NEW PLAYER FOR STOKE
London Daily News - Saturday 01 October 1904
Stoke have succeeded in arranging for the transfer of James Sheridan, inside right, from Everton. Sheridan stands five feet seven and a half inches, weighs 11st., and is 21 next April. During the time has played with Everton he has gained five International caps for Ireland. He is reputedly a good player, but with Everton has not had the opportunities his skill would seem to have justified. The amount of his transfer fee has not transpired, but it is considerable.

Played for Everton between 1900-04 before moving to Reading

ROBERT KELSO OF RENTON
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Saturday 01 October 1904
At the age of 17 he became a member of the "Village" senior team, and at 13 assisted in the winning of the Scottish cup. In so doing he displayed so commendable form that shortly afterwards the Scottish Association selected him to do battle on their behalf against both Ireland and Wales. Twelve months later the latter honour was repeated, but next season the S.F. Association went a step further, and not only conferred non him a third Welsh cap, but English one as well. in season 1887-88 he again occupied a place in the team against England, but a few months thereafter he shook the dust of his native country off his feet and crossed the Tweed. Newcastle was his destination, but after a short season amongst the Northumbarians he transfered his services to preston North End and in the Deepdale team he figured for a couple of terms at right back. In season 1891-92 he again moved his camp, migrating to Liverpool to the Everton Clubs. Leaving Everton along with John Hillman, the pair found their way to Dundee. While here Kelso received international distinction. This was against Ireland in 1898, and it is remarkable that first cap should have been received no fewer than 13 years previously. he played twice against England, three times against Wales, and twice against Ireland, and also gained a League cap against Ireland. On leaving Dundee, Kelso went to Bristol, and is now once more home in the county of his birth, still able to kick leather. As a player Kelso was of the reboust order, but contrary to what is usual with this class he was possessed of great skill, and it took a very clever forward indeed to get the better of him. While with Everton he became a full back, and in this position he seemed almost to be a football magnet. I have never seen a man who could play a back game, and a good one too, in less ground. In his latter days he was a wonderful sight as he stood up to the atatcks of the forwards. He old speed had deserted him, both knees were bandaged, and even his ankles were held together with specially constructed leather straps, but his pluck was indomitable, and his skill and experience unimpaired. These carried him through.

TOO MUCH FOR EVERTON.
London Daily News - Monday 03 October 1904
A finely contested game at Middlesbrough resulted in a victory for the home side by one goal to nil. Middlesbrough dropped Smith, Astley, and Roberts for Jones, Cassidy, and Goodson; and Everton had Ashworth centre half instead Booth. During the opening half the exchanges were fairly even, the visitors having, perhaps, rather the best of matters. The home defence was sound, however, and at the interval nothing had been done. The solitary goal of the match came as the result some clever combined work by Brown and Atherton, an opening being made by Getting, who beat Crelly and shot into the net.

MIDDLESBROUGH 1 EVERTON 0
October 3, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Everton played the first of the season's engagements with the northern club at Middlesbrough on Saturday, and owing to injuries were without the services of Booth, Abbott, and Sharp, S.B.Ashworth, however made his first appearance in the team, Taylor going centre half. The other places were filled by Rankin and Makepeace. Middlesbrough were strongly represented, the teams being as follows: - Everton: - Scott goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs, Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs, Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Middlesbrough: - Williamson. Goal, Hogg, and Blackett backs, Aitkens, Jones and Davidson, half-backs, Gettins, Atherton Brown, Cassidy, and Goodson forwards. Referee Mr. Bailey (Lancaster) Brown opened the play for Middlesbrough, but Everton who had a strong sun at their backs, at once got away, but found in Hogg a ready defender. The home centre them led on a strong movement which looked like bringing a tangible point, when Taylor nipped in and gave to Settle, who conjunction with Hardman, made tracks to the home end. The latter put well in, and Blackett in clearing gave a corner kick, which, however, brought no advantage. The Everton forwards were at this juncture having much the best of the play, but they could not get in a parting shot, and then followed a dangerous rush by the home van. All the forwards were concerned in this movement, and Ashworth charged down a splendid drive from Davidson. Everton attacked and Hardman was just about to shoot when Hogg very unfairly charged him, but the free kick came to nothing. A further raid unfortunately ended in Taylor being penalised, and by gradual stages the play veered to the Everton half of the field. Rankin was next prominent with a run along the right and a capital shot at goal, but Williamson gathered the ball well, and then followed some smart work between the home half-backs and forwards, which resulted in the Everton backs being kept busy for some little time. A breakaway, in which Settle played a prominent part, came to nothing, and following a hugh clearance by Blackett the Middlesbrough quintet raced away in fine line, but their only rewards were a couple of corner kicks to both of which, Taylor attended. The Everton left wing pair were again prominent, but shooting was rare, though on one occasion a forward pass from Settle to Young called out Williamson. Brillaint forward play by Everton prevailed for some time. Hardman and Settle being mostly concerned, but the former came in for some rough gruelling by the burly Hogg. Coming once again the winger put in a brilliant shot, which would certainly have found its billets had not Hogg, more by good luck than management, got his leg in the way and diverted it besides the post. The corner kick came to nothing. But following a brief space at the visitors end the Evertonians once more monopolised the bulk of the play, though as before neither Blackett nor Hogg stopped at anything to keep them out. Everton's long spell of pressure was broken by a smart bit of combination by the home team right wing pair forcing a corner. Balmer and Crelly saved the situation subjected the visitors goal to a very severe pressure, but some fine defensive work. Atherton, but was palpably offside put returning again Brown in possession after smart play. A long sprint by Rankin changed the venue but his shot was not in keeping with his run, for a poor attempt was made to find the net, and as equally feeble attempt came from Young a moment later. Then was followed by a brilliant shot from Hardman and a fine save by the custodian. The closing stages of the first half found Everton pressing without result. Half-time Middlesbrough nil, Everton nil. On resuming the Evertonians had to face the breeze and sun. In the first minute Crelly miskicked and almost let in Brown, but Balmer came to the rescue and a clearance was effected. Danger averted, the visitors fairly pulled themselves together, and a desperate attack was made upon the home goal. On one occasion Rankin, when shooting strongly from short range, drove hard against Blackett, forcing a corner, and directly afterwards an effort from McDermott was charged down in the goalmouth. The home defence eventually prevailed, and by a series of short passing movement's play was taken to the other end, where Brown passed to Gettins for the latter to run through and score a fine goal. After this Everton pressed, and a well placed corner kick by Hardman was luckily got away by Blackett, though a moment later Williamson was almost beaten by a swift, low shot from Ashworth. The last named player had been putting in much good work, and just now was deeding McDermott and Ramkin repeatedly, but as before the home defenders were in one of their most stubborn moods. On two occasions Settle nearly got through, but Hogg cleared, and although Everton pressed in the closing stages, they failed to get on terms. Middlesbrough 1, Everton nil.

EVERTON RESERVES 0 STOCKPORT COUNTY RESERVES 1
October 3, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 5)
This game was played at Goodison Park, before 5,000 people. Green scored for the visitor before the interval, and this proved to be the winning point. Everton played a very poor game all through, and were deservedly beaten. Everton: - Dent, goal, Wildman and R.Balmer backs Hanlin T.C.Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs, Roberts, A.N.Other, Cadwell, McAdam and Dilly forwards.

A SHOCK FOR EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 03 October 1904
A dull and uninteresting game was seen at Goodison Park between the Everton second string and Stockport County.  The visitors scored the only goal of the match before the interval.  Green being responsible for the point.  In the front line Everton shaped wretchedly, there being an utter lack of combined effort.  For the visitors, Green and Bardsley were the most prominent forwards, and of the backs, Heywood and Butler accomplished some creditable work.  Everton are by no means playing like champions, and judging them from their form this season they will have to relinquish the title. 

Jack Played for Everton Season 1898-99 Season

GOAL TOO GOOD FOR EVERTON.
Athletic News - Monday 03 October 1904
By Vulcan.
Middlesbrough have fared so indifferently in their League engagements that success, even on their own ground at Ayresome Park against the clever Everton team was not anticipated, and to win by the only goal obtained in a well fought match caused their previous shortcomings to be forgotten by their supporters. It is not the first time Everton have fallen at Middleborough. Last season they went under by three goals to none, and they were previously beaten as on Saturday by one goal to none. After the debacle at Derby the Middlesbrough directorate made a change in the team, leaving out Dave Smith and Roberts and bringing back into their old positions Jones at centre half and Goodson as outside left. Jones was supposed to have completely recovered from the injury to his ankle in the Sheffield Wednesday match a month ago, although twice during the game he went limping about after a slight collision with an opponent, but Goodson, who has been out of the team for twelve months, seems to have thoroughly recuperated and to have become as promising before. There was a crowd of 10.000 persons when Middlesbrough kicked off. The first quarter of an hour's play was almost entirely in favour of the home players, but the visitors’ goal in that period was once in danger. Gettins put in a capital centre, which Brown tried to head in but missed, and the leather going to Cassidy, the latter failed to gather the ball, which was smartly secured and shot in by Goodson. Scott managed cleverly to avert what looked like becoming a goal. Everson got away, and Taylor and Rankin each gave Williamson shots which he had no sooner cleared than the Middiesbrough defence was again engaged. McDermott had three chances, but he sent over the bar the first time. Next, from a free kick near the penalty area, he shot hard against Jones, and then he sent into the hands of Williamson. The remainder of the first half was principally noticeable for some good runs by Hardman and Rankin, who, however, seldom got pass Hogg and  Blackett, and for capital goal keeping by Scott, who had to deal with a few dazzling shots from Brown, Gettins, and Jones. The game, which had been fairly fast in the first half, was Improved in regard to pace after the resumption by the visitors. Rankin and Settle had chances, which they missed.  Middlesbrough broke away, and after a wide shot by Gettins, Brown got possession. He pasted on to Atherton, and the latter, after one his usually pretty dribbles, put Gettins in possession. The latter, with both backs beaten, drove a beauty into the net from dozen yards’ range.  Scott tried to reach the ball but failed, and it is only fair to him to say that it would have beaten any goalkeeper. Although Everton were sharper on the ball and more alert generally they were very seldom dangerous. Williamson was not tested more than half-a-dozen times in the first half, and in the second portion not more than twice. All their forwards played well, particularly Hardman and Rankin. Hardman received the ball in the finest style and centred grandly, and Rankin the opposite wing was conspicuous for pace and passing. Settle did not show his usual cleverness, for Hogg was a thorn in his fresh.  The fault of the visiting forwards seemed to be a want of effectiveness and straight shooting when they got anywhere near the home goal.  The half-backs and backs played a sound game.  Scott was all that could be desired as custodian.  He was better with his hands than his feet, and many of his saves were remarkably fine. 
Middlesbrough stayed better than Everton, and the arranged team seems likely, with a little more practice together, to become awkward customers to tackle on their own pitch by even the very best teams. There is room for improvement amongst the forwards, the best of whom were Gettins, Brown, Atherton, and Goodson. Although the middle pair were closely watched and were not afforded many opportunities.  Goodson promises to develop into what Middlesbrough has long wanted, a really good outside left.  He quickly got into his stride on obtaining possession, and he centred fairly well.  Cassidy has played better.  The half backs formed a capital trio, Jones being the most conspicuous.  Hogg and Blackett were splendid backs, particularly Hogg, who was the best man on the field in his position.  Blackett’s long clean kicking proved exceedingly serviceable.  Williamson in goal made some magnificent saves in the first half.  After the interval he was seldom troubled.  Middlesbrough; Williamson; Hogg, and Blackett; Aitkin, Jones, and Davidson; Gettins, Atherton, Brown, Cassidy, and Goodson.  Everton; Scott; Balmer, and Crelley; Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.  Referee; Mr. J.W. Bailey, Leicester. 

