Everton Independent Research Data

 

CORINTIANS AT EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Friday 01 March 1929
FRIENDLY-LIKE
Bee’s Notes
The meeting of Everton and Corinthians has aroused big interest in the city, partly because Everton have stuck a winning was again, and mainly because the Corthinians are always welcomed to our football store.  They offer their own special type of play, and have some respected and notable players in their ranks.  Having seen in recent years Glasgow teams with Aberdeen and Edinburgh sides in friendly games on Merseyside, one needs not remind the public that these were not in the old fashion o friendly games, they were football feats, and I am sure the gathering of Everton players playing for their places with the best amateur side in the land, will draw a big crowd and produce a stimulating and fascinating game.  Teams; Everton; Hardy; Common, O’Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart; Critchley, Easton, White, Martin, Troup.  Corinthians; B.H. Baker; A.G. Bower, M.B.S. Bower; C.T. Ashton, J.T. Knight, E.A Ewer; R.W.V. Robbins, F.N.S. Creek, N.W.B. Stone, K.E. Hegan; A.C. Doggart. 

THE FEE PAID BY EVERTON FOR ATTWOOD
Walsall Observer, and South Staffordshire Chronicle - Saturday 02 March 1929
By “The Philllistine.”
How much did they get for Attwood?” That has been the question nearly everybody has asked since it was announced last week-end that Walsall, following their match against Queen’s Park Rangers, had transferred their centre-forward to Everton.  The directors, of course, are forbidden by the rules of the F.A. to disclose the amount of transfer fees paid or received.  We are not likely, therefore, to be told officially to what extent the Walsall exchequer has been replenished by Everton’s cheque.  The sum of 2,000 pounds has been mentioned in print, and rumour has placed the figure as high as 2,500.  Personally I do not think that the fee reached either of those amounts.  If it had been it would have been a record for the club, exceeding the 1,650 Cardiff paid for Reid and I fancy the officials would have made that fact public.  I think if I stated that Everton valued Attwood’s worth to them at 1,250 pounds I should not be far wrong.  And either figure, in my opinion, would represent a good stroke of business for Walsall.  As for the player himself, whilst he had no particular desire to leave Hillary Street, he has cause to be satisfied with his rapid rise in the football world.  I doubt if Attwood in his most ambitious moments imagined that within a few months of being discharged from the Army and leaving “the watch on the Rhine” he would find himself at Goodison Park as understudy to the famous “Dixie” Dean. 
EVERTON’S ORGINAL QUEST
Incidentally, I believe this transaction furnishes another instance of a club setting out to watch one player and finding another, Everton’s attention was originally attracted to Walsall by Fairhurst, and they came to watch him at the Fulham match a fortnight ago.  It was then that Attwood caught the eye of their “spotters” and created such a favourable impression that the Goodison Park club sent a representative all the way to Southend last Wednesday week.  Attwood did not shine particularly in the latter game, none of the Walsall players did for that matter but Everton’s third “visit” of inspection” at Shepherd’s Bush on Saturday, when Attwood played exceptionally well, finally satisfied them concerning his possibilities.  Curiously enough, it was Attwood’s thirteenth League match in the Walsall first team, and he scored his thirteenth goal in the Southern Section.  I hope that it is not an ill omen for his success with his new club but for whom he will make his first appearance in the friendly match against The Corinthians today, with Dean at inside-right. 

EVERTON V CORINTHIANS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 02 March 1929
PHILLIPS SCORES FIRST FOR AMATEURS
LEVEL AT THE INTERVAL
MARTIN GOALS EQUALISER WITHIN A MINUTE
Teams: - Everton: - Hardy, goal, Common and O'Donnell, backs, Kelly, Griffiths and Hart (captain), half-backs, Critchley, Easton, White, Martin and Troup, forwards. Corinthians: - B. Howard Baker, goal, D. Lomas and B.S. Bower, backs, H.J. Moore, J. G. Knight, C. E. Glenaster, half-backs, R. W. V. Robins, A. Phillips, C. T. Ashton, A. C. Doggart, and A. H. Isaac, forwards. Corinthians made one of their visits to Goodison, but the crowd was not more than 10,000 when the game started.  Early on the Corinthian forwards drove in some delightful passes and keeping the ball well on the ground Phillips was sent through to beat Hardy with a capital shot, but the Corinthian was ruled offside.  Then came another fine movement, and Isaaes ought to have scored, but Hardy got the ball away rather luckily, Corinthians continued to produce capital work, and then put a fair amount of energy into their attacks.  Everton had chances, but Critchley was well held.  Isaaes left the field hurt after 10 minutes play, and Baker punched out a fine centre from Critchley, just as White dashed into the goal. 
EVENLY MATCHED
Phillips ruined a free kick by getting offside and the play generally was of a pleasing character, with the sides fairly evenly matched.  Doggart gave Robbins a splendid opening, but the latter missed the ball completely and Knight tried to improve Corthinans’ chances, but he sent in a shot that was very wide.  Then Everton had a turn at attacking and White finished a nice movement by shooting wide.  Doggart was a capital worker, and frequently tried to give his colleagues an opening, while Knight was never slow to try a shot.  Isaacs returned, and Robbins caused a laugh by sliding yards along a particularly-wet and treacherous patch of ground.  Still, the best shot of the day came from Robbins a moment later, and hardy made a capital save at the corner of the post.  Corinthians were very persistent and with the forwards again at full strength, Hardy had a rather anxious time.  Ashton was within an ace of getting through, and the Corinthians had, thanks to their excellent passing, the better chances.
GOAL FOR GOAL
Neither goalkeeper had a great deal to do, but Baker made a brilliant save from Martin.  The defence on both sides were good, and there was much to admire in the forward work of the Corinthians.  After thirty-four minutes’ play, Isaac took up a long pass and taking the ball almost to the goal-line, put in a centre which Philips cleverly converted.  A moment later, however, Martin equalized with a hard drive which gave Baker no chance.  Martin was Everton’s best shooter, but it was Troup who gave Baker his most difficult shot to deal with, and the Corinthian did ell to push the ball out for a corner.  This was followed by an equally deserved effort on the part of Doggart, who missed narrowly.  Half-time- Everton 1, Corthinans 1. 
EASTON WINS THE MATCH
A PENALTY MISSEPHILLIPS AND MARTIN SCORE IN FIRST HALF
The players did not leave the field, and the game was resumed before about 15,000 spectators.  Martin should have given Everton the lead, but his shot hit Baker on the knee and shortly afterwards a mix-up in the Everton goal was only saved by O’Donnell giving a corner while Hardy was lying on the ground.  Clever work by the Corthinan left wing looked promising, and when Ashton got through he was only able to finish weakly.  Everton had more of the attack, and as a consequence Baker was more frequently under fire, although there was not a great deal of danger in Everton’s finishing work. 
ASHTON SHINES
Considering the chances they had Everton’s forwards had not done too well, and Troup caused some amusement when he headed a ball.  There were two really brilliant shots, both saved by Baker, one from Troup and the other from Critchley; and then Ashton, who had given a capital display, finished some good footwork by shooting wide.  Ashton was in the picture again, and this time he put in a terrific shot, which O’Donnell headed out, and Phillips went very near before the Corinthians were forced back.  Baker was lucky to save from White when the shot struck him in the chest.  Shortly before this O’Donnell, for the second time, kept out a fine shot by Doggart. 
BAKER’S SAVES
Baker employed both feet and hands to keep out the Everton forwards.  He made another capital save from Critchley and ran yards out of goal to kick clear when danger threatened.  At the other end Robbins made several excellent attempts, but Hardy was quite sound.  Three minutes from the end Everton were awarded a penalty for hands against Lomax, and Martin put his kick wide of the goal.  Easton scored for Everton after eighty-nine minutes.  Final; Everton 2, Corinthians 1. 

LEEDS UNITED RES V EVERTON RES
Liverpool Football Echo, Saturday, March 2 1929
Though Everton fielded a very strong side, they were kept mainly on the defensive in the first half, during which period Jennings score two- the second being from a penalty.  Forshaw and Ritchie combined well for the visitors.  The home men however on the hard ground tackled fearlessly.  Jennings was a source of trouble to the visitors defense and shortly after resuming he registered his third goal. 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 02 March 1929
By Louis T. Kelly

EVERTON 2 CORINTHIANS 1
March 4 th 1929. The Daily Courier.
EVERTON'S LAST KICK WIN
CORTHINAS IN PLEASANT GOODISON FRIENDLY
MARTIN PENALTY MISS
A quiet, unobtrustive exhibition of football as it should be played characterrised the friendly encounter between Everton and the famous Corinthians at Goodison Park, where the Champions snatched a rather fortunate victory by two goals to one with the last kick of the match. The Champions did not over-exert themselves until the final stages, but at no time did they exhibit such deliciously deficate football as the amateurs, who were without some of their most accomplished players. It was typical of the men of Corinth that they put their best feet forward all the time, but they did not once go out-side the borders of pure football, and while every carefully-planned scheme did not carry through to be successful end, the intention and the method was there.
SHORT PASSING LESSON.
Except for isolated occasions, never a pass was placed more than a foot above the ground, and the manner in which they exploited the short-passing game on a really treacherous ground was astonishing. All the good football did not come from the losers, it is true, but the Evertonians could not juggle with the ball, pass as accurately, and keep such good position as the amateurs. The Corinthians played exhibition football to perfection, and nothing seemed to be too much trouble for them. They slipped the ball forward to a position they knew someone would take-up, and so there was a smoothness about their machine, which was missing from that of the Blues. When it came to the matter of finishing they had to take second place to the Champions, who might have scored several goals had it been for the brilliance of Howard Baker, who affected some remarkable saves, though luck was with him on more than one occasion. It was judgement, however, that enabled him to negotiate shots from Troup and Critchley in particular. The game was marred by only two fouls. These were quite accidental, and, were given against the amateurs. This demonstrates the excellent feeling, which prevailed. The 35 th minute of the game saw two goals scored, one from each side. Issac, who was suffering from an ankle injury, received early on, raced away from Knight's pass to middle low for Phillips to side-tap the ball into the Everton goal, but from the kick-off Critchley showed the opposition a clean pair of heels and his centre was rammed home by Martin.
EASTON'S VICTORY GOAL.
In the dying minutes of the game, Bower handled in the penalty area, but Martin shot wide of the post from the penalty kick . Easton however, snatched the victory by levelling a winning low shot to the far corner off Troup's pass with the final kick of the encounter. The match provided a welcome diversion from the worries of competition football, and was productive of much more true football. Teams: - Everton: - Hardy, goal, Common and O'Donnell, backs, Kelly, Griffiths and Hart (captain), half-backs, Critchley, Easton, White, Martin and Troup, forwards. Corinthians: - B. Howard Baker, goal, D. Lomas and B.S. Boser, backs, H.J. Moore, J. G. Knight, C. E. Glenaster, half-backs, R. W. V. Robins, A. Phillips, C. T. Ashton, A. G. Doggart, and A. H. Isaac, forwards.

CORINTHIANS' ILL-LUCK
Yorkshire Post-Monday 4 March 1929
Everton Win with Last Kick of Game.
At Goodison Park close on 10,000 spectators saw a good game between Everton and the Corinthians end in victory for Everton 2 goals to 1. It was unfortunate for the Corinthians that ten minutes after the start Isaac left the field owing to damaged leg. The Corinthians pressed the start and Phillips netted the ball, but from offside position. Howard Baker did well to save a shot at long range by Martin. The Corinthians gave a fine exhibited good football and Phillips gave them the lead. Before half-time Martin equalised. In the second half the Corinthias gave a fine exposition of fast and clever football, and were unfortunate when O'Donnell headed the ball from off the goal line. The game' was nearly over and looked likely to end in a draw, when with the last kick of the match Easton scored to give Everton the hard-fought victory.

JENNINGS' HAT TRICK AT ELLAND
Yorkshire Post-Monday 4 March 1929
Playing smart football on a frost-bound ground, Leeds United Reserves defeated Everton Elland Road by clear goals. Jennings led the home front line and accompiished all tho scoring. The Scot was in one his best moods, his first goal being product of quick thinking and action. Tho game was notaable for tho introduction of Longden to the centre half back position, for his display was such that great things may be anticipated from him in the near future. Everton were strongly represented, especially forward. The first goal was scored after thirteen minutes' play, Jennings' successful effort being a very smart one. A lengthy scoreless period followed, during which both elevens did well under a ground handicap. Ten minutes before the interval Jennings scored again, this time from, the “spot,” while five minutes after the interval he completed tho hat trick,”

LEEDS UNITED RESERVES 3 EVERTON RESERVES 0
March 4 th 1929. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 32)
Everton lost at Leeds on Saturday, and Jennings performing the “Hat-trick” and Leeds should off scored on many occasions.
Everton: - Sagar, goal, Kennedy and Rooney, backs, Kell, Dixon, and Lewis, half-backs, Ritchie, Forshaw, Attwwod, Weldon and Stein, forwards.

EVERTON WIN IN LAST MINUTE
Liverpool Echo - Monday 04 March 1929
Bee’s Notes
The Everton forward line was hardly recognizable as the same that riddled the Blackburn defence a week ago.  The incentive was not the same, and perhaps Everton thought they could win any time, but they left it till the very last minute, when Easton scored after Martin had failed with a penalty kick.  Corinthians put up a sound defensive and the work of the forwards was excellent at times.  They were unfortunate in having Iassac injured early on, and he was not very effective afterwards.  Much of the play was good, and one could not but admire the spirit and enthusiasm of the Corinthians, who took the game more seriously than did Everton.  It would be little use criticizing Everton on Saturday’s display, although it was plain the forwards need the right atmosphere to be really effective. 

ARE DEAN'S DAYS OF NATIONAL HONOURS OVER?
March 5 th 1929. The Daily Courier.
A sensation was caused in football circles yesterday by the exclusion of W.R. Dean, of Everton, from either of the English trial teams. The opinion has been held for some time that Dean, like another famous forward since retired (Buchan), is only supreme in club matches. In seven “full” internationals he has scored five goals, gaining two each in two games. He certainly has shown some decline in these important fixtures as compared with his performance in other representative matches and in League games.

DEAN AND HIS GOALS.
MILESTOMES IN THE CAREER OF EVERTON'S PRIDE.
As all the world knows now, Dean broke all English records with an aggregate of 60 goals for 39 League matches last season. He secured the record of top scorer in the First Division of the League when he scored his 44 th goal at Goodison Park last season, passing the 43 rd scored by Harper of Blackburn Rovers. Goals scored by Dean in club and representative games last season included the following 95: -
League games………………….. 60
F.A. Cup…………………………...3
Inter-League………………………4
Blackpool (Hospital Cup)……….5
Continental Tour of English F.A…9
Fleetwood Disaster match………4
F.A. Trial at West Bromwich……3
F.A. Trial at Middlesbrough……5
Inter-League……………………..2
LEAGUE CROP
Dean's goals in First Division football up to the end of last season are as follows: -
Matches. Goals.
1924-25 7 2
1925-26 38 32
1926-27 27 21
1927-28 60 39
HIS PRINCIP HONOURS.
The Principe representative matches in which Dean has played for England eleven's in the past few years are as follows. The number of goals he scored in the matches being in parentheses: - England v Wales (2), at Wrexham, 1927; England v Scotland (2), at Glasgow, 1927; England v Ireland at Belfast, 1927; England v Wales, at Burnley, 1927; England v. Scotland, at Wembley, 1928; England v. Ireland (1) at Goodison park, Oct 1928; England v. Wales, Nov, 1928; England v Belgium (3), 1927; England v. France (2) 1927; England v. Luxembourg (3), 1927; England v. France (2), 1928. England V. Belgium (2) 1928; Football league v. Scottish League (2), 1928; Football League v. Irish League (4), 1927; England v The Rest (4), Jan 1927; England V. Rest (3) Jan, 1928; England v. Rest (5), Fen, 1928.
A RAPID RISE.
Billy Dean is the son of a Birkenhead railway worker, and is the only boy of a family of seven. He played first for his Birkenhead school team then for Pensby United, them Hoylake United, and afterwards for a number of small clubs in the West Cheshire area. Then came the time when he went to Tranmere Rovers on trial. It could be seen as he developed that he was a natural footballer, and by 1925, when he was only 18, he was the most sought-after player in the country. At least 20 first class clubs wanted him and were willing to pay £3,000 for him. Dean continued to develop and rose from the Third Division standard to the ideal First Division type. Dean started to play for Everton, who paid £3,000 for him, on the Arsenal ground in March 1925.
IN A MOTOR CRASH.
He met with a motor-cycle accident in June, 1926, cracking the back of his skull and fracturing bow jaw bones. He was not expected to live six hours. Tranmere Rovers' secretary (Mr. Cook) sat by his bed all night and said, “I never though he would see the morning light.” For months Dean wore silver plates in his head and was in hospital at Holywell and West Derby Doctor said; “This man will never be able to play football again.” Dean's healthy conditions –he is a teetotaler and non-smoker –his youth and determination, carried him through this ordeal. He returned to the Everton team again in October, taking his trial trip at Huddersfield on a day of bad weather. Dean; s career was in the balance on this gloomy day. Would he crack up in this vital trial, people asked. Hundreds of supporters made the journey to see, and when the ball came near his head for the first time the officials of the club held their breath. Dean headed the ball. There was a moment of silence and then a roar of applause as the ball went where Dean had intended it to go. “Dixie” was himself again.

