Everton Independent Research Data
EVERTON CUP TEAM
March 1 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
Everton will be represented by their strongest side when they face Luton Town in the 6 th round of the Foot Association Cup on Saturday, The directors having decided last night to play the team which defeat Derby County on Saturday. Geldard has made good progress and the players generally are enjoying their stay at Buxton. The team expected to take the club into its tenth semi-final is as follows: - Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Geldard, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. This is the side that played in all three previous cup-ties. Owing to the heavy snowdrifts the players had difficulty in find "room" to train at the Buxton football ground, but the player members shovelled the snow away and made a track, on which they sprinted in the afternoon.
Sports Pie.
• Tommy Griffiths the Bolton Wanderers captain, and ex-Evertonian as joined Middlesbrough.
LUTON MANAGER AND CAPTAIN SHOW THEIR CONFIDENCE
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 01 March 1933
THE ONLY DOUBT FOR GOODISON CUP-TIE
Luton’s manager, Harold Wightman, was at Goodison Park on Saturday spying out the land, and he much impressed by the manner in which his old team, Derby County, were beaten. In an interview he said: " Everton are a grand side: they have had better, perhaps, but generally they are up to the level, and, what is better, they play their traditional game—classy, scientific football. Whether they have their Cup-ties in this way I do not know, but the understanding among the players very fine, and they have the team spirit all right. " Still, I Think our team have it, too, and that it has been a decisive element in several of our previous games, notably that with the Spurs, when we were rated as we are now—right below the ideas of 'our rivals. I hope to see that opinion altered at Goodison Park. I am not going to say a word about winning, but what I can truthfully say is that everyone is eager to show his paces on such a ground and in such company. The better our opposition the better the lads have played, and this is what I earnestly hope to see at Everton. If we can strike off well we shall make a big fight, and Everton will have to play their hardest to get into the semi-final." Just before leaving on the motor-coach for Dunstable Downs, Fred Kean, the captain, had almost to be dragged into the office to get a word out of him. " I know the ”Bee " very well," he said, " but I should be put through the mill by the lads if I said anything in the shape of a prediction about this game. You do not, expect me to say anything about a win, of course, and I certainly we should all think we had done remarkably well to force a replay. I do hope, however, that we shall do even better than that, especially as Luton have never yet beaten a First Division club in a Cup-tie. We are sure of a good, clean game, I think, and I hope we shall justify our right not only to meet Everton, but, if we have a bit of luck, that we shall be in the semi-final. If we did win at Goodison Park we should then think we had a chance to go to Wembley, but we will bank on that honour only when Everton have finished with us.” The team, with Brown, the utility player, went to Dunstable Downs about noon, and after lunch they enjoyed rambles over the downlands. They will follow the same procedure to-day and to-morrow, with probably a little golf. The only doubt, and that is very slight, is whether Alderson will be fit. The injury to his shoulder still pains him a little, but he is expected to be well. Frazer is quite recovered. The journey to St. Annes-on-Sea will be made on Thursday, the team leaving Luton about eleven o'clock and arriving about five o'clock.
THE PEN-MAN
"Mc from Anfield, but True “Blue" writes this sad complaint. In recent games at Goodison I have failed to gain admission to the “pen." The first time I was told that I was too old and to try the bob specs, and the second time it appeared that the “pen “was full. Now, “Bee," to a lad between 14 and 18 a bob is a very large amount to spend in the one shop, so to speak, although you may not think so. I think that if the Everton "pen " was enlarged to about twice its present size the Goodison directors would not loss much by letting lads up to 18 years in for 4, d. I am sure that when these lads grow up and can afford to pay a bob they will pay it with pleasure and become “regulars." Hoping you will do what you can to help my request to success.
EVERTON’S LAST MOMENTS OF TRAINING
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 02 March 1933
Bee's Notes
Everton have been imagining they are on a ship's cruise; the deck quoits at their hotel at Buxton has given them plenty of chance to keep fit and fresh and limb-free. Badminton has done the rest. Yesterday they suffered fog, while Liverpool was in its summer garb, but the players spent the morning on the Buxton ground shooting in, sprinting, and indulging in all kinds of ball practice. The streets were full of snow when in the afternoon they set out for their sharp walk. The week has not been without its difficulties in traffic and men; Jock Thomson has been abed for a day through sickness, and Geldard is nursing that damaged ankle of his that may upset the team sheet if not the team spirit. Everton haven't made a change through the Cup tournament; but Geldard, although selected for service, cannot be named as sure to play. Indeed, he is bound to be " X" or the unknown quantity till Saturday morning. Ben Williams and Gee, both of whom have had operations recently, are gaining strength and poundage, every day at Buxton, but neither is expected to be in demand for first team service for quite a long time. All the more reason for the joy over the games. White is giving, and also for the vastly improved displays given by Cook, who has now speeded up to the English football style after starting laboriously and wondering " where that one went to" as the forwards passed him by. To-day he is kicking and playing well, and is a distinct acquisition.
PLAY-WORDS
George L. Taylor, remembered for his work in the Scarlets Party, strings these words together in the form of a prophecy:— When the Everton players were asked their chances of appearing at Wembley they replied:— The “LEICESTER " is to say about it the better. We don't want to buoy our supporters hopes up and then " BURY" our heads in shame. Idle word “LEEDS “us nowhere, but we are all” LUTON “on the bright side.
BLUE AND WHITE TO THE END
The Everton colour scheme I referred to may work out to the end, as follows (says "Livertonian "—like yourself!):—
Round 3.—Blue. Leicester.
Round 4.—White. Bury.
Round s.—Blue. Leeds.
Round 6.—White. Luton.
Semi-final.--Blue. Manchester City
Final.—White. Derby County.
Last Saturdays game was a Wembley rehearsal! By the way, what's happened to the sports club? There's good reason for a revival on March 25. Good idea, am just waiting events.
LUTON TOWN’S CENTRE-FORWARD DOUBT
Will Rennie or Tait lead Luton’s attack against Everton? That is the problem that Luton directors have to face, and it will probably remain so until Friday, or even Saturday, after the team arrive at Goodison Park. Rennie is the more skillful, but has not the fighting qualities of Tait. He is the better shot, but does not like the “rough and tumble” It is probable that Rennie will be the choice, but even then it is not certain whether Mills or Nelson will be at outside right. The team will be chosen from;- Harford; Kinghorn, Mackey; Kean, McGiunnigh, Fraser; Mills or Nelson, Tait, Rennie, Alderson, Roberts.
LUTON COME NORTH
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 02 March 1933
EVERTON'S CUP RIVALS FOR ST. ANNES
Luton Town left for St. Annex this morning, and will stay at the Majestic Hotel. Alderson's shoulder is still a little troublesome, and he may be the forward to stand down, though Mr. Wightman hopes he will be well. All the players and officials were confident, looking forward to a good game, and hoping for success.
WHEN EVERTON WON THE CUP
March 3 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Everton have been drawn at home in the cup this season three times in succession. When they won the cup in 1906 Everton had three home games, but a correspondent points out that Everton were not drawn at home three times in succession. Chesterfield, and Everton were drawn to play at Chesterfield, but Everton arranged with the Derbyshire club to play at Goodison Park. In the same round Liverpool adopted similar course with Barnsley in these days. It was quite common for the wealthier clubs to buy over ground rights, but fortunately, that in wholesome phrase of cup football has now disappeared. Geldard or Critchley.
The injury which Geldard sustained last Saturday may keep him out of the cup-tie tomorrow. He tried his ankle yesterday, but the result was not altogether satisfactory. The young player, who took part in the three previous ties, will have another trial today. If Geldard is not fit, Critchley will take the outside right berth. Everton are fortunate to have such an able and speedy winger in Reserve for such an emergency. Luton Town, too, have doubtful starters, and it is not yet known whether Tait or Rennie will lead the attack. Rennie is reported as the more skillful, but has not the fighting qualities of Tait. It is probably that Rennie will be the choice, but even then it is not certain whether Mills or Nelson will be at outside right. The team will be chosen from Hartford, Kingdom, Mackay, Kean, McGinnigle, Fraser, Mills or Nelson, Tait, Rennie, Alderson, Roberts. Luton Town yesterday travelled to St. Annes, where they will find the breezes beneficial.
Everton Reserves Advances.
One of the features of the present year has been the continued success of the Everton second team in the Central league. They wound up 1993 by losing three games on the run, to Blackburn Rovers (Twice), and Sunderland, but since then they have played six matches and secured maximum points from each, while they have scored 21 goals and conceded 13. As a result of their success they now occupy the seventh place in the Central league table with 33 points from 29 games, these being obtained as the result if 14 victors, and 5 drawn games. The record for their latest run of success read against Stockport 6-5, Liverpool 4-3, Birmingham 3-2, Bury 3-1, Manchester City 3-1, and Blackpool 2-1.
LUTON MAKE THEIR BOW AT GOODISON PARK ;
Liverpool Echo - Friday 03 March 1933
DEAN'S FINAL WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT AND DETERMINATION
Everton for the Cup! That is the war cry of the Everton supporter. They believe that the morrow's test is the simplest thus far. Having disposed of wind, sun, and Leeds in one and the same match it is certainly refreshing to Everton to find the Fates giving them a further home game—and that against Luton. But let us not think this is the easy-going game it looks on paper. Comparisons are awkward if only for the fact that Everton have never met this side before. I like Dixie Dean's way of dealing with the match. In a special talk this morning he said: Everton for the Cup. The lads have no other thought. They imagine they can go one step further than two years ago, when we crashed against West Brom. Here is the Luton game, a stepping-stone; but only eleven versus eleven. Any Cup-tie at this stage of the tournament is a test of eleven versus eleven, and, that being so, it can never be a cert, for a side unless they make it so in the score-sheet. We are going all out to-morrow as if Luton were our final-tie opponents! Everybody here fit and well, happy and confident. Luton have a blend of youth, experience, Cup effort, even as far as Wembley per their captain Freddie Kean, and a side whose stamina and physique are alike excellent. Though most of them have not seen Goodison Park, there is not such a wealth of mud or difference between any grounds of the senior League, and I imagine Luton will depend upon smash-and-grab methods tomorrow. They know that to let Everton settle down, is Leicester allowed them at Filbert-street, will be fatal to their chances. Everton won at Leicester through superb football. I like to keep telling you that, because some people like myself, are not so sure about Everton away from home. Their record this season shows such a marked change that one was glad to find them at home for the round that leads to the semi-final. The game can take curious turns when a fast side begins to race away with the ball, and the First Division side feels the difficulty of the situation through early attacks. There were early periods of play in the Manchester City-Gateshead match which showed City nerve-racked and Gateshead in the Walsall clothing. One goal sufficed to put Gateshead right out of that competition. So it is tomorrow at Goodison Park. The need of the early goal must not be delayed so long as it was in that memorable and hard game between Everton and Leeds. There has not been a wholly satisfying attack in recent weeks—when I hate been present—but I always remember that the attack., perhaps more than any other section of the side, has got one big eye for the Cup and looked upon League matches as a means to the Cup-end! That being so, I am sure we shall have a penetrative attack tomorrow and that whether it be Geldard or Critchley at outside right, we shall have a bonny fight between two sporting sides. It is Everton’s greatest chance; it is Luton’s most difficult task. They know that fully, and are aiming at putting forward a very special effort, knowing that Cup laws respect no division; Thirds have and can beat First; Southern minors can overplay Northern seniors; the Cup, quaintest of all competitive creatures, is always worst when the task seems this easy one. Everton's history has some noteworthy black marks at home and away in meetings with unusual and lowly foes. My great belief in Everton is founded on the fact that side has grown steadily and well towards a final tie appearance. They have been fortunate in the draw; they have taken that fortune with modesty, and have been sporting enough fit mention the matter rather than hide it; a club passing to the semi-final stage must have its portion of fortune. Everton have had theirs, and are prepared to battle the rest of the competition out without fear or ground-favour. The defence has got together since the famous Derby Day match, with the result that the last three in the lines are playing confident and safe football. Sager saved the day in the last game, but I think this time the Goodison forwards will be responsible for the victory, and that well and fast as Luton may apply their endeavour, superior craftsmanship will carry the day. The fact that Leicester were beaten by good combined artistic football should be Everton's password to any further Cup games. Class will triumph even in the hurly burly of Cup rush. The Everton club asks me to tell ticket holders that they should be in their places in good time in order that the big crowd may be accommodated in good order and time, as was the last crowd of 58,000 people--one of the best accommodated gates I have ever seen. And now let us get on with the ties; I think Manchester City will beat Bromilow's boys, who made such an impression at Old Trafford a week ago. I think the teams to enter the semifinal stage will be-- EVERTON, DERBY COUNTY, BIRMINGHAM, and MANCHESTER CITY. And this is the side expected to account for Luton. Tomorrow; Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Geldard, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. The double-decker stand will be available, pay at the turnstiles, and tickets returned from Luton will be on sale at the ground until one o’clock until tomorrow. Any available afterwards will be sold at the ticket offices on the Bullen-road and Goodison-road stands. The gates will be open at one o'clock.
GELDARD NOT TO PLAY
Liverpool Echo - Friday 03 March 1933
CRITCHLEY TAKES HIS PLACE IN THE CUP SIDE
Following his injury last Saturday, Geldard will not be able to play for Everton in to-morrow's cup tie with Luton Town at Goodison Park. Critchley will take his place at outside right.
LUTON'S CHANGE
Luton Town F.C.,who meet Everton to-morrow in the sixth round of the F.A. Cup, are having a rest at St. Annes, having arrived from the South last night. They were busy this morning on the golden sands of the Ribble, indulging in Swedish exercises and running. Luton Town have done some surprising things this season, never having before got so far as the sixth round. Mr. Wightman, the manager, told the Echo this morning that the team were in really splendid form, with the exception that Alderson had a bruised shoulder. Yet it was possible that he would turn out to-morrow. The team will be selected from: Harford Hingham, Mackey; Kean. McGinnigle, Fraser; Mills, Nelson, Tait, Rennie, Alderson, and Roberts. This is, with the exception of Mille, the team that knocked Halifax out in the previous round.
EVERTON “A”
Everton “A” at Ellesmere Port;- Frostick; Jackson, Jones; Chedgzoy, Watson, Griffiths; Birtley, Cunliffe, Lapham, Fryer, and Leyfield.
CUP-TIE EXCURSION
In connection with the Everton v. Luton Town match, the L.M.S. Railway Company are running a special train from St. Helena to Spellow, departing at 1.30 p.m. and calling at all stations except Eccleston Park, Roby, and Breck-road.
EVERTON'S TENTH SEMI-FINAL.
March 4 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
While Everton's chance is all that could be hoped for even if the draw had been arranged for them, it is well to remember that there have been many slips in the past, and the unexpected may happen again, for that reason therefore, Luton Town will enter the fray this afternoon in the hope of upsetting the "good thing" and the result shouldered a lively game, it can be said that any team reaching this stay of the competition has a chance and the Everton players, who have been preparing amid the snows at Buxton, are not likely to be influenced by the divisional states of their opponents. They will treat the game as they would any other tie, and try to make every post a winning one. Third Division clubs have tested Everton to the full before, and I hardly anticipate anything like the nine goals recorded against their last Third Division cup opponents (Southport), Luton Town will make a bold effort, and, whatever happens, Everton are not likely to have it all their own way. The game should provide good football for the large crowd expected. If Everton win, as I expected them to, the club will be in the semi-final for a tenth time.
Critchley To Play.
Unfortunately Geldard is forced to make the first break in the cup team since the start it bring considered that his ankle is not sufficiently strong to stand the strain of a hard cup game, and Critchley will take his place. Everton are not likely to be weakened on this account, for Critchley is a fast and resourceful player. The kick off is at 3 o'clock, and the teams are (Everton) Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. Luton Town (Probably) Hartford; Kingdom, Mackery; Kean, McGinnigle, Fraser; Mills, Tait, Rennie, Alderman, Roberts.
STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 04 March 1933
STRAW HATTED LADS FROM LUTON
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 04 March 1933
“WE’LL GET DIXIE DOWN”
Hundreds of straw hats were worn in Liverpool to-day. They all looked very cocky and hopeful. They were worn by the supporter of Luton Town, who are challenging Everton in to-day 'a Cup-tie. Two train loads of these straw-hatted Luton lads crying: “We’ll get Dixie down," arrived at Lime-street Station just after noon to-day. The Luton team, who have been doing light training at St. Annes-on-Sea, arrived at the Exchange Station Hotel from Blackpool in time for lunch. Everton arrived from Buxton this morning looking extraordinarily fit and well.
JUDGE TO SEE MATCH
Mr. Justice Hawke, who is one of the assize judges now in Liverpool, Mr. John McKenna (president of the Football League) and Mr. F.W. Rinder, a member of the International Selection Committee of the F.A., will be present at the match. A horseshow decorated one of the pile of letters addressed to Luton players at Everton’s ground from their supporters.
EVERTON SHOOT WAY TO SEMI-FINAL.
March 4 1933. Evening Express, Football Edition.
Luton Beaten By Six Clear Goals.
"Doubles" For Stein and Johnson.
Everton for the Semi-Final! They qualified for the last four in the F.A. Cup by defeating Luton Town 6-0 at Goodison Park today. Stein (2), Johnson (2), Dean and Dunn were the scorers. This convincing victory was gained by clever football and opportunism. After an indifferent start Everton completely outclassed the opposition. Luton, after a bustling opening, faded out of the picture in the second half, when Everton piled on four goals. The official attendance was 55,431 and the gate receipts £4,143 6s 4d.
By the Pilot.
Both Everton and Luton were without a regular forward. The Champions had Critchley at outside right for the injured Geldard, and Luton brought in Rennie at outside left for Alderson, who had a damaged shoulder. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Cresswell, backs; Britton, White and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, Dunn, Dean (captain), Johnson and Stein, forwards. Luton Town: - Hardford, goal; Kingdom, and Mackey, backs; Kean (captain), McGunnigle, and Fraser half-backs; Mills, Nelson, Tait, Rennie, and Roberts, forwards. Referee Mr. W. Thomas (Stafford). It was a splendid football day, and it was a novel to see thousands of straw hats of the Luton Town supporters. Everton had a mascot, complete with colours and miniature cup standing beneath the goal double decker. Strangle for Goodison Park, the mechmachine music was not used. A band played in the centre of the ground these were employed Liverpool musicians. The chief Constable of Luton occupy a seat in the directors' box. Like their supporters he favoured the shraw hat.
The Game.
Dean once again won the toss. Everton were soon into their stride, and trying to bore through, but Critchley coming in to take over Dunn's run was a little too late. Match report in first column unreadable. Start from second column. Dean added three yards backwards and Johnson, running in fully six yards, brought his famous left foot into action, and Luton were two down in 37 minutes. Critchley placed this right under the bar, and only a super effort on the part of Hartford and McGunnigle prevented goal number three. Critchley turned the ball inwards and Dunn placed across the gaol. When Critchley was cutting in Rennie pulled him down and was cautioned.
Dunn Heads Over.
From the free kick Dunn header over. There was a thrill right on the interval, for from Stein's corner Hartford lost control of the ball. Everton tried to scramble it through without success, but Luton's defence was so haphazard that Everton got a second chance, Stein's lighting "daisy cutter" being brilliantly saved by Hartford.
Half-time Everton 2 Luton Town 0
Everton in the second period had played down to the level of the opposition, and it was not until Stein had taken a goal that they asserted the superiority that everyone had expected. Some of their passing been crude, yet towards the interval they had done almost as they pleased. The crowd of almost 58,000 was looking for a goal feast on resuming for just before the interval Luton had given indications that their gallaint Cup effort was at an end. They were right in their expectations, for in two minutes Dun brought Everton's total to three. Excellent work by Critchley and Dunn paved the way, and Kingham miskicked Critchley's low centre. Hartford had to beat the ball down. Dunn was right there to take possession work almost to the goal post, and shoot through from what seemed to be an impossible angle. In five minutes Luton had their first corner, and quickly followed with a second after Sagar had been forced to save from Tait. Sagar, with the ball in his possession, carried it over the line. Stein came in with a mighty drive, which flashed inches over the top in the same way that his effort from Critchley's corner had done a few minutes before.
Clever Football.
Everton contributed some prefect football, though the medium of the inside forwards, and Johnson, racing through struck the upright with a magnificent right-foot shot. Kean fouled Johnson on the edge of the penalty area-Kean was cautioned for the offence –Luton's barricade proving successful against White's shot. In one of the rare Luton attacks, Nelson drew the cheers of the crowd with a magnificent overhead shot, which Sagar saved on one knee. In seventy minutes Everton made it four through Johnson. Critchley and Dunn who had often being doing good work without making vital headway, juggled and interpassed so that Critchley eventually got through with a shooting chance. Instead of accepting this, he whipped the ball back along the ground to the in-running Johnson, who scored with a swift ground shot, which reached the net via the foot of the upright.
Tait's Solo Effort.
Tait responded with a brilliant solo effort, which went wide. There was only one team in the game at this stage, and that was Everton, but Dean was plouhing a lonely furrow, never getting a single working pass. In 79 minutes Critchley got through to win a corner. This landed just right, and Dean leapt through to head a perfect fifth goal. Luton were absolutely outclassed in these later stages. Near the end, with Everton riding on a light rain, Luton pilled on pressure, Kean once placing a might shot across the face of the goal. The ball seemed to be running favourably for a Dean goal when it was edged away to the left, and Stein scored with a first time shot to the far corner. Luton were good triers, but were outclassed by a superior football combination. There was a remarkable scene near the end of the game, when disappointed Luton supporters threw their straw hats across the ground.
Dean Speaks on the Tie.
Interviewed after the match, Dean, the Everton captain, said "I never had a doubt but that we could reach the last four, and the boys are determined not to make the same tragic mistake as two years ago at Old Trafford. Luton gave a plucky display, but I never had any fears." Final Everton 6, Luton 0.
ADVANCE, EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Monday 06 March 1933
AFTERMATH OF CUP TRIUMPH; WHY EVERTON WERE "HUDDLED UP" EARLY IN THE TIE;
Bee’s Notes
Everton have our congratulations upon a step further in the goal of their high calling. The Cup is re-creating interest in Everton; their honours list in the list three years has been one of bright blue. Their semi-final test is the acid test; away from home; that is the question? Against whom? The back page of this paper will tell you. Everton satisfied once they got on the trail of goals. Stein's first drive shows what a winger can do and what a man of Stein's tremendous force-of-shot can do. At times Stein has appeared to go too far into goal before shooting. He was "covered "by the defence. On Saturday with Fred Kean notable only in his upward advances, not in defence, Stein and Johnson were incomparable in a game that was not so bright as we had hoped. Nerves played an important part early on, and Everton were frankly slow to settle to their game or to Luton's fine full back effort. It may be that Everton had suffered a "trussing up” through the snow-laden Buxton. Liverpool once went for special Cup-tie training to Saltburn and never left the hotel through the snowfall. They could hardly walk against Newcastle, let alone play them. Everton dug their way out of the snowdrifts and got a sprint track and some ball practice, but it appeared as if the side was needing a brushing-up-gallop. Let hope that was the case, because the first half hour was not impressive as a game, and from an Everton point of view was not satisfactory. The severe critics of this writer will no doubt point to the scoresheet and ask : " What will suit your lordship?" Six is sufficient margin, granted, but we must judge Everton from the highest standards not from third division views. It is probable a semi-final match will find us against a first division side—on a neutral ground. A repetition of the first half hour might sully our chance of going through with the great final tie effort.
LEFT WING SPARKLES
I thought the work of Stein, Johnson, and White superlative. These three stood out boldly. There was also the distinct and unswerving work of W. Cook to consider. As a whole Everton played firmly and finely once they had taken the measure of their opponents. It was the sting and sparkle of Stein that made goals possible, with Tom Johnson doing tame remarkable work as a purveyor, and more especially by his determination to hold the ball some time before the opponent advanced to him. The need of Johnson and Dunn holding on is imperative; by that means the work of the other forwards is simplified; the defence is spread-eagled. Johnson has rarely played a more commanding game, and his variety of passes included the through-pass to Dean, who found a hard member at centre half back, and finally lost a little of his confidence through his straight drive at the goalkeeper. A famous international footballer tells me the first goal was not good, because of a goalkeeping charge when the man Harford was not in possession of the ball. We can afford to let this incident go by; the winners won so readily at the finish as to make the Luton side appear hacks. Yet the Southern eleven rave us quite a nice show of football for a long time, and only lacked that spirited finality of Stein and company to have left an impression on the goal nets. They lost a faithful and able servant when Rennie was injured and had to go to the outside left position. This was the man who used the body swerve to such good purpose. Critchley had a foot in some goals, Dean had a head and foot in others, and Dunn was a busybody chasing work and the ball and making good passes. I thought Me Ginnigle was specially successful in his stopping tactics.
GOING STRONGEST
Everton were going strongest at the finish, and that is a tribute to their trainer. Mr. Harry Cooke, who, by the way, helped Everton in some of their ties when they won the Cup in 1906 v. Chesterfield for one—and I think there was a second case. There was much to admire in the game, although it lacked a lot of interest through the margin of goals curbing Luton's enthusiasm. So we go to the semi-final stage full of hope and belief, hoping that Everton will start on a neutral ground with a vim and pushing attack that shall be in contrast to the early play of Saturday—in belief that they can do their best against the known sides rather than against these possible giant-killers of " Third Division. It is a pleasing prospect. Advance, Everton!
EVERTON’S 10TH SEMI-FINAL
Liverpool Echo - Monday 06 March 1933
VERSUS THE WEST HAM CLUB
AT WOLVERHAMPTON
OFFICIAL VIEW OF THE TIE
Everton will tackle West Ham at Wolverhampton's ground on Saturday week. The other do is at Huddersfield. The cynic will say " Everton's luck is sticking to the end," but they forget that West Ham put West Bromwich and Birmingham out of the Cup—two First Division sides —and that this game has another Midland tag— it is being played at Molyneux Grounds, Wolverhampton.
THE DRAW
DERBY COUNTY or SUNDERLAND v. MANCHESTER CITY, at HUDDERSFIELD.
Referee. J. W. Lucas (London): linesmen, J. R. Morrey (Leicester) and F. Taylor (Liner.).
EVERTON v. WEST HAM, at WOLVERHAMPTON. Referee, E. Pinckston (Birmingham): linesmen. R. Bowie (Northumberland) and J. H. Perks (Birmingham). Replays : —Derby or Sunderland v. Manchester at Sheffield United. Everton v. West Ham, at St. Andrew's. Birmingham.
BEE'S COMMENTS
If Everton meet Manchester City in the English Cup final, Tom Johnson will have the unique experience of playing in his second final tie—and against his former comrades. First, Everton must pass through the semi-final gate by means of a journey to Wolverhampton (Molyneux Grounds). Two years ago, at the ninth of their ten semi-final appearances. Everton went west to West Bromwich Albion, non-favourites; now Everton meet further non-favourites in West Ham.
