EVERTON’S AWAKENING.
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 03 October 1908
By Richard Samuel
Last week-end’s inter-City events, twist seaport and Manchester  canal-port clubs, ended in chief honours coming this way, albeit the points were evenly distributed. Manchester City, despite their three goals, were never more unmistakably put through the mill—for they were as men ground fine powder in many instance —whilst Liverpool fought valiantly Clayton, and possibly deserved a division the points. They were, indeed, moving the stronger at the finish. Thus, taking the balance of play in both matches, the scale certainly went down with a bump in Merseyside’ favour. Everton’s previous lack of goals at Goodison had rendered them doubly hungry—and City made good meal. I wish "Pinokran” had been there! His particular pets made a capital fight for 15 minutes, but afterwards received no quarter.” Directly the opposition had tasted the sweets of goal-scoring it was all up (or down) with our visitors. The cotton men seemed incapable of carrying the dispute further. But I would like all the absent ones to know that Everton’s form following Young’s inaugural 1908-9 goal was so superlatively fine that team the land could have lived before them. It is all very well to decry the work Kelso, Jackson, Buchan, Holford and Blair. They were left standing by the opposition. This being so, can we wonder that Smith had an unhappy time? He had not the protection necessary for goalkeeper to prevail against such storming shots and terrific swoops upon his citadel as we witnessed with delight on Saturday. The Blues' jugglery when bearing upon Smith was sufficient to bare the nerves of any mere mortal. Smith, you had our sympathies.
The City’s Nightmare.
He wondered, like all of us, it was really true that Everton had previously failed to find the net at Goodison. Clearly, the solving of the Blues’ left wing problem had worked with magical effect. Everton were certainly out for spoil.—and what booty their forwards had show us in the end! With the Blues’ halves, too. It became a case of robbing the enemy—but without violence. Yes, -the enemy were plundered and routed to a remarkable tune. Six—three doesn’t look nearly so overwhelming as was actually the case here. Thornley deserves great credit for making the score appear respectable, but luck saved the City being debited with something like another half-dozen goals. On occasion, for minutes at a spell, no City man got a tap, kick, or a head at that elusive ball.  Everton forwards simply pranced, danced and flashed in and through them.  A Citizen would chase Young, and make his effort, only to find that the ball had some time previously been transferred to Coleman, and what sandy did, so did Sharp and Coleman.  Their own forwards were entirely subdued by Makepeace, Harris, and Balmer, who all simply surpassed themselves, and so pronounced was the sympathy between the Everton half-backs and forwards that Saturday was registered in the City camp as the hottest day of the year, despite what the thermometer has told us during the current week.
Breezy Comments.
It was Everton’s amazing strength and ability which wrought the havoc, and made our visitors appear slow and second-rate by comparison.  Somehow Scott hasn’t pleased of late as he usually does, whilst Macconnachie could have taken holidays, so completely did Makepeace play the part of spider to the supposed right wing flier, Webb and his partner.  Harry has never exceeded his form of Saturday, nor has Val Harris whilst Taylor’s work was acceptable, despite Thornley’s big break-aways.  Everton’s attack proved a revelation after what had gone before, and we could scarcely credit that a new left wing should have made such a difference.  Sandy Young proved a real will-o-the-wasp, being in every way a storming success; Indeed, I should like to enlarge on Young’s behavior, but for the demands of space.  He seems fond of goals v. the City. To say the least.  Everton’s three inside men played beautifully together, but Young alone of the three could shoot straight.  I never saw a man more out of luck with his finishes than Coleman, which was a good thing for the City.  Freeman combined prettily with his inside men, and showed a fine turn of speed.  Freeman’s tactics backed on to Young and Co’s botheration juggling, went a very long way towards upsetting the enemy’s balance.  Captain Sharp also played a valiant part.  Never have I seen him revel more in his work than he did after the interval on Saturday.  He fairly bubbled over with pace, dash, and cleverness.  Barlow I have left until the last.  I think he quite pleased the critics, and bore out what I wrote of him a fortnight previously (having happened to watch him closely when at Anfield last season).  There are those who say his footwork is really cleverer than Hardman’s.  He is certainly trickier, and I like his manner of centering.  Thornley was the Citizens outstanding figure.  Indeed with two Thornleys in the team the City might have drawn!

