HAROLD FARE
Derby Daily Telegraph - Saturday 01 November 1924
Harold Fare, the ex-Everton reserve full-back, has proved a good investment for Wigati Borough, but he has an unfortunate knack of putting through his own goal. Darlington escaped defeat last week through Fare's mistake in this respect. It is the Fourth "time that he has done it since he left Goodison and yet each time he has hardly been to blame. It just seems to be ill-luck. 

FIRST DIVISION LADDER. 
Reynolds's Newspaper - Sunday 01 November 1925
A BIT FOGGY. 
Arsenal Not Quite So Good as Their Score Suggests. 
By Chelstam
The Arsenal gained a handsome victory over Everton, at Highbury, by 4 goals to 1, but, without wishing to detract the slightest credit from that performance. I got the opinion that they were not a little fortunate in the margin in their favour. On the surface, of course, they were worthy of it, for all the goals were excellent ones, as was also the visitors' solitary point, and better finishing in attack, with safer play in defence, were attributes that entitle the Arsenal to the success they secured.  There were doubts about the game being brought to a conclusion, for that notorious spoil-sport, King Fog, reigned to within five minutes of the interval, and only a flitting of ghostly figures could be seen when play happened to be on the near side of the field. It was when the elements were at their worst that the home team gained the big advantage of a three-goals lead, and though this was increased very soon after the second half began, it cannot be suggested that the position was at all safe until the game had almost run its course.  This was occasioned by the determined rallies on the part of Everton, and though they were in the main due to the brilliance of Chedgzoy, there was always danger lurking about. Robson, however, restored to goal after being dropped for a period, rose to the occasion with equal brilliance, and though the famous International wing player tested him with terrific drives, the custodian gathered the ball from all kinds of angles, and cleared better than he has ever done since he became attached to the club.  GOOD TRIES
Dean certainly made several good attempts, and gave evidence of his shooting ability, but the fault of Everton generally was that their cleverness did not bring them any tangible result. The feature of the success of the Arsenal was again the play of Brain, who continues to improve wonderfully.  Three of the four goals were scored by him, and he might easily have had more, despite the fact that Hardy, the new International goalkeeper Everton have just secured from Stockport County, was very safe.  Hoar played a greatly improved game, and the goal he score,' was a beauty, one that no custodian could have been expected to prevent. It was a drive that had plenty of side" on it, and it swerved just under the bar at a great pace. Everton's goal came late in the game, McBain being the scorer. 

ARSENAL 4 EVERTON 1
November 2, 1925. The Daily Courier.
ARSENAL CARRY TOO MANY GUNS.
BLUES' DEFENCE NONE TOO SOUND.
Fog played an important part in Everton's game with the Arsenal at Highbury. For a long time it was doubtful if the game would be played at all. The Blues lost, but one may sat straight away that the score flattered the winners. Two to one, would have been nearer the mark. The Gunners were better served in defence than their rivals, and their forwards were quick to snap up any opportunities straying about. That was why they won.
DIRECT AT ROBSON.
Everton's attack was not so bad, although the shots Robson was called to deal with did not trouble him so much as they should have done, because for the most part they went direct to where he chanced to be waiting. Buchan was carefully watched, but the wily inside-right was frequently too elusive for the visitors' halves. Bain made the mistake of hanging back too far, which made Brains's work easier for him than it should have been. Livingstone, too, was inclined to be shaky, and it was his hesitancy that led to one of the Gunners' goals. Buchan taking advantage of it to nip round and pass to Brain, who had little to do but send into the net. It was Hardy's first time out with the Blues. He was beaten four times, but two of the goals were obtained when the fog was at its thickest, and the other two gave him little chance. It was cheering to find that the Blues had so many friends in town. None of their good work missed, the commendation it deserved, and it was pleasant to hear the London football devotees applauding Sam Chedgzoy so heartily. Some of his best football has been seen in London, and the crowd showed that the fact was appreciated. The first goal came in five minutes; something of a surprise too, because whatever may have been the case with the players, the spectators hadn't yet got the fog out of their eyes. It would be hypocritical to attempt to describe adequately the first half. There were times when players on the far side of the field were swallowed up in the mist. Hurrying figure would suddenly loom out of the gloom, only to be lost in it again a second later. I for one would not care to say what exactly happened during the first part of the game.
FOGGED.
Hoar obtained the Gunners second, I saw Hoar kick the ball, but I doubt if Hardy did. Anyway it passed him, and no wonder for at that moment the fog was almost thick enough to cut. It was Livingstone's hesitancy that led to the Arsenal's third. Buchan was able to nip in and pass to Brain for the centre to score. Although three down at half-time, the Blues were not demoralised. They fully held their own in the second half. The front line was frequently cheered for its excellent work. The wingers Chedgzoy and Troup were giving the insides good openings, but the shots at goal –and there were several at this stage –were too straight, so that Robson had simply to stay where he was in order to save. Once or twice, however, Dean nearly had him beat. A slice of luck on at least two occasions would have seen the visitors two up. In spite of the Blues' dogged efforts the Gunners were the first to scorer in the second half, and there is no denying it was a good goal. A centre came across the field to Neil, who seemed to miss the ball altogether. Brain, who was near, had his back to the goal at the moment, but swinging round, flashed in a shot that Hardy had no chance with whatever. The best goal of the match was left for McBain to get. He tricked Mackie cleverly, and letting go at the ball, sent in a shot that Robson saw little of. Considering the kind of day it was, it was a capital game. The Londoners deserved to win, because they were the better all-round side. Buchan don't make any of his £100 goals, but he had a hand in those that Brain obtained. The home defence was superior to that of the visitors but there was not much to chosen between the forwards. Brown worked manfully, but Bain's habit of hanging back too far left a hole in the defence which the astute Buchan was quick to improve upon. Hart has been seen so far better advantage McDonald was more reliable than Livingstone, and indeed, played a good game. Hardy could not be blamed for the shots, which beat him. He saved many others in fine style . Teams: - Arsenal, Robson, goal, Mackie, and John, backs, Baker Butler, and Blythe, half-backs, Hoar, Buchan, Brain, Neill, and Haden, forwards. Everton: - Hardy, McDonald, and Livingstone, backs, Brown, Bain, and Hart (captain), half-backs, Chedgzoy, McBain, Dean, Kennedy, and Troup, forwards. Referee HE. Clayton.

THREE GOALS FOR BRAIN
November 2, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Beaten In The Fog at Highbury
On an enclosure enveloped by fog, Everton met with defeat at Highbury, the Arsenal gaining the day by 4 goals to 1. This score, however, was not a true index of the course of the struggle, for Everton on occasion played sparkling football especially in the forward line. The difference between the contestants was that the Gunners drove their shots home out of reach of Hardy, while Everton almost favourably fired directly at the home custodian. Robson was not slow to take full advantage of this, and he kept a marvelously good goal, having only beaten in the last ten minutes of an interesting game. There were times when the fog prevented the spectators from seeing the field of events, this being particularly the case in the first period. In the second period the veil lifted, and the finer points of the game showed that Everton were quite as skilful as their antagonists. But they were not quite so sure in their defensive work, and it was hesitancy on the part of the half backs and backs that permitted the Arsenal to gain their victory.
Hardy’s Display
Considerable interest was taken in the first appearance of Hardy, the Stockport County player, with his new club, and it mat at once be said that he created a distinctly favourable impression in spite of the fact that he was beaten on four occasions. Two of these may be attributed to the bad visibility for certainly only those spectators close to the goal could tell where the ball came from. There was 25,000 people present when the game began and it had not been in progress more than three minutes when Brain, taking a pass from Haden, put the ball into the net just out of the custodian’s reach. Everton rallied strongly, and Chedgzoy and McBain showed fine combination on the right wing. The outside man was in his happiest vein, and he put over centres to Dean which the latter was distinctly unluck to falling to turn the account. The base descended half-way through the first forty-five but play was carried on, and a section of the crowd were unable to see Hoare scored a second goal. Once Chedgzoy was fouled badly by John, and the claim for a penalty was made, but the referee took no notice of the appeal. The Arsenal got going once more, Buchan being the mainspring of the attack and it was due to his skill that Hart and Brown so frequently found themselves in difficulty. Five minutes from the interval Brain registered the third goal.
Everton’s Ill-Luck
In the second half the game was powered with considerable dash. Everton’s ill-luck in driving their shots home still dogged their footsteps, Dean especially missing the mark when well placed and they had the mortification of seeing the Gunners register a fourth goal, which came from the foot of the nimble and agile forward Brain. The visitors nevertheless kept pegging away in the most dogged fashion and they had the satisfaction of scoring through McBain ten minutes before the close. It was a wonderful effort on the part of the inside right, for he tricked the backs with extraordinary cleverness and drove the ball into the net with a fast rising shot. It may be suggested that Everton’s new forward line will do better when next they take the field. The half-backs were occasionally disappointing, Bain showing a disposition to hang too much. Livingstone was not always quite so confident as he might have been. The outstanding personality on the home side was undoubtedly Buchan who made the openings which led to the success of his colleagues. Result; Arsenal 4, Everton 1. Teams; Everton; Hardy, goal; McDonald and Livingstone, backs; Brown, Bain and Hart (captain), half-backs; Chedgzoy, McBain, Dean, Kennedy, and Troup, forwards. Arsenal; Robson, goal; John and Mackie, backs; Blyth, Butler, and Baker, half-backs; Haden, Neil, Brian, Buchan, Hoar, forwards.

CENTRAL LEAGUE
November 2, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Res 1, Stoke City Res 0
The Stoke team, which included Campbell in goal, R. Johnson centre-forward, and Clennell at inside-left, were fortunate to have only 1 goal scored against them. It was a case of Everton attack versus Campbell, the late Liverpool keeper making many daring saves. O’Donnell scored after the game had been in progress five minutes, due chiefly to the fine work of Reid. Stoke several times looked like getting the equalizer, and Harland saved good attempts by Johnson, Armitage and Clennell. In the last few minutes the Everton goal had a narrow escape when Johnson struck the crossbar.

EVERTON RESERVES 1 STOKE CITY RESERVES 0
November 2, 1925. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 11)
A goal scored by O'Donnell after three minutes' play earned Everton two points. There was not a great deal between the sides. Srate played delightfully in the open, but though Johnson distributed the ball with splendid judgement, he might have been more trustful, yet the Stoke centre was unlucky with a shot, which hit the post. O'Donnell again gave a good display in the centre, and in the first half gave Campbell a great deal of anxiety. The ex-Liverpool custodian was in brilliant form, however, and brought off some fine saves. He was well beaten in the second half when Weaver drew him from his goal and then shot towards the empty net. Spencer, fortunately for Stoke, just managed to get to the ball before it crossed the line. The Everton defence was solid, Kerr playing well, Reid was a good half, but only O'Donnell and Weaver of the forwards impressed. Everton: - Harland, goal, Raitt and Kerr, backs, Rooney, Reid, and Virr, half-backs, Parry, Murray, O'Donnell, Chadwick, and Weaver, forwards.

ST. HELENS TOWN 1 EVERTON “A” 1
November 2, 1925. The Daily Courier.
LIVERPOOL COUNTY COMBINATION.
At St. Helens. Though frequently tested the Everton custodian was safe, but ultimately. Booth beat him with a fast rising shot. Everton put in many delightfully clever touches, but were ineffective near goal. Five minutes from time a misunderstanding on the part of the Town defence let in O'Neill who equalised. In the last minute the Everton goal had a narrow escape. Evanson, Chorley, Molyneux, and Brown were the most prominent of the Town players, whilst Everton were well served by Hamilton, Holbrooke, O'Neil and Hamilton.

EX-EVERTON CENTRE FOR WITTON
Liverpool Echo - Monday 02 November 1925
Bee’s Notes
Witton Albion have secured from Runcorn the transfer of McGiveney, centre forward, who prior to last season played for Everton and Chester together with E. Hughes, outside right formerly of Chester and Ellesmere Port. 
ARSENAL’S BRIAN BOX
“F.E.H” writes; Football and fog do not mix well.  The atmosphere at Highbury on Saturday nearly approached a “London particular,” but it had the good grace to clear off in the closing half of the game.  At times the veil of mist was so heavily that I was reminded of the scene pf “Lutzow’s wild hounds, or the demon dogs of the Brocken.”  By this I don’t suggest that the players were four-footed, but some of the forwards were certainly as speedy as greyhounds.  The Everton vanguard combined exceedingly well, McBain fitting into the picture admirably.  His goal, which did something to ameliorate a rather unlucky defeat, was one of the cleverest I have seen for many moons.  The way in which he tricked the backs was remarkably adroit, and gave Robson not the slightest chance of clearing.  An Arsenal director went so far as to say to me that it was the best goal he had seen for years.  The Arsenal were the first to get into their stride, and out of the gloom Brian scored in the first three minutes.  Everton tried hard to reply to this early challenge, but though both Chedgzoy and Troup dropped in dangerous centres Dean was unable to turn them to profitable account.  The Gunners, on the other hand, guided by the master-mind, Buchan, were straight on the target and two more goals were added before the interval.  In the second half, in a clearer light, we saw some excellent football, and Everton, with the best assistance from Dame Fortune, might have spilt the points.  However, there is no use crying over spilt milk, and I do not want to emphasize where the main weakness lay.  Hardy made a good impression in spite of the fact that he was beaten four times.  He had reach and a sense of anticipation, and unless I am greatly mistaken he will make good. 

THREE FOR BRIAN
Athletic News - Monday 02 November 1925
ARSENAL’S CLEVER IN ECLIPSE OF EVERTON ARSENAL 4 EVERTON 1
By Achates
Arsenal lost time in reviving from their Sheffield set-back, and at Highbury they gained satisfactory victory over Everton by four goals to one.  The heavy fog cleared the interval, and the 25,000 spectators witnessed some splendid football.  The home side took every advantage of the conditions, and within four minutes Brain, from close quarters, had beaten Hardy, but Everton kept up the fight, Kennedy being very persistent.  Brain was the live wire the game, and another contribution from him just skimmed the bar, immediately after which Hoar scored wonderful goal, a twisting kind of terrific drive that curled under the bar.  Just before half-time Brain shook off a tackle, to score the third goal with a deliberate drive. Brain was again successful immediately after resuming, but there was question of Everton being outplayed.  It was then that Chedgzoy treated the crowd to many spectacular dashes down the wing, generally finishing up with a shot which caused the goalkeeper some trouble. 
SEVERAL ESCAPES
The game was played at a good pace.  The football was clever, and though it was mostly marked by the determined efforts of the visitors to pull back Arsenal’s big advantage, the home side several times went near to further success.  Twice Dean made galliant attempts to beat the home goalkeeper, and the game had almost run its course when McBain dashed through to score the visitors’ only goal.  The rearranged Arsenal side played very well indeed, and Robson has regained confidences.  I do not remember having seen him to better advantage in goal.  In view of the fact that John was called upon by Wales, his appearance was ma surprise.  He has been out of the side for some time, but during his relegation to the Reserves he has figured at back instead of his usual place in the half-back line, and it was at back, in Kennedy’s place, that he was duty in this game. On the whole gave good display, though his returns were not so strong as they might have been.
CHEDGZOY AT HIS BEST
Chedgzoy struck his best patch, and John several times failed to hold him.  Mackie was much the better back.  The half-backs the winners were again the commanding force of the side, their tackling being excellent, and they gave their own forwards plenty of opportunities.  Baker was the heat the trio, and the Everton left wing looked feeble.  Brain is gaining in artistry, and his subtle moves frequently secured positions of advantage.  Hoar shook off the lapse of form he has been suffering from lately, and played right to ids top class, but there was not weak spot in the side.  Everton played good football. Their failure was due to the fact that they were lacking in finish, and got off-side far too frequently. Kennedy in the early stages was good," but he faded away, and Troup had an idle afternoon. He was not often given the ball, though when it did come his way did not make the best use it.  McBain was not altogether success as a forward, though he got the only goal for his side, and it was a very good one.  Apart from that, however, he did little of note.  The half-backs were a hard-working trio, with Brown the pick, though there was little choose between them, and Livingstone impressed most back.  Everton had Hardy, recently transferred from Stockport, in goal, and he did not disappoint, making many fine clearances, and could not be blamed for the shots that beat him.  Arsenal -—Robson; Mackie, John; Baker, Butler, Blyth; Hoar, Buchan, Brain, Neil, and Haden.  Everton.—Hardy; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, Bain, Hart; Chedgzoy, McBain, Dean, Kennedy, and Troup.  Referee It. Clayton, Derby. 

EVERTON RES V ALBION
November 3, 1925. The Liverpool Echo
Bee's Notes
Tomorrow, too, we have the meeting of Everton Res and West Brom Albion Res. The Albion “fledglings,” have always notable for their youth and their interest skill, and there is in their side tomorrow a winger who will be watched by the scouts as he does not fancy being an “everlasting reserve.” Last Saturday Everton Reserves were appearing against Joe Clennell, Dick Johnson Kenny Campbell the last named putting up a great show and only being beaten once. It was a gathering of the old clans, and Everton won 1-0. They hope to add two more to the list by tomorrow's engagement.

LANCS CRICKET CAPTAIN
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 03 November 1925
MR. JACK SHARP TENDERS HIS RESIGNATION
Owing to Mr. Jack Sharp having to give more time to his business, he has tendered his resignation as captain of the Lancashire County Cricket team, and in a letter to the secretary he tanks the committee very sincerely for their unfailing courtesy, and the support they have always given him.  The general committee meeting at Manchester passed a vote of condolence with the wife and family of the late Frank Harry.  J.T. Tyldesley has accepted the position of cricket instructor for next season. 
TO CONTINIE PLAYING
Interviewed to-day, Mr. Sharp confirmed the information that he had tendered his resignation, “but that does not mean that I shall cease playing cricket for Lancashire,” he went on.  “It is purely a matter of my business requiring rather more of the time I have devoted to cricket in recent years.  No, I have no idea as to who will be my successor.” 

SHARP’S DECISION
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 04 November 1925
Bee’s Notes
Mr. Jack Sharp, Jack o’ both codes, has given up the Lancashire captaincy.  It is not surprising to Liverpool people, who were well posted regarding last season’s affairs.  But, as stated last night he is very anxious that it shall be understood that he is not giving up the game.  The call of county cricket, when one is captain, is very severe, and he feels that he cannot go indefinitely forgetting his business for months on and for the sake of cricket.  He will play for the county when possible and he will be relieved of the officialdom necessary to a captain.  His work with football and cricket has been of the same character throughput- sure, sporting, and clean, Cricket can ill afford to lose such a man, but it is good to know that he will still be “thereabouts” in cricket and football, for in addition to playing on occasions for Lancashire he will be associated with football owing to his Everton directorship. 

HALLOWS PLAY FOR WEST BROM V EVERTON RESERVES
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 04 November 1925
At Goodison Park.  Some 200 boys of the St. Edward’s Orphanage Football Club attended by invitation of the Everton club to see Hallows the former player, make his first appearance in the West Bromwich Albion Reserve side.  The Albion started in merry fashion, and James headed into Kendall’s hands.  A free kick for an offence against Hallows brought further pressure on the home side.  Against this there was some resolute heading and dribble by Houghton.  Short scored in fifteen minutes in a very definite manner.  Play was a trifle ragged, and when Weaver shot over the goalkeeper was lying on the ground owing to a daring save from Houghton.  O’Donnell made two splendid drives, as against which Short twice made fist-time stinging shots.  Kendall was safe to a point-blank shot and also with a fine catch when running out, spite of touching the woodwork.    Half-time; Everton Res 0, Albion Res 1.
Everton had equalized within two minutes of the resumption, O’Donnell converting Weaver’s centre with a fiery shot.  O’Donnell took the lead, thanks to an up the middle pass and to the fact that the home centre was well up the field.  He drove in another hot ball that entered the net in.  O’Donnell completed his hat-trick.  75 minutes;- Everton Res 3, Albion Reserves 1. 

EVERTON TEAM UNCHANGED
November 5, 1925, The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton are playing the same side against Manchester United at Goodison Park, on Saturday as that which lost to the Arsenal at Highbury, McBain retaining his place at inside right. Great interest will be centred in Hardy’s first appearance for Everton at home. The team is; Hardy; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, Bain, Hart; Chedgzoy, McBain, Dean, Kennedy, Troup.
In the Reserve side against The Wednesday, Irvine plays at inside-right and Peacock at inside-left, Kerr was hurt yesterday, which means that the full back line has to be altered, Hamilton coming in to partner Raitt. Team; Kendall; Raitt, Hamilton; Peacock, Reid, Virr; Millington, Irvine, O’Donnell, Houghton, Weaver. O’Donnell scored three goals yesterday, bring his total to seven since he took up the centre-forward position.

O’DONNELL’S HAT-TRICK
November 5, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Reserves’ Good Display
Everton Reserves 3, West Bromwich Albion Reserves 1
Everton Reserves beat West Bromwich Albion in a Central League match at Goodison Park, yesterday, before 6,000 spectators who included a number of boys from St. Edwards’s Orphamge, who had come to see Hallow play his first game for the Albion. O’Donnell performed the hat-trick, thereby once more showing his versatility. He has a deadly shot and has not forgotten his forward days with the Darlington club. This season he has played at full back, in goal and at centre forward for his club. He had not good men around him yesterday, if one excepts Weaver and in part, Houghton. Weaver was supremely sure in his runs and centres and there was an occasional through-the-middle pass, which O’Donnell snapped up without hesitation. Everton won as a consequence of this, and in particular through the solidity of their defence, Kendall keeping a good goal in the first half when Short, at inside left, was a busy man in the shooting department. Everton’s main fault was in the forward line. They were up against some useful members Rooke, Ivor Jones, Adams and Sproston having had first team experience while in the forwards James and Byers are also remembered as First Division representatives. However, Byers, was not good, and James has not yet fallen in with the new game. Adams and Chamberlain, however, played well at back and Smith at outside right a converted full back was an excellent raider in the first half. Hallows was naturally keen to do something especially good before his old schoolfellows, but the pace of the game was against him. Still he showed he had football in him. Short scored early in the first half and O’Donnell obtained his hat-trick in the second half. Final; Everton 3, West Bromwich Albion 1.