THEY KNOW THEIR WEMBLEY
West Ham played Bolton Wanderers in the first final tie ever played at Wembley when West Ham players vowed they believed the game had been transformed into a friendly game owing to the crowds rioting on the Wembley ground and making play impossible at three o'clock. Only the King's coming and the old grey mare who backed her way into the crowd made this final tie possible.
MANAGERIAL VIEW
Everton 'a secretary (Mr. Tom McIntosh) was told the draw. He said: “We are very happy about it all no matter what opposition comes along. There are no gifts in semi-final ties: we do not forget that West Ham started the season badly, but recently have run right into their best form, and they must be a good side to put out such First Division sides as West Bromwich Albion and Birmingham. Our players know what is needed; they will go all out to make this the final tie step, we shall not underestimate West Ham."
PREVIOUS MEETING
There has been but one previous' meeting between Everton and West Ham ii a Cup series—this was in 1907, when Everton, having won the Cup the year before, went to the final the next year, and failed in the final to Sheffield Wednesday 2-1. En route to their second successive appearance Everton beat West Ham 2-1. This was the match wherein Jimmy settle was transferred from inside left to inside right to partner Jack Sharp (nowadays a director). They paired off so well that they were known as “the knuts." Settle never went back to his old place, but stayed to the end of his career as an inside right.
THEIR PROGRESS
West Ham’s progress started with the Corinthians, and their toughest task was against Brighton and Hove Albion, which led to a replay and extra time. In the years gone by West Ham were managed by Mr. King, who died suddenly during this season. Mr. Charles Paynter, the trainer, became manager, and all-in-a-minute West Ham began to run away from the bottom rungs of the Second Division of the League. Wes. Ham went down to Division 2, last season. Their old players were transferred, but Syd Puddefoot was signed and the famous centre forward, Watson’s, kept his position.
YOUNGSTERS OF THE TIE
If Geldard plays there will be two football babes in the game at Wolverhampton. Morton, the Sheffield-born player, is only eighteen, and Geldard is the same age. Molyneux Grounds, had a game today v. Newcastle, and the tussle was proceeding when the Wolves were advised of the choice of their ground. Liverpool fought a Cup-tie battle there some years ago and won. Since then the ground has been improved in many directions, but it is the fact that it has held no more than 50,000; it is reputed to hold 60.000. If the tie is not settled on Saturday week then the game will be replayed in the Midlands again—at St. Andrew's. Birmingham. This is how they reached the semi- final:—
3rd round-Corthinthians (a) 2-0 Watson, Pollard
4th round-West Brom, 9h) 2-0 Watson, Wilson
5th round Brighton (a) 2-2 Watson, Musgrove
5th replay- (h) 1-0 Morton
6th round- Birmingham (h) 4-0 Morton, Wilson, Barkas, (own goal)
A REMEMBRANCE
When Everton were playing their nines-trick a year ago they visited West Ham just before Christmas and suffered a defeat of 4-2 Mr. Mahon, the goalkeeper, is quite new to English football; a Scot who came through his Cup-tie baptism with rare honours. Chalkley is a very Young defender, rather cumbersome in style; Collins is an experienced wing half back; and Barrett has had international honours- he played at Goodison Park three years ago and broke down in the opening moments of play. Yews, a fly-away winger, has always been a danger to our sides, Pollard has experience and a shot. Vic Watson has led the forward line ably for many years, and Wilson and Morton make a live left wing. Pace is West Ham’s forte.
CUP FINAL REFEREE
Mr. E. Wood, of Sheffield, has been appointed referee of this year’s F.A Cup final.
EVERTON 6 LUTON TOWN 0 (F.A.Cup Game 136)
March 6 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Stein Stands Out in Cup-Tie
Six Goals Victory For Everton
Luton Town Start Well But Fade Out.
Be "Bee."
Everton passed to the semi-final stages for the second time in two years by their defeat of Luton Town at Goodison Park before a big gate and a handsome financial yield –55,431 spectators made a haul of £4,143 6s 4d. Everton won by six goals without response, and the figure speak for themselves. The match did not touch the heights of play reached in this game at Leicester or against Leeds at Goodison Park. Unless Luton sprang a great surprise, one could not expect this happening, but it must be confessed that the game got "out of hand" in a scoring sense so soon as Stein had put a ball through a crowd of players, and Johnson with a smart shot had made the second incision.
Luton's Surprise Start.
Luton started in a manner that surprised and pleased. They played football; they did not hurry to their positions; they took steady aim in passing, but were not so steady in their few shots. Here was their great failing; They did not bother Sagar, who made one timely save and then caught up a tiny pass back by Cook (his only part-error in the game), and nearly suffered Roberts sliding across to trap the pass before it reached Sagar. Luton were mainly big fellows, and their backs took on all the early work that came their way with except that twice they handled most definitely and so near to the penalty line that their act was senseless and valueless. It did not cost them a spot kick, but for that they can express their gratitude. Luton's forte early on was a nice sweeping movement in attack, with varied ideas about progression by the use of the dummy of body line swerve –chiefly by Rennie, an astute inside forward. Then came Luton's crowning blow; Rennie was damaged and inter-changed positions with his partner. From that point they had lost their bright way, and Everton after a start that was anything but steady –due perhaps to the neat up feeling that comes of being snow bound at Buxton –began to take charge of the game, and much of their work bore a high stamp, notably on the left wing, where Stein had the best day this season. Not only did Stein swing the ball across, but he made some telling shots, whereas Dean, when placed perfectly made straight drives and having lost a little confidence in front of goal, began to offer chances rather than take the grit that came his way. However, the longer they played the better Everton played, and eventually the game filtered out to a mere one-sided tussle in which Luton recognised their inferiority, Everton won because of their deadly finish.
Stein the Star.
Luton lost because their forwards had no finality to their finesse. Johnson lent considerable strength to the attack by holding to the ball for great lengths until he had got the big defenders out of position. Then he sent his co-forwards away (Dean at times got his through-pass) so that they had plenty of room in which to work. However, Stein was the star forward, and though his first goal was not a picture goal Johnson's first was a gem –a stirring shot to which the goalkeeper put up a hand in hope –or fear! Dunn then crowded on a goal through sheer pertinacity, and Johnson got another after having hit the upright. Dean headed one –always a popular feature –and Stein took a Dean offering with accuracy to close the day's score. It had not been brilliant football by any means; the ground advantage was a big help to Everton, and Luton, with their 1,000 visitors lent colour to the proceedings as they wore white straw hats, and advertised their town's principal work. While agreeing that the match was not a good one through one-sidedness and a lack of balance for half an hour –a vital half-hour in Everton's memory –it must be said that there were some sparkling exhibitions, and White in particular closed the route for Tait (ex-Southport) and also provided shots, some hefty charging and rugged tackling. Britton was another great help, and Thomson recovered from a moderate beginning.
Cook's Sparkling Show.
At full back Cook was in bright mood, with flying leaps at headers and tough punts to clear his lines –a sparkling show. Cresswell gave his staid aid and Sagar had a restful afternoon, Everton played Critchley for the damaged Geldard, and he in common with others of his side, was doing best near the three-quarter time period; his centre for Johnson's goal was hailed as a misfit by those who can see no good in Critchley. Everton are fortunate to have a deputy such as Critchley for a player like Geldard. Dunn was a busybody; heading, shooting and working and worrying has way through –but Everton won this game through their left flank forward. It was this pair that made the veteran Kean fade out. Kean was always clever in use of the ball, but the pace told, and he could not make his tackles. Luton's backs were a capital pair, and if the goalkeeper was not great the forwards at least played football, and merely lacked the finishing pointer. That work was spasmodic, and it lacked decision near goal. So Everton go to the semi-final stage with the biggest test of the season-a game away from home against whatever team the Fates decide this afternoon. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Cresswell, backs; Britton, White and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, Dunn, Dean (captain), Johnson and Stein, forwards. Luton Town: - Hardford, goal; Kingdom, and Mackey, backs; Kean (captain), McGunnigle, and Fraser half-backs; Mills, Nelson, Tait, Rennie, and Roberts, forwards. Referee Mr. W. Thomas (Stafford).
ELLESMORE PORT TOWN 2 EVERTON "A" 4
March 6 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Liverpool County Combination.
Everton revelled in the heavy going at Ellesmere Port and quite outclassed the home side, whose defence, however, was weakened by Fleming failing to withstand the effects of a previous injury. The visitors served up lovely football, but it was left to Williams, the home centre forward, to open the scoring with a clever header. Birtley and Fryer soon responded for Everton, and Birtley increased the lead early in the second half. Williams responding for the home side. The Town were penned in their own half, while Everton did almost as they pleased. Cunliffe placed them further ahead after his side had missed many scoring chances.
QUICKER STARTING –EVERTON'S KEY TO WEMBLEY.
March 6 1933. Evening Express.
Their Fifth Cup Final If They Heed Lesson of Luton.
By the Pilot.
Everton must get off the mark quicker if they are to reach Wembley and their fifth cup final in the history of the club. This is the lesson to be learned from the 6-0 victory over Luton, which put the champions into the semi-final. Such a statement may appear hypercritical in view of the convincing nature of their victory, but the fact cannot be ignored that for the first 20 minutes of the game they sank to the level of the opposition. There is no need to judge Everton on their second half display. Luton were a well-beaten combination by that time, it being just a question of how many the champions would score.
Disappointing Half-Hour.
I attach much more importance to the play of Everton in the opening half-an-hour. With this showing I was dissatisfied. I honestly believe that Everton started with a feeling that the match was already won. This feeling of superiority enabled a lively, go-ahead, quick-tackling Luton to dominate the early exchanges, and twice I noticed that Everton's interventention was stodgy and unconvincing. Everton also missed two gilt-edged chances, and following this there were signs of anxiety. Then came a goal from Stein in 20 minutes, and the remainder was perfectly simple. I think the tactical error in attack was the starvation of Dean. Except for two occasions in the first half he rarely received a workable pass, though he was invariably in position for slip throughs and centres. Everton must exploit Dean more in future games. The left flank was outstanding, Johnson was the best forward on the field –the forager and the grater –while he had a willing and deadly foil in Stein. Dunn was trickiness itself, but Critchley spoiled some good work by over eagerness to impress. Britton was the best half-back, for White was deficient in feeding capabilities and Thomson took time to settle down. The backs –Cook and Cresswell –had no worries after that first 20 minutes, and Sagar did his little well. A 6-0 victory looks good enough, but the actual play forces home the tip that Everton must remain Everton and not allow themselves to fall below that high standard. Since the blues first entered the competition in 1889-90 they have figured in four finals but claim only one victory –that over Newcastle United 1-0 in 1905-06. Their other final appearances were: 1893, lost to Wolverhampton Wanderers 0-1; 1897 lost to Aston Villa 2-3; and 1907, lost to Sheffield Wednesday 1-2. It is Everton's second appearance in the semi-final in three years and this applies also to their joint semi-finalists, Manchester City, while if Sunderland pull through in their replay they will also be sharing the honour. Yet, neither of these clubs reached the final pair on these occasions.
EVERTON TO MEET WEST HAM
March 6 1932. Evening Express.
Only Second Division Side in the Competition.
Everton meet West Ham the only second Division side left in the competition in the semi0final of the F.A. cup, as a result of today's draw in London. The draw was as follows. The matches will be played on Saturday March 18. Everton play West ham at Wolverhampton: - Derby County or Sunderland v. Manchester City. At Huddersfield. If replay is necessary, on the ground of Sheffield United. Everton v. West Ham at Wollverhampton, if replay is necessary on the ground of Birmingham F.C. there can be no question but that had the Everton supporters been given choice of their semi-final opponents they would have selected West ham. The Hammers have an unconvincing League record, being fifth from bottom in the Second Division. They went down to the Second Division last season. They are the only Second Division club not to have won away this season. Last season, in the First Division, West Ham beat Everton in London by 4-2, but lost the return at Goodison Park by 6-1. West Ham figured in a sensational first Wembley final, being beaten 2-0 by Bolton wanderers. On that occasion the crowd broke over the ground and thousands were standing around the touchline. This was how West ham have reached the last four:
Round 3 Corinthians (a) 2-0
Round 4 West Bromwich Albion (h) 2-0
Round 5 Brighton and Hove Albion (a) 2-2
Replay (after extra time) 1-0
Round 6 Birmingham (h) 4-0
A Hard Fight.
"I think we have a good chance of reaching Wembley for the first time" said Mr. T.H. McIntosh, the Everton F.C. secretary, when I informed him of the draw (writes the pilot), "but we expect a hard fight" he added. "West ham started badly this season, but they have come into form at the crucial moment. "They will take some beating, but I think we have a good chance of getting into the final."
Dixie Dean's View.
"That will suit us," was the comment of Dixie Dean, the Everton captain. "I feel we shall be appearing at Wembley, West ham are not an easy team to beat.
EVERTON'S LEAGUE MATCH V LEICESTER TOMORROW
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 07 March 1933
CUP THOUGHTS & THEORIES "
Features" Of Everton's Cup Rivals
Everton's heavy triumph over Luton was not unexpected. Indeed, the ‘Toffies’ are hot favourites for the Cup this year." Dundee for marmalade; Everton for "toffee" Justice was not meted out to our Goodison Park visitors in one respect: Rennie was without doubt the mainspring of the attack until he was hurt so badly that he had to change places with his wingman-he became outside left. This answers a correspondent who has apparently read of Rennie “fading out." He did more; he went outside left for all but a moment of the second half and for some part of the first half—as stated in the Echo on Saturday.
VIC-TORIOUS
Victor Watson led the Hammers' battering ram when they helped the Bolton Wanderer open Wembley. He's just as good now as he was ten years ago—not a doubt of it. A quick mover --and quicker thinker. He comes from Girton—where the college girls foregather.
Warney Crewmen will have to be at his best. West Ham rely on the long pass delivered and accepted at full speed. Jim Barrett, their centre half, has played for England, and weighs 12 stone—rather more-an awkward obstacle, though he is light on his feet. Collins, one of the wing halves, has been often described as a coming England player. Pat McMahon, the young Scot, pressed into service at the eleventh hour owing to the injury to George Watson, the regular goalkeeper, may be described as the surprise of the year. He literally beat Birmingham. In this respect. His miraculous saves when the " Brums " made their great drive in the first half hour broke their hearts. A boy with the big match temperament and an international's technique. Yews has been a " Hammer " many seasons, and is still one of the best outside rights in the League. Wilson is the strategist of the line. It was his generalship, for instance, that beat the Corinthians. Chalkley is the youth who was rushed straight from school football into the First Division, and has now fallen on his feet.
Suffice it for the moment to say that to-morrow we have a League meeting between Everton and Leicester at Goodison Park, that on Saturday week we go to Wolverhampton for Everton's probable passage into the final tie; while on the following Friday we shall take up our places at Aintree for the always Grand National! Everton’s League position is fairly steady, now that they have taken two points from Derby. The visit of Leicester to-morrow is important because Leicester are waging a truly great battle against relegation, and having won such a fight just a year ago, when friend Peter Hodge took command again, it seems a pity they should be retracing their lowly steps. Leicester always play good football; not for them the hurly-burly type of game, with science thrown to the winds—for that reason they are welcome visitors to Goodison Park or Anfield. To-morrow we shall see their new members, the Campbells, perhaps Keetley of Chester, though he has latterly been out of the eleven; the new goalkeeper, McLaren (same name as the former goalkeeper), and a number of other personalities that make this game attractive to the holiday man and to the Everton enthusiast. The Cup draw has given satisfaction everywhere, and none more hearty in its thankfulness than Everton's area. Somebody had to have West Ham, said a wag yesterday, but that is not fair to West Ham as a team or individually. When we remember Everton's slips of the past, the one thing we should do is to keep ramming home the remembrance that West Ham beat Birmingham and West Bromwich Albion, and both these sides in recent times beat Everton in the Cup—one in a semi-final tie. No. West Ham have come on by leaps and bounds, and they bound on the field with such pace that the semi-final test to Everton is a severe one.
LEICESTER OUT TO SQUARE ACCOUNTS.
March 7 1933. Evening Express.
League Game at Goodison Tomorrow.
By the Pilot.
Leicester City, the club Everton beat in the third round of the F.A. cup in January will be at Goodison Park tomorrow, in search of vital league points. The City, who are only one of the teams fighting to avoid relegation to the Second Division, are at the moment at the foot of the table. Until February, Leicester had not won a home game on a Saturday. Then they struck top form. They beat Aston Villa 3-0 in a mid-week game, following this with a smashing home win against Bolton wanderers, and then came to Anfield and captured two points. On current form they will extent the men who knocked them out of the Cup. Take it from me, it will be no easy thing for the Champions. The City will be out not only to avenge their home Cup defeat, but to square accounts for the draw the Blues forced at Filbert-street in the league. I say to Everton that they must concentrate on securing every possible point. A win tomorrow will place them in the position of a point a match. That figure is always safe against relegation. Everton must try to maintain that average. The Leicester players spent today on the gold link, and will be in fine trim for this attractive game. It is expected that they will field their best team, which will include their new goalkeeper from Scotland, McLaren, of St. Johnstone. He will be deposing another Mclaren.
Geldard is Proving.
Everton will not chose their team until this evening's meeting of the directors, and the only question will be whether Geldard is sufficiently fit to resume in place of Critchley at outside right. Geldard, I am assured, is making good progress, but Critchley did well enough against Luton to give no fears as to strength at outside right. Everton: - Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White Thomson; Critchley (or Geldard), Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. Leicester City: - (probable) Mclaren; Black, Osborne; Smith Heywood, Ritchie; Adcock, Maw, Campbell, Lochhead, Barry.
"Hammers" Strike a Cup Line.
They've Beaten the Team that Twice Defeated Everton.
West Brom. As Semi-Final Guide.
Evening Express, Correspondent London Today.
West ham have beaten West Bromwich Albion in the Cup this season, while Everton, in league games, have twice failed against the Albion. This is one of the strong points put forward in West Ham football circles in support of the Londoners' chance of beating Everton in the semi-final of the F.A. cup at Wolverhampton on march 18. "Two seasons ago, when the Goodison Park team looked likely to carry all before them on the path to Wembley," said a West Ham club official today, "they were knocked out by West Bromwich Albion, a Second Division club in the semi-final, the Midlands club going on to win the Cup. We hope to emulate the Albion's performance.
" Type of Play Will suit Us."
"Everton play football of the best type and that will suit us nicely" he added. "Last season, when our opponents were at the top of the League and we were heading for relegation, we scored a four goals to two victory. We are looking forward to our lads repeating that performance and I have confidence that we shall be successful. "The team are playing better and better each week, and there is still room for improvement. "Dixie Dean, I am told, is the best centre-forward in England. Well, perhaps the match will prove that Jim Barett is the best pivot in the country. We think so, anyway." Compared with the sides which met last season, West Ham will field a much changed, eleven, though it is not expected that any alteration will be made from Saturday's winning combination against Birmingham unless, of course, injuries crop up. Only Victor Watson of the 1931-32 forwards will be the duty, while a notable absentee will be Jimmy Ruffell, who scored a "hat-trick" when the clubs met at Upton park in the League last campaign. In his place West Ham will have a winger of the highest class in Morton, on whom the Everton defence will need to keep a watchful eye. Cadwell and Barrett remain in the half-back line, but Everton will be meeting new defenders in walker, a busting type of full back, and McMahon, the Scottish junior goalkeeper, who made a name for himself in his first game for West Ham United'' premier eleven in the Cup-tie against Birmingham last Saturday.
• Advertisement in Evening Express. League Match, Goodison park, Tomorrow (Wednesday). Everton v. Leicester city, Kick-off 3.15. Admission 1/- Boys 4d. Stands Extra (including Tax). Booked Seats, Sharp's Whitechapel.
LEICESTER CITY'S BID FOR POINTS.
March 8 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
Everton at Goodison Park receive the team they defeated in the third round of the Cup competition. It will be the third meeting of the clubs this season, for in addition to winning the Cup-tie at Leicester by 3-2, Everton drew there 2-2 in the League match in October. The City have done exceedingly well of late. They did not win a match on Saturday until February, but than beat in turn Aston Villa 3-0 (in a mid-week game), Bolton Wanderers, and Liverpool, the latter at Anfield. This was the City's first away victory of the season. They are desperately in need of points and in addition will be keen or beating the side that knocked them out of the cup committee and on completing a double on Merseyside. Everton need points to relieve them of any anxiety regarding their league position in view if the cup engagements, and so one may expect to see a tire struggle for supremacy, Everton won the game last season by 9-2. Leicester City have been staying at Birkdale, will have their new goalkeeper McLaren, from St. Johnson, on duty. Everton have the side that defeated Luton Town in the Cup tie on Saturday, kick off is at 3.15, and the teams will be: - Everton: - Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. Leicester City: - McLaren; Black, Osborne; Smith, Heywood, Ritchie, Adcock, Maw, Campbell, Lochhead, Barry.
CUP SEMI-FINAL TRAINS
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 08 March 1933
In connection with the Everton-West Ham match at Wolverhampton, the L.M.S. Railway Company is to run a special train at a fare of 5s. The trains are timed to leave Lime-street at 11 a.m., but the railway company may be obliged to run relief trains at an earlier timing, and Everton supporters would be well advised to get to the station not later than 10.15, as this would assist the railway company in their arrangements. ! Tickets may be booked now.
A SOMERSAULT GOAL
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 08 March 1933
Leicester Test Everton
A PENALTY LEAD
Goodison Side Twice Two Goals Up
By Bee
Everton; Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Critchely, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. Leicester City; A. McLaren; Black, Osborne; Smith, Heywood, Ritchie; Adcock, Maw, Campbell, Lochhead, Barry. Referee; Mr. Mellor, of Bradford.
Everton and Leicester played a League match at Goodison, to-day, in perfect weather. Conditions were right, and Leicester were hopeful that they would get their revenge for the Cup defeat sustained in January. Neither side made a change, and the attendance, considering it was a midweek match, was excellent. Everton go to Buxton next Monday. It is their regular training ground prior to a Cup-tie. The team that played to-day, with Williams and Gee, will make the journey, with Mr. T. McIntosh in charge. In less than half an hour Everton had scored two goals, each bearing a hall mark of excellence. No. 1, in nine minutes, was due to a long hanging centre by Johnson, a turn of the ball by Dean, so that little busybody, Dunn, could shoot in at will. The next goal, sixteen minutes later, was due to a free kick given against the Leicester centre forward, Cook taking the kick from the centre line, and the ball pulled in its flight sufficient to make the crowd realize that Dean might- they could hardly hope that Dean would—score, with the goalkeeper primed and planted for any emergency. Yet Dean, bending the knee, made an extraordinary header, the like of which one attributes to Dean alone. It was a memorable backward flick of the head and the new goalkeeper, Maclaren, was baptized in the arts of the most famous centre forward the game has known. Yet Leicester were not so bad as it was painted. They had the fire of their red jerseys, and they had some rather neat passages of play, with Campbell, at centre forward, playing an old-fashioned centre forward game, but the ball travelled unkindly for him, and he was inclined to do too much, solo work. White startled the natives by a back-heeling process so near his own goal as to be courting disaster. Sagar dropped the ball on one occasion when Campbell made one of his innumerable rushes, and at the half-hour there was an electric change. It began in the very simple way of Britton heading out for safety when Sagar believed he (Britton) was playing with a dead ball.
CRESSWELL'S SECOND GOAL
The corner that followed was another heading episode. It was taken on the left by Barry, and Cresewell, trying to head away, headed up to the roof of the net. Cresswell was standing under the bar when he attempted his clearance, and, incidentally, it can be said that' this was Cresswell's second goal in history. In less than a minute Leicester had scored the equaliser. The clever Maw made a delicious touch forward for Campbell, who returned the compliment by edging the ball ahead, and, although there were silly cries of "Offside," Maw pitched forward and scored a spectacular goal, turning a somersault in the process. It was a pity, therefore, that there should be any doubt about Everton taking the lead from a penalty kick taken by White three minutes afterwards. Osborne certainly jumped in the air to attempt to breast the ball, and be vigorously claimed that the ball struck his hand accidentally. The referee said otherwise, and so Everton took the lead at a moment when Leicester had revived and felt that there was some hope for them.
A BRIGHT GAME
Indeed, Leicester had played a lot of good football, and now felt that they were fighting against fate and the whistle. Lochhead, Maw, Adcock, Britton, and Johnson were outstanding men in a bright game, and Osborne, trying to redeem the load of his penalty kick lapse, rushed across to the right wing to make a very fine save. His partner, Black, once nearly headed through his own goal, and in front of him Smith was not playing so well as usual. The touch of the master-mind was revealed when Lochhead ankled a ball to his partner, and Maw showed a delightful sense of football proportion and neat dribbling. The length of Cook's volleying reminded the old folk of Dunlop's day Stein was letting out some drives, but he had not his Cup day accuracy. Half-time.--Everton 3, Leicester C. 2
AGAIN TWO UP
In the second half Britton fell awkwardly and hurt his throat. Leicester had a chance to equalise the scores, but Adcock pulled the centre too far back. Critchley went up and mulled two chances, but the ball was not cleared before Dean breasted the ball down and in a knot passed out to Dunn, who shot another easy goal, and Everton led 4-2 three minutes from the resumption.
Final result Everton 6, Leicester City 3.
EVERTON REGAIN LOST LEAD.
March 8, 1933. Evening Express.
By the Pilot.
Everton met Leicester at Goodison Park today in a rearranged League match . Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Cresswell, backs; Britton, White and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, Dunn, Dean (captain), Johnson, and Stein, forwards. Leicester City: - A. McLaren, goal; Black, and Osborne, backs; Smith, Heywood, and Ritchie, half-backs; Adock, Maw, Campbell, Lochhead, and Barry, forwards. Referee Mr. J. Mellor, (Bradford). McLaren was making his first appearance for Leicester. He was formerly with St. Johnstone.
The Game.
Leicester almost took a goal early on, for after Critchley had ran through cleverly and Dunn had forced what appeared to be a corner, Barry broke away and White's gentle touch prevented Campbell from scoring. Twice Sagar had to fist away from Adcock. McLaren had to punch away from Critchley before Dunn shot over when favourably placed. In eight minutes Everton took the lead. A good dribble by Johnson, which brought him to the left wing, paved the way to the goal. His centre went towards the near post, drawing Mclaren from goal. Dean, standing with his back to the goal, leapt above McLaren and headed the ball across the vacant goal, and Dunn came in to net at will. This goal after eight minutes was made possible by that wonderful head of Dean's. Everton were now on top. Critchley was doing fine work on the right, and Dean was giving the City a lot of trouble with his headwork.
