THE EVERTON FALL
Liverpool Echo-Monday 01 November 1915
Bee's Notes
While knowing the value of Stoke's ground and the newly-found strength Stoke have obtained.  I was grankly expecting Everton's bit of class to carry them through.  As was first announced in our column on Saturday, however, Macconnachie was a non-starter and Fleetwood a doubtful starter; points which were not known when the prophecy of victory was made.  Though Stoke's victory, Burnley's big win, and Bolton's amazing surprise -the biggest of the season so far - in beating Manchester City at Hyde-road, Burnley become leaders for the time-being.  Thus next Saturday's game at Everton ground becomes a tarter, just as City's visit was last Saturday week.  "F.E.H" commenting on the Stoke game says;-  
The Evertonians were not long in falling from their high estate.  Having won the leadership a brief week ago through consistency clever play, they completely fell to pieces at the Victoria Grounds, Stoke, on Saturday.  A casual glance at the score would convey the impression that the game was a closely-contested one and the margin f superiority negligibly narrow.  As a matter of fact it was nothing of the sort.  The visitors after putting up a fair fight in the first period, tailed off lamenentably in the second, and at the finish they were a thoroughly beaten team.  No one would pretend to my that the Potters - except at certain periods -gave an exhibition of anything approaching class football.  They rarely rose above the level of the "kick" and rush" methods, but vigorous were these strenuous tactics pursued that the Everton defenders were occasionally swept off their feet.  When Jefferis and company were in the mood- which was not too often - they delighted the large crowd with some beautiful short passing, but these purple patches were merely ornamental and not at all useful.  Full credit must be given to the Stoke eleven, who throughout played a worrying and thrustful game, maintaining the pace with unabated zeal for the whole ninety minutes.   The contest, which was witnessed by at least 12,000 people, began in most sensational fashion two goals being registered in the first three minutes.  After this there were many thrilling incidents, and the game was never devoid of interest.  Stoke opened the scoring through the medium of Smith their centre forward, who, accepting a pass from Parker, beat Fern with a strong rising shot.  The visitors made immediate response.  They went along in combined array, and Clennell nipping in, scored at close range with a swift ground shot.  Nothing tangible occured from this point to the interval, though Whittingham once missed an open goal.  In the second half the home forwards were more aggressive than ever, and, thanks to shakiness on the part of their opponents, Hargreaves was enabled to add a second and Whittingham a third telling shot.  The Evertonians made a capital recovery in the closing stages, and with a little luck they might have equalised.  As it was they left matters too long.  Clennell five minutes from the finish got through on his own account and reduced the margin, but before another could be notched time intervented, and Stoke carried off a well-deserved brace of points.  The Everton forwards never really got into their proper stride, and their work was, to say the least of it spasmodic.  Clennell was clearly the outstanding figure of the quintet - a Triton amongst minnows, in fact.  Harrison was alert and active in the concluding stages, but the others were rarely in the picture.   The half-backs were thoroughly disappointing and, in our judgement, the mainspring of the team's weakness.  Brown did not do badly to begin with but he tired visibly towards the end.  Stewart, after playing promisingly in the first period tumbled all to pieces in the second, and could scarcely raise a gallop.  Thompson under the circumstances, came valiantly to the rescue and once or twice made quite wonderful recoveries.  Fern stopped a regular fusillade of shots and cannot be blamed for those that beat him.  The Potters have got together an extremely useful side, and their forward line, if erractic is an exceptionally dangerous one.  Bee.

STOKE CITY 3 EVERTON 2
November 1, 1915. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON OUTPLAYED.
STOKE FORGE AHEAD.
Lancashire section principal tournament (Game 9)
Everton team gave an inglorious show of themselves at the Victoria ground, on Saturday, for in no department, did they compare favourably, has much as the improved Pottery team. This new to record in the annals of Goodison Park club, and probably the surprise was that the margin of defeat sustained was not more pronouneds, but apart from this there is little to offer in extenuation of the failures of others. To begin with the forwards were short of that extra dash so essential to success; in addition, they persisted in pursuing their plan of campaign in one particular groove, when it was quite obvious that in order to achieve success the only profitable methods were those adopted by their opponents. They failed to gain a hold on the game by their short pattern-weaving tactics, and as play wore on the linking up process with the half-backs because a negligible quantity, with disastrous results. Again there was not that understanding existent between the trio and the last line of defence, for all too frequently were the wing halves and those behind them concentrating their attentions upon the inside opposing forwards, what time the Stoke outside men were left unmarked and with a clear field. This defect was the more noticeable on the left, where Grenyer and Stewart, the latter of whom filled Macconnachie’s position were especially in the second portion, floundering about leaving Hargreaves free to embarrass Fern. Altogether, it was certainly not Everton’s day; there was little methods in their advances and a shortage of resource in defence that reduced the quality of play to a moderate standard.
PLAY AND PLAYERS.
The display given by the Potters stood one in marked contrast. The forwards were far more incisive in their movements; they swung the ball about; invariably getting possession again and continued these methods right to the danger zone, where was applied a first time sharp shot, that engendered a rousing spirit in the rest of the team. The game opened in sensational fashion, and finished likewise. A couple of goals were registered in the first three minutes by Smith and Clennell for their respective sides, and their respective sides, and in the last 25 minutes three other were recorded by Hargreaves, Whittingham, and Clennell. Stoke thus prevailing by the odd goal in five. But, as may be gathered, the result was not a correct indication of the superiority of the Stoke team. Only Clennell, of the Everton forwards, maintained his reputation. There was nothing of a trustful nature from any of the others, and by their half-hearted movements the Stoke half-backs were made to appear a more powerful trio than they really were. Of the halves neither Grenyer nor Brown, the latter of whom deputised for Fleetwood, were sufficiently alert to stem the rushes of the Stoke wingers, and in the last line of defence the task was too severe for Stewart, while Thompson’s interceptions were at times faulty, though he frequently made good by smart recovery. Fern could not be held responsible for the points scored against him, and had a far more exacting experience than his vis-à-vis, who attended to the little that came his way in successful fashion. Smart and Turner were a robust pair of defenders, and of the halves –a well-balanced line –Jones played with much dash and judgement. Smith led his forwards well, and played on Everton’s weakness to a nicety, with the result that the wingers were able to cut out the pace to their liking, and by smart returns, contrasted markedly to the somewhat lackadaisical efforts of the Blues. Though much of the play was one-sided, there were many thrills, and as these were practically all forthcoming from the Stoke side, the crowd of twelve thousand spectators were well pleased with the fare provided. Teams: - Stoke City: - Herron, goal, Smart, and Turner, backs, Jones, Parker and Shelton, half-backs, Hargreaves, Whittingham, Smith, Herbert, and Tempest, forwards. Everton: - Fern (Captain), goal, Thompson, and Stewart, backs Brown, Wareing, and Grenyer half-backs Chedgzoy, Kirsopp, Jefferis, Clennell, and Harrison, forwards.

