EVERTON SIDE TOMORROW
The Liverpool Echo -Friday November 2 1923
Bee’s Notes
I was talking with a man who has played the game for years-Ernie Magner, the former centre forward, a fine fellow, who is just now at home after a coaching period in Holland, and he says that he has been privileged to see Neil McBain’s football, and, in his own phrase, McBain’s is a charm in the game. I asked Ernes to what struck his most about McBain’s play. His reply was, “That peculiar method he has of dragging the ball with the sole of his foot.” You will have noticed hat McBain draws upon the back-heel and the drag-back pattern more the most people, and Magner considered the way he “soled” the ball with his foot was one of the many joys of his game. Now tomorrow Everton are at Bramall lane, and that means hefty work. Everton; Fern; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. Sheffield United; Gough; Cook, Milton; Pantling, Waugh, Green; Mercer, Sampey, Johnson, Gillespie, Tunstall.
GROUNDS AND THEIR CUSTOMS
Different grounds have different customs for many clubs. Everton have never contracted a habit of winning at Bramall-lane. Last season they fought a good fight, and this, in spite of Jock McDonald nursing a hefty blow on the jaw from his own goalkeeper! Sheffield United have come to the light through Gillespie and Tunstall, the old man working wonders through Tunstall, who has lived and learnt. I am bold enough to think that Everton can effect even more than a draw to-morrow, and I’ll tell you the reason-the United half-backs and full-backs have never been good enough to the writer’s point of view. Give the Everton half-backs plenty of room, such as at Bramall lane, and they should make that vital difference work miracles. There has been some doubt about Jack Cock and the captain, Hunter Hart, appearing in the game; but, so far as Hart is concerned, I have it from his own lips that he will play, and I learn that Cock has been at the ground, and is now a distinct probable starter. It may seem absurd, just as did the prophecy about Liverpool last week, but I fancy another double to-morrow for the reasons stated.
YOUNG LIVERS’ DEBUT
At Goodison Park on Saturday, with kick-off 1.30 p.m., the schoolboys of Liverpool and Bootle will meet in the first round of the 1923-24 English Schools Championship. Last season the Bootle boys gained their first victory over their friends and rivals of the larger city, and the young Livers are naturally eager to wipe out the stain on their escutcheon. Liverpool will field a capable side, and a rattling game of representatives schoolboys football is assured. Stewards for the match are requested to be in attendance at 12.45. Liverpool’s team (blue)- Garner (St. Margaret’s); Morrison (Arnot-street), Blacklock, capt, (Arnot-street); Chesworth (Garston C.E), Cole (St. Francis’ Garston), Roberts (Granby-street); Hatton (Beaufort-street), King (Arnot-street), Prince (Beaufort-street), Elcock (Longmoor-lane), Reanney (Anfield-road). Reserves- Bowan (Arnot-street), Cooper (Clinton-road), Good (Walton lane).

DERBY COUNTY RES. v. EVERTON
Derby Daily Telegraph - Saturday 03 November 1923
This match was played to-day before about a thousand spectators, a large number regular supporters having accompanied the first team to Stoke. The visitors had three Internationals on view in Harrison, Forbes, and Parry, whilst Derby also fielded a good side, Keetley, who is on the injured list, being replaced by Bromage. The team were— Derby : Lawrence; Findlay, Ritchie; McLaverty, Wightman, Edgar; Jamieson, Bromage, Paterson. Moore, and Rowe. Everten: Harland; Raith, Helsby; Peacock, Weir, Grenyer; Parry, Miller, Forbes, Williams and Harrison.  Derby opented well, considering the condition of the ground, and Harland saved with difficulty from a free kick taken by Wightman from just outside the penalty area. Harland dropped the ball, which was travelling at a great pace, but Raith fortunately kicked clear. A shot by Bromage hit the post in another attack. Lawrence was laid out and needed attention after stopping a rush by the Everton right wing. All the players slipped at time,  the greasy surface, -which at times tended to spoil the game. At the end of seventeen minutes, the Derby forwards rushed down the line, Harland coming out to meet them, when Moore shot through an untenanted goal. The, visitors retaliated, and Miller, when well placed, looked like equalising, but the ball was deflected by Wightman, who had dropped back. Then Moore beat the defence and left Paterson in from short range, the latter slipped, and his effort failed. The game was fairly even in character, Lawrence being as much called upon the man the other end of the field. The home custodian saved a good shot by Forbes, and another near the upright from Parry, while in a further attack Harrison hit the side net. The County resumed the offensive, and Moore was only inches wide with a ground shot from a pass Paterson. Half-time arrived with the County leading 1 —0. Early in tho second half Harland fell full length saving from Rowe during a promising left wing.  Shooting on the run Jamieson, on the other wing, sent across the goalmouth after he had got the backs and had only Harland to beat. Derby were proving themselves the more dangerous combination. The Everton backs were frequently beaten, and on one occasion Paterson drove hard from short range, Harland luckily getting his leg the way when least expected. Play continued the County's favour, and they never relaxed their efforts. Midway through the second Everton backs were once more under pressure and Paterson, getting clean through, placed the County further ahead with a good drive from fifteen yards out. Lawrence was now having a comparatively easy time of it, his forwards keeping ball in the other part of the field Harland was again beaten by just before close following another good run by' the home forwards. Final—Derby County Res three, Everton Res. 0.

THE HUMBLE ORIGIN OF EVERTON
Sheffield Independent - Saturday 03 November 1923
A CLUB THAT HAS INFLUENCED FOOTBALL HISTORY
The Everton team, who are due at Bramell Lane today, are perhaps the most formidable foe, whom Sheffield United have entertained this season.  The United have not yet been beaten on their own ground, and it will be interesting to see whether the Evertonians can succeed where other visitors have failed.  The Everton Club had a humble origin in Liverpool, known as the St. Domingo Cricket Club, run by the young men attending the Congregational Chapel in St. Domingo Vale.  The Members were so keen on cricket that they decided to play football on Saturday afternoon in order to keep themselves fit, and this they began to do in 1878 in a public recreation ground called Stanley Park.   The following year they adopted the name of St. Domingo Football Club and began to play matches against purely local elevens; but the members were full of ambition, and at a general meeting in 1879 they changed the name to Everton. 
The Old Time Gate
Four years later they got an enclosed ground at Anfield and their first gate realised the sum of 14s.  In the season 1883-84 they won their first trophy, the Cup offered by the newly-formed Liverpool Association, defeating Earlestown in the final, a victory which gave the club a great stimulus.  In season 1884-85 they moved to the Anfield road enclosure, where the Liverpool Club, whose existence is due to a split in the Evertonian management, at present hold away.  There they played until Goodison Park was opened by the late Lord Kinnard in 1892.  Everton are one of the original twelve clubs who formed the Football league in 1888-9.  They won the championship in the Third season of the existence of the competition, but had to wait 24 years, namely, until 1914-15 before they again gained that honour.  They have been great League fighters, and have never figured in the Second Division.  Besides twice winning the Championship they have finished second half a dozen times, and third on four occasions. 
As Cup-Fighters
Four times have Everton appeared in the final of the English Cup, once to won the Cup by beating Newcastle United in 1906, and three times to be beaten, namely by Wolverhampton in 1893, the Villa in 1897, and by The Wednesday in 1907.  Many famous footballers have played for Everton and in season 1893-94 they had no fewer than twelve internationals in their ranks.  Such players as Nick Ross, Johnny Holt, Edgar Chadwick, Fred Geary, A. Hannah, Dan Doyle, Alexander Latta, Alfred Milward, Bob Kelso, Bob Howarth, Jack Bell, and John Southworth, have at one time or another worn the Everton colours.  In this season's League competition Everton at present stand fifth on the list, one point behind the eladers, Huddersfield Town, but they have played two more matches.  They have two points more than Sheffield United, their opponents of today and have played two more games.  

POSSIBLE DRAW
The Liverpool Echo- Saturday, November 3 1923
By Stork
Everton will find Bramall lane a ground very loth to part with points. Sheffield United have done fairly will so far then season, and it is doubtful whither the surprise defeat by Burnley have done them any harm. From stem to stern they are 9-carat, and if Everton can bring back a point from the Yorkshire centre I will be quite satisfied, I question whether they will be allowed this privilege, despite the fine form they have bene showing in recent weeks. Tunstall, Gillespie, Johnson, Sampy, and Mercer will take a lot of holding; while Waugh and his wing colleagues in the intermediary line will do their utmost to smash the combination of the Everton attack. Johnson in the centre-forward berth takes the place of that unlucky player Menlove. Perhaps the “Blues” will be glad, for they have anything but pleasant memories of the former Crystal Palace leader. Menlove had hardly got back into the side before he was forced into “retirement” through another mishap. Johnson is filling his berth with great credit. He is a first time shot, and keeps his wings going smoothly. McBain will have to be on his best behaviour to check this "live" youth, who is desperately keen to keep his position. Gillespie, although in the veteran stage, is still a power in his side. Fresh from his success in the International game, he will try his utmost to repeat his brilliant form, and if that form is touched woe betide the Everton right flank. The Irishman is as full of tricks as a basketful of monkeys, and he is scheming the best ways and methods to outdo his opponents. If he is unable to beat them down himself he, with amazing accuracy, the ball to a better placed colleague for him to go in and do the damage; and there is such a wealth of talent in the United's front line that it really does not matter whom the ball goes to; it will be made the best use of. Gillespie is particularly dangerous with his head. Liverpool will not forget his header in the Cup-tie in a hurry. In defence the United have a stonewall rear-guard made up of Cook, Milton, and Gough-a trinity that can take all that cometh and more without a turn of the hair. Gough, in goal, is of the spectacular order, but also very effective. The two backs can kick with power and Judgment, while the half-backs are brainy tacklers, although they are much behind the Everton trio when it comes to purveying. There is so little between the side that a draw is not out of the question, and I have come to the conclusion that that is the best result to stand.

HARRY JOHNSON SCORES FOUR
Star Green Un-Saturday 3 November 1923
GREAT TEAM PLAY BY UNITED AGAINST MEN FROM GOODISON
SHEFFIELD UNITED 4 EVERTON 0
By Looker-on
Everton came to Bramall Lane this afternoon, and, in view of their position and also that of Sheffield United, it was expected to be one of the best games to date would be seen on United’s ground. Both clubs are well off for International players and each had five on duty this afternoon, so that so far as talent was concerned everything pointed toa tip-top match. Unfortunately, there was a very high wind blowing and the ground was very slippery as a result of the rain. These things were likely to upset the players. The teams were:— Sheffield United.—Gough; Cook and Milton; Pantling, Waugh, and Green; Mercer, Sampy, Johnson, Gillespie (Captain), and Tunstall. Everton. —Fern; MacDonald and Livingstone; Brown, McBain, and Hart (Captain); Chedgzoy. Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, and Troup. Referee: Mr. J. K. Telford (Preston). Gillespie won the toss, that United had the advantage of both sun and wind. They were soon attacking the Shoreham Street goal. Sampy, following up as Livingstone tried to gather the ball, surprised the back. He was able to put over a good centre, and McDonald only just managed to get his head to ball before Gillespie.
UNITED SOON IN THEIR STRIDE.
Again United came down and Johnson put over a very big pass which Tunstall did remarkably well to gather, but when the winger centred a defender got in the way. Everton's first move of note came when Brown sent up a forward pass. Chedgzoy outstripped the field, and turning into goal, put the ball across. The inside men were not up and the ball went over to Troup, but the Scot shut wide. United, playing, quite well and keeping the ball low, repeatedly made progress. Once Pantling sent the ball forward, and Johnson drove it against the crossbar just as he was whistled up for off-side. Everton made another strong attack, led by Chedgzoy, and from this Cock made a gallant attempt to score, but just headed wide.
TWOFOR JOHNSON.
United gotaway and scored. The ball was worked up on the left, where Tunstall very cleverly beat Brown and MacDonald, and centred to JOHNSON, who was standing unmarked. The centre-forward, with careful aim, easily beat Fern. This was after eleven minutes play. Everton attacked very briskly immediately afterwards and Gough rushed from his goal and only just managed to kick the ball from Troup’s toes as the left-winger was about to convert a pass from the right. However, United were making the most of their chances, and four minutes after the first goal they increased their lead. A well concerted attack looked like being cleared by McDoanldbut theback ballooned the balland it went towards goal. Fern came out and misjudged it, that JOHNSON, who had smartly followed up, was able to rush it into the net. There were loud appeals by the Everton men against the point, so that the referee, after speaking to several of them, walked over and consulted one of the linesmen, and then immediately pointed to the centre of the field, o the accompaniment of a great cheer from the crowd.
GLORIOUS SAVE BY GOUGH.
United were playing irresistible fashion just now, and for the third time got the ball into the net. Johnson again followed up in threatening fashion and upset the backs, beating them and forcing the ball goalwards. However, it struck the upright, and when Mercer rushed and turned it into the net he was offside. After this Everton came into their own again with some very clever football, and United’s defenders were hard pressed. McBain tried a very powerful long shot following one raid, and seemed odds on him scoring, but just as Cock rushed into the goal Gough made last minute dive and turned the ball out in thrilling fashion. The Everton forwards, had capital understanding, and Cock, Irvine, and Chedgzoy were continually dangerous. Everton made another great attack and were helped by a free-kick against Cook, but this was cleared. The home men went-away in great style, to be again rewarded with a goal—a curious one. A strong attack down the middle resulted in Johnson sending in a shot, but the ball was sent out and again Tunstall gathered it. He immediately drove the ball inwards and JOHNSON rushed up. Fern was well beaten, but one of the backs, rushing  into goal, pulled the ball down with his hand, but was unable to prevent it entering the net.
There was some doubt as to who had scored, but I thought that Johnson kicked the ball before it went into the net. This third goal sent the supporters wild with delight, and Johnson was naturally heartily congratulated by his colleagues on his success. Everton were by no means depressed by their reverses and they played really good football, which continually caused anxiety for the crowd. Cock was once unluckyin not getting the better of Milton after some clever work, while Chedgzoy was repeatedly worrying Milton. However, the interval came with United well in front.
Half-time:—Sheffield United 3 Everton  0
During the interval I verified my opinion as to the third goal. It was to the credit Johnson. When the game was resumed the attendance would be about 20,000, the majority of the people being packed under the stands, for rain had fallen sharply. United opened in brisk fashion, and once, when Mercer got away and centred, Tunstall disappointed by sending behind when he might have turned the ball into goaf. Everton gradually progressed and Chedgzoy forced Milton to concede a corner.
UNITED’S WOODWORK HIT.
Gough punched out from the flag-kick, and with his second Chedgzoy struck the upright, the ball going behind. Later a strong attack ended in Irvine heading wide, after a capital centre by Troup. Everton were on the offensively for some-time, but they were not particularly dangerous, though on one occasion Milton did very well to dash across and kick the ball from the toes of Cock when the latter looked like breaking through. United were by no means content with lead, and frequently threatened Everton with further trouble. Gillespie was feeding his forwards in excellent fashion, while the half-backs were also doing well although Chedgzoy was most elusive. Tunstall got in two capital runs and once centred across the goal, the ball almost going through with Fern completely puzzled.
JOHNSON STILL DOING IT
However, within few minutes of this United gained a fourth goal. Johnson was going through when he was fouled a few yards outside the penalty area. Pantling took the kick and carefully placed the ball forward for JOHNSON, who dashed ahead unmarked and easily drove the ball into the net as Fern came out challenge him. This was 20 minutes after the interval, and the crowd gave Johnson an ovation for his brilliant achievement in scoring four consecutive goals. Everton only occasionally gave a flicker of hope that they might score. Troup gained applause for a very clever of dribbling, in which beat three opponents, and when centred Cock drove the ball against the foot the upright. Another quick raid Everton gave Chadwick a chance and he put in powerful oblique shot. It seemed that Gough must be beaten, but, with a superlative effort.  United’s goalkeeper flung himself at the ball and diverted it over the line. This was perhaps the best save of the match. United made one or two- spirited bursts towards the close, but could not add to their score.
Result- Sheffield United 4 Everton 0
COMMENTS ON THE GAME.
By overwhelming Everton in such glorious fashion Sheffield United achieved perhaps their finest feat of the season, for Everton are reckoned amongst the most powerful teams in the division. Taking advantage when the elements favoured them, United secured a capital lead in the first half and strange as it may seem, it was in this period that Everton played their best football. When the teams turned round, it was anticipated that the visitors would make their presence felt, but they failed to stay the pace and were ruled out completely. It was a great day for Harry Johnson, who, for the second time in his League career, scored four goals, but this achievement was out of all proportions better than when he scored his quartette against Birmingham, last season, for the opposition on this this occasion was so much better. All honour to Johnson for his excellent work but at the same time due credit must be given to each one of his colleagues, who played up to him and for their side in excellent style throughout. Gillespie and Tunstall had one of their notable partnerships to the bewilderment of Everton, while Sampy and Mercer, though not so conspicuous, put in a lot of fine work. Once again United’s half backs rose splendidly to the occasion and the way they thwarted the clever Everton forwards was both delightful and commendable. Further behind Milton and Cook offered a very stubborn resistance to determined opponents while Gough was given opportunities to show that is playing as well as at any time in his career. Everton disappointed for after their fine work in the first half, they fell away a lot, and Chedgzoy was undoubtedly their most conspicuous and able player.

