Everton Independent Research Data
BATTLE OF BLUES
May 1, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
The Everton and Glasgow Rangers clubs have never done a kindlier act than in raising more than £2,000 as a testimonial to Mr. Jack Price, for 27 years secretary of the Irish League, by their match at Windsor Park, Belfast last night. Mr. Price was over-whelmed by the generosity of the clubs, just as the keen Irish enthusiasts were thrilled and dazzled by the brilliance of the football from two of the game’s greatest exponents and with Everton winning 3-2 for their second win in succession over the Blues of Ibrox. I had the privilege of flying with Messrs Will Gibbins, Ernest Green and Theo Kelly from Croydon to Belfast, and joining Messrs Fred Lake and Dick Searle and the players at Bangor, County Down. We were received by Mr. Parkes, managing director of Harland and Wolfe, and among guest at the luncheon were Messrs, George Brown (director) and Will Struth (secretary-manager), of the Rangers; Mr. J. Irvine, of Linfield; Mr. Bob Tennant, of Clintonville, and who, with Mr. Johnny Mercer, former Derby County outside right, was behind the Price Fund. Mr. J. Cameron, of the Bangor club; and Messrs Tom Russell and Paddy Casey, representatives of Dundalk football. More than 30,000 packed into the compact Windsor for the game contested as it were a cup-tie –in fact the fact game was far and away more elevating and entertaining than Saturday’s F.A. Cup Cup Final. The perfection of the Torry Gillick (looking grand). While Waddell wing was outstanding, yet Norman Greenhalgh handled his difficult task in masterly style. While Rangers were slightly the more academic side early on it was Everton who took the lead when Higgins headed home a fine pass from Watson, who had raced to outside left. Within two minutes Scott Symon equalised with a glorious 18-yarder after Burnett had fisted away from Waddell, but in the second half it was Everton who took the initiative who caught the Rangers lessons in fast, ascertain progression; who demonstrated the power of concentrated defence. Wally Boyes scored a brilliant goal in 70 minutes after grand combination, shooting around an opponents with a rocket left-footer. Three minute later goalkeeper John Shaw pulled down Higgins after being dispossessed, and Watson scored from the penalty. The Rangers fought back well, and a lucky rebound off a Humphreys’ clearance went to South African Ainison, he came over with Bob Priday –who scored easily. Everton deserved their success in what I regard as the perfect football game, and drew praises from the staunch Reds and Merseyside hero, Elisha Scott, who came along to see us. His best wishes to friends and assurances that he is a happy man with Belfast Celtic, who he says, have a great player in 24-year-old Ahern. Every Everton player did grandly, and it is no reflection on others when I take Humphreys, Watson, Greenhalgh and Boyes as the men as faultless as Waddell. Higgins, at outside-right pleased me immendisely. Seconds, the sensational week-end with a word of thanks to all who contributed so much to its thorough enjoyment.
RANGERS BEATEN BY EVERTON
Belfast News-Letter - Wednesday 01 May 1946
27,000 At Belfast Match
About 27,000 spectators saw Everton defeat Glasgow Rangers by 3 goals to 2 in the Jack Price testimonial match at Windsor Park, Belfast, last night. Rangers were the better side in the first half but were not able to drive home their midfield advantage against a very sound defence. After the interval Everton became more trustful and deserved their success. They owed a good deal to the steadiness of their defence, especially in the first half. Humphreys proving a strong centre-half, and Greenhalgh and Jackson a sound pair of backs. The forwards were uneven, but Boyes was always too lively for the right flank of the opposing defence, and Catterick was a lively centre-forward. Watson gave the left wing able support. The former Portadown goalkeeper, Shaw, might have cut away the centre from which Everton got their first goal. Jock Shaw, the Scottish captain, was the better back, and Symon the most constructive half-back, though Young got through a lot of work in defence, the forwards made ground quickly, and Thornton was clever in the open, but the inside forward were inclined to bunch near goal and eased the task of the Everton defence. Burnett was an alert and intelligent goalkeeper, and three saves in the early stages of the second half roused the crowd. The first goal came in 37 minutes when Watson, after neat work by Boyes and Catterick, moved into the outside-left position, and put across a centre, which Higgins headed into the net. Two minutes later Symons, with a low drive from 25 yards equalized. Midway through the second half Boyes scored a grand goal for Everton and in 27 minutes, when Higgins had beaten the Rangers goalkeeper , the latter brought him down, and Watson scored from the penalty. Rangers now went all out, and seven minutes from the end Arnison scored. Mr. R.P. Tennant, and this, committee, the Rangers and Everton clubs, and Linfield officials who made the ground arrangements are to be congratulated on the success of the match. Mr. T. Hunter was the referee, and the only changes on the published teams were that Thornton played instead Duncanson for Rangers, and Higgins came in at outside-right for Everton, Stevenson moving to inside-right, vice Johnson.
