Everton Independent Research Data

 

EVERTON 3 ARSENAL 1
November 1 st 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury.
DEAN'S CLEVER GOAL.
WELCOME POINTS FOR EVERTON.
ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT IN THE ATTACK.
Everton beat the Arsenal at Goodison Park, on Saturday by 3 goals to 1, and were worthy winners of a fast game that had many good points, although much of the play hardly reached the standard expected. The outstanding feature from an Everton viewpoint was the reappearance of Dean, whose return was delayed a fortnight ago. Dean made his first home appearance, and his inclusion in the side meant much to Everton. Confidence was restored, and if Dean was not at his best he scored a characteristic goal, gave his colleagues excellent openings, and revealed some skillful touches. It should only be a question of time when Dean regains all his old dash and effectiveness. Cohesion is still needed to make the Everton attack what it should be. It worked with a fair amount of smoothness against the Arsenal, but there is room for improvement. Much of the play lacked finish, and this was very noticeable in the work of the Arsenal. Early on both sides did well, but after the Arsenal had spent themselves in a number of determined efforts immediately following the resumption, and Everton increased their lead, interest in the game sagged. The great fault of the Londoners was their lack of finish, and during the early play Brain missed two great chances. Similar openings did not secure again because none of the forwards would accept responsibility for shooting.
ACCURATE FINISHING.
Everton's success was due to their greater accuracy in finishing combined with better-balanced all round. Davies was cool and safe in the Everton goal, and if McDonald and Kerr were not always judicious in clearing, their made no mistakes. There was no better half-back on the field than Hart. Strong in defence and effective in attack, Hart played a fine game while Brown and Virr completed a trio that made the Arsenal attack look very ordinary. The forwards were better as individuals than as a combination, and the line needs more driving power and cohesion. Dean's return will probably do much in this direction. Irvine worked well, but was hardly as effective as usual, while Moffatt was certainly a trier. Dominy and Troup made the better wing. The latter shot well and was clever with the ball, but Dominy was rather slow. Harper had far more to do than Davies and was not always safe in handling the ball. John was a better back than Parker and Blyth took the honours in the middle line. The Arsenal forwards played an uneven game. They displayed delightful footwork at times, but the generalship of Buchan was much missed. Brain made effective passes to the wings, yet the line was deficient in shooting power. Brain made his best effort when he lobbed the ball over Davie's head into the net. Hulme overdribbled and the line as a whole was no more effective when it was reshuffled in the second half with Hulme in the centre and Brain and Young as the right wing. The goals were scored in the following order. Irvine (six minutes), Troup (twenty-six minutes), Brain (thirty-eight minutes), Dean (sixty-nine minutes). Teams : - Everton: - Davies, goal, McDonald, and Kerr, backs, Brown Hart (captain), and Virr, half-backs Moffatt, Irvine Dean, Dominy, and Troup, forwards. Arsenal: - Harper goal, Parker and John backs Young, Butler, and Blyth, half-backs, Hulmes, Lamberth, Brain, Ramsay, and Haden, forwards.

HAIL, VICTORS
Liverpool Echo-Monday, November 1, 1926
JOY IN EVERTON CAMP
HOW THE GOALS WERE SCORED
Bee’s Notes
HIS GOALS
Dean kept his position; he left the defence to do their part—and manfully McDonald and Kerr did it—and in front of them Hunter Hart captivated one more crack Centre-forward—he has the scalps of nearly half a doses stars thus far, and his manner of putting the ball on the ground up to the Forward is one of the reasons for Everton forward line improvement. Dean's goal, however, was his own unaided effort; a quick nod down to earth, than a darting run beyond Parker and angle shot that quite surprised Harper, according to a good knowledgeable friend who sat within inches of the scene of the goal. Dean was acclaimed in a vocal outburst that will ring is one's ears for many a day; them were 40,000 voices of cheer, including a dozen or so Americans, who by invite watched the game and marveled at the speed and skill.  They were the Worcester (Mass) players, who had been touring the county of my birth, and had lost every match and come back far from broken in spirit, even though they only got near to a victory when, at Stowbridge, they took defeat by 6-5, a very noteworthy total, you may recall, in the history book. They enjoyed every bit of the game and also the tea Everton served up to them. Well, we enjoyed the feast served by the Everton players and by the prospect of future served up by the home centre-forward. He was a tribe timid at times, as was natural; but as time wore on he began to nod the ball us though it were the weight of a ping-pong ball. There is bright light shining over Everton just now.
ARSENAL TACTICS
It was rather strange to see how the old timorous Everton arose again when Arsenal were attacking and were trying for a draw, the score being 2-1.  After the London side went by the 3-1 niche they rearranged their team and startled most people by putting the sprinting Hulme at centre-forward, and playing four forwards and four half-backs.  I suspect that is one of Herby Chapman’s strategic ideas, and the secret of it is that the opposing side cannot hope to get beyond the four half-backs, and that the four forwards have more room in which to work and more possibilities of work through four half-backs backing up the forwards.  Well, it is worth considering; but I am a bit shy of it at the moment.  Certainly the Arsenal had chances to win this game when Brain, who needs a steadying tonic like the spirit of Buchan by his side, two sitters of a vital juncture of play.  Brain scoops up a lot of goals, but when he has missed one easy one I think it tells upon his temperament.  In any case, he needed better inside work than that vouchsafed him.  Arsenal were good enough in midfield and in the swinging, winning, open game; but in front of goal- well, Goalkeeper Davies has, I should imagine, proposed a vote of thanks to them, or sent them some slow-motion pictures headed “Faults Illustrated.”  The visitors’ best were Harper and Haden (latter outside left).  Many who saw one of Harper’s goal-kicks travel nearly the length of the ground were surprised, but they need not have been, for Harper is the biggest tricker of a dead ball that I know, and I do not forget Percy Salt and others of local association.
HALF-BACK TRIUMPHS
The key to the game was at half-back, there Hart, Virr, and Brown were of a fine level pattern.  Irvine got into the wars again, and Moffatt did much better than on his opening day, yet somehow he faded out when he went to the Twickenham stand side.  I wonder if a spectator said something to him.  I truly hope not, for he is a better footballer than he has shown thus far.  Millington, I hear, will be ready for Saturday next, at Sheffield; if chosen, of course.  Indeed he had a try-out of his damaged ankle on Saturday morning, but preferred not to risk any damage by undue haste.  Was Trouple slammed in some massive shots and got a goal that I certainly though offside; but he and Dominy are working up a useful form of winging that is telling its tale upon the whole forward line.  I could wish that Dominy’s driving force, as witnessed when he tested Harper early in the second half, were more to the fore.  However, it may come any week now.  The victory has heartened the side and though they have much leeway to make up two victories in two weeks is the right way to start a revivalist demonstration. 

LATE SPORTS WIRE
Liverpool Echo-Monday, November 1, 1926
EVERTON AND TEN THOUSAND POUNDS STORY
Everton Football Club’s chairman, when tackled about the 10,000 pounds story in regard to the possible signing of Gibson, the Scottish international centre half-back, said there was nothing in it worth publishing.  Mr. Cuff went on to say; “We asked terms, and the answer we got was, “Well, we might consider it if you offered 10,000 pounds.”  Needless to say, that ended the conversation. 

BURNLEY RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 1
November 1 st 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 13)
Everton Reserves only managed to make a draw of the game at Burnley in the second half but the weak finishing of their forwards was responsible for missing victory. The visitors were much the more impressive side as regards the finer points of the game, and should have credited themselves with enough goals to win from the openings, which came their way. Burley, the ex-Chester forward scored just before the interval for Burnley and Tyson equalised afterwards . Everton: - Hardy, goal, Raitt and O'Donnell, backs, Peacock, Bain, and Rooney, half-backs, Not-Known, Woodhouse, Tyson, Houghton, and Kennedy, forwards.

SKELMERSDALE UNITED 1 EVERTON “A” 0
November 1 st 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury
GEORGE MAHON CUP.
Though won by the smallest possible margin they were good value for their victory, Everton “A” who were the visitors, putting up a rather feeble display until the last ten minutes, during which Haspey missed a chance of equalising after beating the home backs. Scott the home keeper, making a marvelous save from short range. The goals that won the match was scored by R. Creer, the Everton right half, who kicked the ball over his own line on a hot fusillade on the visitors' goal.

EVERTON CLIMBING OUT OF RUT
Athletic News- Monday 1 November, 1926
ARSENAL’S POLISH
LESS IMPRESSIVE EVERTON CLAIM THE GOALS
DEAN BACK AGAIN
EVERTON 3, ARSENAL 1
By Junius
ALTHOUGH Everton prevailed for the second week in succession by three goals to one, it cannot be asserted that the standard of footcraft against Arsenal was in keeping with the result.  Arsenal, a team, worked smoothly and easily. On the other hand, the Everton players generally were units working desperately hard and earnestly with but remote ideas of combined play.  As consequence the half backs were overworked. Yet they did well, and Kerr was the outstanding defender on the field, though McDonald kicked lustily—too much so at times, for he had to repeat his work as result thereof.  But the Everton players were keenly alive to the main factor—goals, forwards pounced upon the chances that came their way and utilised them, while the Arsenal certainly did not.  Their play was clever and their methods were' varied, but the policy did not bring goals, simply because one or other the forwards would insist upon an extra pat of the ball before making final effort. 
ARSENAL’S FLATTERY. 
They displayed rare grace movement and precision, and were interesting to watch, but flattered to deceive.  Buchan was absent from the side, and Lambert took his position to accommodate Ramsay, who partnered Haden, while an ankle injury to Millington at Leeds last week gave Moffatt another opportunity of displaying his skill.  At the outset Harper had to give of his best in dealing with a strong pointblank drive from Irvine, and the game had only been going six minutes when, with Dean and Parker contesting for the ball, Irvine, with ground shot, placed the ball out of Harper's reach.  Ramsay, with only Davies in front, flashed the ball across the goal, and a few minutes later Haden, finding Brain better placed, parted with the ball to see the centre-forward drive it high over the bar from just a few yards out.  Everton went further ahead through Troup after twenty-five minutes, but there was a suggestion of the wing player being offside. Then Brain racing in, faced Davies who had advanced, lobbed the ball over the keeper’s head into the empty net, Kerr making a desperate effort to prevent its entry.  Arsenal, in the second period, were more aggressive, and Everton were only occasionally seen in threatening vein. 
HARPER'S GREAT SAVE. 
Following one spurt Dominy sent in a great drive that made one rub one’s eyes as Harper with outstretched left arm thrust the ball aside. The save was a masterpiece. Then came goal from Dean, the result of persistent effort and glorious finish to a solo run of merit. It was reminiscent of his best days, and will probably restore full confidence.  Until Irvine was injured in one of many duels with Blyth he was the most accomplished Everton forward, and Moffat appreciated his methods as play progressed.  Dean, without being prominent, distributed well in spite of Butler's close attention. Hart, too, kept a tight rein on Brain, in fact half-back play both sides was, if rather more of the destructive type, up a good standard.  Hulme and Haden were strong raiders, who found Kerr and McDonald in an unyielding humour, especially the left back, while and John generally responded to all calls. Davies gave another satisfactory display in goal, and Harper’s work left nothing to be desired.  Everton.—Davies: McDonald, Kerr: Brown, Hart, Virr; Moffatt, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, and Troup.  Arsenal.—Harper; Parker: Parker, John; Young, Butler, Blyth; Hulme, Lambert, Brain, Ramsay, and Haden.  Referee: A. J. Caseley, Wolverhampton.

JAMES GIBSON
November 2, 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury.
A report was published yesterday, that Patrick Thistle football club had asked Everton for £10,000 for the transfer of James Gibson, their international half-back. Mr. W. Cuff the chairman of the Everton interviewed by a ‘'Daily Post'' representative, yesterday with reference to the report said: - we asked terms and the answer we got was''well we might consider it if you offered £10,000. That ended the conversation, Gibson services have been swift by a number of English clubs, but without success. He is considered one of the greatest half-backs in Scottish football, Stands 6ft and weights 12 stone. He is a son of Neil Gibson, the famous half-back of Patrick Thistle and Glasgow Rangers, who was capped on fourteen occasions and played against England in six successive years.

THE EVERTON TOFFEE SHOP
Liverpool Echo-Tuesday, November 2, 1926
In disputing the “Echo” description of Molly Bushell’s dwelling in Everton Village.  Mr. Heaton Wakefield not only omits evidence in support of his contention, but ignores the testimony of the authorities mentioned in the footnote to his letter.  Referee to these ancient sources reveal;-

  1. The house shown in the “Echo” was the dwelling of Molly Bushell
  2. 2. She was the inventor and originator of Everton toffee. 
  3. She made it first on these premises. 

In the 1856 subscribes’ copy of Herdman’s “Pictorial Relics of Ancient Liverpool,” the description of the illustration reads; “This drawing shows Everton Village as it was in 1828.  It commences on the left with Molly Bushell’s House, being the Original Everton Toffee Shop, and which still remains. 
  In a paper read before the Historic Society of Lancashire and Cheshire in 1851, James Stonehouse, author of “Streets of Ancient Liverpool,” stated; “Within the last five or six years there stood in the village an old cottage of similar construction to Prince Rupert’s probably occupied during the siege by his officers.  In 1759 Molly Bushell, the originator of the famous Everton toffee. Resided here.  It was made from a recipe of Dr. Gerrard’s.  The cottage which skirt the deep brow rising from Netherfield-road were built about 1692, and among them we have another toffee establishment, kept by Mrs. Cooper, which has been in her family for more than fifty years” – much later, it will be noted, than Molly Bushell’s. 
In Robert Syers’ “History of Everton,” published in 1830, there is a copy of an old map, dated 1790, in the town chest, with the disputed site marked 55a, and the still earlier home of Mrs. Bushell on the opposite side of the street marked 48b.  In reference to this map Syers says (page 68); “There was an ancient dwelling on the locality marked 48b, but it was taken down some 50 years ago.  Mrs. Or Molly Bushell long lived at the place here alluded to.  She became famous as the first fabricator of that luscious confection called Everton toffee.  Her factory of sweets, however, was at a house (viz,: the spot shown in the “Echo”) nearly opposite the dwelling above-named, to which place she moved when the old house was taken down.”  The on page 323; “On this property of Anderton’s 55a, and nearly opposite the famous cross, long dwelt Mrs. Mary, or as she was always styled, Molly Bushell.  Mrs. Bushell was the originator manufacturer of Everton toffee.”  If Mr. Wakefield challenges these historians, the onus is on him to disprove them.  Evidence is also against Mr. Wakefield’s extraordinary misstatement that “the whole of Browside was demoblished some twenty-five years ago.”  Browside, as every Evertonian knows, still stands to-day, parts of which are nearly fifty years old, and the south-eastern end of which may probably be classed among the oldest parts of the city. - W. PARR.

BANTER, NOT BARTER IN GIBSON’S CASE
Liverpool Echo-Tuesday, November 2, 1926
Bee’s Notes
Yesterday I was able to give Mr. W.C. Cuff’s answer to the story published in Manchester that s um of 10,000 pounds had been asked for the transfer of Gibson from Patrick Thistle to Everton.  In reality it was a case of banter, not barter.  Oftentimes clubs meeting together to discuss terms will throw a club off the scent by asking ridiculous figures; they will ask for the Bank of England, and get a suitable answer, as did Patrick Thistle when they jokingly said. “Well, we will say ten thou’,” There was no harm in trying the five-figure exercise.  Meantime read what the Patrick people say of the affair;
  Manager Mr. Easton said the question of transferring Gibson had never been before the board.  The Thistle club’s policy was to retain Gibson, and was decided on early in the season.  The club had not deviated since to all inquiries to negotiate, and there had been many refusals given.  A director of the club, interviewed, confirmed the manager’s statement.  His only explanation of the 10,000 pounds story was that perhaps a director in refusing to consider Gibson’s transfer might have jokingly remarked that it would take 10,000 pounds to shift Gibson, but, so far as the board was concerned, their ideas on the question had not changed. 

RE-ENTER MILLINGTON
Liverpool Echo-Wednesday, November 3, 1926
Bee’s Notes
ONE ALTERATION
Sheffield United have been going well this season, and have been curiously uncertain in certain directions.  Therefore, Everton having won two games in succession, hope to go ahead in their Yorkshire visit, especially as they are at full strength again, Millington’s ankle being all right again.  Millington will find Bramall-lane to his liking; it has a wide expense on the cricket side and this will give Millington that full, free feeling he so likes when he is skirting the touchline.  If one could dare offer Millington criticism it is that he should hug the touchline, because an inside man always expects him to be there.  In addition, by keeping on the extreme edge he can always come in, but if he turns to an inner berth he can hardly catch a ball that is going away from him, the sort of ball that finds touch.  I look to Millington to have a good day against Billy Gillespie’s side.  The team at Bramall-line is; Davies; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Hart, Virr; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, Troup.  The United, who are only one point ahead of Everton, succeeded in sharing the points at Leicester on Saturday, so that, like their visitors, they appear to be on the upgrade, and a keen struggle for points should be witnessed.  Wolverhampton Wanderers Reserves are the visitors to Goodison Park on Saturday, in a Central League game, kick-off 2.45.  Everton Reserves will be represented by;- Hardy; Hamilton, O’Donnell; Rooney, Bain, Reid; Moffatt, Woodhouse, Tyson, Houghton, Kennedy. 