Dean's Good Work.
Dean was doing marvellous work, and now headed across the goal for Johnson to hit a net support. Campbell was a good raider for the City, but he received scant support, although once he drew Sagar well out of goal, and the goalkeeper had to kick to touch. The Everton wingers were finding each other in good style with long sweeping passes, but the City were sorely troubled by the virile leadership of Dean. Black turned a Stein centre over the bar, then McLaren was kept busy dealing with efforts from Stein and Johnson. Little was seen of the Leicester attack, and in 24 minutes Everton made it two with a great goal by Dean. Cook placed a free kick taken from just inside his own half plumb in the Leicester goalmouth. Dean swung round with the ball, and headed magnificently into the far corner, McLaren having no chance. The half-hour brought sensational football, for within a minute Leicester had drawn level. Adcock's centre was passing beyond the goal when Britton nodded it behind the line. From the corner kick the ball ran across goal, and Cresswell, in trying to head clear nodded it up into the roof of the net. Leicester dashed through from the kick off, were repelled once, then with the Everton defence shaping to play the offside game, Campbell slipped through a choice pass to Maw, who drew Sagar from goal and equalised.
Everton Lead Again.
Everton were relentless in their attack after this, but Leicester packed their goal. Osborne intercepting a pass from Dunn handled, and White restored Everton's lead from the penalty kick. This came in 35 minutes. Everton had all the game towards the interval, White being the prime mover in many menacing raids. Maw was playing brilliant football for the City, working openings, and being right in position to finish them off.
Half-time Everton 3 Leicester City 2
Two minutes after the interval Dunn scored Everton's fourth goal. 6
EVERTON 6 LEICESTER CITY 3
March 9 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Everton Beat Leicester.
Losers Put Up Brave Show.
Expert Tactics and Combination
By "Bee."
Everton have rubbed it in to the Leicester City wound. They put them out of the cup in the opening round for seniors (at Leicester, by one of Everton's best display this season), and drew there in the League game. Now came the rearranged date for the Goodison Park game. Leicester had been to Southport to get Speciality fit for the fray. They were frayed long before the finish of a splendid game through the run of the ball being against them, through a penalty kick which turned the game to 3-2 after Leicester has scored two goals in just over a minute to draw the scores level after Everton had taken an early lead through Dunn and Dean. Leicester, however, never stooped their stylish display, their combination and their endeavour to earn a point to help them in their relegation fight. It was, therefore, a grand battle, because Everton, at home, can be very entertaining and if their attack is hot for goals they can be riotous in their shooting. Everton caught the right mood yesterday; they felt something was neccassary early on, and they kept up such a hammering of the Leicester defence that the score might have reached double figures. They would have given a false notion of how the game travelled because Leciester were so quick to take up raids by means of wise and goodlength passing, and they added a shot to wind up their attack –generally, it must be confessed, a little high and over the bar. However, the work of both sides merited high praise.
Penalty Award.
Everton have not been resolute and dashing and punishing for quite a long time; it was a revival of they famous scoring crop of a year ago-Leicester suffered it them, and suffered it again. These sporting visitors felt they had been wrongly convicted of a handling case at a vital junction of the game. The question for Referee Mellor of Bradford to decide was whether Osborne had handled deliberately. It was a important point, but the referee was near the incident and was content in this verdict. Osborne protested so did other members of the eleven, but the spot kick led to Everton taking a lead, per White's place kick at the moment when Leicester had gained confidence and had surprised Everton by taking from them their two goals lead. This was a remarkable rally on the part of Leicester, and the reaction of the penalty kick must have been great, yet all the eleven kept up their keen endeavours and never for seek the better kind of play albeit they had damaged members abroad –Adcock limped and Osborne was a passenger at outside left practically the whole of the second half. So the visitors defence was badly strained, and the work of Mclaren in goal became more urgent, and awkward, indeed there were goals from shots half saved, or from back headers from Dean, who played one of his best games in a rousing exhibition in which he showed a fierceness that it not common in these later days. He scored a most charming goal with a back header when he was not facing the goal.
The Goals.
The game had incidents that would fill columns of this newspaper. I must pay a goal-tribute; Dunn got No 1 through fine work by Johnson and Dean; Dean's picture header came next, then Cresswell heading through his own goal helped the Leicester side; Maw turning a somersault as he ran into score the equaliser was heartily congratulated on a well conceived goal. Next came White's debated penalty kick, and halt time –Everton 3-2. Dunn got the sixth of the day through Dean's aid, dean had a grit for the register of 5-2 the goalkeeper was lucky to escape another Dean goal. Campbell made the score 5-3 after Leciester had narrowly missed three times, and Dean took the final goal. None of the extreme wing work was good Adcock was the best early on, but the remainder were uncertain; otherwise no one could fault the teams. All round there was much interesting football, and Everton's half-back line again impressed as the dominating force, but this time the forward line linked up finely, and Dunn and Johnson were outstanding after Dean's captivating display Cook volley and thundered, Cresswell sauntered, and was safe, and Sagar after a capital start, was not too secure in his pick up. In the Leicester side the three inside forwards also played superbly; Campbell is a Dewar type: trustful and foraging going through single-handed and he has two expert schemers in Lochhead and Maw by his side. At half-back Ritchie was best of the line that did not compare with the finesse and stockiness of the new famous trio, Britton, White, and Thomson. At back Black did much good work, and Mclaren in =harassing circumstances was not to blame because most of the goals came from the range that allows no more than a part-save and often when that was accomplished the ball was crashed into the net. It was a brave losing side; it was a brilliant Everton eleven, and the inspiration of Dean in his greatest form can lead Everton into one of their famous goal-scoring moods. They can go far in Cup and league with a continuation of this virile display. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Cresswell, backs; Britton, White and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, Dunn, Dean (captain), Johnson, and Stein, forwards. Leicester City: - A. McLaren, goal; Black, and Osborne, backs; Smith, Heywood, and Ritchie, half-backs; Adock, Maw, Campbell, Lochhead, and Barry, forwards. Referee Mr. J. Mellor, (Bradford).
DEAN'S DEXTERITY
March 9 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
The judgement and dexterity of Dean with hiss head are features of his play that have made him feared by all defences. Two perfect examplers of this artistic trait brought goals yesterday, and two such movements say, in a cup final, would bring down the house. In the first, Dean ran towards goal with an opponent hanging on to him, and turning in the air, as it were, glided the ball back for Dunn to score. The second point came from a free kick taken by Cook near the centre of the field, Dean with his back of the goal, gliding round to turn the ball into the net to the bewilderment of the opposing defenders.
Valuable League Points.
League matches decided yesterday were of importance, as the positions in the relegation zone were concerned, and Leicester City's defeat at Goodison Park increases their difficulties. The City have but 20 points for 30 games, yet their display yesterday did not get give the impression that they were the weakest side in the League; indeed they played remarkably good football, and did much better than the score 6-3 in Everton's favour suggested. The points were most welcome to Everton, as they well relive the club of any slight anxiety that might have been felt. Everton's was a rather mixed display, but they came out all right in the end, and there were some brilliant movements, during the game.
WHITE ON THE INJURED LIST
March 9 1933. Evening Express.
Gee To Deputise At Portsmouth
By the Pilot
Everton will be without White for the match with Portsmouth at Fratton Park on Saturday. The centre-half position will be taken by Gee. White was injured in the match against Leicester City at Goodison Park yesterday. The injury is not serious but in view of the F.A. cup semi-final with West Ham ten days hence no risk can be taken. This is the only change in the team. Geldard still being unfit, and the eleven will be:- Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein.
Cup Winning Form.
The ease with which Everton beat Leicester 6-3 yesterday must make them favourities for the Cup. They won in effortless style against a galliant side whose play at times belied their lowly league position. The two points have greatly eased Everton's League position, and now, with a point per game average, they can concentrate on their Cup effort with no worries regarding possible relegation. It is a happy position. There was much attractive football in yesterday's game. It sparkled with incident. Everton were two goals to the good in 24 minutes, yet the City –added by a little luck –were level in 31 minutes. Cresswell well headed into his own goal and Maw –a bonny little forward –added a second. So Everton had to begin their task all over again, but they progressed on such scientific and deliberate lines that the result was never in doubt. White's penalty, which restored their lead, was a doubtful one. I could not trace any intentional handling. Seeing, however, that the champions should have two penalties just before, they only got what they deserved.
Dean's Leadership.
Everton's forward work was so good that one hesitates to single out anyone, but I must refer to the glorious leadership of Dean, and the cute manner in which he cut out shooting chances. He scored three goals himself –his second, a header, was magnificent –and provided Dun with the two openings from which the Scot scored. White and Britton were fine half backs, but Thomson found the wily Adcock a warm handful after the international. The only defensive flaw was that twice in the second half misfielded the ball, and a goal accrued from one of these slips. Leicester fielded a new goalkeeper in McLaren, from St. Johnstone, and he certainly kept the score down. Black was a glorious defender, especially after his partner, Osborne, had been forced to go outside left through a knee injury. Heywwod, Ritchie, Adcock, Campbell, and Maw were other successes, with Maw a scintillating personality. The goals were scored by Dean (3), Dunn (2), and White for Everton and Cresswell (own goal), Maw, and Campbell for the visitors.
Semi-Final Tickets.
Mr. T. H. McIntosh Everton's secretary informs me that applications may now be made for tickets for the semi-final at Wolverhampton. A limited number of tickets at 10s, 6d, 7s.6d and 5s are available, and applications should be made immediately to Goodison Park including remittance and stamped addressed envelope. It is essential that early application should be made.
• Advertisement in Evening Express. F.A. Cup Semi-Final –Everton v. West Ham United, at Wolverhampton (Saturday March 18 th ). Tickets for the above match at 10/6, 7/6, and 5/ may be obtained from Everton F.C. at Goodison Park. Applications for stands must included remittance and stamped addressed envelope. Thos H. McIntosh, Secretary.
PRAISE FOR WINNERS AND LOSERS
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 09 March 1933
EVERTON IN A JOYFUL MOOD
CONTINUED SUCCESS AGAINST LEICESTER, THE LUCKLESS
Bee’s Notes
Everton showed us they could get off the mark with the crack of the pistol! Leicester showed us that relegation fears have not sullied their ideas of the kind of game they must serve; Leicester were one of the best sporting losers we have seen, and their misfortune was two-fold; they got a damaged defender and a penalty decision-each at the most awkward time! Everton gave one of their rousing displays; a sharp, incisive, virile display. It was good to see this because the team had not satisfied, although successful, in two Cup-ties. This sort of form will do for the semi-final—and the final! Everton have rubbed Leicester the wrong way. A year ago they beat them at Goodison 9-2. Yesterday they added a
6-3 verdict-twenty goals in two visits! The League game at Leicester was drawn 2-2. The Cup-tie at Leicester was won by Everton 3-2. That game was Everton's moat satisfying display; I had longed for them to give the locals something like a repeat order and yesterday it Came, full blast—unfortunately against a very good side, whose three inside forwards played football meriting highest praise. None of the extreme wing men came out of the game with honour, but the inner tribe had a field day. There was " everything in football "in this game. Lochhead and Jimmy Dunn stretched their feet at all sorts of funny angles to connect with the ball; the dummy was served up, Britton brought out his box of tricks- sometimes too often, I fear—and his pass-with-the-heel was a joy to me, as I believe this trick at the right moment is one of the best football schemes in the locker of any footballer. Britton keeps Meredith's action and ideas alive by such moves. There was the debated penalty kick—who shall decide? The referee. And we abide by his "decide”! Still it was hard on Leicester, on Osborne (who a passenger at outside left the second half) and on the club fighting so bravely against relegation. Leicester had touched their highest point when snow and Cup-ties barred their game; they were marked “absent." Nothing goes right for them.
SHARP-SHOOTING
The new McLaren served us with two fine samples of goalkeeping without being able to stem the tide of Everton's attack. There was a breezy, fiery, kicking-in period that only the accident of leg", and bodies round stem. Dunn is collecting a lot of goals; Johnson this time acted to the point known as "They also serve who stand and wait" -upon his co-forwards. I think Dean's inspired game—a restlessly busy game, in which he showed more fire and enthusiasm than for months—was chiefly responsible for the victory, yet the half back trinity, now famous (Britton, White, and Thomson), was the superior line when comparisons between the teams came due. It was the half back line strength that enabled Everton to win a cup. It was the half back line that enabled Everton to win the championship when Clark was "on the wing." To-day it is the half back strength in tackling and making use of the ball that is leading Everton so far. At back Cook volleys in a way that pleases the crowd, and Creswell (if scoring a goal for the other side) played quite unlike a man who was suffering a cold. It was all-round team spirit that won this game, and after the limp opening against Luton. Everton's drastic attack was a pleasing feature. It augurs well for the Cup-tie on Saturday week, always providing nerves are not frayed and Everton easer into the last-but-one stage in a cool manner, believing their football can prevail against the rather fly-away methods of West Ham. We shall see!
Alec. James his been telling the London team how to meet Everton. He says:- I would recommend West Ham, for instance, to consider one particularly efficient method exploited by Everton. The feature which distinguishes their attack is a combined move by Dean, the very fine centre forward, and Johnson, a very fast, hard-shooting inside left. Dean is good in the air. With his back to his opponents' goal any ball from his own defence coming near his head is his. Instead of deflecting it onwards, to be cleared as a rule by the goalkeeper—the usual thing for centre forwards to do—Dean heads it back or aside Johnson expects this and comes rushing up at a great pace, and either has a slam at goal or else puts Stein through. With defenders falling back, this move of Dean's generally gives Johnson the freedom he wants. And it is an extremely dangerous move, only made possible by the superb work in the air of Dean.
Tickets for the semi-final at Wolverhampton can be purchased from Goodison Park. The prices are 10s 66, 7s, 6d, and 5s. Applications by post must enclose stamped addressed envelope.
Everton team for Saturday; Gee for White, who was slightly injured yesterday, is the only change. The visit is to Portsmouth, return London Sunday, and off to Buxton on Monday for the rest-cure.
I am informed than an excursion for the Everton game will leave Low-level at 10.45, landing0stage at 10-50, Woodside at 11.5 and Rock Ferry at 11.10., arrive at Wolverhampton at 1.5 and returns at 6.15 back in Liverpool at 8.20.
PEACOCK’S NEW POST
Peacock, the former Everton half-back, who belongs to Wigan, has been released by Clapton Orient in order to take up an appointment as coach to a Sweden club. He will begin his new duties next week. Peacock has had a varied career since he came to first-class football with Everton, for he was with Middlesbrough for about a season and a half, and for a similar period assisted Sheffield Wednesday. He quickly followed an old colleague to Clapton when Jimmy Seed forsook the playing field for club management at Lea Bridge.
GEE'S RETURN TO EVERTON TEAM.
March 10 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
Everton will have quite an enthusiastic band of friends to cheer them on at Portsmouth tomorrow, as the many "exile" from Merseyside now in business at Southampton are likely to make the short trip to Portsmouth to see the players who have brought the club into the F.A. cup Semi-final. Gee is to turn out at centre-half back in place of White, who received an injury in the match on Wednesday. The players travel to Buxton on Monday to prepare for the Semi-final duel with West ham United. The team to oppose Portsmouth will be: - Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, Gee Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein.
BEN WILLIAMS
March 10 1933. Evening Express.
Ben Williams, Everton's Welsh international right back, will have his first game tomorrow since his operation for cartilage trouble. Williams was injured in the match with Wolverhampton Wanderers on December 24, and later underwent a successful operation for the removal of a cartilage in the left leg. Since then he has made fine progress and has been kicking with confidence and accuracy in training. So much ha this impressed itself upon the directors that Williams has a trial run with the reserves against Manchester United at Goodison Park tomorrow. Everton Reserve: - Coggins; Williams, Bocking; Mercer, Clark, Archer; Birtley, Cunliffe, Fryer, McGourty, Turner.
EVERTON’S GROUND TESTS AND GAME AT PORTSMOUTH
Liverpool Echo - Friday 10 March 1933
Bee’s Notes
Everton, who go to Portsmouth, give Gee a run out, while White rests from his labours—and his severe tackles! The club have given the use of their ground for some important engagements in May, and one is a physical culture display by the unemployed. This should be a very enjoyable sight. Goodison being a fine setting for such a display as we who saw the schoolboys before the King at Goodison so well remember. Everton's test at Portsmouth is one that will tend to show possibilities In case of accident to any member during the next month or so. Geldard is still absent, so Critchley can go ahead, and at centre half Gee "comes to town," and White has another relief week. He got a knock in mid-week, and I do not wonder at this, remembering the amount of work he has been through lately, and also the stern way he has been tackling and crossing his opposing forces. It should be interesting football between old friends, and Portsmouth will be glad to see the Goodison men there, because the town has so many of our citizens residing there these days. Everton’s team is; - Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, Gee, Thomson; Critchely, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein.
BEN WILLIAMS RETURNS
Liverpool Echo - Friday 10 March 1933
EVERTON PLAYER TO HAVE A RESERVE TRY TO-MORROW
Ben Williams, the Everton full back, who has been out of the game some months owing to a cartilage makes a welcome reappearance to the game to-morrow in the Everton Res, side to meet Manchester United at Goodison, 3.15 Everton Res.: Coggins; Williams , Bocking: Mercer, Clark, Archer; Birtley, Cunliffe, Fryer, McGourty, Turner. In connection with the Everton semi-final, at Wolverhampton, the L.M.S. Railway announce that anyone unable to make the journey alter booking will be able to get a refund of their ticket. Excursions will leave at 10.30, 10,40, and 11 o'clock.
EVERTON" A " AT HOYLAKE
Everton “A" at Hoylake to-morrow, 3.15, play Clark; Jackson, Lilley; Chedgzoy, Watson, Griffiths; Dixon, Davis, Lapham, Webster, and McCarthy.
PORTSMOUTH GIVE A POINT
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 11 March 1933
Everton Side Please Southern Friends
By Bee
Portsmouth; Gilfillan; Mackie, Smith (W.); Nicholl, Allen, Thackeray; Worrall, Smith (J), Weddle, Easson, Rutherford. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, Gee, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. Referee; Mr. C. Lines, Birmingham. Football is full of surprises. Portsmouth were shocked by Everton to-day. Within three minutes, stein scored after a short dribble and after a pass by Dean. The goalkeeper got his hands to the ball, but could never hold the hot shot. It had been generally believed that because Everton are in the F.A. Cup semi-final there would be at least an easy-come-easy-go" method to-day. This early goal gave the lie to the belief that footballers are prepared to forsake the £2 bonus for any Cup-tie. The Everton goal arose through Easson and Rutherford over-dribbling and getting in each other's way, so that Britton was able to snatch the ball from them and send it along to Dunn for that player to centre. The Portsmouth manager was again marked absent. He was at Rochdale scouting for new players. Everton had a number of good friends and ex- Liverpool people in the navy town, and they had a wonderful reception on a day when the weather was summerlike and in contrast to a fortnight ago when Liverpool were here mid snow and ice. Gee for White was the only alteration in the Everton ranks, and Cook began with some splendid tackling and intensive punts. This Irish-born player once found the ball spinning away at a tangent, but cleverly passed back instead of trying to tackle his man. Cresswell cleared, but a moment later, after Dunn had made a masterly stroke, Cook passed back rather tenderly and Weddle was near scoring in a race for possession with Sagar. Sager won.
A PICTURE GOAL
The next minute Jack Smith, who had tested Sager with a fine drive, made another strong shot and had the misfortune to see the ball cannon from Weddle's legs outside—an escape. Everton should have been two up when Dean centred at right angles, but no one was up to take the simple chance. The next move was fatal, because Worrall, in a spectacular individual run closed in, squared his centre for Weddle to take first time—a picture goal at the fourteenth minute. There had been an affair between Thomson and Jack Smith, the latter alleging that Thomson had struck him a blow, and eventually the referee spoke to the Everton player and things quietened down, except that the crowd made a running buffer of Thomson. Dunn made come very neat passing and as a result Critchley tested Gilfillan. On the other hand there was an escape for Everton when it seemed that the ball must pass Sager, Cressmen having gone to the turf, and no one could quite say how the hall was squeezed out. It would have done my readers' hearts good to have seen this excellent match and the form displayed by Everton. Unfortunately Critchley was swept down and hurt his shoulder blade that had been damaged on Wednesday. Britton risked injury, but was very quick to pick up his feet, and Jack Smith, being on the blind side of the referee, back-heeled with danger to Thomson's legs without getting a caution.
GEE'S PLAY
Worrall made a nice header that Sager caught. Then came some excellent goalkeeping by Sager, whose security against Rutherford and Weddle stamped him as being in the highest rank of goalkeepers. When Gee blundered Britton saved him, yet Gee was doing quite well, remembering his lack of experience in first team matches. Worrell shot the ball on to Weddle's body, but both fell, and the ball went outside for what the referee said was a corner kick. Critchley was setting plenty of work and Stein was not so busy, although the latter's corner kicks were studious. Sager wound up the first half by being nearly charged over his own line, when he was in possession of the ball. Everton, it should be noted, played in white shirts and black knickers, as the colours of the teams clashed.
Half-time; Portsmouth 1, Everton 1.
The second half faded a good deal in interest, but there were some bright proceedings, which led to the referee speaking to the home captain. Weddle fouled Sagar, and then to show how fate plays a part, Thomson, after a throw-in, kicked hard, and the ball struck Jack Smith's face, which Thomson might call poetic justice.
WEDDLE AND DEAN SCORE
Gilfillan made two saves from Johnson, although he was plainly puzzed by both shots. Everton lost equality and some balance when Rutherford, who had had few chances, beat Cook and crossed the ball perfectly for Weddle to take the lead at the hour. Allen was the outstanding half back on the field, out-heading Dean, but Stein took the ball close in when everyone thought it was going out for a goal kick. The left-winger's shot mis-fired, but Dean was able to score quite easily from four yards out. Cresswell passed back badly and Sagar came to his aid when there was a threat of a lead for the home. Thomson swung a pass to the opposite wing and Critchley centred, Dunn's shot being smothered out. Gee was doing extremely well this half, but now injured himself and held up the game.
Final; Portsmouth 2, Everton 2.
EVERTON RES V MAN UTD RES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 11 March 1933
Williams resumed at full back for Everton. Coggins did well in saving well in saving his goal when both Macdonald and Mitchell tried shots. The football was fast with Everton having a territorial advantage, but the visitors were sound in defence, Mitchell open United’s score from a left wing centre, but Turner equalized. Bocking was playing a great defensive game and along with Williams, Coggins and Clarke, made a sound Everton defence. Turner later completed a fine half-trick. Half-time; Everton Reserves 3, Manchester United Reserves 1. Dawson scored for United from a penalty. McDonald scored United’s third goal. Final; Everton Res 3, Manchester United Res 3.
STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 11 March 1933
By Louis T. Kelly
EVERTON IN THE SOUTH
March 11 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
Everton, who give their supporters many surprises, pleasant and otherwise, in the course of a game, go to Portsmouth in the hope of improving a rather drab away record. Portsmouth play an artistic game, so that the match should prove really intertaining. Gee plays instead of White, but that is the only change from the team which defeated Leicester. The Portsmouth eleven, which beat Liverpool a fortnight ago by 2-1 will face Everton. Teams: - Portsmouth: - Gilfillan; Mackie, Smith (W.), Nichol, Allen, Thackerley; Worrall, Smith, Weddle, Easson Rutherford. Everton: - Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, Gee Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein.
PORTSMOUTH 2 EVERTON 2
March 13 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Cup players in Form
Everton Men came Through Unhurt
Excellent Work At Portsmouth
By "Bee."
Everton made an import change from their recognised Cup team –Gee for White –for the game at Portsmouth, a game they hardly expected to save, because Portsmouth are a good side and at home they have lately been doing very good work. However, Everton took a draw of 2-2, and earned their point. Everton's away form has not been good this season. Wins at Middlesbrough and Leicester (Cup-tie game) were good, but it had come to be an almost recognized fact that Everton could not play their normal game away from home. Their work at Fratton Park, before 20,000 spectators was good enough to prove that they are now at their best in attack, even though Dean was not exactly strenuous or exerting himself against the all-powerful Allen, who is inches higher than Dean and is a noteworthy header of the ball. Everton's form was of all-round character again Sagar did extremely well. His catching was a tribute to his safe measures and his keen eye, and only once was he faulted –when he was charged over so near a goal that it was an escape. The backs were strong. At half-back Gee, as a deputy for White, who was present looking on, started rather tenderly, but eventually reached good form, and his destructive powers were made manifest. Gee rarely wasting a ball. It was pleasing to the Everton people that no one was hurt, that the Goodison side played with verve and vivacity. There had been though that in view of the Cup-tie engagement with West ham next Saturday there would be a game in which there would by some holding off, but actually the opposite was the case; indeed, the match turned at times into a biting game, with the referee called upon to issue warning notes –which is far from what one had been led to expect from a meeting of old friends.
A Good Start.
Everton started with a goal and that seemed to light up the enthusiasm of the eleven. Stein got the ball, and it was a nice strong shot that Gilfillan tried to hold. The ball beat the goalkeeper through sheer pace, and Everton were playing well until Worrall made a solo run on the line gave the dummy to Cresswell, and centred the ball square for the home centre to take an instant shot. Portsmouth went ahead through a similar movement. Rutherford made a square centre after beating Cook, and Weddle again applied the last touch –a sharp and short shot that found its fillet in spite of the able and consistent way Sagar had been shaping to all kinds of shots notably those from J. Smith and Easson. Everton did not appear to be good for a draw at this point, but Stein made a centre, so that Dean pushed home without ceremony. Then Portsmouth showed pronounced weakness at wing half-back, and in the end Everton were worth their draw and the manner of their play suggested that this game would be sufficient to beat West Ham in the semi-final.
Britton Stands Out.
Britton was the best of the line, and in close dribbling did not forsake the main matter, namely, work for his wingman, the ball being put cutely on the touch-line area. Forward, the line lacked a central factor, Dean was out-headed, and out-generated by a big man who never left him. Johnson and Dunn were always busy schemers. Johnson put in two curious bumping balls that Gilfillan held but his awkwardness at getting down to them showed the difficulty of his task. Stein was sure all through, and notably in the second half. His corners kicks are part of a plan of campaign, Johnson going towards the ball sufficient, Johnson going towards the ball sufficient to blot out the view of the goalkeeper. Critchley suffered a shoulder hurt and some severe tackles, and played a steady game, kicking his feet better than usual and making some good centres. Portsmouth were variable. They helped to make the first half a capital display of finesse, strong shots and rousing football. After that the excellence of Worrall and Rutherford was lost because the wing half backs and the inside forwards were an poor in their distribution.
Players For The Trial?