LIVERPOOL WIN SENIOR CUP
May 2, 1946. The Liverpool Daily Post
Keen Goodison Match
Everton Reserves 1, Liverpool 3
By Stork
The Liverpool Senior Cup Final between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison last night, was one of the best games I have seen in the series. It was a case of two halves, for while Everton took the first forty-five, Liverpool were definitely the more dangerous in the second portion. Liverpool by their 3-1 victory, concluded a varied season, but they have come to form at the right moment, for they have an important American trip in the offing. The Everton side was composed mostly of reserve players but they showed a liveliness and a degree of ability which was rather surprising. They certainly surprised Liverpool with their sprinkling of first team members. Always on their toes, the Everton boys were yard faster than their rivals, and at seventeen minutes Rawling scored for them with a fast drive. Near the interval, Eastham made one of his sinuous dribbles before crossing the ball to the far post. Both Priday and Jones went up to head together, but it was the centre forward’s head which struck the ball into the Everton net for the equaliser. It was Liverpool’s turn in the second half and it was not long before their pressure was rewarded, although there was an element of good fortune about the goal. Balmer made a hard drive which was sailing for the inside of the far post. Sagar, however, might have got across to it, but Purvis in his anxiety to clear, turned the ball into his own goal. Then came a penalty for a foul on Fagan by Lindley. Personally I though the penalty was a harsh verdict. Fagan took the kick and shot over the bar. Five minutes from the end Eastham scored drive. The Cup was presented to the winners by the Lord Major (Alderman Luke Hogan) Everton Reserves; -Sagar, goal; Curwen and Purvis, backs; Sweeney, Lindley and Davies, half-backs; Rawling, Grant, Higgins, Elliott and Lyon, forwards. Liverpool; Ashcroft, goal; Seddon and Ramsden, backs; Taylor, Easdale, and Spicer, half-backs; Eastham, Balmer, Jones, Fagan, Priday, forwards. Referee; Mr. J.H. Clayton, Liverpool.
LIVERPOOL WIN
May 2, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Liverpool go away flushed with the knowledge that in six meetings with Everton this season they have not been defeated. That has kept up their war-time record of taking it out of the Blues.” The latest win was recorded at Goodison Park last night when they won the Liverpool Senior Cup final with a 3-1 majority. During the first half it appeared as if Everton, with their reserve side, would pull it off for they were the cleverer and rather more attractive side, with Rawlings, giving them a deserved lead in 17 minutes. However a choice Eastham centre enabled the alert Bill Jones to head an equaliser. That ended Everton’s hope, for from that point onwards –apart from more grand work by Tommy Elliott and the defence –it was Liverpool (six first team out) who dominated the game. A fierce Balmer drive was unluckily turned past Sagar by Purvis and after Fagan had shot yards over from a penalty Eastham crashed home a third. Jones proved what a tremendous asset he is going to be to the Reds; I liked Eastham immensely once he decided to part quickly and Ashcroft did finely in goal. Spicer –now demobilised –and Taylor were sound wing half-backs for the winners while Everton could feel well satisfied with Elliott –the game’s best forward – Grant. Lyon –in the first half –the improving Sweeney, Lindley, Purvis, Curwen and Sagar, who is gradually becoming the old “Boss” again. The Lord Major presented the trophy at the conclusion of a game attracting 23,000 –yes in the last week of the season. Flashes are that Len Carney, the Liverpool forward, is now demobilised, and that Everton secretary-manager Theo Kelly is building up a terrific side to oppose Everton at Goodison Park on May 11 for the Old Trafford restoration fund.
Liverpool League’s final for the R.P. Houston Cup between Coronation who have won the league title and Grayson Rollo will take place at Goodison Park on Saturday evening, Coronation may complete the “double event.”
LIVERPOOL WIN CUP
May 2, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Liverpool won the Liverpool Senior Cup by waiting as they say in racing, for it was not until the second half that they really rose to the occasion to beat their friends from across the park. It was a game of two periods, for Everton were the better side in the opening season, with the Anfielders capturing the second half. It was an excellent game, for there was much good football in it, plenty of thrills and incidents. Everton took the lead thorough a smashing drive by Rawlings, but as Jones equalised just before the interval there was every indication of a stirring second half. But an error by the Everton full back. Purvis in the first few minutes set Liverpool on a winning path. He turned a Balmer shot beyond his own goalkeeper when Sagar seemed to have the ball covered. Liverpool who had been uncommonly assist in the first “45” were now on their toes, and Everton were mostly on defence, and how their goal escaped –twice the ball was kept out of the net by sheer good luck –was astonishing. Then came a penalty, which I did not think was a penalty, but Fagan shot over. Near the end Eastham brought Everton’s total to three, after a really enjoyable game. The Lord Mayor presented the cup to the winners.
Eddie Wainwright, of Everton, has been chosen to play for the F.A. team against Tottenham in the Willie Hall benefit match at White Hart lane next Tuesday.
MCLLHATTON DEBUT
May 3, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Notes
With a passing word that I expect Wales with Tommy Jones at centre half and Shortt, formerly of Chester in goal to defeat Ireland. Everton’s final league game – against Bury at Gigg Lane. It is certain that Jack Mcllhatton the new outside-right from Albion Rovers will make his football league debut. The rear division are unchanged as usual, and “Mac” is added to the five regular forwards. I shall go along to see the new star who is stated o resemble Alex Jackson. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Humphreys, Watson; (from); Mcllhatton, Stevenson, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Boyes
Boxer-Footballer
Willie Whyte the hard hitting Glasgow welterweight, who at Liverpool stadium last high won his eight successive contest inside the distance, will be given trials by Everton F.C. Whyte plays with Ashfield, a Glasgow club, and was contacted by Mr. Theo Kelly, secretary-manager of the Blues, in his dressing room last night. If Whyte can play as well as he can punch then Everton may have backed a winner.