EVERTON REVIEW
October 3, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
In losing at Middlesbrough on Saturday, Everton only bore out previous experiences. Including the game under notice, they have on three occasions participated in league encounters on the ground of the northern club and it is rather remarkable that they have not yet succeeded in scoring even a goal against the Teessiders. Their record certainly does not afford pleasant reading seeing that they have been defeated by 1-0, 3-0, and now again 1-0. There is nothing in the nature of the ground itself to account for this lack of success, and apparently the cause is to be found in that inexplicable fatality which appears to follow certain teams when figuring on certain grounds. While for the third time this season Everton succumbed away from home, it is worthy of note that on each occasion an odd goal has sufficed to gave the maximum points to their opponents. Even admitting the strenuous work of the home side, the Goodison Park eleven need not have left both points behind them had their force been in anything like decent form when in front of goal. Indeed, the keynotes of the defeat was furnished during the first half, when with the sun and the wind in their favour, more than one glorious chance of placing the ball in the net was it, some unaccountable fashion thrown away. Probably the fact that Middlesbrough had not opened the season in a manner to please their supporters had not a little to do with the extra effort they put forth to regain favour. At the same time, it was in no small measures owing to Everton's inability to turn to advantage numerous openings which occurred during the first half of the game that buoyed up the Middlesbrough side and eventually led to victory, which was as pleasing to the northern club as it was disappointing to Everton. Once again the Evertonians were handicapped by the absence of such men as Sharp, Booth, and Abbott; but against this they enjoyed the services of their latest amateur recruit S.B.Ashworth, who, it must be said, made a distinctly creditable debut with the club of his adoption. With the amateur filling the right half position, the ubiquitous Taylor was called upon to fill the position which Tom Booth for several seasons past has made his own. In this unaccustomed role the veteran rather surprised those who know his work best by the aptitude, which he displayed and by the restraint he placed upon himself in keeping to his own position. Undoubtedly he did capital work, and with an improved exhibition by Makepeace, the half-back line could in no wise be blamed for Everton's defeat. Neither could the backs of the goalkeeper come under the ban of adverse criticism, for their work throughout was neatly and cleverly accomplished. As has been indicated, what blame there was attached to the forward line. There was not that combination, nor even individual efforts which one expects from forward of the ability possessed by those now serving the Everton club. Hardman was far and away the best of the line, and it was a pity that his skilful and lion hearted efforts were not supplemented by his colleagues. He had a particularly vigorous customer to deal with in Hogg but nothing daunted, he was always after the ball, and he had the satisfaction of troubling Williamson almost as much as his four colleagues put together. Rankin and McDermott were by no means so effective a wing as in the last away match at Newcastle. At times they were clever enough, but there was wanting just that little extra effort which is all important in these days of fierce League competition. Young was evidently off colour for he failed not only to utilise chances, which came his way, but to render that assistance to his wings which one reasonably expects from a class centre forward. There was nothing of a scientific character about the play of Middlesbrough; they rely almost entirely upon dash and vigour and, although there was a suspicion of offside about the goal which gave then the victory. On the general run of the game one could not begrudge them their success.

Sketch of Edgar Chadwick now of Blackpool

H.B. SINGLETON
Hastings and St Leonards Observer - Saturday 08 October 1904
H.B. Singleton, (Forward) -Born 1880. Height, 5ft 9ins, Weight, 12st 3lbs, Joined Grimsby from Everton, for 1902-03 season. Last season New Brompton.

EVERTON 2 WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 1
October 10, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Jimmy Settle penalty kick, saved by Badderley
The visit of Wolverhampton Wanderers to Goodison-park on Saturday attracted a “gate” of over 15,000 spectators, the weather being fine until well on in the second half, Everton were still without the services of Booth and Abbott, but Sharp was able to resume his position at outside right, with S.B.Ashworth made his first appearance for Everton at Goodison Park. The Wolves were at full strength, the teams being as follows: - Everton: - Scott goals, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs S.B.Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers: - Baddeley, goal, Jones and Batteley, backs, Whitehouse, Walker and Annis, half-backs, Baynam, Haywood, Woolridge, Smith, and Miller, forwards. The Wolves had forsaken their own familiar colours of old gold and black stripes, and appeared in white jerseys, and black knickers. Young kicked off with the sun at the backs of the Everton players. Right from the start the Everton left wing was prominent, and by exceedingly tricky play Hardman worked his way past several opponents, and called upon Baddeley to fist away a dangerous centre. The smart passing of the Everton forwards pleased the crowd immensely, and the Wolves defence had a very anxious time. On one occasion Battely miskicked, but he managed to recover himself in time, and thus stayed off disaster. A moment later the same player rendered his side great services in dealing with another dangerous attack by the Everton right wing. The Wolves then broke away, and from a centre by Miller, Crelly conceded a corner, which however, came to nothing. Makepeace presented an opening to Young, with disregarding appeals for off-side, ran along and gave Baddeley no chance, the ball sailing into the net just under the bar. This success was well deserved, and it seemed to inspire the Evertonians for immediately afterwards Young called upon Baddeley, who cleverly succeeded in diverting a hot shot over the bar at the expense of a fruitless corner. Walker was winded, but soon resumed, and play continued for the most part in the Wolves half. Young and Settle were applauded for very pretty passing, but, as with previous movements, it led to nothing tangible. The Wolves then came down, but the incursion had no effect. A moment later Crelly distinguished himself by a brilliant clearance, and then the game was temporarily suspended though Smith being winded. The Everton forwards were now looking dangerous, but the Wolves' right back met the ball and returned it to midfield. The persistency of the Evertonians was very pronounced, and at this period they were giving their opponents plenty to do, as Settle shot finely but without success. Brilliant passing was again seen amongst the home forwards, the move resulting in a corner, which, however, was fruitless. The ball was sent in at long range, but it again went wide. As a result of this spell of hard work Everton were eventually rewarded. Young passed out to Sharp, who running round one of the Wolves backs, gave to Settle, who scored a beauty, the efforts being loudly cheered. A minute later Baddeley had a handful from Ashworth, the custodian just managed to keep it out. The Wolves with a spurt got near the Everton goal, where Annis put over, after which the “Blues and Whites” were on the aggressive, and Young after a smart movement shot through, but unfortunately was ruled off-side. This was succeeded almost immediately by a good shot by Young. The Wolves at length broke away, but their efforts were unrewarded. Everton were playing a fine game, and it may be said without hesitation that the attack was about the best which, has been sent at Goodison-park this season. Young next made an attempt from long range, but the ball went over. Settle had a grand chance with a clear opening, but shot wide. Half-time Everton 2, goals Wolves nil.
On resuming the Wolves attacked, but owing to some good clearances by the home backs their efforts were nullified, Jones, the right Wolverhampton back, shone conspicuously by some safe kicking on two occasions. The first thing of excitement in this half, was a really beautiful shot by Young, which Baddeley saved in a manner equally brilliant. Both sides were putting in their best, and the play was of a good class. Hardman was next conspicuous with a shot. Baddeley having to fist out, after which Whitehouse was penalised for charging Hardman unfairly, and a free kick was given, but resulted in nothing. One of the Wolverhampton halves was injured, and retired temporarily from the field of play. At this point there was a heavy shower of rain. Everton were passing most and the Wolves citadel barely missed disaster from a rasping shot by Settle, whilst a minute later Hardman called upon Baddeley. The visitors working gradually down made a raid on the home goal, and Miller sent in, but Scott fisted away. The clever passing abilities of the Evertonians again asserted themselves, and the Wolverhampton goal was again attacked. Everton had the best of the play, but Woolridge scored for Wanderers from a Penalty kick , given against Taylor for Handling. Everton were also awarded a penalty kick , after Settle, was brought down, but Baddeley saved Settle's shot, result Everton 2, Wolverhampton 1.

EVERTON AT THEIR BEST.
Athletic News - Monday 10 October 1904
In their match with Wolverhampton the Everton players gave one of their most brilliant expositions, and a finer display of football has not been seen in Liverpool for some considerable time. For once in a way the forwards were all in the same humour, and they moved with a smoothness and precision that was exhilarating to witness.  Young played his best game of the season, and after his two previous exhibitions the change came as a delightful surprise. The development of Makepeace is one of the most pleasing features to chronicle. He showed great judgment against the “Wolves,” and is thoroughly justifying his inclusion in the League eleven, to such an extent indeed that when it comes to a question of considering the claims of the present injured players it will be difficult to come to a decision.

EVERTON DOWN AGAIN
Athletic News - Monday 10 October 1904
Manchester United followed up their victory over Blackburn by beating the reserves of Everton on the Clayton enclosure.  When the game was commenced some 5,000 people had assembled, and saw the United score once in the initial half.  In the second portion Referee Fletcher awarded two penalty kicks in succession to the United.  Duckworth, the right half was entrusted with the kicks, but was only able to score from the second, and the final score was 2-1 for the United, McAdam scoring for the visitors just on time. 