NOT TAKEN BUT WANTED
November 5, 1925. The Liverpool Echo
Bee's Notes
There were representatives from far and near, and they had not all come to join in the mid-day repeat provided to the Central League management committee by the Everton club. No, they had come with a set purpose. There is no doubt that Everton have a number of players on offer and that there will be keen competition for a number of players. Burnley had eyes for a rearguard members, and Leeds came, and if they did not conquer at the moment the time is not far distant when they will step in and make an offer. So for it is a case of “not taken, but wanted.” Meanwhile let it be know that Everton have made no change from the side that lost at the Arsenal ground. I should imagine they are wise in this decision, because on what was told me yesterday by a very sound judge who was present, the game at 4-0 was an absurd idea of how play had been going; and he added, “it was not as if our boys were not shooting they were, but they were driving them too straight –and no one can tell to an inch when blazing away at a goalkeeper.” Which is a truism one cannot too markedly impress upon spectators. Forwards can't tell to a yard where the ball is going when they are driving full face and full force.
Stinging Shots
O'Donnell blazes away in a manner that suggests that he is the centre-piece of the Everton attack in word and deed. He is not new to the position for it was there he was playing when at Darlington, and as I have previously stated it was only by accident to a comrade that led him to the full back position, for which post he was booked by Everton. His imperiously is one of his trails and it is beneficial at centre-forward whereas it was at times awkward at full back. I don't remember a good young back shooting and this was due to his driving the ball too hard; a little restraint and the ball would have come off his boot with good direction. However, at centre he is using the same almost-hasty plan of driving and his hat-trick yesterday was simply an addition to some more good goals he had got for the reserves. I am sorry to say that without his driving force the home side would have been looking hard for a shot, for there was scarcely anyone else who had a shot at Sproson. Houghton plays like a real stylist and with a little less flourish of foot and a little more practical effort he will do very well indeed. Times and patience are still required; there is no doubt about his inherent skill. Weaver was supreme at outside left and the defence was as per usual –half-backs good in every link and backs safe in position and play; while Kendall made a driving leap that would have done justice to Olympia's prospects circus performers, in addition to which he made some saves at point-blank range that showed how good he can be. Of the Albion side commend me to the full back who played outside right. If I had my way I would try to capture him, because he makes good centres from all angles –centres from the corner kick with the left foot and has thumps of pluck. Hallows, making his debut in a minor match, was over anxious.
Everton Team Unchanged
Everton are picking the same side against Manchester United at Goodison Park on Saturday as that which lost to Arsenal at Highbury, McBain retaining his place at inside-right. Great interest will be centred in Hardy's first appearance for Everton at home. The team is; Hardy; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, Bain, Hart; Chedgzoy, McBain, Dean, Kennedy, Troup.
In the Reserves side against The Wednesday, Irvine plays at inside right and Peacock at half-back. Kerr was hurt yesterday, which means that the full back line has to be altered, Hamilton coming in to partner Raitt. Team; Kendall; Raitt, Hamilton; Peacock, Reid, Virr; Millington, Irvine, O'Donnell, Houghton, Weaver. O'Donnell scored three goals yesterday bringing his total to seven since he took up the centre forward position.

CENTRAL LEAGUE DEFEAT FOR ALBION AT GOODISON
Birmingham Daily Gazette - Thursday 05 November 1925
EVERTON RES 3, W.B. ALBION RES 1
West Bromwich Albion lost their Central League match At Goodison Park by three goals to one, owing to the brilliance of the Everton defence and skill of the half-backs, together with a fine sharp-shooter at centre - forward in O'Donnell who performed the "hat” trick in the second half after Short had given Albion the lead in the first half.  Albion played better than the score suggests, but they were very ragged in their ideas of combination, and after Harland had made two good saves they fell away.  Their main weakness was at half-back.

HARDY'S FIRST APPEARANCE AT EVERTON
November 6, 1925. The Liverpool Echo
It is worth nothing that Everton lost by three goals margin last week, and that, in the view of so eminent a judge as Mr. John Sharp, they played splendidly, and he is convinced that the form they displayed was such that one can look for a return to victory in the near future, if not to-morrow, at Goodison Park, against Manchester United’s skilled and fast side.  Mr. Sharp’s view was that Everton shot often and well, but they had the misfortune to drive the ball too straight.  This is not a fault, said he, although it sometimes makes the opposing goalkeeper look to be playing better than he really is, but it certainly does show that Everton were not over-showy, and were practical when it came to shooting.  I am glad to publish the view of the Everton director because it is a view we can depend upon, and it brings one to the belief that to-morrow we shall see a splendid resolve game from friends from Old Trafford.
His Bow
Bee's Notes
Hardy, of Stockport makes his first official appearance at Everton on his new colours. He played here just after the war, the day that Stockport visited Everton and Liverpool were visited by Manchester United, therefore, he knows the ground. Given a new player Everton always command a hugh attending and with Neil McBain appearing in his old new role of a forward there is warrant for expecting a forty thousand gate for the visit of such a side as Barson commands. There is a further cry out for the question of Barson as England's centre half. There has been a reason no doubt for passing over the inimitable Frank, who at Goodison Park has always been putting something of a sensational character first with Harrison and company in a Cup-tie here, and later in a dressing room affair with the Villa which practically ended his Villa days. What does the morrow offer from his lordship I winder. No one can denied that Barson is a brilliant man of the physique and skill, a man who averts and gives charges in turn with an equanimity teat is really astonishing. I think he likes the “biting” game better than the quiet type albeit his style of play is of the thoughtful and quiet manner, save in the matter of heading. Certainly Everton would not have gone wrong had they taken him when he was a mere boy at Barnsley in 1914. However, that's past and gone. Tomorrow we shall see Stewart the puff ability goalkeeper who blows his checks as he punts the ball. He is an engaging fellow and is only of a number of interesting players I hope to see tomorrow. The plan of the field is as follow;- Everton; Hardy; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, Bain, Hart; Chedgzoy McBain, Dean, Kennedy, Troup. Manchester United; Stewart; Moore, Silcock; Hilditch, Barson, Mann; Spence Smith, McPherson, Rennox, Thomas.

EVERTON AT HOME
November 7, 1925, The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton are at home to Manchester United, a side which dopts the typical new style of fast open play. Their keep the ball on the move, but in combined maneuvers Everton should prove the superior side. Barson is still a forceful half-back, and his influence on the Manchester United team is most marked. Dean will find in the former Barnsley and Aston Villa man a resolute opponent. Hardy, Everton’s new goalkeeper, will make his first appearance at Goodison Park and McBain retains his position at inside right. The kick-off is at 2.45 The teams are;- Everton; Hardy; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, Bain, Hart; Chedgzoy, McBain, Dean, Kennedy, Troup. Manchester United; Steward; Moore, Silcock; Hilditch, Barson, Maw; Spence, Smith, McPherson, Rennox, Thomas.

MANCHESTER UNITED RESUME OLD ACQUAINTANCE.
November 7, 1925. The Daily Courier.
The match against Manchester United today at Goodison Park, will introduce to followers of the blues Harry Hardy, the former Stockport County goalkeeper, and Neil McBain as an inside forward. Opinion is varied as to the policy of having Neil from the half-back line, but then if the directors have not the courage to make experiments, the club is not likely to get much forrader. Manchester United play a good style of football, and on this, their first, visit since being promoted, they will meet old friends in Bain, McBain, and Kennedy, who were secured by Everton from the United. Everton have so far only forfeit full points to Huddersfield, and while I do not think Manchester are a capable of doing the same as the champions did, I think they will avoid defeat. The sides are: - Everton: - Hardy McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, Bain, Hart; Chedgzoy, McBain, Dean, Kennedy, Troup. Manchester United: - Stewart; Moore, Silcock; Hilditch, Barson, Spence, Smith, McPherson, Rennex, and Thomas.

EVERTON V. MANCHESTER UNITED
November 7, 1925. The Liverpool Football Echo
Another Defeat for Everton
Manchester United Good Tacticians and Clever Players
By Bee Everton; Hardy, goal; McDonald and Livingstone, backs; Brown, Bain and Hart (captain), half-backs; Chedgzoy, McBain, Dean, Kenndy, and Troup, forwards. Manchester United; Stewart, goal; Moore and Silcock, backs; Hilditch, Haslam, and Mann, half-backs; Spence, Smith, McPherson, Rennox, and Thomas, forwards. Everton's home game with Manchester United was spoiled by the rain. There would have been a record gathering had the weather been reasonable, for Hardy was making his debut at home.
Why Barson Stood Down
Barson was unable to play owing to promphic poisoning, big Haslan taking his place. Only 12,000 spectators were present, and they tucked themselves under the grand-stand. The players soon got warmed to their work after McDonald had opened with a pass back that seemed dangerous, considering the dragging state of the turf. He misfired two centres, which is uncommon for him, and when Hart was caught lacking in manoceurving the ball, McBain wisely fell back to give a hand in clearing.
Dressing on the Right
Manchester United travelled mainly on the right line, that is to say, on the right wing, because Spence is never tired of working and he is capable into the bargin. Hardy made a splendid one-handed thump-away from McPherson, and Spence was quite near with another single-handed effort. Manchester depended almost exclusively on the first time swinging pass, and their supporters who were present in goodly numbers gave them plenty of encouragement. Manchester in the first portion of the game were the more dangerous side, even though Mann miskicked in front of his own goal and offered a half-chance to the home left.
Hardy's Means of Defence
Against this had to be placed a dangerous centre that Hardy again utilsed with the one-handed punch. It was the only means of defence possible to him. Everton did not improve their chances by triangular play, which did not gain them a yard of space. Brown was particularly busy and good on the right and Chedgzoy found that he could not beat old Mann by close-footed work. A feature worth noting in regard to Hardy's game is the fact that his goalkicks go fully ten yards beyond the half-way line.
One For United
Unfortunately he had to yield a goal at the ninetieth minute, prior to which he had made a half save from Spence, the ball slipping through his fingers, and just escaping going over the line. The open goal came through Thomas centring, so first Rennox could easily head a goal. This shook up Everton and when Chedgzoy took a corner, and some of the Manchester United players began to kick out there was a suggestion of nervousness in the visiting ranks.
Dean's Finishing Touch
Kennedy nearly hooked a goal from Hart and at the twenty-fifth minute Troup centred so well that Dean readily obliged by heading the equalizer. This Everton had in one moment of practical play shown the ease with which a goal can be obtained. Dean and Kennedy bothered the defence, in which defence Hilditch showed up well even though he took liberties in going forward, and when Stewart made a dive at the foot of the post, he stopped one of Chedgzoy's best efforts. Later on the Manchester goalkeeper miskicked but this was not surprising in view of the state of the ground. In fact the wonder was that the game had been so good and miskicks as infrequent. A second time Stewart baulked Chedgzoy, and just now Manchester seemed to have lost touch with the game.
Wrinkles for School-Boys
One of the fumniosites of the game was the appearance of schoolboy teams and semi-junior teams who had been water-logged opening up to Goodison after their own matches had been abandoned. They came to get some wrinkles.
Spence Rewarded
It was only four minutes before half time that Spence scored with ease to take the lead for Manchester and for the second time. Spencer deserved his goal because of his enterprise liveliness and general sense. Half-time; Everton 1, Manchester U 2.
The Goalkeeper Dives
The second half started with a breakaway by Everton, in which Kennedy made a splendid effort; and United replied per Rennox, whose strong shot was saved by Hardy at the foot of the post, thanks to the goalkeeper diving for the ball. McPherson twice went near, once with a shot and once with a header. It was gibe and take play, with Everton not too confident. Some of their members were rather flunicky in their passing and dribbling. United were a stronger side bodily and when they moved off towards Hardy's domain they scooped up space whereas Everton were more concerned about going up in easy pretty stages. Once Chedgzoy put Dean in possession and the young man lobbed the ball rather then shot it. It was near the mark and was a fine idea and effort.
Goal From Free Kick
Kennedy's was not strong in his shot and two offsides against United showed how easy it is to accommodate oneself to the new rule of so desired. Everton always had a chance so long as the game kept to 2-1 but when Referee Sykes of Northampton gave a free kick for a foul, whereas the ball distinctly touched McDonald's chest and not hands a goal came. McPherson being the scorer. This was a blow to the home hopes which had been high for victory only a few hours since. Manchester as at Anfield, were leading through severely practical measures. They did not pretend to be special artists but they showed some skill and plenty of practical pointed football.
Hardy Charges
It was strange to see goalkeeper Hardy not in possession of the ball making a hearty charge against McPherson, who was lifted up in the air and was very cross when a penalty kick was not granted. Everton tried desperately hard to get within the range of a draw, and when Frank Mann accidentally hurt Chedgzoy their chances became smaller. Their luck was out, and the winter of Everton's discontent was made complete when Chedgzoy missed from close range and Troup hit the foot of the post. Bain sent a free kick just over the bar and Kenendy shot very wide. Final; Everton 1, Manchester United 3.

STUB MARKS
November 7, 1925. The Liverpool Football Echo
Williams the former Everton forward has met with two bad accidents since joining Blackpool. However he reappeared with the seasider's second team on Saturday to register four goals.
Everton encountered Mr. Fog at the Arsenal enclosure thus reposting their experience of a few seasons ago there.
Everton have now tried four goalkeepers this season
Everton was the only First Division side that had scored in every match to date.

OLD TIMES AND TIMERS
November 7, 1925. The Liverpool Football Echo
Victor Hall Compares Present Day Defensive Methods with Former
If anyone would or could see the style of modern half and full back play, compared under fairly equal conditions with the defence game of twenty or twenty-five years ago, he would, in my opinion unhesitatingly give the credit of the better work to the men playing today. The credit would, however, have to be qualified in a degree to the defence of the rearguard in modern League teams as a whole. If you attempted to compare the men as individuals, or as the best players in a certain position such as right back or centre half, then the award would have to be reversed and the individuals of twenty years ago would outshine any individuals playing in the same position today. I don't expect that opinion to find much favour or enthusiasm among present day players. It would not be natural to expect it. Still it is my opinion for what it is worth. Individually then, I think there were more first class defence players then there are today. Collectively as a back division, taking half backs and backs of most first division League teams playing today. I think they are unquestionably more effective in breaking up opposing attacks than were the back divisions of twenty years ago. In this analysis I am not including a temparision of present day goalkeepers with former one at all. Candidly I don't think there is any comparison. As to why modern defensive divisions are better than of easier years the reason will be found, I think, first in the general all round improvement of speed and stamina acquired in the youth of modern players and, secondly in the stricter methods of training under modern conditions, with efficient team managers.
More Speed
The result has been to quicken up the speed of the game, to preserve and improve the stamina and physique of the players, and generally to ensure a more coherent character of the play of those men constituting the defence. If they are allowed to play long enough together the style of their play improves out of recognition. They lean one another's speed and twists to a yard, they become accustomed to “covering up,” and learn when in practice to anticipate a pass or divert an organized advance. In these comparisons of modern and former back divisions it will be noted that I am contrasting only the defensive play of today's and former players. Now, everyone knows that when a team is not defending it should be attacking. No defence is near so effective as an attack. Wherever a team is playing in its own half of the field it is obviously on its defence. The right place for ten players out of every team is in the other half of the field, not in their own. That means that they are then attacking, and it is when you are attacking that matches are won. Now victory is won by defence alone. Therefore, while I have been giving the League defence of today every credit for team work in defence, I have not been able to give them equal credit for the other function of a back division perhaps the main function for a winning team –that is the following up and constant feeding of their own attacking division. Frankly and honestly in my opinion there are few League teams today where the backs and half-backs pay the attention they ought to the correct placing and feeding of their forwards. It should be an axiom of every player in the back division unless under heavy pressure, never to waste a forward pass. If unhampered he should be able easily to place it to advantage; if in danger he can transfer to a more forward player less in danger. But the blind forward lunge without regard to where the ball is going, or the lofting clearance that doesn't send the ball ten yards further up the field, is purposeless and irritating. It may be asked why, if we give credit to modern defence is the bulk as it were we do not modern players to be equally as skilled as the great internationals of the nineties and later? It is a reasonable query, but to our mind the answer is equally reasonable. Because in those days men stood out above their fellows, by the individuality of either their style, their speed their strategy, or their skill. Every one of those famous defenders had his strong point. One man would be utterly fearless, another would be an effective tackler, another a wonder with his head, a fourth would have as uncanny instinct in intercepting every pass, and so forth.
No Giants To-Day
Those giants all shone in some special way. Today's the great defensive players while they are great, are still of a general average of greatness. There are no giants today –and that is speaking only of defence. If you combine those duties of the defence in supporting the attack of which we have been speaking earlier on, then I say in all humility, there are no “giants” at all today. There are many players of good average ability, when it comes to picking an international team, the eligibles are so even a class, that the choice becomes difficult so we pack as many different ones as we can for each of the internationals, in order to pass the honours around among so many worthy men. Or so it would seem. Players of the type of Howard Spencer, of the Villa, Alec Raisebeck, of Liverpool, Bob Holmes, of Preston or Donald Gow, of the Rangers, were merely type of their class. One might fill a column, today, with the names of defenders of a generation ago who, individually, have not a dozen equals today playing in first, league football. They stood out because they have grown in a hardier school, and had improved on their teaching. They went after the ball, and most times they got it; when they got it they were not afraid to hold it long enough to put it to some good use, and there were few of the forwards playing against them clever enough to take the ball away from them. It may be that modern forwards are more clever and are able to take the ball from the defence with greater case. I wonder if that is so?

CENTRAL LEAGUE
Star Green 'un - Saturday 07 November 1925
EX-WATH WINGER SHINES IN EDNESDAY COLOURS
EVERTON RES BEATEN
After deliberation it was decided to start the Central League match at Hillsborough this afternoon between The Wednesday Reserves and Everton’s second eleven.  The ground, however, held pools of water in places, especially immediately in front of the goals.  Only one change was announced, Peacock appearing for Millington in the Everton team.  Chapman re-appeared at outside-right for The Wednesday.  Wilkinson and Leach, ex-Wath men, made their debut in Wednesday colours;- Teams;- The Wednesday Reserves;- Carr; Gamble, and Williams (L); Powell (W), Leach, and Rushton; Chapman, Ayres, Whitworth, Marson, and Wilkinson.  Everton Reserves; Kendall; Raitt and Hamilton; Rooney, Reid, and Virr; Peacock, Irvine, O’Donnell, Houghton, and Weaver.  Referee; Mr. W. Pimloth, of Manchester.  The Wednesday lost the toss, and kicked off towards the Penistone Road goal.  The first incident of note was when Carr had to save from a well-planned attack by Everton.  He slipped in the attempt, but managed to recover and clear.  Then Chapman went away, and got in a good centre, but a clearance was effected.  Then was seen a splendid save by Carr, when a goal seemed certain.  Irvine, unhampered, put in an oblique shot, which was heading all the way for goal, but Carr threw himself forward on the ground and managed to tip the ball round the post for a fruitless corner.
WEDNESDAY SCORE FIRST.
Despite the conditions, play moved from one end to the other in marvelously quick fashion.  The Wednesday opened the scoring after 20 minutes’ play.  There had been some good play on the left, Wilkinson, Marson, and Rushton all taking part.  The ball was put in the centre, and WHITWORTH, rushing up, put it past Kendall while the latter slipped in the mud. 
Half-time;- Wednesday Res 1, Everton Res 0.
The Wednesday continually attacked in the opening stages of the second half, Wilkinson’s sound play on the left spelling danger more than once.  Powell was playing well, too, and stopped several rushes by visitors.  Everton got away once, and nearly scored, but Weaver spoiled their chance by shooting over.  A prolonged spell of uninteresting play followed, but this all took place in the visitors’ half.  Then Marson had a shot for goal, followed immediately afterwards by Wilkinson.  Raitt nearly putting through when touching back to the goalkeeper.  Then, when The Wednesday’s two backs and Carr were all lying on the ground together, Peacock failed to gather the ball in time when he had a real chance of scoring.  Result Wednesday Res 1, Everton Res 0. 

EVERTON RESERVES 3 WEST BROMWICH RESERVES 1
November 8, 1925. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 12)
Everton recovered from the shock of an early goal and went on to emerge good winners. The football seldom reached a high standard, however, and the chief factor in the Blues' success was the opportunism of O'Donnell. The centre netted three good goals and was a constant source of trouble to the West Bromwich custodian. The latter played a good game and made a couple of daring saves. The Birmingham team displayed fine footwork in the opening stages, and Short scored a capital goal. Weaver should have equalised when presented with a “grit” a couple of yards from goal. The winger failed badly and shot over the bar. Everton had the better of the first half, but thanks to bad finishing and Sprossan's clever saves crossed over a goal in arrears. Two minutes after the resumption O'Donnell scored, repeating the process three minutes later. The third goal was obtained near the end. A good deal of O'Donnell's success was due to Reid's fine passes. The centre half was strong both in attack and defence. Weaver was a good winger, but the right wing was not convincing. Both the home backs were strong, and Kendall was a safe custodian. Hallows, the old St. Edward's Orphanage boy, who was making his debut in the West Bromwich Reserves side, was not prominent, yet showed that there is plenty of good football in him. Evans the visiting pivot was one of the best players on view . Everton: - Kendall, goal, Raitt and Kerr, backs, Rooney, Reid, and Virr, half-backs, Parry, Rand, O'Donnell, Houghton, and Weaver, forwards .

ANOTHER DEFEAT FOR EVERTON
November 9, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
Manchester United’s Open Methods Prevail
Everton’s defeat by Manchester United at Goodison Park on Saturday proved a great disappointment to the bulk of the 12,000 spectators who braved the wretched weather conditions. The game, however, was far better than might have been expected under the circumstances, and victory certainly went to the more skilful and dangerous side. The United, too, were far more practical in their methods and their 3-1 victory was mainly due to their intelligent application of this quality. The conditions which prevailed were totally unsuitable for close and elaborate work yet Everton persisted in their usual tactics during the major portion of the game. For one brief spell they adopted more direct methods and during this period they scored their only goal.
Sweeping Passes
Throughout the United were more decisive in their movements, and with wide sweeping passes they made the pace very fast. They stoutly resisted Everton’s challenge half-way through the first half and when Spence gave United the lead for the second time shortly before the interval they were well on the way to success which was definitely sealed by a further goal in the second half. Hardy made his first home appearance in the Everton goal, and he certainly saved a number of fine shots. He made his best effort when he kept out a brilliant drive by Rennox soon after the interval, and his only mistake in a satisfactory display was his faulty handling when Spence put in a low shot, although Hardy managed to keep the ball from crossing the goal line. Macdonald got through a hard day’s work with credit, but Livingstone was frequently beaten by the dashing Spence. The wing halves were poor and quite incapable of holding the United forwards, Bain, however, played well and was one of the few successes on the Everton side. The forwards, both collectively and individually were far from satisfactory.
Variable Form
Both Chedgzoy and Troup were variable. They made a number of smart raids, but were hardly ever convincing. Little effective work came from McBain, and he never seemed to fit the position allotted to him, while Kennedy, too, was poor. At a consequence Dean, although he display plenty of energy, got poor support. On the United side, Stewart kept a capital goal, and Moore and Silcock were always hard to beat. They kicked well and tackled cleverly. The United had a sound, serviceable half-back line. Mann was a splendid worker equally good in both defence and attack. Spence was the “live” force in the attack, and the line as a whole proved with more skill and method than did the Everton forwards. United opened the scoring through Rennox at the end of nineteen minutes’ play, and Dean equalized four minutes later, Spence gave Manchester the lead again at forty-one minutes and at sixty three minutes Rennox scored a third goal for United. Result Everton 1, Manchester United 3. Teams; Everton; Hardy, goal; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, Bain and Hart (captain), half-backs; Chedgzoy, McBain, Dean, Kennedy, and Troup, forwards. Manchester United;- Stewart, goal; Moore, and Silcock, backs; Hilditch, Haslam, and Mann, half-backs; Mann, Spence, Smith, McPherson, Rennox, and Thomas, forwards.

