OLD FOOTBALLER DEAD
Lancashire Evening Post - Thursday 01 March 1945
Mr. Henry Smith, aged 77, of Whitehead-street, Blackburn, who died yesterday, claimed to be the first professional footballer in Blackburn.  He played with the old Witton F.C., and later assisted a club at Wigan and Everton.  he had been a compositor with a Blackburn firm of printers for over 50 years and was working up to his last illness.  He was a founder-member of the Clarion Cycling Clubhouse in the Ribby Valley. 

3 MEN ON PERJURY CHARGES
Liverpool Evening Express - Thursday 01 March 1945
One Sentenced For Subornation
ROBERT John Sutton (40), aircraft inspector, of Bray-road, Speke, Liverpool, pleaded guilty at Manchester Assizes, today, to two charges of subornation of perjury, and William Albert Fisher (31), fitter, of Bray-road, Speke, Liverpool, and Eric Oksen Lindberg (34), fitter, of Speke Church-road, Speke, Liverpool, guilty to perjury. Miss Williams, prosecuting, said on .January 8, 1944,, a Mr. Lewis Williams and Mr. Thomas Pye were at an hotel in Huyton and a diamond engagement ring was handed by Mr. Williams to Sutton. He handed to Mr. Williams the sum of £3 10s. Mr. Williams and Mr. Pye had always maintained that the ring was handed to Sutton to be repaired, and the money was a pledge, but Sutton had always maintained that the ring was sold to him. On January 2, 1945, Sutton was prosecuted for larceny of the ring as bailee, and before the hearing it was arranged for Fisher and Lindberg to give false evidence that they were present when the ring was sold. Immediately after the hearing, at which the false evidence was given, both Fisher and Lindberg admitted the perjury.
Former Footballer
Detective Roberts, of the Lancashire Constabulary Huyton, said Sutton was a professional footballer for Everton and Wrexham before going to the United States. He was at present serving sentence of six months imposed at Preston for larceny as bailey of the ring in question. Mr. Pappworth, for Sutton, said he had developed diabetes as a result of overstrain at work. Mr. Justice Singleton imposed two concurrent sentences of nine months on Sutton, to follow the sentence he was at present serving. Fisher and Lindbergh were bound over for two years.

EVERTON F.C. DIRECTORATE VACANCY DECISION
March 1, 1945. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton Football Club directors have decided not to fill the vacancy on the directorate cause by the death of Mr. R.R. Turnbull, but will await the next annual general meeting which will take place in the summer. The meeting usually takes place in June or July. Wally Boyes Everton’s English international winger to the team to oppose Chester in the Lancashire Senior Cup first round tie –cum Football League game at Goodison Park on Saturday, this being his third match since undergoing an operation for cartilage trouble. Boyes played at Wrexham and figured at outside right in the last local “Derby” game but was obviously on the “wrong flank.” Now Wally takes over from Norman Sharp who has returned from leave, and the other change is the return of Jack Grant to right-half for international Mercer who has also returned to duty. Latest news on Tom Lawton is that he will be at Blackpool with the Cadet Force boxers, and so the name of Cecil Wyles is linked with that of Tommy in the centre-forward position. Everton Reserves go to Marine at Colleague-road, Crosby in the Liverpool Challenge Cup and include Shaw, a new right back who was on Bolton Wanderers books and who played exceptionally well last week. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, A.N. Other, Watson; Rawlings, Bentham, Lawton (or Wyles), Stevenson, Boyes.
Everton Reserves; J.A. Jones; Shaw, Painter; Melling, Rees, Doyle; F. Jones, Ashley, Booth, Whitehead, Makin
Marine; Foster; O’Mahoney, Welsby; Edwards, Dachier, McPeake; Birtles, Milligan, Curran, Fenton, Athkinson
Everton Colts; (v. Birkenhead C.Y.C, at Birkenhead); Gardiner; Martin, Rankin; Tansey, G.W. Pye, Richman; Richardson, G. Hannah, Quaile, T. Dunn, Myers.

T.G. JONES UNFIT AGAIN
March 1, 1945. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton home to Chester in the first round of the Lancashire Cup, have enforced changes compared with the side which won at Southport. Tommy Jones’s ankle trouble still persists, and though he came through last week’s game all right it had given way during the week, and he is a on-starter. Lindley is too far South to play –i hear he may be going overseas shortly;- A.N.Other “figures at centre half for the moment. Mercer and Sharp having returned to their units. Grant and Boyes come in. Though Lawton is doubtful Everton name him as a probable and hope for the best. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, A.N. Other, Watson; Rawlings, Bentham, Lawton (or Wyles), Stevenson, Boyes.

FOOTBALL CLUB’S FIRST PROFESSIONAL
Manchester Evening News - Friday 02 March 1945
Mr. H. Smith, Whitehead-street, Blackburn, who has died, aged 77, claimed to be the first football professional Blackburn ever had. He was with the old Witton F.C., and also played with Everton and Wigan.

PERJURY CHARGE
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 02 March 1945
LIVERPOOL MEN BOUND OVER
At Manchester Assizes yesterday before Mr. Justice Singleton, Robert John Sutton, aged 40, aircraft inspector, of Bray Road. Speke, Liverpool, pleaded guilty to two charges of subornation of perjury, and William Albert Fisher, aged 31, fitter, of Bray Road, Speke, and Eric Lindberg, aged 34, fitter, a native of Liverpool, of Church Road, Speke, pleaded guilty to perjury.  Miss Williams, prosecuting, said that January 2, Sutton was prosecuted for larceny of a ring, and before the hearing it was arranged for Fisher and Lindberg to give false evidence. Immediately after the hearing both Fisher and Lindberg admitted the perjury.  Detective Roberts said Sutton was a professional footballer for Everton and Wrexham before going to the United States. He was at present serving six months imposed at Preston for larceny as bailee the ring. The judge imposed two concurrent sentences of nine months on Sutton, to follow the sentence he was at present serving. Fisher and Lindberg were bound over in £10 for two years.

Football Club’s First Professional
Manchester Evening News - Friday 02 March 1945
Mr. H. Smith, Whitehead street, Blackburn, who has died, aged 77, claimed to be the first football professional Blackburn ever had. He was with the old Witton F.C., and also played with Everton and Wigan.

LAWTON’S RETURN FOR LANCS, CUP-TIE
March 2, 1945. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
The Lancashire Cup breaks in on the North Cup Qualifying Competition tomorrow. Everton, Liverpool, Chester and Southport turn to the county trophy. Added interest is given to Everton clash at Goodison Park with Chester by the fact that Tommy Lawton leading goal scorer and international star, returns to lead Everton after two weeks absence. Lawton is making a quick dash north to be in this game, for he was broadcasting on the Army unit in London today but catches the breakfast train tomorrow morning and this will land him here just in time to get to Goodison Park. Wally Boyes another international and one of the 1939 champions comes back to outside left, and Jack Grant who gave way to Mercer last week takes over again at right-half. So far so good put Secretary Mr. Theo Kelly is faced with a pretty acute problem. This is centre-half Tommy Jones’s ankle has broken down again and who will deputise is a mystery at the moment. It may be late on before Mr. Kelly can provide a solution. Chester have a couple of problems too. Manager Mr. Frank Brown will select from three backs, and there is the right half position still to be filled. However, Yates a clever centre forward is available and will take over at outside-right leaving Armstrong the experienced Aberdeen player to continue at centre-forward. And Armstrong is believe me, good. Andy Black of ester attack to break qualify for the North Cup but their run of ill-luck is bound to change one day. Maybe Lawton’s presence will defer that day of change for a week at least. In league games this season Everton completed the “double” winning 6-2 in both matches. The kick-off is at 3 o’clock. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, A.N. Other, Watson; Rawlings, Bentham, Lawton (or Wyles), Stevenson, Boyes. Chester; Tankie; Lewis, Dyer 0r McNeill; A.N. Other, Pincott, Williams, Yates, Astbury, Armstrong, Black, Burden.

LAWTON PLAYS AT GOODISON
March 2, 1945. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton entertain Chester, one of the luckless clubs, who may find the competition their saving grace if they can get over the first hurdle. That is the all-important question. Everton don’t drop many points at Goodison Park, and I cannot see Chester bringing off a surprise although it has been done before. A win for the visitors would undoubtedly be a prime sensation. That Everton’s defence can be scored against was proved at Southport when the Sandgrounders wiped out a three goal deficit and might have won but for injuries. Lawton will definitely play for Everton. He is in London today, recording a broadcast for the troops abroad, but told me yesterday that he would return on the morning train tomorrow. Lawton has not been among the goals very much of late, due to lack of support, and the fact that the opposition usually details two men to “shadow” him. He may get back into the limelight tomorrow. Whether there will be enough punch in the Chester attack to break down Everton’s solid defence remains to be seen, I am doubtful. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, A.N. Other, Watson; Rawlings, Bentham, Lawton (or Wyles), Stevenson, Boyes. Chester; Tankie; Lewis, Dyer 0r McNeill; A.N. Other, Pincott, Williams, Yates, Astbury, Armstrong, Black, Burden.

CHARLIE LEYFIELD LEAVES FOOTBALL

Liverpool Evening Express - Saturday 03 March 1945

Leyfield, the Doncaster Rovers and British Army outside-left, has retired from football. Leyfield has been discharged from the Army -following injuries to his legs while playing football, and so ends a fine career of 15 years in the game. Cliarlie was discovered Everton playing with Brickfield Athletic in the Chester League and alter good service with the Blues went to Sheffield United and Doncaster, and In war seasons has played as a guest with Chester and Fulham During the past seven years Leyfield has had both legs, ribs and a shoulder broken, but in a letter to stated that despite this ill-luck he has enjoyed every minute of football life—a life made as much the people in it as the game itself Charlie will be visiting our local grounds, for is back home in Chester. 1 hope makes speedy and complete recovery

EVERTON BEAT CHESTER
March 3, 1945. The Evening Express
Three Goals Margin
By Pilot
Maurice Hill, who has been playing for Stockport County as a guest all the season, returned to Everton to play centre half against Chester in the Lancashire Cup first round tie at Goodison Park today. Lawton made a dash from London this morning to lead the side, and Boyes returned to outside-left. Chester had many team changes owing to last minute calls off. No fewer than eight positions in the team had to be changed, and two of their juniors, Harold Naylor and Hollis, were brought in. King, the goalkeeper is a brother of Frank King, the former Everton player. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Hill, and Watson, half-backs; Rawlings (Millwall), Bentham, Lawton (captain), Stevenson, and Boyes, forwards. Chester; King (Sunderland), goal; Lewis and Hollis, backs; Astbury, Pincott, and Cothlille, half-backs; Burden, H. Naylor, Yates, Black and Betts, forwards. Referee Mr. A. Taylor (Wigan). Chester threatened danger on the outside, for after Hill had slipped down when challenged by Yates, Betts forced a corner, but this was disposed of by Jackson. Away went Everton with a neat combined movement between Stevenson and Boyes which ended in a through pass to Lawton, who pulled the ball back to outwit Lewis and then shot inches by the post. Stevenson took over after a fine touch line run by Rawlings to test King low down, and in eight minutes Everton took the lead, thanks to the link-up between Grant and Lawton, which is becoming quite an established Everton feature. Following a throw-in on the right. Following a throw-in on the right wing, the ball was pushed back to Grant, who went forward before making a magnificent centre which Lawton headed home. Once the ball left Grant’s foot it was obviously that Lawton would score, so well was be positioned and so ideal was the centre.
Perfect Inter-Passing
Stevenson shot just outside as he was tackled after some perfect interpassing. And then Lawton beat three men on the proverbial sixpence before getting Rawlings away. Yates made an isolated Chester raid, but Burnett scented the danger and came out to clear. Rawlings went through only to shoot over, and then Chester launched a menacing attack which should have brought a goal. The Everton defence got into a tangle and when Betts crossed the ball to Burden the winger must have scored had he shot first time. The delay, however, enabled Watson to nip back and turn the ball aside for a corner. In the next minute –the 17th –Everton increased their lead through Bentham, who accepted a cross from Lawton to short around Pincott into the net at close range.
King’s Saves
Stevenson took a first time shot on the run but King leapt across to turn the ball around the post, and when next Stevenson took over a back-heel from Lawton, King gathered low down. King seemed to be Stevenson’s bogey-man, for when Alex Seemed certain to score with a header, King dashed out to fist away. There came another lone raid by Yates but Burnett came out to narrow the angle and save, and Everton were soon back weaving their pattern in sheer delight. The Blues certainly were playing good football and at top pace. Lawton provided a thrill when he out stepped all opposition bar Lewis went through, dribbled the goalkeeper, and was just turning the ball through when Lewis got his foot to it and turned it over the top. Chester forced another corner, and then when Black was going through Hill headed him off to give Burnett a chance to intervene. Lawton went to outside right to centre accurately for Rawlings to head in, but Lewis saved a certain goal by heading off the goal-line. Naylor missed a good chance through delaying his shot and when Boyes ran clear he turned the ball back to Lawton who, however, shot too quickly and off the mark. Once again King came out to deny Stevenson, who next fell a victim to Pincott when he was shaping for a goal which kept eluding him. King saved again from Stevenson and then Chester should have had a penalty when Hill knocked the ball down with his hand, but unfortunately for them the referee was on the blind side so he could not possibly see.
Half-time; Everton 2, Chester 0.
Everton were early astir in the second half, Bentham hitting a first time shot which King saved splendidly, and then followed a duel between the Everton forwards and the Chester defence. Pincott and the backs smashed up many promising attacks by the strength of their lacking, and King made four saves in succession from Stevenson, who seemed to be able to do everything but score. Lawton shot outside from a free kick as Everton completely dominated the game but inclined to over-elaborate.
Quick Goals
In 62 minutes Lawton took over from Bentham to increased the lead with an unstoppable left-foot shot but straight from the kick-off Chester attacked and with Everton leaving it to each other, Burden cut in from the right to score with a cross-shot. King turned over the top a dropping shot from Grant, and from the corner Lawton head in. Hollis headed the ball from off the goal-line, King completing the clearance. After 70 minutes Everton had a penalty for hands against Cothliffe, but King went full length to make an excellent save. King made yet another save from Stevenson as Everton continued to attack. The Blues however, were making unnecessary work for themselves simply because they shunned the obvious. They too often made the pass instead of accepting the shot. Stevenson’s non-stop efforts to outwit King were rewarded in 84 minutes, when he ran through, got a return pass from Bentham, and placed just inside the far post. The Chester defence had been standing up to a gruelling unflinchingly, and for variety they broke away to take a corner from which Astbury placed over. Final; Everton 4, Chester 1.

