EVERTON 2 BLACKBURN ROVERS 0 (Game fac 26)

March 1 1897. The Liverpool Mercury

The tie between these club was played at Goodison Park on Saturday, in the presence of some 20,000 spectators. The day was beautifully fine and everything pointed to a fast and exciting game. The sides took the field as follows: - Everton: - Meham, goal, Meechan and Arrdige, backs, Boyle, Holt and Stewart (captain), halfbacks, Taylor, Bell, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Blackburn Rovers: - Ogilvie, goals, Brandon, and Killean, backs, Booth, Anderson, and Dewar halfbacks, Nicol, Haydock, Hargreaves, Wilkes, and Campbell, forwards. Everton won the toss, and the Rovers had the disadvantage of facing the glaring sun. Still they were the first to make the running, and early on Menham was twice called upon. After a smart visit to be other end the Rovers right wing worked nicely down, and Nicol sent in a clever shot, which the Everton custodian got away with difficulty. Some clever work on the part of Holt, ended in the home forwards getting away in nice combination, and Chadwick shot in three times in quick succession. Orgilvie saving twices, while Brandon charged down the third. It was a splendid bit of work, and the spectators showed their appreciation of the Everton inside left in no half-hearted fashion. The game continued to be hotly contested, and after the home backs had survived a heavy pressure, Stewart placed Chadwick and Milward in possession, but there was no defeating Ogilvie. Nichol raced finely down the wing from a clearance by the keeper, and gave Hargreaves an excellent chance to score, which was not utilised. An even spell followed, when Taylor broke through and put in a splendid shot, which Ogilvie saved, but Hartley was quickly up and promptly placed the ball into the net. This success came after half an hour's play, and the cheering of the crowd was tremendous. Getting to work again, the Rovers forced the play, but could not get in a parting shot, owing to the close attentions of the Everton halves. Hargreaves put the ball into the net. But was ruled offside and close upon the change of ends, an a hot attack left Menham in straits, but fortunately for him Nicol and Hargreaves were at fault with their shooting. At half time the score stood Everton 1 goal Rovers nil. The second half opened with a smart attack on the Rovers goal, but Brandon and Killean being kept busily employed for some time. Eventually Brandon cleared forcibly, and Anderson supplemented the result being that the Rovers right was once again in close proximity to the Everton goal. Arridge had the better of a tussle with Nichol, but still the latter, not to be denied raced up again and centred, only to find Hargreaves slow. Bell then took advantage of a risky and faulty bit of play by Killean and racing on, to Hartley, who met the ball accurately and put it into the net. The Evertonians went off strongly than ever after this second success and play for a long time was contested within the visitors half. shooting was not a strong point, and Orgilvie was not severely tested. Brandon meanwhile was putting in some fine work, but a clearance was left to Anderson who made ground, and parted to Haydock the latter with Nichol being a source of anxiety to the home defenders for some considerable time. Play gradually toned down the Everton forwards being evidently content with the lead, but five minutes from the close the Rovers made a determined efforts to break through, and on one occasion Menham was almost caught napping with a shot from Wilkies Meenhan and Arridges starved off severely ugly rushes in the closing stage, and in the end Everton were returned victors by 2 goals to nil.

 

EVERTON REVIEW

March 1 1897. The Liverpool Mercury

The Association Cup contest at Goodison Park was exceedingly well patronised, and the result of the game once again served to demonstrate forcibly that in the Everton team the directors have a body of high class players. So far in the competition they have led the way in all the nicer points of play, and on Saturday their skill and apparently unlimited resource attained a standard that would have been difficult to excel. There were many enthusiast of the club that was imbued with the idea that the home team would have been an easy task set them to pass into the semi final stage, and on comparative form such a conclusion was but natural, but the game had not been many minutes in progess when the Rovers displayed some of their old cup fighting ability that pointed towards a very close race for supremacy. They had however, a steady set of defenders to reckon with, an under high pressure this department of the team stood out prominently with solid work both in aim and character. A cool defence under trying conditions is an enormously powerful factor to any team, and this was never more thoroughly appreciated by the habitnes of Goodison Park than in the first half hour of the game under notice, when the Rovers were bent upon rushing tactics. They were thwarted at every turn, and meanwhile, when the home team were in possession, there was a combined action on their part that lacked but time to bring about a tangible point. When success had been attained it was generally admitted that it was well deserved, and later on in the game there could be no question as to which, was the better team. The work of the Everton forwards was clean and well distributed, and the manner in which they made straight for goal showed at once that they were determined to have nothing to chance. There was little inequality, and it is a pleasing item to chronicle that Hartley played a sound and effective game in the centre. The training at Lytham has borne good fruit for the forwards were especially keen on the ball, and altogether, abandoning finesse, it can well be imingined that the Rovers defence had many an anxious moment. The left wing pair put in splendid work, and there was not a busier forward on the field than Chadwick, who lost no opportunity of testing the custodian when within range. There were several brilliant individual efforts on the part, but he experienced ill luck in having his shot charged down by the backs, often more by accident than intention. In conjunction with Milward a vast amount of work was done on the wing, and had the outside man been as clever with his finishing touches as he was in getting over the ground, the record against the Rovers must have been more pronounced. At the other end of the line, Bell and Taylor, the former especially, were always dangerous though at times the shooting of the latter play was very faulty. There was a goaheadedness in Hartley's play that was quite refreshing, and should there be no determination in the van the team that beats Everton will have to pile on goals. At half back, too there was little to be desired, and in addition to sound work there were several contributions of diverting incidents that served to keep the vast concourse on good terms with themselves. Holt; s cranium had a rare grueling, and as the little man was in his best form it is to little to be wondered at that the Rovers were not often successful in their attempts at combinations. Boyle and Stewart held the opposing wings well in check, and were most assiduous to those in front of them. The full backs played a confident game the powerful kicking of Meechan, and the speed of Arridge, among other good pints, standing out conspicuous lt. Menham was not overworked, and though at times he kept out several warm shots, he left himself open to defeat on more than one occasion. Coming to the Rovers team there was not that even balance that was maintained by the Evertonians. The forwards were fitful and disjointed in their movements, and there was a vast difference in ability between the left and right wings. Most danger came from Haydock and Nicol, the latter especially; but as Holt was invariably about to meet his centres, Hargreaves had, but little chance to shine. Anderson played a good centre half game, and Booth came on exceptionally well against chadwick and Milward. Dewar was at times painfully weak, hence the effectiveness of Campbell and Wilkes, and as full back there were mistakes made that on two occasions proved fatal. Killean was the delinquent, and he is likely to remember Everton's inside right for some time to time. Brandon was seen at his best in the first portion of the game, when under high pressure, he tackled and cleared under almost hopeless conditions, but still the Rovers defence was not as solid as that of their opponents, and had it not been for the clever exhibition of the custodian Ogilvie the visitors would have experienced a most pronounced defeat. Taking the game all through the quality of play was far in advance of that which is usually associated with this stage of the competition. It was not of the usual cup-tie order, which often degenerates into a wrangle but was uninteresting from start to finish, and there was just sufficient movement infused into the play to keep up a healthy excitement amongst the spectators.

