Everton Independent Research Data
CUP-TIES FOR AMBULANCE FUND
November 1, 1917. The Evening Express
By CRI
An important announcement which will give great pleasure to all local followers of football, was made by Mr. Clayton, chairman of the Everton Club at a meeting of the Liverpool Committee of the Sportsmen’s Ambulance Fund, presided over by Mr. W. A. Crouch. Mr. Clayton who has done a great deal in raising money for this very deserving object made the gratifying declaration that he had been able for arrange for Everton, Liverpool, South Liverpool, and Tranmere Rovers to meet on the grounds of the junior clubs in a competition on cup-tie lines, two semi-finals and a final. Football of this description has been vetoed since the outbreak of hostities until recently, so that enormous interest is sure to be taken in the venture, and a handsome sum should accrue.
HARRY MOUNTFORD
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 03 November 1917
The mystery concerning Harry Mountford the ex-Everton, Burnley, and Third Lanark player, seems to have been happily solved at last. For many weeks past it has been remoured in Liverpool and elsewhere that he had been killed in action, but it is now swtated that he has written home from France annoncing that he is "in the pink" He is said to be serving in M.T. A.S.C.
EVERTON v. STOCKPORT.
Manchester Evening News - Saturday 03 November 1917
Home Side Tries New Wingers.
STOCKPORT LEAD AT THE INTERVAL.
This afternoon, played Stockport, before a crowd 10,000 spectators. The day was drizzly, and the turf treacherous. Everton tried new wingers, Murray was lame and Donnachie was engaged a charity match Sheffield.
THE GAME.
The game started fifteen minutes late, and Clennell was the first to get busy, but wasted a chance by letting the ball roll behind the line. Then came a smart movement by Stockport, Crossthwaite sending in a timely centre from the opposite wing to Rogers, who gave Mitchell a rousing shot to deal with. At the other end Clennell was inches short with smart attempt to convert nice centre by Redford. Both sides quickly warmed to then work, and there was plenty of fire in the forward play. Crossthwaite gave early evidence of his clever footwork, and after smartly beating Robinson he centred admirably and Rogers was left unmarked. The latter with plenty of time levelled a fine shot that went between Mitchell and the upright into the net. This early success was something of a surprise, and although it was well worked for the Everton defence was certainly caught napping. Causer gave a corner in attempting to punch out dropping shot, and again Crossthwaite led the Stockport forwards, but on this occasion Thomson nipped in with good clearance. There was especially well-earned cheer for Causer for his brilliant save from Gault. Waring sent the ball well forward, and Gault with first-time effort drove the ball to the corner of the net, Causer throwing himself full length and making a brilliant clearance. Then followed one of the best incidents of the game. A movement was initiated by Crossthwaite and Rogers joining in. The Everton goal looked like being captured for a second time, but by a supreme effort it was temporarily checked, but the pressure was not ended until Lester drove the ball high and wide over the bar. Causer repeated his clever performance with a full length save from Gault. So far the bulk of the attack had come from Stockport, but the forwards were naturally up against a stubborn defence- The Everton forwards combined smartly, but Causer gave good display in the Stockport goal. T. Waterall tried a long shot, but it lacked direction, wing men, Redford and Murphy, so far had not exactly covered themselves with glory, and the forward play was not to the usual standard. Jefferis had a chance, but his shot went wide. Stockport continued the pressure. Crawshaw and Rogers showed capital understanding, and the former sent in a grand drive for Mitchell to clear. Owing to the late start the referee reduced the time to 40 minutes, and play was resumed without the players leaving the field. Half-time: Stockport, one goal; Everton, none. When the game was resumed, both sides showed a wonderful display vigour. Crawshaw scored after 45 minutes and Lester 10 minutes later. Clennell scored two goals for Everton. Stockport County 3, Everton 2.
EVERTON V STOCKPORT COUNTY
November 3, 1917. The Liverpool Football Echo
Plan of Goodison Park Field
After drawing 0-0 at Stockport, Everton hoped to succeed against Stockport today, although they were with Donnachie (engaged in the Wilson-Pennington Charity game which “Bee” has today attended). Teams;- Everton; Mitchell, goal; Thompson (captain) and Robinson, backs; Fleetwood, Wareing and Grenyer, half-backs; Redford, Jefferis, Gault, Clennell, and Murphy, forwards. Stockport;- Causer, goal; Garrett and Goodwin, backs; Francis, Fayers and A. Waterall, half-backs; Lester, Crawshaw, Rodgers, T. Waterall, and Crosswaithe, forwards. The wet dismal weather had its effect upon the attendance, but the covered accommodation was well patronized. When the game started 15 minutes late, there was probably 5,000 people present. Clennell was the first to get busy, but he wasted a chance by letting the ball roll behind the goal line. Then came a smart movement by Crossthwaite snapping a timely centre from the opposite wing, and giving Mitchell a rousing shot to deal with. Clennell was inches short in a smart attempt to convert a nice centre from Redford. Both sides quickly warmed to their work and there was plenty of fire in the forward play.
Rodgers Scores
Crossthwaite gave early evidence of his clever footwork, and after smarty beating Robinson he centred admirably. Rogers was unmarked and had plenty of time to level a shot that went between Mitchell and the upright into the net. This early success was something of a surprise, but the point was certainly well worked for. Causer gave a corner in attempting to punch out a high, dropping shot, and once again Crossthwaite led the Stockport attack, but on this occasion Thompson nipped in with a good clearance.
A Smart Save
There was a special and well earned cheer for Causer for his brilliant save from Gault, Wareing had sent the ball forward, and Gault with a first time effort, drove the ball to the corner of the net. Causer, however, by throwing himself full length just managed to turn the ball behind the post. Then followed one of the best incidents of the game. The movement was initiated by Crosswaithe, and Rodgers joining in the Everton goal looked like being captured for a second time. By a supreme effort, the invasion was temporarily checked but the pressure was not ended until Lester drove the ball high and wide over the crossbar. Causer repeated his previous clever performance with another full-length save from Gault. So far the bulk of the attack had come from Everton, but the smartness of the forwards was neutralized by a stubborn defence in which Causer played a very important part. The Stockport attack was dangerous, although their work was spasmodic. T. Waterall tried a long shot, but it lacked direction, Everton’s wing men –Redford and Murphy –had so far, not exactly covered themselves with glory, and it was due to the weakness of the wing men, Everton’s attack was not as incisive as usual. Jefferis had a chance, but when he turned to take advantage of it he was beaten and the opportunity was lost. Then followed a smart passing bout between Crawshaw and Rogers and the former gettings between Fleetwood and Thompson, shot hard and straight for Mitchell. Owing to the late start the referee reduced the time to 40 minutes and the play resumed without the players leaving the field.
Half-time; Everton 0, Stockport 1
In the closing stages of the first half the pace had considerably slackened but when the game was resumed both sides displayed a wonderful spirit of vigour, Fleetwood was only just in time to stop a dangerous attack, and Mitchell made only a half save from Rogers. There was no mistaking the virility of the Stockport forwards. After Crawshaw had scored after 45 minutes, Lester added a third point at 46 minutes.
An Uncommon Goal
Crawford’s goal was a most unusual one. He dribbled to within a few yards of Mitchell, then deftly turned the ball between the goalkeeper and the upright, but the ball hit the upright and rebounded across the goal line when Crashaw again got possession and easily scored. Lester’s goal was from a hard first time drive. This third reverse had the effects of stimulating the Everton forwards and Jefferis was just preparing to take aim from a splendid position when Fayers nipped in and kicked the ball from his toe. Everton’s success came at the fifty-seventh minute when Clennell headed through as the ball came from the example right wing. Everton tried a number of long shots, but Causer was very much at home in dealing with this type of attack, and he handled out a beauty from Wareing. Stockport were all defensive now, but their tactics did not prevent Clennell gaining a second point, following a melee in the Stockport goalmouth.
Goals Scores
Rogers scored for Stockport after seven minutes
Crawshaw scored for Stockport after 45 minutes
Lester scored for Stockport after 46 minutes
Clennell scored for Everton 57 minutes
Clennell scored for Everton 65 minutes
EVERTON’S FIRST HOME DEFEAT.