BRILLIANT DISPLAY BY EVERTON.
Athletic News - Monday 10 October 1904
By Junius
It may appear somewhat curious to furnish such a headline to a game, wherein the victors simply prevailed by the narrow margin of a goal, but despite the fact that Everton only beat Wolverhampton Wanderers by 2 goals to 1. There can be no gain-saying the fact that had the “Blues” won by treble, or even quadruple this score, their superiority would not have been over-represented. Everton have earned the reputation of being an inconsistent team. There could, however, be no mistaking the excellence of their work against the “Wolves.” and their form in this match reminded me forcibly of their displays last Easter, when they overthrew Liverpool, the “Wolves,” and Sheffield Wednesday within four days. From forward to rear division there was not a weak spot, and the movements were at times so intricate that the visiting defenders were completely hood-winked by the sparkling character of the Everton onslaughts. Neither could the narrow nature of their success be wholly attributed to indifferent shooting, for taken all round the work near goal was skillful enough to have made the final figures more representative of the character of the play. But there was one, Baddeley, guarding the visitors’ citadel, and the sequel it is unnecessary to relate. Both teams were strongly represented as possible, and Everton started with a dazzling sun at their backs, which must have harassed the opposition. Straight from the commencement the home forwards showed that their intentions were strictly honourable, and from a lovely pass by Makepeace, Young dashed in, what time some of his opponents were clamouring for off-side, and scored with a fast rising ball. Occasionally breaking away, the Wanderers caused some uneasiness, but the finishing touches of Wooldridge and his comrades were weak, and Scott was seldom in difficulties. On the other hand, Baddeley had to exercise consummate judgment in dealing with further shots from Young, and eventually after combined movement by Haywood and Baynam the ball came out to Young, who flashed it across to Sharp, and trouble followed. The extreme winger easily raced round Betteley, and placing beautifully. Settle steered into the net. Then came a glorious chance to the “Wolves.’' Scott dropped the ball, in dealing with another right wing effort, and Annis had the goal to himself, but he skied the ball. To the interval Everton played perfect football, but Baddeley and his backs prevented further scoring. Similarly in the second half Everton were the masters, and Sharp, after running close in, appeared to have the goal at his mercy, but the International keeper dropped on his knees and saved. In another rousing rush Hardman got possession just as the custodian came out, but he lifted over the bar, and at the same time caught Baddeley’s wrist with his foot, which necessitated a slight stoppage. The keenest excitement came in the last five minutes, and two penalty kicks were awarded. From a sudden rush on the Wanderers’ right wing Taylor handled, and Wooldridge scored. Away went Everton, and Settle was tripped near goal: result, another penalty: but no score, for Settle shot against Baddeley. In every department of the team Everton seemed to have absolute control of the ball, and was simply delightful to witness their maneuvers. Recently the inside forwards have been prone to dalliance, and inclined to indulge in satiety of finesse, but such a fault could not be laid to their charge in this match. Young kept his wings moving splendidly, dealing out first to the speedy Sharp and then the other extremity of the line, where the Irrepressible Hardman was leading Whitehouse a merry dance, the most alluring chances, with delightful long swinging passes. These were invariably pounced upon—a flash along touch, and the ball was whipped across to the centre, where the inside men kept the “Wolves" defence in a state of tension. This was the real football, pure and unadulterated skillful battling against a rear division, which, though sturdily beating against the daring dashes of the home attack, was responsible mainly to its last line of resistance for preserving the narrow margin which divided the scores at the finish. Similarly in the half-back division every man was at the top of his form, Taylor reveling at centre, whilst Makepeace played a game which must make his masters gravely consider his permanent retention. Ashworth, on the right wing, was ever a thorn in the advance of Miller and Smith, and allowed them no latitude. The sympathetic feeling between the half hacks and forwards constituted one of the brightest features of the contest, and there is no doubt Everton all round were seen at their best, the football being of the highest class and carried on at a tremendous pace throughout. Not to be outdone, the full backs, and Crelley, were as efficient in defence as the men in front, their tackling being grand, whilst their returns were never at fault. Scott was thus allowed a walk-over. Of course, the Wanderers were knocking about, and their methods contrasted strangely with those of the home players. Rarely indeed did the visitors get into operation those noted rushes and daring raids in which they are so prone to indulge on their own turf, but they occasionally got well away, only, however, to finish with a half-hearted sort of shot which never looked like causing anxiety. Miller was the most prominent of the front line, though Baynam and Harwood were at times difficult to keep in check. The half backs were decidedly moderate, but further behind Jones and Betteley defended stoutly, though they were well-nigh run to a standstill by the Everton extreme wingers. Under the circumstances they gave a good display, whilst Baddeley kept a characteristic goal, and the manner in which he dealt with several shots close in. divining the purpose of the on-coming forward, was exceedingly clever. Everton; Scott; Balmer, and Crelley; S.B. Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Beddeley; Jones, Betteley; Whitehouse, Walker and Annis; Baynam, Haywood, Wooldridge, Smith, and Miller.  Referee; F. Brunt, Hanley. 

MANCHESTER UNITED RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 1
October 10, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 6)
At Bank-street. At the end of half an hour Mackie beat Kitchen. The interval arrived with the score 1-0 in favour of Manchester United. The second half was of a more even character United had two penalties, both of which were untrusted to Duckworth. The first was saved, in brilliant fashion by Kitchen, but the second rebounded off the custodian into the goal. McEwan scored for Everton. Result Manchester United 2 Everton 1. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Wildman, and R.Balmer, backs Hanlin Chadwick, and McCartney half-backs, Roberts Rankin, McAdams Caldwell, and Dilly forwards.

NEW PLAYER FOR EVERTON
October 10, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
On Friday, the directors of the Everton Football Club signed on as their new inside left forward William McLoughlin, of the Hamilton Academical Club. The new player is 24 years old, he stands 5 feet 10 inches high, and weights a little over 11 stone.

EVERTON REVIEW
October 10 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton have evidently developed a penchant exhibiting their best form when opposed by Wolverhampton Wanderers, and their fine display last Easter, when they defeated the midlands by two clear goals, will be readily recollected. In their most recent visit to Goodison Park, the Wolves were completely overplayed, and though they managed to keep the scoring down to such a narrow margin as the final figures of 2-1 demonstrate, there was a much wilder different in the character of the play shown by the respective combatants. In fact, Everton have seldom performed so brilliantly as they did this match, and in no department of the team was there a weak spot noticeable. Both sides were as strongly represented as it was possible to make them for Everton could not avail themselves of the services of Abbott and Booth, whilst the Wolves had their usual team on view. In ten minutes Makepeace gave a judicious forward pass to Young, and, whilst some of his opponents were appealing for off-side, he ran in and scored with a very fine shot, which just entered the net before the crossbar. A capital save by Baddeley from the same player resulted in the Wolves right breaking away, but Haywood missed by inches with his final effort. Crelly cleared another rush, and the ball coming again to Young, the centre dispatched it cleverly to the right, where Sharp received possession. He easily rounded Betterley and sent across the goalmouth to Settle, who had no difficulty in putting on the second point. Then the visitors had a turn but although Scott was out of his goal, Annis failed to score from Baynam's centre. Everton were all over their opponents figuratively speaking, and, though they could not gain further goals, their play deserved them. Near the finish Taylor was penalised for hands, though the offence did not appear an intentional one, and Wooldridge netted. There upon Everton raced away, and Settle was tripped near the posts, but from the ensuing penalty he shot against Baddeley, and thus spoiled a glorious chance of regaining the two goal lead, which Everton had held almost throughout the second half. The Everton players showed some really splendid football, and they were in one of their most brilliant moods. The final score must be totally disregarded in forming an opinion of Everton's superiorily and excellence on the field, and the visitors must consider themselves extremely fortunate that they were not the recipients of a record adverse verdict. The latter were never able to get the measure of the home players and whilst their half-backs were repeatedly foiled by the brilliance of the Everton onslaughts, their own forwards could make no headway against the defence which they had to face. In the front line some most exhilarating footwork was witnessed, and much of this was doubtless due to the fact that Young was seen at his best, despite the fact that he failed once or twice with easy chances near goal. He distributed the play most judiciously, and those long passed which he deftly hooked to either wing were almost invariably dispatched just at the proper moment for causing the greatest anxiety to the Wolves defence. The two inside players were resplendent and there can be no two opinions as to McDermott's cleverness, he baffled the half back with astonishing ease, and played a splendid combined game with Sharp. Whatever faults this player may otherwise possess, he is a rare inside forward, and places perfectly. Sharp and Hardman made the most of their chances, and though the goal record should have been augmented from the many excellent crosses while they flashed from the line, yet some capital efforts were made, which would doubtless have beaten any keeper but Baddeley. Equally successful was the performance of the half-backs. Taylor in the centre again shaped most effectly; this is a position, which presumably provides him with more hard work then when on the wing, and this is just where the general utility man excels. Makepeace gave the best exhibition seen from him since he gained his place in the League eleven. He kept the ball low when passing and maintained an accurately sympathetic touch with his forwards that could scarcely have been improved upon. In addition, his speed often proved of immense services, and a continuance of this form will be eagerly awaited. Ashworth created a decadently favourable impression on his first appearance with Everton at Goodison Park, and no better tribute can be offered to these two recruits than to state that the older players who have filled the positions previously were not missed. Balmer and Crelly were both responsible for some exceptionally skilful work at full-back, and they were rarely beaten, their kicking and tackling being such that Scott was seldom requisitioned.

EVERTON BEAT THE WOLVES.
London Daily News - Monday 10 October 1904
At Goodison Park, Liverpool, the Everton team beat the Wanderers by two goals to one. The home side played brilliant football in the first half, Young and Settle -the lattr by a splendid effort - scoring goals for them. After change of ends, Everton still maintained their superiority, but they did not score again. Baddleley keeping goal in excellent form. Wooldridge scored for the visitors.

EVERTON V DARWEN
London Daily News - Tuesday 11 October 1904
At Goodison Park, Everton defeated Darwen, in a fairly good game, by four goals to two. The match was watched by about one thousand people. The first half was well-contested, but Everton had rather the better of the exchanges, and when half-time arrived they led by two goals to nil, Young and Rankin having scored. Darwen played up in spirited style on resuming, and after rankin had put on another goal for Everton, Leach and Bow got past the home goalkeeper with good shots. Everton easily held their advantage, however, and before time Caldwell scored a fourth goal for Everton.