PEN PICTURE OF A PROMINENT PLAYER
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 03 October 1908
By Richard Samuel
JACK SHARP.
It only seems yesterday that one read of heated debates in the Aston Villa camp which was the club’s better outside right— Charlie Athersmith (then in his zenith and in the middle of his International cap-winning exploits! or a certain sunny-faced youth named Jack Sharp. Yet ten solid years have gone since the heated period named, whilst to-day have that selfsame Jack Sharp tripping along the football arena just as buoyant as in the late nineties. For a youth of scarce 20 summers to thus challenge Athersmith at the period referred to plainly indicated that Sharp was a budding aspirant of quite an unusual type, as the first named. be it recalled, appeared for England v. Scotland in the two seasons Sharp was with the Villa, and the two following seasons also—clear proof the accuracy one's opening statement respecting Athersmith being at his zenith when Sharp arrived on the scene to challenge comparison—a savoring surely of David going out to battle against Goliath! But it was as a centre forward that Sharp at the age of 18 was transferred in 1897 from his native town’s club, Hereford Thistle, to the Villa, who a month previously had beaten Everton in the great Cup final 3 —2. After having also won the League’s championship. He had not long to wait for position in the Aston League team; indeed. Sharp in the season of 1897-98 ranked second to Wheldon on his club’s goal scoring list, with a total 11 bull's eyes.
At that period speed' was his forte, and Sharp’s sturdy little frame of 11st, frequently ran up against backs who were not inclined treat him kindly.  But he found an able mentor in his captain and inside right, Jack Devey, whilst other "stars” in the team included James Cowan and Crabtree.  In season 1898-9 the Villa were early inclined to try Johnson  (a most unlucky player) as pivot to the attack, Sharp meanwhile having developed a liking for the outside right berth, where naturally his  great speed would fine fuller play, and instanter  started the villa’s  reserve match habitués  with his dazzling runs and deadly centres.  Yes; it was only Athersmith at his best who was keeping Sharp in the background.  But when tried in eight League matches on Devey’s right the present Everton captain tended to send the crowd into raptures. It was clear - as Sharp himself said - that he had found his true position at outside right, but as  his club was not permitted, vide the rules, to play two outside rights, Athersmith in the main barred the way.  Excellence, however, like cream, is sure to ascend.  Sharp felt there was plenty of room at the top. He could kick the ball hard, but he kicked harder against playing second fiddle even to the mighty Athersmith, and, Just as he joined the Villa in 1897 along with his brother Bert, so. too, the twain left in companionship for Everton in May, 1899, Jack having an additional incentive to reside within our borders in that he was the time qualifying as a cricketer for Lancashire —with what wonderful success we all know , seeing that he came off for his adopted county at the first time of asking with a splendid 57 v, Surrey in the self-same-summer  of '99, and has since shone as a bowler, an all-rounder, and is at present rightly looked upon one of the heaviest run-getters identified with first-class cricket.   Sharp himself in his own modest way sets his various successes down largely to luck, but in this the writer must beg to disagree. Coming to Everton he made his debut with the Blues in September 1899 v. Sheffield United, and ever since has he been a tremendous part and parcel of the Everton team, which has never been considered a representative side should his name missing.
He has Gone in to the win chief honours of the winter pastime, these including an  English Cup medal, caps v. Scotland and Ireland (the latter at inside right), inter-League distinctions, etc., but he is still awaiting a League medal, although the Villa won the championship when he occasionally assisted them in 1898-9. Sharp’s merits are numerous indeed, both as a man and a sportsman.  He was cradled almost in cricket and football, and the paternal care has been rewarded abundantly.   His is a personality whom it does one good to look upon. There is a positive pleasure in seeing this gentlemanly player getting up steam, and taking the ball in his stride for a scintillating dash along the wing.  Everything that he does is quickly done.  In cricket, he is a fast bowler and a rapid run-getter; in football, he acts like one charged with electricity, and given a suitable partner his opponents find “Sharp” reminiscences creeping into their thoughts next morning.  Sharp on the field is aggressive in all his movements.—as a forward should be. He never -strikes one as being a likely subject, for instance, to play the role of emergency full back. He is a man of van: a man who out to win, and a performer who can give the crowd thrill after thrill during a game’s progress.  He is still one of the greyhounds the Soccer arena, despite his eleven years’ service—a bundle of activity and strength, who will not give the opposition rest. Meredith is fast, but his runs are made sections, first nursing the ball, then racing for some yards, and again more “nursing," but with Sharp it is speed right through the piece when in possession. He has been wonderfully free from Serious Accident- and staleness, therefore, when his pace is taken into consideration. Some say Sharp isn’t quite tall enough for an ideal winger.  They are entitled to their opinion, but I wouldn’t assist in confirming it, for your more compactly built footballer usually stands hard work better, and the less lengthy men are also as rule quicker in turning and doubling.  Sharp can even turn the whole bearing of a game in a twinkling, and, in cricket, has shown himself well capable of winning a match off his own bat.  These are the men our clubs wanton their side, He possesses that rare trait—an ability to rise to the occasion, and the more important the match, the more refulgently as a rule does he shine. This is the hall-mark of greatness. Sharp is in every way a model athlete, and practically needs no' cut-and-dried system of training for the very reason that he is always fit.  No-game is too hard or long for him, and certainly no one on the Everton side wears better during a game’s progress.  Would that all professionals were like him.  Then, methinks our club trainers would find their occupations gone, apart from the rubbing down processes.   No man had a greater say in Everton’s English Cup triumph than Sharp, who truly has been known to have the destinies of Soccer trophies at his toes.  Sharp’s name is inseparably linked with the Everton club; indeed, Everton isn’t Everton without him.  He is quickness personified –Sharp by name and Sharp by nature, and the only thing he does not do quickly is to tire people.  Long may he reign, to lead the Everton team and van on to added triumphs.

NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 03 October 1908

• Wonder what Everton will done next!
• Young was in great form at Goodison
• Sharp is becoming quite a penalty artist.
• Nine goals and two penalties in one match, surely they had their money’s worth out Goodison Park way.
• Jack Taylor and Alex Raisebeck, today’s opposing centre-halves in the “grate fite” each scored a goal last Saturday.
• It may be a long day ere we witness such a thrilling dashing, and brilliant game as that twixt Everton and Manchester city.
• When Conlin and Harris had what in Yankee parlance is known as a “mix-up” tis said that the referee cautioned the diminutive winger for using his weight.
• What a howl of execration went up when Buchan brought down Barlow, the nippy debutant at Goodison.  No wonder the linesman administered a well-merited rebuke to the Mancunian at the same time adopting the attitude of “a fighting parson.”
• Sharp’s sharpshooting simply stupefied Smith
• Everton are the genuine surprise packets of 1908-9.
• ‘Tis said that Manchester City don’t like Everton toffee.
• Smith, the City keeper, is not likely to forget his visit to Goodison Park, and his introduction to Sandy Young, for a long time.
• Sharp’s movements down the wing in the second half against the City at times brought both Blair and Jackson to a standstill in amazement.
• Nuggeteer thought he was reading about a cricket match at Goodison Park when he read about Thornley performing the second hat trick of the afternoon.
• Freeman, for the first time this season, played a good game at Goodison.  Though a bit remiss in his shooting he combined splendidly with Coleman and Young, and gave Sharp and Barlow ample opportunities.
• Well done, Winterhalder!  Four goals against Carlisle United on Saturday is a record, and a hint to North end officials to play a man in his proper position.  Winterhalder is a left wing forward; hence his pardoned poor shooting as an extreme right winger.
• What a difference Sandy Young has made to the Everton team!  He has put some life into the attack, which was what it sadly needed.  Before Young’s re-appearance there appeared to be only one wing operating, but now there is a general levelling up all round.  If the defence was only a little more consistent, the championship might come to Goodison Park this year.  It is time they won it again.
• Two hat-tricks at Goodison
• Nine for sixpence –at Goodison
• City were simply routed at Goodison.
• The City’s last three visits to Goodison have been the means of providing a rare crop of goals, Everton claiming 18, City 7. 
• Barlow, the new Everton amateur, made a splendid debut at Goodison and showed himself not only a clever footballer, but an earnest worker and worrier as well.
• No less than 19 goals were scored in the two matches played by Manchester City team, last Saturday –nine at Everton and 10 at Hyde-rd. This is very nearly a record.
• This season Jack Sharp, the popular Everton outside right seems to have almost abandoned what was in previous years quite a feature of his play.  The writer refers to the way he used to veer in from the touchline, and drive in those terrific oblique shots, which so often found the far corner of the net, with the speed of a hit to the leg boundary.  In the writer’s opinion there is no wing man who can crash in such a storming shot from any angle as Sharp, not excepting Meredith.
• Youthful Young.
• In his style of play and his liking for work, Barlow reminds us very much of Hardman.
• The crowd at Goodison Park must have been satisfied with the fare provided in the Everton v City match.  Nine goals, two penalty kicks, and a forward on each side performing the hat-trick is by no means a common occurrence.
• Thornley worked his passage along the touch line at Goodison for nearly 40 yards on Saturday, brushing aside man after man.  He then converged goal wards and did the same thing, winding up by lifting the ball into the net.  A more remarkable goal has not been recorded on the Everton enclosure, and it was a fine consummation in the gaining of Irvine’s hat-trick.