EVERTON OVERPOWERED
The Liverpool Football Echo- November 3, 1923
HAT-TRICK AT BRAMALL LANE
JOHNSON’S DASH AND “GO”
F.E.H. REPORTS IN ASTONISHING GAME
SHEFFIELD WIN 4-0
Everton; Fern; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart (Captain); Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. Sheffield United; Gough; Cook, Mitton; Pantling, Waugh, Green; Mercer, Sampey, Johnson, Gillespie (Captain), Tunstall. Referee; Mr. J.E. Telford, Preston. Everton, at Bramall-lane, hoped to get some sort of return such as favoured them last season. Bramall-lane has not been a happy ground to them in the past, but they thought they had a chance against the Sheffield half-backs and full backs, Cock was better, and McBain played in spite of a heavy cold. Sheffield were at full strength, and their dash and “go” made them a powerful opposition. Everton lost the toss and were given the task of facing both the wind and the sun. the home right wing at once went away in promising fashion and Mercer sent in a stinging shot which Brown intercepted. The visitors then advanced through Chedgzoy and his partner, but they were stalled off by Green, and a moment later Tunstall and Gillespie were again on the job. This time the outside left was very cleverly checked by Livingstone, who was smart a little later when he stopped Johnson. Everton took up the attack in combined order, and Chedgzoy with a long square pass put the ball to Troup, who with a long drive placed behind.
A BAFFLING WIND
It was at once obvious that the wind was baffling the best intentions of both sides. On one occasion Tunstall got past both Brown and McDonald, and shot well, but the gale carried the ball hopelessly wide of the target. As the result of a delightful little concerted movement of the three Everton inside men, Cock was able to test Gough, but the latter saved the situation.
UNITED’S FIRST GOAL
Aided greatly by the breeze Sheffield continued to press persistently, and after 15 minutes’ going United forwards opened the scoring. Tunstall swung the leather in and Johnson, who was lying well up and quite unmarked, seized upon it and netted with a fats ground shot, Fern failing in his attempt to save. This early success naturally put the United on good terms with themselves, though it was unlucky for Everton, and the home forwards put forth further strenuous efforts.
THE BLADES’ JOHNSON DOUBLES.
They made ground on the left and McDonald making a miskick let in Johnson to drive the ball into the net. There was a unanimous appeal on the part of the Evertonians for offside but the referee, after consulting one of the linesmen, allowed the goal. The additional setback to the visitors was an incentive to Sheffield, for they proceeded to bombard Fern’s charge in the fiercest fashion, and Johnson once hit the upright with a flying shot. This led to an exciting bully in the goalmouth, but the danger was eventually cleared. At length Everton got going in good order, and from a pass by Cock, Troup sent in one of his fast rising oblique shots. This was successfully dealt with, but Gough was still on the ground when McBain rushed up and delivered a tremendous shot, which was very luckily intercepted by one of the home backs.
IRVINE IN THE PICTURE
A brilliant run by Chedgzoy was wasted at the critical moment, and when Brown tried to improve matters with a long ground shot it was well picked up. Everton were now enjoying a fair share of the attack and Irvine won the applause of the crowd on his attempt to reduce the lead with a well-judged rising shot, which just failed. Cock then tried hard to get through, but he was too cleverly shadowed by Waugh. The latter distinguished himself a few minutes later, when, from a pass by Sampey, he propelled the ball just outside.
THE HAT-TRICK BY JOHNSON
Just before the interval United met with a third success amid great excitement, Tunstall worked through and put the ball to Johnson, who sent in a shot which Fern got to and cleared, but before the Everton keeper could get back, however, the United centre caught the return and netted at short range. Chedgzoy, from a kick following upon a foul upon himself, screwed a couple of inches wide from the far upright with a fine effort, Everton were thus three down at the turn, but in being this position they were distinctly unlucky, the full-backs merely looking on. Every allowance must be made for the visitors having to face the elements, for when they did get going they showed their capabilities to the full. At the same time it is only far to say that the Sheffielders were keen and invigorating in their determination to beat their opponents.
Half-time -Sheffield United 3, Everton 0
EVERTON HANDICAPPED
It should be mentioned that there were flying squalls of rain in the latter part of the first half, and this, added to the other conditions was a further factor in Everton’s handicap. The sun was obscured when play was resumed before 20,000 spectators. It was soon to be seen that the visitors meant to profit by the prevailing wind, for they at once made ground on the left, where Troup swung the ball in neatly, but to no purpose. At the other end United delivered a smart attack, and McDonald was well beaten when Tunstall put over, Everton replied strongly on the right, where a couple of corners were forced. Chedgzoy placed both beautifully, but the home defence managed to clear the danger. The visitors returned on the left, and Chadwick, whose deliveries always possess a powerful punch, failed with a daisy-cutter. It was quite in keeping with Everton’s ill-luck that the wind had now almost dropped, and they were fighting on equal terms. Nevertheless, they continued to press, and from a well-judged square pass from Troup, Irvine headed just over the bar.
EXASPERATING MISSES
This effort was followed by a creditable effort on the part of Cock, but Gough coped with it, and when the Everton centre came through again he was pushed off the ball by Cook. At this point the Evertonians were really all over their opponents, but, try as they would, they could not finish effectively, and Irvine and Chedgzoy both had openings, only to shoot wide. Chadwick was well placed when he lost the opportunity of scoring through being too tardy in his movements.
JOHNSON’S FOURTH GOAL
United after a time took up the running strongly, and Tunstall, after beating McDonald, gave trouble to Fern, who ran out and cleared. Still the home vanguard kept pegging away, and from a foul by McDonald, Pantling paved the way for another goal. Johnson nipping in and netting for the fourth time. A wonderful piece of dribbling on the part of Troup at least deserved a goal. He simply danced round Cock, and, beating him twice, screwed the ball to the foot of the post, where it passed outside. Final; Sheffield United 4, Everton 0
DERBY RES v  EVERTON RES
Interval- Derby Reserves 1 Everton Reserves nil. Moore scored for Derby.

SHEFFIELD UNITED 4 EVERTON 0
November 5, 1923. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON,, ORPHANS OF THE STORM.
DISASTER DRAMWE FEATURING JOHNSON
H. JOHNSON SCORES ALL FOUR
By Adams.
It would be unreasonable to suppose that extenuating circumstances did not exist to account for Everton's big defeat at Sheffield. As a matter of fact, Hunter Hart lost the match for his side when he lost the toss, for, facing half a gale, blinded one minute by sunshine and the next by showers, the Blues were buffeted, worried unbalanced, and blown (in two senses) when half-time arrived. So much so, that they were physically unable to take advantage of the elements when they had the chance. In the fatal first 45 minutes, Johnson, the United centre, had scored three goals from gilt-edged chances up by his wings, and there was also a disallowed point. From the lofty press box, which rocked and swayed in the gale like a crow's nest, it appeared that the first goal was illegitimate because the marksman was offside when, unmarked, he converted a lovely centre from Tunstall. There was an ineffectual protests, which was renewed over the second. The unpermitted goal was curious, Johnson's shot beat Fern and the ball hit the bottom of the post. Mercer, who had centred, ran out of play over the goal-line, came back, got behind Fern and touched the ball round the upright. It was an unique case of offside.
HIS HAT-TRICK.
The third was all Johnson. He raced through and fired in a fast shot, which the goalkeeper saved at full length. The ball came out again to the centre, who lobbed in a slow one over the out-stretched keeper. Livingstone jumped up and pulled down the ball from under the bar, but it was a goal anyway. Everton were occasionally aggressive, and just on half-time Chedgzoy who had ploughed his way up single handed, was fouled by Milton just outside the penalty area. His shot, a great effort, was pulled by the wind a trifle wide of Gough helpless. Chadwick, too, had hard lines, but McBain's example of keeping the ball on the ground was not followed by his colleagues and every time the leather was ballooned a Sheffield man got it.
NO LUCK.
Everton began the second half in style, and fired in all sorts of shots without any luck. Irvine, Cock, Chedgzoy, and Hart were just wide. Then came the crowning misfortune. Pantling took a free kick sent across to Johnson who was inexplicably unchallenged, and he got his fourth point. “The rest is silence, “ except for a wonderful dribble by Troup, who received a tremendous and sustained cheer. Supporters of the Blues need not be depressed at the result. Everything came off for the Blades, and nothing for the Blues, and there will be a great transformation next Saturday if there are no “gentle zephyrs.” The best man on the field was Tunstall, Johnson's goals were grifts and practically every time he kicked the ball he scored. Teams: - Sheffield United: - Gough, goal, Cook, and Milton, backs, Pantling, Waugh, and Green, half-backs, Mercer, Sampy, Johnson, Gillespie, and Tunstall, forwards. Everton: - Fern, goal, McDonald, and Livingstone, backs, Brown, McBain, Hart (captain), half-backs, Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, and Troup, forwards, Referee Mr. JE Telford.

DERBY COUNTY RESERVES 0 EVERTON RESERVES 0
November 5, 1923. The Liverpool Daily Post Mercury
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 15)
Heavy going tended to spoil play in the match at Derby, where the home side, adapting themselves more readily to the conditions, won conformably. Moore scored the only goal in the first half, and during this period both sets of forwards showed considerable enterprise. Subsequently Derby's superiority was cleverly defined, their goalkeeper enjoying a comparatively easy time. Paterson scored their second goal midway through the concluding half, and Moore added the third just on time.

HARLANDC 0 EVERTON “A” 1
November 5, 1923. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
At Pirrie Park. Pay in the early stages was slow, but evenly balanced. Although Harlandic faced a strong wind they took up the attack and obtained a shot, which proved fruitless. Everton made several attacks on goal but shot too high, shortly after the interval Caddick netted for Everton. Harlandic made many attempts to qualiser when favoured by the wind, but failed to break through the strong defence put up by the backs Chaddick and Hetherington played well for Everton “A” while Roberts Sharp, and saving were prominent for the losing side.

SHEFFIELD UNITED v  EVERTON
Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer, Monday November 5, 1923
JOHNSON SCORES FOUR GOALS
A Strong breeze blowing directly from goal to goal affected the play at Bramall Lane, and Sheffield United with thin in their favour scored three times during the first half. Then against the breeze in the second half they obtained another goal, and finally beat Everton four clear goals, all of which were scored by their centre forward, Johnson. This is the second time in his careerthat Johnson has scored four goals in a match. On Saturday 15.000 were present, and both teams were at full strength. Under the conditions prevailed, it was a bit of good fortune to win the toss,  but the United team must be given credit for the splendid way in which took advantage of the assistance of the wind, and sun which were behind them during the first half. Everton gave a very fine display of football, and were certainly not outplayed to anything like the extent which the big adverse score might seem to suggest. The scoring begun 12minutes from the start, when Johnson, taking a centre from Tunstall, beat Fern with a good shot, and three minutes later the same player rushed the ball through again, the goal being allowed in spite of an appeal by Everton that the United centre had handled the ball. Then from a centre by Tunstall who played admirably on the extreme left. Johnson completed his "hat trick.  Although Everton were occupied mainly in defence during the first half they occasionally attacked by smart combined play. When Everton came to have the wind behind them in the second half, they made many attacks. Troup playing brilliantly on the extreme left, and once Cock had bad luck with a good shot, which hit the foot of the upright, but their attacks generally lacked finish The Sheffield forwards were by no means idle, and mid-way through, Johnson was fouled just outside the penalty area, and Pantling, taking the free kick, passed  the ball forward for Johnson to seize on it and shoot a fourth goal for the United. Everton played up well but in the end were well beaten Result —Sheffield United 4 goals, Everton none. Teams;- Sheffield United; Gough, goal; Cook and Milton, full-backs; Pantling, Waugh and Green, half-backs; Mercer, Sampy, Johnson, Gillespie (Captain), and Tunstall, forwards. Everton; Fern, goal; McDonald and Livingstone, full-backs; Brown, McBain and Hart (Captain), half-backs; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, and Troup, forwards. Referee, J.E. Telford, Preston.

EVERTON’S GOAL RIDDLED BY A SHARP-SHOOTER
Athletic News- Monday, November 5, 1923
EVERTON’S FALL
GREAT DAY FOR JOHNSON AT SHEFFIELD
THE OPPORTUNIST
SHEFFIELD UNITED 4 EVERTON 0
By Nemo
EVERTON played delightful football at Bramall-lane notwithstanding that they were beaten by four clear goals. It was the strong wind and Harry Johnson, Sheffield United’s centre-forward, who beat them. Johnson scored all four goals, thereby getting as many as he did when Birmingham were at Bramall Lane last February. Winning the toss was a very important matter with a strong breeze blowing straight from goal to goal and a brilliant sun glaring in the same direction, not to mention occasional light showersof rain. It was to Sheffield United that those advantages came in the first half, and admirably they seized the opportunity thus given them. Everton found themselves three goals behind at half-time, and the visitors, so far from recovering from this unhappy position when they came to have the assistance of the still powerful breeze in the second half, lost a fourth goal. The Goals.
The scoring began twelve minutes from the start when Johnson snapped up a pass from Tunstall and drove the ball well wide of Fern into the net. Three minutes later came the second goal. One of the Everton backs skied the ball, and Johnson rushed it through in spite of Fern’s effort to get it away. The referee awarded a goal, but Everton protested so earnestly, claiming that Johnson had handled the ball, that Mr. Telford consulted a linesman, who confirmed his decision. Mercer put the ball in net again a little later, when Johnson hit the foot of the post, but was ruled off-side. The third goal came from one of JOHNSON individual rushes. He swept between the backs and Fern, rushing out, tackled him. The ball went away to the United left only to be immediately returned by Tunstall for Johnson to complete his hat trick. The fourth goal was obtained midway through the second half. Johnson was making another of his dashes when he was fouled a few yards outside the penalty area. Pantling, who took the free kick, passed the ball slowly forward and Johnson, going ahead, beat Fern with a good shot. Neither on this occasion, nor when he had been previously beaten was the Everton goalkeeper all to blame. He had no chance. Seldom have I seen a team who played such clever football beaten so heavily. Indeed, the size of the score was not a true indication of the real merits of the teams.
About McBain.
Apart from Johnson’s happy knack of seizing the chances that came his way the vanquished Evertonians played quite as good football the victorious Sheffielders. McBain, at centre-half, played a great game for them, feeding his forwards skilfully, and, moreover, he sent in one of the best shots of the match. This was in the first half, during one of the Lancastrians’ occasional raids, and in stopping the visiting centre half-back fierce long shot Gough made the best save of the match, diving at the ball right on the line in great style. Many of the movements of the Everton forwards during the first half against the wind were very pretty, Chedgzoy and Irvine being a very clever right wing, but in the second half the visitors vanguard failed to utilise the wind in the splendid manner the United had done, and much fine work by Troup on the left went unrewarded, except by cheers from the 15,000 spectators. From one very tine individual effort Cock had bad luck in hitting the post from Troup’s pass, but the Everton centre generally lacked the forceful finish, even when he had the wind behind him, which characterised Johnson s great work as leader of the Sheffield attack.
A Fine Defence.
However, the chief cause of Everton failure to score was the powerful hack play of Cook and Milton, whose tackling was skilful and bold. The United half-backs also played excellently. Irvine was Everton best marksman, and once only a brilliant save by Gough prevented him scoring. Tunstall shone for the United on the left wing, but, of course, Johnson was the hero of the match. Sheffield United; Gough; Cook, Milton; Pantling, Waugh, Green; Mercer, Sampy, Johnson, Gillespie (Captain), and Tunstall. Everton; Fern; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart (Captain); Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick and Troup.  Referee: E. Telford. Preston.

SHEFFIELD UNITED MAKING PACE HOT FOR THE LEAGUE LEADERS
Sheffield Daily Telegraph, Monday, November 5, 1923
JOHNSON, MARKSMAN
EVERTON OVER-RUN BY DASHING TIRELESS TEAM
The latest achievement of Sheffield United is without doubt, their best in the current season. The victory over Everton is comparable with those fine performances which made Sheffield United one of the most discussed and most feared teams in the country during the middle of last season. Everton visited Bramall Lane buoyed up with the knowledge that they have a good record against Sheffield United and that last season they were twice victorious over these opponents. In addition, they were playing strongly, and recently done well against such formidable sides as Liverpool and Notts County. The Merseyside party must have returned home in a sad humour, however, for not only were they beaten 4-0, but they were beaten at their own kind of play, and were outstayed in stamina. In a line they were quite over-matched. Johnson was the hero of the day by reason of the fact that he scored all four goals, which, when everything is taken into consideration, is perhaps the finest feat of his career. The young centre-forward found everything to his liking, for the ground was soft, and so he was able to control the ball and also indulge in those devastating rushes of his without fear of injury should he fall. Generally the conditions militated against scientific play, for a very high wind prevailed and sun and rain alternated to make things awkward for the men. Nevertheless, for the most part the players rose superior to the elemental inconveniences, with the result that a keen, clever, and thrilling contest was seen.
SHEFFIELD UNITED TAKE THEIR CHANCES
Gillespie had the good fortune to win the toss, and maybe this helped in the result, for the Sheffielders had the wind and sun behind them in the first half, and they gained a three goals lead. However, so well did their opponents battle against the odds that it was anticipated that they would give United a warm time after the interval. As events turned out, Everton appeared to have spent themselves in the opening half, and though they strove hard, they were overborne by a side full of energy, who were remarkably active all the time and surprisingly fresh in the closing stages. Of Johnson’s quartet of goals two were rather curious. The first was a clean kick from a pass by Tunstall, and the fourth another direct shot when Pantling accurately placed the ball from a free kick. The other two, however, were gained because Johnson knows the value of rushing in. United’s centre-forward saw McDonald “balloon” the ball in attempting a clearance, and he promptly dashed towards it and the goal, so that when Fern tried to punch the ball away he was bothered, and, failing in his efforts, left Johnson free to shoot, which the forward promptly did. This goal led to objections by the Everton players, but they were ruled out after the referee had consulted a linesman. The third goal came after a storming attack, and when Fern rushed out to intercept a centre from Tunstall, he left his goal open. McDonald sprinted back to fill the breach just in tome to handle the ball as Johnson drove it in, but the back could not save his lines, though, in any case, his attempt must have been fruitless.
STERLING PLAY BY HALF-BACKS
The goals were all the outcome of skilful all-round play and excellent combination by the home men. In fact, throughout the game the Sheffielders played on sound and masterly lines. Johnson was the instrument through which the good work found its materialisation, but all the players deserve praise for their individual part. There was a lot of delightful forward play, in which the scheming of Gillespie and the speed of Tunstall played their part, while on the right Mercer and Sampy accomplished many capital things. Mercer once netted the ball after Johnson had struck an upright, but was adjudged off-side. The sterling worth of United’s half-backs was never more patent. Everton possess a brainy set of forwards, who took a lot of countering; yet they were countered, and though Chedgzoy, Troup, and Irvine in particular proved decidedly awkward customers, they never could get properly into their stride. Even if the half-backs were occasionally beaten, there were Cook, Milton, and Gough to face, and twice the latter made really wonderful saves from powerful shots. Green had perhaps his toughest job to date in opposing the Everton. International right wing, and although both Irvine and Chedgzoy were in good trim, Green claimed a fair shares of the honours. Cock was well watched by Waugh, and Troup was rarely out of Pantling’s range.

A REMARKABLE SCORING FEAT
The Sheffield Daily Independent, Monday, November 5, 1923
HARRY JOHNSON NETS FOUR TIMES FOR SHEFFIELD UNITED
FOUR FINE GOALS
HAPPY AFTERNOON FOR HARRY JOHNSON
SHEFFIELD UNITED 4 EVERTON 0
By Centre-Forward
The big victory which Sheffield United gained over powerful and skilful opponents at Bramall lane, on Saturday, was due mainly to two thingsfirstly to their good fortune in winning the toss,whereby they had the advantage of a strong wind during the first half and secondly to the brilliant opportunism of their dashing centre- forward, Harry Johnson, who for the second time in his career scored four goals. It must not be imagined that Everton, who like United were at full strength, were outplayed to anything like the extent which the defeat by four clear goals would seem to suggest. On the contrary, the football which they played in the open field was quite equal to that of their victorious opponents. However, neither in incisiveness of attack with the wind, not in solidity of defence against it, were the Evertonians so good as the Sheffielders, and the latter, who got the last of their four goals when facing the breeze, were worthy winners of a brilliant victory which gave great delight to some 15,000 spectators.
EFFECT OF THE WIND.
By losing the toss Everton in the first half had not only to face the powerful breeze blowing from goal to goal, but at times also the dazzling rays of a brilliant sun. Under these circumstances it is not surprising that for the most part they found themselves kept on the defensive by United’s skilful and speedy forwards, who received admirable support from their half-backs. The game had been going on only 12 minutes when the scoring began. Tunstall after beating two opponents centred accurately and Johnson, standing unmarked, gave Fern no chance with a swift low shot. Three minuteslater came the second of United’s goals. McDonald, Everton's right back, in trying to clear skied the ball and helped by the wind, it fell goal-ward’s. Fern and Johnson both went for it and United’s centre rushed it into the net. Everton claimed that Johnson had handled it, and protested vigorously to the referee, who thereupon inquired the opinion of one of the linesmen on that point, and then pointed to the centre.  A moment later Johnson struck the foot of the upright, and from the rebound Mercer put the ball again in the net, but was ruled off-ide.
SPARKLING PLAY.
Occasionally the Everton forwards relieved their defence from the strain upon them by smart raids into United’s quarters in which Chedgzoy and Irvine, who formed a smart right wing, were conspicuous figures. McBain the visitors’ centre-half-back, also did admirable work, both in defence and helping his forwards by nice passes. Moreover, on one occasions McBain sent in so fierce and accurate a long drive that Gough had the utmost difficulty in saving. The United forwards, however, contrived to play skilful dashing style, and after 33 minutes’ play Johnson got a-third goal, thus completing his hat trick. He seized a chance of dashing past the backs and though Fern rushed out and tackled him the United centre got on the ball again when it was returned from the left and shot into the net, amid enthusiastic cheers. Of the remaining play up to half-time the visitors had a fair chare. Chedgzoy was once going ahead in fine style when he was fouled just outside the penalty area. He himself took the free kick and barely missed scoring with splendid drive. At half-time United led by 3-0
EVERTON’S OPPORTUNITY.
With the breeze still strong the Everton forwards might have been expected to make a very bold show after change of ends and in fact they did a considerable amount pressing, thanks to some smart play by the wing men, but they lacked a centre-forward who could force home these attacks in the manner Johnson had done for the United in the first half. Moreover, the Evertonian front line encountered a very sound and steady pair of backs in Cook and Milton, and were also worried by the tackling three resolute half-backs. Therefore soi far from reducing United’s lead the visitors mid-way through the second half found it increased. Johnson was again the conspicuous figure. He was leading one of the Sheffielders’ occasional raids against the breeze when he was fouled and when Pantling pushed the free-kick nicely forward the United centre raced after it unhindered and easily put it into the net.
OVATION FOR TROUP.
For the rest of the play was slightly in favour of the Evertonians, and they made several heroic efforts to reduce the Sheffielders’ lead, and once Troup was given an ovation by the spectators for a sparkling individual run which could scarcely fail to remind old-time Sheffield footballers of the days when Billy Mosforth was in his glory. Troup finished this brilliant dribble in the course of which he beat several opponents with a neat pass to Cock, who was rather unlucky not to score with a shot, which hit the foot of the post. Chadwick also made earnest, efforts to score for Everton and one great, long shot by him was only stopped by a brilliant bit of work by Gough. The United forwards also did some clever work in the concluding stages, and a fine centre by Mercer was cleverly headed in by Sampey for Fern to make a good save. The Sheffielders were having a full share of the play when the whistle sounded, leaving them winners of a handsome and well-deserved victory. Teams: Sheffield United. —Gough; Cook, Milton; Pantling, Waugh, Green: Mercer, Sampy, Johnson, Gillespie (Captain), Tunstall. Everton —Fern; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown. McBain, Hart  (Captain); Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. Referee: Mr. J. G. Telford (Chester).