CENTRAL LEAGUE
November 9, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
Wednesday Reserves 1, Everton Reserves 0
Everton Reserves were rather unlucky to drop both points at Hillsboro, for the conditions were so deplorable that it was only after deliberation that the game was started at all. In addition, the conditions were directly responsible for Wednesday gaining the only goal which counted, as when Whitworth shot Kendall, the Everton keeper, slipped in the mud and allowed the ball to pass him. Both Weaver and Peacock however, missed gilt-edged chances of equalizing.

EVERTON 1 MANCHESTER UNITED 3
November 9, 1925. The Daily Courier.
UNITED SHOW BLUES THE WAY.
MANCHESTER COME, SEE, AND CONQUER.
Is the League table telling a false tale? It is in this way. It shows us Everton now slipping dangerous down the column, but it does not indicate that Everton in past seasons has served up some of the finest football in England. There is no need for alarm; deterioration has not set in. The players when they returned, soaked through and unrecognizable for mud, to the dressing room, where Mr. Cuff, the chairman, met them, were quite cheerful despite the ordeal. A few obvious defects will have to be removed, and the new Everton will emerge. Not so much the spectacular Everton of the past, but the Everton that takes the quickest and nearest route for goal.
RAIN AND SPEED.
Both teams found it a hard life playing football under such conditions. The icy rain was blown obliquely across the ground, and driven like sea spray into the stand in the faces of spectators, who also were not altogether having a picnic. Luck more than skill often entered into the calculation, still the United bunch contained more apparent speed-masters. Everton are faster with a bit of “bite” in the ground. Take Dean, for example. He was slowed down in a juicy little mud patch in front of goal. The elusive heavy ball would drop solidly and sadly where it was kicked. Once it fell gently at the feet of Hardy with a flop from a hurricane drive by Spence. It would have occasioned no surprise, if the game had not been started, but the ground was reported playable, and the spectators admitted. Goodison Park has wonderful recuperative properties. Its drainage has been still further by the method adopted in the close season of boring holes a foot apart all over the ground and filling them with fine cinders. The result was that football was possible on the ground when others were waterlogged. The match resolved itself into a series of onslaughts more than football, with the seesaw more in favour of United in the second half. It was natural that United should want to show three old club mates, now with Everton, Bain, McBain and Kennedy, what the side is made of.
HARDY.
Everton may take heart of grace that they have at last found a goalkeeper to succeed the amateur Menham, who could not be available always. Hardy, who much to the regret of Stockport County has changed his jersey, may not have such a full time job in future game. On paper three more goals against does not look too, good on the second appearance, but Hardy's capabilities, and record in representative games in open to no doubt. He has cost Everton a lot of money, and will justify the outcry. He has a remarkably powerful goal-kick. Future matches should give him more confidence in the home defence. Both McDonald and Livingstone have been seen to better advantage; they had all their work cut out when the United wings dispensed with fancy frills and made a bee line for goal. Several times the backs tipped the ball back to Hardy –a favourite trick with Livingstone –but it is dangerous on a treacherous ground like Saturday. It is not necessarily as some spectators seemed to think a case of “wind-up.” The Everton middle line was serviceable and then disappointing; but then the wing raids of United were wearing and worrying, and there were some rare dues. Brown caught the eye for his consistency, and Hart challenged that dangerous Smith and Spence wing quite gamely. There was nothing frail about Spence in action, and the Manchester authorities, who before the match though he would be better leading the attack, instead of McPherson, were mistaken. If the wily Mann he excepted there was not much to chosen between the two sets of half-backs, and even he made a miskick of the slippery ball, which might have been costly.
BRAINY MANN.
Mann was brainy, impressive, and calculating, and never flurried. There was a gradual undoing of Everton after Spence's goal, which gave United the lead at the interval. Everton could not keep their teeth in. After Rennox had opened the scoring for the United. Dean showed how easy it is to get one of the new goals. It was sandwiched between Manchester's pair. It was one of these one-two-no-wastetime efforts –an unhesitatingly flashed-in centre by Troup and a prompt header by Dean. The Everton forwards did not serve up much of this sort in the second half. They fell into their short passing with frails, which was doubly difficult on a sodden ground. Still, they fought a brave battle under wearing conditions, Chedgzoy and Kennedy especially. Those methods fitted the plot that United had hatched, and Everton's forwards were often overpowered at close quarters. The forwards' slow up was reflected too, in the defence –and left it occasionally much on the grill –for the stronger the attack the sounder the defence, and the easier the latter's task. It was just the fortunes of the game that United should get the free kick which led up to McPherson getting their third goal. The ball appeared to touch McDonald's chest, although the referee ruled for “hands” and he was in the better position to judge. After that Everton's chance of a draw had gone. Teams: - Everton: - Hardy, goal, McDonald and Livingstone backs, Brown, Bain and Hart (captain), half-backs, Chedgzoy, McBain Dean, Kennedy, and Troup, forwards. Manchester United: - Steward, goal, Moore, and Silcock, backs, Hilditch, Haslam, and Mann half-backs, Spence, Smith, McPeherson, Rennex, and Thomas, forwards.

SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 0
November 9, 1925. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 13)
Everton Reserves, had only themselves to blame, for not bringing back a point from Hillsbrough as the result of their visit to Wednesday's second string. In the second half particularly they had quite a number of opportunities of equalising, but failed to turn them to account, with the result that Wedensday were enabled to claim the spoils by virtue of a scrambling sort of goal scored by Whitworth, whose shot would never have beaten Kendall, had he not slipped at the critical moment. Raitt and Hamilton were a couple of resolute and dour defenders, while Reid at centre half kept a tight hold on Whitworth. The conditions were deplorable throughout, and it was only after mature deliberation by the referee that he finally decided that the ground was fit enough for play to take place. Weaver should have equalised but shot over, while Peacock with an open goal failed completely to gather the ball. Everton: - Kendall, goal, Raitt and Hamilton backs, Peacock, Reid and Virr half-backs, Millington, Irvine, O'Donnell, Houghton, and Weaver, forwards.

EVERTON’S FURTHER LAPSE
Liverpool Echo - Monday 09 November 1925
SURPRISE PACKETS
Bee’s Notes I reckon the Everton defeat one of the biggest surprise packets of the day, and tack on to this result Arsenal’s win at Manchester (Buchan presenting his club with another cheque for 200 pounds). Meantime, someone has let an Everton cat out of the bag- one of the family that has been bred.  They named Kendall, Harland, Chadwick, and Broad as an offer.  My information is that this is only a part truth; there are other names before the council in regard to possible moves.  I hinted at these last Thursday morning.  Look out for important moves; the club is sure to be signing and strengthening, and as assuredly they will be parting with what they believe to be misfits.
THE CAUSE
I was most disappointed that Everton let me down for the second week in succession.  Once again one could trace a fault; there was an ever-ready indulgence in the pretty little side-step movement as compared to Manchester United’s direct methods.  Manchester fed their right winger, Spence, who is very hot on the trail and is not feared of cutting.  As at Anfield, so at Goodison Park; the pace of the United players made one gasp, whether one was playing or watching.  They are a good side; let us admit that right away and thereby start on the right basis.  They are good; they are fast- they are remarkably PRACTICAL. One pass, instant, suits them.  They make progress by that pass; they won’t want draperies to the windows; no, they’ll just take a clear view, if you don’t mind.  And that was where they beat us.  Everton, strangely enough, were playing three ex-Manchester United men in McBain, Kennedy, and Bain.  Such irony in defeat makes us compare the case with that of the fice that bit Mr. Keating. 
PERSONAL
Everton, whe4n losing 2-1, seemed to have a grip of their rivals, and it is borne on me that they are easily knocked off their temperamental selves.  Otherwise how could one balance the football state at the hour, when Everton were attacking for a draw and yet compounded quite readily with an impulsive breakaway by Manchester United.  It is very hard to criticize a losing side which one has voted pretty sure of victory; perhaps I had better go away with them again and bring them some good fortune.  They’ll need the very best of fortune and football to beat Notts County, who are a hot side on their own ground- but are not unbeatable.  Hardy gave delight with his one-hand punches, but I am not so sure that we like the way he gives the “dummy” to a forward who us trying to dispossess him.  I noticed he employed this jerk-forward idea at the Albion ground a year ago in a representative match and then and there I disliked it.  Mayhap it is a pleasantly; it doesn’t do forwards’ tempers any good.  His diving after the foot-of-the-post ball was excellent and I thought many times his judgement in taking up position and in punching out was excellent.  Remember it was a wet ball he was handling. McDonald was the surer of the backs, and while Livingstone did well there was a hesitancy at times that led him, and others of the side, to find an opponent creeping round him and dispossessing him.  The forward line was not effective; there was no cohesion and the passing of the forwards was of a jig-saw pattern and often produced three passes without a yard of space being taken by the men concerned. 

TACTICS PAY
Athletic News - Monday 09 November 1925
HOW MANCHESTER UNITED LAID EVERTON LOW
SPEED AND STAMINA
EVERTON 1, MANCHESTER UNITED 3
By Junius
ON such day as Saturday one could not hope for anything approaching a polished display at Goodison Park, where Manchester United were the visitors.  Expectations were realised, but the visitors adapted themselves to the conditions more readily, and by their wholehearted endeavour were good winners on the day.  They worked like Trojans, kicking strongly and moving more easily than their opponents.  Perhaps the footwork of the United was not more polished, but against this the visitors had greater speed, stamina, and resolution, and these qualities combined to demonstrate, with the plan of campaign they adopted, the only policy likely to produce successful results.  In the early stages Spence was well fed, almost excess, and his speed was great asset, for he could outpace Livingstone.  He was the source of danger that often looked like bearing fruition, but Hardy stood in the way. 
THE GOALS. 
After eighteen minutes, however, the first goal was notched against him. It was from a simple movement brought about a centre from Thomas for Rennox to head into the net.  Stewart dived at a ball from Kennedy, and following other capable efforts by the Everton forwards, Troupe put across for DEAN to head into the corner of the net.  As the interval approached Spence found- a loophole in the Everton defence, and seizing his opportunity, cut in to place the ball into the far comer of the net.  Here was exposed one of Everton’s weak points, for the goal was left open, when their own forwards wereonattack, they found a packed goal.  The second half had been going 18 minutes when Mann paved the way from a free kick for McPherson further to increase the lead.  Of the visitors, Spence was energy personified, his electrifying runs along the wing and smart recovery after a tackle being telling features.  He had willing helper in Smith.  Thomas, too was a great raider, ably supported Mann, whose feinting and scheming were of great advantage. The wing forwards, however, took all the ground the law allows, and frequently overstepped it. Hilditch was safe in tackle, and Haslam, playing for Barson, who was suffering from ptomaine poisoning, completed a strong half-back line.  Moore and Silcock were more dependable than the Everton pair, who too frequently left their goal open to assault. 
DEAN WELL WATCHED. 
As I have indicated, too much attention was directed towards Dean, who was surrounded the foe when near goal and working on a heavy patch. Yet he did well. Chedgroy and McBain did quite well, as did Troup when play came his way, but the game was not sufficiently opened out by the hall-backs, whose passes were often short.  Bain was skilful in breaking up advances, while Brown and Hart had a worrying time against the United raiders.  Hardy in his first home game gave a sound display, for United’s shots were of the unstoppable type.  Everton. —Hardy; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, Bain, Hart: Chedgzoy, McBain, Dean, Kennedy, and Troop.  Manchester United Steward; Moore, Silcock; Hilditch, Haslam, Mann; Spence, Smith, McPherson, Rennox, and Thomas.  Referee; H. W. Sykes (Northampton). 

EVERTON AGAINST SURPRISES TEAM
November 10, 1925. The Liverpool Echo
Bee's Notes
Everton have not yet chosen their side for the cup-tie at Burnley tomorrow. It is a Lancashire Cup game and as Burnley have already been beaten at Turf Moor by Everton, and Burnley managed to drew at Roker last Saturday; the game should draw well. Burnley's draw on Saturday was the biggest surprise of the season. Incidentally it may be said that the club is looking for a goalkeeper, and a few days ago they looked on at Everton's goalkeeper will keen eyes. Arsenal did likewise, Mr. Chapman being present and when the Arsenal manager left, he went to Scotland to sign Scotland's international Harper, the booking being made yesterday.

EVERTON “FOLLOWERS”
November 10, 1925. The Liverpool Echo
Bee's Notes
Blue Blood” says;-
The weakness in the Everton tasks is on the left flank, as witness the “day-out” Spence had. I suggest the following team as one likely to give better results;- Hardy; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Bain and Reid; Chedgzoy. O'Donnell, Dean, Troup, and Weaver. Troup would make a splendid inside left as he can shoot with either foot. Moreover, Weaver is too good to be kept in the reserve team.
I was at the Everton match says “True Blue” and I was surprised at the following the United had. I think there were as many Manchester supporters as Everton's. cannot we Everton supporters give our team the same support. Well, sir, I intend to run a charter bus to Blackburn on Christmas Day when Everton play the Rovers. Write 19, Nottingham-street, Everton.
One on Us!
What a hopeless state of affairs, says “W.G.” Are Everton are so poor a team as their record would suggest? I say emphatically No! My first opinion is that the local Press and public are far too much in hero-workship, the former leading the people in this respect. This naturally leads to swelled heads which in turn, leads to players to believe that they one play the game how and when they like, which is precisely what happened at Goodison Park on Saturday. This Press boasting's going to be the ruination of the game, as a public attraction, sooner or later. Doubtless these evils accounts for the “glorious uncertainty of the game” referred to by not a few scribes. “Although” writes –Surely the Everton club officials after Saturday's exhibition will procure the real stuff that who matches. Why is Davie Reid not in the centre half position? We have seen this player give some tip-top exhibitions. Team; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, Reid, McBain or Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, Troup.

EVERTON'S EXPERIMENT.
November 11 1925. The Daily Courier.
THE Second Round of the Lancashire F.A. Cup will be played today. At Goodison Park, Everton entertain Burnley, a team that forced Sunderland to concede their first home point this season in a League game. Compared with Saturday, Everton make five changes. Raitt comes in at right-back, McDonald moving over; Reid and Virr take the places of Bain and Hart in the half-backs, while Irvine comes in as partner to Chedgzoy. Hart, a half-back, is being tried as partner to Troup. There are possibilities about this side, which takes the field at 2-45. Team: - Hardy, Raitt, McDonald; Brown, Reid, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, Hart, and Troup.

EVERTON’S EXPERIENCE
November 11, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton are making interesting experiments in the team selected to meet Burnley in the second round of the Lancashire Cup at Goodison Park today. The chief alteration is that Hunter Hart, the captain and a left half back, has been selected to partner on the left wing instead of Kennedy. Virr takes Hart’s customary place, and Irvine, being fit again, returns to partner Chedgzoy on the right. In addition Raitt is selected instead of Livingstone at full back, and Reid is at centre half-back in place of Bain. The team is; Hardy; Raitt, and McDonald; Brown, Reid, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, Hart, and Troup. Following on the introduction of McBain to the forward line in the last two League games the latest move will be followed with particular interest. Hart is the type of player to succeed as a forward for he has pace, skill, and is a good shot. This match may serve the useful purpose of showing the team selectors the full strength of the players at the command. The kick-off is at 2.45.

EVERTON’S BRISK BATTLE WITH BURNLEY
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 11 November 1925
By Stork
There was only a sparse attendance at Goodison Park for the second round of the Lancashire Senior Cup-tie between Everton and Burnley, a state of affairs no doubt due to the races at Aintree. Although there was some useless long kicking there were also man items of real interest.  Virr had a good shot at Dawson, and then McDonald at the last moment came across his goal to shoulder off Page, who was just on the point of offering Roberts a “sitter.” 
TRICKY TROUP
Hill’s size proved troublesome to Dean, who for once in a way was not able to get his head to the ball to make those lovely glances with which we have not become so familiar.  Still, the football was very interesting, and nothing was more so than a tricky idea by Troup.  He and a Burnley man were after the ball at one and the same moment, but the little man upset all calculations by overrunning the ball purposely so smartly, wheel about to recover possession, and send in a delightful centre, which, however, the lengthy Hill disposed of.  Hunter Hart was using the semi-forward half back plan with a degree of success, for he proved helpful to both lines.  He also had a good shot turned away by the ever-watched Dawson.  The Everton goal had two narrow escapes, the first when Page headed over the bar from Spargo’s centre.  Spargo, by the way, was playing a sterling game at right half back.  Hardy once again gave the “dummy,” and this tickled the crowd no end.  The best shot and save of the match up to this point came near the interval.  Hill pushed the ball through the middle, for Roberts to make a point-blank shot, which looked all over a winner, but Hardy, with great sangfroid, punched it away.  For this he r4eceived well-merited applause.  Half-time; Everton 0, Burnley 0.
EVERTON LEAD
On resuming Everton attacked with such determination that it was small wonder that they took the lead at the end of 40 minutes play.  Dawson had just previously saved a couple of efforts but from one he had to concede a corner, and it was from this, taken by Chedgzoy, that Reid was able to get his head and direct it into the net.  Hardy was without doubt distinguishing himself.  We saw him on Saturday with a wet ball, when he was good.  He was even better to-day under drier conditions.  Even so the Everton goal had an intense three minutes, when the ball was cannoned in and out of their goalmouth without actually crossing the line.  At long last Dean was able to get away from Hill, and offer Chedgzoy a gorgeous chance with his head.  Chedgzoy closed in, and although Fergus tried his utmost to shoulder him off, Chedgzoy was able to pass the ball sideways to Dean, who dashed the ball into the net like lighting. 
DEAN MISSES PENALTY
After Hart had tested Dawson and Dean had kicked round the ball Everton were awarded a penalty for a handling offence on the part of Ferguson, the Burnley right full-back.  Dean, entrusted with the kick, placed it over the bar.  Final; Everton 2, Burnley nil. 

EVERTON WIN CUP-TIE
November 12, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
Burnley Beaten in Moderate Game.
Everton defeated Burnley by two goals to nothing in the second round of the Lancashire Cup, at Goodison Park, yesterday, but it was not a game or a victory over which the small attendance of spectators could enthuse. Truth to tell if Burnley had been able to round off their midfield play they would have run Everton close. They were quite the equal of the Everton side, but when they reached the goal area their shooting was weak. The new Everton formation was only a success in the half-back line, where the inclusion of Reid, who got the first goal, was fully justified. Reid brought into the side that little bit of resolute play which has been missing for so long. Virr, too, was a success. Not only did he use the ball well, but he never gave up once he had started on a tackle. Hart was only moderate at inside left. Once he forced Dawson to make a dive to prevent a goal. The right wing did not meet with a great deal of success, even though Chedgzoy offered a great chance to Dean, which the Prenton boy was only too eager to accept. How Dean came to fail with a penalty kick he alone must know. He swung the ball over the ball.
Dean Held
Dean for a long time found the lengthy Hill one too many for him, but he never gave up trying, and the only occasion on which he got away from Hill’s grip he scored. Dean has no peer as a header of a ball, and the way he flicked one out to Chedgzoy was superb, for it enabled the right winger to go on his way without trapping the ball. Bergus did his level best to nudge Chedgzoy over, but before he did so Chedgzoy flicked the ball into the middle for Dean to make a goal. Bunrley all this time were showing some pretty methods of making progress but up to the time Hardy had to make a great save from Roberts who hit out at point blank range, they had not a shot which was likely to prove the undoing of Everton. Hardy it was again who saved when Kelly drove in a pile driver. These were the only two occasions on which the Everton goal seemed likely to tell. McDonald was great at back and Raitt was more confident then he has been. Troup did many fine things as well as shoot, but Irvine was his usual self –a dribbler. The man of Burnley was undoubtedly Hill. He worked untiringly both in attack and defence, but could not get his forwards to carry on his good work. Result Everton 2, Burnley 0. Teams; Everton; Hardy, goal; Raitt, and McDonald, backs; Brown, Reid, and Virr, half-backs; Chedgzoy, Irivine, Dean, Hart (captain) and Troup, forwards. Burnley;- Dawson, goal; Fergus and Waterfield, backs; Spargo, Hill, and Parkins, half-backs; Bruton, Kelly, Roberts, Cross, and Page, forwards.

ANOTHER EVERTON EXPERIMENT
November 12, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
For the League match against Notts County, at Nottingham, on Saturday, Everton have decided to introduce O’Donnell at inside left. O’Donnell has been playing capital football with the Reserves at centre forward, and his shown such promise in the attack that his inclusion as partner to Troup ought to add dash and forcefulness to the line. He has scored seven goals in Central League games. This will be his first appearance as a forward in the League side. Other changes compared with the side which lost to Manchester United are Virr for Hart at left half, Irvine for McBain at inside right and Raitt instead of Livingstone, McDonald crossing over to the left back position. The team is;- Hardy, goal; Raitt and McDonald, backs; Brown, Bain and Virr, half-backs; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup.
Of the side which played against Burnley yesterday, Hart (inside left) and Reid (centre half|) drop out.