KING KEPT BUSY AT GOODISON
March 3, 1945. The Liverpool Echo
But Everton Score Four Goals
By Stork.
Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Hill, and Watson, half-backs; Rawlings (Millwall), Bentham, Lawton (captain), Stevenson, and Boyes, forwards. Chester; King (Sunderland), goal; Lewis and Hollis, backs; Astbury, Pincott, and Cothlille, half-backs; Burden, H. Naylor, Yates, Black and Betts, forwards. Referee Mr. A. Taylor (Wigan). Chester, who had been unlucky regarding players, were in a troubled state when they reached Goodison Park. Their team was so much changed that only three players were in their original positions. Everton had Lawton as centre forward, and their old player, Maurice Hill, was at centre half. I had a chat with Charlie Leyfield prior to the game. He tells me that he will not to be able to play again. He feels this very much, for in himself he feels fine. Jock Thomson was also prominent. Tommy Jones tells me that he is to see a specialist next weeks regarding his ankle. One could soon see the more powerful nature of the Everton side. They blended well, and King had to save an oblique shot from Stevenson, but in eight minutes the Chester goal had fallen. Lawton brought this about with a perfectly-placed header. But one must not overlook the work and centre by Grant which made the goal possible. Naylor, had a golden opportunity when the Everton defence faltered, but he took so long in getting the ball down to his liking that the door was closed to him when he made his shot. Everton seemed to be travelling at half pressure, yet they had nicely-conceived attacks, and had they taken all their chances they would have had a few goals in hand before Bentham scored their second goal. Lawton might have taken the chance himself, but preferred to offer it to Bentham, and the idea nearly came undone for Bentham missed with his first effort but with his left foot retrieved himself. Bentham and Stevenson were in fine form, and Rawlings had a good innings on the wing for Hollis could not hold him. Chester rarely got beyond the half-way line, and when they did either they fell easy prey to the Everton defenders or failed to utilise chances. Lawton was through again for Everton, and took the ball to within a yard of goal, and then tried to flick it into the net, but it struck a defender’s boot and up over the bar. King made a smart save from Stevenson and when Yates got through he shot too hurriedly. He could have gone on some yards to make more certain, and his long shot was easily fielded by King. Hill appeared to arm the ball, and I thought a penalty would surely follow, but the referee showed no sign that there had been a foul. Near the interval Lawton headed against the crossbar.
Half-time; Everton 2, Chester 0.
At 63 minutes Lawton got Everton’s third goal, a cracker-jack shot which to my mind had the flavour of offside about it. A moment later Chester reduced the lead in one of their breakaways, and Burden scored a really fine goal with a fine shot. In a fierce barrage, King did well to keep the goal intact. He saved from Bentham, but Lawton pounded down on him and the ball bounced towards the goal, Chester had a luck escape. Cothiffe handled in the penalty area and a goal seemed certain for Everton, but Rawlings shot straight at the goalkeeper, who saved the penalty kick. The ball came out but this time, Rawling slashed the ball into the stand. Six minutes from the end a beautiful round of passing on the part of the Everton forwards ended with Stevenson scoring a fourth goal. Chester were not done with, and Yates forced Burnett to save at the feet of the post.
Final; Everton 4, Chester 1.

EVERTON OUTCLASS CHESTER
March 5, 1945. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 4, Chester 1
By Stork.
Everton did not appear to be out of a jog that when beating Chester 4-1 at Goodison Park. Had they turned on steam, I feed sure they would have won by a match bigger margin. Chester battered hard but the winners craft and power to attack was too much for theirs even though for Everton forwards, including Lawton missed some really east chances. In fact, Lawton should have scored two goals before he got his first one. Everton were by far the cleverer side. They gave an entertaining exhibition of higher-class football but sometimes in their eagerness to display this cleverness they missed the opportunity to score. They might have been four goals to the good inside fifteen minutes had they gone out for goals even allowing for the one display of King in the Chester goal. So well handled were the Chester forwards that they rarely broke through. Yet on at least two occasions Naylor might have done considerable damage to the Everton goal had he been quick to seize his opportunities. Furthermore I am firmly of the opinion that Chester should have had a penalty when Hill “armed” the ball yet got no response to their appeal. That they got a goal at all speaks well of their never-say-die quality. Chester’s big man was King, the Sunderland goalkeeper, who stood between Everton and a heavy defeat. He defied Stevenson many times, held shots from Bentham put others over or round the woodwork and clinched a smart display by saving a penalty taken by Rawlings. It was Chester’s best display of football since Christmas. It was heartening for it suggested that they had not entirely lost heart because of their long sequence of non-success. With more power in attack they would score goals for some of their midfield play was god enough to sound the depths of Everton’s defence. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Hill, and Watson, half-backs; Rawlings (Millwall), Bentham, Lawton (captain), Stevenson, and Boyes, forwards. Chester; King (Sunderland), goal; Lewis and Hollis, backs; Astbury, Pincott, and Cothlille, half-backs; Burden, H. Naylor, Yates, Black and Betts, forwards. Referee Mr. A. Taylor (Wigan). Attendance 14,169.
• Liverpool beat Southport 5-0, Taylor (2), Liddell (2), Pilling

MARINE 8 EVERTON RESERVES 2
March, 5 1945. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Reserves fell heavily. They were the first to score. Marine put on goals regularly through Fenton (3), Curran (3), and O’Neill (2). F. Jones scored both Everton points.

SOUTH LIVERPOOL; EVERTON PROPOSAL
March 5, 1945. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
In spite of the recommendation of the majority of the directors, South Liverpool shareholders have turned down the proposal to sell the club’s assets to Everton. The idea was that Everton should become the main tenants of Holly Bank and South Liverpool their sub-tenants, and that the two clubs should use the pitch on alternate Saturdays, Everton Colts making it their headquarters. Everton’s offer, had it been accepted, would not only have wiped out South’s overdraft and other debts and left them money with which to start up again, but would have relieved the club of future responsibility regarding the upkeep of the ground, stands, etc. After a lively meeting, a show of hands disclosed a heavy majority against the proposal. Though the board might have carried the day on a proxy vote, they decided not to run counter to the obvious wishes of the Club’s followers. It is estimated that it will take £2,000 to put South Liverpool on a footing where they can resume next season. Should this be forthcoming –many promises were made at Saturday’s meeting –all may be well; if not them an opportunity may have been missed which is not likely to recur.

SOUTH LIVERPOOL AND EVERTON’S OFFER
March 5, 1945. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
South Liverpool F.C shareholders have refused the helping hand which would have placed the 10-year-old club on a firm financial basis. But... Unless the shareholders themselves can rid South of heavy financial burden in the space of a month the generous offer of Everton F.C. to purchase outright the assets of South Liverpool will, no doubt, be accepted by the directors. The majority at the South directors decided to accept Everton’s offer, which would have allowed South to retain their entity, for the club would not have become a nursery for Everton. However, to be quite fair to shareholders, they decided to give the shareholders an opportunity of confirming this move. On Saturday they met but after arguments for and against it was decided to reject Everton’s offer –by a three to one majority on a show of hands. This despite the fact that Chairman Mr. H.D. Arrowsmith emphasised that £2,500 would be required to keep the club going. Everton’s offer is £2, 200 for the assets, which merely mean Everton becoming “landlords” and responsible for the upkeep of the Holly Park estate. Chief opponents to the ideas were Mr. H. Dixon (director) and Mr. A. Banks (former chairman). The opponents won the first “round” and now the shareholders will be circularised with an appeals to subscribe, the £2,500 needed to keep South alive. Another meeting will be held a month hence to see what results the appeal brings. If the shareholders do not find the money then the directorial majority can go right ahead and accept Everton’s offer, for this they are empowered to do under the articles of association. One directors was so upset at this breaking of an honourable agreement with Everton that he thought or resigning, but has now decided to carry on until the next shareholders meeting.
Everton gained a three goals lead be good enough to take them into the next round on Saturday despite the absentee of Tommy Lawton and a centre-half problem caused through injury to Tommy Jones and Maurice Lindley’s neating.” Everton should have won much, more convincingly than 4-1 at Goodison for they had nine-tenths of the play, but suffered through sad neglect of the instant centre resulting in a starving on. “Lawton. And here I want to clear up the Lawton puzzle of the game. Everton were awarded a penalty in 70 minutes, but instead of taking the kick Lawton delegated Rawlings for the job. The 14,169 spectators asked; “Why did not Tommy take it himself?” There is only one answer to that –Lawton’s unselfishness. Tommy feels that he will appear goal-greedy if he takes on penalty kicking, and while he one day hopes to break all scoring records he is anything but greedy. In future however Lawton, will take Everton penalties. Secretary Mr. Theo Kelly had a talk with Tommy after the game, and said; “We appreciate your view, but will you please in future take the penalties for a goal to Tommy Lawton means a goal to Everton and in these home-and-away cup-ties every goal is vital.” Jock Thomson, Everton’s post-war coach was present at the game looking younger than ever and giving us assurance that he is looking forward avidly to his peace-time duties. Jock was impressed by the delightful approach of Everton even if it was overdone at times. Lawton I thought was kept out of it because the wingers simply would not middle the ball, and too often be found the open space and yet never received the return pass. Lawton’s two goals were finely taken –Jackie Grant showed in the first instance just how goals should be made –and Bentham and Stevenson also scored, Stevenson at last breaking down, the excellent resistance –to him in particular –of young King, the Newcastle goalkeeper whose brother Frank watched from the stands. Hill fought bravely in the unaccustomed position of centre half and would be eager to thank Jackson and Greenhalgh for the magnificent cover and Grant and Watson for the helping hand. Everton made this task harder than it was but maybe it was as well for Chester’s good folk. Mr. Harry Manley (vice-chairman), Mr. Walter Shaw Alderman, Frank Price, now recovered from recent indisposition, and Manager Mr. Frank Brown, were weight down with team worries. Yet Chester’s resistance was always galliant and they took a continuous hammering in a manner which was high tribute to their sportsmanship. King, Lewis, Pincott, and Astbury, were their stars in the effort to stop the relentless Everton machine and Burden got their goal.

EASY FOR EVERTON
March 5, 1945. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton’s more scientic football readily accounted for Chester who were fortunate to get away with a three goals deficit. The Cestrians started with a severe handicap, for only three of their eleven players were in their accustomed positions (writes Stork). How could one expect a blend from such chopping and changing? Yet I am told that they played some of the best football since Christmas, and some of their combination in midfield, was quite good, but near goal they were paid as if in a vice by the Everton defenders. That they scored at all speaks well for their grit, for in that main this match was a duel between the Chester keeper and the Everton forwards. Everton, playing attractive football throughout, pulled out every known pass in the game, and it was too good for the Chester defenders to hold. They pirouetted here, there and everywhere, made openings with a more flick or a nod, and their goal crop should have gone well over the four-goal mark. I gained the impression, however, that they were not desirous of robbing it in, for they never seemed to be out of a centre. Had they been four goals up in fifteen minutes it would not have been out of the way, for chances were missed at this period which at other times would have been accepted, but as there seemed little prospect of Chester creating a surprise. Everton went jogging along in their own sweet way, and goals followed as a natural sequence. Chester also missed a couple of simple chances and further more did not get a penalty award to which I feel they were fully entitled, when Hill “armed” the ball. Was Lawton offside when he scored his second goal? I am sure in my own mind that he was. So you see that Chester were not favoured by the gods. Not that I thought they had any hope of winning, for Everton had a hand on them everywhere; had too many moves up their sleeves for their opponents. Chester could only defend, and try to keep Everton’s score down to reasonable dimensions and that they did.

