Everton Independent Research Data
NEWCASTLE UNITED 1 EVERTON 0 (Game 345)
October 1 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
These League clubs met at St Jame's Park, Newcastle before 25,000 spectators. The sides lined out as follows: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer, and Watson backs, Wolstenholmes, Booth, and Abbott, halfbacks Sharp, McDonald, Proudfoot, Settle (captain), and Turner, forwards. Newcastle United: - Kingsley, goal, Burgess, and Gardner (d), backs, Ghee, Aitkens, and Carr halfbacks, Rogers, Gariner (a) Peddie, McFarlane, and Niblo forwards. Everton started, facing a glaring sun, and at once the pace was forced to a terrific pitch. The United had the better of the opening stages, and early on kept Muir busily employed by some smart swinging centres from the wings. Balmer put in some capital defensive touches and eventually with a long kick placed his forwards in possession. Gardiner fouled Proudfoot, and in close following Niblo headed a fine centre from Rogers over the bar. A brilliant movement by the Everton forwards culminated in a magnificent effort on the part of Sharp to defeat Kingsley, but that player was at his best, and deftly prevented downfall twice in quick succession. Play for some time favored the United, who was taking full advantage of the sun being at their backs. However, the Everton left became dangerous, and Turner tested Kingsley but to no purpose while at the other end Niblo shot in at Muir. Gardner and Abbott came into contact, and on appeal the referee after consulting the lineman, granted a Penalty kick, from which Gardner scored. The interval now arrived with the score-United 1 goal, Everton nil. On resuming the sun had gone down so that so far as the elemental conditions were concerned the home side had enjoyed an big advantage. Everton showed up well, and Proudfoot looked like getting through when Garner pulled him up a few yards from goal and sent the ball well up the field. Peddie tested Muir, and following a further attack by the Evertonians the United forwards cleverly worked down the field, only to find that Niblo lost an easy chance of scoring. Play up to this period was not as heatedly contested as in the first portion of the game, but the successful movement of the Everton halves and forwards called for strenuous efforts from the home defenders with the result that the pace became highly strung. Scoring was however, a difficult task, for both defences were sound. Every inch of the ground was now stubbornly contested, and in the last few minutes the visitors were seen to great advantage. Time after time they bore down on the home defence, frequently assisted by free kicks, and from one of this Sharp unfortunately missed scoring from a partial save by Kingsley, who had received a warm shot from Booth. This was Everton's last chance, and nothing further being scored, the result of a stubborn game was Newcastle 1 goal, Everton nil.
October 1 1900.
Everton played at Goodison Park. Corrin scored the only goal of the game. (Game 5) Everton: - Kitchen goal, Halliday, and Eccles, backs, Taylor (j), Green, and Taylor (R), halfbacks, Roche, Dawson, Worthington, Grey, and Corrin, forwards .
October 1 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
In mark contrast, the Everton team were most unfortunate in having to strike their colours to Newcastle United, as no doubt the most ordinary observer of the game at St. Jame's Park would be ready to admit. They were not one whit the less brilliant than their opponents, and but for a very questionable ruling the honours of the game would have panned out as a sturdy contest, in which no degree of superiority manifested itself, fully merited. As is well known, the Northerners won by a penalty kick, and taking all the circumstances into consideration it is difficult to imagine the grounds on which the referee entertained an appeal. Muir had negotiated a shot from Niblo, and a moment afterwards Gardner came into contact with Abbott and had evidently the worst of matters. There was no attempt at obstruction, and certainly no necessity, for the ball was in safe quarters; but so lustily did a section of the crowd clamour that the referee came to the conclusion that something must be done. One linesman would not entertain the plea for a penalty, but the other, who was not in so favourable a position, give his opinion otherwise, hence the downfall. While on this subject it would not be out of place to state that the crowd played a big part in the proceedings, for their enthusiasm knew no bounds, and while this is not at all an objectionable feature, it would be more in keeping with true sporting instrint if they gave credit where credit was due. The game was not one that could be stamped as brilliantly contested. A distrinct savour of keeness pervaded throughout, and it was not surprising under the high tension that the players at times came under the notice of the referee. Sharp practice in the direction of unnecessary attention to the man was not an infrequent method of procedure, and in this matter the United were the greater aggressors. Fortunately for them their opponents secured no tangible point from the numerous free kicks awarded, and for this relief they have greatly to extend their thanks to the custodian, who rose to every occasion in masterly fashion. Both sets of forwards were keen on the ball, and invariably dangerous when in possession, but the real strength of the sides lay at halfback. Smart tackling and accurate placing were often prominent features and while both trios were well represented in every respect, it was a pity that the home players should have discounted their good work by unscrupulous attention to the opposing line. Settle was the greatest victim, as he was shadowed at every turn, and consequently he was not the usual tower of strength to his side. Sharp was the most dangerous of the quintet, as no doubt the Newcastle custodian would be ready to admit. His shooting was particularly clever, and towards the closing stages his efforts were certainly worthy of reward. The halves played a hard, untiring game and at full back, Balmer got through a great amount of work with conspicuous success. Watson was somewhat unsteady and inclined to hesitate especially in the earlier stages, but on the whole there was no cause for undue anxiety as far as the rearguard was concerned. Muir did well as also his vis-à-vis, Kingsley, who had several fine shots to deal with as the result of some smart concerted movements by the Everton forwards. D.Garner played a finished back game, while his confreres, Burgess made up for shortcomings by the adoption of questionable tactics. Mantion had already been made of the halves, and in the forward line the club is in the fortunate position of possessing a really resourceful line of attack. The wingmen are especially clever, and with a capable centre in Peddie, the stongest defence is likely to be well tested. The result of the game need not discourage the Evertonians. They were not an inferior team to their opponents, and doubtless this will be exaplified as the tournament progress.