EVERTON'S NEW HALF
March 6 th 1929. The Daily Courier.
Everton have signed Thomas Tadmore, a young player from the Sutton Manor District. He is a right half-back, and has been playing for Farnsworth (Widnes).

PRESTON TEAM FOR SALE
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 06 March 1929
Liverpool people will realise that there are three ex-Everton players concerned, two of them first team men, and another fairly often seen in the first rank.  George Harrison, of Leicester City, has been with Preston seven years, and has been a model of consistency at outside-left.  He left Everton much too soon.  Jasper Kerr is one of the most popular members at Preston and Everton and has won a place in the first team for some months.  Duke Hamilton is the Wallasey boy who played for Everton for two seasons, and then joined Kerr at Preston. 

BEES’ NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 06 March 1929
There have been a thousand and one rumours about W.R. Dean, the Everton forwards and certain inquiries have been set afoot to try to stop the “rot,” as the cricket phrase happens to suit the occasions.   There have been other inquiries but these have been quite quiet and will lead nowhere.  His name appears in the first team for the weekend game with Leeds, and White is moved to the right.  The attacking line has weight if not inches in statue, save per the two centre forwards.  However, there should be punch from this line, and this will be needed against Leeds because they are falling back a little, and recent heavy defeats are sure to lead them to changes in their side- which means the newcomers will be fighting for their places.  Everton; Davies; Common, O’Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart; Critchley, White, Dean, Easton, Troup.  Everton are trying a new goalkeeper in Sagar from the Midlands, in the Central League match at Goodison Park against Stockport County, while Attwood will make his first appearance on the home ground.  The team is;- Sagar; Kennedy, Rooney; Kelly, Dixon, Lewis; Ritchie, Forshaw, Attwood, Weldon, Stein. 

Palace 1922
Bucks Herald -Friday 8 March 1929
Perhaps even more remarkable, in its way, was the triumph of the Crystal Palace team at Everton in 1922. That was the year when my own Club, Birmingham, were responsible for nine-day wonder of their own, because they failed to apply for admission to the Cup competition and were left out. The Palace side—then playing the Second League went to Everton- Everybody said it was an easy thing for the Toffees. But the Palace won by six goals to nothing. There is a good story told of that match which may or may not be true, but which is certainly good enough to be repeated. Everton had a very expensive team; one which had cost a lot of money in transfer fees. After the match was over, and the spectators were wending their way from Goodison Park, they were greeted by one of the vendors of postcard photographs. And this, according to the story, is the manner in which he tried to dispose of his wares. Here you are, gentlemen. The whole of the Everton team on one postcard This morning the team was worth twenty thousand pounds. You can now have it for twopence.”

EVERTON AT LEEDS
Liverpool Echo - Friday 08 March 1929
Bees Notes
EVERTON IN YORKSHIRE
Another Yorks battle becomes due through the meeting of Everton and Leeds.  The game becomes somewhat noteworthy through the reappearance of Dean.  He WILL appear.  Many and varied are the stories told about his absenteeism, and many foolish fairy tales have been told the rounds of the kitchen and all other rooms in the house.  It is sufficient to know he is fit again, and that with White by his side the mercurial Leeds side may catch a cold.  Leeds have been going badly lately, and one of the tit-bits of their attempted revival should be the meeting of the international waters- Hart versus Dean.  Leeds are in the peculiar position that they cannot play Jennings, a crack centre forward, because Keetley is doing well; so you may look out for a very important move from Leeds in a day or so.  Talking of moves, I should have mentioned that Liverpool F.C had an ambassador in Scotland yesterday.  The Everton team at Leeds is as follows;- Everton; Davies; Common, O’Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart; Critchley, White, Dean, Easton, Troup. 

THE HILLS OF LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Echo - Friday 08 March 1929
SOME PICTURESQUE POINTS IN THE LORE OF THE CITY
By Michael O’Mahony, the Rambler
No one writes more sympathetically or more gracefully about Liverpool- past and present –than Mr. Michael O’Mahony, whose “Echo Rambler” series of some years ago is a fragrant memory for hundreds of readers.  Mr. O’Mahony has written a new short series of articles on “The Hills of Liverpool,” which takes readers pleasantly back to the beginnings of the city.
HERE IS NO1. MARTINDALE’S HILL
When the flowery hedges round Moss Lake were the fragrant crown of the town, the Mount Pleasant of today was called Martindale’s Hill.  Along the reed-fringed side of the spreading lake, or what is now Hope-street, ran a crooked path between the bushes; and beyond the second stile stood the “Bowling Green Inn,” kept by a man named Martindale.  This house, in 1687 and long after, gave a name to the whole district.  The name Mount Pleasant appeared on maps of a hundred years later, and was at the time only justly deserved.  Footbridges crossed the Mosslake brook; the foundations of a stone one which crossed it at the corner of Grove-street and Oxford-street were laid bare a few years ago; and a winding and shaded pathway led down to the town, which then ended at the trees by the get of Ranelagh Gardens.  Mention of the inn recalls the name of one of the brightest literary lights of his own day and Liverpool’s favoured son, William Roscoe. 
A THRILTY TURN
At the time of the poet’s birth, his father kept the inn, and, being of a thrifty turn of mind, formed a market garden, acquiring a wide reputation for the raising of early potatoes.  While this gave young Roscoe an association with the soil shared by Burns, it was not one of the noblest order.  Burns ploughed with virile dignity.  Roscoe, destined to give distinction to Liverpool, shouldered the sacks of potatoes, or carried them in baskets on his head to the open market.  Previous to his being an inn-keeper, the elder Roscoe had been a coachman to the Hardman family, of Allerton Hall; and it is believed, though the point has never been cleared up, even to our own day, that old Jane Hardman, who lived to be ninety-three, and to whom Roscoe inscribed some of his poems, was responsible for his education.  The lovely situation in which he grew up had surely something to do with the moulding of his mind.  From the upper windows of the inn he looked out morning by morning across the tree tops to-
  Where tinged with radiance of the golden beam
   Sparkled the quivering wares of his native river
That he was not devoid of civic pride may be gathered from the thoughts expressed as he gazed down on the expanding town-
  Where rise you masts her crowded vessels ride,
  And the board rampire checks the beating tide;
 Along the beach her spacious streets extend
  Her arias open and her spires ascend
DEVELOPED GRANDLY
This youthful effusion was the beginning of a distinguished literary career.  Rosecoe achieved fame and fortune, became the member for Liverpool, and, in time, the owner of the Hardman’s Allerton Hall. Even during his boyhood the writings of Roscoe drew attention to Mount Pleasant; and the place developed grandly.  Fine mansions began to arise on the wooden slopes; terraced gardens inclined to the beach of the Pool and the bridges, while by the lakeside linnets sang undisturbed in the green shade.  The site of Harford-street was a bowling green, and a well-frequented tavern in the shadow of a windmill, around whose sails the gulls could be seen screaming in flight on wild mornings.  Rector Renshaw and Dr. McCartney- the latter is commemorated by a tablet in the Catholic Pro-Cathedral –were nieghbours higher up.  Near them dwelt Dr. Carson, famous in his day for recommending copious draughts of cold water at meal times.  On moving out of town to Mount Pleasant he put up a notice at his old address, giving knowledge of the new one.  Some wag added the carefully-printed words; “Don’t forget –just opposite the pump.”  The breaking up of a field for new houses in 1790 taking place at the time of the visit of the Duke of Clarence, caused the new thoroughfare to be called Clarence-street, and, soon after, rural repose fled for ever.  In the Powder House Fields- now Russell-street –stood the large court-yard with folding doors, and in which stood the magazine; and many a worthy resident knew uneasy nights till the dreadful stuff was placed at Liscard and close to the water. 
IN ONE CORNER
On the north side of the highway was a House of Correction, in the courtyard of which was a whipping-post and a ducking stool, which implement of torture was always in use for females on their first admission.  Under the humane rules of Mrs. Widdows, a matron who was deemed passing rich on 35 pounds a year, the ducking stool was abolished, but for men pump punishment (whatever that may mean) remained.  The beautiful features of Mount Pleasant or Martindale’s Hill are sadly changed since those far-off days.  But, thank heaven, the pump punishment, the whipping-post, and ducking stool are as dead as Bismarck.  If the blue-bells and apple-blossom have departed, so have they.  But rose-trees and even apple-blossom still linger in one corner of Mount Pleasant. Noble trees still rise above green swards on the very ground on which Roscoe’s youthful fancy took the wings of morning; nor has the spirit of letters faded from those bowers, for graceful scholarship and the poetic muse flourish under the spirelets of Notre Dame.  The memory of Roscoe also lingers; it shall never fade in Liverpool.  The gifted market-lad who left his father’s baskets to occupy the mansion of his father’s employers.  Allerton Hall, returned to Mount Pleasant in his old age, and in death they are not divided.  He is buried in the old graveyard of the Renshaw-street Chapel, and his ashes rest close to the spot in which, as a youth, he wore a wreath of honour for his native town.  M. O’MAHONY

GOODISON BELLOWS ALL RIGHT.
March 9 th 1929. The Daily Courier.
The Goodison Bellows have recovered their voices and have shaken off the strange languidness of recent weeks. The reason for this is a strong one. Dean returns so all is well again, and the International will be congratulated on his recovery from injury. There will, however, be much for him to do when Everton takes the field at Leeds. The United are after a “double” having beaten the champions at Goodison Park by the only goal, and if the local men are not on their toes Leeds might succeed in their endeavour. This is a possibility –the selection of the Leeds team was deferred –that two Harts will be in the field, but not of the kind to make a cocktail of the poet's words that “ Hart with a single though” The international pivot of Leeds will test Dean to the utmost, while the Everton Hunter Hart might do likewise with the opposing centre-forward, and thereby hang a tale. Leeds may transfer their crack goal scorer Jennings. That would be result of Keetley, having made good as leader of the attack. Davies, returns to the Everton team, while White moves to inside-right, Martin dropping out. Following are the teams: - Kick-off, being at 3'0. Teams; Everton; Davies; Common and O'Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart; Critchley, White, Dean, Easton; Troup. Leeds (Probable); Potts, Townsley, Menzie; Edwards, Hart (or Gribbons) Reid; Turnbull, Armand, Keetley, Wainscott, Mitchell.

EVERTON AT LEEDS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 09 March 1929
DEAN SIGNALS HIS RETURN
A LEVEL TURN ROUND
ONE GOAL EACH FIRST HALF
By Stork
Everton; Davies; Common, O’Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart; Critchley, White, Dean, Easton, Troup.  Leeds United; Potts; Townley, Menzies; Edwards, Hart, Reed; Turnbull, White, Keetley, Wainscot, Mitchell.  Referee; Mr. A.J. Cuseley, Wolverhampton.  The Everton attack, with Dean in the centre, was something like old times, for not for several weeks has that player pulled on a jersey, and many people were keen to see what shape he was in.  The weather was gloriously fine; in fact, it was more like a midsummer afternoon, the strong sunshine breaking through the mist which was doing its best to settle on the ground.  It was very warm, and the ground was in good condition, being slightly on the soft side.  Fifteen thousand people were on the ground at the start.  The meagerness of the gate was due to the United’s fall away in recent weeks and the counter-attraction in the Rugby League.  Leeds opened out in smashing style, and a long pass out to Mitchell created a lot of trouble to the Everton defence, White, of Leeds, being unfortunate in finding a hefty drive cannoned out by a defender.  Everton’s reply got them into the Leeds goalmouth, but Townley and Menzies would not allow Dean to get his head to a ball that bobbed up in the goalmouth.  The United’s speed was soon made apparent, and for the next few minutes Turnbull played ducks and drakes with the Everton defence, Hart, and then O’Donnell, being tricked by a number of dribbles.  Apart from that, Turnbull’s centres were of the dangerous type, and Davies had to come out to make a sure punch to prevent Wainscoat or Mitchell getting possession, Leeds having had their say, it came to Everton’s turn to make the running, and Critchley drove in a  great shot that Potts saved. 
A LIVELY ATTACK
There was plenty of life in the Everton attack, and Griffiths gained a corner when Potts had to turn his header over the bar.  So far there had been plenty of incident, and when White plied Critchley, the winger cut in and shot, but his angle was so acute that he would have been wiser if he had slipped the ball into the middle, for three colleagues we relying handy.  One piece of passing on the part of four Leeds players was good to watch, and at the same time was useful, Edwards slinging the ball close in so that Davies had to beat Keetley to save a shot from Turnbull.  Davies had some awkward shots to deal with, but he proved equal to the demand.  From one of his clearances Griffiths pushed the ball up for Dean, who, however, got himself off-side.  Everton gained their fourth corner, but a better chance came when Easton slipped the ball sideways to Dean, who found Hart’s foot blocking the ball just at the moment he was about to shoot. 
DEAN SIGNALS HIS RETURN
Griffiths, who was playing with determination, tried a long shot.  The Leeds forwards were undoubtedly a danger when on the move, particularly Turnbull, and it was a result of his collaboration with White and Edwards that made the United’s right wing one to be feared.  Nevertheless it was Everton who took the lead at the 22nd minute, when Dean, although in an offside position when he accepted Troup’s pass, was allowed to go on, and shot past the advancing Potts. 
A QUICK REJOINDER
This made the United even more fiery than hitherto, and within five minutes they had got on level terms through a brilliant goal by Keetley, who snapped a perfect pass from Wainscott.  Keetley’s dash carried between the backs, and, although Davies left his goal to narrow the shooting angle, Keetley’s drive went like a flash into the net.  Keetley nearly had another, only a clever tip over the bar by Davies preventing it.  O’Donnell once kicked off the goal-line, Keetley led his line well, and if he had got a full-blooded drive at the ball after he had cleverly stopped O’Donnell, another goal was a surety.  As it was the ball passed outside.  Turnbull should have got a goal when Keetley had veered to outside left, and centred closely in.  Davies went out to make a catch, misjudged the flight of it, and Turnbull was left with a gilt-edged chance, but he handled the ball when a nod of the head would have given him a goal.  It is a long time since I saw so many incidents in a game.  It would have been impossible to note them all, but one could not help but admire the quick work of the Leeds attack, which was ably backed by a clever half-back line.  Potts had to punch away from Dean, but he was lucky to escape when that player, finding himself offside, called his colleague on, and Troup was careering when Townsley touched the Scot’s heel and made him falter.  Just on the interval Davies made a fine save from Keetley.  Half-time; Leeds Utd 1, Everton 1
Dixie Dean headed “Sports Pictures” popular footballers ballot competition, while last year he won their centre-forward contest.
EVERTON OUTPLAYED
A GRIM STRUGGLE AT LEEDS
KEETCHLEY’S HAT-TRICK
UNITED SCORE THRICE TO ONCE
Leeds did not slacken their pace, and 25,000 people saw Davies make a magnificent save from a praiseworthy effort by Keetley.  Mitchell had his chances to make a goal, but it does not do to waste time with O’Donnell anywhere near.  Menzies’ failure to intercept a pass by Dean to Critchley should have brought work for Potts, but the winger did not get the full of his boot behind the shot, which trickled behind.  Everton’s White, after he had called for a pass from Critchley, was slow to shoot, and Common, with a timely tackle, foiled Keetley just as he was about to burst through.  Wainscoat with a back-heeler gave Keetley a chance to net but he was off-side, Dean could not find a way through but he knew to slip one over so that Critchley could take a shot.  Menzies, however, had defined the move and saved the situation.  Keetley’s shooting had been so good that there was astonishment when he lifted a centre from Mitchell over the bar from five yards out, Mitchell, too, got under the ball when well placed. 
DOUBLE BY KEETLEY
It was a grim struggle, no quarter being asked or given, and if it had not bene for the Leeds offside craft White would have been clean through.  At the 57th minute Leeds took a deserved lead.  Mitchell, who was never dangerous this half, centred right across the Everton goalmouth, and Keetley deftly turned the ball into the net with his head.  Davies dashed across his goal in a vain endeavor to prevent the downfall. 
HAT-TRICK BY KEETLEY
The seventy-seventh minute provided Keetley with his hat trick.  Mitchell paved the way for the third goal.  He smartly kept the ball in play, and left Common trailing behind.  His centre was flashed into the net in a twinkling.  This is Keetley’s fourth hat trick performance this season.  Final; Leeds United 3, Everton 1. 