EVERTON 2 BURNLEY 0
November 12, 1925. The Daily Courier.
LANCASHIRE SENIOR CUP ROUND TWO
EVERTON STILL IN LANCS. CUP.
TWO GOALS WIN OVER BURNLEY
DEAN MISSED PENALTY.
Both teams fielded strong sides for this Lancashire Cup second round tie at Goodison Park yesterday. Everton won by 2 to 0, and take it all round, they deserved their win. Burnley proved themselves a well-balanced, good all-round team, but none of their players stood out of the ordinary. In these days the Everton management is having an anxious time trying to build up a points-getting combination. They made another experiment yesterday, when they brought Hunter Hart from the half-back line forward to partner Troup. I think they might have done much worse. Hart's experience as a half-back stood him in good-stead, and he tackled well and passed to the centre and wings with judgement. It was as a feeder rather than an attacker that Hart was useful yesterday.
HARDY SHINES.
Reid, at centre-half, and Virr on his left, worked extremely hard, and were responsible for some good work. Hardy's goalkeepering was excellent, and undoubtedly be justied the reputation he has built up for himself. Yesterday he shaped as confidently as one could wish, which is more perhaps, than could be said for him in his first match against the Arsenal, when he appeared a little nervous. Burnley yesterday found him on top of his form, and so went home pointless. There was not a great deal between the teams, in the first half; both goalkeepers were called upon fairly frequently to defend their charges. Halt-time came with the score sheet blank. Four minutes after the resumption the Blues were one up. The ball was lobbed across from the left and Reid running up opportunely managed to head well past Dawson.
EASY FOR DEAN.
Thirteen minutes after half-time the Blues got another. Chedgzoy had a great share in obtaining this one. He ran down the touchline in capital style. It seemed however, as if he had gone to far, and that Waterfield would force him to concede a goalkick. He under-estimated the Everton winger's wireless for Chedgzoy ran round him, and just as the ball looked to be going behind, he sent it into the centre. It went to Dean, who being unmarked had no great difficulty in sending past Dawson. The second success seemed to sting the visitors into renewed energy, and Roberts, Kelly, and Page, all had shots at goal, but found hardy ready for them. Page, their speedy winger, frequently caught the eye all through the game, with his clever work. Brown who played a capital defensive game proved a thorn in the Burnley attack. Time after time he held up the visitor's front line when it seemed well on the way towards the Blues' citadel.
MISSED PENALTY.
In the closing stages the Blues were awarded a penalty kick , Fergus missed by Troup, handled near goal. Dean took the kick, but though there was force enough in his kick it lacked direction and soared well over the crossbar. Soon after the whistle blew for time. It was not a bad game, but both teams at times gave the impression of keeping a little bit in hand. I have seen the Blues play worse games. The attack, however, still takes the eye as a line of individualists rather than a cohesive attacking whole. Possibly that is because of the changes that are constantly being made in these times of experiment. Chedgzoy and Troup on the wings were good, and Dean was always after in the centre. Irvine played up better in the closing stages, but a kick he received made it necessary for him to change places with Chedgzoy towards the close. The halves played a bustling game, and McDonald and Raitt did some good work at back. The Burnley front line was speedy, but weak at the finish. Their defence was wobbly at times, and Waterfield and Fergus were inclined to waver under pressure. Teams: - Everton: - Hardy, goal, Raitt and McDonald, backs, Brown, Reid and Virr, half-backs, Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, Hart (captain), and Troup, forwards. Burnley: - Dawson, goal, Fergus, and Waterfield, backs, Spargo, Hill, and Parkin, half-backs, Bruton, Kelly, Roberts, Cross, and Page, forwards.

EVERTON TRY O’DONNEL AS FIRST TEAM FORWARD AND VIRR AT HALF-BACK
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 12 November 1925
Bee’s Notes
Notts County, who oppose Everton at Meadow-lane, hope to field a considerably strengthened side.  Neil Harris, the Newcastle United forward, has been chosen to play his first game in the Magpie colours at inside right, Staniforth being dropped.  Cope, who has been out of the team for several weeks owing to injuries, has nearly recovered and is expected to be able to resume.  Team; Iremonger; Ashurst, Cope or Cornwall; Flint, Dinsdale, Hilton, Taylor, Harris, Sullivan, Davis, and Barry. 
  “Dicky Sam” writes;- As old Evertonians, it is with considerable surprise we hear of the team selection for the match with Burnley.  Men are played who have been found wanting.  Rooney should have a trial.  He is fitted for the present type of football.  We want new men badly. 
EVERTON DECISIONS
Everton having beaten Burnley in the Lancashire Cup tie, and having thereby confirmed the form of the League meeting at Turf Moor, went on to select the side to go to Nottingham, and it was decreed that Virr, the long-legged reserve player, should have a turn in the first team, not for the first time he is remembered.  The more important change, however, is the inclusion of the goalkeeper-full back-centre forward O’Donnell, who has had a hectic time since he came to Everton from Darlington, owing to the multitudinous calls upon his trusty or rather lusty left foot.  O’Donnell has been hitting out like a county cricketer since going back to his forward ways, and his go-ahead style may carry him far, he is all-pluck and whipcord and is built for the job on hand; moreover, he can head a ball with the best, and with Dean and him specializing in this direction, and Irvine returning to the side- he was injured late on yesterday, so may not play –the Blues attacking line should give Notts County plenty of work.  Davie Raitt comes back to partner his old comrade McDonald, and their best will be needed to shake of Neil Harris, a fellow Scot.  Team.- Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup.  Of the side that played against Burnley yesterday, Hart (inside left) and Reid (centre half) drop out. 

SULLIVAN AND HARRIS
Liverpool Echo - Friday 13 November 1925
Bee’s Notes
Everton are a bit unfortunate in running up against Notts County on the banks of the Trent at the very moment that they have signed Neil Harris and Sullivan.  The former is well known as a daring type of forward, who can stride through many a defence which shows a sign of hesitancy., Moreover, the signing of Sullivan from Crewe has turned out trumps to Manager Fisher, the County secretary who thus finds himself with two centres for one match.  The Crewe boy, Sullivan, has leapt into football fame, and he will continue at centre forward, Neil Harris becoming his partner on the right wing.  Everton have played in such varying styles this season that it is not safe for me to prophesy any feeling that is in me.  Results speak louder than prospects.  Get your “Football Echo” to-morrow if you would see what happened.  This much can be said; Notts County are essentially a rugged side, and that being so, it behoves Everton to make their way up by the nearest rather than the prettiest path.  That is all I have to say at the moment!  Everton; Hardy; McDonald, Raitt; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup.  Notts County; Iremonger; Ashurst, Cope; Flint, Dinsdale, Hilton; Taylor, Harris, Sullivan, Davis, Barry. 
GOODISON PARK “CENTRE-PIECE.”
Goodison Park is the centerpiece of much movement, much speculation, and much perturbation- at times.  To-morrow the side, which has been doing so well in the Central League strife, takes on Aston Villa Res, and knowing as we do the resource of the Aston side, we know that the game to-morrow will be a sternly-contested one.  Everton play so fewer than six men who have seen first team service.  Look;- Harland; Livingstone, Kerr; Peacock, Reid, Rooney; Millington, Rand, Murray, Chadwick and Weaver. 

EVERTON’S TEST
November 14, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton visit the strudy Notts County side who will have the assistance of the former Newcastle centre-forward, Neil Harris. With two forceful players like the Scottish international and Sullivan, late of Crewe Alexandra in the attack, the Everton defence will be fully tested. Experiment have been made with a view to strengthening the side the most important of which is the inclusion of O’Donnell at inside left. The former full back has shown great attitude at centre forward with the Reserves and it is calculated that he will impart more effectiveness to the League team’s attack as Troup’s partner. Virr who played well in the Lancashire Cup tie against Burnley, displaces Hart at left half-back, Irvine returns to his position at inside right and Raitt partners McDonald. The teams are;- Everton; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup. Notts County; Iremonger; Ashurst, Cope; Flint, Ainsdale, Hilton; Taylor, Harris, Sullivan, Davies, Barry.

EVERTON'S EXPERIMENT.
November 14, 1925. The Daily Courier.
The Everton side left yesterday and the display of the Blues will be watched with great interest, for O'Donnell, secured by Everton as a back and tried with marked success as a centre forward with the Reserves has been drafted in as an inside left. Many hold that such a move shows Everton to be in dire straits. With this I disagree, and I am looking to today's game to confirm my view that Everton will not be beaten. Teams: - Notts County: - Iremonger; Ashurst, Cope or Cornwell; Flint, Dimsdale, Hilton; Taylor, Harris, Sullivan, Davis, Barry, forwards. Everton: - Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, Troup.

OXFORD BLUE’S WEDDING
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 14 November 1925
The wedding took place at St. Saviours’s Church, Oxton, today, of Mr. Arthur Berry, of Grange Cottage, Gateacre, and Miss Beryl Cox, daughter of Mr. Harrison Cox, of Oxton.  Mr. Berry is an Oxford blue and played for several seasons for Everton as an amateur footballer.  He is also holder of several International caps for soccer for England, and played with a representative team at the Olympian Games for several years. 

OLD TIMES AND TIMERS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 14 November 1925
WHICH PAYS BEST- TACKLING OR DRIBBLING”
By Victor Ball
What a change has come over the manner of playing modern League football!  If one paid strict attention to the spectator nowadays, fir first duty of every player on the field, from centre forward to goalkeeper, is to part with the ball directly he gets it.  Why is that, one wonders?  The modern League game is played at fever-heat –we can concede that.  But so were the League games of a generation ago.  There seems to-day an unnatural desire on the part of the football crowd to encourage the player to transfer the ball to someone, somewhere, immediately it comes into his possession, either from a direct pass or from his effort in obtaining control.  Now, with great respect, there must be some solid, tangible reason for that anxiety on the part of the home team supporter.  It is no use thinking of the Everton or Liverpool club spectator alone in that respect- all home clubs get the same advice in every match.  The advice, of course, is well meant.  It is given freely and spontaneously to the player by the crowd, with the object that he will act on it- at once, mark you that- and “part with the ball.”  But why? What can he do with it, once he has parted with it?  It is no longer his to control or to place for a better-positioned purpose.  It is gone, and the same advice on which he acted –and parted- is immediately offered to the next home player who now has got it.  He, too, is being advised to “get it away.”  Is it that the art of tackling by back and half-back has improved so much in proportion to forward play that no attacking player is replied upon as being able to keep the ball sufficiently long to make his own or a comrade’s opening? 
THE SPECTATORS’ FAULT
I confess I am bewildered by the frantic eagerness of modern forwards to follow the advice of the crowd and “part” with the ball!  To me, present day forward play seems a nightmare –apart from shooting ability –when compared with the forward play that made the reputation of forwards in the past.  Compare the speed and style of the game of to-day with that of the game in which Athersmith, Bassett, Geary, Cowan, or Crabtree played.  It really is no faster.  It only looks faster.  Any of those sprinters of former days could get as quickly off the mark as the fastest forward playing to-day.  They started quickly and kept it up to the end of the sprint.  At the finish they passed, or shot, were robbed or missed.  But one thing they didn’t do.  They didn’t shut their eyes, and- “part with the ball.”  Once again, we must keep to this point.  Why does the crowd want the player to get rid?  And why does the player take the advice so readily?  I wonder how many will agree with me if I ventured the opinion that the modern forward- taken in the mass- is not as good as his predecessor in ball control.  I have watched football as it is played nowadays, and I have not seen a dozen modern forwards who give me the impression that they feel confident themselves of being able to take the ball along with them through an opposing side.  Players there are in plenty –and I freely admit it- who once or twice in the course of a game will hang on, and work, and feint their way through an opposing half-back and full-back line with or without the assistance of a comrade until they get into a favourable position for a goal.  But notice the roar of delight that goes up from the spectators when these rare events occur!  The spectators become ecstatic.  It is something they so seldom see.  Alas! It is so.  But once it wasn’t so unusual!  In every game that the stylists of old played in, feature of their play was their supremacy as individualists over the defence.  And let it not be thought that those defensive forces were poor in comparison.  On the contrary, they, too, were giants.  It was the days of Forbes and Brandon, Ross, Doyle, Kelso, Clare, Reynolds, and other great names.  To those who can carry their memory back far enough, it is not the speed that has quickened the game of to-day above that of others days.  It is the anxiety of the player not to appear to be a failure.  He dreads being “robbed” on his own ground.  He shoots whenever he can get a chance.  If it comes off, well, it’s worthwhile!  If it misses?- Well, it was a try, anyhow, and has done no violence to his reputation as a player.  But if he hangs on to the ball in an attempt to dribble forward and he misses, or loses his pass, the wrath of the crowd who wants “goals” will be something to remember.  So he plays for safety, and rather than risk his reputation he takes the advice and line of least resistance; and without hesitation the ball is “parted with.” 
NOT SO HEROIC.
Can you blame the player?  Is not the spectator in the mass equally to blame, if he will not encourage genius, whether it be in ball control as well as in attack or defence.  I can well imagine that this line of argument leaves one open to the challenge that the present-day player is being unfairly compared with the heroes of old.  This is not so.  No one has a greater admiration for the stamina, skill, and unbounded energy of the modern player.  Compared with the older generation of players, he is much more enduring, and he is in infinitely finer fettle to play the game.  He is steadier, harder working, and causes less anxiety. But as an individual player, he is not so heroic, he takes less risk.  Probably he has too much at stake!  After all, his playing career is a short one, and he wants to play it out.  One misses the thrill, though of these “old timers” (and they were not all “wingers”), who used to hold the hearts of the crowd in their keeping while they threaded their devious ways down to the goal.  Now and again one sees that mater-man, who, fearing no foe, is confident and clever enough to hold the ball against one or two, or even three successive attacks.  The blood pulses, as one vibrates to the brilliancy of the sheer command.  A side tap, a feint, a quick spurt, and a side step!  Another forward thrust, and with a quick dart the movement is repeated and another obstacle passed.  Meanwhile the supporting forwards are converging for the inevitable shot, or rebound.  One thing they are certain of –they know he won’t lose the ball, and that when he does part with it, it won’t be a blind kick into the blue or into touch.  If any reader thinks that this view of a forward’s play is a bigoted or partisans applause for the old style as against the modern forward play, let him cast his mind back to the play of Alan Morton last season in Scotland’s game against England at Goodison Park.  That is forward play of the style we used to have in English League games.  We don’t get it nowadays. 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 14 November 1925
By Louis T. Kelly

• Football from a local point of view, proved a wash-out on Saturday, both at Goodison and Huddersfield
• It is interesting and satisfactory to note that amid their many team changes and especially is regard to forwards, Harrison, ex-Everton, has, all this time, held his ground.
• If O’Donnell and Weaver were tried in the two inside position it is thought by some people that this would give Everton’s attack greater incisiveness and effect
• A fortnight ago Everton got lost badly in the Highbury fog
• On Saturday their seemed to miss their way just as badly in the rain
• First impressions by the crowd were that “Hardy will do” – and very much so, too.

EVERTON V NOTTS COUNTY
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 14 November 1925
“F.E.H” TELLS HOW O’DONNELL FARED AGAINST THE OFFSIDE MERCHANTS
Everton; Hardy; McDonald, Raitt; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup.  Notts County; Streets; Ashurst. Cornwall; Flint, Dinsdale, Hilton; Taylor, Harris, Sullivan, Davis, Barry.  Referee; Mr. E. L. Sambrook, of Swansea.  Everton at Nottingham to-day against the County side brought in Virr as half back, this being his first run with the senior side this season.  Irvine returned to inside right, and Raitt at full back.  Notts County tried their new purchases, Neil Harris, of Newcastle, and Sullivan, who has done so well since leaving Crewe.  We travelled down to Nottingham yesterday in an atmosphere of fog, and the same conditions prevailed this afternoon when the game started in a very bad light before an enthusiastic crowd of spectators.  The famous Notts custodian, Iremonger, was as enforced absentee owing to an injured arm, and his place was taken by Streets.  There were other re-arrangements, as will be seen. 
ADROIT DEFENCE
Everton opened in most promising fashion and promptly made a series of sieges on the home backs, both of whom cleared well.  The County forwards then got going.  Harris, their newly acquired forward, put the ball nicely to Sullivan, who shot strongly, but Raitt intercepted the leather with remarkable adroitness. Play steadied down into even fashion, both sides attacking in rapid succession, and Dinsdale headed away a hot shot from Irvine, while at the other end Harris, when well placed, shot yards wide.  The game had not been going very long when Sullivan was hurt in collision with Raitt and had to retire. 
IRVINE HEADS IN FROM CORNER.
Everton now pressed with greater vigour than ever, and from a corner kick Irvine headed the ball into the net. 
SULLIVAN BADLY INJURED.
On inquiries I found that Sullivan had broken his collarbone, and he was, of course, unable to take any further part in the match.  Notts for a time had rather the better of the argument, and Ellis put in a great shot, which was finely fielded by Hardy, who, by the way, is showing growing confidence.  Still the County continued in aggressive mood and another hot shot from Davis nearly found the target.  Everton meanwhile were showing good combination and Chedgzoy, who I many mention was a doubtful starter, showed renewed vigour and speed, dropping in a series of centres which Dean failed to turn to good account. 
BACKS ON FORM
The County continued to do most of the pressing, but the Everton backs were on the top of their form, and two shots from Harris were well counteracted.  Considering that the Trentsiders had only four forwards, they were doing very well, but their trickiness was well matched by the Everton defenders. 
DEAN DEFEATS STREETS
However, in the twinkling of an eye so to speak, Everton came through in masterly manner, the half-backs putting the ball forward and O’Donnell, working in splendid combination with Troup, put the ball to the Everton centre-forward, Dean, who scored with a fast shot which gave the home custodian no possible chance.  Half-time; Notts County 0, Everton 2.
WELCOME RECOVERY OF FORM BY FORWARDS
GOALS BY DEAN AND IRVINE
SULLIVAN BREAKS HIS COLLAR-BONE
The first period had provided a really good game and the 10,000 people present fully appreciated the cleverness of some of the play, though they were naturally disappointed at the loss of Sullivan and with being two down at the turn.  Everton, I may say, had played sparkling football and, on the whole, were good value for their lead.
YAWNING GOAL DISCARDED
On resuming, the visitors were at once on the attack, and following upon good half back play O’Donnell was given an open goal, but he sent the ball yards off the mark.  There was a long spell of midfield play, which had to nothing, though Everton were much quicker in their directness of attack.  The finishing touches, however, just missed the point of accuracy.  Notts now rallied in the gamest fashion, and Davies, breaking through, looked a certain scorer when he drove the ball over the ball.  Harris then came along in fine style and headed the ball into the goalkeeper’s hands when the whistle went for offside. 
FOG PREVAILING
The fog was now becoming danger and one had difficulty in following some points of the play.  The County’s forwards came away in full stretch, and both Davis and Barry tested the Everton keeper, who cleverly saved.  At the other end the visitors were busy, and O’Donnell had a great opportunity when he shot weakly and wide. 
DEAN GAINS A DOUBLE
The Evertonians, however, kept up the pressure, and from a combined movement in which Chedgzoy and Irvine had a share, Dean scored with a simple shot.  In the closing stages the light became worse than ever, but one ever, but one could not fail to see that Everton were top dogs.  They kept the County’s defence on the run all the time, and Irvine made a mess of things when he put the ball just over the bar.  The victory of the Goodison Park brigade was well deserved in spite of the handicap which Notts suffered through the regrettable injury to Sullivan.  Final; Notts County 0, Everton 3. 

EVERTON RES V. VILLA RES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 14 November 1925
THE GRAND PARADE IN KNEECAPS BY EVERTON’S FORWARDS
Everton were the first to attack, and chances came the way of Chadwick, Murray, and Rand, but each was wide in his shot.  The Villa then pressed strongly, and Kerr prevented Kirton from going through when he had only the keeper behind him.  At the other end Chadwick, when well placed, put the ball over the bar.  The ground was very slippery, and the conditions made ball control extremely difficult.  The home players had taken the wise precaution of wearing kneecaps, in view of the bony state of the turf.  Kirton next got through for the visitors and struck the post, while at the other end a curling shot from Peacock struck the Villa post.  Murray opened the score for Everton, and just before the interval Chadwick added a second.  Half-time; Everton Res 2, Villa Res 0. 
Everton completely overplayed the Villa in the second half, and added four further goals through Weaver, Murray, Reid, and Rand.  Three-quarters time; Everton Res 6, Villa Res 0. 
Bootle Boro 3, Everton A 3 (extra time)

LANCASHIRE CUP
Burnley News - Saturday 14 November 1925
BURNLEY BEATEN BY TWO CLEAR GOALS AT EVERTON
GAME THAT LACKED THRILLS
EVERTON 2 BURNLEY 0
By Kestral
There will be quite collection of crosses at Goodison Park sometime commemorating the buried hopes of Burnley. Another was added to the number on Wednesday, when Burnley went there with moderately strong side, play the second round of the Lancashire Cup Competition.  And the end was about in keeping with play. It was a question whether either side took the game very seriously in the first half—that is as regards entering into it with a great deal of vim. Indeed, it was a very leisurely game, but nice exhibition of pure football in which the players gave each other time to work the ball about. One, however, had the feeling that it was sort of long distance race, in which the side that could bring out spurt would win. Everton proved to the side with the spurt, and though Burnley hada good deal of bad fortune in having shots stopped the luckiest kind way, on method and general determination the more virile side deserved their win.
THE TRICKS OF TROUP. 
Races at Aintree detracted from the crowd, which was fairly respectable. Burnley had to face the lowering sun for time, but were, throughout the first half quite as good as Everton, especially on the right wing, where Kelly and Bruton played together in very classy style. Early on Page got away and had Roberts been in better position a goal would have been certain. Then Everton had a go, and Dawson  showed a deal of his old capacity, and he was well supported by Fergus and Waterfield at the start, though later on the left back, who has not quite recovered from his illness, was not quite as certain. There was hardly that snap about the forward work of either side that was desirable, and the same accusation could be made against the home attack, especially as Troup was a frequent source of annoyance to Spargo. The Burnley junior did nicely with the ball in the open, but when it came to tussle with Troup, especially early on, the little Soot was too astute and though Spargo hung on to him more closely later he could never master the tricks of Troup.  One looked for a score from Dean once when he got clean through, but scraped the ball across the front of the goal. As an exhibition of football it was very nice but not thrilling at all,  and almost lacking fire except on rare burst,  Page once gave Hardy a teaser with his head but the custodian managed punch way.  Hill strove continuously to put some dash into the side and open the game out, and one his passes to Cross was turned over to Kelly who made a great shot which just got to.  After quiet period—indeed the game apparently quietened down for well-defined periods and as suddenly burst into life—Dawson was in the picture making good saves.  A pleasing feature about Burnley's play was that all the side attempted to keep the ball down and though this often resulted in the opposing halves picking up the passes, it was very good to see. Yet the thrills were missing, except comparatively rare occasions and the play was not of that rapidly progressive order that goes by the name of football to-day. 
UNPROFITABLE METHODS 
Dawson, if anything had to handle more than Hardy and for a good period the Burnley forwards hardly got ball and the defence was kept busy driving away the long passes which were an earnest of the things to come. On the contrary Burnley were playing a closer game and  Cross exceptionally clever work in that direction but as time went on it became more and more unprofitable as the home defence got into their stride. Burnley had their opportunities but once when Roberts missed a centre from the right, Page made a great effort but put over the bar. In fact, some of best scoring efforts came from Page, and once when well placed, Roberts handled in the area. Towards the interval the game fell away and with both sides it became almost a case of refusing shots, mere passing to others who were no better placed and the work in front of goal was not worthy of the clever midfield play.  It was Everton who rose to the occasion after the interval, and began to open out the play, whilst Burnley continued to indulge in frilling and to overelaborate. The quicker passing of Evertonfrom the resumption led to Dawson having a busy period, and though Spargo fell back and saved a dangerous situation by taking the ball off Dean and giving a corner it was from that corner, taken Chedgzoy, that REID shot the first goal after four minutes. One almost wished that the score had come earlier in the game as it aroused Burley, and a finely concerted move by Kelly and Bruton enabled the former to make great run through and to shoot hard, but Hardy got in the way. It was only by sheer luck that Hardy got his foot to another from Bruton. Burnley certainly had no luck during a period when they were shooting oftener, using more first time passes and forcing matters. But it was another long pass, followed by tricky work on home right, that enabled to best Watertield and to centre for DEAN get the second goal. It was a tussle that decided that issue as Waterfield hung desperately to Chedgzoy and almost forced him to run the ball over the line, but it was clever how, with only inches to spare, Chedgzoy got the ball across. 
BURNLEY OVERPLAYED. 
Exploiting the long pass now, Everton were obviously becoming masters the situation and everything seemed to go their way. Their half-backs became more dominant and refused to allow Burnley to settle on the ball and to continue the short passing game. The play on their right triangle became very pretty and there was a balance and better understanding which began to tell its tale on the Burnley defence, and when the Burnley forwards did advance they were not in luck. Roberts was particularly so with one shot which appeared to be a certain scorer, but Hardy put his hand out in blind fashion and the ball struck it and went out of danger. The only luck Burnley could be said have was when a ball from Troup played Fergus on the arm, and Dean shot over from the penalty spot. Towards the end, however, Burnley were completely overplayed- The ball was continually being driven at the Burnley defence who got very little relief. The force appeared to be lacking in the Burnley men to drive the ball forward, nor did the forwards show an aptitude for well sustained attacks. That Burnley were beaten by only two goals lies to the credit of the defence, also to missed chances by Dean. Though the Everton side was largely experimental one the half back line, with the exception of Hill, was better than that of Burnley and it was something new to see a classy side like Everton swinging the ball about. In the last quarter of an hour one hardly ever saw the Burnley attack and altogether the finish was an ignoble one.  The teams were: Burnley: Dawson; Fergus, Waterfield; Spargo, Hill, Parkin; Bruto, Kelly, Roberts, Cross, Page. Everton: Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, Reid, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, Hart, Troup. Referee: Mr. W.  Webster, Bradford. 