THE LATE MR. ARTHUR E. LEYLAND

March 1, 1897. The Liverpool Mercy

His many friends will note with deep regret the announcement of the death of Mr. Arthur Ernest Leyland, this event having occurred in the Northern Hospital yesterday morning, as the sad outcome of an accident which befell him at the South Prince's Dock on the previous day. Mr. Leyland, who was greatly esteemed for social and business qualities –he was a master carter and stevedore –was only 28 years of age. He was well known as a director of the Everton Football Club. Mr. Leyland, who lived at Orrell Park, Litherland, was to have been married in a few weeks. On Saturday morning he was knocked down the hold of a vessel in Prince's Dock through being struck by a crane chain. He sustained internal injuries, and died, as stated, at the hospital.

 

CORNERS'S INQUESTS

March 3, 1897. The Liverpool Echo

Before Mr. T. E. Sampson, City Coroner

Fatal Accident To a Master Stevedore

Into the circumstances attending the death of Arthur Ernest Leyland, 29 years of age, team owner and master stevedore, who resided at Aintree. The deceased, who was one of the directors of the Everton Football club, was engaged on Saturday morning superintending a number of men loading a flat in Prince's Dock belonging to the Bishop Wharf and Shipping Company. A number of bags of beans were being slung by the “transporter” from the quay to the flat close to the place where the deceased was standing at the edge of the quay. He was seen throwing the guy rope attached to the bags to those on board the flat, when it is supposed he was either struck by the bags or lost his balance, in consequence of which he fell from the quay to the flat, sustaining a fracture of the base of the skull, from the effects of which he died at the Northern Hospital on Sunday morning. Verdict, “Accidental death.” A gentleman in court expressed the sincere sympathy of the directors of the company with the relative of the deceased, and this was joined in by the coroner and the jury.

 

BURY 3 EVERTON 1 (Game 234)

March 3 1897. The Liverpool Mercury

This postponed League match was played at Bury yesterday. The weather, although a cold wind was blowing, proved favorable, and the attendance would probably estimate fully 7,000 persons. Bury placed their full strength in the field, but Everton were without Holt and Bell, their places being filled by Goldie and Cameron. The ground was in splendid conditions, and the appearances were greatly in favour of a hard fought game. Teams: - Everton: - Menham, goal, Meechan, and Arridge, backs, Goldie, Boyle, and Stewart (captain), halfbacks, Taylor, Cameron, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Bury: - Montogomwery, goal, Darroch, and Barbour, backs, Pray, Clegg, and Ross, halfbacks, Pangborne, Settle (j), Miller, Henderson, and Plant, forwards. Bury started against the wind, but were the first to become dangerous, Arridge twice making faulty kicks. A pretty warm attack was waged on the Everton goal, which was lucky to escape disaster. Fine half back play by Pray again led up to attacks on the visitors citadel, and after some particularly fine forward work Bury scored their first goal, Settle doing the trick, amidst tremendous cheering. This reverse stimulated the Evertonians, and a series of charges on the Bury stronghold was the result, Chadwick easing the pressure by sending wide. Almost immediately following, Stewart took a free kick on behalf of Everton, but without result. Still keeping up the pressure the ‘'blues'' gave the opposing defence plenty to do, Darroch finally coming to the relief of his side. Then, on a breakaway being made by Pangborne and Settle, Arridge fouled the latter, just outside the penalty line. The kick came to nought, however, and Everton rushed away, a fine run by Milward ending in a magnificent goal from the foot of that player, which placed the sides of level terms. Play was particularly fast and keenly contested, and there was little to choose between the teams. Bury, however again assumed the lead tumultuous cheering greeting the second goal, obtained by Henderson. Twice following free kicks were awarded against Everton, but Meechan cleared finely, and at the other end Milward made a grand attempt with a flying shot, the wind carrying the ball wide of the posts. Pray, Settle, and Pangborne were ever to the fore in menacing the visitors goal, and the Everton backs had a sultry time of it for some minutes. Menham fisting out from Ross. Then a series of throws in by Stewart enabled the Evertonians to assume the aggressive, Taylor, after some fine passing between the forwards, aiming wide from long range. A few moments later Pangborne raced along the home right, and outwitting Meechan centred, Settle meeting the ball, which found a resting-place in the net. Menham's view being impeded by Arridge, Stimulated by the cheers of their supporters, Bury played up grandly, Plant and Settle having abortive shot at goal. The home side at this point was always on the aggressive, and the Everton goal had narrow escapes. No further scoring was done up to the interval, when Bury were leading by 3 goals to 1. On resuming, play opened brisky, attacks being made on both goals, but without success. One particular attack by Everton, however, was almost productive of result, and it must be admitted that the Bury goal was lucky to escape disaster. A moment later Henderson made play on the home left, and centring Miller missed one of the easiest chances of scoring. The following moment Everton was at the other end. Taylor sending in a sneaking shot, which Montgomery picked up and threw away, just as Milward and Hartley rushed into goal. Bury were next pulled up for offside, and a most exciting struggle was waged near the home goal. Taylor and Cameron worked the ball up the wing, and after Montgomery had punch away from the latter, Goldie secured and ran back, the home custodian again clearing. At the other goal settle had the Everton citadel at his mercy, but he made a wretched attempt much to the disgust and surprise of the Bury supporters. The standard of general play was maintained, and the excitement kept up, both sides straining themselves to the utmost. Bury were playing one of their finest games, and Arridge, Meechan, and Menham had a hard time of it. Again the home side had a fine chance, Clegg this time being at fault. Meechan, on a long dash being made by the Bury forwards, effected a fine clearance, that giving Taylor and Cameron a further chance of showing their powers. The former centred, but Montgomery easily saved from Hartley and at the other end Everton were penalised. Ross placed the ball nicely into goal, but it was packed well and an corner was the only result. Shortly afterwards Plant made a wretched attempt with a clear goal, and then Boyle planted the ball in the net from a free kick, but as the sphere had not touched any of the players in transit, no score was allowed. Towards the finish Settle missed through over eagerness and Bury won by 3 goals to 1, a result that was fully deserved by the day's play.