EVERTON RESERVES 4 DARWEN 2
October 11, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination, Round One.
The first round of this competition was entered upon at Goodison Park yesterday, before a fair gathering. The teams were: - Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Wildman, and R.Balmer, backs Hanlin, Chadwick, and McCartney, half-backs, Roberts, Rankins, Young, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards. Darwen: - Hindle, goal, Duckworth, and Edwards backs Hollis, Wilson and Scholes, half-backs, Chadwick, Bow, Crook, Greaves and Leach. Forwards. The visitors won the toss, and Young started. After a little midfield play Darwen got near the home citadel. Wildman missed, but Kitchen secured the leather and placed it out of danger. The Blues then got possession, and combining nicely, carried operations to the Darwen half. Rankin, being opposed by Crook, passed to Dilly, who sent in a shot, which Hindle negotiated safely. The visitors right then got going, but Balmer averted danger, and Rankin dashed off and left the ball to Dilly, who shot across the goalmouth. The pressure was sustained, and Young struck the crossbar. With great force. The ball rebounded into play, and Rankin securing it, shot in, the Darwen custodian just saving. Edwards endeavoured too clear, but was spoiled by Roberts, who passed to Young, the latter crashing the ball into the net. After this reverse the visitors redoubled their efforts, but Kitchen kept his charge intact. The game was very well contested, but Everton were superior Duckworth conceded a corner, which was worked away, but Rankin and Young returned, and the former gave Hindle no chance registering the second goal in fine style. Dilly played extremely well, and was very unlucky. Half-time Everton 2 goals, Darwen nil. On resuming the visiting forwards made a determined onslaught on the Everton goal, Leech and Greaves playing finely. Wildman got the ball away however, and the Blues took up the running and, not withstanding the efforts of Duckworth. and Edwards. Rankin registered a third goal for Everton. Darwen made strenuous efforts to pierce the home defence, and with Everton slackening their efforts somewhat the visitors put on pressure. An opportunity was presented to Leach, of which he took advantage, opening the score for his side. Dilly got away, but was not well supported, and the visitors right wing carried the ball to the Everton goalmouth, where Bow defeated Kitchen. This aroused the Blues, and Roberts passed neatly to Caldwell, whose shot Hindle could not negotiate. Another excursion was made into the home territory, but all the attacks were repelled, and the game terminated in a decisive victory for Everton by 4 goals to 2.

BURY 1 EVERTON 2
October 17 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Delightful weather favoured the visit of Everton to Bury on Saturday, and in spite of the disappointing display the East Lancashire club have given this season, considerable interest was manifested in the meeting of the old rivals. Both sides made changes, Everton being without the services of Booth, Ashworth, and Sharp, although Abbott reappeared while Bury played Montgomery for Monteith. There would be about 6,000 spectators present when the teams faced as follows: - Bury, Montgomery, goal, Slater, and McEwan, backs, Johnston, Thorp, and Ross (captain), half-backs Richards Wood, Sagar, Pickering, and Plant, forwards. Everton: - Scott, goals, W.Blamer, (captain), and Crelly backs, Makepeace, Taylor and Abbott half-backs, Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman forwards. Referee J.H.Smith. In the first half Everton played with the sun at their backs, although Bury had the advantage of a slight breeze. The first item of interest was a run down by the Bury right, but Richards was wide with a finishing touch, and from the goal kick the Everton forwards were at once busy. Rankin and McDermott made the running, but McEwan came to the rescue of his side, and a long punt by Thorp called upon Balmer's full resources. The Bury forwards harassed the visitors for some few minutes, but the Evertonians came again, and McDermott put in a splendid shot, which Montgomery just reached in time to prevent almost certain disaster. The nicer points of play were decidently shown by the Everton forwards, despite the disadvantage of playing against the wind, but at this juncture the Bury backs were playing assiduous attentions to the Blues and thus prevented several capital movements from bringing about tangible results. A fine burst by the Everton forwards looked like bringing about a goal, when Slater more by good luck than management, got in the way of the ball, and following this Plant raced away on the home left, and centering compelled Scott to come out to save. In doing so he received a nasty kick. Play was now most heatedly and earnestly contested, and little indeed was there to choose between the sides. The close attentions of the backs on both side accounted for the failure of the forwards to find an opening but eventually, from a corner kick, well placed by Rankin, McDermott drove the ball into the net from a scrimmage. This fairly put the Bury players upon their mettle, and at once they bored upon the Everton defenders, only to find Balmer and Crelly ready for all emergencies. The next feature of interest was a fine bit of passing between Young, Settle, and Hardman and a splendid centre from the winger was only just missed by Young. This was followed by a smart run down by the Bury left wingers, and the visitors after a poor return by Balmer were fortunate in keeping their goal intact. These were anxious moments for Everton, but eventually the venue was changed, and when Young was well placed a very questionable decision for offside probably prevented. Everton from adding to their score. At the same time the equality of the play was not of a very high standard, as keenest played a very prominent part, but somewhat unexpectedly, the Everton defenders were found lacking in resource. Richards beat first Crelly, but Scott brought off a brilliant and unexpected save, though the keeper, after being again severely pressed, was beaten by Wood, who placed the ball quite out of his reach. There could now be no denying the earnestness of the Bury attacking Party, and for some few minutes the Everton goal was subjected to most severe pressure. At length relief came and after a speedy run down on the right wing the ball came to Abbott, who with a clever drive only just missing finding the net. Half-time Bury 1, Everton 1.
When play was resumed, there would fully 10,000 people present. A notable feature of the opening stages was a marvellous save from Pickering by Scott, who threw himself full length on the ground and pushed the ball along for Balmer to clear. Young had a fine chance, but instead of passing the ball he shot yards wide. The game was full of interest and there was no mistaking the energy Bury imparted to the play. At the same time Everton were in an aggressive mood and McDermott had hard lines with a splendid effort. Bury than attacked and Pickering had very hard lines a fine shot striking the upright. After this escape Everton rushed to the Bury end, and after the ball had been twice repelled, Young got hold and scored. Both goals were hotly assailed after this, but the defences were sound, and there was no more scoring. Bury 1 goal, Everton2.

EVERTON RESERVES 1 BURY RESERVES 0
October 17, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Combination “A” Division. (Game 7)
At Goodison Park. The visitors had much the best of matters throughout the first half, and whenever Everton got into Bury's territory the backs were found safe. Whilst Wolstenholme's custodianship was without reproach. Interval Everton nil, Bury nil. After the resumption Everton were the first to attack, but not until McLoughlin obtained possession could they score. Result-Everton 1 Bury nil. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Wildman and McCartney, backs Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs, Roberts, McLoughlin, McAdams, Caldwell and Dilly, forwards.

BURY S NOUGHTY RECORD.
Athletic News - Monday 17 October 1904
By Harricus
Well now, I really did think that the Bury eleven would break the ice on Saturday, for in their last two games they had so far improved that they scored twice at Derby and twice at Manchester in the Lancashire Cup-tie, whereas previously they had never found the net more than once in a game. The directors, too, evidently thought that they had drooped across a winning side at last, for no change was made in the team and no ringing the changes. Again, Everton had only won League game at Gigg-lane in the past, and that so far back as seven seasons ago; but no, the home club is luckless, and though an uphill game was fought, it has to be recorded that the score was 2-1 in favour of Everton, and that Bury have played seven matches and have still to taste the sweets of victory. The irony of it. Two short seasons ago the club won the English Cup with record score and equalled Preston North End's feat of running through the competition without having a goal scored against them, and now—well the bulk of the 10.000 spectators on Saturday were wondering at the finish whether it will be the Second Division next season. But not a quarter of the games have been played yet, and the Bury directors are not the sort to lie down to their fate. Therefore there is hope. But really for a long time on Saturday the smart Everton men simply toyed with the home representatives, and such football as exhibited by the blue jerseyed men was worthy of that which I saw from the Aston Villa experts at Sheffield. Every man in his place and working with clockwork precision. Bury indeed were not in it, and when after fifteen minutes a corner from the left was put behind on the right side, and Rankin tried his skill from the opposite flag post, there was caused a bully in front of goal, and with many feet kicking away at the same time the ball found itself on the boot of McDermott’s foot, and into the net it went. The points had been well earned, for the Bury forwards were mediocre in comparison with the Everton attack. Gradually, however, they pulled up and Wood put in a couple of fine shots which proved that the forwards were not entirely devoid of fire. Indeed they continued to Improve, in fact the tables were completely turned, and with ten minutes to go there was determined rush on Scott. Twice he saved in wonderful fashion whilst on the ground when apparently beaten, but back the ball came again, and from a cannon Wood carried the ball through into the net. I use the word “carried.” for I am not at all sure whether he took the ball with his chest or his arm. It didn't matter much, for the referee gave a goal, and his word is law. Bury seemed to be a new team, and after crossing over their pertinacity seemed likely to be rewarded more than once, but the only damage done was to shake the cross-bar.  McDermott at the other end missed only by inches and half-way through the half the winning goal came to the Evertonians.  Hardman got away finely amidst shouts of off-side and put the ball right across the goal.  It came back to him from the right wing and he shot true this time.  Montgomery stopped the ball but could not get it away, and Young, who was standing almost under the bar, after thanking then goalkeeper for his kindness, walked the ball through.  The goal was well worked for though.  The goal was well worked for though the final touch was lacking in brilliance.  It gave one side the two points though, and that is what all clubs play for nowadays.  The victory was deserved, too, though I was agreeably surprised with the Bury eleven.  The victory was deserved, too, though I was agreeably surprised with the Bury eleven.  They were 50 per cent stronger than when I saw them against Blackburn Rovers on the first Saturday of the season, so that their case is not exactly hopeless.  Of course the club is bound to occupy a lowly position with the present lot of players, but I should imagine that Saturday’s eleven is not far removed from being the very best at the disposal of the directors.  The play of the two men new to the club this season was very satisfactory.  Percy Slater I knew as a smart back before he went to Manchester City, and on his display against Everton he is well worth his place in a League team.  Then Pickering, the North Country young man, looks like an inside left with a future.  He wants polishing up in many respects; for instance, he was the only man on the side who had not his sleeves rolled up, not much you might think, but I like to see a man as though he intended winning the game himself.  He possesses a capital knowledge of the game, and is a good shot.  As I said I believe he will train on.  The centre forward position still requires filling satisfactory, and I am afraid that Sagar has lost that cleverness which he possessed not very long ago.  Plant did not do at all badly, and rather surprised me, for I am of the opinion that he has had his day.  The real strength of the attack lay in Richards and Woods, the right wing pair.  They have evidently lost none of their power, and on Saturday’s play would carry themselves in any company.  Wood made openings for himself and shot well, while Richards was nippy and ever ready to go forward with the ball.  The half-backs were the strongest part of the team and the best of them was George Ross.  The veteran has evidently found that the shaving of his moustache has in reality made him no younger, and he looks himself made him no younger, and he looks himself again.  If he did not always secure the ball his bustling tactics frequently caused his opponents to make a wild pass or shoot wide.  Thorp’s fine reach came in very useful, and Johnston was a worrier.  McEwan was not so good as Slater at back, and Montgomery could hardly be blamed for the two goals.  He had no possible chance with the first, and he was unfortunate with the second.  Scott likewise kept a good goal, but he ran some risks in kicking at the ball, and at times he bordered on carrying.  Still he once saved the down-fall of his goal by running out to kick the ball when any other move would have been fatal.  The two backs were a fine pair.  Balmer taking the palm for brilliance, but for effect against a more dangerous wing Crelley came out better.  Jockey Taylor the utility man, was a capital centre-half, as good as any on the field, in fact quite over-shadowing Abbott and Makepeace.  The ex-Small Heath man might use his hands less when tackling opponents.  What I most admired about the Everton team was the display of the forwards in the first quarter of the game.  They came as near perfection as possible, and showed what they can do.  They knew to a nicety when and where to expect passes, and were always dangerous when on the move.  They fell away though, but they are undoubtedly a smart quinbtette.  They play the inside game and certainly Settle, Young, and McDermott were the pick of the pack, and were all skilled men.  For a long time Settle almost talked top the ball, but afterwards he either tired or eased up.  He is still a great little man.  Young, McDermott, and he certainly made some pretty passes.  Hardman was not so happy as I have seen him, though he shone in the securing of the winning goal.  Rankin possesses great speed, but is not a Sharp by any means.  Fort some reason he was left to do as he liked in the second half.  The forwards have evidently been tutored in the off-side rule for they kept their places admirably, and were seldom out of play notwithstanding the persistent appeals of the spectators.  Bury; Montgomery; Slater, and McEwan; Johnston, Thorpe, and Ross; Richards, Wood, Sagar, Pickering, and Plant.  Everton; Scott; Balmer, and Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.  Referee; J.H. Smith, Doncaster. 