THE EVERTON BOMB
The Liverpool Echo – Monday, November 5, 1923
JOHNSON’S FOUR GOALS
GOALS IN LUMPS
By F.E.H
“Blow, blow, thou winter wind!” It certainly did at Bramall Lane on Saturday, with the result that Everton -to transfer a phrase from Shakespeare to American slang -received the order of " the chilled mit.” At firstblush it might appear that the Goodisonians were hopelessly swamped. I hasten to assure you that such was by no means the case.  It was simply an instance of Sheffield United getting the weather gauge of their opponents and turning it to the most emphatic advantage. The visitors were tremendously handicapped in the first half, and it says much for their stamina and training that they were able to make a merry pace right to the finish. I need not go over the story of the goals again. Johnson’s first one was very questionable in the light of the offside rule, but no fault could be found with the others-except that they were not stopped. The United centre-forward was certainly in a debatable position when he first beat Fern, and the crowd had scarcely stopped cheering before he had added a second. The third was quite a good one, the result of dashing wing play, and the fourth, in the second half, was the result of a free kick, the cause of which might have been avoided. The redeeming feature of the game from the visitors’ point of view was the clever, although ineffective play of the Everton forwards. Had the rear division acted their part there might have been a very different tale to tell. Chedgzoy and Troup were exquisite in their workmanship, while the three inside men in their respective ways, frequently took the eye- Chadwick with his drives and Cock and Irvine with their neatness. The halves got through an enormous amount of work but they could not control the elements, and if I may be permitted to conclude on an atmospheric note I should say “Sheffield United rode the storm, while Everton reaped the whirlwind.”
LATEST FOOTBALL DENIAL
The story going round Liverpool that Andrew Wilson has been signed on by Everton is absolutely denied by the Middlesbrough directorate. One member of the board said that Middlesbrough had themselves heard the rumour, but it was “absolutely ridiculous.” Wilson himself has repeatedly affirmed that he is quite happy on Teeside, and has absolutely no wish to leave.

REASONS FOR EXPECTING EVERTON’S REVENGE AGAINST SHEFFIELD
The Liverpool Echo, Friday, November 9 1923
Bee’s Notes
When it was made known lastweek that Everton were down three goals, some people stared. They had come to the generally accepted notion that Everton were a very clever side now. I have taken the trouble to get to know from an outside source exactly what happened at Bramall lane. First of all, Everton faced the gale of wind. They did well, they played well. They were worth watching. All in a minute an offside goal was given. That was a shake. Then came another goal that Everton debated-not because they can’t take a goal against without squealing, but because they were justified in raising complaint. The heart was taken out of the side; yet Cock in better measure than usual and others of the side played splendidly. My informant says, “I cannot do better than recall the 10-0 victory of Villa, at home to Sheffield Wednesday. That was an even game, in spite of the heavy score. Everything Villa did turned to goals. Wednesday had just as much of the play as the winners. Now at the Sheffield game,last week, Everton played well. I went to say no more except that I am content to judge them by to-morrow’s result at Goodison Park. What more would you? That is definite enough especially in these days when supporters critics beat about the bush and dodge anything except fulsome flattery. We have been accused of some things in our history. But not of that, thank goodness! The game at Goodison, win or lose, should be a big attraction, because we have the view of Ireland’s own, Gillespie, and Tunstall, England’s left wing. Somehow I took upon the Sheffield half back line as below par, and the full backs have always struck me as rather uncertain and of the over kick variety. Everton; Fern; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. Sheffield United; Gough; Cook, Milton; Pantling, Waugh, Green; Mercer, Sampy, Johnson, Gillespie, Tunstall.
A LOCAL DERBY
Liverpool A and Everton A meet at Lance-lane, Wavertree, tomorrow at 2.45. There is great rivalry between the two teams, and a rousing game is promised. Liverpool have selected the following eleven; Shallicker; Garner, Davies; Higgins, Davis, Ostle; Malone, Keedwell, Owen, Shimmin and Spencer. Everton rely upon Lawson; Hetherington, Helsby; Caddick, Weir, Sutton; Torley, Swindells, Parry (H.), Virr, Forrest.

EVERTON'S OPPORTUNITY FOR REVENGE.
November 10, 1923. The Liverpool Courier.
In their return gone with Sheffield United at Goodison Park, Everton will have the desire to show their supporters that the result at Bramell Lane, a week ago was a wrong result that will be rendered. The visitors it was admitted by them the most biased support, and looks with the utmost consideration to but themselves to reveres the result. The Blues are contending to reply on the same team as did duty then, and the United naturally also satisfied with the same eleven. The Blades are a nippy side, but for clever football the blues can get points, and it will surprise if they lose their unbeaten home certificate to-day. It can be taken for gained that Johnson will be well watched. Teams: - Everton: - Fern, McDonald, Livingstone, Brown, McBain, Hart, Cjhedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup, Sheffield United: - Gough, Cook, Milton, Pantling, Waugh, Green, Mercer, Sampy, Johnson, Gillespie, Tunstall.

RETURN ENCOUNTER WITH THE YORKS SIDE
The Liverpool Echo- Saturday November 10 1923
By Stork
I did not expert Everton to get very much out of their visit to Bramall lane but I never expected the result to be anything like the one the result sheet showed. Admitting that the United have a forward line capable of goal-getting, I fully though that the Everton intermediary line capable of stalling them off to at least a goal.  Prophesying on football is a thankless task. Couponcers will readily agree to that statement, I feelsure. How often has the certainty let us down?  It is just as well that football is uncertain, for if one or two teams made a corner in points the interest in the game would soon diminish. In Scotland, the Rangers have matters all their own way.  After their decisive defeat of Partick Thistle on Saturday they held a three point lead over their nearest opponents, Airdrieonians, and have yet to suffer defeat. Their goals for column reads 33 against 5. They have taken 21 points out of 24. These figures, in comparison with the English senior division, tell in a flash how the Rangers stand in the Scottish League. In their First division of the English League only three points separate the first eight clubs, while the leaders are only twelve points in front of the “booby prize-winners,” Preston North End. I am told that Everton played really well. This sounds strange when we remember that they were beaten by four clear goals, but my informant tells me that the United took full advantage of the strong wind in the first half, and, unfortunately for the Blues, that same wind fell to a slight breeze in the second half, when Everton were expected to wipe off some of the deficit. That they did not was my friend’s greatest lament. He admits that the United were a fine side and full worthy their win, but he was greatly grieved that Johnson should have been allowed to score against the wind.

STUD MARKS
The Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, November 10, 1923
By Louis T. Kelly

• Everton gave a “shocking” display at Bramall-lane; yet played real fine game.
• A 4-0 defeat never entered into our calculations.
• The Blues would doubtless be eager to try and get a bit of their own back to-day.
• By the way, Tommy Fern distributed the prizes at Orwell Wednesday’s last. Whilst drive, and what is more, displayed a ready wit of the genuine impromptu order.
• In one instance he said; “I thought this drive was run fair and above-board, but I find that this prize has been won by a Swindell!”
• By the way, the last named, at inside right, caught the eye of some of the critics at Goodison.

EVERTON v.  SHEFFIELD UNITED
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, November 10, 1923
By “Duval.”
CHADWICK GETS A GOAL AS USUAL
EVERTON’S DEFENCE AGAINST UNITED IN GAME OF POOR FINISHES
EVERTON WIN 2-0
Everton; Fern; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart (Captain); Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. Sheffield United; Gough; Cook, Milton; Pantling, Waugh, Green; Mercer, Sampey, Johnson, Gillespie, Tunstall. There were a nice nip in the air to-day, and Goodison Park was well attended, Sheffield United being among the oldest and most popular of visitors. Teams as arranged. Going on the soft side. Everton started and the game opened in leisurely fashion until Irvine found an opening for a goodish shot that lacked sting, and Gough picked up without difficulty. Everton persisted, and after Cock had kicked untrue and ruined his shot, Troup made excellent play without being dangerous. McBain made a nice opening down the middle, which was supplemented by Chedgzoy, although Irvine was out of touch with the movement, and the ball went very wide. Everton forced the first corner of the game, after cock had been compelled to pass back, Gough narrowly missing another corner through overstepping the goal-line. When at length Sheffield did make a move in Everton’s direction it was by the aid of a long pass by Tunstall, Mercer, however, failed to make any impression or to gain any advantage from the opening.
A SURPRISE FOR GOUGH
There was no mistaking Everton’s determination, and Cock’s deft and dainty touches kept the line moving in very business-like order. Gough was surprised when the ball went into the United goal area from the Everton left, but he managed to get possession after first losing the ball when challenged by Irvine. Johnson was pulled up for offside, but the referee was obviously wrong, and he recognised his mistake by throwing the ball down. The Everton forwards came again with another promising movement, which, however, was ruined through misunderstanding. Thus far Everton had shown capital work, and the forwards had opened out several delightful movements, but there was a lack of decisiveness when the goal area was reached. The Everton half-backs made a very strong line, and McBain and Brown were especially prominent in checking the United forwards. A sparkling run by Chedgzoy ought to have bene turned to better account. As it was, the United defenders got out of an awkward position much easier than anticipated. Troup a moment later swung the ball nicely into the United goal, but once again the movement brought nothing.
A ROUSING INCIDENT
For the first twenty minutes little had been seen of the United attack, and Fern only once handled the ball. Then came one of the best incidents of the game. Cock found himself in possession with only a defender in view. He took the opportunity and cleverly tricked Cook. Just as he was about to shoot, Gough, who had anticipated the movement by leaving his goal, dived for the ball and succeeded in taking the ball from Cock’s toe. It was a daring save to a clever attack. From this point the United took up the challenge with greater keenness. A clever pass by Gillespie started a movement that led to the United forcing a corner. After Chedgzoy had taken a corner which brought no tangible result, Tunstall sent in a long shot wide. There was more sting in the United attack when Sampey forced an opening. Again, Tunstall was very wide with his final effort.
DRIBBLING OVERDONE.
Everton’s cleverness was very apparent and the pace of the extreme wingers frequently placed the United defence in extreme difficulty. Once Chedgzoy in his most polished manner completely beat the United defence, but in his desire to make his shot absolutely certain he overdid his dribbling and was beaten at the end. Troup, too, beat his man with the greatest ease, only to fail with the finishing touch. The Everton forwards seemed afraid to shoot, although Irvine set a fine example when he sent a terrific drive that went narrowly over the bar, and a moment later with another fine effort he forced Gough to turn the ball for a corner.
CHADWICK SCORES
On the general run of the game Everton were certainly the better side, but as already indicated, they lacked the power to finish well. At forty-one minutes, however, Chadwick scored for Everton. Livingstone started the movement, and Chadwick sent a long, bouncing ball to goal. Gough actually got down to the ball and handled it, but the bounce of it beat him, and it went into the net over his shoulder. Then followed some very smart exchanges in front of the United’s goal. Gough was lucky to prevent disaster when Chedgzoy flashed the ball across the face of United’s goal.
Half-time; Everton 1, Sheffield United 0
When the game was resumed Chadwick attempted to repeat his first half success when he opened with a long drive, but on this occasion Gough was equal to the situation, and got the ball away.
EVERTON STILL DOMINENT
Gillespie tried to put some life into the United attack, and although he was mainly responsible for a corner, nothing more happened. A sparkling run by Troup, a dash down the centre by Cock, a good run by Chedgzoy and a nice shot by Troup emphasised Everton’s advantage over the United. Still, the same fault which marked Everton’s work in the first half was still obvious. There was an all-round lack of shooting that robbed the preliminary work of its good points. Troup kicked round the ball after Irvine had tested Gough and the United defence, although never very sound were able to keep the Everton attack from doing much damage. Mercer got the better of a duel with McDonald without getting much advantage, and Johnson was very weak with his finishing effort. Much amusement was caused when hart bowled over the referee. Of course, it was an accident.
A FORCEFUL DIVE
Mercer got through with a dangerous looking centre, and a moment later Gillespie gave Johnson an ideal opening. Fern came out, dived for the ball, and Johnson went head first over his body. When Cock demonstrated his fretfulness Gough took a big chance when he used his feet to keep out the shot from the Everton right. Troup was a tricky worker, and once Cock looked like making good on one of Troup’s clever passes, while Mercer and Sampey were splendidly held by Livingstone.
A SECOND BY CHADWICK
In spite of improved play by United, Chadwick scored a second for Everton, and again it was a long shot that brought success. Cock with a delightful pass, provided the opportunity, and Chadwick shot the ball and then drove a hefty shot into the extreme corner of the goal. Everton rearranged their formation, Hart taking the centre-half position, McBain outside left, Chadwick left half, and Troup inside left. A moment later McBain left the field. One of the most delightful incidents came when Chedgzoy placed the ball well in front of the United goal, and Cock, dashing up, lifted it just over the bar. Final; Everton 2, Sheffield United 0.

LIVERPOOL A v  EVERTON A
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday November 10, 1923
At Lance-Lane. The visitors were the first to become dangerous, parry failing to convert a centre from Swindells. Liverpool next pressed on the right, and Lawson saved well from Keedwell. After ten minutes Torley opened the score for Everton. From a free kick in Liverpool’s favour Davies struck the crossbar, and later the same player sent in a rasping shot which missed by inches. Virr scored a second for Everton from a penalty. After thirty minutes the visitors led by 2-0.

TABLES TURNED ON UNITED
Star Green 'un - Saturday 10 November 1923
FORWARDS A BIT TOO EAGER
CHANCES MISSED AT GOODISON
EVERTON 2 SHEFFIELD UNITED 0
By “Looker-On”
Everton at home are very different from Everton away, but Sheffield United, because of their convincing victory of last week, and Harry Johnson’s ability on a heavy ground, made the journey to Liverpool a cheerful party. The same sides that were in opposition at Bramall Lane had again been selected, and there was every prospect of another rousing struggle. There were high hopes amongst the visiting party that the spell of misfortune which had been United's lot at Goodison Park would change, especially after last week’s fine victory over Everton. The sides were:— Everton; Fern; McDonald and Livingstone; Brown, McBain and Hart (Captain); Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, and Troup. Sheffield United; Gough; Cook and Milton; Pantling, Waugh, and Green; Mercer, Sampy, Johnson, Gillespie (Captain), and Tunstall. Referee;- Mr. J.E. Telford (Preston).
There was not much wind but, naturally the ground was soft. The attendance was not large at the start evidently through the competition of the races coupled with the early kick-off. Gillespie won the toss and United had the sun behind them. However, it was Everton who showed first, but they were turned back Milton and Cook in turn and later, when Cock seemed to have a chance to shoot, he shot wretchedly wide.
HOT EVERTON ATTACKS.
For time the home men held sway Troup raced down his wing and in threatening fashion, but was prevented from doing damage by Cook, and then when Hart served Irvine the latter and Chedgzoy rushed down, but the Irishman sent wide. A brief raid by United was easily thwarted, and again Everton swarmed to the attack. Then they forced a corner on the right which came to naught. Quickly the Sheffielders progressed and we saw fine work them. Tunstall whipped the ball right across, and Mercer, racing in at top speed, put the ball towards goal, but Fern was able to clear it. Then we saw Johnson, Gillespie, and Tunstall conspicuous in turn. Once United attacked in excellent order, and when Johnson was wrongfully pulled for offside, the visiting centre was in a grand position. The referee dropped the ball seeing his error, but this did not help United. Cook and Milton tackled resolutely, but they had a hot time, and Gough did very well to run and have his lines by falling the ball in one warm volley.
FINE GOALKEEPING
Green was having a lively time against Chedgzoy and Irvine, but the half back was by no means second best. The visitors played plenty of initiative in attack so that Everton had their worrying moments. When Tunstall, Johnson and Mercer combined, the right winger wound up with a great drive which Fern beat down. Gough was next the hero of a marvellous save. Cock beat two men and was through on his own, but United’s goalkeeper anticipated his opponent’s move in glorious fashion, and rushing from his goal fell on the ball at Cock’s feet as the forward was about to shoot.  Gough finished up with a hefty kick and the crowd were frankly amazed and after they recovered gave the goalkeeper a hearty ovation. The Sheffielders were now holding their own in attack. Mercer and Tunstall were repeatedly prominent.
CLEVER WORK BY SAMPY.
The home goal was frequently in Jeopardy. On one occasion Sampy slipped when trying to gather the ball close in, and again Macdonald luckily baulked a Tunstall drive. The game was being played at a brisk pace, and both goals had their periods of danger. Sampy shone with a clever piece of work in dribbling, which carried play to the home goal. When Tunstall essayed a shot, it was not hard enough to beat Fern. The Sheffielders might have found themselves in arrears had Irvine been a little more careful with his shot after Waugh and Milton had miskicked in front of goal. This was the beginning of another series of raids by Everton, which tested the merits of defenders. A goalcame at length, but rather fortunately for Everton.
EVERTON’S LUCKY GOAL.
Livingston took the ball up and gave to Cock, the latter passed to CHADWICK and the inside took a pot shot from 20 yards. Gough seemed to have the ball covered and fell on his knees, but to his consternation the ball jumped over his head and into the net. This sent the crowd wild withdelight and was only three minutes before the interval. Everton were again attacking when the whistle sounded. Half-time Everton 1 Sheffield United 0
About 30,000 people were present when the contest was resumed. United’s initial raid was nipped in the bud by McBain, and soon Everton assaulted the Sheffield goal and Gough had an awkward shot from Chadwick, and Troup added to the goalkeeper's trouble by rushing up and worrying him when he tried to clear. Gillespie and Tunstall endeavoured to take play into the home quarters, but without success, and when Johnson dashed out on his own, the ball went to Livingstone, who sent it outside for safety.
A CHANCE MISSED.
Chedgzoy loomed in threatening fashion, but Waugh chased after him and gave a fruitless corner. Everton engineered a strong move on the right and after several throw-ins got the ball across to Troup, but his effort was easily held by Gough. United had a capital chance when the ball was driven well up the field for Mercer tricked MacDonald, ran in and centred, the ball, however, went to McBain, who punted it up the field. Everton’s skilful extreme wingers were allowed little scope, for United’s halves played stoutly, Green doing especially well. Waugh in the centre guarded Cock, who was not often dangerous. Johnson was nastily fouled by Macdonald when going through, but the ensuing free-kick availed the visitors nothing. Shortlyafter this Green and Tunstall enabled their side to advance, and Gillespie carried on the good work but when the captain passed to Johnson, the centre was ruled “off-side."
A STRENUOUS GAME.
Everton had their turn in forward work and Gough once rushed out and kicked clear from a bunch players. When the visitors were again attacking Livingstone touched with his hand the ball travelling over his head, but was not penalised and Everton benefitted. The game continued in strenuous style and the home defenders were often in difficulties. Still United could not get the ball into the net. Everton were more fortunate in this respect. Following cessation through an injury to a home player the ball was dropped in United’s half. Cock turned it over to CHADWICK, and Cook failing to intercept the forward, the Evertonian drove the ball wide of Gough with an oblique shot. This was seven minutes from the end and practically sealed the Sheffielders fate. McBain retired from the field limping a few minutes from the close. When he returned the United had a great chance to score but Gillespie and Johnson between them spoiled it. Result; Everton 2 Sheffield United 0
COMMENTS ON THE GAME.
Everton obtained a satisfying compensation for their heavy defeat at Bramall Lane by a victory on their own ground. The margin was not so ample, but it sufficed, and so once again Sheffield United returned empty from Goodison Park. The game was full of exhilarating play, and in this respect there was not much to choose between the sides. United lost because they did not finish off their work in proper style. They did very well until the time came to shoot, and there they were far different team from week ago. The halfbacks again gave a good account of themselves, but the barks after a fine start were not as reliable as usual. Forward the extreme wingers were best, the inside men were prone to dally, and this was costly. On the home side the stout play of the halves meant much to their side, while the persistence of Troup and Cock worried their opponents. Chadwick scored both goals, but otherwise he was not especially prominent. Everton merited their success because they played always if they meant to win, and took their chances.