Easson was clever without a sustained effort throughout the game, and Smith was the best shooter of the day. Portsmouth is to be the home of an international trial game in a few weeks. I understand that Everton will have a good representation, namely Sagar, White, Geldard and Britton . Teams: - Portsmouth: - Gilffialn, goal; Mackie and Smith (W.), backs; Nichol, Allen and Thackerley, half-backs; Worrall, Smith (J.), Weddle, Easson, and Rutherford, forwards. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Cresswell, backs; Britton, Gee and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, Dunn, Dean (captain), Johnson and Stein, forwards. Referee Mr. C. Line, Birmingham.
EVERTON RESERVES 3 MANCHESTER UNITED RESERVES 3
March 13 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Central League (Game 30)
A brilliant first half hat-trick by Turner placed Everton in a winning position at the interval, but before the close the advantage had been lost, and Everton had to be content with a draw. Williams returning after injury, played well without taking undue risk, but Everton's outstanding defender was Bocking, who was brilliant throughout. The United had sound attacking ideas and a sturdy defence. Mitchell opened the score for Manchester, then followed Turner's hat-trick, and after resuming a penalty successfully coverted by Dawson gave the United a chance with the result that before the close McDonald scored the equaliser. A most interesting game, that Everton should have won . Everton: - Coggins, goal; Williams and Bocking, backs; Mercer, Clark, and Archer, half-backs; Birtley Cunliffe, Fryer, McGourty and Turner, forwards. Manchester United: - Hall, goal; Dawson and Silcock, backs; McLenahan, Vose, and McLachlan, half-backs; Mitchell, MacDonald, Black, Callimore, and Brown, forwards. Referee Mr. C.W. Abbott.
THE ADVANCE OF EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Monday 13 March 1933
THEIR AWAY PERFORMANCES
NO DAMAGE DONE AT PORTSMOUTH
THE ALL-CLEAR FOR THE CUP SEMI-FINAL GAME
Bee’s Notes
To-day Everton F.C. players went to Buxton to study tactics, to talk over Cup possibilities, and to consider ways and means of making their mark at Wembley. On Friday they passed Wolverhampton en route for London, and thus passed their semi-final and final grounds in one and the same journey. I feel sure the on-coming of Everton's attack in recent weeks will take the eleven to the final, whose ground they passed and saw yesterday on their return from London. It is just now that the Cup temperament comes up for judgment. Teams that have been playing well crash against minor sides, and the standard of play often falls lamentably through the nervous strain arising through the magic of the word Cup. Recently I have noticed and noted the steady, sure rise of Everton's attack. It has been a pleasing feature. No one particularly wanted the nines and sevens, but at least there was a demand that everyone should take his share of shooting. And with the line of attackers all agog to have “a go” for goal the possibility of attack winning the next round of the tie becomes plain to my vision. At this stage of the season people are frightfully anxious to dig up any coincidence, any strange freak of form. Londoners just now delve into the away form of Everton and say, “That is not a bit impressive." If they looked into West Ham's sheet they would be startled to find that this club has not an away win. However, it is very absurd to dwell largely upon such phases of football life. The question is how are Everton and West Ham playing to-day?
ANO THE REPLY
And the answer is Everton are playing steadily, without defeat and with much confidence and West Ham are too busy for words trying to make their position safe in Division. The fixture, making has led them to a match to-day at Oldham—a stiff match, too, from a positional point of view—and it is rather extraordinary that a Cup semi-final team should be playing any game earlier in the week. Let West Ham figure out their own “long-shot," " dark horse “stories. I want to tell you that the form of Everton during the season has been disappointing- away from home -- but their form to-day is steadier and more settled in every department than for a season. The display they gave to our Portsmouth friends was a good one. I am banking on such form being 35 per cent, too good for the average West Ham team, as we knew it in its hey-day or to-day. Everton led, became “square," and then were led; but in the end Dean quite readily put paid to a bonus of a pound per man through stein', centre. Stein is in rousing mood, and took a good goal—it is becoming a habit of his to open the scorebook as against Litton, and his goal at Portmouth was just the sort of encouragement Everton wanted. No one could have blamed the whole team had they taken every care to escape work and injury. The goal gave them visions of an away victory. They went for the opposition, and played a first half that gave me great joy, although it was spoiled to a degree through the persistent “hireling " of Thomson, who had suffered one of those nasty words come footballers seem to live upon.
A SURVEY
There is no need to go over or go deep into the game at Portsmouth. It is necessary at this stage to pay tribute to a side that can take a point from Pompey and to say that Geldard is improving, that Ben Williams is fit, and that all the other members are keyed up for tie great day at Wolverhampton, on Saturday. Sager struck a fine chord at Fratton Park. Cook kicked well, and did some solid work. He and Britton are linking together just as surely as Britton is linking up with the right-wing pair. Dunn schemed and worked his soul out, adding length shots and lots of work that counted for much where the steadiness of the line is concerned. James commands by his refusal to be hurried into the game of burst ball; he says. " Let's get this thing to earth. Steady, boys, steady " Johnson gave so many cross-field passes to his right wing that to turned the game out of its expected course for long stretches. At centre, Dean held a watching brief with a nodding acquaintance with the ball, when the tall and most successful player on the field, Allen, happened to forget his day's mission. Stein was perhaps the most dangerous forward of the side. At half, Gee had a bonny second half and the wing half backs were—well, just Britton and Thomson. Similarly I must mention Cresswell; not that I have anything new to add to his case; you know him so well that that it is difficult to do more than tell you Cresswell was at left back—one of the games studious members; one who looks ahead and spares his almost frail frame by the golfing sense known as " timing correctly." Warner works on the theory that a boy of 7st, can hit a ball further than a slogger of 17st., if the boy is "timing his stroke" rather than using brute force. Hence, Cresswell's half-leg swing where a Billy Dunlop would have plugged in like a gangster in a corner! One word more; The fleet had sailed, so that the bluejackets were not numerous, but the welcome to Everton was as usual, a real Portsmouth chime. In London everyone wished them well, and believed they will win the Cup. On the wireless, on Thursday, I was surprised to see the name of Arthur Askey. Judge of my surprise when Liverpool's Arthur was at the hotel where Everton stay, principal comic. He left his banqueting card marked "Cherrio, Bee; give the boys my best wishes for the final tie. They must win !—Arthur .Askey." All round the country, save for Manchester, Derby and London, the feeling appears to be " Everton for the Cup." Not that that will win Everton's medals; they must get to grips with West Ham first of all. I understand that in the trial game due for Portsmouth in a week or Sager, White, Geldard and Britton will be found in the teams, and judged by their display that day the selectors will allocate the caps for the game v. Scotland. Four from Everton should mean some for Hampden Park.
GELDARD AND WHITE WILL BE FIT.
March 13 1933, Evening Express.
Fifteen Everton Players Go To Buxton.
By the Pilot.
Just before the Everton party left Liverpool for Buxton, today, I was assured that both Geldard and White will be fit for next Saturday's F.A. Cup semi-final game with West Ham United. Fifteen players made the journey. The Cup team will be chosen tomorrow. An addition was made to the original party Bocking being included. The players in the party were: - Sagar Cook, Cresswell, Williams, Bocking, Britton, White, Thomson, Gee, Geldard, Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. Cook, the Irish international right back, jarred an ankle in the game at Fratton park and there is slight soreness, but I am assured that this will disappear in a couple of days and that the former Glasgow Celtic man will be fit for the last hurdle on the march to Wembley. The players will remain at Buxton until Saturday morning and than journey straight through to Wolverhampton.
Promising Form.
Everton showed up in a good light at Fratton Park, where they deserved their point as a result of a 2-2 draw. They contributed some splendid football fore and aft, and it was a game, which will be remembered for its thrills and speedy football. The first half was particularly good. The Champions held a distinct advantage at wing half and on the extreme forwards flanks, and much of their constructive work was better than that of Pompey. As a matter of fact there was no weakness in the team, for the defence offered a fine resistance to the nippy, methodical Portsmouth forwards, who always constituted a menace. It was just after the resumption that Portsmouth showed up best, and had it not been for stolid defensive work on the part of the Blues. Pompey might have taken more than Weddle's goal. The Everton showed that they could pull out that extra effort which eventually saved the game. Sagar was the best man on the Everton side. He was kept busy and got through his work in brilliant style. Cook gave another fine exhibition and Cresswell contrived to overcome Worrall's definite advantage in pace.
Gee Does Well.
One of the most gratifying features was the play of Gee at centre half. As one member of the side put it "Charlie needs just that extra yard to be that Gee of old." There is no doubt but that Gee is coming back to his true form. He played with confidence in the tackle and used the ball exceedingly well. Now he need have no fears that his leg will not stand any strain. Critchley and Stein were the best forwards, though the inside men carved out some lovely openings. Repetition of such form, with the extra Cup punch, should ensure Everton appearing at Wembley.
GELDARD AND WHITE READY
March 14 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
Everton have taken up their quarters at Buxton to prepare for what they expect will prove a hard tussle at Wolverhampton on Saturday. Fifteen players have gone to the Derbyshire resort their being: - Sagar, Cook, Cresswell, Williams, Bocking, Britton, White, Thomson, Gee, Geldard, Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. The players, go on to Wolverhampton from Buxton on Saturday morning. I am informed that Geldard has made good progress and that the outside right and White will be ready for the strenuous task in hand. Cook hurt his ankle on Saturday, but is expected to be soon all right.
TOM JOHNSON
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 14 March 1933
The Everton forward is here shown in a curious photograph that "outlines" the ex-Manchester City member. Tom is looking for final the coincidences. If he plays in the Wembley final this year he will have played two games there—and may be one for and against Manchester City that would be a record feat. Johnson says the signs are right; Manchester City stayed at the Victoria Hotel, Northumberland Avenue—Everton's London home for seasons—when they won the Cup. The hotel officials are as keen as Everton on the result.
EVERTON F.C.- NO DOUBT
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 14 March 1933
Cook's Injury Negligible
GELDARD'S TRIAL
Semi-Final Side To Be Chosen To-Night
Everton, whose Cup semi-final team will be chosen to-night, are not perturbed about Cook’s ankle injury, which was only slight, and the right full back position is considered to be in no doubt. White is expected to resume at centre half. Geldard, who did not take part in the tie against Luton Town, will have a further and complete trial about. Thursday before any decision is made about his playing against West Ham United. Mr. Tom Mclntosh the secretary, was quite cheery when the Echo spoke to him at Buxton, to-day.
ALL IN FAVOUR
The players are enjoying the air and the fine weather, which is all in favour of the programme of training to successfully adopted for previous engagements and followed again in anticipation of Saturday’s important game. “No risks will be taken, of course." said Mr. McIntosh, "Although fortunately we have nothing really serious to worry about at the moment. “I am just going to talk things over with Harry Cooke, our trainer, and we shall then know exactly where we stand. I cannot say anything more definite before the team to announced to-night." Everton, it seems, have no “starters” problem. If Geldard's trial is satisfactory, he will play at outside right instead of Critchley—that is all.
WEST HAM CHANGE
West Ham may have to make another change in their last line of defence for Saturday's Cup-tie with Everton. Pat McMahon. the 19 year-old Scottish player, who made his debut in the first team ten days ago when George Watson was injured in a motor mishap, has his shoulder ligaments badly strained in yesterday's game, and will probably stand down. George Watson had made a good recovery, and practises to-day so that in McMahon's absence he will return to goal. Barratt’s knee injury on Saturday is expected to yield to treatment, and Pollard, who has not played since, the Birmingham victory, has resumed training. The team will not be chosen until to-morrow. Mr. Char les Poynter, the manager, expressed the view that the only change in the side that beat Birmingham will be Watson for McMahon. "West Ham usually play best against the leading clubs." he added. “And we fully expect to reach the final."
THE WOLVERHAMPTON MATCH
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 14 March 1933
In connection with the Cup match between Everton and West Ham United, at Wolverhampton, on Saturday, the G.W.R. announces the running of an express half-day excursion from Liverpool at 5s. The train leaves Liverpool Landing Stage at 10.50 a.m., Central Low Level 10.45, homes-street 10.47, Birkenhead (Woodside) 11.5, and Rock Ferry at 11.10 a.m. arriving Wolverhampton 1.10 p.m. The return train leaves , Wolverhampton at 6.15 p.m. Molineux Ground, on which the match will be played, is within walking distance of the G.W.R. Wolverhampton (Low Level) Station.
EVERTON CUP TEAM
March 15 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
Everton will be at full strength for the Cup semi-final tie against West Ham United, at Wolverhampton, on Saturday. Geldard, who was injured in the match against Derby County, is fit again, and along with White –who did not play against Portsmouth last Saturday-returns to the side, to the exclusion of Critchley and Gee. Thus the team that beat Leicester City 3-2, Bury 3-1, and Leeds United 2-0 will be on duty, and the only change from the side that beat Luton Town 6-0 is Geldard for Critchley. The team for the semi-final, therefore is: - Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Geldard, Dunn Dean, Johnson, Stein. This side should I think, be good enough to beat the Hammers and take Everton into the final for the fifth time in their history. The players who are in training at Buxton, are all reported fit and well, and, there is a feeling of confidence that the team record of never having lost a match on a Saturday after a stay at Buxton will be maintained. But they do not intend to take anything for granted. West ham's poor record in the second Division of the League may be ignored when weighing up the chances of the sides in a Cup tie, and it must not be forgotten that in the knock-out competition the London club beat both West Bromwich Albion, and Birmingham. But those games were played at West ham, and I cannot see a side that has only one away win to its credit this season –against the Corinthians in the Cup-beating Everton at Wolverhampton.
Barrett and Dean.
The Second Division team will, no doubt reply upon Barrett holding up Dean and speedy forwards upsetting the Everton defence, but I am of the opinion that the Hammers' rearguard will not be equal to the task of checking the Everton wingers, and that the Goodison park's half-backs will be capable of holding up the opposing attacks. I believe the optimism of the followers of Everton will be justified, and that the Blues will prevail.
Probable West Ham Change.
Though West Ham had several of the Cup players out of the side beaten at Oldham, on Monday, it is expected that Barrett will have fully recovered from his knee injury, and Pollard, who has not played since West Ham beat Birmingham 4-0 in the last round, will be able to resume. McMahon the young goalkeeper who took the place of G. Watson (injured in a motor mishap) in the last tie, strained the ligaments of his shoulder at Oldham and may stand down. Fortunately Watson has recovered, and he is likely to turn out. A decision will not be reached until today, but the team will probably be: - Watson; Chalkley, Walker; Collins, Barrett, Musgrave; Yews, Pollard, Watson, Wilson, Morton.
Took Part In Previous Semi-Final.
Of the Everton team to do duty on Saturday, Cresswell, Thomson, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, and Stein opposed West Bromwich Albion at Manchester in the semi-final two years ago. Watson, the West Ham centre forward, played for the club in the famous final at Wembley in 1923, and now ten years later he has a chance of appearing in another final. Johnson, the Everton inside left, assisted Manchester City in the final of 1926 when Bolton Wanderers won the trophy.
Everton Reserves Side.
The Everton reserves side to meet Bolton in a Central league game at Burnden Park today, includes Gee at Centre half and Grififths outside right, the team being: - Coggins; Common, Bocking; Mercer, Gee, Archer; Griffiths, Cunliffe, Fryer, McGourty, Turner.
EVERTON AT FULL STRENGTH IN EVERY WAY
March 15 1933. Evening Express.
Geldard Survives Strenuous Test.
Shush! A Secret Sign.
By the Pilot.
This is Everton's team for the F.A. cup semi-final with West ham United at Wolverhampton on Saturday. Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Geldard, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein.
Geldard is fit and definitely will play, White returns to centre-half vice Gee. The team is the eleven, which defeated Leicester City, Bury, and Leeds United in previous cup rounds. I saw Geldard's test yesterday at Buxton. In "full marching order," he sprinted trotted and indulged in strenuous ball practice for fully half an hour. Not once did his injured ankle even give him a twinge. One cannot sprint with the ball at one's toes, turn sharply and swing in an accurate centre if one is not in good conditions. Geldard did this –and more. He was cutting in and shooting with rare power and precision. Geldard is fit all right. Cook's damaged ankle, is right again and White says he is in good fettle again.
What A Contrast.
The last time Bert Wright and I called on Everton in training at Buxton the players were shoveling snow to make a running track; yesterday they were on the golf links and even playing tennis in brilliant sunshine. I saw Dixie Dean play Charlie Gee, and if Dean's headwork on Saturday is as good as his overhead driving at tennis, then West ham will suffer the same fate as Gee, who lost 6-2. But I am before my story. Mystery his crept into the Everton camp. When Bert and I made out appearance we were greeted solemnly with a peculiar sign. We discovered that it was necessary to know this to obtain admission to the "Society of Ancient Brittons." Humbly we presented ourselves for initiation. Of course we cannot give it all away but if you pass your right hand with the palm open slowly across the front of the face and extend your arm sideways at shoulder height a member of this society will give you the password "ol'Pal!" There will be thousands of 'ol'pals" at Wolverhampton on Saturday. The residents of Buxton have caught the "fever," and everywhere one hears "ol Pal." This symbol of Everton's happy team spirit threatens to capture supporters not only in Buxton but in Liverpool, too. When we went on to the Buxton Town ground we met directors Mr. Jack Sharp and Dr. Cecil Baxter, with Mr. T. H. McIntosh and Trainer Harry Cooke, watching their charges. Mr. Sharp is the only one of the party possessing a F.A. Cup winners's medal. He got it with Everton in 1906, and he is there to inspire the team of 1933 to emulate that wonder side of 27 years ago. Mr. Sharp is not jealous of his trophy. No, he wants eleven more Everton colleagues to gain that medal, and his advice on cup affairs is widely sought and freely given. The much-interrupted golf match between Stein and Britton and Johnson and Critchley, which they have been trying to complete on each visit to Buxton is ended. It has suffered a complete "fade-out," You know why? Well Stein and Britton were seven up at the eight, so the others retired. I hear that Tommy Johnson is waiting for the first tunnel on the way to Wolverhampton to dispose of his clubs. This according to Jimmy Dunn.
UnBeatable?
Mr. Sharp and Dr. Baxter are doing valuable work in getting the players fit by playing golf every day. They play a match with two players each afternoon and up to now have not been beaten. Mr. McIntosh selects their opponents and controls the game. He is determined to lower the directors' colours before the week is out. Everton are once again "taking a course of mineral baths, which, I am told, acts as a stimulant to the blood stream of athletics. The Derby County players went to Buxton for golf on Monday, and it is said that when they saw the Everton boys arrive and begin golf they packed up their bags and balls and went home. The players walked to the Cat and Fu8iddle and back today, and tomorrow they will have more ball practice and baths. Training concludes on Friday morning. They are so busy getting fit that they have not any time to discuss their chances against West Ham. Personally I do not think that the subject needs discussion.
EVERTON MEN IN ENGLAND TRIAL
March 15 1933. Evening Express.
By the Pilot.
As foreshadowed exclusively in The Evening Express four Everton players have been selected to appear in the English International trial match which takes place at Portsmouth on Wednesday, March 22. Today Sagar and Britton were selected for goal and right half respectively in the England eleven, and White and Geldard were chosen to play at centre half and outside right respectively in the Rest side.
BOLTON RESERVES V EVERTON RES
March 15 1933. Evening Express.
The re-arranged Central league game between Everton Res, and Bolton Wanderers took place at Burnden Park today. In ten minutes Bolton scored. Render headed the ball over the head of the advancing Coggins and it went over the goal line. Everton showed smartness and good understanding in attack, but were met by a resolute defence in which Athkinson was outstanding. Everton were constantly worried by the clever Bolton forwards. Half-time Bolton Wanderers 1, Everton 0.
EVERTON PLAYERS ON TRIAL
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 15 March 1933
IN RUNNING FOR PLACE IN ENGLAND SIDE
Four Everton players figure in the team for England v. the Rest, announced this afternoon, as follow : England—Sagar (Everton); Cooper (Derby). Blenkinsopp (Sheffield Wednesday); Britton (Everton), Barker (Derby County). Keen (Derby County), Crook (Derby County). Grosvenor (Birmingham), Coleman Arsenal), Carter (Sunderland), Bastin (Arsenal). The Rest.—Moss (Arsenal); Male (Arsenal), Hapgood (Arsenal); Strange (Sheffield Wed.), White (Everton), Copping (Leeds United); Geldard (Everton), Starling (Sheffield Wed.), Hunt (Spurs), Pickering (Sheffield United), Arnold Fulbuo). Reserves to travel:—G. H. Milburn (Leeds United), Stoker (Birmingham) and Hammond (Fulham). To be played at Portsmouth, on March 22. The committee decided for this match only the players should be numbered.
EVERTON RES. AT BOLTON
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 15 March 1933
A few hundred spectators at Burnden Park enjoyed a game in which the lively Bolton forwards made light of their handicap in height and weight and kept the Everton defence at full stretch for some time. Coggins made several smart eaves before Render made amends for missing an open goal by drawing Coggins out and heading the ball over his head into the net. Everton had their chances, but Fryer, Cuncliffe, and Griffiths could make nothing of them. Pollard, in the Bolton goal, saved without difficulty from Archer and McGourty. Everton were quite good in midfield, but lacking in front of goal. Half-time.—Bolton Res, 1, Everton Res. 0.
CUP SEMI-FINAL ARRANGEMENTS
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 15 March 1933
Wolverhampton's Gaiety
GELDARD DOUBTS
Streamers To Welcome Cup Fans
The town of Wolverhampton is taking the semi-final tie between Everton and West Ham United very earnestly. Not only has the Mayor invited the Press and the members and directors of the clubs to a luncheon at midday, but the town has decided to flag a welcome to the supporters of the Everton and West Ham United teams. For this purpose they have arranged for streamers in the colours of the two clubs. The Everton team was officially chosen last night as anticipated, namely Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Geldard, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, and Stein. But this does not mean that the air is absolutely clear regarding Geldard. "Bee" understands that Geldard's fitness, or otherwise, will not be known until to-morrow, when the doctor's report will decide whether he shall play or not. However, there is no doubt that he is so much improved that be is expected to play. Everton to-day went by bus to the Cat and Fiddle, and walked back. Mr. McIntosh, secretary, says: "We have had really marvelous weather, and plenty of good fun on the links and off the links. To-night we are having a private cinema show given by the son of the manager of the Palace Hotel."
OLD PLAYER’S OPINION
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 15 March 1933
Ted Worrell, the former Sheffield Wednesday full back, sends greetings to Everton in this letter to the Hive: Pleased to see Everton are doing so well in the Cup. I hope they have the good fortune to win it. firstly because of having two old pals in the team in Dixie and Tommy White—by the way, will you please give my good wishes to them both—and secondly, because they have taken such a liking to my home town (Buxton). Personally, I think it I will be an all-Lancashire final between those two great rival cities, Liverpool and Manchester. I feel confident that Everton will beat West Ham easily, and Derby (against popular fancy) to go under, as Manchester City are their bogey team. I am still playing a bit of football with Ripley in the Derbyshire League.
EVERTON "CROSS-SWARD" PUZZLE FOR WEST HAM.
March 16, 1933. Evening Express.
Forward! Motto for Forwards but Dean Will Nod One Down Occasionally.
By the Pilot.
"We must cut out too much back-passing……. We must concentrate on moving forward……. The cross-field swinger and the short quick pass will constitute our plan for Saturday's cup semi-final with West Ham at Wolverhampton. I think it will take us to Wembley." Billy Dean, the Everton captain, Comment is superfluous. West Ham had had to make two changes and possibly will have to make a third. Cadwell resumes at left half back and Wood played so well at outside right on Monday that he is likely to be retained instead of Yews. Wood paved the way for four West Ham goals against Everton at Upton Park last season. The conditions of McMahon, the goalkeeper, is doubtful.
We'll Make It Snappy.
Direct Action the Way to Wembley - Dixie Dean
Everton have never been a team to overdo passing back, but there is a feeling that the players might become inclined to adopt this method rather too often. Everyone in the side appreciate to the full that in certain circumstances the pass back instead of forward is a winner, but too much of it tends to slow up the action of the side. It is direct action, which will lead to Wembley. I had an opportunity of discussing this point with Billy Dean, whose fear was that team would pass back often enough to retard swift action. "I know that occasionally a cute back pass shows a profit," he said" but I feel certain that Everton will do much better if they move forward the whole time. "There is no doubt but that fast, accurate football, with the movements being developed quickly and worked with a forward passing action, will take us to Wembley. "That is why I think we must cut out too much of the back-passing." I asked Dean what he thought of his own move in the goalmouth when he heads back centres to his inside forwards for them to blaze at goal. This move is one of the finest I have ever seen. It has proved a winner not only in league and cup football, but in international game and the master man as it is Dean.
Match-Winning Move.
It would be a great play if Everton scrapped such a match winning move, and Dean was quick to assure me that he will continue to use the move in certain circumstances. "Even that can be overdone" he said. "But I firmly believe it is a move that can bring us victory and we shall put it into operation when the occasion demands." Demands. Dean's contention is that it far more effective to nod a ball down to the feet of an in-running forward than to endeavour to make a header on his own in circumstances where he cannot get sufficient power behind the ball to make it a winner. A player moving towards a ball has a much better chance of scoring, Dean has worked it out and perfected the move. It would be silly if Everton scrapped it I know they will not, but those at the Molineux Grounds will certainly see a progressive Everton from start to finish. The members of the team in training at Buxton were at running and ball practice on the Buxton Town ground today, and later had mineral baths.
West Ham Make Chances.
Cadwell and Wood to Play
In consequence of injuries West Ham have been forced to make changes for their semi-final match with Everton. Musgrove cannot appear at left half-back, and his place is to be taken by Cadwell. Wood, the outside right, who paved the way for four goals against Everton at Upton last season, takes the place of Yews at outside right. The conditions of McMahon, the young goalkeeper who injured his shoulder at Oldham, on Monday is more resurring but it is still doubtful whether he will be fit in time. If he is not his deputy will be G. Watson. West Ham: McMahon (or G. Watson); Chalkley Walker; Collins, Barrett, Cadwell; Wood, Pollard, Watson, Wilson, Morton. Yesterday, the party following normal custom, alighted from the trial at Leigh-on-sea, and walked along the front to Southend, late taking a stroll to the end of the pier. A flying billiard handicap took place during the afternoon, the usual brine baths having been indulged in, and the party returned to London in good time.
EVERTON'S LAST WORDS ;
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 16 March 1933
WHAT WOLVERHAMPTON GROUND WILL HOLD
SPECTATORS' INQUIRIES
All is in readiness! The Cup semi-finals are now provoking last words. This morning Mr. McIntosh told me “that there was nothing to report on the Buxton front. The lads have been congratulating the four boys of their side who have been picked fir the trial game—a forecast, given exclusively in the Daily Post and Echo. Baths and golf are the order to-day. Weather fine; going good—and going to be better by Saturday night.” Which sounds optimistic.