THE LATE MR. A.E.LEYLAND

March 5, 1897. The Liverpool Mercury

The funeral of Mr. Arthur Ernest Leyland, of Cleveland House, Moss lane, Walton, took place yesterday at Anfield Cemetery. The deceased who was 29 years of age, was in business as a master stevedore and teamowner, and was a director of the Everton Football Club. His death, which occurred t the Northern Hostpital, on Sunday, was a result of an accidental injury sustained the previous day at Prince's Dock. There was a large gathering of mourners at the cemetery. The service was conducted by Rev Joseph Passfield M.A. The chief mourners were Frank Leyland (brother), Mr. Mark Wright (uncle), Mr. Rd Wright and Mr. John Wright (cousins), Mr. Williams Robinson, Mr. John Robinson, Mr. R. Edwards, Mr. J. Stopford, Mr. J. Milbourne, Mr. R.H. Reynolds, Mr. W. Green, Mr. R. Tickle, Mr. A. Rimmer, Mr. E. Hadley, and Mr. W. Hall. Amongst the general body of mourners were the following past and present directors of Everton Football Club:- Dr. Baxter (chairman), Messrs W.R. Clayton, B. Belly, J.M. Crawshaw, E.A. Bainbridge, W.C. Cuff, J.C. Brooks, J. Davies, J. Prescott, R. Molyneux (secretary), J. Coates, George Mahon, J. Grififths, R. Wilson, and W. Kelly; representing the Liverpool football Club were Messrs, J.J. Ramsey, J. McKenna, B.E. Bailey, L. Crosthwaite, and T. Watson (secretary). Deceased was a late member of the Wilbraham Lodge (1713) of Freemasons, and the craft was represented by Bros. C. Binks, W.M; Alfred Cross, P.M; J. Stepford, P.M; Dr. Fleetwood, P.M. B. Hobson, S.W.; F.R. Sherson; J. W.; J.H. Riichards, S.D; T. Dunbar, J.B. Robinson, W.W. Webster, P.M.; P. Bamber and E. S. Hayes (1713), e. Gough (1756), J. Brown (1609), J.F. Fisher and T.J. Curwen (1182), W. Bushell, P.M. (1756), H. Montague-Smith (786) F. Ansdell, secretary Liverpool Sports Club (2290). There were many more a list on in the Mercury

BLACKBURN ROVERS 4 EVERTON 2 (Game 235)

March 6 1897. The Liverpool Mercury

The first of the season's league games between these clubs was played at Ewood park on Saturday, before an attendance of about 8,000 spectators. The Everton team was, with the exception of Palmer who was given a trial in goal, the game as that which did duty in the cup tie on the previous Saturday and there was also one change on the side of the Rovers, as Proudfoot was enabled to resume his position as centre forward. The teams lined up as follows: - Everton: - Palmer, goal, Meechan, and Arridges, backs, Boyle, Holt, and Stewart (captain), halfbacks, Taylor Bell, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Blackburn Rovers: - Ogilvie, goal, Brandon, and Killean, backs, Booth, Anderson, and Dewar, halfbacks, Nicol, Haydock, Proudfoot, Wilkie, and Campbell, forwards.

Everton were the first to attack but their presence in the Rovers half was of short duration, and they were quickly at the other end. Here Proudfoot tested Palmer, who after stopping a second from Campbell was bundled with the ball by Wikie, this early success after two minutes play. Everton went off strongly after this reverse, and obtained a free kick close in, but Stewart placed badly, and the advantage was lost. However, the Everton forwards returned, and Bell sent in a terrific shot, which Ogilvie stopped with difficulty, and before Hartley could get up, Brandon cleared strongly. Immediately following, hands against Meechan let in the Rovers forwards, and eventually Proudfoot added a second point with a swift low shot. Another shot from the Rovers centre brought an abortive corner, and from a badly judged goal kick. Proudfoot stooped the ball in its course and easily placed it into the net, the three goals being obtained in nine minutes. Matters were now getting serious for Everton, and pulling themselves together they proceded to have quite as much of the game as their opponents. Bell got away, and Hartley supplemented the movement to the twelve yards line, where Brandon charged him rather heavily off the ball, but failed to reach it before Bell, who sent in a magnificent shot against which Ogilvie was powerless, Everton initial success coming fifteen minutes after the start of the game. By this time the Evertonians had got into something like concerted action, and Bell and Chadwick caused Ogilvie some trouble, but when the ball got among the Everton defenders there was always considerable anxiety as neither Meechan nor Arridge played anything like a confident game. Taylor had a fine opening from Bell, but shot badly, and a few minutes later Nicol almost brought further disaster with a smart shot, which Palmer kept out by throwing himself full length to save. Play for some time ran fairly even, but towards the close of the first half Ogilvie dallied with the ball, and Taylor put it through. At half time the score stood Rovers 3 goals, Everton 2.