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 05 November 1917
Everton sustained their first home defeat on Saturday by a side that knew how to make the most of their opportunities. Stockport County are not a brilliant side, yet they established themselves in such a strong position when Everton tried oust them from it they found the task beyond them. Everton had more of the attack than their opponents, but when it came to clinching matters there was generally something lacking. The extreme wing men, Redford and Murphy, were quite out of touch with the inside forwards, with the result that very few convertible centres were sent across. In addition, the Everton forwards had to face a stubborn defence, and Causer, the custodian, was in one of best moods. He made many excellent saves, and least two full-length efforts were really brilliant. The following time-table shows how the goals were recorded: —Rodgers, 7 minutes; Crawshaw, 45 minute*; Lester, 46, minutes; Clennell, 57 minutes; and Clennell, 65 minutes. Everton appeared to realize their plight in the last half-hour, and in the closing stages strove desperately hard for equalizing point. It was a grim struggle, and Stockport’s serviceable side no doubt deserved the honours. Everton's defence was rather unsteady, both Mitchell and Robinson being below par. Fleetwood was best of the half backs, and he did clever work both in attack and defence. As already indicated, the' forward line was out of touch, and the good work of the inside men was discounted through the weakness of the extreme wingers. On the Stockport side, Causer was brilliant, and Fayer did splendid work in the half back line. Crossthwaite was the star performer of the attack, and he got excellent support from T Water all and Rodgers. Result: Stockport County 3 goals. Everton 2 goals.
EVERTON DEFEAT
November 5, 1917. The Liverpool Evening Express
By CRI
Everton were narrowly beaten on Saturday by a side which for four-fifths of the game were the superior in attack. Stockport County’s front line and especially the right wing played delighted football. Crosthwaite showing excellent control of a greasy ball, and he was the outstanding player on the field. The first half was comparatively slow. In spite of the fact that the visitors were a goal up in seven minutes due to a smart move by Crossthwaite, promptly clinched by Rodgers the Blues lacked dash, mainly because the extreme wing men, Redford and Murphy, showed poor control and wasted many chances. This disjoined the whole front line and they were not able to press home the opening gained. Stockport led by the goal at half-time, but visions of an equalizer faded when the teams crossed over without interval, after 40 minutes play, because if a late start –and in six minutes Stockport had added two more goals. A first class goal came from Crawshaw, due entirely to individual effort, and straight from the restart the County attacked again, and Lester scored their third. Then when their task seemed hopleless Everton backed up, and Clennell scored twice, the first being a header from Fleetwood’s pass and the second from Redford, who up to then had been a help. The closing stages were waged at a desperate pace in spite of the treacherous turf, but the Blues could not equalize.
The result just about represented the play, because Storkport were the better all-round team. Mitchell kept a good goal, but both Thompson and Robinson found the Stockport forwards more they could cope with on occasion though the Skipper bustling tactics paid. Fleetwood was the best half on view placing his passes very well. Forward Gault was a source of anxiety to his former clubmates because of the suddenness of his shooting, and he was well served by Jefferis, while Clennell was deadly ay medium range, but the wing men could not operate on the slippery grass. For the visitors as stated, Crossthwaite was the best of a good line, and Causer proved himself a capable custodian.
Letter from Chedgzoy, Everton Player.
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 06 November 1917
We are out having a good rest at present, and there is no doubt that our division deserves one. You will know by now how our chaps have been through the Germans. I had a. rotten job myself (I must not tell you what it was), but I hope never get the same job again. I am back again with my battalion, and don't think we shall worried for a few weeks. I see the Reds gave the Blues a rare trouncing. It was quite a surprise out here, I have had to put with quite lot of leg-pulling over it. We played six matches during the seven days previous to the attack, all of which we won; as a matter of fact, the two were won 6-0 and 10-0 respectively against the R.E.'s (who say they had not been beaten for over twelve months) and the Royal Berks. Yesterday we played a team picked from the R. E. s, Ordnance Corps, and Garrison Artillery. won again 3-0. Paul Cooney, of Tranmere Rovers, was one our opponents. We have not such a good team as before the attack, for we had four our players gassed—Weir, of Bolton, and Thompson, of Fulham (very badly), and George Harriaon has been feeling rather bad with it, but not bad enough get him down the line. I don't think I shall be sent off this field for not keeping my head down.
BELGIAN FOOTBALLERS IN LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 07 November 1917
Bee's Notes
A grand football match will be played on the Everton Football Ground on November 21, kindly lent by the directors free of charge, in aid of a deserving cause, kick-off 2.45. The team will be officiially selected by the Miltary authorities concerned, and the match will be played uner the title;-
BELGIAN ARMY TEAM V. BRITISH ARMY TEAM
The price of admission will be Boys 4d, ground, only 8d. Allied soldiers and sailors half-price, seats 1s 3d and 2s 4d, including tax. Allied wounded soldiers and sailors and nurses in uniform admission free. Reserved seats (prices 2s 4d) can be booked in advance on application to Mr. C. W. Cuff, who has kindly undertaken the necessary arrangements for the match. H.M. the King of the Belgians has given the match his gracious patronage, together with Field-Marshall Viscount French, Commandert-in-Chief of he Home Forces; General Sir Francis Lloyd, Aide-de-camp to H.M. King George V; Brigadier-General R.F. Edwards, Commanding Mersey Defences; the Lord Mayor of Liverpool; M. Verspreeuwen, Belgian Consul, Liverpool &c.
The formation of the British Army team is in the hands of the Mersey defence Head-quarters A.D.C. The names of the players will be published in the couse of a few days' time. The sale of programmes and pictures postcards will be undertaken by twenty girls from amongst the many Belgian refugees who have been fortunate enough to make their home in Liverpool district. A miltary band will be in attaendance. The British Army teasm well be selected from the following sixteen players, who have been given leave from the front, where they have been actively engaged in warfare since Auguest, 1914, anely;-
Decous, Swartenbroucks, Verbeck, Cueppens. Hense, Baes, goetinck, Wertz, Balyn, Van Cant, Van Hege, Dogaer, Vlamynck, Van Gearson, Kerner, Carremans. The first 11 names mentioned have each and all gained international honours in the past, and from the latest reports they are in the best of form, despite the disadvantages of active service. During the war international matches have been played against italians and French, and in each instance the Belgians have been victorious. Captain Commandant Flamand will be ion charge of the party, which also includes Baron de Meulenaere, Dr. Roosen, M. de Bruyne (Belgiam F.A) and Chas Calmeyn, secretary.
THE EVERTON ELEVEN SELECTED
November 7, 1917. The Liverpool Evening Express
By CRI
The Everton club are not quite decided regarding who will the outside right position against Oldham next Saturday but the otherwise they will be able to rely upon the old firm, the selected team being;- Mitchell; Thompson, Robinson; Fleetwood, Wareing, Grenyer; O.U.R Right, Jefferis, Gault, Clennell, Donnachie.
LETTER FROM CHEDGZOY, EVERTON PLAYER
November 8, 1917, The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes
We are out having a good rest at present and there is no doubt that our division deserves one. You will know by now how our chaps have been going through the Germans, I had a rotten job myself? I must not tell you what it was, but I hope I never get the same job again. I am back again with my battalion and I don’t think we shall be worried for a few weeks. I see the Reds gave the Blues a rare trouncing, it was quite a surprise out here. I have had to put up with quite a lot of leg-pulling over it. We played six matches during the seven days previous to the attack, all of which we won, as a matter of fact, the last two were 6-0 and 10-0 respectively against the B.E’s (who say they had not been beaten for over twelve months) and the Royal Berks. Yesterday we played a team picked from the R.E’s Ordinance Corps, Garrison Artillery. We won again 3-0. Paul Cooney of Tranmere Rovers was one of ours opponents. We have not such a good team as before the attack for we had four of our players gassed, Weir Bolton, and Thompson of Fulham (very badly and George Harrison has been feeling rather bad with it, but not bad enough to get him down the yen. I don’t think I shall be sent off this field for not keeping my head down.
EVERTON’S ELEVEN
November 9, 1917. The Liverpool Evening Express
Everton have not definitely chosen their team to play against Oldham at Boundary Park, on Saturday. They are making no change in the rear division which presented them a week ago against Stockport, but in the forward line there may be one or two notable experiements made, cause by the introduction of another outside right. The team is Mitchell; Thompson, Robinson; Fleetwood, Wareing, Grenyer, A.N. Other, Jefferis, Gault, Clennell, Donnachie.