Picture of Charles O'Hagan who left Everton at close season for Tottenham
Never played for Everton's First Team

EVERTON REVIEW
October 17, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
One cannot help sympathizing with a club, which is in such dire straight as Bury are at the present time. They have played seven League games, and their only solatium is a single point obtained at the expense of Woolwich Arsenal when the Southerners visited Gigg lane two or three weeks ago. After their draw with Manchester City in a Lancashire Cup tie, it was fervently hoped in the East Lancashire town that the club were about to enter upon a more successful period. Everton however, rudely shattered these fond expectations, and on Saturday Bury were again in a state of despondency owing to the loss of another couple of League points. Much as Evertonians regret the misfortunate which have be fallen Bury, there is a strenuousness about League football now adays which necessarily does not admit of practical sympathy with any club in the League, no matter in what part of the county it is situated. Since their admission to the First Division the Bury club has passed through many trying periods, and with the enterprising management which it possesses, there should be every likelihood of its, energing satisfactory from the difficulties which are now being experienced. In the past the Bury executive have exhibited a wonderful capacity for unearthing local talent. Never was there such need for the exercise of this foresight for, as now constituted the team could well do with young blood. While Everton carried off the honours of the day by two goals to one, it must be conceded that Bury were a trifle unlucky in not sharing the points. There was no question whatever that Everton were the more scientific side; but what the home team lost in this respect they made up for by the earnestness and vigour which they imparted into their work. Adopting as they did what has long been aptly described as the kick and rush game, they at tines rather nonplussed the Everton defenders and under these circumstances, it is not surprising that, as an exhibition of Association football, the match did not reach a very high standard. There was plenty of very smart combination on the part of the Everton halves and forwards, but compared with the exposition of the previous week against Wolverhampton, the falling off was particularly noticeable. At the same time, the pace throughout was exceedingly fast, and, although some of the nicer points may have been lacking, the spectators were always kept on the quivive this being especially the case in the concluding portion of the first half, after Bury had equalised. In the second portion one or two of the older Burt representatives showed signs of fatigue, but with a modicum of luck the spoils might easily have been divided. Although Sharp, Booth, and Ashworth were absentees, the vacant places were filled so efficiently that they were scarcely missed. Rankin again deputized for Sharp most creditably indeed, this player seems to be more effective in away matches than when appearing at Goodison Park. Makepeace despite the fact that he was transferred to right half, was a distinct success, and with Abbott once again in his old position, the half-back line with Taylor in the centre, was fully capable of dealing with the determined rushes of the Bury forwards. The Everton attack while not absolutely on its best behaviour, was too clever for the home halves, and little fault could be found with any of the quintet. Balmer and Crelly never gave anything away, and Scott again demonstrated his claim to be ranked as one of the class custodians of the day. He effected not a few brilliant saves, and he was not to be blamed in any way for the only goal, which fell to Bury. On one occasion, Pickering sent in a terrific shot which rebounded from the crossbar and this with the exception of the goal registered, was about the only game that the Irish international looked like being defeated. Bury sadly lack a centre forward but, if the same spirit is thrown into their work as was the case on Saturday, it will not be long before the East Lancashire club emerges from the lowest rung of the League ladder.

EVERTON 3 ASTON VILLA 2
October 24, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Walter Balmer, Penalty kick saved by George
Sharp and Abbott's Benefit
Probably no club in the League has been so popular in Liverpool as Aston Villa, and their meetings with Everton invariably provide a fine exposition of football. Apart from these considerations the visit to Goodison-park of the Villa on Saturday was unusually attractive, in as much as the match was generously set apart by the Everton directors to benefit two of the most valued players, J.Sharp, and Walter Abbott. The Liverpool public recognised the fact the players deserved their benefit, and it was all the more pleasurable that the day turned out beautifully fine, with the result that there was a splendid “gate” about 30,000 people being present. Unfortunately Sharp was unable to turn out owing to his old strain in the leg, and his place was taken by Rankin. In the half-back line, Makepeace had to give way to the amateur, S.B.Ashworth. On the Villa side Gray and Wood were dropped, Windmill and Garratty coming into the team. The players faced as follows: - Everton: - Scott goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs, S.B.Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs, Rankin, Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P.Hardman, forwards. Aston Villa: - George, goal, Spencer, and Miles, backs, Pearson, Leaks, and Windmill, half-backs, Brawn Garratty, Johnson, Bache, and Lockett, forwards. Referee W.Nunnerley. Young started, and a kick from Miles cannoned off Rankin and went behind the goal line. The spectators were evidently in for some interesting play, for the pace was exceedingly fast right from the start. The Villa worked down on the right but Brawn's centre was hopelessly wide. Then Everton returned in splendid style, and Young was to the fore with a brilliant effort, during, which he dodged three or four opponents without, however, being able to get in his kick. Then Leake was penalised for a foul just outside the penalty line, and Abbott taking the kick missed by inches only. Villa went down again, and after neat passing Bache sent the ball the wrong side of the upright. The Villa continued in an aggressive mood, and after good work by Bache, Johnson obtained possession. He was obviously yards offside, but the referee took no notice with the result that Scott cleverly saved a good shot. Rankin was applauded for a capital centre, but through slipping the chance was lost by Settle. Next Crelly was prominent with grand tackling, and in a further attack by the Villa, Ashworth nipped in nicely when Bache was becoming dangerous. Everton now had a look in, but Miles stuck too closely to Rankin, who was unable to get in his centre. Twice McDermott was penalised for fouling close in, and in the second instance the danger was only removed, when Brawn shot over. Spencer and Settle came lown together, and the free kick to Everton led to a smart attack on George's charge. Young and Parkin were especially prominent, and George cleverly fisted out a shot from the latter as it was sailing under the bar. This in no way deterred the Evertonians from further efforts, and their efforts were rewarded, for Hardman, after losing the ball recovered himself, and defeated the Villa custodian. There was no cessation in the pace, and for some time the Villa clever as was their footwork, had to play second fiddle to the Evertonians, who were full of life, and vigour. A long shot from Abbott failed to take effect, and then a couple of mistakes by Balmer threatened danger to the Everton goal. Garratty shot into the hands of the goalkeeper, who in saving was unfairly charged by Johnson. After a temporary visit to the Villa's quarters, Everton were beaten back and following a foul, the Villa gained a corner. This was well placed, and Scott intercepted a header from Johnson. The excitement was maintained, the ball travelling with great rapidity from end to end. Scott fisted out cleverly, and was ably asisted by Crelly, who had been playing a grand game. The Everton left next were to the fore and from a centre by Hardman, Miles knocked the ball down with his hands. The dreaded penalty Kick was awarded, and Balmer took the kick, but he shot straight at George, and the ball was got safety away. The Villa kept at it, and after Scott had flung himself at a centre from Brawn, the ball went to Johnson, from whom it rebounded into the net. Half-time Everton 1 goal, Aston Villa 1.
On the game being resumed the Villa were the first to become prominent, and a hugh kick by Balmer was of timely services to his side. The Everton forwards could make little headway, although Hardman tried desperately hard to run round Spencer. Brawn got away on his own, and Balmer only got rid of his centre by kicking over the line. Everton carried operations to their opponents half, but they were not allowed to remain there long, for they were soon again clustering round Scott, who was not to be beaten. At last the home forwards showed a glimpse of their real form, but Rankin's shot was charged down, while McDermott sent wide. Hardman had some interesting tussles with Spencer, in which, honours were fairly even. Still the Everton attack lacked sting, more than one chance going a-begging, Young on one occasion, nearly getting through on his own. As it was a fast shot, luckily for the Villa custodian was lacking in direction. Everton were now having the pull and Hardman forced a corner off Pearson. Though nothing came of it the Villa for some time was penned in their own quarter. Suddenly Lockett dashed along the wing, and centred the ball, which was passed back to Scott. The goalkeeper kicked the ball against Garratty, off whom it rebounded on to the upright, and into the net. After this unexpected reverse, Everton played up with renewed determination, but the Villa were buoyed up with their lead, and defended desperately. They conceded a corner, which came to nothing, but a moment later Abbott was fouled outside the penalty line. Abbott took the kick and drove the ball right into the net. George having no chance. The equalising goal only served to increase the excitement, and the Villa goal was subjected to further pressure. During a scrimmage in the goalmouth, following a corner, McDermott scored Everton's third goal. Result Everton 3 goals, Aston Villa 2.

A CAPABLE RECRUIT.
Athletic News - Monday 24 October 1904
By Junius
When Everton were faced with the difficult task of finding substitutes for such experienced players as Booth and Abbott, owing to injuries received, it will be readily admitted that their resources were considerably strained. Fortunate was it, therefore, that they possessed a recruit of the calibre of Harry Makepeace, who may be dubbed a purely local product. He was born at Middlesbrough in 1881 and spent the early part of his life Darlington. Twelve Years ago he came to Liverpool, and was educated at the Queen's road Board School. He began his football career with the club attached to this elementary school, and after leaving became attached the Queen's-road Mission, a team connected with a local Junior League. In 1901 he was brought to the notice of the Everton directors, and has since been associated with the Goodison Park Club. His first position was as inside left, but later on he was transferred to the post of left half-back, where he has operated for two seasons in the reserve team. Occasionally he figure in the League eleven last season, and this year, when Abbott was incapacitated, he was requisitioned to fill the vacancy at left half-back. He has improved beyond all knowledge since his acquaintance with the requirements of First League warfare, and against the “Wolves” three weeks ago played an exceptionally fine game.  He possesses a rare turn speed, and uses his head in attending to the needs of his forwards. Though on the small side as regards stature, he possesses command over the ball, and is one of the most likely recruits in the Everton ranks. His abilities are not confined to football, for he is one of the smartest young professional cricketers in the Liverpool district. At various times he has played for Clubmoor, Stanley, and Wavertree, and is well worthy a trial in the District matches Always willing to learn be seems likely to develop into a most useful League player.