So many spectators in this city have inquired about the Wolverhatnpton ground that I have spent to-day in special reference to it. By the way, the minimum charge is 1s not 2s as has been stated.
THIS IS THE GROUND
Molineux ground, Wolverhampton, where Everton meet West Ham on Saturday, is one of the most compact grounds in Division 1. Hardly an inch of space is wasted, and there is covered accommodation on the three sides of the ground. Situated right in the centre of the town, it is within five minutes' walk of the station, and there is no need at all for anyone to board a trackless bus in order to reach it. From either the G.W.R. station or the L.M.S, the route is the same, except that from the former station you have first to mount about 75 steps in order to get to Station Drive. From there the route is practically straight, for you pass along Lichfield-street until you reach the traffic signals in what is known as Princess-square. Presuming you pass along Lichfield, keeping to the right hand, you turn right at the traffic signals, then sharp left, crowing the road at the circular island," bear straight down, keeping the market on your left. At the bottom of the hill you turn right, and immediately you find the Molineux Hotel facing you. Here you can split divers ways to find any particular entrance to the ground. That is the nearest way from the station, and probably the easiest route.
STANDS
The main stand backs on Waterloo-road, and can he reached from the Molineux Hotel by passing down the side entry on the left. In this stand are the 10s 6.d. 7s 6d, and 5s seats, while in the front of the stand is accommodation—standing—for about 3,000 supporters at a charge 3s. It is under this stand that the dressing-rooms are situated, and also in this stand will be seated the various football legislator, including Mr. Kingscott, members of the International Selection Committee, and all probability Sir F. J. Wall, the secretary of the Football Association. At either end of the ground is accommodation for well over 25,000 spectators. At the one end, and to the left of the main stand is the North stand, until rebuilt this season affectionately known in former years as “the cowshed.” When the Wolves won promotion, last season, about £10,000 was spent on improving the ground, and this included the building of an entirely new stand in palace of the “cowshed”. It is all standing, but provides the best shilling accommodation in any ground throughout the country. It is here that all early comers will dash, and it behoves all Everton supporters, especially if the day is wet, to be at the North stand entrances, if they are shilling spectators, very early. They will accommodate, roughly, nearly 20,000 at one shilling. Facing the main stand is the Molineux Street stand, which, as indicated, is reached from Molineux-street. This also is a new stand this season, and is a particularly fine one. Here will be seated 7s 6d ticket-holders and 5s; while in front there will be space for 3s standing room.
C.F.S, asks; Have you seen this one? The last syllables of- West HAM and EverTON comprise the two end syllables of WolverHAM(p)TON, and Everton has the FINAL SAY-IN FACT, A ton of it.
SOME CUP-TIE SENSATIONS
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 16 March 1933
EVERTON AND WEST HAM SIDES
GELDARD BREAKS DOWN
CRITCHLEY WILL AKE HIS PLACE
The cup semi-final tie between Everton and West Ham is due on Saturday, and to-day West Ham announced important changes in their side, and Everton at Mid-day found Albert Geldard unable to play. He broke down when tested. Geldard was absent from the last Cup-tie through injury. He has a difficulty with his leg, but everyone at Buxton believed that he must be right for the game on Saturday He was chosen by the directors on Tuesday night, and to-day the final try-out was arranged for the local ground. Geldard took a ball, and tried to kick it with his left foot. The first effort was not convincing one way or another, but the second attempt was fatal to his chances of playing. He broke down. Critchley becomes the automatic choice. Geldard has been with Everton for four months He is the costliest player of his age; it is stated that his fee to Bradford Park Avenue - was over 5,000. He is only 18 years of age and has already been chosen to play in the international trial match with a view to his being appointed right winger against Scotland. This breakdown must have a serious effect upon his chances of being capped.
EVERTON CUP TEAM SENSATION
March 16 1933. Evening Express, Front Page
Geldard Breaks Down Again
Critchley to Take his Place.
Geldard, Everton's brilliant young outside-right, will not play in the F.A. cup semi-final against West ham at Wolverhampton on Saturday, Critchley will take his place. Following a test on Tuesday Geldard reported fit and was chosen by the directors to play. Today when he was training on the Buxton Town ground with the other Everton players he was kicking in, when he hit a ball with his toe and felt the effect in his injured ankle. That one shot at goal upset all calculations. Geldard reported it to Mr. McIntosh and Trainer Harry cook. Mr. McIntosh immediately got into touch with the club directors in Liverpool and it was decided that Crithcley should play at outside right. When I spoke to the captain, Dixie Dean, on the matter, he said; "it is a pity that Geldard cannot play, but we have a fine substitute in Critchley. He has been playing well lately in the first team and he is just the type of player who can go out and win this game off his own bat. The injury to Geldard –it was received in the game with Derby County on Feb 25 –will probably prevent him from playing for The Rest in the English international trial match at Portsmouth on Wednesday next. Of Course, the injury may right itself in time, but the situation at the moment is that Geldard must be regarded as "doubtful." It is an extraordinary thing that when Everton last appeared in a semi-final they had to make a change at outside-right. Wilkinson then took the place of Critchley. Everton lost that game to West Bromwich Albion at Manchester. Everton team for the West Ham match will be: - Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Britton; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein.
EVERTON RESERVES 3 BOLTON WANDERERS RESEVRES 1
March 16 1932. Liverpool Post and Mercury
CentraL League (Game 31)
Weak finishing prevented Bolton establishing a winning lead in the first half, when Render headed their only goal. Everton made most of their physical advantage and superior team work in the second half, when Turner, Griffiths, and Cunliffe scored. Everton owed much to Coggins for a plucky display in goal, and to Bocking and Gee's success in defence. Everton's forwards shot badly for an hour, but made amends afterwards. Griffiths being the source of danger. Everton: - Coggins, goal; Common and Bocking, backs; Mercer, Gee and Archer, half-backs; Griffiths, Cunliffe, Fryer, McGourty, and Turner, forwards.
EVERTON AND WEST HAM CHANGES.
Match 17 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
It was believed that Geldard had completely recovered from his ankle injury received in the game against Derby County on February 25, but during a test yesterday, it was found that he is still unfit to play, and so Critchley will appear against west Ham. Everton will thus have the side that beat Luton Town in the sixth round of the competition by six goals to nothing. West ham United made changes from the team that beat Birmingham 4-0 in the previous round, Caldwell and herd are to play left-half and outside right respectively for Musgrove and Yews, both injured, and McMahon, the goalkeeper, who has a damage shoulder, is doubtful. If he does not play Watson, who was injured in a motor accident just before the Birmingham tie, will turn out. I think Everton will reach Wembley all right, but the defenders must keep a close watch on the speedy West ham wingers. The teams will be: - Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn Dean, Johnson, Stein. West Ham: - McMahon (or G Watson; Chalkley, Walker; Collins, Barrett, Cadwell; Wood, Pillard, Watson (V.), Wilson, Morton
• The Rest beat England by five goals to one, at Portsmouth yesterday, around 15,000 spectators were present, Sagar and Britton playing for England, and White for the Rest.
A NATIIONAL TIP-EVERTON FOR WEMBLEY!
March 17 1933. Evening Express.
Greatest Cup Chance For 27 Years.
Why West Ham Should Not Stop Then Tomorrow.
By the Pilot.
Only once in the whole history of the competition has the F.A. cup come to the city of Liverpool. Everton won the trophy 27 years ago. This year they have the finest chance of their career to repeat that achievement. Tomorrow they meet West Ham United at Wolverhmpton in the semi-final. The Londoners are the only surviving Second Division side, and the hope of the South of England. On form Everton should win well and quality to meet the winners of the Manchester City v Derby County game in the final at Wembley in April. West Ham's great trust is placed in their clever forwards and in Barrett's ability to hold up the Everton inside forwards; Everton's strength lies in a better balanced team with stronger half-backs and an attack which, I believe, is more efficient that that of the Londors. My fancy is Everton for Wembley. Manchester and Derby clash at Huddersfield, and Derby, is like West Ham, will be trying to lift the trophy for the first time in history. The Everton players themselves believe that they can win, and I have no fears that they will treats the opposition lightly and so run risks. They will find West Ham a quickmoving side, with fleet-footed wingers who profit by the match-winning crossfield pass. Their forwards are to be feared. They adopted direct methods and have a dangerous marksman in Victor Watson. The Everton intermediates must get a firm grip on the line right from the beginning. If they contrive to do that than everything should pan out right for the Football League champions.
The Problem of Barrett.
Barrett, the tall, burly West Ham captain and centre half, is an entirely different proposition. He is first and foremost a defender, and he will take it upon himself the special task of blotting out the Everton inside trio. Yet, there is a way to outwit Barrett. It is this. The inside forwards must concentrate on exploiting the wingers on every possible occasion. If they keep the ball moving swiftly from wing to wing, it should cause West ham to lose further interest in the Cup. Another word of advice to Everton, I do hope they will rid themselves of any desires to "walk" the ball into the net. Tomorrow will be a day for first time shooting. No one will grumble if a few first times shots do travel yards wide. These are bound to the failures. The Game means a lot to every one of the Everton players, but perhaps it is regarded as the most important match two of the men have ever figured in. I refer to Dean and Johnson. Both these players have won every honour first class football has to offer with one exceptions. The exception is a F.A. cup-Winners medal. Johnson already holds a F.A. Cup runners up medal –he played for Manchester City in the final of 1926 –but he wants the other one. It will be Everton's 10 th appearance in the semi-final of the competition. Everton will be without Geldard, who damaged his ankle in training at Buxton, so Critchley, who figured against Luton town in the sixth round tie, continues at outside right. West Ham have team doubts, and it has not yet been decided whether McMahon of G. Watson appears in goal. The Everton players will leave Buxton tomorrow morning and lunch at Birmingham. They are due back at Liverpool tomorrow night shortly after 8.pm. Dixie Dean, summing up his club's chances, says, "I feel certain, in my own mind, that we shall beat West Ham. The boys are determined that they shall not fall down at this hurdle, and I have the greatest faith in their ability. It will not be an easy task, but the harder the game the better we play. Teams: Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Hohnson, Stein. West Ham United:- McMahon (or Watson); Chalkley, Walker, Collins, Barrett, Cadwell; Wood, Pollard, Watson (V.), Wilson, Morton.
EVERTON’S HOPES OF A COMFORTABLE VICTORY
Liverpool Echo - Friday 17 March 1933
WEST IN DOUBT TO LAST MOMENT
REVIEWING THE WHOLE OF THE EVERTON CUP CAMPAIGN
STEADY RISE MEANS A WEMBLEY APPAREANCE
Bee's Notes
Everton for Wembley—that is my first suggestion. The way has been made clear for them; they have carved their way to the semi-final, and that stage would appear to be the easiest of all, until we remember that two years ago to this very day we were talking benignly about Everton's opportunity to beat West Bromwich Albion. That day Everton had six ripe chances of taking the lead: that day Everton wound up wildly, almost riotously, in an endeavour to get level after Glidden's goal—the only goal of the match. No one could tell us why Everton broke down first or broke out afterwards. They were well beaten by a side they imagined they would “eat." Those who think to-morrow's game at Wolverhampton is one of the easiest things Everton have had must please remember West Brom, two years ago, and then look into the two solid facts of the West Ham case:
BEAT WEST BROM ALBION.
BEAT BIRMINGHAM.
Those two facts will tend to bring us back to earth, and to show the Everton footballers that no cup semi-final can be a walk-over till one side has taken a four goals lead. Then they can rest their oars.
It is the fact that West Ham have not been successful in their League games: they are the moment in distress about their team - sheet. They can play McMahon or Watson, they can play Yews, but a newcomer did well that the new manager, Charley Paynter, says: "If 'Yews were fit we should not leave out this new lad." All of which will be very encouraging to the Everton boys, who have a lasting remembrance of Yews and Ruffell being their bugbear. Let us run our rule over the Everton Cup performances, each of which (save the first) has been witnessed by the English Football League president, Mr. John McKenna, who is going on to complete his Everton tour by visiting Wolverhampton, and then Wembley—with Everton, he hopes!
THE INSPIRATION
Everton played at Leicester like an inspired eleven. Their football was so good that I write a Rhapsody in Blue. The margin was small; the truth was that Willie Cook, of Glasgow Celtic, had got into a new channel of football pace and thought, and he had not got his bearings. He was responsible for two goals against, Leicester made a bonny fighting finish, but the Everton team's it superb display brought them a goal margin. . Next came the meetings at home—a very important factor: Home! Half the battle leads to the full bottle! Home v. Bury. A hard ground, a victory against a lead to a team that was not good, but made a curiously cheerful rally and got Everton spectators at one point in a state of “Well, you never know." Bury lacked a J. R. Smith at centre. Next came the further First Division teat—v. Leeds City. Sagar saved the day. You may answer me by saying that he is there for the purpose of doing his goalkeeping work. But I’ll tell you just one phrase;
HE PERFORMED THREE MIRACLES THAT DAY.
And you must not expect him to go on further with these extraordinary saves. Leeds were without a strong centre forward; Keetley, many said, should not have played. They talk like that after a game has been played, I am harking on the centre forward position of the opposing side for one special reason: The game on Saturday will show us V. Watson, than whom there is no more dependable centre in shot or scheme.
THE DANGER SIGNAL
Finally Everton took the Luton boys for a ride, and the machine wouldn’t start for a full half-hour, although many tugged at the starting handle. This before their own spectators was a danger signal. Luton were handsomely beaten in the end, but they lost their schemer through injury, and therefore the team was handicapped-the damaged man went outside left although nobody but this paper seemed to have said anything about it. and that’s how we come to Everton v. West Ham, at Wolverhampton. It is wise to be cautious in such circumstances. No one can tell me West Ham are duffers. They were in our Division last season; they have some bright young things like Morton and Chalkley; they have a Burnley product in Pollard, and a defence that strikes me as the weakest part of the eleven. This game can be won by Everton because the West Ham defence is not, or should not be, clever enough to hold the Everton FRONT LINE.
TIMING
Everton have had a cup final preparation. Just as a Grand National horse ham to be brought to his finest point by the last weeks of March, so Everton have been brought to their greatest games by the middle of March, and their last game at Portsmouth gave the lie to the thought that they cannot play well away from home. This was a game where they might have rested their legs and played for safety with a view to the cup-tie. They did not rest they were restless for goals and for a bonus. It was an impressive display. It meant that Everton had heartiness and confidence away from home; it made me forget the slow start against Luton, the escape of the Leeds forwards, and the narrow margin against Leicester. It is more important that we should tackle our own known side of the football team than we should allow too much thought to the West Ham eleven which we have not seen for some time. Everton can be dominating; they can produce the best of football styles, and some shots; they can also be very human, which means that: Everton can be temperamental and can lose the football steadiness so necessary in a semi-final tie. Derby County and Sunderland suffered nerves in their momentous meeting at Sunderland, when 76,000 people got in when only 60,000 should have been! Wolverhampton's ground may not hold all the Evertonians, Midlanders, Londoners, and those who are "passing by." If so, then the old question of temperament will arise again. No one can say which way Everton or their rivals will face this tie. The day tolls its own tale. I have a belief in Everton; the way has been made clear: I think they will go on to Wembley. The Football Echo will tell you the rest—through its private wire from the Press-box to the Echo office.
THE GATHERING OF TIE CLANS
It is only necessary to state that the officials leave Liverpool to-morrow morning at about eleven o'clock; the platers go, via Birmingham and there take dinner with their reserve side that happens to be in Birmingham to-morrow, and the reserves will return through Wolverhampton at night and pick up with the seniors’ saloon. Everything is ready for a fast game, West Ham play no other type of game and they believe they can make holes in Everton’s defensive armour through the very fact of their speed. It will be a stern, hot game, with West Ham making every post a winning post. I do hope that the headline in tomorrow’s Football Echo report will be MERRILY WE GO TO –WEMBLEY
Everton; Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. West Ham; Watson (G); Chalkley, Walker; Collins, Barrett, Cadwell; Wood, Pollard, Watson (V), Wilson, Morton. Referee; Mr. Pinkston (Birmingham).
EXCURSION ARRANGEMENTS
The railway arrangements for the excursion trains leaving Liverpool are as follows;- Depart Lime-Street at 10;30, 10.40, 11 o’clock, and 11.35. There will be dinning accommodation on the 11.35 (two meals, 5s extra). Return 5.30, 5.40, 6 o’clock, 6.23, 6.45, and 10.15. Dinning car on the 5.40. bookings can also be made from Allerton (depart 10.29 a.m., return 6.5 p.m. Passengers change at Runcorn on outward journey. The fare in every case is 5s return.
EVERTOR "A" TEST
Liverpool Echo - Friday 17 March 1933
Everton "A" and Ellesmere Port Town have each lost only ten points in the County Combination. Their meeting at Crosby on Saturday (3.30) is. Therefore, a championship test. The scores of the Everton match at Wolverhampton will be posted every fifteen minutes. Everton "A": Frostick; Jackson. Jones; Chedgsoy, Watson (T. G.), Griffiths; Dutton, Webster, Stevens, Watson (J. G.), and Leyfield.
GELDARD BACK IN L’POOL
Liverpool Echo - Friday 17 March 1933
COME TO SEE A SPECIALIST
HIS FINAL HOPE
The most disappointed footballer in the world arrived in Liverpool to-day to see a specialist. When I walked into the waiting-room of the surgery (writes “Stork "), I found Albert Geldard sitting alone, obviously in deep thought. Could it be otherwise? Here was a young man booked for an F.A. Cup semi-final on Saturday, and an international trial at Portsmouth on Wednesday next. None could have felt happy with the knowledge that he was to be kept out of both by a troublesome ankle injury. This was the former Bradford player's great chance. Only a boy in his teens, he had undoubtedly been given the chance many a player almost twice his age had never had. I extended general sympathy to Geldard, and he seemed pleased to think that all were thinking about him. "Of course I am keenly disappointed," he said. "It is not the trial game that is troubling me so much, for there may be a chance in that next season, but to miss a semi-Anal is a big blow to me.
THE NEXT CHANCE
"To get to the semi-final is not easily done nowadays, and it may be years before Everton have such another chance," be added. "There are players who have waited for years and years to get a Wembley ticket, and here was the chance of my getting one in this, my first year in senior football, and this comes along to hold me up. "I may not miss a Cup medal even now, for I am hopeful of being fit and well for the final tie five weeks ahead. Asked how the foot affected him, Geldard said, “I can run and walk all right, and can sometimes kick a ball without feeling any effects, but if I get the ball in a certain spot it gives me great pain. “I don’t often kick the ball with my left foot during the progress of a match, but I might have to go, and there would always be the danger of turning against me " Here the doctor entered the room. Geldard's parting words were: “I greatly appreciate “Bee’s and your inquiry, also those of others who have shown interest in me. Oh, yes, I am going to Wolverhampton to see Everton to- morrow. I think we shall win."
HULME DISPLACES GELDARD
Owing to injury, Geldard, of Everton, will be unable to play for The Rest against England in the international trial match, at Portsmouth next Wednesday. .J. Hulme (Arsenal) will fill the vacancy at outside right. This makes the sixth player from the Highbury club taking part in the match.
CRITCHLEY SENDS EVERTON TO WEMBLEY
March 18 1933. Evening Express, Football Edition
Winning Goal After 83 Minutes
"Hammers" Mastered After Rare Tussle
Enthusiastic Scenes.
By the Pilot.
Everton for Wembley! They beat West ham 2-1 in the semi-final at Wolverhampton today, only after a rare tussle. Critchley, who had come in as sub for Geldard, put Everton in the final. His goal came after 83 minutes. Everton were 50 per cent. They lost the lead after 43 minutes when Victor Watson put West Ham level. It was a triumph over kick and rush tactics . Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Cresswell, backs; Britton, White, and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, Dunn, Dean (captain), Johnson, and Stein forwards. West Ham United: - Watson (G.), goal; Chalkley and Walker, backs; Collins Barrett (captain), and Cadwell, half-backs; Wood, Pollard, Watson (V.), Wilson, and Morton, forwards. Referee Mr. E. Pinckston (Birmingham).
First Column is unreadable, at creased of paper.
Centred a high ball down the middle and prevented Watson (G.) from clearing, and also getting Stein away. Stein centred first time and the dropping ball pissed over Watosn (G.), who was trying desperately to get back to his goal line, struck the top bar, and bounced over. Sagar had to pick up a tame header from wood, and Everton found themselves bunkered by the offside tactics of the Hammers. Most of the play was in midfield, with Everton the better. Yet I must confess that I was disappointed with the game as a spectacle. Everton should have got a penalty when Dean was pushed in the back by Barrett when shaping for a Stein centre. Dean then got offside, and from the free kick Morton broke through.
The Equaliser.
He ran almost to the goal line before middling a great centre to the near post and Victor Watson leveled the scores with a delightful header that gave Sagar, who was hampered by two colleagues, little chance of saving. Everton returned to the attack and Critchley dropped a centre on the roof of the net. White and Thomson missed the ball, so that Watson (V.) was able to go through and crash a terrific shot just over the top.
Half-time Everton 1 West Ham United 1.
Everton had played well below form in a game, which did not inspire as a football spectacle. The Hammers were putting up a far better show than most had expected and enthusiasm and quickness was certainly upsetting the more thoughtful Everton. White had not been happy; in fact, the Everton defenders had been rather hesitant. Everton had a free kick, which Dean could not reach, and Dunn, running across goal, missed the ball. Dean kicked over the bar from a big clearance by Cook. Dunn tried a speculative lob shot, which Watson (G.) punched aside, and the ball struck the foot of the upright and bounced back into play, with Everton racing back in celebration of what they thought was a goal. Victor Watson was playing a great game for the Hammers. Sagar had difficulty in clearing from Morton after good work by the London leader.
Sagar Saves Everton.
Now Sagar saved Everton. Watson got clean through with clever use of head and foot, and had only Sagar to beat. Sagar ran out and baulked the shot, followed up, and frustrated Wilson and Morton from reaching the ball. Critchley was fouled by Barrett, but the free kick came to nought. Wood had a great chance to give West ham the lead from three yards, but played over the top. Everton were not playing with 50 per cent, of the true form against a team, which Should not have taken much beating. Stein always seemed the man most likely to win the game for Everton. West Ham were playing much better than in the first half, and their open football was giving the Everton defence real drubbing. Morton should have scored when Victor Watson placed across the goal, but with only Sagar to beat the young winger hit the ball first time, and it passed yards wide of the goal. Seven minutes from time Everton took the lead, and it was Critchley, the man who had come in as a reserve, who did the trick. For once Barrett failed. He delayed his tackle, and Critchley slipped through well inside the penalty area. Critchley feinted to pass to Dean, but cut in between two players and scored with a shot that hit Watson (G.), bounced up over the goalkeeper and a yard over the line.
Everton War Dance.
Collins ran into the net and booted the ball out, but it had already counted for Everton, whose players leapt down the field like Indians doing a war dance at their success. There were tremendous scenes of enthusiasm at the finish. Johnson raced for the ball and picked it up, while crowds of Everton supporters rushed on the field to congratulate the players. Dean and Watson shook hands, and had to have a cordon of police, to escort them to the dressing room.
Dean Interviewed.
Dean interviewed after the match said: "This is our dream coming true. I do not think we played quite up to our standard, but West Ham proved themselves a fine enthusiastic side. "It is a glorious thing for Everton, and we hope to beat the City in the final." Victor Watson, the West ham captain, said," I though we were unlucky, but we wish Everton all the success in the final. "We have had a good Cup run, but it should not have ended today." I learn after the match that Barrett helped Critchley's winning shot into the net, but Critchley must be credited as the scorer. Now for Wembley, and the Blues' fifth final. Final Everton 2 West Ham 1.
EVERTON'S LUCKY TRIP TO WEMBLEY
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 18 March 1933
Barratt Breasts Decider Through His Own Goal
DRAMATIC END TO GREAT SEMI-FINAL
By Bee
Everton squeezed their way to the Final by a fortunate success over West Ham. The story of the tie is concentrated in a calamity. West Ham, having got Everton on the run, looked like being winners, or at least getting a draw. Defeat seemed out of the question. Then Barrett slipped up from the easiest position, and Critchley's shot was saved by the goalkeeper, who sent the ball high in the air, and as it travelled down Barrett found it bound from his chest over the goal-line.
Everton; Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. West Ham United; G. Watson; Chalkley, Walker; Collins, Barrett, Cadwell; Wood, Pollard, Watson, Wilson, Morton. Referee Mr. Pinckston, Birmingham.
COOK'S LEG HOLD
Immediately West Ham worked to the right with a sweeping pass that went outside, and Thomson, trying to kick forward hard, caught a half back's stomach. There was a nervy scrambling start on the West Ham right, which produced an uncommon piece of defence by Cook. The ball was sent in close to goal, but it was hard to stave off the progress and flight of the ball till Cook crossed to Cresswell's wing and gripped the ball between his legs. While he lay on the ground the West Ham forwards smothered him and tried to dispossess him. At the last second they succeeded, and Wood, the eighteen-years-old boy from Sheffield, lined a shot that went close to the upright. Everton were startled but not upset, and away they went on the right, where Critchley began with a tender header no one in particular. Then came a first-class sensation. Stein shot and made a corner-kick through his attempted drive at goal, and then went on to take the corner-kick. It was a lovely ball, similar to a number of them he has been providing lately, and the goalkeeper misjudged the flight when reaching out with his hand, and the ball travelled along the crossbar for a yard, eventually to the feet of Critchley; who lobbed over. Thomson made a similar lob after Barrett, miskicked badly, and Dunn gathered the poor punch away from the goalkeeper to put over just as Critchley had done. Of course, they were nervy; most of the spectators were. Cook played for safety, putting the ball into touch and then into the grandstand after Morton had beaten two Everton men in close dribbling. Barrett, even when the fight was going hottest on Everton's goal, was still standing attention with Dean at the three-quarter mark. It was strange that we should notice this, because Thomson at this moment put the ball forward for relief, and the ball was put by Dean's header beyond a back. Collins played for what he intended to be safety by sending the ball rather strongly to his own goalkeeper, misjudged his direction and although the keeper fled, passed an army of photographers seated on the ground and fell into the middle of them, there was no stopping this gift corner.