EVERTON 2 SHEFFIELD UNITED 0
November 12 1923. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON EXACT REPARATIONS.
SHEFFIELD UNITED PAY UP AND LOOK PLEASANT.
By Adams.
Everton exacted a sweet revenge for their disastrous defeat at Sheffield by beating the United well and truly at Goodison Park. Few of us who saw the Bramell-lane match anticipated anything else. for it was obvious that the Blues were beaten by the elements rather than by the superior skill of their opponents. The margin in favour of Everton on Saturday was two clever goals, which was amply sufficient to clinch the issue, but there might have been a couple more given better finishing. This failing was particularly noticeable in the first tem minutes, when Irvine, Cock, and Chadwick fired yards wide. Again later, a certain score was nullified by Gough, who brought off one of the most daring and sensational saves seen at Goodison Park this season, by picking the ball from Cock's toe.
CONTRASTS.
The two goals-both by Chadwick, by the way –were a remarkable study in contrasts. The first was one of those freak affairs in which the Blues appear to be specialising nowadays, but Chadwick must be given due credit for his opportunism. He sent in a first time slow moving ball which Gough went down to smoother. Right in front of the goalkeeper the ball appeared to gather momentum and “side,” and bounced up over a pair of outstretched hands into the net. A soft goal, but welcome. The second was much more elaborate and orthodox. Hunter Hart checked Sampy, and put forward a long pass to Cock. The centre steadied himself, and transmitted the ball cleverly to Chadwick, who shot hard into the corner of the net from long range. The force which Chadwick gets into his shots is astonishing, and it is more than possible that there is no harder hitter of a moving ball playing League football today.
BAFFLED BLADES.
The United were up against a better and cleverer team, but they were triers all through, and had the Everton defence been the least bit shaky. Tunstall and Mercer would have had a profitable time. As it was Brown, McBain and Hart –Brown especially –held a vice like grip on the attack, and McDonald and Livingstone kicked shiftily and accurately. The forwards played daintily and effectively upto the “box” but their culminating efforts were mostly misdirected. Chedgzoy well held in the opening stages, improved as the game went on, and on several occasions might have scored, with luck. Irvine was a trifle erratic, and Cock rather slow in starting towards goal, Chadwick was the outstanding forward, but Troup was not far behind him. He is almost as good a half-back as he is a forward. For Sheffield, the two wingers, Milton, Pantling, and Gough were the pick, Johnson was more or less obliterated. The game was conducted in good spirit, and although McBain was hurt in the latter stages and went off, the affair was a pure accident. Team : - Everton: - Fern. goal, McDonald, and Livingstone, backs, Brown, McBain, and Hart (captain), half-backs, Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, and Troup, forwards. Sheffield United: - Gough, goal, Cook, and Milton, backs, Pantling, Waugh, and Green, half-backs, Mercer, Sampy, Johnson, Gillespie, and Tunstall, forwards.

EVERTON “A” 4 LIVERPOOL “A” 1
November 12 1923. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
LIVERPOOL COUNTY COMBINATION.
Everton achieved a fine performance at Lance-lane when they easily defeated Liverpool “A” by 4-1. The visitors were undoubtedly the better side and fully deserved the two points. Play opened at a fast pace. The Blues' right wing was first to come into promince. Swindles made an excellent run down the slope, and beating Ostle and Davies sent in a fine centre, which, however, was badly dealt with by the inside forwards. After ten minutes, Torley opened the score, for Everton and within the next minute Davies (centre-half) made a good attempt to equalise, his shoot striking the crossbar, with Lawson well beaten. From a penalty, Virr put Everton further ahead. After the resumption, both goals were frequently visited. Davies, from twenty-five yards beat Lawson and Virr, near the end, scored two more goals, for Everton. Garner, Davies, Keedwell, and Spencer, were prominent for the Reds, Lawson, Helsby, Swindells, and Virr being the pick of the visitors.

EVERTON PREVAIL
Athletic News- Monday, November 12 1923
BRAMELL LANE MEN BEATEN IN RARE STRUGGLE
EVERTON 2 SHEFFIELD UNITED 0
By Junius
Everton were two distinct types of play at Goodison Park, the forwards adopted the close passing style of play, and by clever and accurate foot-craft monopolised the bulk of the movements, particularly during the first portion. The ball was passed with great precision, and the intricate footwork, combined with the constructive movements of the men immediately behind them, thoroughly extended the defensive powers of the Sheffield defenders. Milton, especially, had many anxious moments and difficult situations to negotiate, and the surprise was that the interval arrived Everton had not secured a pronounced lead.
Sheffield Raiders.
The United forwards rarely got away, and when did their progress was usually made by the long, swinging, high pass. The wing players were strong raiders, and had there been the least wavering on the part of Everton’s half-backs the methods adopted by the Sheffielders might possibly have resulted in a different complexion being placed upon the game. As I have indicated, the Everton forwards were particularly dexterous and adroit in their footwork, so much so, indeed, that it was often rather overdone in close quarters, for the United defenders never gave in while a chance remained to cover the keeper. There were few direct shots of merit from either side, and the finest of all was that Everton inside-left, who sealed the fate of Sheffield ten minutes from the close. Everton’s first goal was recorded close upon the interval when Chadwick, on receiving from Cock, drove in a ball that I thought Gough should have arrested. He was in the line of flight on his knees and met the ball apparently in confident fashion, but allowed it to pass over his head into the net. He had no chance, however, with Chadwick’s second goal ten minutes from the end, when the inside-left with a strong drive to the left of Gough placed the ball into the corner of the net.  Immediately after this success, McBain, who had been heavily charged, and in evident pain, took up the outside-left position, and finally left the field. Inquiry elicited the fact that the muscles above the hip were bruised.
Thrilling Moments.
Apart from the scoring of the goals some pulse-stirring episodes occurred. Mercer was concerned in one, when he drove in a brilliant high shot after 25 minutes’ play, and no sooner had Fern cleared when Cock, beating Milton twenty yards out, made straight tor goal. Cook racing across, was also beaten by a deft left -footed flick, and Cock was in possession three yards out.  Then it was that  Gough made an audacious save by falling on the ball, the Everton leader being evidently staggered at the rapid movement of events. Considered generally Everton were an exceedingly clever combination with their greatest, strength at half-back, where McBain played in masterful fashion and completely overshadowed Johnson, of whom little was seen during the game. Of the forwards the work Chadwick and Troup impressed more than that of Chedgzoy and Irvine, though in the first portion the right wing player accomplished good work, only to discount it by attempting too much. Gillespie often made play easy for Tunstall, but in Brown, both these players often met more than their match. Brown was extremely effective both in constructive and defensive methods; Mercer and Sampy, too, were closely shadowed by Hart, and altogether the United line was never allowed to settle down to a smooth working arrangement. The Sheffield half-backs, though not reaching the standard of the Everton trio, nevertheless played a sound game. Waugh was a thorn in the side of John Cock, giving him little latitude, and often cutting adrift nicely intended passing movements. The last lines of defence had much work on hand, and each pair acquitted themselves creditably. Livingstone over-kicked his forwards early on, but remedied the defect later, and his partner, McDonald, gave a solid display throughout, and Milton and Cook defended resolutely. Everton.—Fern; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart (Captain): Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, and Troup. Sheffield United.- Gough; Cook, Milton; Pantling, Waugh, Green; Mercer, Sampy, Johnson, Gillespie (Captain), and Tunstall. Referee: J. E. Telford, Preston.

EVERTON’S REVENGE
Sheffield Independent Monday November 12, 1923
WHY UNITED FAILED TO WIN AT GOODISON PARK
EVERTON 2 SHEFFEILD UNITED 0
From Our Own Correspondent
Sheffield United did not play anything like so well against Everton, at Goodison Park, as they had done on the previous Saturday, and the home side were able to turn a 4—0 reverse into a 2-0 victory. It may be said at once that Everton were the better side on the day’s play, but they got a lucky goal in the first half, and their second came in the gathering gloom only five minutes before the end. Still Everton had chances to score more than one goal quite early in the game, and it was late on before the United showed anything like their real form in attack. For once in a way, the left wing found it hard, extremely hard, to get the better of the opposing half-back. Brown had a mission to watch Tunstall, and the left winger was closely shadowed that he got few chances.
JOHNSON WATCHED.
Then Johnson, though, trying hard, was never in possession the ball without two or three opponents crowding him out, and when he got a real chance the first half he was pulled up for offside by the referee. The official recognised his error and threw the ball down, but by that time the defenders were in position. A goal to Johnson at that period might have meant all the difference. Again Tunstall beat MacDonald and had only Fern to beat, but he shot with his right foot and Fern saved after coming out. These were instances of bad luck, but worse followed when Chadwick scored with long shot, the ball suddenly bouncing over the head of Gough, who had gone on his knees and had the ball covered all the way. It was a fluky goal indeed. But the second one was a good one, the result of a fine drive.
FORM OF PLAYERS.
Gough was in way to blame, and made a number of fine saves, notably one in the first half, when his backs were beaten and he came out and smothered Cock’s shot, a fine example of judgment and daring. Both Cook and Milton did well at back, tackling keenly and cleanly, but they did not always clear well, and too many kicks sent the ball across instead of down the field. Green quite pleased the spectators by the way he tackled Chedgzoy, and he did well against a good wing, but Waugh was the best of the halves, and he did not allow Cock much scope. Pantling found Troup elusive, but, on the whole, did cool and clever work. It was forward where the United failed realise expectations. Mercer played well and centred effectively, while both Gillespie and Sampy were good foragers. But with Johnson and Tunstall so closely watched the line not an effective force, though Gillespie opened out the play good long passes, across to the right wing.
A SCOTTISH TRIO.
But the United were opposed to a good set of half backs, and Everton’s Scottish trio are the backbone of the side. McBain and Brown were especially good, though the former retired hurt near the end after a brief spell at outside left. Irvine, Troup and Chadwick were good forwards, but the defence did not altogether impress, and might have been in trouble but for the splendid covering work of the halves. It was perhaps only in accordance with tradition that the United should have been beaten, for in five matches at Goodison since the war they have secured only one point. But other clubs will fail against Everton so long as their half-backs maintain their present standard. Teams:— Sheffield United.—Gough; Cook, Milton; Pantling, Waugh, Green; Mercer, Sampy, Johnson, Gillespie (Captain) and Tunstall. Everton.—. Fern; Macdonald, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart (Captain); Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick and Troup. Referee; J. G. Telford (Chester).

THE VITAL DIFFERENCE
Sheffield Daily Telegraph - Monday 12 November 1923
EVERTON BETTER MARKSMEN THAN SHEFFIELD UNITED
The two contests which Sheffield United and Everton have had will be remembered for a long time as severe tests of the merits and stamina of the teams. In view of the splendid football which they have served up, perhaps it is only right the honours should be even. The Sheffielders gained a glorious victory on their own ground, but when they went to Goodison Park on Saturday they found Everton in a far happier vein and suffered in consequence. The victors on this occasion scored two goals- twice as many had been debited against them the previous week-so that the balance slightly favours the Yorkshiremen. On Saturday the good things which came along favoured the home side. Still none could begrudge them their success. They won because they accepted their chances, while United returned home goalless and pointless through their own neglect of opportunities. Chadwick, Everton’s inside left is reputed to be one of the most powerful forwards playing, and in that lies his sole merit, for he is not a c lever player. However, strong and accurate marksmanship is a valuable asset.
GOUGH’S GREAT GOALKEEPING
Probably no one was more surprised than Chadwick when three minutes before the interval a chance shot of his scored. Gough seemed to have the ball covered, but when he fell on his knee he was amazed to see the ball bounce high over his head and outstretched hands. There was an element of luck about that goal, but the second, registered seven minutes before the close, was splendidly conceived. Chadwick snapped up a pass from cock, and bluffing Cook drove in a powerful oblique shot which left Gough helpless. There we have the shots which decided the result of the match, but there were many more by the Evertonians which only superb skill and judgement by Gough prevented scoring. Nothing better has been seen for a long time than the way in which this goalkeeper twice left his goal to fall on the ball; at the feet of Cock when the latter was about to shoot. They were rare samples of remarkable intuition. Then other home forwards were well on the mark, only to be thwarted by Gough. On the other hand, Fern had a comparatively easy time, for Johnson and his immediate colleagues could do anything but put in likely scoring efforts.
GREEN SHOWS UP WELL
Apart from this very important difference, the sides were well balanced. All the half-backs shone, and Green earned praise for his sound work against the clever combination of Chedgzoy and Irvine, while Pantling and Waugh performed much excellent service. For the first half-hour Cook and Milton defended splendidly, but then fell away surprisingly, only to regain their former standard later on. Still their one bad spell, when neither could kick the ball properly, shook their credit. Forward United had two capital wingers in Mercer and Tunstall, but their fine foraging went for naught when the middle men could not improve upon their work. Still there were times when fortune was dead against them, especially once, when Johnson was all but through and was erroneously pulled up for offside. Everton were a better side than when in Sheffield. Their halves were more stubborn, especially Brown and McBain, who held a firm grip on the opposition. The men in front were better in marksmanship, and Troup and Chedgzoy led numerous raids, which taxed to the utmost the visitors’ defenders. It was a game which 30,000 people enjoyed in pleasant weather, though mist came on towards the close.

CHADWICK’S GOALS FOR THE CLUB
The Liverpool echo-Monday, November 12, 1923
Bee’s Notes
If Everton could have transposed that gale of wind a week ago, or if Hart could have won the toss, there might have been another double for Everton enthusiasts to engage upon. There was no doubt about their superiority on Saturday, and though at three-quarter time Sheffield put up a brave show to try to equalise that odd first goal scored by Chadwick, Everton won in a trot in the end.
VALUE OF THE SHOOTER
The shooting of Chadwick has become a byword. There was a time when people said he was too slow. They now incline to that belief, because they don’t realise that when he wants to hit a ball properly he must bring it to his own liking and that liking favours a “dead” ball. Thus a swift defence can get into cover quickly, and time and again Chadwick finds his massive drives hit somebody or something. That is a minor delay, and it is better to let time heal that fault. On the other hand, look at the crop of goals he has scored. He glories in driving, and a chance shot never lost a fair goalkeeper; therefore he should be encouraged to attempt a shot at a venture. His first goal came that way, and Gough was napping when the ball kicked up. It is said by some visiting teams to Everton’s ground, that Goodison Park is full of holes that make the ball bump awkwardly. Whether that is so I cannot say- I was a wee yin when I trod its grass sporting the Nomads colours, and carrying a heavy meal, partaken but half an hour before I strolled to the ground to watch the game! I sometime wish to bless Norman Gillmore for that day’s work when he crocked and the secretary saw me in the Bullens-road paddock.
HOT AND STRONG
However, let us forget the musty past. Let us recall Chadwick’s second shot-a priceless swinging-out drive. That’s the boot to give ‘em. I could wish that others of the line would indulge in more shooting. There is a distinct lack of it in more than one part of its chain. Chadwick’s second goal was started in an unusual way. Livingstone, playing confidently, worked right up to the half-way line, and it was one of his scheming moves that led the ball towards the scorer. Certainly Livingstone and McDonald played their best, their very best, and the half-back line kept in touch with the forward line, so that a crop of goals could have come had there been more definiteness about the right wing, whose finish to excellent passing was below par. The left wing was much more practicable, and Troup and his partner found a hole in the United defence, the backs having started well, having a nasty uncertain ten minutes just before the interval. Gillespie, well held, was the key-position to the United side, and the Everton half-backs realised it, and played accordingly. Therefore, Tunstall was much below what is expected of an international, and only Mercer and his partner shaped well and truly, dovetailing finely, and making the Hart go pit-a-pat, so much so that Hunter accidentally knocked over the referee. Green, a Nuneaton boy, shaped well at half-back; but I must say I have never been favourable to the United backs. They seem too wild in their kicks, and their misses are uncommonly numerous.

VILLA PLAYER SHOT DEAD.
November 13, 1923. The Liverpool Courier.
Thomas Ball Aston Villa centre-half back, was shot dead outside his house at Perry Bar, Birmingham last night.

EVERTON MAKE NO CHANGE
The Liverpool Wednesday, November 14 1923
Bee’s Notes
Everton, for their game with West Bromwich at Goodison Park, rely upon the same eleven that defeated Sheffield United. The Reserves take the following team to Blackburn;- Harland; Raitt, Helsby; Peacock, Reid, Grenyer; Parry, Swindells, Forbes, Williams, and Harrison.

G. WILSON
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Thursday 15 November 1923
Doddy Wilson, the ex-Hearts-Everton- Newcastle, and Lochgelly player, has been appointed player-manager to St Andrews City F.C., Vancouver.

GEORGE WILSON APPOINTMENT
Dundee Courier - Thursday 15 November 1923
 George Wilson, the well-known international football player, has been chosen from a large number of applicants to be coach and playing manager to the Andrew's City F.C., Vancouver, British Columbia. George, who is a native of Lochgelly, emigrated to Canada last year. He finished his football career at home with the Raith Rovers.  He first earned fame while with the Hearts of 'Midlothian. Latterly he went to Everton, and following a dispute with them crossed over to Belfast and had a season there. For what was then a record transfer fee was secured by Newcastle United. He holds the Cup badges of the Scottish and English Associations, and had the unique experience, in addition his Scottish Association caps, having played in League internationals for both Scotland and Ireland.

NORMAN BULLOCK AND EVERTON.
November 15, 1923. The Liverpool Courier.
It has been stated that Norman Bullock, Centre forward of the Bury Football Club, is on the transfer list, and that several first League clubs have been inquiring about him. The assertion that Everton had actually secured his transfer was published local by yesterday, but with the Goodison and Bury clubs deny the statement. As a matter of fact, it is probable that Bullock, who has been out of the “Shakers” team for some time, may appear against Leicester City on Saturday.