Everton Board
Everton announce that four nominations have been received for the directorate in opposition to Mr. Ernest Green, Dr. Cecil S. Baxter, and Capt. Tom Percy, the retiring directors. They are Major John S. Sharp, son of the late Mr. Jack Sharp, a former director and player; Mr. Frederic S. Flinn, a Liverpool dentist; Mr. Cyril E. Balmforth, a Liverpool accountant; and Mr. Tom C. Nuttall a Liverpool provision merchant who was an unsuccessful candidate last year. Messrs Nuttall and Balmforth, with capt Percy represent the Shareholders Association.
BLUES’ GAME AT BURY
May 4, 1946. The Evening Express
Mcllhatton’s Debut
By Pilot
Jack Mcllhatton, Everton’s new outside-right from Albion rovers, travelled all night from Scotland to make his Football debut at Gigg lane against Bury, in Everton’s final league game. Everton had an “army” of representatives today, including Sec-Manager Mr. Theo Kelly and J. Thomson. Bury; Bradshaw, goal; Griffiths and Quigley, backs; Howarth, Hart and Livingstone, half-backs; Roberts, Jones, Berry, Moss and Kilshaw, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Bentham, Humphreys, and Watson, half-backs; Mcllhatton, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding and Boyes, forwards. Referee; Mr. P. Snape, (Swinton). Bury were more assertive at the outset. Quigley twice holding up Mcllhatton, and when Berry burst through, Humphreys relieved by feeding Burnett, who was playing with his left leg heavily bandaged because of a fonch of poisoning. One again, Humphreys relieved with a back pass to Burnett who had to drive to reach the ball, and then Everton began moving with their customary rhythm, forcing a corner before Boyes glided the ball through for Wainwright to drive over. Slowness to shoot cost Jones a chance and the next time he had a go he lofted the ball high into the crowd.
Second Time
This was the game Everton were forced to play a second time, bad light deprived them of victory early in the season when they were leading 3-2. Obviously Bury had improved since then. Fielding and Catterick got Boyes away and from the quick centre, Fielding shot well along the ground, Bradshaw driving to save. There was little to chosen between the sides and Griffths earned applause for a terrific shot from 40 yards which Burnett held safely. A corner led to hectic moments in the Everton goalmouth but excellent covering prevented Burnett from being unduly worried, and away went the Blues for Catterick to head the ball through to Wainwright. Wainwright nodded the ball down and raced clean through on his own but disappointed by placing yards wide with only Bradshaw to beat. Burnett was perfectly positioned to hold a header from Kilshaw and also catch a long ball from Jones.
EVERTON FAIL AT BURY
May 6, 1946. The Liverpool Daily Post
Attack Out of Gear
By Stork
Bury 3, Everton 1
Bury; Bradshaw, goal; Griffiths and Quigley, backs; Howarth, Hart and Livingstone, half-backs; Roberts, Jones, Berry, Moss and Kilshaw, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Bentham, Humphreys, and Watson, half-backs; Mcllhatton, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding and Boyes, forwards. Referee; Mr. P. Snape, (Swinton). Everton have indeed fallen from their high estate. A few weeks ago they would have whipped the Bury team hip and thigh, but the football they were producing then Was far in advance of anything they have produced in recent weeks. True, they have had a testing time chasing Sheffield United, and their efforts appear to have had a reaction, for they are not the footballing side of a month or so ago. What has brought about this change? There are a number of reasons Everton are feeling the effects of their heavy season, but the hard grounds have made all the difference. They have not the perfect control of the bounding ball they had when the grounds were heavier. Furthermore, Catterick has not been the same since his injury. He is not linking up with his colleagues as hitherto so the attack is not running smoothly. Some of the players look as though they need a rest. It was pace as much as anything else which brought Bury their success, for no one could gainsay that Everton provided the more artistic football, but it had to play second fiddle to the upward and onward tactics of the Shakers. It had little chance of succeeding against the quick tackling of the Bury defenders. The new Scottish winger, Mcllhatton, had little chance to do anything, for Quigley and Livingstone kept a strict hand on him. He was more settled in the second half, but we must give him more time to become accustomed to English methods, and a greater knowledge of his colleagues needs. He centres well, but like most Scots on their entry into English football, he lacked speed. I saw things he did which makes me think he will be a valuable asset with a little more experience. It was a mighty drive by Livingstone which set Bury off on their match-winning journey, and as the shot was delivered from nearly thirty yards range, I though Burnett should have saved it. He got his hands to the ball but could not turn it out. That was at 41 minutes. Three and a half minutes later Kilshaw had headed goal number two, so Bury held a handy advantage at the interval. Bury were still dominating matters and at 69 minutes a free kick saw Livingstone sweep the ball over to the right and Berry had craftily sneaked round the Everton defence and was in front of Burnett when the ball reached him. The goalkeeper hesitated a fraction of a second which Berry utilised to flick the ball into the net. There was little chance of Everton pulling the game out of the fire. In fact, Burnett had to make saves from Livingstone and others but with ten minutes remaining. Everton at last broke down the Bury defence. Bentham becoming a forward for the occasion to score at 79 minutes. Bury; Bradshaw, goal; Griffiths and Quigley, backs; Howarth, Hart and Livingstone, half-backs; Roberts, Jones, Berry, Moss and Kilshaw, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Bentham, Humphreys, and Watson, half-backs; Mcllhatton, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding and Boyes, forwards. Referee; Mr. P. Snape, (Swinton). Attendance 7,652
• Wales lost 1-0 to Ireland at Ninian Park, Tommy Jones played for Wales.