EVERTON'S HELP FOR FOOTBALLERS.
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 03 November 1915
The Everton directors have voted sum of £20 to the Winter Comforts' Fund of the Footballers Battalion. Note: Kick-off on Saturday 3 o'clock. Burnley's team is not yet chosen, but will meet likely be the same as last week. They naturally don't desire to change a side that wins 4-0.

SCENES ON IRISH FOOTBALL FIELDS.
Liverpool Echo-Monday 08 November 1915
The Irish footballers were in turbulent mood on Saturday. ' In two of the matches players were ordered from the field.  John Houston (now a sergeant in the Army) was helping Linfield, and charged Emerson in such a, manner that the referee ordered him off the field. Houston is the winger who played for Everton last season. Anneslev and Heggarty were ordered off the Belfast United and Cliftonville match. Louis Weller, ex-Everton and now a gunner, helped Reading F.C. to beat Southampton on Saturday. He played at full-back. 

EVERTON 1 BURNLEY 2
November 8, 1915. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON’S FURTHER DISAPPOINTMENT.
LIVELY DISPLAY BY BURNLEY.
PARKER PENALTY SENT WIDE.
Lancashire section principal tournament (Game 10)
The Burnley team on Saturday gave one of the smartest and “nippiest” displays of football seen in Liverpool this season, and so long as they maintain the dashing form which produced two points for them at Goodison Park they will take some moving from the head of the League table. With the exception that Hampson was introduced in place of Walmsley on the Burnley side at right half, both teams were at full strength, and the remarkable gathering of spectators –the attendance was estimated at 18,000 –was treated to a most invigorating exhibition.
FAST FOOTBALL.
The game was played under ideal circumstances, the ground being in perfect conditions, whilst there was nothing really in the matter of wind to mar the proceedings. Matters were contested at a fast and furious pace from the start, and Burnley were soon in evidence with some brilliantly rapid footwork, their forward rank being a model of swift combination. There seemed to be divination in every pass that was sent along, and the home halves and defence were kept at full stretch all the time. The Everton forwards had their ample share of the attack, for rapid end to end play was the general order, but there was more method and incisiveness, about the movements of the visitors, especially as they approached goal, when they were always dangerous. At the end of half an hour the visitors secured the only goal of the first half. Hodgson was the scorer, and he made no mistake in seizing and converting an accurate pass from Mosscrop. Fern had no chance whatever of saving, and he always kept a good goal. Both goalkeepers for that manner were right on top of their form. Dawson on several occasions effecting remarkable saves. Everton experienced particularly hard lines when Kirsopp banged the ball against the upright after the Burnley custodian had disposed of a terrific shot from Parker, and try as they would the home forwards could not materialise the finish to produce the equalising score, with the result that Burnley crossed over a goal to the good.
A HARD SECOND HALF.
The second half, was fought with unrelaxing vigour, and after a series of brilliant exchanges in which Chedgzoy was prominent, Parker at last had the satisfaction of placing his side on an equality with a fine effort which had Dawson entirely beaten. Later the home centre had an exasperating experience, Bainford dashed across the goal when Dawson was completely beaten, and punched the ball away, with the result that the inevitable penalty was awarded. Parker took the penalty kick, but drove just outside. The play never relaxed its hold on the spectators to the finish, although interest flagged somewhat as the outcome of the disappointing engendered when Lindley came along with another goal for Burnley. Try, however, desperately they would the home forwards could not pierce the Burnley defence again. Dawson once bringing off a right handed save of a masterly character. Chedgzoy worked hard on leading up to goal, but the best efforts of the Blues were unavailing, and Everton had once again to submit to defeat by the odd goal, the final score being two to one in favour of the visitors.
THE PLAYERS.
Every man of the twenty-two players gave a whole-hearted and determined account of himself, and one could not have wished for a brighter game. If it be said that Burnley were slightly the superior team it must at the same time be observed that Everton might well have divided the points without any unequal division ensuing. The visitors are certainly possessed of a fine, swift and brainy forward rank, there being method in their every movement. Some of their approaches to goal were of the most picturesque order, whilst they were always ready to shoot when within anything like range. Dawson was a tower of strength in goal, and two resolute backs and a vigilant set of halves supported him.
The home players, despite their defeat, all did well. The forwards were active and speedy. Parker Harrison, and Chedgzoy perhaps being the pick whilst Fleetwood was the best of a good intermediate line. The backs did extremely well in coping with the hurricane raids of their opponents, and Fern kept an excellent goal. In every sense the contest was worthy of the high position of the respective teams, and the spectators could not have been anything but fully satisfied with the interesting fare served up for them. Teams: - Everton: - Fern, goal, Thompson, and Macconnachie, backs, Fleetwood (Captain), Wareing, and Grenyer, half-backs, Chedgzoy, Kirsopp, Parker, Clennell, and Harrison, forwards. Burnley: - Dawson goal, Bamford, and Taylor, backs, Hampton, Boyle, and Watson, half-backs, Freeman, Lindley, Nesbitt, Hodgson, and Mosscrop, forwards.