DEAN SCORES TWO
November 16, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton’s Victory at Nottingham
Sullivan Fractures Collar-Bone
In their match with Notts County at Meadow Lane on Saturday Everton returned to their true form and gave a sparkling display. It is true that the home side were badly handicapped through Sullivan, their centre-forward, fracturing his collar-bone and shoulder-blade in the first ten minutes of the contest. He was in collision with Raitt, and the injury, though purely accidental, was none the less regrettable. Harris, the County’s new inside right worked hard to pull the side together, but the team was obviously out of gear, and Everton might well have won by twice as many goals as they actually scored. Their combination at times was particularly pretty, the half-backs putting the leather forward with judgment, and dropping centres from the two wing men might well have been turned to better account. Still, the readiness to score was there, and there were many shots that missed the target by a mere matter of inches. In the second period of the great Everton exercised even greater pressure, on terms with their clever opponents. The visitors went off with great dash, and Chedgzoy on more than one occasion put the ball to Dean for the latter to shoot just wide of the net.
Irvine Goal
Virr served up nicely once or twice, and after twenty minutes’ going a corner was forced, from which Irvine headed a capital goal. The Goodison Park contingent continued to dominate matters and just before the interval Dean further increased the lead with a creditable effort. On resuming the County were of course, still without Sullivan, but they showed considerable gameness and both the home backs and Streets were hard put to in order to stave off further disaster. Chedgzoy, who was in his best form, frequently made rings round Hilton and his centres were always dangerous; but, as we have already said, the openings made were not turned to full advantage. On two occasions O’Donnell who had fallen nicely into the general scheme of things, missed open goals. Irvine meanwhile was a constant source of trouble to the home defence for he was in his happiest vein, and it was he who led the way for Dean to notch a third goal in the later stages of the contact. The County forwards again rallied in the hope of reducing the lead, but their work was in the main disjointed, though Davis and Harris tried their best to make an impression on Hardy. The game, it may be said was played under uncomfortable circumstances, a heavy mist overhanging the ground, but there was a crowd of 10,000 people present.
Good Wing Work
This victory, which was so well deserved, should stimulate the Evertonians to further endeavours. The wing work at times was exceptionally clever, and Dean once again proved his worth as a centre-forward. The half-backs also were well in the picture and Bain got through a tremendous amount of hard work. In this he was well supported by Brown and Virr the latter creating a very favourable impression. Both McDonald and Raitt were in tip-top form, and Hardy did all that was asked of him with agility and skill. The County, apart from the unfortunate accident to their centre-forward, missed the pressure of their regular goalkeeper Iremonger and the backs were occasionally very shaky. Dinsdale played well at centre-half, and the pick of the forwards were Davis and Harris. Result Notts County 0, Everton 3. Everton; Hardy, goal; McDonald and Raitt, backs; Brown, Hart (captain), and Virr, half-backs; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, and Troup, forwards. Notts County; Streets, goal; Ashurst and Cornwell, backs; Flint, Dinsdale, and Hilton, half-backs; Taylor, Harris, Sullivan, Davis, and Barry, forwards. Referee; Mr. E.L. Bamreck of Swansea.

CENTRAL LEAGUE
November 16, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Beat Aston Villa 7-0
Everton who had taken the wise precaution of wearing kneecaps owing to the hard ground, scored two good goals prior to the interval through Chadwick and Murray. In the initial stages the Villa held their own but later faded away. During the second half the play was chiefly in the Villa half, and five further goals were scored by Weaver, Murray (2), Reid, and Rand.

NOTTS COUNTY 0 EVERTON 3
November 16, 1925. The Daily Courier.
EVERTON TIE KNOTS IN NOTTS.
SULLIVAN BREAKS HIS COLLAR-BONE.
Everton put up one of their best displays so far this season against Notts County on Saturday, and deservedly won by 3 goals to nil. True, the County were minus their centre-forward, Sullivan for most of the game, but on the run of the play the Blues would have won in any case. Sullivan came into collision with Raitt early in the first half and fractured his collarbone. The visitors' back was in no way to blame, as was demonstrated by the fact the referee awarded a free kick to the Blues. This long-hoped for, and certainly overdue, away win of Everton's should put fresh confidence in the side. They played excellently, and had they won by a large margin it would not have been a surprising.
HARRIS.
The appearance of Neil Harris, the County's latest capture from Newcastle, was watched with great interest. In Virr, however, he found a tenacious, and the Blues' left half-back saw to it he did not get too much rope. Everton dominated most of the game, but, of course, the absence of Sullivan made a big difference. The home side had to rely on four forwards, and the attack suffered in consequence. One saw less of the pretty style of play with Everton on Saturday, and the result was their game was more incisive and practical than usual. They swung the ball about more, and appeared to realize that to get the ball in the net once is worth a dozen abortive, even though they are tricky and clever, movements in the field. O'Donnell, the Blues' general utility man, was tried at inside left with Troup, and on his showing he will probably be tried there again. What his play may have lacked in polish; it undoubtedly atoned for in dash and vim, and more than once he came neat catching Streets napping. The first goal came at the end of 18 minutes. The Blues had been pressing and had forced a corner. Chedgzoy's centre was so excellently placed that Irvine had no great trouble to get his head under it and send into the net. Despite their handicap, Notts played doggedly, and at one time or another through the first half Davis, Barry and Harris and Taylor all took shots at goal. But Hardy, who has now found his best form, was easily able to cope with them. The Everton defence was sounder than that of their rivals. McDonald and Raitt played a capital game, all though, and were frequently cheered for their goal tackling and clearing. The half-back line was no less successful –indeed, it gave one of the best displays in that department this season. Virr, who has not appeared many times with the first team played a really good game, and so did Bain, and Brown. Bain at times took the role of attacker, and Streets several times was called onto deal with shots from the centre-half. Just before half-time Everton got another goal. They had been attacking on the right, the ball came to O'Donnell, who transferred to Dean. The ball seemed to bounce just in front of the centre-forward, but he let go at it without hesitation and beat Streets. It was a fine shot. The most anxious moment for the visitors came about 25 minutes' after the interval. Taylor lifted the ball into the centre. It dropped just in front of the goal. Davis, Barry, and Hardy all rushed for it. The Blues' keeper won by the merest fraction, and although bustled by the two players named, managed to clear.
THIRD AND LAST GOAL.
Everton's third goal had appeared inevitable, for some time. First Irvine, O'Donnell, and then Chedgzoy took shots at goal, which were not so far the mark. Finally the ball came to Dean, who swung it into the net with a low drive. That ended the scoring. There was little to cavil at so far as Everton was concerned. Perhaps one noticeable feature was that Troup was not so much in the picture as usual; but, on the other hand, he seemed to be rather neglected in the second half. The County were certainly unfortunate in two respects. The first was that they lost Sullivan, and the second was the fog. Many new spectators had intended coming to see Harris play. The fog, however, was so thick in the morning that many thousands stayed away. The gate was only 10,000 at the start, and not more than 14,000 or 15,000 at half-time. The home attack was better than their defence. It would have paid Dinsdale at centre half, for example, to have watched Dean a little more closely. Cornwell and Ashurst at back had a trying time, and were frequently nonplussed by the speed and keenness of the Blues' attack. Except, perhaps for the first goal, Streets, who deputised for Iremonger had little chance with the shots that beat him. Teams: - Notts County: - Streets, goal, Ashurst and Cornwell, backs, Flint, Dinsdale, and Hilton, half-backs, Taylor, Harris, Sullivan, Davis, and Barry forwards. Everton: - Hardy, goal, Raitt and McDonald, backs, Brown, Bain, and Virr, half-backs, Chedgzoy (captain), Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, and Troup, forwards. Referee Mr. EL. Sambrook .

EVERTON RESERVES 7 ASTON VILLA RESERVES 0
November 16, 1925. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 14)
Though Everton were easily the superior side there was not seven goals difference. Jackson the Villa custodian, should certainly have saved three of the goals which counted, but probably the hard and frosty state of the ground accounted for his lapses. The game had been in progress about 25 minutes when Murray opened the score with a low shot. The Villa right-wing made some well-combined advances, but could not finish off their attacks. Just on the interval Chadwick scored a second with a shot which Jackson made little attempt to arrest. Murray scored two more goals in the second half. One was the best of the afternoon, the South African shooting though from a Weaver centre. Weaver, Rand, and Reid scored other goals. Kerr was again a stalwart in the Blues' defence, Peacock always neat with his work was the best half, while Weaver, Chadwick, and Murray were fine forwards. The Villa defence particularly Jackson, was weak and only Kirton and Armfield impressed in the forward line.

BETTER NEWS OF SULLIVAN
Nottingham Journal - Monday 16 November 1925
MAY BE PLAYING AGAIN IN A MONTH
REFEREE CRITICISED
NOTTS COUNTY 0, EVERTON 3
The unexpected happened at Meadow-lane on Saturday, Everton emulating the feat of two other Lancashire clubs- Blackburn and Liverpool –by defeating Notts County before their own supporters.  The County had a very unhappy afternoon.  Lacking the services of Iremonger and Cope, they not only lost the points, but a foggy morning seriously affected what must have been a big attendance under more congenial conditions, and Sullivan sustained an injury which will keep him out of the game for three weeks.  It was at first thought that Sullivan had fractured his right shoulder blade, but an X-ray examination at the General Hospital revealed a torn ligament only.  The accident occurred ten minutes from the start, and had the effect of disorganizing the Notts men.  They made a brave show under difficulties, but could not complain so much about the defeat as the manner in which it was brought about.  One invariably associates the Everton club with football of the polished kind, but several of their players were guilty of excesses of vigour which would have bene dealt with in very drastic fashion by a referee more firm than Mr., Sambrookes proved to be.  He allowed fouls to either go unpunished or with a mere caution, and curiously enough he penalized Sullivan for what was a perfectly legitimate shoulder charge when he met with his injury. 
EVERTON’S VIGOUR
At different periods during the second half Notts had only nine men, Ashurst and Cornwall having to go off for repairs, and the last-named finished the game at outside right.  Flint and Dinsdale also put in the wars and were limping.  Mr. Sambrooke interpreted the rules very well, but his control left much to be desired and the vigorous methods employed by Everton, even after they had established a lead of three goals, were not very creditable.  Notts were fighting a practically hopeless battle from the time Sullivan left ten minutes from the start, and although the weakened attack did at times flatter, they seldom looked like penetrating a defence that did not stand on ceremony.  Harris was given little scope to show his abilities, but the wingers, Barry and Taylor, did many clever things.  Flint, too, strove desperately hard and was often to be seen helping his forwards, whilst in defence Ashurst had no superior on the field, despite the too close attentions paid to him by some of the visitors.
THE GOALS
Everton scored twice before the interval.  The first came from a flag-kick well-placed by Chedgzoy and Irvine met it with his head.  Ashurst who was standing under the bar, tried to keep the ball out with his head, but failed.  “Dixie” Dean obtained the second with an oblique shot following a smart movement with Irvine.  A series of mistakes by Notts defenders led to the third goal, Dean being left unmarked to give Streets no chance from short range.  It was a most unsatisfactory game, precious little football worthy of the name being witnessed, and the 14,000 spectators were not sorry when the final signal was given.  Teams; Notts County; Streets; Ashurst, and Cornwell; Flint, Dinsdale, and Hilton; Taylor, Harris, Sullivan, Davis, and Barry.  Everton; Hardy; Raitt, and McDonald; Brown, Bain, and Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, and Troup.  Referee; Mr. E.C. Sambrooke (Swansea). 

EVERTON THE ONLY AWAY WINNERS
Athletic News - Monday 16 November 1925
NOTTS IN ADVERSITY
SULLIVAN’S INJURY
EVERTON COUP AT MEADOW-LANE
NOTTS COUNTY 0, EVERTON 3
By Trentsider
A STROKE of bad luck put Notts County out of the running in their game with Everton at Meadow-lane. Ten minutes after the start, in collision with Raitt, Sullivan had the misfortune to break his collar-bone, and thus handicapped, Notts were seen to little advantage.  There was a perfect understanding in the Everton forward line, whose passes were made with beautiful precision, all displaying the utmost cleverness and their movements were carried out with celerity.  Runs were made in admirable style by Chedgzoy. There was scarcely an occasion when he did not utilise a pass, and his centres were right into goal.  He had an adroit partner in Irvine, who was quick to seize on openings and endeavour to turn them to account.  He commenced early by testing Streets, and with the ball coming directly to him from a corner kick, he headed through in twenty-one minutes.  Ashurst making a vain endeavour to head out.
ALWAYS READY TO SHOOT
The play of Dean was also admirable.  He was opposed by a bustling half-back, but still was able to make judicious passes, and he kept the line well together.  Like Irvine, he was always ready to shoot. A delightful movement, in which he and O’Donnell took part, produced the second goal a minute before the interval, the point resulting from a fine cross shot.  Dean obtained the third goal in sixty minutes with low drive.  At the outset O’Donnell was quite off the mark, missing badly, but he improved, and in the closing stages he and his partner, Troup, placed the Notts goal in serious danger.  A meritorious exhibition was given by the Everton half-backs. Bain was outstanding, his forceful work being of the utmost value.  He not only paid attention to the Notts forwards, but rendered assistance to his own in unmistakable fashion. He had able colleagues in Brown and Virr.  The Everton defence was sound. Raitt and McDonald gave nothing away, and neither did Hardy.
Notts were not the business-like side they often are, even during the short period they were at full strength. They were not so quick on the ball as the Everton forwards, and they did not show the same skill or method.  Individually, the players were in form.  Sullivan was doing well when he was disabled, but his efforts get through were easily frustrated.  Harris, making his first appearance, showed much promise, and his work often had the master touch.  He made deft passes, but received very little support and was able to do scarcely anything. He made dashes into goal whenever there was half a chance, but all the efforts of the Notts forwards were unavailing.  Scarcely anything noteworthy was done by Davis, and it was not until the second half that Barry made a shot.  Then two capital efforts him were saved by the keeper. 
TRIED TO STEM TIDE
Dinsdale was the most successful of the Notts half-backs.  He worked tremendously hard to stem the tide of adversity.  Good work was also done by Flint, who allowed Troup little latitude, but Hilton was unable to keep Chedgzoy in check.  The Notts backs got through heavy work, Ashurst playing a great game.  He was knocked out just before the end, and so, too, was Cornwall.  Streets could not be blamed. 
Teams; Notts County; Streets; Ashurst, and Cornwell; Flint, Dinsdale, and Hilton; Taylor, Harris, Sullivan, Davis, and Barry.  Everton; Hardy; Raitt, and McDonald; Brown, Bain, and Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, and Troup.  Referee; Mr. E.C. Sambrooke (Swansea). 

ILLNESS OF THE EVERTON SECRETARY
Liverpool Echo - Monday 16 November 1925
Everton F.C are this week making some striking transfers. 
Mr. Tom McInosh, Everton secretary, was taken ill during the journey to Nottingham, and was unable to see the match.  He is suffering from the ‘flue and will not be out of bed for a week or more.  He has had a whole family down ill during the last six months; his wife first, and later children taken to the fever hospital.  Everyone will wish every member of the family a hasty and lasting return of health and strength. 

EVERTON EXCELLED
Liverpool Echo - Monday 16 November 1925
The win by Everton was as startling as it was marginally big and beautiful to the Everton spectators.  It was a pity Sullivan should have had to leave owing to a damaged shoulder, but having granted that loss one must give the Everton men credit for their share in a victory that was the first of its kind in any away games this season and sets the seal on the enthusiastic reception of the side for next Saturday’s game with the Villa, than whom there is no greater drawing power at Goodison Park, save, of course, the Liverpool club.  Everton’s combination at times was particularly pretty, the half-backs putting the leather forward with judgement, and dropping centres from the two wing men might well have been turned to better account.  Still, the readiness to score was there, and there were many shots that missed the target by a mere matter of inches.  In the second period of the game Everton exercised even greater pressure, and the County never looked like getting on terms with their clever opponents.  The visitors went off with great dash, and Chedgzoy on more than one occasion put the ball to Dean for the latter to shoot just wide of the net.
GOOD WING WORK
This victory, which was so well deserved, should stimulate the Evertonians to further endeavours.  There wing work at times was exceptionally clever, and Dean once again proved his worth as a centre-forward.  The half-backs also were well in the picture and Bain got through a tremendous amount of hard work.  In this he was well supported by Brown and Virr, the latter creating a very favourable impression.  Both McDonald and Raitt were in tip-top form, and Hardy did all that was asked of him with agility and skill.  The County, apart from the unfortunate accident to their centre-forward, missed the presence of their regular goalkeeper Iremonger, and the backs were occasionally very shaky.  Dinsdale played well at centre half, and the pick of the forwards were Davis. 

GOING! GOING, - !
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 17 November 1925
Bee’s Notes
This refers to Everton players.  Some have been going, going, and to-day some have probably gone!  The club has sifted the wheat from the chaff, and let us hope their ideas do not lead to chaff if some of the players turn out trumps after they have left Goodison Park.  It has happened before and may happen again.  I know one manager who is courting an Everton forward, and he declared that he cared not for the supposed slowness of the man concerned.  We can put yards into him at ---, said, he, and I began to wonder how he did it.  But I further remembered that the side he controls is probably the fastest in the country from stem to stern.  Speed does count for something these hectic days.  Arsenal, however, would not be termed a speedy side, yet they are moving to the upper circle with a stride that is remarkable.  I call tell you, readers, that in the remarkable agreements between Arsenal and Buchan and co, the manager was not left out of the honours list, so that if the side tops the League the manager will get a handsome sum.  And there is “place money,” too.
LANCASHIRE V CHESHIRE
C.G.C Menham (Everton) has been chosen. 

CHADWICK TO LEEDS
November 18, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
Wilfred Chadwick who joined Everton three seasons ago from Rossendale United the junior Lancashire club, was last night transferred to Leeds United for a substaintial fee. Leeds have been in need of an inside-forward owing to the fact that wainscot had been injured at Everton a fortnight ago. Chadwick is a tall strapping player, standing 5ft 11ins and weights 12 stone. He is a strong shot and two seasons ago he was top scorer in the first division with 28 goals. Last season he did not do so well, nor did the side, and many people believe that it was not so much, Chadwick failing from his usual former as the fact that he suffered a bad ankle injury and was playing in a forward line that had not struck its form. Chadwick has made few appearances this season practically fit and well. He however, he came under the Everton's decision to weed out a number of men on their staff. Broad, Kendall, and Harland are also among the number. Many people view that Chadwick is slow, but in his stride and in heavy going he is quite a fast forward, and few men have got in so well as he with Troup. There are those who believe that Chadwick will find afresh his old form. In going to Leeds United he goes to a club that specializes in speeding up, and if his new club can train him to bring out the sharp move-off, Chadwick is sure to succeed. He lacks nothing in place and in football skills and his drive is of Shepherd strength, like chambers he makes the ball spin by the force of his shot and he has scored some magnificent goals from long range. His home town, bury have nibbled for his transfer for two years, and it was known that Chadwick was anxious to go to bury but apparently Leeds offered the better price. Mr. Fairclough made the signing in Liverpool last evening, and it is likely Everton will announce further transfer this week.

MR. EDWIN BERRY
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 18 November 1925
Mr. Edwin Berry, of Messrs, Edwin Berry and Co, solicitors, Moorfields, died this afternoon at his home, Grange Cottage, Gateacre.  Mr. Edwin Berry was at his office a week ago.  He was attacked by congestion of the lungs, and was reported to be going on favourably, but this afternoon he passed away in his sleep.  Mr. Berry, as solicitor to the brewing and brewery trade in Liverpool, was one of the very familiar figures at the police courts.  He was a counsel whose ability and fair-mindedness were ardent qualities.  Arguing his cases before the licensing beach or before the magistrate in prosecutions, he never ruffled any tempers either on the bench or at the solicitors’ table.  This did not mean that he understated his case.  But his fair-minded outlook was generally acknowledged.  He did a great deal of work for the “trade” during the big temperance campaign of about thirty years ago.  Mr. Berry along with Mr. Astbury, the present Liverpool F.C director, formed Everton’s right wing many years ago, quite in the Everton club’s young days.  He was also for a time chairman of the Liverpool club, at the time when it was taken over by the present company.