EVERTON AT OLDHAM
November 9, 1917. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes
Last week Everton played Murphy, the Liverpool player –it was generous act on the part of the Anfield club to come to the help of Everton; and the action sets one’s memory recalling back to last season, when the boot was on the other foot, save that the appeal for a goalkeeper was not granted. However, tomorrow David Wilson promises Donnachie a very hot time. good friends these players. Everton I think will win if their forwards get going as they ought to. The defence and half-backs are tremendously strong. In depends, therefore upon the forwards. Team; Everton; Mitchell; Thompson, Robinson; Fleetwood, Wareing, Grenyer, U Know, Jefferis, Gault, Clennell, Donnachie.
OLDHAM v. EVERTON.
Manchester Evening News - Saturday 10 November 1917
A DISAPPOINTING- ATTENDANCE.
Though there was every prospect of a good, exciting game at Boundary Park, the attendance at the opening the match between Oldham and Everton was on the small side. Both sides made changes from last week, but the teams were fairly representative, the Everton contingent having an old Oldham friend in. their ranks—Donnachie, who was playing in his usual place at outside left. Onsey started for the Athletic against a crosswind, which appeared to be in favour of neither one side or the other. The game opened at good pace, and in the first minute Johnston headed away a dangerous -shot from Jefferies. This was followed by a raid on the Everton goal, during which Gee sent in a spinning shot from close quarters, which Mitchell luckily stopped with his outstretched foot. A corner resulted and the attack was not got rid of without difficulty.
THE VISITORS SCORE.
The game gradually went in favour the visitors, and after Butterworth had cleverly fisted away a corner-kick from Donnachie a second flag-kick proved fatal. The ball was dropped in the midst of a crowd of contending players and Jefferies taking a running aim at the goal found his shot deflected into the net by Flaherty. For a time Everton were much the cleverer side, but at length Oldham rallied, and as the result of a superb centre by Gee, Ousey was able to make great effort to head through, the ball going just a few inches over the bar. From another capital bit of work by Gee, both Ousey and Pilkington missed a chance of putting the ball past the goalkeeper. Butterworth saved hot shot from Murray, and Oldham, taking the running, had the experience of scoring what appeared to be a legitimate goal and having it disallowed in older that they might take a penalty. It appeared that just as Flaherty had scored, the whistle had gone for a foul upon him. Fortunately Wilson, who took the penalty kick, was able to score at the second attempt. Half-time: Oldham 1; Everton, 1. Final Everton 3, Oldham Athletic 1.
EVERTON AWAY
November 10, 1917. The Liverpool Echo
F.E.H Describes The Game at Oldham
Poor Attendance
For once in a way the weather outlook at Oldham when we arrived there was bright and pleasant. The journey to remote Boundary Park was accomplished in good time and there was a fair sprinkling of spectators when the teams turned out on a capital playing patch. Everton were unable to decide on their team until the last moment. Fleetwood was a doubtful from early morning and his inability to make the journey caused considerable arrangements in the visitors ranks. As a consequence a trial was given at full back to Guttridge a useful person, who has been under observation for some time. Cordall was brought into the centre-half position and Robinson partnered him on the right. Oldham tried Butterworth at goal, and otherwise they were at full strength. Teams; Everton; Mitchell, goal; Guttridge and Thompson (captain), backs; Robinson, Cordall, Wareing, half-backs; Murray, Jefferis, Gault, Clennell, Donnachie, forwards. Oldham; Butterworth, goal; Grundy and Johnstone, backs; Cavanagh, Wilson and Littleford, half-backs; Gee, Flaherty, Ousey, Pilkington and Alfred, forwards. Referee; Mr. J.H. Heald (Manchester). Oldham started against a slight cross-breeze and the opening exchanges were of a rather scrappy character. Both goals were visited in quick succession, but the shots from Gault and Ousey at the other end, counted for nothing. The Athletic were trying hard to settle down, and they made a brave show on the left, where the ball was swung across to Gee who put in a crashing shot, which Mitchell saved with considerable difficulty. He could not, however, avert a corner and this led to an exciting bully, which was only relieved when Thompson stepped in and saved. At this stage the game was very fast Everton, getting into their proper stride proceeded to take a first hand in the contest. Wareing served up nicely to the left wing, and Donanchie looked very like scoring when he was fouled. The free kick came to nothing and the visitors were next away on the right where a corner was forced without effect.
Jefferis Scores
This moment however was a prelude to better for the Everton vanguard again made ground on the right ad Murray, centring with nice judgment enabled Jefferis to score, the leather glancing off Flaherty, into the net. This success gave the wearers of the Blue jersey heart and grace, and they proceded to give a grand exhibition of clever footwork. There was, however the old lack of proper combination and, owing to this cause, first Gault and then Donnachie shots wildly wide of the mark. The pace showed the slackness and a determined breakaway on the part of the Athletic left saw Guttridge in great difficulties. The youngster however, recovered himself sufficiently to divert Gee’s final shot. The pressure on the Oldham left gave Robinson plenty to do, and the lanky Cordall once nipped in just in the nick of time to prevent Ousey sailing through. Donnachie who was very anxious to shine against his old club mates made two individual raids on the home keeper, only to finish badly. In the open the visitors were much smarter than their opponents and when they again made ground Clennell sent the leather flying over the bar. The Athletic forwards excelled themselves with a smart movement on the left, where Flaherty was given a nice chance of equalizing when in hesitated and so long possession. So far there had not been a great deal of difficulties between the contesting sides, and curiously enough, the Everton ranks were depend by the loss of Thompson who apparently had damaged his left knee and had to leave the field the visitors were more persistent than ever. The halves initiated a movement which promised well, and Murray rushing right across to the other wing, but in a swinging shot which certainty deserved to find the mark. Unfortunately it went astray. In the next few minutes we saw Oldham hammering at the Everton citadel.
Wilson Scorers from Penalty
The whole forward line moved prettily along, and Flaherty netted a second goal after the whistle had gone for some infringement and the referee awarded a penalty kick to the Athletic. This was taken by Wilson, who drove the ball straight at Mitchell. The latter netted it and partly cleared but the famous Oldham player bounced on the return and netted it with tremendous force. From this point to the interval the home side persist strong but nothing more happened.
Half-time; Oldham 1, Everton 1.
Comments
The first period had been brief and diverting, and the division of points was perhaps the best these had them very many pretty touches in the closing passing of the Evertonians. The half back line was of course not the usual perfectly balanced one, and Thompson absence in the latter part of the first 45 was a severe trial for the newcomer Guttridge. He came through the ordeal, however, fairly well. The Oldham forward were always dangerous at close range and both Gee and Flaherty ought to have found the target which came their way. Wilson was a tower of strength and it is quite fitting that he should have scored the have scored the equalizing goal.
The Second Half
Thompson reappeared on the resumption of hostilities and though obviously lame, his presence had the effect of steadying Everton’s defence. It was just as well for the Athletic forwards who were now playing downhill, proceeded to subject Mitchell’s charge to serious and long onslaughts. Ousey and Flaherty both got in shots which were well saved, and subsequently Everton made smart play on the left, but still the old drawback of finishing weakly showed itself. Clennell once worked his way through and looked a certain winner when he shot yards wide, and at the other end Ousey was splendidly placed when he failed. A dash down on the part of the home left found Thompson again in the wars, but he was patched up, without leaving the arena and the game was fought at a good pace. The struggle between the rival half-backs was especially grip, and there was great excitement when Donnachie rounded all the opposition and finished with a flying centre which Gault was unable to meet. Later on Murray lobbed the ball into the goalmouth, but Gault was ruled offside as he attempted to apply the finishing touch.
Goals Scorers
Jefferis scored for Everton after 15 minutes
Wilson scored for Oldham.