POINTS SHARED AT TURF MOOR
Burnley News- Wednesday, 3 November 1926
A spirited wind-up to the Burnley Reserves game with Everton Reserves at Turf Moor, on Saturday, to some extent excused the Burnley side from an otherwise mediocre display and warranted their retention of a point.  The visitors were the better side, but had more kicks in their box than they knew how to apply, their finishing being very poor indeed.  Dawson had a good pair of backs in front of him, and made some capital saves, and the half-back line did some neat things without being consistent, but the front line did not hand well together until the later stages.  Burnley showed capacity for distribution, and for taking chances if supported, but Mantle failed to combine with either partner.  Bradley was occasionally clever with some neat touches, and should make a good forward.  Cooper and Pollard were good and bad in turns.  Everton had a strong side, but even their resolute defence was hard pressed towards the latter end, and the best shooting of the game was seen.  Over-finessing on the part of the visitors spoiled many good efforts early on, though once Kennedy was only inches wide, and later Dawson fisted out a great shot by Peacock.  After 42 minutes play of more or less interesting character Bradley put in a bit of clever work, but lost the ball, only to recover it, and he middle for Burley cleverly to elude the defence and finish well with a good shot.  Burnley Reserves led by 1-0 at the interval.  The Burnley team’s play from the Beehole end in the second half was a great improvement on the first half, and some exciting incidents took place in front of both goals, both of which had narrow escapes.  Once, when Houghton got away and centred, the ball struck the Burnley woodwork, a big scramble, in which Dawson came to earth in the midst of a crowd of players.  With 58 minutes gone Kennedy got a long pass from Rooney, and tapped the ball to Tyson, who scored as Dawson was appealing for offside.  Tyson had one or two excellent chances and so had Mantle, but there was no more scoring, the finish being of a very exciting character with Burnley doing most of the attack. 
Result; Burnley Res1, Everton Res 1. 
The teams were;- Burnley;- Dawson; Fergus, Heap; Bassnett, Spargo, Nicholls; Pollard, Mantle, Burley, Bradley, Cooper.  Everton Res;- Hardy; Raitt, O’Donnell; Rooney, Bain, Reid; Peacock, Woodhouse, Tyson, Kennedy, Houghton.  Referee; Mr. H. Adamson, of Ashton-on-Ribble. 

TOFFEE SHOP CONTROVERSEY
Liverpool Echo-Thursday, November 4, 1926
The original shop, occupied by the originator of Everton toffee, “Molly Bushell,” is said by Picton, Herdman, Syers, Stonehouse, and Histroic Society of Lancashire and Cheshire, 1851-2, to be the one as shown in the picture which appeared in your issue of October 23.  She had to remove from this house and open a shop a little lower down, now occupied by Messrs, Noblett’s.  her successor was her son-in-law, a Mr. Sandiford, and not Mr. Cooper, as Mrs. Wakefield contends, Coopers only started business about 1810.  Molly was born in 1736 and died in 1818.  She was buried in Walton Church-yard, and, previous to the widening of the main road, her tombstone could be seen from the roadway.  Mr. Walkefield contends that the house shown in the picture was a painter and plumber shop of Clarkson’s.  I think he is confusing that with the one which stands on the lower corner, not shown, in the picture referred to.  It was occupied by a Mr. McGeorge, a builder, and was later opened as a whitesmith’s shop- EVERTONIAN. 

EVERTON TOFFEE SHOP
Liverpool Echo-Thursday November 4, 1926
I have an old oil painting which shows the Old Everton Toffee Shop as being situated at the Brow-side, with the name of Cooper over the door.  The house next door was occupied by a plumber named W. Porter.  The picture shows Brow-side, Village-street and the old prison-H. STEWART.

BATTEN TO BRADFORD CITY
November 5, 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury.
The Everton yesterday, transferred hg batten the inside forward to Bradford City. Batten joined Everton from Plymouth Arygle club towards the end of last season, and played eleven league matches. He stands 5ft 7 and a half inches and weights 11 stone 10lbs. He was a member of the football association team that visited Australia in 1925 and played in all five test matches. He was the leading scorer during the tour with forty-seven goals scoring six goals against South Australia, Batten is the third Everton forward transferred within about a fortnight, the other being Weaver, who went to Wolverhampton Wanderers and d Murray now with Bristol city.

Herbert G. Batten
Hull City -Friday 5 November 1926
Bradford City Thursday signed on Herbert G. Batten, centre forward from Everton. Batten caused Bome:hing sensation during summer of 1925 by his scoring exploits with the F.A. team on tour in Australia. was top scorer, with goal* to his credit, and on two occasions obtained five goals match. Batten was Plymouth Argyle player when he went on tour, but was transferred to Everton on his return home.

MERCERS V EVERTON
Liverpool Echo- Friday, November 5, 1926
Bee’s Notes
Since I have given you the eleven and its varied changes, the Sheffield United side have become Mercerised, for its meeting with Merseyside, thanks to the signing of the younger brother of the well-known outside right.  Chandler, at back, makes a big difference to the United at a point where they most need it, but I hear that Bramall is not satisfied with the goalkeeping that has bene served up this season.  Sheffield United have indeed been very variable, and as Everton have struck that fine winning vein for two weeks that should have a capital chance to complete their hat-trick.  It is good to know that Hunter Hart has laurels and scalps of Gallacher, Jennings, Harper, and others, and that he can give attention to a man like Wully Gillespie, who is a hard man to “mind” but is plainly tiring a bit these days.  Everton have their chances.  You have your best chance to judge the position of affairs by the “Football Echo” to-morrow, which will give you full and complete account of the doings of all the big clubs.  A well-versed correspondent writes to me;- I saw Everton on Saturday.  My regards to Dixie.  If he has recovered, he will be England’s centre-forward before long.  His passes to his forwards bear the touch of a genius, and his goal was a real gem.  How he got it in was really marvellous.  He had to “swerve” the ball to do it, and Harper seemed quite flabbergasted.  It took his breath!  Everton; Davies; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Hart, Virr; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, Troup.  Sheffield United; Alderman; Chandler, Harris; Boyle, King, Green; Mercer (D), Mercer (A), Johnson, Gillespie, Tunstall. 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, November 6, 1926
Bu Louis T. Kelly

EVERTON AT SHEFFIELD
Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, November 6, 1926
MILLINGTON BACK ON THE WING;
STORK’S COMMENTS ON GAME WITH SHEFFIELD UNITED
FOUR GOALS QUICKLY SHARED AT INTERVAL
Everton; Davies; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Hart (Captain), Virr; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, Troup.  Sheffield United; Alderson; Chandler, Harris; Boyle, King, Green; Mercer (D), Mercer (A), Johnson, Gillespie, Tunstall.  Referee; Mr. C.E. Lines, of Birmingham.  It was a dismal sort of day, although the rain ceased to fall before the game started before a small attendance.  Everton through Dean gave us an early thrill for he was clean through when he shot a yard or two wide of the upright.  The Everton goal had an even closer shave a minute or two later, when D. Mercer got away on the right and with a great shot struck the top of the crossbar; even so, I doubt whether he would have beaten Davies, for the goalkeeper was in a favourable position.  The ground was in a bad condition, but for all that there were some capital movements by both sides, although neither goalkeeper had a great deal of work thrown upon him. 
DAVIES BROUGHT TO HIS KNEES
Dean was entrusted with a free kick, which was headed over the bar by a defender, and Davies had to go down on his knees to stop a back pass by Brown.  Kerr was sadly at fault when he misjudged a wide pass to the Sheffield right wing, and D. Mercer had an opportunity to close in ere shouting.  Instead of making up his mind instantly, he dallied, and Kerr was able to retrieve himself and make a timely tackle, which no doubt prevented a pack of trouble. 
DEAN SHATTERS THE DEFENCE
From this point Everton became attackers in chief, and Dean, with a cross shot, found Alderson handling safely.  Dean had been playing so well, and lying up the field in case of emergency, that it was no surprise to find that when he got his first real scoring opportunity at the end of eighteen minutes’ play he made no mistake.  It was just the sort of goal that we have come to expect of “Dixie” for although it was not a one man affair, it was nearly so.  Dean gained possession just outside the penalty area and with two movements he beat the whole of the Sheffield defence, and with a good solid drive had Alderson beaten from the start.  His colleagues were delighted with his success.  Sheffield were playing fairly well in the open, but when they got to grips with the Everton defence the latter in nearly every case proved their masters.  Dean was again on the mark with another worthy effort, Alderman having to go down on his knees to safeguard himself.  The Sheffield forwards then came into their own, and although they clustered round the Everton goalmouth they could not place the ball into its billet.
TWO GOALS IN A MINUTE
Everton, having successfully overcome this pressure, made a raid through their right wing, and when Millington made a centre Dominy simply headed into the net.  This goal arrived at the end of thirty minutes, and Everton’s stock had taken an upward rise.  A minute later Sheffield had rubbed off one of the arrears, Johnson scoring by heading D. Mercer’s centre into the empty goal, Davies having left his charge in an effort to intercept the winger’s centre, which passed beyond his reach.  A deadly calm which had prevailed prior to Johnson’s goal vanished, and in its place there came a liveliness, not on the part of the spectators, but the players too, and spurred on by the cheering of the crowd the United became a live force, and the Everton defence had many awkward positions, from which they extricated themselves successfully until Irvine, with a run and centre, took play to the other end. 
GILLESPIE HEADS IN
Play, however, was only in that quarter a matter of minutes and there was and out-cry for a penalty for hands against Hart, which the referee refused.  The revival of Sheffield was further demonstrated in their every move, and when D. Mercer, one of their danger men offered Gillespie a chance, the Irish international showed his pleasure by heading the ball beyond Davies, and so scored the equalizer.  To those people who may think that Dean has lost some of his “devil,” it would have surprised them if they could have seen him bundle over Chandler as if he had been a wisp of a lad.  He was forced to do this to gain possession, and the success of it may be judged from the fact that Alderman had a hot shot to deal with. 
DAVIES IN COLLISION
Just before the interval Tunstall delivered a centre that Davies punched away, but in doing so the goalkeeper suffered an injury, Johnson crashing right into him, and play had to be suspended for a moment or two.  This was almost the last incident up to the interval. 
Half-time. Sheffield United 2, Everton 2.
EVERTON SHARE POINTS
SIX GOALS DIVIDED AT SHEFFIELD
Everton resumed with a strong attack, and Dean received an opportunity to add further laurels, but was just a shade too late, and lost the chance.  He was sent through a second time, but Chandler and Harris had evidently made up their minds to give him to loophole.  Both of them concentrated upon him and crowded him out. 
DOMINY CLINCHES DEAN’S DRIVE
The United sandwiched in an attack, and Hart had to pass back to Davies to clear his lines.  From this clearance Everton moved up and scored a third goal.  Dominy was the scorer, but really the palm must go to Dean, for it was the latter’s hefty drive that struck the bar, flew straight up in the air and down to Dominy’s feet, and all that was necessary was for the latter to place it into the net.  Sheffield United were as keen as mustard to rub off the goal deficit and they brought such power to bear that he Everton defence had all its work cut out to prevent the downfall of their goal.  They were successful for a time, but following a fine catch by Davies, from Tunstall, Gillespie’s scheming enabled the United to get their desire. 
EQUALISER BY JOHNSON
Mercer had made a centre, Gillespie findi9ng that he could not do any good by shooting artfully glided the ball to Johnson, who had the easiest of task to score, for he was standing on his own when the ball came to him almost directly in front of the goal.  Irvine was limping, and this, no doubt, was the cause of him falling to score when Dean gave him a perfect opportunity. 
UNFORTUNATE DECISION
There was a noteworthy instance of when a referee should close his eyes to an offence and so not penalize the innocent side.  McDonald held Johnson as he was going through.  Tunstall however, was lying handy, took over Johnson’s pass, and went on to score, but the referee had previously blown for a foul by McDonald, and when the ball was brought back for the free kick Tunstall was unsuccessful as a marksman.  The spectators did not like the decision one little bit, judging by the way they carried on.  Alderson had to make a grand save from Irvine, and when Irvine regained possession he put the ball into the net, but was offside.  Kerr miskicked and Davies had to run out and kick clear to save a goal.  Right on time “Dixie” made a great effort to snatch a victory, and only a brilliant save by Alderman prevented it.  Final; Sheffield United 3, Everton 3. 

EVERTON RES V WOLVERHAMPTON RES
Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, November 6, 1926
At Goodison Park.  For the first hour both sides played with rare seat, but all efforts at good combination were marred by the softness of the turf.  Everton were always the more polished and forceful side, but the Wanderers, in their spasmodic bursts, were repeatedly dangerous, and if Homer had been a little more accurate with his shots Hardy would have had a busy time.  At the other end the Everton attack kept Hampton and his backs busy, and the home side thoroughly deserved the goal scored by Houghton after twenty minutes.  Following a series of raids, wherein both sides had chances, Everton went further ahead, when Kennedy gave to Houghton, and the latter scored with a great shot.  Within a minute, however, Boswell had reduced the lead.  Half-time; Everton Res 2, Wolves Res 1
Everton went further ahead in the second half through goals by Woodhouse, Tyson and Kennedy. 
Final; Everton Res 5, Wolves Res 1. 

SHEFFIELD UNITED STILL SEEKING THE PATH TO VICTORY
Sports Special (Green “UN”) Saturday, November 6 1926
THRILLS AND GOALS GALORE AT THE LANE
RED AND WHITES RALLY TO GET A POINT –DEAN GIVES THEM LOTS OF TROUBLE
SHEFFIELD UNITED 3, EVERTON 3
By Free Lance
After much floundering, Everton found a winning team a fortnight ago.  It was then, at Leeds, that “Dixie” Dean, their young goal-scoring centre-forward, made a welcome return to the League side upon recovery from his most serious motor accident of the summer.  He gave his colleagues confidence.  So this afternoon, at Bramall Lane, Sheffield United face an Everton brigade of greater power and menace than their friends, Wednesday, on September 11th.  However, the United began an upward turned last Saturday, when they drew at Leicester, and a lively tussle was promised.  The supporters naturally wished to see the new men, Albert Chandler and Arthur Mercer.  There were a few pools of water on the field, and it was rather interesting to see the groundsmen removing the cricket covers from the goal areas.  Sheffield United are supposed to be at their best in the mud, and, as there was plenty of it to-day, rain having fallen heavily, their supporters looked for a win.  When the teams turned out, the weather showed signs of clearing.  The teams were;- Sheffield United.- Alderson; Chandler, and Harris; Boyle, King, and Green (G.H.); Mercer (D.), Mercer (A.), Johnson, Gillespie and Tunstall.  Everton; Davies; McDonald and Kerr; Brown, Hart, and Virr, half-backs; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, and Troup.  Referee.- C. E. Lines (Birmingham).   The spectators on the Bramall Lane side soon had a thrill, for Everton had only just kicked off when Dominy put a high, forward pass to Dean, who, racing through, drove a cross-shot of power just wide of the goal.  It was a warning to King. 
CHANDLER SPLENDIDLY BUILT.
Onlookers must have been impressed with the athletic appearance of Chandler, the new United back, who is splendidly built, and who resembles in appearance “Jimmy” Spoors, once of Wednesday.  Exchanges promised to be lively.  Everton were aggressive, and Green did good spoiling work against their right wing.  Once Dean was conspicuous with a good follow-up, in which he prevented the ball from going out with a clever overhead kick.  The ball went to Millington, but the outside-right could not do any damage.  Soon afterwards King slashed the ball well forward to Johnson, and the centre-forward and Kerr went for it.  The result was that it passed to David Mercer, who ran on and, without halting in his stride, delivered a grand drive, the ball almost shaving the crossbar.  United did not get down to things at once, but gradually they found the measure of the visitors and took a hand in assaults.  The right wing began to worry Virr and Kerr, and David Mercer put in another shot.  On the other flank, Tunstall had a “pop,” but was wide. 
“DIXIE” DOES IT.
A free kick, which was questioned, was granted Everton.  Dean took it.  King headed the ball, which flew over the bar; but in the end Chandler headed away from the corner kick.  Then Alderson had to field a long shot from Brown.  In subsequent operations Arthur Mercer was pretty smart with both feet, and the right wing of United’s was giving Kerr opportunities of showing his good strong kicking.  Gillespie next called on Davies with a shrewd shot at the foot of the post.  After 18 minutes Everton took the lead.  DEAN, standing between the backs, received the ball from Dominy, I believe, and from fair range the centre-forward scored with a ground drive near the post, the ball slipping into the net beyond Alderson’s finger tips, with the goalkeeper on the ground.  Green was responsible for some heavy work on the left, which commanded respect, but United weren’t shooting enough against a goalkeeper who was none too convincing.  Tunstall got in one swerving shot, but the ball went over. 
DOMINY GETS NO.2.
Everton were playing useful football, and the policy was “give it to ‘Dixie,’” who was the marksman of the line.  Troup gave him the ball, and Alderson had to save a rasper on his knees.  Johnson tried hard to utilize a cross from Tunstall, but only a corner was won.  Chandler, who frequently had a look to see where his men were placed, did some good tackling against Dean.  However, after 29 minutes, Everton became two goals up.  From a throw-in, well up on the right, the ball was swung over, and DOMINY headed past Alderson like a flash.
UNITED RALLY AND EQUALISE
In the next minute United went away, D. Mercer beat Virr beautifully on the touchline, ran on and centred splendidly.  Everton’s defence was in a tangle, and JOHNSON nipping in, headed a fine goal just as Davies was out of his charge.  The crowd cheered United on, and the Red and Whites now had the rule over Everton.  They ought to have had a penalty, Hart handling in the “box,” but they didn’t get it.  then Arthur Mercer ought to have scored when his brother put the ball across and the inside-right was through, but the goalkeeper was in position, and the shot went to him.  Attack after attack was made by United and their equalizer came after 37 minutes. A long pass from King to Tunstall, then across to Mercer, and a shred return to GILLESPIE, who headed a beautiful goal.
THRILLS AT EACH END
Alderson made a magnificent save from Dean close in, and just before the interval, when Tunstall put over a dangerous centre, Johnson gave Davies a rare check in the ribs and knocked him out after he had fisted the ball away.  Half-time; Sheffield United 2, Everton 2.
United had to face the sun when the game was resumed before about 20,000 people.  They did a lot of good intentional work, but their moves went wrong early on, and, after Chandler had made an admirable back-heel to outwit Dean, Harris made a foolish mistake of putting back to Alderson.  It was nearly a goal, Alderson being a bit lucky to get to the ball before Dean. 
EVERTON IN FRONT AGAIN
Alderson had to clear a shot from Irvine, putting round the post for a corner.  Play was keen, with David Mercer sparkling, as in the first half. It was Everton, however, who scored again, after 52 minutes.  It was really Dean’s goal.  Against two United defenders he showed admirable control and shot, the ball striking the crossbar.  It bounced up, came down, before Alderson could get to it DOMINY had put it into the net. 
GILLESPIE SEES THE WAY
Dean was always dangerous.  He was a fine centre-forward and caused United worry.  After 59 minutes United again drew level.  David Mercer put over into a body of men.  Gillespie got the ball at his feet, but could not see a clear opening for himself and tapped it to JOHNSON, who easily drove past Davies.  Everton were very clever in passing, and all with the one object- putting “Dixie” through.  And it must be said that this centre-forward was remarkably good in anticipation and skill.  Everton kept the ball on the ground better than United.
UNITED’S HARD LUCK
United were unfortunate when a long pass to Johnson, who looked dangerous from a grand position, but McDonald held the centre-forward, so that he could hardly move, though he got the ball somehow to Tunstall, who put the ball into the net.  The referee’s whistle, however, had gone for a foul.  This back, McDonald, had also a habit of handling, and these little tricks were against the spirit of the game.  From the free kick Tunstall shot wide.  Hereabouts United attacked freely, Gillespie and Tunstall playing more like their old selves, but Gillespie missed one sharp chance from one of this wing’s movements, miskicking the ball.  The ball was put into the net eight times when, from a goal-kick by Alderson, the ball was glided back along the ground to Dominy, who was in an offside position.  He netted, but the point was not allowed.  Before the end Alderson did a foolish thing.  Grasping the ball from Troup, he played about and eventually ran right out of the penalty area and lost the ball, but colleagues came to the rescue.  However, a free kick was given against the United, but the ball was put wide. 
Result; Sheffield United 3, Everton  3. 