DUNN DOES IT
So Stein took another corner-kick nibble, and this time his partner, Johnson, let the ball travel beyond him and towards the centre, where Dunn, using his forehead, headed through coolly, securely, to the right-hand side of the goal. In six minutes Everton were one to the good. Johnson leapt for joy; Dunn got the thanks of every Evertonian present, and everything suggested that a possible surprise on Everton was not now probable, although this is the sequel to any opening goal early in the semi- final. It was a neat goal, beautifully made without flurry, fuss, or suggestion of anything but quiet complacence. But see what followed, Cook is spoken by the referee, who tells him to cut out any further desire to throw the ball wide of the mark. Then Critchley, out of position and nearly at centre forward. tries a shot, and the West Ham goalkeeper falters nervously with a simple affair, and the crowd gasp in the fear of a goal being given away such as was done in a famous final tie. Britton had made this goalkeeper's nightmare, but more important than all this was the view of Sager punching away from three forwards with the backs unable to head away, and a goal that was gaping. Up came the tall and clever inside left Wilson, making a first-class shot just high, and mercifully it hit an Everton player, the goalkeeper I think. West Ham by this one move had done sufficient to show that they were going to fight back, and Barrett twice ended Dean’s notion, and Pollard, of Burnley, was showing ability and judgment in holding the ball against his own county men.
COOK'S FINE TACKLE
Stein made a good shot from Dunn's pass and the goalkeeper held the ball between his legs, showing that he had recovered his balance. West Ham were very neat on the right wing, but so far Tom White had laid in waiting for Watson. Everton asked for and got offside, but in any case the danger was averted when Cook made a beautifully-timed tackle on Watson, covering him and forcing him to shoot " anyway," the ball as a consequence travelling outside. West Ham had some bright patches, but as a spectator rang a vigorous bell one felt that Everton were playing a severely practical game, and taking no chances. Britton and Creswell sliced the ball without danger; and Morton, on the left, was quick enough to dart through beyond Britton; but he had little chance to get his centre across. Throws-in became numerous, as is, often the case in a Cup-tie, but there, was a definite progression on the part of West Ham, whose inside forwards were extremely cute in their use of the ball, and one of their tricky raids brought a further shot from Wilson. Barrett persisted in lying behind his backs, and when he appeared at the touchline facing Stein the latter's pace was bound to beat the Londoner. Stein centred a low ball, and Dunn, coming from inside-right with a monishing burst of speed, shot instantly while on the run, and the ball fly way, yet very, close to goal—a brilliant effort. Critchley centred to the penalty area for which there are no prizes, and Johnson was prominent with serviceable passes to the right and to the left of him. Both sides had now got over their nervous moments. Cresswell beat Watson with a leap and a header without getting the ball to his own lines, and Johnson, in spite of being held, made an individual run. It had been claimed that Everton were bad starters; that they took twenty minutes to settle down. However, they were now in front and were not content with a one goal lead. West Ham began to get impractical; Morton dribbled with sublime indifference to the centre of the field and then proceeded to dribble flack to his proper position, outside left, only to fail in the process, which was natural.
EVERTON’S PASSING WARES
Cook was his relentless self, kicking into touch and putting the ball against the grandstand structure, and when it rebounded he headed it back to touch so that he would have time to regain his position. Chalkley copied him, and as the young back had been unsettled it was his only way. Everton now brought out their best passing wares, half backs linking up with forwards. Critchley's best centre was cleared by Barrett, all hot and bothered, and the burly West Ham pivot might easily have presented us with a goal The ball went so near that goalkeeper Watson was thankful to accept a corner, from which came Dean's first real effort, in spite of his watch- dogs. Dean took up a challenge, an overhead kick by White, and timed his charge on the goalkeeper to the split second. The goalkeeper fell, and his cap fell from his head to the goal-line. Was this an omen? Stein judged the position beautifully, and sent in a placed shot, and the ball struck on to the crossbar, and so West Ham and the woodwork were fast friends. The goalkeeper had earned sympathy, because he had been accidentally tripped by one of his own men, and when Stein was shooting he was seated in his goal. Johnson, Thomson, Dean—that was the order of a round of passing that looked a certainty for Johnson, whose shot was close in, and ordinarily would have been a 10 to 1 on chance. This time Watson made a surprise save, and Everton appealed that the ball had been over the line, but there was no doubt about it being saved
HAMMERS DRAW LEVEL
The best driving force from Everton came from the irrepressible Jimmy Dunn, who, from a point inches outside the penalty area, drove in a beautiful length ball that swung slightly to the left of the goal. White was flourishing, so that Watson had no sort of show, but there was still a solitary figure as margin, and the Everton spectators felt that one was insufficient at this stage of play. Everton's left wing was the better, and Thompson had now subdued the West Ham right wing. Collins at last got a grip of Stein, first success at close quarters. The official ruling of linesmen was sometimes over-ruled by the referee, but the linesmen completely missed Dean when it was patent to everyone except these members that Dean was two yards offside, incontestably. There had been but one minor stoppage, and in a breakaway Wood shot like a junior, misjudging the fight of the ball and mistiming it. Otherwise Sagar would have been a busy man. West Ham continued to break evenly and sweetly by sheer football, but they lost when they came to shooting. Some of the crowd roared for a penalty kick against Barrett, who accidentally collided with Dean. Actually these two men were living together as closely as Potash and Perlmutter, and the referee was right to say no offence.
A PERFECT GOAL
It was immediately after this incident and two minutes from the interval that West Ham were rewarded by a perfect goal, headed by their worthy son Victor Watson. Watson and the light haired little boy Morton dove-tailed to such effect that, when Morton centred low, Watson, running in, close to the left upright, scored with a header that Dean would be proud to have registered. A flick of the head and the ball went into the goal with electric speed. It should be said as a matter of incident, of comment, and record that Cresswell flung up his hands (as though he were doing the Veleta) to appeal for off-side, but there was no stoppage in play by defender or attacker. This was a goal worthy of a worthy man, a fine centre forward who had had little or no chance till now, yet in the last gasp of the first half he shot in a manner that threatened to steal the lead and he thunder from Everton. Sagar leaped and upheld both hands, but the ball had gone just over the bar. Had the ball been a foot lower we should have had two goals in two minutes. Thus we came to half-time, the band, and a restful period.
Half-time.—Everton 1, West Ham 1.
DUNN AGAIN OUT OF LUCK
West Ham, who faced the sunshine of the first half, came out to battle again, and found the sun had gone to rest. White covered Cresswell with a mighty punt, and a free-kick on, Critchley led to a bumping match between Barrett and Dean and the goalkeeper, the referee, who had done his work extremely well, waving them off and reminding them that this was a football match. Dunn tried to convert the free kick with a riotous shot, but kicked over the ball. Morton beat Cook close in, but the old Celtic man produced a vigorous clearance kick and from it Dunn had misfortune. West slam were now definitely hurting Everton's prestige and confidence. Watson, indeed, was all successful since he had got his goal, and it was only a misunderstanding between him and his right wing that there was not further trouble from the West Ham captain. Cresswell had to produce some of his best work to keep West Ham in subjection. Dean was hardly ever seen except in a pass by his head in spite of the surrounding company of Hammers. Once again Morton found himself in the range at heroics, but, boy-like, he made a stupendous shot, instant and without premeditation, the result being that he lost the great chance of taking a goal. He was unmarked and the defence was unready. West Ham's rugged tackling at half back was now telling its tale, and Sagar had to punch away, and he was at sea when a defender got in his way and a goal seemed an assured fact. Everton unsettled and unsteady, had brought this latest attack through a mis-pass by Thomson. The crowd yelled themselves hoarse in favour of non-favourites who had won their way into the hearts of all sportsmen by their plucky display. Indeed, they were still playing good football, but the difference between their first and second half was that they were now making more settled attacks near goal. Morton was their mainspring and Watson their leader. Even Homer nodded and Watson, with plenty of time and three cases of hesitancy against White eventually floundered at outside right. Without doubt, Barrett, Morton, Watson, and a bit of fortune were outstanding measures in this game. The tension became greater and greater, and a shower came to cool the ardour of the players. Perhaps it would serve to settle the Everton side into a better frame of mind. Morton providing a crushing tackle centred square and Sager and Cresswell were so close together that they were in each way. The ball dropped on the goal line, and Watson singlehanded tried to barge a way through against Sagar and others, Thomson cutting across to give aid and the position being tousy and troublesome. The referee ceased the fire with a free kick against Watson. Whenever Morton strode off the Everton team sensed difficulty and danger. He was a secure, satisfying winger, making passes where centres were expected, twisting the wrong way as they call it in football, and undoubtedly the star member of the day. A boy of eighteen years of age was the main factor of this exciting game, in appearance not unlike Alec Jackson, and in style captivating, clever and plucky. Relief was temporary as Critchley took up a long square pass by Dean and caused Watson to push the ball away. Watson headed just as effectively as Dean, but West Ham had now gone back to the hesitancy of the first half when they were near goal. This could have cost them a lot if Dean had headed as he generally does when Stein centred, but Dean merely turned the ball out.
THE DECIDER
A free kick for a bump on Thomson encouraged Everton, and the minutes were flying too fast for most of the spectators. The fear of a goal to either side had become of paramount importance. The minutes were fleeting. How like the story books this game became. In one second after this minute reference, Everton took the lead. Time: Seven minutes from the finish. The incident, a calamitous one for Barrett, who should have been up against Critchley when in his own penalty area. Barrett had done wonders. Here, in one flick and a fall, he had shocked himself and his side's chance of appearing before their own citizens. Critchley was left with one of his customary winding, half hesitant endeavous. He dribbled inwards, and shot—and he can drive a fast hall—into the right-hand side of the goal. The ball struck the goalkeeper, and fell towards the goal line
BARRETT'S FAULT
Barrett and the goalkeeper realized the tragedy that might occur, and in endeavouring to keep the ball from passing over the line, the former helped the ball into the back of the net. It was a cruel blow, almost wicked in the sense that the ground was now sticky, and there was no essence or a goal when Barrett slipped on the greasy turf. Others had made much worse errors of judgment and had paid nothing for them. Here was a stalwart who had erred just once, and that with fatal result. Critchley had scored, Everton were leading, time hardly allowed an equalizer, especially as goalkeeper Watson was damaged and Stein was also laid out in trying to convert a Dean pass. The goalkeeper saved a hot one from Dean, who was attempting to keep the continuity of his goal a match in Cup-ties. It had been a hard battle, a desperate struggle. West Ham, after being down in six minutes, had rallied to a point worthy a lead. It had not come, but in its place there arose this Cup tragedy-one of many that has made history in Cup-ties. It was all over bar shouting, the favourites had won, and they had not won out of their turn, even if one has to allow that this was a victory attained against a side that had done its work remarkably well. Johnson nearly scored in the closing seconds, and when the whistle went Everton, happy and content, forgot their worries and leaped into air joyful that they will appear in the final tie. Sagar and Cook shook hands with each other, and Dean was mobbed by spectators after he had received the congratulations of the West Ham players. Mr. W .C. Cuff, chairman of the club said! “The game was disappointing from an Everton point of view, because our side did not play too well. But we are delighted to have taken the lead, and we want to pay tribute to West Ham, and to say how much we appreciate the way they played." Mr. Tom McIntosh, secretary; “We are glad to be in the final, but we do not hide our disappointment that we did not make a better show." Mr. Coffey (ex-chairman) —lt was a hard go. I think we were a trifle lucky.
THE GOAL-GETTER
On inquiry at the West Ham dressing room, I learned that Barrett said he put through his own goal. In attempting to clear the ball, he breasted it over the line. Final; Everton 2, West Ham United 1.
HIS GREAT DAY
Dixie Dean, after the game, gave this special exclusive interview to the Echo:— “We’re there. And now we must land the cup. The city of Liverpool is behind us. It is a great day; my 'old man' has been living for this day; he retires shortly from the Wirral Railway after 40 years of service. It will give him something to talk about. “But this is not a personal matter; it is a team win; eleven of the best and brightest. Old pals; all pals. We are proud to have got to the last stage of the Wembley tournament. It is necessary now we should go one step further and win. I want now to say ' well done' to all our team, and to pay tribute to the directors and Chairman Cuff for the way they have treated us; and Mr. McIntosh, too, and Trainer Cooke; they have all been wonderful. " Excuse me," said Dixie, " I want to have a word with the kiddie —he's only nine months old, but I must tell him all about today’s ‘big occasion.”
STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 18 March 1933
BALL WITH A TOUCH OF GOLD
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 18 March 1933
AN “ENLARGED ORANGLE” THAT ASTONISHED PLAYERS IN WOLVERHAMPTON CUP-TIE
SEMI-FINAL SCENES AND SIDELIGHTS
By Bee
EVERTON 2 WEST HAM UNITED 1 (F.A. Cup Game 137)
March 20 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
How A Chance Was Taken.
Critchley-Barrett Goal Decides
West Ham Mastered in Game of Thrills.
By "Bee."
By virtue of a win of 2-1 over West Ham at Wolverhampton, Everton will pay their first visit to Wembley on April 20 th to meet Manchester City. And the Everton followers who followed them to Molineux Grounds will make one trite statement: Everton will need to play vastly better at Wembley than they did at Wolverhampton to have any chance against Manchester City. My duty, however, is not one of futures, but a review of the past. Without going into minute details it must be said at once that the better side lost, that Everton can be congratulated upon their good fortune in a 2-1 verdict obtained through a faulty finale. The birth of the final goal to Critchley cum Barrett was tragic in many ways. Barrett had played a hero's part: he had done two men's work. His burly frame was soon challenging Dean and others through a period of just 83 minutes. Then he went out of position a trifle to make a simple clearance. He could have kicked into touch with the strength and readiness of Everton's Cook. He felt he would be more secure if he drew the ball to his right foot in a slight dribble against Critchley, who was in the neighborhood. One of his feet slipped the ball was never taken to the trusty right foot; Critchley saw his chance, flashed in, and then weaved and wavered for a chance. Twice it seemed to come to him, but Critchley has a penchant for going still further inward to goal and having got near the centre position and finding no one hardy to pass to, he shot hard.
Barrett's Slip.
G. Watson made a half save; the ball fled to the air, and spinning its way was coming over the goalkeeper's body. Barrett had seen that, and running forward to redeem his first mistake, error, of accident –the last is the best phrase to suit the occurrence –the ball struck the burly man on the chest and cannoned over the goalline. How little was its pace can be stimulated by the fact that the ball never reached the back of the net, not that makes real difference, because the line must be crossed, and the sound referee, Mr. Ernest Pinkston, of Birmingham, had duly noted the crossing. All goals in the modern game have some strangely simple thing as their beginning, so that one must not lay stress upon the way a goal started except that in this case the hero of the Second Division's side had borne the heat and fear of the day. He had succeeded against odds, against the favourities for the Cup, against the world's best centre forward; then the tragic happening. What is more the opening goal of the match, scored by Dunn, had an unusual process as its starting point. The "Lever" was pulled by Collins, who in passing back made a badly-directed kick and conceded a corner. Stein takes these with superb judgement these days. He had nearly scored with the ball that ran along the crossbar; now he got the ball curling in forwards the well-posted Johnson, who drifted it to Dunn's head, and for once Everton had taken the lead early in the game –six minutes. Every Evertonian felt that the gods were on the side of the big battalion.
Rapid Exchanges.
After a half an hour, however, the ball began to find itself first at one end and the at the other; rarely was there concentrated attack, the flight of the ball incessant; where it had been punished into a throw-in area it now became the buffer, without delay it was banged from one end to the other. Thus the first rudiments of a Cup-tie were assured –fast football –and this game proved faster and faster as it went along its winding courses. Actually I think the pace was the cause of Everton crumbing; there were at least four men who did not stay the full distance and before half-time had run themselves out. However, this could not be called a kick and rush game because there was much neatness as well as a fleetness, and West ham were eventually lighted up by a remarkable goal scored by Vic Watson, the centre-forward, who took the Morton centre with a fine glinting head and equalised the scores two minutes from the interval. Everton were shocked. Watson was near making it two in two minutes. Then came West Ham's turn. Everton became nervy, surprised, almost shattered by the ease with which some of these lads of London went through the ranks with a skill one had not imagined in their locker.
A Boy Success.
Morton, was the thorn in the side of Everton. A mere boy of eighteen, schooled at Sheffield, and full of pluck, his game was of the Jackson pattern; he never lost his head or his confidence to beat anything that crossed his path; here was a genuine test of Britton, the trial half-back at Portsmouth. And Britton had to admit defeat. He seemed to have feet of clay against this trim-built young man, who was only twice as fault, once when he dribbled to centre, and then went back to his post by the same means. This was clever football without faulty; indeed that was West ham's besetting sin for nearly an hour. However, they were able to do much through the pairing off of Morton and Watson, with Pollard fading out after a good start, and Wilson being rather slow after being robbed of a goal by a lucky clearance. Each team had this sort of flury occurrence, and on chances I should say they were level, but for actual and soundness in movement and systematic attacking by the best methods it cannot be denied that West Ham were well ahead on points, and did not deserve to be put out of the cup after such a good display.
Everton Fail to Satisfy
I am not going into details about superfluous points; the fact remains that Everton failed to satisfy themselves or their patrons in a game that was packed with thrills and for a semi-final stage was above par. On the form they displayed, one wonders how West ham come to be near the foot of the Second Division. It is incredible. Taking the luckless losers first I would say that their goalkeeper started shakily and wound up with fines saves from Johnson, Stein, and Dean when the game was over and Everton had caught their best mood through the luck of the leading goal. At back Chalkley started too, earnestly, and has yet to learn that distance can be obtained without ferocious driving; seen the book of Cresswell for confirmation. His partner was more subdued and more effective. I have seen Collins play better, but Cadwell worked himself to a shadow with endeavour and tackle and pass. Barrett, however, took all the plumps of half-back work this day. Big, burley framed ban he has a daintiness and sporting way that make him a very likeable opponent. Forward, Watson was doing nothing till he scored; that was White's best half. After that one rarely saw White or Britton, but Thomson kept a fine level throughout. The Hammer's forwards I have named en route to this point, and for Everton's line it must be said that Dunn was a busy bee and did a lot of high class work in the period when Everton were never racked. Johnson tried in common with others, and Iris-miss of an early chance probably changed the course of the game. Yet Johnson linked up with Stein to make the latter the best of the winners' forwards. Stein did most of his raiding single-handed in the second half, and he was very successful, too, remembering how the line was throttled by the subjection of Dean by Barrett. Geldard's deputy, Critchley, had one bad patch, and that apart he played normally and wisely. He was pinned down by the only two had fouls of the match, and he had the "final" satisfaction of helping to put Everton into the final tie through snapping up the half chances. So the man who was so much missed at Manchester two years ago, against West Brom was now a dominating force and factor. To Everton's lasting credit be it said they never hesitated to declare that they had won narrowly and not cleverly, and that something better was due for Wembley. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Cresswell, backs; Britton, White, and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, Dunn, Dean (captain), Johnson, and Stein forwards. West Ham United: - Watson (G.), goal; Chalkley and Walker, backs; Collins Barrett (captain), and Cadwell, half-backs; Wood, Pollard, Watson (V.), Wilson, and Morton, forwards. Referee Mr. E. Pinckston (Birmingham).
ASTON VILLA RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 0
On information located.
Central League (Game 32)
Everton "A" 5 Ellemere Port Town 1
Liverpool County Combination.
At Colleague-road, Crosby. A hat-trick by Stepheson was the interval lead by Everton. Webster and Watson sent further ahead, while Whewell reduced the lead for Ellemere. Evison saved well.
CUP FINALISTS HAVE MET TWICE BEFORE THIS SEASON
March 20 1933. Evening Express.
One Victory Each: Wembley To Decided "Rubber."
By the Pilot.
All Merseyside expects Everton to beat Manchester City at Wembley on April 29 and bring the F.A. cup back to the city for the first time in 27 years and the second time in the history of Liverpool football. Which is the better side? Everton and Manchester City have net twice in the League matches this season and each club has recorded a victory. Everton won 2-1 at Goodison Park and the City 3-0 at Maine-road, when the Blues were without Dean and White. Now for the Rubber." Mr. T.H. McIntosh, the Everton secretary, said today: "The players are determined to bring credit not only to the Everton club, but to the city of Liverpool." Mr. Wilfred Wild, the secretary-manager of Manchester City, Said: "We are glad to meet Everton, for the clubs are old friends who set out to play real football. It should provide a fine, sporting game." Everton and the City play in blue. Rule demands that both clubs shall change. Everton are sending their dark blue jerseys with white collars to thew F.A. for a approval, and there is a possibility that these will be agreed upon. It would then be possible for Manchester to play in their usual light blue jerseys. There was a dramatic touch about Everton's 2-1 victory over West ham at Wolverhampton in the semi-final. The winning goal was scored seven minutes from time by the man who had come into the side as a reserve –Teddy Critchley. He was deputising for the injured Geldard. Let me deal with that all-important goal by Critchley, which put Everton into the final. There appears to be a lot of mis-understanding about the actual manner in which it was scored. This is the correct version verified by players of both sides. Critchley ran forward to a low pass from Dean, but appeared to have little chance of securing possession, because Barrett was right on the spot to intervene. Instead, of kicking the ball away Barrett tried to dribble, only to miss the ball, and Critchley nipped through with remarkable coolness and cunning. Critchley made as if to pass inwards to Dean, and that feint sent the seal on the goal. The defence was completely deceived, and Critchley ran between Cadwell and Chalkley and as befitting his experience, slipped in a shot which hit the goalkeeper, Watson (G.), and bounded up and over the line. Barrett raced over in a desperate effort to right a wrong and though the ball touched him on the chest it had already crossed the line. Barrett told me that the ball was over the line when it touched his chest. Undoubtedly Critchley was the scorer of this thousand-dollar goal. West Ham put up a galliant fight. They set out to prevent Everton playing scientific football, and they succeeded.
Below Form.
Everton were 50 per-cent below their real form. They never seemed capable of settling down to that smooth, rhythmic football which has made them famous. Against opponents who were quicker to the tackle and who are adopted kick-and-rush tactics from start to finish, they appeared unsettled. There is no doubt but that Everton had the better of the first half, without inspiring as a combination, which could march forward to a convincing victory. There were weaknesses in defence, and the intermiary trio, had not played so poorly for many a day. It was in the second half that the Hammers gave their brightest and best. They unsettled Everton to such an extent that scoring chances –three to be precise –were won which should have been sufficient to win the game. Once Victor Watson broke clean through, only to find in Sagar an impassable barrier, but the worst miss of all was by the young outside –left, Morton. Watson's genius had put Morton through and when Norton had sufficient time to trap the ball and dribble it in before making sure with his shot, he elected to hit it first time and it travelled yards wide across the face of the goal. Let us not lose sight of the fact that both teams had their share of luck. Three times Everton struck the framework with Watosn (G.) beaten. However, as Dixie Dean explained after the match; "I think West ham were unfortunate to lose," he said, "and I told Vic Watson so. Of course, we did not play anything like the real Everton, and we shall do better at Wembley, never fear. The luck was against West Ham. I admire Dean for his sporting admission. I know his colleagues agree with that view, but no club ever won the Cup without a large share of luck, and I still believe that this is Everton's year. Only four Everton men played up to form. They were Cook –the best man on the side if not on the field –Sagar, Stein and Dunn. Johnson had a good first half, but tried to do too much afterwards. Cook was the mainstay of the Everton defence, covering and kicking with delightful skill and judgement. Cresswell was rather slow and hesitant, and the half-backs never got a real grip on the nippy go-ahead attack, brilliantly led by the best forward on the field, Vic Watson. Sagar was not as busy as Watson (G.), but his saves bore the hall-mark of class, Dunn was the cute schemer all through, and Critchley, with few chances, did well, though suffering a severe buffeting at the hands of Barrett and Cadwell.
Stein's Good Day.
Stein was the best Everton forward, and he, more than anyone else, seemed likely to win the game for the Blues. He never made the slightest mistake. Dean found himself "under arrest" by the policeman" Barrett, but often drew attention to himself which should have opened up the way for others. Still, Everton were far below themselves. The Champions took the lead in 6 ½ minutes when Chalkley conceded a corner in trying to feed Watson (G.) Stein swerving kick was flicked across goal by Johnson's head and Dunn coolly nodded the ball into the net. West Ham equalised two minutes from the interval, when Morton broke through to cross from the goalline and Watson (V.) leapt in to head past Sagar. For the losers Walker, Barrett, Cadwell –the indefatigable worker who was often seen at inside right and right half instead of the left half –Victor Watson, Wilson and Morton excelled, but it was the team and fighting spirit of the Hammer's which enabled them to put up such a mighty exhibition.
Cup Final tickets.
Mr. Thos H. McIntosh, the Everton secretary, informed me today that applications for the tickets for the F.A. final at Wembley on April 29 should be made at once to the Everton Club offices, Goodison Park. Each application must be accompanied by a stamped-addressed envelope, but no remittance must be enclosed. Applicants will be informed of their allotment and then will be asked to send the money. Tickets are priced at £1 3s, 15s, 10s, 7s, 6d., 5s., and 2s.6d (Standing).
DO WE GO MERRILY TO –WEMBLEY?