EVERTON RES V STOCKPORT
Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, March 9, 1929
Everton’s formation read a little strange, with Rooney at full-back, and Lewis at left-half, and before Everton had settled down Stockport had indulged in raids that were very dangerous.  Sager, the new goalkeeper, saved shots from Brown, Waittes and Newton, and then a spasm of brilliant open combination gave the home side their confidence, and it was the County who were now subject to severe pressure.  Weldon headed Everton’s first goal from Ritchie’s centre the opportunity arising through a defensive misunderstanding.  Attwood was but one of Everton’s brilliant attackers and had Stein finished with more accuracy the home side would have held a comfortable lead.  Half-time; Everton 1, Stockport County nil.  Cautions were frequent in a poor second half.  Stockport were without Allport, injured.  Attwood scored a second goal for Everton, and the County missed a penalty.  Three-quarter-time; Everton Res 2, Stockport City nil. 

EVERTON “A” v. WHISTON
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 09 March 1929
Vaughan opened the score for Everton after two minutes.  Bretton equalized from a corner.  Tole increased Whiston’s score through a penalty, and Hitchen later added a third.  The visitors goal had a narrow escape when Fenny luckily kicked off the goalline.  Half-time.- Whiston 3, Everton A 1. 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 09 March 1929
By Louis T. Kelly

LEEDS UNITED 3 EVERTON 1
March 11 th 1929. The Daily Courier.
LEEDS UNITED DO THE DOUBLE ON THE CHAMPIONS.
HAT-TRICK FOR KEETLEY AT ELLAND-ROAD.
ERNEST HART PREVENT DEAN FROM IMSPIRING VISITORS' “PUNCHLES” ATTACK.
GRIFFITHS AND DAVIES PROMINENT
WAS THE REFEREE RIGHT?
EVERTON CLAIM FOR PENALTY TURNED DOWN.
Everton, whose revival was expected to be sustained, had a set back at Ellkand Road, Leeds, on Saturday when the United gave their best display of the season to register a well-deserved victory by three goals to one. They incidentally, completed the double event at the expense of the Champions. The United surprised even their own supporters by their dazzling play, carried up with wonderful speed on a ground which did not give a good foothold. As tacticians they were no better than the Blues, but they had the happy knack of making a determined fight for each and every ball, and utilising it on the shortest possible time. Their were weakness in the Everton side but none in the United ranks, and the various departments in the winning side dovetailed better than those of the loser. While Leeds were always the nippier and more dangerous side, they could claim very little superiority in the matter of field play up to the interval; in fact until the latter portion was embarked on one expected the Blues to annex a point a least. After the interval, however, the Evertonians did not operate with the same methods; they had not the same enterprise and mistakes were made in the defence, which only contributed to the Leeds monopoly.
INVINCIBLE LEEDS.
The Leeds of this game would have beaten almost any team in the League. One hoped that the reappearance of Dean would have made all the difference in the Everton attack, but while the three inside forwards often combined with refreshing skill and understanding they lacked the punch which characterised the work of the opposing forwards. True, Dean was the first man to score, and it was with a shot typical of him. He got away from Troup's pass from what appeared to be an off-side position, and he whipped the ball into the far corner of the net as Potts advanced. This success was not long lived, however, for the craft of Wainscott sent Keetley clean between Common and O'Donnell and as Davies left goal to smoother his shot he rammed the ball into the back of the net. In the second half Keetley proceeded to complete the “hat-trick” but he might have scored two more without any additional effort. His second was a pretty header off Mitchell's centre, placing the ball just where Davies was not, and then he swung round to a fast centre from the same winger to almost rip the riggings. Chief credit for those two goals must go to Mitchell, also out-tripped the defence by excellent ball control finishing and speed. In the first half the combination of the Blues was quite good, even though they did not enjoy so much of the play as the United. All tried hard to get Dean away, but he was watched too well by Ernest Hart, and good, workable passes would not reach him. The halves too gave the attackers plenty of support, but later on this was missing to a marked degree.
WAINSCOAT-MITCHELL ENTERPRISE.
Then the good understanding was gone, and Kelly and Common in particular simply could not hold the clever Wainscot-Mitchell wing. Leeds knew this, and exploited the pair all they knews, so that the home side were invariably holding the upper hand. The two best men on the Everton side were Griffiths and Davies. The match was checkful of exciting occurrences and should gave contained one penalty. This was when Troup had his heel trapped by Townsley when he was about to put the finishing touch to a centred the field run. The referee, however, turned down the confident claims. Teams: - Leeds United: - Potts, goal, Townsley and Menzies, backs, Edwards, Hart and Reed, half-backs, Turnbull, White Keetley, Wainscott, Mitchell, forwards. Everton: - Davies, Common and O'Donnell, backs, Kelly, Griffiths and Hart (captain, half-backs, Critchley, White, Dean, Easton, and Troup, forwards.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 STOCKPORT COUNTY RESERVES 1
March 11 th 1929. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 33)
Sagar, a custodian on trial from the Donastle district, made a fine impression on his first appearance in the Everton colour. Attwood, the new centre also, showed up well from the few goals to increase the lead gained by Everton by Weldon in the first half. In the last few seconds Newton netted for Stockport County, who played throughout the second session without Allport, although the game was not lacking in the finer points,, some over vigorous tackling tended to spoil play at times. Kell was a conspiouous half, and Ritchie and Stein good wingers . Everton: - Sagar, goal, Kennedy and Rooney, backs, Kell, Dixon and Lewis, half-backs, Ritchie, Forshaw, Attwood, Weldon and Stein, forwards.

LEEDS UNITED RECOVER THEIR OLD SNAP
Leeds Mercury - Monday 11 March 1929
TURNBULL AND MITCHELL A SORE TROUBLE TO EVERTON
By Hugh Whitfield
Scorers;- United-Keetley -3 goals
Everton-Dean-1 goal
The weather at Elland Road on Saturday was as sticky as any toffee that ever came from Everton, but it seemed to suit Leeds United better than their visitors.  Both sides toiled hard in the thick, sweltering atmosphere, but Everton were a weary team during most of the second half, while the Leeds forwards could still raise a gallop.  It is pleasant once again, after the recent distressing experiences of Leeds United, to be able to say almost unqualified nice things about the team.  The men moved with more pace, precision, and above all with more of the will to win than they have done for weeks.  It is significant that after all the changes of the last few weeks- many of them unavoidable, of course- Leeds United have had to get back to the “old brigade,” the men who constituted the side at the start of the season, to pull them round, United were more than value for their victory.  Every part of the team did its full share, but it was the marked improvement forward which took the eye, Keetley scored United’s three goals. 
BRILLIANT OUTSIDE FORWARDS
Here, there were two men on the wings, Turnbull and Mitchell, who are by no means young in football years.  Yet they pranced about like schoolboys, had the opposing backs chasing them vainly, and showed pace and accuracy that should keep them in first-class football for years yet.  The first half was Turnbull’s the second Mitchell’s, and they provided a delightful contrast in styles of play.  Turnbull favoured the fierce burst, and his determination and vigour took him past O’Donnell time after time in the first half.  Then Turnbull put in the most inviting centres for the heads or feet of his inside men.  It was surprising that none of these was converted into goals, but Davies, the Everton keeper, had an inspired period in the first half.  He seemed always in the right place to deal with header, shot, or centre, and the United forwards must have been very tired of seeing his green jersey just in the right place to foil them.  Turnbull, then, was unlucky in the results that attended his work, but Mitchell, who came into the picture in the second half, was more fortunate, for he paved the way directly to two of Keetley’s goals.  Mitchell relied on dainty footwork to trick his man, and when clear, cut in towards goal, finishing with short, accurate ground passes to his inside men.  How Keetley managed to sky one of these over a gaping goal mystified everybody, including that bright young centre forward himself.
KEETLEY THE TERRIER
There are no complaints about Keetley, however.  He was ready for any scoring chances that came along, and though his three goals, in a sense, were made for him, he showed just that dash and readiness in scoring them which mark the real centre forward.  Above all, Keetley was a terrier all the time in the way he stuck to his task and worried the opposing backs.  He did not wait for gilt-edged chances, but was always ready to chase after a forlorn hope.  Thus Common and O’Donnell could never take any position carelessly, and before the end they were a sadly troubled pair.  White came back to play a workmanlike game at inside-right, while Wainscot had one of his best days.  He flicked the ball sideways to Mitchell or pushed it up the middle to Keetley most accurately, and played a great part in many delightful combined movements.  Behind this resuscitated forward line the United half backs were themselves again.  Reed, a stalwart in defence, was better, even, than Hart and Edwards, his two international colleagues. 
FULL BACKS IN FORM. 
Then we come to those scapegoatsof Leeds United’s team, Townsley and Menzies, who have got into such hot water more than once this season.  In this game they were splendid. They rushed to the tackle without hesitation, and gave rope to the dreaded Dixie.” Dean must have thought he was struck couple of twin thunderbolts several times early in the game, when Townsley and Menzies descended him the very second got the ball.  It was good to see the Leeds United full backs in such sturdy form, Townsley kicked harder than usual, instead of favouring the dangerous short pass near his own goal.  Potts was not very busy, but was quietly efficient. He saved a certain goal early on tipping the headed ball from Dean over the bar.  Everton have fallen from former greatness.  Dean was well watched, but showed some, if not all, of his old fierce dash near goal. Troup played the dainty Scottish game on the wing, but the other forwards were moderate.
EVERTON’S BIG MEN
The big figures on the Everton side were Griffiths, a fine attacking centre half, who placed his passes beautifully, and Davies, in goal.  Everton’s best work was early in the game, and Dean, who got clear when the Leeds players thought he was offside, gave them the lead after 25 minutes.  Almost immediately United equalised, Keetley taking a pass from Wainscoat, and running through to score cleverly.  Half-way through the second half Keetley put Leeds ahead, heading in from Mitchell’s centre.  Soon afterwards Mitchell beat his man, made a long run down the touch line, and gave Keetley his “hat-trick.” 

DEAN NOT A GIANT
Athletic News - Monday 11 March 1929
KEETLEY SETS EXAMPLE IN MARKSMANSHIP
LEEDS SUPREME
LEEDS UNITED 3, EVERTON 1
By Harricus
Leeds United and Everton were engaged in a fight for supremacy for the United held the advantage by one point only, but them they are three in front of the champions, and on Saturday form at any rate, they should remain ahead of them.  Everton brought in Dean for the first time for several weeks, but I cannot say that he struck me as a giant refreshed.  True, he scored the only goal for his side, but he seemed to be in a rather pertinent mood. He did not get the support from his two inside colleagues that he anticipated, it is true, and he seemed to be hugging a grievance.  Often enough he placed himself in a position for a dash forward, but the anticipated push from a colleague did not materialize, and Dean was left stranded.  A contrast was afforded by the centre-forward of the winning side.  The Leeds directors were worried at the beginning of the season as to who should occupy the centre forward position, Jennings or Keetley.  Good man that Jennings is, I have favoured the Englishman, and the fact that he scored all three goals for Leeds on Saturday caused comparisons to be made even with Dean. 
A MAN OF THE FUTURE
But he is not a Dean-yet; still, he is a mere boy, and he is the youngest of a quartette of brothers who have made goal scoring a speciality.  He is hardly a crafty leader of the type of, say, Gallacher, but the fact that he was a striking success against Everton’s outstanding defenders is evidence of his merit as a craftsman.  Of course, Keetley received greater support from his fellow-attackers than did Dean, and whilst there was little in the teams during the first half, it was this supremacy of attack in the second half that accounted for both points going to Leeds.  White and Wainscoat were feeders in reality, and particularly the latter, who was the real reason of Mitchell being such a striking success on the outside left, and it was Mitchell’s beautiful centres that brought the last two goals for Keetley.  Incidentally, Keetley has to thank a fine long pass from Wainscoat for his first goal.  Robert Turnbull was also in great form on the outside right, and he too, must thank for his success the most accurate passes, all along the ground, from Edwards, who was in his very best form.
GRIIFTHS OUTSTANDING
Singularly, I had not seen Everton previously this season, and I can quite understand why, following a championship year, they have fallen from grace.  Critchley, the ex-Stockport County player, was certainly most accurate in his centring, and he is not without a shot with a sting in it, while Troup, the Scottish International is still a box of tricks, and very successful at that.  Griffiths, the Welshman, was the outstanding man in defence.  Straight as a solider, as becomes a 72-inches man, he met the Leeds attacks unflinchingly, and it was no fault of his that Keetley had such a glorious day.  Dean scored first, and Keetley equalised before the interval.  Then Keetley got two more goals in the second half.  If Everton had been awarded two penalty kick which they reasonably claimed, they might have got two more goals, but the referee did not support them.  However, “ifs” and “buts” do not count.  Leeds United; Potts; Townsley, Menzies; Edwards, Hart, Reed; Turnbull, White, Keetley, Wainscoat, and Mitchell.  Everton; Davies; Common, O’Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart; Critchley, White, Dean, Easton, and Troup.  Referee; Mr. A.J. Caseley, Wolverhampton. 

EVERTON REVIEW
Liverpool Echo - Monday 11 March 1929
By Stork
THE PACE THAT KILLS
The old-time football follower is most emphatic in his statement that science has given way to pace in present day football, and up to a point he is justified in his assertion.  It was pace which “killed” Everton at Elland-road, for the victors were not better craftsmen than their victims.  I doubt if there is a faster side in the League than Leeds United.  Speed and more speed was brought into their game, and in the end it told its own tale, the Everton defence being unable to withstand the continual onslaught in the second half, so that Keetley got two late on goals, just when Everton looked like winning a point on foreign soil.  Up to the interval Everton were almost the equal of Leeds, who, however, had the best chances to make goals; but their shooting was none too good, and although they had enjoyed the major portion of the attack they were the first to bite the dust through a Dean goal, the United backs, Menzies and Townsley, having stopped play in the belief that Dean was offside.  They paid the penalty of not playing to the whistle.  That goal, however, shook the Leeds men up to the knowledge that goals counted, and that no points were awarded for an unfinished attacks; and within four minutes they levelled matters through Keetley, who snapped up a perfect pass sent between the backs by Wainscoat, and beat the advancing Davies. 
SHOWING THEIR PACES
No further goals were recorded up to the interval, but Turnbull should certainly have scored, for he was underneath the bar, with Davies out of goal, when Keetley lobbed the ball in to him; but in his excitement Turnbull handled the ball, when a movement of the head was all that was required.  Then Troup was brought down by Townsley when he was well on the way to a goal, and why a penalty was not given is beyond me.  However, Everton had done remarkably well, but the early moments of the second half were uneasy ones for me, for I saw things that did not give me confidence, especially as I had seen Leeds showing their paces against Liverpool earlier in the season, when only the wonderful goalkeeping of Riley had prevented a huge score.  Leeds adopted the same tactics; no fancy work, no holding on to the ball too long so as to court a tackle, and the long pass out to the wings; and these tactics proved successful, for the Everton half backs never got a chance.  Any half back will tell you that if your man does not hold the ball you have little chance.  Your only hope is a tackle, failing which you are running between two points with all the advantages against you.  This was just what happened in the second session, and it brought the winning goals, and provided Keetley with his fourth “hat-trick” of the season. 
THE RIGHT PASS
Keetley made a dashing leader, ably supported by two crafty inside colleagues and two fine wingmen in Turnbull and Mitchell.  Turnbull was best in the opening half with Mitchell coming into his own in the last “45.”  He was always given the ball wide of an opponent, whereas Everton’s passes were short and too close against such men as Edwards, Hart, and Reed.  Easton was a clever worker of the ball, and White put some nice passes to Critchley and now and again hooked some in to Dean, who, however, could do little with them became of the attention devoted to him by Townsley and Menzies.  His goal was typical of him, but he does few chances afterwards, and at the end of the game was limping slightly.  Troup and Critchley made some nice middles; but the Leeds full-backs were very solid, and if ever there was the slightest chance of their being beaten offside tactics were brought in to their aid.  Griffiths had a splendid first half, but like Hart and Kelly found the Leeds dash too much for him.  Davies did well in goal, despite a busy time, and O’Donnell was the better back.  I ran across Mr. W.H. Cartwright, the Liverpool director, who had motored down from Harrogate, where he is taking the waters and is feeling the benefit of them.  The foot which has been troubling him so long has yielded so well to the treatment that it will now take a boot. 