On resuming Everton were the more dangerous, but on Anderson pulling up Hartley and placing Haydock in possession, the latter parted to Nicol, who with a fine shot scored a fourth goal from short range. The Everton forwards were however, not in a hopeless condition, as they were often pressing, but their final efforts were very arractic and even when they did get a descent shot in Brandon was always in the way. The Rovers again assuming the upper hand. Palmer had several ugly shots to deal with, and having now obtained confidence he kept them out and cleared in capital fashion. On one occasion Proudfoot looked like getting through when Meechan fouled him, and a claim for a penalty kick was not sustained. Towards the close the Rovers were severely pressed, but mainly through the efforts of Brandon their colours were not again lowered, and the final score stood Rovers 4 goals, Everton 2.

 

EVERTON RESERVES 6 BARNTON ROVERS 0

March 8 1896. The Liverpool Mercury

At Goodison Park. Before a good attendance, goals being scored for Everton in quick success Banks score four times and Campbell once, in the second half Everton did not exert themselves very much, however, Banks scored his fifth goal of the game, and Everton winning by six goals to nil. Everton: - Briggs, goal, Barker, and Molyneux, backs, Godie, Meiklejohn, and Hughes, halfbacks, Williams, Maley, Banks, Campbell, Sellar forwards. (Game 15, won 12, lost 1, draw 2, for 55, against 14, points 26)

 

NOTTS FOREST 3 EVERTON 0 (Game 236)

March 11 1897. The Liverpool Mercury

Originally the return League match between these clubs was fixed for the 27 th but a the final for the Lancashire cup is set down to decision on that date, and as the Everton club was interested in the tie, an arrangement was made with the Forest to play the League match yesterday afternoon. The Everton team left Lytham their training quarters, in the morning, and arrived at Nottingham at midday the weather at that centre being especially fine, and there being every indication of a capital contested game. Menham resumed his accustomed position, but neither Meechan nor Hartley was able to take to the field, the former player labouring under an old injury, while the heavy charge administrated by Brandon at Blackburn left Hartley with an injured knee. Consequently, Storrier and Cameron were drafted into the team, and the teams faced as follows: - Everton: - Menham goal, Storrier and Arridge backs, Boyle, Holt, and Stewart (captain), halfbacks, Taylor, Bell, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Notts Forest: - Alsop, goal, Scott and McCracken, backs, Frank Forman, McPherson, and Wragg, halfbacks, Spencer, Richards, Adrian Capes, Arthur Capes, and McInnes, forwards. On winning the toss, Everton had the advantage of the breeze, but Ardian Capes had no sooner started play than a most dangerous movement was made towards the Everton goal. McInnes got in a fine cross shot, which Spencer pounced upon, but no advantage accursed, as the right winger lifted the ball over the bar. A further return by the Forest was well met by the Everton defenders, and following some fine play by Chadwick and Milward the ball was centred to Cameron who unfortunately headed straight to Alsop. For some little time play settled down in close proximity to Alsop's charge, and following many fine attempts to lower it Taylor removed the Foresters anxiety by heading over the bar. Still the Everton forwards were not done with as they combined well and brought out the best work of the opposing defenders, but struggle as they would the visitors could not get the ball past Alsop. At length McInnes raced away, and as the Everton backs were none too confident at this juncture, it appeared as though the home lot would quickly upon their account. However, the outside left was very faulty with his final effort, but on a further advance Frank Forman got the better of several opponents, and put in a magnificent shot which, was only slightly wide of the mark. Holt then initiated a movement that led up to Taylor testing Alsop without tangible result, and following a fine clearance the Everton goal was again subjected to heavy pressure. Arthur Capes was eventually pulled up for offside, and from the kick the Everton forwards got into a good stride and Bell put the ball into the net, but on appeal the point was disallowed for offiside. Bell and Taylor about this period gave Wragg and McCracken endless trouble on the Forest left, but defence was a strong point and the Evertonians were rarely allowed to get in parting shots, McInnes at length went off in one of his characteristic sprints, and when getting into dangerous quarters Holt pulled him up at the expense of a free kick which resulted in a fruitless corner. From the goal kick the Everton forwards got well away, but the home side were bent upon forcing the game, and by means of several swinging passes and rushed up the field they were often within close range. However, the Everton defenders held out well, though on one occasion success to the Foresters seemed certain, as Storrier was beaten by McInnes but before the winger could get in a parting shot, the former recovered himself, and brought him down. A free kick was awarded but Menham was not troubled and shortly afterwards half time was announced neither side having scored. On resuming the Forest had the wind in their favour, and Spencer quickly forcing a corner off Arridge, Wragg shot the ball hard into the goalmouth Menham clearing magnificently. Arther Capes then missed with a capital shot. Ardrian Capes in attempting to convert a centre from Spencer, was wide of the mark and still taking advantage of the wind the home team had a pop at goal whenever a chance presented itself. McPherson put in a shot from long range which the wind slightly diverted, whilst Richards had hard lines by heading just over the crossbar. At this period the game was vigorously contested but the attack chiefly rested with the Forest. Holt came into collision with Ardian Capes and was hurt in the face, this removing him from the field for some time. He had barely gone when Spencer scored the first goal for Forest from a corner, but the visitors retaliated with a sudden dash. Taylor's shot being unfortunately charged down. Menham was penalised for carrying the ball, but the home team failed to take advantage of the opportunely to further increase their lead. Milward had take Holt's place, and did his utmost to break up the combination of the home forward rank. Despite the efforts of the Everton half backs, however, McInnes and Arthur Capes got nicely away, and the latter finished with a shot which gave Menham no chance to clear. A hot shot from the same player shortly afterwards was luckily charged down and McInnes followed with a spendid attempts, which Menham nicely kept out. Holt at last reappeared but on two successive occasions the referee penalised Meechan for carrying and the second time Richards headed through from the free kick. A series of fruitless shots was afterwards aimed at Menham and towards the finish Everton made one or two onslaught on the home keeper, but failed to find the net. The game was by no means a gentle one for the referee found it necessary to grant many free kicks chiefly against the home team. At the finish Everton were beaten by three goals to nil, the honours of the season's engagements thus divided, as the Forest were beaten early in the season at Goodison Park.