• Blackburn Rovers lost at Stoke City 16-0
EVERTON WIN AT OLDHAM
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 12 November 1917
Taking into consideration the fact that they had to play a rearranged side, the Evertonians accomplished a very creditable performance at Boundary Park, on Saturday. Oldham Athletic, except in the case of the goalkeeper, fielded probably strongest side, but they were well beaten at the finish by the Goodison Park contingent. It was by no means a good game, being far too scrappy and uneven, but there were occasional flashes of clever footwork on the part of the visitors, while the pace from start to finish was always merry and bright. The Everton forwards still showed a disposition towards offside tactics, and this had the effect of nullifying many promising movements. Oldham made comparatively little presence to coordination in attack, yet they were always dangerous once the firing line had been reached. The visitors, who were the first to settle down, were also the first find the net, Jefferies completing a very stylish piece of work on the part both wings. The Athletic gained their equalizer in rather curious way. Flasherty got through and netted with a fast shot, but the whistle went, as the leather was in flight, for some infraction of rule, and the referee granted Oldham a penalty luck. This taken by Wilson, who scored at the second attempt after Mitchell had once partially cleared. In the second period play was fairly evenly balanced until ten minutes from the finish. Then Everton came away with a wet sail, and Clennell found the target twice with opportune shots. Thomson, who was off the field for some time in the first half owing to a leg injury, was partnered Guttridge, a district player who shows distinct promise. He was rather severely taxed on Saturday, and will doubtless do better on further acquaintance with first-class company. Robinson, at right half-back, put in a lot useful work, as did Cordall in the centre, but the line was not as strong as the usual trio. Gault was again prone to the offside, and the forward play generally lacked cohesion. Donnachie gave his old club a taste his quality in the way of speed and cleverness, and Clennell instated upon satisfying his appetite for goals. Fisherty was, perhaps, the most dangerous of the home forwards, though Ousey was frequently prominent, and he ought certainly to have scored least one occasion. The dominating figure, however, was Wilson, who did three men’s work, and kept his side up to concert pitch by both precept and example. Result;- Everton 3, goals; Oldham Athletic 1.
EVERTON WIN AT BOUNDARY PARK
November 12, 1917. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes
Thompson, who was off the field for some time in the first half owing to a leg injury was partnered by Guttridge a district player who shows distinct promise. He was rather severely taxed on Saturday, and will doubtless do better on further acquaintance with first class company. Robinson at right half back put in a lot of useful work, as did Cordall in the centre, but the line was not as strong as the usual trio. Gault was again prone to the offside and the forward play generally lacked cohesion. Donnachie gave his old club a taste of his quality in the way of speed and cleverness, and Clennell insisted upon satisfying his appetite for goal. Flaherty was perhaps the most dangerous of the home forwards though Ousey was frequently prominent, and he ought certainly to have scored on at least one occasion. The dominating figure, however was Wilson who did three men’s work, and kept his side up to concert pitch by both precept and example.
MODERATE GAME
November 12, 1917. The Liverpool Evening Express
By CRI
Games between Everton and Oldham Athletic at Boundary Park have generally been productive of good sport, but Saturday’s encounter proved quite the exception to the rule. The standard of efficiency attained by either side fell much below the average. There was keenness enough, but little cleverness, as the nicer points of the game were rarely in evidence. Indeed it was not until the last quarter of an hour had been entered upon that there was any approach to good football. “Rovers” and as they came Everton’s way it was small wonder that they prevailed by three goals to one. Up to this period they were on level terms. Jefferis having opened the scoring early on with a ball that glided off Flaherty, and Wilson equalizing by means of a penalty. The issue was clinched in the later stages by Clennell, and none that followed the game closely could come to any other conclusion than that Everton were cleanly the better of two moderate sides. The constitution of the teams had probably to do with the poor quality of the fare provided Everton’s half back line, owing to the inability of Fleetwood to get away and the illness of Grenyer was but a shadow of itself, and as a consequence there was an absence of that understanding with the forward line that has carried the side through successfully in previous games.
As has been indicated the most attractive footwork was displayed during the closing stages of the game, and in this period Donnachie and his partner quite came into their own. The former executed some brilliant movements in conjunction with Clennell, who ten minutes from time obtained the leading goal and added his second just before the finish. Gault spoiled otherwise good work by repeatedly lying offside and at times Murray and Jefferis were a thorn in the side of the home defence. Wareing was the most successful of the halves, and Thompson injured early on played well under difficulties. Guttridge, the St Helens player, shaped creditably, and Mitchell kept a sound goal.
EVERTON TEAM CHOSEN
November 16, 1917. The Liverpool Evening Express
By CRI
Everton should have something in the nature of a “doddle” against Oldham at Goodison tomorrow, but surprises are surprisingly frequent in football, so that a big crowd is sure to roll up just to see how the Athletic fare against the boys in blue. The Everton team has been chosen as follows;- Mitchell; Thompson, Robinson; Fleetwood, Wareing, Grenyer; Murray, Jefferis, Gault, Clennell, Donnachie.
EVERTON
November 16, 1917. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes
Everton at home to Oldham Athletic promise to give us good entertainment. Oldham the club that would not be brought are in a special place in our hear, and there will be a warm welcome, to David Wilson and his men tomorrow, when Everton play the return fixture, these are the teams; Everton; Mitchell; Thompson, Robinson; Fleetwood, Wareing, Grenyer; Murray, Jefferis, Gault, Clennell, Donnachie. Oldham Athletic; Butterworth; Grundy, Johnston; Cavanagh, Wilson, Littleford; Gee, Flaherty, Kinsey, Pilkington, Alfred. Referee-J.H. Heald, Manchester.
EVERTON v. OLDHAM.
Manchester Evening News - Saturday 17 November 1917
NEITHER SIDE AT FULL STRENGTH.
At Goodison Park. Fortunately for the game and Oldham's chances of doing any good Everton did not raise a full side, Grenyer and others being absent. The teams lined before poor crowd and in dull weather. At half time Everton led one goal to nil. Oldham made number of changes from the side originally selected. Aldred led off and Fleetwood, after being beaten, broke a nice movement by Davies and Gee. This paved the way for an attack by the Everton forwards, and Donnachie put in two excellent centres, Jefferies being offside. Taylor might have opened the score for Oldham, but failed to trap the ball adjacent to the upright. Jeffries was again offside —a decision which he disputed with the referee, and a moment later, when Gault was given offside, the crowd showed its disapproval in no uncertain fashion. Donnachie got well through the Oldham defence, and Grundy had concede corner to get rid of the position. Wilson was wide with a good pass, and the ball going out Murray, he placed to Gault, who struck the crossbar with a fine drive. Murray next sent in an excellent shot which shaved the upright. Ousey left the field limping, but returned after a few minutes. The game ruled quietly, and so far there was little snap in the play. Clennel fired a long shot, but he was a bit wide, and free kick taken near the corner flag at the other end caused Mitchell some trouble in clearing. Jeffries put Murray possession, but the winger was unable make progress. Fleetwood, however, kept the attack on the Oldham goal. Gault again drove hard against the bar. This was followed by a good movement on the part of the Oldham forwards, but it lacked finish, and Mitchell was not troubled. Donnachie was the prime mover in Everton’s initial success, but had to drive across twice before Clennel successfully netted the ball. In the next few minutes Mitchell had his hardest and most exciting time. He cleverly handled a header, and saved a moment later when the Oldham centre had pierced the Everton defence. Mitchell made daring save by leaving his goal and falling on the ball has Aldred was preparing to shoot. Butterworth fielded a long drive off Donnachie, and Gault also had to go second time from a pass by Clennel. Murray dropped beautiful ball into the goal, and Butterworth was lucky in getting his hand it. Donnachie finished up tricky effective footwork by shooting wide. At this stage there was no mistaking the superiority of the Everton attack. Everton 4 Oldham Athletic 2
Coming Back to His Best.
Star Green 'un - Saturday 17 November 1917
Private Stanley Smith, now of the Royal Defence Corps, after active service, is recovering his old dash Manager Menzies, who saw him frequently playing with Everton and Bury, is opinion he is approaching the form of those earlier, happier days.
NOTES AND NOTIONS
November 17, 1917. The Liverpool Football Echo
By “Vin”
Last month we sought out from the archives a record of the first League match ever played between our famous local institutions the Everton and Liverpool Football Clubs. That epoch-marking event took place at Goodison Park on October 13 1894, Everton winning 3-0.
Another delve has been made this time in connection with the return game which was decided six weeks later, namely, on November 17, 1894 –quite a short hiatus compared to more recent times.
Everton had done well up to then in the League securing 18 points out of 22 and leading the table. Liverpool had fared very badly, having only six points within the correspondening time; but of course, it was their initial season in the First Division. Hence there was quite an expectation that Everton would have an easy journey. Teams –“ensembles of standard excellence”;- Everton; Cain; Kelso, Parry; Boyle, Holt, Stewart; Latta, McInnes, Hartley, Chadwick, Jack Bell. Liverpool; McQueen; Hannah, D. McLean; McCartney, McQue, J McLean; McVean, J. Ross, Bradshaw, D. Hannan, Drummond.