Berwick Native's Death

Berwickshire News and General Advertiser - Tuesday 06 March 1945

With tragic suddenness, the death took place of Mr R. R. Turnbull, a Liverpool businessman and native of Berwick. Educated at Berwick Grammar School, he was nephew of tine late Mr Robert Richardson. For many years he was connected with the Grayson Hollo and Clover Docks, and later with the J. D. Insulation Company. His home was at Dowhills Road, Blundellsands. And he leaves widow and two sons, the sons both being in the Forces. He w life-long supporter of Everton Football Club, and was elected to the board of management three years ago. Mr Turnbull was attending a Masonic con secretion of a new chapter when lie collapsed and died.

Berwick Native’s Death
Berwickshire News and General Advertiser - Tuesday 06 March 1945
With tragic suddenness, the death took place of Mr R. R. Turnbull, a Liverpool businessman and native of Berwick. Educated at Berwick Grammar School, he was nephew of the late Mr Robert Richardson. For many years he was connected with the Grayson Rollo and Clover Docks, and later with the J. D. Insulation Company. His home was at Dowhills Road, Blundellsands. and he leaves widow and two sons, the sons both being in the Forces. He was life-long supporter of Everton Football Club, and was elected to the board of management three years ago. Mr Turnbull was attending a Masonic consecretion of a new chapter when he collapsed and died.

BLUES HAVE TEAM PROBALEMS
March 8, 1945. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton face team problems for Saturday’s match, when Everton travel to Chester in the Lancashire Cup. Secretary Mr. Theo Kelly wresting with problems and he announced a list of thirteen names with the intriguing “A.N.Other” at the end of the list. This mystery man may be the eventual centre-half. I know Mr. Kelly has been seeking a star to take over from the injured Jones and the “posted” Lindley, but Maurice Hill is again included in the probables and both Bentham and Watson have played centre-half this season. Lawton of course, goes to Newcastle to play for the Army, and so Cecil Wyles returns, while I note “Jimmy McIntosh” again in the list with Norman Sharp and Wally Boyes. One thing Mr. Kelly never has any defensive worry, for the reliable three-Burnett, Jackson and Greenhalgh-are there match after match. And personally I know of no more accomplished trio. I do not detract-from Burnett and Greenhalgh when I assert that Jackson is the sensation player of the season. For sheer consistency no back in the north is playing better than Jackson. Why, when George played for England against South Africa he was not touching the form perfection shown this season. Jackson’s positional sense, accurate kicking and power of recovery make him, in my opinion one of the outstanding personalities of the 1944-45 season. An interesting Goodison Park item of news, is that Billy Lowe the young Haydock outside-right, who broke a leg playing against Tranmere Rovers a couple of seasons ago, returns to the County Combination side to meet Randle on Saturday after two successful runs with the Colts. Everton; (from) Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Watson, Watson; Rawling, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson, Boyes, McIntosh, Hill, Sharp, A.N.Other.
Everton Reserves; J.A. Jones; Shaw, Painter; Ashley, Rees, Cookson; Lowe, Whitehead, Booth, E.D. Evans, Peters. Chester; (from); King; Lewis, Dyer, McNeill; Corkhill, Pincott, Harris; Burden, Astbury, Armstrong, Yates, Black, Bett
Everton Colts (v. Victoria Rangers, at Orrell-lane, kick-off 3.15 p.m.); Gardiner; Martin, Adamson; J. Makin, Tansey, J.Dunn; Richardson, W. Burnett (brother of G. Burnett, the first team goalkeeper), J.J. Murphy, T. Dunn, Hartshorne.

EVERTON’S DOUBTS
March 8, 1945. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
It is some time since Everton had so many ifs and buts about their side as they have for their Lancashire Cup-tie against Chester at Sealand Road on Saturday. The best they can do at the moment is name fourteen probables, with the rearguard trinity the only department definitely settled. Lawton is not available, being engaged in the Army-R.A.F game at Newcastle, while Jones (T.G.) is not fit. Sharp is a probable, and after his two recent exhibition is a likely starter if he can make the journey. Hill is also named. This is the order in which the club announces those from whom final selection will be made. Everton; (from) Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Watson, Watson; Rawling, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson, Boyes, McIntosh, Hill, Sharp, A.N.Other.

EVERTON
March 9, 1945. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton travel to Chester for the second “leg” of their Lancashire Senior Cup first round tie and will feel pretty confident holding a three goal lead, secured at Goodison last week. Both clubs are worried about their teams and will select form 13 players each. Everton’s main doubt is centre half, but Chester expects to have a number of their Army lads back, and so will be much stronger than in the first game. Wyles takes over leadership of the Everton attack again and while I think Everton will win, they will have all their work cut out to succeed. I can promise that Sealand road fans that they will see much football to delight. Chester (from); King; Lewis, Dyer, McNeill; Corkhill, Pincott, Harvis; Burden, Armstrong, Astbury, Yates, Black, Bett. Everton; (from) Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Watson, Watson; Rawling, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson, Boyes, McIntosh, Hill, Sharp.

CHESTER’S BUGBEAR
March 9, 1945. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
As Everton start the second leg of their Lancashire Cup-tie against Chester at Sealand Road with a three-goal lead, their progress to the next stage is as certain as anything can be in this uncertain game of football. That doesn’t mean, however, that there is nothing at stake. Everton have eyes on a war-time championship and as League points go with this match, victory is essential to their bid. They cannot afford to rest on their oars and let Chester get away with the spoils. Enforced changes have played havoc with Chester’s attempts to foster team spirit and understanding, the lack of which has been largely responsible for their lowly position. Everton, on the contrary have reaped the benefit of being able to play for so long an almost unchanged defence and a fairly settled attack. This week the Blues find themselves with more problems than they have had for some time so that the exact composition of the side will not be selected until later. One quandary if all the expected forwards turn up, will be who to leave out. But that’s better than being short and many a club would be thankful if that sort of problem was their only worry. While Everton ought to win, Chester’s side has gone grand players, and if they can just strike the right note together the Blues may well have their work cut out. Chester (from); King; Lewis, Dyer, McNeill; Corkhill, Pincott, Harvis; Burden, Armstrong, Astbury, Yates, Black, Bett. Everton; (from) Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Watson, Watson; Rawling, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson, Boyes, McIntosh, Hill, Sharp.
A Rolling Stone
Makin, Everton’s winger, who has played several times for Everton this season, and has figured as a guest with Southport, Chester, Stockport and Wrexham, is in Crewe’s probables tomorrow. If he plays it will be his sixth club in as many months.

CHESTER GOAL RUSH
March 10, 1945. The Evening Express
After Everton lead
Chester made three forward changes and were without their Scottish players, Black and Armstrong, for their combined Lancashire Senior Cup-League game, with Everton, a Sealand-road, Chester, today. Seventeen year-old K. Ellis, a Buckley boy, who had been playing with Chester Colts, made his debut with the senior side. For Everton, Sharp came in at outside-right. Chester;- King, goal; Lewis and McNeill, backs; Corkhill, Pincott, and Kirby, half-backs; Bainbridge, Astbury, Yates, K. Ellis, and Hamilton, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Grant, Hill and Watson, half-backs; Sharp, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson and Boyes, forwards. Referee; Mr. T. Hughes (Warrington). Boyes was prominent in the early stages, with some tricky footwork which took him past Lewis, but his centre was not well judged and Corkhill had little difficulty in intercepting and clearing. Chester made a number of raids but Burnett was not troubled by the long range shot which he had to gather. Everton forwards continued to produced attractive football, but in the early stages they were not dangerous near goal. The first dangerous shot of the match came from Bainbridge, who made a first time to divert a Hamilton centre into the net. Burnett who was well placed, made a smart save.
Everton Take Lead
After Everton had forced a corner on the right and McNeill had headed clear, both Jackson and Grant drove the ball back to the Chester goalmouth following partial clearance and Bentham put Everton ahead in 12 minutes with a close-range shot as King came out. Wyles ended another Everton raid with a shot against the side netting. Bentham was just too high with another drive, which followed good work by Boyes and Stevenson. Bainbridge had a fine chance to equalise when the ball came across to him in an unmarked position, but he missed the opportunity. Everton increased their lead in 26 minutes, following a goalmouth struggle, King had gathered a shot, but Sharp caused him to drop the ball, and Wyles had no difficulty in placing it into an empty net. Everton were well on top, and all the sparkle in the game came from the Blues. King made a grand save from a short range shot from Wyles. In 40 minutes Chester reduced the lead when, following a scramble in the Everton goalmouth, the ball went out to Hamilton who beat Burnett net with a fast low shot. Just on half-time Chester equalised Yates took the ball from Burnett after the Everton goalkeeper had made a save, and he slipped the ball across the goalmouth to Astbury, who scored with a quick shot.
Half-time; Chester 2, Everton 2
The second half started with Everton pressure, and King saved when Watson sent in a powerful shot. At the other end, Burnett cleared when Bainbridge dropped a centre into the goal mouth. Stevenson was just wide of the upright with a shot which followed an Everton free kick. Following a Chester left-wing raid Burnett took the ball from Yates’s head after a centre by Hamilton. Since the evening of the scores, the game was played at a faster pace and produced more incidents. Chester took the lead with by Yates, and increased it within a minute by one from Bainbridge.

CHESTER V. EVERTON
March 10, 1945. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
Chester;- King, goal; Lewis and McNeill, backs; Corkhill, Pincott, and Kirby, half-backs; Bainbridge, Astbury, Yates, K. Ellis, and Hamilton, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Grant, Hill and Watson, half-backs; Sharp, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson and Boyes, forwards. Referee; Mr. T. Hughes (Warrington). Chester gain had many alterations in the originally selected side. Everton had Boyes and Sharp took over at outside right. I ran across Humphreys, the Everton half back, who is in hospital here, with Billy Cook, the old Everton and Liverpool goalkeeper, Frank Mitchell. There was a fair attendance at the start of this game, the first round of the Lancashire Senior Cup-tie (second leg). Everton were the first to launch an attack, and Boyes did some fancy work while beating his way through the Chester defence, but he was not strong enough with his final inward pass. Jackson could not have seen Hamilton behind him, otherwise he would not have allowed the ball to pass him by, but here again the danger was only momentary. The Chester forwards appeared to shoot hurriedly when it would have been advantageous to await awhile, but this nearly brought a goal in the early minutes. Burnett had an act very quickly when saving from Bainbridge, who hit a centre from the left immediately, and a goal looked likely. There was more craft about the Everton side, and at 12 minutes it brought them their first success. Wyles found his path barred to goal, as tapped the ball over to Bentham, who shot as the goalkeeper ran out of his charge had opened the score. I thought the Chester defence somewhat lay in allowing the show ball to pass on to Bentham. Bentham almost had a second goal when he was put through by Stevenson for there was little between the ball and the cross-bar when the ball flashed over.

CHESTER’S GREAT FIGHT
February 12, 1945. The Liverpool Daily Post
Chester 6, Everton 4 (Agg 7-8)
By Stork.
Everton, after seemingly having their Lancashire Cup-tie with Chester well in hand, had to fight tooth and nail to stay in the competition for Chester put up a magnificent fight and took Everton into extra time before the latter finally won thoroughly on the aggregate, 8-7, after losing the second game 6-4. Starting with a three-goal lead, Everton were not long increasing it to five, and judged by the way Chester were playing there was no indication that they would create consternation in the Everton camp. But they not only worked off the deficiency but actually took the lead. Two goals by Chester just before the interval had such an effect upon them that one would not have recognised in them the side when had displayed such lack of fire in the first “45.” Where they had been like lambs, they became lions rampant and they got their teeth into a game which seemed well and truly lost. The first-half display never suggested such a turn-about. Bentham and Wyles had scored for Everton, but near the interval two swift attacks produced goals to Bainbridge and Astbury, and the game stood two goals each at the half-stage. It was then the Cestrians changed their modus operandi. They played open football, allied to swift tackling with a darting plan of attack, and it had the effect of upsetting Everton so much that they were involved in errors.
A Changed Team
I have never seen such a change come over a team. Their football may not have been of the same quality as Everton’s but it paid a high dividend. The minutes were ticking off and the final close at hand, when Bentham scored the all-important goal which equalised matters. The final in this game was 6-3 in Chester’s favour. The score in the Lancashire Cup was 7-7, so an extra 20 minutes was necessary. But let me tell you of the Chester goal rush which completely mastered the Everton defence. They scored four goals in a row per Yates, Bainbridge, Yates and Yates in 15 minutes before Bentham’s equaliser. Then Everton regained their grip and Wyles scored the winning goal. The honours of the game, however, went to Chester. Here is the time-table of the goal scoring; Bentham 12 minutes, Wyles 26, Hamilton 40, Astbury 43, Yates 58, Bainbridge 63, Yates 81, Yates 83, Bentham 87, Wyles 105 minutes. Lancs Cup aggregate; Everton 8, Chester 7. Attendance 4,188. Chester;- King, goal; Lewis and McNeill, backs; Corkhill, Pincott, and Kirby, half-backs; Bainbridge, Astbury, Yates, K. Ellis, and Hamilton, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Grant, Hill and Watson, half-backs; Sharp, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson and Boyes, forwards. Referee; Mr. T. Hughes (Warrington).
• Liverpool beat Tranmere 3-1; Nieuwenhuys, Hinsley, Taylor for Liverpool and Glidden for Tranmere.
• Army 0, R.A.F 0, at Newcastle in front of 39,500

EVERTON RESERVE S0 RANDLES 3
February 12, 1945. The Liverpool Daily Post
George Mahon Cup
Everton Reserves were well beaten at Goodison Park. The visitors were in grand form and were the better side throughout. Had they been more accurate to the finishing they would have won by a bigger margin, Jones the Everton goalkeeper played well throughout. Scorers; Hughes, Mayers and F. Turner.