 

EVERTON 0 BLACKBURN ROVERS 3 (Game 237)

March 15 1897. Ther Liverpool Mercury

The return League engagement between these clubs was played at Goodison Park, before an attendance of about 12,000. On the Everton side there were three changes from the previous week, Hartley, Holt, and Meechan standing down for Williams, Robertson, and Storrier; while on the Rovers's side Nicol took Killean's post. Thus letting in Chippendale on the right wing. The teams were as follows: - Everton: - Meham, goal, Storrier, and Arridges backs, Robertson, Boyle and Stewart (captain) halfbacks, Taylor Williams, Bell, Chadwick, and Milward forwards. Blackburn Rovers: - Ogilvie, goal, Brandon, and Nicol, backs, Booth, Anderson, and Dewar, halfbacks, Chippendale, Haydock, Proudfoot, Wilkie, and Campbell, forwards. Everton at once took up the attack but they found themselves opposed to a very fine defence, though once Bell had an opening, bu8t finished with a weak shot which Ogilvie easily disposed of. A movement along the Rovers right resulted in an opening for Proudfoot, who having the better of a tussle with Arridge, put the ball into the net, play having barely been five minutes in progress. From the centre the Everton forwards bore down upon the Rovers defence, and for some time kept up a continual pressure, with no tangible result, forthcoming as Brandon and Ogilvie were playing as excellent game. The Rovers forwards at last broke away and looked like getting through again, when Storrier cleared splendidly, and further pressure was brought to bear upon Ogilvie. Several warm shots were sent in, but all were attended to in most cool fashion, and on one occasion Nicol was fortunate in diverting a shot from Taylor as it was directed altogether out of the reach of the custodian. The Rovers were only occasionally in the Everton half of the field, and when the interval arrived it was generally admitted that they were lucky in holding a lead of a goal to nil. On resuming the Everton forwards again ran the pace, but they could exact nothing from Ogilvie who simply excelled himself between the sticks. Chadwick only just missed the mark with a capital shot, and after a long spell of pressure, Chippendale and Haydock had the better of Stewart, and as the outside man also tricked Arridge, the ball was promptly centred to Proudfoot who placed it in at the corner of the net. The second reverse came as a big disappointment after Everton had a long held an advantage as far as play was concerned, and for some time there was a district falling off, in their play. The Rovers than became busy, and Menham had several trickish shots to deal with. Storrier was on the lert, and repeatedly cleared, and for fully five minutes the home quintet were busy in testing the Rovers defence. Once Williams with a fine overhead kick close in, looked like scoring, but Ogilvie was there, as usual, and another attempt by Bell whose shot struck the upright was a further evidence of Everton's ill luck. Still the players gave way, and up to the last few minutes they peppered at Ogilvie's charge, but to no purpose. Then the Rovers broke through, and Wilke scored from long range, the final result standing Rovers 3 goals, Everton nil.

NEWTON 0 EVERTON RESERVES 4

March 15 1897. The Liverpool Mercury

At Newton. Maley broke away and scored in the first minute for Everton from a corner. The Evertonians pressed and Schofield scored a second, with a beautiful shot. They kept up the pressure, but failed to increase their score at the interval. On resuming the visitors took up the aggressive, and Elliott scored a third and Banks a fourth goal. And Everton winning by 4 goals to nil. Everton: - Palmer, goal, Henderson, and Barker backs Goldie, Meiklejohn, and Elliott (captain), halfbacks, Cameron Maley, Banks, Campbell, Schofield, forwards.

 

EVERTON REVIEW

March 15 1897. The Liverpool Mercury

On Saturday the Everton club gave another striking indication of greatly deteriorated form, and is now relegated to the middle position of the League table. It is simply astonishing after such a fine sequence of brilliant victories away and at home that they should prove such easy victims as they have during the past three weeks. They certainly have not been favoured with a superabundance of good fortune for during the period above mentioned one or more of the players have been scarely have been fir to take part in a stern encounter, owing to mishaps on the field. On Saturday there was a wholesale reorganisation of the ranks, and it was only to be expected that there would be an absence of that methodical working that carried the team, successfully through engagements at those strongholds where points were scarely hoped for. Hartley had perforce to stand down as the result of a heavy charge by Brandon at Blackburn on the previous Saturday and Williams was drafted into the team, with Bell in charge of the centre position. The combination did not turn out at all satisfactory, for the movements of the forwards were very laboured when contrasted with those of the opposing van. There was a great absence of that fine concerted action that followers of Everton are accustomed to witness, and when it came to a critical point, when an extra effort was necessary to get through, the players often failed in simple fashion, though at the same time it must be stated that several of their attempts merited success. On three occasions there were rebounds from the upright and crossbars and on others the custodian was tested with ticklish shots, but still there was not that harmonious working that characterised the movements of the Rovers. The forwards of the latter club had indeed, none too much of the play, but whenever they were in possession they were infinitely more effective than the Everton quintet, and every breakaway on their part was of a most dangerous character. Boyle was not at all comfortable in Holt;'s position. As Proudfoot was altogether too powerful for him, and the latter player had consequently more quarter allowed than is usual against Everton. At centre forward, them the Rovers had a commanding lead, and when a movement was started the whole line took it up with a precision that kept the home backs in a constant tremor. On the other hand, Bell was not a great success, and some of his passes to the wings were extremely faulty. Still the Everton forwards had more than an equal share of possession, but they had to work desperately hard for it, and when pinch came they appeared to have over exerted themselves. The defence of the Rovers was superb, indeed, an exchange of custodians would have put quite a different complexion upon the game. Ogilvie was an adept at keeping out all kinds of shots, though at the same time he had the full benefit of whatever luck there was in the way, and it is questionable if the ball was not once over his line in the first half when an unanimous appeal was made for a goal. Menham scartely covered himself with credit, as neither the first nor second goals required any exceptional merit to deal with, and every follower of the game is ready to acknowledge what an important bearing a slice of early luck has upon the final issue of a game. Brandon and Nicol were admirable defenders, and the work of the halfbacks Dewar and Anderson especially was always clean and judiciously directed. On the Everton side Robertson came through very well, particularly in the first portion of the game, and there can be no question that he, with further experience will develop into a most serviceable player. Stewart also played a good game, but taking the work of the trio all through, it did not reach its usual high standard. Storrier was again in his old position, and none did better work than h. his tackling was splendidly timed, as he made no mistake about his clearance; in fact his performance was of such merit as to claim inclusion in the team to do duty in the semi final tie on Saturday. Arridge was not as reliable as usual, and it was upon his side that the Rovers made a most of the running. Taking the game as through it was not a brilliant exhibition, and certainly the score of three goals to nil overestimated the run of the play. Still there were passages in the game when the Rovers towered above their opponents in cleverness; yet weighting the fact that Everton by downright hard plodding had greater shares of the game a draw would have more accurately represented the abilities of the teams.