BRADFORD CITY'S CAPTURE
Hartlepool Mail-Wednesday 13 March 1929
Bradford City have secured signature C. Gordon Menham, the brilliant Northern Nomads' goalkeeper. who is not withoutt first-class experience. In the season 1925-26 he asisted Everton. He is a very safe 'keeper, who should turn out to valuable acquisition to the Bradford club

DEAN AGAIN ABSENT
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 13 March 1929
Bee’s Notes
Everton are due to meet Burnley on Saturday at Goodison Park.  Dean will not be able to play.  He received a knock on the ankle last Saturday, while he is also suffering from muscular rheumatism.  His place will be taken by White, who is now the handyman of the team, while Easton crosses over to allow Martin to come in at inside left.  The team otherwise is the same as at Leeds, Viz;- Davies; Common, O’Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart; Critchley, Easton, White, Martin, and Troup. 
The Central League side to visit Manchester United includes Cresswell, Ritchie, and Dunn.  The eleven is;- Sagar; Cresswell, Kennedy; Rooney, Dixon, Lewis; Ritchie, Dunn, Attwood, Jones, Stein.   Cresswell and Dunn are having a run in the reserve side, against Manchester United Reserves, after their enforced absence through injury. 
LIVERPOOL SENIOR CUP
The semi-final tie between Everton and Tranmere Rovers be played at Goodison Park on Wednesday, March 20. 

EVERTON FOR CHANGE
Liverpool Echo - Friday 15 March 1929
Bee’s Notes
We in the city have got an up-take in the points column, and I propose tomorrow to re-visit Goodison Park after months of absence.  I have only seen Everton once (and that at Portsmouth) in the days when many called me “Evertonian.”  It is high time I renewed acquaintance with Goodison Park.  We are to see Burnley there, and know them to be a most interesting collection of adversaries.  They are specialists in full-back wares; I am told they have six bonny backs on their list; no wonder they have decided to sell some of them.  Old Jerry Dawson is not engaged these days nor may Coun. McCluggage have a show, but there are some youngsters who are taking the eye, and one is a really huge fellow.  Devine’s name may not be long associated with Burnley, for a lot of clubs have taken a fancy to him, and Burnley are parting company solely became he wants to work and live Saturday apart, at another town.  Burnley have bought heavily, paid heavily, sold fairly heavily, and scored at times very heavily.  But contrariwise they have some severe scores put against then.  However, they will be an interesting set of visitors, the more so because we always look on Louis Page and think of sour grapes!  As was said the other day, “Bee tried to force Page into Liverpool books and they would not have him.”  It’s true, too.  Everton; Davies; Common, O’Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart; Critchley, Easton, White, Martin, Troup. 
GOODISON PARK MUSIC
The Aigburth Silver Prize band will give the following programme at Goodison Park tomorrow;-
March “The Voice of the Guns,” (Alford); overtune. “Light Cavalry” (Suppe); foxtrot “All by Yourself in the Moonlight.”  (Campbell and Con selection, “Souvenir of the Opera” (Rimmer) waltzs, “For Old time’s Sake.  (Campbell and Connelly) song Sonny Boy” (By Request) Campbell and Connelly), place, “A Day With the dumisrden (Rimmer). 

EVERTON TO WIN TODAY.
March 16 th 1929. The Daily Courier.
I expect Everton to beat Burnley today, because the Turf-Moor team have been regularly on the losing side, where away games are concerned since the middle of December. Dean will not be playing for the home team, so while White takes his place. The kick-off is at 3-15, and the teams are; Everton; Davies; Common, O'Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart; Critchley, Easton, White, White, Martin, Troup. Burnley: - Down; McCluggann, Heap; Steel, Brown, Storer; Burton, Stage, Beel, (or Mantle), Devine, Page.

EVERTON AT HOME
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 16 March 1929
BURNLEY CLEVER, BUT OVER-REFINED
EASY GOAL FOR WHITE
STOP PLAY FOR A WHISTLE THAT WOULDN’T!
By Bee
Everton; Davies; Common, O’Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart; Critchley, Easton, White, Martin, Troup.  Burnley; Down; McCluggage, Heap; Steel, Brown, Storer; Bruton, Beel, Devine, Page.  Referee; Mr. H.H. Heath.  There was, today, a smaller crowd than usual at Everton, where Burnley were the visitors.  The day was fine but cold.  Among those present were noticed Mackinlay, Forshaw, Weldon, Hardy, and the member for Earlestown (Mr. Appleton).  Weldon, I hear, has been suffering from a damaged ankle.  Burnley brought back Beel.  Everton lost the toss and kicked towards the town end.  Beel and Hart soon showed their competence, and Steel, with a throw-in, sent the ball right into the penalty area.  Life was brought into the game as soon as Martin crossed the ball to Critchley, who turned it inward to Easton.  A pass forward to White was automatic, but Burnley played with their heads and threw the Southport man offside.  Brown, the centre half, was inclined to over-kick his forwards, and Burnley were plainly concentrating on offside tactics, Linesman Harris, of Wrexham, being emphatic about a decision against Troup.  McCluggage took a risk to his head when running across and nodding a Critchley tap just as White was closing in.
ON GEOMETRICAL
Devine and Page early on were inclined to over-dribble, clever though they be; whereas Critchley, centring from a frightful angle, made a chance of a goal from a lovely centre, Griffiths breasted the ball, headed it like a juggler, and finally passed square upward and too far.  A subsequent big punt by the same man led to Easton making a wise pass to White, who went inside left and let out a strong drive that passed close to goal. 
THE OPENING GOAL
His shot had power and direction, whereas Devine’s effort had neither.  Early on, Storer (ex-Derby), Heap (a young and tall left back), and Stage impressed me; and when White went over to outside left, his original place, he showed how well he could play there.  A minute after his excursion the same player scored the opening goal, time fourteen minutes, from a long delayed pass by Troup, from the outside left position.  Troup and McCluggage had a duel near the touchline, Troup finding his centre smothered and accidentally handling.  The ball began to travel back many yards, and Troup, after attempting to make a centre twice, finally kicked the ball towards goal, and Burnley apparently stopped play for offside, which seemed a certain decision.  However, this was no concern of White’s and he slipped the ball to the right-hand corner.  Burnley was almost too dainty, yet it was a close thing whether Page was offside when he had a sitter, and Beel was extremely near with a strong shot, after which O’Donnell was hurt, and Critchley made a good run and centre.  White was a forceful centre-forward, and had little marking when he went through and shot obliquely.  Down saving in spite of his fall.  The ball bumped badly, and although the situation looked serious, there was hardly a chance of a goal. 
A PRONE EMBRACE
Bruton placed Beel, who had quite nice dug-up shot, but the ball passed over the bar.  Bruton, who is not a giant, fell full length on top of the long Griffiths.  This was a smile in the rather dullish match, in which there was a lot of mis-passing and mis-timing.  A very fine back-header by Devine brought Beel a chance to shoot and the shot was luckily charged off for a corner.  Bruton, sometimes stated to be England’s best outside right, was not too hearty against O’Donnell and Hart, yet it was he who led to Davies making his first save.  A nice catch from a high ball by Beel. 
AN OFFSIDE COMPLAINT
Storer joined the shooters, and was quite close, what time Troup was among the half-backs, calling for that player to be tackled by someone.  Burnley’s trouble was that they were clever enough in rounds of passing, but not wise enough to know when to stop.  At any rate, they complained that they suffered yet another close offside decision when they were right through.  All Devine’s ability brought no tangible result.  The referee gave a foul against Heap on White, when the latter was comfortably in the penalty-box, but the spot kick was placed outside the box and Kelly just topped the bar with the free kick.  Page got the side of his foot to a good centre by Bruton, but could no gain a goal any more than could Kelly, who was bowled over when shooting to the right of the goal. 
EVERTON’S EASY WIN
BURNLEY DISAPPOINT AT GOODISON
WHITE GETS TWO
TROUP AS VERSATILE WING AND PROVIDER
Down was not too certain in goal in the second half, yet made no serious blunder until White charged him over and made him lose the ball.  White found the ball turn too far to the left, from scoring.  Down was best when punt-otherwise he had no one to stop him being away and when going for a bad pass back by McCluggage.  Hart was dogged in a tussle with Stage and Bruton, and Devine, in spite of a collision with Kelly, went on to be near making a goal such as Bolton scored against Blackburn in the replayed cup-tie.  Davies kicked the ball against Devine’s body and the ball was near spinning into goal.  Critchly was wild with two centres, and Page improved upon his first half, yet there was still the same Burnley failing in front of goal. 
WHITE SUCCEEDS AGAIN
They missed two very simple chances, and then paid the penalty, as Troup again provided White with a goal.  Troup threatened to shoot, and Down ran back to the middle of the goal, so that when Troup centred, White was left with a simple offering, and although Down touched the first effort, White could easily run on to complete the goal –time, an hour.  It seemed to me that only Beel could score for Burnley, and he was nearly through, in spite of the great all-round display by Griffiths.  Burnley were now kicking against the wind, and were finding their work cut in difficult places.  Troup was a defender, a header, a provider of goals, and, as usual, a workmanlike winger.  There were some drab passes of indefinite play, but the crowd gained a chance to warm their hands in applause when Griffiths, standing three yards from the centre line of the field, put in a long-distance effort to score that was amazing in its strength, its flight, and its direction-the ball swung just over the bar.
TROUP FIRING
Griffiths kept the game alive by another exceedingly clever run round towards the touch-line, keeping the ball under control and in play and threading through three or four men with a fine sense of touch.  Burnley were now well held, and not only their wing forwards but also their half-backs failed them.  Troup put one shot into the spectators at the back of the goal, and they all instinctively moved out of the way, knowing the strength of his shot.  O’Donnell went off for a few minutes with a damaged ankle, and returned limping.  Final Everton 2, Burnley 0.
Mr. Aled Roberts, the Liberal candidate for the East Toxteth Division, has been specially invited by the directors of the Everton Football Club to attend their match against Burnley at Goodison Park this afternoon.  Mr. Roberts is a shareholder of the club and a strong supporter of the Everton team.

MAN UNITED RES V EVERTON RES
Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, March 16, 1929
At Manchester, in fine weather.  Play opened fast, and the United were immediately on the attack.  Thompson forcing Cresswell to clear twice in as many minutes.  The visitors improved, and good work by Dunn and Ritchie ended in the former just missing by inches.  When play had been in progress nine minutes the home side took the lead, Sweeney cleverly beating Sager.  On resuming Manchester were soon on the offensive and Rawlings increased the lead two minutes after the restart whilst Thompson netted a third. Everton should have reduced the arrears when Attwood had the goal at his mercy, but to the dismay of everybody present he shot hopelessly wide. 
Three-quarters-time; Manchester United Res 3, Everton Res 0. 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 16 March 1929
By Louis T. Kelly

EVERTON 2 BURNLEY 0
March 18 th 1929. The Daily Courier.
EVERTON RETURN TO WINNING FORM.
SLUGGLISH MATCH AT GOODISON.
GRIFFITHS AN OUTSTANDING PIVOT.
Everton returned to winning form on Saturday at Goodison Park, when they defeated Burnley by two clear goals in the poorest game seen at the ground this season. It is rather singular that the two most uninteresting matches the Champions have participated in this season have been against the Turf Moor brigade, and in each instance the result has been two-nil in favour of the home team. For the most part this game was scrappy in the extreme, with only occasional bursts, or interludes, of anything approaching entertaining football, but it must be admitted that Everton were the more deserving of the spoils. Burnley possessed the trickiest player in Devine, who all through contributed ingenious football, but they rarely brought any serious pressure to bear on Davies, whereas Down had many an awkward situation to deal with. Everton had the pull all round, for while they, perhaps, did not attempt to be as dainty as the Burnley men they got into operations quicker, and their forwards did try hard to get to get together as a line.
WHITE'S GOALS.
White, who again led the home attack in place of Dean, had the satisfaction of scoring both goals, and while many averred that he was off-side when he obtained the first he was certainly in a legitimate position when the ball was last played. Troup, it was who middled a ball, and before the centre dropped White had raced forward to gather, and he lobbed it into the net over Down's head. He was a yard outside when Troup made his cross. That came after fourteen minutes, and White scored the second at the end of the hour, when Martin and Troup cut out the opening. This pair interpassed delicately, and finally Martin delivered a long pass towards the dead line, Troup overtook it and fired in a centre which White turned into the net via Down's body. Griffiths was once again the outstanding personality, and on his present form there can be few better pivots in the game today. One movement alone, when he outwitted three opponents within inches of the touch-line, was brilliant; but he always seemed to be just where he was wanted, his long legs upsetting many attacks before they had developed properly.
O'DONNELL SHINES TOO.
O'Donnell was the other to shine, because he made his endeavours of the clear-cut variety, stepping in first time to baulk efforts by Bruton and Stage and utilising the ball with discretion. Common and Kelly showed improvement on their Leeds form. Hart played a solid inconspicuous game, with beautiful low-feeding his chief attribute, and, of the forwards Troup and White were outstanding. It was a match in which the result was the main and only gratifying feature, and it was reflected the run of the play truly. Teams: - Everton: - Davies, goal, Common and O'Donnell, backs, Kelly, Griffiths, and Hart (captain), half-backs, Critchley, Easton, White, Martin and Troup, forwards. Burnley: - Down, goal, McCluggage, and Heap, backs, Steel, Brown, and Storer, half-backs, Bruton, Stage, Beel, Devine, and Page forwards.

MANCHESTER UNITED RESERVES 3 EVERTON RESERVES 0
March 18 th 1929. The Daily Courier
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 34)
Manchester United's victory was well deserved their forwards showing to great advantage, and had it not been for the splendid defensive work of Cresswell and Sagar Everton would have suffered a heavier reverse. Attwood, the visitor's centre found Taylor a stumbling block, and the most promising movements of Everton came from their right wing pair, Ritchie and Dunn. Manchester United defence was very sound throughout, Sweeney headed the first goal for United before the interval and in the second half Rawlings and Thomson added goals for the home side. Everton: - Sagar, goal, Cresswell and Kennedy, backs, Rooney, Dixon, Lewis, half-backs, Ritchie, Dunn, Attwood, Jones, and Stein, forwards.