October 2 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Senior Cup-First Round.
This tie in the first round of the County Palastine Cup, was played at Ewood Park, Blackburn, yesterday afternoon and despite the threatening aspect of the weather, there was a large attendance when hostilities were commenced, the fact the electioneering was in full swing in no wise diminishing the interest in the game or ‘'gate'' which reached fully 7,000. The Rovers, who appeared first, were quickly followed by the ‘'Blues'' and on Settle winning the toss, Oldham started on behalf of the home side, who were at once repulsed by Balmer. Turner taking up the running, but sending the ball over the line. Whittaker and Dewhurst next took the sphere down at a lively pace, but Houlker's final effort was easily dealt with by Muir, and, after Sharp had struck the outside of the net, with a stinging shot, a futile corner was awarded Everton. The play was contested with grim eagerness, and there was little to choose between the teams, the ball travelling from end to end, with great rapidity, both sets of backs being equally safe and preventing any score. Crompton, on several occasions was instrumental in checking the Everton left wing, but after Whittaker had saved from Proudfoot. Settle opened the visitors account from short range, the Rovers custodian having no chance of negotiating safety. Spurred on by this success obtained after the game had been in progress 25 minutes, the ‘'Blues'' played up with renewed vigour, and the Rovers defence was severely taxed. Muir at length raising the siege and causing a hot bombardment to be made on the Everton goal, Muir having an anxious time of it for some moments. Muir relieved the tension with a wide shot, and a subsequent free kick against the visitors spoiled a possible chance of increasing their lead. Later on Abbott tested the capacities of Whittaker, but the Blackburn custodian was equal to the occasion, a warm attempt by the visiting left half next going outside, the ball scraping the near upright. At the other end Whittaker (forward) had extremely hard lines one of his shots hitting the post and going over the line. Half time was called almost immediately afterwards, with the Rovers pressing, Everton leading by a goal to nil. Proudfoot restarted, and following a free kick to the home side, the former sent over the bar. The Rovers now had a turn and by means of tricky passing took the ball in front of the Everton goal, Wolstenholmes, Watson and Abbott, repelling shots, only, however, to find Muir beaten by Oldham in the next minute, the equalising point being vociferously cheered by the home partisans. Exciting play followed, the Rovers forwards putting forth-strenuous efforts to obtain the lead. Muir's position was by no means a sinecure, but he dealt capably with attempts from Morgan and Whittaker, and it was due to his clever goalkeeping that the ‘'Blues'' colours were not lowered again. There was no gainsaying the determination of the Rovers, and a mistake by Watson gave Whittaker a chance, which that player was not slow to avail himself of this second success sending the crowd crazy with delight. At this point Everton were clearly outplayed, and their opponents massed round the goal, several free kicks giving them further opportunities of scoring. Oldham was always lying close in, and the visitors goal underwent many narrow escapes, the Rovers forwards practically doing, as they liked. Once Sharp got away, but it was a mere ‘'flash in the pan'' and Whittaker had no difficulty in coping with his final effort. An attempted centre by Turner was easily intercepted by Howarth, and at the other end, Watson almost put through his own goal. After along spell of attacking the home side was at length driven back, Abbott sending in hard and low, only, however, to find the watchful Whittaker in waiting to receive the ball. Nearing the close, Everton were seen to better advantage, but their efforts were unavailing, and Blackburn Rovers won by two goals to one. Teams: - Everton: - Muir goal, Balmer, and Watson, backs Wolstenholmes, Booth, and Abbott, halfbacks, Sharp, McDonald, Proudfoot, Settle (captain), and Turner, forwards. Blackburn Rovers: - Whittaker, goal, Crompton and Hardy, backs, Moir, Howarth, and Houlker, halfbacks, Whittaker, Dewhurst, Oldham, Morgan, and Blackburn forwards.