EVERTON NEWS
This afternoon, Everton play Preston North End in the second round of the Lancashire Cup-ties at Goodison Park.  They are placing their strongest side in the field, and according to represent arrangements, the team that defeated the Villa will oppose the North Enders.  This is as it should be, for if it is worthwhile engaging in any competition, the best possible combination should be selected for duty.  In the Everton match against the Villa, I believe the proceeds amounted to between 700 and 800 pounds, so that Sharp and Abbott are assured of a substantial reward for their services. 

GLORIOUS GAME AT GOODISON.
Athletic News - Monday 24 October 1904
By The Pilgrim
A glorious game, a glorious gate, and a glorious win attended the Evertonians in their match with Aston Villa at Goodison Park on Saturday. They triumphed by three goals to two after as keen and as exciting a contest as it is possible to imagine, and upwards of 30,000 spectators must have left the ground thoroughly delighted with the manner in which the game had been pulled out of the fire. I must confess I have seen nothing finer this season, and I hasten to congratulate the Goodisonians on their brilliant achievement. And on their play, too, for whilst the Villa gave them a surprisingly good game, it must be admitted that Everton were the better team. But whilst they were the first to score, and ought to have held the lead at the interval, the Evertonians were not assured of their victory until the final whistle sounded. And then only after they had experienced what must have been a terrible fragile, for a quarter of an hour after the commencement of the second half the Villa forged ahead, and it was only by a brilliant spurt that the points were wrested from their grasp. Sufficient has been said by way of introduction to show the varying vicissitudes of the game and the stern character of the struggle, and so one might be pardoned for reverting for few moments to the commencement of the chapter. Throughout the football world the match claimed an especial interest inasmuch as it was set apart for the joint benefit of two sterling Evertonians—John Sharp and Walter Abbott, whose splendid service the executive desired to recognize. Much might be written of both men, but here it is unnecessary. Both are well known, and their ability has never been questioned. There was an appropriateness in selecting the match with the Villa for such an occasion for both the beneficiaries had reached Everton by way of Birmingham, and Sharp, as is well known, transferred his affections from the Aston organisation. But quite apart, from this what more popular fixture could have been desired? Although they have not had a brilliant season, the Villa still retain their place in the affections of football enthusiasts, and that they have lost none of their magnetic drawing power was clearly demonstrated on Saturday when the gate receipts amounted to something like £650. It was to be regretted that Sharp was still unable to play, but Abbott was present in all his glory, and had a very good share in the honours of victory. S. B. Ashworth came back into the Everton team, and Rankin again figured at outside right. There were two changes in the Villa team. Gray and Wood standing down in favour of Windmill and Garratty, the inclusion of the latter permitting Johnson to again appear at centre forward. Much might be written of the game, which fluctuated with lightning rapidity, and was never in one part of the field for any length of time at a stretch. The play was very much of the first-me-and-then-you character, and there was really very little to choose between the teams.  But I thought the Evertonians were rather smarter on the ball and moved with greater facility.  The forwards very quickly got into their stride.  Before one had thoroughly realized that the game was in progress they were bearing down on the Villa goal in seemingly irresistible fashion, and only twenty-four minutes had elapsed when the fortress was captured.  Quite the feature of the play up to this time-and, indeed up to the interval-was the brilliant work of McDermott.  Indirectly the opening goal was due to his dexterous footwork, clever passing, and sound judgement.  He seemed to weigh up the whole situation in a moment and swinging a ball wide out to Rankin, the fleet-footed outsider dashed away like a greyhound.  He shot hard and true, but George’s powerful fist came down on the ball with sledge-hammer force, and momentarily the goal was cleared.  But the ball was back in a twinkling.  It was centred from the right, and Spencer and the stripling Hardman wrestled for possession with the result that the “Villian” was bested and the ball was in the net.  The visitors had been far from idle, and several times Scott had to clear.  He made one remarkably fine save from Johnson, when that player, had been allowed to shoot from a palpably offside position, and others from Garrett, Bache, and Lockett; but five minutes from the interval the Evertonians had a splendid opportunity vouchsafed to them of increasing their lead.  They were awarded a penalty kick for a flagrant case of handling by Miles in stopping a centre by Hardman.  Balmer, who had exactly covered himself with glory, entrusted himself with the kick, but only succeeded in banging the ball against George and the chance was lost.  It required little more than a minute from the interval when the Villa obtained the equalizing goal, for which Brawn was largely responsible.  He tricked Crelley and centred beautifully about three yards in front of goal.  Scott came out to meet the ball and endeavored to thump away.  It was, however, a very awkward customer, and he only succeeded in banged it against Johnson, off whom it rebounded into the net.  And so the score was one all at half-time.  Only a quarter of an hour had elapsed in the second half when the Villa took the lead in very simple fashion.  Lockett got away on the left, and from his centre, Crelley, with apparently good time for clearing, put back towards Scott.  The custodian essayed to kick away as Garratty dashed up, but the ball struck the insider, off whom it rebounded against the upright and into the net.  From this point the battle waged more fiercely than ever, and at the end of three minutes, from a free kick just outside the penalty area, Abbott equalized, whilst a quarter of an hour from the finish, McDermott crowned a brilliant afternoon’s work by giving his side the lead following a corner kick.  And so the defeat the Evertonians sustained at Birmingham a few weeks ago has thus early been avenged.  It was a great struggle, fast and exciting from the beginning to the end, and the maintenance of such a pace spoke eloquently of the fitness of the men.  The passing and footwork of the home forwards were at times superb, and amongst the constellation McDermott stood
out as the brightest star. Rankin’s flashes, Young’s dashes, and Settle’s splashes were features of the display, and little Hardman deserves more than a modicum of praise for the manner in which he accomplished his work. There was little to choose between the half-backs, and it was especially gratifying to had Abbott and Taylor in such good form, though the shooting of the beneficiaries might have been a little more accurate. The backs might have played better. They both made mistakes, and thought Crelley, who tackled splendidly, was the better of the two up to his mistake in the second half, though Balmer was much steadier after the interval. Scott has exceptional skill in thumping a ball away, and whilst he was not faultless he did a lot very clever work, as also did George, some of whose clearances were really magnificent. But, the backs were not all that could be desired, and Howard Spencer, who met with a slight Injury in the second half, found Hardman a very troublesome customer. I did not think the half-backs, as a line, were equal to the home trio, though they worked hard and not without effect, Leake being about the pick. The forwards, who were by no means the least effective part of the team, showed a lot clever play, Bache displaying his usual skill and initiative, and making, with Lockett, a capital wing. On the opposite side Brawn executed some sparkling runs, and Garratty and Johnson completed a line which moved with method and dash and always required to be reckoned with. Everton; Scott; Balmer, Crelley; Ashworth, Taylor, Abbott; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.  Aston Villa; George; Spencer, Miles; Pearson, Leake, Windmill; Brawn, Garratty, Johnson, Bache, and Lockett.  Referee; W. Nunnerley, Wrexham. 

Walter Abbot and Jack Sharp benefit match was played on saturday

STOCKPORT COUNTY RESERVES 4 EVERTON RESERVES 2
October 24 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 8)
At Edgeley Park. Hall opened the score with a shot, which gave Kitchen no chance. Stockport did all the pressing. Half-time Stockport County 1, Everton nil. On restarting Stockport at once assumed the aggressive. After a spell of even play. Smart again scored for Stockport. McLoughlin reduced the lead with a fine low shot, and in the next minute Roberts again scored. Seven minutes from the close, Green put Stockport ahead, and almost immediately after scored a fourth. Everton: - Kitchen goal, Wildman and R.Balmer, backs, Makepeace, Chadwick, and McCratney half-backs, Roberts Rankin, W.McLoughlin Caldwell, and Dilly forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
October 24, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Fortunately for the complete success of the game between Everton and Aston Villa, the weather turned out remarkably fine, and the benefit for those deserving players- Abbott and Sharp- should be sugmented by close upon £800. Everything connected with the event passed off most effactionally, for the game was quite up to the traditions of the past when those teams have met. No doubt their unexpected defeat the previous week had nerved the Villa to greater deeds whilst on the other hand, Everton may have felt somewhat over confident as to the issue. Whatever the reason may be, is problematical, but there can be no difference of opinion as to the quality of the play which was witnessed. The visitors made the pace a hot one from the start, and a superb struggle for supremacy ensued, which although the interval figure equality, progressed more in favour of the Villa, than the home side. This 45 minutes hard battling was the central portion of the combat, around which the issue bung in the balance, and on the form exhibited by the Midlanders, it is pretty safe to assert that they played vastly superior football to what they have been displaying in their recent matches. The half-backs kept the ball moving forward with ruthless persistency, and the men in the front rank were always on the alert. Everton indeed experienced a warm time of it before the interval. Just a word or two about the goals, which with one exception, were somewhat curiously obtained. Hardman led the way, after Rankin had given George a teaser to stop, but the left winger only found the net with difficulty. Spencer tackled him, and a tussle ensued, during which, Hardman felt, and appeared to have lost the chance, but suddenly he recovered himself, and managed to hook the ball between the posts. The game continued at a great pace, the Villa working finely together, but Scott was in great trim, and saved repeatedly. Then came a penalty against Miles- a most unnecessary ruling under the circumstances, for what seemed a completely accidental case of hands- and the crowd fairly cheered when Balmer shot against George, and the goal was saved. Brawn was chiefly responsible for the equaliser, for Scott who flung himself full length to save his right winger's drive, could only tip the ball a few yards away, and Johnson, who was close in, netted the leather, which rebounded off his breast. In the second half some loose work gave the Villa the lead, for Lockett beat Balmer and centred, where upon Crelly came across and tipped the ball back to Scott. The custodian endeavored to kick away, but sent the leather against Garratty, and it rebounded of this player, against the upright and into the net. Abbott's equaliser was a remarkably fine shot from a free kick, but McDermott's winning point came from a scrimmage under the bar. In comparison with what was witnessed after half-time the play in the first portion of the contest was tame, but a more exciting finish has not been seen on the ground for many a day. The Everton forwards seemed unable to shake off the attentions of the opposing half-backs, and the solid defence further in the rear in the early stages, and so dashing were the onslaught of the Villa front line, that the visitor's were favourites for the event when they resumed operations after breathing time. When they obtained the lead, such a contingency appeared almost a certainty, but this turned out to be Everton's opportunity, and by really fine football the home players asserted their superiority by going ahead in irresistible style for the remainder of the afternoon. In this fashion did the Everton players redeem their position, and though they cannot be judged from the same standpoint throughout, they must be credited with having given a decidedly invigorating exposition. Little fault could be found with the forwards, though McDermott was inclined to cling to the ball too long, and wander away from his customary post to the left wing. There was no necessity to do this, for Rankin was well, able to look after himself on the extreme right. The latter did not centre with that judicious accuracy that characterises the crosses from Sharp's foot, but he shaped very promisingly, and placed the corner kick which led to the winning goal very cleverly in front of the posts. McDermott distributed some beautifully passes to both wings, and Young was likewise prominent in this respect. Settle and Hardman as usual, combined well, and beyond the inability to turn several chances to account when near goal, the forwards play all round was exceedingly creditable. In the intermediate division, Taylor at centre half bore off the honours for he got through an enormous amount of work, and was as keen at the finish as when the game started. He fairly harassed the Villa inside men, and repeatedly dispossessed them a most unexpected time. Ashworth and Abbott, were so prominent, and the former had rather more than he could successfully cope with in Bache and Lockett; but both were decidently useful, and Abbott showed no signs of a return of his previous injury. Crelly was the better of the fullbacks, his tackling being exceptionally efficient and Balmer paled by comparison. The right wing allowed the opposition more latitude than is usually the case and the Villa pair above mentioned frequently got clear away, Scott was twice beaten, but in the intervals between he effected some capital clearances. The Villa second goal was due to a mistake, but his other work was so skilful that it more than compensated for this failure. The display of the Villa was surprising considering the reports of their earlier disappointing performances, and on the form shows against Everton, they will win more matches than will be lost. Their attack was keen and vigorous and they wasted no time in shooting, Johnson, Brawn, and Garratty sending in some terrific drives, which tested the qualities of Scott to the almost. Bache was responsible for some excellent dribbling, and Lockett could have done better had he wasted less time in hesitancy as to which, way to travel when the ball was sent out to him. Though their movements were not so pleasing to witness as in the Villa days of old, there was sufficient life about the work of the forwards to have broken down the majority of League defences more than twice. Leake was prominent at centre half, and Windmill is a player of promise. One could not but admire the smart placing of the trio, and they constituted a solid reliable line, which enabled their side to offer a most stubborn resistance to Everton's progress. Spencer is still a capable full-back, and a pattern of fairness. Whilst Miles exhibited sound defence. George had not a great deal to perform, for as already stated, the home forwards were rather remiss in shooting; but on the occasions when he was severely tested, he moved his worth in no uncertain manner. It will thus he gathered that the two combatants were most evenly matched, and Everton won simply because they rose to the occasion after being a goal in arrears, and an apparently beaten team. A continuance of this form will land them very near the championship.