A BRAVE CHESTER
February 12, 1945. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
In normal times the Chester-Everton match would have been in front page story, for the Cestrians almost brought off the most sensational win of the season in their Lancashire Cup-tie at Sealand Road. Starting off with the burden of a three goals deficit, which was increased to five after 26 minutes. Chester’s prospect were as black as the hole of Calcutta. It needed a stout heart to face up to such a grim position, and I did not think (writes Stork) there was any likelihood of Chester causing Everton even the slightest trouble for they did not suggest a goal until one came near the interval. This galvanised them. Where they had been as time as lambs they became a relentless partner division driving the enemy before them. Another goal came before the interval, four others followed in a row in the second half, and Everton were in arrears 6-7 on the aggregate. It was the most startling thing I have seen for an age. Only minutes were needed for the final whistle to sound out its death-knell for Everton’s Lancashire Cup ambitions. It seemed that Chester had pulled off the 1,000.000 to 1 chance but within two minutes of the final Bentham equalised. Chester had won the League points by a 6-3 win, but the Cup demanded extra time, and it was the cup which was their main concern. They had almost snatched the bone from the lion’s mouth and so great was their effort that no one would have begrudged them their success, for it was a grand and glorious performance. The calm, methodical football of Everton in the early part of the game was smashed to ribbons in the second by Chester’s relentless tackling, their terrific pace, and the sweeping pass. This tidal wave did a whole lot of damage to the Everton harbour gates, but the fury of the gale had expended itself. The good ship Chester had driven its engines so hard that the ship floundered in the extra time. Its powerful drive curtailed, and Everton once more took command. Yet fifteen of those extra twenty minutes were needed before Everton scored the winning goal. Chester had fought themselves to a standstill, for never at any moment in the “extra” did they promised another surprise.

EVERTON SIG MINOR CUP TEAM STAR
March 12, 1945. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Butter, of the Army Cadet Force, one of the sensational successes of Liverpool County F.A’s representative which defeated Lancashire F.A 3-1 at Anfield on Saturday, and so earned the right to meet West Riding or Durham in the third round of the F.A. Minor (Youths) Cup, has been signed by Everton. The signing of this most promising of centre-half backs was made just before the game, and so others who fancied Butter are doomed to disappointment. Butter was the strong “hub” around which revolved a clever effective football machine so carefully built-up by sheer knowledge and enthusiasm on the part of the selectors. The Liverpool F.A. officials travelled to all sorts of outstanding grounds in all manner of conditions to run the rule over the players, and the brilliance of the performance was high tribute to the great work of, among others, Hon Secretary Mr. Ike Robinson, Hon, Treasurer Mr. Ted Wortley, and “Team manager” Mr. Tommy A. Jones, under the leadership of the President Mr. J.F. Langford. If Liverpool can keep this side together under the captaincy of Leslie Doyle of Everton. I think they may be the first winners of this new competition. If they are it will please the Lancashire folk who came along under Vice-President Mr. Jonathan Taylor and Hon Secretary Mr. Fred Hargreaves. Phil Taylor of Everton got the third goal with a neat header.
Anxious Moments.
The Everton folk were not the only ones who had anxious moments round about five o’clock when Chester after being five goals behind in the Lancashire Cup-tie not only drew level, but went ahead. Eventually Chester turned a 4-1 defeat into a 6-3 win to draw level on goal aggregate, and so into extra time. When I told the Liverpool F.C and Lancashire F.A. officials the position at Sealand road, they had visions of two big “Derby” gates dazing away for, you see, Everton and Liverpool are paired in the second round. The Merseyside “Derby” games are the main source of income to the County F.A. and the loss of them, would be rather serious I kept dashing along to tell the officials the trend of the Chester game and when I told them that Wyles had scored for Everton in extra time to place the Blues unto the second round there were many sight of relief. And I can assure you that no matter what the Reds and Blues do in the League Cup, this Lancashire cup-tie will be played. Chester certainty made a grand fight and one feels sorry for them that they had to go out in the finish. Their wholehearted enthusiasm in the second half of a thrilled packet game almost succeeded. Up to the time King made a sensation save off Sharp in the second half Everton had been much the more impressive side, but that save gave Chester the heart they needed and then it was touch and go for the Blues. Bentham and Wyles shared Everton’s goal and Hamilton, Astbury, Yates (2) and Bainbrige (2) scored for Chester.

CURWEN RECALLED
March 15, 1945. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
To Play Centre-Half
Everton recall Curwen, who has been on loan to Southport most of the season, to take over the centre half position for their League game with Preston North End at Goodison on Saturday. Curwen has developed by leaps and bounds during his association with the Sandgrounders, and Everton saw his soundness for themselves in his two recent games against the Blues both at full back. He is adaptable, however and may solve Everton’s pivotal problem. Jones (T.G.) is not likely to be fit for some time, and expects to have an operation on his ankle shortly. Though Preston are not the side they once were, their return nevertheless will be welcome. The visiting side will include a proportion of young players they have developed from their junior teams, plus veterans like Tom Smith and Dougal. Preston have never evinced much concern for war-time success, but have seen quietly concentrating on building for the future. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Curwen, Watson; forwards from; Sharp, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson, Boyes, Hill, Makin. Preston; Fairbrother; Radford, Scott; Simpson, Smith, Robertson; Wharton, Bond, Dougal, Iddon, McIntosh.

NINETEEN CLUBS MAKE FINAL NORTH CUP BID
March 16, 1945. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Eighteen clubs can sit back tomorrow feeling quite pleased with themselves for having qualified for the North Cup Competition Proper, but another 19 will be making a last desperate endeavour to win a place in the draw for the first round which will be announced from Goodison Park tomorrow evening about six o’clock. The draw is one of the most intriguing events of the season affecting 32 proved efficient clubs, and Mr. Theo Kelly, secretary of Everton and myself are collaborating to ensure the League Management Committee under President Mr. Will Cuff getting final results and placing of the Qualifying Competition right “on the dot”. Everton are placing a special private room at the disposal of Mr. Cuff and his colleagues. With so many legislators present at the game –the management Committee are holding a meeting in Liverpool after the draw tomorrow night –it is a pity that the League game at Goodison Park should not have the touch of Tom Lawton and others, but the “heads” will be able to run the eye over a number of young players of whom their clubs expect big things in the near future. Everton, for instance will have big-hearted George Curwen of the N.F.S as centre-half, and I think George will hold down the job well. Twenty-year-old Alf Ashley, from Northwich may make his senior debut after sound work with the reserves. The selectors too, will be able to mark down the consistency of Norman Greenhalgh and Georg Jackson, the Everton backs who have no peers this season. The fact that neither George nor Norman is in the services may have counted against them for representative match honours, but both are doing great work in important war jobs. I look forward to a match of exceptionally high standard with the ball on the ground, instead of in the air. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Curwen, Watson; forwards from; Sharp, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson, Boyes, Hill, Makin. Preston; Fairbrother; Radford, Scott; Simpson, Smith, Robertson; Wharton, Bond, Dougal, Iddon, McIntosh.

EVERTON GAME
March 16, 1945. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
While, Liverpool, Wrexham, Chester and Crewe are completing their Cup programme, Everton’s home engagement with Preston North End carries League championship points only. The Blues lost two vital points at Chester last week and cannot afford another slip-up if they to retain a sporting chance. There is nothing surprising in Everton recalling Curwen, whose sterling displays for Southport have pointed that way since the Blues pivotal problems cropped up, Curwen has gained vastly in experience during his association with the Sandgrounders who will feel his loss more than a little. If he plays as well in the middle as he has at right back Everton’s problems is solved. With Lawton absent in the Western Command game at Stoke, Wyles carries on at centre forward. He has scored thirteen goals in nine appearances there this season which is good going for a deputy leader. With Rawlings assisting Millwall in the South Cup semi-final, Everton again include Sharp, whose previous displays have been encouraging. Makin and Ashley are among the probables the latter being a reserve team player from the Northwich area. Preston North End come to Goodison in a competition game for the first time for three years, though we weighed up the promise of some of their youngsters in a friendly a couple of seasons ago. We shall have the same chance tomorrow for Preston again bring several lads who have graduated to first team standing through the various juniors sides at Deepdale. These are Simpson, Bond –nephew of the former England and North End player –Robertson, iddon and Radford. With the rest of the side experienced players, including Tom Smith and Dougal, Preston would seem to have a well-blended team. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Curwen, Watson; forwards from; Sharp, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson, Boyes, Hill, Makin. Preston; Fairbrother; Radford, Scott; Simpson, Smith, Robertson; Wharton, Bond, Dougal, Iddon, McIntosh.
After being unaccountably overlooked by the selectors for years until picked for the Belgium tour next week-end, Stevenson may have to miss the trip after all. He is having trouble with a knee injury and is very doubtful for tomorrow’s game.

EVERTON’S SUCCESS
March 17, 1945. The Evening Express
Wyles Hat-Trick
By Pilot
Members of the Football League Management Committee were present at Goodison Park, today, for the League match between Everton and Preston North End, for the purpose of making the draw for the first round proper of the North End. This was North End’s first visit to Merseyside this season and they brought a number of their war-time discoveries. Curwen made his debut for Everton as a centre-half, and Boyes was at outside left. George Burnett, the Everton goalkeeper. Wore a brand new canary jersey, in place of his usual green one. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Grant, Curwen, and Watson, half-backs; Sharp, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson, and Boyes, forwards. Preston North End; Fairbrother, goal; Radford, and Scott, backs; Smith (captain), Robertson and Wharton, half-backs; Bond, Livesley, Iddon and McIntosh, forwards. Referee; Mr. G. Twist (Westhoughton). Preston opened with some delightful interpassing, which had Everton running all the wrong way until Wharton placed behind. Boyes raced through and then forced a corner which Tom Smith cleared. Boyes gained another corner, and this brought the opening goal in three minutes from Wyles. Boyes placed to the far post, where Wyles headed in cleverly, and although Smith tried to hit the ball away, he only succeeded in helping it into the net. Boyes was a lively raider, and now he raced to outside right to cross an edging away from Wyles. Simpson headed off Stevenson as Everton proceeded to delight by the speed and accuracy of their passing. Burnett made a safe catch from a centre by Simpson, before Iddon out through with a fast cross shot which Burnett covered well.
Lead Increased
Everton were two up in ten minutes when Wyles trapped a ball on the edge of the goal area, swung round as Smith was about to tackle, and cracked home a left foot shot into the roof of the net, which Fairbrother hardly saw. This had been a sparkling opening with both teams playing really good football. Stevenson, Bentham, and Wyles were in their merriest mood, and the Preston half-backs were continually kept moving the wrong way, as Everton piled on the pressure. Iddon went through for another quick shot which passed wide, and then McIntosh missed a great chance after Livesey had centred from the goal line. He failed to get hold of the ball properly so that it swerved back across goal, and Burnett was able to clear. Curwen delighted with an excellent clearance at the expense of Livesey. From Wharton’s free kick, iddon burst through on his own, but Jackson adroitly hooked the ball back to save a certain goal.
Watson’s Injury
Watson went off after half an hour with a knee injury, and Boyes dropped back to left half. Watson was able to resume after five minutes to see North End coming more into the game, Jackson nipping across in the nick of time to hold Iddon. Burnett went full length to save from iddon who was easily the most effective of the North End attack. Towards the interval Everton lost some of their erstwhile verve, and Bond streaked through to hit a fast rising shot which Burnett saved splendidly.
Half-time; Everton 2, Preston North End 0
Early in the second half Burnett came into the limelight with a flying save off McIntosh, but Everton soon took up the running again, Stevenson’s footwork being a source of delight. Everton found Smith their stumbling block, and but for his keen anticipation they must have increased their lead. Everton were still doing the bulk of the attacking, without those first half dynamic touches which brought them reward. Fairbrother saved from Bentham, Stevenson, and Boyes in turn before Wyles swung round to a shot which flashed into the crowd. Wyles dashed through from Jackson’s long pass, but Fairbrother dashed out and dived to take the shot with his stomach. Everton easily disposed of McIntosh’s corner, and when Simpson went through Livesey had a chance only to turn the ball outside. Play had deteriorated considerably.
Everton’s Switch
Wyles kept moving to the wing to try and draw Smith out of position, but Smith was not to be hoodwinked, and Everton’s switch in which Bentham and Sharp changed places, failed to upset a finely co-ordinated defence. McIntosh shot over from another corner, but there were few goalmouth incidents of note. There came a welcome diversion from Wharton who cut in to let go a terrific shot from the edge of the penalty area which just skimmed the bar. Five minutes from time Stevenson limped off, just as Fairbrother dashed out to punch away from Boyes’ free kick. Two minutes from time Wyles completed his hat-trick with a magnificent cross-shot. Final; Everton 3, Preston North end 0.