EVERTON SELECTION
Liverpool Echo -Tuesday 09 November 1915
Everton s officials had no sooner witnessed the defeat of their club at the hands of Burnley than showed their belief the same side by select them for the game with Preston North End on Saturday next at Deepdale. Of the 18,800 spectators present at Everton on Saturday probably not more than a mighty small percentage would disagree with the idea that Everton were grossly unlucky to lose and trifle unlucky not to win the game outright. The attendance was tribute the powerful hold of the game and the treat Burnley always give us. A sum of £23 was collected for footballs for our Tommies, and the club desires to thank tho public and the wounded soldIers who made the collections for their valued assistance. Taking of Everton brings to old Nomad and Everton half-back, Sam Ashworth, who has just obtained commission in the Army—R.G.A. is his choice. Arthur Owen, another Nomad member, and formerly Players' Union secretary, has been wounded, l am sorry to hear. W. Tempest, Stoke, has "been signed" by the Army, and Bob Firth, the Nottingham Forest player, who has obtained five days' leave, is taking advantage of the holiday to turn out for the Forest against Sheffield United. Lance corporal Condrey, the footballer, has been awarded the D.C.M. Although wounded he refused medical assistance, and went to bring back wounded comrades. There are lot of actions like these attributable to footballers, but they are not shouted aloud.

R.PARKER
Edinburgh Evening News -Tuesday 09 November 1915
R. Parker, the ex-Ranger, has returned to Everton, and playing for them against Burnley, he scored a goal and missed scoring another from a penalty kick.William Cox, an old English League footballer and brother of J. Cox, the international, had died of wounds in a Birmingham hospital. 

EVERTON'S IMPORTANT CHANGE
November 12, 1915. The Evening Express
By the Judge
Parker Unable to Play
An important change has at the last moment been necessitated in the Everton team against Preston tomorrow. The munitions factory at which Parker is engaged is exceptionally busy, and the Everton centre finds it impossible to get away. His place will accordingly be taken by Jefferis. Preston make usual batch of changes, and the team will be altogether reconstructed. One of Preston's own players in barbour, who belongs to a Scottish regiment, will take advantage of his leave to appear at inside right, Clay will more from centre forward to right half, W. Dempsey going from inside right to centre, and Clifton resumes at outside right. The teams will accordingly be;- Preston; Wilson; Mcllwraith, Speak; Clay, Percy Smith, Broom; Clifton, Barbour, Dempsey, Gillow, Ives. Everton; Fern; Thompson, Macconnachie; Fleetwood, Wareing, Grenyer; Chedgzoy, Kirsopp, Jefferis, Clennell, Harrison.

SOUTH LIVERPOOL'S PILOT
November 13, 1915. Evening Express, Liverpool
Mr. W.J. Sawyer, who was one of the founders of the South Liverpool Club and the chief mover in the formation of the Limited Company, when he was appointed, managing director, with a view to putting the club on a satisfactory financial basis, took over the position of hon sec. This he would have been able to do had not the war stepped in and nullified the efforts made. The difficulties of the position, however, have served to bring out the dogged nature of the individual and the never-say-die temperament. One can almost hear his words to the directors when everything seemed to be lost and those present about to give up the ghost. Dropping into familiar phraseology he said, “Boys, were brought the club into being, we've been in tight corners, we've fought shoulder to shoulder, “let's die fighting” and the work went on. He has thrown all his energies into the work with one object, viz, to give the South End of Liverpool a club worthy of it. He has the unbounded confidence of all who are of account, and by his personal influence he obtained the chief shareholders of the club, and he states he will not be satisfied until they have had their money's worth. He was one of the founders of the mid-week hospital football competition, and president of the Thursday League. He is connected with many charitable organizations, notably the cyclists and harriers fancy dress parade, and he is a past provincial grand master of the Liverpool distinct of the M.U. Order of odd-fellows, still finding time to assist in the management of the Juvenile Society of that body. Owing to the tremendous amount of work devolving upon him, through the present condition of affairs of South Liverpool, he has for some little time had to devote all his time, financial experience organizing genius, and oratorical ability to the club and every one hopes that this widely known and popular secretary may soon be amply repaid by great success attending his gigantic efforts.