EVERTON v. PRESTON NORTH END.
Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer - Tuesday 25 October 1904
Played at Liverpool yesterday, before 4.000 spectators. Smith scored for Preston in three minutes, Settle equalising twenty minutes later, the score being unchanged at the interval. On resuming Young got through , but his the post. Derbyshire retired ten minutes but Everton failed to score. Settle got through, but was offside. Everton ahd the best of matters, and five minutes from time Settle scrored the result being -Everton 2 goals, Preston North End 1 goal.

LANCASHIRE SENIOR CUP
London Daily News - Tuesday 25 October 1904
The second round of the Lancashire Senior Cup competition was entered upon yesterday, when Everton and Preston North End met in the first of the four ties at Goodison Park./ The ground was very slippery, but some good football was seen. Preston began in fine style, Smith scoring for them within three minutes of the start. Settle, however, quickly equalised, but though Everton had the better of the game up to half-time they did not score again. The exchanges were very even afterwards, Preston, despite the loss of Derbyshoire for a time, defending well. Settle, however, beat MCBride near the finish and thus Everton won by two goals to one.

EVERTON 2 PRESTON NORTH END 1
October 25 1904. The Liverpool Daily Post
Lancashire Cup Second Round.
Bad weather was all against a big crowd at Goodison Park to witness the encounter, but there were a couple of thousand people present at the start. Both teams quickly got to work, and Preston at once exerted pressure on the right where Smith soon found an opening, and defeated Scott after three minutes play. The play then became of a determined nature for another fifteen minutes until the Everton right fairly beat the Preston half line. Clever work between, Young, Rankin and Settle resulted in the latter equalising. McBride being helpless. Half-time Everton 1, goal, Preston North End 1. Restarting North End soon forced a fruitless corner, then Dilly and Rankin on their respective wings inside made feeble efforts, McDermott was fouled from a free kick, and Abbott presented McBride with a warm handful North End were assembled in force in front of Scott, but could not find the net. Young next got to close quarters, with McBride, but only hit the post at the finish. Bond brought a very fine sequence of passing along the whole Preston forward line to enough owing to a bad wind up. Dilly soon had a good chance but he centred much too far forward. Rankin opened up a stiff attack at close quarters from a free kick, but North End's defence stood the shock. Then hostilities were temporarily suspended owing to Derbyshire being damaged. The game was so evenly contested that ten minutes from the finish a draw seemed extremely likely. A few minutes from time, Rankin was badly tipped, but the referee took no notice. Taylor immediately took possession and placed to Settle, who was in a good position. Neither Warmer nor Derbyshire could close in on the little man, and Settle neatly tipped the leather past McBride, thus winning the game in the last minute. Result Everton 2, goals, Preston North End 1. Everton: - Scott goal, W.Balmer (captain), and R.Balmer, backs Makepeace Taylor, and Abbott half-backs, Rankin McDermott, Young, Settle, and Dilly forwards. Preston North End: - McBride, goal, Derbyshire, and Warmer, backs, McLean Hunter, and Lyon, half-backs Bond Smith Wilcox, Bell (captain), and Catterall, forwards.

BLACKBURN ROVERS 1 EVERTON 0
October 31, 1904. The Liverpool Courier.
Everton on Saturday visited Blackburn where they have played many great games with the famous Rovers. Unfortunately injuries to players again prevented them placing their full strength in the field. Sharp had not recovered, and Walter Abbott was feeling the effect of another knock sustained last Monday on his old injury. Consequently Rankin and Makepeace again appeared. The Rovers were strongly represented. The teams were : - Rovers: - McIvor, goal, Crompton, and Cameron, backs, Wolstenholme, Birchall, and Bradshaw, half-backs Whittaker, Smith, Dewhurst, Watson, and Blackburn, forwards, Everton: - Scott goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs, Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace half-backs, Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle and Hardman forwards. Referee Fred Kirkham. There were about, 12,000 spectators present when play began, the first item of interest initiated by Wolstenholme was furnished by the home left, and just as Blackburn was about to put on a finishing touch Balmer nipped in and cleared in able fashion. The Everton left wing pair then made headway by a well devised plan of campaign between Settle and Hardman, which came to an end on Crompton taking a pass intended for Settle, and punting strongly down the field. The visitors however, returned to the attack only again to find the Rovers' defenders in rare trim, and the venue was changed. The home forwards went away in fine style, and when success seemed imminent, Crelly pulled up Whittaker, and cleared the danger in good style. Ashworth had been putting in some good work, and a clever forward pass to Rankin enabled that player to show a clean pair of heels to the home halves. He finished with a fast cross centre, but luckily for the Rovers McIvor raced out and got to the ball in time. Some more exchanges in midfield ruled for some little time, when the first Taylor and then Makepeace completely outwitted the Rovers forwards and eventually placed Hardman in possession. Much headway was made, but on the winger centering Young failed to take the ball and Cameron cleared. Wolstemholme found a perfect opening for Smith, but much to the disgust of the local supporters the chance went a-begging. Dashing movements by the Rovers forwards kept both Balmer and Crelly fully extended to their best efforts. The Monotony was broken by a smart run down by Hardman, but he had no chance against Crompton, who cleverly trapped the ball, and then kicked away in powerful fashion. The next item was a smart sprint by Rankin but he too was eventually beaten by Cameron, and directly afterwards McDermott collided with an opponent and was off for a few minutes. A further attack by the Rovers yielded fruitless corner kick, and following this Everton lost a capital chance of taking the lead, Taylor had put the ball out to Rankin, who raced away, and sent across to Hardman. The latter on centring gave Young a capital opening, but unfortunately he was very wide of the mark with his shot. The Everton centre, however, was prominent in a further attack, and his finishing touch would certainly have found the net had not McIvor with a masterly efforts just put the ball outside at the expense of a corner kick, which came to nothing. Soon afterwards the Rovers burst away in irresistible fashion and Whittaker sent in a rasping shot, which Scott just managed to reach, and from his clearance the Everton forwards raced to within a few yards of the home line, where Young was penalised for offside, and from the free kick Whittaker got away, but finished up with a very wide shot. Almost immediately the Everton goal was again in danger, but Scott came to the rescue, by saving brilliantly from Watson. Then followed a fine movement, in which Rankin played an important part. After defeating Bradshaw he had the beating of Cameron, and put across to Hardman. The last named sent in a splendid low shot, which brought McIvor to his knees, and following this Young just skimmed the upright with a capital effort. Half-time Rovers nil, Everton nil.
After the interval the Everton forwards attacked in a determined manner, and several times Crompton was prominent with fine clearances. Then the Rovers got away, and Smith in a tussle with Balmer got the better of the visiting defenders and put in a shot, which rebounded, from the custodian, and Whittaker without hesitation banged the ball into the net, amid loud cheering. After this success the Rovers crowned round the Everton goal, and Bradshaw put in lighting shot, which Scott got away cleverly. Everton were soon on the offensive again, and Cameron had once more to make desperate efforts in order to get the ball away from the visiting forwards. Play continued to be contested with great keenness, and while Everton made many praiseworthy efforts to open their score, the Rovers were frequently dangerous but found Scott in fine form. The Rovers backs were generally too good for the visitors, and in the closing stages the Rovers held the upper hand. The defence was however, more than equal to the attack, and although Everton made efforts near the end they failed to score. Result Blackburn Rovers 1 goal, Everton nil.

EVERTON RESERVES 3 BLACKBURN ROVERS RESERVES 0
October 31, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 9)
At Goodison Park. From the centre MjcLoughlin headed past Yates, registering the first goal of the match after 33 minutes play. The same player added another from long range. Interval Everton 2, Rovers nil. After the resumption the Blues held the upper hand, and Yates charge had several narrow escapes. Then McLoughlin scored his third goal, Result Everton 3, Rovers nil. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, W.Wildman, and R.Balmer backs, Hanlin, Chadwick, and Makepeace half-backs, Roberts, McLoughlin, A.N.Other, Caldwell, and Dilly forwards, forwards.