EVERTON RES V WOLVES RES
The Sports Argus, Saturday, November 6, 1926
AT Everton.  Everton; Hardy; Hamilton, O’Donnell; Rooney, Bain, Reid; Moffatt, Woodhouse, Tyson, Houghton, Kennedy.  Wolverhampton Wanderers Res; Hampton; Caddick, Norgrove; Higham, Charnley, Baker; Homer, Scott, Boswell, Lees, Hann.  Referee; Mr. W. Pinlott.  Heavy rain during the morning made the ground soft, and this seemed to suit the visitors more than the home side.  The Wanderers were the first to attack, but Boswell passed to Lees when a shot might have paid better.  As it was Leeds was robbed by Hamilton.  The home side retaliated by forcing a fruitless corner.  Hampton made good saves from Kennedy and Tyson, but after 18 minutes HOUGHTON put Everton ahead after the “Wolves” defence had been subjected to a long spell of attack.  The game was fast and forceful, but not particularly brilliant.  HOUGHTON scored again for Everton and BOSWELL for the “Wolves.” 
Half-time; Everton 2, Wolves 1.
WOODHOUSE, TYSON and KENNEDY added further goals for Everton.  Result Everton Res 5, Wolverhampton Res 1, 

SHEEFIELD UNITED 3 EVERTON 3
November 8, 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury.
DEAN AGAIN SUCCEEDS.
EVERTON'S STRONG FINISH AT SHEFFIELD.
DOMINY'S GOOD WORK.
To gain a point away from home is considered by most club officials as highly satisfactory, and no doubt there is every justification for thinking so; but is highly probable that those Liverpool people who witnessed Everton's draw at Bramell Lane thought otherwise, for it must not be overlooked that the Goodison Park club were leading 2-0 midway through the first half, and again in the second session. That the United were able to rub off the deficit in each case was due to a slackness in Everton's defence. To be hypercritical on such a day would be most unfair, for the conditions of the ground lent itself to mistakes. Everton's defence made no real serious blunders, but there was not that under standing, which has been apparent in recent weeks, with the result that Sheffield United's right wing was allowed too much latitude, and it must be admitted that this was the danger spot of the side, the Mercer, when in possession, was always a menace, as may be gathered from the fact that it was from his centres that two of the goals were scored.
GOOD FOOTBALL.
Everton for the first twenty minutes played splendid football, and with a little more luck might have been three goals instead of two to the good, for Dean led his line well, and in the first minute was clean through and only a matter of a yard prevented him from scoring. However, Dean's position play was such that it was bound to bring its reward in due course, and when Dominy pushed the ball through to him he beat the whole of the Sheffield defence with but two movements, and slipped the ball well out of reach of Alderson. It was just the sort of goal that Dean delights in, and he got a similar opportunity later on, but Alderson was ready on this occasion. The half-backs and inside forwards were Sheffield's greatest trouble, for Hart and his colleagues by simple little movements drew the defence offering a forward pass. This was good football, and although Mercer shaved the crossbar with a tremendous drive, Everton obtained a second goal when Dominy headed Millington's centre into the net. Then came a complete reversal, Sheffield came to life all in a minute, and in sixty seconds of Dominy's goal, Johnson had scored a similar sort of point from Mercer's centre. Davies came out to intercept the winger's pass only to see it flash beyond him and onto Johnson's head. This was just what the United required. That goal made all the difference, and Gillespie made matters even with a nodding goal, Mercer again being the provider.
EVERTON FIGHTING SPIRIT.
Everton's fighting spirit in recent times has been one of their greatest assets and they set about their business of regaining the lead with a will, and when Dean had beaten Alderson the ball hit the crossbar flew straight up in the air, and down to Dominy, who placed it into the net. Gillespie may have lost some of his speed, but his scheming is still as good as ever. It was the Irish International who gave Johnson the chance to equalise. A deft touch to his left-hand side placed the centre forward in position, and he had little to do in beating Davies. Almost in the last minute Dean nearly snatched a victory. Only a magnificent save by Alderson kept his drive from entering the net. Everton were right on top at the finish.
KERR INJURED.
The best back on the field was Chandler, Kerr received a thigh injury that prevented him doing his best. Hart and Brown were great half-backs. They kept the ball on the ground, whereas the Sheffield halves were prone to loft the ball too much. Millington had an off-day, but Irvine, Dean and Dominy were fine inside forwards. The brothers Mercer were Sheffield's best wing, even though Tunstall came to his game late on. Gillespie, however, was the great schemer of the line. Teams: - Sheffield United: - Alderson, goal, Chandler, and Harris, backs, Boyle, King, and Green, half-backs, D. Mercer, A. Mercer, Johnson, Gillespie, and Tunstall, forwards. Everton: - Davies goal, McDonald and Kerr, backs, Brown, Hart (captain), and Virr, half-backs, Millington Irvine, Dean, Dominy, and Troup, forwards.

EVERTON RESERVES 5 WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS RESERVES 1
November 8 th 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 14)
Poor finishing cost Wolverhampton the loss of a number of goal-scoring opportunities at Goodison Park, where Everton following an invigorating first half, won in the last twenty-five minutes by adding three goals, while Kennedy's penalty kick was saved by Hampton. Wolverhampton during this spell were made to look a moderate side and it was the wonderful work of Hampton in goal that kept the score down. Taken all round, it was a victory well deserved. Bowell, the Wolves centre, was a dangerous and thoughtful forward. Scorers for Everton Houghton (2), Woodhouse, Tyson, and Kennedy, and Browell for the Wolves . Everton: - Hardy, goal, Hamilton, and O'Donnell, backs, Rooney Bain, and Reid, half-backs, Moffatt, Woodhouse, Tyson, Houghton, and Kennedy, forwards.

EVERTON “A” 2 ST. HELENS TOWN 2
November 8 th 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury.
LIVERPOOL COUNTY COMBINATION.
AT Strawberry-lane. The opening half was slightly in Everton's favour. Haspsey giving them the lead. Topping went near with a shot that struck the upright. In the second half Matthews and Topping scored for the Town, and with the best goal of the match Harrison equalised close on time.

EVERTON’S IMPROVEMENT
Liverpool Echo- Monday, November 8, 1926
AT SHEFFIELD
By Stork
The players in the Everton –Sheffield match at Bramall-lane are more to be pitied than blamed for any errors they might have made, for the ground was covered with water, which made football a trying business for all.  Such was the condition of the arena that the cricket pitch coverings were brought into use for the goal area.  This idea might be copied by other clubs, for it is a much better plan than the applications of sawdust, which has a gluey effect when worked up.  Mistakes on such a day must be forgiven and to be hypercritical would be unjust.  Still, Everton would have won if the defence had a better understanding, and not given the right wing too much elbow-room.  Virr and Kerr left matters to each other, and Mercer (David) profited by them, and was the chief factor in wiping off the two-goal lead Everton had gained by superior football.  He it was who made the two centres which were nodded into Davies’ net by Johnson and Gillespie/  up to the scoring of Johnson’s goal the United never promised a goal if exception is made of Mercer’s senior drive, which struck the crossbar, but once they had bitten into Everton’s lead the lust for further goals became apparent in their play, and Dean’s opening goal, which was a peach- he made but two movements after receiving Dominy’s pass before beating Alderson- and Dominy’s header from the right wing, were negative by a second goal by Gillespie.  Those two simple movements by Dean defeated Chandler and Harris as completely as the half-dozen usually desired by the average forward.  It was “Dixie” at his best. 
ARTFUL GILLESPIE
Everton’s first-half display was excellent.  They were superior to the United if only for the fact that their progress was made by deft movements that puzzled the opposition defence.  They did not stay in one ear as they used to do in their tip-tapping days, but went forward, and the grand finale to it all was that Dean was sent clean through time and again, and only some fine saves by Alderman saved his side.  Dominy were fine footballers.  They gave Dean every opportunity with well-placed passes, and when Dominy put on a third goal after Dean had almost cracked the bar with a terrific drive, the small band of Liverpool people who had made the trip were in high feather, but they had forgotten the presence of the artful Gillespie, who was responsible for Sheffield’s equalizer.  Johnson could not help but score from the Irishman’s gliding pass; if he had failed it would have been the miss of the season.  At this point Sheffield were on top, but in the end they were more than thankful to hear the shrill note of the final whistle, for Everton by this time had mastered their advances and had set about snatching a late-on victory, and how near they came to bringing off a coup may be gauged from the fact that Alderson was nearly beaten on two occasion-once by Irvine who had a weak thigh –and again by Dean; but the greatest thrill of all came in the very last minute when Dean side-stepped both Harris and Chandler and sent home a terrific drive to the left-hand side of the goal. 
DO OR DIE
Alderson appeared beaten, and if he had been no blame could have been attacked, for the shot was a scorcher.  It was a case of do or die.  He chose to do, and flinging himself across his goal he just managed to capture the ball as it was speeding over his goal line.  It was the best save of the day, even though Davies had made one point blank range save in the first half.  Davies has a “beautiful pair of hands,” otherwise he would never have caught Johnson’s shot the way he did.  I thought he might have prevented Johnson getting Mercer’s centre, which brought the first goal.  He came out to intercept the centre, but seemed to hesitate just that fraction which meant disaster.  Sheffield people voted it the best game seen this season, and another vote was that Dean was the best centre forward in the land; praise, indeed, coming as it did from a foe.  Chandler, the United new back from Newcastle, should solve one of their important positions.  He tackled well, kicked cleanly, and was the best defender on the field.  Alderson is somewhat risky, but that save in the fleeting moments redeemed him in the eyes of all.  Green, King, and Boyle were not nearly so strong in attack as Brown, Hart, and Virr, even though the last-named was not at his best.  Hart is the wonder man of Everton.  He has brought ideas into the team, and his colleagues are imitating him in keeping the ball on the turf.  Millington played his poorest game since his promotion.  His ankle was not trustworthy, and may have had some effect.  Irvine, Dean, and Dominy were Everton’s greatness in attack.  A point from foreign parts is good business.

EVERTON DIVIDE POINTS AT BRAMALL LANE
Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer-Monday 8, November 1926
TWICE Everton gained a lead by means of skillful football against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane, but on both occasions the United replied with strong attacks which enabled them to draw level, and a fine game ended in a draw of three goals each- a result which fairly represented the merits of the teams.  Despite heavy rain for several hours before the match began, there was an attendance of about 15,000 people.  After 18 minutes’ fast and even play, Dean, whose fine form at centre forward for the visitors was one of the great features of the game, opened the score.  After tricking Harris, he beat Alderson with a shot of great force.  To this fine goal Everton soon added a second, Dominy heading the ball through from a pass by Irvine.  Thus Sheffield found themselves two goals down after 29 minutes’ play.  A minute later, however, they reduced the visitors lead.  Mercer (D.) who played brilliantly on the extreme right, sent across a good centre, from which Johnson cleverly headed through.  Playing with splendid determination, the Sheffielders equalized before half-time, Gillespie heading through from another centre by Mercer (D.).  Everton played delightful football on resuming, and in six minutes regained the lead.  Dean, after beating two opponents, crashed the ball against the bar, and Dominy rushing up scored from the rebound.  United responded with a series of dashing attacks and again a centre by Mercer (D.) provided an opening for Johnson easily to make the score equal.  Remaining play was fast and even as each side fought vainly for a winning goal.  Result; Sheffield United 3, Everton 3. 
Teams
Sheffield United; Alderson, goal; Chandler and Harris, backs; Boyle, King and Green, half-backs; Mercer (D.), Mercer (A.S.), Johnson, Gillespie, and Tunstall, forwards.  Everton; Davies; McDonald and Kerr, backs; Brown, Hart, and Virr, half-backs; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, and Troup, forwards.  Referee; C.E. Lines, Birmingham. 

EVERTON’S STRUGGLE TO ASCEND
Athletic News, Monday, November 8, 1926
SHEFFIELD’S RALLY AFTER BEING TWO GOALS DOWN
SHEFFIELD UNITED 3, EVERTON 3
By Nemo
As become two clubs with lowly positions in the League chart, Sheffield United and Everton fought keenly at Bramall-lane for the valuable points.  In getting one each they had a fair reward for their efforts. If Everton displayed the more polish Sheffield United had the greater virility, as shown by the courageous manner in which they played up after being two goals down in the first half-hour.  The game had been going 18 minutes when Dean, who had previously made several good but unavailing efforts, opened the score. The Everton centre-forward, receiving the ball from the left, hustled Harris, then rounded the United left full-back, and fired fast low shot which eluded and sped just inside the post.  The second goal followed throw-in, Irvine securing the hall and lifting it into the centre for Dominy to head it through.
SWIFT REPLY. 
United’s retaliation was swift and effective, for within a minute Johnson, taking a long centre by David Mercer, turned it into the net.  Neither Alderson nor Davies had the slightest chance of intercepting the ball when thus suddenly diverted by the heads of opponents.  The Sheffielders, supported shouts of encouragement from a crowd reduced to some 14,000 by wet weather, played like a team inspired after reducing the visitors’ lead, and they drew level again.  The ball again went through from the head of a player.  GILLESPIE diverting another of Mercer's centres- from the extreme right past Davies.  It seemed great odds on Dean giving Everton the lead again just before the interval, when he shot point blank from close range, and Alderson by saving, did one of the cleverest things in the  match. The score was two goals each at the interval. After the change ends the Everton forwards played sparkling football, and they had no more than they deserved when in six minutes they regained the lead. Millington, who, having recovered from injury, had resumed his place in the team, superseding Moffatt at outside right, started the successful  movement, and the inside men pressed until Dean sent in a fast drive which struck the bar, and DOMINY dashing in for the rebound got to the ball before Alderson and put it through.  To this United replied with characteris dash, and the Everton defenders, well as McDonald and Virr stood their ground, had all they could do to hold them. Thanks largely to Davies, who made great saves from Johnson and Tunstall, they succeeded for a time, but the persistent pressure of the Sheffield men was rewarded.  A well-combined effort left Johnson with the easiest of chances, and, unhampered, the United centre drove the ball home. This made the score three goals each, and during the remaining thirty-two minutes of earnest endeavour by each side to snatch a winning goal, it remained unaltered.  DEAN’S CLEVERNESS.
A very conspicuous figure was Dean, the Everton centre-forward. His ball control, distribution, and individualism when an opportunity arose to make a dash forward, and a hard drive for goal, usually on the mark, made him the best centre-forward I have seen this season. Another prominent player was David Mercer, the Sheffield outside right, whose speedy runs and perfect centres, two of which led to goals, were the outstanding features in a good match in which no player failed. He had an excellent partner in Arthur Mercer, his younger brother from Bury. Like Chandler, the new full-back from Newcastle, the younger Mercer was making his first appearance before Sheffield crowd, and both pleased. Chandler United seem to have solved a defensive problem. Special praise must also be awarded to the two goalkeepers, Davies and Alderson, who made fine saves. , Sheffield United.—Alderson; Chandler, Harris; Boyle, King, Green; Mercer (D), Mercer (AS), Johnson, Gillespie, and Tunstall.  Everton; Davies; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Hart, Virr; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, and Troup.  Referee; Mr. C.E. Lines, Birmingham. 

A VITAL POINT FOR BOTH CLUBS
The Sheffield Daily Independent, Monday, 8 November 1926
UNITED AND EVERTON IN EXCELLENT FORM
VIRILE FORWARDS
SHEFFIELD UNITED 3, EVERTON 3
By Centre-Forward
From the class of football played at Bramall-Lane, on Saturday, by Sheffield United and Everton one might have imagined that the clubs were contending for the championship of the League instead of both struggling hard for points to hit them from lowly positions in the table on merit.  While the Evertonians played the more polished game there was a virility about the Sheffielders attack which was equally effective and which twice enabled them to recover when being placed behind in the scoring.  Not a man on either side played badly, and Sheffield United’s two new men, Chandler and Mercer (A.S.), who had made their debut at Leicester on the previous Saturday, both deepened the good impression they then made.  Conspicuous, however, above all others were Dean, the Everton centre-forward, and David Mercer, the United outside right, both of whom played very finely. 
EVERTON TWO AHEAD
Rain, which fell freely for a long time before the match, affected the attendance, but happily it ceased before the kick-off, and some 15,000 people enjoyed, a fast and interesting struggle, full of thrilling incidents, and of which the result was never certain until time was called.  After 18 minutes of rapid exchanges on a soft ground, Everton took the lead by means of a fine goal by Dean, who, taking a pass from the left, hustled his way past Harris, and with a fast low drive beat Alderson, the ball passing between the goalkeeper’s hands and the post.  Eleven minutes later the visitors increased their lead.  Following a throw-in on the right.  Irvine swung the ball across, and Dominy meeting it with his head turned it into the net.  Alderson having no chance, so quickly did it flash by him. 
UNITED’S GREAT RALLY
Then it was that United were seen at their best.  Within a minute they had reduced their opponents’ lead of two goals, Johnson cleverly utilizing a centre by David Mercer to head the ball past Davies.  The play of the two Mercers brothers on the right was a noticeable feature of subsequent attacks.  Arthur gave Davies a stinging shot to stop, and David was very prominent with accurate centres.  Seven minutes from half-time one of these centres gave Gillespie an opportunity which the United captain eagerly seized to head a second goal. 
ANYBODY’S GAME
When ends were changed, the Everton forwards, by strong skilful football, gave the home defence a hot time, and in six minutes had regained the lead.  Beating two opponents who challenged him, Dean crashed the ball against the bar, and Dominy following up scored from the rebound.  Again the Sheffielders showed fine ability in playing an uphill game, and good play by David Mercer provided an opening for Johnson, who had no one to hamper him to score.  Strenuously, but vainly, did each side strive for a winning goal, and the game ended in a draw of three goals each.  Such a result was a perfectly fair indication of the merits of two good teams.  One point each was well deserved.  Although each beaten three times, Alderson and Davies both kept goal admirably and made some thrilling saves.  Teams;- Sheffield United; Alderson; Chandler, Harris; Boyle, King, Green; Mercer (D.), Mercer (A.S.), Johnson, Gillespie, Tunstall.  Everton; Davies; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Hart, Virr; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, Troup.  Referee; Mr. C.E. Lines, (Birmingham). 

