SURPRISE FOR EVERTON
November 2, 1942. The Liverpool Daily Post
Bury 4, Everton 1
Bury Turn the Tables
By Stork.
It was not Everton’s day at Gigg Lane on Saturday, for they never promised to bring off that anticipated double. They provided Bury with their first victory in seven matches. It was a surprising reversal of form, for a week previously Everton had scored a run away win over Bury. Bury had Dougal, Halton, and a fresh goalkeeper in the side. Potts, however, was the mainspring of the side when he went inside. He imbued the attack with a new spirit, and the wonder was that Bury were not well ahead at the half stage. They started like winners and finished off winners, whereas Everton never seemed to get a grip on the match. Their defence was never sure. For once in a way Greenhalgh and Cook were not in their customary form. The “A” team player, McDonnell, had faults, but he did two notable things in the first half –he twice kicked off the goal line without everyone beaten. He has the built and the speed to make a sound pivot, and will improve with experience of modern centre-half tactics. This was undoubtedly Bury’s best game to-date. They made Everton look poor. There were too many fouls in the game too many cautions issued, and the penalty award, which produced the first goal, did not look anything like a penalty to me. McDonnell was running in to clear, and he just kicked the ball when Potts came up and ran across his path, and fall over his leg. There was no suggestion of a trip about it. Davies scored from the spot, and that was the extent of the scoring up to the interval.
Everton Faults.
Bury should have had other goals with the chance, they made and Everton would consider themselves fortunate not to have been more than one goal behind at the interval, just before which Mutch drove in a cracking shot which the amateur goalkeeper, Whitehead saved magnificently. Everton had been too fanciful in their play, Mattiewson’s heights was a barrier to Curran, who rarely got a ball on the ground. When he did, he promptly netted, even though he was rightly given off-side. Within ten minutes of the resumption Bury had brought the score to 3-0 through Potts and Davies. Everton got one goal by Fowler, but before Halton had put Bury 4 goals ahead. It was one of the few chances the boy had throughout the match. Bury were well worthy their victory. They were first to the ball, Bentham and Watson played well, and so did Stevenson and Mutch, but there was not the unanimity of purpose that one associates with Everton. They gave glimpses of good class play, but they were few and far between. Everton; Burnett, goal; Cook (captain) and Greenhalgh, backs; Bentham, McDonnell, and Watson, half-backs; Dellow, Mutch, Curran, Stevenson, and Fowler, forwards. Bury;- G.K. Whitehead, goal; Hart and Gemmill, backs; Grififths (W.), Matthewson, and Halton, half-backs; Potts, Jones, Davies, Dougal and Carter, forwards. Referee; Mr. H. Hartley, Bolton, Attendance 2,740.
Eight Goals For Dean
“Dixie” Dean playing for Cambridge Town against the R.A.F X1 scored eight goals, the result being 15-1. Dean showed great form, specially with is head, and displayed fine judgement.
• Liverpool beat Manchester City 3-1, Done (2), Fagan, and Stuart for City

BLUES RUN ENDED
November 2, 1942. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
The season has produced no bigger shock to me than Everton’s defeat at Bury. It seems almost unbelievable even now. Bury at Anfield a Goodison Park did not impress me, and yet they could recover from that 9-2 defeat at Goodison to win well. Yes, form goes crazy sometimes. So Everton’s victory run was brought to an end, and the irony of it is that some of their international stars were doing big things in other spheres. Tommy Lawton got three goals for Aldershot, Tommy Jones was the big man in Wrexham’s win over Chester, who had Joe Mercer at right-half. Yes, and our old Irish Dixie Dean bagged eight for Cambridge Town. It is a pity that Services duties prevent these stars players playing regularly with the Blues. Worries were added on Saturday by the fact that Harry Jones could not play. Bury were a goal up at half-time and then quick scoring spell brought three others –Carter, Davies (2) and Hilton got them –before young Fowler got through in the closing stages to score in his second successive first team game. I am assured that Everton played below form, and that Bury with a few of their stars back, at last struck their best form after seven successive defeats.

BURY’S BOMBSHELL
November 2, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Bury certainty dropped a bomb in the Everton camp by winning at Gigg Lane for it was only natural that the Blues expected a victory after their show of the previous week, but the Shakers had several team alterations and were n entirely different side in the return game. They started in such a fashion, that I wondered how Everton had won the first game so easily. The Bury enthusiastic play just a flash in the pan? Everton would surely got over these quick tactics and hit back. That was at the back of my mind but Everton never really hit back with anything likely to being about a Bury defeat. They were disparity fortunate not to have been several goals in arrears at the interval, instead of one, for it was only by good fortunate that McDonnell happened to be standing in the goal line to twice kick the ball off the line. An injury to a player is rarely an asset but it was in Bury’s case, for when Jones was injured and changed places with Potts the latter brought greater driving force into the front line. He was the live wire of the attack, but it was the winners big half back line which was responsible for the “blackout” of the Everton forwards. Matthewson and his co-partners refused to allow Everton to settle on the ball and so threw a spanner into the Everton machine to prevent it running smoothly. I naturally expected an Everton revival in the second half, but hope I had of it was knocked smithereens by two quick goals by Carter and Davies within ten minutes, for Everton were not shaping in a manner which suggested they would pull the chestnut out of the fire. They were out of tune with themselves; could not settled down through Bury’s vigorous style of play –there were too many fouls and a lot of cautions –so Bury went on their way rejoicing. They scored a fourth later on and Fowler replied with one. This youngster had few chances, being starved most of the first half. Everton finished of the match attacking with real purpose but they were unable to do any further damage. It was a poor Everton that fail to Bury pace and robust tackling. They produce some nice movements without getting any reward, but it was not that day. McDonnell has a lot to learn –one of them is a knowledge of his colleagues method. He must curb enthusiasm to rush out of position and so leave the middle unoccupied. But for all that he did some good things.

EVERTON AT PRENTON
November 3, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
After Tranmere’s fine performance on Saturday, and Everton’s eclipse at Bury, the visit of Everton to Prenton Park loses some of the “easy meat” aspect that it might have had a fortnight ago. The Blues will find these Prenton lads full of fight and pluck, and they’ll have to work for all they get. All the same, I can’t see anything but a win for the visitors, even after the Bury collapse. Cook and his colleagues in defence are not likely to have another such off day. Tranmere include Frost as probable centre forward. There is a slight doubt about him after his injury against Southport, but it is expected he will be fit in time. Abe Rosenthal was recalled from leave last week and thus couldn’t play against Souhtport but Mr. Bob Trueman tells me in a definite starter this time. At outside right Tranmere will have a debutant in J. Read, a 17-year-old amateur from a Chester League side. The team will be; R. Yearsley; Tunney, Owen; Glidden, L. Hughes, Hodgson; J. Read, Rosenthal (A_, Read, Bridges, W.F. Jackson. Rovers “A” (v Everton “A”) at Goodison Park, 3 p.m.; W. Docherty; R. Dunroe, E.W. Hunter; A. Payne, EW Anderson, W. Higgins, G.J. Aldis, R. Lamb, R. McLean, H. Bell, J. Evans.

EVERTON TEAM PUZZLE
November 5, 1942. Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton are experiencing team difficulties for their visit to Tranmere Rovers at Prenton Park on Saturday. Secretary Mr. Theo Kelly is not short of players, far from it, but is perplexed over the movements of many of his Services players. The defence –backs and goalkeepers –are still right, and we have the “old firm” of Burnett, Cook, and Greenhalgh, but there are no fewer than 17 names in the provisional list, with the half-backs, and eight forwards. Mr. Kelly may not be able to settle on the actual side until just before the kick-off, but it is possible that the Birkenhead folk will have the extreme pleasure of seeing three international stars back on parade –in addition to Cook, Mutch and Stevenson. Tommy Lawton, Tommy Jones, and Joe Mercer are among those on the list, and I sincerely hope that can turn out. Everton have suffered this season because these players have been absent and the irony of it is that Tom Jones and Mercer were playing for local sides last Saturday when the Blues were struggling at Bury. Amateurs Tommy Fowler and Jack Humphreys are included and Curran is also retained on the list, while Harry Jones, unable to play at Bury is brought back again, and Lyon, Dellow, and Urmston stand by. Everton (from); Burnett, Cook, Greenhalgh; J.V. Humphreys, Watson, Jones (Tommy), Jones (Harry), Bentham, Mercer; Mutch, Lawton, Stevenson, T. Fowler, Lyon, Dellow, Curran, Urmston.
Everton Reserves; (v Tranmere Rovers, at Goodison Park); Birkett; Ireland, Curwen; Cassidy, McDonnell, Fairfoull; Lydiate, Grant, Wyles, Lee, Jones.