THE REASON THEREOF
May 6, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
You would not have recognised the Everton team which was beaten by Bury at Gigg Lane as the one which kept Sheffield United wondering would they win this season’s championship, for it was as different as chalk from cheese to the one which played such superlative football a month or so ago. The crack which came about at Eastertide has gradually been widening, and it reached its limit at Bury, where their football was definitely poor, not comparable with that of Bury, who played like a team starting the season rather than one playing the final match of the tournament. It has been a sensational collapse and there must be a reason for it (writes Stork). What has brought about this remarkable change? A number of things. First and foremost the injury to Catterick, who has not been his effective centre forward since. The vital link in the forward chain was broken, and his return did not have the effect of welding it in its previous strength. Catterick has been a unfit in recent weeks, instead of a cog rotating in perfect unison with the rest of the machine. Hard grounds have not helped Everton. They are especially workers of the ball, which they found easy when grounds were heavier, but with the lively ball running away from them they have not been masters. Inaccuracies crept into their passes and general play, so that they became a side striving where they had been commanding. Yes, I think the altered state of the going “has had a great deal to do with Everton’s fall away. But let me take you back to Gigg lane. Bury did not expect to win when they saw the Everton team sheet, and for twenty minutes an Everton victory looked probable, and had Wainwright scored when he should have done Bury may not have got over the shock. It was a dreadful miss for one who is usually so sure round the goal area. But it was Bury’s pace, resor-edge tackling and the open game which ultimately brought about Everton’s defeat. There was undeniably more skill in Everton’s play, yet it had to yield to Bury’s more straightforward methods. The long sweeping ball which ate up ground in an alarming manner, had the Everton defence sorely troubled. It was not haphazard kicking, for the ball usually reached its destination –the wings and Roberts and Kilshaw responded splendidly. But you will want to know something about Mcllhatton I cannot tell you much for he had so little chance, for the Bury defenders pounced down upon him like a ton of bricks and he was plainly bewildered by the pace of the play and the way Bury swept the ball away. He told me after the game that he was almost in despair at half-time at the way things were going for him. The Bury game was something new to him, but given time to settle down and acquire a knowledge of what is required in English football, I think he will make good, far he centred well and used the short pass cleverly. But one thing he will have to do – speed up a bid. Like most Scots in their first few games this side of the border, he was amazed at the pace of the game, and the keenness of the tackles. Make no mistake “Mac” knows his football.
GOODISON AIDS COUNTY CRICKET
May 7, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Football is far from over so far as this area is concerned, for there are all sort of games down for decision this week. There is an attractive match at Goodison Park on Saturday, when Everton meet a combined Lancashire X1. This is the match which Everton some time ago suggested they would be willing to stage, if Lancashire County Cricket Club were agreeable in aid of the Old Trafford Reconstruction Fund, which I am sorry to see is not forging ahead, as rapidly as one would hope. Needless to say, Lancashire jumped at Everton’s generous proposal and would be only too happy if others in due course would follow their lead. Football can do a lot for cricket. Their interests do not clash –one can ignore the slight overlapping at either end of the season –and I am quite sure that Lancashire will say “Thanks very much” for anything that their winter colleagues are able to do. Mr. Theo Kelly has chosen a very attractive side-almost an in all-international one –to represent the Combined Lancashire team against Everton, and this match ought to attract a crowd of at least 30,000 people probably more. True there is nothing at stake in the way of League points but the players will be on bonus, and all of them will be out to give the public an entertaining show of the best type of soccer.
Welcome Guest
The Combined Lancashire eleven brings some old friends on view again at Goodison Park, notably Albert Geldard, the former Everton winger, Sam Jones, Blackpool’s half-back who was a guest here for some time, and Hanson the Bolton goalkeeper, one of Merseyside’s many products to make good outside this city. Lambert (Liverpool) is at right back, and has a colleague in the side in Billy Liddell, though the latter’s appearance will depend on whether or not Scotland call on his Services for the international match with Switzerland tomorrow week. The same qualification applies to Dodds, Blackpool, but if these two Scottish stars are unable to play Mr. Kelly has others like Barkas, who are “ready and willing.” Apart from the attractiveness of the visiting combination there will be a special magnet for Everton supporters in the appearance of Mcllhatton, the Blues recent signing from Albion Rovers. This will be his first and last appearance at Goodison Park this season, but we are looking forward to great things from him when soccer gets back to its “all in variety” next August.