CHADWICK GOES TO LEEDS
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 18 November 1925
EVERTON TEAM V VILLA
STRONG RESERVE SIDE FOR WOLVERHAMPTON
Bee’s Notes as was hinted in my notes yesterday Wilf Chadwick has left Everton.  Leeds are the lucky club, and no doubt they will find him strike a form that seems to fall to all Everton players when they have left the club.  It is easy to account for this in some circumstances, but not in others.  For instance, Leeds specializes in speeding up players, and they told me weeks ago that they thought they could pace into Chadwick if it were desired, though they reckon him a faster than some people.  Chadwick is so big built that he always looked to be clumsy; but actually he was quicker in the face than credited, and on the move he was a very difficult man to outpace.  His greatest trouble was when he had to wheel round, having faced his own goal.  That he is a footballer as distinct from what they call the “shooter: I am positive.  I have seem him do some of the most delightful tricks, and his passes kept Troup going smoothly.  I hope Everton do not miss him, because there are few men who can drive a ball in at the rate that Chadwick hits them.  Two years ago he scored 28 goals and when he began to fade out he simply faded out at a time when other members of the forward line were not pulling up trees.  Leeds have got a consolation for their loss of Wainscoat, who was, you may remember, damaged at Everton.  I wonder if they make discount in such cases?
AGAINST THE VILLA
The big match of the week-end is the meeting of the Villa and Everton, old rivals from the Cup final days of 1896, and Goodison Park will be alive with interest when the Goodison side that won at Nottingham takes its stand against the crack Midland side, who make no bones about their belief in a League championship this season. 
The Everton reserves side, at Wolverhampton, is a hot one, and leaves Lime-street, 9.40 train;- Harland; Livingstone, Kerr; Rooney, McBain, Peacock; Millington, Rand, Murray, Kennedy, and Weaver. 
Nomads have selected G.C. Menham

MR. EDWIN BERRY
Lancashire Evening Post - Thursday 19 November 1925
Mr. Edwin Berry, a Liverpool solicitor, who died yesterday, played for Everton in his early days.  A former chairman of the Liverpool club, he was the father of Arthur Berry, the amateur international winger.  

MR. BERRY’S DEMISE
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 19 November 1925
Bee’s Notes
MR. Edwin Berry’s death was a blow to all local sportsmen.  He was one of nature’s gentlemen, and when we met at Winchester and elsewhere he showed his keen love for the game and for the progress of Liverpool Football Club, of which he was chairman for some years.  He had a great heart, a voice of no great strength yet of commanding appeal, and his insight in licensing affairs was no greater than in sport-which is saying a lot.  Time was when he ran in the Everton F.C, sports at Stanley Park; he played for Everton with Mr. Astbury as his partner and when he ran a furlong race connected with the Everton sports, the starter was none other than Mr. Edward Askew Bainbridge who, despite his seventy-two years of age, continue to serve local football and has not lost a single faculty-in fact, his age startles me; I had never imagined he was so ripe an age.  Cheeriness has kept him going, where others have passed by.  He has a fund of sports stories, and his memory is simply wonderful. 
HIS SON’S ‘NATIONAL CAP
Mr. Edwin Berry’s son, like father, was a player, and I well remember the day-  something like the conditions today, fog and frost-when we all went down to Fulham to see a trail game in which Arthur Berry was one right winger and Jack Sharp was the other.  I always think Arthur got his cap that day through his push and go on a surface that did not exactly “like” Jack Sharp.  Mr. Berry’s work for football was of a big character, and it bore his hall-mark of character; it was done without show or flourish of trumpets; it was done thoroughly and effectively nevertheless.  I must say I have lost a good friend with whom travel to games has been a great joy. 

AFTER LOSING HIS SAVING
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 19 November 1925
EX-EVERTON FOTOBALLER SENT TO PRISON
How a former Everton footballer lost all his savings, and, when there was “not a penny in the house,” sold furniture which had been obtained on the hire system, was told at Manchester Assizes, to-day, when William Henry James Kirsopp (32), professional footballer, was sentenced to three months’ imprisonment.  During the proceeding it was stated the Kirsopp played for Everton for several seasons up to 1921.  Kirsopp also played for a time for New Brighton. 
PLEADED GUILTY
Kirsopp pleaded guilty to obtaining by false pretenses sums of 5 pounds and 27 pounds by the sale of articles of furniture which he bought on the hire-purchase system.  He was stated to have invested all his savings in 1920 in the National Housing Benefit Society.  He brought a bedroom suite for 90 pounds and a piano for the same amount, both on the hire purchase system. 
A SEVERE BLOW
The national Housing Benefit Society failed, and Kirsopp lost all his savings, announcing to 750 pounds. It was a severe blow, and he began to experience some difficulty in keeping up the payment under the hire purchase agreement.  In 1924 he obtained from a money lender a bill of sale on his furniture.  In June he sold the piano and suite to a broker for 32 pounds.  When taxed with selling goods which were not how own, he said; “I have done wrong, but my wife and child had not a penny in the house except the dole.”  Mr., Justice Wright passed sentence of here months imprisonment. 

BIG GATHERING AT THE EVERTON GROUND TOMORROW AGAINST POSISBLE CHAMPIONS
Liverpool Echo - Friday 20 November 1925
Bee’s Notes
OLD FRIENDS AND FOES
HOW VILLA ARE RECOUPING THEMSELVES
Aston Villa are to-day the biggest draw of the tournament.  Whenever the side goes it takes unto the home side a league of followers and a legion of people who “never miss the Villa match,” because they play a distinctive style that is not quite seen from any other side, well-fashioned though Newcastle and others may be.  Thus to-morrow at Goodison Park, with the fire of enthusiasm aroused by a 3-0 victory away from home and the remembrance that it is “the Villa,” we shall see a huge gate and a tough game.  For make no mistake about I, the Villa are this season remodeling the club’s financial resource.  It was just like the Aston men to open with a ten to nought win to set off the court of inquiry into the club’s working.  They have already made so bold a show in the League championship race that they are voted second-favourites and whenever happens to them now the attendances have gone a long way towards producing the money for the grand stand, over which so many words and so much money was cast.  The view of Walker, Dorrell, Smart, and company will be added to this season by the view of York, who played so well for England against Ireland at Anfield this season, when the speed merchant responded so nobly to the calls of Puddefoot.  It should be a great game and with Everton having an away cloak of victory no one can deny the chance they have of putting Villa to rest for once in a way.  Everton; Hardy; McDoanld, Raitt; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup.  Aston Villa; Spiers; Smart, Mort; Johnstone, Talbott, Moss; York, Stephenson, Capewell, Walker, Dorrell.

VILLA AT GOODISON
November 21, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton and Aston Villa are due to meet at Goodison Park. During thirty-seven years both clubs have weathered the storms of the first class football without losing their status and the standard of play associated with them has, for the most part been on a high plane. Classical expositions between the pair accomplished much for the game in the past. The Midland organization has shown an aptitude forgetting the most out of the new style, their position of third in the table providing adequate testimony to their enterprise. A fast, skilful line of forwards, in which York, Walker, and Capewell are outstanding figures, is backed up by sound halves and backs. Everton have shown improvement, and the best today will indicate whether the team is really good enough to retain the standard associated with the club in the remaining games. Special interest will centre in the pair of the Everton forward line, including as it does O'Donnell at inside left. The kick-off is at 2.30 Teams; Everton; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, Troup. Aston Villa; Spiers; Smart, Mort; Johnstone, Talbot, Moss; York, Stephenson, Capewell, Walker, Dorrell.

ASTON VILLA'S TASK AT GOODISON PARK.
November 21 st 1925. The Daily Courier.
At the moment of writing, it looks as though fog will intervene today in Everton's game with Aston Villa. Should it do so, it would be a pity, for the fixture is one of the most attractive on the Everton card, additional interest being lent it in that Aston Villa are well placed in the table, while Everton a week ago, achieved their best performance of the season by defeating Notts County away. However, I am hoping the game will go through and that the crowd –the kick off is 2-30 –will witness a close game. Everton as only to be expected are giving the combination that was successful a week ago another run. The deviance, however, will need to keep a close watch on the Villa quintette, and if succeeds I think we can leave the rest to Dean and his wings. The teams are: - Everton: - Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, Bain Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, Troup. Aston Villa: - Spier; Smart, Mort, Johnstone, Talbott, Moss; York, Stephenson, Capewell, Walker, Dorrell.

OLD TIMERS AND TIMERS.
November 21, 1925. The Liverpool Football Echo.
VICTOR HALL SPEAKS OF EVERTON CLUB FOUNDERS COLLECTING PHOTO GROUPS.
An old Evertonians, in Mr. W.J.Byton, writes me a most interesting latter, in which he brings so memory a host of Everton names that to many of the present day footballers will convey but little interest. Yet what a hive of native personalities were associated in the earlier days of the struggling Everton club on the Anfield-road ground. Incidentally, Mr. Byton is enthusiastic about the prowess of Bob Kelso, of whom we wrote fully in an earlier article. It would appear that Peter Gordon, the old Everton player has had a recent interview with Kelso up north, where they exchanged old recollections of Anfield and Goodison Park, is the days when they were club mates and club antagonists. Old timers would have had a sure harvest of memories at such an interview. It was often held by Kelso's admires that he had as good a “throw in” as either Will Stewart or the famous Hugh Gibson. On the Anfield ground Kelso was reputed to be able to throw the ball into the Spion Kop goalmouth from the half-way line of those days. Coming back however, to the names of these pioneers who helped to found the fortunes of the Everton club, my friendly correspondent reminds me of many names that have already appeared in this series of artistes. He speaks for instance, of “Bobby” Stockton, most famous of old “umpires” whom followed the fortune of the young club in the days before the introduction of neutral linesmen. Every club had of course, its faithful henchmen who acted on the line. Tom Watson for instance was linesman for the Sunderland club in the days of their glorious forward line. Tom was a great favoured whereas he went, and had I suppose, not an enemy in the world. But had he ever had an enemy, I daresay the bitterest one would never call Tom a “neutral” linesman where Sunderland was concerned.
THE OLD BRIGADE.
Now to my friend's recollections. He brings forward a perfect galaxy of names. Here are a few of the old brigade, who either as playing members or paying members helped to build the fortunes of the team when “gates” were scanty and fiancées low. Tom Evans, William Parry, Frank Brettle, Twenlow, Preston, William Gibson, Charles Lindsay, W. Griffiths, Jim Richards, Mike Higgins, Jim Higgins, Robert Gourlay, Fred Sheers, Tom Scott, Ben Hilton, A. Probyn, Charlie Joliffe, Tom Marriott, Will Marriott, J. McGill, Will Bolton W.H. Jones, Ted Jones, and Arthur Brown, the full back, who came to Everton F.C. from St. Benedict's and although only ft 2ins, was considered one of the best backs in Lancashire at the period. Jack Whittle, Alf Gilder, Walter Richards, W. Briscoe, George Fleming, C. McGoldrick, W. Findlay, and Teddy Corey are also famous old names, while Tom Howarth, then in the cotton trade, was appreciated by all as tower of strength in the club committee room. The late W.E. Barclay was also an energetic and active member of the Everton club of those days before the change of clubs left him as first secretary of the new Liverpool club on its formation. Those were the days when the Everton club was kept alive by the annual subscription of the members. Gates were on the miscropic side, and playing members of the club found their own boots, pants, and jerseys, and paid their “whack” each week for the rent of the dressing rooms! Many of those old founders of Everton are still with us; indeed, some of them never miss a match. It would be a nice idea if the directors some day brought them all together again. Limited company law has so doubt its, difficulties but it ought it be possible to give these real “Old Timers” Some place of honour in the Club's partial housing scheme of the present day.
A MUSEUM?
I am reminded when recalling these old names that some of the old photo group to which reference was made in a recent article are still in existence, and it would be easy to make a start towards each a collection if the local clubs were desirous of doing so. The late Alderman Houlding had a fine collection of these group in his house at Stanley Park that has probably not been dispersed, and the Sandton Hotel had also a fine portrait gallery. Hincliffe's the photographers of Caspers street, at one time had a complete set of local football groups, but the negatives have probably not been kept. The late Mr. Roche, who represented the Landsdowns Club, and afterwards the Boots Football club, took a photo group of the old Everton Club on their ground is Stanley Park about 1882, and if his family kept a copy it would from an interesting souvenir of those early pioneer days. Mr. Martin of Blessington-road, is said to have had a photo of the first Everton team to open the Anfield ground, besides many other portraits of interest. No doubt they are highly prized, but the club headquarters should form their own collections. In Scotland they do things better. These I have seen complete collections in the committee rooms of both first and reserves teams for each of the years the club has had membership of the League. The Photos form a complete gallery, and are framed in appropriate manner to the decoration scheme of the boardroom, so that visitors today can see the portraits of those football heroes who twenty or more years ago helped to make the clubs history.
TRADITION.
They believe in tradition in Scotlands perhaps that is why the village boy has the proud ambition some day to be good enough to play in the village team; when, if he but acquits himself well the “great” clubs may hear of him, and then, who knows? Celts or Rangers Hibs, or Hearts, may come after him. Then! “You tak the high road” and –fame and fortune are not far off. Everton and Liverpool are both enterprising clubs, and periodically they call their friends and shareholders together for a feast of wing or mirth, I suggest that for the next such occasion wherever that may be, they try to collect the nucleus of such a gallery of football ancestors, and place them there on view for the inspection of present day supporters and old friends! I'll warrant the imagines of the garrulous ones would wag that night and many old recollections would be dug out of the storehouse of old memorizes. Mr. McIntosh and Patterson. “Here's too ya!”

FUNERAL OF MR. BERRY
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 21 November 1925
There was a large and representative gathering at the funeral at Anfield Cemetery, today, of Mr. Edwin Berry, the well-known Liverpool solicitor, who in his younger days played for the Liverpool and Everton Football clubs.  There were present representatives of the Licensing Committee of the City Justices, the legal profession, Conservative organizations, Masonic Lodges, Liverpool Football Club, Licensed Victuallers’ Association and a number of brewing companies.  There were many beautiful floral tributes including a wreath of orchids from the Earl and Counties of Birkenhead, with the inscriptions; “In deep sympathy, and in memory of a very old friend.”  It will be recalled that as election agent for the Walton Parliamentary Division, Mr. Berry took a leading part in introducing Lord Birkenhead (then Mr. F.E. Smith) to political life as the candidate and later the member for that constituency. 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 21 November 1925
By Louis T. Kelly

• Alec Troup’s distinguishing mark- he is Everton’s only ever present for 1925-26.
• Only once since early September had Everton to date, been able to field the same side in successive matches
• In Harper and Hardy we had the best in Scottish and English goalkeeping well represented at Everton to-day
• In music, Hardy prefers the oboe; in football, a cup-tie
• When in form, a host in himself-Troup. 
• Ten goals in Everton’s last six matches is Dixie Dean’s valuable haul.

EVERTON RES V VILLA RES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 21 November 1925
Five thousand spectators saw a very even first half.  Play ruled from end to end.  The Everton forwards moved well, but could not control their attack.  Murray had one or two possible chances, but shot rather weakly.  Neither goalkeeper was seriously troubled, the defence holding the upper hand for the most part throughout this half.  Half-time; No score. 
WHISTON V EVERTON A
At Whiston.  Whitlow scored for Everton and Tottie equalized.  Half-time Whiston 1, Everton A 1. 

EVERTON V. ASTON VILLA
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 21 November 1925
By Bees
DEAN GETS HIS USUAL GOAL
SPEIERS SAVES SIX PILE-DRIVERS
Everton; Hardy; McDonald, Raitt; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup. 
Aston Villa; Spiers; Smart, Mort; Johnstone Talbott, Moss; York, Stephenson, Capewell, Walker, Dorrell. 
Everton v.Villa.  It has a long history, and includes the finest final tie ever played –Everton 2, Villa 3.  Everton’s victory of 3-0 at Nottingham and Villa rare for the championship made to-day’s particularly spicy, and the weather was fortunately much kinder than yesterday.  Referee Small, of Bristol, a very competent man, has the reputation of being the first man to indulge in the shingle business. 
TRAINER’S INSTRUCTIONS.
Walker and Moss had some special instructions for their trainer, and once the game had started, it was seen that whatever wind there was, was going with the Villa.  When the players had settled down to their work seen that Virr was keeping a faithful watch on the speedy York, and that Walker went to full-back to stop Chedgzoy’s shot after Troup had made a good centre.  O’Donnell soon recovered from the effects of getting his head into another man’s boot, and when a free kick was given against the huge Talbot for pushing Dean, the ball was lobbed to the middle. 
THE TRICKS OF DEAN
Dean apparently tried to back-heel it into goal, and it turned to the left wing where O’Donnell tried a shot which was blocked away, and the ball came out just where Dean would have liked it.  The boy centre, without hesitation, rammed up to the top of the net an unstoppable shot.  The joy given the Everton crowd by the continuation of Dean’s scoring tricks was nearly added to when Bain shot over.  Walker and Dorrall wanted other adornments in addition to the memory band upon their arms- they called for knee caps, and their call was followed by other Villa and many Everton players. 
CAPEWELL MAKES EVEN.
Before Capewell scored at the twenty-fifth minute to equalizer matters Everton had sufficient chances to heap up a good lead, but no one could be sure of a shot on the skating-rink, and the result was that first O’Donnell kicked round one ball, Troup shot over, while Irvine was out of mark after Chedgzoy and others had tried to force home what in ordinary circumstances would have been easy chances.  Everton began to become finnicky and too artistic, and after Virr had saved his side in the goalmouth and Walker had headed in such a way that the ball was travelling away from Hardy, who made the catch, Villa scored.  The second goal of the day arose through the ball passing to the right, where York middle it, and Hardy, shooting out his foot, could get the ball away a moderate distance.  Capewell, who had, like Brer Fox, been lying low and saying nuthin, ran in and scored easily.  But Everton could have taken a fresh lead within two minutes, because when Dean back-heeled the ball, Troup looked like heading a goal, but was in a dangerous position.
A NASTY FALL
After this the first stoppage, Capewell falling on his back and hurting himself.  Precious little was seen of the Villa forwards and it was in part due to the fine defence of McDonald and Raitt, while the half-backs were doing their work in noble fashion.  Irvine put in the best shot of the match when Dean presented him with one of his priceless headers, and the Irishman drove in the strongest shot he has delivered this season.  Spiers made a handsome save.  On the other hand, Hardy, needlessly giving the dummy was almost caught napping.  The first half finished with Troup being master of Smart but unable to deliver his usual centre.  Half-time; Everton 1, Aston Villa 1
REOPENING IN LIVELY MOOD.
The second half opened with a sharp injury to Talbot, and as soon as he had recovered Dean meandered about, and finally got the villa defence expecting a pass to the wing, whereas he offered a pass down the middle to O’Donnell whose shot was saved by Spiers falling to the ground and hagging the ball.  Thus we had a lively reopening. 
CLAIM FOR A GOAL
Dorrell finished badly, and when his wing comrades Walker, headed away he rocked about through being sunned.  The next point was a Villa claim that they had scored when a leader, apparently from Capewell, turned in to goal well away from Hardy.  The ex-Stockport player made a save of a lifetime.  As he fell, he realized the position, and, half-rising up he managed to touch the ball with his right hand and although Dorrell rushed forward to charge him, he could not get near him.  It was an historic save, and the Villa went on for some time protesting that the save was made after the ball had passed the line.  This put fire into the game, which had been rather more dull than one associates between these two teams, although it was the condition of the ground that beat everybody.  Spiers made another useful save, this time from O’Donnell. 
IN EQUILIBRIUM.
It was anybody’s game, but after Irvine had beaten Moss and Mort and centred outside, he did a much more practical thing when he centred the ball up the middle, and the outcome of this move was a fine drive by Chedgzoy, Spiers making his third good save of the day in a game where shooting was at a discount.  The light began to fail and the ball became more and more icy, and when Moss headed it, he, like Walker before him, suffered in the head.  The Villa backs had borne the brunt of the day, and for once in a way Troup was unable to do himself justice.  Irvine did much in defence and attack, and he found Spiers a warm handful.  Si did O’Donnell when he made a lovely hook, which Spiers pushed away, hurting himself in so doing.  Final; Everton 1, Aston Villa 1. 

EVERTON 1 ASTON VILLA 1
November 23 rd 1925. The Daily Courier.
EVERTON HALF-BACKS IN FORM.
VILLA GET A GOAL AND SHARE POINTS.
The Villa are a classy side. So are Everton on their day. An attractive game was therefore realised at Goodison Park. The Villa vanguard, admittedly, is a wonderful piece of machinery in action. While the same side humbled the champions last week, they realised at Liverpool that a team can only play as well as the other side will let them. They found the Goodsion Park brigade full of pep and punch –that is the rearguard. We must give the Everton defence credit for the way they chopped up the spectacular Villa raids. Glancing over the game, it cannot be said the 35,000 spectators ever had much doubt about Everton, but there was some anxiety that the Villa quintette, in their dashing getaways, might snatch the lead when the score was one all.
CAPEWELL.
Capewell, in the centre was always a danger for he was as persistent as a terrier, and when he was baulked by the Everton defenders, as often he was, he would get going again. Talbott was largely the instigator of these raids, which emerged when Everton were attacking hotly –a striking example of how defence can be turned swiftly into attack. The stalwart Talbott was continuously bobbing up from nowhere in particular, and was a regular hewer of wood and drawer of water for the Villa front five. Some say the result was right; others that Everton deserved to lead. In any case, Villa played in the second half like a side who meant returning to the dressing room with one point at least. The incident which might have turned the balance in favour of Everton was the great shot by Irvine, but then Spicer's save was more wonderful. The ball seemed to be beating him all the way, but he dived and just got to it. It was a near a miracle as possible. Both goalkeepers in fact, stood out. Hardy did not suggest the spectacular super goalkeeper, but he is undoubtedly a great custodian. One can imagine him saying. “This shot has to be got away” and he does it so quietly and coolly that it looks easy. He seemed unbeatable in this game. A goalkeeper of the callable gave confidence to Raitt and McDonald in front. He had one suggestion of luck in meeting the ball with his foot at the corner of the post from Stephenson, but none at all when the elusive Capewell fastened on the ball from the rebound and got the equaliser before Hardy could get back into position.
EVERTON'S GOAL.
Dean had scored Everton's goal seven minutes from the start. The Villa defence were having a palpitating experience at the time. The ball came to the young centre's foot just right, and he slammed it into the top of the net. Dean has been nippier and quicker on the ball, but like every man on the field, he was handicapped by the treacherous slippery surface, which was bone hard underneath, while Jack Frost made the ball icy. The wonder was that the players could play such a keen, fine game on such a surface. It was pleasing to note the continued improvement of the Everton forwards. They were smarter on the ball than in earlier games, although they did not always finish well in front of goal. It was disappointing to see brilliant openings going to waste. Chedgzoy seemed to have got back much of his old speed. He and Irvine were a spirited wing, difficulty to queil. They were the forceable argument in the home attack. O'Donnell and Troup head a difficult row in facing the restraining influence Smart, one of the finest backs on the field. Everton were again well served by their half-back line; Brown's and Bain's work was clean cut and certain, though with a tendency to dish out the passes to the right wing. McDonald was the usual cool back, who declined to be ruffled, but Raitt had a hard life when that hustling Dorrell and Walker wing were in full flight. The backs, however, had a good understanding when the red light went up. Generally the Everton pair held their own when Villa counter-attacked. Whilst the full points would have been welcomed, it must be remembered that Villa arrived flushed with their last great victory. They have a forward line, which this season has exhibited great penetrative power. Capewell has 19 goals to his credit, Walker a dozen, and York seven. Reading between the lines it is obvious Everton's half-back line were on duty in the game.
THE REFEREE.
It has to be recorded that Referee Small, of Bristol, bald of thatch, was extraordinarily active in keeping up with the play. He kept a firm hand on the game, which was as well, because there were several fouls although nothing vicious about any of them. Teams : - Everton: - Hardy, Raitt, and McDonald, backs, Brown, Bain, and Virr half-backs Chedgzoy (captain), Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, and Troup, forwards. Aston Villa: - Spiers, goal, Smart, and Mort, backs, Johnstone, Talbott,Moss; York, Stephenson, Capewell, Walker, Dorrell, forwards. Referee Mr. Small.