EVERTON 3 SHEFFIELD UNITED 1 (Game 346)
These clubs met at Goodison Park on Saturday, before about 18,000 spectators. Last season's cup players represented the United, but the Everton ranks remained undisturbed. The sides faced as follow: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer, and Watson backs Wolstenholmes, Booth and Abbott halfbacks, Sharp, McDonald, Proudfoot, Settle (captain), and Turner, forwards. Sheffield United: - Foulkes, goal, Thickett and Boyle, backs, Johnson, Morren, and Needham (captain), halfbacks, Bennett, Beers, Hedley, Almond, and Priest forwards. The United were fortunate in the spin of the coin. For they had the assistance of a boisterous wind, which blew from end to end and they were at once dangerous. In the first minute an incursion on the right ended in Beers heading over from a corner kick. A movement to the other end was short-lived, and for some minutes the visiting halfbacks were very successful in keeping them in front of them well employed. Abbott and Booth were stubborn defenders, and from a pass by the latter Turner raced on, and forced a corner kick. This led up to a smart attack, in which Foulkes was twice called upon, and another break away by the ‘'Blades'' ended in Almond opening the scoring ten minutes from the start. Immediately afterwards Turner gave Foulkes a difficult shot to negotiate and following a short stay in the United half, Hedley and Almond sent in shots which required Muir's best efforts to clear. The visitors made the most of the wind that favoured them, and were frequently on the aggressive, though there were occasions when the Evertonians caused the defenders considerable anxiety. There was no further scoring up to the interval, and on resuming the home side monopolised the bulk of the early play. Foulkes was kept constantly on the move, and saved several splendid shots, but eventually his charge fell to Turner, who headed a smart centre from sharp into the net. Play continued in the United half and a prolonged pressure ended when Balmer, from long range, tested the custodian with a capital shot. Breaking away Priest had the Everton goal at his mercy, but kicked wildly, and during the next few minutes Foulkes brought off quite a succession of saves. Play progressed favourably to Everton, but a leading point was not forthcoming, until close upon time when Proudfoot scored. And just before the finish Abbott with a beautiful effort, placed his side further ahead and Everton winning by 3 goals to 1.
EVERTON V SHEFFIELD UNITED.
October 8, 1900. The Sheffield Independent.
Sensational Finish.
Last season's result.
At Everton, United won by 2 goals to 1
At Sheffield, United won by 5 goals to 0.
Some 20,000 people turned up at Goodison Park to witness the match between Everton and Sheffield United, and they had the pleasure to witnessing a keen and interesting game, Everton had the same eleven in the field as have done so well for them this season; but the United again made changes in the team, and when the players came on it was seen that it was the identical eleven that won the English Cup. The ground despite heavy rain in the early morning, was in capital condition, but a strong wing blowing from goal to goal rendered scientific play difficult. Needham had the good fortune to win the toss, and the United had the wind behind them during the first half. Proudfoot started, and the pace at once became fast. Beers forced a corner kick, and this being accurately placed Beers nearly scored, heading the ball inches to high, with Muir well beaten. The United were quickly attacking again, but Muir easily cleared movement on the Sheffield right wing ended in the ball being centred to Needham. The United captain trapped the ball, and with a fast drive sent it just inside the post well out of the reach of Muir, and thus scoring the first goal after seven minute's play. Following the centre kick Sharp and MacDonald put in a clever bit of passing, but Needham nipped in, and with a brilliant bit of work transferred play to the other end, and then Johnson smartly stopped Turner when in full flight for goal, clever passing by the Evertonians was at the close a bit overdone, Thickett in and driving them back. Again the United attacked hotly, and following good work on the right wings. Almond shot over the bar. Smart passing by Needham, Priest and Almond let in Hedley, and he had the vilest of luck with a grand shot, which hit the side of one of the uprights, with Muir helpless, but the ball cannoned across the goal and was cleared by Watson. What with the strong wind against them, and the excellent defence of the United backs and half-backs the Everton forwards could make but little headway, and Johnson set his forwards going again, with the result that Almond sent in a capital shot which Muir, with difficulty managed to tip over the bar, but the corner kick was not improved upon. From the goal kick Everton worked their way well up the field, but first Boyle, and then Thickett cleared. Twice, however, Foulke had to handle, and a corner to Everton was got away. Booth and the home backs were then kept busy, and after