The Teams; Everton from; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Jones (TG), Watson; Mcllhatton, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Boyes. Lancashire X1-Hanson (Bolton); Lambert (Liverpool), Hubbick (Bolton); Shankly (Preston NE), Jones (S) (Blackpool), McDowell (Manchester City); Geldard (Bolton), Mortensen (Blackpool), Dodds (Blackpool), Barrass (Bolton), Liddell (Liverpool). Everton are paying all the expenses of staging the match, including the bonuses for the winners, and the other clubs whose men are taking part have also agreed to defray their players expenses, &c.
SEVEN ‘CAP’ IN LANCASHIRE SIDE
May 7, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Pilot’s Log
No fewer than five clubs will be represented in the All-Lancashire team to oppose Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday in the match in aid of the Old Trafford Restoration Fund. They are Liverpool, Bolton Wanderers, Blackpool, Manchester City, and Preston N.E. Secretary-Manager Theo Kelly of the Blues has been working hard during the past week or so to assembled a really all-star side to play against the north runners-up and the respond has been grand, clubs, and players . Mr. Kelly has received instance from more. Billy Liddell, of Liverpool and Aphid Dodds of Blackpool, the Scottish international and they have delay decision in view of possible choice for Scottish representative matches. However, Mr. Kelly had his deputies all lined up just in case and Langton of Blackburn Rovers who played so well here will be at outside left should Liddell not be able to play. The other internationals are Ray Lambert, of Liverpool and Wales, Billy Shankly of Preston and Scotland, Sam Jones of Blackpool and Ireland, Albert Geldard and Malcolm Barrass, of Bolton and England and Stan Mortensen of Blackpool and England. Bert Hanson the Bolton goalkeeper and member of the famous Bootle footballing family with ne there while Harry Hubbick the Bolton captain who has not missed more than six matches for four seasons, partners Lambert at half-back. McDowall, the Manchester City captain, will be at left half, and there will be a warm welcome for Albert Geldard who was such a favourite at Goodison before being transferred to Burnden Park . Everton will have out their best possible team and John Mcllhatton, the new outside right from Albion Rovers will make his first home appearance with the senior side. John had one game with the Reserves here. You will like Mcllhatton. The Teams; Everton from; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Jones (TG), Watson; Mcllhatton, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Boyes. Lancashire X1-Hanson (Bolton); Lambert (Liverpool), Hubbick (Bolton); Shankly (Preston NE), Jones (S) (Blackpool), McDowell (Manchester City); Geldard (Bolton), Mortensen (Blackpool), Dodds (Blackpool), Barrass (Bolton), Liddell (Liverpool).
GOODISON SPECIAL
May 10, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Goodison Park stages a grand finale to a successful season in the Lancashire County Cricket Club benefit game in aid of the county’s Old Trafford Reconstruction Fund. This is a match which will not only give Everton fans an opportunity of seeing Mcllhatton in action but bring them a glimpse of some of the most attractive personalities from surrounding clubs, who are gathered together to make a strong Combined Lancashire side to oppose the Blues. Everton, with their customary willingness to aid any good cause, are defraying all expanses of staging the match, part from those of visiting players, which will be met by the clubs whose men are concerned. The Teams; Everton from; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Jones (TG), Watson; Mcllhatton, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Boyes. Lancashire X1-Hanson (Bolton); Lambert (Liverpool), Hubbick (Bolton); Shankly (Preston NE), Jones (S) (Blackpool), McDowell (Manchester City); Geldard (Bolton), Mortensen (Blackpool), Sloan (Tranmere Rovers), Barrass (Bolton), Langton (Blackburn Rovers).
Chester will play Arthur who was transferred to the club from Everton this week. Aged 26, Arthur is 5ft 7ins and weighs 10st 11lbs.
ARTHUR TRANSFERRED
MAY 10, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Jack Arthur, Everton’s 26 year-old outside right was transferred to Chester yesterday and will play for them in the Cheshire Bowl Final at Sealand-road Stadium on Saturday, against Crewe Alexandra. Arthur joined Everton as a junior just before the war, during which he was in the Services. Several inquiries had been put in about Arthur, but everything was arranged yesterday with the Cestrian, who have secured a willing and useful player. This signing may be the forerunner of other important business by Chester.
EVERTON’S AID TO LANCASHIRE CRICKET CLUB FUND
May 13, 1946. The Liverpool Daily Post
Be Bee (Ernest Edwards)
Everton 1, Lancashire X1 1
Time was when cricket committee protested against football. They claimed football was encroaching upon their summer time act. There is room for all codes, and Everton F.C., kindly thought in arranging a game for the benefit of the funds for rehabilitation of the Old Trafford ground was sufficient answer to those who believe cricket is crossed by football. It was a day that would have done the Lancashire Committee’s heart good – if there had been a county game at Aigburth. This was a county game of another colour – Everton versus a Lancashire eleven. The teams had been built with the magic touch of secretary-manager Mr. Theo Kelly. Those spectators who went fearing a recurrence of the easy methods of out of season games got a pleasant surprise. Here was endeavour, purposeful play a high standard of football that made the Cup final steps look paltry. Here was keenness ardent attack and counter-stroke in defence art, grace, and much enjoyment. These men had educated feet. It was not a suitable football day because of the winding wing the blazing sun, and the turf which had become “less than the dust” – a mere crumble of its former verdure and glory. But that is another Story.