Everton’s team showed two changes in personnel from that which did duty in the first match, Kelso figuring as right back in place of Adams, while Edgar Chadwick came in and occupied Hartley’s berth (inside left) the latter taking centre-forward position previously filled by Southworth. On Liverpool’s side there was a greater “strangeness” of constitution from the earlier meeting. M. McQueen re-appeared in goal vice McCann, J. McLean displaced McBride, Drummond Kerr, D. Hannah, McQueen (forward) apart from other shuffling. Over 30,000 spectators assembled. The “house party” included Sir Williams Forwood, Mr. (afterwards Sir) Arthur Forward, the Lord Mayor (Mr. W.H. Watts of Compton House), Sir John Wilcox (M.P. for Everton), Alderman Grindley, &c. Glorious weather prevailed and the ground was in fine conditions. Here is a synopsis of the play;-
Hannah won the toss, and amid tremendous excitement Referee John Lewis gave the order “Go.” A warm pace was set from the start. Liverpool played very pluckily, Davy Hannah almost scoring early on. Bell lost his temper, fouling M. McQueen badly to the greater surprise of the crowd. The Evertonians, indiscreetly enough was apparently getting his own back to a certain extent, for in the preceding game with Liverpool he, during one terrific onslaught on the “reds£ citadel overran himself right into the net, much to the discomfiture of the keeper, McCann, who promptly struck Bell in the face as Mr. Lewis turned to point to the centre for a goal. But that en possant. Liverpool continued to press strongly and more then held their own, keeping Parry, Kelso, and Co. Very busy. Then Everton came along, and Hannah couldn’t resist the temptation to trip Bell. This cost Liverpool dear, Mr. Lewis at once giving a penalty, Kelso scoring amid tumultuous cheering. Liverpool looked like taking revenge, but had no luck whatever and the half time verdict was –Hard Lines for Liverpool!
A mist began to creep over the ground when the second half commenced. Liverpool again began to press, and Hannah very soon equalized to the accompaniment of loud applause. This again roused Everton, and Hartley rushed the ball through, but was given offside. The teams began to slacken down, and no wonder. Everton then made another spurt but their shooting was bad. Evertonians ran high as Alec Latta restored Everton’s lead the fourth time amid uproarious scenes of enthusiasm.
Then ensued a big bombardment by Liverpool. The crowd held their breath the while, Everton retaliated strongly. In the very last minute Kelso “ducked” to Drummond who turned a somersault over him. A penalty was promptly granted and Ross equalized. The scene when the whistle sounded a second later baffled description, Result 2-2.
This ended one of the most exciting games ever witnessed on Merseyside. Even now after almost a quarter of a century, the imagination boogies at the very thought of a match with so much feverish interest “residing” in it. The “Football Echo” was “different” as the Americans say, in those days – “a child in a go-cart,” so to speak.
Mr. John Lewis who controlled a record number of Everton-Liverpool games, has at last emerged from his retirement. At the age of sixty-three he has within the last few days been wilding the whistle at a Military charity game or two. In the realm of football this splendid veteran has had a wonderful career. Forty-two years ago he called the meeting at which the Blackburn Rovers F.C was formed, was an official and a playing member and has retained an unbroken connection with the club.
For a quarter of a century he officiated regularly as a referee in which capacity he controlled the first Association Cup final at the Crystal Place in 1895 between Aston Villa and West Bromwich again in 1897 the memorable Everton and Aston Villa game, and, or the third time in 1898 – Notts Forest and Derby County. It is an interesting circumstance that Mr. Lewis, who has referred well over 1,000 League matches was the first “outsider” to be entrusted with an English Cup Final for prior to 1895 the referees for the riband fixture were chosen from the F.A Council to which he had not then been elected when he appeared at the Crystal Palace. As a football legislator and temperance advocate he has won great renown. On interesting yarns he has an almost interhandable supply. One must suffice Years and years ago a gentleman who had been a famous Blackburn Rover took to refereeing. In the first match a player ran up to him and said “Mr. Referee there’s a fellow yonder says he’ll punch my – head off.” “Well” replied Mr. Referee. “If he does I’ll send him off the field.” The aggrieved one scattered his head for a moment and then with an expression of disgust on his face exclaimed, “Then go to –
Mr. Lewis was enrolled as a special constable to assist in quelling the cotton riots in 1878 and no after a lapse of 39 years he is again doing duty as a “special.” In this and in many other ways he is doing his bit. His return to the game arena recalls my own efforts in connection with the Roll Of Honour match at Anfield (Liverpool and Everton) two seasons back. Anxious to make the affair irresistibly attractive I waited on a well-known director of Liverpool’s board and courteously suggested Mr. Lewis’s name as referee “for old times sake.”
Everton have granted the free use of their ground for the Belgian Army v British Army match on Wednesday next.
DUVAL’ REPORTS EVERTON-OLDHAM GAME
November 17, 1917. The Liverpool Football Echo
Wednesday’s Game
On Wednesday next, at Goodison Park, there is a big match which must draw your interest. The Belgian soldiers will play a picked side of well-known Soccer players if the game is anything like as good as the last military match played before the Goodison Park people – the Military International –it will more than suffice. The gate receipts go to charity.
Soldiers Side at Goodison Park
At Goodison Park on Wednesday a Belgian military team will oppose a British Army eleven. British team- Sergeant K. Campbell (Lancs and Ches R,G.A); Corp Coates (898 Co. A.B.C), Lance-Corpl Stansfield (Lancs Fortess R.E); Pte Pearson (3rd Cheshire), Corpl Robinson (3rd Cheshire), Pte Craig (S.W.B); Segt Jenkins (S.W.B), Bombardier Chambers (Lancs and Ches R.G.A), Regimental Q.M. Sergt –Trant (3rd Border Reg), Lancl-Col Pierce (3rd Border Reg), and Second-Lieut-Cobben (3rd Border Reg). The Belgian team will be the guest of Olympia’s management at the first house on Wednesday).
Everton at Oldham won, and to-day’s game looked something like a walk-over till we learnt that the Everton tam was not at full strength. Still, it was good to see Cordall again, and there were others deputizing. Teams; Everton; Mitchell, goal; Guttridge and Thompson (captain), backs; Fleetwood, Wareing and Cordall, half-backs; Murray, Jefferis, Gault, Clennell, and Donnachie, forwards. Oldham; Butterworth, goal; Grundy and Johnston, backs; Canavagh, Littleford, and Wilson, half-backs; Taylor, Gray, Ousey, Aldred, Gee and Davies, forwards.
Oldham made a number of changes from the side originally selected and the game started 10 minutes late. Oldham led off and Fleetwood after being beaten, broke up a nice movement by the Oldham left wing. This paved the way for a forward movement by the Blues and Donnachie put in two excellent centres which were nullified by Gault and Jefferis being offside. Taylor might have opened the scoring for Oldham but he failed to trap the ball adjacent to the upright. Jefferis was again offside a decision which he disputed with the referee, and a moment later when Gault was given offside the crowd showed its disapproval in n uncertain fashion. Donnachie got well through the Oldham defence and Grundy had to concede a corner, to get rid of the opposition. Wilson was wide with a pass the ball going out to Murray, who placed nicely for Gault, and the first real attempt at scoring came when Gault making excellent use of the chance drove at the Oldham goal. Thus early Murray showed signs of improvement than he had previously made and he chipped in an excellent shot that just shaved the upright.
Player Leaves The Field
Ousey left the field limping after ten minutes play. The game opened quietly, and so far there was little snap in the play, Clennell tried a long shot, but he was a bit wide and a free kick taken near the corner flag redeemed Mitchell some trouble in clearing. Oldham’s damaged player returned after few minutes. A cute pass from Jefferis put Murray in possession although the winger was unable to make progress, Fleetwood however, kept up the attack on the Oldham goal, and Gault drove hard against the upright. This was followed by a nice movement on the part of the Oldham forwards, but there was a lack of vigour in the attack, and Mitchell was not troubled.