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS RESERVES 0 EVERTON RESERVES 1
November 23 rd 1925. The Daily Courier.
CENTRAL LEAHUE (Game 15)
Everton Reserves followed up their fine victory over Aston Villa Reserves by a sparkling victory at Wolverhampton. Six thousand spectators witnessed a fast and interesting game. In the first half the “Wolves” enjoyed the better of the exchanges, but Harland gave a superb display in goal. Everton showed surprisingly good form in the conclusion half, and after Murray had a goal disallowed; he later scored the winning goal. Everton: - Harland, goal, Livingstone, and Kerr, backs Rooney, McBain, and Peacock, half-backs, Millington, Rand, Murray, Kennedy, and Weaver, forwards .

SOUND DEFENCE AT GOODISON
November 23, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
Conditions Handicap Villa And Everton
If the game between Everton and Aston Villa at Goodison Park did not produce the quality of football expected, it was entirely due to the unsatisfactory state of the ground, and a draw of one goal each was under the circumstances the most fitting result. The Spectators were of course, the greatest losers, because the meeting between these two clever rivals usually provides football of a most attractive kind. The contest were decided under conditions that gave little scope for intricate footwork, and the players experienced difficulty in maintaining a foothold on the hard, treacherous surface. To turn speedily was impossible and many good movements and passes went astray. The Villa players revealed more cleverness but on both sides there was a dearth of shooting and many clever schemes were carried no further then the preliminary stage simply because the players hesitated to take the risks involved. That there were more dull periods than brilliant ones, and although the game was not a bad one it did not reach the standard of many of its predecessors. Everton did most of the pressing, and there was certainly more driving power behind the work of the Everton forwards, with the result that Spicers had much more to do than Hardy. Spicer made some splendid clearances and two thrilling saves in the second half emphasized the thoroughness of his work.
Sound Defence
Hardy was sound and made one great save that was deservedly appended McDonald and Raitt were bold and vigorous and the Everton half-backs were a wiry and determined trio. Dean was Everton’s best forward. His headwork was skilful, while he made openings that should have produced more goals. Troup more than any of the other forwards was handicapped by the slippery ground, and he was not nearly as effective as usual. Irvine fitted into the scheme with greater success, and his more definite work was helpful although Chedgzoy was not convincing. The experiment of playing O’Donnell in the forward line revealed possibilities. He was frequently out of position, but his strong shooting was a good feature.
Mort’s Good Display
There was no better back on the field than Mort. Dashing and resourceful he kept a tight grip on the Everton right wing. Smart also was good, and in the middle line Moss was a prominent worker. The best of the Villa forwards was Walker, although much of his cleverness was neutralized by the ground conditions and the forward work generally was weak. Everton’s goal was the result of a brilliant shot by Dean, who scored after six minutes play. Capewell equalized at twenty-five minutes and the second half was goalless. Result; Everton 1, Aston Villa 1
Teams; Everton; Hardy, goal; Raitt and McDonald, backs; Brown, Bain and Virr, half-backs; Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, and Troup, forwards. Aston Villa; Spier, goal; Smart and Mort, backs; Johnstone, Talbot and Moss, half-backs; York, Stepheson, Capewell, Walker, and Dorrell, forwards.

CENTRAL LEAGUE
November 23, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton win by Only Goal at Wolverhampton
Everton Reserves managed to beat the Wolves Reserves by the only goal of the match, scored by Murray in the second half. On the run of play they barely deserved both points. The game was very even throughout, and on the whole the defences prevailed. The visiting forwards worked hard. The backs were sound and Harland had one or two good shots to deal with, but he kept his charge intact. Kennardy had lard lines with a shot which struck the underside of the crossbar and bounced down. The referee awarded a goal but vigorous protests were forthcoming and after consultation with the linesman the point was disallowed.

EVERTON TEAM CHANGES
October 23, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton have made changes in their team to meet Leeds United at Goodison Park tomorrow. Owing to Irvine playing for Ireland, Peacock goes to the inside right position, while Chedgzoy returns to his customary place at outside right. Kennedy returns to partner Troup instead of Chadwick. The full team is as follows;- C.G. Menham; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, Bain, Hart; Chedgzoy, Peacock, Dean, Kennedy, and Troup. After their victory at Burnley, Everton should make further progress, but they will find strong opposition in Leeds United.

PUZZLE FOR PLAYERS
Athletic News - Monday 23 November 1925
UNUSUAL CONDITIONS FOR EVERTON AND ASTON VILLA
EVERTON 1, ASTON VILLA 1
By Ivan Sharpe
THE meeting of Everton and Aston Villa is supposed to provide an exhibition of the arts and graces of Association football. The stranger within the gates at Goodison Park on Saturday might well have imagined, however, that the butchers and bakers and candlestick-makers of Liverpool were at play.  Seldom have I seen first-class teams descend to such a low level.  Now for the explanation. The conditions were extremely difficult. I doubt whether they could have been worse, the surface of a frozen ground had been slightly thawed, had been softened sufficiently to render foothold particularly precarious, for half an inch beneath was firmly frozen earth-quite unyielding and distinctly dangerous tofall upon. The consequence was that the players could not turn, could not keep their feet when running any at pace, and, rightly, were chary of risking a fall. It spelt danger, as distinct from merely bruise.  No complaint could made because of the poverty of the play. It is useless to run at a pace that brings about a fall, for to fall is to lose the ball. So it was from first to last in a match that might have been exhilarating 
PROBLEM FOR PLAYERS
The ball picked us grease, as distinct from mud, and remained sufficiently lively on the frost-gripped ground to defy control. Close play was impossible.  Open play was extremely difficult because it involves pace and spirit, and neither is of much use unless the player can persuade the ball to accompany his raid.  What should the players have done? I do not know the answer. They tried both systems, and each was ineffective. What happened was that they struggled along eventually a haphazard way that was rarely thrilling, and certainly had no sustained appeal to the benevolent neutral whoso nose and toes were nipped by frost.  Neither side overcame the obstacles.  Neither side triumphed. Frost won.  Not does adaptability enter such contest. There was defeating such conditions. If man cannot keep his feet cannot play good football. Each side was equally afflicted, and a drawn game was the only just decision that could come from such scramble. 
HOW THE GOALS CAME. 
It was not football match in the accepted sense, but a game of get-the-ball, kick-the-ball, and trust to luck.  Everton were the first to kick it into the net.  Talbott was held to have challenged an opponent unfairly. Occasionally, I thought, he suffered at the hands of the referee, who, while seeing that vigour is restrained such a day, must also allow for the uncertainty of foothold that causes a man’s methods to vary from his intentions. Before the end the game Talbott must have been wondering what was fair play and what was not.  However, the Villa centre half-back was pulled up in the sixth minute of the match after a not very serious collision.  As the ball fell in the goal-mouth O’Donnell risked concussion and indulged in half-volley. The ball rebounded from an opponent to Dean, who shot briskly into the roof of the net.  Spiers later made several splendid saves at the risk his ribs, but he could not hope to cope with this decisive drive from Dean. The ball whizzed past him like a bullet.  Walker headed cleverly, and then shot over. Thereafter the England inside-left was seldom seen. That sentence summarizes the triumph of conditions over contestants. When Everton rallied Troop shot over—sky high—and then Capewell placed the ball ahead for York to deliver a surprise shot, to which Hardy thrust out a foot in a belter-late-than-never kind of way. Maybe, the ball was over the line before intervened. In any event, when it bounded forward Capewell dashed and forced it into the net. 
DEAN’S PROGRESS. 
There ends the scoring and there, really, ended the game.  True, Troop had what appeared to the spectators to be a golden chance of heading through a centre by Chedgzoy before the interval, but Talbott’s foot was beside the ball and the wee man from Dundee hesitated and was lost.  It seemed to me that if he headed the ball he would run his head into Talbott’s boot—not pleasant choice.  Ido not criticize Troup. I do not criticize any player on this day of slips and falls, the whole, one man was as good, or as moderate, as the next, with Jack Frost the master.  To summarize the players who caught the eye, then, Raitt kicked well despite the difficulties, and Brown was a consistently good half-back, with an eye for the short route to goal. In a forward line that scrambled and scratched for progress best it could, Irvine revealed the greatest capacity for making the ball behave, and, by way of a change, contributed the best shot of the match.  But I liked the headwork of Dean, who nods the ball to the rear or the side with the touch the export and flicks the ball neatly with the toe. The youth from Tranmere is already a goal-getter; he may develop into an accomplished leader of the line.  In the opposition was a goalkeeper brave and brilliant in Spiers, a stern full-back in Smart, a calculating half-back in Johnstone, and an attack that was recognizable only because of the Aston Villa colours.  There were very good reasons for their inability to play in the Villa way.  Everton; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, and Troup.  Aston Villa; Spirers; Smart, Mort; Johnstone, Talbott, Moss; York, Stephenson, Capewell, Walker, and Dorrell.  Referee; Mr. E.E. Smart, Bristol. 

SPIERS’ FINE WORK FOR THE VILLA
Birmingham Daily Gazette - Monday 23 November 1925
SECOND HALF THRILLS AT GOODISON APRK
HONOURS EVEN
EVERTON 1, ASTON VILLA 1
By Touchstone
Another highly creditable performance by Aston Villa was forthcoming as the result of Saturday's visit to Goodison Park, the honours being divided after a strenuous game.  Throughout the whole of the 90 minutes there was always the possibility of either Everton or the visitors increasing theirscores. This was particularly after the interval, and the cause of so many final efforts proving fruitless was mainly the treacherous state of the ground.  The field had been liberally sanded, but the players experienced great difficulty in attempting to turn on the run. On top of the frost-bound ground there was a film of greasy mud, and on such a pitch it was useless to expect anything approaching accuracy in passing.  Fortunately the ten days fog at Merseyside lifted, and while during the opening half visibility was good, the light steadily failed later, until towards the end it was impossible to identify the players, on the far side of the field.
GOAL AFTER FIVE MINUTES
An exhibition of polished football which meetings between Aston Villa and Everton have so often produced in the past was, of course, out of the question, but the result was a fair representation of the run of the game, for though the Villa gained a slight advantage in attack prior to the interval, the opposite was the case in the second half when the visitors attacks were mainly confined to breaks away by the left wing.  It was evident from the start that Everton realized they would have to fight stubbornly if they were not to lose both points. The Villa settled down in businesslike fashion, but a free kick against Talbott for pushing Dean led to the home side taking the lead alter five minutes' play.  Bain's kick was diverted to the left  wing, but it was instantly returned to Dean, who drove it into the too corner of the net well out of Spiers’ reach. 
STRENUOUS ATTACKS. 
The Villa forwards quickly realised that the short passing game would not pay, and for the next 20 minutes the home defence had a grueling time.  Then the Villa were rewarded for their strenuous attacks. Hardy only partially cleared a first-time shot by York, and Capewell, running in, beat the Everton custodian with a short fact shot.  There the scoring ended, but the Villa goal had amarvelous escape immediately after the resumption. Spiers falling as he fielded a difficult shot by O'Donnell.  This was quickly followed by an equally brilliant effort by Hardy.  A clever movement by Dorrell and Walker saw the former's centre headed well away from the Everton custodian by Capewell. Hardy, however, fielded the ball, but was unable to hold it. Dorrell rushed in but was prevented from getting his foot to the ball.  SPIERS’ FINE JUDGMENT. 
Spiers' wonderful judgment again saved the Villa when Chedgzoy, sent in a strong drive across the goalmouth, the pace of which only just beat Troup, who was waiting to turn it into the net.  During the last half-hour the game resolved itself into a dour struggle by the Villa backs to keep the home forwards out of shooting range.  Though both sides were handicapped by the difficult character of the ground the game was fought out at a vigorous pace from start to finish.  Chief honours went to the defenders.  From a Villa standpoint Spiers was probably the hero of the match, for on at least three occasions his masterly judgment alone saved the Villa's goal from downfall.  Well though Raitt and McDonald played for Everton on the day, Smart and Mort were undoubtedly the sounder and more effective pair of defenders. 
MASTER OF CHEDGZOY
Little fault could be found with the Villa halves. Moss was usually the master of Chedgzoy, while both Talbott and Johnstone worked untiringly.  Though unable to manifest their usual combination the Villa forwards gave a good account of themselves, Dorrell and Walker being more in the picture than the right wing. Capewell's leadership of the line was rarely at fault.  Always popular visitors to Goodison Park the Villa's visit attracted a crowd fully 35,000 strong.  Everton.—Hardy; Raitt, Macdonald: Brown, Bain,Virr; Chedgsoy, Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, Troup.  Aston Villa.— Spiers; Smart, Mort;  Johnstone, Talbot, York, Stephenson. Capewell, Walker, Dorrell.  Referee: Mr. E. small (Bristol). 

A HALF IN TWO
Liverpool Echo - Monday 23 November 1925
By Bee
Fortunately Everton went on with their points gathering, and, although they took the half in two.  I thought they were a bit unfortunate.  Others don’t agree with me, I imagine –do some folk ever agree with me by any mischance?- but the fact remains that Everton overplayed the Villa for long spells, and whereas Hardy had little to do, and made one electrifying save which Villa said was all too late.  Spiers had a bundle of work to attend to, and his manner of attending to it was simply wonderful.  It was not a day for shooters; the ball would turn easily and awkwardly on an icy piece of turf; yet Everton were frequently shooters and the better shooters than their old the most admirable order; it is correct to say, in summing up a game, that the goalkeeper is part of the team, but in this case Spiers was very nearly all the team.  True, Smart and Mort played well and truly; so did their rivals, none more so than Davie Raitt, who, playing a commanding and convincing game, did not act rashly, but just played the right style of game on such a day, and against such opposition.  But the half-back strength of Everton was in front of Villa’s; so was the frontal attack. 
NO GREATLY DARING
The Villa’s forward strength lies in their extreme wing men, with Walker the guiding star both wings.  But not one of the three played well on Saturday, and it was plain the Villa did not like the going and could not act in it.  Everton may not have liked it, but they were greatly daring; and I thought Brown, Virr, and Bain did excellent work.  Virr kept a tight rein on York, and in heading he was a great assistant; there was just one moment when he fell to that Evertonian disease –slowish-thinking and needless waiting before delivering the ball, which was easy to deliver first-time.  Bain did something similar at one point, and Hardy, as I have suggested before,” offered the opposing forwards the ball,” then swung it to the side in disconcerting fashion.  This, I contend, is not good goalkeeping, and it may lead to a forward getting nettled and offering a charge that will carry the ball and the goalkeeper into the net.  Hardy’s great save kept the spectators applauding for some two minutes, which showed what the crowd thought of it.  It was a good game in the special circumstances, and it was not the type of game we generally see from these two sides.  Troup, for instance, could not move in his own sweet way; O’Donnell was quick to shoot, and should be encouraged to go on with the good work; Dean was a delight in his unselfishness and heading and booking; and Irvine worked desperately hard, as also did Chedgzoy; but the extreme wing men could not be said to have had a happy day.  Well, a half is better than none at all, especially when, as I suggest, he home side just about deserved to win. 

EVERTON CHANGES
October 24, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
With international calls and players on the injured list, some of the teams in to-day’s League matches will be below strength, notably Liverpool and Aston Villa. After their victory at Burnley, and with such an attractive side as Leeds United as visitors there should be a big gate this afternoon at Goodison Park. Further changes have been made in the Everton team. Kennedy returns to inside left in place of Chadwick while with Irvine playing for Ireland Peacock goes inside right with Chedgzoy as his partner. Leeds United drew with Liverpool at Anfield recently but Everton should secure full points today. The kick-off is at three o’clock and the teams are;- Everton; G.C. Menham; McDonald, Livingstone; Brown, Bain, Hart; Chedgzoy, Peacock, Dean, Kennedy, Troup. Leeds United; Johnson; Allan, Menzies; Edwards, Hart, Baker; Turnbull, Whipp, Jennings, Wainscoat, Jackson.

CONSISTENT, AT ANY RATE
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 25 November 1925
Bee’s Notes
One of the funniosities of the season is Everton’s record.  Look down their list, and you’ll find that they are the most consistent scorers in the League.  They never fail to get a goal or more.  In turn they have put up the following register of goals, 2,1,1,2,1,4,4,1,1,2,3,3,4,,1,1,3,1.  That would be a good cricket innings.  What a pity there is another side to this question –he goals against column!  There have been nine away games, so the forwards have done their part.
For the match with Leicester City, at Leicester, on Saturday, Everton are relying on the side which drew with Aston Villa, namely;- Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup. 

LEEDS UNITED OUT OF LUCK
October 26, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
Wainscoat Fractures Arm at Goodison
Fine Display by Everton Forwards
Everton in their game with Leeds United at Goodison Park, on Saturday returned to their pristine form. They gave a really brilliant exhibition of foot-work against a side which has the reputation of being useful. In the first half especially, the Evertonians showed a combination in the matter of attack that was pretty to witness, and one may pay a tribute to the directors for pursuing a policy which has now been amply justified. Considerable criticism had been raised by some of the recent changes in the team, but in persevering with Dean and bringing in Livingstone they showed sound judgment. It is not too much to say that in the first period they should have gained at least half a dozen goals.
Leed’s Gameness
Altogether it was an inspiriting return to the potentialities of the Goodison Park brigade, and it should lead to even better things to come. There was only one cloud in the contest and that was the unfortunate accident to Wainscoat, who in collision with McDonald sustained a fractured elbow and had to be conveyed to hospital for treatment. In spite of the absence, the Leeds players showed great gameness, and they managed to get a couple of goals before the conclusion of an attractive and spirited struggle. Everton were quickly aggressive and Dean distributed the play in fine fashion, with the result that he scored the opening goal of the game before it was five minutes old. He took the ball smartly and scored with a shot that glanced off the upright into the net. The visitors replied with some good work on the left, and Jackson was rather unlucky in falling to find the target. The home side immediately proceeded to dominate the game and, from a fine centre from Chedgzoy, Dean, although hampered by Allen, headed into the net. Further strenuous play followed and Everton’s third goal came from the foot of Kennedy, who beat Johnson with a swift shot, and the interval saw Everton leading by three clear goals.
Dean’s Third
In the second period, as intimated, Leeds showed improved form, but they were no match for their rivals, and this was demonstrated when Dean, thanks to the services of Chedgzoy, scored a fourth goal. In spite of this the Yorkshire club forwards stuck to their guns and Wainscot getting through opened the Leeds account. It was shortly after this that the clever inside-left was injured. The United with ten men, still showed pluck, and a few minutes before the finish Jennings recorded a second goal. The Everton forward line could scarcely have been bettered. Chedgzoy, after his rest, showed all his old speed, and there were times when he made Baker look rather small. Dean was, no doubt, allowed too much latitude by Hart, but his goals were all good ones. Troup and Kennedy made a capital wing, and if Peacock was not always in the picture he did much good work. The half-back line was admirable and both the backs tackled with confidence. Menham, who is gaining confidence, kept out a number of rising shots with agility, though he was scarcely so successfully when dealing with low drives. Result; Everton 4, Leeds United 2. Teams; Everton; C,G.C Menhan, goal; McDonald and Livingstone, backs; Brown, Bain and Hart (captain), half-backs; Chedgzoy, Peacock, Dean, Kennedy, and Troup, forwards. Leeds United; Johnson, goal; Allen and Menzies, backs; Edwards, Hart and Baker, half-backs; Turnbull, Almond, Jennings, Wainscoat, and Jackson, forwards.

CENTRAL LEAGUE
October 26, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 2, Oldham 0
From start to finish the home side were hopelessly outplayed. Only on very rare occasions did their forwards get near the Everton goal. The visitors were a more balanced and polished side. Their forwards were quicker on the ball, easily superior in combination and always more effective in finishing. The athletic halves were weak as a line, and failed badly in constructive work. Murray and O’Donnell scored for Everton. The surprises was that more goals were not scored.

LIVERPOOL COUNTY COMBINATION
October 26, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post
Port Sunlight 1, Everton “A” 0
The visitors to Townsend-lane were fortunate to get away with full points as the result of the only goal of the match, scored late in the game by Davies. Everton enjoyed the best part of the play, but the inside forwards failed to drive home the good work of the wingmen. The visitors could make little headway against the excellent defensive play by Braithwaite and Hamilton in the first half. The second half was more evenly balanced, both goalkeepers making splendid saves.

EVERTON AT LECIESTER
Liverpool Echo - Friday 27 November 1925
Bee’s Notes
Everton, at Leicester, play the side that won at Nottingham against the County eleven, and draw at home with the Villa.  If the forwards go on shooting as they did against the Villa, they need not fear success; I is sure to come, because there will be no continuation of the Spiers’ work, even if we allow that Kenny Campbell is in the Leicester goal.  Kenny was one time wanted by Everton; now they will be able to see him in his old-new place of First Division goalkeeper.  They will meet old friends in Bamber, H. Wadsworth, and company, and altogether the first visit of the season by Everton to the Chandler shop will be very engaging. Everton; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Virr, Bain, Brown; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Troup.  Leicester City’ Campbell; Black, Osborne; Newton, Watson; Bamber; Adcock, Duncan, Chandler, Lockhead, Wadsworth (H). 