New Scottish Forward
It would not be a football crowd if it did not find some fault. They go to see a home victory and latterly the Everton spectators has gone to see forwards fluency. They had all this but it has not heaven too because you see an unpronounceable-named Scot had booked a single ticket from Scotland to Liverpool. Mcllhatton was the name and this was his bow to his future public. Give a new Scottish name to the local onlookers and he will forsake his meal to survey the promised Scot. With all kindly respect to Mr. T. Higson of Lancashire C.C.C and Major Howard (both of whom asked me to express their thanks for the wonderful game on their behalf) I must state that Mcllhatton was the main cause of the large crowd of spectators. This city cannot wait to see the newcomer settled in his new football home. They want to be in at the premier. So the crowd complained when they thought Mcllhatton did not receive sufficient chances to show his passes. But sufficient was seen of the new man to ensure that his lack of pace – so natural to a Scot coming into the swirl of English football – is more than wiped off the slate by his positional sense, his ankle pair to such effect. Mcllhatton was not outstanding yet stood out boldly by the method he employed and the promise of life he gives for Everton next season.
Two Goals
The Lancashire X1 was sprightly, and in attack had a combined notion which made the wonder whether they had been training behind closed doors. Instead of strangers they might have been one football unit. Their excellence was such that it would have been wrong if they had been defeated. They faltered in the second half when Wainwright scored a goal aided by the new man, when Wainwright very sportingly patted on the back for his initiatory effort. The Lancashire X1 had been beaten back by the veteran soldier Sagar who high in the air, was graceful as a Benie but Lancashire got their reward when Livesley of Preston equalised. This should not have been the end of the score-board. Fielding after one of his joyous inward raids went through the defence yet failed to score. One day Fielding will become a Freeman and walk the ball to conclude his goal guest. Then will the wily roguish little man give further delight to the great-increasingly crowd which goes to the ground to “see football as it should be played” T.G. Jones stamped the Lancashire cards without ever being stampeded. Indeed all the home players played well.
Not Wanted Here
Hanson in goal –brother of the Anfield star of yesteryear – has grown in goalkeeping sense. There was a time when he played for Liverpool F.C. He was not wanted for future because he was too small and looked too frail. Today he is in the first flight of goalkeepers. Excellent backs helped him, an Irishman; Jones was a study of pivotal solidity with Shankly brightest of rousting half-backs and never too flurried to make a pass along the turf. Mortensen –the elusive Pimpernel -was a joy to watch. If difficult for his own side to find when they anticipated “his next tour.” However, all did manful jobs, and with the distinctive referring of Mr. W.H. Evans made the perfect football feast. Everton; Sagar, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Bentham, Jones (TG), and Watson, half-backs; Mcllhatton, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, and Boyes, forwards. Lancashire X1; Hanson (Bolton), goal; Hodgkiss (Southport) and Hubbick (Bolton), backs; Shankly (Preston), Sam Jones (Blackpool), and McDowell (Manchester City), half-backs; Livingstone (Bury), Mortensen (Blackpool), Livesey (Preston), Barrass (Bolton), and Langton (Blackburn), forwards. Referee; Mr. W.H.E. Evans (Liverpool).
LANCS. WILL NOT FORGET LIVERPOOL
May 11, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Merseyside will be given more consideration regarding county matches by the Lancashire Cricket Committee as the direct outcome of the football match at Goodison Park on Saturday, when 23,526 people paid £2,419 to see Everton draw 1-1 with the Lancashire representive X1. Mr. T.A. Higson chairman Dr. Bowling Holmes, Mr. George S. Cadman, Secretary Mayor Rupert Howard came along from Old Trafford for the game, and were overwhelmed by the support given to the Old Trafford Reconstruction Fund. They went home convinced that Merseyside is worth cultivating from the their point of view, and while Aigburth got some of the game this season we shall receive a better allocation next season. Dr. Cecil Baxter the Everton director had a word to the county officials on this matter. This was the perfect closure to the football season, for we had a match rich in good football even if lacking the extra “bite” of a league game. I think the fixture was another excellent idea from the mind of Secretary-Manager Theo Kelly, and he deserved out congratulations. The Lancashire side should have won for they were certainly on top in the first half with Mortensen dazzlingly brilliant and Archie Livingstone a joy to watch. From the Everton standpoint; and apart from another tasty offering by Wally Fielding, the gratifying feature were the glorious returns to top form by Ted Sagar this was the real “man on the flying trapeze. Ted – and Tommy Jones, and the high promise of Mcllhatton already dubbed “Jock” by the supporters. Mcllhatton bore out precisely what I wrote of him after the game at Bury. This lade will suit. Wainwright scored a fine goal for Everton and Livesey of Preston, a centre-forward of rare possibilities headed a grand equaliser. Chairman Mr. Will Gibbins speech was the ideal epilogue to the season which saw Chester take the Cheshire Bowl thanks to a 3-1 win over Crewe Alexandra.