PRESTON NORTH END 0 EVERTON 2
November 15, 1915. The Liverpool Courier.
OLD OPPONENTS AT DEEPDALE.
POOR SPORT.
Lancashire section principal tournament (Game 11)
The game between Everton and Preston North End at Deepdale was not a very exhilarating affair; indeed the standard of play was far below the average, and this must have come as a big surprise seeing that Everton had practically their full strength in the field. There was a disposition all round to hold the scratch forces that were arrayed against them in light manner, and the penalty might easily have been paid in one period of the second half when the rough and tumble methods of the Northenders all but caught the Blues defenders napping. With but few isolated instances the movements of the players rarely called for enthusiasm among the spectators and while there could be no mistaking the superiority of the Everton players there was little forthcoming in the nature of driving home whatever advantage came their way. But one goal obtained by Clennell in the opening stages of play divided the teams at the interval, while with a little extra exertion on the part of the visitors there should have been laid a solid foundation to success. For some time North End had but ten men in the second period, Ives having retired injured, and during his absence Clennell scored again with a ball that bounded off the upright into the net.
NOT LIKE EVERTON.
It is remarkable how Everton fail to take advantage of chances to pile on goals when the opportunity arises. Saturday’s display was undoubtedly the worst served up this season. There were few reputation maintained, and this is rendered the more surprising by reason of the calibre of the material to which they were opposed. The half-backs and forwards were practiontly units on their own, there was little methods shown in their advances, and the whole proceedings showed how futile individualism with a disposition to belittle opponents becomes in contrast to a cohesive plan of campaign. In the forward line Jefferis put the ball out nicely though to no purpose, and the only bright feature of play in the department were occasional flashes by Chedgzoy and hard graft by Clennell, who claimed both goals. The display of the halves was not what one has been accustomed to witness from this quarter, and there were times when Thompson and Macconnachie had to better themselves in order to effect a recovery. Fern gave nothing away, and was the club bright particular star on the side. Wilson the home keeper, also kept a good goal, and was well supported by Mcilwarth at right full back. The halves made amends for lack of experience by sheer hard work, while Clifton, after opening moderately, developed into the most dangerous forward on the field. Altogether it was a poor game, and the final whistle came as a relief. Teams: - Preston North End: - Wilson, goals, Mcilwraith, and Spear, backs, P.Smith, Bry, and Boocock, hat-backs, Clifton, Barbour, Dempsey, Killour, and Ives, forwards. Everton: - Fern, goal, Thompson, and Macconnachie, backs Fleetwood (Captain), Wareing, and Grenyer, half-backs, Chedgzoy, Kirsopp, Jefferis, Clennell, and Harrison, forwards.

CLENNELL'S TWO GOALS
Liverpool Echo - Monday 15 November 1915
Bee's Notes Joe Clennell's thrustfulness has led him to his twelfth goal this season.  "M.F"  is a term used by telegraphists, and being intercepted, means "More to follow."  Well, Clennell has on his shooting boots the imprint "M.F"  Everton's win is described by "F.E.H" as follows;-
One can never visit Preston without recalling those spacious days when the giants of football trod the turf at Deepdale.  Times have indeed changed.  Tradition only is left to the North End Club, for although the season is so far advanced the present representatives are still without a victory to their credit.  And judged by Saturday's the coveted points yet awhile.  A team comparative juniors cannot, of course be expected to succeed against skill allied to experience, and such sympathy will be extended to the directors for their valiant efforts to keep the flag flying over the historic playing pitch.  One effect of the series of failures has been to seriously reduce the attendance, and so produce an apathetic attitude towards the game in the "poor and proud" borough.  It was generally conceded that Everton would not be faced by a particularly severe task on Saturday, and truely such proved to be the case.  After opening brightly and gaining a lead in the opening stages of the contest, the Evertonians simply eased up, and for the reminder of the first period it is no exaggeration to say that they merely toyed with the ball.  The inevitable result was a tame and colourless exhibition, which would certainly have been "barracked" had there been a sufficiency of spectators to  "give voice."  There were, it is true, exciting interludes now and again, and some fancy footwork on the part of the vsiiting forwards that was pretty to watch, but to be perfectly candid, the general display was very far from convinicing.  Before the end of the match Everton made victory secure by adding a second goal, but they might just as easily have quadrupled the number.  The conditions were perfect when play began and a promise of better things to come was given when Clennell, always an eager opportunist, rushed the ball through after Jefferis had failed to net it.  A long spell of straggling play was illuminated by strong shots from Jefferis and Chedgzoy, which were only just of the target and at the other end Cjitton was twice conspicious and unlucky.  In the second half the Prestonians, although without the services of Ives for a time, played up in very dogged fashion, and from a free kick on the penalty line they should have equalised, but Smith lofted the leather high over the crossbar.  Harrison had hard lines in failing with a wonderfuly fast drive, and subsquently Clennell, taking a swinging pass from the right, netted another neat goal.  In the remaining few minutes the visitors came with a rush, and Jefferis, who had changed places with Kirsopp, struck the crossbar with a resounding shot.  So a disappointing encounter came to a conclusion, which must have been a relief to everybody concerned.  Fern's task was not precisely a sinecure but it never really taxed his abilities, Mancconnachie was eaily able to cope with the erratic rushes of the home forwards, and the half-backs plodded along with a nonchalance born of self-complacency.  The forwards were also inbuded with a spirit of free and-easiness, and "acted as such."  For North End M'Llwaraith played a capital game at back, and Wilson, the Turton goalkeeper, proved himself a custodian of ability and resource.  The half-backs all played pluckily, but the front line was hopelessly outmatched. 

LACEY HELPS BELFAST UNITED
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 16 November 1915
Bee's Notes
Will Lacey ever return to Liverpool's shores?  A fortnight ago the famed Irishman came over to Liverpool and assisted Liverpool against Manchester United.  He went back to Dublin within a few hours of the match, and thereby it would seem that he has decided to stay in Irish football circles.  lacey played at inside right on Saturday for the newly-formed club, the United, and depondent said that he played his usual good game.  There was a Liverton air about the match, inasmuch as Walter Scott, ex-Everton kept goal for United, who, be it known, played Lindsay, the small and clever ex-Burnley footballer.  On the losing side one found the names of Bob Clifford and John Houston, both ex-Everton players.  Houston was at inside right and the inside left was none other than John Bovill, the trickler who used to delight Liverpool's audiences in recent years.  Houston, who is in the Irish Rifles, is under orders to leave his present station.  he will be a big loss to Linfield's forward line, which has lost Boyton to Hull City, and Holt to Rochdale. 