 

EVERTON 3 DERBY COUNTY 2 (Fac Game 27)

March 22 1897. The Liverpool Mercury

Beautify weather favoured this match on the Stoke ground, and a crowd of quite 30,000 spectators assembled on the ground. A new stand had been erected for the occasion and the backing up of the popular side afforded every opportunity for watching the progess of the game with comparative ease. Large contingents of excursions from Liverpool and Derby arrived during the afternoon, and when the teams entered the arena it was plainly evident that the Peakies were warm favourites. Five minutes before the advertised time the sides arranged as follows: - Everton: - Menham, goal, Meechan, and Storrier, backs, Boyle, Holt, and Stewart (captain), halfbacks, Taylor, Bell, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward forwards. Derby County: - Robinson goal, Methven, and Leiper backs, Cox Goodall (a) and Turner, halfbacks, Goodall (j), Bloomer. Miller, Fisher, and McQueen forwards. Derby won the toss, and set Everton to face the wind, which however was not strong. The opening exchanges were in favour of the County, who had several free kicks awarded them, but they were not particularly dangerous, and the Everton soon forced play. Milward tested Robertson with an oblique shot, and a moment later after Taylor had missed, Bell shot in hard from close quarters, the keeper saving brilliantly. John Goodall missed the Derby right wing tried hard to get away, Stewart proving a thorn in their side, but the combination was not good, and a fine centre from McQueen. At the other end Taylor sent in from the wing, Robertson rushing out, and clearing his line. He had to be very smart directly after, the leather being touched in from a free kick, and a couple of corners in quick successive accrued to Everton who were showing pretty football. Half an hour had elapsed before Menhan handled, and the shot was not differcult. McQueen was given offside when close under the bar, and a similar ruling was given against Milward, who nettled the ball from a free kick. Everton had much the best of matters, put at the interval neither side had scored. Derby pressed on the game being resumed, and after Menham had handled for the second time in the match, Everton had to conceded a corner, which was turned to poor account. The Lancashire men ran down, and in a scrimmage near goal, Leiper was injured, and had to be assisted from the field. Archie Goodall filled the vacant position, and Miller falling to halfback and John Goodall went centre forward. Everton attacked strongly, Robinson once fell full length to stop a shot from Bell, and only succeeded at the second attempt in placing the ball to Taylor, who lifted it over the bar. John Goodall sent the leather down the field, and Bloomer beating Storrier got a straight run down. He had all but reached the twelve-yard line, with the open goal in front of him, when Storrier tripped him from behind. John Goodall placed the resulting free kick to his brother, and Archie drove the ball through the crowd of players into the net, the scoring thus being opened twelve minutes from the resumption. Derby played up well, but Everton kept their heads and eight minutes later Hartley equalised with a long kick, Robinson hitting the ball on to the inside of the net. In another eight minutes, Milward receiving when nicely placed gave his side the lead by breasting through, and the game continued in Everton's favour. John Goodall however, converted a nice centre from McQueen and the teams were again on an equality. The pace grew faster, and both ends were attacked in quick succession, and on one occasion the County looked like getting through, as both Storrier and Meechan were rather feeble in clearing. However, the Everton right again got away, and when challenged by A.Goodall, the ball went to McQueen, who was about to make off when Holt came upon the scene. Bell was quickly put in possession, and passing to Chadwick, the latter shot hard in, but the ball rebounded off the keeper to Hartley, who made no mistake by scoring with a brilliant shot. This gave Everton the lead, and shortly afterwards, Chadwick put through, but the whistle had previously gone. The County were now a beaten team, but towards the finish they played up in desperate fashion to get upon equal terms, but all their efforts were of no avail against the now strengthened Everton defence. A long shot from Stewart called for Robinson's best efforts to clear, but this time quickly put an end to the proceedings, leaving Everton victors of a grand game by 3 goals to 2.

 

EVERTON RESERVES 2 BARNSLEY ST PETER'S 0

March 22 1897. The Liverpool Mercury

At Goodison Park, in fine weather, before a good attendance. In the first half play was all in favour of Everton, Maley and Cameron scoring. On resuming Everton pressed continuously Taylor's charge being in danger. Everton were best represented by Banks Cameron, and Schofield while for Barnsley the pick of the team were the defence, result Everton 2 goals Barnsley st Peter nil. Everton: - Palmer, goal, Henderson (w), and Barker (g), backs, Goldie, Meiklejohn, and Hughes, halfbacks Cameron, Maley, Banks, Campbell, and Schofield, forwards.