HINT TO LANCASHIRE
May 12, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
The people of Liverpool have often requested the Lancashire C.C to play more than one first-class cricket match at the pretty little Aigburth ground but so far the cry has gone unheeded. Perhaps the timely propaganda of the Everton F.C., programme on Saturday, when there were several Lancashire cricket personalities present at the “Fund” match may bring the desired result. There is a big cricket public on Merseyside and it dearly loves to see its county players in action but it is not open to everyone to take a day off and rush along to Old Trafford for a day’s cricket. Popping along to Aigburth is a matter of a couple of hours, which can be “wangled” by most people and there is no nicer way of spending a few hours than at Aigburth. There is a close link between the Everton club and Lancashire C.C for I recall some years ago the joint championship banquet in Liverpool. Perhaps this little hint to the Old Trafford powers 0 that he may bear fruit in years to come. The Lancashire club with benefit to the tune of £2,000 as a result of the Club restoration Fund match between Everton and the Lancashire X1 at Goodison Park on Saturday. I am sure the Lancashire people present were amazed at the support given to the game, and the enthusiasm of all who helped to make the match a success. Now to the game. It was a pleasant Saturday afternoon in every respect; arm sunshine, some pretty football and a friendly result 1-1. Of course, there was not the hurly burly of a League match, but the finer points of the game were fully exploited and I thought McDowall and Shankley had a brilliant first half (writes Stork). But they were not alone, for Fielding’s jugglery and final pass were something to behold. He was complete master of a tricky ball, and so was T.G. Jones who did all manner of things to blot out the Lancashire centre forward and at the same time, look after Mortensen and Barrass. It was good football minus the sternness of a competition game. Lancashire took the first half, but the second belonged to Everton, and Hanson had to make several great saves to prevent goals against Mcllhatton found this game more to his liking than the “stampede” of the Bury players a week ago. He came out of his shell in the second half with some glorious passes –he was at inside right at the time through an injury to Bentham. He gave Wainwright a perfect through-the-middle pass for the latter to dribble round S. Jones and Hodgkiss and then beat Hanson to pieces. “Mac” or “Jock” as I think he will be called by his colleagues – they soon name at Goodison –gave a similar one to Catterick and Hanson had to make a terrific save to avert further disaster. Mcllhatton did more than that he showed intelligent football ideas produced more speed, and pleased the folk, who were eager to see this new Scot with the big reputation across the border. Yes, I think Mcllhatton is going to fit into the Everton scheme very nicely when the real football comes along next term. Livesley equalised eight minutes from the end, when he headed a smart goal from Livingstone’s centre. It was the best and only correct thing he had done throughout the game.
EVERTON SIGNING
May 14, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton last night signed Archie Livingstone, the Bury inside left at a substantial fee. Livingstone played for the Lancashire eleven at Goodison Park last Saturday, and gave one of the most impressive displays. For a long time this versatile player, who played for Scotland against England in the Army International three years ago, has been the fancy of Secretary-Manager Theo Kelly, whose tip to the Army F.A. in reality brought Livingstone his unofficial cap. Livingstone went to Bury from Newcastle United in 1938. During the war he assisted Wrexham for a long time, during which he proved quite a success at wing half-back –the position he occupied for Bury against Everton in the last match of the season, and from which he scored a brilliant goal. Negotiation have been going on for some days, and take it from me there will be more signing by the Goodison club shortly.
LIVINGSTONE FOR EVERTON
May 14, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Archie Livingstone, Bury’s clever inside forward or wing half back, is signing for Everton today. Negotiations have been completed between the clubs and the player, and Everton yesterday posted the forms to Bury for Livingstone to sign. Livingstone is well known to Merseyside fans, for he had a long spell with Wrexham as a war-time guest, and made many appearances in the city. He also donned Everton’s colours once or twice, and was one of the stars of the Army international between England and Scotland at Goodison Park three years ago. He is a clever ball player, just the type to fit into the Everton framework and is equally at home in the attack or intermediate line. Livingstone joined Bury from Newcastle United in 1938, when Tom Mather was managing the North-Eastern side, but owing to the war Bury have had a great deal of service from him. Some time ago he was in for a job as manager of a non-league side. That fell through and soon after he asked to go on the transfer list.
SLOAN FOR EVERTON
Belfast News-Letter - Thursday 16 May 1946
Transfer of Irish international
Walter Sloan. 26-year-old Irish international inside-forward, is to be transferred from Tranmere Rovers to Everton today at what is stated to be a record fee for a Third Division club. Sloan went to Glenavon to Manchester United in 1938, and to Tranmere in June 1939, for 300. Manchester United will receive a share of the latest transfer fee.