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL-GOLFER SHOT DEAD
November 9, 1926 Western Daily Press
Falling Stone Discharges Gun
The tragic death is reported of John Fulton, professional at Paisley golf course. Appearances suggest that he was out rabbit shooting and that when crossing a wall, a coping stone gave way and the gun went off, the shot entering his head. Fulton was also a well-known professional footballer and had played for Everton, Rangers, and St. Mirren.

DEAN SELECTED FOR FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION.
November 9th, 1926. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
Dean, after three first division matches following injury, has attracted the notice of the F.A selections, and the young Everton centre-forward has been selected to play in the F.A team, to oppose the Staffordshire F.A, at Wolverhampton on Monday next, the occasion being the jubilee of the Staffordshire F.A.

HONOUR FOR DEAN
Liverpool Echo-Tuesday, November 9, 1926
Bee’s Notes
Dixie Dean, after three First Division games following his injury, has attracted the notice of the F.A. selections, and the young Everton centre-forward has been selected to play in the F.A team to oppose the Staffordshire F.A., at Wolverhampton on Monday next, the occasion being the jubilee of the Staffordshire Football Association.  The side chosen is; Brown (The Wednesday); Goodall (Huddersfield Town), Wadsworth (Huddersfield Town)(Capt); Edwards (Leeds United), Seddon (Bolton Wanderers), Green (Sheffield United); Spence (Manchester United), Brown (Huddersfield), Dean (Everton), Cross (Burnley), Ruffell (West Ham United).  Reserves to travel Keen (The Wednesday) and Kelly (Sunderland). 

FRENCH TO PLAY FOR RESERVES
November 10, 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury.
In their centre league match against Aston Villa on Saturday Everton are introducing another ‘'A'' team centre-forward in French, who hails from St Helen's District. He is an amateur who has been with the club about six weeks and has made considerable progress.

UNDER COVER
Falkirk Herald-Wednesday 10, November 1926
To accommodate 41,800 persons under cover is now the proud boast of Everton F.C., whose latest addition to the ground scheme at Goodison Park is a massive double-decker stand, replete with tip-up chairs, etc, for the comfort of the club followers.  Goodison is now something unique as these two-tier stands now range themselves along three sides of the ground. 

EVERTON A SETTLED SIDE
Liverpool Echo-Wednesday, November 10, 1926
Bee’s Notes
EVERTON UNCHANGED
Everton meet Derby County at Goodison Park on Saturday, kick-off at 2.45 and in view of their good form at Sheffield the supporters of the club will turn out in strong force in the expectation of seeing an attractive game for Derby County demonstrated last Saturday by defeating Leicester City 4-1 that they are a strong side.  The Everton team is; Davies; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Hart, Virr; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, Troup.  In their Central League match against Aston Villa at Aston, on Saturday Everton are introducing another “A” team centre forward in French, who hails from the St. Helens district.  He is an amateur who has been with the club about six weeks and has made considerable progress.  The team is;- Hardy; Raitt, O’Donnell; Bain, Reid; Moffatt, Woodhouse, French, Houghton, Kennedy. 

EVERTON TOFFEE-SHOP
Liverpool Echo –Thursday, November 11, 1926
My letter of the 30th ult, stated that the picture shown in your issue of October 28 was not that of the original Everton toffee shop, and whilst thanking your correspondents, Mr. Parr and “Evertonian,” for the additional information given in their letters saying that I am wrong, I still maintain that I am right.  Picton knew little about the matter, in >Memorials” making more of the fact that the compounder of the recipe of the toffee was unknown (which was wrong) than of the site of the shop.  Stonehouse and the L and C Soc, for this purpose are one; therefore the authorities are reduced to Stonehouse, Syers, and Herman.  Stonehouse, in his paper (L and C., vol IV. page 71); gives a poor view of the shop, but sufficiently clear to prove that the picture under discussion is incorrect.  Herdman, in the Relics, gives a good picture of Everton-village and points out Molly Bushell’s shop.  This picture shows that the building is the one standing to-day, and here again is positive proof that your picture is wrong! Your picture shows a two-gabled front and four irregular windows on the two upper floors, whereas the Stonehouse and Herdman pictures show end gables, a straight gutter front, and ten regular windows.  Quite a different building.  Mr. Parr quotes from the Stonehouse Paper of 1852, but ceases to quote at the point where it begins to be interesting.  Stonehouse goes on after the except given.  “It’s place (of the old cottage) is now occupied by the Parish Office.” That building stands opposite the reputed Molly Bushell original Toffee Shop, therefore, Mr. Parr, “Evertonian” and the sender of the picture in question must admit that of their three authorities two are actually proof of the fact that the picture is wrong and never was the Everton Toffee Shop.- W. HEATON WAKEFIELD. 

TO-DAY’S SPORT WIRE
Liverpool Echo-Thursday, November 11, 1926
DERBY COUNTY UNCHANGED AGAINST EVERTON
As Stone is still nursing a knee injury, he will again be absent from the Derby County team to meet Everton, which will thus be the same as defeated Leicester City so decisively;- Olney; Cooper, Crilly; McLaverty, Thoms, Donaghy; Thornwell, Gill, Bedford, Murphy, Mee. 

TOMORROW AT GOODISON PARK
Liverpool Echo-Friday November 12, 1926
Bee’s Notes
It has been a Derby week in more than a racing way, for have we not the first visit to this city of Derby County after a period of long, anxious years of worry and work in the baseball ground area?  Derby County used to be THE name of football fame, due to Steve Bloomer, of Cradley Heath, &c.  But, like many another old-time club, they fell upon evil days through living in the past instead of reaching towards the future, and it has taken them a generation to get back.  I do not forget the last time Everton met Derby County; it was in a cup-tie in the days of Harris, Beare, and company, and the County gave Everton a frightful hiding. 
THE TURN
However, since then Everton have run into shoals of trouble and the tide has been severely against them.  The turn of that tide arose when Dean turned up and took his accustomed place.  The remarkable thing about the Dean revival is, first, that he should be able to play so soon; second, that he should create a confidence unheard of in the other players by his appearance; and third, and best of all, that he shows no sign of having lost his own confidence nor yet his shooting boots, which are shining brightly.  Dean’s reappearance at the homeland to-morrow against Derby County will lead to another massive attendance, for the compelling nature of the game (in view of Everton’s two recent wins and a draw) makes it impossible for ardent Evertonians to absent themselves even with a race meeting in opposition. For my part I think if Everton’s defence and half-backs can grip Murphy and company the game at Goodison will lead to another valuable “outcrop” and will tend to make Goodison stock rise still further.  There is a long way to go, but it is essential that home games should be won.  Here’s to them when the following teams line up.  Everton; Davies; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Hart, Virr; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, Troup.  Derby County; Olney; Cooper, Crilly; McLaverty, Thoms, Donaghy; Thornwell, Gill, Bedford, Murphy, Mee. 
GOODISON MUSIC
The programme of music at Goodison Park by the Aigburth Silver Prize Band (conductor, Mr. H. Wearing) will be;- Contest march, “Knight Templar”: waitz, “Felicity”; “Moonlight and Roses”; selection, “Anna Bolena”; waltz, “Always”; foxtrot, “Night”; march, “The Pirate King.” 

DERBY COUNTY AT GOODISON PARK
November 13 th 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury.
Derby County renew acquaintance with Everton at Goodison Park and today's match is likely to compare favourably with many of the great battles which have gone before. The teams representing the clubs at present have both jumped into their stride at the same time, and if Everton can win today they will have accomplished a noteworthy feat. There is no doubt that Dean has united the forward line, which makes the vanguard a real attacking force. His three previous games have imparted to the Birkenhead player his old confidence he may be expected to still further enhance his reputation. Hart at centre-back, too, has had much to do with the improved form of the team, and he will today have a further opportunity of checking a centre-forward with a scoring reputation. Derby County's victory over Leicester was a convincing piece of work, and they will be out to achieve further honours today. The kick off is at 2-45, and the teams are: - Everton: - Davies; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Hart, Virr; Millington, Irvine, Dean Dominy, and Troup. Derby County: - Olney; Cooper, Crill; McLaverty, Thonis Donagby; Thornewell, Gill, Bedford, Murphy, and Mee.

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, November 13, 1926
By Louis T. Kelly

BEE’S WEEKLY DIARY
Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, November 13, 1926
CHEDGZOY CHEWS THE CHUD
“COUGH AND SAY 99”
BREWSTER AMONG THE PRESENTS
Just before the end of the first time of the New Bedford-Newark game Chedgzoy was seen to stop short after a desperate effort to keep the ball from going across the line into his corner.  Then he began to pound his chest and turned almost purple in the face.  It looked as if he was seriously hurt, and the trainer started out with pell and sponge.  Chedgzoy gave several gasps and coughs and up came his wad of chewing gum which had lodged in his threat.  Sam knows how to “cough and say 99” he was in the Guards!
Stan Fazackerley had a similar “sticky” experience at Goodison Park some years ago. 
George Brewster, the former Everton captain, has been among the presents.  He has been honoured by the Inverness Caledonian Club (he is player-coach).  The presentation took the form of a gold watch.  Caldonian have had a good season, having gone into the semi-final of the Scottish qualifying Cup. 

EVERTON V DERBY COUNTY
Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, November 13, 1926
CONQUERERS OF LEICESTER TRY THEIR HAND AT GOODISON PARK
STORK’S STORY OF THE GAME
DEAN REDUCES COIUNTY LEAD BEFORE THE INTERVAL
Everton; Davies; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Hart, Virr; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, Troup.  Derby County; Olney; Cooper, Crilly; McLaverty, Thoms, Donaghy; Thornewell, Gill, Hart, Murphy, Mee.  Referee; Mr. H.E. Hull, of Burnley.  The absence of Bedford was a sore disappointment to the Derby contingent.  Hart, who took his place, is a Marsfield boy, who was making his first appearance in the senior side this season.  All matters considered, there was quite a good ring of spectators, and they witnessed a brisk opening.  Derby made one rapid raid, which was forestalled by Kerr, and following this incident, Dean showed the home spectators of what he is capable. 
A PLUG IN DERBY’S DEFENCE
He received a pass from Dominy, found he could not go forward, so promptly headed it back to his colleagues, a movement which opened out an avenue to the Derby goal, for Dominy returned the ball to Dean, who might have tried a long effort himself if he had felt so inclined, but he had other ideas.  Troup was his objective, but before the ball reached the wee fellow, the Derby defence had stepped in and cut the idea right out.  The fire that Everton displayed during the early moments was just as astonishing as it was pleasing, and when Millington, with a carefully-thought-out plan, had beaten Crilly to pieces and closed in, he had the misfortune to find his shot cannon out.  The Derby forwards had thus far had little chance to display their wares, but when Thornwell, a fast and clever outside right, received his first opportunity, he made the best possible use of it, despite interference by Kerr. 
HART’S PROMISING START
The referee allowed the winger to proceed and finish with a strong shot that Davies pushed across the face of his goal.  Hart, the Derby player, however, was right up with the play, and promptly flung himself at Davies’ clearance to put the ball into the Everton goal at the end of five minutes play.  The goal, however, did not have any disheartening effect on Everton.  Quite the reverse; and for a long period Everton were complete masters of the whole of the Derby side, with the exception of the defence.  Troup, offered Dean a chance, which he put wide, and when Irvine made a fierce drive, following good work by Millington.  Olney was lucky to have given away a goal.  His catch of Irvine’s shot was splendid, but he created a mild sensation when he dropped the ball on his goal-line and only prevented it from rolling over the line at the last second. 
STORY OF THE SECOND GOAL
Everton’s football was undoubtedly worth a goal.  There was much more craft in it, and it was only lacking the final shot to have rubbed off the early goal.  As it happened, it was Derby who scored the second goal, and a fluky goal at that.  But Thornewell cannot be blamed for the errors of others.  What actually happened was this- Thornwell, finding himself in a scoring position, took a chance, and Davies was right underneath the spot as it came to him, but to everybody’s surprise, he simply edged it over his head and into the net.  It was a terrible blunder, even allowing for the greasy ball, which makes errors come easily to goalkeepers.  Had not Olney committed one?
PRETTY WITHOUT POINT
To be behind 2-0 at the end of 20 minutes was an injustice to Everton’s football, for they were infinitely a better collection of footballer than Derby, who believed in the big hit and run type of game.  Still, goals are the deciding factor.  Everton had desperate luck in front of goal, and it must be admitted that Derby’s tactics in defence were not always above board.  They stopped at nothing in the defence of their goal, Millington, in particular, having to suffer many hard knocks.  Kerr was at fault in timing a ball, but was let off by the Derby forwards.  Olney was also let off when Troup got right across the face of the goal, and headed straight at it, but the miss of the day so far was one by Irvine.
A TAME EFFORT
A simple touch by Dean so placed the Irishman that he could have gone on another half dozen steps before shooting.  In any case, to shoot from where he received the pass seemed an easy matter, and I feel sure most people would have gambled on his scoring, instead of which he lobbed the ball tamely over the bar.
DEAN DRIVES IN
The Derby defence had a charmed life, and such luck could not go on for all time, and when Troup decided to pass inward to Dominy instead of shooting, it was a nice decision, for it meant a goal.  Dominy, in turn, tapped the ball further inward to Dean, who simply shot into the net.  This was practically the last feature of the half. 
Half-time; Everton 1, Derby County 2.
The rain cleared for the second half, and the conditions were better for both players and spectators.  Everton resumed in determined fashion, but Olney was without work for all that.  Murphy and Hunter Hart were concerned in an action which brought words of warning from the referee.
COOPER BESET
Cooper, the Derby right back considering he was the selection for the English League, had an unhappy time against Dominy and Troup.  He was not at all convincing.  Everton’s ill-luck still clung to them, for when Dominy made a lob shot when Olney was out of his goal, it was only good fortune which enabled Crilly to step into the breach and head away as the ball was dropping over the line.  Twelve minutes of the half had elapsed without Davies having anything to do, but we were still awaiting the equalizing goal.  Millington made an effort to satisfy the desire of the spectators, but found his shot turn over the bar.  A much better effort was made by Dean a moment later, this time Olney being on the qui-vive and saving smartly.  Everton were still the superior force, and when Dean slipped between the backs he seemed a likely scorer.  His shot was right on the mark, but Olney had a wisely left his goal and just managed to get his hand to the ball to turn it over. 
EVERTON GOING UP
PREVENT DERBY’S FIRST AWAY WIN
How the game went may be imagined from the fact that the Derby defence kicked out at every moment, and it was only a matter of time ere Everton got on level terms.  Such pressure as they brought to bear was bound to tell its tale, and when Dominy slipped a pass to the inside right position, where Irvine was at the moment.  It meant a goal, for Irvine made no mistake with his shot.  Dominy had played well throughout.  His passes into the middle were just the kind that a player requires. 
VIRR NOTCHES THE THIRD
The Derby centre forward, Hart, was injured, and had to leave the ground for a moment, returning with a decided limp.  With ten minutes remaining for play, Everton took the lead for the first time.  It was a long shot by Virr which did the trick.  Olney leaving his goal only to find the ball travelling above him and into the net.  Everton had made a great recovery, and on general play were deserving of the two points.  Derby have yet to win their first match away from home. 
Final; Everton 3, Derby County 2. 

EVERTON 3 DERBY COUNTY 2
November 15 th 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury.
A FINE RECOVERY.
EVERTON WIN IN SECOND HALF.
HARD-FOUGHT GAME.
Everton were fully entitled to the measure of satisfaction and the points they extracted from their game with Derby County at Goodison park on Saturday. They won by 3 goals to 2 after a hard fight. Derby actually led by two clear goals after twenty minutes' play yet Everton played with such keenness, determination, and skill than they well deserved the points. From first to last the game was fought with great earnestness; indeed, it might truthfully be said that Derby frequently applied themselves too vigorously to their task, with the result that they neglected the finer points of the game. Everton were much the better footballers, and but for the chances they missed early on they would certainly have won with greater ease. It was thrilling football, and while the County had some good fortune in the early stages, Everton had none. For instance, when the County scored their second goal, Davies made a mistake –a rare thing for him to do, and in view of the fact that he played so well afterwards it would have been little short of a tragedy had Davies mistake cost Everton the game.
OLNEY'S SAVES.
While Davies blundered Olney in the County goal had more than one stroke of luck. Once he dropped the ball after stopping the shot, and only just scrambled it away as it was rolling over the goalline. Again, when Irvine drove the ball over the bar from six yards' distance Olney must have been grateful. At the same time, Olney made some wonderful saves, and even with a damaged hand, sustained in making a daring save, he did remarkably well. One of his best efforts was a partial save when Dean beat the defence and shot hard and true what time Olney from an advanced position shot up his hands and tipped the ball over the bar. Without doubt Everton played the more attractive football. There was more polish and skill in their movements, yet the County occasionally came into the picture with telling raids and clever practical footwork. They have still to win their first game away from home. The Everton backs had to accept much hard work because the County forwards never stood on ceremony. They swung the ball about in what, to the Everton defenders, must have been very disconcerting fashion. Both McDonald and Kerr were often puzzled by the County's unorthodox, and hardly stood the test successfully. The half-backs, however, played a level game, and if they did not completely master the opposition, they were rarely beaten. Hart was a tower of strength in the centre, and was admirably supported by Brown and Virr. The forwards made a capital line.
MASTERLY DEAN.
Dean was masterly in the centre. He led the line with skill and judgement distributing the play efficiently and shooting with accuracy. Both Irvine and Dominy made excellent inside forwards, while Millington played better and more effectively than in previous games. Troup was prominent with clever raids and strong shooting. The County backs were far from reliable and the half-backs were good only in defence. The forwards were more practical than scientific. Their smart bustling methods, however, enabled them to developed many dangerous movements, and Thornewell and Gill made a capital wing. The goal scorers were Hart (5 minutes), Thormewell (21 minutes), Dean (42 minutes), Irvine (67 minutes), Virr (80 minutes). Teams: - Everton: - Davies, goal, McDonald and Kerr, backs, Brown, Hart (*captain), and Virr half-backs, Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, and Troup, forwards. Derby County: - Olney, goal, Cooper, and Crilly backs, McLaveny, Thom, and Donaghy, half-backs, Thornwell, Gill, Hart, Murphy, and Mee, forwards.

