Everton Independent Research Data
NEWCASTLE UNITED RESERVES 0 EVERTON RESERVES 3
November 1, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 14)
A crowd of 12,000 on Tyneside saw Newcastle completely outplayed by Everton, the Central League leaders. There were no goals before the interval, Denmark putting up fine resistance to Dean and McPhillips keeping a grand goal. Bentham, moving across from right half, went through in a great dribble on the left to score a fine goal in 56 minutes. Dean got the second 4 minutes later, turned the ball through from close in and he headed a glorious third shortly afterwards. Everton were so decisively masters that there was no comparison between the sides. Apart from a fine header by Docking, which hit the post. Morton had no anxiety and the backs also had an easy day. Jones subdued the efforts of the home inside forwards, and Benthm and Watson combined with Dougal and Stevenson to pierce the Newcastle defence repeatedly. Dean kept the attack moving well, receiving fine response from the winners. McPhillips was the most consistent for Newcastle, but when Denmark lost his grip the side went to piece. Everton Reserves: - Morton, goal; Jackson and Thomson, backs; Bentham, Jones (TG), and Watson, half-backs; Arthur, Stevenson, Dean, Dougal, and Davies (JW.), forwards.
Earlestown White Star 2 v Everton 3“A”
Liverpool County Combination
At Earlestown. Davies for Everton completed the “hat-trick.” In the first ten minutes White Star gradually recovered and only good work by Wilkinson in the Everton goal kept them at bay. Eventually Phillips scored for the home side. In the second half White Star assumed command and Lowe scored the side’s second goal. Shortly afterwards Hilton got the ball in the net for Star, but the goal was ruled offsides. Despite further pressure by Star they were unable to equalise.
EVERTON HAVE TOO MANY WEAK LINKS
November 1, 1937. The Evening Express.
More Team Changes Probable
By Watcher.
Everton will have to make still more changes if they are to strike the route to a mere comfortable position in the First Division. Their 5-3 defeats at the hands of Preston North End, at Goodison on Saturday –one at which no one could cavil –made it obvious to everyone that the Blues’ present team has too many weak links in its make up to ensure much joy being extracted from games with the leading clubs in the First League. Leeds left Everton standing for speed a fortnight ago. Last Saturday, Preston not only revealed better combination, but also gave the home forwards a lesson, in inter-passing, speed and quick shooting. It must be said, however, that few clubs would have been able to check the North Enderers on Saturday. They were always more direct, and –after a first half in which Everton fought hard to be the first team to lead the Deepdalers at the interval in 29 successive League games –Preston took complete command of the game.
Below Par.
Everton’s attack was not up to standard. The new formation was not a success. Bell who scored the first goal –Lawton got his side’s second goal and third goals –was a worker, but never an ideal partner for Gillick, who has not yet hit the form which made him a star in Glasgow Rangers’ side. The right wing was the best, for although Cunliffe seemed a little slow off the mark Geldard was enterprising fast and tricky, and times and again sent over perfect crosses from the line. Britton, like Gillick, has not yet run into form, and consequently the half back line is suffering. Mercer achieved most success in that department, and Sagar often saved the defence.
PROUD PRESTON
November 1, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
By Stoke.,
The best game seen at Goodison Park this season was the general opinion after Preston North End’s sweeping victory over Everton, and those who can forget the score and the knowledge that their side had been whipped by a better side, could not help, but admit that the football was exhilarating and entertaining I am afraid, however, that too much importance is centred in goalscoring, and the remainder of the play forgotten. I have no excuses to offer for Everton’s defeat, for I have no desire to take away from Preston the laurels they won by their entrancing forward display, a display as good, if not better than anything I have seen this season. To be perfectly candid Everton were fortunate to score three goals, for Burns the North End goalkeeper, should have saved at least two of them. Even when Everton were leading –they held it on three occasions. Preston always gave the impression that they could top Everton’s score no matter what figure it reached.
The Great Difference.
There lay the great difference. The Preston front line played with a smoothness skill, and at a tremendous pace which could have put one result –goals, whereas Everton laboured through their work so to the better attack went the spoils of war. Three goals will win most home garpes, but Everton could not hold them, and in the end were overrun in defence which has been their strong point in recent games. Everton’s new form of attack was on trial. Well it was an improvement on what had gone before, for there was definitely more punch in it, but for a change the defence was shattered. Any defence might have suffered. Any defence might have suffered a similar fate, for the Preston attack on the day’s play was almost invincible. The speed at which they worked soon showed up weakness in Everton’s defensive armour the way they interchanged positions added to Everton’s trouble; in fact, to be perfectly frank, Everton’s defence was not good enough against one of the sprightliest forward lines in the country.
The Transformation.
The signing of Mutch, and the bringing in of R. Beattie, has transformed Preston into a really good side. Beattie and Mutch were the inspiring influence, and what would have happened had F. O’Donnell been present can only be a assumed. Not that Maxwell did not play his part but O’D’s positional play and additional skill is vastly superior to that of Maxwell. It was a forward victory for Preston, which only goes to prove that attack is the best defence. There were two penalty kicks in the game –that was uncommon –and Jack Jones was the culprit in each case. Now Jack has been playing grand football, and was doing so on Saturday until he lost his grip of himself. In the hustle on Saturday I laid the blame for the first penalty on Cook-forgive me. Wullie. So many penalty takers on the big hit to score a spot kick that it was refreshing to see Mutch take them in the Meredithian style –the quietly placed shot.
Deadly Shooting.
The first half was level, but once Preston got their teeth into the game they sailed along to a comfortable victory. Everton will not forget the North End’s all-Scotch attack for some time to come for they have not been so severely handled at any time this season. They just could not cope with it, and Scotland could have done worse than choose this line on bloc, and it could have won against Wales for there was any amount of deadly shooting in the line, and that was apparently, missing from the Scots at Cardiff. Geldard, Cunliffe and Britton were excellent in the first half with the first-named smashing over centre after centre, but there unevenness on the left flank, where Bell, and Gillick never got together. Bell worked hard, and got his usual goal, but later Everton had to back on to defence to try and hold down Preston, so that the line was rarely seen afterwards. Lawton scored two goals, and did quite well against centre half-back who made full use of his elbows. Britton has not recovered his form since his accident Gee stood up well to his work, but must stay back and Mercer’s tackling was sound, but his passing poor. But the man of the Everton defence was Sagar. He had to pick the ball out of the net five times. It would have been more with a less capable goalkeeper in charge. I understand that a crowd gathered together in front of the Everton directors stand and called “We want some players” and “We want Dean.”
EVERTON’S DISMAL OCTOBER
November 2, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel
Everton’s defeat at Goodison Park by Preston North End brought to a close one of the team’s most dismal months in recent years. They played 5 League matches and secured only points scored 7 goals and conceded 11. Their trio of points were obtained by a victory over their neighbours Liverpool at Anfield, and a division of the points with Leeds United at Goodison Park. As a result of their failure Everton are now left third from bottom in the league chart, one below Liverpool, with only 9 points for 13 leagues. Their read v. Liverpool (a) 2-1; Wolverhampton Wanderers (a) 0-2; Leeds United (h) 3-1; Grimsby Town (a) 1-2; and Preston North end (h) 3-5.
EVERTON CHANGES
November 3, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Jones Displaces Gee.
By John Peel.
Everton undertake another adventure in the North-East on Saturday when they oppose Middlesbrough at Aryesome Park. The task is a severe one, but Everton’s position is such that they must make a big effort. Changes have been made in the hope of adding greater zest to the side. It is a surprise however, to find Gee displaced though he did not play up to his customary standard just week against Preston. T.G. Jones, the tall Welsh half-backs, is to take on the onerous pivotal duties. Jones played for the first team last October against Leeds United, but generally has played with the Central League side. A tall, capable player, Jones is sure sooner or later to gain a permentant place in the first team. In the front line Stevenson and Trentham form the left wing Bell and Gillick dropping out. The team is; Sagar; Cook, Jones (je); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. The Central League side to entertain Stoke City at Goodison Park will include Bell, Dean, Dougal, and Gillick in the attack, while Gee fills the pivotal position, The team is; Morton; Jackson, Thomson; Bentham, Gee, Watson; Arthur, Bell, Dean, Dougal, Gillick.
EVERTON TEAM SURPRISE
November 3, 1937. The Evening Express.
Blues Leave Out International Centre Half
Young Wrexham Star To Play At Middlesbro’
Three Changes
By The Pilot
Everton directors have dropped another bombshell. For the visit to Middlesbough on Saturday they have omitted Charlie Gee, the international centre-half, for the first time this season. Gee, who has captained the first eleven this season is to play in the Reserve team against Stoke City, and his place in the seniors will be taken by Tommy Jones, the young player secured from Wrexham two seasons ago. This is one of three changes as compared with the team which lost to Preston North End. Bell and Gillick are replaced on the left flank of attack by Stevenson, the Irish international, and Trentham. Bell and Gillick also play in the Reserves. The appearance of Jones will be watched with interest, for he has been playing brilliant football in the Central League side. His only appearance in the first team was against Leeds United at Elland road last season. He has improved beyond measure this term, particularly in heading. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham.
Everton Reserves; Morton; Jackson, Thomson; Bentham, Gee, Watson; Arthur, Bell, Dean, Dougal, Gillick.
Everton’s Gesture.
Everton F.C. directors have decided to release Cook, Stevenson, and Gillick should they be required by Ireland or Scotland for the international match at Aberdeen next Wednesday.
EVERTON THREE CHANGES
November 3, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
Everton have made three changes for their made visit Middlesbrough at Aryesome Park on Saturday. Gee for the first time this season has been dropped and TG Jones who has been playing grand football in the Central League team comes in at centre in at centre half back.
This is rather a surprising change for Gee has been the backbone of the defence for some weeks. Against Preston North End, however, he did not have a happy game. In fact none of the Everton defenders showed up well against the sprightly North End attack. Jones has played himself it to the side. Each time I have watched him he has impressed me as a centre half of the right type for present day football, for he combine attack will defence. This will be his first appearance in the side this season, and his test at Middlesbrough is going to be a stiff one, for the Boro are more than useful on their own ground. The other two changes are, in the forward line, where Stevenson and Trentham will pair off on the left flank to the exclusion of Bell and Gillick. Stevenson may give the youngster Trentham the right kind of pass to enable him to make the best use of his speed. Team: - Sagar; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, and Trentham. The Central league side to entertain Stoke City at Goodison Park will include Bell, Dean, Dougal, and Gillick in the attack, while Gee fills the pivotal position. The team is Morton; Jackson, Thomson; Bentham, Gee, Watson; Arthur, Bell, Dean, Dougal, Gillick.
EVERTON’S LATE CHANGE.
November 5, 1937. The Evening Express.
Sagar Unable To Play At Middlesbrough.
By The Pilot.
Everton have to make a late change for tomorrow’s visit to Middlesbrough. Sagar reported at Goodison Park today that he was unfit and Morton takes his place in goal. Sagar is suffering from a swollen knee, Morton the ex-Aston Villa player, appears for the first time this season. Hitherto Sagar had been an ever-present. The Blues have made further attacking changes in the hope of finding an effective line. Everton give Tom Jones, ex-Wrexham, his first chance of the season as centre half. A lot depends on Jones, who is a natural footballer, splendid on the ball, and whose defensive phrase has improved out of all knowledge this season. If he “comer off” then the Blues have a great chance. The Borough created a sensation last Saturday by winning at Highbury. Morton; Cook, Jones; Britton, Jones, Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham.
EVERTON’S PROSPECTS
November 5, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
What are Everton’s prospects up in the north-east this week-end? It might not look promising but after Liverpool’s experience against the Cupholders a week ago, nothing is out of the question. Aryesome Park is not usually kindly to visitors, and this season they have got together such a useful side that home points dropped are rare more than otherwise. Everton did not play badly against Preston North End and I do not rate the Boro nearly as good a side as the North End, so there may be a possibility of a division of the spoils tomorrow. Last Saturday there was slackness about the Everton defence, especially as in the half-back line, where neither Britton nor Mercer were at their best.
More Construction.
I wish the left half could get his passes away so the right place for them, he would be the complete footballer, for his tackling and defence is strong enough, but the lack of construction in his play means that the forwards in front of him do not get the support to which they are entitled. Britton has not touched his best since his injury and as the half-back line of any team makes for strength or otherwises, Everton must get together in this department if they are to hold down the fiery forward work of the Borough side. I was rather surprised at the dropping of Gee, for he was not the only weakness last Saturday. As a matter of fact his first half display was full of merit, and it was only after the Preston forwards turned on steam –powerful enough to smash through any defence –that he slowed down just as others of the team had done. T.G. Jones, who takes Gee’s place, has been doing grand work in the Central League team. Each time I have seen him he has made a great impression. But the one thing necessary is for the three half backs to have a complete understanding one with the other and the full backs could be most brought into the conference with enjoyed advantage.