EVERTON’S BIG LIST FOR TRANMERE VISIT
November 5, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Everton’s Doubts
Ranger’s Notes
There are so many “ifs and but’s” about Everton’s side for their game with Tranmere Rovers at Prenton, on Saturday that no fewer than eighteen names appears as probables. Lawton, Mercer and TG Jones are among those included, and while Mr. Theo Kelly hopes they will be available, he will not know definitely until later. The rest of those named its certain starters –or near certain as can be these days –so whether all their internationals are available or not, it will be seen that Everton will turn out a strong side. They’re taking no chances of Tranmere springing another surprise package has they did against Southport. The final selection will be made from; Everton (from); Burnett, Cook, Greenhalgh; J.V. Humphreys, Watson, Jones (Tommy), Jones (Harry), Bentham, Mercer; Mutch, Lawton, Stevenson, T. Fowler, Lyon, Dellow, Curran, Urmston.
Everton Reserves; (v Tranmere Rovers, at Goodison Park); Birkett; Ireland, Curwen; Cassidy, McDonnell, Fairfoull; Lydiate, Grant, Wyles, Lee, Jones.
• Tranmere Director’s Death, Alan MacDonald, mentioned in today’s Echo

PRENTON “DERBY.”
November 6, 1942. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
There will be a second Merseyside “Derby” at Prenton Park, where Tranmere Rovers encouraged by the annexation of that point from Southport receive Everton. Last week Tranmere had their best gate for 14 months, but I expect them to reach a new high level tomorrow, for there is a probability that Everton will go with a galaxy of international stars. Rovers supporters should note that there are no fewer than six internationals in the Blues team possible –Billy Cook, Tommy Jones, Joe Mercer, George Mutch, Tommy Lawton and Alex Stevenson. Personally I think Everton will win despite their indifferent display at Bury last week. That form was too poor to be true, and with additional strength I think Everton can and will get back on the victory path. The Rovers will not have Frost and so Harold Bridges, the pre-war skipper takes over the leadership of the attack with Harold Bell at inside-left. Seventeen-year-old Read, from the Chester League makes his debut at outside-right. The Rovers have a well, balanced team of bonny fighters, who will make the classic Everton step lively. Tranmere R; Yearsley; Tunney, Owen; Glidden, L. Hughes, Hodgson; J. Read, Rosenthal, Bridges, Bell, W.P. Jackson. Everton; (from); Burnett; Cook, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones (Tom), Jones (Harry), Bentham, Watson, J.V. Humphreys; Mutch, Lawton, Stevenson, T. Fowler, Lyon, Dellow, Curran, Urmston.

TOUGH FOR TRANMERE
November 6, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
They are also anticipating a big gate over at Prenton Park for the visit of Everton, especially as the Blues hope to have a big array of internationals on view. Tranmere’s best gate in war-time was £306 against Liverpool three years ago. Curiously enough, the Rovers worst war-time attendance was for an Everton game, which realised only £58 but there was a reason for that, for we’d had a run of several blitz nights, the weather was shocking, and those who decided that afternoon that the fireside as best were wise. This time Everton ought to pull in somewhere near a war-time record, for the game, particularly after Tranmere’s good show against Southport, promise to be a good one. The Rovers will field a strong side, including Rosenthal and Bridges, who are definite, and a debutant amateur outside right in J. Read, from the Chester district. Everton’s side still has so many doubts about it that the original. If probables stand unaltered, though Mr. Theo Kelly hopes to turn out a bit proportion of pre-war “regulars.” Final choice will be made from:- Tranmere R; Yearsley; Tunney, Owen; Glidden, L. Hughes, Hodgson; J. Read, Rosenthal, Bridges, Bell, W.P. Jackson. Everton; (from); Burnett; Cook, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones (Tom), Jones (Harry), Bentham, Watson, J.V. Humphreys; Mutch, Lawton, Stevenson, T. Fowler, Lyon, Dellow, Curran, Urmston.

PRENTON PARK “DERBY”
November 7, 1942. The Evening Express
Everton’s Second Half Lead
Everton visited Prenton Park to meet Tranmere Rovers today. Tranmere Rovers:- R. Yeardsley, goal; Tunney (Wrexham)(ex-Reserves), and Owen (A.), backs; Payne (A.), Hughes (L.), and Hodgson, half-backs; Reid (J.), Rosenthal, Bridges, Bell (H.), W.P. Jackson, forwards. Everton:- Burnett, goal; Cook (captain) and Greenhalgh, backs; Mercer, Jones (Harry) (West Brom), and Watson, half-backs; Bentham, Mutch (Preston), Curran (Bristol Rovers), Stevenson, and Fowler (T), forwards. Referee; Mr. F.W. Wort, (Kent). There was a crowd of over 3,000 and a prospect of the best gate of the season. The home side made an early raid which saw Bridges get Jackson away, and though the winger’s centre was not a good one, the ball found its way back to Bridges, whose shot on the run struck a defender and Burnett’s work was made easy. Rosenthal tried his luck from well out, but was wide, and then Burnett had to come out to catch a centre from Jackson. Bridges worked his way in from the extreme right, and his rising drive travelling over, although Burnett appeared to have the ball covered. There was a stoppage when Jones (H.) hurt his ankle, but he soon recovered.
Yeardsley’s Save
In their first raid, initiated by Mercer, Everton came near to gathing a goal. There was a quick interpassing bout, in which Bentham, Mutch, and Stevenson took part and when the ball was put the middle, Bentham, who had gone inside, shot in low, of Yeardsley to make a clever save at full length. Mercer, on one occasion, went up with the attack, but when a shooting chance presented itself he fared no better than his forward colleagues for he turned the ball wide. When the home forwards tried to get moving they fell into the Everton offside trap and three movements in quick succession broke down in this way. The best Everton shot thus came from Stevenson, whose first time effort from a low centre by Fowler travelled inches over. The crowd had increased to about 6,000 constituting Tranmere’s best war-time gate. The teams were very evenly matched, but throughout the first half the defences proved superior to the attack. Rosenthal was out of luck with a great drive, which rebounded into play off the face of the bar, while at the other end Fowler was similarly unfortunate with a cross shot.
Half-time; Tranmere 0, Everton 0.
The second half was only three minutes old when Curran gave Everton the lead, gliding through a low transfer by Bentham with the side of his foot. Everton for a time were well on top, but the only shot of note was one by Mutch. In 58 minutes Tranmere drew level by means of a surprise raid. Bridges chased a ball sent well ahead up the middle. Cook and Jones both seemed undecided as to which should clear, and Bridges nipped in to beat Burnett with a great drive from 20 yards. Curran put Everton ahead after 68 minutes. Stevenson added a third with a great drive ten minutes later.
Everton “A” v. Tranmere “A”
Everton were two goals up within four minutes, Wyles and Grant scoring. Birkett saved from Lamb and McLean, before Grant scored a third for Everton. Half-time; Everton “A” 3, Tranmere “A” 0

TRANMERE R. V EVERTON
November 7, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
Tranmere Rovers:- R. Yeardsley, goal; Tunney (Wrexham)(ex-Reserves), and Owen (A.), backs; Payne (A.), Hughes (L.), and Hodgson, half-backs; Reid (J.), Rosenthal, Bridges, Bell (H.), W.P. Jackson, forwards. Everton:- Burnett, goal; Cook (captain) and Greenhalgh, backs; Mercer, Jones (Harry) (West Brom), and Watson, half-backs; Bentham, Mutch (Preston), Curran (Bristol Rovers), Stevenson, and Fowler (T), forwards. Referee; Mr. F.W. Wort, (Kent). Tom Lawton was not available for Everton, at Prenton. His place was taken by Curran. The Rovers, who are unbeaten on their own ground, had a strong out. The first few minutes of the game belonged to Tranmere, for Jackson twice was prompted by Bridges caused trouble for the Everton defence, but the shooting of the Rovers’ attack was not all that it should have been for Burnett had little trouble in saving anything levelled at him. Even a hot shot by Bridges, which flew over the crossbar, was well covered by the Everton keeper. In Everton’s first attack for the Rovers goal they almost scored, and would have done so by not Yeardsley brought off a last-second save. Everton played stylish football, in which Mercer, Mutch and Bentham was concerned, while Stevenson had a crack at goal, but was of the line. Shots were directed all round the woodwork by various members of the Everton attack. Twice the crossbar was hit within the space of a minute. Rosenthal shooting against the woodwork for the Rovers and Fowler for Everton. Bentham, with a perfect opening failed because he tried to place his shot instead of replying on power. Mutch also shot over, and Rosenthal was again close when he, too, applied to much scoop to his effort.
Half-time; Tranmere Rovers 0, Everton nil.
Within three minutes of resuming Everton took the lead, Curran gliding a Bentham past well beyond the reach of Yearsdley. Prior to this Curran had just as easy a chance, but he hesitancy enabled the Rovers’ defence to get together. Rosenthal was responsible for a fine shot, which Burnett saved at the angle of the post. A clearance from the Everton goalmouth sent the ball sailing down the middle. There did not seen to be any particularly danger about it, but Cook and Jones appeared to leave it to one another, what time Bridges came alongside and with a terrific shot beat Burnett –time 58 minutes. Curran scored a second for Everton after 68 minutes, and Stevenson a third after 78 minutes.