Bennett had been pulled up for offside Hedley sent the ball just wide of the post. Needham again broke up a promising run by Everton in clever fashion, and then Johnson cleverly stepped in and robbed Turner, and, threading his way down the field got well into the Everton quarters before he passed, but Bennett's shot was a little too elevated. The Sheffielders forced another corner, but this proved to the advantage of the home team, the forwards going away at a race pace. Turner was clearly off side when he dashed the ball into the net, and the point did not count. From the free kick United again got dangerous and Bennett had a capital shot charged down whilst Priest had hard lines with a snap shot which seemed to graze the post. As half-time drew near the United tried hard to increase their slender lead, and though the half-backs kept, the forwards well employed, they could not get the ball past Muir, and at half-time the United were leading by one goal to none. With the wind behind them, Everton at once attacked fiercely, and a shot from McDonald was charged down, Foulke then saving from Settle, and as Turner sent the ball into the net the whistle went for a foul against the home team. From a free kick, Foulke handled the ball well over the half line, but play was soon again in the United territory, Booth causing Foulke to handle from a long straight shot the Evertonians were very earnest in their work, but Thickett and Boyle, ably supported by Johnson, Morren and Needham defended. About fifteen minutes after the interval, however Abbott set the left wing going, and from a long, swinging centre from Sharp, Turner dashed up and headed smartly past Foulkes, thus equalising the score. From the centre-kick, Turner was again making tracks for goal when he was unceremoniously bundled over by Johnson, and from the ensuing free kick Foulke saved smartly. After Almond had shot outside at the other end, Johnson cleared well in front of goal, and then conceded a corner kick. This was followed by a second, but on each occasion the United defence proved too good. A smart bit of work by Johnson set Bennett going, and a grand run and centre by the latter saw Priest shout the wrong side of the post. Hereabout's the United forwards were doing remarkably well against the wind, and another centre by Bennett was well headed away by Booth. Bennett forced a corner kick, following which Muir saved from Hedley. Then Everton again got down, and Boyle cleared well from Turner, and a hot shot at long range from Balmer was well disposed of by Foulke. Hedley next received a good pass forwards and bursting through appeared to have the goal at his mercy, but the effort proved too much for him, and he shot outside. From the goal kick the Everton left wing raced down, and from a hot attack Foulke twice saved low shot, but hurt his leg, and play was stopped for a minute or so. Then the United forwards combined very well, Beers only just failing to score on one occasion, whilst a minute later Hedley nearly got through, but was overpowered by numbers, Muir eventually clearing easily. Time was fast drawing near, and considering the strong wind against them the United had done remarkably well, both in defence and attack. Following a bustling assault on the Sheffield goal Needham accidentally handled in trying to clear when nearer the corner flag than the goal. An appeal for a penalty was made, but after consulting one of the linesmen the appeal was not allow. There was less than five minutes to play, now and United looked certain of talking home a well and hard-earned point. At this juncture, however, a free kick was given against the Sheffielders, and from this Proudfoot, who was stood well up, got the ball past Foulke, the latter making a justifiable but unsuccessful appeal for off-side. From the centre kick the home team again dashed down, but the ball was sent back, only to see Abbott with a snap shot send, the ball against the crossbar, from where it rebounded into the net. The ball was no sooner taken to the centre than time was called and Everton thus won somewhat luckily as under: -
Everton 3 goals, Sheffield United Reserves 1 goal.
Everton: - Muir, goal; Balmer and Watson, backs; Wolstenholmes, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDonald, Proudfoot, Settle and Turner, forwards. Sheffield United: - Foulke, goal; Thickett and Boyle, backs; Johnson, Morren, and Needham, half-backs; Bennett, Beers, Hedley, Almond, and Priest, forwards. Referee Mr. A. Scragg, Crewe.
ST HELENS RECREATION 1 EVERTON RESERVES 4
October 8 1900. The Liverpool Mercury.
At St.Helens, before 4,000 spectators. Everton played against the wind in the first half, and the game was rather in favour of the Recreation, who scored from a scrimmage. The play was fast, and corners to St.Helens were frequent. Gray nearly lowered the home goal. Both teams played a smart game. Half time St Helens 1 goal Everton nil. Final time. Everton 4 goals, St.Helens 1.(Game 6) Everton: - Kitchen goal, Halliday, and Eccles, backs, Taylor (j), Brown, and Taylor (r), halfbacks, Roche Dawson Worthington, Gray, and Corrin, forwards.