EVERTON NO CHANGES.
November 28, 1925. The Daily Courier.
Everton, who go to Leicester, will meet the City with an eleven that has not been changed for several weeks, which, in view of the fate that befell the League leaders a few weeks back, is welcome news. Ten City ranks contain three Mersersiders in “Kenny” Campbell, Bamber, and Wadsworth, so that it should be a reunion in more ways than one. They are making an experiment by moving Watson from centre half to right half-back, which allows Carrigan to resume as pivot, Newton being dropped. It should be a rattling good game to watch, with little between the sides, and that little should be with Leciester City. The teams are: - Everton: - Hardy, Raitt, McDonald; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean. O'Donnell, Troup. Leicester City: - Campbell; Black, Osborne; Watson, Carrigan, and Bamber; Adcock, Duncan, Chandler, Lochhead, and Wadsworth.

OLD TIMES AND TIMERS.
November 28, 1925. The Liverpool Football Echo.
VICTOR HALL REVIEWS FORMER THEATRICAL FOOTBALL GALAS.
Once upon a time, football galas were looked forward to each year at the pantomime season as a pleasant means of affording financial assistance to deserving local charities, and as giving a sort of holiday aspect to one day's football of the season. Then for a day players and spectators could come together in a feast of fun, the individualities of the local pantomimes would come in personal contact with the audience, they had entertained across the footlights, and -–s a common object –hospitals and other benevolent objects would reap as appropriate harvest. The idea was good; the intentions were excellent and sometimes the weather was favourable, and there were handsome returns in kind and kudos to all concerned. But later on, the good spirit of the earlier days became swamped in various degrees of blemish, and, one after another, the ardent promoters and enthusiasts became convinced that the “gates” had outlived their usefulness, and eventually and finally, both Everton and Liverpool decided to abandon the idea, and to recoup the charities that had benefited in former years in some other tangible manner, so that their funds should not lapse by the decline of the gala sprit! The decision of the F.A. to permit the gate-money of practice matches to be devoted solely to charitable objects gave both clubs the opportunity they sought so that in Liverpool at least neither hospitals nor charities have suffered by the change. On the contrary, in many cases they have gained considerably and certainly a wider number of deserving charities have been the recipients of the football bounty. It was to a Mr. Albert Smith, that the idea first occurred of enlisting the well known charitable instincts of the theatrical friends one pantomime season in Liverpool, by arranging a comic football match one Shrove Tuesday's afternoon, in which a team of comedians undertook to play a “match” at football with a team of local players from Everton and neighboring clubs. No serious football was expected, but the clutt, who lent the ground free, were able to hand over a round sum to the charities nominated. The whole thing was hurriedly arranged, and although informal, the people who paid at the gates or had bought tickets quite enjoyed the day's fun-making, and both players and theatricals had a harmless afternoon's entertainment in a good cause. The following season more elaborate arrangements were made. A committee was decided upon some weeks in advance of the proposed match day, upon which threatical management and sporting interest were combined, and in addition to the match proper certain side-shows were provided, and the scratch procession through the town of the first year was organised on more ambitious lines. The late Tom Bash, of the Bee Hotel, and the late H. F. Neale and other prominent personalities lent their aid in the work of boosting the effort, and the idea took root and began to flourish. The success of the second year exceeded any anticipation and a sum of some hundreds or two pounds re mained as a practical result. The Everton club provided the ground and pooled their resource in all the arrangements, and their own officials were publicly thanked for their co-operation. Following years witnessed improvements in every direction; good processions were organised through the town; valuable prizes were offered for various events; races were introduced confined to theatricals; tugs of was between rival theatre staffs aroused keen interest; and a ladies' committee organised a floral carnival for the day that completely dwarfed the original idea of the comic football match. Money and grits in kind were donated by local firms, and the day became a sort of unofficial Bank Holiday, when the gilded youth of the town took occasion to get in close touch with those divinities of the ballet who had hitherto revolved in most distant hemisplicres. The influence and prestige of the “Theatrical Gala” were at this period at the highest point. The governing committee was selected with care, and included businessmen of good repute, who gave their time and money generously to the cause of the charity without any degree of personal prominence. Mr. George Mahon, of the Everton club, was chairman, the late Mr. Lewis Peake was in the vice chair, Tom Bush was treasurer and the secretaries and members of the committee, represented the best of business and theatrical interests. The late Harry Arnold was a keen enthusiasts, and with him were men like Arthur Lawrence, of the Court, John Gaffney, of the Shakespeare, the late Fred Wilmot, Harry Pennington of the Muncaster, Walter Allison, Sam Linaker, Teddy Coleman, Willie Ravenscroft, Tom Preston, Peter Golightly, Jas, Griffiths, and the late Jud Atkinson (two former Everton directors). Bob Nelson, of the Police Athletic Society, Harry Robbins, another of the. P.A.S, Bob Lythgoe, of the Football Association, and Charles McKie, an Everton committeeman. Threatical people also took a prominent part. Mr. Walter de Frece served actively on the committee with his talented wife Vesta Tiley, Eugene Stratton, George Robey, Harry Tate, Huntley Wright, Martin Adeson, Fred Fredericks, the two Macs, Albert and Edmunds, Wal Pink, Little Tich, George Mosart, R.G. Knowles, Harry Freeman, “pip) Powell, Albert Christian, Fred Williams, and Stratton Mills; are only a few of names that flash to memory, all of whom, with many others helped actively to establish these Liverpool galas. Among the threatical ladies, the rogue, even more popular still. Each of the “stars” of the respective pantomimes organised her own programs of collecting both before the day and on the day itself, and there was keen competition for the handsome prizes of jewelry etc, that the committee offered to the lady with the largest collection. Among the ladies who worked zealously and without reward for the charities may be remembered Marie Montrose, Vesta Tilley, Marie Lloyd, Maggle Duggan, Ada Reeve, Marie Dainton Lotfus, Mabel Love, Marie Kendall, Emily Fothergill, and Lottie Collins, but to enumerate them all would be to fill columns. All were generous, and all worked hard for the charities, but the seed of dissolution was already being sown, and the signs of decay soon appeared. The Everton club relinquished their interested, and the Liverpool club came forward to carry on the idea, but after a few years, they, too, decided the financial return to the charities was not worth the time and effort, bestowed on the long hours of work involved for weeks before the day itself. Gradually a certain undesirable type of spectator had been making the annual “gain day” a day of licence in more than one sense. Young people from the theatres unused to the intimate and indiscrimal nature of the class of person, had frequent cause of complaint during their progress though the streets in theatrical costume. Trained voices suffered in the turmoil, and gradually the authorities came to recognise that not at all the class of people they had formerly had as supporters were using the “gala” day for a day's carousal that brought the football ground and the game itself into disrepute. The players too, began to complain that their best efforts were often spoiled by undesirable elements, so finally the Liverpool Club like Everton before them decided that the best interests of football were not advanced by the annual “beane,” and they dropped the idea. The abandonment of football “theatrical galas” in Liverpool, however, does not mean that the whole-hearted and warmhearted work of the theatrical people, both starts and supers was not appreciated as its true worth. It was to the fullest extent, and always will be, while Everton or Liverpool keep any records. Their names, too, are honourably remembered by the treasurers of the various hospitals who had their generous aid. It is unfortunate that whenever people come together to do good, the noxious weeds creep in, and, as in this case, spoils much of the good work. Charity will live on, however, and flourish always wherever beats the kindly heart of the “low” comedian.

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 28 November 1925
By Louis T. Kelly

• There wasn’t a single off-side infringement in last week’s Everton-Villa match.
• This will take some beating
• There are few players, by the way, who study to avoid getting offside better or more completely than young “Dixie” Dean
• When the amended offside rule came into being we said it would play very nicely into the hands of centre-forwards.
• Troup, usually such a slippery little customer, did nearly all the floundering on Saturday; his strapped shoulder was an added handicap. 
• Bolton by the way, haven’t lost a home league match since Everton won their three seasons ago.

EVERTON AT LEICESTER
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 28 November 1925
“F.E.H.’s impressions of Walton Team’s Efforts Against Former Mersey Man
Everton; Hardy; Raitt, McDonald; Virr, Bain, Brown; Chedgzoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, Weaver.  Leicester; K. Campbell; Black, Osborne; Watson, Corrigan, Bamber; Adcock, Duncan, Chandler, Lockhead, Wadsworth (H).  Referee- Mr. G.G. Bryan, of Willenhall.  Everton were at Leicester to-day for the first time for many a long year.  They met some former Mersey members in Bamber and Harold Wadsworth and believed they could win, in view of their form against Notts County and the Villa.  The Evertonians, under the direction of Messrs, Andrew Coffey and John Sharp, made the journey to Leicester to easy stages, for they broke the passage overnight at Nottingham.  The country layunder a mantle of snow, and the playing pitch at Leicester was covered with white flakes. 
TROUP’S DEPUTY
The ground of course, was on the hard and treacherous side, but a keen game was anticipated when the men turned out.  Everton made one eleventh-hour change by substituting Weaver for Troup.  This decision evidently being made on account of the state of the ground.  Before the game began there was a minute of silence by both players and spectators as a tribute to the dead Queen Mother.  It was a most impressive scene, and the 20,000 people present observed the solemnity of the occasion.  Everton, who played in white jersey, started, and it was soon obvious that the ground would upset all nice calculations.  The visitors were the first to exert pressure, and Irvine, working through, put in a straight shot which the Leicester goalkeeper dealt with promptly. 
EXCITING INCIDENT
Leicester made play on the left, but were well held by the Everton defence.  Midfield play prevailed for a time and when O’Donnell tried to make ground he was dispossessed.  Leicester returned on the right, and Adcock forced a corner.  This led to a most exciting episode.  The ball was well placed and Gardner hit the post with a header, the ball rebounded into play, and Lockhead shot in strongly, but McDonald booted the ball away.  Everton replied in valiant fashion.  Weaver got away on the wing, and the corner was conceded, but O’Donnell allowed Black to clear the situation. 
GOAL BY LOCKHEAD
Considering the state of the turf the game was being fought out at a fast pace, and after Chedgzoy had dropped in a centre which was missed the City forwards became more aggressive than ever.  Chandler got through and missed the target by a couple of inches.  Leicester came along again in merry fashion, and from a pass by Watson Lockhead scored at close range.  The game now became additionally exciting.  Everton were obviously all out to make up the leeway and, following upon two solo efforts by Chedgzoy, O’Donnell sent in a glorious try, which travelled just over the crossbar.  There was a further spell of midfield work which was marked more by vigour than cleverness owing to the tricky surface.  Both lines of attack were very active, and Dean, on two occasions, was rather unlucky in being robbed at the critical moment. 
BULLY IN THE GOALMOUTH
Chedgzoy raised Everton’s hopes with a nice oblique shot, but it was intercepted, and O’Donnell was baulked just as he seemed to be sailing through.  He City were again busy at the other end, and Duncan had beaten the Everton backs when he fired in a shot which Hardy cleared cleverly.  The visitors were once more on the move, and Weaver tried hard to show his merits, but he was safely held by Watson and Black.  Just before the interval Everton exerted great pressure, and there was a tremendous bully in front of the home goal, and Campbell cleared from both Dean and Weaver in his best international manner.
ENERGY WITHOUT DESIGN
Leicester made ground on the left, but failed at the finishing touch, and good work by the Everton half backs was more than once thrown away by the indecision of the forwards.  Raitt was clever in checking a combined assault in which Chandler played a prominent part, his tackling being admirable.  Just on half-time, Dean got off the mark but his finishing shot was, to say the least of it, feeble. 
Half-time; Leicester City 1, Everton 0.
DEAN EQUALISES
RELEIF COMES IN THE LATER STAGES
EVERTON AT LEICESTER
Taking the general run of play in the first period Leicester were distinctly lucky in holding the lead.  The Everton forwards and half-backs had combined admirably, and the footwork on the vanguard on the treacherous surface was especially good.  In defence, too, the visitors were good, though the goal that Leicester got was well deserved.  On resuming, Everton at once pressed, and the ball was pushed forward by Bain.  Black rushed to meet it but missed the leather and Dean had an opportunity of distinguishing himself when he just failed.  Everton, who had the wind with them, proceeded to play pretty football, and for a time enjoyed all the better of the argument. 
A SHAVE BY CHANDLER
Leicester, however, were equally keen in the method of attack, and after shots had been fired by the two inside men Chandler put in one that just missed the mark.  In the latter stages of the game the Everton forwards gave a fine account of themselves, but Irvine was over-clever and O’Donnell lost control when he ought to have exercised it.  Meanwhile the City attack was not by any means slothful. 
EQUALISER BY DEAN
Everton raced away on the left, and after twenty minutes’ play Dean scored a pretty goal which beat the home goalkeeper all the way.  The goal was initiated by Weaver, who had more than justified his selection.  Just before the Everton had rearranged their form of attack, Chedgzoy and Bain exchanging positions.  Whatever the reason for this, it certainly made the game faster than ever, and the struggle in a dim light was continued with greater strenuousness than ever.  Final; Leicester City 1, Everton 1. 

EVERTON RES V BOLTON RES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 28 November 1925
BLUES TRY A NEW WINGER ON THE LEFT
Everton made one change in giving a trial to F. Williams, who played outside left in the Meredith benefit match, and took the place of Weaver.  The game opened in favour of Bolton, and Harland in the first few minutes had to save a smart drive from Jack.  The home side then took up the running, and clever play by McBain enabled Millington to test Bourne with a sharp drive, the ‘keeper cleverly negotiating it.  The game was being keenly fought considering the treacherous sate of the turf, which was well sanded.  If anything, Everton had a slight superiority.  Kerr conceded a penalty, and Jack, taking the spot kick, shot high over the bar.  A few minutes later Bourne made a clever save from Murray and another from Peacock.  Half-time; Everton Res nil, Bolton Res nil.
The second half opened in favour of Everton, and Williams distinguished himself with clever play in rounding Crooks and Greenall.  After fifteen minutes the home side opened the score through good work by Murray, who gave Houghton an opportunity, of which he took full advantage, Bourne having no chance with the shot.  Three-quarter time- Everton Res 1, Bolton Wanderers Res 0. 

LEICESTER CITY 1 EVERTON 1
November 30, 1925. The Daily Courier.
EVERTON GAIN A POINT.
BAIN STRAINS HIS THIGH MUSLES.
Everton at the present time are playing football more in keeping with their real form and reputation that at any period since the season commenced. On Saturday they shared the points with the City at Leicester, and were good value for the point they gained. That is no bad achievement against a side, which only a fortnight before beat Sunderland so decisively on the same ground. A hard surface, partially covered with snow, did not lend itself to a classical exposition of football. However, both sides rose superior to the conditions in a manner that was most gratying. Although the Blues did so well it is not improbable they would have done still better and bagged both points had it not been that early in the second half Chedgzoy had to change places with Bain, who had strained the ligaments of his leg. This occurred at a time when the visitors had got the measure of their opponents and were forcing matters. Both sides scored a goal, but there is no question that the Blues was the better goal and more ably worked for.
WEAVER FOR TROUP.
At the last moment, and because of the state of the ground, Everton played Weaver at outside-left in place of Troup. Whether the change was for the better or not it is difficult to say. However, it must be admitted that Weaver was by no means a bad substitute, and did many usual things. Play was fairly even through the first half; if anything Leicester had slight the better of the exchanges. The home side took the lead at the end of 15 minutes –rather fortunately one though, although Hardy had small chance with the shot that beat him. It was the culmination to an attack that Leicester had set up in front of goal. Raitt and McDonald were hard pressed, but managed to shield Hardy for several moments. Suddenly the ball came along to Watson, and the half-back promptly sent to Lockhead, who had only to drive it into the net from a few yards out. In these days, a great lead, or for that matter even two, is nothing to get demoralised about. The manner in which the Mereseyside men returned to the attack amply demonstrated that they were not disheartened, at all events. First O'Donnell and then Dean nearly brought about the downfall of the home citadel with shots that came near beating Campbell. The hardness of the ground, however, was obviously making accurate football somewhat difficult. The players had perforce to use a certain amount of caution, and could not turn as speedily as they would have been able to do on a softer ground. The ball, too, bounced at times in a way that was disconcerting. That was the reason probably why neither Dean, O'Donnell, nor Irvine could make the most of the opportunities presented them. Virr, Bain, and Brown had been doing well at half-back until Bain had to go on the wing. The Blues' centre half had kept a careful watch on Chandler, so that the Leicester crack shot had not too many chances.
LEVEL AGAIN.
At the end of 65 minutes the visitors equalised, and it was a beautiful shot. They had been attacking determinedly on the left, and a movement in which Weaver, Chedgzoy and Dean took part ended with the last-named beating Campbell. The ball had come across from the left and Dean timed it beautifully. He swung his foot out at it and flashed the ball in the net like lighting. Everton appear to be finding their true form at last. They have shown appreciable improvement in the last few minutes, and one hopes they will keep it up. They are better balanced as a side in these days, and the attack is putting more pep into matters. Teams: - Leicester City: - Campbell, goal, Black, and Osborne, backs, Walton, Carrigan, and Bamber, half-backs, Adcock, Duncan, Chandler, Lockhead, and Wadsworth, forwards. Everton: - Hardy, goal, Raitt and McDonald, backs, Brown, Bain, and Virr, half-backs, Chedgzoy (captain), Irvine, Dean, O'Donnell, and Weaver, forwards.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 PRESTON NORTH END RESERVES 0
November 30, 1925. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 16)
Although the ground was well attended at Goodison park the players had some difficulty in controlling the ball, and many well intended efforts were thus spoiled, under the circumstances the game was a good one and both keepers had many shots to negotiate. Everton should have taken the lead in the first half, when Murray initiated a fine movement, which left both Millington and Kennedy with only the keeper in front, but each left the final effort to the other, and Bourne picked up and cleared. In the second half opening Everton scored after fifteen minutes' through Houghton and Bolton went close to equaliseing when Smith struck the post and Jack missed by shooting with only Harland to beat, Kerr gave a penalty and Jack from the spot kick fired over the bar, near the end Houghton again scored from Murray's pass, and Everton gained a well deserved victory . Everton: - Harland, goal, Livingstone, and Kerr, backs, Rooney, McBain, and Peacock, half-backs, Millington, Houghton, Murray, Kennedy, F. Williams, forwards.

EVERTON “A” 2 PRESCOT 3
November 30, 1925. The Daily Courier.
LIVERPOOL COUNTY COMBINATION.
Everton were a man short throughout this game at Townsend-lane. Prescot were the better team, and fully deserved both points. Tarreant and Tunstall scored for Prescot, and when Everton pressed Owen had the misfortune to put through his own goal. Shand scored a third for the visitors, but near the end of the game Gaffney reduced the lead, Davies and Braithwaite did well in the Blues' defence Tarrant, centre-half, and Tunstall did best for Precot.

HONOURS EVEN
Athletic News - Monday 30 November 1925
MANY NARROW ESCAPES AT LEICESTER
EVERTON’S CHANGE
LECIESTER CITY 1, EVERTON 1
By Roman
ON frozen surface, covered with a powdering snow, Everton secured a point from Leicester City.  LOCHHEAD scored for Leicester in the first half, and Dean replied for Everton after the interval.  It was evident that the side which could keep its feet best was likely to win, and the brisk way in which Everton started roused the fears the Leicester supporters. Twice in the first five minutes Chedgzoy got the better of the home defence to put in accurate centres, from one of which Irvine nearly scored, for Campbell had to go full length to his shot.  Without quite keeping this superiority, there is little doubt that the Everton attack was a more cohesive force than the Leicester front line. On the other hand, they did not possess a  forward so thrustful as Chandler, the Leicester leader.  Leicester, however, were fortunate both to score and to escape a reverse in the first half.  Their goal came as the result of a slip on the frozen ground by an Everton defender, when the ball came across goal from Watson, with the r4esult that Lochhead had sufficient time to get into position and shoot past Hardy, who had no chance to save.
SECOND HALF CHANGE 
Several shots from the Everton forwards went very close were cleared by Campbell, and if the inside men had been as good the wing forwards Leicester would not have been ahead at half-time. In the second half the Everton forwards were not clever, and the Leicester rushes were rather more dangerous.  Everton’s goal came 20 minutes after the resumption. The left wing operated in a dainty movement, which Weaver completed by putting across a centre which suited Dean admirably, for with a hook shot he had Campbell hopelessly beaten.  There was no more scoring, but there were some desperately narrow escapes by both sides. Everton would probably have won but for changes in position made. At half-time Chedgzoy and Bain changed, with the result that the Everton right wing lost a good deal its first-half power.  Fifteen minutes from time miss by Osborne allowed Bain get clear away.  If Chedgzoy’s early exhibition indicated anything this would have meant a certain goal, but Bain was not quite good enough, and Campbell, running out, frustrated his shot.  The game was one in which the defences were supreme. Both goalkeepers did well, and of the backs Black, for Leicester, and Macdonald, for Everton, were the most conspicuous.  Both played with confidence as well as caution. Neither side's halves or forwards reached their best form.  LeicesterCity.—Campbell; Black, Osborne; Watson, Carrigan, Bamber: Adcock, Duncan, Chandler, and Wadsworth.  Everton. Hardy: Raitt, Macdonald; Brown, Bain, Virr; Chedzgoy, Irvine, Dean, O’Donnell, and Weaver.  Referee: T. G. Bryan. Willenhall.

EVERTON’S GOOD POINT
Liverpool Echo - Monday 30 November 1925
By F.E.H.”
Everyone, I imagine, will rejoice to know that Everton are returning to their real true form.  At Leicester, on Saturday, they gave an excellent account of themselves, and with the slightest slice of luck they would have gained the full points from Chandler and company.  The ground was all against precise football, yet the players managed to keep their feet in wonderful fashion and the pace was always exhilarating in manner.  On a slippery and snowclad surface the ball was passed with nice precision by the Everton forwards and half-backs and the side was distinctly unlucky to be one down at the turn.  The Leicester goal, all the same, was a good one.  Hardy having very little chance of clearing the shot which told.  The equalizer was the result of an annually laudable effort; led up to by Weaver, who throughout played a fine wing game.  Chedgzoy also showed that he is again himself.  His temporary captaincy proved his worth as a general and quite apart from this he dropped in a delightful series of centres which Dean might on occasion have turned to better advantage.  Irvine and O’Donnell were both distinctly clever at times, and the half-backs and backs were both alert and sound, with Hardy good in goal.  Kenny Campbell in the Leicester goal showed that he has lost none of his skill, and the forward line was frequently very dangerous.  Altogether it was a good point for Everton, though it might, had the Fates proved propitious, been converted into two.