ASTON VILLA RESERVES 0 EVERTON RESERVES 1
November 15 th 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 15)
At Aston. Moffatt and Woodhouse were dangerous for the visitors, the former's pass enabling O'Donnell to score the only goal. The Villa gave a disjoined display, and apart from a period in the first half, were subdued in combination. Bain, the visiting centre-half, excelled in attack and defence, while the backs cleared with more judgement than the opposition. French was an enterprising centre forward for Everton . Everton: - Hardy, goal, Raitt and O'Donnell, backs Rooney, Bain, and Reid, half-backs, Moffatt, Woodhouse, French, Houghton, and Kennedy, forwards.

EVERTON TOFFEE SHOP
Liverpool Echo-Monday, November 15, 1926
Having read with interest the different views on the above subject by your readers, which have been appearing in your paper for some few days now, we should like to state that both Mr. Parr and “Evertonian’s” knowledge of the subject is correct.  Many people think that Mrs. Cooper’s shop was the original, simply for one thing, that they have seen more prints and pictures of this particular shop than of Village-street; and again, artists have been putting the name over the doorway as the “Original Everton Toffee Shop,” which naturally has given some that impression.  The history of Everton toffee and the original Everton toffee shop are quite interesting, but it would take too much of your valuable space to be detailed.  The late Mr. Leonard Noblett bought the property and business from Molly Bushell’s descendants, together with her recipes.  We understand that Mrs. Cooper was an assistant of Molly Bushell, and she started business on her own account at Browside a few years prior to Molly’s death.- NOBLETTS LIMITED.

EVERTON’S RALLYING NOTE
Liverpool Echo-Monday, November 15, 1926
By Stork
Derby County have not won away from home this season, although they have several remarkable feats to their credit at the Baseball ground.  At one time at Goodison Park it looked as if that unenviable record would be broken, for they obtained a two-goal lead in twenty minutes.  To the pessimist it was a terrible handicap; but while I admit that two goals require a mighty effort, it was not beyond Everton, judging them on their play.  Everton played much the superior football in every respect but one, of finding the net; but goals were bound to come in time despite the good fortune of the Derby full backs, who were not impressive, and it only required a change of luck to find them at sea once Everton determined to shoot accurately.  That Derby held their lead until the forty-fourth minute was in no way due to either Crilly’s or Cooper’s defence, but to that of Olney, the goalkeeper, and Everton’s own failings in front of goal.  On the run of the play Everton should have been two goals to the good ere Derby had notched a point, for Dean, Troup, and Irvine had opportunities, but failed to take them.  However, as so often happens, the overplayed side went on to score what must be considered a lucky goal; but Hart.  Bedford’s deputy, must be given credit for his determination effort when heading Davies’ clearance into the net.  The conditions and the greasy ball were conductive to mistakes, and when Thornewell, a fast and clever outside right, took a chance shot which bore on considerable pace Davies made his first real blunder since he came into the side-it was a catastrophe.  Davies left his goal and got his hands to the ball, and turned it upwards, evidently in the belief that he had safely put it over his crossbar.  Had he forgotten that he was some yards out?  It appeared like it, for the ball simply rose over his hands and into the net.
THE WILL TO WIN
Two goals down would have put the finishing touch to Everton at one stage of the season, but not nowadays.  They have found a fighting spirit from somewhere, and the deficit only made them hit back with greater power, and their football was surely worth goals if Derby’s was; but if the ball cannot be lodged in the net when the chance offers itself, then the best football in the world goes for nought, so far as league position is concerned.  Dean. Troup, and Irvine had scoring opportunities, but the greatest chance of all came to the last named, who was put right in front of goal by an effective, yet simple pass by Dean.  Irvine could either have shot instantly or gone on a few steps if he wanted to make certain.  He elected to try a lib.  The result was disheartening, the ball going over.  During this time Derby’s attack was not allowed to strike any further terror in our hearts, but at the same time their spasmodic raids were always a danger.  Their dashing tactics in defence we=re sometime unwarranted.  They did not stand on ceremony, and some of the Everton players will carry the scars of battle for a few days.  As a matter of fact, there was one period when some spirit entered the game, and Hunter Hart and Murphy were called over the coals (if any) by the referee.  At last the tide changed, and Dominy, who is playing a constructive type of game, gave Dean some wonderful chances; and it was his work along with Troup that enabled Dean to keep his goal per match record intact, and reduce the lead just on the interval.
THE BIG THREE
It is rather a coincidence since Dean’s return to the playing field Everton have scored three goals in each of their games; and although there were some doubting Johnnies present who questioned their ability to do so again, I was not one of them, for I could see little in Derby’s football to give me “nerves.” During the interval one of the scribes said; “Derby have not won away from home.” O replied; “They will not win to-day either.”  Everton justified my statement by attacking practically throughout the second half, and pulled off a spanking victory. I very much doubt if Derby’s shooters had a shot at Davies; and when Dominy with another subtle inside pass for Irvine to equalize Everton were winners, Derby saw the writing on the wall, and tried all they could to hold on to a half share, even to the extent of slashing the ball out of play under any provocation.  It was Olney who kept the game warm until the end, for he made a mighty save from Dean which brought the house down.  A division of the spoils was not equitable with the play, and when Virr took a long shot in the fading light, Olney brought about his own downfall by paying too much attention to Dean and not enough to the ball, which travelled over his head and into his goal.  Everton had won, but there was just one dying kick left in the Derby attack, and but for a magnificent save by Davies, who redeemed himself for his earlier mistake, Hart would have equalized.  The better side had deservedly won. 

LIVERPOOL SENIOR CUP
Liverpool Echo-Monday, November 15, 1926
Bee’s Notes
The meeting of Liverpool and Everton in the above competition at Anfield, on Wednesday, is rendered doubly attractive as a result of their close positions in the League table, and all indications points to a close and keen contest.  The public have always taken a strong interest in the destiny of the local cup during the forty-four years the competition has been in existence, and as each club has now the privilege of placing their best available strength on the field-instead of, as formerly, only reserve sides- the contest is made doubly attractive and an exciting game is assured.  The winners meet New Brighton in the final.

JACK McGILL
Liverpool Echo-Monday, November 15 1926
WELL-EARNED
Bee’s Notes
An interesting event took place at a meeting of the council of the Liverpool County F.A., when Mr. John McGill received, at the hands of Mr. D.S. Lamont, the association long service medal.  The recipient is one of “ancients” so far as local football is concerned, coming to Liverpool in the early eighties as a player of Everton (in those days operating in Stanley Park), and was famed as a centre forward of no mean order.  After doing yeoman service for his club he became a “knight of the whistle,” and later ungrudgingly gave his time, ability, and experience to the government of the game in the district.  He joined the association in 1905, and his record for attendance and faithfulness to his duties would be hard to beat.  Quiet and unassuming in manner, “Jack” has always been a warm favourite with all connected with the game, and his many friends support the hope expressed by Mr. T. Edwards, J.P., the president, that he may long be spared to enjoy the honour he has just received. 

EVERTON SURVIVE THE DERBY SHOCKS. 
Athletic News –Monday, November 15, 1926
TWO GOALS DEFICIT RETRIEVED AND THEN THE STRATEGIC MASTERY:
EVERTON 3 DERBY COUNTY 2
Tis pity, pity 'tis, true, that Everton have to subserve their distinguished football competency as events dictate. I know Everton of long ago.  This was a transformation against Derby County. Not altogether could the traditions be quelled and sunk, but it was clearly enough an impression urgency to the goal, with for some time nothing more definite than the frailty before the goal for which the side has long been criticised.  I have seen Everton play many a better game and lose it. The present justification is the steady advance up the League table. In their flurry, hurry and scurry Everton became two goals in arrears.  The holding ground and the slippery ball struck me applicable to Everton’s wonted capacity for apt ball mastery and intuitive manoeuvre, both by the player in possession and taking up position for the pass. As I say, Everton cannot help doing these things. They are bred in the Park atmosphere. 
DEFT AND DIRECT. 
Most piquant of spectacles, however.  Though virile and voracious, Derby County, without their centre-piece Bedford, were an object-lesson to their hosts in open deployment with the ball on the ground. A forward went to meet a long pass, and immediately swerved away with it, then to make the transfer directly opposite to that anticipated the defence.  Also in this way the half-backs negatived the tackle, but the astute variation was notable on the wings and pronounced on the right, from whence emanated the County s two goals. Double the toll would not have done injustice to the concert of McLaverty, Gill, and ThornewelL As the last-named scored once and made the other goal perhaps one ought not to critical of what he missed.  It may seem misplaced lamentation of all the greatness that was Everton’s in view of their victory when nothing appeared more certain that Derby County would gamer something in an away game for the first time. Again, the Merseyside contingent were shocked to the core by a deficit of two goals. They are to be admired for their spirit in fighting back, and if they were fortunate in their decisive goal, no less can be said of Derby’s second shaft.  In a game when sent the pulse racing by its rapid interchange and its intervals of individual and collective craftsmanship, the balance of attack was decidedly with the winners, and no injustice at the finish.  They came into their kingdom with the equalizing goal.  Everton, indeed, might have been accounted unlucky by their friends in that they had no reward until the verge of the interval.  But much of their misfortune can be explained by the dominance of Derby’s defence, and the rest to the shortcomings of the extreme wing forwards.  This is the age of opportunity for the outside attackers who can train a ball on the goal.  The failure of Millington and Troup in this respect can easily and unfairly be reflected upon the inside units, and most of all on Dean. 
SHOCKS TO THE SYSTEM
At all events the ball slide beside and across the Derby posts what time Thornewell performed his characteristic double back.  This time there was also a side-step inward a yard or two of progress, a shot which Davies did well to repel and a headlong throw of HART’S body which diverted the ball just inside the post.  Once again the Derby right flank had half-backs and backs doubling on their tracks, and THORNEWELL coming to inside right, drove high at Davies, the only excuse to be offered for the goalkeeper allowing the ball to fall behind him being its greasy condition.  When Troup and Dominy each failed to give the ball dispatch, DEAN stepped in, almost apologetically, and gave his side a new hope for the second half.  Subsequently it was case of Dean, the daring, and Olney, the omnipotent.  The centre-forward suddenly swung and shot, but Olney was there, nothing like so spectacularly, however, as when Dean went through and smashed the ball on the run. Olney’s arm shot and the ball winged over the bar. Still this Jove nodded.  A pretty exchange between Dean and Irvine, and the latter equalised; while in the evening shades VIRR was as surprised anyone else to find long dropping ball missed the goalkeeper. 
THE GREAT RECOVERY. 
Davies prevented at least two great efforts to put Derby on terms. So the custodians acquitted themselves admirably, and yet tamely surrendered a goal each. The County were very solid in defence all round, with the suggestion of a loophole down the middle, where an early injury to Thoms emphasized his difficulty with Dean. Crilly was the sleek athlete, generally coolly assured, but always ready for extra ounce of energy. Cooper is inclined to hit the ball hard when he has time to place it, but his tackling has discernment, so that I am not surprised that he is working his way into the selectors’ affections.  Now, for judicious back play, commend to McDonald, who know the difference between meeting a desperate situation and the occasion for tranquil dispossession and a productive return.  A foil to him was the keen thrust of Kerr. The merits of Donaghy and  McLaverty, the Derby wing half-backs, were more conclusive on the surface, because Brown and Virr did not get the same results as came from the rival wings. Derby had a well-balanced attack, unsparing in effort, in which Gill was leading schemer.  The revival of Everton since the advent of Dean is not coincidence. I was prepared to find him on the retiring side.  Instead I am more than ever convinced that this youth an England centre-forward now. William Ralph Dean—a truce the soubriquet implying a woolly-haired Virginian—has the true sense of position; the deft foot for collaboration and shot; the versatile head; and as a means of utilising these virtues—a supreme confidence in himself.  Everton; Davies; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Hart (H), Virr; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, and Troup.  Derby County; Olney; Cooper, Crilly; McLaverty, Thoms, Donaghy; Thornewell, Gill, Hart (L), Murphy, and Mee.  Referee; H.E. Hull, Burnley. 

DEAN PLAYS FOR F.A.
November 16 th 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury
Dean scores two for the F.A side, against staffordshire, who were beaten 6-4

EVERTON AND LIVERPOOL IN A CUP-TIE
Liverpool Echo-Tuesday, November 16, 1926
Bee’s Notes
Tomorrow we are to have a view of Everton and Liverpool in opposition at 2.30 in the Liverpool Senior Cup semi-final.  The winners meet New Brighton, who beat Tranmere 4-3, and, as the bonus has changed the whole outlook of the football life, one can see that the game to-morrow, apart from the general needle character of all Blue and Red meetings, will bear a grueling character.  The bonus has led every player to desire to play in every game from start to the finish of the season; hence the game to-morrow must be a half-holiday draw, and I doubt not that the sides will be chosen with a view to future league events.  In the Anfield side we shall doubtless see a testing time for certain players, and down the middle of the field we shall see George N. White, the ubiquitous, handling the game and proving my claim that he-at whatever ago it may be-is fitter and faster than many, or most of the referees of to-day, who are not barred by the age-clause.  Never was the game so fast, never was there a greater need for speedy and lasting referees who can keep up with the game. 
GOOD DIXIE
The match at Wolverhampton served to show that there will be a keen race for honours between Dixie Dean and Briggs, both of whom were having their first representative run with an F.A team.  Dean got a couple of goals and played very well indeed, and the same remark applies to the standard of play served up by Briggs.  The pair of them made a deep impression, and we shall look to the next F.A team sheet with a special interest.  Kelly came into the team through an absentee and though clever he hardly “conduced” combination. 

EVERTON AND LIVERPOOL EXPERIMENTS
Liverpool Echo-Wednesday, November 17, 1926
Bee’s Notes
The teams chosen for the Derby Day game to-day, at Anfield, produce some curiosities, most notable of all being the choice of “Duke” Hamilton, of Wallasey, as a centre forward, whereas he is remembered chiefly as a full back.  Then there is the choice of Gordon Hodgson as inside left.  These are the teams;-
Liverpool; Riley; Done, Mackinley; McDade, Cockburn, Pratt; Edmed, Scott (T), Reid, Hodgson, Clark.  Everton; Hardy; Raitt, O’Donnell; Peacock, Bain, Rooney; Parker, Woodhouse, Hamilton, Houghton, Moffatt. 

REID’S EARLY GOAL FOR LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Echo-Wednesday, November 17, 1926
By Bee
The weather was fine; the experiments were not prime; there were two smart men on the line, and the referee was George White, at the Anfield game between Everton and Liverpool for the Liverpool Senior Cup semi-final.  The winners meet New Brighton, and as compared with the team sheet issued.  French of the “A” team played for Hamilton, a full back who is supposed to be making a trial trip at centre forward.
REID GOALS
Liverpool scored in ten minutes through Reid, Edmed making the running.  Hardy’s save off his shot went out to Edmed, who centred, and Reid scored with a header.  Parker the amateur from Stalybridge and T. Scott reappeared after severe leg trouble, and Liverpool were the chief attackers.  Hodgson went close with ground shots delivered from his new position of inside left.  Peacock made a dour solo run and Hardy beat out a fast one from Scott.  Play was even and keen, and Everton improved, although their small forward line had not a great chance against the stern Liverpool defenders.  Similarly Rooney, Bain, and Peacock made a secure half back line against the Liverpool forwards.  Houghton was clever and inclined to roam, but was not shy of a shot, and Reid’s centre-forward work was constructive and he kept a very sound position. 
BALL STEALS IN
Riley had plenty of balls to pick up, but none so far had any pace, and many were for goal kicks.  Hodgson paired off with Carr in a movement that brought a surprise goal to Liverpool, the ball stealing in.  The best shot of the day came from Woodhouse, Riley making a brilliant punch-away. 
Half-time; Liverpool 2, Everton 0. 
Before the finish Peacock and Rooney tested Riley, but found him safe. 
WOODHOUSE
After Clarke had missed an ease chance, he and Raitt continued their loggerheads act, and Raitt called upon the referee to say choice words to the Sion Kop audience.  Woodhouse made the score 2-1, with a shot which Riley was just too late to reach.  At this stage the foggy atmosphere began to increase.  A penalty kick for hands was taken by D. Bain and Riley saved by going over to the right and finding the ball hit his legs.  Everton enjoyed the major portion of the second half, and got their just reward when Woodhouse scored a good goal.  Prior to this the referee had cause to speak to McDade for ungentlemanly conduct.  Final; Liverpool 2, Everton 2.

LIVERPOOL RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 2
November 18 th 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury
LIVERPOOL SENIOR CUP SEMI-FINAL
Liverpool and Everton drew at Anfield yesterday before 6,000 spectators in the semi-final of the Liverpool Senior Cup. The game was hard, keen, and even, and the result was an equitable one. Liverpool had the better of the play in the first half, and Everton most of the second half, and the game finished in a rallying fashion, two saves by Riley being of a first-class character. Prior to that Liverpool had played in what one might term almost too confident a manner. They imagined they had little to overcome, whereas the Everton half-back line was so good in defence, and so sure in purveying passes that they had no great justification for easing off.
TWO GOALS FOR WOODHOUSE.
Reid headed the first goal after Hardy had made a good save from Emued and Hodgson scored a second with a surprise shot that many though Hardy should have saved. Then came Everton's turn, thanks in the main to the home half-backs fading out. Woodhouse, a nippy forward, scored twice, and thereafter Everton were superior in attack. No date has been fixed as yet, for the replay, but it is likely to be pretty late on in the season. The winners have to meet New Brighton, whose directors were present. The main feature of the day was the penalty kick save by Riley for what appeared to be a trip on Houghton or a handling case. The referee Mr. White had no doubt about the point, and he settled the spot kick, only to find Riley save accidentally. David Bain was the shooter, it appeared as if Riley had advanced from his goal. How a referee can hope to watch a goalkeeper's step and the steps of the other players who crowd upon the penalty box is rather difficult to understand, and is one more point in favour of the appointment of goal-judges.
PARKER REAPPEARS.
The main men of Everton were Hardy, the half-backs O'Donnell, who is a better back than most people seem to imagine, and Houghton. The Goodison side tried Parker again at outside right after a spell of idleness through an injured knee cap, and French from the “A” team at centre forward rather the convert Hamilton from a full back into a centre forward. French did his best, but was rather outclassed in this company. Liverpool also tried experiments; Hodgson as an inside left was serviceable. Cockburn was disappointing at centre half-back, but T. Scott was a good shooter, and at full back McKinlay and Done did well. On the Everton side none did better than Peacock, while Bain and Rooney shaped well, and all three were competent to shoot. In fact, their shooting was an object lesson to their forwards, of whom Houghton drifted hither and thither to good purpose, while Moffatt was sprightly and determined, but all the members suffered from lack of inches.
Teams: - Liverpool: - Riley, goal, Done and McKinlay, backs, McDale, Cockburn, and Pratt half-backs, Edmed, T. Scott, Reid, Hodgson and Clark, forward. Everton: - Hardy, goal, Raitt and O'Donnell, backs Peacock, Bain and Rooney, half-backs, Parker, Woodhouse, French, Houghton, and Moffatt forwards.