Lack Of Craft.
Geldard and Cunliffe did well on Saturday, but the left wing was not at all effective. There was a lack of craft about Bell. He scored a goal, but did not fit the bill as a constructional unit. This is why Stevenson been brought back. The Irishman may not have set the place on fire by his display his season, but he does bring constructional play into his game. A lot will depend upon Everton’s left wing at Middlesbrough that has been Everton’s weakness all through the season. The search goes on for a good class winger, and a new name may be seen there before long, sooner, in fact, than you may expect. I think this is going to be a grim tussle Everton’s position –third from the foot of the table –does not make nice reading. They will be all out to improve it, but it is asking them something to win at the Boro ground, where Camsell and his colleagues are very effective. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Jones (Je); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham.
SAGAR OUT OF EVERTON TEAM
November 6, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton are going through one of their lean periods and the officials realise that there is much leeway to be made up. In facing Middlesbrough at Aryesome Park the players have a stiff task today, but they will tackle it with determination. Unfortunately they will be without Sagar, who was injured in the Preston match and has to undergo an operation for cartilage trouble. Morton will take his place. Middlesbrough have been doing well, and the fact that they defeated Manchester City at home and Arsenal at Highbury recently, shows that the combination is one worthy of the highest respect. It remains to be seen how Everton plan of placing T.G. Jones at centre half in place of Gee work out. It is a big fest for the Welsh pivot for much depends on this position but I look for an improved display compared with that of last week, when Preston won at Goodison Park. Everton; Morton; Cook, Jones (Je); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. Middlesbrough; Nash; Laking, Stuart; Brown, Baker, Forrest, Chadwick; Birkett, Fenton, Higham, Cochrane.
SAGAR’S ILL-LUCK
November 6, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Third Operation For Cartilage Trouble.
The injury to Sagar, the Everton goal, keeper has turned out much more severe was at first anticipated. An examination of injured knee by a specialist yesterday divulged cartilage trouble and Sagar will go into the nursing home today and he operated on tomorrow. This is the third cartilage injury that Sagar has suffered within the last twelve months. He has already had two operations one on either knee for this troublesome complain and now comes a third on the right knee. It is the inner cartilage this time, and it will keep Sagar of the team for a matter of five or six weeks. The Everton goalkeeper was injured during the first half of Everton’s game with Preston North End last Saturday. It was thought he might be fit for today’s game with Middlesbrough and such was the hope that he tested his leg during yesterday morning, but it was found that the knee was badly swollen and it was deemed necessary to have expert advice on the matter, with the result that he was despatched to see a specialist shortly after midday. Morton taken his place in goal.
EVERTON’S 3RD AWAY WIN.
November 6, 1937. The Liverpool Football Echo.
A Severe Shock For Middlesbrough
Lawton’s Points
By Stork.
It was left to Everton to bring off the sensation this week. They beat the Borough on merit to score their third away victory of the season. Their attack was better and their defence much steadier than in recent weeks. Teams: - Everton: - Morton, goal; Cook, and Jones (JE); backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG) and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, and Trentham, forwards. Middlesbrough; Nash, goal; Laking and Stuart, backs; Brown, Baker, and Forrest, half-backs; Chadwick, Birkett, Renton, Higham, and Cochrane, forwards. Referee Mr. J.J. Greenham, Bradford. While Middlesbrough were sore about not getting Bowston, they were delighted to report that both Camsell and Yorston were completely fit. Mr. Phil Bach, the former Middlesbrough chairman and Football League legislator was present at his first match of the season. There was quite a good attendance which is not surprising to view of the fact that the Boro have been playing excellent football in recent weeks, while there were some who wanted to see Everton’s rearranged team. Boro’ certainly opened in a manner which suggested heavy work for the Everton defence and in the first few moments Morton had to save from Fenton after Higham the former Everton forward, had done the spadework. Morton had turned the ball round the foot of the post to relieve the situation and there was no question that the Boro forwards particularly Fenton were in shooting mood, and Fenton put in no fewer than four shots in the first five minutes. Some of them of course were off the mark, but it only goes to show how the North-Easterner gather their goals these days. Cunliffe was well off the target and Lawton, too swept one over the crossbar while Jones the full back was so well up the field that he got the ball just over the angle of the upright from a free kick. Brown was penalised for a perfect shoulder charge on Mercer, and then cam an Everton goal-perhaps all against the run of the play –and it was the free kick which produced it. There were some doubt as to the legitimacy of the free kick, but there was no doubt that the Middlesbrough defence was so completely taken by a surprise that there was looseness about their play when Mercer lobbed the ball into the goalmouth.
Lawton Dashes In.
Lawton was able to dash through and head a nice goal after 23 minutes with the opposition looking on. Naturally, the goal gave some concern to the Borough, who are not used to being in arrears at Ayresome Park. Lawton, fired with his success tried a long shot which travelled at great pace a yard outside and then Geldard altered his tactics by closing in and lobbing the ball across the Middlesbrough goalmouth, Trentham nodding it back only to find there was not a colleague present to take advantage of a glorious opening. Everton enjoyed a period of attack but when the Boro hit back the Everton goal had narrow escapes, and Higham was the cause in each case. I thought he was definitely offside when he hit the foot of the post, but the second came off Jones, so Higham could not possibly be offside as so many people though. The referee allowed him to go on, and it looked a certain goal to the Borough but the former Everton man shot straight at Morton so the equaliser was prevented. The best save of the match thus far went to the credit of Nash, who by the way was only signed in late September. Lawton hit the ball from out of a ruck, but Nash made a perfect catch and was fully applauded. Everton had played remarkably well on a ground which was not yielded full points to any side this season.
Half-Time Middlesbrough 0, Everton 1
T.G. Jones had made a good impression, even though he had put our hearts in our mouths when he elected to trap a ball in front of his own goal when there were several Borough men in the vicinity. He got away with it and also got away with many headers which had they been allowed to pass along, would have been dangerous to the Everton goal.
Lawton’s Second.
Morton was sound when he had the few calls made on him. The home forwards wanted to walk the ball through. Middlesbrough’s form was a surprise to their own people, and when at 52 minutes Everton went up to score his second goal they were completely flabbergasted. It was a porous incident and Lawton went on what time the Borough defiance had stopped play in the belief that the Everton man must be pulled up for offside, but my reading of the affair was that Laking moved up much too late in his attempt to put Lawton offside. Naturally the referee came in for some harsh words from the home spectators who did not relish their team being beaten. Nash was called upon to make another save and then Cook hit the crossbar from long range which will give you some ideas as to how much on top Everton were. Morton made such a masterly save from Fenton that J. Jones though it worthy of congratulation and he save them. Everton continued to be the better side and it was unfortunate that one error by T.G. Jones –the only one in the match –should culminate in a goal. But that was the luck of the game, and Birkett, who had run to centre forward in anticipation of a Higham pass, smashed the ball into the net ten minutes from the end. This naturally set the Borough off for an equaliser and for some moments the Everton defence was hard pressed. Final; Middlesbrough 1, Everton 2.
MIDDLESBROUGH 1 EVERTON 2 (Game 1618 over-all)-(Div 1 1576)
November 8, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Success
Disputed Goal At Middlesbrough
18-Month Home Record Broken
By Stork
It was Everton’s turn to surprise the Northern-Eastern football followers on Saturday, for few if any of the people of Middlesbrough thought their team would lose a home record which has stood firm for a matter of 18 months. Everton beat the Borough fairly and squarely 2-1, but the home club were greatly concerned about the decision that gave Everton their winner goal. They maintained that it was the worst ever seen at Ayresome Park, and it gave Lawton his second goal, and although Birks reduced the deficit 10 minutes from the end it enabled Everton to record their third away victory of the season. Both fore and aft there was greater purpose in Everton’s methods, and their speed into the tackle was one of the secrets of their success. Middlesbrough were not allowed to settle down to their normal game, which I am told has been of a very high standard this season.
Disputed Winner
But let me tell you of the referee’s decision which caused all the brother. The Everton left flank was attacking and looking dangerous and Laking the Borough full back though the only way to check its progress was to put Lawton offside. He ran forward, but started his advance too late so that when the ball was last played Lawton was onside. Everyone stopped play in anticipated of the referee’s whistle. Lawton himself hesitated until he heard Stevenson “call” Go through, “Tommy” He did so, and gave Everton a 2 goal lead. Lawton appeared offside, but not when the ball was last played –at least this is my opinion, I admired the cool and calm way the Everton leader took the goal, I have it on the word of the players themselves that the ball, actually went through Nash’s legs. Lawton’s first goal was a header from Mercer’s free kick. He dashed between the backs, who were deliberating how they would deal with the situation by which time Lawton had scored. Middlesbrough’s forwards were much too fanciful, yet they had their moments. In the first 10 minutes they flung in shot after shot, and Higham, the former Everton forward, hit the post, and Morton saved a number of attempt, but it was not until after Birkett’s goal that they came into the game with a chance, although it was Morton who made the save of the match when he turned aside a great shot by Fenton.
Great Defence.
Everton defence’s has never played better. T.G. Jones was grand at centre half, his one mistake, when he allowed a ball to travel through his legs giving the Borough their goal. He played well back, but “used” the ball when clearing, exploiting his wing halves and his wingmen. Cook played his best game, and when he went for the ball it was generally his; while J. Jones gave every assistance, Britton and Mercer tackled with determination, and confidence. The forwards were in their liveliest mood. The “W” formation was there, but the difference was that immediately Stevenson and Cunliffe made their passes they ran up into position. Trentham once netted with a wonderful shot, but was offside. He played brilliantly against a back, who did not stand on ceremony. Geldard had a good first half, when he was well piled by Cunliffe, and Britton, but I would like to see him out in and shoot more often. Teams: - Everton:- Morton, goal; Cook, and Jones (JE); backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG) and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, and Trentham, forwards. Middlesbrough; Nash, goal; Laking and Stuart, backs; Brown, Baker, and Forrest, half-backs; Chadwick, Birkett, Renton, Higham, and Cochrane, forwards. Referee Mr. J.J. Greenham, Bradford.
EVERTON RESERVES 3 STOKE CITY RESERVES 0
November 8, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 15)
Everton, who fielded a strong side at Goodison were too good for Stoke Reserves. The visitors goal had some remarkable escapes. Gillick hit the post, Dean grazed the crossbar and on other occasions defenders managed to deflect good shoots mainly from Dougal, who was always neat and effective. Gillick was spasmodic, but Bell and Dean combined well. Arthur was the best winner, while Bentham and Gee were also prominent. Arthur and Gillick scored before the interval, and Bentham got the third from a penalty right on time. Everton Reserves: - Wilkinson, goal; Jackson and Thomson, backs; Bentham, Gee and Watson, half-backs; Arthur, Bell, Dean, Dougal and Gillick, forwards.
A DEBATABLE GOAL.
November 8, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
A goal was scored at Aryesome Park on Saturday which will be discussed in the North-East for the remainder of the week. Should it have been a goal? Middlesbrough club do not think so while at the same time admitting the better side had won even though it meant the loss of a highly-regarded home record. I have no doubt it my own mind that it was a perfect goal, for the Borough defender who tried to put Lawton offside started his run forward a fraction of a second too late, so that Lawton was onside when the ball was last played. That is the important thing when arguing offside decisions. It looked bad, distinctly bad and Lawton himself anticipated a stoppage for he hesitated until Stevenson shouted to him to “Go through, Tommy” what time the rest of the players had stopped playing. The referee had no doubt and I did not see the linesman nearest to the incident even attempt to raise his flag. Lawton went through and scored with a low drive which the players say went through Nash’s legs. That was a surprise to me, for I thought the ball had swung away in front of Nash to find the back of the net.
More Methods.
Everton showed more method both fore and aft in this convincing victory, which bodies well for the future. Man for man they were just that split second quicker into the tackle than their opponents which gave them the upper hand and prevented the Boro from getting into their known home stride. The Boro forwards helped in their own downfall by persistence to keep the ball too close which enabled the Everton defence to get to grips with them. Why will players fall into this habit? They must know that a player who clings to a ball too long is a ready victim to a defender. Time and again the Middlesbrough forwards were stationed in the Everton penalty area –surely the place from which to shot –only to fritter away their chances through lack of a shot. Everton have made the same mistakes many times, but not so at Middlesbrough, where their directness carried them through to victory. I have been hammering for a more solid attack. I know there must be a “W” formation –there always has been –but what I complained about was that the men behind the line did not go up into position immediately after they had made their pass forward.
Altered Plan.