EVERTON REVIEW
October 8 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton's victory over Sheffield United was by no means of no pronounced a character as the score would appear to denote, and it was only in the last five minutes than an irresistible dash enabled the local team to claim the verdict by three goals to one. To the majority of the spectators a draw of one goal each seemed the most likely result up to a time when the game had almost run its course, and the starting and dense of the change which immediately followed was as surprising as it was welcome. A glance at the composition of the visitors team will show that it was the same combination that took in the noted series of Cup-ties-in which Liverpool also distinguished themselves-and finally won the English Cup, two season's ago. Since then illness and injuries have played havoc in the midst, and after these varied vicissitudes it was a pleasure to renew the sequsintance with the victors of many a hard fought battle. They gave many glimpses of the combination which bore them successfully through an unprecedented series of struggles, and though new players have come and gone, the United evidently consider their veterans better than the best of their novices. They certainly gave Everton a rare good game, and with a little bit of luck might have emerged victorious. They were a goal ahead after ten minutes play-a lead which they retained until the second half had been some time in progress-and after Everton had equalised, the United missed one of the most simple chances of again forging ahead, a failure which cost them the game. How Hedley after running clean through the Everton defence, managed to shoot outside the upright is one of those mysteries, that will ever remain unsolved, but it is safe to say that had the goal been scored-as in nine cases out of ten it would have been-at this juncture, the ultimate result would have probably been disastrous for Everton. As it was they profited by the slice of luck, and going strongly in the last few minutes, fairly snatched a victory when such a result seemed almost impossible. Both sides had to wage warfare against a strong wind, and the advantage of having the elements in their favour was most noticeable in the general run of the play. The United prevailed in the first half to a great extent on the account alone, and whilst Muir was kept busily employed Foulkes had only on rare occasions to handle. In the second half, the conditions were reversed, and Everton were even slightly more dangerous in the moiety than their opponents had previously been. But taking the game all round, there was little to choice between the teams. The Everton forwards were not more efficient than the front rank of the Blades, the only difference being in the style adopted to achieve success. Whilst the home quintet tried short passing, which was, by the way, too frequently-intercepted by the watchful United halves, the visitors went in for long swinging crosses from centre to wing, and thence to opposite wing. The superfluous trickery of the Everton inside men itself, often defeated its object, and in infusion of the Sheffield lunges would have acted like a beneficial tonic. Sharp was not sufficiently attended to, particularly in the second half, and when it is seen that the three goals were obtained almost directly from the centres, this seems somewhat strange. The tussles between Settle and Foulkes were most humorous, but it is perhaps, as well that the big goalkeeper has a genial temper, for he has been known to fall on some players for similar offences, and one would not like to see the Everton skipper obliterated. The halves were fairly successful, and Balmer gave a splendid display, but Watson was decidedly weak in tackling, and the two busy B's on the United right bothered him considerably. Both goalkeepers rendered excellent services, some shots bringing them full length in clearing, whilst others required delicate manipulation. Balmer provided-a surprise with his long ranges items, and there was no mistaking the necessary of his aim, but Foulkes held the fort gallantly and some of his saves smacked of the goal artist, so neatly were they accomplished. The United halves were about on a pair with those on the home side, reaching a fairly level standard without being unduly prominent, whilst of the backs Thickett could lay claim to pre-eminence. Emulating the methods of successful entertainers, the Everton players reserved their choicest selection for the closing item, and whereas up to this period the bulk of their audience had been somewhat gloomy, their final rush sent the crowd away with a cheerful smile of satisfaction, overspreading their countenances.
MANCHESTER CITY 1 EVERTON 0 (Game 347)
October 15 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
These teams met at Hyde-road, before about 20,000 spectators. The sides were as follow: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer, and Watson, backs, Wolstenholmes, Booth, and Abbott, halfbacks, Sharp, McDonald, Proudfoot, Settle (captain), and Turner, forwards. Manchester City: - Williams, goal, Read, and Jones, backs, Moffatt, Smith and Holmes, halfbacks, Meredith, Davies, Cassidy, Williams (f), and Dougal, forwards. The City won the toss, and had the wind and sun in their favour, and Everton were the first to attack dangerously, but the ball was quickly away on the home left, and Muir had to concede a corner from a smart header from Davies. Balmer put in good defensive work, and following pressure on the Everton goal, Muir mulled a long shot from Moffatt, though he fortunately recovered himself and cleared. In close following, Turner and Settle put in clinking shot, and when the letter was again kicking for goal, Read pulled him up unfairly, and nearly brought about disaster. Dashing away Dougal centred almost from the line, and Cassidy being well up put the ball past Muir. Abbott then missed from a long range and Proudfoot shot into Williams hands, whilst at the other end Muir brought off capital saves from Davies and Cassidy. Shortly afterwards, Sharp failed to take a pass when favourably placed, and at the interval the score remained unaltered. Soon after resuming McDonald put in a magnificent shot which kept out by throwing himself full length and this was followed by an effort from Wolstenholmes, which brought about a fruitless corner. Following an effort by Turner. Sharp missed badly, and during the next few minutes Meredith and Davies, led Abbott and Watson a merry dance, with the result that plenty of work was found for the City left wing. Balmer was successful in keeping out the home forwards, and an attempt on his part to score, called for Williams best attention. Towards the close the Everton forwards put a big effort forward to get on level terms, and were somewhat unfortunate in not achieving their object. McDonald was in the way of a shot by Proudfoot, and during the last few minutes the home custodian was frequently called upon. No scoring was, however, forthcoming, and the City win a hard game. Result Manchester City 1 Everton nil.