WET SQIUBS
Athletic News - Monday 18 March 1929
WEAK BURNLEY FORWARDS
WHITE’S PAIR
EVERTON 2, BURNLEY 0
By Junius
There was a tang in the air but not in the play at Goodison Park, where the game might be described as one with a decidedly go-as-you-please flavor about it.  the players ambled through as tough goals were but a secondary consideration, and though Burnley had a helpful breeze during the first half and commanded the bulk of the play the forwards refused to shoot when well placed.  For twenty minutes, broken by a few flashes by the home men, they were hovering round the Everton goal ere Beel sent in a shot that was on the mark.  They were much better than the home line in ball control, and they were more so ordinated and nippier, but ne’er a shot. 
WHITE’S DOUBLE
Everton during the first half took second place so far as attack was concerned, though it must be said they had the wind against them.  Many movements were aimless but they did get in a shot occasionally.  The half-backs were too hard pressed to give much support; yet the team led at the interval, though they were not value for such an advantage.  Troup was responsible in both instances for the making of the two goals scored by White.  The first came after the game had bene in progress 15 minutes.  The dapper outside left struggled through a contest with McCluggage and gave the centre a perfect opening which was promptly utilized.  My impression was that the referee was in error in allowing this goal, for White seemed clearly a couple of yards offside at the moment of Troup parting with the ball.  After a similar period in the second half Troup again centred into the goalmouth, and White after partially failing placed the ball into the net with Down in attendance.
BURNLEY’S WEAKNESS
As I have indicated, the Burnley forwards were too precise when verging on goal.  Beel in the first half made one great effort, which Davies adroitly handed over the bar.  Page in the second came near the scoring.  Everton were the more practical if not the more polished line, though the best shot of the day came from the centre half-back, thirty yards out, and Griffiths was also outstanding in defence, his interventions being a noticeable feature throughout.  Kelly too, did not hesitate to shoot, but generally he had a big task in hand against the Burnley left flank.  Devine was a box of tricks, but he overelaborated, and his collaboration with Page, spectacular enough, brought little advantage.  The right wing pair were rarely in evidence, for Hart in his old position, was a strong barrier to progress on this flank.  As may be gathered, Burnley’s policy in keeping the play confined with the wind at their backs, was not conductive to good results; they progressed in pretty fashion, but at close quarters flattered to deceive.  White, who was again called upon to take the place of Dean (injured) was a hard worker.  Storer did much towards subduing Everton’s right wing, and was a force behind Devine and Page.  There was little to choose between the rival defences, Common gave an improved display in the home team.  McCluggage, did well, but Down was not too safe in goal and compared unfavourably with Davies, who, however, was not so fully extended.  Everton; Davies; Common, O’Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart; Critchley, Easton, White, Martin, Troup.  Burnley; Down; McCluggage, Heap; Steel, Brown, Storer; Bruton, Stage, Beel, Devine, and Page.  Referee; Mr. H.H. Health, Sheffield. 

EVERTON UNDER REVIEW
Liverpool Echo - Monday 18 March 1929
By Bees
It was hard to recognize the Everton team.  When I left them, by force of circumstances, last January, they were not doing well, but they had at least a well-remembered look about them.  Now many changes have been made Davies remains in goal to show that he is surely the best pick-up the club has had in this direction.  He was collared by David Reid one morning when the club had no one for a trail game.  He then and there gave a good show and deserved his place, but needless to say he had to “wait for it,” as the sergeant said.  Common had come in “just where I left off.”  He is a trifle rash, and a rushing type of defender; he did far better on Saturday than he did against Liverpool.  O’Donnell has matured and plays to the level of the opposition, but his ruggedness is sure to command attention from the spectators; at half back Griffiths is doing just what one said he would do a long time ago; I could not trust his form against Liverpool because the physical advantage he had made him a virtual “easy” match.  But since then he has won his spurs and cannot be removed from the pivotal position.  That he would make a great centre-forward I have no doubt; he gives evidence of it when he goes forward to head centres, or when he delivers a blow such as he offered from within three yards of the half-way line.  Wind and other frolics have in their time produced some long-range-shot records, but I never remember a shot of this definite character –it was a great long try-out –almost impertinent in its attempt, for no one has a right to believe a goalkeeper will not save a ball of anything beyond 28 yards distance.  But here was one of nearly half the field, a fast ball, eyed by 17,000 spectators and seen to be lifting slightly over the crossbar.  It made the match memorable.  And it needed something stern and severe like this feature to recall a dull game such as was Saturday’s. 
GOING THROUGH THE RANK AND FILE
Let us proceed with a view of Everton, however.  We had reached Griffiths.  Let us take a bow for the captain, Hart; his passing was below his usual fine standard, but he has been a great servant and a great Hart.  By his side Kelly, striding ahead like the original Kelly of two years ago, strong, never-stop; he seemed to lose confidence six months ago; he’s going great guns to-day.  The forward line so of course the great test.  Let us take the old man of the line first, Troup offered many goals last season’ he offers them today, and White had a couple as the saying goes.  White is big-bodied, yet can move apace; he has a crack-a-jack shot and does not need to get the ball into varied positions before he lets the ball have his instep, hard and true.  He is not a slave to the position, and in Dean’s absence the club can feel comfortable.  Troup, however, is the marvel of the line to-day; he continue to show his paces to the mere lads and his driving power is stupendous.  He has been a wonderful find, and cheap as dirt in the way transfer fees go; he was the medium of a letter from a friend in Dundee some seven years ago.  This was his description; “Plays forever.”  He played for Everton and has never been marked “poor,” though he may have bene marked “narked’ in his time!  Martin, at inside left, has a shot that I would like to see more often brought into play; it is a merely passing phase with this good player that he is not doing really big work.  Easton- well, you know how I have appraised this foraging forward.  I have nothing to add.  Critchley, the jack-in-the-box, of the team sheets, worthy of even more encouragement than he has had in the past; his centring has improved in its accuracy, and he has a fleet mind and movement that makes him dangerous.  The team did not do exceptionally well and the day’s sport was dullish, but Burnley, in a word, were too clever for themselves; good intricate footwork as they showed should have been sufficient to lead them into a torrent of work for Davies.  None came; Burnley tired; they won the toss which should have been good enough to win them some goals; yet they strew their chances about with the ease and indifference of the cigarette smokers who out a cigarette upon your carpet and then tread it into the floor to make sure it sticks but does not re-light.  Burnley were aggravating; Everton were not convincing, but at least they were winners, and took their chances against a goalkeeper who was quite foreign to his usual confident self, he handled badly; he did not make grave mistakes-he simply jumbled, and in these days or marvel goalkeeping, uncleanliness in goalkeeper is a fault, even if it does not produce a goal. 

EVERTON’S MATCH WITH TRANMERE TOMORROW
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 19 March 1929
Bee’s Notes
LIVERPOOL COUNTY F.A. MATCH
The meeting of Everton and Tranmere Rovers at Goodison Park, on Wednesday –kick-off 3.15 p.m.- in the semi-final of the local Senior Cup competition, should provide interesting fare.  The Rovers’ first team will do duty on the occasion, and, though Everton have the right to place their first team in the field, their policy has always been to play a strong eleven- sufficiently strong to make the encounter interesting to the public, while, at the same time, bringing success to their representation.  The competition, confined to the Everton, Liverpool, Tranmere Rovers, New Brighton, and Southport Clubs, has always appealed to the public, and, no doubt, the attendance on Wednesday will equal, if not surpass, that of previous years. 
TRANMERE TEAM V EVERTON
Tranmere team to meet Everton in the Lverpool Senior Cup-tie at Goodison Park tomorrow is the same as Saturday except that Barton comes back, to the exclusion of Gray.  Team; Briggs; Naylor, Thirkell; Barton, Jackson (A), Lewis; Jones, Charlton, S.M. Beswick, Littlehales, and Urmson. 

SLOW MOTION FOOTBALL
Burnley News - Wednesday 20 March 1929
BURNLEY BEATEN IN POOR GAME AT GOODISON PARK
FRILLS THAT DID NOT PLAY
EVERTON’S MORE OPEN METHODS BRING THE GOALS
EVERTON 2, BURNLEY 0
By “Kestrel”
There was an interesting little conversation at the close of Saturday’s game at Goodison which may be prophetic.  It was between Burnley and Everton friends who have been in the habit of meeting at the close of the matches between these clubs since Burnley’s promotion in 1913.  “Well, good-bye; we may meet again sometime,” said one.  “Yes, but I don’t think it will be next year, except it is in the Second Division.”  And strangely enough, the despondency at Everton is about as bad as it is at Turf Moor, and with loss cause.  If the exhibition given by the Burnley side on Saturday is any criterion, then Burnley have reason to fear.  In a good number of past seasons Burnley have had to depend on other clubs losing to assure themselves of safety.  They are doing that now, but even that prop will be denied them if there are many more such exhibitions.  The side appears absolutely incapable of getting into a winning vein away from home, and their last seven away games, have not provided them with a single point. 
REFEREE’S BLUNDERS
It was a sheer waste of time going to see Saturday’s game.  Usually the season does not end until May, but for an end-of-the-season display in which both sides were almost equally bad, that of Saturday would take a lot of beating.  Neither side might have had anything at stake, and practically throughout it was a tame, go-easy sort of affair.  Two bad sides vied with each other for the honour of giving an indifferent exhibition, and of the bad sides Burnley was the worse of the two.  Granted that the Turf Moor side should not have been beaten by two goals, seeing that Everton’s first was palpably offside, and that on one occasion the referee made another bad error in pulling Beel up for offside when he had made good and promising position.  But they deserved beating on the play, poor as that was, and the greatest surprise would have been in Burnley had scored, because they seldom, if ever, appeared to have the idea of how to get one.  Team blend was the last apparent equality and the failure mainly developed upon Page and Bruton who have never both at once been so completely wiped off the map.  One has to search almost in vain for a day when Bruton so persistently evaded a tackle and so consistently gave way to an opponent, and on Saturday it was the rarest thing imaginable to see him beat O’Donnell, who had only to go for the ball to be permitted to take it.  Page was very little better and as both failed so frequently to profit by opportunities when the game was opened out to them, it was the easiest thing on earth for the Everton defence to smother the inside Burnley forwards when they got near to goal.  It was not an easy thing to quench the spirit of Devine, Beel, and Stage, who worked tremendously –Devine especially so.  In fair, he was the shining light in the Burnley attack and he made more frequent endeavours than previously to open the game out to the wings only to find that the suggestions he handled out were unheeded and advances broke down through the weaknesses on the extreme wings.
A CONTRAST IN STYLES
In real contrast was the dash and craftiness of Troup and Critchley, who were the strong men of the home attack, and it was the daring little Scot who provided the opportunities for both goals scored by White.  The latter was not a patch on Dean as a leader, but he took advantage of the fact that the Burnley defence did not play to the whistle in the first case, and was on the spot when Down failed to hold the ball in the second case.  But in regard to the first goal the infringement was so palpable that McCluggage and Heap evidently thought there was no need to trouble and on this occasion tactics which had worked well in regard to easing their duties failed owing to an error of judgement by the referee.  Really the game was a slow motion picture with very little incidents and devoid practically of action but there was this difference between the sides that whilst Burnley attempted to play the pretty pretty game, and did play to some extent, Everton adopted more open methods and even if they ballooned the ball whilst the Burnley men kept it more on the ground, the home side made more frequent progress than Burnley did by their methods and more often were able to call on Down.  A foretaste of what was to come was given in the opening stages, which were slow and uneventful and even though Burnley had the advantage of the wind, they failed to make use of it as they might have done, though it was too obvious that the breakdown came when near shooting distance.  From a constructive point of view Burnley had the better idea, as both Beel and Storer played their parts well with Brown getting more in the defender but here again was a great different in the two half-back lines for Griffiths was a dominating force who not only intercepted sternly and swung the ball to his two strongest forwards whilst Hart and Kelly relied more on destructive measures and found Burnley’s short passing to their liking. 
WASTED OPPORTUNITIES
It was this quick tackling and untiring vigil ours of the Everton half-backs, coupled with the fact that O’Donnell was continually nagging a Bruton, which served to stultify the efforts of the Burnley attack in most from the start.  One waited in vain for some sparkle to relieve and had it not been for individual efforts such as those which Devine so cleverly made there would have been very little worthy of excitement.  Lassitude and weariness were certainly not the outcome of a day which appeared to be ideal for football, if one accept a light ground and a strong wild.  Bell waited for opportunities to get in a snap shot or two, but he was generally so well surrounded that when he managed a pile-driver it was certain to be driven against a defender, but generally speaking, Davies had an easy time, even though he had his hottest tests from the Burnley leader, who was about the only one to get anything near the mark.  But even though Everton as a side did not play a good game, they expended energy, whilst all the time Burnley seemed to be reserving nearly all the energy they had, and to let out as little as possible in dashing endeavor, and with all their tactic excellence Burnley’s refusal to shoot when possible defeated their object.  In the first half Burnley had plenty of opportunities for shooting, and repeatedly made ground in a manner which Everton could not imitate but it was Down who had the shots to stop, and for once he did not inspire confidence, his gathering of the ball being far from clean.  He fumbled the ball on a good number of occasions, and I thought that in his better moods he would have prevented the second goal from being scored.  It was, however, no credit to Everton that they got only two goals, especially in the second half when Burnley’s half-back line waned considerably.  Steel, who had been engaged in many a tussle with Troup, was not always as successful as he had been earlier in the game, and the defence had a good deal of work to do.  McCluggage, however, presented himself as the fighting force and kicked strongly, whilst Heap, though doing well was hardly as good in his positioning as he was in his first match.  McCluggage took a big risk about five minutes after the start when he headed for a corner as Easton was lifting his foot top the ball. 
BURBLEY LACK STING
With seven minutes gone, White had a chance when he got clean away from Heap, but he put wide.  After 13 minutes Troup beat McCluggage near the corner-flag, and doubled back.  I thought McCluggage should have followed Troup, but it was obvious that White would be offside if the ball were centred.  Troup did centre, and White took advantage of the referee’s error and scored after 13 minutes.  Devine began to make the Burnley front line move, but movements ended too often just when they should have really begun, though there were occasions when with a little luck Burnley might have equalized.  Devine and Stage might have shot oftener.  Stage, however, made the mistake of lying too far back, and generally the inside men were crowded out.  Beel looked like making a bold effort when he was wrongly ruled offside and at the interval Burnley were a goal behind.  Hesitation by the outside wingmen continued to lead to robberies after the interval.  Down brought off a great save from Martin, and following finessing by Page which led to another attack.  Down had to turn one over from Critchley.  On several occasions Steel had to retrieve several bad misses by Bruton.  Down was once in possession of the ball when White charged him and caused him to lose possession but as White was attempting to bring it back to the middle from just beyond the post, McCluggage darted in and touched it for a corner.  Page’s best effort was a header from Stage’s pass.  Just as thirteen minutes of the first half saw a goal scored, so did thirteen minutes of the second half.  The goal resulted from a clever passage between White and Troup, and as the latter got the ball to the middle, Down failed to hold it, and as he let the ball slip out of his grasp White pushed it into the net.  Everton half-backs and forwards showed more persistence than Burnley’s and shot oftener, one of the best shots of the match being by Griffiths from fully a third the length of the field, the ball just skimming over the bar at a tremendous speed.  Certainly there was more real menace in their finishing, as their wing then had more versatility and the team generally had some semblance of virility.  The occasions on which Burnley put any sting into their work were very rare indeed.  But everything seemed to go wrong that could do.  Stage was once in front of goal and had it almost at his merely when he handled.  It was a pretty fogging sort of game all through, and the occasions on which Everton were in anything like real danger were very few indeed.  All Burnley’s forward efforts towards the close were nullified by a more mobile half back line and one had quite enough of the class of play that was shown, by the time the whistle sounded.  The teams were; Burnley; Down; McCluggage, Heaps; Steel, Brown, Storer; Bruton, Stage, Beel, Devine, Page.  Everton; Davies; Common, O’Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart, Critchley, Easton, White, Martin, Troup. Referee; Mr. H.H. Health, of Sheffield. 