ROVERS SUPERIOR TO EVERTON
Lancashire Evening Post - Monday 31 October 1904
With their return to full strength the Rovers have regained much of their earlier good form, and the victory over Everton gave their supporters great pleasure. The forwards made several mistakes in front of goal, but there were some excellent efforts; and Scott, the Everton custodian had ample opportunity of giving a rare display in goal. The Irish International showed himsel;f a really expert goalkeeper. Dewhurst improved on his previous form, and in common fairness one is bound to say that the advance was sufficiently marked to justify a further trail. The home attack was distinctly superior toi that of Everton. Blackburn's consistency is nothing short of remarkable. Week after week he is still in the same fine form, and the Rovers wing pair against Everton were a credit to the club. Crompton played a grand game at back. His fearless tackling and precise placing were conspicious features in his sterling performance. All round the Blues and Whites were strong, and man for man they were superior to the Mersey combination.

EVERTON REVIEW
October 31, 190. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton on Saturday failed to repeat their last season's victory at Ewood Park but, although they lost by a goal to nil, there was nothing whatever, discreditable about their defeat. As a matter of fact, the game was one of the most strenuously contested encounters in which Everton have been engaged since the opening of the season. It did not produce the exactitude and brilliance of the Everton forwards, which displayed in the match with Wolverhampton Wanderers neither, was it so full of life, and intense excitement as was the case when the Villa visited Goodison Park. At the same time, it was always interesting and brimful of really good football. For once in a way the Rovers were enabled to place their strongest eleven in the field. Lately they have suffered not a little from injuries to players and the consequence has been that the early promise, which suggested that the Rovers were one of the most powerful sides in the League, had not quite been bourne out. On Saturday's form however, it is evident that many of the clubs besides Everton will leave points behind them after appearing on the well-known enclosure of the Blackburn club. While the conditions were in favour of the Rovers, their opponents were in the unfortunate position of being without three of their most valuable representatives. Sharp was still unfit for active duty, but the most signals chance occurred in the half-back line. For many seasons no Everton team could be said to be representative less, Wolstenholmes Booth, and Abbott constituted the first line of defence. Wolstenholme of course has forsaken his old club and joined the Rovers, and with Booth and Abbott suffering from injuries the Everton trio was composed of Ashworth Taylor and Makepeace. These three on the whole performed very creditably, but one missed the quite yet effective and telling work of the clever artistes whose names have already been mentioned. As if to show that he has lost none of the ability which brought him into such prominence whilst he was with Everton. Wolstenholme had evidently laid himself out to nonplus the efforts of the visiting left wing. In this he succeeded admirably and his enthusiasm seemed to impart itself into the work of his colleagues, Birchall and Bradshaw. Indeed its not in the nature of exaggeration to suggest that finer half-back play has rarely been seen this season than that for which the Rovers halves were responsible. So much were they in evidence that little surprise may be felt at the comparative ineptitude of the Everton attack. They had few opportunities of shinning in as much as the plan of campaign resorted to by the three masterly half-backs of the Rovers left them practically no chance of indulging in anything like combined efforts.
The first half although unproductive in the matter of scoring was contested in earnest and vigorous fashion. There were many instances of ready admirable footwork, and both goalkeeper had shots to save which might have worried less experienced custodian. Apart from the excellent tactics of the Blackburn halves, one was in pressed by the altogether skilful and resourceful exhibition of Crompton. Cameron a left back, who can tackle well, and kick with great power, but he is not a Crompton, and on more than one occasion the Rovers captain successfully came is the rescue of his colleagues when danger threatened. If only Rankin had been able to join to his speed's capacity for reasonable manipulation of the ball, the probability is that when Crompton's alertness would not have saved his side. The goal, which gave the Rovers a well-deserved victory, was the outcome of a brilliant bit of work by Dewhurst. At the same time although it may seem paradoxical the goal itself was somewhat lucky. If Scott had been beaten when the ball was first shot into him, no one could have complained, and it was distinctly unfortunate, so far as the custodian was concerned, that a particualy clever save should have landed the ball at the foot of Whittaker, who had no difficulty whatever in placing into the net. This not with standing, the Rovers claimed the honour and deservedly so. The were unquestionably the better-balanced side, and each member of the team worked with an earnestness which presages many more victories. It is difficult to find fault with any individual Everton player. Each one of the eleven's obviously put his whole soul into the game, but it was an occasion when the best directed efforts failed to assimilate. It faults there be, it rested mainly with the vanguard. Young had an offday, with the result that the whole course of the Everton attack was ragged and ineffective. Hardman had a rare handiful to face in Wolstenholme, and Crompton, and, although he could make the impression upon those stalwarts he had at least the satisfaction of being able to claim that he was responsible for the most dangerous shot, which McIvor had to negotiate. Without being at all brilliant, the halves rendered useful service, the weakest of the trio being the ex-Stoke amateur-Ashworth. Balmer and Crelly came through a mass of work with infinite credit and Scott once again showed that he is a custodian of the front rank.

McLOUGHLIN’S THREE GOALS FOR EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 31 October 1904
The match between Everton and the Rovers ended in favour of the former by three clear goals.  McLoughlin was responsible for them all, scoring two before the interval, and one afterwards.  Although beaten, the Rovers’ forwards combined well, and their only weakness was in finishing.  On the other hand, Everton, or rather McLoughlin snatched every opportunity of putting on goals, and Yates, the visitors’ custodian, was kept busy.  The defence of Everton was sound, Kitchen making some good saves, whilst in front of him.  Wildman tackled well and kicked sturdily.  In addition to gaining all the goals, McLoughlin played a good game throughout and seems likely to prove a more than average recruit. 

REVIVAL MEETING AT BLACKBURN
Athletic News - Monday 31 October 1904
By Harricus
Blackburnians were on good terms with themselves on Saturday night, for the Rovers had won their first match since September 17-reckon up the number of weeks if you like-and moreover their victory of 1-0 over Everton was the conversion of a 2-0 defeat from the corresponding match of last season.  Therefore, I say, there was every satisfaction in places where football enthusiasts do congregate after the game.  Everton are always an attraction at Ewood Park, and despite the fact that there were matches at Preston, Accrington, and Darwen, which are looked upon as gathering grounds, the gate receipts were 336 pounds, which makes an attendance of over 13,000.  Everton looked a strange lot in their slate and white striped jerseys, and would have created a stronger contrast to the blue and white halves of their opponents had they borrowed the reds shirts of their Anfield neighbours.  They could not get going for some time; neither could the Rovers for the matter of that.  Fully twenty minutes ere there was any incident of note, and then Bradshaw completed some nice play with a capital cross which gave the forwards a splendid opportunity, but Smith shot over.  There was just another such incident at the other end, Rankin running well in and centring nicely only to see Young fail as Smith had done.  Again both outside men created openings, and from one cross by Rankin, Hardman put in a fine shot, McIvor saving equally as well, indeed neither custodian could be beaten up to half-time.  The second half had, however, not been in progress five minutes when the first and only goal of the match was recorded, and a worthy goal of the match was recorded, and a worthy goal it was, too.  Dewhurst deserves much of the credit of it by his doggedness.  He drove the ball right at Scott from whom it rebounded to Whitaker, who made no mistake in netting.  The feature of the second half were two masterly shots by exponents of either side.  In the first place, Hardman sent in a curler, which apparently looked like going over, but the ball dropped dead against the cross-bar, and again Dewhurst did just the same thing at the other end, the ball receiving a coating of white-wash.  Another few inches would have meant a goal to both teams.  But the narrowest squeak of all came just a few minutes from the finish, when Whittaker put across the ball at a rasping rate, and all that Scott could do was to divert its progress as it sped across the goal.  So far as the points were concerned, they went to the right side, for they surely asserted their superiority in the closing half.  Everton certainly held their own up to the interval, but it cannot be said that the play generally was of a very high standard in the first half.  The scoring of the goal seemed to put fresh life into the play.  The Rovers determined to retain their lead, and their opponents anxious to equalize it, with the result that the spectators were kept in an uncertain frame of mind; but the heat of the sun, or some other cause, had a tiring effect on the Evertonians, for they could not keep up with home team, who, as I said, thoroughly deserved their welcome win.  They had undoubtedly a good team to beat, and they did it without the assistance of any luck.  They held their own when Everton were going strong, and when they gained the lead they kept it because of their superiority.  McIvor had not a great deal to do, but he showed that he is an adept in the art of goalkeeping, and to my mind he should be kept in the team even when Evans has recovered Little “Mac” has somehow always had to battle against circumstances, and now that he has had a two months’ run in the team his claim for the fixed position should be recognized.  Robert Crompton was really unbeatable.  He is said to be off colour occasionally, but I do not happen to see him that way.  He fairly held Hardman, who seldom sparkled and yet the burly Rovers’ captain was as gentle as a lamb with the amateur.  Cameron, somehow, was not very happy.  He did some smart things, but he was not sure in his kicking nor in his tackling; indeed, his play on the whole compared very favourably with that of Crompton’s.  The star of the half-backs undoubtedly was Wolstenholme, who was in great form against his colleagues for several years past.  There is no doubt about it, he is the stamp of player who contributes to our international games.  Bradshaw was also in great form, his tackling and placing, as usual, being of the highest standard, while he rather surprised me with his sprinting abilities.  He has only received the first of his honours.  Birchall was indeed a strange mixture.  In the first half he played a great game, often securing the ball when it seemed impossible but in the second half he could scarcely do anything right.  Strange is it not?  On the other hand, Lionel Watson seemed only in the way in the first half, and yet fairly came out of his shell after the interval, his wide passes being most serviceable to his side.  Whittaker was a very dangerous forward, crossing the ball with accuracy time after time, and Dewhurst proved that he has not lost his ability.  In the Everton goal Scott had more work to do than his vis-à-vis, and he maintained his high standard, and both backs were strong; indeed, I know of no better cover goal than Balmer.  The absence of Booth and Abbott from the half-back line was doubtless weakening to that division, but no man could have improved on the work of the veteran Dumbartonian, Taylor, who was in the centre,.  I do not suppose he minds where he plays.  The amateur Ashworth whose forte is polish, made a good right half, while Makepeace is a useful reserve, though he would hardly do as a regular man.  The three inside forwards did not work to the same effect as they did at Bury, for they made plenty of headway in the first half, but the sun must have put them out of their paces.  Hardman had too much to face in Wolstenholme and Crompton, but Rankin was not merely a sprinter on Saturday.  He out-maneuvered Cameron more than once and put the ball into the goalmouth, though he might have shot straight for goal once or twice when he got clear away.  Blackburn Rovers; McIvor; Crompton (Captain), Cameron; Wolstenholme, Birchall, Bradshaw; Whittaker, Smith, Dewhurst, Watson, and Blackburn.  Everton; Scott; Balmer, Crelley; S.B. Ashworth, Taylor, Makepeace; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Referee; F. Kirkham, Preston.