THE RESERVE STRENGTH OF OUR CITY TEAMS
Liverpool Echo-Thursday, November 18, 1926
Bee’s Notes
When we looked upon the drawn game between Liverpool and Everton reserve stock, we had to say to ourselves;   “These are the first team members of the future Reds and Blues sides,” which somehow did not seem to fit the proper outlook of local football life.  I’m not a bit hungry; therefore, I do not want to eat my words –a favourite phrase that seems to have etherized at least one friend-but I do suggest that there is room for plenty of new material in both our elevens, and that as we stand at the moment the city needs better stuff in a good number of directors.  Maybe the clubs do not desire on principle to purchase stock that is expensive, but nowadays when the talk is of minor sides refusing their players and a company like Nottingham Forest refusing 11,000 pounds for players, it is plain that big fees are necessary if not nice, if a club is to escape its rut of bad fortune and poor play.  Thus money has to be spent.  Having said that let me run the rule over the Cup-tie draw yesterday.
WEE!
We, that is you and I, got a startler when looking upon Everton’s reserve team line; they were frankly very wee.  I liked Houghton particularly and French was indeed a trier, but a trifle outclassed as you would imagine at his early age in life.  The shooter of the line was Woodhouse, who got two goals, but as a line they did not, through lack of inches, produce what one expected of them, when tallying the fact that their three half-backs behind them played so well.  No one could wish for a better half-back reserve strength than Rooney, Bain, and Peacock.  Peacock played a charming game, and I have more confidence than ever in Rooney.  Now contrariwise one found that the home eleven was deficient in forward ability and at centre half-back.  Hodgson is good at inside left and Clarke might have been better at outside left had he forgotten to nibble at Raitt and vice versa, of course.  It was a keen, hard game to watch and revealed important things in connection with “future.” 
EVERTON SELECTION
Everton have fixed up these sides;- Davies; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Hart, Virr; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, Troup.
I hear that Hunter Hart is doubtful –owing to the reigning trouble, flu. 
Reserves, at home to Bolton; Hardy; Raitt, O’Donnell; Rooney, Bain, Reid; Parker,  Woodhouse, Hamilton, Houghton, and Moffatt. 

EVERTON’S TASK
Liverpool Echo- Friday, November 19, 1926
Bee’s Notes
Everton have defied opposition for four weeks, and there is no doubt that they have struck a rich vein, and sure.  Strangely enough, the teams they have met in successive weeks have been of the stern and severe kind, and having tackled Newcastle, Leeds, Derby and others in their finest array, they can afford to forget that Manchester United slipped an away victory over the Leicester side.  Leicester’s form went back ten per cent, when Chandler dropped out of the attack, and Everton can find form in their list to counterbalance last week’s surprise win.  I am sorry Hart has been troubled with ‘flu and hope he will be able to take his place in the middle, where he has done such splendid work. Manchester United last season found Everton a very hard nut to meet, and remembering the confidence and the skill of Goodison’s brigade I look to them to prevent the defeat, if not to snatch a victory.  Manchester United have not been playing well, and as their forwards are their great trouble, the Walton side must surely have a chance to take a lead.  Thus I say, go in, Everton, and gain an early goal. Everton; Davies; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Hart, Virr; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, Troup.  Manchester United; Steward; Moore, Jones; Benyon, Grimwood, Wilson; Spence, Smith, McPherson, Rennox, Thomas. 
Manchester United visitor wants to know how to get to Old Trafford, after training it.  the answer is; “Take tram from Oxford-road; or go to Oxford-road station and alight at Trafford Park, not Old Trafford.” 

LOUIS PAGE.
Burnley Express-Saturday 20 November 1926
Louis Page, Burnley 's talented outside left, was secured from Northampton about eighteen months ago, and has been practically ever-present, having missed one game only through misunderstanding since he donned the Burnley. A native of Kirkdnle, Page belongs to footballing family, two brothers with Everton. One of them, John, also saw service with Cardiff City, and the their other, - Tom, has assisted St. Mirren and Port Vale. Louis wore the Stoke colours (luring the early days of the war, but met with a leg injury, from which made good recovery after his transfer to Northampton some years age. Well endowed physically, standing 5ft. 8ins., and just over eleven stones, Louis has quickly made sound reputation in first class bail. His speed off mark and resolute methods, combined with penchant formatting in goal, have him a winger to feared. Last season headed Burnley's goal scorers with twenty-six goals—a noteworthy feat for an extreme winger were obtained one match centre forward against Birmingham at St Andrews. He has not shown such prolific sharpshooting feats so far this season, although he has five goals to his credit. Page is a worthy successor tp Mosscrop, and whilst not scintillating in his football as that famous little winger, challenges comparison with his centres, many of which are perfectly placed from apparently impossible positions. He is an enthusiastic baseball player during the close season, and ability in that game, some months ago, earned hint right' to represent his country. It is a matter of surprise and regret amongst the Burnley supports that he has not yet been honoured the Soccer world, but their is no doubt that on his day he is strong and worthy candidate for international honours.

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, November 20, 1926
By Louis T. Kelly

EVERTON AT OLD TRAFFORD
Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, November 20, 1926
MANCHESTER UNITED ENTERTAIN AN IMPROVING EVERTON
STORK’S STORY OF THE TUSSLE
DEAN’S USUAL; DAVIES STAUNCH IN GOAL
Everton; Davies; McDonald (Captain), Kerr; Brown, Bain, Virr; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, Troup.  Manchester United; Steward; Moore, Jones; Benyon, Grimwood, Wilson; Spence, Smith, McPherson, Rennox, Thomas.  Referee.- Mr. A.F. Kirby, of Lostock Hall.  As forecasted in the “Echo” on Thursday, Hunter Hart was unable to take his place at centre half.  Bain occupying the position as pivot.  That Everton were well represented was made manifest by the rousing cheer that was given to McDonald as he emerged from the subway at the head of his men. 
TUNING THEM UP
The conditions were not favourable from an onlooker’s point of view, consequently the attendance was on the small side.  Everton gave the onlookers an early thrill when Dean tried a hook shot which did not seen possible.  Dean, however, is not an ordinary type of centre forward, and Steward was distinctly fortunate to stop that drive from entering the net.  It was only because he had used his body as an extra cover that he was able to accomplish the feat.  This had an instantaneous effect upon the United attack, which made a striking dart down the middle of the field, and matters did not look rosy for Everton when McPherson was clean through.  It only needed an ordinary type of shot to be successful, but McPherson could only stab the ball outside the upright.  It has been admitted many times that the midfield play of the United has been equal to that of their opponents.  It was so today.  In fact, the pace at which they worked the ball was often disconcerting to the Everton defence, and for some time the United held the whip hand, but were still lacking the finishing touch –a shot. 
THE MAN WITH A MISSION
Kerr evidently had a mission to perform that of keeping Spence, England’s outside right, in subjection-and he was fairly successful, if not always gentle about it.  Dean continues with his good football, his passes being well defined, but they brought little result so far as shots at goal were concerned.  It could not be denied that Everton were decidedly lucky to be on level terms at the end of twenty minutes, for during that period Davies had many shots to save, and was fortunate to do so on several occasions.  McPherson was his greatest danger, for the Scotsman was the one and only shooter in the line.  He slammed home one great effort, which dumped on to Davies’s chest ere it fell to the base of the upright.  Another one Davies fell upon to save, and a third by McPherson flashed across the goal and out of play.  Virr was injured and had to leave the field, but was not long away.  The United were without doubt striving might and main for a leading goal, and when Spence centred with McPherson unable to accept the gift.  Thomas the outside left, dashed in and made a great header, which looked like taking effect until Davies dropped on the ball practically on his goal line.  It was a great effort to score, and Davies’s save was just as clever.  The return of Virr helped Everton to take a greater part in attack, and Millington had many opportunities to shine, for both Irvine and Dean gave him passes clear of all opposition, but the condition of the turf was not to this speed merchant’s liking, and he often slithered and floundered all over the place. 
EASY HEADER BY DEAN
At the half hour Everton put the cat amongst the pigeons by taking an unexpected lead.  It was only right that Dean should be the scorer, and so keep his goal per match record intact.  Troup was his provider, the left winger earning a corner kick by sheer grit, and so well did he place the spot kick that Dean had not to make one solitary move to take the ball on his head and send it into the United goal.  This seemed to take his heart out of the Mancunians, and for some minutes they were put strictly on the defensive, and if Millington had controlled the ball with better judgement Steward might have found greater trouble.  He found enough, no doubt, when Irvine and Dean clinched a close passing movement which ended in the former shooting hard and accurately.  Steward saved well despite the fact that Dean was in close attendance upon him.  There was some feeling shown near the interval, the crowd resenting one or two of the referee’s decisions on fouls.  Minor injuries were as common as mud- and there was plenty of it on the field.  Half-time; Manchester United nil, Everton 1. 
EVERTON FOILED
RENNOX’S DOUBLE V. DEAN’S SINGLE
There was a mild demonstration against Dean as he left the field.  It was not war-ranted in the least.  The crowd annoyed that the young centre had kicked the ball after the whistle had sounded for an infringement.  It was a trivial affair, wasn’t it?  Rennox would have equalized if he had got more power behind his shot.  As it was, Davies simply smothered it away.  Everton had to rearrange their ranks through an injury to Bain.  Irvine went centre half.  Dominy inside right, Troup inside left and Bain outside left. 
EQUALISER BY RENNOX
It was just after this arrangement that Manchester got an equalizing goal.  This goal, like Everton’s also came from a corner, and in the mad scramble in front of Davies, Rennox was able to lift the ball into the net.  This was followed by some rough play from both sides and the referee had occasion to bring Irvine and Smith together to admonish them. 
PLEADING FOR PENALTY
Hardly had this affair been satisfactorily settled than McDonald and Spence were concerned in a matter that caused the crowd to shout loudly for a penalty.  Both players were injured, and the referee would not listen to the spectators’ appeal for a spot kick.  It evidently takes a goal to bring Manchester to real life, for from being a very ordinary lot they became a real menace to the Everton defence, and they should had had a second goal when Spence made a centre of perfect length, but Rennox headed over the bar.  Millington was at fault with a centre when well placed, but redeemed himself a second later by planting a ball perfectly in the middle.  Unfortunately for Everton there were no takers.  Troup worked like a Trojan.  He was inside right, centre forward, and inside left all rolled into one, and his quick dashes often had Moore and Jones in a quandary. 
SCRIMMAGE BEFORE GOAL
A pass by Dominy to Dean brought trouble to Steward, and it was only cleared after a hot tussle in front of his goal.  So little had been seen of the Everton left wing that it had almost been forgotten.  However, when Bain got a chance he showed his knowledge of a winger’s duty, and Steward had to make a particularly fine save from the Everton utility man. 
TROUP RETIRES INJURED
Given a free kick just outside the penalty area Dean for once in a way was not accurate in his direction.  Troup had to leave the field, and from all appearances it was his shoulder that had gone, for he came running off with his arm dangling limply at his side.  This was indeed wretched luck, for immediately he disappeared in the subway Manchester took the lead,  Rennox with great deliberation, driving the ball through a bunch of players into the net.  Another goal should come their way, but a miss, as you know, is as good as a mile.  Troup returned, and was soon in the thick of it as if nothing had happened. 
Final; Manchester United 2, Everton 1. 

J.A. DEAN DEAD
Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, November 20, 1926
PASSING OF NOTED LOCAL SPORTS WRITER
We regret to announce the death this afternoon of Mr. J.A. Dean, a journalist, well-known in every branch of sport in Liverpool.  Arthur Dean was a reliable man.  He was of the class known as the willing horse.  Nothing was too much trouble for him.  One never asked him to give help without getting the same cheery reply “Certainly, sonny.”  He has now passed out, and at sixty-six years of age he has left behind him a sporting record that lives up to all that is best and most significant in that word sporting. A
AN ATHLETIC EXPERT
He was a Liverpool man, and resided in Fairfield,  and was associated with the “Sporting Chronicle” for the last 24 or 25 years.  He was well remembered as an athletic expert, running, racing on the flat, or over the jumps, and such kindred sports, and he followed the late Mr. Harry Golbourne.  His association with the “Football Echo” dates back to 1906, when he was appointed to cover the boxing columns for that paper under the title “Gong.” At that time he was timekeeper for the Stadium, but, of course, did not produce the reminiscences that could have been reaped up regarding the old time Christian-street boxing, in which Mr. Dean took a merry part. 
NARROW ESCAPES
Mr. Dean was asked to write his life story, but he was a busy man, and he lived in the present and never in the past.  He was strangely quiet when tackled about reminiscences; but to a few of his closer friends he would confide really comic stories of boxing fiascos in Birkenhead and Liverpool, and of escapers from the ring with his wife and his blood as though by a miracle.  He was a well known figure at cycling and motor-cycling sports, and of one desired to give a fitting telegraphic address it would have been “Reliability.”  What more would one desire to say about our old friend Arthur Dean? 

EVERTON RES V BOLTON RES
Liverpool Football Echo –Saturday, November 20, 1926
HAMILTON’S SUCCESSFUL DEBUT AT CENTRE FORWARD
At Goodison Park.  There was every promise of Everton continuing their run of successes, for within fifteen minutes of the start the home side were 3 goals ahead.  Directly after the start Woodhouse scored a second with a good shot, and after the Bolton custodian had cleared a couple of dangerous shots Hamilton making his debut at centre forward, scored a second with a first time drive, and following this up, headed a third, giving a successful first front line appearance.  Bolton had been spasmodically dangerous, slowness in the penalty area losing them favourable chances.  Hardy was coolness personified, and the way he foiled Davies and Roberts evoked warm applause.  Everton were by far the superior side, Bolton showing a lack of thrusting power.  Half-time. Everton 3, Bolton nil. 
The light at Goodison Park was bad during the second half, and after half an hour’s play Davis scored for Bolton.  Final; Everton res 3, Bolton Wanderers Res 1. 

GARSTON ROYAL V EVERTON A
Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, November 20, 1926
At Garston.  Play was evenly contested in the early stages, but after 20 minutes Sumner scored for Garston.  Immediately afterwards the same player scored a second.  Half-time; Garston Royal 2, Everton A nil. 

FIRST LEAGUE GOAL
Derby Daily Telegraph-Saturday, November 20, 1926
It must have been ironic to Derby County to know that they were robbed of their first away point last week by a goal which is the first that Albert Virr, the Everton wing half, has ever obtained in League Football.  Virr is a Liverpool born lad, and is a product of the Lyndholme club, though after signing for Everton he was loaned out to the Chester club for experience. 

MANCHESTER UNITED 2 EVERTON 1
September 22 nd 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury.
EVERTON OUT OF LUCK.
PLAYERS INJURED AT OLD TRAFFORD.
Everton's run of success was stopped at Manchester, where the United won by 2 goals to 1, but Everton were unfortunate several of their players being injured and a rearrangement in formation was forced. Everton had represented the United from scoring during their brightest period –the first twenty minutes –and they gradually wore down their rivals' attack, and obtained a goal which shook the home players, and from that point towards to the interval Everton were on top. During the late minutes of the first half Bain who had been playing a strong game as pivot, received a kick, and he went to outside left, Troup to inside left Dominy inside right, and Irvine centre-half.
THE TURNING POINTS.
This was the turning point in the game. It became apparent from that moment that Everton would have all their work cut out to hold on to their slender lead, for they had to labour under too big a handicap and with Manchester playing a bustling type of game it was small wonder that they obtained an equalising goal –a goal, by the way, which was almost identical to that scored by Dean in the first half from an accurately-placed corner kick. The Manchester spectators is enthusiastic when matters are going his way. Up to the time of Dean's goal they had assisted their team with shouts of encouragement, but once in arrears they went into the doldrums and remained in that state until Rennox lifted then out of their state of coma with the equalising goal. Everton struggled against odds, and it was not until the eightieth minute that they yielded up the spoils. Rennox was again the scorer, but I firmly believe that Rennox handled Spence's centre eve he brought the ball to boot to sent it hurtling through a bunch of players and into the net. Davies could not possibly have seen the ball until it was almost entering his goal, but even so got a hand to it, but could not stay its progress. Davies had played a fine game. The United's football was not nearly so good as Everton's. They swept forward by the nearest route, cutting out any idea of finery and driving the ball forward with sweeping passes. Up to the time of Bain's injury Everton were the more stylish eleven, and if Millington had been capable of better ball control he must surely have scored, for Dean and Irvine gave him some good opportunities. He made but little use of his chances.
DEAN'S GOAL.
Dean, with a fine header kept his goal per match record intact, besides keeping his line moving smoothly, while Troup and Dominy were not always held in check by Moore. Bain opposed to a speedy centre worked, did well, while Virr looked after Spence until he, too, hurt his ankle. Kerr and McDonald defended stubbornly. Irvine's spell at centre half was not successful. He threw his full weight into his play, but his presence in attack was missing. Manchester United were well served in goal by Steward, while Moore and Jones defended in a stern manner. Grimwood was an able substitute for Barson, Of the forwards McPherson and Rennox were the shinning lights although Spence was dangerous when on the move, Everton are to be commanded for their great fight against odds. Bad luck followed even to the dressing room, where Kerr cut his knee on a broken bottle lying in the bath. Teams: - Manchester United: - Steward, goal, Moore, and Jones, backs, Bennion, Grimwood, and Wilson, half-backs, Spence, Smith, McPerhenson, Ronnex, and Smith, forwards. Everton: - Davies goal, McDonald, and Kerr, backs, Brown, Bain, and Virr, half-backs, Millington, Irvine, Dean Dominy, and Troup, forwards. Referee Mr. AG. Kirby.