EVERTON AS A VILLAGE
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 20 March 1929
SOME NOTES ON ITS HISTORY
A VISIT BY THE DEVIL
COMMERCIAL SPECULATIONS
Walking about the noisy, crowded Everton streets, it requires an effort to detach, in imagination, that small portion which once constituted the site of the village.  If, however, we turn aside into some quiet spot like the open garden, where the barracks used to be, in Rupert-lane, we can indulge the fancy undisturbed, and visualize the old Everton with n individuality of its own.  For it was not always district of the town; loyal Evertonians may claim that through its mention in Domesday Book as “Hireton” (according to Syers and Picton) its recorded antiquity is greater than that of Liverpool itself.  Also that it has its own bits of history, and a renown even apart from football!  Its commanding hill was early appreciated as a signal point.  There, on the site of part of St. George’s Church, stood the beacon until 1803, when it was destroyed in a gale. Beacon-lane commemorates it.  It was a two-story building of stone, on the top of which, in a stone cistern, the fire was made.  From its style it was reasonably supposed to have been erected, or rebuilt, about the time when the Spanish Armada was expected, but there was probably a beacon there long before that.  One can imagine Everton’s importance in the chain, receiving and passing on fire-signals between the Welsh Hills and those of Lancashire, in past ages.  Everton played its part in the civil war.  About the end of Eastbourne-street stood till 1845 “Prince Rupert’s cottage,” an old thatched one, called after the valiant prince who re-took Liverpool for the royalists.  He made this humble cot his headquarters on his arrival here in 1644.  We have immortalized him in some of the street names.  The heart of old Everton was about the top of Village-street, as the name implies; a quaint, lovable old spot it must have been –a cluster of farmsteads and homely irregularly built cottages on a charming heathery and gorsey height, with peace and plenty in the spreading plain below.  But Everton’s “sweetest” memory and renown is surely its toffee, now a household word, ranking in the popular ear –as in the mouth-with Eccles cakes, Edinburgh rock, and similar toothsome delights.  As to its origin, the story goes that in 1759, a good dame, Molly Bushell, dwelt in a cottage about where the Welsh Chapel now stands, then the centre of the village.  Molly, who was poor, was visited on one occasion of sickness by the kindly Doctor Gerrard, of Liverpool.  The doctor, willing to help her, presented her with the recipe of a wonderful toffee he had concocted. He recommended her to make it in quantity, and try to establish a sale for it was a sweetmeat and a remedy for coughs, colds, &c.  Molly adopted the good doctor’s suggestion, adhering strictly to his formula, with results which we can appreciate to-day in its world-wide fame.  A later seat of its manufacture was the picturesque white cottage of Mrs. Cooper which stood till well within living memory on the slope near where the steps lead up on to Browside, opposite the little round bridewell of “stone-jug still existing.  The ancient cross stood nearly opposite Molly Bushell’s in the village.  Through we must regret its destruction, a good story of its loss is told by an old and reliable Liverpool historian.  Occupying the middle of the roadway, the cross had long been pronounced a nuisance as an obstacle to traffic.  Yet, sentiment or prejudice ran so high that any suggestion to remove it was strongly opposed by many of the villagers.  But one dark and wild stormy night in 1820, after a serious accident had occurred through a collision.  Sir William Shaw, with a companion, stole out in the small hours and together after great effort overthrew it, wheeled away the materials, and hid them in the stone jug while Everton slept.  Next morning, the amazement of the assembled villagers was intense.  Some wiseacre among the simple crowd at last attributed its removal to satanic agency.  This gained credence and so the news spread through Liverpool that the devil had come in a storm and run off with the cross of Everton!  About this date, however, the rustic and rural character of Everton began to charge, for the charm of the hillside attracted merchants from Liverpool, who erected villas on the higher parts.  Later on the whole place fell into the builders’ hands, its scenic glories were gradually obliterated by the maze of streets which now cover it, and so Liverpool lost a splendid lung, or “people’s park.”  The far seen St. George’s Church was consecrated in 1814 as a chapel-of-ease to Walton.  It is called one of Liverpool’s iron churches, because iron enters so largely into its construction.  There is a great deal of stained glass, which gives a highly-coloured effect in sunshine.  The church was planned as a sort of commercial speculation.  James Atherton gave the land, and 11,500 was raised in shares of 100 pound each.  The pew rents were not to total more than 400 pound, or less than 360 pounds per annum, “any profits to be divided among the proprietors.”  But this curious, hard-cash element has long departed.  –HOUBLON

THE THICK AND THIN OF IT
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 20 March 1929
Bee’s Notes
I see you are now in the thick of the periodical massed attack of “Red Hot Blues,”  “White Hot Blues,” and “Blue from Birthites,” which usually follows a couple of Everton defeats (writes “Red, White and Blue’)  At first one is amused then bored stiff, and finally fed up with seeing your valuable space filled with an endless stream of drivel as “Sack the lot,”  “Build round Dean,” Dean is wasted,”  “Why were Dunn and Ritchie brought,”  “Get Jack or James.”  One comes to the eventual conclusion these people’s Blue birth took place in January or February of last year, when the letters were in an entirely different strain, such as praising the foresight of the Everton board in making champions out of relegation candidates.  Were it possible for these men of football intelligence to get control of the Everton Club one wonders how many weeks the club would last! 

TRANMERE AT GOODISON
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 20 March 1929
LIVERPOOL SENIOR CUP SEMI-FINAL
Today Dean made his first appearance against his old club, Tranmere Rovers, when the latter played at Goodison in the semi-final of the Liverpool Senior Cup against a strong Everton team.  Very little interest was taken in the match, and there were not more than 2,000 spectators present when the game started.  Teams; Everton; Davies; Cresswell, Kennedy; Rooney, Dixon, Lewis; Meston, Attwood, Dean, Jones, and Ritchie.  Tranmere Rovers; Briggs; Naylor, Thirkell; Ramber, Jackson, Lewis; Jones, Charlton, S.M. Beswick, Littlehales, and Urmson.  There was a deadness about the game which only mid-week games can produce.  Early on, when Tranmere, all spirit and eagerness, had rather more of the play than their opponents, who were inclined to take things easily.  Jones, Littlehales, and Beswick all had fair chances, but slowness spoiled Littlehales and Jones, and Beswick was inclined to stumble when going forward for a shot.  Briggs made a fine clean catch from a swerving shot by Meston, and after chasing Cresswell and the ball upfield, Beswick was able to help in the forcing of a corner, which produced nothing.  Dean and Jackson was just as keen duelists as though the match was a full-fledged League encounter. 
WEAK FINISHING
Tranmere had many fine chances, but their finishing was so weak that there was never any real danger to Davies, except when Beswick hit the upright; and later, with a shot made on the half turn, caused Davies to move across goal quickly to get down to the ball.  It appeared as though Everton did not want to score first.  Dean did little of note until he made a fine individual effort, which came to nothing at the critical moment.  He had three men guessing with a series of four headers, yet Thirkell took the ball from his feet right in front of goal.  Kennedy and Jones were concerned in a somersaulting episode, and, as a result both were injured, Kennedy’s ribs being hurt badly enough to necessitate the trainer’s attention for five minutes.  Half-time; Everton nil, Tranmere nil. 

EVERTON RESERVES 2 TRANMERE ROVERS 3
March 21 st 1929. The Daily Courier
LIVERPOOL SENIOR CUP SEMI-FINAL
Tranmere Rovers gained a surprise victory in the semi-final of the Liverpool Senior Cup at Goodison Park yesterday, defeating Everton after being a goal behind near the end. All five goals were second in the second half, and there were few exciting moments until near the close. The thousand spectators were rarely thrilled, and enjoyed the policing of Dean, by the youthful Jackson more than anything else. It stands to the credit of Jackson that he did not give the England leader much opportunity to display his capabilities and except for snatches of something out of the ordinary and a goal Dean accomplished little. Tranmere were superior at half-back, for both Lewis and Bamber, on the wings tackled with zest and always used the ball to advantage. It was a wonder that the Rovers' forwards did not do better with such nice basic material. Everton had nothing over the Rovers in defence, either for Naylor and Thirkwell, though ragged, were seldom beaten for possession and kicked strongly all through. The Blues claimed an advantage forward because they combined better. A lot of the inter-passing between the visiting five went astray after the men had displayed good ideas. Meston and Attwood were the pick of the home forwards, the former play being dainty and effective. Attwood shot hard and well when occasion demanded. Jones opened up splendidly, but faded out of the picture later.
DEAN'S GLIDE.
The Rovers were the first to score, Littlehale's dashing in to send home a centre from Urmson with his body, but a few minutes Everton were level, Jackson placing a corner from Meston into his own goal. Attwood opened up the way for Dean to glide the ball past Briggs, and then Beswick, the amateur equalised with the most spectacular goal of the game. Bamber swung the ball towards goal, and just as one thought it was flying wide Beswick threw himself out full length and headed into the net. Jones, who had previously squandered several good chances ran through on his own to notch the winning point. Teams : - Everton: - Davies, goal, Cresswell and Kennedy, backs, Rooney, Dixon, and Lewis, half-backs, Meston Attwood, Dean, Jones, and Ritchie, forwards. Tranmere Rovers: - Briggs, goal, Naylor, and Thirkwell, backs, Bamber, Jackson and Lewis, half-backs, Jones Charlton, Beswick, Littlehales and Urmson, forwards.

EVERTON MAKE NO CHANGE V. CARDIFF
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 21 March 1929
Bee’s Notes
Tranmere beat Everton-yes, Everton’s senior side; not all of them, but a goodly number of them- and the crowd looked on and wondered.  It is not the first time we have seen such an earthquake; I remember Tom Jones leaving Everton for St. Helens and scoring a goal that sent Everton out of the Lancashire Cup.  I published a placard, “Sensational dismissal of Everton,” and was accused of wrong diction, the idea being that it would give the Everton followers a belief that “Everton were discharging one of their officials.”  Oh, memory!  Tranmere had not been doing well this season, and one of their supporters asked that I should go and see them and give them caustic criticism.  Sir, I have none, after seeing them beat Everton.  Many a minor would have given up hope after missing so many good chances and then finding themselves down 2-1 with only five minutes to go.  They were facing famous names and a forward who was once their joy- Dean.  They were facing odds of almost “Lincoln” and certainly “handicapping” strength.  But Tranmere earned this win if only for their steadfastness; I like the spirit of the men who play on against odds.  They sank the final putt- Everton lipped the hole, or rather pushed the ball to the crossbar.  There was a steadiness in defence where the Third Division side was concerned that pleased me.  But their forwards were not strong finishers.  The display of Urmson, for instances, was quaintly mixed; his finishing was all too close- he would try to keep the ball parallel to Davies in his centres instead of playing for safely and pulling the ball, as one Meredith did all his life without finding any copyists. 
SOME USEFUL PLAYERS
I should imagine a side that can put up as many away victories as Tranmere have put up in recent weeks has no call for caustic criticism; rather should they be encouraged to go further ahead.  Tranmere, like Wrexham, is in the “aged class,” and should by now be making a mark in Division Two.  They have had the players and they have sold their greatest men.  But there are others in the making; let the club think that over and ponder over money as compared to position in the football world.  There was much to interest in the game at Goodison, even if we except a drab period of the first half, when Everton were riding easy.  Eventually Everton were led into the pressing stage, and you know how hard it is to lose ground when your confidence and a goal-balance has gone.  Beswick had few chances, yet dived in to make a grand goal; Jones squeezed one through after far too much play had gone to the left-Charlton and Jones were insufficiently worked.  Littlehales always puts up a bonny show for me, and the half back strength of Tranmere has always been a commanding force.  I had not seen the brother of James Jackson before- he is a goer, and though he scored against his own side he saved his goalkeeper at a later point, and no one could stop Dean getting his one goal against his former comrades.  Jackson is a tough customer who relies upon sweeping centres to the wing- not a bad policy, if varied at times; and he heads quickly and well, having height to carry him through –no one would have dreamed he would out-head Dean, for instance, by inches.  But this was not a Dean day; indeed the Everton forward line was held easily and the line as a line, was a disappointment.  I like the dogged Lewis as a half-back, converted from the outside left berth; and his namesake of Tranmere was perhaps the best half on the field- a powerful attacker and defender.  No one shot as hard as Jackson, however, and Cresswell did well to head this ball away, Attwood, like Everton’s Lewis was out of his known position, and when Jones and Meston changed places, and on remembered Ritchie as outside left, one began to wonder if any more positional changes would be made.  Everton have found some winners this way, but I fear there are too many efforts with players.  Injuries to other players may have forced their hands I cannot say –but I mention it in fairness to the selectors.  Tranmere should take heart by this victory; it was well won, hard won; the forward five have only to take the ordinary chances of goal-getting to make some enlivening margins in their favour.  The rear portion is all right, and the half-back line is the backbone of the eleven.
Everton (v. Cardiff City).- Davies; Common, O’Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart; Critchley, Easton, White, Martin, and Troup.  Reserves (v. Villa Reserves, at Goodison, 3.15).- Sagar; Cresswell, Kennedy; Rooney, Dixon, Lewis, Meston, Forshaw, Attwood, Jones and Ritchie. 

EVERTON’S NEW KEEPER
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 21 March 1929
Everton F.C, have signed up on a professional form Edward Sagar, the young goalkeeper they have had on trial for a few weeks.  Sagar, who is 19 years of age, scales 11st 4lbs, and stands 5ft 10ins, and has the reputation of being one of the best young goalkeepers in Yorkshire.  His previous club was Thorne Colliery, Doncaster.  In his two trial games he has given impressive exhibitions.

YOUNG GOALKEEPER FOR EVERTON
Hartlepool Mail-Friday 22 March 1929
E. Sagar, a young goalkeeper from Thorne Collierv F.C., near Doncaster, was yesterday signed by Everton as a professional. Sagar, who has had two trials with the Central league team, is 19 years of age, and stand- 5ft. 10in and weighs list. 11st 4lb.

BEES NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Friday 22 March 1929
Everton go to Cardiff there to tackle a side that is fighting for its very existence in football’s charmed circle.  Cardiff, having beaten Sheffield Wednesday readily, must be a hard nut for the Everton side, who have, strangely enough, shown better form away from home than at home.  Let us hope they keep up the good work for a day longer, anyway.  Everton; Davies; Common, O’Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart; Critchley, Easton, White, Martin, Troup. 

EVERTON LEAGUE TASK
March 23 rd 1929. The Daily Courier.
CARDIFF CITY IN A DESPERATE MOOD
Everton undertake a League expedition to Cardiff when the spreading shadows of relegation looms menacingly in their distress Cradiff as is the case with so many other teams, can knock the shine off the most polished sides, as witness their performance. The Goodison Park side, without Dean may not have the inspiration to rise to the serious occasion and Cardiff may obtain revenge for the beating in the first game, last November. The kick off is at 3-15; and the teams are: - Everton; Davies; Common and O'Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart; Critchley, Easton, White, Martin, Troup. Cardiff City; Farquharson; Jennings, Roberts, Wake, Keener, Blackburn; Thirlaway, Harris, Munro, Davies (L), Warren.