This was all altered for when Cunliffe and Stevenson had picked up the stray ball they sent it forward and then ran into position, so that Lawton, Geldard and Trentham were not lacking in support when they had to challenge the Boro defence. Both Cunliffe and Stevenson were shooters. The Irishman should have scored when perfectly “placed” by Lawton, but “Mickey” played a fine game, as in fact, did the whole team. Trentham produced his best against a back who was not kindly to him, and Lawton, his two great apart, led his line with intelligent and thrust. Geldard was best in the first half. There was great speculation as to how T.G. Jones would fare in this severe test. Well sirs, he came through with flying colours. His defence was sound, his use of the ball wise and it was regrettable that his one mistake –if it could be adjudged a mistake –would cost his side a goal. Jones brought his wing halves into the game, and Mercer and Britton gave him strong backing. This line was partly responsible for the victory.
TRENTHAM STAR EVERTON WINGER
November 8, 1937. The Evening Express.
“No” To Boro’s Request For Transfer
Speed On Ball Won Points At Aryesome
By The Pilot.
Everton, for weeks, have been searching for a first class outside left. Against Middlesbrough, at Aryesome Park on Saturday, when they won 2-1, they played 19-year-old Trentham on the left. Immediately after the match Manager Wilf Gillow, of the ‘Borough, asked Everton to transfer Trentham! Everton, of course, gave a point blank refusal, but the Middlesbrough inquiry goes to prove that the Blues have Trentham, a “Star” winger. He gave his best display in the first team and is a promising left winger, I have seen for a long time. He had pace, good centres, speed and above all pluck. I would like Trentham to have a season in the Central League side to secure him more experience, but on Saturday performance I have no immediate worry. That was a complete Everton victory, in that one they had taken the lead with a Dean like header from Lawton, the result was never in doubt, and now no first Division side has won more away games. The secret of success was Everton’s speed on the ball. They were a yard faster than the Borough and there was a team work which augured well for the future. At times they were hard pressed, but there was always plenty of back up and intrepid. The dainty ‘Borough were never allowed to play. The inclusion of Tom Jones at centre half was a complete success. Mercer was 100 per cent energy and endeavour and Britton shine in the use of the ball. Behind them Cook played his finest game of the season and Jack Jones was not far short in any play while Morton –figuring on the winning side for the first time since he played in Everton’s first team –never made a mistake. The attack was a quick-moving line with Stevenson acting the role of schemer. Lawton the bonny opportunist and persistent raider. Cunliffe and Geldard forming the best wing on the field, and young Trentham playing his part well. On this showing Chelsea are in for a warm time next Saturday.
EVERTON LEAVE WELL ALONE
November 9, 1937. The Evening Express
Unchanged X1, against Chelsea
By The Pilot
The Everton eleven which played so well at Ayresome Park on Saturday in beating Middlesbrough 2-1 has been selected to oppose Chelsea, at Goodion Park, on Saturday. This means that Tom Jones, the former Wrexham centre half, will play his first ever home game in the senior side. His only appearance prior to the Middlesbrough game was at Leeds last season. The Everton watchers will find Jones a reliable pivot who plays an essentially third back game, but who has fine powers of recovery if ever he does move up. He should be able to take care of the Chelsea inside forwards, despite the presence of such as Mills and Argue. Morton will also make his first home appearance of the season. Cunliffe and Stevenson retain the inside forward positions. There has been no progress in regard to an, outside left signing, despite discreet inquires Manchester way, so young Trentham carries on. Everton; Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. Everton will be without Billy dean for their Central League match against Manchester United at Old Trafford. Dean will lead the Central League attack against the London Combination at Newcastle. Catterick’s a young lad from the “A” team deputises in the Everton eleven. Everton Reserves: - Wilkinson; Jackson, Thomson; Bentham, Gee, Watson, Arthur, Bell, Catterick, Dougal, Gillick.
EVERTON SEARCH
November 9, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
Everton’s search for an outside left has taken them to Manchester City, where there is a young Scot named Rodgers, who has several times deputised for Eric Brook, the regular winger. I understand that Everton were represented at the City’s reserves game with Bury reserves at Maine-road on Saturday, and that Rodgers was their man. Everton readily admit that they were over at the City ground on Saturday, but they have representatives out each week on many grounds and Rodgers was but one of the players viewed. It does not follow, therefore that any business will be done with Manchester City, but it is not unlikely that they will take another look at the player. Rodgers by the way played against Everton in the late weeks of last season and scored two goals from centre forward, while this season he scored two goals against Everton Reserves in the Central League team. Everton have made no change in the team which won so well at Middlesbrough, for their game with Chelsea, at Goodison Park on Saturday, but there is an alteration in the Central league team for Dean has bene chosen to lead the Central League X! Against the London Combination X1, at Newcastle on Saturday. Catterick takes his place in the second team. Team; Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham.
CAP FOR COOK
November 11, 1937, Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Cook, the Everton full back proved an excellent captain for the Irishman and it is noteworthy that Coulter again played. Scotland drew with Ireland at Pittodrie Park, Aberdeen in front of 21,878
DIXIE DEAN’S HONOURS
November 11, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
Is there any honour in football which Dixie Dean, the Everton centre forward does not hold? One I can readily call to mind is the Central League medal, which none of the present Everton players have won. There is every indication that Dean will add this to his many caps, Cup and League medals, for Everton’s second team is running away with the Central League at the present time. Of course there is a long way to go, but Everton’s reserve team as made up today is almost a first team including as it does Dean, Dougal, Bell, Gee, Thomson, and Morton until a week ago, when Ted Sagar was laid aside with cartilage trouble. Dean by the way will add to his collection of football trophies when he leads the Central league side against the London Combination team at Newcastle on Saturday; so when the day arrives for his departure from football he will require a furniture vail to carry away all his prises. The Everton captain suffered a loss a few seasons ago when he had severe “national” caps stolen from his show-case and I never heard whether they were ever returned to him, I think not.
A Blow –And Then –
Mr. Cuff, who is president of the Central League is particularly anxious that his team should win the League championship this season, for he was the first secretary of the league. The Everton chairman shows as much concern about the reserve side as he does about the first team. When at an away match he is always keen to know how the reserves have gone on. At Middlesbrough last week we were informed that they had suffered a home defeat –and news indeed for a team playing before its own crowded, and it was not until we were well on our journey home that we found somebody had erred, and that actually they had won against Stoke at Goodison Park. With a Middlesbrough victory under our belts everything in the garden was lovely.
EVERTON OUT FOR THE BEST
November 12, 1937. The Liverpool Echo.
Ranger’s Notes.
By Stork
It does not do to make too much of one solitary victory but I do feel that Everton’s win at Middlesbrough is only the forerunner of many more to come. I am not one to rush bald-headed into something without having good reason for doing so, but I must admit that Everton’s last victory has influenced me into saying that Everton’s lean spell is at an end. Don’t for one moment think that I am entirely satisfied with the composition of the Everton team for I can still put my finger on weak places, and the directors themselves are well aware of such weakness and are making every effort to put them right. No doubt you will say. Other teams are getting new players. Why not Everton?” Well, Everton are not going to be satisfied with anything but the best. They have no intention of making a purchase unless that purchase is better than what they have got. Just as good would not satisfy the Everton board. Everton will have to watch their P’s and Q’s against Chelsea at Goodison tomorrow, for the Londoners are enjoying their best season ever, even though there are no “stars” in their team. They work as a team, and it has brought them a great success. At one time not o long ago, they were the butt of the cartoonists and the critics, but today, they stand second in the table with a away from home as good as any side in the League, and are far from a joke. T.G. Jones will be tested to the full when he faces Mills, a live centre forward, who knows where the goal is situated.
“Stop The Rot.”
Chelsea have taken but one point from Goodison Park in five meetings, but let us not forget that their present side is much above that of previous years. They have brought off somewhat wins away from Stamford Bridge, and will come to Goodison full of confidence, in their ability to “stop the rot,” the sequence of defeats suffered at the hands of Everton. If Everton produce their Middlesbrough form then I took to a Chelsea defeat. One word to Albert Geldard. “Step in and have a go, Albert. The corner flag should not be your objective all the time. You have a good shot in your boots, and the necessary speed to carry you through.” Young Trentham pleased me at Middlebrough. He was not afraid to cut in and try a shot. One found the net. No matter he was offside –barely –it showed that a winger has never had such chances of scoring as he has today. Teams; Morton, Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham.
EVERTON’S SPEED ON THE BALL
November 12, 1937. The Evening Express.
Tactics That Will Beat Chelsea.
Danger Men ON Pensioners.
By The Pilot.
Everton make an effort to record their first home win since September 11, when they oppose Chelsea at Goodison Park tomorrow. The Blues have the unusual record of having won more away matches than home games. Their only home wins were in successive matches against Manchester City band Brentford. Since then they have dropped five points out of six! Their task against Chelsea is a big one, for the Pensioners are having their best-ever season and stand second in the League table. Not since the war have Chelsea had such a deadly attack, but they are not the perfect football combination, for goals are being conceded rather too frequently. They have lost 23 goals in 14 matches, and because of that I think Everton have a great chance of winning –if the forwards accept their opportunities. A vital necessity to Everton is a repetition of that speed on the ball which characterised their work at Middlesbrough last week. There they were always a yard quicker than their opponents in moving to position and it made all the difference. Chelsea have danger men in Mills and Buchanan who are generally beautiful fed by Argue –the most improved inside-forward in the First Division –but steady defence such as that of last week should help the Blues along the victory road. Teams; Everton; Morton, Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. Chelsea; Woodley; O’Hare, Barber; Mitchell, Grififths, Weaver; Buchanan, Argue, Mills, Burgess, Chitty.
CHELSEA’S VISIT.
November 13, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Times have changed so far as the Chelsea club is concerned and they come to Goodison Park, as one of the leading sides in the country, and with Everton showing improvement. It should be a highly attractive game this afternoon. The Everton proved a capable of winning at Middlesbrough, suggests that the forward line is becoming more trustful, and they will have an opportunity today of showing their real worth. Chelsea are strong in attack and defence and the side will take a tremendous lot of beating. There are many fine players in the Chelsea side, and Jones, the Everton centre half will have to contend with the dashing Mills who has taken toll off so many defences this season. Woodley is a great goalkeeper, and his showing in the trial match at Goodison Park proved how confident he is in catching high shots. It should be a great duel, and Everton must be at their best to win. The kick-off is at 2.45 and the teams are: - Everton; Morton, Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. Chelsea; Woodley; O’Hare, Barber; Mitchell, Grififths, Weaver; Buchanan, Argue, Mills, Burgess, Chitty.
EVERTON RACE TO VICTORY
November 13, 1937. The Liverpool Football Echo
Chelsea No Match For The Blues
Geldard Thrills by stork
A very easy win for Everton. Chelsea on the day’s play being no match for the Blues. Teams: - Everton: - Morton, goal; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG) and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, and Trentham, forwards. Chelsea: - Woodly, goal; O’Hare and Barber, backs; Allum, Griffiths and Mitchell, half-backs; Buchanan, Argue, Mills, Weaver, and Carsley, forwards. Referee Mr. B. Ames. The attendance was good and the opening exchanges fast and entertaining. Chelsea being the first with a dangerous looking attack, to which Everton replied with a right flank movement which only the strong Chelsea defence was able to combat. When Geldard beat Mitchell in the easiest possible manner the referee allowed Cunliffe to go on, although there had been an appeal for a foul, Lawton took the inside man’s pass first time and smashed it well wide of the mark. Buchanan then made a shot which seemed to bump up against Morton’s chest and come out again. Several Chelsea forwards rushed u
In and Argus finally cracked one on to the upright.
Cunliffe Scored.
It was straight from this that Everton went on to take a leading goal. Cunliffe collecting the ball off Woodley to shoot into the Chelsea net at 15 minutes. Two minutes later Lawton dashed out to the left wing what time Trentham ran to the far side of the goal, and when the ball arrived he cleverly flicked it with his head and Woolley was only able to turn it round the upright with his finger tips. Stevenson made a powerful shot which it struck O’Hare and was deflected over the bar. Stevenson then made a beautiful flick pass which brought a good shot from Geldard with Cunliffe also made an effort a little later after he had threaded his way confidently through the Chelsea rear line. Geldard scooped the ball off the goalline and dropped it right in the goalmouth. The move should have brought a goal, but the ball bounced awkwardly for Lawton. Everton had a good grip on Chelsea this half. Their football was infinitely better than that of Chelsea’s who did not look like one of the top teams of the division on this exhibition. Jones (TG) had been quite good looking after Mills.
Trentham’s Great Goal.
Within two minutes Trentham picked up a loose ball and with confidently he strode forward and released a great rising shot, Woodlley was left standing
Half-Time Everton 2, Chelsea 0
In the second session, Everton almost did as they liked with the Londoners whose defence was much to slow against such a pace wingers as Geldard and Trentham.
Mills Dashes In.