WYLES THROUGH THRICE
March 17, 1945. The Liverpool Echo
Preston North end at Goodison
By Ranger
Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Grant, Curwen, and Watson, half-backs; Sharp, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson, and Boyes, forwards. Preston North End; Fairbrother, goal; Radford, and Scott, backs; Smith (captain), Robertson and Wharton, half-backs; Bond, Livesley, Iddon and McIntosh, forwards. Referee; Mr. G. Twist (Westhoughton). Stevenson turned out for Everton in their home game against Preston North End though he was not a hundred per cent fit. He told me before the match that he hoped the exercise would wear off his knee stiffness. Preston opened in sparkling fashion with a brilliantly dovetailed move, in which the whole forward line took part but it was Everton who drew first blood. Boyes forced a corner and placed the kick so perfectly that Wyles had a simple task in opening the scoring, Fairbrother being well beaten. Scott, who made a galliant effort to head out, only succeeded in deflecting the ball into the top netting. Six minutes later Everton were two in front, the scorer again being Wyles. This time he picked up a long free kick taken by Greenhalgh in the Everton half of the field, breasted the ball down and rammed home a quick shot which Fairbrother touched but could not prevent entering the net. Robertson, Preston’s 18-year-old left back, shone by reason of his hard work and his judicious feeding of the visiting left wing. Watson went off the field for a couple of minutes, having overstretched himself in endeavouring to make a pass when challenged. After his return Preston had an inspired spell, in which they hammered away almost continuously at the home defence without being able to get the better of Jackson, Greenhalgh and Burnett. Bond and Iddon put in good shots which were well saved by Burnett, but Preston’s finishing was poor in comparison with the excellence and artistry of their approach work. Had it been better they might have been on level terms at the interval.
Half-time; Everton 2, Preston North End nil
The best shot of the day came early in the second half from Wharton, who let fly a left-foot drive, which took Burnett all his time to parry. Boyes tickled the crowd by the canny way in which he gave the dummy to Bradford, but was unable to complete the move with a worthy shot. A long clearance by Jackson almost enabled Wyles to snatch a shock goal, following which Bond and Iddon at the other end also assayed shots without getting properly on the target. Preston were finding their men much more easily than Everton but constantly held up their own progress by square instead of forward passes and were still not producing a proper ratio of shots to compare with their territorial advantage. Everton several times were pulled up for offside. Bentham and Sharp had changed places, and the former when endeavouring to go through on his own was surrounded by no fewer than five Preston opponents without another Everton man being within reach to take a pass even if he had been able to get one through the barrage. Play this half had been much below the standard of the first portion. Stevenson left the field six minutes before the finish. Two minutes from the finish Wyles completed his hat-trick with a shot from a very acute angle. Final; Everton 3, Preston North End Nil.

EVERTON’S CLEVER FOOTBALL
February 19, 1945. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 3, Preston North End 0
By Ranger
The game between Everton and Preston at Goodison, won 3-0 by the former, was one of contrasting halves. In the first half, with the respective attacks making progress by methodical and constructive play and the defences constantly trying to use their clearances as the starting point of a counter offensive, we saw some clever and entertaining football. The standard deteriorated considerably in the second half, however, when the ball, hitherto kept under control on the ground, was too often in the air. Preston suffered the shock of being two goals down in ten minutes, both scored by Wyles and both partly due to defensive errors. When Wyles got the first from a perfectly placed corner of Boyes. I thought Fairbrother at fault in coming out and when he got the second the Preston defence should never have stood still and let him get a long free kick by Greenhalgh under control. Preston, who had opened in sparkling fashion were so knocked off their balance by this reverse that Everton enjoyed a lengthy period of superiority. They were the more forceful and direct, and always ready to shoot but once Preston had recovered their poise they tested the home defence pretty severely, particularly in the last quarter of an hour before the interval. Even then, however, their finishing was not on the same plane as their approach work, and Burnett was not unduly troubled.
Poor Second Half
The second half fell away considerably and with the defences having the whip hand, combined movements were at premium. Preston might have reduced the deficit had they been more practical and go-ahead; instead they wasted chances through making square or backward passes instead of forward ones, and by their excesses elaboration in the penalty area. Two minutes from the end Wyles completed his hat-trick from a seemingly impossible angle, thanks once more to fatal hesitancy in the visiting defence. Jackson was outstanding in Everton’s defence, with Greenhalgh an able lieutenant, but Curwen though he effectively bottled up Livesey, hardly seemed at home as a centre half. In attack Stevenson was in a class by himself, delighting the crowd with his amazing ball control. Boyes showed flashes of his old speed and artistry and Wyles was an enterprising leader. Preston could be satisfied with the showing of their war-time products. Robertson an 18 year-old left half-back, was excellent, and Simpson on the other flank was not far behind, Bond and Iddon likewise showed up well, even if a trifle erratic with their shooting. Smith North End’s veteran captain, was a steadying influence in the defence and was always master of Wyles when the ball was in the air. Attendance 14,300. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Grant, Curwen, and Watson, half-backs; Sharp, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson, and Boyes, forwards. Preston North End; Fairbrother, goal; Radford, and Scott, backs; Smith (captain), Robertson and Wharton, half-backs; Bond, Livesley, Iddon and McIntosh, forwards. Referee; Mr. G. Twist (Westhoughton).
• Randle 0, Everton Reserves 0
• Liverpool beat Tranmere Rovers 2-1, Hulligan, Liddell for Liverpool and Kinder for Tranmere.

WILES OF WYLES
March 19, 1945. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Now to a special reference to Cecil Wyles brilliant hat-trick for Everton against Preston –three grand goals. Apart from his goals the wiles of Cecil certainly upset the North End defence to some tune. Wyles repeatedly dashed away to the wings to draw the entire defence out of position in fact Tom Smith, good as he played, and the other defenders hardly ever knew where to look for Wyles. Apart from Wyles personnel success, the wonder ball manipulation and subseries of Alex Stevenson, the points which pressed me in a game which fell away as time marched on, were that three players came through the 90 minutes without making the slightest error-George Curwen, Norman Greenhalgh and George Burnett. All that they did was right, and that does not mean that players like Jackson, Grant, Watson, and Bentham did not play well. They did. The wingers, Sharp and Boyes, were patchy in their work, but the three I mention made no error. Now Curwen was directly under the microscope in this, his first game at centre half and because a player is judged not on what he does, but on mistakes he makes. Curwen came through the test, with flying colours.

LIKE THE CURATE’S EGG
March 19, 1945. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton’s victory over Preston might have been better than 3-0 if the Blues had not been content to take things somewhat easy in the second portion. The first half was good, producing on-the-carpet football, in which both sides sought progress by thoughtful combination and halves and backs endeavoured to use their clearance to advantage. In the second portion the defence forsook their constructive methods for just honest-to-goodness “booting” and with the ball far too frequently in the air the standard fell considerably. Preston had a spell in the later stages of the first half when they deserved to reduce the deficit of two goals scored in the first ten minutes by Wyles but finishing was their weakest point. After the resumption the game descended to a rather scrappy exhibition, with Preston though finding their men better than Everton undoing a lot of good work by the wrong type of passes. Wyles completed his hat-trick near the finish and it is no detraction from the merit of his performance to say that each time I reckoned the Preston defence was in error. Wyles proved himself quick in the uptake to seize his advantage. Stevenson sparkled as usual despite not being thoroughly fit, Boyes gave glimpse of his old-time form, and Jackson and Greenhalgh took defensive honours. Curwen serve dup some solid work to counter-balance one or two slips but obviously hadn’t completely got the hang of his pivotal job. That will come. Preston’s young players all showed up will, particularly Robertson, Simpson and Bond. The former was excellent all through and must have covered twice as much ground as anybody else, not excluding Grant, who has nothing on Robertson in trying to be in two places at once.

EVERTON’S SCORING LEADERS
March 20, 1945. The Liverpool daily Post
John Peel
Two of Everton’s centre forwards, each leading different sides, had a good scoring day on Saturday, obtaining seven goals between them. The best performance was that of Catterick’s who, playing centre forward for Stockport County scored all his side’s four goals against Manchester City. Wyles playing in the Everton attack in the absence of Lawton, also got all the goals his side obtained, a “hat-trick” against Preston North End and it brought his total for the season up to 15 for Everton.
F.A in Belgium
Military duties are likely to prevent Swift the Manchester City goalkeeper, from accepting the invitation to play in the F.A. team which is to visit Brussels next week-end but Lawton (of Everton) is to be specially released for the visit. He reported sick on Saturday but it is hoped that he will have recovered in time to make the journey with the team. Stevenson the Everton and Ireland international received a badly bruised knee when playing against Preston at Goodison Park last Saturday and it is considered doubtful if he will be fit to travel as reserve.

EVERTON’S NEW GUEST AGAINST LIVERPOOL
March 22 1945. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton will introduce a new guest player for the their North Cup first round tie with Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday. This is J. Morris, of Stockport County, who will play at centre-half. Morris who is a “big un” comes with the strongest recommendations. Morris played for the County against Liverpool on the opening day of the season, but since then has played regularly for Aldershot in the League South. Secretary Mr. Theo Kelly is confident that Morris is just the man needed to hold up the Liverpool inside forwards. Everton will not have Syd Rawlings for this week, but may have him –and Joe Mercer –the following week for the return. Everton are still awaiting word from Preston regarding the availability of Jimmy McIntosh, but if Stevenson’s knee improves as it has done in the past couple of days, the Irish international will play. Stevenson did not go with the Services, touring team to the Continent because of lack of accommodation which is a nice “break” for Everton if he proves to be fit. Harry Catterick the centre-forward who returned to activity last Saturday after blood poisoning and scored four goals against Manchester City, will be at outside-right. That lends “bite” to the line. Liverpool have no definite team news yet, but Liddell has been transferred to a new station, and nothing will be known until he telephones. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Morris, Watson; (from); Catterick, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson, McIntosh, Boyes,.
Everton Reserves; J.A. Jones; Shaw, R.L. Doyle; Ashley, McDonnell, T.A. Parr; Lowe, F. Jones, Booth, Mannion, Underwood
Everton colts (v. I.C.I at Orrell-lane, 3.15 p.m.); Melrose; Vizard, Rankin; Christian, H. Williams, G. Hannah; Richardson, Qualie, L. Macauley, T. Corkhill, J. Dunn.

SAGAR MAY PLAY
Liverpool Echo - Friday 23 March 1945
Ted Sagar, England and Everton goalkeeper, is now back Liverpool after three years’ globe-trotting, in which he has served in India, Palestine, Africa, Italy, and France. He is likely to play for Everton at Anfield to-morrow.

‘DERBY’ SEND-FF TO NORTH CUP PROPER
March 23, 1945. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Liverpool’s Favourites
The Everton outlook brightened considerably when Secretary Mr. Theo Kelly made his team announcement for the recall of Harry Catterick, the enlistment of Morris, the powerful Stockport and Aldershot centre-half, the hopes that Stevenson will play, all indicate a strength which at one time seemed improbable. McIntosh cannot play, Boyes is at outside left. I recall vividly that the Blues once went to Anfield –and it is not all that long ago-without stars, and won readily. Liverpool are warned that it can happen again. Still the Reds are favourites, and I have a feeling that the eventual winners will go a long way towards winning the trophy. This will be the seventh meeting this season, and honours are with the Reds. The scores have been Liverpool’s first; 5-2, 2-0, 0-0, 2-2, 1-4, 3-1. I am convinced that success or failure tomorrow depends largely on Pilling’s ability to blot out Stevenson, and Grant’s ability to harness Welsh, who is certain to play. These forwards are keymen. Hughes will need to watch the quick dashes to the unexpected position of Wyles, just as I warm newcomer Morris that the Liverpool inside forward switch can be most disconcerting. Ted Sagar, Everton’s international goalkeeper is home on leave from abroad and is likely to play. Niuwenhuys, Liddell, and Fagan are doubtful for Liverpool. The gates will be opened at 1.30 p.m., and every turnstile will be brought into use. I hope all spectators will make a point of getting to the ground early, for, remember transport is limited. The kick-off is at 3 o’clock and here’s to a football revel. Liverpool; Hobson; Harley (or Westby), Gulliver, Kaye, Hughes, Pillings; (from); Campbell, Nieuwenhuys, Taylor, Fagan, Liddell, Welsh, Cumner. Everton; Sagar or Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Morris, Watson; Catterick, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson, Boyes.