Liverpool Echo - Monday 20 March 1933
LORD MAJOR’S NEAT JOKE
LIME-STREET SCENES
WHAT F- FINAL WORDS IN THE GAME SIX WEEKS AHEAD
CRITCHLEY “TAKES THE HONOUR AT THE TEA”
Bee’s Notes
See you at Wembley, April 29, as per promise of your note of Friday last. Then I said: " Merrily we go to the—Wembley.” I am not sure we shall be so merry about it, till the result is known. The truth is that all the good that had arisen through the form of Everton in recent weeks went down with a bump in one day. They were lucky to win this fine, fluctuating, fast—up one side, down another side, of the field- semi-final. Everyone is glad to see Everton in the final again for the first time since 1907, and perhaps it would be best to accept an official statement at the week-end: “Our lads could not play so badly as that at Wembley.” Everything, of course depends upon nerves and upon Manchester City’s dictation class! I think the Lord Major of Liverpool, Alderman Gates, sprang quite a new one when he told us at the North-Western dinner that he knew little about football, but he felt he was learning from the masters-he had travelled with Mr. John McKenna, Dr. Cedric Baxter, and a former Everton player, Mr. W. Capstick-and he felt this was an odd game. All that Everton needed was just one goal. How simple it seemed, how easy; just one goal. And then he added, smiling, of course it must be one goal more than the other side has got. The Lord Mayor played a generous tribute to Everton, and spoke of their characteristic hospitality, clean methods and sporting spirit. He hoped they would perform the hat-trick- Second Division championship, then First Division, and now—bring the Cup back to Liverpool. He recalled that it was it was in April, 1906, that he entered the City Council, and it would therefore he fitting if the Cup came to the city during his term of office. He wished the officials and the team the best of fortune. Mr. McKenna, as is his wont, began by telling the company they had been disappointed with the play of Everton: he had seen them do so much better in previous games, that he hoped they would reveal their best six weeks hence. Gone was the enmity of the two local clubs of forty years ago; everyone in the city wanted Everton to lift the Cup, and he thought the Everton Club could produce the hat trick, but it was not possible to other clubs as (said Mr. McKenna slyly) there are some of our senior clubs who have not been in the Second Division. Mr. Chairman W. C. Cuff said it was not a simple thing to govern a club except on occasions like these. They were not selfish enough to enjoy their pleasures alone that's why they had this informal dinner, surrounded by their friends. He recalled that as far back as November their boys had set their hearts upon the Cup as the next trophy to be secured—a rather remarkable time and a remarkable thing to do, and some of their league failures had been helped, he feared, by the thought of the Cup rounds. It was good to see their friends here to-night, and he hoped the club would land the final prize. Mr. Tom Mclntosh. Secretary, spoke of the friendly relations between the directors, players, and others, and said: “This is the most wonderful club of all. We have not given a good exhibition to-day against West Ham, but we shall not give another such exhibition. Nine is my lucky number, and you can work out that figure in the final tie affairs, dates, &c. If they could bring the Cup to Liverpool it would be a great feat and would help this great city." Mr. Ernest Green, deputy chairman, offered what he deemed to be his customary toast of “Thanks to the chairman, musical honours." for the way he had carried the day and the evening. Mr. Green reminded them that they had no conception of the work performed by Mr. Cuff before the day stared. Mr. Cuff was inspired in these things and —enjoyed doing the work. Of the match I propose to say little; every movement of the ball was exclusively in Saturday's complete Echo (Football Edition). I would like to say, however, that some people with a jaundiced eye and fear writ large in their visages through the surprise West Ham created could see no good in this game. They thought it was deadly dull football. Well, they are not so used to semi-final tie displays as I am, having missed none for too many years. Some would have driven them to tears. This one was a good one, sparkling, packed with thrills, the essence of the cup factors; and to give you concrete evidence let me quote the sayings of some people after the game. The first authority I met was Charlie Buchan. Charlie said "Great game. Everton not good enough on this showing, and Warney below the form he gave us at Sunderland. West Ham great rallying team; boy Morton the right extra good. Jock Thomson your best half back. Who says this was poor football? They don't know what they're talking about.” Then I got “Corinthian "to give me a bird's eye view. “West Ham most unlucky; Everton seemed frightened; where was White's second half work against Vic Watson; what a good game to watch, and what a tragic finish for Barrett, the best man on the field, the man who controlled Dean but for three great headers and two sliding passes that show what an artist he can be." I give these views because I have had my say, and anything I say now will have confirmatory lines from known experts.
STEIN TOP OF THE CLASS
Summarized, I should say that Stein was quite our best forward, playing a lone hand and threatening to do much damage every time he went up. Chalkley started too vigorously to be good against him, and Johnson for half-an-hour did just as he pleased with this back; but, like the majority, the Everton inside forwards faded out towards the end. West Ham had run them out of it, frightened them into it; and the London side was playing football that would have done credit to Arsenal at their best; yet West Ham, after the game, were bemoaning their Second Division status, and pointing to the fact that they have got to meet Chesterfield, Lincoln, Grimsby, and so on. And they are all afraid, too. Dunn did splendid work in scoring with his old head and then leaping high to get some seemingly impossible positions; a busy worker and cool member. Everton lacked calm when Watson scored that swift equalizer. A friendly ref. of Liverpool tells me he was in a direct line with the Morton centre, and that the ball was a foot over the line when Morton centred. Ah. Well, these things occur, and balance themselves. Certainly, West Ham suffered their first goal through a pass back by Collins that became a gift corner kick; and the second through Critchley taking up Barrett's slip upon turf that had become muddied through a rain-fall. Most people do not agree that Barrett slipped. They prefer to think he was dribbling the ball to his right foot. He was, but his foot went under him; and that's how Everton got the leading goal, aided, of course, by the save of goalkeeper Watson and the spin of the ball that carried the ball over his back. Barrett finding the ball drop on his chest and pass two feet over the line. Luck? Yes, luck admitted by Everton officials and players. But what can Everton do? Could they scratch and say, sorry; a defender helped the ball through his own goal "? Not for a moment; it is part of Cup-life, and Everton are smiling where they were sad two years ago in defeat from West Bromwich.
HIS NAME IS TEDDIE
How odd that Critchley should be "in” this latest success. He has been in all their feats of strength, and was missing when they failed against West Bromwich. Now he will, ironically enough, be remembered for the goal he got in the semi-final to take Everton to the Wembley Stadium for the first time in their lives. Tom Johnson, ex-Manchester City, will fight against his old side, who he represented at Wembley years ago, when Bolton beat them. Cook and Sagar, mere boys in the game, have their glorious part in this appearance; Cook, like Critchley, Jock Thompson, and company, had much to do with the victory of Saturday. They have earned their corn, and we our six weeks' rest-spare the term and period!
One word more. Stein, interviewed, said that the flow of the ball was incessant "It was one of the hardest games we have ever had. The ball was never still. There was no sustained attack; it was up that way one minute, up the other end the next minute. It should have been good to watch. It was hard enough for us in all conscience."
ANTICIPATING WEMBLEY
Four Liverpool boys, all red-hot football followers, anticipated Everton's victory over West Ham in the semi-final by making their journey to Wembley six weeks too soon! Intending to see the semi-final, they set out from Liverpool at 3 o'clock on Friday afternoon, and tramped to Warrington. Here they stowed away beneath the tarpaulins of a lorry on which was marked the Liverpool -Birmingham- London route. "We knew Wolverhampton was IN Birmingham." the boys said to me (writes " Buzz "). At Stafford, the lorry-driver was pulled up for exceeding the speed limit, but the policeman did not discover the runaways. When they had finished guessing the result of the match they intended to watch, they fell asleep, and the next thing they knew they were in London. The lorry-driver discovered them, and handed them over to the police for their safe return. “We were taken all over London in an ambulance." one of the boys stated enthusiastically, in the dining-car of the 4 p.m. London express to Merseyside. An ambulance?” I queried. “Well said the eleven-year-old,” it was a G.R van.” The dinner car conductors looked after the travel-stained lads until they reached Lime-street. There, outside the barrier, but wanting to get inside as quickly as possible, were an assortment of parents with an assortment of views on boys who stowaway in lorries. “Look, here’s a paragraph in the paper about them,” one father whispered, proudly. “Just wait until I get you home “was the welcome for the youngest member.
CUP FINAL TICKETS
Everton F.C, announce that Cup final ticket prices are as follows: Seating—One guinea, I5s, 10s 6d, 7s 6d, 5s. Standing 2s 6d. Applications for tickets should be made to Mr. McIntosh at the Everton ground by letter, together with stamped address envelope.
ENCLOSE NO REMITTANCE as the club will communicate with buyers tilling them how many tickets they have been able to allot.
Arsenal have not won a game since they changed their jerseys to a Welsh flavour. Everton and Manchester City are blues, and the question is what will happen in the final tie. Mr. Cuff, the Everton chairman, is sending a dark blue jersey and Everton's customary jersey to the Football Association, who will ask Manchester City to do likewise, and the Football Association can decide what course should be adopted. Everton's blue is so different from Manchester City's light blue that no harm would arise if neither side changed its colours. So great was the crowd in and around Lime-street Station on Saturday to welcome the Everton players that when I went into the North-Western Hotel at 10 p.m. there was still a danger of onlookers being knocked down by the traffic. The superintendent of police asked me if it were possible to get Dean to "show himself" to the waiting crowd. Everton officials did this, and the crowd went away content. This Cup fever takes many curious ways.
10,000 Trip To Wembley?
Liverpool Echo - Monday 20 March 1933
Applications To Go Pouring In
Applications, literally by the thousand, have been pouring in to-day to this Everton Football Club’s office for tickets for the Cup final at Wembley Stadium. They came by wire, telephone, and letter. Mr. W. C. Cuff (Everton manager) said that at the rate the applications were flowing in, it looks as though the club's allotment of 7,500 will be exhausted with a day or two. I suppose it will be a case of first come first served. Mr. Cuff added that he expected that not less than 10,000 people would accompany the team to Wembley from Merseyside.
EVERTON V WEST HAM
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 21 March 1933
MAJESTIC-“tiger Shark” gives Edward G. Robinson a new type of role. Thrills galore in fighting ocean monsters, Shots of the Everton-West Ham semi-final are shown in the news reel.
BBE’S NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 21 March 1933
Six weeks to go and a lot of interest gradually warming up till we arrive at Wembley with summer suns a glowing and everybody enthusiastic. Gone will be the memory of the Wolverhampton game. It will be “All Final." Correspondents who were not at the semi-final have been busy collecting other views of the game, and suggesting I have been unfair to the winners. The best “refutable “evidence against this is the statement of player, director, and officers—in public and in private they agree that Everton were very disappointing. Every Evertonian present at Wolverhampton wound up his view- point thus: “They’ll have to play much better than this at Wembley." The Echo carried its report from the first kick to the last kick; it was a ball-to-ball analysis; I have nothing to withdraw.
STRANGE VIEWS ON GOAL-MAKERS AND TAKERS
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 22 March 1933
“SUPPORTING WEST HAM”
Bee's Notes
So many doubts have been cast upon the considered report of the Everton Everton Cup-tie game in the Wolverhampton semi-final, that it is perhaps wise to take a view of the other side. This is a special, exclusive, copyright story;
Manager Charles Paynter, of West Ham F.C., says;-
Our players made no bones about the way in which Everton’s winning goal was scored. The goalkeeper, in clearing, brought the ball down on Barrett’s breast and it went into the goal about six inches over the line. The spin of the ball returned the ball into play. When Barrett cleared, the sphere was well out of goal. Is this a record?
A player selected to represent England, who (through injury) has not even played for his team for three months. What a splendid tribute by the Selection Committee to-as you call him- the copybook full back!
His name is Blenkinsopp!
EVERTON TO SEE SEMI-FINAL FILM
Everton F.C, players and party have been invited to see the semi-final film at the Trocadero at 8 o'clock this evening. Will the Critchley-Barrett goal be given slow and sure, I wonder?
The Everton Cup-tie is still being debated. People who were not at the game are the most bitter, and, as showing what excitement can do for some onlookers, it is only necessary to tell you of a card I received from W. M. G. of Paddington, who vows that he and his neighbour saw Jimmy Dunn score the opening goal with his foot, not his head. The Echo report was right; Dunn's head-mark from the muddy ball was there for anyone to see who may have blinked while he performed his goal-trick with thoroughness and a cool football mind. Also the leading up point to the goal was a "throwback" by Collins, the half back. Which the goalkeeper could not catch. It is not common for a half back to miss-hit a pass-back of such distance. Other letters follow:
A Preston correspondent sends this: — If Have you compared your report of the semi-final with others just as good as you in your profession. Were you supporting West Ham? Are you disappointed Everton won? Please remember that footballers are just as human as you and me. For goodness sake give credit where it is due—be a sport and give the Everton F.C, some praise.
Answer.—Everton's chairman said he was disappointed; the vice-chairman said “a trifle lucky ": another man, whose name shall not be divulged, said "Rotten." My correspondent does not imagine I spend my week-ends comparing reports, does he? If he does he as much off the rails in this as in his ideas about this game. No matter what teams may be playing my duty is plain; I have to be as severely critical and fair to Newcastle as to Everton, Liverpool, and clubs around our city. The name counts for nothing with me. What they have done is of vital import.
THIS IS FINAL
“Florest Rivertona "' says:--Critchley scored the goal that put Everton into the final. This same player has helped considerably in all Everton's triumphs since and including the championship of May, 1928. Several players have been brought in to supersede him, but he has outstayed them all so far, and is still as good as ever. No one will gain-say the ability of Geldard. Yet one feels that the honour of receiving a runner-up or cup winner's medal rightly belongs to Critchley, and it would be a crowning honour to a glorious career not appreciated as it should have been by "a certain section" of the crowd.
Answer.—This is a ticklish problem to be left entirely to directors. It is not fair to debate it. Both are fine fellows, good sportsmen. Let the officials decide, let no one deride. It is impossible to play 12 aside, otherwise both would be in by popular vote, and by memorizing what Critchley, has done in the past. No other word about this position can be given in this column this season.
"Hopeful and Blue” says:--Attention for the similarity between Everton's Cup record and Newcastle's last season: Everton played third round away, then fourth, fifth, and sixth at home (the sixth against a Third southern club), and semi-final v. a London side. Newcastle played third round away (but with replay) v. Blackpool, fourth, fifth, and sixth at home (two replays in fourth v. Southport), the sixth against a Third Southern club (Watford), and semi-final v. a London side (Chelsea), and final success at Wembley! Is this a pointer?
LITTLE FOOTSALL IN IT
"Both Byes," of Green-lane, says :— Learning that you had been informed by a "friendly " ref. of Morton's centre being over the " line," I daresay you would not like to be told that Critchley's shot WAS over the line before any West Ham player pushed it further into goal. Who was the busiest goalkeeper? Certainly not Sagar; and don't forget that Everton had a lot to lose and West Ham nothing. They tackled like lightning, and would not let Everton settle down to " play " football. It was a hard, rugged game, with very little football in it. My report said very definitely "Critchley” had scored." What more does the correspondent want?
EVERTON'S ADAPTATION
"Aintree," of Middlesex, sends this:— After seeing Everton win. I came away apprehensive about their success in the final, unless they can mix up a little more "Cup-tie stuff " with their undoubted cleverness. Did you notice that when they took the lead seven or eight minutes from the end, they played a splendid Cup-tie-get-rid-of-it game that had West Ham on the run to the final whistle? It was, of course, a defensive policy in view of their lead and only a few minutes to go, but it showed what Everton could have done throughout the match had they played West Ham at their own game. Far from suggesting that the "Blues" should depart from their classic style, which has become the admiration of all true lovers of real football, I would like to see Everton occasionally adapt themselves to the need of the moment, and when necessary play the hard-kicking Cup-tie tactics that so often upset the brainy schemes. Why not mix it up according to schedule. The first twenty minutes work the orthodox club game. If successful, then continue it, but if not then switch to Cup-tie methods for a period. Why not some pre-arranged signals for changes at method, as occasions arise? Sounds silly perhaps, but many Cup games have been lost through persisting throughout in playing one type of game when every onlookers can see that their policy is wrong. I am not a carping critic. Give me Everton and their artistry in preference to kick-and-rush methods, but I am convinced that Everton, as part of their policy in winning this cup, could play the kick-and-rush game better than the best exponents of it! Not even Bob Crompton at his best could shift Cook on Saturday form. Best wishes to you and “the best footballer paper.”
GUIANA
"Stithie," Seaforth writes: — I was interested in the proposed tour of Everton to South America, and enclose a copy of a football programme of an international match between British Guiana and Dutch Guiana, played in Dutch Guiana in 1925, during the Queen's birthday celebrations, which last a fortnight. I may state that I am the only Englishman in the team, and the only Englishman to possess a “cap" for such matches. I still have the “cap." the programme, and several photos of West Indian representative team, at my present address, and having seen the Austrians at Anfield I was very disappointed in their play, and can assure you they would get many a rousing game in the tropics of South America. I often think of the players grumbling of the heat here in early August, but in the tropics you get to business at 7 a.m., work till 4 p.m, and only 200 odd miles off the Equator: kick off, 5 p.m.; interval, five minutes: full time, six o'clock. During the football season, which commences in March, you play as many as three matches per week, league and cup-ties, and replayed cup-ties in between. The season lasts five to six months. I am wording the programme as it is written and handed to the spectators. By the way, our sports writer "over there" is a Southport men!
EVERTON F.C. OVERWHELMED BY FINAL APPLICATIONS
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 22 March 1933
Everton F.C. announces that the applications for final-tie tickets have been so enormous that further applications are useless. Allotments will not be made for 14 days or more.
SAGAR RETIRES IN TRIAL MATCH
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 22 March 1933
(NOTES ONLY) ENGLAND AGAINST THE Rest at Portsmouth this afternoon, Everton had Sagar, with Britton at right back and White playing centre half for the Rest. Sagar had to retire after 30 minutes (England 3-0 down at this time). With a cut over his eye. His place was taken by Blenkinsop, who concerned another goal. Half-time England 0, the Rest 4.
EVERTON’S STOCKING FOR WEMBLEY
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 23 March 1933
Bee’s Notes
Barrett, the West Ham man who scored the second goal for Everton by inadvertence, told me personally last night the full story of the fatal mischance: “I went to tackle with my left foot," he said. “I found I could not get the ball with that foot, and tried to get it with my right. I slipped, went over, and then got up again. Then I tackled the same man again, and the ball went through my legs, and George Watson, the goalkeeper, got it and carried it. It went into the air, and, as I was just over the top of him, it struck my body and went into the goal and came out again. It was then I kicked and cleared. The ball went over the goal-line all right."
ASTON VILLA TEAM TO MEET CUP FINALISTS
Aston Villa v. Everton-it is always an attractive fixture, and Villa reckon they can still win the League from Arsenal and Wednesday. Well, this is the team they will field on Saturday, v. Everton; Morton; Blair, Mort; Wood, Gibson, Simpson; Mandley, Beresford, Brown, Astley, Houghton.
EVERTON STARS OF THE TRIAL.
March 23 1933. Evening Express.
By a Special Correspondent.
White a star, and Sagar a master of his job. This sums up Everton's part in the sensational Soccer trial at Portsmouth, where the Rest defeated England 5-1. Britton, the other Everton player in the match, was not equal to the occasion. Frankly, the speed and trickery of Arnold were more than enough for him. Sagar played a heroic game and was not responsible for England's defeat. Injured in a collision with Hulme, after half an hour's play, he retired to have several stitches inserted in a cut over his eye. That injury must have worried him, but it did not affect his game. He handled, the ball surely, and timed hi rushes from goal; just right. His backs were overworked because their wing halves could not master two tearaway wingers in Arnold and Hulme. Of White, the Everton pivot, too much praise cannot be given. His vis-à-vis, Barker of Derby looked ordinary in comparison.
GELDARD RETURNS.
March 24 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
The Everton team selected to meet Aston Villa at villa Park tomorrow, will be the same side, that defeated West Ham United in the Semi-final of the Cup, with the exception that Geldard will appear in the extreme right to the exclusion of Critchley. The team is: Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Geldard, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. The Reserves eleven to meet Stoke City Reserves in a Central league game at Goodison Park (3.15) will be: Coggins; Common, Bocking; Mercer, Gee, Archer; Birtley, Cunliffe, Watson, McGourty, Turner.
GELDARD THE DISAPPOINTED.
March 24 1933. Evening Express.
Plays For Everton At Villa Park Tomorrow.
By the Pilot Geldard, the most disappointed young footballer in the country this season –he missed a Cup semi-final and an international trial through an ankle injury –is fit again. He will play for Everton against Aston Villa, at Villa Park, tomorrow. Geldard comes in for the hero of last Saturday's Cup semi-final –Critchley, the man who scored the goal that took Everton to Wembley. This is the only change in the Cup side. Teddy Sagar, who was cut over an eye in Wednesday's international trial has reported fit. This should be a classic encounter at Birmingham. The champions will need to be at their best and brightest if they are to bring home anything tangible in the way of points. Aston Villa have not been so consistent in recent weeks as earlier in the campaign when they came to Goodison Park, and shared six goals in a real thriller. Three teams have won at Villa Park this season –Huddersfield, Sheffield Wednesday, and Wolverhampton Wanderers-but Everton will have acquitted themselves well if they prove to be the first team this season to hold the Villa to a draw on the ground. Everton's away record needs brightening –they have captured only six points away –but have not lost since visiting Blackpool on February 22. The team is: Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Geldard, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein.
• Advertisement in Evening Express. Central league Match at Goodison Park Tomorrow (Saturday). Everton versus Stoke City. Kick off 3.15. Admission 6d, Boys 3d. Standing extra (including Tax).
EVERTON MEETING A SIDE THAT STILL FANCIES ITSELF IN THE LEAGUE CHAMPIONSIDE
Liverpool Echo - Friday 24 March 1933
EVERTON AT ASTON
Bee’s Notes
At Aston I hope to see Everton play as they did against Everton play Portsmouth away. They should get that “foreign-ground" feeling so that in due course the London –scene will not affect them. Everton will doubtless play the Cup-victory side, and Villa's team I gave yesterday. It is particularly appealing, because Gibson has gone back to centre half back and Smart has gone out again, while Brown appears at centre forward, with that able forward Astley partner to Houghton. It is a Midland gala day when Everton visit Aston. I will tell you all about it in to-morrow's Echo (Football Edition). Order yours. The team is: Sagar ; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Geldard, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. When Everton beat Newcastle in the final in 1906, you will remember our Lord Major of Liverpool was Councilor Joseph Ball. As the “Ball” is an essential part of the game, Everton were lucky to have a “Ball” that season for a Lord Major. Gates are also a very important item, and Everton are again very lucky in this respect, more especially as they have a “Gates” for Lord Mayor in this final. May they have the same good luck with the “Gates” as they had with the “Ball.”
Frank Soo, the Chinese footballer, is doing Stoke a lot of good. Tomorrow he is playing at Goodison Park for Stoke Res, and they are playing him t inside left. This will be a big feature of the game.
The football picture of Everton's Cup-tie is most interesting, if only for the fact that it shows the delicacy of Jock Thomson's work and some of White's early endeavour. Sports pictures can be puerile; these sports pictures are excellent.
"Bullens Road" writes:— Accept my appreciation for the lucid report of the Everton-West Ham match at Wolverhampton. Your panoramic account was as satisfying as if one had been present at the match. Carry• on; and let us have many more unbiased portraits from your virile pen. Two of my many friends (out and out Evertonians) saw the match, and both assure me your report was a real and true account as they saw it.
Mr. J. Kelly, of Litherland, writes; --Make some mention in your columns of the cyclists who braved the elements to cheer Everton to victory. I saw at least a dozen of them, and these lads rode right through the night and had an 80 miles ride to face after the match. True Evertonians these! and no doubt in six weeks' time they'll go wheeling to Wembley A good friend has passed to his rest. You may not have met him, but in our city football we often came into contact with Gribbin. of Cook's. A quiet man, who did things for us all—and for me, a late-comer, more particularly. To those left behind I offer our sympathies.
CLASSIC SIDES MEET
March 25 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
Everton and Aston Villa invariably play football of the best, and their meeting at Aston today, is not likely to be an exception to the rule. Geldard returns to the Everton team and the sides is at full strength. Aston Villa believe they still have a chance for the championship and they will all out to dispose of the Cup finalists; but Everton are in a determinated moody and hope to gain a point. The teams are: Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Geldard, Dunn, Dean, Johnson, Stein. Aston Villa; Morton; Blair, Mort; Wood, Gibson, Simpson; Mandley, Beresford, Brown,. Astley, Houghton.
SAGAR A STAR BUT VILLA WIN
By Bee
CUNLIFFE’S GOAL IN FIRST MATCH
JOHNSON INJURED
Liverpool Echo, Saturday 25th March 1933
Cunlitfe scored a goal in making his first class debut. Johnson injured. Villa beat ten men after a terrific struggle with Sagar, who was astonishing and superb, Everton; Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Cook, Cresswell, Britton, White, Thompson; Geldard, Cunliffe, Dean, Johnson, Stein. Aston Villa; Morton; Blair, Mort; Wood, Gibson, Simpson; Mandley, Beresford, Brown, Astley, Houghton. Referee; Mr. J. Milward, Derby. Everton and Manchester City, finalists for the Cup, met to-day at, Wolverhampton. They were travelling in the same direction. Directors and others of the City team came into the Everton saloon and said, “Well, we are glad to be meeting you at Wembley; may we have great game." Everton sprang a surprise on us to-day, at Aston. The absence of Jimmy Dunn was unthought of, Cunliffe, of Adlington, near Chorley, made his league debut. Geldard's test was, of course, the big thing of the Everton day. Dean won the toss and after Brown and Mandley had got in each other's way Dean got busy. His back header startled the people of “Brum." most of whom had forgotten his marvellous header here five years ago. Again Dean provided the thrill with another header and Johnson made the best solo run of the first quarter with a final pass to Stein which the goalkeeper handled. There must have been a strong cross wind.
CUNLIFFE'II NEAT HEADER
Cresswell threw in when others were expected to do the shooting, and away went Everton. Gibson made a misheader which produced a corner kick. Geldard took this, and young Cunliffe headed through to the right of the goal --his first goal in senior football—a neat header, too. Villa were surprised at this goal in six minutes, because they had opened with a whirlwind. Sagar now had to punch out, and stein, giving the defence the dummy, made a beautiful pass to Geldard, who over-ran the ball into touch. Johnson did some stunning things. old-fashioned in many respects and Geldard now sprinted beyond Simpson at a pace likened to that of Kellsboro' Jack and centred with such a swing that Blair was glad to be able to head anywhere. Actually, he came near to heading through his own goal. Everton early form had been so different from that of the West Ham game that I could have wished you, reader, were here to see it.
MAKING IT EASY
Villa's passing was inaccurate, and Beresford fell when making an effort. Brown shot over when nicely placed, and Cook, by the length of his clearance kicks, reminded the old folks at home of Welford. Cuntiffe headed well again without getting a goal. Johnson positioned himself so well that he made the game easy. As a result Stein shot hard across the goal, and Britton added a stinging drive. Thomson on the ground two yards from goal, stopped Mendley and Beresford from scoring, and breezy White added a clearance when it was most needed. — Stein, Thomson, and White had got shots at Morton and Gibson nearly put through his own goal, a disease with some defenders this season. Everton's half-backs passed to their backs at every, conceivable chance and showed their confidence in their defence—a new type of tactics. Mandley should have scored when placed for it by Brown, who at the half-hour got the equaliser with a great' drive—one that was helped by a defender receding and putting his back to the original move. Johnson was limping through groin trouble. Villa take their corner kicks without delay before the defence can get set, hence Brown headed near goal from Houghton's corner kick. Geldard came forward with some delicious close work, and Cunliffe must have scored if he had not got too far under the ball. Houghton shot fast to the side net, and Sagar made a spectacular leap and catch. Mandley missed the easiest of chances tight on half-time. Half-time.—Aston Villa 1, Everton 1.