ALBION BRING ANOTHER SMITH INTO THE TEAM v  EVERTON
The Liverpool Echo- Thursday, November 15, 1923
Bee’s Notes
West Brom Albion, Everton, bring in an interesting boy, none other than Morris Smith, the brother of Joe Smith, their veteran back, who assisted Everton in the war-time football, along with McNeal, the half-back. I am able to give the Albion’s official verdict for Saturday’s game, the team chosen reading;- Ashmore (the boy returns to displace veteran Pearson, of the long kicks); Smith, Adams; Magee, Bowser, McNeal; Spencer, Garter, Blood, F. Morris, and Morris Smith. The last named is only nineteen years old, and he has played so excellently with the Albion’s Central League side (Frank Mann, ex-Huddersfield, says that Albion Res, are the best side he has seen) that he was allowed to make his debut last Saturday, and shaped very well. Stan Davies operation was for ear trouble, and he will be out of the game for about a fortnight. In view of the Albion’s game with our side this week, it is interesting to remember that Stan Davies, of the Albion, was one time with Everton, and the club parted with him to the West Brom people, who have ever since been thankful for that mercy. Stan Davies had many who said him nay when he came up here, but the truth was that he was playing at a time when Everton’s wing pairs were not of special strength, so that if Stan had been playing for them when the present wingers were engaged there would have been a difference. At any rate, a friend this morning said; “If Stan Davies had been with Everton now they would have seen what sort of a centre he is.” When you come to recall the musty past, all clubs can be made out to have blundered; but Everton have been particularly unhappy, for did not they give Freeman to Burnley for years of service, did not they not part with Clennell, still to-day one of the best schemers and shots in the land? Stan Davies, unfortunately, cannot play against Everton, as he is only just getting over an operation. He is mending nicely, I am told, and is keen to get busy again with the big bag of goals that he has scored for the Hawthorne people. It will surprise most people to know that while he has never been dropped from the side, he has collected to date 46 goals in two years. Excellent going, is it not?
LEST WE FORGET
“Out and Out Blue” writes;- May an old Evertonian ask you to ask if Everton can kindly see their way to have a match for the benefit of some of their old players who have not been in luck’s way, and who in their day were not lucky recipients of the £500 and £650 benefits players get nowadays, or even the big pay. Recently one saw good old Andy Gibson, whom old supporters remembers as a good, untiring centre half in the Bootle and Everton days; also Bobby Watson (who remembers the bottle-washing episode?), and there’s Alec Dick, Ted Corey (a victim of rheumatism, I believe), and a few other good old triers of days of smaller wages and benefits, including good Charlie Jolliffe, goalie, when Dobson and Marriott were backs. I do hope Everton can and will have a joint benefit for them. They merit one surely, and other supporters of old Blues’ since 1885 will agree surely with me.

ANDREW MOFFATT
Dundee Courier- Friday, November 16, 1923
Before many matches are played by East Fife, Moffatt, is likely again to appear in the ranks of the Methil team. He went to Everton from East fife, and this season ha splayed several games for Lochgelly. The other week Andrew visited Bayview, and it was understood then that he was willing to return to his own club.

NEW TOWN HALL CONSETT
Consett Guardian-Friday, November 16, 1923
The Universal super production, ”The Abyssmal Brute," will be submitted to patrons on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday nights. "I Do'' is a Harold Lloyd screamer, and when we mention the name of the latter that should suffice. - Felix the Cat" and - The Topical Budget" retain their popularity. For the week-end a Stoll masterpiece, "The Wandering Jew," should prove popular, as it features Isobel Elsom, Malvina Longfellow, and Matheson Lang—a notable trio indeed. The football film will show the Everton team, and 4 of the Nick Carter detective stores will be filmed.

NIPPINESS VERSUS HIGH-CLASS
The Liverpool Echo -Friday, November 16 1923
Bee’s Notes
There the Albion come with a reputation for being excessively nippy. They were ever thus, and they were ever a hit short of status in their palmiest days at Spon-lane. When they came to Liverpool’s ground early in the season they played grand football and looked like turning out a top-card. However I though their size was against them, and suggested that to Mr. Bassett. He thought that when the heavy grounds came their side would be thirty per cent, better. The best answer to that is that the Albion have not won a game since September 8- which is quite a long time since! However, we can be sure of this-the meeting to-morrow will be engaging because it will be a battle of wits. There will be Everton’s tinge of class to carry them through; there will be the Albion’s ruggedness and desperation. Which shall carry the day? Well, I fancy Everton very much to win not only this game, but the away game, too. Why? Because the Everton side is too good for the Albion “nippers,” and having said that I hasten to remind the Everton forwards that wins do not come unless a forward chances his foot and shoots. There should be more shooting than at present obtains, remembering how well fed is the forward line in these enjoyable days. The Albion have had some merry innings against Everton, but I can’t see anything staring at them to-morrow save defeat. Everton; Fern; Livingstone, McDonald; Brown, McBain, Hart; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. West Bromwich Albion; Ashmore; J. Smith, Adams; Magee, Bowser, McNeal; Spencer, Carter, Blood, Morris, M. Smith.

RISE OF BILLY BROWN
November 17, 1923. The Liverpool Football Echo
Every football enthusiast likes a clean ever cleanly living in footballers more important than most players will allow and such living is much more likely and judged by the lookers-on than the player will ever know. The hero of the field sometimes blotches his copybook and his fame is at once as naught –a if he had ever obtained plaices. Now is the case of many Everton player the public say; “He's such a decent fellow on or off the field. Such a one is Billy Brown, the ruddy complexioned young fellow who has gained his club cap in the Everton colours. When did Brown join? That is a favourite query from Everton folk, who can hardly believe their own ears when they are told he was with Everton in 1914-15. But (says “Bee's) Brown came here an mere boy of 16 years. He was rather heftily built, ad for a long spell after the war he had to play second fiddle. In fact, there was a time when he came to me and said that he feared it was no use staying at Everton. I counseled him to have patience. Then he got his place in the senior side and when the whole side played badly and Brown played a poor game, but the best of the half-back's game he was dropped to the second side. There is often a youngster who has to go to the stiffs' side as it is called, when defeat has surprised the club. Brown went down knowing that he had played badly, but believing that he had layed better than any other half-back on his side. However, like a sensible fellow he waited, and played on hard and true and the result is that he is now a fixture in the first side , and is a link in a line that has become known as one of the best trinities in the world. A leading authority has said that Brown is the best right half in the game at the moment and Billy Meredith told me that he had not seen a better half-back line for some seasons than the Everton line of Brown, McBain and Hart, Brown has come to stay. He shuns the foul, and he has shunned the motor-bike by which he once damaged his wrist and had to cease from football. He is still a young man, full of vitality keen of thought and sure in his passes to his wing, while his tackles has some “body” in it, yet is quite per rule. Long may he resign –“He's such a decent fellow on and off the field.”

WHY EVERTON SHOULD WIN
The Liverpool Echo- Saturday, November 17, 1923
By Stork
Everton to score extent avenged their defeat at Bramall-lane, at any rate in a agony, and perhaps death. The F.A. or the League might look into this business, and make it a rule that the club doctor must be in attendance at home matches. Then all will feel secure in the knowledge that if anything happens the best attention is at the club’s demands. What about the Players’ Union? They might get to business and see if some sort of an arrangement could not be made. The welfare of the player is the union’s first thought, or should be. Here is a chance for them to show they are “on the job,” matter of points. It was a goods performance, and speaks well for the Goodison Parkers’ game with West Bromwich Albion at Goodison this afternoon; for while Everton are on the up-grade, the Albion are showing very bad lapses. The latter are a puzzling side- very good or very bad is typical of their game. The present state of the going is all against their type of game. They like the ball on the top, and then they can make things warm for most defences, but when the turf is heavy they cannot move or get the ball moving at a pace they like. In defence, the Albion of his best on our local ground. How many of you have forgotten his ‘keeping against Liverpool in a Cup-tie? That was a true sample of his general play. Bowser, at centre half, is a tousy player who takes a deal of passing, as John Cock will find Magee is stubborn and a rare tackler, which he can make openings for his front line. McNeil can be depended upon to keep a tight hold on Chedgzoy and Irvine. Blood takes the place of Stanley Davies, the former Evertonian, and he will find he has all his work cut out to get clear of the attentions of Neil McBain. Blood is a dangerous player, and one who must not be allowed to run loose. He can shoot, and from what I hear he is fitting the bill in the Albion to the latter’s satisfaction. He scored his side’s two goals against Cardiff on Saturday last. However, I am of the firm opinion that the Everton half-backs ere capable enough to stop the Albion forwards, and further, I firmly believe that they will win handsomely if they will shoot hard and often enough. They must remember Pearson is never beaten until the ball is in the net.

A “TOFFEE” GOAL
The Sports Argus, Saturday, November 17, 1923
ALBION STUNNED BY THE UNEXPECTED
WEAK DEFENCE
By Mavis
On their journey north Albion encountered rain, snow and hail, but at Liverpool the sun shone brightly, and except that it was bitterly cold it was a real football day. Albion played their selected eleven, and the only  notable absentee from Everton was Albion’s tough old opponent, Dicky Downs. Everton; Fern; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart (Captain); Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. Albion; Ashmore; Smith, Adams; Magee, Bowser (Captain), McNeal; Spencer, Carter, Blood, Morris, Smith (H).  Referee; Mr. T.M. Watson, Nottingham.  The attendance was smaller than is usually the case when Albion visit Liverpool, and there would not be more than 15,000 spectators at the start. Bowser won the toss and Albion began with the wind in their favour. Midfield play was the feature of the early exchanges, the first semblance of an attack being initiated by Cock, but it came to grief when Magee passed to his keeper. Troup and Chadwick then participated in a delightful combined movement which Magee rather cleverly intercepted. Some minutes elapsed before the Albion forwards got into action, and it was a left wing spurt which provided it. Smith, however, failed with his centre, and Livingstone cleared. Albion were a long time developing their aggressive mood, the forwards save Morris, being inclined to part with the ball without taking stock of the position. In the meantime Ashmore was kept busy fielding passes from his colleagues, and intercepting bad passes from his opponents. Play was very scrappy and so far the advantage lay cleverly with Everton. But high class football had been at a discount. Smart work by Chadwick and clever anticipation by Cock led to the Everton centre breaking through but the Albion defenders closed on him and he was prevented from getting in his shot. Albion replied with their best combined effort, but Morris charged McDonald in the back in trying to reach Spencer’s centre. A good opening was wasted. Chadwick was the star in Everton’s forward line and once Magee tripped him up and he fell headlong. But it was an obvious accident and the crowd cheered Magee’s gesture of apology. The light was very poor, and apparently bothered all the players. So far Everton had badly neglected Chedgzoy, and when the ball at length came to him he replied with a beautiful centre, only to see Cock pulled up for off-side. Magee foolishly trying to beat three men in close proximity to his goal, passed the ball to Troup, and nearly cost his side a goal. Bowser retrieved a bad error. At this point a terrific hailstorm descended, and the light failed so badly that the crowd called for play to be stopped. Play continued through an extraordinary storm, and when it had subsided the light improved, but conditions were still very bad. Everton were forced to the defensive for a time, but it cannot be said that the Albion looked like reaping a reward. The nearest they approached was a free-kick against McBain on the fringe of the penalty area. Blood drove the ball against a solid wall presented by the Everton defence. Albion’s next assault followed this. Carter opened a movement and from Spencer’s centre Blood made a first-time shot which grazed the far post. Albion’s defence held the speedy Everton attack fairly well, but Chadwick still gave them some anxious moments. Albion were doing most of the pressing and after Bowser narrowly missed with a long range drive Fern brought off a save from as fine a shot as carter ever made. This effort aroused the Everton crowd to cheers. A pretty bout of passing between Cock and Chedgzoy exposed Ashmore’s charge to some peril. A bad mistake by the referee gave Everton a goal four minutes from the interval. Cock was standing several yards off-side when he received a pass and the Albion stood still. The referee, however, signalled for the play to proceed and COCK simply shot into the net. Albion’s protests were of no avail. This unmerited reverse stunned the Albion, who had been playing better football without any luck and things went hard with them to the interval.
Half-time; Everton 1 West Bromwich Albion 0
Albion began the second half in promising style, swinging the ball out to the wings at a fast pace which set the Everton defenders on the run. Spencer responded better than Smith, and Carter had hard luck with a shot. Unfortunately it did not last. Everton’s first response brought them a good goal. CHADWICK, receiving a pass from Chedgzoy, and the ball passed the goalkeeper at a great rate. This was after 47 minute’s play. Magee made a plucky attempt to improve the situation, but Hart fouled him badly, and the free kick yielded nothing. Everton were now well on top, Chedgzoy and Irvine being in rare form, and from one of their combined advances, Irvine flashed a magnificent drive just too high. A passing spell of Albion aggression saw Blood and Morris in the penalty area, but McDonald touched the ball to Fern and this cleared all danger. At the opposite end Chedgzoy beat all opposition and cut in with the goal apparently at his mercy. Ashmore did the only thing possible and advanced immediately. He received the full force of a hard drive in his face. He was injured but play was not stopped until the ball had been cleared. Luckily, Ashmore was able to continued. The Albion defence seemed to have gone all to pieces, and the speedy Everton forwards were doing almost as they pleased for a time. The forwards persevering Carter did good work, but it was discouraging for them. At one time they looked like getting through, but for the most part the Everton defence held them in check. Both Blood and Carter had clever shots diverted and Fern was not seriously troubled. The best that could be said of the Albion defence was that they never gave up trying. Nothing was seen of Morris, very little effective work came from Smith, and this unevenness was a great drawback to the Albion. Result; Everton 2 West Bromwich Albion 0. 

EVERTON’S CLASS TOO GOOD FOR NIPPY ABLION
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday November 17 1923
“BEE” DESCRIBES A FAST, ENJOYABLE GAME
A HAIL-STORM AND GOALS BY COCK AND CHADWICK
EVERTON WIN 2-0
Everton; Fern; Livingstone, McDonald; Brown, McBain, Hart (Captain); Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. West Bromwich Albion; Ashmore; Smith (J), Adams; Magee, Bowser (Captain), McNeal; Spencer, Carter, Blood, Morris, H. Smith. The Albion, without Stan Davies (ill), made their how at Goodison Park in a “galey” sort of wind, with sun and rain chasing each other. Ashmore returned to their side. Everton were as usual, and the attendance was in the border of 30,000.
The Albion won the toss and started on their means of getting goals at the Stanley Park end. At once the Everton half-backs gave delight in the matter of jugglery. Brown feinted cleverly and made a capital header to prevent the Albion left wing going off space, and afterwards McBain made a clever move to open out the game for his inside forwards. Magee, the Widnes born player, determined to pass back to prevent Chadwick getting his customary goal, and Ashmore had to be alive because McNeal also defended backwards, and altogether the Albion found themselves up against a stiff proposition. The passing of the Everton side was brilliant. McNeal gave a corner when Chadwick sprinted away and threatened to do a lot of harm.
LISTENING-IN SECRET
Irvine made a rapid header, and McNeal had to put back a long distance to his goalkeeper. One of the curiosities of the game was the appearance of Magee, 5ft 5in, alongside Troup, and also against the big Chadwick. Magee once fouled Chadwick and instantly apologised, like the good little sport he is, at which point of the game Chadwick put to hand and Hart did likewise. Much of the football was very pretty, and Everton’s combination at one time bewildered the opposition, until Troup unfortunately passed on to Chadwick who was off-side, whereas the pass necessary was to the right wing. Cock made an upward movement and was crowded out by the two backs so that he could not get a clear shot at goal. Spencer made a swinging centre, and later came with a ditto repeated, the result being that the Albion looked like scoring, but Freddie Morris, in his haste to go on with the business, pushed Brown in the back, and thus the movement was undone.
A PASS TO HIS ‘KEEPER.
So far Troup had not been responding so well as usual, and the right wing had been quiet. However, when darkness set in Chedgzoy put across a perfect centre, and Joe Smith hit it out. In response to this there was a sharp rally on the part of Morris, who was close to goal when Livingstone did the wise thing by passing to his goalkeeper. Chadwick made a rallying run, in which a charge kept him from shooting, and then a hail storm of severity, which lasted five minutes, served to clear the air a bit. The players were to be sympathised with in battling in such element, and during this period and afterwards the Albion showed up better than at any other point of the game. Spencer was going through when he was charged over by Livingstone, but the Albion are nothing if not plucky, and when Spencer came with a first-time centre Blood hit a sharp shot, and the ball seemed to be well in the net, instead of which it hit the side netting.
FERN’S TWO-HANDED PUNCH
Carter, a young recruit, hit a splendid ball, and Fern making a two-handed punch managed to turn the ball for a corner. Thus was the first save of the match, and it was an especially good one. Everton awoke to their responsibilities, but Irvine shot with the left foot, and the ball did not have sufficient pull on it to go anywhere near the goal. Chadwick had a nice pass from McBain, and drove in one of his specials that looked like going high over the bar. However, the ball sagged the further it went, and eventually it was only inches over the bar. Then there was a free kick taken by hart, and Cock, running to the left, flicked the ball into what seemed to him an empty goal. However, Joe Smith had fallen back into goal, and headed away.
HOW COCK SCORED
Cock was not to be denied, and when he back-heeled the ball to Irvine, a movement was started that ended in a goal after forty minutes. Chedgzoy meandered about at inside right, and eventually pushed the ball over the middle, Cock, who is an adept at keeping on-side, was judged by the Albion defenders offside, and they stopped playing while Cock went on to score. To my view Cock was offside, but no one can be dogmatic when the incident was at such a distance, and when one remembers that the ground is at a bad angle to the press-box. He was nearly through a second and yet a third time, and on the last occasion was described as offside, which he could not be, because Chedgzoy last played the ball when two yards in front of Cock.
Half-time; Everton 1, West Bromwich Albion nil.
CHADWICK’S ELEVENTH
The second half was only three minutes old when Chadwick got his eleventh goal of the season with a fiery drive. Irvine gave him the chance, and the big Bury man let the ball roll down his leg, and then hit a hard, low ball that found its billet. The Albion were surprised, and when Magee sprinted away he was fouled, and therefore could not get at his pass to Spencer, who, by the way, is a Sheffield ‘Varsity student. It was fine football to watch, even though Fern had only one shot to save, and while Chedgzoy and Irvine were quiet in the first half they opened the second half as if the field belonged to them.  After this,Chedgzoy again came into the picture with a dribble that beat McNeal and Adams and when he turned the ball nearer goal he let himself in for a nice position, and Ashmore, running out, caught the full force of the shot on the jaw, and was knocked out in consequence. Hart fell down on the slippery turf and let in Blood. However, the Albion centre was not good in his direction, so that Fern again had a let-off. On the other hand, Ashmore had to pick up from Chadwick, and from Irvine, and just now Everton were all attack and the Albion could only find time to save their goal and could not make any forward impressions. In fact, Cock drove right through the defence and should have sent the ball into the net instead of shooting over the bar.
ALBION TIRING
The Albion tired a little, and no wonder, for they had withstood terrific pressure, and their main forward, Morris, had been well cloaked by Brown, who was having a good inning. Ashmore was on the quivive all the time, and when Troup made asurprise centre the young Albion goalkeeper caught it, although the ball travelled away from his left hand. For about three quarter time it was Everton's game, and they did just as they liked with the Albion, although they did not shoot very accurately. Twice Chedgzoy made opening, and failed to finish off with a sure touch. McNeal, who is a veteran these days, had goneslow, and was aweakness. In fact, the whole half back line was unable to cope with the all-round excellence of the Everton side. Cock was very near converting an Irvine centre. Ashmore catching the ball at the foot of the post and keeping it from trekking over the line. Ashmore made another good catch from Chedgzoy, and after Chadwick had fallen in the penalty box when about to shoot. Spencer got away, made a delicious inward pass, and Carter seemed all over a scorer  when Fern dived at the ball, tipped It, and at a seemed effort pushed it out of danger.
Final –Everton 2, West Bromwich 0