EVERTON RESERVES 3 MANCHESTER CITY RESERVES 1
October 15 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
At Goodison Park. Everton started with a strong breeze, but after some midfield play the visitors left got away the attack being maintained for a little while. Everton forwards by good passing reached the end where Worthington shot wide. The visitors had another turn, a shot from Harvey hitting the crossbar. After this near shave the home forwards cane away in good style, the left wing being prominent and after Gray had just missed, Taylor centred well, but Nixon efforts were valueless. The City backs struck to their work, and several well meant attacks came to nought. The City forwards at length got away, and after more aggressive work by Everton they came again. Kitchen saving well from Scotson. Cox saved a couple of shots, and he again distinguished himself in several other attacks. Towards the interval the City forwards began to put on pressure. After the resumption Dartnall scored for the visitors. Each goal had narrow escapes, Everton being the more persistent. Dawson and Worthington scored before the close, and Everton winning by 3 goals to 1. (Game 7) Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Halliday, and Eccles, backs, Taylor (J), Blythe, and Taylor (r), halfbacks, Nixon, Dawson, Worthington, Gray, and Corrin, forwards .
EVERTON REVIEW
October 15 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
Local follows of the game quite anticipated that Everton's visit to Manchester would have resulted in the annexation of full points, and that these were not forthcoming must to them have come as a big surprise. When one scans the personnel of the respective teams, and then takens into consideration the actual run of the game, it cannot be denied that football is a game shrouded with uncertainty. The City team, with but one exception was the team that waded through the difficulties of Second League Football, and that they should defeat a combination of what is generally conceded bright particular stars of the football world, redounds greatly to their credit. That their victory was well earned goes without saying, and to their success must be attributed the whole heartedness of their work, which stood out in marked contrast to the go-as-you-pleasue methods of the visitors. From first to last they were exceptionally keen on the ball, were tolerant but occasionally and when matters became somewhat involved, there was always in big effort forthcoming, which would turn the side in their favour. The Evertonians were evidently of one mind, as far as the ultimate issue was concerned, for almost to a man their best efforts were apparently reserved for the closing stages, but unfortunately for them, there was not the repetition of the Sheffield United match in store, and it was painfully and forcibly demonstrated that they must keep themselves freely extended throughout the game if success is top crown their efforts. What the ‘'Cits'' lacked in skill, and by comparison this was but little, they certainly made amends by their untiring efforts to monopolise the play and not even the most ordinary observer of the game could begrudge them victory. One was not prepared for a moderate exhibition by the Everton forwards, and though there were weaknesses noticeable in other departments, the adverse issue must be in great measure attributed to them. The electric flashes of Sharp, the dash of Proudfoot, and the general effectiveness of Settle and Turner were wanting and it was only on odd occasions that a wholly concerted movement was indulged in. the persistent go-aheadness of the whole of the City van was a striking feature of the game, and it is a somewhat usual item, so far as the Everton club is concerned to chorine that the right wing pair were allowed to cut out the play to their own particularly liking. Abbott was perhaps overgenerous by competition in his attentions to the winger, but it was at full back where the greatest quarter was allowed, as on several occasions Watson frequently paid the penalty of hesitating by greatly endangering his side. In Balmer was a great source of strength; his fearless tackling, clean kicking, not to mention a splendid shot levelled at the City goal, were efforts that were duly appreciated by the big crowd, while in goal, with but one slip, which nearly proved fatal, no exception could be taken to the display by Muir. Booth and Wolstenholmes played a clever game, and it was unfortunate for the club that those in front of them could not make better use of their chances, afforded them from this quarter. While the forwards were not as a body united, there were several fine individual efforts, and shots that with ordinary luck, would have brought about the desired result. During the progress of the game, Williams the home custodian, effected smart saves from McDonald, Settle, and Wolstenholmes, one under almost impossible conditions, but still, there was not that [leasing display that has characterised the line as a whole in their previous engagements, and it is to be hoped that the players will bear in mind that close pursuit of the ball, and concerted action are more likely attributes to success than individual effort. For chasing the leather the home forwards were veritable gluttons, and while there was a general distribution of the work along the line, special mention must be made to Meredith, who took full advantage of the quarter allowed him, and initiated many dangerous movements. There appeared to be some doubt as to whether the offside rule had been infringed, when the City secured the only goal of the match, but the linesman was in a good position for judging the point, and it was on his decision that the referee awarded. The halves were a hard working trio, and Jones, Read, and Williams formed a powerful defence. On the play the City fully deserved to win, and by their victory they have reversed the result of last season, when they were defeated at home by two goals to one.