EVERTON TO PLAY TOM PAGE.
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 18 November 1915
Everton have a stiff task before them on Saturday, when Stockport, with their former Everton player (Gault), make their appearance at Goodison Park. It is not so long back that Stockport visited Everton in a Cup-tie -it was a famed and vile day, the game being stopped through snow and slush—and then Stockport surprised Everton even though Everton won.  Nowadays Stockport have Davie Ashworth as their guide, and consequently some unknown and clever young uns have been drafted into the team, which on the showing against Liverpool, at Anfield, this season, is a team to be reckoned with. Everton chose their team yesterday, and it will surprise local folk, inasmuch Tom Page turns to centre forward for them. Tom has been helping South Liverpool for some weeks, and the South have been grateful for his services, as also his brother's. Now Everton have obtained his services, Parker being "ineligible," as it were, for Saturday's game. Parker is working on munitions, and it is always left to him to deside whether can make the journey from Glasgow. He is never enticed from his work— which is as it should be.  Other than that change the Fverton side is untouched, and reads Fern: Thompson and Maconnachie; Fleetwood,  Warreing, and  Grenyer: Chedgzoy,  Kirsopp. T. Page, Clennell, and Harrison.

NEWS OF SOLDIER TOM M'DERMOTT.
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 18 November 1915
Bee's Notes
The older generation of local football followers will be surprised to learn of the appearance of Tom McDermott at football again!  Tom was one of the best pros who ever put on football boots.  His play was a model of trickery, and he was a veritable pantomime show when he was in the mood for dodging hefty defenders.  After he left Everton he tried his skill with many clubs, the first to my knowledge being a St. Helens soccer side.  Now his memory is raised again by a letter from the front which the acting secretary of the Liverpool club has received, that acting-secretary being Mr. George Patterson, of course.  It is in acknowledgment of the receipt of a ball from the Liver club, and the writer of the letter says that although there are not many class footballers in their locality they have the pelasure of one Thomas McDermott, who used to be well-known in the Liverpool area.  Here's to Tommy! All good luck go with him.  

LITTLE FAYERS AND HIS TRUSTY MEN.
Liverpool Echo - Friday 19 November 1915
Bee's Notes
Everton's home scores in turn have shown these figures on the "for " side: —5, 4, 2, 4, 1.  Will they return to the mark tomorrow?   It is possible, and, in the language of the classic talkers, "it is on the map." Much depends upon whether Fayers can assist Stockport.  He is the ' "sparking" of the Stockport side, and since he left Huddersfield for the beauties of Stockport side,  (!) he has helped Mr. Danvid Answorrh  to make Stockport into a live side.  They stand pretty close to Everton in the League chart, only one victory separating the pair, and it may taken for granted that tomorrow, if Fayers plays, Everton will need to show their best to win. Fayers is small and wise, and a terror for his size, and with head and foot he makee a miniature Tom Boyle. Certain it is that the Stockport forward line plans its attacks well, and does not aimlessly blunder on in the hope of breaking down the opposition's defence.  Their dainty forward work at Anfield deserved recompense, and yet the score at the finish was 0-0.  Still, Gault against his old side—he trains with the Everton club nowadays—will be certain to try to emulate Freeman's idea and " get a goal against the old club." Stockport beat Oldham last week 2-0, so that on that reckoning alone Everton must have hard game. With Tom Page back to his former spot' as lineleader, the attack will become very interesting.  Of course, Page has gathered a lot of experience in his Scottish tours with St. Mirren, and probably has put on weight since he was tried two years ago with Everton. He has, in his South Liverpool displays, robustness and skill, I shall watch his with much interest tomorrow. I am told by a good judge that Frank Jefferis has been playing some great football in his away games with Everton, and that after he had changed places with Kirsopp last week he showed all his old ability to draw a defender or two and then accurately plant the ball the feet of the waiting partner.   Jefferis has superior in shielding a partner, for his feinting opens the way, and his method of getting in the way of defender in rich treat the matter of football moves. There is no news late on from Everton, I take it that the teams which were given in yesterday's paper will unchanged. A glance at Stockport's side shows that little change is made from the team that visited us early in the season. Kellock is new, but Molyneux a Port Sunlight man, who helped Chelsea:  Crossthwaite, the Wateralls, Rodgers, Mitton, and Goodwin are still there. Hence my prediction that Everton will have a stiff game when Mr. Jack Howcroft lines the men up at 2.45.  Even so, I think Everton will add to their Preston win by getting the better of the County side, and to you who have not seen this season's ' football matches —all one could be described as far better than nine-tenths of the Cup ties used to have to suffer—I would say, "Go and see for yourself the excellent exhibition the game." A big crowd is expected, and, with the fog moving away, Everton can assured of a big gate. The 8th Irish band will pleasantly while away overtime." Teams:— Everton; Fern;  Thompson and MaConnachie; Fleetwood, Wareing and Grenyer; Chedgzoy, Kirsopp, T. Page, Clennell, and Harrison.  Stockport County; Molyneux; Robson, Goodwin; Mitton, Fayer, A. Waterall; Crosswaite, Gault, Rodgers, Kellock, T. Waterall. 
Note; Palmer playing for Barnsley