EVERTON WIN AT PRENTON
November 9, 1942. The Liverpool Daily Post
Rovers Hard Fight
By Stork.
Everton had to fight hard for their victory over the youthful Tranmere Rovers side at Prenton Park, and it was not until the second half that they really got on top of the Rovers to eventually win 3-1. One could, however see the difference in class of the teams from the outset, for whereas Everton made progress with a more convincing style of combination, the Rovers for some time got the same results from their more straight of play. Bridges had two chances in the first few minutes, the first he only half hit the ball which, trickled through to Burnett, and then slashed one over the crossbar from a good position. In their first attack Everton went much closer to a goal than had the Rovers with more openings. It was only Yeardsley who saved the situation by dropping on Bentham’s shot as it was crossing his line. Rosenthal and Fowler each hit the bar. The interval arrived with a blank-score card. In the second half Curran glided the ball into the net after two minutes. The Rovers fought back strongly and Rosenthal forced Burnett to a smart save at the angle of the woodwork. This was followed by a goal. The ball was sent up the middle and did not seem to be a menace to Everton, but Cook and Jones leaving it to the other saw Bridges dash forward and beat Burnett with a smashing drive. Time 58 minutes.
Everton Clinch The Issue.
Everton soon scored a second through Curran at 68 minutes and a third by Stevenson at 78 minutes and the Rovers were ultimately well beaten. Nevertheless they had fought well but Everton’s more enterprising football carried the day. They interchanged position nicely, were more accurate in their combination, and finally the better shots. The Rovers defence gave them little rope until near the end, when Everton’s more subtle football enabled them to outwit the defenders. Stevenson was forever prompting with passes into the open spaces, carrying and fetching for one and all, and rounded off a nice day’s work with a grand goal. Rosenthal vied with Stevenson in his distribution of the ball, and gave his partners many chances with good passes. Tranmere’s youthful centre half-back has the right idea, yet could, not stop Curran from twice finding the net. It must be remembered, however, that the two Everton inside forwards are artists at luring an opponent into false positions. In the air the ball “belonged” to Hughes because of his heights, but Curran showed that he is dangerous with the ball on the turf. The gate receipts constitute a war-time record -£350, the previous beat being against Liverpool. Tranmere Rovers:- R. Yeardsley, goal; Tunney (Wrexham)(ex-Reserves), and Owen (A.), backs; Payne (A.), Hughes (L.), and Hodgson, half-backs; Reid (J.), Rosenthal, Bridges, Bell (H), W.P. .Jackson, forwards. Everton:- Burnett, goal; Cook (captain) and Greenhalgh, backs; Mercer, Jones (Harry) (West Brom), and Watson, half-backs; Bentham, Mutch (Preston), Curran (Bristol Rovers), Stevenson, and Fowler (T), forwards. Referee; Mr. F.W. Wort, (Kent).
• Liverpool beat Chester 4-2. Fagan, Balmer, Done, Liddell, and for Chester , Harris, McIntosh

BLUES LAST BETTER
November 9, 1942. Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Tranmere Rovers showed sufficient fight and skill at Prenton Park against Everton before losing 3-1 to suggest that the Blues will not have it all their own way when they meet at Goodison Park on Saturday. It was just that Everton lasted better, and were worthy winners of the game. The most gratifying feature from the Rovers, standpoint was that they had their best gate since April 1939. There were close on 6,000 spectators and a gate of £378. The Rovers put up a grim resistance in a keenly-fought first half, in which the finishing was not as good as the approach. The two best efforts came back off the bar. Curran placed Everton ahead on resuming, but the Rovers fought back to equality through Bridges. Curran and Stevenson gave victory to the Blues as the power of Everton told. Credit to the Rovers with a side having an average age of only 17 ½ -the youngest in the land –for a good display against superior opposition in which young Tommy Fowler and Joe Mercer hit the high spot. Fowler is the boy who took the eye of Mr. Bob Trueman, the Rovers’ chairman and one of the best spotters of young talent in the area.

ROVERS’ RECORD GONE.
November 9, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Tranmere Rovers unbeaten home record has gone. Everton smudged it on Saturday, but they had the satisfaction of handling their biggest war-time gate, a cheque of £380. The home side made Everton work very hard for their success, for it was not until the second half that the champions –aye, Everton are still that –really got on top for all five goals were scored in the last 45. Had the Rovers taken full toll of the opportunities they made in the first few minutes of the game. Everton might have been struggling. Everton are superior to Tranmere in tactics and finally in shooting, but the youthful Prenton side had a lot to commend it. They had a fighting spirit. They were never overawed with the fame of Everton, and there were many eve patches of play when neither could claim the upper hand.

READY FOR GOODISON
November 10, 1942. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Tranmere hope to field a much stronger team for Saturday’s return game with Everton at Goodison Park, and strong efforts are being made to secure Llew Ashcroft and Alec Rosenthal their pre-war right wing. Bridges will not, unfortunately be available, but Ashcroft’s appearance will compensate. Ashcroft has been playing great football in the Football League (South) and is a rare match-winner. It is hoped that Frost, the Newcastle United and former New Brighton centre forward, will be fit enough to resume and Harold Bell will be at inside left as partner to amateur Jackson. Tunney, the Wrexham and former Everton player, will be at right back, and Glidden returns to right half for Payne. The actual attendance at Prenton Park last Saturday for the visit of the Blues was 5,594 with receipts of £378. This was the Rovers’ best in point of view of money since April, 1939. Tranmere R. Yeardsley; Tunney, Owen; Glidden, L. Hughes, Hodgson; L.L. Ashcroft, Rosenthal, Frost, Bell, W. P. Jackson.
Rovers’ Reserves oppose Everton Reserves at Prenton Park in a County Combination game. Rovers; R. Potts; R. Dunroe, E.V. Hornby; E. W. Anderson, E.R. Tickell, G. D. Alldis; J. Reid, H. Lamb, R. McLean, H. Saunders, J. Wheeler.
“Stevie” Breaks The Ice.
It is a long time since Alex Stevenson, the Everton Irish International inside-left, went nine matches without scoring a goal. Yet this is what has happened this season, for it was not until last Saturday, when the Blues visited Prenton Park, that Stevenson got his first goal of the season. Steveson scored the third of Everton’s gals, and it was a –real beauty, taken from well outside the penalty area, and his colleagues were not slow in showing their congratulations. While Stevenson may not have been prominent as a goal-scorer this season, he has certainly been Everton’s prime creator, and it is his diligent which is making 17-year-old Tommy Fowler have such an excellent grounding in League circles. Stevenson is nursing Fowler along nicely, and the boy is improving with every match. Mr. Theo Kelly the Everton Secretary, is not yet certain of the Everton team to oppose Tranmere on Saturday, but at the moment he does not anticipate that there will be any changes from last week.