Lawton was getting short shrift in the goalmouth, and I though he should have had a penalty when he was pushed in the back, when Geldard and Britton changed places with effect Jones (TG) slipped but Cook saved the situation. At 75 minutes Chelsea scored through Mills. Morton in punching away a cross from Chitty, only pushed the ball out and the ball was hovering around the Everton goalmouth before Mills pounced down upon it to drive wide of Morton’s left hand. The second half had been lacking in interest, because Everton were complete masters of the situation. With eight minutes to play Geldard made one of his electrifying runs when he left Barber and although Mitchell came across with the idea of upsetting Geldard, the winger got the centre over to Lawton, who promptly put the ball in the net. Trentham almost scored a fourth in the next minute. Everton fourth goal was one of the most curious I have ever seen. Barber had the ball a persistently challenged by Geldard, who saw no way out of it but to pass the ball back to Woolley, but Lawton seen what happen so he went through and swept the a drive when Nash was rushing to Barber’s rescue. Trentham got hurt and to be taken off to leave the field with his colleagues. Final Everton 4, Chelsea 1.
EVERTON 4 CHELSEA 1 (Game 1619 over-all)-(Div 1 1577)
November 15, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Chelsea Play Second Fiddle.
Everton In Top Gear
Geldard’s Good Wing Work
By Stork.
Everton made Chelsea look commoners at Goodison Park yet the Pensioners came North as prospective League champions with several starting away victories on their beits. They were beaten 4-1 and it could have been double that score had Everton been more assertive near goal. One naturally expected a side holding second position in the table to produce something better than Chelsea did against Everton but truth to tell, they were a most disappointing side and played second fiddle to Everton throughout. Even admitting that Everton were in one of their bright moods, the Londoners should not have been overrun as they were for 70 per cent of the game. Everton practically did as they liked, and that sterling defence which has been the back bone of the Chelsea side this season was riddled as it had been riddled before this season, even when Bolton Wanderers were rattling five goals into their net. Everton promised at Middlesbrough that the tide was on the turn for them. The punch which has been lacking for so long was ever present against Chelsea and the veteran Barber and O’Hare the full backs, had one of their unhappiest matches. They did not know whether to go the tackle or hold off, but whichever they did appeared to be wrong.
Wingers Cut Through
The Everton wingers cut by them with an ease and grace that must have been disconcerting to the rest of the team. Both Geldard and Trentham tripped their way down the touchline in the full knowledge that they could beat Barber and O’Hare without any great effort, and once they had passed them by there was never any fear of them returning with a further challenge. Yet, admitting to the scintillating play of Trentham and Geldard one must not forget the assistance they obtained from Cunliffe and Stevenson. Both these players carried and fetched and then put the ball into a vacant place so that the wingers only had to go forward and collect it, and having done so were in line to take the return. Poor Barber was extremely bothered by Geldard’s pace, and Everton, knowing that the left back was chopped for speed, saw to it that Geldard had plenty of the ball. Let me take the last goal first Barber had the ball on the touchline, Geldard challenged him and kept close behind him. Now Barber with his experience, should have known that the best way out of his difficulty was to tap the ball into touch, but that would have brought some jibes on his head, so he decided to pass back to his goalkeeper, Lawton read what was in his mind and bounded forward and got to the ball ahead of Woolley and swept it into the net. The third goal was something similar in that Geldard sped round Barber, lifted the ball into the middle and Lawton with his head did the rest. Everton were two up at the half-stage through goals by Cunliffe, who whipped the ball into the net following a half-save by Woodley, and Trentham, who running in, scored with a rasping rising shot. Mills sandwiched in a goal between Trentham’s and Lawton’s first, and Chelsea promised to stage a revival, but the light only spluttered and then went out and Everton played with such confidence that Mercer dribbled and beat man after man without any effort.
Met Their Masters.
Chelsea had met their masters, and one began to wonder how they had attained their prominent position. Everton were yards faster, tackled smartly and exploited their wings, when brought about the downfall of the Chelsea defence. Woodley was not at his best, for his handling at times was uncertain; in fact the whole side fell to a low level. They had to make a number of changes and this may have affected their team-work, but my own opinion was that Everton were responsible for their poor display. Chitty pulled his groin in the first half and did not stress himself afterwards. The Everton forwards were all on their toes. In the half-back line Mercer was at his best. Britton were more like himself, and TG Jones kept a firm hand on Mills in his quite, yet confident way, and had an eye to the attack. Jones and Cook defended splendidly, and Morton made only one error, when he punched the ball out rather tamely. That gave Mills his goal. Teams: - Everton: - Morton, goal; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG) and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, and Trentham, forwards. Chelsea: - Woodley, goal; O’Hare and Barber, backs; Allum, Griffiths and Mitchell, half-backs; Buchanan, Argue, Mills, Weaver, and Carsley, forwards. Referee Mr. B. Ames, Redditch.
MANCHESTER UNITED RESERVES 4 EVERTON RESERVES 2
November 15, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 16)
Everton Reserves were unlucky to lose both points. They had equally as much of the game as Manchester, but fell away in the closing stages with disastrous results. Manchester United gained a 2 goal lead through Hanlon and Carey after 56 minutes, but Everton revealed fine understanding and spirit and were justly on equal terms by three-quarter time, following good goals by Catterick and Dougal. Unfortunately, Everton’s defence made two errors in the last three minutes which enabled the Manchester wingers, Rowley and Stapleton, to score further goals for victory. Up to this stage Everton were worthy of a half point. Their outstanding players in a well balanced side were Arthur and Gillick, brilliant attackers and Gee a strenuous defender. Everton Reserves: - Wilkinson, goal; Jackson and Thomson, backs; Bentham, Gee and Not-Known, half-backs; Arthur, Bell, Catterick, Dougal and Gillick, forwards.
Everton “A” 9 Pilkington Amateurs 2
Liverpool Challenge Cup
At Sandforth road. Everton “A” proved too strong for the Business Houses League side. The Amateurs early play promised well but fell away and became scrappy. Everton were easily the superior side in the opening half and fully deserved their interval lead of 5-1. Following the restart the home side maintained their strong attacks and their opponents defence was kept fully extended. The visitors strove hard but without much success against the strong Everton defenders. Scorers for Everton; Hurel (3), Cuff (3), Sharp, Davies and Merritt. For Pilkington; Derbyshire and Birch.
• Central league Beaten at Newcastle by three goals to two against London Combination. William Dean and Jackson playing for the Central League. Attendance 9,000.
EVERTON’S 5-BARRELLED ATTACK
November 11, 1937. The Evening Express.
Success Of New Tactics.
By Watcher.
Abandonment of the “W” formation and the introduction of a five-barrelled attack has put a remarkably different complexion on Everton’s immediate prospects. Persistency in the old “W” style of play has cost the Blues dearly. I have constantly advanced the throwing over of this policy and reliance on an all-up attack. This change was effected with gratifying results at Middlesbrough, and again at Goodison on Saturday, when Chelsea were beaten 4-1, and played to a standstill. It is a long time since I have seen Everton in such magnificent form. No team could have withstood their repeated goal onslaughts. As Chelsea never revealed anything like the form one expected from a club in such a high position, it was largely a matter of what score Everton would win by. Everton forward dove-tailed perfectly, and not only possessed speed but willingness for shots. The intermediate line, too, was sound and the defence sure. Geldard sparkled and Barber was never able to check him. One reason why he came into the limelight so much was because of the manner in which he was fed by the ever-enthusiastic Cunliffe who also packed a strong shot. Lawton was always on the spot for the least chance, and in Stevenson, young Trentham found an ideal partner. Barring injuries I cannot see the front line undergoing any changes. Jones (TG); the former Wrexham pivot was the personification of coolness, and consequently, Mills had little chance; Mercer; on the left flank, found time to come up now and again for a crack at goal, and Britton was once again more like his usual self. Cook kicked strongly with the realisation that his partner, Jones (JE), was always behind to cover up any deficiency. Cunliffe, Trentham and Lawton (2) scored for Everton, and Milks got Chelsea’s consolation goal.
EVERTON’S BEST.
November 15, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
“What did I tell you” How I hate those works, but they just happened to fit the occasion and I could think of no others. Everton resumed where they had left off at Middlesbrough, and Chelsea felt the full weight of Everton’s improved form. In my review of Everton on Friday I said Everton’s Boro win was only the forerunner of many other and I think that now you have seen the improvement for yourself you will agree that the outlook is more promising than it has been for some time. Chelsea came to Goodison Park as potential champions, and they may win the honours despite the defeat by Everton, but they will have to produce something different to the uninspiring play provided on Saturday. It was their poorest exhibition of the season, I have that from their secretary manager Mr. Leslie Knighton. He had never seen Barber play so badly since he joined the Stamford Bridge club some years ago. Neither have I for Barber has always been the sound, confident back when I have watched him. Against Geldard and Cunliffe he could do nothing right. He refrained from going into the tackle against the winger, and that was his undoing. He might have been beaten had he done so, but he was bounded to be beaten by holding off, for Geldard had too much pace for him.
Out Of Joint
But Barber was not the only reason for Chelsea’s defeat, for the whole team was sadly out of joint. The reshuffling may have had some bearing on the poor play, for Burgess was undoubtedly missed and Chitty pulled a groin so badly that he could not risk doing anything of a strenuous nature afterwards. But to get down to bad-rock the Pensioners defence could not hold the Everton forwards to that the half-backs had to drop back to prevent O’Hare and Barer from being swamped. Everton gave their brightest display for some weeks. From goal to outside left there was not one single weakness and I was glad to see Cunliffe and Stevenson move up after they had completed their work behind the line. One of the greatest complaints have been that the inside men who made up the “W” formation did not come through immediately they had put their pass to a forward colleague, so that there were only three forwards left to face the opposing defenders. Not enough sirs. At Middlesbrough this was altered; and you know the result.
Chelsea Wracked.
Chelsea had five forwards to contend with and it was too many for them; and had Everton run up double figures no one could have said it would have flattered then, for they were that much better them Chelsea. The Londoners defence was wracked by a five point attack, and so confident were Everton that Mercer and Geldard worked themselves up to a dribbling vein and made the Chelsea men look silly. Realising that Barber was chopped for pace Everton flung their full weight on to the wing, and the plan paid for itself, for Barber had the beating of his life O’ Hare was not much better against the boy Trentham, who nearly had two other goals. Barber was so harassed by Geldard that he gave away the fourth goal. Such an experienced play as he should have tapped the ball over the touch line with Geldard on his heels, instead of which he elected to pass back to the goalkeeper. Geldard had signalled to Lawton to go up in anticipation of such a happening, and when Woodley dashed out Lawton was the first and swept the ball into the net at lightning speed. Geldard’s centring of the ball was magnificent and the third goal came through Barber “linking” in front of the Everton man instead of risking a tackle and Lawton nodded home the centre. Cunliffe and Trentham had previously cored.
Ragged Chelsea.
Mills scored a consolation prize when Morton pushed the ball out to him. Trentham’s goal was a great shot which roared its way into the Chelsea net and he almost took another when he ran into the centre and glided Lawton’s –at outside left –centre into goal, for Woodley to turn it out with his finger tips.
EVERTON AGAIN UNCHANGED
November 16, 1937. The Evening Express.
Team To Visit West Brom Albion.,
By The Pilot.
Everton, for the third match in succession, make no team change. They visit West Bromwich Albion on Saturday. The directors, at their meeting last evening, decided that the eleven victorious over Middlesbrough at Aryesome Park and Chelsea at Goodison Park, should do-duty. The Blues, after a lean period, have a great chance of recording a “hat-trick” of victories for the first time this season. They will also be out for their fourth away win of the season and so double the number of away victories secured last season. Everton; Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. There will be two changes in the Central League side to entertain Preston North End at Goodison Park. Dean and Watson return to the team following their appearance in the Central League eleven against the London Combination at Newcastle last Saturday. Everton Reserves; Wilkinson; Jackson, Thomson; Bentham, Gee, Watson; Arthur, Bell, Dean, Dougal, GIllick.
A LOT DEPENDS ON EVERTON DEFENCE
November 19, 1937. Evening Express.
Late Back Change Against Albion.
By The Pilot.
Everton are forced to make a late change for their visit to West Bromich Albion tomorrow, owing to Jack Jones reporting unfit today. His place at left back will be taken by Cook, who crosses over to admit Jackson on the right. So i8t becomes the especial task of Jackson to watch the Albion’s latest star, Johnson who was signed from Stoke City in the week. Johnson is a dangerous raider, as nippy as they make them, and yet having directness in his make-up. Certain it is that Jackson will match him for speed, for Jackson’s biggest asset is his power of recovery. Johnson will not have matters all his own way. Much depends on Everton’s defence in the game, for I think the attackers may be relied on to do their part. Only one First Division club has conceded more goals than the Albion, whose defence has been beaten no fewer than 34 times in 15 games! Their forwards are fast and clever, and it will take quick tackling and perfect covering to hold them off. Everton have a chance of recording their third successive victory, but they will do well to draw on ground which has yielded three points out of the last eight. Everton; Morton; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. West Bromwich Albion; (probable) Adams; Finch, Shaw (CE); Murphy, Sandford, Boyes, Mahon, Clark, Richardson, Jones, Johnson.