EVERTON 2 STOCKPORT COUNTY 5
November 22, 1915. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON’S HEAVY DEFEAT
CONVINCING VICTORY FOR STOCKPORT
Lancashire section principal tournament (Game 12)
It is putting it mildly to say that the ten thousand or so spectators who visited Goodison Park on Saturday anticipated such a pronounced defeat of the Everton team, if, indeed, defeat at all, for it was confidently expected that the home side would prove more than a match for their Cheshire rivals. But the fact is the visitors caught their more formidable opponents completely off their game, particularly so far as forward work went, and though Everton may be said to have been slightly the better side in the first half, it must be candidly confessed that in the second portion they were out-played and out-run by a more determined and infinitely more bustling combination.
INTERESTING PLAY.
The only circumstance calculated to interfere with a sound display of football was the slipperiness of the playing surfaces, which was soon revealed in the early movements of the players, but they adapted themselves well to the conditions, and some fast football was forthcoming. A thrilling opening was witnessed, as barely three minutes had elapsed when Everton, after their goal had already experienced a narrow escape, were enabled to open the scoring by Clennell, who skillfully converted a centre by Chedgzoy. Some persistent work, in which Gault was prominent, saw the visitors on an equality in sixteen minutes, the player named being undisguisedly gratified at scoring against his former comrades. Within a minute the home side were ahead again, Kirsopp scoring right away from the restart, and thirty-eight minutes of the first had elapsed when Rodgers, taking advantage of a temporary period of ease indulged in by the home defence snapped up a neat centre by T.Waterall, and again placed matters on an equal basis. So ran the play and the goals of the first half, which contained many fine pieces of football, notably on the part of the home forwards just prior to Rodgers second goal, when they went down with a perfect carpet-weaving movements, and showed the most polished combination of the day. The bustling work of the visiting halves ultimately brought about the finish of the movements, and simultaneously the inception of the attack that brought Stockport’s second goal.
VISITORS’ PROFITABLE PERIOD.
Four goals in the first portion gave the spectators plenty of food for satisfaction, although the Evertonians did not cross over with the lead, but there was more to follow, and the concluding moiety produced three points –all, however, to the visitors. The latter played with unqualified energy, and after the proceedings had gone for just under an hour. Kellock, succeeding a corner on his team’s left position, got the ball through in the duration of a short, sharp melee. Fern made a good attempt to save, but he got a rare shaking up in the effort, with the result that he was for some time off the field to receive attention at the trainer’s hands. Macconnachie took the vacant space during the custodian’s absence, but unfortunately he was not troubled with anything of a serious nature. Some hard attempts to resume their previous equality in the position of the game were forthcoming from the home forwards, but they were well and determinedly held by the visitor’s halves and backs, but the County consolidated their command of the situation by means of a fine goal by Rodgers which Fern, who had resumed duty after a somewhat protracted period of inaction, tried vainly to intercept. T. Waterall, after a number of equally distributed efforts finally clinched matters with a fifth goal, which completely extinguished the home side’s prospects and they retired thoroughly beaten by five goals to two.
PLAY AND PLAYERS.
It was a clean, hard contest, clean to the extent that there were only two fouls for physical infringements. One was for an offence against Clennell, and the other, which was of a more serious character brought Garrett, who, as stated on the previous day, would take the place of Fayers, under the ban of the referee for an official censure. There was little between the teams in the first portion though if anything Everton were superior in their methods, but in the second half the home team had the mortification of being genuinely outplayed. Macconnachie and Fern were the two most prominent players in the home forces, both showing excellent defence, and Fleetwood and Wareing also acquitted themselves well, but the forwards never got into their wonted dangerous strides. Kirsopp, who played at centre with Jefferis as inside right, was not so forceful as Parker, who is kept out of the team by the demands of munitions work, whilst Chedgzoy was not as effective as usual on his wing. Gault’s appearance in the Stockport ranks was quite successful, and T. Waterall and Rodgers were very persistent figures in the front line. Stockport were well served by their intermediate section, which gave the home forwards no rest. Their victory was well worked for and well earned, and the extent of the same came as an unpleasant surprise for the home supporters, who found the Blues as a whole well below their usual piquant form.
THE COMEDY EPISODE.
The comedy episode, which certainly enlivened the half time period, wherein a crowd of sailors and soldiers indulged in a regular rough and tumble contest –with plenty of “turntable” about it-was in the way of a side splitting novelty, but it is a diversion hardly likely to be encouraged or awkward eventualities might ensue. It was a “scream” in its way and as a surprise incident it served its purpose. Teams: - Everton: - Fern, goals, Thompson, and Macconnachie, backs, Fleetwood (Captain), Wareing, Brown, half-backs, Chedgzoy, Kirsopp, Jefferis, Clennell, and Harrison, forwards. Stockport County: - Molyneux, goal, Robson, and Goodwin, backs, Mitton, Garrett, and A. Waterall, half-backs, Crosswaite, W. Gault, Rodgers, Kellock, and T. Waterall, forwards.

SURPRISE DEFEAT OF EVERTON CLUB.
Liverpool Echo - Monday 22 November 1915
STRONG SHOTS. 
When a little swarthy-faced fellow confided to that he thought 'the Stockport boys would just about win the game at Goodison Park smiled the superior smile and dared to offer him a bet of a cigar to nothing. Proverbially unlucky, I had fallen into one of many traps that are set for me. But when goal had been notched Clennell in three minutes looked over to the portion of the stand reserved for visitors and nodded my pleasure to the better, who was " Tiny " Fayers.  Thrice armed is he who gets his blow in first, thought ,  Stockport equalised through Gault's persistence and Brown's dallying, but in trice Kirsopp had put his side ahead. Again looked to the Stockport captain and displayed a sort of " Easy-job-this " expression. Fayers just waited his turn, but did not give him the satisfaction of laughing at me after Stockport had scored their fourth goal After leaving the visitors scored yet another goal, and thus gave Everton one of the heaviest and most surprising drubbings they have experienced at Goodison Park.  The Reasons. What was the reason of Everton's defeat? First, they were lulled into a sense of security by the suddenness with which they scored their first and second goals. They eased up, played " toyful'' football, and got Stockport's men spirited way. They called for check— and they got it. was near halt-time when the goal was potted, and thereafter Everton's forward line was quite unlike its usual self. Kirsopp, after starting well as centre for ward, became uneven and rarely noticeable.  Jefferis made some grand and glorious passes, but Chedgzoy did not respond in his customary fashion.  Clennell worked hard and to no purpose, and Harrison had precious little help in the second half from his partner on the wing and his half back.  Perhaps Harrison would not have fared well in any case, because his bulk plainly handicapped him in the first half, the " ground slipping from under him." The quaint thing was that, whereas Maconnachie especially, and Thompson in minor role, never played better than on Saturday,  So they had to acknowledge five goals against them.  Maconnachie's game was treat to watch, and the crowd was liberal in its acknowledgment.  How, then, can we explain Stockport's goal-getting successes?  Certainly Fern was not- to blame. had nasty cut on the head when Kellock bundled through corner kick, but, in spite of his injury, he kept goal well and made a grand attempt to stave off the fifth goal scored by the visitors. No, the truth was: Stockport, coached a wise man played sound forward football, and their forwards shot hard and true when they were within range. Rodgers's second goal was a peach, and all were clean goals. Although the Cheshire men were only up Fern's end half dozen times—dangerously that is—in the first "45 " they scored two goals—a good average, you'll agree.