JOHNSON'S INJURY
Johnson had been at outside left for a time through his strained groin, but in the second half he went to his usual place, and put forward for Cunliffe, who was rather slow in his stride for this chance. Cunliffe and Geldard changed places in one move, and the newcomer's centre was pulled too much to be effective. Geldard made a run half the length of the field, finally falling as he centred outside. He was full of life, tricks, and confidence. Simpson surprised by his driving force, and his enormous throw in. Stein missed a chance with a surprise ball, and Brown tested Sager with a screw shot. Astley had done much dainty work and new headed just over the bar. Cook and White were doing a lot of solid spade work. After Blair had done a neat trick Houghton shot. The ball struck the post and ran along the goal line. Sagar fell to it, and edged the ball along, but could do no more, and Britton running up, kicked away for safety—a remarkable incident. Only Houghton claimed the ball was over the line. Brown made the loveliest shot of the match. The ball skidded off the bar to the crowd on the Kop. Johnson was still limping his way through, and Everton at this stage were being outplayed. Sagar made a save that sent Aston into a thunderclap—a header from Astley. The crowd now “booed” the referee for refusing a penalty kick against White for dragging Brown down in the goal area. Cook was enjoying this incessant defence and hurt his leg in making ono of his solos. Sagar again brought down the house with a marvelous save from Brown's header and Houghton's centre. This surely could not go on. Could Everton hope to hold out? Yes, that is just what they could do. Sager made a further electrifying save, falling heavily in doing so. Villa appealed for a penalty kick again, and a spectator, enraged, went on to the field of play to protest, but was taken off by a constable. Johnson at this stage went outside left again. In a relief passage Stein and Geldard shot. Villa had a free kick against Cook, and Houghton, taking a long run, crashed the dead ball as if he hated it. I have never seen a stronger shot. The ball crashed against the crossbar.
THE DECIDER
Sagar again ran out and made a daring catch. Cook kicking out put the ball near the directors' box. Beresford scored seven minutes from time. It was hard on the Everton defence who packed well and played well, with Sagar the star of the day. Cresswell went far up, and his pass to Johnson should have brought an equaliser from Dean. Final:— Aston Villa 2, Everton 1.
On arrival at Villa Park to-day one score was left standing"-6-2. The Villa say they kept this defeat from Blackpool on view so that their players would know what was expected of them to-day.
EVERTON RES V STOKE RES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 25 March 1933
Everton opened their score through Birtley, and although the City tried to get going, their attack lacked combined understanding. Stoke had a lengthy spell of attack without being able to profit by it, although Mawson sent in one good shot. Half-time; Everton Res 1, Stoke Res nil. Stoke were a much more dangerous farce after the interval, and Mawson equalized. Everton rallied in the closing stages, and Gee and Fryer scored. Everton Res 3, Stoke City Res 1.
STUB MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 25 March 1933
By Louis T. Kelly
ASTON VILLA 2 EVERTON 1
March 27, 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Everton lose in Close Finish.
A Gruelling Game.
Sagar Makes Impression.
By "Bee."
The Cup finalists Everton, met the possible League champions Aston Villa, on Saturday, and after a grueling game in the heat of the summery afternoon Everton lost in a great tussle by a goal, and it took Aston Villa until seven minutes from time to make their margin satisfactory. No one could deny that they were the more forceful and safe attackers or that they were the speedier side but they had not always the craft of the Everton side, and in the early stages of play, indeed till half-half, there was nothing between the sides, and Everton impressed nearly 40,000 spectators with their fine combination and sparkle. They moved with much ease and some charm, and Geldard and Stein were very dangerous.
Gibson Holds Up Dean.
Dean began by putting a lot of fine effort onto his work, but later on he got into the arms of Gibson (literally and otherwise) and as a consequence his enthusiasm petered out. In fact, right at the close of the day Cresswell went from left back to inside right, centred to Johnson, the lame man of the two sides, and his centre should have given Dean a goal if the captain had been nippy enough to take an easy chance. However, this would have been an injustice to the Villa side, because they were incontestably the superior combination in many respects, and late in the first half and the whole of the second half they pastered the Everton defence to a degree that was worthy a goal. For fully half an hour Sagar showed his best work. He had his bit of fortune as any great and daring goalkeeper must have, but Sagar otherwise gave a startling exhibition, and his catches and saves were striking. The crowd rose at him, although they felt grieved that the referee did not give two penalty kicks and a goal when the ball hit the woodwork, ran along the goal line, Sagar pushing the ball out; yet not beyond the goal, Britton running up to complete the save that had arisen from Houghton's shot.
Pace and Direction.
Actually Houghton was the outstanding shooter of the day. One free kick shot of his form third the length of the field was a study of pace and direction. The crowd followed its flight, but the players could not and Sagar found the ball strike the woodwork; old players said they had never seen such force brought to bear upon a dead ball from such a range. It was to all theoretical minds a silly range at which to attempt to score, yet Houghton fired this ball in at terrific speed and deserved a goal for his pace and direction. Everton surprised everyone by playing Cunliffe, the Chorley boy, who started very well, and headed a nice goal, but later faded out of the picture trying to do too much spade work in the back areas. Cunliffe has a neat style; he is of the Buchan breed, and his passing to Geldard was good and of the forward kind. His headed goal from the corner by Geldard was quite a good and neat piece of work, and it delighted Everton to find themselves in the lead at this famous Aston ground.
The winning Goal.
However, the wearing down process came in, due course, and after Brown had hit a nice goal near halt-time, after Cook had receded instead of going into a tackle. Beresford got the winning goal after an almost unparalleled period of attacking by the smart Villa forwards who were more determined and speedy than Everton's. They were cute and cunning, but only when there was time out a scheme. Otherwise they were drastic in their eating up of the ground by quick movements. On the Villa side the goalkeeper had little to do; the backs were strong little men; the half-backs showed its Simpson, a bonny Scottish schemer, and Gibson in the pivotal position doing what is against his nature –staying behind instead of going forward Mandley was very variable and the right wing did not have the push and go of the left wing where Houghton was a menace, while Brown at cenre is an old-fashion Freeman type of centre-forward, always a danger to leave –as he was left many times by White.
Johnson's Injury.
Everton suffered through the injury to Johnson's groin. Johnson went to outside left, but he was a passenger for three parts of the game. Geldard was a sparkling outside right there was a missing link at centre after quarter time, and on the left Stein not only showed ability at his usual place but also at inside-left. Britton came nearer to his known form and Thomson was steadiness itself, Cook and Cresswell were admirable under extreme and continuous pressure, and Sagar, I have already named as the outstanding man on the field, a superb display of fine goalkeeping. Everton met their Cup Final opponents Manchester City, en route to and coming back from Wolverhampton. They exchanged greetings. Teams: - Aston Villa: - Morton, goal; Blair and Mort, backs; Wood, Gibson and Simpson, half-backs; Mandley, Beresford, Brown, Astley and Houghton, forwards. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Cresswell, backs; Britton, White and Thomson, half-backs; Geldard, Cunliffe, Dean (captain), Johnson and Stein forwards. Referee Mr. J. Milward (Derby).
EVERTON RESERVES 3 STOKE CITY RESERVES 1
March 27 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Central League (Game 33)
Everton were worthy winners, but Stoke –even if their forward work lacked accuracy and sharpness in front of goal –were determined opposition, and made Everton's task a very difficult one, the deciding goals not coming till late on. The winners were always the more methodical and practical in their endeavours, against a defence that deserves the honours for the able manner that they countered Everton's advances. Beswick made good clearance from Watson (a lively leader), Birtley, Turner and Fryer, but the City goal; escaped when McGrory (a sound defender) kicked clear-off the goal line, Coggins saved efforts from Bussey and Mawson, but Stoke were not quick enough in front of goal. Everton's defence was generally on top. The goals were scored by Birtley (Everton), Mawson (Stoke), Gee and Fryer (Everton). Soo did well in initiating attacks . Everton: - Coggins, goal; Common and Bocking, backs; Mercer, Gee and Archer, half-backs; Birtley, Cunliffe, Watson, McGourty, and Turner, forwards. Stoke City: - Beswick, goal; McGrory and Scrimshaw, backs; Butler, Bamber and Howshall, half-backs; Daniels, Bussey, Mawson, Soo, and McArdle forwards.
POINTS EVERTON SHOULD REMEMBER
March 27 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
In Readiness For Wembley Final.
By the Pilot.
In each of Everton's League engagements up to Cup Final day the mission must be to spot weaknesses or mistaken tactics. In the game with Aston Villa, at Villa Park On Saturday, which Everton lost 2-1, I noticed flaws which must be put right 'ere they meet Manchester City. First, there was an inclination to move back in defence instead of adopting first time tackling methods. Cook and Cresswell did this on one or two occasions, and in Cook's instance it cost Everton a goal. I noticed, too, that Everton were inclined to fall away once they had conceded a goal. The Champions gave a superlative display of classic football for 30 minutes. The home men could not hold the fast moving scientific attackers, who manipulated the ball with delightful skill, and made their passes with an ease and grace which stamped them as worthy finalists. Cunliffe scored from a corner, and other goals might easily have followed, but when Brown equalised it spelt the end of Everton. Dean had a poor day. He did not make his well-known bursts between the backs, too often relying on passes which wasted time. In the last two minutes Dean had an odds on chance of equalising from two yards, but he did not make the first time shot and the opportunity was lost.
Sagar Brilliant.
Luck was not with Everton, though had it not been for the might of Sagar I think the Villa would have scored six goals. Sagar gave one of the finest exhibitions of goalkeeping I have ever seen, three of his saves being almost miraculous. He was in international form, and that display alone should earn him his cap against Scotland. The crowd rose to him. The Champions were unsettled by an injury to Johnson, who went to outside left for almost an hour. While he was at inside left the team played grandly, but having injured his right groin he went on the wing, and Everton fell away. Cunliffe is to be congratulated on his debut. He gave a fine display of clever football, and crowned it with a goal. With the irresistible Geldard, he made a fine wing. Geldard was magnificent, and Stein had a good day, although out of position for a long period. White hardly held Brown, and the wing halves, Thomson and Britton, shone as attackers rather than defenders. Geldard told me afterwards that he did not feel his injured ankle at all. Judging by the speed of his dribbling, centring and shooting I have no doubt but that he is right.
GELDARD GIVES UP CRICKET APPOINTMENT
Liverpool Echo - Monday 27 March 1933
SAGAR ASTOUNDS ASTON
EVERTON’S NEWCOER
Bee's Notes
Albert Geldard has given up his cricket appointment with the Bradford Cricket Club, for which club he was secretary, not honorary secretary. He is hopeful of getting a similar appointment in the cricket game in this city. He is a well-versed, well-behaved young man, and it is plain he is going to be a force in the football and cricket life of this city. He stood Saturday's strain all right, and by his side young, angular Buchan-like Cunliffe making his debut showed a nice sense of touch and skill in linking up with Geldard. Johnson's injury to the groin was a big handicap for Everton, not that that would be sufficient evidence that Villa would win; Villa won worthily, and only Sugar and his defence stalwarts kept the game to 2-1 instead of 6-1. It was good to see this grit on the part of the Everton side. ‘This was exciting football; grand football; Villa people like Denny Hodgett and the Devey family, and Howard Spencer said the Arsenal match there was the best game they had seen this season, and Everton was the second best. Villa have a chance of the League; three times it has been launched at them by the people up above them and each time it has been refused. Villa were not so clever as Everton for half an hour, but then Dean seemed to lose his urge for tussles with the elongated Jim Gibson and the line lost " favour " through Tom Johnson being luckless enough to get a groin injury. Now, if the game showed us anything it showed that Johnson will not easily “go down “when hurt. Indeed he should 'have been associated with an equalizer in the last minute, when Cresswell, shaking off defence moves that had kept him, Cook, and Sager busy for half an hour, went toddling up the field, scooping up space and finally passing till the ball went to Johnson, who was outside left nearly all the second half. Johnson put the ball to Dean, whose pace was lacking or a simple goal must have arisen. It would have been unjust to Villa, because they had been so much on top and so much faster than our men. However, that's their lookout; it was ours that this gift-goal was not taken.
DRIVING FORCE
We have talked for years in this city of Donald McKinlay's free kicks; also Done's. But there can be nothing to equal Houghton's driving force with a dead ball. Here he clouted a free kick a third the length of the field, and Sagar and every player voted this the hottest long distance drive they had ever seen —and Houghton has got some long shots at us before to-day. I have never seen anything to equal it. Fierce, low but rising, carrying pace, direction and the result of a long run up to the free kick, reminding us of Benson's penalty kicks in the days of the war at Sheffield. Houghton cracked the crossbar. Villa people gave due praise to Sagar for his truly marvelous display of goalkeeping. He caught them all ways; and, of course, he had his stroke of fortune. Another thing the game revealed. Stein plays perhaps better at inside left than outside left. He showed more command there when Johnson had to go outside lift. Thomson had another of his stocky, steady days, and Geldard and the debutante Cunliffe worked harmoniously and with ability to go through the defence. The Everton side showed rare pluck and grit to withstand he second half bombardment till seven minutes from the finish, and going out and coming back from the ground they “joined hand." with Manchester City, their Cup Final opponents, hoping for a great game on the great day. It will be a sporting and strenuous final tie—and there’ll be speed attached to it, if I mistake not. A word more. Cook gave another rustling display, and his partner and Sager held the fort in stressful times against men like George Brown, a Freeman type of forward, always dangerous and very speedy; indeed, the right wing was the only real weakness of the side. Which led them to throw out tentative inquiries—some by gagging process and others with intent to get from us some of our wares. The answer was "No." Villa will now go more heartily into the task of surprising Arsenal and Wednesday. They have a bonny wing half in Simpson, and in a fortnight Talbot will be back at duty after his " break." Then the half-backs; line may push the business on—there's a subtle meaning to that phrase! As readers can imagine, Sagar kept the Villa crowd in a state of tension, and some of them were sore with the referee about penalty kick appears. So much so that, as I told you in Saturday's paper, one spectator jumped the rails and went on to the field to argue with the referee, being ejected by players and policemen. I do hope that no one will ask me for Cup final tickets. I have none. The club have so many applications that it is a waste of time for any reader to send to the office an application for even one ticket.
HOW TO DEAL WITH CITY
My mission to Wolverhampton, on Saturday, was to obtain a " close-up" of the Manchester City team, and, having seen them in a game that was of real importance to them—this was no go-as-you-please game, for the Citizens were greatly in need of the points—l have come to the conclusion that the final is going to be a brilliant affair, if nerves do not creep in to prevent the players from doing themselves full justice. More than once this season I have watched a nervous Everton. The slightest thing seems to unsettle them. This sort of thing will not have to obtain at Wembley, for in meeting Manchester City they will be pitted against a side full of confidence, ability, and a go-a-headness which makes them 'a really dangerous side, writes " Stork." I saw the City a few weeks ago at Anfleld, and then framed the opinion that at least one section of the team can become unbalanced when matters are not running their way: and it is a most vital section of the aide, too. Cann and Dale can be a brilliant pair, but, contrariwise, they can become excitable, uncertain, and wild if an opposing forward line gets at close grips with them. Give them plenty of room, and they are great kickers of a ball. To my mind Dale is the more reliable, for Cann can be readily beaten. Barraclough got the better of him time and again in the early part of the game. It therefore behoves Everton to play right on top of him from the word go.
THEIR GREAT STRENGTH
City's great strength is their half hack line. I doubt if there is a better in first-class football, and it will be Everton's big task to break down this barrier. Cowan, of course, is an ideal pivot. He is a combination of attack and defence: more perhaps, of the latter. He is rock-like. Goes for the ball with every ounce of energy; uses his big body to keep a rival off, and is to be found wherever the battle is fiercest. Cowan may have a big say in the destiny of the F.A. Cup. I do not believe in telling any man how he should do his job. He should know, but I would like to suggest to Everton that they might adopt Liverpool's plan, which enabled them to beat the Arsenal. Everyone knows the power of James. Well, McMullan is the - James of the City side. He does things in the self-same manner as the Arsenal man. Liverpool decided to leave James alone. Let McMullan ramble and roam, but see to it that every point to which he can send the ball is covered, particularly the one on his left-hand side. Brook is a great little player, but a lot of his greatness is due to the promptings of his partner, who gets the ball to him when he is free of any interference.
PATCHY, OUT-
The Wolves' half backs concentrated on McMullan. There they erred, for the little Scot invariably got the ball away to the selected point before the Wanderers' man got in his tackle. Brook and Toseland must be “police manned." Toseland is a patchy sort of player, but is liable to break out at any odd moment and win a game. Brook is like Alec Jackson. He does not keep his position, but when he is on the prowl it is then that he is most dangerous. Tilson was not playing in this game, but it goes without saying that he is a smart centre forward. He shoots quickly, and is very fast off the mark, Herd is a player who is coming on by leaps and bounds. If I were asked to name City's big men I would put them in this order:— Cowan, Brook, Memullan, Bushby, Tilson, and goalkeeper Langford. The last-named is a daring goalkeeper; very safe and confident; particularly good with the ball in the air—the sort of ball which glances off Dean's head. Dean should best Cowan in their heading duels, but he will never be free from interference, for I anticipate Cowan sticking closer to Dean than a brother. The battle of wits between this pair should be worth watching. Who will come out on top?
WATCH THE WINGMEN
Of course a lot can happen between now and April 29, as I told one Wolverhampton man who saw Everton a week ago. He said: "City will beat Everton in the final. They were just ordinary against West Ham, and a shade lucky to qualify for Wembley." That may be so, but we shall see. I warn Everton that they must keep going for the full ninety minutes, for the City seem to play better the longer the game proceeds. Against the Wolves they opened quietly, but gradually rose to strength which proved too much for their adversaries, but the great point is, “Watch the wing men," Britton and Thomson must be on their toes, go readily into a tackle, and watch for the long pass from wing to wing, ever a dangerous move when properly carried out. I think Everton can win at Wembley. They will have to fight every inch of the way, and must never slacken off for one solitary minute. No matter what lead they have they must keep going, for the City are famed for staging a come-back.
WATSON'S SDEBUT FOR EVERTON
March 29 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
Injuries to first team players have been rather frequent recently so far as Everton are concerned, but the ill-wind, as it were, enables the club to try out young players in League football. Following the appearance of Cunliffe last Saturday, Everton on Saturday against Middlesbrough at Goodison park are giving a trial to J.G. Watson, another youth of distinct promise, Johnson is suffering from injury sustained at the Aston Villa ground, and Watson takes his place. It is good to see young players making their mark, and I am sure JG Watson, who was signed from Blythe Spartans in January, will have every opportunity to make good. He is nineteen years of age, and player for England as schoolboy against Scotland, and is regarded at a most useful recruit. He was signed at the same time as TG Watson another youth from the same club. Dunn reappears at inside right in place of Cunliffe. The team is Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Geldard, Dunn, Dean, Watson, Stein. The Everton reserves eleven to meet Wolverhampton Wanderers Reserves in a Central league game at Wolverhampton is: Coggins; Common, Bocking; Mercer, Gee, Archer; Critchley, Fryer, Stevens, Webster, Turner.
LETTERS
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 29 March 1933
FATE PLAYS HET PART
“Red Rose," of Aigburth, adds his Cup-touch - West Ham United were, in my opinion, responsible for Everton's exit in the Manchester semi-final of 1931. Just prior to this match Critchley was injured v. West Ham, and the rearranged forward line apparently collapsed: Geldard's mishap gave Critchley his opportunity, and this year his goal meant West Ham's exit from the Cup.
“W. M. G.," of Paddington, is unconvinced. He writes:—Thanks for your note, but your answer is anything but convincing. In the first case, excitement does not happen to fit my care. I happen to be a rank Liverpudlian, who, incidentally, watches both city teams week by week. No, I don't think I was blinking at the actual moment of scoring, and consider that I was in a better position to judge than the Press generally. As for mud marks, if one had been looking for them no doubt you would have found Dixie, Johnson. &c.. likewise marked. My suggestion was that Dunn could settle the question and that you were in a position to get the information. His verdict would settle it well, here you are then. Dunn says be headed it!
THE LUCK OF THE GAME
“J.B” of Edge Hill was unlucky at Wolverhampton. Read what he says;
I was watching the match, and as the final whistle went two of three bottles were thrown from the back. Unfortunately, one of them hit me on the head, and I had to have a nasty cut stitched at once by the doctor on the ground. My reason for writing you is to ask if you will appeal to spectators not to throw bottles, even if they do get excited, as it is a very dangerous practice. Mind you. " Bee," I don't say it was anyone from Liverpool, but just around me they all seemed to be Evertonians! I was in the north stand. I should also like you to thank the doctor for stitching my injury (I think it was Dr. Baxter), also thank the Everton players for their kindness to me. Carry on with your good work for years to come.
Mr. John Walsh sends this:—Now that we are going to Wembley, I am sending you a few choruses of some of the latest songs; and I would like you to publish them in your notes as soon as possible, and give the boys a chance to learn them in good time for the glorious day. The first one is written to the tune of “In the Valley, ooh, Hoo!" and this will be sung whilst the play is in progress. The second one is written to the tune of " Underneath the Arches " —this is for coming home with the Cup. The third one is written to the tune of Monterey," and will also be sung after we get the Cup. Now, then, Mr. Bee, ' it's no use writing one in case of defeat; but if this is necessary (the heavens forbid!), then we can have one ready for the Monday night's edition after the match. There is about ten of us who already know these choruses, so please give publication as soon as possible.— Yours sincerely, NINETEEN OUGHT SIX.
NOT SO ELEMENTARY, MY DEAR WATSON
March 29, 1933. Evening Express.
Everton Youngster's League Baptism
J.G. Watson Everton's 19 year old forward secured from Blyth Spartans in January will have his League baptism at Middlesbrough on Saturday. He is to deputise for Johnson, Everton's international inside-left, who is suffering from a strained groin. Everton, apparently, are determined to give the young players on their books a real chance to establish themselves, and the inclusion of Watson follows the playing of Cunliffe at inside right against Aston Villa last week, when Dunn was on the injured list. Watson was secured from Blyth Spartans with T.G. Watson, a centre half, and he has been playing splendid football with the Reserves and "A" team. He is a former English schoolboy international, and Everton secured him in face of serious competition from other league clubs. Johnson will be absent for the first time this season, and it will be only his second miss for the past two seasons. This means that Everton are left with these ever-presents for the current campaign –Sagar, Cresswell, and Thomson.
Dunn's Return.
Everton make further change, for Dun has recovered from his slight injury and resumes inside right in place of Cunliffe. The Champions, for the second time this season will be opposed to Tommy Griffiths the Welsh International centre-half and a former Everton player. Griffiths appeared at Goodison Park with Bolton wanderers and helped to take away a point. Will he be as successful in his effort to help the struggling Middlesbrough, who lost to Sheffield United on Monday. Everton: - Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Geldard, Dunn, Dean, Watson, Stein.
Everton For Denmark
Arrangements are practically complete for Everton to tour Denmark at the close of the season. It is expected that the party will leave Liverpool on May 12 and return on June 1. The proposed arrangement is to play three matches in Copenhagen, one at Aarhus and one at Liborg.
MIDDLESBROUGH DOUBLE.
March 30 1933. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
When the Middlesbrough directors met last night they were unable to select the team to oppose Everton at Goodison Park owing to doubts about two of their international players Camsell and Griffiths. Camsell, who is suffering from a severe fasical injury, is very doubtful, but hopes are entertained that Griffiths will be fit. He is under going specialist treatment for a damaged knee, and may opposed his old club.
Everton F.C. Tour
Everton are to four Denmark during the early part of the close season. They are to play five matches, one in Aarhus, one in Aalborg and three in Copenhagan. The party will leave on May 12 and return on June 1 st .
BEE’S NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 30 March 1933
Everton directors spent "all last night” considering their final-tie problems. They will go to Buxton but will not stay there all the time, preferring to go down south for few days near the day of the final. The ticket problem is more trouble to them than any final-tie. People are sending in every day although they have been told long since that 7,500 tickets have been put to Everton's use and shareholders and members must have first pick. There is a doubt about Tom Griffiths and Camsell being fit for Goodison on Saturday. The new boy, Watson, is a schoolboy international like Geldard. He is built for the football job, and Blyth Spartans have never turned out a better equipped young footballer. He deputises for Johnson and can play centre-forward.
EVERTON CAN HELP LIVERPOOL
March 31 1933. Evening Express.
And Record Their First "Double."
By the Pilot.
Everton can do Liverpool a good turn tomorrow and at the same time complete their first double of the season. They receive Middlesbrough at Goodison Park, and as the Borough are only fourth from bottom, with 26 points for 33 matches a victory for Everton will enable Liverpool to keep out of the danger zone. It is a long time since the Champions had to wait until April before taking four points from one club. When they visited Ayresome Park last November they won 2-0 and Geldard signalled his First division debut with a clever goal. Everton definitely will be without two of their cup fighters, Johnson and Dunn. Johnson is suffering from a sustained groin, and Cunliffe continues at inside right in place of Dunn, who is suffering from a thigh injury. With McGourty nursing an injured ankle, an opportunity arises for J.G. Watson, the 19 year old forward from Blyth Spartans, to come in for Johnson at inside left, and so make his First Division football debut just three months after coming out of North-Eastern League Football. Although Dean strained his right knee last week at Villa Park, Mr. T. H. McIntosh, the Everton secretary, informed me today that dean would play.
Old Clubmates.
So Dixie will be opposed to his former clubmate, Tommy Griffiths, who will be making his second appearance at Goodison Park this season for different clubs. Griffiths was a great favouritie while with Everton, and he is proving a real find for Borough. If anyone can pull the Teesiders out of the relegation difficulty it will be Griffiths. Warren comes in for another former Evertonian, Rigby, at outside left. Cameron comes in at centre-forward in place of Blackmore, and Pease returns to outside right. Everton: - Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Geldard, Cunliffe, Dean, Watson, Stein. Middlebrough: - Gibson; Jennings, Jarvis; Brown, Griffiths, Forrest; Pease, Bruce, Cameron, Baxter, Warren.
• Advertisement in Evening Express. League Match, Goodison Park, Tomorrow (Saturday). Everton v. Middlesbrough. Kick-off 3.15. Admission 1/- Boys 4d. Stands Extra (Including Tax) Booked seats, Sharp's Whitechapel.
EVERTON SHOW THEIR WARES AT GOODISON PARK
Liverpool Echo - Friday 31 March 1933
Bee’sNotes
Torn Griffiths, the Everton player of a year ago, is to play against his old side again, with one of these furious relegation battles in the back of his head. Tom Griffiths must be getting used to these. He saved Bolton last season. In his first match he drew them the gate on a foggy day, and then proceeded to help to beat Everton, when the latter would take no risk on the icy turf. Tom never wanted to go. Having gone, he found Bolton no summer resort. However, no one dreamed Bolton would part with their new captain. Money talks, and Tom signed for Middlesbrough and began his strong man act of lifting the team—bodily! They said fine things about our good, worthy server.t. And they made him captain, which may have been an unwise move. However, Griffiths comes to us to-morrow, but maybe we shall not have the other ex-Everton players — Martin and Rigby—showing off their wares against the final tie team. Now that Geldard is to his stride -and what a stride--the Goodison people will take special pleasure watching their Cup-tie team to-morrow in this important game. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Cresswell; Britton, White, Thomson; Geldard, Dunn, Dean, Watson, Stein.
I want you to do your best for the collection at Goodison Park tomorrow. It is for the Lee-Jones Fund. Every Mersey citzean knows what wonderful work they do. See that you give heave to the task they set themselves.
March 1933