PLAYER SEEKS COMPENSATION CLAIM AGAINST EVERTON CLUB
November 19, 1937. The Evening Express.
Whether Everton Football Club terminated a player’s services because he was not good enough or because they did not want an injured man on their hands was a point which arose in an application under the Workmen’s Compensation Acts, brought at Liverpool County Court today. The applicant was John Michael Hannon, aged 20, of Hatherley-avenue Great Crosby, and the respondents were Everton Football Club. Mr. H. I. Nelson (instructed by G. J. Lynskey and sons) for Hannon, said his client joined Everton in August, 1934, as an amateur, and in April 1935, signed on as a professional, his wages averaging £2 3s, including bonuses. While playing in the reserve team against Leeds United on Feb 29, 1936, he collided with the goalkeeper, received a ligament injury, and had to retire at half-time. He later received hospital attention, had his knee in plaster of Paris for three months, and walked about with an iron for another two months. The club decided to take him on for a further season, but in the first 15 minutes of a practise match in August 1936, his knee broke down. He was attended by the club’s doctor and during that season played several times with the “A” team and twice with the reserves. At the end of that season the club told him they did not intend to re-engage him for 1937-38. He claimed 30s a week compensation. “Here is a young man of 20 who might have reached the first team and have played for many years in high grade football who is now barred from football altogether,” said Mr. Nelson. To prove what Hannon might have earned, Mr. Nelson said New Brighton offered him a position at £3 a week and bonuses, and South Liverpool had offered him a position, but when he told them about his injury neither would entertain the idea of playing him. Judge Dowdall, K.C; what is the playing life of a professional footballer? Mr. Allister Hamilton (instructed by Mr. W. C. Cuff) for the Everton club; Mr. Cuff, the chairman of the club, tells me the average age is about 32.
“Knee Wobbled.”
Hannon said in his final game he tried to conceal his injury, to try to get signed on for the next season. He was not able to play football properly. When he turned round his knee wobbled. Mr. Nelson; Are you anxious to go on playing football? –Yes. He would rather play football than anything else and would be prepared to undergo an operation to get better. Replying to Mr. Hamilton (cross-examining) Hannon denied that there was no reason why he should not play football and that the action was brought simply because he felt hurt Everton Club had not re-engaged him because he was not good enough. Replying to further questions he said he used to train in the evening and help in his father’s fruit business. In day time “because he was told to keep his mind occupied. He agreed that up to his injury he had played 13 times with the “A” team and 14 with the reserves, but the Central League appearances were consecutive. He was on the climb. Hannon also agreed that the season he was reengaged after his injury he played 11 matches between November and April, and that the last match –against Earlestown Bohmenians on April 22 last –decided the Liverpool County Combination championship. Mr. Hamilton; I suggest Everton club would not have put you in that match unless you were perfectly fit? I would not say that. Mr. Hamilton remarked Hannon also played three matches in seven days. Hannon denied he never mentioned to the club’s doctor, secretary or two trainers about his knee from November 14 to April 24, 1937. He mentioned it to the doctor two or three times. He was now helping his father, but was not paid anything. Mr. Brian McFarland, orthopaedic surgeon, who examined Hannon on September 20 last, said there was a complete tear in the ligament, and it was a serious injury. He is fit to play, but I would not play him in a team. He may go off; he may be a passenger half the time. I would not advise a professional team to play him,” said Mr. McFarland. “If Hannon underwent an operation he had a good chance of recovery.
“Either Torture, Or...”
Judge Dowdall; I have had football knee. It is either torture, and it swells up or it is perfectly all right. It is a long time since it happened to me, but it has given out three or four times. Mr, Mcfarland. He cannot play first-class football. For the respondents, Mr. Theo Kelly, Everton’s secretary, said that before the accident Hannon had lost his place in the reserve team and was in the “A” team. They did not consider him a reserve team player. Hannon made no comment to him about his knee from November 14 to April 24, nor was any message passed on by any of the staff. At the end of last season he told Hannon he had not come up to expectation so far as standard of play was concerned and his services would be dispensed with. As was the custom he offered to communicate with other clubs and he said he would do his best to get Hannon a job with another club. Hannon said “Leave it alone for the time being.” “The falling off in form took place months before his injury. The decision to re-sign a player or not is made about the beginning of April,” said Mr. Kelly in reply to Mr. Nelson. Mr. William Charles Cuff, chairman of Everton Club, denied that the club got rid of Hannon because of the conditions o his knee. Harold Richard Pickering, manager of the “A” team, said Hannon did very well in the last match, on which a championship was at stake. “I had sufficient confidence in Hannon to include him in the team, and he did all that was required,” and Pickering. “I have seen men able to play with one leg,” declared Henry Edward Cook, head trainer, when Mr. Nelson urged that the stress of a match was greater than training. Dr, Walter Thomas Davies, the club’s doctor, said when Hannon came back his knee was absolutely normal. There was a certain amount of fluid which took about a fortnight to clear up. Judge Dowdall, K.C., who was assisted by a medical assessor, Dr. J.T. Morrison, said the question was whether Hannon did not come up to the Everton standard owing to his knee injury, or because he was not good enough. The medical assessor found that owing to the conditions of his knee, Hannon was not playing as well as he otherwise would have done, and therefore there would be an award in favour of Hannon. “Owing to the accident Hannon has failed to be retained by Everton but he is fit for another team,” added Judge Dowdall. “I find the difference in his earning capacity, as a football player, is 15s, a week.” The judge made an award of 7s 6d per week to Hannon.
EVERTON’S “BOGEY” BURIED
November 19, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
By Stork.
The Hawthorns, the home of West Bromwich Albion is not a good one for Everton, but Everton’s mood at the present moment is such that they feel they have buried the away “bogey” which followed them for so long. Everton have come to believe in themselves. They have won at Bolton, Anfield, and Middlesbrough, and surely the Hawthorns is no more difficult to play” then those three grounds. The Albion started everyone by taking a draw from Highbury; at time the most feared ground in the League, so they will naturally feel that they can settle the Everton account on their own ground. Football does not work out the way; if it did the “coupon merchants” would be lifting every week.
Faults Remedied.
But let me get back to Everton’s trip to West Bromwich Albion. I think they have a remarkably fine opportunity of winning outright but the least I expect them to do is return with a point and I base my opinion on what I saw at Middlesbrough, and again when at Chelsea. There has been more “pep” about Everton’s forward play in those two games than all the rest put together, and the defence has got back to something like its old self. Everton have tried two types of defence this season, and they now think they have settled on the right one. It has been right for two weeks, because more speed, or if you like it better, more pace into the tackle, has been brought into use. There is no waiting for the ball to come to you; it is sought it is obtained before the other fellow gets it. That fault has been wiped out another has also seen its last days, the “W” men, no matter who they are, are moving up after they have disposed of the ball, so that there is added weight forward when the goal area has been reached. Don’t let it be thought that Everton are going to doddle their way to victory over the Albion, for no team comes, away from the Hawthorns with any free grits. They will have to battle every inch of the way, for the Albion’s Arsenal draw has given them new spirit, a spirit which was slowly flagging. I go to the Midlands tomorrow in the full belief that Everton can emulate the performance of their friendly rivals, Liverpool, in winning two away games in succession. Their display, against Chelsea, at Goodison, was good enough for anything, but I put more faith in that win at Middlesbrough, where no other team had won until Everton trimmed their sails. Everton; Morton; Cook, Jones (Je); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham.
EVERTON’S TASK.
November 20, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
West Bromwich Albion are one of those sides which have puzzled their followers their performances being of a mixed character. They seem to save the best for Everton and when the teams oppose each other at the Hawthorns the football is likely to be both lively and skilful. Everton demonstrated their skill in subduing Chelsea and their followers are looking for another such performance this afternoon. Everton have been forced to make a chance. Jones, the left full back has strained a ligament behind the knee, and is being rested. Cook moves over to left back and Jackson comes in on the right. Everton; Morton; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Jones, Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. West Bromwich Albion; (probable); Adams; Finch, Shaw; Murphy, Sandford, Boyes; Mahon, Clark, Richardson, Jones, Johnson.
THROSTLES ON TOP NOTE
November 20, 1937, The Liverpool Football Echo
High speed Tactics Beat Everton.
Winger’s Goals
By Stork.
Everton found the Albion fast and furious and had to battle against a two-goal lead from the eight minute. Some of their football was high-class but Albion’s speed and quick tackling won then the day. Teams: - Everton: - Morton, goal; Jackson and Cook, backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG), and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson and Trentham, forwards. West Bromwich Albion: - Adams, goal; Finch and Shaw, backs; Murphy, Sandford, and Shankey, half-backs; Mahon, Clark, Richardson, Jones and Boyes, forwards. Referee Mr. G. Salmon, of Stoke. Albion were naturally disappointed that they were unable to play their new capture, Johnson, who was injured in training at Stoke on Wednesday. Everton played in white jerseys before a nice crowd, in lovely weather, and the Albion set a great pace from the outset and the Everton defence had an ideal of trouble in keeping the nappy Albion forwards in check. Everton replied with shots by Stevenson and Lawton but when the Albion went down a second time they produced a goal. Jackson missed his tackle and Boyes close to the corner flag sent the ball spinning across the Everton goal. Morton tried to stop it but failed in make contact, and the ball curled inside the upright and Albion were a goal up in 5 minutes.
Mahon Make It Two.
This was a setback for Everton, but worse was to follow for within three minutes, eight in all, the Throstles were two goals ahead. Clark sent the ball out to Mahon. The latter was unmarked and he went on the beat Morton, from close range. Everton hit back, but the Albion defence was usually in position to ward off trouble. Whereas Boyes should have had a second goal when his colleagues swept the ball forward by quick-passing movements. His prospects of scoring were even better then when he scored but he failed with a grand chance. When Stevenson shot Adams was well beaten, but Finch standing on the goalline close to the post saw the ball strike his foot and turn out of goal. To those who have seen Everton in their previous games the slight of the Albion forwards rushing their way through the defence was somewhat disconcerting. However, they got more together and some of their football was quite good though there was no finish to it. Geldard had a fair tussle against Sankey and Shaw, and from one of his centres Adams punched the ball in the air, but Murphy dashed across and cleared before Trentham could gin possession. Albion’s pace was troublesome, and Morton was not free from fault when he allowed a winger to shoot on to him. The Albion were deadly tacklers and moved off so quickly that the Everton defenders were consequently spread-eagled. Another solid attack was launched by the home forwards, and when Richardson, shot the ball was kicked away ere it struck the post. It came back to Clark, who slammed the ball outside. This was a bad miss. Open football had so far carried the day; football without any thrills was proving much more effective than more classical touches. Not that the Albion’s play did not possess skill. Trentham had little chance, for Everton exploited Geldard perhaps a little too much, for it is known that the Albion weakness is at right back. Next the interval Everton promised to get through the Albion defence, and one or two shots were only luckily blocked away, but there was no disputing the fact Albion had been the better side, although Everton had fought back well against their two goals deficit.
Half-Time West Bromwich Albion 2, Everton 0
Albion resumed with the same sparkle which had signalled their first half display, and Morton had to turn aside a centre from Mahon, who had got over his limp. Everton were still inclined to put their whole trust in the right wing, and although Geldard answered most calls willingly, the West Bromwich defenders centred their attention on the international. Jones and Boyes got along well together, with the result that Morton had to go down on his knees to a shot by Jones. Stevenson and Lawton engaged in a heading affair which culminated in Lawton screwing the ball wide when he tried a long shot. Everton were now having a much larger share of the attack, and Adams had to field a long shot from an Everton defender. Morton was caught napping and gave away an unnecessary corner. Richardson was once allowed to go on although he was palpably offside. He carried the ball in close and Morton left the goal to challenge him. The centre forward released a shot which appeared to hit the goalkeeper on the face. Mahon was put through by Jones and when he shot Jones got in the way and Morton was able to throw himself forward and gain possession. Then several chances came Everton’s way. Lawton undercut the ball and sent it over the bar and Cunliffe should certainly have scored after he had run the ball close in. Later he sent in a grand drive which Adams saved well. Albion, however, started to play more heartily and Boyes and Mahon had some glorious opportunities put before them T.G. Jones was still holding down the centre of the field. Geldard gave Shaw a yard start and a beating and Adams had to go carefully when he went out to claim the centre, for Lawton was close t hand. Adams go the ball splendidly. With 6 minutes to play Everton were granted a penalty for hands by Shakey. The referee had talked it over with a linesman, and Lawton scored from the spot kick. Cunliffe had a chance to equalise in the last few minutes when Everton were pressing strongly, but in the last second an Albion breakaway brought them a third goal, Mahon scoring from the centre forward position. There was not time to centre the ball for the kick-off. Final West Bromwich Albion 3, Everton 1.