EVERTON SENT TO "TOMMIES"
Liverpool Echo- Tuesday 23 November 1915
Bee's Notes
Everton have sent to Tommies nine complete football outfits -ninety-nine Jerseys, pairs of pants, boots, and stockings, while in some cases shingguards were sent.  Shinguards will be wanted if, as on Saturday, in the interval scene, a soldier elects to play football while he is wearing spurs!

EVERTON'S BIG WIN
November 23, 1915. The Evening Express
By the Critic
For two or three seasons Everton and Liverpool have suffered severely at the hands of Sunderland, but it would seem that the tide has turned and for a change Sunderland must now know what it feels like to have seven goals recorded against them. It was a most unhappy experience for Boe, who made his debut in first League football, but really he was not to blame for the heavy defeat. He had little or no chance with the majority of the shots that scored and he showed his ability in saving in the second half. Everton were on top of their form, and everything came off for them. The forwards were in sparkling mood, and Harrison's inclusion rendered the line most effective and complete. Ably attended by the lively Clennell, the outside man had several opportunities of shinning and right well did he answer. Once in the old days when Doig kept goal for Sunderland, Everton beat the Roker men by 7-1, and history was repeated on Saturday. Nothing like it has been since the Blues “walked round Manchester City to the tune of 9 goals to 1 several season's ago. Their most recent big success was when they scored 6 goals against the Rovers. The Everton men advanced themselves to the conditions in fine style on Saturday and they were at home on the frost bound ground. All round they played smart football, but compared with last season's side Sunderland were only a shadow of their former selves. Martin was the only forward to do himself real justice. Buchan was smart at times but he was too well watched to prove of real danger. It was a rare day for Everton, and they are now equal with their rivals the “Reds” in the matter of scoring 7 goals in a match this season.

"LOCAL DERBY" TEAM SELECTIONS.
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 24 November 1915
LITTLE CHANGE.
The following are the teams for the " Derby " game at Anfield on Saturday:— LIVERPOOL. Scott; Longsworth, Middlehurst; Bradley, Goddard, Winn; Pinkney, Watson, Pagnam, Banks, Metcalf.  EVERTON; Fern; Thomspon, MaCconnachie; Fleetwood, Wareing, Grenyer; Chedgzoy, Kirsopp, Parker, Clennell, Harrison. 
Left Alone.
Liverpool, in spite of the fact that they tried certain men out of position, have stuck to the side that conquered Oldham Athletic, away, last week. Liverpool were never averse to trying a man out of his generally-reoog nised position. Goddard's is but one case; Pagnam's is another important case on the books, and tried at oentre-forward after long spell at oentre-half, was another case —mention of the Welsh International minds that his last club was Third Lanark, not Hearta. Well, the latest is the appearance of Arthur Metcalfe outside-left. He was played there last week consequence the injury sustained by Dawson during the week's work. Metcalfe makes one of the short-built but stocky forward line, alone having height and weight to carry him through the opposition. At half-back Bradley, the local soldier man, who plays a dogged game, will be sternly tested, and Winn and Middlehurst will up against Everton'e right wing flank—sufficient evidence of the heavy work they will have to encounter. Of course Ever ton always Win at Anfield, just as Liverpool always win Goodison Park in the return fixture. So shall" only be surprised if fail to win next Saturday at Anfield.  Liverpool by their last two victories have shown something of their real strength, and I hope both sides will play selected, for there generally comes into being unfortunate big absentee from one other side, thus making the game's result " arguable."
Parker's Return.
Robert Parker was unable play against Stockport County last week, and the consequence was that the Everton forward line was not happy in its movements. It had been arranged that Jefferis should play centre, but as soon the game started Kirsopp took that place, probably consequence of the excellent form shown both men at Preston the week before. While both started Saturday's game in nice fashion, neither "came up to scratch," and, physically and otherwise should say that Jefferis and Kirsopp are inside forwards or nothing—at centre they lack the "bite" and vim of leader. For the " Derby " game Parker is coming from Glasgow, and consequently Kirsopp goes to inside right, formerly, and Jefferis is on reserve. That is the main change in the formation of the Walton side, but in addition Grenyer comes into the side again, Brown being deposed.  This change is in the natural order of things, and, of course, it was illness that kept Grenyer  from keeping his appointment last week. He has made the position his own. He has quite lengthy service with the Everton Club, and has been unlucky to find regular and good man like Harry Makepeace barring his way for so many seasons.. However, he's hung on to his work and has not complained— which is what cannot be said of some footballers who "  wait for dead men's shoes. ' Thus early we need not enter into discussion of the game, but here it may be mentioned— in case any player knows not the honourable records of the and Liverpool teams— the Mersey city's " Derby " game is a model of cleanliness.

EVERTON'S CAPTAIN BREAKS RIB.
Liverpool Echo - Monday 29 November 1915
News hand that captain James Gait, now sergeant in motor transport section the army, has broken a rib when Playing football. He was have assisted Fulham on Saturday, and during the week he assisted one of the regimental matches at Bisley - hence his injury.  he will be out of football for some weeks.