TOMORROW’S ANFIELD CUP-TIE
March 23, 1945. The Liverpool Echo
Well-Matched Sides
Sagar’s Returns
Ranger’s Notes
As they look round the terraces at Anfield tomorrow, where a crowd of at least 25,000 and maybe much more, will represent about £2,500 in hard cash. I can imagine Liverpool and Everton directors humming that old familiar refrain. “The More We Are Together.” “Liverton” Derbies never pall, and when, as in this case the game is a knock-out Cup-tie you can bet the gate will make the mouths of the fortunate clubs water more than somewhat. Should you get exaggerated ideas of what the clubs eventually receive however, let me remind you of another old tune, which says that “all that glitters isn’t gold.” First of all the Chancellor, as near as makes no matter cellars half the gross proceeds, which takes a lot of the gilt off the gingerbread, and then the net proceeds have to be split three ways, between the two clubs and the League Pool. If you, dear reader, are a Liverpoolian, you can crow over your Everton pals, for of the 38 war games Liverpool have won 18 to Everton’s 15 95 drawn), and have scored 89 goals to 85. Not much in it, and there may be less after the next three meetings. I know what you’re waiting for. You want to decide whether I’m an Evertonian or a Liverpoolian by the way I lean to this game. Honesty, I don’t think there’s a hairs breath between em, and, as I’ve said before, I don’t care a tinker’s cuss which wins so long as we get a good, clean, sporting game. If we have to split hairs about it, my fancy is slightly –very slightly -in favour of Everton.
Very Little In It
Yet it’s so close that even were I a betting man, which I’m not, I’d hesitate to speculate my hard-earned money either way. I fancy Everton because Liverpool latterly have not been impressive in attack. Yet the return of Don Welsh may after all that, and prove me, as I’ve proved before, a bad prophet. If I could tip the winners with absolute certainty I shouldn’t be sitting in front of this old typewriter; I’d be paying super-tax and living in as much luxury as one can get these days. Should Welsh turn out Liverpool’s trump card the Reds may win, because then there will be still less between the pair. We know the soundness of Everton’s defence where their regulars are concerned. What we have to take on trust is the ability of Morris, of Stockport, at centre half. He comes with strong recommendation, but has yet to prove himself so far as we are concerned. Catterick’s return strengthens the Blues front line, for he knows where the goal lies, makes a beeline for it, and shoots well and often. Wyles also is improving, and is developing into something of an opportunist if his three neatly taken goals against Preston are a true criterion. McIntosh is not available, and Boyes is the outside left. Boyes was not impressive in his earlier games after his long lay-off, but last week was better, even if still leaving something to be desired. Liverpool’s defence on the whole –I won’t make invidious distinctions man for man –is just as sound and reliable as Everton’s, which brings me back to where I started, that this is as close a match as anybody could wish, liable to go either way or just be a draw, which at any rate would leave the stage nicely set for the return. Liverpool; Hobson; Harley (or Westby), Gulliver, Kaye, Hughes, Pillings; (from); Campbell, Nieuwenhuys, Taylor, Fagan, Liddell, Welsh, Cumner. Everton; Sagar or Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Morris, Watson; Catterick, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson, Boyes.
Sagar May Play
Ted Sagar, England and Everton goalkeeper is now back in Liverpool after three years’ globe-trotting, in which he has served in India, Palestine, Africa, Italy, and France. He is likely to play for Everton at Anfield tomorrow.

LIDDELL GOAL GIVES LIVERPOOL VICTORY
March 24, 1945. The Evening Express
By Pilot
Ted Sagar, Everton’s international goalkeeper, home on leave for the first time for three years, was at Anfield today for the Merseyside “Derby” between Liverpool and Everton in the first leg of the first round of the North War Cup. Sagar had been travelling during the last 36 hours, and so did not play, but went on the field with Burnett just to show himself, and he was given a fine welcome. Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Harley and Gulliver, backs; Kaye, Hughes and Pillings, half-backs; Nieuwenhuys, Taylor, Liddle, Welsh (Charlton) and Cumner, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Grant, Morris (J.) (Stockport), and Watson, half-backs; Catterick, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson and Boyes, forwards. Referee; Mr. S. Boardman (Sale). Everton opened magnificently, and but for the alertness of Harley would have been a goal up in two minutes. Grant twice dropped centres to the goalmouth, but Hobson fisted away, and then after Gulliver had made a partial clearance Stevenson shot along the floor with Hobson out of position, but as the ball was crossing the line Harley kicked clear. Everton kept on top until Liddell surprised them with a long dropping shot, which Burnett turned over the top. Wyles beat three men before trying to find Catterick but Hughes was there to say him “nay.” In eight minutes Liverpool went ahead. Cumner cut in and lobbed the ball across to Liddell who had proved forward a second before Cumner played it, and from an easy position Liddell drove over Burnett’s arm into the net. In my opinion Liddell was offside. Liverpool kept on top despite some magnificent foraging by Stevenson, and when Liddell burst between the backs like greased lightning, it looked all over a goal, but Burnett managed to get his foot to the international’s fast low shot, and when Taylor quickly returned it Morris was in position to head away. Liddell went through again, but his shot, taken as he was tackled, passed outside. Just before Burnett had neatly held a fast header from Cumner. Liverpool encouraged by their goal played with marked confidence and not a little skill, and their speed to possession and pass perfection kept Everton worried to distraction.
Marked Confidence.
The Reds had hard luck when Welsh gathered the ball just inside the penalty area and banged in a terrific left foot shot which Burnett never saw, but which came back off the bar at a terrific pace. Liddell was much too fast and quick-thinking for the Everton defence, and proved himself the answer to Scotland’s prayer for a centre forward when by sheer speed, he nipped between Morris, Watson and Greenhalgh to hit a shot which passed only inches over. Immediately Everton responded, but just as Wyles was about to shoot Hughes managed to flick the ball, so that the “topped” shot was “easy meat” for Hobson. Boyes and Bentham got Liverpool moving the wrong way, but Hobson saved Bentham’s shot, and when Liverpool returned to the attack three times in succession Burnett had to fist away from dangerous centres which looked like curling into the net. This was hard football and certainly exciting, but Liverpool, apart from those opening moments, had been the more impressive side and should have been more than a goal up.
Changed Places
After half an hour Catterick and Wyles changed places, and Catterick dashed through only to be pulled up for offside –a law which Liverpool were exploiting to their advantage. Catterick gave the right of way to Wyles, who in with a magnificent shot which Hobson beat away for a save as good as a goal any day. Just before the close of the half, which certainly had been Liverpool’s, Liddell damaged a leg in a tackle and went off limping.
Half-time; Liverpool 1, Everton 0.
Liddell was O.K, on resuming when Everton tried to call the tune but without being able to get the better of Hughes and company. Grant made one excellent burst down the right wing, and when Liddell and Cumner loomed dangerous –Jackson and Morris stepped into the breach. Hobson fisted away a fine dropping centre from Bentham, and from the corner Catterick headed just over. Liverpool’s offside trap kept snaring the Blues’ forwards, but Catterick once beat it by dashing through, only for Hobson to come out and clear. Play fell away in fact it became rather scrappy due to the desire of both sides to concentrate more on negative football. The best effort came from Catterick, who leaped high above Hughes to head in splendidly for Hobson to turn the ball away. Everton had improved on their first half display and were now having their full share of the pressure. Everton gave us their greatest flash of the day when Stevenson and Bentham got Wyles away, sand and from the centre Catterick and Hobson went up for the ball together. Hobson made his catch, but both fell injured, and a stretcher was brought for Hobson.
Carried On
No fewer than eight ambulance men and three trainers ran on the field, but Hobson shook his head, waved the stretcher away, and carried on. Taylor made two excellent individual efforts without getting any luck, but much of the sting had gone out of the Liverpool attack, because Morris had taken the measure of Liddell. Welsh had a chance. The ball came to his right foot and the shot passed outside. Then the ball came to his left-foot and his first time shot flashed inches by the far post. Jackson made a magnificent last minute tackle at the expense of Cunmer and Everton seemed to be playing full of confidence without being able to create shooting openings. Wyles went through but as he turned the ball in Harley dashed over and appeared to beat the ball away with his hand, but Liverpool escaped without a penalty. Cumner went through and shot inches by the far post as he was tackled. Boyes gained a corner, and from this Wyles shot along the floor, but Hobson managed to stick out a foot and turned the ball around the post. Catterick was fouled as he was going through but Liverpool easily disposed of the free kick. Final; Liverpool 1, Everton 0.

LIVERPOOL SOON SCORED
March 24, 1945. The Liverpool Echo
Brilliant Move Gave Liddell a Goal
By Ranger.
Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Harley and Gulliver, backs; Kaye, Hughes and Pillings, half-backs; Nieuwenhuys, Taylor, Liddle, Welsh (Charlton) and Cumner, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Grant, Morris (J.) (Stockport), and Watson, half-backs; Catterick, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson and Boyes, forwards. Referee; Mr. S. Boardman (Sale). Sagar did not play for Everton at Anfield today, as he only arrived in Liverpool this morning after a 36-hour journey from Belgium. Over 30,000 were present at the start of this first round League Cup game. After Hobson had twice punched out Harley kicked away on the goal line when Stevenson was a certain scorer. A brilliant combined movement brought Liverpool a goal through Liddell after eight minutes. The move started with a clearance by Kaye to Welsh, then Welsh to Nivvy, next to Taylor, who headed the ball down to Liddell to score with a rising shot from inside right. No Everton player touched the ball from the inception of the movement by Kaye. Everton’s goal had a couple of narrow squeaks in as many minutes. Burnett got his foot in the way of a Liddell shot and Greenhalgh kicked-off the lien after Burnett had almost deflected the ball into his own net. Stevenson strove by long sweeping passes to both wings to get the Everton attack moving, but all attempts were nipped by the speed and keenness of Liverpool’s tackling. Welsh accepted a mis-header by Watson, and cracked a terrific shot on to the underside of the bar from which it bounced back into play. Liddell, amazingly quick off the mark was always the danger man, and was giving Morris and the Everton backs plenty to think about. His fierce drive sailed a couple of inches over the bar. Bentham’s pass was too fast for Boyes, and when Wyles appeared to be in undisputed possession only a few yards out Hughes popped up from nowhere to deflect his shot.

EVERTON UNLUCKY TO LOSE
March 26, 1945. The Liverpool Daily Post
Liverpool 1, Everton 0
By Ranger.
The biggest Merseyside crowd of the season saw Liverpool defeat Everton by the only goal in the opening game of the first round of the League Cup at Anfield. The first half produced an abundance of hard and earnest football, a succession of thrills, and several narrow escapes for both goals, but the second portion was a rather scrappy business, relieved only by Everton’s fighting finish, which deserved to bring then a draw. Having survived an early onslaught by Everton during which Harley kicked away a Stevenson shot right on the line, Liverpool took the lead after eight minutes with a brilliant move, in which five of their men took part, without an Everton player touching the ball. It started just inside the home half when Kaye set Welsh in motion and after Nieuwenhuys and Taylor had helped it forward Liddell scored with a close-range shot which seemed to catch Burnett rather unprepared. From here to the interval Liverpool held the upper hand. Their combination and speed had Everton nonplussed, and they were never shy at shooting. Welsh had hard lines when he struck the underside of the bar and the ball bounced back into play; so had Liddell when Burnett stuck out a foot to stop a rasping shot rather unfortunately and Greenhalgh once booted the ball away from the line. These were the narrowest escapes. There were others not so obvious. With better fortune, Liverpool might have been three up by the interval, for Everton, despite Stevenson’s valiant effort, could not get their forward line working smoothly, and Liverpool’s keen interception and ability to look a move or two ahead frustrated all the visitors attacks before they became dangerous.
Dull Periods
Everton showed more promise when Catterick and Wyles changed places, and both these players but in strong shots in the closing stages of the half. The pace of the first period took its toll after the resumption when the standard tell and there were dull periods of rather aimless kicking. With Liverpool losing much of their speed and sparkle Everton came more into the picture and in the closing stages they gained the upper hand to such an extent that Liverpool had to fight hard to preserve their lead. Unfortunately for the visitors however, over-eagerness frequently led them into the offside trap and ruined promising movements. They also failed to get the referee’s casting vote over a handling incident by Harley in the penalty area. Personally I was very doubtful about its being intentional, but many though otherwise. I reckoned Jackson and Hughes the star defenders, and Grant and Pilling the best wing halves. Liddell was brilliant in the first half but slowed up later through injury. Cumner was disappointing, Welsh was below par, and on the Everton side Stevenson and Catterick stood out in the attack. Morris was shaky early on but improved later. Attendance; 39,657. Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Harley and Gulliver, backs; Kaye, Hughes and Pillings, half-backs; Nieuwenhuys, Taylor, Liddle, Welsh (Charlton) and Cumner, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Grant, Morris (J.) (Stockport), and Watson, half-backs; Catterick, Bentham, Wyles, Stevenson and Boyes, forwards. Referee; Mr. S. Boardman (Sale).
• Lawton scored seven goals for the Services side against the Belgium “Red Devils.” Broke the English centre-forward’s run on non-success in representative games. Since he got his 400th goal for Everton at the end of January, Lawton has played in four representative matches and also one for Millwall without finding the net
• Everton anticipate the return of Lawton and may possibly have Sagar in goal. Sagar, home for a week’s leave after three years’ foreign service, would have played on Saturday but for the fact that he only arrived a few hours before the start after thirty-six hour’s journey.