EVERTON 2 WEST BROMWICH ALBION 0
November 19, 1923. The Liverpool Courier.
HAIL TO EVERTON'S ADVANCE.
MIDGETS TROUP AND MAGEE PROVIDE STAR TURN.
Considering the conditions, the football displayed at Goodison Park, where Everton improved their position in the League table at the expense of the Albion, was of a high-class order. The ground was in a bad state through the heavy rains of late, and a terrific hailstorm in the opening half did not tend to improve matters. Yet both sides overcame these difficulties in splendid style, and as a result, the game was a most interesting one to watch.
OFF-SIDES?
Everton got their goals in the closing minutes of the first half, and shortly after the resumption of the second period. The first was the result of an individual effort by Cock, but from the press box it appeared as though the centre was well offside. This view was strengthened by the fact that neither Bowser nor Adams made any effort to go after Cock. The referee, however, declined to heel the Albion appeal. This was five minutes from half-time. Three minutes had gone in the second half when Everton went further ahead, but this time there could be no disputing the point, for it was a beautiful worked for goal. It was engineered on the right wing by Chedgzoy, who outwitted McNeal before putting the ball across. Bowser only half cleared the centre, which went to Chadwick, and Wilfred maintained his position as one of the leading goal scorers of the country with a drive from fully 30 yards. It was not until Everton had secured this lead that they dominated the game. This was to some extent due to the tactics of the Throstle's defenders. Adams and Smith, who never failed to reply on the “back-to-the-keeper” touch; yet this move can be carried to extremes against a swift moving centre like Cock, who on two occasions all but scored. Chedgzoy was very subdued in the opening half, and most of the work fell upon the left wing, where the clashing of the diminutive Troup and Magree was most interesting to watch; the struggles of these two provided the feature of the game, and while the Albion player generally had the best of it in the first 45, Troup more than levelled matters by the close.
FORWARDS WELL SERVED.
As regards general footwork there was little to chose between the sides. Both sets of halves looked after the forwards well, but while the Everton vanguard finished off their movements successfully, the Albion very rarely got the better of McDonald and Livingstone, consequently Fern was only really troubled on two occasions –once in each half. The first was when Carter fired in a shot that the keeper was just in time to turn behind, and the second came when Blood took up a centre from Spencer, but again Fern saved on the line. This was all that Blood did during the game, and thus he failed to maintain his record of having scored in every game he has played for the Albion. In a large way McBain was responsible for this, the centre-half's watchfulness being that of a father. Forward Everton were best served by the inside men –Cock, Irvine, and Chadwick in turn being only inches wide with splendid shots. The Albion fell away greatly before the end, and as a team were decidedly inferior to the winners, who were well served both fore and aft. Teams : - Everton: - Fern, goal, McDonald, and Livingstone, backs, Brown, McBain, and Hart (captain), half-backs, Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, and Troup, forwards. West Bromwich Albion: - A. Ashmore, goal, J. Smith, and Adams, backs, Magee, Bowser, and McNeal, half-backs, Spencer, Carter, Blood, Morris, and H. Smith, forwards.

BLACKBURN ROVERS RESERVES 6 EVERTON RESERVES 1
November 19 1923. The Liverpool Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE
No details in local papers.

SKILL AND STAMINA
Athletic News -Monday April 19, 1923
ALBION WELL BEATEN AT GOODISON PARK
EVERTON’S STRENGTH
EVERTON 2 WEST BROMWICH ALBION 0
By Junius
taking into consideration the weather conditions at Goodison Park, where strong gusts of wind brought in their train storms of hail and rain, the game between Everton and West Bromwich Albion was interesting. There could, however, be no mistaking the fact that Everton were far and away the superior side, and the surprise was that West Bromwich Albion managed to confine the margin against them to two goals. Had the Everton forwards discarded the close passing, which they adopted throughout the proceedings, the probability is that they would have secured a more pronounced verdict. Still, they were always clever enough to keep a firm grip on the game, and the Albion for the greater portion were compelled to play with their backs to the wall. There were possibilities of an early goal when Chadwick, who had skilfully manoeuvred, gave Cock a great opening with a pass up the middle, but he was crowded out at the last moment. For quite a lengthy period Troup and Chadwick had a merry time at the expense of Magee.
COCK’S CLEVER EFFORT
Twenty-five minutes had gone when a hailstorm of great violence heat down, rendering the ground heavy and treacherous. To drive the ball required much power, and it became evident that speed and stamina would play important part in the contest. Everton had been the aggressors in the main, but seldom was a telling shot sent at Ashmore. Though the Albion rarely got away, they were generally on the target when within range, one effort from Bowser grazing the cross-bar, while Carter immediately afterwards sent a high drive which Fern arrested brilliantly. Cock, though playing with dash, was not too happy in his finishing, though he made one remarkably clever effort. He prevented the ball from going out play, and hooked it over Ashmore s head only to find Adams there to head away. The scoring was deterred to the fortieth minute, when Cock, standing with the full-back, took the hall forward and thoroughly beat Ashmore with a rising drive. Some were under the impression that his position on receiving the ball was doubtful, but the referee was on the spot and had no hesitation in allowing the point. The second half had only been in progress two minutes when Everton obtained a second goal. Chedgzoy had made the running and passed to Irvine, who transferred to Chadwick. He was unmarked, ten yards out, and the ball was driven into the net at a great pace. From this period onward Everton exerted great pressure, and the Albion defenders had to struggle hard to avert further disaster.  Chedgzoy drove in a terrific shot that struck Ashmore’s head, and later on there was a suggestion of a penalty offence when Chadwick was pulled up in the goal area. The Albion forwards were only occasionally in action in the last quarter of an hour, during which time Fern had one difficult ball to negotiate from Blood, and another from Bowser in the last minute.
WHERE EVERTON EXCELLED
In spite OF the conditions, the whole Everton team played delightful football. None gave more improved exhibition than Chadwick, who revelled in the conditions under foot and plied Cock and Troup with ground passes to their liking. The Albion were best served Carter and Spencer, each OF whom made rapid progress, though in Hart they met a stubborn foe. Once again Everton had a commanding advantage at half-back, where McBain subdued Blood and kept his forwards moving with well-timed passes. Brown, too, was a powerful force, but the Albion half-back line was often in dire straits.  For the greater part they were unable to hold the Everton forwards, and could give little support to their own attacking division. Livingstone improved on previous displays and with McDonald formed a strong barrier for Fern, whose position was a sinecure contrasted with that of Ashmore, who was ably served by Smith and Adams. Everton; Fern; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart (Captain); Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, and Troup. West Bromwich Albion; Ashmore; Smith (J), Adams; Magee, Bowser, McNeal; Spencer, Carter, Blood, Morris, and Smith (H.), Referee G.N. Watson, Nottingham.

RESERVES
Athletic News- Monday, April 19, 1923
At Ewood Park Blackburn Rovers had little difficulty in gaining a decisive success over Everton. Haworth scored the opening goal, and before the interval added two more goals for the Rovers. In the second half the home team maintained their superiority, Howarth (2) and Hawksworth obtaining goals for them, whilst Forbes scored the visitors only goal.

ALBION VICTIMS OF A BITTER FATE
The Birmingham Gazette, Monday, 19 November, 1923
FIRST DEFEAT AT GOODISON SINCE THE WAR
EVERTON 2 WEST BROMWICH ALBION 0
By The Throstle
“Liverpool luck” deserted West Bromwich Albion on Saturday, and they suffered defeat at Goodison Park for the first time since 1914-15, the score in Everton’s favour being two clear goals scored by Cock and Chadwick. It is only fair to Albion to say at once that they were the victims of a bitter fate, and had things gone a little better for them at the crucial period of the game they might easily have won. But Albion’s luck is dead out, and they surrendered the honours to the better team in the end.
ELEMENTS TAKE A HAND
The turning point of the game came just before the interval, and it followed an extraordinary spell of weather. Midway through the first half a heavy pall of darkness fell on the ground, and it was accompanied by a fierce storm of hail and sleet, which a strong wind blew inside the covered stands. So difficult was it to discern the progress of the play that it would have occasioned no surprise had the referee signalled a cessation, but light returned after six or seven minutes, and Albion greeted it by some really delightful football. The forwards swung the ball about with precision and variety, each department became cohesive and there was a genuine enthusiasm of spirit. It is true they did not score, but this was due to a wonderful example of Fern’s goalkeeping, which denied Carter a goal, and to just the fraction which counts with Blood’s drives. Slowly but surely Everton were being forced to defensive measures when the bolt fell. Chedgzoy sent the ball to Cock, standing in the middle of the Albion half with no one within six yards of him. There was no question in anybody’s mind, bar Mr. Watson’s, but that he was offside, and Cock’s gesture showed it. But the referee waved him on, and Cock took what the gods offered.
THE LAST STRAW
The interval merely marked the breathing space for Everton to rub in their unmerited advantage, for inside two minutes Chadwick had scored a particularly fine goal from Chedgzoy’s model pas. Little wonder that a lot of the sting went out of the Albion’s play after this, and Everton played with a leisurely case which the run of the play justified. But whilst commiserating with the losers on the persistency with which ill-luck pursues them, this match confirmed many impressions created by recent games. Once more the left flank of the defence was unequal to the task of checking the opposing right wing. For half an hour Chedgzoy was absolutely neglected, but when they saw the consummate ease with which he and Irvine could beat their two opponents, Everton naturally concentrated on them. Happily, Ashmore was at his best, and he made three marvellous clearances in the course of the second half, and was injured in the mouth by one of Chedgzoy’s ”speciality” shots. The left wing crippled Albion’s forward display. Smith is not yet sufficiently matured to justify inclusion in the senior side, and his inability to beat Brown and lack of confidence to run through even when favourably situated was a great handicap to Morris. Finding passes to his left of no avail, Morris turned his attention to Spencer, and some of his passes to that wing were beautifully judged. Spencer responded well enough to constitute a lasting menace to Everton’s goal, but Carter lacked force in most of his shots, and Blood was literally smothered out of visibility by McBain. Anyhow, he never had a clear view of the target.
BOWSER’S MISTAKE?
Smith gave a much improved display, although both he and Magee found tough opposition in Troup and Chadwick in the early stages. Bowser, rather unwisely I thought, played as if he was a third back, apparently content to keep the goals down. While it achieved this purpose it deprived the forwards of any support in the middle, and goodness knows they needed it. Towards the end the Albion defence tired badly. The one man in the team who can view his play in this game with unqualified satisfaction was Ashmore, and in slightly lesser degree, J. Smith, Morris, and Spencer did well. Adams saved a certain goal by heading away from under the bar after cock had flicked the ball over Ashmore’s head, and this was the only redeeming feature of a poor performance. Albion; Ashmore; Smith (J), Adams; Magee, Bowser (Captain), McNeal; Spencer, Carter, Blood, Morris, Smith (H). Everton; Fern; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart (Captain); Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. Referee; Mr. G.N. Watson (Nottingham).

MAKING THE ALBION LOOK SMALL FRY
The Liverpool Echo- Monday, November19, 1925
OUTPLAYED
By Bee’s
West Bromwich were outplayed at Goodison Park. I say this and do not forget the period of the hailstorm, when the Albion promised to do something striking. That was the period when Everton went to sleep for a while and the Albion thought they had a chance. Afterwards they had none. Everton should have won with a comfortable margin, instead of which they seemed content to play pretty and sit on their laurels-and sometimes on their seats! Well, I don’t grumble at a side that wins handsomely, and by handsomely I mean by a useful margin. I want to see Everton going on with their handsome wins-handsome in the way they win through, I mean. Their exhibition are such that one can enjoy the games they are playing, whether they win or lose. Saturday’s game, for instance, brought out more of the flickering touch of the goal art of the game than we have seen for some time; yet one would not say McBain overtired himself owing to his injury of the previous week, which left him in the state that he could not cough and dare not smile! Brown was the star half of the day, with Hart well up the ladder of fame, and McBain doing inimitable things. One word of warning to the side-pretty is as pretty does; but do not imagine I am crying aloud for the daintiest of football.  It won’t work against some sides. Against the Albion, yes; against other sides, a trifle more “spike” please. The Albion as ever were scrupulously fair, and I don’t think any team has a better reputation than the old Throstles’ eleven.
THE VISITORS
Albion have a small side. They showed at Anfield what they could do; but that was on dry ground. When they fall on stony ground they’ll do well. The turf when wet does not suit these little fellows, and I though Magee and McNeal had a sorry period with the Everton wingers. They are too, too small. Bowser on the other hand was a general and a worker, and behind him the backs and goalkeeper did hefty work without getting much return for it. Ashmore in goal was quite distinctive, and Young Smith was willing enough, but at the moment outclassed, just as was Blood at centre. I like Carter, he is a quiet type, rather tailer than the usual Albion man- thanks goodness. Spencer was best of all at outside-right. He can go and he cuts no ice about his centres- -he just cuts them across to the middle piece, first time. Which if football. The Albion are sliding back and their early September form has left them. They met a severely clever side in Everton, however, and maybe at home they will do better. For my own part I think that the Everton wingers will have a merry innings at the Hawthorns next Saturday. Cock was able to play a more forceful game than usual, and his goal would be a popular one with the boys of the camp. Was he off-side? Who shall; be dogmatic from the across-grained angle such as the penalty box at the bottom end of the field gives to the heavenly Press box of Goodison? Certainly Chadwick got his twelfth, not his eleventh, goal of the season, with a special push, and the left wing pair “got together” in a manner that was reproduced by the right wing in the second half. The backs and goalkeeper shared the honours of the day, and those who “shusshed” when a miskick was made must surely have taken no thought for the state of the ball and the state of the ground.

EVERTON’S CASE
The Liverpool Echo- Wednesday, November 21, 1923
Bee’s Notes
Everton naturally enough make no changes from what is known as their customary side. The difference between the Albion and Everton was very pronounced last Saturday, and though it is true that the Albion strongly contest the first goal, on the ground of off-side, they are free to acknowledge the skill of the opposition. Can Everton win at the Albion ground? Well, much depends upon whether the Albion have Ivor Jones and Stan Davies back again. They are keeping back their selection for the purpose of bringing back these men. Neither, I fear, will manage to get right for the game, however. This is Everton’s side anyway;- Fern; Livingston, McDonald; Brown, McBain, Hart; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, and Troup.
Everton Res (v. Blackburn Rovers Res, at Goodison Park 2.30); Harland; Raitt, Helsby; Peacock, Reid, Grenyer; F. Parry, Swindles, J. Parry, Williams, and Harrison.
J. Parry is a brother of the “live wire,” the outside right. Swindles is the local who helped Orrell Wednesday.

WHY EVERTON DROPPED OUT
The Liverpool Echo- Thursday, November 22, 1923
Bee’s Notes
At this very moment Andy Wilson is engaged with the Chelsea officials in regard to his future to Chelsea from Middlesbrough. The affair has gone so far that it is virtually a cert, that Andy will go to the London club and help them out of their forward troubles. Everton were well in the running; in fact, Mr. McIntosh had first refusal. But the club were not prepared to pay £5,000. And no wonder!
SONS OF OLD PROS
West Bromwich Albion’s officials tell me that they are making an uncommon experiment this week. Well as Bowser played last Saturday at Goodison, they feel that his cold and his previous heavy work lead him to a rest this week. Therefore, Jesse Pennington’s former assistant in the shop, Reid, comes into the side as pivot. An even more interesting feature is the appearance of young Perry, son of old Charlie Perry, my hero when a boy! Charlie captained the Albion side when they won the Cup in 1892. The son of the old man has football in his boots, and he has height and weight such as the Albion can do with. He is only 22 years old, stands nearly six feet in height, and weighs twelve stone. He has played a lot with the reserve side, being their regular back, and he has done his part so well that the club feel they can now promote him to make his debut in the senior circle. Gregory, who has been absent from the side for a long time, reappears after his operation and figures at outside left, while Stan Davies reports that he will start training next week. This is the side that will face Everton; Ashmore; Smith, Perry; Magee, Reid, McNeal; Spencer, Carter, Blood, Morris, B. Gregory. Another son of an old-time man, Forrest, is to take the place of Wyllie, if the latter decides that the torn muscle of his hand keep him from playing for Blackburn Rovers.

WEST BROM CHANGES FOR THE BETTER
The Liverpool Echo-Friday, November 23, 1923
Bee’s Notes
The Albion changes, which I was able to make known yesterday (exclusively, as usual), provided interesting memories, and some forecast of what the Albion proposed to do. First of all they have had added experience and height to their side by bringing in Gregory and Perry. The latter is short of first team experience, this being his debut; but he is very tall and tousy, and therefore he will add that bit of weight that I claim has been so long necessary to the Albion side. Strangely enough when the Villa came to Everton they did not impress greatly, yet their results since then have been capital. On the other hand the Albion at Anfield looked like being a tip-top side. Yet how they have failed, only the records can show sufficiently. Naturally they are very strong in their beliefs about these two important changes, and they think Reed will add a bit more tackle to the half-back line in comparison to Bowser’s leaning towards construction instead of destruction. There you are, my sirs, you take your money and your choice; and your best choice o’ Saturday night is the “Football Echo,” which continues to give first-hand information, results that can be relied upon, together with a fund of real information about all the big matches, written by men who have played the game. Everton; Fern; Livingstone, McDonald; Brown, McBain, Hart; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. West Bromwich Albion; Ashmore; Smith (J), Perry; Magee, Reid, McNeal; Spencer, Carter, Blood, Morris, Gregory.

EVERTON SHOULD WIN
November 24, 1923. The Liverpool Courier.
THREE CHANGES IN WEST BROMWICH TEAM.
Everton go to West Bromwich with the same team that vanquished the Throstles a week ago at Goodison Park, and now that Jack Cock has resumed scoring, with great suspects of improving Merseyside's three points of a week ago into a double event. If the centre forward would put a little more spirit –or should it be Kreuchen –into his finishing touches, we should hear fewer tales out for the leader, but many of these are like Mark Twain's comment on his obituary notice –very much exaggerated” –and hardly fair to either player or club. Certainly, if current form be anything on which to base a predication they should have no difficulty in returning with the spoils of victory. The Albion's fall from grace this season has been dramatic, and the position of the club so low in the table, and the ineffectness which has placed it there, are matters which are giving the greatest anxiety to officials and supporters alike. In today's game the Throstles make further alterations, including the reconstitution of the left wing, Morris and Gregory, the latter making his first appearance in the present campaign. Reid displaces Bowser at centre half –he was pivot in sixteen matches two seasons ago –and Perry, son of a famous player, takes Adam's position at left-back. In his debut and from all accounts he is a sturdy youth. If the Black Country fog holds, there might well be exciting times at the Hawthorns.

NEW PLAYER FOR RESERVES
November 24, 1923 The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
Everton are introducing into their reserves side against Blackburn rovers a new player of promise in J. Parry, a brother of F. Parry their outside right, in the team also is Swindles a local forward previously with Orrell Wednesday.