GLASGOW CELTIC 1 EVERTON 0
October 22 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
T Booth penalty kick saved
The Everton Football Club had an off day, so far as league football was concerned, and the gap was filled with an engagement at Park head, against the famous Celtic Club. Both teams were at their full representation, as will be seen from the following list of players. Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer and Watson backs, Wolstenholmes, Booth, and Abbott, halfbacks, Sharp, McDonald, Proudfoot, Settle (captain), and Turner forwards. Celtic: - McArther goal, Wilson and Battles, backs Russells, McNeill, and Lonte halfbacks, Gray, Campbell Divers, McMahon, and McCostra, forwards. The Celtic opened the game but were at once forced to take up a defensive attitude and for some time the Evertonians quite held the position. McArther saved several good shots and the backs were also successful in meeting many ugly rushes on their charge. Eventually one of the home backs came under the notice of the referere, who awarded a penalty kick . This was entrusted to Booth and McArther rising again to the occasion, prevented the shot from taking effect. Immediately afterwards the ball was at the other end, and Muir was kept busily employed. The Everton backs eventually cleared, and once again the visiting forwards were in possession, but could not score. Half time Celtic nil, Everton nil. On resuming the visitors continued to have the better of the play, but encountered stubborn resistance in McArther, and the backs. Play became more interesting and eventually Gray from a free kick, scored the only goal of the match, the final being Celtic 1 goal Everton nil.
LIVERPOOL RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 2
October 29 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The reserve teams of the above clubs met at Anfield, before 15,000 spectators, to decide the first fixture in the Lancashire Combination. The teams were as follow: - Liverpool: - Storey, Goal, Geary, and Morris, backs, Howell Hunter, and Parry halfbacks, Soulsby, McGuigan, Ferrier, Hunter (s), and Davies, forwards. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Halliday and Eccles, backs Taylor (j), Blythe, and Taylor (r), halfbacks Roche, Dawson, Worthington, Chadwick, and Corrin, forwards. Referee Mr. Sutcliffe, Burnley. Liverpool opened with rare dash, and for the first quarter of an hour had most of the play. A strong rush by the whole front rank broke through the Everton defence and McGuigan scored the first goal. After this Everton were more aggressive, the Liverpool backs being weak, particularly on the right wing, and after several narrow escapes, the home goal was capturned by Worthington whilst a few minutes later Roche added a second. This was the position of affairs at half-time and on resuming, Everton had numerous openings owing to faulty back play on the Liverpool side, but nothing definite resulted. Chadwick scored an off-side goal, but at length one of the Everton backs handled, and McGuigan equalised. Nothing further was done, the Result being Everton 2; Liverpool 2.
NOTTS FOREST 2 EVERTON 1 (Game 348)
October 29 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
These League teams met on the Forest ground on Saturday, before about 12,000 spectators. Everton played Beveridge, late of the Forest, in the centre forward position, while the home side was at its usual representation. At three o'clock the teams faced as follows: - Everton: - Muir goal, Balmer, and Watson backs, Wolsteholmes, Booth, and Abbott halfbacks, Sharp McDonald, Beveridge, Settle (captain) and Turner forwards. Notts Forest: - Linacre, goal, Peers, and Iremonger backs, Robinson, Forman, and Norris halfbacks, Forman (f), Capes Calvey, Morris, and Spouncer forwards. The forest had the better of the opening play, which was marked by a clever attempt on the part of Spouncer to find the net. At the other end Turner put behind, following which the visiting backs were kept well employed, from a couple of corner kicks. The Everton left relieved, and when a favourable opportunity presented itself Abbott shot wildly over the bar. For some considerable time play was contested in the home half, and had the Everton forwards shown their usual command of the ball they must have scored on more than one occasion. Settle came near the mark with a terrific shot and then followed a capital movement on the home left, which resulted in the downfall of the Everton goal. It was initiated by Spouncer, who on being tackled by Wolstenholmes passed back to Morris, and was again put in possession. Capes, who headed past Muir after play had been in progress 25 minutes, splendidly timed his centre. Lanacre accounted for a corner to Everton, and on returning again Booth put in a capital shot, which was also ably attended to. No further scoring took place up to the interval, when the Forest led by 1 goal to nil. Shortly after resuming Beveridge had to retire for a few minutes, owing to a collision. The home players had the better of matters for some time, and Muir was thrice called upon one of the shots being levelled at his charge by Iremonger. On the venue being changed, Peers received a nasty knock, and was carried off, but he was soon back again. Sharp made a couple of good attempts to get through, but at this period the home halves offered stubborn resistance and on a further return to the Everton and Capes gave Forman a fine opening to centre, and Morris rushing up promptly headed into the net. Muir was again busy, but eventually play became even. Still Everton did not look like scoring and when in possession they were easily beaten by the home defenders. Towards the close, Turner shot against the bar, and Booth put towards the net, when Forman handled the ball. A penalty kick was awarded from which Settle scored, and Notts Forest won a hard game by 2 goals to 1.