LIVERPOOL BURIAL BOARD

March 26, 1897. The Liverpool Mercy

On Saturday afternoon's by the noisy shouting and cheering from the Everton Football Club enclosure, in the immediate vicinity of the cemetery, and he suggested that the board might consider the desirability of altering the hour of public funerals from three o'clock to two on Saturday. He had nothing against the playing of football, but it was worth while considering whether they could do anything to mitigate the annoyance that undoubtedly occurred. Mr. Jennings said there was a just cause of complaint, for mourners were often caused pain by the loud howls and shouts which came from the football enclosures. It was pointed out that the football season was now drawing to a close, and in these light days the game were started at four o'clock. The subject was then allowed to be drop on the understanding that the matter would be considered at the commencement of the next football season.

EVERTON 2 MANCHESTER CITY 0

March 29 1897. The Liverpool Mercury

Lancashire Senior Cup Final

The final tie, between these clubs at Ewood Park Blackburn, did not arouse any exceptional interest for there would not be more than 7,000 spectators present at any time during the game. Not a few of this number from Cottonopolis not to mention the Liverpool following, and from this it may be gathered that the Blackburn fork are not at all appreciative when their own particularly favourites are out of the running. In the previous rounds Everton triumphed over Darwen, Preston and Burnley, and the City vanquished three first leaguers Bury, Blackburn Rivers, and Bolton Wanderers, so that there was every prospect of a good finish for possession of the handsome cup of the Lancashire Association. Everton were represented by the same team that defeated Derby County, while the front line of the City was somewhat weakened by the absence of F.Williams. At 3-30 the teams were arranged as follows: - Everton: - Menham, goal, Meechan, and Storrier, backs, Boyle, Holt, and Stewart (captain) halfbacks, Taylor, Bell, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Manchester City: - Williams, goal, Read, and Ray, backs, Moffatt Holmes, and McBride, halfbacks, Meredith, Finnerhan, Gillespie, Gunn, and Foster, forwards. Referee Mr. J.Lewis. Stewart won the toss, and preferred to face the wind than the glaring sun and on the City opening the game tracks were at once made for the Everton end. Several shots were sent in from the left wing and centre, but they lacked finish, and Menham was rarely troubled. The City continued to have more than an equal share of the play, and had the forwards been at all steady, they must have opened their account early. The Everton left wing then became busy, and after a couple of fruitless attempts to score, Milward centred beautifully, and Bell drove the ball hard and low into the net the City custodian having no chance whatever of saving. The Manchurians by means of long kicking and rushing were again in vicinity of the Everton goal, but Storrier and Stewart were always to the rescue, though a high shot with the wind behind it looked like taking effect when Menham got his fist to it, and kept it out at the expense of a fruitless corner kick. Everton indulged in several movements down the field and though they easily defeated the halves they were unable to get the measure of the backs who tackled and kicked powerfully, while occasional shots levelled from long range were capably dealt with by the custodian. The referee was keen on infringements by Holt and from one of several goal kicks awarded. Gillespie the City centre, had an excellent chance to equalise, but made bad use of it. A couple of diverting incidents followed, which amused the crowd greatly. The referee was sandwiched rather forcibly between Holt and Gunn and immediately afterwards Stewart evidently thinking that the ball was out of play, kicked it up for A throw in, only to find himself penalised. Fortunately Meechan cleared the well placed free kick but on the City again returning they put in the smartest bit of play that came from them during the game. Meredith sped along the right and centred to Gillespie, who headed in, only to find Menham directly in the path of the ball. Still they were not done with yet, as both Meredith and Moffatt only missed by the merest shaves, and with Everton busy at the other end, the interval was announced with the score- Everton 1 goal, Manchester City: - the second half opened with a determined attack upon the City goal, and a fine shot from Chadwick all but took effect. A couple of corners followed without advantage, and then Meredith and Foster in turn tried their luck, but both shot very wide. After a quarter of an hour's play Boyle placed the ball well up from a free kick, and Milward headed into the net. From the centre kick the Mancunians made play on the right, but as before they shot everywhere except in the vicinity of the Everton goal. McBride gave a fine opening to Foster, who hesitated, and Boyle was quickly upon him. Following this the Everton right wing were often prominent, but could make no headway against Ray, who stepped out and tackled with great success. Taylor, Chadwick, and Milward sent in shots which Williams safely negotiated, and from this point on to the finish there was but little of interest, Everton being apparently well contented with their lead. Nothing further being scored, Everton were returned victors by 2 goals to none. Previous Winners 1879-80 Darwen, 1880-81 Accrington, !881-82 Blackburn Rovers, 1882-83, Blackburn Rovers, 1883-84 Blackburn Rovers, 1884-85 Blackburn Rovers, 1885-86 Bolton Wanderers, 1886-87 Preston North End, 1887-88 Accrington, 1888-89 Accrington, 1889-90 Burnley, 1890-91 Bolton Wanderers, 1891-92 Bury, 1892-93 Preston North End, 1893-94 Everton, 1894-95 Preston North End, 1895-96 Blackburn Rovers.