HOW EVERTON DOUBLED UP THE W PLAN
November 20, 1937. The Liverpool Football Echo.
The Inside History of Goodison Park Team’s Improvement After Shocks of Early Season.
By Stork.
Everton have devised new methods to win their matches. At one time this season I could see nothing but a poor season ahead of Everton, for it was possibly to pick holes in almost every department of the team. On the opening day of the season, in these columns I impressed upon Everton the need for more punch forward. Trimming and finery would not bring goals, I said and until the “W” formation was carried out as it was intended to be carried out, goals would be lost. The Arsenal opened Everton’s fixture card, and made such a snow of them that it set us all thinking, and thinking hard. The defeat was a blessing in disguise. It told the Everton team that all was not well with their methods. The players themselves convened a conference to go thorough into the matter. New ideas resulted from the conference. The third back game had to be revived. The half-backs had to play more towards the middle of the field. A complete revision of Everton’s type of game had to be adopted. Many disliked the “policeman,” admitted it was a necessary evil, but it had to be played to the letter, in no half-hearted manner. It was all or none. Then there was the “W” formation. Everton have always had it, but more exaggerated than many other teams. As it was played it weakened the front line. It took some time to settle down to the new mode of things, and Everton suffered their “ups and downs.” One day five goals were slapped into the net, and what was the causes? -a reversion to the old order of things during the progress of the game. Another talk became necessary, and out of it came an Everton team capable of winning convincing victories. Many times have I faulted Everton for being first to the ball; first into the tackle. How many times have I accused them of throwing away points because they would not try a shot when the position for a shot had been hard won by good class football? I think I have hammered the need of a more solid attack more than any other critic. Three forwards can never hope to beat down five defenders, but that is what Everton tried to do in any number of games this season.
Asking Too Much
I blamed the exaggerated “W” formation, but in reality it was not the “W” plan which was at fault, but the method of playing it. Some sort of “W” formation must be exploited in present day football but to leave three forwards to the tender energy of five defenders was asking too much. Geldard, Lawton and Trentham were on a hiding to nothing. My grouse was that the inside men did not move up into line after they had accomplished their task of collecting the ball and sending it up to their forwards. Quite recently I was button-holed by Mr. Hunter Hart about my five-point attack, and he took me back to the days of Billy Gillespie, of Sheffield United. Charlie Buchan (Sunderland) and many other famous inside men and I had to admit that they played a “W” formation. “Aye” I said, but they went up into the forwards immediately their work was done, and were thus ready when the ball came into the goalmouth, but your inside men never follow through so that three men are expected to do the work of five.
Must Move Up.
“They should move up” was his reply. They did move up. And at Ayresome Park the result was that the Borough goalkeeper had plenty of shots to handle and the defence was strained to such an extent that it was never so good as that of Everton’s. The old plan of defence was revived so that there was improvement both fore and aft. Jones played the “policeman” a la Roberts, but he did more than that; he utilised his wing half-backs when clearing. No haphazard kicking with the chance of the ball going to an opponent and coming back to put further work on his shoulders. You saw for yourself what Everton were able to do against Chelsea, at Goodison Park.
PROMINET MERSEYSIDE
November 20, 1937. The Liverpool Football Echo
A product of Anfield-road Scholl, Norman Sharp, of Everton “A”, is only following in the “stubmarks” of many well-known players of today, who have graduated from that school. His future as a footballer is particularly bright, for at 17 he shows definite promise, both has clever play and unselfish style in creating goals being valuable assets. Sharp skippered the Liverpool Schoolboys’ side for a season. and holds the Senior School Final medal, Lancashire Cup medals, and the Merseyside Cup medal. He plays at inside left for Everton “A” as an amateur.
• Dixie Dean will referee at Cadby Hall ground on Wednesday next (2-45) when Liverpool Occupational Centres play Liverpool Shop Assistants on behalf of the Goodfellow Fund Messrs W. Cook and C. Britton, also of Everton F.C will be linesmen. Admission 3d. Unemployed 1d.
WEST BROMWICH ALBION 3 EVERTON 1 (Game 1620 over-all)(Div 1 1578)
November 22, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Fatal Lapses By Everton
Albion’s Early Blows
Fine Pivotal Play By Jones.
By Stork.
Everton were beaten in 8 minutes at the Hawthorns on Saturday for West Bromwich Albion had during that time scored two goals, a handicap which proved too severe for Everton to overcome. But the worst feature was that neither goal should have been, for each was due to defensive errors. They were ultimately beaten 3-1. The first shot which scored at the fifth minute would not have beaten Morton once in twenty times for no shot taken from the angle from which Boyes sent the ball spinning goalwards should have been allowed to have found a landing place in the net. Morton did try to sweep the ball away, but completely failed to connect with it and it travelled beyond him and struck the inside netting. That was a blow, but within three minutes Mahon had snapped up a pass by Clarke and shot the ball into the Everton goals. Again Morton was at fault, but in an endeavour to be fair to the goalkeeper I must say that Mercer should have cleared beforehand instead of trying to dribble the ball in front of goal. He could have cleared it quite easily with safety-first methods.
Early Uncertainty.
It was a bad start, and I have noticed that in several games this season Everton’s defence has been most uncertain during the first ten minutes of play. It was a difficult position to face up to especially so as the Albion were very chirpy about things, and set a pace which often had the Everton defence beaten by sheer pace and the speedy tackling of their half-back line, the line which, in my opinion, brought then their success. Gradually, however, Everton got together and although there was undoubtedly a lack of punch when the penalty area was reached they produced some excellent football; football of a much higher class than that of their opponents, who relied upon long and wide passes; no thrills, but straightforward methods and considering the chances which is brought them should have produced other goals. Boyes, with a far more simple chance than the one which gave him his goal, missed badly, and Richardson and Mahon could not find a true line with their shots when the Everton defence could do nothing. On the other hand, Everton also had their opportunities, but Lawton was not shooting at all well. His midfield play could not be faulted and Cunliffe and Stevenson got through a lot of work, but why was Trentham “starved” out of the game? Everton put the whole of their thrust in Geldard, and while the outside right did well, it was plain to be seen that the Albion defence had only to concentrate on Everton rightwing to choke the whole Everton attack. It was not far to Trentham, who has proved that he can accept a chance given the opportunity, but no winger can do anything unless he gets the ball.
Poor Shooting.
The Albion opened the second half just as they did the first but Everton had rubbed out the memory of those two goals and stood fast, gradually getting the upper hand, and the last 20 minutes were bang on top, but again poor shooting robbed them of goals. They were there for the taking had there been an Everton forward capable of taking them. Cunliffe missed a simple chance, Lawton missed others and it was not until Everton were granted a penalty six minutes from the end that they got the ball into the Albion goal, Lawton pull the game out of the fire by making a draw? It was not impossible for they had got the measure of their opponents, but although they put tremendous pressure on the West Bromwich defence it remained intact to the end. With a second to go, Murphy pushed the ball forward and Mahon, who had rushed to the centre of the field scored a third goal. There was no time to “spot” the ball.
Jones Holds The Middle.
Everton’s defence was not so tight without J.E. Jones, for Jackson was inclined to mishead the ball, and was usually on the wrong side of his opponent. Cook did well, and mercer played hard, but the man of the team was T.G. Jones, who held the centre of the field against all-comers, and made some excellent passes to his wing-men. Britton has not been the same Britton since his injury. Jones improved with each game, and next season, if my judgement counts for anything, is going to be a great centre half back. The Albion are a go-ahead side who make straight for goal by the nearest possible route, but it was the work of Sandford, Murphy and Sankey which gave them a victory, for they tackled quickly and confidently, and then made good passes to their forwards. Adams did well in goal, but was unfortunate when his colleague Finch, stuck a foot out and prevented a Stevenson shot from scoring, but Shaw was the best back on the field. If the score had been Albion 7, Everton 4 it would have been nearer the mark and more in keeping with the play. . Teams: - Everton: - Morton, goal; Jackson and Cook, backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG), and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson and Trentham, forwards. West Bromwich Albion: - Adams, goal; Finch and Shaw, backs; Murphy, Sandford, and Shankey, half-backs; Mahon, Clark, Richardson, Jones and Boyes, forwards. Referee Mr. G. Salmon, of Stoke.
EVERTON RESERVES 4 PRESTON NORTH END RESERVES 0
November 22, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 17)
Everton Reserves continued their sequence of successes in the Central League and strengthend their position by a decisive victory over Preston at Goodison. The margin of four goals by no means flattered them, for Everton were superior in ll departments. Gillick opened the score in the first minute, Bell oon added a second and Bentham scored from a penalty when Bell was brought down. Midway in the second half Watson added a fourth, and had the Everton forwards made the most of their chances more goals would have resulted. Dean and Bell worked hard and were always dangerous, while Dougal Arthur and Gillick completed a fast-moving forward line. Gee and Thomson were strong defenders and Wilkinson, although not hard worked, made several excellent saves. The Preston forwards combined well, and made one, or two good raids, but finished badly. Everton Reserves: - Wilkinson, goal, not-know and Thomson, backs; Bentham, Gee, and Watson, half-backs; Arthur, Bell, Dean, Dougal, and Gillick, forwards.
EVERTON NEED TO BE FASTER OFF THE MARK.
November 22, 1937. The Evening Express.
By The Pilot.
If Everton can weather the storm of the opening ten minutes of a match they can, apparently, collect Football League points. Inability to settle quickly is proving distinctly awkward. We discussed this point on the return journey from West Bromwich Albion on Saturday after Everton had been defeated 3-1. In the majority of League games this season the Blues have had a shaky opening period. It was so at The Hawthorns. The Albion, due to defensive lapses by the Blues, were two goals up in seven minutes –and practically assured winners. Subsequently, Everton got down to their work properly and, in fact, almost snatched a point in the closing stages, when for the first time the forwards were able to shake off the tenacious Albion intermediates. Chances were missed, and one gilt-edged one 0by Cunliffe –after Lawton had banged home his penalty. Still, Albion were the more deserving winners. The Everton attack, although extremely one-sided in that Trentham was starved, was good and there was distinct grace about their midfield work. Tom Jones, who gave another brilliant display at centre half was the outstanding man of the side. He rarely left Richardson for a second. Britton was hardly at his best, and mercer’s form was his intrepid intervention. Morton was far from being blameless, though playing well in the second half. The backs were below par in that Cook seemed out of position on the left and Jackson was a little wild in his work. However, speed from “the gate” will help Everton lot in future games.
COSTLY ERRORS.
November 22, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes.
By Stork
When I was a boy I was always told to get in the first blow when possible, for it invariably proved the winning one. Never was this more clearly emphasised than at Hawthorns on Saturday. The Albion got in a left and right –Boyes and Mahon –right away and Everton were fighting a losing battle from that point onwards.
Poor Shooting.
Everton fought well against their heavy handicap and actually played better football than the Albion, who relied on fleetness of foot; quick and determined tackling and wide passes to bring about results, and it paid better than Everton’s more attractive football. To find oneself two goals down in eight minutes was not heartening to Everton’s chances, for three goals are not easy to get on an away ground, but Everton could have obtained them, had their shooting been anything like. But if Everton should have had four goals, the Albion should have had seven; so you see there were many missed chances all through. Everton gave the Albion two goals start, that was how I had to look at the game, for no side will again find Morton in such generous mood; he was at fault with both goals, although Mercer was partly responsible for the second through not clearing first time when he had the chances.
Trentham “Starved”
Lawton could not get them right Cunliffe should have scored yet these two did quite well in all other phrases of the game. Cunliffe and Stevenson forged for all, and Lawton put out some great passes, but why was Trentham “starved.” I Know he has a lot to learn but he will never learn it if he is to be left out in the cold for 70 per cent of the game. It was not fair to the lad. He is by far a more likely scorer than Geldard, yet he was forgotten by his colleagues. The Albion seemed to think that two goals were sufficient to win this game, for they were not the sprightly lot in the second half, and Everton got their teeth into things, and there appeared to be a possible chance of a draw, but good shooting was at a premium and it was not until a penalty came their way that Adams was beaten. Six minutes remained to play, could Everton save the day? How they tried; and how the Albion had to battle to keep their lead until an electrifying last-second goal by Mahon relieved them of any further responsibility. T.G. Jones gave a grand display, but Britton has not touched his pre-injury form. Those delighted passes were missing and his tackling was not so keen, which rather suggests his loss of confidence. Mercer was a great worker, but Jones was the man of the middle line. Cook was sure in his work, but Jackson was given to misheading the ball, and was too often found on the wrong side of his opponents. Naturally he did better in the second half when Boyes was limping having been injured in the first half.