EVERTON IN THE MIDLANDS
The Liverpool Echo- Saturday, November 24, 1923
ALBION ON THE DOWN GRADE
By Stork
Everton, as already stated, played capital football against the Albion, and I see no reason whatever why they should not repeat their victory at the Hawthorns, for I am not enamoured with the Albion team. They are a nippy lot on the hard ground, but when do they expect to get the going hard in these climes? They have made a change in the half-back line, and I cannot see how Reid is going to improve on Bowser, who was the best half they had against Everton. The Albion have been on the down grade for some time, and I feel sure the defence is getting tired to death holding out week after week under great strain. Ashmore did well in Pearson’s mantle, and he proved that he is a goalkeeper not easily defeated. The Everton side, however, is so well knit that they should be strong contenders for the premier position when the season has rolled nearer to its close. Cock has livened up his game, which is all for good, but I would like to see him shoot more often. There is no denying the fact that he provides others with goal-scoring opportunities, but there are times when he could have a go on his own and help his goal crop considerably. He had a reputation second to none when he first went to Chelsea-so much so that he was the talk of the countryside; but since then he has acted the part of provider instead of first-timer. Chadwick still continues to get goals. He is an entirely different player these days. Not only can this Lancashire boy shoot deadly balls, but eh can control them, and is much quicker in sizing up a move in the offing than of yore. I was always harping about the possibilities of “Chaddy,” and I am pleased to see he is not letting me down. Irvine is another who has made progress in football craft, and I am glad to see that he favours a shot even though it might mean a miss. The rest of the team is in good hands, and I fully expect Everton to return from the Midland centre with “the bacon.”

BOYS OF THE OLD BRIDADE
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, November 24, 1923
Bee’s Notes
“Blue Eyes” writes;- With reference to “Old Blues” not on Everton’s veterans re a benefit, &c., I think something ought to be done to help these poor unfortunates (owing to being born twenty years too soon). The majority of these old has been unable to earn any living at the present time, and more or less invalids. Take for instance Alec Dick, suffering a life-and-death struggle with agonising pain and ill-health. Surely something should be done in the way of a benefit match. Perhaps Blackburn Rovers will oblige us, also a collection taken on the senior club’s ground. This would alleviate the illness and sufferings of the old has been, to whom every credit is due for the honour and place of Everton to-day.
GOOD OLD EVERTONIANS
Very much interested in your notes about the Everton veterans, who did good service in the old days (writes “One of the Old Boys”) I am sure if the Blues could see their way clear to give them a benefit they would get a good gate, or else open a subscription-list, and I for one would willingly forward my mite. Charlie Joliffe, the old goalkeeper, has been unfortunate, like the rest, he having been under an operation; and all the old players would appreciate anything that could be done for them.

STUD MARKS
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, November 4 1923
By Louis T. Kelly

• Have you noticed that since September 3 Everton have figured in seven home League matches, and only conceded a solitary goal?
• We have to go a long way back to find more satisfactory home defence than this on Everton’s part.
• Physical extremes sometimes make a beautiful blend-Troup and Chadwick for example.
• Cock was repeatedly in the picture last week, in more senses than one.
• His first goal of the season at Goodison had been a long time in the making, and was even then of the unexpected order.
• Still, we could see it coming last week from the very first ball of the match.

NEW BRIGHT RES v.  EVERTON A
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, November 24, 1923
Everton open rather shaky, but soon improved. Wilson hit the crossbar, but a little later beat the keeper with a good shot. Bryson headed a second, and soon after out on a third. Houghton scored for Everton. Half-time; New Brighton Res 3, Everton “A” 1.

FIVE AGAINST EVERTON
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday November 24, 1923
McDONALD LEAVES THE FIELD, NOSE BROKEN
GREAT WIN BY THE ALNION
F.E.H. REPORTS ON THE CHANGES OF THE MIDLANDERS
Everton; Fern; Livingstone, McDonald; Brown, McBain, Hart (Captain); Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. West Bromwich Albion; Ashmore; J. Smith, Perry; Magee, Reed (Captain), McNeal; Spencer, Carter, Blood, Morris, Gregory. Referee; Mr. G.N. Watson, of Nottingham.
Everton went to West Bromwich to-day to try to gain a further double-header win. Their side was unchanged, whereas the Albion brought in Perry and Reid, the former being a son of the old-time captain of the Albion side, Charlie of that ilk. The Albion still lamented the absence of Stan Davies and Ivor Jones. Before the game started the Everton team, together with the directors, Andrew Coffey, and A. Banks, were photographed in the full gaze of the spectators.
DETERMINED ALBION
The Throstles started and at once made ground by a clever movement on the right, Spencer got the better of Livingstone and centred to Blood, who headed the ball over the bar. This was a thrilling opening, and evidently acted as a stimulus to the Albion, for they cam again in quick fashion on the right and another oblique shot from Spencer was put behind by Morris. Everton made a promising advance through Troup, but he lost possession when in a favourable position, and the Throstles were next in the picture through Gregory, who sent in a long, dropping drive, which was well gathered by Fern. Chedgzoy then gave us an example of his cleverness and speed, but Chadwick failed to convert the pass, that hit Perry. The Everton outside winger came through again beating McNeal and Perry, and finished with a shot which passed just outside. The visitors had got into their stride and the combination between the halves and forwards was occasionally very pretty to watch. McBain once initiated a promising movement and Chadwick taking his chance in both hands let go with a long drive that only just missed the mark.
BLOOD FAILS TO DRAW
The home forwards replied in a spirited way, and from a pass by Spencer Blood tested the Everton keeper with a difficult drive, so far there had bene very little to choose between the two sides, and the visitors had conceivably drawn first blood had Cock taken advantage of the opening offered by Troup and Chadwick. As it was the Everton centre appeared to hesitate, and so threw the chance away. Troup then caused another thrill with a brilliant individual effort, but Cock found himself sandwiched between Smith and Perry, and was unable to profit by the occasion. Everton now pressing strongly and steadily, and Chadwick, using his power, sent in a “stinger,” which should have scored. The pace quickened appreciably, and there were rapid passages from end to end which terminated in futile shooting on both sides. The Everton half-back line was showing perfect balance, but they could not prevent both the Albion wings from making progress. Spencer sent in a long shot which Blood met, and a few seconds later Gregory was equally unfortunate. Taking the ball from Brown, Chedgzoy was in full flight for goal when a questionable offside decision out an effectual bar to his progress.
McDONALD CARRIED OFF
In a temporary lull the full backs showed their powers of accurate passing, and when Troup and Chadwick assumed an aggressive attitude, Cock was unable to apply the finishing touch. The home forwards made accurate play on the left, and McDonald in attempting to stop them was in violent collision with Morris, the result was that the Everton back had to be carried off the field. The Throstles took immediate advantage of Everton’s depleted defence, for they attacked more vigorously than ever, and the concentrated bombardment ended in Blood sending in a shot which curled just over the far upright. Cock attempted to get through on his own account, but the home backs were admirable in defence, and Troup found Smith just a little too much for him. At the other end Brown was kept busy in attending to Morris and Gregory. At length the Albion gained what they had fought for.
BLOOD LEAVES FERN GUESSING.
Reid put the ball across to Gregory, who in turn passed to Blood, who found himself quite unmarked, and he netted the ball with a swift sharp shot, which left Fern guessing. On-going to the dressing-room I learned that McDonald had sustained a broken nose, and would not take any further part in the game. McDonald and Morris had both jumped for the ball when the former fell heavily, with the result that his nose was fractured. He was being attended to by a doctor when I returned to the stand. The light was falling when the second half was entered upon before a largely increased crowd.
A SECOND GOAL BY BLOOD
West Bromwich took up the running without any loss of time, and Spencer got along the line like a flash, and a perfect centre was well taken and headed into the net by Blood amid much cheering. Everton tried hard to make leeway against the second disaster, but they were obviously feeling the strain of playing one man short, and the Throstles showed no mercy.
ALBION’S THIRD GOAL
They raced down again in combined order, and after Morris had attempted to score Livingstone only partially cleared, with the result that Gregory rushed up and netted Albion’s third goal. For a time, Everton was quite out of the hunt, and Fern was very smart in kicking away from Carter and Blood at short range. Subsequently the home centre came through again and tried a shot which Fern pulled from under the bar.
McDONALD’S INJURY
In the concluding stages the Albion enjoyed most of the pressure. Chedgzoy on three occasions showed his wonderful speed and command of the ball. His final centre, however, counted for nothing. I have just bene told that McDonald’s injury is rather a serious one, and that his nose will have to be set.
THE FOURTH AND FIFTH
Ten minutes from time the Throstles again got down, and owing to a misunderstanding on the part of the Everton’s defence, Blood scored a fourth goal, and then Morris scored a fifth with a flying shot. Final; West Brom 5, Everton 0

EVERTON RES v.  BLACKBURN RES
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, November 24, 1923
CENTRAL LEAGUE
At Goodison Park. The game opened at a fats pace, and in the first few minutes Parry, the Everton centre, missed a glorious opportunity. Blackburn retaliated on the right, and Holland, with Hawksworth, carried the ball to shooting distance, but Raitt intervened and spoilt their opening. Another raid by Evans led to Parry giving Wall a beautiful opening, and although well placed, he shot high over. Blackburn again forced the game, and Holland was at fault through hesitation, and Raitt had no difficulty in clearing. Harrison and Wall were playing a fine game on the Everton left, and after fifteen minutes’ play the former gave Swindles an opening, from which he scored the first goal for Everton. The Blackburn defence was often in difficulty, owing to the slippery nature of the turf. One good opportunity for an equaliser to Blackburn came through Holland, but that player was unfortunate enough to handle the ball. Everton were the superior side, and were very dangerous near goal. Howarth, the Blackburn centre, required a lot of watching, and many tussles occurred between him and Reid. Ten minutes from the interval Wall scored a second for Everton, Grenyer following with a third, and on the stroke of half-time J. Parry scored a fourth.
Half-time; Everton Res 4, Blackburn Rovers Res nil.
The second half was chiefly in Everton’s favour, and Smith saved a penalty from Harrison.
Final; Everton Res 4, Blackburn Res nil.

GREAT ALBION REVIVAL
The Sports Argus- Saturday November 24, 1923
EVERTON OVERHELMED AT THE HAWTHORNS
BLOOD’S REMARKABLE FEAT
AMAZING ALBION
A “NAP” HAND AGAINST EVERTON
THREE FOR BLOOD
WEST BROMWICH ALBION 5 EVERTON 0
By Mavis
Wintry conditions prevailed at The Hawthorns for the visit of Everton, who invariably do well at Albion’s head-quarters. Additional interest was imparted by the alterations in Albion’s team, the most important being the first appearance of Perry. Everton were unaltered from last week. Teams;- West Bromwich Albion; Ashmore; Smith, perry; Magee, Reed (Captain), McNeal; Spencer, Carter, Blood, Morris, Gregory. Everton; Fern; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart (Captain); Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. Referee Mr. E.N. Watson (Nottingham).  In the presence of about 15,000 spectators, Reed lost the toss, and Albion defended the Birmingham-road goal. They made quick advance, and from a free kick, awarded against Brown, McNeal tested Fern with a capital drive. The ball went to Reed, who made a delightful pass to Spencer, and from the latter’s return Blood headed against the bar and the ball glanced over. Everton responded gamely, and Ashmore was soon active in gathering loose balls. Cock caused a diversion by his familiar rush tactics. Carter and Spencer indulged in a perfect bout of passing, but Spencer’s centre was cleverly blocked by McDonald. Gregory swung the ball in at a great pace, and Fern was by no means confident on frosty ground of fielding. Reed did excellently in the middle, and Parry exhibited any amount of confidence in his tackling. A combined effort between Cock and his right wing was cheered but, to the relief of the crowd, Chedgzoy’s centre went behind. The ground was on the hard side, and the presence of Cock accounted for the caution with which the players tackled one another especially near patches of frost. Chadwick made a capital effort but finished weakly, and from the return the Albion forwards advanced in a line, and Blood headed a nice centre from Spencer into Fern’s safe hands. Chedgzoy wanted a lot of watching, and it was his skill that threatened danger to Albion, but Troup shot hard against Magee and the ball went into touch.
AN EVEN GAME
So far neither side could claim any pronounced advantage. If anything, there was a little more finish about Everton’s forward work, Cock being clever in his manoeuvres, but he was well guarded. A bad lapse by Magee, who gave the ball to Troup in attempting a back pass, was followed by another lapse on the part of Carter, and Albion’s goal nearly fell. Chadwick got through in the second instance only to lift the ball high over the bar from a range of three or four yards. Under prolonged pressure by the Everton right Albion’s defence wavered a little, and there were some anxious moments as the visiting forwards manoeuvred for position. A foul on Cock did not help matters but a defender charged down Chadwick’s free-kick. In both teams the right wing did the bulk of the attacking, and Spencer wasted two good openings, first by delaying his centre, and then by sending across to the opposite wing. The duels between the two midgets, Troup and Magee, were a delight to the eye, and one little episode saw the Everton man beat Magee by a subtle touch and then he outwitted himself. Football was of good quality and there were frequent exhibitions of perfect combination between the rival forwards. Chadwick initiated a capital bout of passing by rounding Reed and things looked ominous until Smith intercepted Irvine’s pass. After half-an-hour’s play Everton were deprived of the services of McDonald, who collided with Morris and had to be carried off the field on the trainer’s shoulders.
BLOOD ON THE MARK
This misfortune led the visitors to play for safety and they found touch under pressure. Despite this, Albion got down again and Blood made a magnificent shot for the top corner. Fern would never have seen the ball, but it just missed its billet. Perry was deservedly cheered for a perfect tackle which arrested the progress of Cock, and he followed up this by checking Chedgzoy. Not many shooting chance came to any of the forwards, so Fern and Ashmore had not been sorely tried. After 37 minutes Albion got a goal. The ball was swung out to Gregory as favourable angle by Reed, and with an old-time touch the winger transferred it to Morris, who gave it to BLOOD, and the latter easily beat Fern. A moment later Blood looked certain to repeat his success when he was fouled badly by Hart, and Everton were lucky to escape with a free-kick. Albion never relaxed their hold, and only a miraculous save by Fern denied Morris a goal from an oblique drive. When another chance came Morris lifted the ball too high.
PLAYER’S NOSE BROKEN
A breakaway by Everton ended with a powerful drive by Troup, which narrowly missed the bar, and directly afterwards Chadwick also sent wide. It transpired that McDonald has his nose broken.
Half-time; West Bromwich Albion 1, Everton 0
Everton resumed a man short, and they were quickly forced on the defensive, but Livingstone and Brown repulsed Albion’s early attack, but only three minutes had elapsed when Albion got further ahead with a perfect goal. Spencer received the ball near the half-way line, and beating the backs, centred on the run, and BLOOD headed the ball past Fern in great style. Blood was well on the warpath now, and in Albion’s nest raid beat three opponents by skilful control of the ball, but the other defenders closed in on him and his final shot lacked sting. Carter nullified the next chance he had by getting in Blood’s way. Everton took up the running, Troup and Cock being the prime movers but nothing accrued, perry easily clearing.
 REMARKABLE GOAL
Albion got a third goal in extraordinary fashion after 54 minutes. Morris initiated the movement, and as Livingstone tried to clear Blood shot out a foot, and the ball spun in the air and then twisted back towards Fern. The goalkeeper and Brown went for it, but GREGORY shot his head between the pair of them, and scored. It must not be forgotten that Everton were severely handicapped by the absence of McDonald, but even so, Albion played a winning game, and were evidently determined to take full toll of Everton defenders. Morris and Gregory came into their own by many clever thrusts, McNeal indulged in a brilliant solo run, and Carter and Blood were repeatedly dashing between the backs in menacing fashion. Once Brown half stopped a centre from Gregory, and left Morris with a dead ball at his feet, but Fern saved in grand style. So sustained was Albion’s pressure that their backs were able to play near the half way line and the home forwards kept the ball almost entirely to themselves. After a long spell on the defensive, Everton rallied, and a combined assault took place. There was a little misunderstanding, which present Everton with a corner.
ALBION EASE UP
At the other end, Carter was responsible for a clever run, taking the ball close to the penalty spot, but there Livingstone robbed him by touching the ball to Fern. With the issue settled, Albion were inclined to ease up, and Everton took advantage of this to apply top pressure, but though frequently called upon, Ashmore was not seriously troubled. A centre from Gregory took Everton by surprise and BLOOD was allowed plenty of latitude and he beat Fern for a fourth time after 79 minutes, the goalkeeper just touching the ball in its flight. Albion kept up the attack and after 84 minutes Spencer beat Livingstone and centred for MORRIS to complete the quintette with an unstoppable shot.
Result; West Bromwich Albion 5, Everton 0
THE GAME AT A GLANCE
After 37 minutes- Albion 1 Everton 0 (Blood scored)
After 48 minutes- Albion 2 Everton 0 (Blood scored)
After 54 minutes- Albion 3 Everton 0 (Gregory scored)
After 79 minutes- Albion 4 Everton 0 (Blood scored)
After 84 minutes– Albion 5 Everton 0 (Morris scored)

WEST BROMWICH ALBION 5 EVERTON 0
November 26, 1923. The Liverpool Courier.
VERY BLACK COUNTRY FOR THE BLUES.
FIVE GOALS AND McDONALD HURT
BLOOD SCORES “HAT-TRICK.”
By Adams.
Five-nothing! The news of Everton's defeat at West Bromwich must have chilled the bones of enthusiasts who were lucky enough to be keeping the home fires burning on Saturday evening. But if those enthusiasts had been at the Hawthorns they would have returned, as I did, with the consolatory reflection that these things are all in the game, and that the Blues suffered from the swing of Luck's pendulum. Up to the time of McDonald's regrettable accident Everton had played fine football, and there was nothing to indicate that the Albion would indulge in an orgy of goals. In fact, there was nothing in it either way, and the sporting crowd cheered some great work by Chelgzoy and Irvine, who were testing the capabilities of young Charlie Perry, the new home back to the full. But after McDonald was carried off on the trainer's back with a broken nose –sustained in a heading bout with Fred Morris –there was only one team in it.
BLOOD'S BUSTLE.
It is unnecessary to stress the wonderful virility of the Aston Villa front rank –the score speaks for itself –but it may be said that every goal was well worked for, and that in every case save one the points came from swinging centres from Spencer and Gregory. Blood, the old Port Vale player, whose consistency with the Reserves this season has been remarkable, got three of the goals, each the reward of thrust and quick moving. A few small criticisms might be made. It seemed to me that fern might have saved, at least one of the goals, and that Morris' contribution was off side. However, as the inside right's goal was the fifth it didn't matter very much. Again, when the Albion began to overrun the weakened defence Chedgzoy dropped back to help –a mistake to my mind –for the winger's speed on many occasions beaten McNeal and Perry, and Irvine had done some excellent things in combination with him.
THE SLIPPED COG.
The fact is that Everton have slipped a cog in their intricate team work machinery, were never able to get going in earnest. A feature in their caps, however, was the sporting way their kept the ball in play, their clean football throughout, and their refusal of over-exploit the offside business. They were well-beaten, but in defeat well maintained the traditions of the club for sportsmanship. Livingstone worked heroically, and the halves sloggard, in whole-heartedly. Fern made several great saves. Chadwick and Troup were out of luck, and Cock rather more reticent than usual. On the winners' side the forwards were all enterprising. Reed played splendidly at centre-half vice Bowser, and Perry, a hefty scion of a famous family, made a most promising first appearance. On Saturday's form the Throstles will soon be in song again. Teams: - West Bromwich Albion: - Ashmore, goal, Smith and Perry, backs, Magee, Reid, and McNeal, half-backs, Spencer, Carter, Blood, Morris, and Grenyer, forwards. Everton: - Fern, goal, McDonald and Livingstone backs Brown, McBain and Hart, half-backs Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, and Troup, forwards. Referee Mr. GN. Watson.