 

ROCK FERRY 0 EVERTON RESERVES 3

March 29 1897. The Liverpool Mercury

At Rock Ferry, before 2,000 spectators. The game was finely contested during the initial half, but was unproductive any score. Williams and Barker played splendidly for Everton, and Morrie Hulse, and Deighton did likewise for Rock ferry. In the second half, Williams and Maley scored for Everton, and a third goal was also scrimmaged pass Moore shortly before the close. Final Everton 3 goals Rock Ferry nil. Everton: - Palmer goal, Barker, and Molyneux backs, Hughes, Meiklejohn, Robertson, halfbacks, Williams, Maley, Banks, Campbell, and Schofield forwards. (Game 15, won 12, lost 1, draw 2, for 55, against 13, points 26)

 

EVERTON REVIEW

March 29 1897. The Liverpool Mercury

The final for the Lancashire Cup on Saturday ended in accordance with popular anticipation and Everton are now holders of the handsome trophy for the second time, their former success being in 1894. Those enthusiasts who made the journey with the expectation of witnessing a good exposition of the game must have seen greatly disappointed, for brilliant flashes and exciting incidents were probably never in such dealt in a final of such distinction. The best efforts of the Evertonians were not thoroughly drawn out, and there were numerous spells of long duration during which there was little interest shown alike by players and spectators. The impetuosity of the wind had much to do with the state of affairs, for the sudden gusts first in one direction and then another completely nullified, the efforts of the players to make the game attractive and it was only during an occasional lull that a movement was worked out that savored of the brilliant order. Everton had the greater share of the game, but their forwards were more than a little astonished in the results of their tussles with the City defenders, of whom the two backs and goalkeeper gave a really clever display. At halfbacks too, the speedy van encounted great resistance and there could be no question that had the Manchester trio been as clever in their attentions to their own forwards as they were to the Everton line a brighter and more even game would have resulted. With a clever defence to copy with, scoring was no easy matter, but after the Evertonians had found the net the second time there was practically no interest shown in the game, and none could have regretted when play was brought to a close. The Everton forwards as far as was practicable kept the ball low and close, and of the five Milward and Chadwick got through the most work, especially in the first half. The City forwards lobbed the ball on, and trusted generally to rushing then concerned action, but still there were movements at times that were cleverly worked out, and there the spectators did not fail to appreciate. The outside right, Mererdith was the most accomplished forward, and two of his cross shots in the second half of the game might easily have been converted had the prompt assistance from the left. At half back Everton excelled, as much as they generalised their work, wheras the City appeared to confine most of their attention to breaking up the combination of the Everton forwards, and trust to a chance kick, which rarely came off. McBride, the ex-Liverpoolian was the most successful of the trio, and much of the ineffectiveness of Bell and Taylor was undoubtedly due to his clever tackling. Coming to the full backs Storrier gave a sound display, and was more reliable than Meechan, and on the City side both Ray and Read offered strenuous resistance, the clean and powerful kicking of the former player being one of the most prominent features of the game. With Williams in goal and the backs in such fine form, it is not surprising that scoring was kept down, and none can perhaps testify more forcibly to the strength of the Mancurians defence than Bury, Blackburn Rovers and the Bolton Wanderers, all of whom proved victims in the previous rounds. Menham was not troubled much but what he had to do was done well. The City all though made a plucky stand, and the run the finalists for the English Cup to two goals is something for any Second League organisation to be proud of. The cup was brought to Liverpool after the match on Saturday, and during the season 1898-98 it will grace the sideboard of Dr. Baxter, the chairman of the directors of the club.

 

EVERTON 2 DUNDEE 0

March 30 1897. The Liverpool Mercury

John Bell's Benefit

This fixture was played at Goodison Park last evening in fine weather. The game was set apart for the benefit of J.Bell who, it goes without saying has rendered capital service during his connection with the Everton Club. Dundee furnished the attraction, and as two old Liverpool favourites were included, in Kelso and Hillman the game was invested with much more interest than is usually the case in so called friendly matches. About 6,000 spectators were present. Teams : - Everton: - Menham, goal, Meecham, an Other, backs, Boyle, Holt, and Stewart (captain), halfbacks, Taylor Bell, Cameron, Chadwick, and Schofield forwards. Dundee: - Hillman (j), goal, Burgess, and Kelso, backs, Stormont, McArthur, and Keillor, halfbacks, Smith, Wilcocks, Devlin, Clarke, and Allan, forwards. Dundee kicked off, and the first minutes saw a goal to the credit of the home side, Cameron meeting Taylor's pass, and opening the Everton account. Following this the Scotchmen showed up capitally, and Menham was forced to save, Smith sending in good style. Then Cameron had a chance which he, however, failed to take advantage of whilst in close following Hillman put the ball past the uprights. Several attacks followed upon the Dundee goal, but the shooting was rather weak, and no damage was done. Smith and Willocks next made play on the visitors right, and the Everton goal underwent a somewhat severe trial, but the defence prevailed, and nothing resulted. Shortly following Cameron skimmed the Dundee crossbar, and on the pressure being renewed Schofield sent wide. At the other end Menham saved an easy shot from Willock, and then the whistle blew for half time. Everton leading by a goal to nil. On resuming, the visitors played up with great dash at the outset, but Menham was not troubled. A division was next caused by Schofield and Chadwick, but Burgess got in the way, and on a free kick being awarded Dundee, Clark sent high over the bar, the same player however, following almost immediately with a fine effort, the ball going over. Playing at this period in great style, the Everton forwards gave the opposing defence plenty to do Hillman, Kelso and Burgess saving in resolute style. At the same time the home backs and by no means an easy time of it, the attack of the Dundee front rank causing some unearness. Stewart was ever in the thick of the fray, and several times staved of the impending danger, his fine placing often endangering the visitors goal. Hillman however, was a host in himself, all shots coming alike. On one occasion Chadwick sent in a fine ground shot but the burly ex-Everton custodian picked up coolly and kicked away, this eventually leading up to another attack on the ‘'blues'' goal. Devlin giving relief with a faulty shot. At the other end Taylor sent in a beautiful shot, which brought off an equally good save on the part of Hillman, who kicked to the centre. End to end play followed, and a fine bit of work by Taylor and Bell ended in the latter scoring the second goal for Everton. Towards the finish Dundee pressed, but without avail, and the game ended in Everton's favour by 2 goals to nil.

 

MILWARD CAP FOR ENGLAND

March 30 1897. The Liverpool Mercury.

Milward played for England against Wales at Bramell Lane Sheffield, and scored two goals in a four goal to nil victory, in front of 2,000 spectators.