EVERTON’S “CAPS V. TRANMERE
November 12, 1942. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Tommy Jones, the Welsh international captain, returns to Everton’s team to oppose Tranmere Rovers in the return Merseyside “Derby” at Goodison Park on Saturday, when Everton will be seeking their third “double” of the season. Jones has not been in the team for some weeks because of an international call, an injury, and inability to get away from his duties in time. Jones has had one game with Wrexham, but now comes back to take over from Harry Jones, who is moved to centre forward in place of Bristolian Curran. Harry Jones has had many games for the Blues as leader. Joe Mercer, the English international, continues at right half, and this allows Stan Bentham to continue at outside right as partner to Scottish international George Mutch. Irish International Alex Stevenson will be at inside-left once again acting as sponsor-in-chief to 17-year-old Tommy Fowler the fifth international. Billy Cook, of Ireland, will be at right back in a defence which is once again unchanged. Everton; Burnett; Cook, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones (Tommy), Watson; Bentham, Mutch, Jones (Harry), Stevenson, Fowler.
Everton Reserves go to Prenton Park seeking a County Combination “double” at the expense of Tranmere Rovers Reserves. Everton Reserves; Birkett; Ireland, Curwen; Humphreys, McDonnell, Fairfoull; Lydiate, Grant, Wyles, Lee, Lyon.

EVERTON CHANGES
November 12, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton’s side to meet Tranmere at Goodison Park shows one change from that which won at Prenton last week though two positions are involved. As T.G. Jones is available, he takes the place of Harry Jones at centre half, leaving the latter free to change over at centre-forward. With several of the pre-war championship side “on tap” an Everton victory looks pretty certain though Tranmere can be called on to put up a good fight. Team; Everton; Burnett; Cook, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones (Tommy), Watson; Bentham, Mutch, Jones (Harry), Stevenson, Fowler.
Over at Prenton Park the two reserves sides come into opposition. Everton “A” will be:- Birkett; Ireland, Curwen; Humphreys, McDonnell, Fairfoull; Lydiate, Grant, Wyles, Lee, Lyon.

ALL-STAR PARADE
November 13, 1942. Evening Express.
Pilot’s Log
It is a long time since Everton were in the happy position of being able to field five internationals on one day, but this happens tomorrow when the Blues receive Tranmere Rovers at Goodison Park. The side should recapture some of those pre-war glories of Everton with such a parade of talent. Tommy Jones the Welsh captain, will be back again with Joe Mercer on his right back again with Joe Mercer on his right while other internationals will be Cook, Stevenson and Mutch. Consequently all four countries will be represented –and if the Rovers conquer them it will be the shock of the day. Last week Everton won 3-1 at Prenton Park after the Rovers had put up a game fight, and providing Everton do not fall into the trap of belittling the power of the opposition they should duly complete their third “double” of the season and register their seventh win. The Rovers have won one away game in five and will have dangerous Llew Ashcroft back at outside-right. The game is due to start at three o’clock, and we should have a fine afternoon’s sport. Team; Everton; Burnett; Cook, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones (Tommy), Watson; Bentham, Mutch, Jones (Harry), Stevenson, Fowler. Tranmere Rovers; . Yeardsley; Tunney, Owen; Glidden, L. Hughes, Hodgson, L. L. Ashcroft, Rosenthal, Frost, Bell, W.P. Jackson.

DOUBLE FOR EVERTON?
November 13, 1942. Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes.
The visit of Tranmere Rovers to Goodison Park, is hardly in the same category, yet all the same Rovers are a side always worth seeing, not only to weight up the ability and promise of chairman Trueman’s “star-to-be,” but because Tranmere win or lose, invariably put up a good fighting show. They will have to be at their best if they are keep Everton’s score within reasonable bounds, that is, provided the Blues endeavour to take their chances and don’t throw them away by thinking they can win whenever they like. That they will win seems reasonably certain, but it would be a walk over by any means, and if they tale too many risks Tranmere with true them a shock or two. With Tommy Jones back at centre half and Harry Jones in the forwards, Everton should be even stronger than last week. So, too will Tranmere with Frost and Ashcroft returning to the attack. Teams; Everton; Burnett; Cook, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones (Tommy), Watson; Bentham, Mutch, Jones (Harry), Stevenson, Fowler. Tranmere Rovers; Yeardsley; Tunney, Owen; Glidden, L. Hughes, Hodgson, L. L. Ashcroft, Rosenthal, Frost, Bell, W.P. Jackson.

HONOURS BRING TEAM PROBLEMS
November 14, 1942. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Merseyside footballers are even more in demand for representative matches this season than last, and it is making the team problems of the local club increasingly difficult. Within the next two weeks Everton will provide no fewer than six players for representative games and Liverpool will provide two, and possibly three. Next Saturday Everton will have Billy Cook and Joe Mercer playing at Stoke, and it is expected that Billy Liddell of Liverpool, will be brought into the F.A., side. On the same day Wally Boyes, of Everton and Billy Fagan, of Everton, will be playing for the Northern Command at Barnsley. Then, on November 28, Liverpool will supply Jack Balmer for the Western Command against the Football League at Cardiff while Everton will send Mercer, Cook and Norman Sharp, who has been playing so well with Chester.

TRANMERE RALLY
November 14, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Everton Crack After Three-Goal Lead
By Ranger.
Everton; Burnett, goal; Cook (captain) and Greenhalgh, backs; Bentham, Jones (H.)(West Brom), and Watson, half-backs; Boyes, Mutch (Preston), Curran (Bristol Rovers), Stevenson, and T. Fowler, forwards. Tranmere Rovers:- R. Yeardsley, goal; Price (J) and Owen, backs; Hills, L. Hughes and Glidden, half-backs; L.L. Ashcroft, Lamb, H.S. Saunders, Bell, and W.P. Jackson, forwards. Referee; Mr. Rae (R.N.V.R). Good work by Bentham and Mutch gave Everton the lead in four minutes, Curran making no error with Mutch’s pass. Everton were aggressive and for long periods Tranmere were penned in their own half. When they got away they found Burnett in his best form which he was called upon to catch two dropping shots. A neat run by Boyes led to Everton’s second goal at the 14th minute, Curran was again the scorer, after Stevenson had had been crowded out. Everton playing attractive football, were well on top, and it was no more than they deserved when Fowler made the score 3-0. Tranmere were trying hard, and first Ashcroft and then Jackson went near with good efforts. Tranmere however, were disjointed in attack and they rarely caused any anxiety to the home defence. Everton taking things easy in view of their lead, paid the penalty of slackness in defence when Saunders reduced the lead three minutes from the interval. The move was initiated by Owen who all along had played a grand game in the Tranmere defence, and it was from an Owen clearance that Saunders got his chance.
Half-time; Everton 3, Tranmere R, 1.
Jackson still further reduced the deficit at the 60th minute. On this occasion, Burnett was mainly responsible when he ran out and failed to effort his clearance. This put an altogether new aspect on the game, and with only a goal in it Tranmere staged a grand fighting rally.
Amazing Turn-Round
They were well worthy of the equalising goal, which came from Bell at the 70th minute. It was rather a scrambling sort of goal, due to Burnett failing to get hold of a centre from Ashcroft, but it counted just the same. Tranmere went away in galliant fashion and within three minutes had taken the lead when Jackson score from a corner. This was an amazing turn around. After having had the game well in their keeping, Everton through over confidence, had thrown it away, and Tranmere’s determination and persistency had brought its just reward. Everton were now badly rattled and their defence cracked up. Saunders put Tranmere further in front at the 77th minute, following a corner, after Burnett had made two brilliant saves from Lamb and Bell.
Final; Everton 3, Tranmere Rovers 5