EVERTON SIDE TO MEET STOKE CIY
November 23, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Jones the Everton full back, is reported fit again and he will return as Cook’s partner in place of Jackson for Everton’s match with Stoke City at Goodison Park on Saturday. Except for the alteration the side will be unchanged from that which lost to West Bromwich Albion, namely Morton; Cook, Jones; Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. The Central League side to meet Sheffield United Reserves at Sheffield will be Wilkinson; Jackson, Thomson; Bentham, Edwards, Watson; Arthur, Bell, Dean, Dougal, Gillick.
JONES FIT, RETURNS TO EVERTON DEFENCE.
November 23, 1937. The Evening Express.
His Job Will Be To Watch Matthews.
Team to Meet Stoke at Goodison.
By Pilot.
Everton revert to their regular defence formation on Saturday, when they oppose Stoke City in a Football League match at Goodison Park. Jack Jones has recovered from the leg injury which prevented his playing against West Bromwich Albion, so he resumes at left back. Cook reverts to right back in place of Jackson, who appears for the reserves. I t will be Jone’s special duty to watch the England outside-right, Stanley Matthews, whom many consider to be the best-ever in that position. The remainder of the Everton side will be unchanged. Morton; Cook, Jones; Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham.
Edwards, the promising centre-half from the “A” team, will play for Everton Reserves in the Centre League match at Bramall-lane against Sheffield United. He takes the place of Gee, who will be 12th man for the Stoke game. Everton Reserves; Wilkinson; Jackson, Thomson; Bentham, Edwards, Watson; Arthur, Bell, Dean, Dougal, Gillick.
EVERTON “A” 4 LIVERPOOL UNIVERSITY 3
November 25, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
At Wyncote. The University opened in dashing style, and good long passing sent Mundy racing away to score twice. Then T. H. King –in capital form against former colleagues –beat Sharratt with a stinging shot. A Muse equalising just before the interval. Resuming F. Clayton netted for the University and Everton “A” goals were again scored by King and Muse to gain a good victory in a keen game.
EVERTON “A’S” CUP-TIE
November 25, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes.
Everton “A” for their Lord Wavertree Cup-tie with Prescot, at Prescot will have several new amateurs on view. They are Kenneth, Dean, an inside right, who comes on the recommendation of Catterick, the centre forward, and Banks, who has been playing great football at inside left for Hoole Alex in the Chester League.
STOKE AT GOODISON
November 26, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Stoke City, a vastly improved side these days, are visitors to Goodison Park tomorrow. So far this campaign the City have collected 17 points for a game less, and of these points 5 have been obtained from 8 away games by victories over West Bromwich Albion and Blackpool, both by a score of 1-0 and a drawn game with Manchester City when both sides failed to score. Tomorrow’s meeting will be the twenty fifth between the clubs at Everton under League supices and from the previous matches the City have obtained only 10 points by 3 victories and 4 drawn game, while in all they have conceded 69 goals and scored 20 only.
STRONG EFFORT NEEDED, EVERTON
November 26, 1937. Evening Express
Consolidating League Position
Danger in Slow Starting
Defence Tightened For Stoke Visit
By Pilot.
Everton must make their big effort to reach a more favourable position in the Football League chart at once. In six weeks time the cup-ties will be on us, and if Everton are to enter them free from care they must make appreciable advance in the league. Seven league matches have to be played before the third round of the cup-and only three of those games are at Goodison Park. The first of that trio of home matches takes place tomorrow’ when Stoke City one of the most attractive sides in the league, provide the opposition. In my opinion a little tightening up in defence and the ability to settle down to their game quickly can help Everton to win; There is danger in those vital opening passengers, for Everton, in recent games, have been slow to settle down. It would prove fatal against such an alert attack as that of Stoke, whose spearhead will be Fred Steele, the brilliant young international. Jack Jones returns to left back, allowing Cook to revert to his best position on the right, and with the defensive Tom Jane’s at centre-half there should be few loopholes to Morton’s charge. An attraction will be the appearance of Frank Soo, the former Liverpool schoolboy, at left-half for the Potters. He is brilliant constructionists, and one of the best wing half-backs in the country. The City have a doubt about inside right, and the final choice rests between Antonia and Liddle. Everton; Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. Stoke City; Wilkinson; Brigham, Challinor; Tutin, Turner. Soo; Matthews, Antionio or Liddle, Steels, Ormston, Baker.
NO ONE-WAY TRAFFIC
November 26, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
By Stoke
Stoke City are an attraction wherever they go. Their away form has been outstanding this term but they are a grand side to watch, particularly so to Liverpool people, who have another opportunity of seeing a player they missed in Soo, the former Liverpool schoolboy player. Matthews is considered the best outside right ever, but whether you agree to that is purely your own affair. I would not like to say he was better than Billy Meredith, Alex Jackson or our own Sam Chedgzoy, but he is undoubtedly a fine winger. Let us forget Everton’s defeat at West Bromwich, for there were several happenings the like of which we are not likely to see again. Two unlucky blows in 10 minutes ruined whatever chance Everton had of winning at the Hawthorns yet they played higher class football than the Albion, whose speed was the telling factor. Now Stoke are not laggards were pace is concerned and Everton must see to it that their defence is not caught on the hop in the first few minutes of the game.
His Best Season.
Jack Jones is back, and that means a whole lot, for he is having his best season, and his special mission will be to look after Matthews. This is going to be a terrific duel, and both will know they have been playing at the end of the game. Much will depend upon whether Matthews is held in subjection or not in the Midlands, Geldard thought he could do to Shaw what he had done to Barber. I hope that he has learned from his experience. Everton put all their eggs in the one basket –the right wing, and the Albion defenders were not slow to see that they had to concentrate on that flank to choke the whole line. It was a short-sighted policy. There must be no one-way traffic against Stoke Tomorrow. If Trentham is good enough to be in the team he is good enough to see something of the ball. He can win a match given the right ball as he demonstrated against Chelsea, but without the ball he can do nothing. I have often had occasions to say some harsh things about Cunliffe. It is now my pleasure to say a nice word or two. At Middlesbrough and West Bromwich he was as good as any inside forward on the field. Whether he was up in the front line or working behind it, his play was of good quality, and Stevenson seems to have hit his form, and it only needs Lawton to find his shooting boots they went astray at the Albion, and I can promise the Stoke defence a warm afternoon. The kick-off is 2-30. Everton; Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. Stoke City; Wilkinson; Brigham, Challinor; Tutin, Turner. Soo; Matthews, Antonio or Liddle, Steels, Ormston, Baker.
STOKE CITY AT GOODISON PARK
November 27, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton return to Goodison Park in the hope of picking up the winning reins once more. The varied form of the side is puzzling, but there is no doubt that the combination at its best is worthy of a greater measure of success. Stoke City are their opponents today, and as the Potteries club hold a fairly good position. It is evident that they will provide strong opposition. J.E. Jones, recovered from injury returns to the Everton side in place of Jackson. A change may be made in the Stoke City side. The position in doubt is inside right, where a final choice will be made between Antonio and Liddle, Steele, now reported fit after his injury leads the attack. The kick-off is at 2.30 and the teams are:- Everton; Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Trentham. Stoke City; Wilkinson; Brigham, Challinor; Tutin, Turner, Soo; Matthews, Antonio or Liddle, Steels, Ormston, Baker.
EVERTON RACE THROUGH
November 27, 1937. The Liverpool Football Echo
Second Half Goals Decide
Lawton’s Thrusts
By Stork.
A fortunate goal set Everton on to victory. Stoke played some good football without, however, having their usual thrust in front of goal, Matthews was well held by Jones (JE), so that the visitors mainspring was broken. Teams: - Everton: - Morton, goal; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG) and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson and Trentham, forwards. Stoke City: - Wilkinson, goal; Brigham and Challinor, backs; Tutin, Turner and Soo, half-backs; Matthews, Antonio, Steele, Ormston and Baker, forwards. Referee Mr. W. J. Lewlington, Croyden. There was a nasty cross wind, and it favoured the City. Yet it was Everton who made the first attack when Geldard went forward and made an opening for Cunliffe, and the inside man made a worthy shot even though it passed outside. Soo was responsible for a magnificent pass along the touchline which sent Baker away, but Cook looked after the outside left successfully, and Everton were once again on the attack. Lawton, by a very simple move completely beat Turner to put the ball out to the Everton left wing, and the result was that the Stoke defence had some difficulty in getting rid of the danger. Jones (TG) made some gorgeous passes and the Stoke defence, at this stage at least did not improve. It was badly at fault when Trentham brushed his way through.
Cunliffe’s Bad Miss
The ball went to Cunliffe, who was perfectly placed with no rival on hand, and almost an open goal in front of him. Cunliffe however, crashed the ball wide of the goal. It was a terrible miss, and it might have proved costly, for the Stoke attack got through on the left and Baker was left with Morton alone in front of him. He shot with power, the ball rattling against the goalkeeper legs and travelling away for a corner. Lawton actually netted the ball but was offside. Baker became prominent with some nice runs, while Matthews once made a centre, the ball being deflected by Jack Jones, but TG Jones took the ball.
Pivots Great Shot.
A hefty charge on Cunliffe produced a free kick which was taken by T.G. Jones. This rather surprised the natives but those who know how the Everton centre half can hit a dead ball were not all amazed when he cracked home a drive of immense power, and Wilkinson had to make a good save just under the crossbar. In a goalmouth raid Steele was given the chance a centre forward craves for but Morton threw himself headlong without a thought of injury at the shooters’ feet, and saved not a possible but a highly probable. Mathews had not as yet produced his “National” form, and was guilty of a poor shot when fairly close to goal and Cunliffe likewise failed from a reasonably good angle. Trentham challenged goalkeeper Wilkinson, and this led to a spot of furious defence, which ended when Stevenson shot wildly over the bar. Lawton was playing well in that he was getting the ball out nicely to his wing getting the ball out nicely to his wing man, but was not getting quite the value for the work he did.
A Geldard Pile-Driver.
Geldard, running into the centre released a left foot pile-driver, Wilkinson doing well to tip the ball over Everton were shooting for all they were worth and Wilkinson had to go down on all fours to keep out a ground shot by Cunliffe. Cunliffe put the ball across on to the face of the upright from the touchline and when Jones (T.G) made an error which presented Steele with a magnificent opportunity, but once, again England’s centre forward failed. Mathews for once in a way got out of the grip of Jones (JE) and with only his namesake left and three Stoke men running up in anticipation of Matthews centre things looked black, but Morton caught the ball from the winger’s centre. Later Mathews put in a long surprise shot which the Everton goalkeeper saved at the second attempt, the ball having run from his body just in front of him. At this stage Stoke were playing good football, with the ball along the ground, severely testing the Everton defence.
Half-Time Everton 0, Stoke City 0.
With the second half three minutes old, Everton took the lead in a rather fortunate manner when Lawton shot the ball appearing to be soaring away from the goal rather them into it, but a Stoke defender, I think it was Turner in rushing across the goalmouth deflected the ball away from Wilkinson and it just travelled inside the upright. For some time after this Everton were the aggressors, but when Stoke moved off they did so by superlative football, and Matthews required a lot of holding. Cunliffe shot a yard wide, as did Antonio on two occasions, and Matthews once took on three Everton man and beat them, but in the end he beat himself through his desire to do just a little more. At 69 minutes, Lawton who had gone out to the left wing made a surprise pass to Stevenson, and the Irishman hit a daisy-cutter which travelled underneath Wilkinson’s body and into the net.
Riding The Waves.
Stoke never veered from their plans of making progress by carpet football, and there were times when the Everton defence sorely troubled to nail down the Stoke wingers for Steele had not proved himself the live wire he was before he was injured. Everton were now riding the waves and Lawton scored a brilliant goal at 75 minutes. He dribbled round Brigham drew Wilkinson from his goal, and then hooked the ball into the net. He got a great ovation for this and deserved every bit of it. Just on the finish Wilkinson made a grand save from Stevenson. Final Everton 3, Stoke City 0.
EVERTON 3 STOKE CITY 0 (Game 1621 over-all)-(Div 1 1579)
November 29, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Too Good For Stoke
Lawton In Fine Form.
By Stork.
Stoke City once again found Goodison Park a grave yard. Not since 1905-6 have they taken full points from Everton at Walton. They had their chances on Saturday, but they were not trustful enough in front of goal, so that Everton won by 3 goals to nothing. There was some good class football provided but it was not a pulsating game by any means, yet at one time it seemed that Stoke would make things difficult for their rivals even though I was not impressed by their defence right from the start. Goals were laid before the Everton forwards in the first, but there were some sad misses by more than one of them, and it was not until the second session that goalkeeper, Wilkinson was beaten. To some extent Lawton’s shot was fortunate to hit the “bull” for it my view the ball was pulling away until it hit the Stoke centre half-back and was deflected just inside the post. I would not care to be too emphatic about this, but Turner’s interference undoubtedly was responsible for the turning away of the ball which Wilkinson had moved to cover. That happened three minutes after the second half had opened, and from then on it was a battle between the Everton attack and the Stoke defence with the former winning the deal fairly comfortably. Very early on Cunliffe and Stevenson were well placed for goals only to fall when success was in sight. Cunliffe’s miss was tragic for Wilkinson alone stood between him and the net, it must be a goal it seemed, but Cunliffe shot wide. Geldard was a shade too fast in his pass back to Stevenson, otherwise I think the Irishman would have scored, but the ball, came to him at such a rate that he had no time to do otherwise than shoot instantly. The ball flew wide.