Clennell Heads a Goal
Donnachie was the prime mover in Everton’s initial success, but he had to drive across twice before Clennell successfully piloted the ball into the net with his head. Everton no doubt earned their goal, for there were certainly more method and vigour in the home attack than in that of the visitors. In the next few minutes Mitchell had his busiest and most exciting time. He cleverly handled a header from Aldred and a moment later when the Oldham centre had pierced the Everton defence Mitchell made a daring save by leaving his goal and falling on the ball as Aldred was preparing to shoot.
Butterworth fielded a long drive from Donnnachie and Gault ought to have got a second point had he taken a first-time shot from Clennell’s pass instead of hesitating and thus losing possession. Murray’s dropped a beautiful ball into the corner of the goal, and Butterworth was rather lucky in getting his hands to it. Donnachie finished up tricky and effective foot-work by shooting wide, but at this stage there was no mistaking the superiority of the Everton attack. Gault placed admirably for Murray, whose centre was of nice proportion although it was not turned to profitable account. Shortly before the interval Wareing caused Butterworth to concede a corner in getting rid of a hard shot, and Mitchell got down nicely to a ground drive by Gee. Donnachie was Everton’s most forceful forward, and it was from this quarter that most of the attack developed.
Half-time; Everton 1, Oldham 0.
The game was resumed without the players leaving the field, and Oldham immediately set up a brisk attack on the Everton goal. Fleetwood was so hard pressed that he had to give a corner but this did not get rid of the pressure and Ousey snapping up a more centre equalized after 50 minutes’ play.
On Level Terms
Oldham deserved to draw level, because there was determination in every movement since the interval. Oldham’s dash was something of a surprise and Everton’s defence was grandly prepared for such tactics. With the teams on level terms interest increased and Oldham were all out to maintain or improve their position. Cordall nearly put through his own goal when he headed the ball out of Mitchell’s hand. Another surprise came at the end of sixty minutes when Everton added a second goal through Clennell. It was the result of a clever individual effort that showed Clennell at his best. He worked the ball through a crowd of players and finished with a shot that struck the foot of the upright and bounded over the line. Thompson’s pass back to Mitchell almost undone, because the goalkeeper was unprepared for a move, although he managed to get to the ball. Clennell tried another, which had the merits of his earlier attempt. At 73 minutes Gault added a third for Everton, Butterworth just failing to reach the ball with his full length effort.
Goal Scorers
Clennell scored for Everton after 20 minutes
Ousey scored for Oldham after 50 minutes
Clennell scored for Everton after sixty minutes
Gault scored for Everton after 73 minutes
Clennell scored for Everton after 82 minutes
EVERTON’S HOME WIN
November 19, 1917. The Liverpool Echo
Although Everton were a much better side than Oldham they did not win without a struggle; in fact the most interesting part of the contest came after Oldham had drawn level in the second half. Play in the initial half was poor, but once Oldham had equalized the game assumed a more vigorous life, and both sides put in their best work. For a time there was really little to choose between the sides until Everton gradually word down their opponents and eventually deserved their victory. The goal scorers were Clennell (3), Gault, Ously, and Gee. Everton held a big advantage in the forwards. There was more method, vigour and skill in the home attack, and Donnachie was easily the best forward on view. He was forceful and accurate and it was Donnachie initiative that caused the Oldham defenders most trouble. Jefferis’s clever footwork was effective and Clennell’s accurate shooting played an important part in Everton’s success.
EVERTON WIN
November 19, 1917, The Evening Express
By CRI
There was a “sure” feeling at Goodison; but the good nearly came undone, for at one point of the game the Blues were by no means convincing. All through the first half they were the better team, but at times there was a –tameness about the game which did not promise victory. Everton’s first goal came in twenty minutes, Donnachie lobbing the ball in front of goal for Clennell to head into the net. The second half had only been in progress five minutes when the Athletic were on level terms. During those few minutes they had shown greatly improved form, quite disorganizing the home side. Davies and Gee overpowered Guttridge, a St. Helens youth, with the result that Ousey had a chance from short range and he scored with a ball which beat Mitchell at the way. The goal acted as a tonic on the Blues. They settled to their work and ten minutes later Clennell scored again after as clever a bit of individual work as one could wish to see. Gault added a third, while Clennell proved the ability as a marksman by outting on the fourth and his own third. Oldham’s second goal came a minute from time, Gee finding the net. Regarding the players, Mitchell kept a good goal. Thompson set an inspiring example of hard work and Guttridge did enough to be worth a further trail. Cordall’s heading was useful, but Fleetwood was the best of the line, having a smarter lot to circumvent than Wareing. Forward, Gault’s old habit of lying so far forward as to be easily thrown offside spoilt several openings, but when he was allowed to go on he was very dangerous. Clennell was right on the spot, but the others were none too deadly.
Belgian Visit
A match will be played on the Everton Football Ground, Goodison Park, kindly lent by the directors free of charge, between a British army eleven and a Belgian team, on Wednesday; kick-off 2.45. The prices of admission will be;- Boys 4d., ground only 8d, Allied Soldiers and sailors half price, seats 1s, 3d, and 2s 4d, including tax. Allied wounded soldiers and sailors and nurses in uniform admission free. Reserves seats price 2s 4d, can be booked in advance on application to Mr. C.W. Cuff, secretary, Everton Football Echo Club, Goodison Park, Liverpool, who has kindly undertaken the necessary arrangements for the match. The formation of the British army team is in the hands of the Mersey Defence Headquarters A.D.C. The sale of programmes and picture postcards will be undertaken by twenty girls from amongst the many Belgian refugees who have been fortunate enough to make their home in Liverpool district. By kind permission a military band will be in attendance.
DID OLDHAM SCORED A SECOND GOAL?
November 20, 1917. The Liverpool Evening Express
By CRI
The question is prompted by a letter received from an Everton reader signing himself “Sandy” who also asserts that it was Taylor and Wilson who should be credited with the Oldham goals, and not Ousey and Gee. That may easily be, because when one is writing a change in positions, may go unnoticed and when the faces of some of the visitors are not familiar, confusion is likely to follow unless a fellow scribes happens to have spotted what took place. The chief point friend “sandy” raises however, is as to the legitimacy of the second goal awarded to the visitors by Referee Heald. His version is that Wilson shot from twenty yards and Mitchell failed to hold the ball. “Although the referee allowed it, there was no goal, because Mitchell was out of goal and dropped the ball a good foot from the goal line. I was behind the goal and everyone else behind it will agree with me. I am quite sure that from the Press box you could not see very well because of the mist.
This says “Sandy” and there is this in his favour, that the Everton players were very loth to middle the ball and seemed much of the same mind as my correspondent that the point should not count. However the referee has the final word, and the goal made no difference to the result so “Sandy” having ventilated his views will probably be satisfied but I assure him that friendly criticism is at all times welcome.
Army Eleven
As stated in my column yesterday, a team of Belgian soldiers direct from the front are playing a series of matches in the country, the proceeds going to buy sports outfits for the men of the Belgian Army. Most of the men are internationals, and tomorrow they meet an Army eleven at Goodison Park, kick-off 2.45 p.m. The game is under influential auspices, and as the Belgians have already defeated one powerful combination, there should be a good crowd present to see how they fare against the following eleven;- Segt K. Campbell (Lancashire and Cheshire R.G.A); Cpl Coats (A.S.C), Lce Cpl Stansfield (Lancashire (Fortess) R.E); Pte Pearson (3 Cheshire), Cpl Robinson (3rd Cheshire); Pte Craig (3rd South Wales Borders); Segt Jenkins (3rd South Wales Borderers); Bomb Chamblers (Lancashire and Cheshire R.G.A), Reg Q.M Sergt Trant (3rd Border Regiment), Lce-Cpl Pierce (3rd Borderer Regiment), and Second Lieut Cabbon (3rd Border Regiment).