LIVERPOOL 4 EVERTON 1
November 29, 1915. The Liverpool Courier.
LIVERPOOL’S GREAT VICTORY.
A LENGTHY SEQUENCE BROKEN.
MACCONACHIE TAKES FERN PLACE AND CONCEDED TWO GOALS.
PAGNAM SCORE’S “HAT-TRICK.”
Lancashire section principal tournament (Game 13)
So Everton’s lengthy sequence of Anfield successes –wholly and in part –has gone by the board, and after winning seven games in succession on the ground of the Reds, and after having avoided reverse there since so remote a date as January 21, 1899, the Goodison Park team had to submit to defeat, decisive and emphatic, on Saturday, after opening in a style that suggested that they were going to run away with the spoils. Tremendous interest was taken in the fixture, and, from the opening moments of the game the teams were about their work in a manner that clearly indicated that business only was meant. Everton brought Nuttall into their ranks instead of Parker who was unable to put in an appearance, and Liverpool changed Winn, as announced, for Mckinlay. Otherwise the sides were at their full playing power, as Liverpool have apparently found their true effective strength in the eleven that has done recent duty for them.
AN EVENTFUL STRUGGLE.
The ever-increasing crowd of spectators who found the prevailing conditions quite congenial, were treated by the Blues to a particular lively opening period, and for practically twenty minutes of the game they were fairly running round their opponents, whose defence lasted splendidly under the succession of vigorous onslaughts they were called upon to contend against. Nuttall rapidly and repeatedly brought himself into prominence with some fast and forceful play, and it was evident that he was going to allow no opportunity to escape him. He was not, however, destined to secure the goal on which he had apparently set his heart, for it was left to Clennell to achieve the first and Everton’s only success of the contest. This came when matters had been in progress for some seventeen minutes at the end, of which period he drove in a shot which had Scott, beaten all the way. Inspired by this splendid effort, and amid the unrest rained enthusiasm of the onlookers who at the time must have numbered some 17,000, the Blues continued to force the pace. Pagnam had made one or two individual attempts to force for himself an opening, but he was vigilantly shadowed, and Thompson and Macconnachie were a clean and resolute pair of backs. Eventually, however, the opening for which he had maneuvered came along, and with the game half an hour old he seized upon the chance –anything but an easy one –and flashed in a long low drive, which escaped Fern with unproventable accuracy, and the teams were on an equality.
THE CHANGE OF FORTUINE.
Thereafter there came about a metamorphosis, which was as striking as it was instantaneous. Barely three more minutes had elapsed before the home centre, whose previous shot was directed from a most awkward angle, burst away again. He baffed the opposing backs in the most deceptive fashion and Fern’s only hope was to come out of goal to meet the bustling centre, who spurted along with determination written all over his face, Fern accordingly came out, as he unhappily found to his cost, for not only did Pagnam achieve his object with a remarkable shot, but the Everton goalkeeper was so badly injured in the ensuing collision that he had to leave the field before the interval arrived, and was unable to take further part in the game. Pagnam, too, received a nasty shaking, and a rather protracted stoppage was necessary. The enthusiasm increased to tremendous volume and when at the end of thirty-eight minutes Watson with a dainty point added Liverpool’s third goal, the issue appeared and ultimately proved to be in safe keeping for the Reds, who led at the interval by three goals to one.
EVERTON’S REDUCED FORCES.
It was distinctly hard lines on Everton to have face the second portion with only ten men. Fern’s injury consisted of a badly bruised back, and his resumption was out of the question. As on the previous Saturday, Macconnachie filled the breach, and it is emphatically to the credit of the Evertonians that with the one exception which, late in the game, brought Liverpool their crowning success, they kept their citadel intact with their depleted forces. Grenyer for a period went back, and the visitors played four forwards. And for quite a lengthy spell in attacking quartette quite bewildered the Anfield defenders and only the great resource of Scott, when anticipation was always exact, prevented the margin of scoring from reduction. Chedgzoy, Nuttall, Clennell, and Fleetwood, all tested him in turn, whilst Macconachie, on the other hand, found his position in the nature of a sinecure though on one occasion Metcalfe, with a little more steadiness might readily have scored. Eventually the completely deciding goal of the game came when Pagnam, after previously just missing the distinction accomplished the “hat-trick” by rushing the ball through after the deputising custodian had partially cleared. Subsequently Pagnam also had to retire as the result of an accidental kick in the face, and no more scoring ensiung; Liverpool gained a striking victory by four goals to one.
MERITORIOUS ALL ROUND FORM.
Every player of the twenty-two may be complimented upon his fine work. Whilst there were isolated instances of “warmth” the game was contested on the cleanest lines. A fact upon the referee, Mr. A. H. Pellowe may be deservedly paid tribute his control being marked thoughtout by coolness and completeness. Pagnam’s work was of sterling merit, and all the Liverpool half-backs aid excellently. Scott was safe in goal, and Watson’s work gains an added intelligence at every appearance.
Everton were excellently served by Chedgzoy, Clennell, and Kirsopp, in the front rank, and Wareing was the outstanding figure of the intermediate line, whilst Macconnachie filled the dule role with complete success. Thompson rendering him valuable co-operation. Taken every way it was a struggle worthy of the occasion, and with Everton being accorded full sympathy for the misfortunes of having to play for the most part short-harded. Liverpool are to be congratulated upon their altogether striking achievement. Teams: - Liverpool: - Scott goal, Longsworth, and Middlehurst, backs, Bradley, Goddard, and McKinlay, half-backs, Pinkney, Watson, Pagnam, Banks, and Metcalfe, forwards. Everton: - Fern, goal, Thompson, and Macconnachie, backs, Fleetwood (Captain), Wareing, and Grenyer, half-backs, Chedgzoy, Kirsopp, Nuttall, Clennell, and Harrison, forwards. Referee Mr. A.H. Pellowe.