EVERTON RESERVES 7, FAZACKERLEY 1
March 26, 1945. The Liverpool Daily Post
George Mahon Cup
The visitors well held their own in the initial half and took the lead through Evans, but Mannion equalised. The teams crossed over on level terms. Everton shone in the second half, the visitors bring outclassed, the home team’s additional scorers being Booth (2), Jones (F.) (2), and Lowe. The seventh goal went in off an opponent.

SENSATIONS AT GOODISON
March 26, 1945. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
For sensations I look to next Saturday’s second “leg” of the Everton-Liverpool’ North Cup game. The Reds go out a goal to the good, although at one time at Anfield on Saturday I thought it would have been three. The Reds will rejoice in the fact that Billy Liddell is a certainty, for he is on seven days leave, and that other stars will be available again. There is room for delight in the Everton sphere , too, for Joe Mercer, England’s captain, is coming on leave, Morris, new guest from Stockport is on leave; that Preston North End may release Jim McIntosh and that –and this is highly important –Tommy Lawton will be back from the Continent and available if his military duties permit. There were 39,657 spectators at Anfield on Saturday with receipts of £3,040 but I think this will be exceeded at Goodison Park on Saturday with the Reds precious goal offsetting ground advantage. What day it will be, I hope that the lads who received knocks on Saturday will be fit. Liddell got a blow under a knee, Greenhalgh played throughout the second half with a badly swollen ankle, and there were minor bruises, I expect all will be fit however. Had the Scottish selectors been present on Saturday I am certain that after half an hour they would have made up their minds that Liddell was to be the centre-forward against England on April 14. Liddell, now awaiting his first operational fight as navigator in the R,A.F, was the outstanding personally in those hectic openings moments when both teams operated as such a breathing-taking pace that a lot of the “fire” went out of things later on. Liddell repeatedly cut through the Everton defence like a knife through butter, his speed in nipping to a position or a pass being amazing; withal Liddell repeatedly glided to the vacant spot ready for the winning pass. Blame not Liddell that he failed to get it so often. Real expatiations of Liddell would have decided this tie once and for all. The Reds failed to spot the “ace” in their hands and in the second half left Billy to languish on his own. Liverpool may pay dearly for this error and for failure to make almost continuous pressure pay in the first half. The Reds should have been three up at half-time instead of that “off-side-tainted” point which Liddell snapped up s eagerly. To be candid I would not at the interval have given much for Everton’s chance had I not been aware of the fighting spirit of the Blues. And believe me the old spirit brought a remarkable transformation in the second half. From a struggling side Everton became the dictators. From almost continuous defence they changed to concentrated attack, and it became Liverpool’s turn to destruct instead of construct. And the fact that Liverpool neglected the right flank of their attacked helped in Everton’s cause. Everton were well content that they held Liverpool to their one goal but had they equalised –and their went oh so near –few would have grumbled. It was one of those curious games which Liverpool should have won hands down and yet in the end were deeply grateful to have established even a slender lead. Apart from Liddell another fine contribution from Stevenson and a lot of glorious work by Catterick the forward work was not good. Welsh opened well and then lost heart after he had struck the bar with a smasher so that Grant worried him like a terrier worries a rat. Don had no rest from Jack, and this robbed Liddell of the vital short ball. Defences took the honours, and here a good word for Laurie Hughes who smashed up attack after attack; to Morris, who had a fine last hour; to all four backs for impeccable play. Burnett and Hobson also did finely, with Burnett getting more colour because he had more work to do. Everton did not shoot as readily as the Reds. All the wingers found the backs far too good, but the wing half play of Watson =a masterly display –Kaye and Pillings took the eye as did the solid grafting of Taylor and Bentham. I have enjoyed many “Derby” games much more than this, but many football days far worse than this. It opened well with a reception given to the Press by the Liverpool Chairman Mr. Bill McConnell and with Mr. Will Gibbins, Everton’s chairman and Mr. Cuff as guest. It was a happy thought and function deeply appreciated by “the lads from the Press box,” and further cemented the strong ties of friendship among us. Mr. Albert Booth on our behalf, acknowledge the tribute paid by Mr. McConnell, but here let me again say “Thank You.” The match drew a 100 per cent directorial attendance provided us with abundant thrills and did a world of good to Cup Pool, the Exchequer and the clubs I noticed Mr. John Green of the Orrell club present, but nothing definite has yet been decided about Liverpool’s post war junior ground. It’s in the air.

LIVERPOOL’S NARROW VICTORY
March 26, 1945. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton are one of six home clubs to begin next Saturday one goal down. Whether the Blues can pull it back is the question all Evertonians will be discussing this next few days. Their chances will be enhanced if they have as they hope the help of Lawton –and possibly also of Ted Sagar. Welsh and Liddell are certain for Liverpool. Both are on a week’s leave, but are returning a day earlier in order to play. An effort is also being made to get Busby here. Though the Liverton Derby at Anfield provided nothing like the standard of football of some of the war-time meetings the pair, it was partly redeemed by the thrills of the first half, the excellence of the only goal, and Everton’s fine fighting finish, which almost brought them a draw. There were some who questioned whether Liddell was on or off side when he scored. Personally I saw no flaw, and reckoned the goal one of the finest in conception and execution we have seen here for some time. Kaye, Welsh, Nivvy, and Taylor all had a share in the movement before Liddle finally crashed the ball into the net –without an Everton man getting a smell at it from start to finish.
Was It A Penalty?
The incident which caused much more argument was whether Everton deserved a penalty when Harley handled as Wyles tried to squeeze a centre past him. It was a case where intent or otherwise was difficult to assess and though I’ve seen penalties given in such circumstances I though the referee right to allow the defender the benefit of the doubt. Had Harley not kicked away a Stevenson shot on the goal-line in the first minute the story of the game might have been different. True, the luck was balanced when Greenhalgh did the same thing later, but so early a goal to Everton might have shaken Liverpool’s confidence badly. As it was, they took heart from their escape, proceeded to play football more like the old brand than they have done for weeks and went into the lead in eight minutes. There after they were top dogs to the interval. The defence tackled passed, and served their forwards in great style, and had the Everton front-line in almost complete subjection, despite Stevenson’s galliant attempts to infuse life and method into it. With ordinary luck Liverpool might have been three up at half-time. They produced four shots to everyone from Everton, all of them of good calibre. Nearest escape for Everton was when Welsh hit the underside of the bar and then rocketed back into play like a cannon-ball. A lot of the speed and shot went out of Liverpool in the second half, which had spells of rather dull and aimless play, but was brought back to life in the last twenty minutes by Everton’s fine rally. This time the Blues were on top and continued to improve to such an extent that in the end Liverpool had to battle every inch of the way to preserve their slender lead. On balance Liverpool deserved to win in one because they were above chancing their luck with a shot. Everton produced few and most of those were straight at Hobson. The Blues improvement in attack came when Catterick and Wyles changed places. It might have brought them tangible success. It over-eagerness had not so often led them into the offside trap. I noted Jackson as the best back on the field; Grant and Pilling were the best of four excellent wing halves, with Hughes again giving an immaculate display at centre half. Stevenson and Catterick were the backbone of Everton’s attack and Liddell and Taylor the best of Liverpool’s. Welsh had an off-day and Cumner was much below bar. Burnett was the busier of the two goalkeepers and once or twice was not too happy in his positioning, though he made some good saves. Morris started off very shakily at centre half but improved considerably once he settled down. Before the match the Liverpool board under Chairman W. H. McConnell entertained Mr. W.C. Cuff president of the League, Mr. W. G. Gibbons (Everton Chairman), and visiting Pressman to luncheon at the Bear’s Paw chiefly to let the visiting journalists know how the club value the contribution newspapers make to football’s prosperity. The gesture was much appreciated Liverpool’s name has always stood high with Press folk –and Everton’s too-for they get at both our senior club’s warm and homely welcome that no other club can excel and few equal.

LIVERPOOL UNCHANGED FOR RETURN ‘DERBY’
March 27, 1945. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Not for weeks has Manager Mr. George Kay of Liverpool, been so emphatic in his team announcement as he was when I tackled him about his prospects for Saturday’s return North Cup “Derby” with Everton at Goodison Park. In a flash Mr. Kay replied. “They’ll all be there.” This is good news for the Anfield followers who cross the park with a goal in the bag. In addition to the 11 players who secured that slender lead, Mr. Kay will have Jack Westby and Jack Campbell on hand in case of emergency, so for once in a while there are no worries at Anfield –provided all the players turn up. Pleasing point is that Billy Liddell’s leg injury is nothing serious and he is certain to be all right. Billy welcomed home his brother –wounded on the Continent –during the week-end. It is too early yet to even forecast Liverpool’s team for the Easter Monday clash with the Blues at Anfield for the Liverpool senior Cup, but hope springs eternal. Restrictions on travel may produce difficulties. Liverpool have written to see if Busby can play, but as there is extreme doubt, his name is not include among the probables. Joe Mercer, the England captain will play centre half for Everton against Liverpool at Goodison Park on Saturday when Everton will select from 14 players. Either Sagar or Burnett will be in goal and seven forwards are name (including Tommy Lawton). Liverpool; Hobson; Harley or Westby, Gulliver; Kaye, Hughes, Pillings; (from); Nieuwenhuys, Campbell, Taylor, Liddell, Welsh, Cumner. Everton (from); Sagar or Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Mercer, Watson; Catterick, Wyles, Wainwright, Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson, McIntosh.

EVERTON
March 29, 1945. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel
Everton have now whittled down their fourteen probables for the League cup-tie with Liverpool, at Goodison Park, on Saturday, to a definite selection of eleven, and will turn out their strongest side of the season for this very vital game. A surprise selection is that of Torry Gillick. Everton’s pre-war outside right whose war-time appearance at Goodison have been few. Apart from the first war year this will be only his second game for Everton in five seasons, the previous occasion being in a Lancashire cup-tie last year, also against Liverpool, in which he figured at inside-right. Gillick is chosen for the same position on Saturday. Wainwright being the extreme winger. Burnett is now the definite choice of goal, so that the team reads;- Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Mercer, Watson; Wainwright, Gillick, Lawton, Stevenson, McIntosh. With such a side as this in the field, Liverpool will have to fight hard to maintain the single goal lead with which they start.