LETTER FROM WELLER, OF EVERTON
November 20, 1917. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes
Dear “Bee” – Many thanks for your kind and welcome letter. With reference to my first letter to you, I have received a football through Jack Sharp from a customer of his, who I presume, is an Evertonian, and I must say a kind gentleman, too, as we hardly knew how to pass out spare time way until it arrived yesterday. I have writted and thanked the gentleman on behalf of the boys of the 19th Motor Machine Gunners, which I hope he will receive in due course. It is well appreciated and we can occupy our spare time with the good old game. We have been here (where) a month waiting to embark for the East, as I said in my last letter, and during our stay we arranged a match with a big French club, the Olympic. It was a great day for the French according to plan and they fully expected to win although they knew out team had about five professionals. Excepting myself, Jones of Preston, Allan of Clyde and Arthur Woodland (whom you will recognize as S.O. Else) they were all young lads, and had not played much in good football. However the game started, and we at once noticed that they were very speedy and played the kick and rush style. They had the wind assisting them in the first half, but we had all the play, though we could do anything but score. And no wonder, for if ever we were pressing their whole eleven would pack their goal, so the first half finished 0-0. The second half was very one-sided, as they were run off they feet and goals by Allan (2), Captain Brown, and Gunner Russell gave us an easy 4-0 victory, which might have been 14-0. The French have an important big match on December 2, and they have asked Arthur Allan and me to assist them but that all depends if we have sailed or not and get permission from our C.C. We expect to be by then on our way East to try conclusions with the Turks in the other game. With regard to injuries or wounds there are none but I am pleased to say that in our last stunt Arthur and I came out very luck and shook hands with ourselves. I assure you it was a hot shop where we were. We were in action on our gun, and we had another one about eight yards on our right and old Fritz dropped one of his heavy ones right on the latter gun and killed three of the team. They were all good lads and we were sorry to lose them. Well, “Bee,” I think I have said all this time. Best wishes from all. S.C. Weller.
PROMISING LOCAL FOOTBALLERS
Ormskirk Advertiser - Thursday 22 November 1917
Mr. W.C. Cuff the secretary of the Everton Football Club, has written to the hon, secretary of the Westhead F.C., offering that Club’s players Gregson (Skelmersdale) and Tommy Ashton (Bursclough), a trial with Everton and they are asked to report at Goodison Park on Saturday next. Both these players played against Everton “A” in the recent Red Cross medal competition at Ormskirk.
EVERTON’S GOOD CHANCE AT BURY GROUND
November 23, 1917. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes
Everton being called to Bury, especially as we know the Everton side to be better represented than for some weeks. Bury are study and Everton will need to play hard and long ad shoot often if they are to win, which I think they will manage all-right. Everton; Mitchell; Thompson, Robinson; Fleetwood, Wareing, Grenyer; Murray, Jefferis, Gault, Clennell, Donnachie. Bury; Cornthwaite; Thompson, Charlton; Yarwood, Peaks, Culshaw; Hailsworth, Hewitt, Lythgoe, Wright, A. Smith.
For the Fund
Everton, Liverpool, South Liverpool and Tranmere are out to raise a goodly sum for that very desirable object called the Sportsman Ambulance Fund, and it is proposed to do this by means of a medal competition. The first events take place at Dingle Park tomorrow, when the South and Liverpool Reserves meet. The match will be a fine draw, and South-enders who are credited with being great sports have a unique opportunity of showing their deep interest in the great national game, and assisting their local club to raise a large amount for the splendid object. Mr. W.R. Clayton, Everton’s chairman is keenly interested in the fund and considers that football should contribute handsomely to the same. The football enthusiasm has always been to the fore in works of charity as instanced by the large sums raised both during war time and pre-war days.
BURY v. EVERTON.
Manchester Evening News - Saturday 24 November 1917
The Visitors’ Early Score.
BURY WELL BEATEN.
A very strong wind swept from end to end at Gigg Lane this afternoon. Rochdale, being without a match, lent O'Connell and Albert Smith to assist Bury, who had a strong team though without Chorlton at back. The visitors had a couple of changes from last week including Stewart for Murray. There were about 1,000 spectators present when Bury, having lost the toss, started against the wind. The opening exchanges were even until Donnachie got going and put the ball well across. Culshaw headed to O'Connell who failing to get the ball away, put back to Cornthwaite, who conceded a corner, but Stewart placed the flag-kick behind. There was little to chosen between the teams, most of the play being confined to midfield. Eventually Wailing sent the ball out to Donnachie, who beat Thomson for possession, and then instead of shooting from a favourable position preferred to put the ball in front of goal, where gault standing unmarked easily registered the first goal after seven minutes’ play.
A minute later Gault netted again. Immediately afterwards Bury were making raid when Lythgoe was tripped by Robinson, and the home centre-forward scored from the resulting penalty kick. Everton next pressed, and Donnachie tested Cornthwaite with long drive. Smith made a speedy run, but was dispossessed. A corner, however, accrued, which Smith splendidly placed, and Bury were within an ace of scoring. Effective work on the Everton left gave them a footing, and Donnachie had a good shot kept out the Bury keeper. Everton were now having the best of the game, and melee on the Bury line resulted in a corner for the visitors, from which Gault scored his third goal. Bury tried make amends the left, but Smith and Wright failed to beat Thompson. Thompson spoiled Donnachie, but Bury had some difficulty in clearing the danger, and Grenyer got a capital shot, which, however, went wide of the post. The wind affected the play, making it difficult to judge the flight of the ball. Another corner came to Everton, and Donnachie dropping the ball in a favourable position the visitors would have scored again had not Crosthwaite been on the alert. A chance, however, came their way, as, following a throw in from touch, Jefferson sent, the ball past Crosthwaite for the fourth time after thirty minutes. Bury made unsuccessful raid on the left, when Halworth was in possession with a clear field, but was adjudged offside. Everton, however, were having the best of the play, being smarter with the ball, and were aided by the Wind. Hewitt made grant run to the centre from outside his own half until almost the penalty line, where he was tripped, Lythgoe nearly scoring from the open kick. Following this the visitors had another corner, and the Bury goal was in jeopardy as the ball veered towards the goal, but Comthwaite saved. Half-time: Everton 4, Bury 1
SECOND HALF.
The game was restarted without the players leaving the field. End-to-end play was the order for some time. Then Bury made a determined attack, and Lythgoe experienced ill-luck with grand shot, which struck the crossbar and rebounded into play. A little later, by a dash up the touch-line Donnachie, he crossed to Stewart, who lifted the ball back in the goalmouth, but Thomson succeeded getting it away. Everton returned to the attack, and Stewart sent in a capital shot, Cornthwaite failing to clear. He managed to kick the ball a few yards and Clennell getting held returned it in front of goal to score one of the easiest of goals ten minutes after the interval. On two occasions Bury attacked and looked like scoring before a long drive from the left found the Everton goal in difficulties. Mitchell was unable to clear on the second occasion and Lythgoe following up his own shot reduced the arrears. Yarwood extricated the Bury goal from an attack, but Everton maintained an aggressive attitude until O’Connell frustrated their efforts. Twice in quick succession the Bury custodian saved from Donnachie and Jefferis.
Everton 5, Bury 2.
EVERTON AT BURY
November 24, 1917. The Liverpool Football Echo
F.E.H Special on the Away Match
Stronger Side
Blues Take Commanding Lead
Everton had a stronger side today than for many weeks. Thompson, Fleetwood, Grenyer, Wareing, and company were all selected and therefore even allowing for Bury’s help from other clubs, Everton were sure to put up a very strong side. Leaden clouds made the outlook more bleak and the trees that fringed the two sides of the Gigg-Lane enclosure made melancholy means. Under the circumstances a small attendance was not unexpected and the spectators when operations began, were mainly wounded soldiers and keen followers of the game. The Evertonians found themselves without Murray at the last moment, and Stewart, the full back took his place. The home team were able to take the field with a fairly strong eleven. Teams; Everton; Mitchell, goal; Thompson (captain) and Robinson, backs; Fleetwood, Wareing and Grenyer, half-backs; Stewart, Jefferis, Gault, Clennell, and Donnachie, forwards. Bury; Cornithwaite, goal; Thompson and Culshaw, backs; Peaks, O’Connell, and Yarwood, half-backs; Hailsworth, Hewitt, Lythgoe, Wright and A. Smith, forwards. Referee; Mr. Baker, of Crewe. It was ten minutes to three before a start was made, the visitors being the last to turn out. Thompson, however, made amends by winning the toss, and Bury started in the teeth of the gale. The opening exchanges were of a rather scrambling character, as was only to be anticipation, but Everton were able to force play on the left and gave a corner. Thus the wind took the place kick far over the target and after some rough and tumble work, play reminded in midfield. The same left wing made smart headway under difficult conditions but they were eventually pulled up by Thompson and the visitors then settled down to make the best of the advantage which the breeze gave them.