EVERTON ONE UP
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 23 March 1929
EASTON’S CLEVER GOAL
CARDIFF DESPERATION
NINIAN PARK SIDE MISS CHANCES
By Stork
Everton; Davies; Common, O’Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart; Critchley, Easton, White, Martin, Troup.  Cardiff City; Farqualarson; Jennings, Roberts; Moss, Kennor, Blackburn; Matson, Harris, Munro, Davies (L), Warren.  Referee; Mr. W. Thomas, Walsall.  South Wales was bathed in brilliant sunshine.  Ninian Park from the crow’s nest looked in grand trim, and the turf is just as good as it looks.  Cardiff’s position was deperate, and a victory today was keenly desired.  They have been making wholesale changes in recent weeks, in the hope that there would be a change of fortune.  Their defeat of the League leaders, Sheffield Wednesday, was one of their best performances, and helped considerably, but they have still a hard task ahead.  Thirlaway missed his first match of the season and Watson came in as his deputy. Moss also resumed after his injury, and it was anticipated that his presence would stiffen the defence.  Everton played in white with blue facings.  Part from relegation worries, the Cardiff officials are also worried about their gates, which have seen a marked falling off, the average striking 12,000.  Cardiff were set to face the sun, but they were the first to make a serious move, in which they were helped by some faulty Everton passes, and when O’Donnell headed away he gave Harris an opening which was not turned to account. 
TROUP SLIPS IN.
Easton and White retaliated with a neat passing movement, which ended when White headed the ball to the inside left position which was, however, vacant at the moment.  Troup, with some dazzling footwork, slipped his way past both Moss and Jennings, but in trying a backheel, he did not put enough power behind his touch, and Moss was able to nip in and clear.  Munro, who figured in the St. Johnstone side, at Anfield, last season, and who has not been very successful since he arrived, was rather cumbersome in his movements, and was not nearly so clever with the ball as Scotsmen generally are.  He was rather easily held, but he got in one shot of some power, which Davies saved. 
EASTON GOALS
Then came a goal to Everton at the eleventh minute.  Troup tricked Jennings, who fell, and, pulling his centre so that it would avoid the ruck, gave Easton a perfect opening, and the clever inside right hit a great drive, which had Farquharson well beaten.  Munro, who is of the hefty sort, was not in the last bit afraid to use his weight.  Once he went solidly into Davies, but he usually found Griffiths, O’Donnell, and Common too much for him.  He did, however, show that he would take any sore of chance, and one of them, when he had his back to the goal, was not many yards out.  O’Donnell was playing a sound, defensive game, but he once put our hearts in our mouths when he started to dribble in front of goal.  He accomplished what he set out to achieve and beat three opponents in doing it, but it was very risky.  Martin’s value was seen in the way he swept the ball out to the opposite wings, while he gave White a chance with a neat little touch.
CHANCE OF A LIFETIME
It was Harris, however, who had the chance of a lifetime, after Davies had made a punch away.  He had all the goal to shoot at, but to the consternation of all, he banged the ball over the bar.  White, with a snap drive, nearly scored, for the ball had the beating of Farquharson if it had not pulled a trifle. 
EVERTON WIN AWAY
EASTON SCORES AN EARLY GOAL
WHITE SUPPLEMENTS
CARDIFF CITY NOW IN DIRE STRAITS
Munro’s value was his shot, for he displayed no ball control whatever.  He once got clean through, and should have scored, but shot wide.  It had to be said, however, that he was harassed by O’Donnell and Griffiths.  White was injured in collision, and had to leave the field for a short spell, and immediately he resumed Cardiff set up a determined attack which put much work on to the Everton defence.  The chief fear was Munro, for he was the one man likely to force a way through.  When Davies had to make a catch from Matson, Warren crashed into him and went flying over the goalkeeper’s back, Davies being hurt in the episode.  Play for some minutes got a wee bit rough.  Cardiff, if their football was not skilful were progressive, and Warren was offered some tempting passes, but the Everton defence was able to withstand their shock tactics, although O’Donnell once headed over his own goalkeeper’s head for a corner. 
HALF AN INCH OUT
Critchley’s speed was too much for Blackburn and Roberts, and after one long dribble he made a shot, but there was not sufficient power behind it to beat Farquharson.  With one minute remaining, White was half an inch out with a shot from five yards out.  He stuck the crossbar.  It had not been a classic half and considering the chances that Cardiff had, they should have held a lead, but in the question of football Everton were superior.  Their defence had many awkward moments.  Half-time; Cardiff City 0, Everton 1.
Cardiff opened briskly, yet it was Everton who suggested a goal.  Troup made a great shot just as he was given offside and Critchley once again failed to get any steam behind a shooting effort.  The next five minutes were anxious ones for Everton, for Cardiff were full of fight.  Len Davies brushed his way through and neatly slipped the ball to Munro, but before he could get himself settled he was robbed and O’Donnell, in his eagerness to clear gave away a corner.  Warren made such excellent use of flag kicks that there was always a danger in them, and Blackburn, through having a shot cannoned out, gained another corner for his side.  Having got over this onslaught Everton attacked, and Easton shot wide.  Len Davies was Cardiff’s schemer in attack, and a goal should have followed some clever work of his when Warren centred and three of his own forwards were waiting the ball’s arrival. 
IN RELEGATION THROES
Munro was the first to miss it, Harris also let it beat him, but even then there was a chance if Matson could have hit a true ball.  Cardiff, like most teams in the throes of relegation, found that things would not go their way.  It was not for want of trying that they failed, for they were tireless in their endeavours, and Davies had to save from Warren.  Munro at this point was rendered useless.  He could not trap a ball, neither could he shot and was also slow off the mark.  Harris’ shooting was also feeble.  He had a gift opening only to shoot wide.  White should have had a goal after a good run and centre by Critchley.  He had time to steady the ball and take deliberate aim, but hit a first timer and Farquharson saved.  With one minute to play Everton scored a second goal through White.  Final; Cardiff City 0, Everton 2. 

EVERTON RES V ASTON VILLA
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 23 March 1929
Everton attacked at the start, but Arnfield quickly transferred play to the other end, where Peed shot over.  Even play followed for a time, and after Jones (Everton) had seen a strong shot go over the bar, the Villa opened out play, but Arnfield was pulled up close to the line.  Tully and Houghton were two dangerous wingers on the visitors’ left.  A corner to Everton saw Ritchie’s corner go abegging, the ball travelling past the open goal.  Forshaw and Jones were showing up prominently for the home side.  Half-time;- No score. 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Ech0- Saturday, March 23 1929
By Louis T. Kelly

CARDIFF CITY 0 EVERTON 2
March 25 TH 1929. The Daily Courier.
EVERTON NAIL FOR THE CARDIFF COFFIN
GOALS BY EASTON AND WHITE AT NINIAN PARK
NO INSPIRATION IN HOME ATTACK.
Everton, playing well, and utilising every chance, put an nail in the Cardiff's coffin at Ninian Park, where the same old story could be said about the home team's weakness. This is the Champions' third “double” of the campaign, and the valuable points secured places them in a position safe from all matters. This in itself is a great comfort to the management who must fell that there means by keeping a winning team together was wholly justified. The team showed splendid exhibition of cool, methodical football, and the only wonder was why they did not obtain more goals. Cardiff were determined and full of fight, but they lacked the means in attack which means goals. It is true that Len Davies played some good football and was virtually the leader, but Munro was very weak. Everton obtained their goals by snapping up chances eagerly, the first was scored after 11 minutes, when Easton turned a centre from Troup into the net, and in the last minute White placed beyond the reach of Farquaharson, close in. Everton were strong, particularly the half-backs. The City were the first to attack, a weak tackle by Kelly letting Len Davies through, Davies saving on the goal line. Munro next had a chance to test Davies, but Len Davies got right in the way of his shot. Everton participated in some neat methodical passing, and White shot outside from the edge of the penalty area. There was little life about the proceedings. It was drawing-room football. Everton attacked in more methodical style, their passing being well directed, and White was always ready for the burst between the backs, Munro beat Common in a heading bout, only to drive straight at Davies. Everton returned to the attack after scoring their first goal, and White shot over from an awkward position. The City strove hard to get going, and succeeded when Munro and Harris broke clear, but O'Donnell saved the situation. O'Donnell came to the rescue again a few seconds later, robbing Matson when the winger had got into a dangerous position. White got through from a pass by Martin, only to strike the upright. Cardiff all but equalised when Davies kicked the ball out to Harris, but his shot skimmed the crossbar.
WHITE HURT.
Everton, by good football, maintained their superiority, but the game had become so quick that it bordered on the uncanny. White was injured and had to go to the touchline. During his absence Munro ran clear and drove just wide of the post. Davies, and Munro had an argument over the taking of goalkicks, and the home forwards backed up their leader by storming tactics, but Davies and Co, Stood steady. Common's nose was bleeding when the teams retired, this being due to his getting in the way of a fast one from Warren. Everton maintained their first half superiority after the interval, and Martin had a couple of likely shots charged down. Critchley dropped over a lovely centre, which the inside man allowed to run to farquharson. The crowd expected something when Matson placed a perfect corner, but Davies fielded like a cricketer. This was the beginning of a City revival. Cardiff should have equalised from another opening. Matson had the hardest of luck, just skimming the bar with a fine shot. Everton were then packing their goal in rare style against the quick-moving Citzens, and they were doing it well.
VALUE OF TEAM SPIRIT.
The Champions have not given such a workman like exhibition for many weeks, this being partly due to the willingness and honesty of purpose of the eleven. They were all in sympathy with one another, and their victory is an excellent example of the value of team sit. Had they not thought so much of defence in the second half one feels that they would have won by three or four goals. When they forced the pace City were never in it. Cardiff should have obtained goals during this half, but their finishing efforts were positively indicrous. Anything said to the detriment of the Blues would be unjustified. The defence was as solid as the proverbial brick wall, with O'Donnell the most prominent he had a grand partner in Common, who is improving with every game. The half-backs were the chief schemers, who formulated the moves, and they did it well. Kelly worked very hard, and saved many a situation by his quick incline intervention, and Hart was a master purveyor of a pass. Griffiths concentrated more on the defence them usually, and here he made not a mistake. It would be unfair to particularize among the forwards, because they all did well and played for the team not self. Teams : - Cardiff City: - Farquharson, goal, Jenning and Roberts, backs, Moss, Kennor, and Blackburn, half-backs, Maston, Harris, Munro, Davies, Warren, forwards. Everton: - Davies, Common and O'Donnell, backs, Kelly, Griffiths, and Hart (captain), half-backs, Critchley, Eatson, White, Martin, and Troup, forwards.

ASTON VILLA RESERVES 3 EVERTON RESERVES 0
March 25 th 1928. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 35)
The Villa served up the sparkling football at Villa Park , and fully merited their decisive victory. Everton had the share of the initial game, but many attackers came to nothing. Villa were awarded a penalty kick, Houghton took the kick and scored from the rebound after Sagar saved magnificently. Turnbull and Tully scored for the Villa.

CARDIFF MUST LEARN LESSON
Athletic News - Monday 25 March 1929
By Cymro
It is the irony of fate that Cardiff City should have been forced to capitulate to Everton after a strenuously fought contest in which the balance of play had been much in their favour.  Too late in the season now to point to the many faults that have featured their efforts.  They are faced with relegation unless the totally unexpected happens and appreciation of the fact that important issues are decided by goal scoring and not by artistic manceuvring in midfield comes all too late to secure retention of position in First Division football next season.  Their weakness against Everton is one that has manifested itself long since.  It is weakness in front of goal, and attributable to lack of opportunism, hesitance, or even want of ability.  There was so much at stake in the game from Cardiff City’s point of view that the event had the importance of a Cup-tie, a knock-out affair, and the Welsh team fielded with the knowledge that less than complete success spelt disaster.  Gone long since are the days when heedlessness of result to develop a carefree style that brings out the best in the team.  The City’s task when meeting Everton was one of grim determination, and sight must not be lost of the fact that they were heavily handicapped by the fear of consequence. 
MAKING TOO SURE
This was apparent during the course of the game, when one or two players in attempting to make doubly sure when essaying a shot for goal delayed the drive and lost possession.  Not so burdened were Everton, and even though their early score, gained by Easton after fourteen minutes was the reward of smart work by Troup and a perfect shot, the balance of play had not been in their favour.  Hard-fought the match certainly was, yet there were there so many bright incidents in which a high standard was attained in ball control that it was never allowed to become uninteresting through the development of kick-and-rush tactics.  Cardiff should have scored first, but Munro missed a chance with a header, and Harris also was presented with a gilt-edged scoring opportunity that went unutilized.  Almost the final kick of the match increased Everton’s early lead, and White scored at close range.  It was irony of fate that Cardiff’s best midfield work failed to produce the desired benefit to a deserving effort.  They made openings, and it could not be said that all their attempts at scoring were faulty, though there were occasions when the slightest bit of luck might have enabled them to beat a strong set of defenders.  It seemed, too, that their greatest opposition was Griffiths; the Welsh centre half-back, who kept a grip on Munro and gave him little room to move.  It was due to this close attention at times that he was made to appear weaker than he actually was.  His thrust was worth something to the side, but he needed a little more subtlety to outwit Griffiths
MASTERLY LEN DAVIES
No player displayed greater skill than Len Davies, but his masterly ball control and strategy in approach was worth a far better result than was gained.  Cardiff compared unfavorably with Everton in match-winning essentials; that is Everton were a menace within shooting range, whereas Cardiff could not be so described.  Their forwards were quicker off the mark, and in making quick transfers they often spread-eagled the home defence.  The trend of play is certainly not accurately reflected in the final score, but the issue is decided by goals, and Everton accepted the fewer opportunities that came their way.  Everton had an outstanding man in Griffiths, whilst O’Donnell and Hart put in much good work in defence.  Troup came most into prominence in the forward line, though Critchley made us of his great pace, and both wings were given support by their colleagues.  White was an alert centre-forward, but in the main it was the occasional raid that brought out the best in Everton’s front rank.  Cardiff City;- Farquharson; Jennings, Roberts; Moss, Kennor, Blackburn; Watson, Harris, Munro, Davies (L), and Warren.  Everton; Davies; Common, O’Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart; Critchley, Easton, White, Martin, and Troup.  Referee; Mr. W. Thomas, Walsall. 

EVERTON’S GOOD WIN
Liverpool Echo - Monday 25 March 1929
By Stork
LIGHTNING GOAL
CARDIFF CITY’S EXPENSIVE FAILURE
Cardiff City’s stock dropped two more points through their defeat by Everton, and they are now in a precarious position, and it will need a super-human effort, such as that made by Sheffield Wednesday last season, to get them out of their trouble.  I doubt, however, if they are capable of emulating the Yorkshire side’s feat, for they are but a poor team, and their display on Saturday does not suggest that they will win many matches.  They are up against it, and they know it, and that makes their task all the more difficult for it brought into their play a style which is not commensurate with their reputation.  I can recall a former meeting with Everton and the City, which was voted the best ever, and no goals were scored either.  Nowadays, Cardiff are battling against odds, which nearly always has an unsettling effect, and they are playing but poor class football, giving the ball the “boot” instead of working it, while their shooting has gone to pot. 
ABOUT MUNRO
Munro, the Scot, from St. Johnstone, was signed to put punch into the attack, but so far he has failed dismally, and has yet to open his account, although he has participated in six matches.  He was hopeless in this game, although for ten minutes he promised to be a source of trouble to the Everton defence, not because of his football, but because of his shot.  After that he fizzled out, and I have never seen a Scot with so little craft.  They can generally weedle and turn with a ball, but this young man could do nothing but hit it, and even then without direction.  He was not alone in this respect, for Harris was just as bad, and Len Davies was the only man with any ideas in the front rank.  Everton played pretty football in the first half, when all five forwards kept in a line and Easton had scored a goal, but after the interval, for some reason or other Martin and Easton and sometimes Alex Troup, went into defence, which very often left White and Critchley the only forwards to deal with the Cardiff defenders, so was it any wonder that the Citizens monopolized the play.  There was no need for it, for the Welsh attack was not a dangerous one, and O’Donnell, Common, and Griffiths nearly always had it well in hand, but afterwards the Everton defence was crowded, which was a hindrance rather than a help. 
EVERTON’S ATTACK
Everton’s attack was always dangerous when working in a line even through White and others missed scoring chances, but none of them missed such easy chances as those offered to Munro and Harris.  It was pitiable to see Len Davies striving, and succeeding, in giving his colleagues positions only to see them frittered away.  A lot of credit for Cardiff’s failure was due to O’Donnell, who, on present form, has no superior at left-back, and Common, who is improving with each game.  He kicked cleanly, confidently, and tackled with judgement, but the man who has “settled” Everton is Griffiths, who must be as good as any centre-half playing at the moment.  Then there was Davies, who had not a lot of shots to deal with.  He had, however, some awkward centres to turn out.  The way he caught and cleared one from Warren was a sight to behold. 

DEAN IN RESERVES X1
March 27 th 1929. The Daily Courier.
EVERTON CENTRE FOR CENTRAL LEAGUE
HOLIDAY GAMES.
Dean, Everton famous International Centre-forward is included in the Resevrss team to meet Blackpool at Goodison Park on Friday.
EVERTON TEAM.
The Everton team to meet Sunderland at Sunderland on Good Friday will be the same eleven who beat Cardiff on Saturday last; Davies; Common, O'Donnell; Kelly, Griffiths, Hart; Critchley, Easton, White, Martin, Troup. The same team will also play at Goodison park against Derby County on Tuesday. Everton have arranged to play a friendly with Motherwell (Scottish League Division One) at Goodison park on Monday (Kick off 3-15), and the team well be: - Sagar; Cresswell, Kennedy; Rooney, Forshaw, Lewis; Meston, Dunn, Dean Ritchie, Stein. The Everton Reserves team against Blackpool at Goodison Park on Friday will be Sagar; Cresswell, Kennedy; Rooney, Dixon, Lewis; Meston, Dunn, Dean, Ritchie, Stein. There will be changes in the attack in the Everton Reserves team against Wolverhampton at Wolverhampton on Saturday. Sagar; Cresswell, Kennedy; Rooney, Dixon, Lewis; Meston, Webster, Attwood, Jones, Stein.