SURPRISE FOR EVERTON
November 16, 1942. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 3, Tranmere Rovers 5
Tranmere’s Success at Goodison
By Ranger.
It is a long time since I saw a game turn so completely inside out as that between Everton and Tranmere Rovers at Goodison Park, which was deservedly won by the visitors 5-3. Everton ought to have won, for they not only established a three goals lead (through Curran 2 and Fowler) in the first half-hour, but they were so superior in football craft that it seemed only a question of the magnitude of their victory. Polished and scintillating in all they did, they had Tranmere’s youngsters busy by the intricacy of their combination. The first hint of the disaster in store came when the home defence apparently thinking the points were “in the bag” began to underestimate the opposing attack. They paid the penalty when Saunders reduced the lead just before the interval, and again when Jackson scored soon after the restart, both goals coming from defensive lapses. With only a goal in it, Tranmere sensing signs of a crack in the opposition, staged a great fighting rally that soon had Everton badly rattled. Three further goals were added inside seven minutes –Bell, Jackson, and Saunders being the scorers –and but for good saves by Burnett and over eagerness on their own part, Tranmere might have had a couple more.
Home Attacks Broken
Gone was the smooth-moving Everton and in its place a side of shreds and patches without a cohesive plan in attack and demoralised in defence. Once they got level the visitors never gave Everton time to recover. Their quick and determined tackling broke up almost every home attack before it had time to gather strength while their forwards harassed the Everton defence at every opportunity. True, there was never the same polish and artistry about Tranmere that there had been about Everton in the first half-hour, but they made up for this by enthusiasm energy and determination, and fully deserved their victory. During the second half Everton’s defence was more at sea than I have seen it for a long time. Burnett was at fault with at least two goals and though he partially atoned by some brilliant saves in the closing stages, the damage had already been done. Cook was beaten for pace, the halves were ragged, and the attack lacked sting. The best man on the field was Owen, the Tranmere back, who played a great game throughout. Hughes was excellent in the second half, and every Tranmere player did his part in good fashion. Attendance 7,444, receipts £404. Everton; Burnett, goal; Cook (captain) and Greenhalgh, backs; Bentham, Jones (H.)(West Brom), and Watson, half-backs; Boyes, Mutch (Preston), Curran (Bristol Rovers), Stevenson, and T. Fowler, forwards. Tranmere Rovers:- R. Yeardsley, goal; Price (J) and Owen, backs; Hills, L. Hughes and Glidden, half-backs; L.L. Ashcroft, Lamb, H.S. Saunders, Bell, and W.P. Jackson, forwards. Referee; Mr. Rae (R.N.V.R).
• Liverpool beat Chester 5-1, Fagan, Balmer 3, and Carney, and for Chester Yates.

BRAVO TRANMERE
November 16, 1942. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
I was at Goodison Park to witness the most astonishing fight back I have seen in wartime football. Tranmere Rovers, with a team including a 16-year-old in goal; three 17-years-olds and average age of attack 18 ½; were losing 3-0 to classic Everton at the end of half an hour. It looked like a walk-over for the Blues and interest were out of the game. Everton decided to take it easily. They tried to weave patterns, dally, and over dribble. Little Arthur Owen proved to them time and again by the manner in which he defied the all-too-clever Everton that they were pursuing the wrong tactics. They failed to heel the Owen warning. A few minutes before the interval 18-year-old Saunders, playing his last game for the Rovers for some time, got one in reply to the brace by Curran and Fowler’s whizz-bang. The Rovers saw a ray of hope. The Blues could have clinched it early in the second half, but they failed, and then the Tranmere thunderbolt hit them. In the space of 18 minutes the never-say-die Rover’s thunderbolt hit them. In the space of 18 minutes the never-say-die Rovers had once again proved to Everton that a superiority complex alone cannot win football matches. Jackson (2) Bell and Saunders crowned inspired attacks with goals to give the Rovers a well-deserved win. Rarely have I heard a crowd -7,404 of them –cheer a visiting side at the Everton folk cheered the Rovers. Laurie Hughes stood in the breach in the first half as Owen had done in the first and left it to the forwards to shake Everton out of their complacency. And well they did it. All credit to the Rovers, and especially Owen, Hughes, Glidden, Ashcroft, Jackson, and Saunders. But there were contributory factors to the Tranmere triumph. One was Everton’s irritating easing up and over-elaboration. Only three Everton players really enhanced their reputations-Fowler, Watson and Harry Jones. Even Bentham for once tried to be too clever, and Boyes held the ball so long that one get the impression he though he had to win the game on his own. Curran took his two changes grandly, but otherwise was blotted out by Hughes. Yes, and Burnett’s wandering gave the opportunist Rovers the very chance for which they had brought so well. Again bravo Tranmere from Yeardsley to Jackson, and Everton, please let this lesson sink home. This result was a big blow to the Everton dignity.

TRANMERE SHOCK EVERTON
November 16, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Note
Southport’s win against Blackpool was less of a surprise than Tranmere’s at Goodison, where the Rovers upset the odds by turning a three-goal deficits into a 5-3 victory. There is little excuse for a side which losses after holding such a lead, and less when seasoned players, on their own ground, are opposed mainly by comparatively inexperienced youngsters. Everton had all the cards in their hand after half an hour’s play. They had got goals through Curran (2) and Fowler and had shown such trickiness in combination and solidity in defence that Tranmere were made to look worse than they were. Even so, it seemed only a question of how big Everton a margin would be. Then they made the made the fatal mistake of holding the opposition too cheaply taking risks in defence and frittering away openings by excessive frills in attack. They paid the penalty when Tranmere called their bluff by ramming home a couple of goals. That was a facer for Everton, but worst was to follow, and three more inside seven minutes to took the stuffing out of them that they ended up completely Rommeised. Only good saves by Burnett in the closing stages kept Tranmere total to five. It was a great victory, an amazing turn-round and a fine tribute to the Rovers pluck. Everton lost because they had too great a belief in their own infallibility, because the defence made costly errors against a forward line which was check full of energy and determination, and because their own forwards once Tranmere got cracking were bustled off the ball by quick and resolute tackling. Outstanding man of the day was Owen, the Tranmere back with Hughes not far behind once he had settled down, but all the side did well. Saunders and Jackson (two each) and Bell were the scorers. Everton only consolation was the 7,444 spectators paid £404.

EVERTON MUSTN’T TAKE RISKS AGAIN
November 18, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton, home to Crewe on Saturday, will be without Cook and Mercer, who along with Liddell of Liverpool will be playing for the F.A. side against the R.A.F, in the Red Cross match at Stoke. To fill Cook’s place Everton have been forced to recall Jackson, on loan at Liverpool. As Tommy Jones is available to take over at centre half, relieving Harry Jones to lead the forwards and Dellow comes in again at right outside. Otherwise the team is unchanged from that which lost to Tranmere namely;- Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Jones (TG), Watson; Dellow, Mutch, Jones (Harry), Stevenson, T. Fowler.

EVERTON TEAM CHANGES
November 18, 1942. The Evening Express.
Pilot’s Log
Everton make team changes for their match against Crewe Alexandra at Goodison Park, on Saturday when the Blues hope to prove that their Tranmere form was all wrong. Welcome back will be given to Tommy Jones the Welsh skipper, who takes over Harry Jones at centre half. Harry will thereby be released to take over the centre forward duties from Curran. George Jackson after a series of displays with Liverpool which have made him a tremendous favouritie with the Kopites, comes back to take the place of Billy Cook who will be playing at Stoke with Joe Mercer, and Ronnie Dellow reappears at outside right for Boyes. For the rest the team is unchanged. Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Jones (TG), Watson; Dellow, Mutch, Jones (Harry), Stevenson, T. Fowler.

MAKING AMENDS
November 20, 1942. The Evening Express.
Pilot’s Log
I am confident that Everton, at Goodison Park, will show their followers that their form against Tranmere Rovers was all wrong. Form indicates a Blue victory tomorrow, but I cannot overstress the fact, that Crewe are a side with “danger” written all over them. Mr. Bob Trueman, chairman of Tranmere Rovers, expressed to me the opinion that Crewe are the best team seen at Prenton Park this season. Well, Manchester City, the Wolves and Huddersfield Town have felt the full power of the Crewe “punch” for the City and the Wolves were heavily beaten at Gresty-road and Huddersfield were well content with a draw there. The Alexandra have a number of first-class “guest” players, including Pat Gallacher, the Stoke City and former Sunderland inside-left, who was a member of the Sunderland team which figured in the memorable 6-4 Cup replay with Everton. Yes, Crewe are an attractive side who will make Blues go at a marry gallop. The Blues will be strengthened by the return of Tommy Jones while Jackson and Dellow come back and Harry Jones will be at centre-forward. Everton:- Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Jones (TG), Watson; Dellow, Mutch, Jones (Harry), Stevenson, T. Fowler.

PAPER PROSPECTS EASY
November 20, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Pilot’s Log
On paper, Everton ought to have no difficulty beating Crewe at Goodison Park. In practice it may not be as easy as it looks, for these sides always flight hard to take a rise out of the “big wigs” of the game, and victory is doubly sweet to them when it comes off. All the same, and in spite of last week’s shock, I cannot see anything but a good win for the home side. They aren’t likely to repeat the errors made against Tranmere in a hurry and with Tommy Jones back there will be added stiffening in defence. Team; Everton:- Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Jones (TG), Watson; Dellow, Mutch, Jones (Harry), Stevenson, T. Fowler.
Everton “A” (v. Marine); Birkett; Ireland, Curwen; Humphries, McDonnell, Fairfoull; forward from Wyles, Grant, Curran, Boland, Lee and Lyon.