EVERTON BOARDS REPLY
May 20, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
The majority group of the Everton F.C., board has today called to the recent circular sent out by Mr. W.C. Cuff. A director of the club and President of the Football League in which he explained his position regarding the use of certain proxy votes at the last annual meeting. Bearing the signature of six directors (Messrs Gibbins, Green, Baxter, Williams, Searle, and Lake) the reply states;
“Talk of domination of the board is absurd when one remembers that Mr. Cuff sold Mr. Searle, 25 of his total holding of 28 shares at £7 per share. Mr. T. Percy also sold Mr. Searle 158 shares at the same price, and a director (now deceased), who was then a member of the shareholders Association sold Mr. Searle 45 at a similar figure. And now they cry against alleged domination. Mr. Cuff objects to examination of the proxies. Professional advice shows that the board were legal, above-board and within their right to examine proxies. The examination was revealing. How much so, Mr. Cuff knows only too well. “Put simply, this was the crux of the decision of the board; ‘Unanimously agreed the board should support the retiring directors, Messrs Cuff and Searle but the vacant seat should be left to the shareholders to fill, and in this respect each member shall vote as he personally chooses. “Mr. Cuff did not keep his part of the bargain. The rest of the board did. Now Mr. Cuff boasts of his position at the top of the poll and quotes it as evidence of the shareholders confidence in him. “The board would remind Mr. Cuff and all shareholders that if the rest of the board had not kept faith with the unanimous decision contained in the resolution, Mr. Cuff would not have been at the top, but in a very different position. “In short Everton shareholders know now that those who decry domination have assisted such alleged domination; that Mr. Cuff who complains of indignities and lack of harmony attended only a negligible number of board meetings in the last seven years, and attendances at matches were equally infrequent. “Everton F.C., has prestige and honours. The board is jealous of these and has striven, and will strive to keep it to the forefront of the game, but Everton’s shareholders are entitled to know the fallacy of Mr. Cuff’s circular. It bears no real foundation. In fact, the board finds it unpleasant to have to circularise shareholders on simple truths which are undeniable.”
EVERTON BOARD STATEMENT
May 21, 1946. The Liverpool Daily Post
Reply to Mr. Cuff
The majority group of the Everton F.C., board has today called to the recent circular sent out by Mr. W.C. Cuff. A director of the club and President of the Football League in which he explained his position regarding the use of certain proxy votes at the last annual meeting. Bearing the signature of six directors (Messrs Gibbins, Green, Baxter, Williams, Searle, and Lake) the reply states;
“Talk of domination of the board is absurd when one remembers that Mr. Cuff sold Mr. Searle, 25 of his total holding of 28 shares at £7 per share. Mr. T. Percy also sold Mr. Searle 158 shares at the same price, and a director (now deceased), who was then a member of the shareholders Association sold Mr. Searle 45 at a similar figure. And now they cry against alleged domination. Mr. Cuff objects to examination of the proxies. Professional advice shows that the board were legal, above-board and within their right to examine proxies. The examination was revealing. How much so, Mr. Cuff knows only too well. “Put simply, this was the crux of the decision of the board; ‘Unanimously agreed the board should support the retiring directors, Messrs Cuff and Searle but the vacant seat should be left to the shareholders to fill, and in this respect each member shall vote as he personally chooses. “Mr. Cuff did not keep his part of the bargain. The rest of the board did. Now Mr. Cuff boasts of his position at the top of the poll and quotes it as evidence of the shareholders confidence in him. “The board would remind Mr. Cuff and all shareholders that if the rest of the board had not kept faith with the unanimous decision contained in the resolution, Mr. Cuff would not have been at the top, but in a very different position.
TEAM BUILDING GOES ON APACE
May 21, 1946. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Team-building in football continues apace, and clubs throughout the country are busily engaged in seeking stars for next season. Mr. Ernest green, the Everton director, and Secretary-Manager, Theo Kelly have been in Ireland, and will not be back until late in the week. Everton have been linked with two centre half-backs, but I feel that there is little truth in this, and fancy that the representatives are more concerned with full-backs and wing forwards.
EVERTON F.C.
May 24, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Mr. W.C. Cuff president of the Football League and a director of Everton F.C has replied to the circular recently sent to shareholders by the majority group of Everton directors accusing him of not honouring an agreement on the use of proxies at the last annual meeting. He says;- “The resolution referred only to each director’s individual voting power, and was observed by me to the letter. Proxies from shareholders come in a completely different category. No receiver of proxies can honestly commit himself in advance to use proxies received by him in support of any particular candidate as he is dependent on instructions from the shareholders giving him the proxy as to the persons he should support. “In in absence of any instructions the proxy-holder is entitled to use them in what he considers his best interests of the club, and this is precisely what I did. Mr. Cuff’s circular is accompanied by one from the Everton Shareholders Association which characterises the majority group’s recent communication as “another discreditable attempts to besmirch the good name of Mr. Cuff” The shareholders circular ends “We believe that the vast majority of shareholders who have the welfare of Everton at heart will rally to the support of the association’s candidates, Messrs Percy Nuttall and Balmforth” and appeals to shareholders to send their proxies of Mr. Cuff.
• This Circular was also in The Daily Post the next day; however it states word to word, pointless rewriting it.
• Joe Mercer, England’s captain and Everton F.C has had his operation for cartilage removal in the Northern Hospital, and is progressing well.
MERCER’S PROGRESS
May 30, 1946. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
He slipped into the Northern Hospital on Tuesday to have a chat with Joe Mercer the Everton Half-half who is recovering from a cartilage operating. There he was sitting up with the case over his leg looking as snug as a bug in a rug. He said he was being well looked after, and that there was every reason to believe that he would be discharged on Friday or Saturday. “My knee feels fine, and I don’t anticipate any after-effects from the operation “Joe remarked as I left him. He is to take a holiday shortly.
Another Everton casualty Tommy Jones, dropped in to see m yesterday. He is nursing a damaged left hand, strapped up in a plaster. Otherwise he is perfectly fit and well.
May 1946