EVERTON RESERVES 4 STOCKPORT COUNTY RESERVES 0
October 29 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
At Goodison Park. Everton started, the visitors opening well. Everton afterwards pressed heavily. Corrin and Worthington scoring. Moores kept goal splendidly, and nothing further was scored before the interval. After resuming Worthington got a third point, and a quarter of an hour later Corrin scored a fourth. Everton pressed to the finish, but Moores kept goal finely. Result Everton 4 goals, Stockport nil. (Game 9) Everton: - Kitchen goal Halliday and Eccles, backs, Taylor (j) Green, and Taylor (r) halfbacks, Roche, Barlow Worthington Gray, and Corrin, forwards.
EVERTON REVIEW
October 29 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The display of the Everton team at Nottingham as a body was most disappointing and to one particular division on failure be attributed. Not in any previous game this season have there been such moderate efforts, such wild attempts and much an meven distribution of work among the forwards. They never looked like scoring, and to their lack of method must be accounted the downfall of the side. In the last three games played away from home, they have scored but one goal-a penalty-and that they should have been able to find the net at all on Saturday came somewhat as a surprise, for they never during the game looked like defeating the home custodian. During the greater portion of the first half the right wing pair were comparatively spectators. Both Sharp and McDonald were generally let to make their own play, and from the manner in which they than acquitted themselves, it was but natural to expect that at least they would come in for a far amount of support. When it is also kept in mind that the Evertonians were even then more than holding their own, it emphasises the fact thatt had these been a general distribution of the work all along the line, they must have scored early on, and laid a foundation to ultimate success. Such is a highly probable comclusion to arrive at for there was nothing above the average of defensive play shown by their opponents, and to the lack of judgement, it judgement there was any must be attributed the loss of two points. They had an excellent chance of improving their position, and from players of such undoubted ability it is somewhat perplexing to account for suelran elementary exposition as they gave the Forest ground. In marked contrast stood out the methods adopted by the home van. Everyman was full of his own responsibility, and there was a harmonious working that charterised the line as a quintet likely to take advantage of the least latitude afforded them and score. When a movement was made for goal, each flanked the other to a nicety, and when the feet were not available, heading was indulged in with consummate success. Indeed, the two goals scored by them were headed past Muir after clever play and centres from the wings, and against a less resourceful goalkeeper than Muir the Forest might have doubled their score by similar methods. Had the play of the Everton defenders paled to a similar level as that of the attacking line there could only have been one ending and that rout. The excellence of this branch put a very favourable complexion on the game for during the greater portion of the first half, and towards the close, Everton held a more favourable position in the field, than did their opponents. Balmer played faultlessly, and to judge from his performances in games played so far this season, he cannot fairly be deprived of international honours. His tackling and kicking were superb and especially did his great resources come under prominent notice when the conditions were almost against him. Watson improved upon his display at Manchester and to this part of the team, and in goal, must be accorded the greatest meed of praise. There was little room for adverse criticism among the halfbacks, who were in-consequence of the inability of those in front, to carry out a definite plan of campaign, kept busily employed in stemming the speedy movements of the Forest forwards. The home side have apparently not suffered much by the transfer of Beveridge for Calvey kept his wings well employed, and the, whole line maintained a level equality that served them to greater advantage than individual effort would have accomplished. Spouncer's centres were invariably well timed and dangerous and on the other wing the wily Capes found many openings for Forman, but to their close pursuit of the ball and accurate heading was their success mainly due and the halves completed favourably while the play of the full backs did not soar above the average standard. Linacre had a few shots to dispose of, but was not severely tested. It was but a moderate game when one taken into consideration the abilities of the players, but there could be no question as to the issue being deservedly favourable to the Forest.
NOTTS FOREST V EVERTON.
October 29, 1900. Glasgow Herald.
Fine weather favoured the meeting of these teams at Nottingham, and about 10,000 people assembled on the ground. The match was of a great important, for Notts Forest had done better than any other club in the League competition, and Everton also had a good record. The visitors played Beveridge late of the Forest, in place of Proudfoot. The opening exchanges went in favour of Everton, but after 25 minutes' play Spouncer broke away, and Cape scored for the Forest. Everton then attacked again, but they were weak in front of goal, and try as they would they were unable to get through. Half-time arrived with the Forest leading by one goal to nil. On resuming, Beveridge, Peers, and Spouncer were hurt, but they were all able to resume. Morris scored the second goal for the Forest. The home side appeared to have much the best of matters, but before the finish Everton dashed away, and Settle scored from a penalty. In the end Notts Forest won by two goals to one.
October 1900