EVERTON BEAT CREWE
November 21, 1942. The Evening Express
Four Goal Margin
By Pilot.
Crewe Alexandra were at Goodison Park today, opposing Everton this being the first visit for nearly two years, and they were seeking their first away win of the season. Everton had Tommy Jones for the first time for severe weeks. Everton:- Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Bentham, Jones (Tommy) and Watson, half-backs; Dellow, Mutch (Preston), Jones (Harry) (West Brom), Stevenson and Fowler, forwards. Crewe Alex; Poskett, goal; Glover and Bateman, backs; Tagg, Williams, and Still, half-backs; Grififths, Essex, Rawcliffe, Chandler, and Lewis, forwards. Referee; Mr. C.P. Womersley (Stockport). Greenhalgh captained Everton whose early thrusts were spattered by Bateman, and Crewe came away to secure two corners in succession only to find Tommy Jones taking command. Fowler forced a corner but this was back-heeled behind by Stevenson. Mutch gave Everton the lead in six minutes. Fowler had been forced to part with the ball quickly but Bentham pushed the ball back into attack and Stevenson deceived the opposition by allowing the ball to run past him to Jones (H.). Jones quickly side-passed for Mutch to run through and slip the ball past Poskett. Twice Tagg tried to force his way through to a shooting position, but first Jones (T.) and then Bentham held him up, and Jones (H.) just failed to accept a brilliant centre from Fowler.
Brilliant Save
A quick through pass saw Dellow race to the attack, and he ran in close before shooting for Poskett to make a brilliant save. Dellow’s second attempt was charged down by Williams, and when Mutch shot quickly Glover headed away from the goal line. Crewe showed improvement after we had been given a tast of Everton’s skill in footcraft, and after Burnett had saved from Lewis. Essex let go a magnificent shot which Burnett placed around the post. Williams and Poskett were prominent in a gallant Crewe defence, and at the other end Burnett beat upwards a fine shot from Chandler and quickly turned the ball over the bar as it was dropping into the net. Poskett dived at the feet of Jones (H.) to save what looked like a certain goal, but he was beaten again in 25 minutes by Stevenson. This goal followed a corner, and although Tommy Jones was twice baulked of his header by Williams he contrived to slip the ball aside for Stevenson to bang it into the roof of the net. Lewis and Chandler went through with perfect inter-passing, Burnett saving Chandler’s firm thrust. Then Poskett came out to deprive Mutch of a goal and there get back into position to pull down Fowler’s first timer. Everton pressed strongly towards the interval but the Crewe tackling and covering was exceptionally good. Poskett turned aside a magnificent Dellow shot in prefect style.
Half-time; Everton 2, Crewe Alex 0.
The game developed itself into a prolonged duel between the Everton attack and the Crewe defence, and the defenders stood up to their task well. Their speed to the ball and in covering cut out many openings but the Everton finishing was not as accurate as their approach. Three times Harry Jones got through but was deprived of the ball at the last second by Williams and Dellow twice failed to finish accurately after he had gone through well. Stevenson skimmed the bar with a terrific shot, when he should have given Poskett no chance and then Lewis, the former Everton player led a series of potent raids by Crewe. From one Lewis shot the ball almost passed under Burnett’s body, and when Lewis went through against Burnett dived to fist away a brilliant cross shot in thrilling style. Chandlers shot straight at Burnett before Glover kicked away as Jones (H.) was going in to take charge of Dellow’s centre.
Everton Three Up
Play was often scrambling, but was generally centred around the Crewe goal, and in 76 minutes Everton increased their lead through Harry Jones who stabbed the ball through after Poskett had beaten away Tommy Jones’s header. Then came the best shot of the day –a brilliant 30 yarder from Tagg, which was flicked over with one hand by Burnett. Everton made it four in 80 minutes when Fowler came in to take charge of a quick centre from the right edge past Glover and Williams and glided the ball into the net. Four minutes from time Everton were awarded a penalty for a foul on Jones (H.); but Mutch shot wide. Final; Everton 4, Crewe A.lex 0.

EVERTON V CREWE
November 21, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
Everton:- Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Bentham, Jones (Tommy) and Watson, half-backs; Dellow, Mutch (Preston), Jones (Harry) (West Brom), Stevenson and Fowler, forwards. Crewe Alex; Poskett, goal; Glover and Bateman, backs; Tagg, Williams, and Still, half-backs; Grififths, Essex, Rawcliffe, Chandler, and Lewis, forwards. Referee; Mr. C.P. Womersley (Stockport). There would be no more than 4,000 spectators present and they saw Everton in a dominating mood. Their football was of a high quality and at seven minutes Mutch gave them the lead, following good work by Stevenson and Jones. Burnett had nothing to do until at long last Essex gave him a shot to keep him warn. Everton were by far the craftier side, and none played better than Tom Jones, but the balance of the team throughout was good. Mutch had hard lines with a strong shot which was blocked and Dellow although he put amazing power behind his driver saw Poskett saved smartly. The return came out to Mutch, who also crashed in a drive which seemed bound for the back of the net until it struck Glover. Crewe then showed up better in attack and Still got through, and Burnett also had to make a save from Chandler. Everton were soon back almost under the visitors goal, and Poskett had a lucky escape when he failed to connect with the ball, but an Everton man could not get through to add the final touch which would had made a goal. Everton were always on top and at 27 minutes a corner kick against Crewe proved fruitful. T. Jones came up to bring a bit of height and twice made headers the second of which went out to Stevenson, who promptly shot into the net to give Everton a two goal lead. Chandler tried a long shot, which was off the mark, and a minute later Essex gave Burnett another long ball to field.
Half-time; Everton 2 Crewe Alex nil.
There was more shooting from the reorganised Crewe forwards in the first quarter of an hour of the second half than there had been in the first half. Crewe half backs and full backs put up an amazingly good show against Everton advances. At the 75th minute H. Jones scored after Poskett had previously saved. Fowler scored a fourth goal.
Full Time; Everton 4, Crewe A. Nil.

EASY FOR EVERTON
November 23, 1942. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 4, Crewe Alexandra 0
Artistry Instead of Goals
By Stork.
Everton had little or no difficulty in disposing of Crewe Alexandra at Goodison Park on Saturday, and had they taken full toll of their chances the score would have been considerably more than four goals to nil. They had the opportunity to mark up double figures, but once again they were in flippant mood, preferring to show their artistry rather than get on with the scoring of goals. It was pretty football all right, but the 4,654 people present would rather have seen goals than all the intricate football in which Everton indulged. They realise that Everton were masters in the art of combination, but they wanted to see such artistry clinched with goals. A week ago Everton paid the penalty of their over-indulgence, but Crewe Alexandra never promised to steal a page out of Tranmere’s book, for there was not the ability among their forwards to damage the Everton defence, I did not see the Tranmere triumph but I am told it was made possible through Everton slacking off after they had obtained a substantial lead, and at one time I began to wonder whether Crewe would follow suit, for there was a period in the second half when they gathered their forces and gave Burnett some tricky shots to deal with. No one felt confident until Everton had increased their half-time tally of two goals to three, for Everton undeniably treated Crewe rather lightly the Everton defence, I did not see the Tranmere triumph but I am told it was made possible through Everton slacking off after they had obtained a substantial lead, and at one time I began to wonder whether Crewe would follow suit, for there was a period in the second half when they gathered their forces and gave Burnett some tricky shots to deal with. No one felt confident until Everton had increased their half-time tally of two goals to three, for Everton undeniably treated Crewe rather lightly.
Strong Everton Defence.
That four goals were scored without reply was ample evidence of Everton’s superiority. Crewe s. In the main, however, the Crewe forwards were held by Jones. Jackson and Greenhalgh, Jones was particularly dominating in his usual cool and calm manner. He stood defiant over the goal area and refused to allow any Crewe inside forward to get close enough to trouble Burnett, who was not called upon to make a save for a considerable time. Everton opened the scoring in six minutes when Mutch clinched good work by H. Jones and Stevenson with an unstoppable shot, but it was not until the 27th that they scored again despite their dominating play. Dellow, Stevenson, and Mutch had worthy tries turned aside by goalkeeper or co-defender. Then Stevenson scored No 2, the full extent of scoring in the first half. In the second half H. Jones scored a third and Fowler a fourth. Then Mutch missed from a penalty. Everton:- Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Bentham, Jones (Tommy) and Watson, half-backs; Dellow, Mutch (Preston), Jones (Harry) (West Brom), Stevenson and Fowler, forwards. Crewe Alex; Poskett, goal; Glover and Bateman, backs; Tagg, Williams, and Still, half-backs; Grififths, Essex, Rawcliffe, Chandler, and Lewis, forwards. Referee; Mr. C.P. Womersley (Stockport)
• Liverpool lost 3-2 to Southport, Done, Shafto scored and for Southport, Deverall, Butler, Rothwell.