EVERTON RESERVES 4 BLACKBURN ROVERS RESERVES 0
November 26, 1923. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
CENTRAL LEAGUE
Everton avenged their 6-1 defeat at Blackburn the previous Saturday by over coming the Rovers at Goodison Park by four clear goals. From the opening they took charge of the game, and J. Parry missed a glorious chance in the first three minutes. Bedford and Ratchie, on the left wing, were most prominent for the visitors, but they were up against Grenyer at his beast. The game was fifteen minutes' old when Swindles, who has been assisting the “A” team scored a fine goal. Afterwards, Haworth unfortunately handled the ball when, after beating several opponents, he had only the keeper to beat. Prior to the interval Wall scored a second. The second half opened with even play, but Campball missed the easiest of chances by firing high over the bar. Grenyer scored a third for Everton, which was soon followed by a fourth from J. Parry during a scrimmage in the goalmouth. Later Harrison, who seldom fails with penalty kicks, missed one, Smith making a great save, though being badly hurt in stopping the fierce drive.

NEW BRIGHTON RESERVES 4 EVERTON “A” 3.
November 26, 1923. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
LIVERPOOL COUNTY COMBINATION.
This game at Rake-lane, though a hard one, was not a particularly good one. Everton opened shakily, and during the first half were overplayed. New Brighton scoring three times though Wilson (1), who also went close on two others occasions, and Bryson (2), one from a penalty for hands, while s. Houghton headed for Everton. The home team were inclined to take things for granted particularly so when, after the interval, Bryson put them further ahead, but Everton improved considerably, and playing with great determination managed to bring their account to within a goal of the home total, through points scored by Weir and S. Houghton. New Brighton tried hard to increase their lead. and attacked strongly, but Lawson made several clever saves, and up to the final whistle it was anybody's game.

DECISIVE WIN FOR ALBION
Birmingham Daily Gazette- Monday November 26 1923
RECONSTRUCTED TEAM DO WELL AT THE HAWTHORNS
NOT A WEAK SPOT
WEST BROMWICH ALBION 5 EVERTON 0
By the Throstle
Chills blasts of wintry weather swept across the Hawthorns on Saturday, and hoar frost adorned the greensward in white patches. But in the hearts of Albion players and supporters a far more genial glow was felt for the West Bromwich team gained their most substantial victory of the season at the expense of Everton, who were beaten by five clear goals. It was the most decisive success Albion have attained since the Arsenal match early in September, and broke a sequence of four defeats. Now that the winter of Albion’s discontent is past, can spring be far behind? This welcome turn of the tide was made the more memorable by the fact that it coincided with another partial reconstruction of the team, and all three of these who were introduced into the side for the first time this season contributed in no small degree to the common triumph. Especially was this so of Reed, who assumed the captaincy as well as Bowser’s berth. He produced his best form distributing the ball with infallible judgement, and disconcerting variety to one wing or the other, tackling each of the Everton inside forwards with masterly skill, and displaying powers of recovery which were a great asset to the defence.
PERRY’S DEBUT
Perry, making his bow as a First League player, proved himself a worthy son of one of the best of Albion sires, and showed that he possesses the very qualities which senior division football demands. There were many who were uneasy as to the ability of Perry to play up to such an exacting standard as a foeman of the quality of Chedgzoy requires but the Dartmouth hitter confounded them all. He advanced to meet his man, tackled with judgement, and disposed of the ball ably. The third success was Gregory, who is obviously Morris’s best partner, and on this occasion helped his old conspirator to make the left wing a very powerful force indeed. The combined effect of these alterations was to impact a greater sense of security to the defence, a more complete cohesiveness between the halves and forwards, and a new variety to the attack. Expressed in terms of goals, this meant a tally of five, all of them free from any suspicion of fluke or invalidity.
QUALIFYING ELEMENT
One qualifying element in the surprising score was the unfortunate handicap under which Everton laboured for the last hour. McDonald had the ill-luck to fracture the nasal bone in collision with Morris, and he took no further part in the game. When he left the field in the thirtieth minute no score had been recorded, so that Albion’s five all came when their opposition had a man away. But before McDonald’s departure there had been unmistakable portents of an ultimate Albion win. The forwards were playing with a fiery ardour, and a gay confidence which proved infectious, while the solidified defence was rapidly removing the sting from the assaults of Cock and his comrades.
AN AUDACIOUS GOAL
The goal which divided the teams at the interval came from a delightful movement in which Reed-Gregory-Morris-Blood participated, the last-named scoring. Three minutes after half-time, Spencer centred on the run after leaving Livingstone panting in the rear, and Blood headed into the net. Then came an audacious goal, Gregory projecting his head between Fern and Brown as they waited for the ball to bounce, and taking them both by surprise. Gregory provided the centre from which Blood scored the fourth later in the game, and ere the final whistle sounded Spencer repeated his former exploit and Morris nearly broke the net with his stinging drive. There was not a weak spot in Albion’s side on this occasion, and for once in a way Ashmore had little to do. Smith and Perry developed a sound understanding with one another, with great celerity, and Reed saw to it that the half-back line was an effective link with those in their rear as well as purveyors to the men in front.
SPENCER’S GOOD JUDGEMENT
Spencer outshone all the other forwards by his speed, control, and cool judgement, especially in the second half, Carter made him a crafty partner, and Blood’s prowess as a marksman was always in evidence. Morris and Gregory played in their old-time style, and the team as a whole played with every suggestion of renewed confidence. Albion; Ashmore; Smith, Perry; Magee, Reed (Captain), McNeal; Spencer, Carter, Blood, Morris, Gregory. Everton; Fern; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart (Captain); Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. Referee; Mr. G.N. Watson (Nottingham).

THE REFORMED ALBION ANNIHILATE EVERTON
Athletic News- Monday, November 26, 1923
HAPPY ‘THROSTLES’
EVERTON’S DAY OF TROUBLE AT THE HAWTHORNS
SPLENDID FORWARDS
WEST BROMWICH ALBION 5 EVERTON 0
By Hawthorn
Wonders will never cease. West Bromwich Albion, after losing four matches in sequence and sacrificing 13 goals in the process, rebelled so gallantly against the tide of adversity on Saturday that they scored five goals without reply. Everton were the unfortunate team to suffer this astonishing reverse, and they can have only one possible cause for complaint. This, admittedly, is substantial one, for the game was only 30 minutes old when Morris and Macdonald went for one of Spencer’s immaculate centres together, and the outcome of a robust impact was that Everton’s right back sustained a fractured nose and left the field for good. At that moment no goals had been scored, but in 20 minutes the Albion had thrice found the net, and the additional couple of goals which came late in the game merely served to emphasise the inability of Everton’s disturbed and reduced defence hold the opposition.
Three for Blood.
Three of the goals were scored Blood, and Morris, and Gregory registered the fourth and fifth. The heavy score came as a profound surprise to the most ambitious Albion supporters, who viewed the of substitution Reed, Perry, Gregory for Bowser, Adams, and Horace Smith with some misgiving. The critics were confounded, especially in regard to the abilities of Perry and Gregory. The restoration of the Morris andGregory partnership proved a potent factor in the forward work, heir experience and subtleties contrasting vividly with the dash and enterprise Carter and Spencer. It was the latter pair who wrought most damage to Everton's defence, Livingstone being completely baffled by Spencer, and had it not been for the magnificent play of McBain and the skilful goalkeeping of Ferns things would have gone even worse for Everton. The early stages were featured by even exchanges, in which Everton sought to exploit the right-wing manoeuvres which proved so effective at Goodison.
PERRY’S CLEVER WORK
But Perry proved too resourceful and skilful an opponent, and for a player making his first appearance he evinced a surprising measure of confidence in advancing to tackle so cunning opponent as Chedgzoy. It was this which proved the Albion’s strong point. The Everton forwards never found their real vein. Cock could not elude Reed, save by wandering from the middle, and the most effective worker was Chadwick. How completely Everton’s attack was extinguished may be gauged from the fact that Ashmore only had one difficult shot to deal with. The second half saw Everton’s forwards completely subdued, and their defence found it increasingly hard to repulse the concerted movements of the opposing forwards. Particularly was this the case with Livingstone, who failed badly his duels with Spencer. Over and over again the Albion winger would flick the ball past him and then cut inside before transferring to a well-placed opponent.  Reed was a great power behind the home forwards. He limited his defensive functions to the subjection of John Cock. But when it came to the other half of his duties he plied both Spencer and Gregory with passes of unerring accuracy in pace and direction, and his reward was the most brilliant attacking force the theAlbion have produced this season.
THE FIRST GOAL
The first goal was typical of this. Reed placed the ball to Gregory, who drew Brown before transferring to Morris. The latter carried on for a few paces before placing to Blood and the centre scored. The same method applied to the second goal, save that Spencer was the medium. The third was an odd affair. Livingstone and Blood, kicked the together causing it to spin, and, as Fern and Brown left it to one another, Gregory projected his head between them and nodded it into the net. The fourth was provided by a perfect Gregory centre with Blood had ample time to convert, and Morris completed the quintette with a terrific drive from Spencer’s centre. All five goals were unstoppable, and Fern’s reputation, which is particularly high at the Hawthorns, was left untarnished. Livingstone was Everton’s weak link, especially when the burden was doubled. McBain was the outstanding player on his side, Brown and Hart being off colour. Chadwick played consistently well, Cock was erratic, and Chedgzoy and Troup were severely restricted, while Irvine was rarely conspicuous. Ashmore had the quietest afternoon of the season. Smith made an admirable partner for Perry, and Magee and McNeal were able lieutenants to their new centre half, and each section worked well together. Spencer was a fine forward, but Morris was the master mind of the line. Blood was deadly as a marksman, and Carter developed a bewildering swerve which
enabled him to beat the opposition with a semblance of ease. Albion; Ashmore; Smith, Perry; Magee, Reed (Captain), McNeal; Spencer, Carter, Blood, Morris, Gregory. Everton; Fern; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart (Captain); Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. Referee; Mr. G.N. Watson (Nottingham).

BAD LUCK FOR McDONALD, THE EVERTON FULL BACK
The Liverpool Echo- Monday, November 26, 1923
Bee’s Notes
There was a lot of bad luck knocking about on Saturday, and I extend to Jock McDonald sympathies on his broken nose. He was playing at his best just now, and his further clamp of ill-luck comes at an awkward time. He has suffered some severe slings of “outrageous fortune,” one in particular I remember being at Sheffield when his own goalkeeper hitting out made a save but caught McDonald’s jaw in the process. Needless to say, the Everton team “fell” for such a severe blow as this.
EVERTON’S BAD LUCK
By F.E.H
At first blush it might seem that the Evertonians were simply swamped at the Hawthorns, but figures do not always supply an accurate reflex of certain happenings. That the Throstles secured five clear goals in an incontestable fact, and that Everton were at times quite outplayed is another formidable “facer,” but one must take into account that elusive quantity, the fortune of war. The loss of McDonald in the first half, due to a fractured nose, was not only a physical disability to that popular player, but a severe set-back to the whole side. With his departure from the scope of operations, the Everton players began to “wilt” in a rather woeful way. The plan of campaign in the second period did not appear to be properly fixed, with the result that the defence vacillated, and the Throstles gathered the moss while the wintry sun shone on the scene. There is no disguising the fact that it was a great win for the nippy Midland team; but supporters of the Goodison Park club may take consolation in the fact that their representatives put up a pretty fight against odds. The drafting-in of Gregory at outside left was a successful move; and the first appearance of Parry- the image of his father in style and deportment-at left full back proved quite successful, for the first named got a good goal; while the latter, once he had settled down, proved a very valuable ally to Smith. The story of the “points” that counted has already been told. There are many who think that Fern might have stopped at least two of them, but apart from this he certainly kept’ a good goal, some of his clearances being brilliant in character. The half-back line was given a gruelling time, but it could not stave off disaster. The forwards shone principally through the individual work of Chedgzoy and Troup, with an occasional hard drive from the powerful foot of the steadily improving Chadwick. Cock was dispossessed a little too easily, though he put in many pretty touches that were marked by intelligence and discrimination. Having burst into full song the Throstles, I anticipate, will continue to soar.

RAITT APPEARS VICE McDONALD AT SHEFFIELD
The Liverpool Echo-Wednesday, November 28, 1923
Bee’s Notes
NOT DISFIGUED
It is good news that Jock McDonald, whose broken nose was set last week-end, will not be disfigured. He is going on nicely, and, of course, cannot play against Birmingham at Goodison Park, Raitt being chosen to take his place. Downs, by the way, is troubled with a swollen leg, through a kick, and dare not be risked in the present hard going. The Reserve side shows that the directors are very wisely persevering with the three locals, Swindells, H. Parry, and E. Helsby. That is the right policy- the boys who can make a name with care, patience, and persistence on officer’ and players’ part. Parry, the brother of the right wing, shaped very well, and Swindells got among the goals last week. The Birmingham secretary tell me this morning that there is only one doubt about their side-whether Daws or Dale plays. Thus their side reads;- Tremelling; Ashurst, Womack; Daws or Dale, Cringan, Barton, Harvey, Crosbie, Bradford, Islip, and Clark.
MARK TAPLEY AND EVERTON DEFENCE
Your colleague, “F.E.HG.,” evokes my sympathy. How gallantly he essays the uncongenial task so frequently of explaining and excusing unpalatable defeat. Quoth he “Figures do not always supply an accurate reflex of… happenings”: but still “that the Throstles secured five goals is an incontestable fact,” and is rather a “facer”; also, that when shorthanded the remainder “wilted.”
My poor fellow, what week-ends of nightmare and ecstatic spasms of Mark Tapley-ism these Everton fellows do give you! Even to a minor poet the task of agreeably explaining away nine goals in two matches from home is almost superhuman; unless, indeed, he elects to state bluntly what everybody knows- to wit, that the defensive units are (shall we say) unequal to their task.
But lest it be considered -God wot us- that I am carping against what is, undoubtedly, a fine team in the making, because they have suffered defeat, or, alternatively, ill-luck, let me make haste to state that the foregoing is merely preparatory to the following, which is the most of the matter. If we are to depend upon the entertaining gossip to which you daily treat us (as, marry, why should we not?), we understand that the Everton managers-dear, earnest souls-are nibbling about, not to say nosing around, and what not, with respect to certain centre forwards. Now Bury, anon Middlesbrough; peradventure Dundee. To adopt the vernacular “Can you beat it”? I raise my hands to heaven and, with due pathos, inquire of the universe “Is there anybody in Liverpool, apart from these dear directors, who is unaware that it is not centre forwards but full-backs that are required? But how diplomatic; how tactful; how comforting and encouraging to the acting centre forward, who is one of the few intelligent living centre forwards. Heaven forbid that I should descend to hero worship, but I do feel that if there is one man doing anything towards making the Everton vanguard into an effective striking force it is the centre forward, more power to him and my blessing; yet, as we are to infer, this is the time selected to scour the country, rattling the cheque book and the fountain pen, in search of a centre forward.- “Chiming Bells.”

LONDON-ROAD SPEAKS UP
The Liverpool Echo- Wednesday, November 28, 1923
OLD DAYS’ ROMANCE RECALLED
CITY’S WONDERFUL STREET WITH A GREAT HISTORY
We are to have a great shopping week in Liverpool from December 8 to 10; that is, from Monday to Monday, and excluding the 9th, which is a Sunday. Such an announcement may set many thinking that Bold-street is to be the centre of the area of activity; but such an assumption would be wrong, though excusable, on the ground that the centre of the city has come to be regarded as being the centre of everything else. Next moth’s great effort is to be made by the stores and shops in London-road, the object being to arouse the city to a realisation of the fact that behind the wonderful stretch of plate-glass fronting this thoroughfare, right and left, from Lime-street to Moss-street, there is everything the middle-class shopper can need, either to wear or use, or eat or drink, and that style and prices are right.
London road is a wonderful street apart from its shops and their opportunities for purchasers. It has a great history. The name was not taken out of a hat; it epitomises the part it played in Liverpool’s early days. If you look at the picturesque old cuts that passed for maps you will find it, more like a district than a road, marked “Road to Warrington.” It was a mere track across the Great Heath to the high ground forming the summit of the Prescot-street of today, and was so uneven that nothing on wheels could live on it. Yet even then it was the road to London, for those who wished or had to go to London were obliged to get to Warrington by way of this wilderness, Warrington being the nearest point to Liverpool reached by the London coaches. In fact, there were times when Liverpool was referred to as “near Warrington.” About half-way through the 17th century a new highway was completed between Prescot and Warrington, and thereafter for many years the old Blue Bell Inn, which stood near the site of the present Norton-street, was a port of call for the coaches. So that is how the London-road, as we know it, got its name; and some of its emporia occupy sites that are soaked in history, so to speak. Owen Owen’s establishment, for instance, covers the ground on which stood the old Mill Inn, popularly styled the Gallows Mill Inn, in memory of the execution in the mill fields in that vicinity of prisoners brought here after the defeat of Jacobite rebels at Preston.
VITAL CHANNEL OF COMMERCE
Though coaches no longer go swaying and rattling out of the city by this thoroughfare, London-road still justifies its name, for it is a vital channel by which the great business houses of the Metropolis and the discriminating shoppers of Liverpool maintain their contact. The tradespeople of London-road feel that Liverpool is too familiar with this highway of commerce to realise its full importance. It is a truism that the nearer you put your eye to an object the less of it you see. Hence the forthcoming Shopping Week. All the leading establishments are in it, and they will vie with one another in offering special bargains. A “Shopping Week” poster in a window will be the sign that is one of the houses offering special value.

FAIR CLAIMS
The Liverpool Echo- Friday, November 29, 1923
Bee’s Notes
It was with great interest that I read the letter of “Chiming Bells,” as there is no doubt he has voiced the opinion of thousands of Everton supporters, who for a couple of years have recognised the weak spot in the team has been in the last line of defence (writes “An Old Blue”). We have not forgotten that the Crystal Palace tie debacle was caused by the same defence, and numerous matches since have been lost through unreliability. Is there nowhere else the directors can go and look for players than continually Scotland? A couple of fast and sturdy English backs are wanted. You keep telling us what Everton are going to do and tip them to win every Saturday; but the good judge of the game will tell you they will not accomplish much unless there is a big improvement in the rear division. A defence that gives 24 goals away in 18 matches can never be called good enough for a team with any pretensions, I think “Chiming Bells” for so ably expressing the opinions of so many of us. 

DESPERATE MIDLAND SIDE AT WALTON
The Liverpool Echo- Friday, November 30, 1923
Bee’s Notes
Everton up against a desperate side. From what I can gather from official sources in the Midlands, Birmingham are a much better side than their record suggests. They have not a scoring forward, save Bradford; but Crosbie and such-like offer very attractive fare, and there is a doggedness about the half back line that counts for something these days, and goes to show that McClure is not altogether missed.
OFFICIAL
The official view is that Islip has meant much to the attack, and there is more chance of Birmingham rising than for some time. The way they played against Liverpool at home and away was good enough to make one believe in the side. They were beaten 6-2 at Anfield, you may remember, and that day every shot came off for the Liverpool sharp-shooters. What will Everton do with them? Or vice-versa? We know Tremelling to be a goalkeeper who doesn’t advertise himself, and we know him to be good in reach and catch. In front the veteran Womack holds his place, and shows up strongly; and young Ashurst, brother of the Notts back, is also coming on apace, and has build to carry him through. Barton at half-back is the best thrower-in I have seen since the days of Hugh Wilson, and Bradford is at the moment peerless among English centre forwards. On that showing we should have some fun and some furious forward work. Raitt comes in for the luckless McDonald, and I shall go to Goodison with somewhat mixed feelings for my old club and for my Mersey association. Everton; Fern; Raitt, Livingstone; Brown, McBain, Hart; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Cock, Chadwick, Troup. Birmingham; Tremelling; Ashurst, Womack; Daws or Dale, Cringan, Barton; Harvey, Crosbie, Bradford, Islip, Clark.