Steele Lacks Confidence.
Now to the reverse side. Baker should have scored immediately after Cunliffe had failed and Steele was thorough when T.G. Jones made his one error, but Steele made a complete hash of his shot, which was most utilise the international centre forward. Steele gave me the impression that he has not yet gained his full confidence after the injury. I missed the darting dash between the backs the quick time shot which made him an international, but there were other reasons why the City’s attack was out of gear. Everton’s quick tackling was one, but the blotting out of Matthews was the chief one, and I cannot recall the England outside right having such a lean time. Jack Jones made him his special victim and only for one short spell did Matthews get out of the foils, and then he showed what he could do, but Mercer and Jones collaborated to smother him out, so that he could not slip across those menacing centres which has brought his inside men so many goals in the past. Baker I thought tried to do too much. Cook was not the type of man to lament well for he went straight to the ball and invariably took it. Antonio and Ormston tried hard to get their forwards moving, but the Everton defence would not allow it. T.G. Jones again did well and Britton is gradually coming to something more like his true form and Mercer was a grand tackler. How I wish he could make an accurate pass. He would then be the complete footballer. After Lawton’s first goal Everton were masters of the situation although all the time Stoke made the advance by the ground past, but there was not enough thrust there when they had got to within sight of goal. Morton had to make several saves, and a daring one in particular when he dived at Steele’s feet to prevent disaster.
A Brilliant Goal.
Cunliffe’s form at the moment cannot be faulted unless it is his shooting but in other respects he is playing extremely well. Lawton is coming on apace, and an international can avail him before long. Not only was he an opportunist, but his general play was sound. His second goal –Everton’s third –was brilliant. He snapped up a pass from Stevenson, beat Challinor in his stride, drew Wilkinson out of goal and then hooked the ball into the net –time 79 minutes. Six minutes previously Stevenson scored with a long drive which flew under the goalkeeper’s body. Geldard was better then Matthews, but not so good as usual. Stevenson was not quite himself, so that Trentham was not well supplied, and the crowd was not slow to notice it. But Everton’s victory was complete, for the Stoke half-backs line of Soo. Turner and Tutin was overran in the last half an hour. Tutin was the best of the three. Soo has played much better, while Turner was more often than not beaten by Lawton in the air. Teams: - Everton: - Morton, goal; Cook and Jones (JE), backs; Britton (captain), Jones (TG) and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson and Trentham, forwards. Stoke City: - Wilkinson, goal; Brigham and Challinor, backs; Tutin, Turner and Soo, half-backs; Matthews, Antonio, Steele, Ormston and Baker, forwards. Referee Mr. W. J. Lewlington, Croyden.
SHEFFIELD UNITED RESERVES 3 EVERTON RESERVES 3
November 29, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 18)
The game at Bramell-Lane was well contested and full of interest, with the more experienced Everton playing delightful football. More direct methods however, led to Sheffield opening the scoring. Eggleston being the scorer, and the home side led by the goal at the interval. Eggleston added a second gaol soon after the interval but two quick goals by Bell and Dean placed the sides even. Gardner put the United ahead again but Bell equalised and although Everton played brilliantly in the closing stages they failed to force a win. Everton Reserves: - Wilkinson, goal; Jackson and Thomson, backs; Bentham, Edwards, and Watson, half-backs; Arthur, Bell, Dean, Dougal and Gillick, forwards.
LUCKY GOALS
November 29, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
The goal which started Everton on their winning trail against Stoke City, who have not won at Goodison Park since the season 1905-06, was of a somewhat lucky type, for Lawton’s shot was deflected into the net by touching Cunliffe on route. My opinion was that the ball might have pulled away from goal but Cunliffe’s deflection caused it to turn inside the upright. Everton’s second goal should have been saved. Admitting that Stevenson’s shot was of the daisy-cutter sort. Wilkinson should not have allowed it to slip under his body so you see that Everton’s victory was not so easily obtained on the score denotes. Not that Stoke promised to break down the Goodison tradition, for the Everton defence usually had the hand, or foot of the City forwards who found the first-time tackling of the Everton half-backs and full backs too much for them. Everton have speeded up in this direction, and it was all for the good, for the had the Stoke forwards been given the slightest rein they would have proved troublesome. As it was they had their chances only to fail with them, just as some of the Everton forwards had done in the first half.
“T.G’s” Power.
Cunliffe had missed some simple chances in his time, but never again will he have such another as Trentham gave him early on. No one near him; plenty of time on his hands, and only Wilkinson before him. He must score. But there is no such thing as must in football, and Cunliffe failed. Stevenson also missed a fairly easy chance when Geldard pulled the ball back –a shade too fast perhaps –to him, and the best shots of the half were made by Geldard and T.G. Jones, Wilkinson having to pull the ball from underneath his crossbar to prevent a goal. Few knew the power of T.G’s boot with a “dead” ball until that moment. I had heard all about it so was not surprised when he was called upon to take a free kick thirty yards from goal. Naturally, comparison were made between Matthews and Geldard. The former was preferred by the English selectors for their match with Wales, but he was not allowed to show “national” form in this game; in fact it must be some time since he was so completely throttled down. Only for one brief spell did he get out of the tolls of Mercer and J. Jones, but during that spell he displayed his cleverness, and his football artistry, but in the main he was well held.
Not Present
Geldard was not so good as he can be, so that neither of them looked like international wingers. I placed Lawton well above all other forwards, for Steele has lost some of his “edge.” He has not fully recovered his confidence. Where were those darting raids, the quick shot, the ability to slip away from the centre half-back? Not present, sire! Lawton is heading for an England cap. Make no mistake about that, and Mr. Ted Robbins, will have to keep an eye on T.G. Jones for future reference. He is a natural successor to Tommy Griffith, the Welsh captain. Lawton’s last goal was nothing short of brilliant. He beat Challinor with ease and grace, lured Wilkinson out of goal, and than cleverly hooked the ball into the net. Stevenson was not happy. He could not get his passes to go right, and Trentham naturally suffered, for Mercer could not help him, for he just cannot find a true line with his pass. In other respects he is a great half back.
The Driving Force.
Cunliffe, in spite of his goal misses, did grand work, and with Lawton was the driving force of the attack. Stoke kept the ball to the ground when making their advances, but they were not definite enough in front of goal. Tutin was the pick of their half backs, for Soo had as much as he could do to watch Cunliffe and Geldard. Turner was too easy beaten by Lawton, and neither Challinor nor Brigham were safe under pressure. Apart from Stevenson’s goal Wilkinson did sound work in goal, as did Morton although he was a bit lucky on occasions. I had a word with Ted Sagar before the match. He said he was feeling champion, and that it would not be long before he was fit to take his place, once again. Sagar has a wonderful temperament. Four cartilages have been extracted from his knees, but is not the slightest bit worried about it. Is has not affected his confidence one iota.
GOAL-A-MATCH LAWTON
November 29, 1937. The Evening Express.
Everton Star Of Victory Over Stoke.
By Watcher.
Four First Division club representatives are ready to wager that Tommy Lawton, the Everton centre-forward, will play for England before he is twenty years of age. Lawton’s display against Stoke City, who were beaten 3-0 at Goodison Park on Saturday, emphasised the claims many have already made for this former’s Burnley boy. He is only 18, and as he is now becoming known as goal-a-match Lawton –he has scored 14 goals in 15 games for the Blues this season –continuance of this form should make an England “cap” an assured fact within two years. One must give him credit for the manner in which he led the attack and also for scoring twice –Stevenson notched the Blues third point –but at the same time praise must be meted out for several other players who, after a mediocre first half, revealed form which left no one in doubt as to which side deserved the points. In defence, there was not a weak spot. Cook kicked strongly, and Jones’s timing and quick tackling were largely responsible for the blotting out of Matthews, who, like his England team rival, Geldard, was not often in the picture. Star of the half-back line was Jones (T.G). who held Steele in a tight grip. If the Everton forwards had shot harder and got better range, on their efforts, a commanding lead would have been established before the “break” Cunliffe, although remiss in shooting always worked hard to form a connecting link between Lawton and Geldard, Trentham’s opportunities were limited. If only the Blues will continue in the mood in which they left off against Stoke, there will be nothing to worry about when the F.A. Cup-ties come along.
GILLICK RETURNS TO EVERTON
November 30, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
For their meeting with Charlton Athletic, at Charlton on Saturday, the Everton team chosen last night shows one change from the side which defeated Stoke City. This is on the extreme left wing, where Gillick, the Scottish international resumes in place of Trentham. Otherwise, the side will be unchanged namely;-Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Gillick. Charlton Athletic started off in splendid fashion, but they have not altogether maintained their promise. Everton on last Saturday’s form have a distinct chance. Seven weeks ago the London side defeated Portsmouth 3-1 and went to the head of the table, but since then they have failed to win a match, and only four points have been gained from seven games, by a division with Bolton Wanderers (home), Huddersfield Town, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Sunderland all by a score of 1-1. The Everton Central League side to oppose Burnley at Goodison Park includes P. Lovett, a young goalkeeper, from Kenwood Juniors, Shrewsbury. He is 17 years of age, stands 5ft 11ins, and weights 11st 10lbs. The team is: - P. Lovatt; Jackson, Thomson; Bentham, Gee, Davies; Arthur, Bell, Dean, Dougal, Trentham.
GILLICK RETURNS TO EVERTON TEAM
November 30, 1937. The Evening Express.
One Change For Charlton Game
Blues Search For Winger; The Facts
By Pilot.
Torry Gillick, Everton’s Scottish international, returns to the first team for the visit to Charlton Athletic and The Army next week-end. Gillick comes in at outside left in place of Trentham, who has filled the position will distinct credit while Gillick has been getting back to form in the Central League side. The Scot underwent a cartilage operation early in the season, and after a run with the “A” team played two matches for the first eleven –against Leeds United and Grimby Town –but the directors decided he required more time to regain his confidence. Since then Gillick has been showing improved form in the reserves. If Gillick is a success in these games –the match against the Army takes place at the Command ground, Aldershot, on Monday –the club may not secure another player for the position. The search for a first-class outside left with experience has been going on ever since the season opened, but Everton have been baulked at every turn. I am now at liberty to state that the player they wanted was none other than Eric Brook, the Manchester City, the England player. Everton were of the opinion that Brook was just the man to liven up the Blues’ attack, and inquires were made t Maine-road. Mr. Wilfred Wild, manager of the City, was doubtful whether his club would part with “the life and soul of the City party,” but the matter was left in abeyance. Now the deal will be off, however, for unfortunately Brook was taken ill with appendicitis last week-end. I relate these facts to show that Everton have been doing all they can to secure a key-man for the position. They are now hoping that Gillick will solve problem for them. His return is the only change. Everton; Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, Gillick. A player who ten days was playing in junior circles makes his debut for Everton Reserves in the Central League match against Burnley at Goodison Park on Saturday. He is P. Lovatt, a 17 year-old goalkeeper from Kenwood Juniors (Shrewsbury). Lovett, who is 5ft 11 1/2ins, and 11st 10lbs was signed last week, and gave a brilliant display for the “A” team against Prescot Cables. Everton Reserves: P. Lovatt; Jackson, Thomson; Bentham, Gee, Davies; Arthur, Bell, Dean, Dougal, Trentham.
EVERTON MAKE ONE CHANGE
November 30, 1937. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
Everton have made one change in their team to meet Charlton Athletic at the Valley ground on Saturday. Gillick coming in at outside left for Trentham. Gillick has been showing something like his old form in the Central League and the directors think that his greater experience will add more power to the forward line. Trentham has not been a failure on the left wing, but it is felt that a change was necessary in the position which has been a worry to the club for some time. Trentham’s time will come of that I feel sure, so I hope he does not lose heart over this change. At the same time I do not consider that this young man has been given full scope during his period in the first team for, some reason or other, he has very often been “starved” out of the game. Team; Morton; Cook, Jones (JE); Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Cunliffe, Lawton, Stevenson, and Gillick. P. Lovett, the 17 year-old goalkeeper from Kenwood Juniors, Shrewsbury, gave such a fine display for Everton “A” against Prescot Cables –played eight first team men –last Saturday that he has been chosen to play for the Central league side against Burnley at Goodison Park on Saturday. Team; P. Lovett; Jackson, Thomson; Bentham, Gee, Davies; Arthur, Bell, Dean, Dougal and Trentham.
November 1937