EASY FOR BLUES
November 23, 1942. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton soon got back to the victory trail again, winning against Crewe Alexandra at Goodison Park in easier manner than the 4-0 in their favour indicates. Had Everton finished as well as they progressed they would have reached double figures. In the second half, in particularly, they passed and repassed in front of goal whereas shooting would have brought results. Outstanding was the brilliance of the goalkeeping. Poskett was amazingly successful in the Crewe goal, and Burnett, with less to do, brought off some sensational saves especially from Tommy Lewis. The Blues were two ahead at the interval through Mutch and Stevensons, and then Harry Jones compensated for several strange goal-mouth lapses by scoring before Tommy Fowler came through with a fourth. Once again Everton tell to the temptation late on to turn on the ultra-science, but this time it was not fatal for the simple reason that Tommy Jones was back to shine out through this game like a beacon light. Tom was peerless in a comfortable Everton win against a Crewe well served by Essex, Lewis, Williams, Bateman and Poskett, but who were lacking cohesive ability. Apart from Tom Jones and the defence Everton were not over-convincing, but I still think Fowler will make the grade if only he can develop that right foot. That is an essential. Quite a number of Crewe officials came along to be received by Chairman Mr. Will Gibbons, Dr. Cecil Baxter, and Messrs George Evans, Dickie Williams, Dick Searle, and Bob Turnbull, and they must have been satisfied with the 4,654 attendance. Two American friends, Major Abbott, and Mr. Burd, came along with Mr. Searle and Alderman, Alex Critchley, M.P and mentioned to me that they were greatly impressed by our winter game.

NEVER EXTENDED
November 23, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes.
Everton were never really extended against Crewe Alexandra, and had they been desperately anxious to score goals, they should have scored a dozen or more instead of the four which were good enough to account for the Alexandra. With the chances they had Crewe should have been wiped out of the game for there was no disputing Everton’s superiority in every phase. Crewe were such an ordinary side that Everton simply made this an exhibition game, often missing the substance for the shadow by their intimate by-play. But at the back of our minds was the memory of the previous week’s starting turn-about. Were Crewe capable of snatching the game out of the fire as the Rovers had done. It hardly seemed likely, but apparently Everton had not learned their lesson. They were still fanciful in their methods, including to all manner of tricks and slid though, when the spectators were calling for goals. The goals came at 7, 27, 75 and 79 minutes per Mutch, Stevenson, H. Jones, and Fowler, but many were Missed because the Everton forwards were more concerned with finery positional shooting. They even missed a penalty by Mutch, who scored a famous goal and he sent the penalty goal; sweeping the ball yards wide of the goal. I am not one of those who openly enjoy my football without a bagful of goals but I must admit that Everton sometimes disappointed the they had taken the half into a shooting position by chessboard football and did not clinch the issue with a goal.

VALUE OF FOWLER
November 24, 1942. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton will not be without team problems for Saturday’s visit to Crewe Alexandra either. They will have three players in that big game at Cardiff. Tommy Jones will be assisting the R.A.F and Joe Mercer and Billy Cook are in the Western Command team with clubmate Norman Sharp, who however, is nursing an injury. One thing, Everton have some fine youngsters to fill gaps when the stars are away, and in Curran, from Bristol and Tommy Fowler, from Prescot, Secretary Mr. Theo Kelly has two “winners.” Fowler, who will not be 18 until next January and used to play with Prescot Rovers the all-conquering Prescot League club, impresses me more every time I see him . He is the type of player who learns quickly and the experience he is getting in the first team is working wonders with him. Fowler is an opportunist as witness his consistency in the goal-getting line, and if only he can develop his right foot work he will prove a real winner in post-war football.

EVERTON CHANGES
November 25, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
For the return game against Crewe, at Crewe, Everton will be without Cook and Mercer again, as they will be playing for the Western Command, against the Football League at Cardiff. Jackson recalled from Liverpool, thus figures once more as partner to Greenhalgh, and the amateur J.V. Humphreys, who has previously shown excellent form in the first side, appears at right half. T. G. Jones being unavailable, Harry Jones returns to the centre half position. Curran the Bristol City and one-time Southport player, takes over as leader of the attack. After the easy manner of their win over Crewe at Goodison, Everton should complete the double at Gresty Road, always providing they will concentrate first on the job of getting the goals which will make victory secure before indulging their penchant for fanciful frillings. Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; J.V. Humphreys, Jones (H.), Watson; Dellow, Mutch, Curran, Stevenson, T. Fowler.
Everton “A” (v. Napier, at Goodison, 3 p.m)-Birkett; Ireland, Curwen; Cassidy, McDonnell, Fairfoull; Wyles, Grant, Boland, Lee, Lyon.

EDWARD WOODS
Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 25 November 1942
Mr. Edward Wood, the former Football league referee, who had charge of the F.A. Cup final between Everton and Manchester City at Wembley in 1933, has been appointed a justice of the peace for Sheffield.  He is an official of the National Cutlery Union. 

EVERTON CHANGES
November 25, 1942. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton will make three changes for their return game with Crewe Alexandra at Gresty-road on Saturday mainly due to Services calls. Cook and Mercer will still be out because they will play at Cardiff, and Tommy Jones, the Welsh international, cannot play because he is required for a R.A.F until game –a fact which also forces Tommy to miss Cardiff, but which gives Mat O’Mahoney, the Liverpool lad, playing with Aberaman is chance to hit the high spots. Stan Bentham has an important private engagement on Saturday –he is getting married –and so J.V. Humphreys the English Universities player, will be at right-half and Harry Jones, one of the Blues most enthusiastic “guests” reverts once again to centre-half. This re-admits Curran the Bristol lad to centre-forward. Everton Reserves will be at Goodison Park in a County Combination game with Napiers. Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; J.V. Humphreys, Jones (H.), Watson; Dellow, Mutch, Curran, Stevenson, T. Fowler. Everton “A” Birkett; Ireland, Curwen; Cassidy, McDonnell, Fairfoull; Wyles, Grant, Boland, Lee, Lyon.

THERE LIES THE RUB
November 27, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Paper prognostications on Fridays don’t always square with Saturday’s accomplished facts, and in giving Everton to win at Crewe I may come a cropper. Crewe have done some good things on their own ground, while Everton will be minus Cook, Mercer, T. Jones and Bentham, yet, providing they will put their best foot forward instead of backward –and there lies the rub –i can’t see any insuperable obstacle to the completion of another “double.” As Humphreys cannot play, Everton introduce another debutant in T. Fairfoull at right half. He has been one of the mainstays of the “A” side this season. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; T. Fairfoull, Jones (H.), Watson; Dellow, Mutch, Curran, Stevenson, T. Fowler.

THIRD DOUBLE
November 27, 1942. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton go to Gresty-road to tackle Crewe Alexandra in search of their third “double” of the season. I can warm them that at Gresty-road they will find Crewe a much different proposition to the “away” Crewe. At home the Alexandra have conquered the Wolves and Manchester City and drawn with Huddersfield Town. Everton will appreciate from this fact that theirs is no sinecure tomorrow. The Blues will not have Tommy Jones, but Harry Jones drops back to fill the gap, and he is a fine pivot, while Frank Curran, of Bristol has already proved himself an opportunists centre-forward. Stan Bentham will be absent –he is getting married –and Fairfoull makes his initial appearance in the first team. I expect Everton to win and so get right back among the leading clubs, but they must not scorn chances as they did last Saturday. Here is a game which should bring to Crewe their best gate of the season and provide excellent entertainment. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; T. Fairfoull, Jones (H.), Watson; Dellow, Mutch, Curran, Stevenson, T. Fowler.

