Fulham started in a sprightly manner and set about Everton in the style of League leaders. Two goals scored in one minute by Everton however, upset the calculations. It knocked the swing out of the Fulham side and they never regained the rhythm which had promised so well. Having sampled the power of Fulham during the first ten minutes Everton got together with such effect that they ultimately played their rivals out of the game. Any player who scorers five goals in one match must take senior honours but one must not forget the support Wainwright got from his colleagues who paved the way for him just as he made openings for others. Wainwright must be one of the best inside forwards in the game today and it will not be long before he sports an international Cap. His header was the best goal of the quintet, for it was Dean-like – a mere flick and the ball was directed right away from goalkeeper. The remaining four goals were the result of shots of high power. Fielding was in his element on the heavy ground, he had perfect command of the ball making astute to all parts of the field. In the goal orgy, Catterick got only one goal. That a good footballer can play anywhere was proved by the way Stevenson had taken into his position at outside right. He “made” some of the goals missed getting one himself and was the only Everton forward not to score. Seven goals were scored by Everton in the second half. Here is the time table; Wainwright 10 minutes; Wainwright 11; Wainwright 25; Beasley 28; Catterick 54; Fielding 61; Wainwright 64; Fielding 72; Wainwright 74; Boyes 86; Boyes 86 minutes. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Mercer, Humphreys and Watson, half-backs; Stevenson, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding and Boyes, forwards. Fulham; Rickett, goal; Bacuzzi and Malpass, backs; Freeman, Taylor and Wallbanks, half-backs; Rampling, Miller, Rooke, Beasley, and Shepherd, forwards. Referee; Mr. J.E. Williams (Bolton).
• Liverpool lost 5-0 at Bolton, Lofthouse (2), Westwood (3)
EVERTON UNLUCKY
January 28, 1946. The Liverpool Daily Post
Skelmersdale United 2, Everton “A” 0
Skelmersdale 2-0 victory did not really present a true picture of the game. Everton “A” played consistently good football throughout but had luck combined with the muddy state of a strange ground prevented them from scoring. Skelmersdale’s goal were scored by Swift and Pheasant.
Mercer as Coach
Joe Mercer, England’s captain and left half-back has been appointed coach to Liverpool County F.A. in succession to Harry Cooke, the Everton trainer. Secondary schools and colleagues desiring his services, which will be free should write Mr. I Robinson, Chequers Gardens, Liverpool.
BEWILDRED
January 28, 1946. The Evening Express.
Pilot’s Log
While Liverpool were scraping for goals Everton were rattling up 10 against Fulham at Goodison Park, utterly bewildering the southerners with the precision of their approach and shooting. The Fulham chairman said afterwards; “How Everton are out of the Cup amazes me.” It amazes us too. I am assured that despite the 10-1 score this was not a one-sided game; that Fulham played some excellent football, but that the Everton machine was absolutely flawless. Eddie Wainwright -had he been in the Cup-tie Everton would still be there – had a personal triumph with five goals, including a hat-trick; Wally Fielding, I am assured, was the fountain-head of most of the perfection attack, and scored two; Catterick got his usual and Boyes took two Stevenson completed an attack which thrilled by its precision and he will be missed on Saturday when he goes to play for Ireland. On this showing north appears to be superior to South in football and it is certain that a blank Saturday could not have been better filled. I am assured the Mercer-Wainwright link up was one of the outstanding features features and incidentally, congratulations to Joe on his coaching appointment. The Liverpool F.A. could not have a better man.
• Everton Reserves lost 7-3 to Blackburn
BRILLIANT EVERTON
January 28, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
“I will follow the fortunes of Everton with added interest after that,” said a Fulham director, after his side had been whipped 10-1 by Everton. “You have the best side I have ever seen. I am sorry we could not put up a better opposition. We can play better, that we could not beat you on that showing,” he added. It was nice to sit and watch such grand football as it should be played, with the players sailing out all the tricks which they dared not risk in a competitive game, and treating us to a grand display. Friendly games usually lack something. There is a half heartedness about the play, when no one seems to be unduly pressing themselves. There was nothing like this about Saturday’s game. Fulham started off brilliantly, and we began to consider whether Everton could put the same fire into their play, or just be content to jog along in the “friendly” spirit. We were soon to see, for once they took a hand in the affairs of the day they soon cleared away the anxious moments Fulham had given them and went on to play superlative football, and ultimately do as they willed against their visitors. I must admit I like clever football, so distinct from the bashing type we so often see (writes Stork). To see the ball travelling from man to man with precision-like accuracy was delightful, but there was more in it than that there was some magnificent shooting. Every goal was a gem of its type, and there were eleven of them. In this class of game goal-scoring is often secondary to ball play, when it is a common fact that goals are what the onlookers wants. Fulham showed soon good combination but they were not definite near goal. Having made the openings they secured them. Everton showed them how to make goals and then take then. In the second half it was just like shelling none to them. Goals came with an ease and grace that one wondered, when they would stop; their stopped at ten; a few minutes before the final whistle. The crowd had their money’s worth in goals and football artistry. If Wainwright does not get a cap in the next year or so I will be amazed, and Fielding is heading that way also. Two different but essential to the success of its team. Wainwright with his powerful thrusts and dynamic shooting, and Fielding with his loose forward “work behind him” Gathering the ball here and delivering it there. Two grand boys them. Catterick was good, although he got only one goal but it was as good as any of the other nine.
January 1946