EVERTON RESERVES 3 BOLTON WANDERERS RESERVES 1
November 22 nd 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 16)
At Goodison Park. The first goal was scored by Woodhouse soon after the start, and Hamilton, making his debut a centre forward, scored the second and registered the third. Midway though a comparatively even second half contested in bad light, R. Jack reduced Everton's lead. Hamilton did exceptionally well at centre.

GARSTON ROYAL 3 EVERTON “A” 0
November 22 nd 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury
LIVERPOOL COUNTY COMBINATION
At Garston. In the first half Sumner scored twice for the Royal. In the second half Oakes scored from a free kick, the ball being diverted past Kendall by one of the Everton backs.

TOFFEE SHOP CONTROVERSY
Liverpool Echo-Monday, November 22, 1926
With reference to the various letters on the Everton Toffee shop, I am a direct descendent of Molly Bushell, and can state that the shop now in occupation by Noblett’s is not the original shop.  I have an own print of the original, dated 1753.  After her death the business was carried on by a grandson Mr. R. M. Wignall, who I believe, had several shops in Liverpool, and who died at Parkgate, September 16, 1867 and was buried in Meston Church-yard together with James Bushell, son of Molly Bushell, and his son, James Bushell.  The letter signed “Noblett’s Limited,” states that Mr. Leonard Noblett brought the property and business, together with the recipes.  I understood that the recipes died with Mr. R.H. Wignall-JAMES BUSHELL.

DON’T LOOK AT SPENCE
Liverpool Echo-Monday, November 22, 1926
By Stork
All good things must come to an end sooner or later.  Everton’s run of success was one of them.  They were checked by Manchester United, and a series of misfortunes in the matter of injuries which led to their defeat. I put the defeat down to the latter more than to any greatness on the part of Manchester United, for it was not until Everton were compelled to alter the composition of their team that the United made the running and won.  There were more fouls in the game than were desirable.  It started when Virr upset Spence (quite accidentally), but from all appearances Spence must not be “ill-treated.”  The spectators will not have him buffeted about.  True, we don’t want roughness in any game, but surely an opponent is entitled to challenge a vital spot if the needs demand it, so long as it is done fairly and above board.  Yes, if it is not Joey Spence.  There was no quibbling when Dean was knocked off the ball.  That was a different matter.  Why had Everton to alter their formation and so bring about defeat?  Was the game a dirty one? Not exactly, but there certainly was a little too much keenness, and when Bain received a nasty kick it made it impossible for him to proceed as centre half –the mainspring of a team –and with his removal to outside left it brought wholesale shuffling.  To my mind too many positions were altered for the sake of one.  Irvine went centre half.  Dominy inside right, Troup inside left; and I very much doubt if the bringing back of Irvine was the best solution, for has obviously all at sea, while his schemes in the forward rank were missed.  Four positions had been sacrificed for the sake of one, and it was from that point that the United commenced to strive for the goal to negative that scored by Dean in the first session; and it was also from that point that Everton appeared to lose their grip of the game.  Was it small wonder, I ask you, sir?  Not only was Bain a passenger, but Virr was also nursing a limp, and that against a winger of Spence’s class.  Troubles never comes singly, and the third blow was felt when Troup’s “dickey” shoulder left its socket, and although it was replaced at record speed, a goal was scored during his absence. 
A GALLANT BATTLE
Was it possible to overcome such odds?  Never! Defeat was staring us in the face and we realized it, and only the greatest bit of good luck could save the side; and that good luck remained with the Manchester side who retained eleven fit men to the end.  The handicap had beaten Everton, but they were not disgraced; in fact, they were deserving as much honour as the victors, for they had fought a gallant battle.  Manchester are a shock team.  They opened out at a terrific pace as if they would run Everton to a standstill; but having overcome the barrage of their heavy artillery Jack was as good as, if not better than, his master, for Everton were the better side together, there being more craft in their movements.  The United employed the cut and run policy, and though this appeared likely to prove successful, at one stage it became futile after twenty minutes, and Everton’s more subtle play received its reward when Dean nodded Troup’s corner kick into the net.  This goal had a dampening effect upon the United.  To think that they had done most of the attacking and shooting, and then found themselves in arrears all in a flash.  I must admit that it must have been disheartening.  Still they must also realize that if Millington, who was well looked after by both Dean and Irvine had made the best possible use of his opportunities their two goals would not have been ample to win.  It was tragic to see the right winger failing when he should have been the success of the match; but it was a joy to see Davies dealing so confidently with McPherson’s strong drives.  The United are not reliable in front of goal.  Rennox the two goals, but he should have had several others with the chances he had.  Once he had the ball on the goalline with Davies away, but could not place it into the net.  Everton, too, missed some opportunities but none the like of that. 
THE BOTTLE AND THE BATH
Fate dealt it out thick and heavy to Everton at Manchester, where three of their players received injuries on the field, but, to cap it all, it followed them to the dressing-room, where jasper Kerr cut his knee on a broken bottle found in the bath.  This is not the first occasion in football that injuries have been sustained through similar happenings.  It is a serious business and whoever is responsible should take care that it is free from “debris.”  I understand that a complaint was made. 

BRILLIANCE THAT WORE OFF. 
Athletic News - Monday 22 November 1926
EVERTON’S FAILURE AT OLD TRAFFORD
MANCHESTER UNITED 2, EVERTON 1
By Rufus
The murk which enveloped the Old Trafford enclosure Saturday was in keeping with the spectacle on the field of play. Ragged and tedious, the game was a trial patience to those spectators who rightly expect more than a ninety minutes’ mud-lark. The final whistle came as welcome relief from an exhibition which was for long periods devoid of interest.  United succeeded, and the whole deserved their triumph. To retrieve even a goal deficit was no mean feat against a side urgent need of points.  Their general display, however, was far below the standard expected of a side in senior circles, the forward play particular being inept and timeat bordering on the ludicrous. 
AN APPARENT WEAKNESS. 
Though they were victorious, the satisfactory termination cannot obscure the palpable defects apparent in the United ranks. The saving grace of the side—a concrete defence—cannot always ensure the side immunity from defeat.  When aforward contrives to head over the bar ball easier to place into the net, completely misses the ball on the goal-line with, the citadel unguarded, clear proof where the weakness lies is afforded.  Rennox, the sinner in both the foregoing episodes, was no worse than were any his inside colleagues, however, and least redeemed his defects.  While the United were dangerous only in spasms, Everton’s effortless attacks were a constant menace to the home rearguard, but the watchful Steward revealed none of the indecision betrayed by Davies, whose uncertainly dealing with two long shots from McPhersonalmost brought disaster, and only the superb effort of Dean, whose splendid header from an accurate comer kick entered the net at the angle of the crossbar, brought about the downfall of the Old Trafford defence.  By this point Everton led at the interval, but the subsequent changes had a weakening effect, and the defence reeled under the spirited thrusts of the home forwards, a sustained raid ending with the concession of corner kick,  from which Rennox, in the scramble following Spence’s effort from the flag, piloted the ball past Davies.  Thereafter the attack consisted of Dean, aided only a cripple the left and Millington, whose speed failed to recompense his inability to control the ball.  Small wonder that the United defenders were able to repulse all visiting attacks with ease, and provide their forwards with frequent opportunities to buffet a tiring defence, eventually undermined by Rennox, whose powerful drive atoned for previous blunders, 
CLASSICAL ALWAYS. 
That the classical quality of Everton football still survives was proved in the first half. Unforeseen circumstances alone prevented them gaining their merited reward, one of these being the withdrawal and Irvine as a source of attacking strength.  In a nondescript role half-back and inside forward, efforts merited better results than were achieved, while, in his normal position the first half, the Scot provided the one exception in a day of poor wing play.  Though Spence sparkled near the close, he did not comport himself like an international forward, and if is England’s best man for the position the standard must be remarkably low.  Inside, conspicuous weaknesses were notable in the home attack, though Smith and Rennox redeemed themselves partially by their unflagging energy.  McPherson has none of the attributes which stamp a first-class player, while Thomas shared in the general ineptitude of the line.  The absence Hunter Hart weakened the Goodison middle line from the constructive standpoint. In this capacity Wilson and Brown alone excelled. Back play was strong all round, with the intrepid Kerr and the more studied McDonald providing nice contrast; while Jones was frequently conspicuous in a strong Manchester rear trio.  United.—Steward; Moore, Jones; Bennion, Grimwood, Wilson; Spence, Smith (T), McPherson, Rennox, and Thomas.  Everton; Davies; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Bain, Virr; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, and Troup.  Referee; Mr. A.F. Kirby, Lostock Hall. 

CONQUERED BUT PRAISED
Liverpool Echo-Tuesday, November 23, 1926
Bee’s Notes
I was a spectator at the Manchester United v Everton game at Old Trafford (says “Justice”) and am such surprised at the many reports of the game which I have read.  “Stork” does not refer to one incident before half-time which in my opinion, was the cause of Everton’s defeat.  I am alluding to the bad foul on Bain, which rendered him useless to his side.  Furthermore, Virr, the half-back, was also limping for fully three-quarters of the game, while Dean was pulled up in anything but a scrupulous manner almost every time he beat an opponent.  I think the Everton players deserve congratulation for the clean manner in which they played.  It is unfortunate that they are in their present position, and I thrust that, in justice to their loyal followers, they (the directors) will soon remedy the weak positions.  A first-class ready-made outside right is required, and I think Curran, of Barnsley, if he could be secured would be the man to solve the problems.  Thanking you for your always fair criticism, and with the best of luck to both Everton and Liverpool companions in distress. 
SEVERE CRITCS
“W.J.G,” writes; I endorse “Onlooker’s” remark re Everton’s defence.  Also, too, add that in addition to a good full back, they require urgently a top-notch centre half, an outside right and an inside left.  With these positions strengthened, I can see the “Cup” coming here, if not the League.  Everton should dig out that 15,000 pounds and buy a Barson and a Wadeworth.  Don’t know where they can get them now, but they sat on the fence when men like Morris and Townley were on offer.  Less wealthy clubs are going in for big names, and good man change over every day, but nothing our way, and we, the “thick and thinners,” are looking for the old club to get again amongst the prises.  Am sorry for Liverpool.  Their defects will not be easily remedied, but the writing was on the wall there.  Anno Domini in defence.  The directors, like Everton’s acted Nero, “Hakki” sends this to “Young ‘Bee,’”
At Old Trafford a Manchester United supporter told me Kennedy plays a good game at outside right.  As this was Everton’s weakness against United I pass on the information. 

CHANGES FOR BOLTON MATCH.
November 24, 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury.
For their match with Bolton at Goodison Park on Saturday kick-off 2-30, the Everton directors last night, decided to play Hardy in goal in place of Davies. Hardy was injured in the practice game, but has now thoroughly recovered. Davies has filled the breach in excellent fashion, but
Hardy's greater experience should prove an asset to the side. The former Stockport County goalkeeper has been playing in Centre-League games and has shown that he has recovered his confidence, Hunter Hart also resumes in place of Bain.

EVERTON BRING BACK GOALKEEPER HARDY
Liverpool Echo, Wednesday, November 24 1926
Bee’s Notes
Everton have brought back Hunter Hart, their captain, who has got rid of his flu’ but not his fluence over centre-forwards; and more important change still, they have decided to bring back Hardy, the goalkeeper, in place of young Davies.  Davies has won his spurs, but like the case of Scott and Riley, it was a ticklish question, and doubtless Everton have banked on experience.  The club can thank their stars they had so good a local player to call in as Davies has proved, but naturally Hardy is looked upon as the first-team goalkeeper, and his displays with the reserve side have warranted his re-inclusion.  It was a most unlucky blow in a trial game that pushed him out of his recognized position.  Davies can afford to wait.  Everton, I hear, were watching Preston last week-end, and as Jones, of Nottingham Forest was in that game it was probably he who was the apple of the eye. 
For their match with Bolton Wanderers at Goodison Park on Saturday, kick-off at 2.30 Everton play;- Hardy; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Hart, Virr; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, Troup. 
BOLTON TEAM V. EVERTON
Provided the players come through to-day’s Lancashire Cup semi-final with Manchester City at Maine-road without serious mishap, Bolton Wanderers will be represented against Everton at Goodison Park by; Pym; Greenhalgh, Finney; Cope, Seddon, Nuttall; Butler, Jack, J.R. Smith, Joe Smith, and Vizard.  This is the strongest team the Wanderers have at their moment has a record relatively better than anything in the League’s First Division.  The one great defect in their recent displays has been a tendency on the part of the forwards to fail to make the most of their scoring chances.  Faulty shooting has cost the loss of valuable points, and if J.R. Smith and Jack can only recover their old snap in front of goal, the Wanderers will be an exceedingly difficult team to beat for their defence is just now on its best behavior.  Since Greenhalgh and Finney entered into partnership as full backs, Pym has had only nine goals recorded against him in ten games.  That is championship form. 

STYLES
Liverpool Echo, Thursday, November 25, 1926
Bee’s Notes
Your correspondent, “W.J.G” has evidently forgotten Everton tradition when he suggests buying certain players to help them out of their difficulties (says “C.H.W”).  This type of player would not suit at Goodison and it is a libel on the classic and effective displays of Hunter Hart against some of the best centre forwards in the country to suggest any change at all in that position.  I also am a “thick and thinner,” with thirty-four years behind me, and when I think of the players who have graced the blue shirts I feel that I would rather see the old club pack up then lower their standard of play. 

JACK AND –HIS MASTER?
Liverpool Echo-Friday, November 26, 1926
Bee’s Notes
The League plan to-morrow shows Lancashire battles, after a strenuous month of marching in league formation.  Bolton, who come to us, are very engaging, in that they bring with them artists of the stamp of J.R. Smith who would not be transferred because he felt the crowd believed he had not tried to do his best.  He’s won the day, too! Add the spice of the Vizard –Smith wing and the Fisherman’s goalkeeping, plus our own boy’s appearance at full back –Finney is his name- and mix it with the special ingredients of his own football pie from Master David Bone Nightingale Jack, and you have a team worthy the name, a possible championship side, and a hard task for Everton, but one that is not beyond them since they have taken winning ways.  Everton hope to have Hun-Hart back again, and other damaged members, in the right physical frame of mind; so that here again will be a ding-dong affair.  Everton simply MUST win their home matches, and in view of the new spirit of rest obtaining in the eleven I vote they can do the needful to-morrow at any rate, providing they shoot persistently.  Everton; Hardy; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Hart, Virr; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, Troup.  Bolton Wanderers; Pym; Greenhalgh, Finney; Cope, Seddon, Nuttall; Butler, Jack, Smith (JR), Smith (Joe), Vizard. 

GARSTON ROYAL ON TOP
Runcorn Weekly News - Friday 26 November 1926
VICTORY OVER EVERTON “A”
Garston Royal, after their disastrous experience of the past few weeks, returned to victory on Saturday, winning by 3 goals to nil against a strong Everton “A” team.  Although success attended their efforts from a playing point of view, misfortune still dogged their steps, as another home match was spoiled by the bad weather.  Rain fell incessantly, and none but the hardiest of the Royal supporters turned out.  The ground was heavy and the ball difficult to control owing to its sodden state, but nevertheless a capital game was witnessed.  The small ring of spectators enjoyed the improvement that the Royal displayed.  They fully deserved their win, but Everton put up a great game and were triers right to the final whistle.  Mr. Williams, one of the league referees, had charge of the following players;- Garston Royal; Cross; Critchley, and Grimuas; Oakes, W. Bissett, and H. Williams; Summers, Mealey, Woods, Jones, and McDevitt.  Everton “A”’ Kendall; Kerr and Maters; Siddons, Gaskill, and Holbrook; Harrison, Aspey, Tyson, Murray, and Pritchard.  One of the chief points of the game was centred on the appearance of Kendall, the First Division ‘keeper, who was turning out for the first time since his injury a few weeks ago.  Royal, who kicked towards the railway in the first half, soon showed a goal-getting determination, but Kerr and Masters were equal to the situation and proved themselves worthy defenders.  A fine solo effort by Jones was effectively stopped by Kerr, who booted upfield for Tyson to shoot over the Royal’s crossbar.  A good move by Hugh Williams, was spoiled by McDevitt being robbed by Siddons, thus prevented what might have been the opening goal.  Everton next obtained possession through Harrison, but Critchley was a form defender.  A good movement by Woods resulted in Kendall throwing himself full length to save a crashing shot from Jones, which was, however, successfully cleared from the danger zone.  The Royal were undoubtedly the better players, they showing better finish than Everton.  Summers got away on the right wing, and when nearing the corner flag shot across the goal, to the farther corner.  Kendall dived at it but only succeeded in pushing the ball into the net to open the score, after about twenty minutes play.  The next few minutes provided the spectators with a thrill, for the same player shot across the goalmouth and scored again, after a fine solo run.  A third effort of his failed to produce any direct result, although his shot nearly scored the third goal. 
Half-time; Garston Royal 2, Everton “A: 0.
Play had not been long in progress in the second half before the Royal again pressed back the Evertonians, and Kerr had all his work cut out to check the rushes by Jones and McDevitt.  Woods, as the pivot, was responsible for some clever moves, and he kept his wings going in methodical style, much to the discomfiture of the defence.  McDevitt had a great shot which skimmed the bar, and Kendall saved from Mealey.  The third and final goal of the match was registered early in the second half.  Oakes took a free kick outside the penalty area, and Kendall stopped a rasping shot.  He threw out to his right and Jones fastened on the ball, which he promptly returned.  In its flight to the goal it was diverted by one of the backs and Kendall had no chance to save.  Everton made desperate efforts to put a better complexion on the game, but they met with a stubborn defence.  Critchly and Grffiths kicking with rare judgement whenever the ball was carried past the half back line, which was on its best form.  Everton forwards were persistent and twice Cross did splendidly to clear from Aspey and Murray, and a shot from Tyson topped the bar.  The Royal enjoyed much of the game and the front line was keenly offensive, but there was no further score.  Final; Garston Royal 3, Everton “A” 0. 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, November 27, 1926
By Louis T. Kelly