EVERTON F.C. PLAYER WEDS

Liverpool Evening Express - Saturday 28 November 1942

Mr. Stan Bentham, the Everton footballer who was a member of the 1938-39 Football League champion ship team, and who is also prominent cricketer in the Newton-le- Willows district, was married today to Miss Olwen B. Clark, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. F. L. Clark, St. Hilarv, Park-road South, Newton-le-WiiJows. The ceremony took place at Earles town Baptist Church. The bridegroom is the son Mr. and Mrs. J. Bentham. Golborne Daleroad. Newton-le-Willows. Miss Evelyn Bentham was bridesmaid, and Mr. Norman Greenhalgh, the Everton full back was best man.

CREWE V EVERTON
November 28, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Crewe:- Poskett, goal; Bateman and Tagg, backs; Chandler, Williams and Still, half-backs; Gray, Essex, Waring (New Brighton), Malam (New Brighton), and Lewis, forwards. Everton:- Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Fairfoull (T), Jones (H.) (West Brom), and Jones (T.G.), half-backs; Watson, Dellow, Mutch, Curran, and Stevenson, forwards. Referee; Mr. Hall (Chester). Everton were out for a double against Crewe. Crewe had one or two changes, Everton were first off the mark and Dellow offered Mutch a nice chance, but Bateman intervened. Crewe indulged in a round of passing which delighted the crowd. They continually got the Everton defence in a tangle. Curren tried to get his right flank going and Dellow was off from Mutch’s pass, but the bumpy ground defeated him. Mutch worked over to the left to try Fowler, who shot into Poskett’s hands. At the other end Essex shot and a goal seemed possible until Jackson turned the ball outside. Poskett beat Fowler on another occasion. Crewe were a sprightly lot. Dellow shot against the outcoming goalkeeper, Curran had a header saved. Lewis and Malam linked up in a passing movement which ended in the former shooting strongly just outside the post. Essex had a glorious chance when he missed through trying to place the ball wide of Burnett. Mutch tried a snap shot and Waring, with his back to the goal, tried an overhead kick which was full of merit, although it did not reach its object. Fairfoull, the son of the old Liverpool player, was very sound in his passing, putting the ball along the ground like Busby. Curran shot inches wide. Essex gave Lewis an opening which he used to hit the upright. Stevenson and Foster indulged in a round of passing which, however, had no finish. With one minute to go, Crewe scored from a penalty, Bateman scoring. The spot kick was awarded for a foul on Waring.
Half-time; Crewe 1, Everton nil.
It had been a good half, with plenty of give-and-take, and Crewe had done more shooting than a week ago. Mutch should have equalised early in the second half, when he attempted a drop kick which curled over the bar. Crewe scored a gift goal when Malam was left standing in front of the Everton goal. He left Burnett with no chance. Time 53 minutes. Everton reduced Crewe’s lead when Curran rounded off splendid work by Stevenson and Fowler. Time 60 minutes. Within a minute Crewe scored again, Grey scoring with an angular shot. The aftermath of this shot was argument about a foul against Jones, and Greenhalgh was ordered off the field,. Another penalty, this time to Everton, and Jackson scored. Grey scored for Crewe in the 83rd minute.
Final; Crewe Alexandra 4, Everton 2.
Everton “A” v Napiers.
After eight minutes Grant completely beat Gale. Napiers met a stout defence in Ireland and Curwen. Boland scored again for Everton, and Newcombe reduced the lead.
Half-time; Everton “A” 2, Napiers 1.

EVERTON LOSE AT CREWE
November 30, 1942. The Liverpool Daily Post
Crewe Alexandra 4, Everton 2
Norman Greenhalgh ordered Off Field.
A Hard Game
By Stork.
I am not surprised that Crewe Alexandra have beaten some of the best teams in their section on their own ground, for they are a vastly different team at home than when performing on “foreign” soil. Everton, who had beaten Crewe at Goodison Park, soon found that they had a much more difficult task on hand in the return game, and I think it can safely be said that this was the hardest match they have had this season. Everton were beaten 4-2 by the Crewe side, which was augmented by Waring and Malam, the two New Brighton forwards, yet Everton had their chances and their share of misfortune, for Greenhalgh, captain for the day, was ordered off the field after the interval, Grey scored a third goal, but an Everton man had been fouled and Everton protested against the validity of the goal. Greenhalgh went up with the protestation, but it was walved. He persisted, and was ordered off. Several Crewe players requested the referee not to send off Greenhalgh, but he was adamant and Greenhalgh had to leave the field. It was a hard game from start to finish. One minute from the interval Crewe scored from a penalty by Bateman. At the hour Malam scored a second. Curran replied for Everton a minute later, but Grey again scored for Crewe. Dellow was elbowed off the ball, and Jackson scored from the ensuing penalty.
Missed Chances
Later Stevenson shot over when well placed, and Curran, with an easy opening, headed over. Crewe were still a strong force, and Lewis the former Everton winger, who had previously hot the post, made a weak sort of centre which Jones failed to intercept, the ball going on to Grey, who promptly shot it into the net. It had been an entertaining game. Full of incident. Mutch was in fine form despite the bumpy ground, which often upset Everton’s plans. Fairfoull, the son of T. Fairfoull, who played in Liverpool’s only final appearance, made an impressive debut. His passes were excellent, delivered on the ground, and I feel that Everton have found a more than useful half-back in this lad. Everton’s lack of inches in the forward line was soon made apparent, for the Crewe defenders took most balls in the air. Waring is still a force in present-day football by reason of his wise passes to the wing, and Malam also brought greater skill in the Crewe attack. Poskett made some smart saves, as did his vis-a-vis. Burnett, in the opposite goal, but Crewe’s chief asset was their enthusiastic play. Crewe:- Poskett, goal; Bateman and Tagg, backs; Chandler, Williams and Still, half-backs; Gray, Essex, Waring (New Brighton), Malam (New Brighton), and Lewis, forwards. Everton:- Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh (captain), backs; Fairfoull (T), Jones (H.) (West Brom), and Jones (T.G.), half-backs; Watson, Dellow, Mutch, Curran, and Stevenson, forwards. Referee; Mr. Hall (Chester).
• Liverpool beat Southport 6-2, Dorsett, Fagan (2) (1 penalty), Mills (3), Rawlings, Rothwell

FIFTH DEFEAT
November 30, 1942. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton suffered their fifth defeat of the season at Gresty-road, where they tackled Crewe Alexandra and went down 4-2. The main reason why they lost was the dazzling display by Albert Malam, the Doncaster forward, who has been playing with Manchester City, Malam had a hand in all four goals for Crewe, scoring one. Little went right for Everton, for they had Norman Greenhalgh banned by the referee; they missed chances, and just when they looked like staging a rally they found Crewe able to pull out that little bit extra which made all the difference. Bateman (penalty) Gray (2) and Malam got the Crewe goals, while Jackson got Everton’s first from a penalty and Curran scored their second. Yes, a “blue” day for the Blues.

CREWE’S TURN
November 30, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
Crewe Alexandra, whipped hip and thing a week ago, turned the tables on Everton in the return game at Crewe. This ground has seen some of the best teams in the Division fail victim to Crewe’s enthusiastic football. No matter how they fare away from home, the patrons to the home ground can depend upon seeing a hard struggle for any team visiting this enclosure. It was rousing football from start to finish –no dull minute –in fact incident followed incident rapidly and kept the people warm despite the cool blasts. There was one black spot in the game when Greenhalgn, who was acting captain of Everton, was ordered off the field shortly after the resumption for questioning the referee’s decision. I understand that Mr. Hall (Chester) was asked by several of the Crewe players to allow Greenhalgn to remain, but no, Greenhalgh had to go. Greenhalgn questioned the validity of a goal. Crewe had the services of Pongo Waring and Malam, of the New Brighton club, and they undoubtedly brought greater skill into the attack, but it was enthusiasm harnessed to some skill that enabled Crewe to prevent Everton bringing off the double. It was an entertaining match. Hard knocks were given and taken in the right spirit, and it was crammed full of football meat. Fairfoull making his debut, greatly impressed. His passing was Busby like accurate and along the floor, but Everton best wads Mutch. He had a grand game, but he was still that lack of punch to round off matters that has been all too prevalent in most of Everton’s games this season. Pongo Waring is still an artist. He knows the best spots to put the ball and puts it their, while Malam also brought more unison in the line in which Essex showed up well, and Grey and Lewis sprightly members on the wing. The defenders were strong and big, and their height often offset the efforts of the small Everton forward line. The attendance was 6,000, a rare gate for Crewe.