INTERNATIONAL STARS FOR CUP DERBY
March 29, 1945. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
There will be right and possibly nine internationals in the great Goodison Park send off to the Easter holiday football programme of two matches in three days. Everton include in their side against Liverpool in the second “leg” of their North War Cup first round and if Harley plays, Liverpool will have four. The four countries will be represented by these caps, for there will be Mercer, Jackson, Lawton, and Welsh of England, Gillick, Harley and Liddell of Scotland. Stevenson, or Ireland, and Cumner of Wales. The return to Everton of Lawton, Mercer, and Gillick is not the only bright spot for the Blues followers, for Jimmy McIntosh has been released by Preston North End –a nice gesture this –and Eddie Wainwright is coming on leave. Gillick will be making his first appearance here for a year and, like Wainwrght, travels throughout tonight to ensure getting here in good time for a rest before the game. Gillick’s return to Merseyside is the outcome of ceaseless efforts by Secretary Mr. Theo Kelly during the past few days. As a matter of fact, Mr. Kelly is staying at Goodison Park for two nights to greet these long travellers and ensure that they get sleep and food. I wish there was such cheerful news from Anfield, but manager Mr. George Kay states that Busby is extremely doubtful and that there is still no definite word about either Nieuwenhuys or Harley. It is hard luck, but Liverpool never play better than when really up against it, so Everton have no cause for complacency even if they have ample grounds for an optimism which I share. My own opinion is that ground advantage and their strong team will offset Liverpool’s one goal lead. In any case I take the victors to win the Cup, for I cannot spot a team in the Region capable of lowering their colours. Lawton will be happy in the reunion with Gillick, for he can be certain of the return “short ball.” The welcome return to Joe Mercer will further co-ordinate an already strong defence, and there should be first-class service from the wings. The Everton team looks good enough to win anything. Liverpool have their worries, but also their road to victory. This lies in the persistent exploitation of Billy Liddle, who was too often left to languish last week without the help of the winning pass. Liverpool hopes rest on the opportunism of Liddell and his inside forwards, and the solidity of Laurie Hughes and Company at half-back. Liverpool have upset the odds many times before, and they will not surprise me if they do pull it off, but I still take Everton for the tie. The gate will be opened at 1.30 p.m. and the paddock will be opened. Spectators are asked to get to the ground as early as possible and to what they did at Anfield –keep the orange and Lemon peel of the playing pitch. During the interval an American visitor will give his impression of the game over a microphone –a novel touch. Both clubs are hoping for the aid of as many of the following players as possible for Monday’s game, at Anfield which like Saturday starts at three o’clock. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Mercer, Watson; Wainwright, Gillick, Lawton, Stevenson, McIntosh. Liverpool; (from) Hobson; Harley, Westby, Gulliver; Kaye, Hughes, Pilling; Nieuwenhuys, Campbell, Taylor, Liddell, Welsh, Cumner.
Everton Reserves have arranged to play their Mahon Cup game with St. Teres’a at Goodison Park on Easter Monday, morning, kick-off 11. A.m.
Everton Reserves (v. Kirkby, on Saturday) : J.A, Jones; McDonnell, Painter; J.J. Doyle, Rees, R.L. Doyle; Lowe, Ashley, Booth, King, Higgins. Fulton for Booth in team against St. Teresa’s.
Everton Colts (v. A.T.C 1850 at Birkenhead Park on Saturday); Melrose; T. Jones, Rankin; J. Makin, Cookson, Tansey, Richardson, Taylor (P.), Qualie, G. Hannah, Myers.
Everton’s Vacancy
The executive committee of the Everton F.C Shareholders Association have decided to nominate a candidate for the vacancy on the directorate caused by the death of Mr. R.R. Turnbull. Final choice will be left to the full body of shareholders at a meeting to be held April 11. Mr. W.C. Cuff, the President of the Football League who is the senior members of the directorate and Mr. R.E. Searle, the junior member are the retiring directors who will offer themselves for re-election. The Everton Board will wait until May, when nominations are due before taking any action regarding the vacancy.

ALL SET FOR SOME THRILLINGS GAMES
March 29, 1943. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
At Goodison Park on Saturday, Everton and Liverpool renew their struggle to go a stage further in the money spinning League Cup tourney. This game may well set up a new war-time record for Goodison attendance. The best so far is 45,820 for the “Liverton” qualifying game last season. This time there is the added inceptive of a straightforward “knock-out” tussle, which must be played to a finish if scores are level. Liverpool start with a goal in hand, a slender but welcome legacy from last week. Can they keep their noses in front to the final whistle? It will be a stiffer task than the first “leg” when it took them all their time in the end to hang on to their lead, for this time Everton will be strengthened by the return of Lawton and Wainwright the inclusion of Mercer at centre half and the help of Torry Gillick, whose war-time appearances have been all too rare. Some rabid Liverpoolians have taken me to task for saying last week that “learned slightly to Everton,” which they construed as an admission I’m an Evertonian. They misread it. Like the flyweight who was asked to settle an argument between two heavyweights. I’m strictly neutral. I used words solely in relation to that one game as indication I fancied Everton would win. I was wrong and may be so again in saying now that I still fancy Everton to get through to round two. In defence there is nothing in it worth mentioning between the pair, but I have a feeling Lawton and Gillick may just tip the scale. Liverpool might counterbalance that, however, if they play more to Liddle and put their upward passes to the open spaces, where his amazing speed off the mark gives him a spilt-second advantage over the defence. No good putting them to him in the air while the centre half is at his shoulder. The Reds will also do better if Don Welsh is more like his usual enterprising self. Don faded out last week after a grand start. Everton appeal to the crowd not to throw orange peel on the pitch. It gives the ground staff a tremendous amount of extra work. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Mercer, Watson; Wainwright, Gillick, Lawton, Stevenson, McIntosh. Liverpool; (from) Hobson; Harley, Westby, Gulliver; Kaye, Hughes, Pilling; Nieuwenhuys, Campbell, Taylor, Liddell, Welsh, Cumner.

LIVERPOOL ENTER CUP ROUND TWO
March 31, 1945. The Evening Express
By Pilot.
There was a grand surprise for the Liverpool supporters at Goodison Park, today, where Everton and the Reds met in the second “leg” of their North War Cup tie, in which Liverpool started with a goal lead. Matt Busby, the Scottish international captain, arrived in time to lead Liverpool, and he was given a fine welcome when the teams came on, with he and Lawton heading the procession. Kaye went on left half to accommodate Busby, and Liverpool brought in Campbell at outside right. Nieuwenhuys going inside instead of Taylor. All the Everton stars turned out and Gillick and Mercer in particular were given warm re-welcomes. The fact that the England and Scotland captains were on duty added further lustre to the game which attracted what must be the biggest crowd for any war-time “Derby.” There must have been bordering on 45,000 when the game started. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Mercer (captain), and Watson, half-backs; Wainwright, Gillick, Lawton, Stevenson, and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Wesby and Gulliver, backs; Busby (captain), Hughes and Kaye, half-backs; Campbell, Nieuwenhuys, Liddell, Welsh (Charlton), and Cumner, forwards. Referee. Mr. S. Boardman (Hale). The Everton right-wing tried to make progress without being able to get the ball into the middle, and Liverpool failed to profit from a free kick when Jackson handled. Everton had a narrow escape in five minutes when Liddell slipped past Mercer, who miskicked and enabled Welsh to run on. Welsh steered the ball along the floor but Burnett stuck out a foot and the ball went high up into the air. Liddell ran in to take advantage but before he could do so Mercer righted the wrong by nipping in with a timely clearance. Another close-up free kick to Liverpool saw Kaye middle the ball accurately but as Nieuwenhuys went to head through Burnett fisted the ball away and Campbell forced a corner off Greenhalgh. Away went Everton through Stevenson, who outwitted the offside trap by dribbling clean through, and McIntosh forced a corner which went behind.
Winning Tackle.
Once again Stevenson’s alert dribble had Liverpool running the wrong way, but when Lawton was put through, Hughes came across with the winning tackle. Gillick went through at outside right to level a perfect centre, which Lawton learned to and headed over Hobson and Hughes, but Hobson recovered to flick the ball away with one hand as it was going into the net. A fine recovery by Hobson. This was football at a tremendous pace and productive of some really fine constructive work. McIntosh shot low down, but Hobson beat the ball away. Then Niuwenhuys and Campbell combined well, but Nieuwenhuys got too far under the ball when shooting. Lawton went to outside right to turn the ball back inside for Gillick who looked all over a scorer, until Westby dashed across to intercept and make a pass back to Hobson, which was of such strength that Hobson had to be pretty quick to dive and turn the ball away. Liddell came to the wing to send Campbell through, only for the winger to centre far beyond Welsh and Cumner. The crowd broke in at one corner and sat on the grass verge, while at other spots on the ground ambulance men were kept busy.
Sharp Watch on Lawton
Hughes was keeping a sharp watch on Lawton, who was getting little latitude, despite the fact that Everton were having more of the game without creating shooting openings. When Mercer slipped down in trying to check Liddell, the Scot raced through but was overtaken in brilliant style by Grant and play swept straight back to the other end where Lawton tested Hobson with a low shot. There were scenes which brought back in miniature the first Wembley Cup final, for there were people lining the touchlines all around the Stanley park end of the ground, and the people behind them were shouting for them to sit down. After half an hour Liverpool lost Nieuwenhuys who was injured in a tackle, Everton kept a grip on the proceedings, although finding it extremely difficult to break down a brilliant defence. It seemed that Liverpool’s plan was to hold on to that one goal which would take them to the second round. McIntosh shot by the far post, before Mercer once again slipped down and let in Liddell, whose shot was turned around the post by Burnett for a corner which Burnett fisted away. Lawton had four men around him when he tried to get in a shot after Hobson had fisted away. Then Hobson dealt with a header from Wainwright. Once again Hobson came to the rescue of Liverpool, when he fisted the ball away off the head of Lawton after some fine work by McIntosh. Nieuwenhuys came back limping at outside right, Campbell crossing to the left, Welsh to inside right, with Cumner at inside left. The police did some grand work and by patience and firmness man and aged to clear the touch-line of spectators.
Half-time; Everton 0, Liverpool 0.
The thrills came thick and fast. Immediately on resuming Lawton headed outside from a centre by McIntosh. Burnett leapt to pull down two awkward bouncing shots before Everton came back on the attack, and Hobson turned aside a centre from McIntosh and Lawton, before Gillick shot outside following a corner. Gillick ran through magnificently to turn the ball across to Lawton as Everton attacked for minutes on end. Lawton ran through to try and place the ball beyond Hobson, but Hobson dived out to save magnificently. Stevenson got the ball into the net, but long after the whistle had gone for an infringement by Lawton, and when Everton came again Stevenson was just over the top with a first time shot.
Brilliant Defence
Everton had been doing nine tenths of the pressure, but with surprisingly few shots, so brilliant was the Liverpool defence co-ordinated. Not for a second did the pace slacken, but Liverpool were playing their defensive role almost to perfection. Gillick and Wainwright went through magnificently, but Hobson took full charge of the situation despite close attention. Everton had a wonderful chance when McIntosh put Lawton through, but after hesitating Lawton tried to find McIntosh, who had run too far forward, and a great chance was frittered away. Liverpool came through with a spell of attacking, but were beaten by fast tackling, and Stevenson raced through only to be held up on the penalty line when trying to find an open-space.
Liverpool Score
Liverpool took the leaf against the run of the play in 73 minutes, Liddell giving them a two-goal lead in the tie. Everton had been attacking when Cumner slipped the ball down the middle to Liddell, who slipped past Greenhalgh and held off the challenge of Mercer, to go through and score with a low shot. So Everton who had done all the attacking, needed three goals for survival. Everton should have had the game all tried up long before the disaster befell them. Lawton and Gillick gave us a pre-war thrill, but when Gillick pushed the ball back invitingly Lawton completely missed it, and when McIntosh shot the ball was charged down. The Liverpool defence alone won this tie. Final; Everton 0, Liverpool 1, Aggregate; Everton 0, Liverpool 2.

CROWD BREAKS IN AT GOODISON
March 31, 1945. The Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Thrust for More Goals
By Rangers
Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Mercer (captain), and Watson, half-backs; Wainwright, Gillick, Lawton, Stevenson, and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Wesby and Gulliver, backs; Busby (captain), Hughes and Kaye, half-backs; Campbell, Nieuwenhuys, Liddell, Welsh (Charlton), and Cumner, forwards. Referee. Mr. S. Boardman (Hale). There were a crowd of approximately 45,000 for the start of the return first round League Cup-tie between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park, today in which Liverpool started with a goal lead as –a result of their victory a week ago. There was a surprise when the Liverpool team turned out and it was seen that Matt Busby had been able to make the journey after all. He played at right half, with Kaye moving over to the left flank. Everton were as originally selected. The big crowd had plenty of thrills in the first ten minutes, during which both goalkeepers were tested. Liverpool were the first to be dangerous, getting a chance when Mercer sliced a clearance, and things looked ominous for Everton until Mercer retrieved his error by kicking the ball right off Cumner’s toe as he was about to shoot. Busby delighted with a characteristic backwards flick; Kaye gave Burnett an awkward save to make when he took a long free kick which the goalkeeper fisted away and then came an Everton move initiated by Grant in his own penalty area which took the ball via Wainwright, Stevenson, and McIntosh right to the other end, where McIntosh forced an unproductive corner.
Crowd Breaks In.
At this stage there was a break-in of the crowd at the bottom right-hand corner at the Stanley Park end, where the police quickly helped those in the front rows over on to the cinder track to avoid mishaps. One elderly spectator was carried off on a stretcher. Lawton gave Hobson an anxious moment with a header from Wainwright’s centre, the Liverpool goalkeeper first fisting the ball high in the air and then making his clearance at the second attempt. Liverpool were moving the ball freely from wing to wing, and sending long passes down the middle in the hope that Liddell’s speed would enable him to outwit the defence. Twice he was pulled up for hairline offside decisions. It was cut and thrust all the time, with both sides displaying nice combination. When Jackson slipped Grant came to the rescue as Liddell was dashing through, and at the other end Lawton tried a long shot which was securely held by Hobson. Mercer dallied a fraction too long and was robbed by Liddell, but his pass to Cumner led to nothing, thanks to Watson’s quickness.
Spectators Trek
There was an unusual scene at this moment when the police not satisfied that their measures had relieved the danger, in the Goodison Road corner, allowed the crowd to trek on the cinder path right round the ground. Several hundred spectators grouped themselves behind the goalline and the touchline.