Gault Opens The Scoring
Donnachie raced down the wing with lightning like rapidity and eluding the home backs he put the ball right to Gault, who scored with a swift shot. There was an appeal for offside, but it was ignored by the referee. Right down the centre the Evertonians again swooped down on the Bury goal, and from a pass Jefferis, Gault scored a second goal. There were loud shouts in the instance for “offside” and certainly it looked like a near thing, but Mr. Baker apparently was quite satisfied that it was a legitimate goal. The double reverse, far from having a depressing effect on the home side, seemed to stimulate them.
A Tripping Incident
They came away in well ordered fashion and Robinson was guilty of tripping Lythgoe in the penalty area. The claim was at once conceded, and Lythgoe had the satisfaction of administering potetic justice to himself by netting just out of Mitchell’s reach. After this pace was exceedingly merry and though the storm still proved a great handicap, the players managed to give us the phases of clever footwork. The work of the Everton halves was so good that Bury were quite unable to make any substantial progress for a considerable period. The left wing pair, however advanced cleverly and Wright sent in a high shot which the breeze carried away. Everton were soon on the attack again, and once more their movements were crowned with success. The left wing pair forced a corner, and from this the leather was sailing into the net when the Bury keeper fisted out. He was however, only able partially and Gault who was lying well up unmarked was able to direct the ball into the net –thus doing the hat-trick. As may be imagined the Evertonians were now in clover, and they were able to content themselves with a lively exhibition of skilled football. Shots were rained in at Cornthwaite from the three inside forwards and once again the keeper’s defence was feeble. In this instance however, the offside rule came into operation, and the point was disallowed. The Evertonians, however, were most persistent, and time after it was only the wind that prevented them adding to the score. Further success nevertheless was in front of them, for following upon the throw-in Jefferis gave his side a fourth goal.
Half-time; Bury 1, Everton 4.
Comments
With the elements all in their favour a much better-balanced side, the Evertonians were literally all over the opponents in the first half. Lythgoe had tried strenuously to lead his wings in the face of the hurricane but the weather and the Evertonians’ half-back line were too much for them. Wareing and company were solid as backs, and the spasmodic assaults that did overwhelm them were permitted to fructify. The Everton vanguard had shown all its cleverness in complication and Gault for once in a way, turned all his opportunities to account.
Goal Scorers
Gault scored twice for Everton
Lythgoe scored for Bury from a penalty
Gault scored a third for Everton
Jefferis scored a fourth for Everton
Gault scored a fifth goal for Everton
Lythgoe scored a second goal for Bury
GAULT HELPS HIMSELF
November 26, 1917. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes
At Bury Gault had a field day “F.E.H” comments thusly;-
There was not only a goodly crop of goals at Gigg-Lane on Saturday, but a capital game in which Everton showed that ability to run superior to the raving of the elements. There may be accounting to Gilbert “beauty in bellow of the blast” but tornadoes are not conducive to correct football as general custom. The Goodison Park contingent proved the exception to the rule it indicates a comparatively easy defeat upon Bury by 5 goals to 2. Starting with their backs to the gale, the Evertonians lost little time in a curing and consolidating a lead, and except for a few precious –when they secured from a penalty –Bury were never in the hunt, Even when they held the weather gauge the home side were quite unable to beat down the splendid half-back line to which they were opposed and though there were several desperate rallies towards the finish, Everton’s fortune were never really in jeopardy. The forward work of the Everton line we exceptionally smart under the conditions and Gault, for once in a way had the pleasure and satisfaction of seeing his individual methods fructify to the fourth numeral. Two of the goals seemed just “ a leetle,” near the off-side margin but the referee had no doubts as to their legitimacy.
GOOD GAULT
November 26, 1917. The Evening Express
By CRI
As was generally anticipated Everton came through successfully at Bury, where the squally nature of the weather afforded them an opportunity of demonstrating their ability to dispose of a side that was at any rate equally as keen as themselves. Their success was due in the main to the fact that the players a most to a man, adapted their methods o the prevailing conditions, both when playing with and against wind, and by reason of another marksmanship they clinched the issue in their favour by no fewer than 5 goals to 2 (rites “Overs”) the half-time score, when they were favoured by the breeze being 4-1. Much of Everton’s success was due to the untiring work and well-directed efforts at the half-backs who all through combated the difficult conditions with good judgment. Fleetwood was a rare worker, while Wareing was a successful pivot and Grenyer quite held his own Donnachie was the most aggressive of the forwards, though capital footwork by Jefferis was always an outstanding feature. Galt keeping himself more within bounds than is his wont had an opportunity of displaying the effectiveness of his finishing efforts, and secured four of the five goals, Jefferis competing the toil. In his unaccustomed position Stewart did not shape badly on occasion, but generally he lay too far back to be of assistance to his partner Thompson and Robinson defended well, and Mitchell did all that was possible in goal Cormthwaite also gave a good account of himself as Bury’s custodian, and while Thomson and Culshaw rendered able assistance Peake accomplished much good work as the pivot of the team. The forwards were uneven the most thrustful being Lythgoe who in the first half converted a penalty against Robinson, and scored a capital goal in the second portion.
EVERTON SELECTIONS
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 27 November 1917
Everton have selected the following team to play against Bury at Goodison Park on Saturday. ; Mitchell; Thompson, Robinson: Fleetwood, Wareing, Grenyer; Murray, Jefferis, Gault, Clennell, and Donnachie. Everton's reserve team against South Liverpool, at Dingle Park, Saturday, will be:— , Best.; Guttridge, Riley, Daly, Cordall, Cotter, Bain, Lovelady, Ashton, Twiss, and Gregson.
THE OLD FIRM
November 28, 1917. The Liverpool Evening Express
By CRI
Everton are able to reply on the usual team for their return match with Bury at Goodison Park on Saturday. The chosen eleven is; Mitchell; Thompson, and Robinson; Fleetwood, Wareing, Grenyer; Murray, Jefferis, Gault, Clennell, and Donnachie.
The Reserves play South Liverpool at Dingle kick-off 2.30. Everton Reserves; Best; Guttridge, and Riley; Bailey, Cordall, and Potter; Baine, Lovelady, Ashton, Swift, and Gregson.
Famous Footballer Drowned
It was reported in Middlesbrough yesterday that Bobbie Atherton, the famous international footballer, has been drowned at sea by the sinking, either through a mine or submarine of a merchant vessel on which he was engaged. He was with the Hibernains when they won the Scottish Cup in 102, and later joined the Middlesbrough Club, for whom he played for several in various positions in the forward line. Atherton appeared three times against England and Ireland and twice against Scotland, from 1899 to 104.
Military Medal Awards.
Ballymena Observer - Friday 30 November 1917
It is officially announced that the Military Medal has been awarded to 7574. Sergeant J. Houston, Royal Irish Rifles, for bravery in the field. The act for which he received the coveted honour, was gallant one. During an attack on the enemy lines, all the officers being put out of action, Sergeant Houston took command of the platoon. He led the attack in face of murderous fire, advanced 200 yard's, and succeeded in taking and holding the objective for 36 hours, until help arrived. Sergeant Houston, who is natvie of Ballymena, is the well-known Linfield footballer, and Irish International forward, and who assisted Everton for a number of years. He left for the front early in the present year, and was home leave recently, playing for the blues against Cliftonville. His wife resides in Belfast.
BEE’S FORWARD ON THE EVERTON HOME MATCH
November 30, 1917. The Liverpool Echo
Bury reinforced by helpmates from Rochdale put up a useful fight against Everton, but found Gault in merry mood. Tomorrow the return fixture at 2.30 and will consist of 80 minutes. Everton, at full strength must be an attractive side, and their recent victories have redeemed the side from a streaky period in their season’s work. Their football, ever of an art pattern should be worth seeing tomorrow, for they can let their fancy fly hither and thither. Everton; Mitchell; Thompson, Robinson; Fleetwood, Wareing, Grenyer; Murray, Jefferis, Gault, Clennell, Donnachie. Bury; Cormthwaite; Thompson, Culshaw; Peake, O’Connell, Yarwood; Hallisworth, Hewitt, Lythgoe, Wright, A. Smith.
Everton with their accustomed resource are sending a really strong eleven to Dingle and should draw South-end people there. It will be remembered that they vanquished St Helens Alexandra away. We should therefore see a fine match. Team; Kite; J. Page, Jenkinson; Owen, Williams, Jones; E. Williams; Taylor, Bottomomore, Dawson, T. Page, and Pattium, Welding is now fully recovered.
November 1917