MAMMOTH RESERVE SIDE INCLUDES DEAN, CRESSWELL, RITCHIE, AND DUNN
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 27 March 1929
Bee’s Notes
Everton’s holiday programme is a fairly heavy one, embracing as it does three First Division matches and a friendly game with Motherwell.  On Friday they go to Sunderland to tackle the side which may still press Sheffield Wednesday, the leaders, while on Saturday the champions face Sheffield United at Goodison Park, and on Tuesday they are due to oppose Derby County at the Baseball Grounds.  For these important engagements the directors have decided to reply on the team which won at Cardiff, White still leading the line.  The team is; Davies; Common, O’Donnell; Kelly, Grififths, Hart; Critchley, Easton, White, Martin, Troup.   Dean is to appear in the reserve team on Friday (kick-off 3.15) against Blackburn at Goodison Park. It is a long time since the international centre-forward participated in a Central League match, but it will afford him an opportunity of getting back to his old form.  Dunn and Ritchie are also included in the side, and the team is; Sagar; Cresswell, Kennedy; Rooney, Dixon, Lewis; Meston, Dunn, Dean, Ricthie, Stein.  Against Wolverhampton Wanderers, on Saturday, at Wolverhampton, the Central League match eleven will be; Sagar; Cresswell, Kennedy; Rooney, Dixon, Lewis; Meston, Webster, Attwood, Jones, Stein. 
SCOT’S TEAM’S VISIT
That famous Scottish First League team, Motherwell, provides the opposition to Everton on Easter Monday at Goodison Park.  This should prove a most attractive fixture as the Fir Park eleven are reckoned one of the finest exponents of football figuring in the Scottish First League competition.  They have wonderfully clever frontals, and in Stevenson and Ferrier possess the best left wing pair in Scots football today.  All the cajoleries of the English agents have failed to induce Motherwell to separate this great wing pair.  Ferrier, the captain of the side, has for the past two seasons been the highest scoring wing forward in Scottish football.  His total “bag” to date is 24 goals.  Last season he had 27 to his credit.  Here is Motherwell’s usual side, which will take the field against Everton on Easter Monday;-
McClory; Johnman and Frame; McFadyen, Craig, and McNeil; Murdoch, McMenemy, Tennant, Stevenson, and Ferrier.  Everton’s team will be; Sagar; Cresswell, Kennedy; Rooney, Forshaw, Lewis; Meston, Dunn, Dean, Ritchie, Stein.  It is interesting to see Forshaw at centre-half, a position he has previously filled, and he is likely to do well against the Scots. 

SUNDERLAND 2 EVERTON 2
March 30 th 1929. The Daily Courier.
OFFSIDE GOAL DEPRIVES EVERTON OF AWAY WIN
QUEER ROKER PARK DECISION
CROWD OF 40,000 SURPRISED WHEN HALLIDAY'S EQUALISER.
TOUCH OF THE OLD EVERTON.
SUNDERLAND CENTRE REGISTERS HIS 300 TH GOAL.
Everton were deprived of victory over Sunderland at Roker Park by a goal that was so offside that the crowd of 40,000 roared in surprise when the referee signalled a good point. Halliday was the scorer, but he so fairly revealed his offside position that he only gave the ball a parting kick into the net for the fun of the thing. Davies was equally certain of the offside position of his opponent, and made no attempt to intercepted. Five minutes earlier Halliday had netted legitimately, and in so doing registered his 300 th goal in first class football. It was a fast and delightful game throughout, and right from that start Everton shaped like easy winners. They were two goals to the good before Halliday opened Sunderland's account and played with machine-like precision. Easton scored after 11 minutes from a pass by White, and five minutes later Martin netted a second goal after clever maneuvering by Hart.
WHITE'S DASH.
White led his line with commentate dash, his distribution to the wingmen being particularly fine. Troup was the live wire of the Everton attack, and made short work of the opposition of Clunas, who was beaten in every encounter between the part. The Everton halves were as effective in attack as they were in defence, the pivotal work of Griffiths being great. He never relaxed his grip on the redoubtable Halliday, who was further handicapped by indifferent support from his wings. Wright was his most virile partner, but his lack of judgement at critical moments nullified all the enthusiasm he displayed. Common and O'Donnell put up a stonewall type of defence that neither of the Sunderland wings could overcome. Davies, as a consequence, rarely came into action, but excepting the mistake in not stopping Halliday's offside shot he made no serious blunders. The first goal that did get past him from the Wearside leader was of the nonstop type, and scored while the Sunderland sharpshooters was on the run. Everton's positional play confounded their rivals in every section of the field, and it was only the first-time tackling in England that barred them from piling up a large score. McInroy in the Sunderland goal ferred badly when allowed Martin's shot to slip past him. Teams: - Sunderland: - McInroy, goal, Murray and England backs, Clunas, Allan, and Andrews, half-backs, Robinson, McKay, Halliday, Wright and McLean forwards. Everton: - Davies, goal, Common and O'Donnell, backs, Kelly, Griffiths, and Hart (captain), half-backs, Critchley, Easton, White, Martin, and Troup. forwards.

SUNDERLAND AND EVERTON DRAW.
Yorkshire Post-Saturday 30 March
Sunderland and Everton drew their encounter. each side scoring two goals at Sunderland before 38,000 spectators. Combining neatly Everton scored two fine goals through Easton and Martin before Halliday' equalised, his second goal coming when the Everton defenders thought him offside. Play was not so good the second half. Sunderland attacked more often, but their finishing was poor, and neither goalkeeper was seriously troubled, the backs giving them good cover.

EVERTON RESERVES 4 BLACKPOOL RESERVES 0
March 30 th 1929. The Liverpool Post and Mercury
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 36)
Everton strengthened by the inclusion of Dean, Dunn, Ritchie, and Cresswell, accomplished an easy performance's in defeating Blackpool, but the visitors deserved a warm praise for the determined manner, which they fought in the second half when faced with a four-goal deficit. During this period they harassed the home defence, and Blackpool's Ritchie hit the upright, and Oxberry hit the crossbar, whilst Sagar made a number if fine saves. Cresswell's and Kennedy's fine defensive work was to much for a virile attack, while Dean by judicious hardwork and, distributive play, pared the way to a goal-although Meston was a really fine solo effort. The Blackpool keeper made a brilliant save from Dunn. The scores were, Dean, Ritchie, Dean and Meston. Taylor, Oxberry, and Robinson were prominent for Blackpool. Everton: - Sagar, goal, Cresswell and Kennedy, backs, Rooney, Dixon and Lewis, half-backs, Meston, Dunn, Dean, Ritchie and Stein, forwards.

EVERTON F.C.
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 30 March 1929
TWO CHANGES AGAINST SHEFFIELD U
EASTON AS HALF-BACK
O’DONNELL CAPTAINS SIDE FOR FIRST TIME
By Bees
Everton; Davies; Common, O’Donnell (captain); Kelly, Griffiths, Easton; Critchley, Dunn, White, Martin, Troup.  Sheffield United; Wharton; Gibson (J.R); Chandler; Sampy, Matthews, Green, S. Gibson, Phillipson, Johnson, Gillespie, Tunstall.  Everton introduced a new captain in their team to-day in O’Donnell, and the cheery Gateshead lad must have been very proud of the reception he received when he tossed the coin with Gillespie of Sheffield United.  Everton’s month of success had made a new interest in the side, and it was unfortunate that any alteration should have been necessary.  Hart could not play, so clever Easton became a half-back, and Dunn, who played so well yesterday in the reserve side, got a show at inside right.  There were 28,000 people present at the start.  Dunn was a busy man in the initial play.  Everton had a good send-off through the strong sun beating at their backs, but Tunstall was, as usual, an ever-present danger.  Easton took a free kick of deadly slowness, but did not lose the situation, and eventually came into a forward burst and stopped, the ball cannoning against Gibson, and Wharton, relative of y old colleague chum, Athersmith, had to reach forward to prevent White from scoring. 
MAN OVERBOARD!
He made a nice one-handed punch over the bar from Troup for a corner, and from this corner the goalkeeper made a save in spite of being charged overboard by White.  Phillipson produced some of his Wolverhampton shooting form, and Critchley much doggedness and wise centre.  No one went nearer than Phillipson with a lovely drive just a trifle too high.  O’Donnell made a hook back at a bad angle, amid difficulties, which brought the crowd into a rapturous mood, and he also got in the way of a Tunstall shot rather luckily, I thought.  Chandler brought in two superb pieces of defence to save a goal after Martin had been very canny in his clever movement of the ball, and from a corner Griffiths showed one of his star acts, heading the ball three times and bringing it to the ground to make a drop shot.  Everton could count themselves highly fortunate when Tunstall centred, and Common used his wrist in the penalty area without suffering a spot-kick.  Referee Bowie started by giving an offside decision which struck one as in error, but this penalty incident, in my estimation, was emphatic.  Davies seemed to have come too far out of his goal when Phillipson shot, but the Wallasey boy’s long reach enabled him to recover and to cover the ball.
ERRORS AND CHANCES
Wharton should have had no chance when martin crossed the mouth of the goal and lofted the ball, while Harry Johnson was unbalanced in a somewhat similar opening.  Dunn tried a long shot, and Davies, charged out of possession, used his long legs to kick clear.  There were further mistakes when Phillipson kicked round the ball, and Kelly spurned the ball in front of his own goalkeeper.  Indeed, Sheffield were rather unfortunate to be without a lead.  S. Gibson was crowded out and pushed over when a corner-kick to Tunstall had been placed with the man’s customary length, strength, and direction.  Everton had further escapes when Tunstall kicked the bar, and Gibson pushed the ball across the face of the goal; also when Gibson took up the running through O’Donnell slipping up and foolishly the Sheffield man shot instead of passing to Johnson, and making the simplest of goals.  Sheffield United were well on top for half an hour, and they were encouraged to attack when O’Donnell, after a particularly brilliant effort against the home man, Gibson, found himself challenged afresh by the outside right and passed the ball to Easton, whose dalliance gave Sheffield a chance they did not accept. 
GRIFFITHS OUTWITTED
Everton’s nearest approach to scoring was from a corner, which Griffiths headed as though sure of a goal, and Wharton sprang across to the right and cut short the Welshman’s joy.  Sheffield had a remarkable chance when Tunstall had the field to himself, but the ball in the semi-cricket pitch condition kicked awkwardly and instead of shooting, he had to make a pass, at which point the referee intervened on the score of offside.  This was a real let-off.  Johnson was cut down by the force of a charge by Griffiths and the game was stopped while Johnson shook a leg attended by his father, the trainer.  What happened then to lead the referee to give a free-kick-and not a penalty –two yards inside the penalty area was beyond my ken. 
GOAL BY PHILLIPSON
If it had been an offence of carrying against the goalkeeper, all well and good, but Davies did not handle the ball.  The crowd looked on in astonishment, and Tunstall, instead of making a flash drive, turned the ball to Phillipson, who scored, Davies having no chance to move because he was attended by one of his own side, and Johnson, using his brain box, stood in front of Davies.  Without explanation from the referee no one could say how this free kick in the penalty area came about.  All that we do know is that Phillipson scored, and Sheffield were worth the score.  It is possible that dangerous play was the explanation of the free kick, but the one failed to see any danger except to Everton’s hopes.  Everton claimed a penalty for hands, the referee said “No,” after consultation with the linesman, and Davies made a lovely one-hand push-away when the Sheffield team seemed certain of increasing the lead.  Apart from the first goal, the feature of the match was the magnificent catching of Davies.  Half-time; Everton 0, Sheffield U 1. 
EVERTON SHOCKED
VICTORY FOR UNITED OF SHEFFIELD
JOHNSON ON THE MARK
CROWD’S ATTITUDE TO DUNN
The referee explained that he gave the free kick against Griffiths for dangerous play, but I required all around me and could find no one to suggest that Griffiths had in any way been dangerous.  The second half began with Everton facing the sun, and the two centre-halves using their great height against their rivals when the ball was in the air.  Critchley awakened the crowd of some 30,000 people by making a strong shot when he was out of place, and when the shot was no more than a yard out of the goalmouth.  White was near an equalizer.  Much nearer was the run by Gibson, who this time forsook selfishness and passed square for Johnson, who unaccountably plugged the ball over the bar. 
UNITED TWO UP
In some poor football the dexterous Sheffield side became unnerved, and the goalkeeper completely missed the ball when Critchley dragged it across the goalmouth.  Even so, Everton could not equalize, Martin kicking-overboard.  Having got over this escape, Sheffield went on to score through Johnson.  Phillipson made a nice square pass, but Johnson was never happy as when he shot, he only half hit the ball which, however, touched Davies’ hand and entered the right-hand side of the net.  O’Donnell topped the ball with a free-kick, and Gillespie, on behalf of the opposition, drove in the best shot of the match, the ball travelling a trifle too high. 
DOUBLE BY JOHNSON
Gibson, at outside right was now playing enlivening football, and the Everton defence was faulted in the matter of positional play.  When Johnson scored a third for his side after 60 minutes he had to thank Tunstall for his part in the proceedings.  The effect of this goal, which Johnson took deliberately and cleverly was a reshuffling of the Everton team. 
ALTERED FORMATION
White went to left half-back, Martin centre-forward, and Easton inside-left, and it must be said that these changes brought some fire onto the Everton attack; in fact, Sheffield were lucky to escape being debited with a goal.  The prize deficit was an Easter egg for Sheffield and a great blow for Everton.  The crowd was unkind towards Dunn, but was appreciative of Troup’s effort when he ran to centre-forward and was only prevented from scoring through Sampy coming across.  A free kick taken by O’Donnell hurt Matthews but produced no second free kick, although Gillespie was within three yards of the taker of the free kick.  Johnson netted again through White being too confident in front of his own goal, and Everton were saved by an offside decision.  Dunn could hardly be accepted to play well now because he had a first-class tackle of the fickleness of the public which gave him what is known as “the bird” every time he went near the ball. 
GOAL BY TROUP
Martin was very near converting a Troup offering.  Troup relieved the tension a trifle by dragging the ball through to score a popular goal and making the score 2-1.  The best try of the match was credited to Johnson following a missed shot by Tunstall.  Johnson nearly ankled the ball which sped near the cross-bar.  Final; Everton 1, Sheffield United 3. 

WOLVES RES V EVERTON RES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 30 March 1929
Dixie Dean led the Everton attack, but the Wanderers took the lead after three minutes, Bardsley heading through from a flag kick.  Ten minutes later Dean, from an unmarked position, equalised with a snap goal.  The Wanderers had more of the play.  Green and Hetherington missing good chances.  Both sides made mistakes through the light ball.  Sagar saved brilliantly from Green at the expense of a corner.  Half-time; Wanderers 1, Everton 1. 

EVERTON DRAW
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 30 March 1929
Sunderland complained after their game at Goodison Park, on Christmas Day, that they had two good goals disallowed by the referee.  At Roker, yesterday, at any rate, they got a goal, an equalizing goal, which had more than an element of doubt about it.  Halliday, as well as Robinson, looked to be offside when he got the ball, but there was little excuse for the Everton defence not playing to the whistle.  They stood still and allowed the centre-forward to go on, and even Davies was so confident that a free kick would be given that he made little or no effort to save Halliday’s shot.  Everton came out of this game with distinction.  They utilsed a game which was more profitable on the hard going.  When Halliday reduced the lead after clever play by Wright and McLean there was a special round of applause for the Sunderland leader, as this was the 300th goal he had scored in eight seasons of first-class football.  Halliday’s equalizing goal has already been mentioned, and he ought to have given Sunderland the lead just afterwards when he shot into the hands of Davies.  All the scoring took place in the first half.  Possibly Sunderland claimed the territorial advantage in the second half, but only on two occasions did they look like scoring and each time Davies saved the situation. 

WOLVES RES V EVERTON RES
Sports Argus - Saturday 30 March 1929
Everton the visitors to Molineux, introduced “Dixie” Dean after his recent injury.  Teams’- Wolverhampton.- Toothill; Jenkins, Fox; Marshall, Baker, Richards; Coundon, Bartley, Green, Richardson, Hetherington.  Everton; Sagar; Cresswell, Kennedy; Rooney, Dixon, Lewis; Meston, Ritchie, Dean, Jones, Stein.  Referee; Mr. G.A Nixon (Manchester).  A nice run on the “Wolves” right compelled Kennedy to concede a corner from which Bartley headed through after three minutes.  After Dean had been checked the “Wolves” came again, Green putting over the bar with Sagar beaten.  A few minutes later the home centre missed again in similar fashion.  After 12 minutes, Dean, standing unmarked, equalised after Toothill had saved from Meston.  Hetherington also missed an easy chance from a few yards’ range, but the “Wolves” were having most of the play.  Sagar made a fine save from Green at the expense of a corner.  Half-time; Wolves 1, Everton 1.
Immediately after the restart Bartley put the “Wolves” ahead again with a shot from short range, following a centre by Hetherington, who subsequently showed up well.  A shot by Dean struck the bar and curled over.  The “Wolves” forwards afterwards combined well, but Richardson failed badly.  Result;- Wolverhampton 2, Everton 1. 

 

March 1929