EVERTON V BOLTON
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, November 27, 1926
THE RETURN OF HARDY IN THE GOODISON GOAL, AND CAPTAIN HUNTER HART-BY BEE
WHO SCORED THE GOAL THAT J.R. SMITH EQUALISED?
Everton; Hardy; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Hart (Captain), D. Reid; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, Troup. 
Bolton Wanderers; Pym; Greenhalgh, Finney; Cope, Seddon, Nuttall; Butler, Jack, Smith (JR), Smith (Joe), Vizard.  Everton to-day had the pleasure of Hunter Hart’s return and captaincy, and Hardy’s return to goal.  They needed their best if Bolton were to be beaten, because the Wanderers side is looked upon as a possible championship side.  The continued improvement in Everton’s stock, spite of defeat last week, led to another large crowd being present, and naturally Dean came in for an ovation as a consequence of his consistent scoring.  David Reid was called in for Virr (damaged).  Their air was very foggy when Everton kicked off, and the referee, Mr. Howarth, of Blackburn, started the game.  The air was so thick that the prospect of a finish was doubtful.  However, the players started in a merry fashion, Dean, with a dash, and Millington, with a flash centre, which curled awkwardly to Fisherman Pym. 
A MOMENTARY HESITATION
Bolton, as ever, kept the ball swinging about, and much of their combination was of a class order.  However, Everton were the superior attackers, and if Dominy had not waited before lobbing the ball, which Irvine headed and Pym caught a goal might have arisen.  Later, an Irvine shot hit a full back in the stomach, then Dominy tried an all too long one.  Pym in the next second dropped the ball in dangerous manner when Dominy was well on the mark.  Even more exciting was the case of a free kick against Greenhalgh for a trip on Troup, for after Pym had come out to clear, Brown from half-back tried to put the ball into the empty goal, and was so near that it took Pym all his time to rush back and tip the ball over the bar.  In spite of this, the referee gave a goal kick, and his decisions against Nuttall were not at all pleasing to the crowd.  The Bolton backs were almost too confident and Dean was a shade too late to take the simplest of chances made possible by Pym in combination with his wings.  Among the 30,000 spectators I noticed Walter Wadsworth, the Bristol captain, who had many expressions of regret that he should have suffered so serious a suspension.  J.R. Smith got away with one offside verdict, but was adjudged offside on another occasion when the referee was in a bad position for judging.  Bolton, for long spells were uncertain and Vizard got no sort of a show for 20 minutes; then he pushed the ball right across the goalmouth and that should have started the goal register.  Troup was a much superior and quicker man to centre and one of his offering was headed by Irvine against the goal staves Bolton replying.  Hunter Hart had to fall back to help the full backs and Dean could not quite catch a goal-scoring chance when Millington centred and Irvine who got his head to the ball, was surprised to see Greenhalgh also heading it.  Thus the Bolton full back faced his own goal, and bringing out a safety value, deliberately headed the ball for a corner, and it could not have been more than four or five yards from a goal.  One of the cleanest cut and most unselfish runs seen on the ground came when Irvine bolted up the middle of the field and at the critical moment offered Dean a lovely pass.  Unfortunately, the pace of the ball eventually stopped Dean, otherwise a goal must have arisen. 
WAS IT DEAN’S GOAL?
After thirty-five minutes Everton got a corner, and Bolton’s right half and right full collided in an effort to save what proved to be a fatal kick, as Everton scored almost direct from the kick.  The scorer? was the general inquiry.  Only those dead in front of goal could size up the position, because when Troup centred it was a close affair as to whether Dean headed in or whether the ball dropped on Seddon and rolled over the line.  However, it was found that Dean did not touch the ball, and actually the ball fell off Seddon’s shoulder, and, therefore, that player had to go down as putting through his own goal.  Sufficient for Everton was it that the ball had undoubtedly beaten Pym, and Everton were one up.  Bolton had their chances, and it was a surprise to see J.R. Smith through, when Brown, in difficulty, kicked over his own line with deliberation. 
J.R. SMITH MAKES EVEN
J.R. Smith was once again a thorny problem when his brilliant shot was saved by Hardy, but after H. Hart had been hurt the crowd was shocked to find J.R. Smith equalize with the last kick but one of the first half.  Kerr, beaten for speed, imagined Hardy was all right, whereas the goalkeeper wheeled around instead of picking up the ball-his idea was that the ball would pass over the goal-line.  J.R. Smith is very much alive to this negative style of defence and got the ball in at an angle, to make the score level.
Half-time; Everton 1, Bolton Wanderers 1.
EVERTON DRAW
REFEREE CALLS UPON THE POLICE
In the second half one saw a little more of David Jack, who had been strangely quiet- in like manner to certain other notabilities of the Bolton side.  This was partly due to the greasy ground, but more probably the result of the severe tackling of Brown, Hart, and Reid.  Troup tried a couple of hefty shots, and although McDonald made a mistake, he recovered his position, and was generally in the fire front when Everton developed one of their tip-top ideas. 
BOLTON’S CLIPPED WING
The game so far had certainly been below standard in many respects.  Bolton had done little or nothing on the left wing, which is generally their sheet anchor.  Seddon was much in the picture, but even he could not hope to touch a Millington centre and a back-heeling idea by Dean which let in Dominy who was not quite able to reach a goal-getting chance.  The middle piece of the second half was quite the most attractive period of play.  It began with David Jack hanging back and making a very fine low shot, to which Hardy fell.  Hardy must have desired to retrieve his 45th minute error, for when Kerr was twice at fault through hesitance to put the ball out of play, he gave J.R. Smith a splendid present which he very generously headed over to Joe Smith, who in turn dragged the ball badly and left Vizard with what is called an open goal, over though the goalkeeper is in goal. 
PYM GOES OVERBOARD
Hardy patted the ball, which travelled up the woodwork and over for a corner.  Hardy made another good catch when Bolton claimed he had carried the ball over the gal-line.  It was a near thing.  I would not attempt to judge from the stands.  Against this Bolton raid, one had tom place a charge by Dean, which sent Pym overboard, Troup being a shade too high to steal a goal thereby.  There was some suggestion of spite in the proceedings, and there was much poor play, hesitancy being the ruling fault and Butler being the latest sampler.  The Everton forward line was very patchy, with Dean for once in a way a gloomy Dean, as he could not get the ball passed to him as desired, and therefore could not make play.
REFEREE ROUSED
Everton netted the ball from Millington’s centre, and the crowd went through the roof of the game hooting the referee for disallowing the point.  For ten minutes solid the crowd hooted, and eventually the referee called up a policeman to guard a certain action that had apparently thrown a stone. 
Final; Everton 1, Bolton Wanderers 1. 

EVERTON 1 BOLTON WANDERERS 1
November 29 th 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury.
POINTS SHARED AT GOODISON.
EVERTON MISS MANY CHANCES.
A drawn game of one goal each was the result of the meeting of Everton and Bolton Wanderers at Goodison Park. It was not a poor game, yet much of the play was so indefinite that it could not be called a good one. There was a great deal too much haphazard work in front off goal, and this was most noticeable in the first half, when Everton had sufficient chances to win the game by a comfortable margin. Everton certainly held the advantage in the first half so far as general play was concerned. The Bolton forwards could not developed their plan; too many passes went astray and their attacks were very spasmodic. When they did more with anything like precision they were dangerous, and Vizard made one fine raid when he finished the ball across the face of the Everton got with no one able to touch it into the net.
EVERTON'S GOAL.
Then followed a goal to Everton, the ball going into the net off Seddon from a corner taken by Troup. There was a dramatic finish to the first half when J.R. Smith equalised at the forty-fourth minute, while Hardy waited for the ball to run out of play. It was a costly mistake, Hardy stood facing his goal about three yards along the goal line waiting for the ball to cross the line for a goal kick, heedless of the approach of the Bolton centre, who cleverly rounded Hardy and shot the ball into the empty goal. It was clever goal scored from an angle that seemed to suggest the feat was impossible. Play in the second half was more even. It was also more spirited, and in contrast to the first half, Bolton warmed to their work, with greater keenness, so that the game was more of a contest. Dominy got the ball into the net, but was judged offside, and against this may be placed Hardy's narrow escape when he made a catch and narrowly avoided crossing his own goal line with the ball.
HARDY MAKES AMENDS.
Both sides are capable of playing better than they did on Saturday, and a draw was probably the most fitting result of a game that was not impressive. To some extent Hardy made amends for his mistake of the first half. He saved a shot by Vizard in the second half when the Bolton man was but a few yards from goal, and made another clearance from a great shot by Jack. McDonald was a better back than Kerr. The latter was too reckonless with his clearances, while McDonald rarely failed in a tackle, and generally made good use of the ball. Of the half-backs Hart and Brown were skilful and efficient, and missed few chances of helping the forwards. Troup and Irvine were the best of the forwards. Both were responsible for much clever footwork. Dean was rather overshadowed by Seddon, and consequently was not as effective as usual. Pym kept a capital goal, and Finney proved splendid back.
SEDDON'S PLAY.
Seddon was a great worker. Not only did he keep an effective guard over dean but he repeatedly broke up the combined efforts of the Everton front line. Vizard put in a number of sparkling runs as also did Butler, but there was a lack of cooperation that robbed their work of its effectiveness. J.R. Smith made some capital openings, and was fairly dangerous, but Jack and J. Smith were rarely prominent. Teams : - Everton: - Hardy, goal, McDonald and Kerr, backs, Brown, Hart (captain) and Reid, half-backs, Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, and Troup, forwards. Bolton Wanderers: - Pym, goal, Greenhalgh, and Finney, backs, Cope, Seddon, and Nuttall, half-backs, Butler, Jack, JR. Smith, J. Smith, and Vizard, forwards.

LIVERPOOOL “A” 2 EVERTON “A” 1
November 29 th 1926. The Liverpool Post and Mercury.
LIVERPOOL COUNTY COMBINATION.
At Walton Hall-avenue. Both sides displayed excellent combination. Both goals had narrow escapes, the goalkeeper Tril and Hughes making good saves, J. Jones scored the only goal of the first half. Early in the second half Charters put the home team further ahead, but towards the end Haspey netted for Everton.

EVERTON’S BEST. 
Athletic News - Monday 29 November 1926
BLUNDER THAT GAVE BOLTON A POINT
DISCORDANT NTOTE
EVERTON 1, BOLTON WANDERERS 1
By Junius
Games between and Bolton Wanderers, particularly in post-war football, have invariably produced the best of sport, with little to choose between the rivals at the finish. Indeed, not more than a goal has divided the clubs onthe occasions of the Wanderers visits to Goodison Park since the resumption, and five of the eight contests have been drawn.  The crowd on Saturday must have been well satisfied with the fare provided.  Both teams, if perhaps a little too keen in the tackle at times, gave an entertaining display in which interest was sustained from first to last.  One discordant note, however, was sounded during the closing stages when what appeared to be a legitimate goal was disallowed. Millington had taken the ball close to the line, and- on centring, it seemed almost impossible for his colleagues to be off-side. Dominy, behind the ball at the time, rushed forward and headed into the net only to find his effort negatived.  The spectators showed their, displeasure —an unusual proceeding at Everton—in no uncertain fashion, and the game was completed with loud expressions of disapproval. 
EVERTON ADAPTABILITY. 
The ground was heavy, and the ball needed much propulsion, yet the teams adapted themselves splendidly, and on the whole footcraft reached a higher standard than was expected.  Everton impressed meas the more capable, side in combating the adverse conditions, and while not exhibiting quite the same combination and co-ordination their opponents, they were the more resolute, and swung the ball about to good purpose. Workers throughout, they were tireless in their efforts, good at the tackle, and very determined in purpose. The forwards played with unbounded confidence in themselves, and the ability of the Bolton defence was fully tested.  Everton had the better of the game and got their deserts when, after thirty-five minutes' play, the scoring was opened. The point came about in an unusual manner. Cope and Greenhalgh tumbled into each other while checking a raid, and the ball went behind for a corner. This Troup placed into the goalmouth, where Dean made an attempt to head' in, but, missing, the ball glanced off SEDDON’S shoulder into the net.  Then the real Bolton shone out, and Hardy, who was making his first League appearance this season, did well to save against Smith (J. R.) and again from Jack. But just as the interval approached the keeper badly blundered, Reid, deputising for Virr, injured, was rounded by the Bolton right. The ball was driven so strongly that it appeared likely, to go out of play, but John Smith demonstrated the advantage that often accrues from following up, and while Hardy had plenty of time to gather the ball he allowed the sprightly centre-forward  to control it and score with a remarkable shot only a foot or two from the line. 
EVERTON S STRONGEST. 
As I have indicated, Everton played their strongest game of the season, fairly holding on to their opponents and allowing them little latitude. The Wanderers were not allowed to settle down, and Dominy has not before given such a rousing display as in this game.  Dean had few opportunities, for he was well patrolled by Seddon; still,he availed himself all toogood purpose, and opened up the play advantageously.  Irvine, with pass and dribble, accomplished much clever work, and was the man of the line throughout.  The Wanderers’ forwards were not so frequently in possession, but their raiding efforts were always dangerous.  Vizard was clever but inclined to overelaboration, and against Brown made little headway. Smith (Joe), too, was somewhat subdued by Everton’s right  half-back, while Hart was the master mind in a capital line, as no doubt John Smith would ready to admit.  Seddon was a pivot, tackling neatly and distributing play with easy grace, while the rearguard, hard pressed for the major portion, was fully equal to all calls.  Everton; Hardy; McDonald, Kerr; Brown, Hart, Reid; Millington, Irvine, Dean, Dominy, and Troup.  Bolton Wanderers; Pym; Greenhalgh, Finney; Cope, Seddon, Nuttall; Butler, Jack, Smith (J.R.), Smith (J.), and Vizard.  Referee; Mr. A. Haworth, Blackburn. 

EVERTON’S VIEW OF AN ALLEGED GOOD GOAL
Liverpool Echo-Monday, November 29, 1926
By Bee
Everton don’t often have squeals about referees’ decisions; if they have a belief a referee has erred, they don’t sing it from the housetops like a boy carelling in in August for Christmas Christmas to “awake.”  But they are frankly annoyed at what they believe was a good goal being taken from them by Referee Haworth of Blackburn.  The referee says “Offside, because Dominy was three yards in front of Millington.”  The crowd and the directors say, “Could not be so; Millington was only half a yard from the goal-parallel, and therefore Dominy could not be offside.”  The effect of a goal like this carries with it a very valued point in the chart, and such a point and such an occurrence might easily mean the difference between second division “imprisonment” and first-class life insurance, I am not going to pretend what happened; anyone who says he saw from the Press-box area what happened, at that wretched angle, should go to a racecourse and study angles, and then- piece the fog!
HIS VIEW
A colleague who was immediately behind the occurrence says that it was one of the best goals ever scored on the ground, and its validity should never have been discussed; he even went so far as to telephone me immediately the game was over so that I should know what happened.  Well, that was very good of him, and I appreciate his first-hand view, and I give his words knowing he is a reliable impartial man, even though he loves his Everton.  He says; “Offside? Not possible; it was a gem-goal, and it is a wicked thing that Everton could not count it.  Millington was bored by two defenders, and he squeezed the ball to the middle; he pulled it back a yard or two in so doing, so that Dominy was in such a position that he could not be given offside.” 
BUT HE WAS!
I am sorry to say that referees can’t keep time with present-day football plans, and that Saturday saw a further example of a referee giving angled and angular decisions about things which he could not hope to do more than “estimate.”  The need for goal judges is imperative these days; away with the linesmen; on with the men in the goal area, who shall at least not need to race up and down the field and miss the very vital pushings and foul hands that go in a crush of players in the goal area.  What is a throw-in? (Judge at a Bow-street court).  Witness; “A condemned nuisance, my lord.”  The throw-in is condemned to death.  Mayhap in its place the man who kicks out deliberately will suffer not a throw in but a free kick.  Then there’ll be some fun; the need for reading the mind of the player doing the kicking will be patient!  I had not seen Everton for some weeks and was naturally a bit disappointed that they did not do better.  The goal they got was, as I stated on Saturday, “headed” by Seddon, and the goal “Joy” Smith got was in the nature of a present through the opposing player’s body-poise not being taken into consideration.  The home half-backs were good as a line and individually, but for real success commend me to Billy Brown, who took all the honours for applying the closure upon Vizard and Joe Smith.  It was a complete triumph.  Add some dogged work by the backs, and then taken away some indifferent and casual sort of work by Kerr, and you have the defence considered.  But add you the faultiness of attack and a line that was not combined and too often had the ball in the air and you find the attacking division was not in happy mood.  I made Troup the most dependable forward with Irvine rambling rather too much, and Dean towered by Seddon and not getting the ball in an applicable manner.  It was the best game I had seen Dominy play, and I am sorry, if his goal was good that it was denied him.  This is a case where Mr. Director Williams’s dictum shows up well; he says the rules should be amended so that in case of doubt the side making a claim can demand the referee to consult the linesmen.  I don’t think Everton push their clamorous claims far enough; an insistence about a visit to the linesman might have made a wealth of difference.  Incidentally, let me breathe into your ears the “lesson” of Saturday; Everton are improving, but must consolidate defensive measures and attack ina  five-forward fashion; chapter two- quietly please!- a pressman saw an official at half-time and the official said Dean did not touch the ball that entered the net.  And I was not the Pressman concerned.  You remember what happened when last I went to see a referee about an incident in which I tried to put the Everton case in a right and for manner?  No; oh, well, we’ll pass along in the lift! 

S’MENT
Liverpool Echo-Tuesday November 30, 1926
Bee’s Notes
“Brum for Ever” writes;- Could you use your good offices with the Everton club and ask could they not cement the few steps behind the goal at the double-decker end? On wet days one’s heels are in an inch of mud, and to little chaps like the writer- heels are well down and toes are well up owing to the front edging only being cement –it is anything but comfortable.  Also, will you suggest that the antiquated net-holders –pole and ropes-be abolished.  They are out of date, and obscure the view of any wing man cutting in, and are decidedly dangerous when a forward does his best to hold the ball “in” as it were.  Hardy, on Saturday, came to grief against the right-hand side rope, and I am sure a wing man cutting in has an optical illusion many times, for he sees the side goal-post, two ropes, and an extra pole, thereas with the iron rod inside the net, like many first class grounds have-Anfield, for instance –a forward has nothing but the post nearest to him, and sometimes the goalkeeper, to stop his view and his shot. 
GO THOU-
During the interval at Goodison Park, last Saturday, a few sportsmen contributed 13s 6d to the Goodfellow Fund on an appeal by Mr. Jones, of Spellow-lane.  The idea is a good one.  Half-time collections at the football grounds will help swell the fund and serve to pass away the waiting period. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 1926