FOOTBALL FACTS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 03 October 1908

• Makepeace and Harris were responsible for a good deal of the Manchester City forwards’ seeming mediocrity of a week ago.  The first named has never touched a higher standard, whilst Harris was complete master of Ross and Conlin after the first 15 minutes.
• Jack Bell’s views on the wage question are that a player should be paid according to his ability, and then there would be no need for bonuses.  He would have the player subject to certain restrictions as to movements, however, so that his club might be given some protection and hold on him.

PARS ABOUT PLAYERS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 03 October 1908

• Robert Balmer has proved himself to be the outstanding figure in Everton’s defensive division this season.  He was due to be highly tried, however, this afternoon with Liverpool’s left wing, for Cox, and Orr have been going great guns of late.
• Young’s forward behavior makes all the difference to Everton’s attack.  He was in wonderful form on Saturday, as Kelso and Buchan can substantiate, and the ex-Everton centre literally worked himself to a standstill.  By the way, his three goals in a match has not been equaled by Young since the Manchester City team were slaughtered by nine goals to one at the same ground two years ago.
• Barlow made a very good impression at Goodison Park in his first home appearance with Everton, whose spectators, above anything, like the player who will infuse dash into his work.  Barlow is rather more sturdily built than Hardman, but he possesses many of Hardman’s characteristics.  There is little of the haphazard about the way in which he centres.  Far too many first-class men (so-called) are absolutely careless on this point, and usually trust to luck for the centres to go to one of their own side.  As often as not it goes slick to the foot of a defender.

LIVERPOOL V. EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 03 October 1908
MERSEYSIDE CHAMPIONS MEET IN HEATED BATTLE.
In phenomenal October weather the great battle Beds and Blues came up for determination at Anfield this afternoon. Everybody seemed hot when the gladiators, or prize-football fighters- appeared inside the arena—even MaConnachie had lost some coolness apparently. The first of the 1908-9 encounters 'twixt Everton and Liverpool had indeed been excitedly looked forward to, but never bargained for such July day as this. The public’s faith in Liverpool had been shaken somewhat as the result of their Thursday’s Nottingham rout, especially as it had deprived them of Rogers’ services, West thus partnering Saul. But more perturbing still was the fact that Alec Raisbeck, the Reds’ famous captain, was unwell, and perforce stood down from a League encounter. Everton for the first time during his 11 seasons' sojourn on Merseyside. In his stead appeared Harrop. Apart from this the Reds were expected to appear at full strength. Everton naturally relied upon the eleven which performed so ably against Manchester City, and naturally also the local interest was great as to how their representatives would comport themselves, and especially Young and Barlow. Everton to date had dropped no "away ’’ points and Liverpool claimed a similar distinction for "home" matches, so that at least any record would have to go. This is how the men faced up at 3-30, Liverpool;- Hardy, goal; West, Right-back and Saul (captain), Left-back; Chorlton, Right half-back, Raisebeck, Centre half-back and Bradley, left half-back; Goddard, Outside-right, Parkinson, Inside-right, Hewitt, Centre, Orr, Inside-left and Bowyer, Outside-left.  Everton; Scott, goal; Balmer (R.), right-back, Mancconnachie, left-back; Harris, Right half-back, Taylor, Centre half-back and Makepeace, Left half-back; Sharp (captain), Outside-right, Coleman, Inside-right, Freeman, Centre, Young, Inside-left and G.H. Barlow, Outside-left.  Referee; J. Mason, Burslem.
Cox’s Absence.
Everton had prepared near home in their customary fashion, but Liverpool had been to Southport following upon their Nottingham debacle. To add their misfortune to-day one learned at noon that Cox had been summoned home to Blackpool this morning in consequence his sick mother’s critical condition. Surely fortune was handling the Reds heavily, in the preliminary stages at least. In Cox's stead the daring experiment was tried of placing Bowyer on the extreme left. The heat was sweltering and the sun severe, but still on came the crowd climbing over the “Spion Kop” like huge ants. Half an hour before the start fully 25,000 people were present, and when the rival elevens lined up this had increased another 10,000—fully. 35,000 people witnessing the start. The waiting period was agreeably whiled away by the band and hornpipe boys of the Indefatigable training ship, their rendering of the Sailor’s Hornpipe being tremendously appreciated. Everton lost the toss, and had thus to face the sun when in its fiercest mood. Everton started, but Freeman soon lost the ball to Orr, who sent Bowyer on his way for the winger to get in a Splendid Centre, which Harrop cleared. Everton essayed a run on the right; - following tricky play by Coleman, but the ball went into touch. Bradley maneuvered well, but Macconnachie cleared finely. A. minute later "Mac,” who shone so refulgently at Anfield last Good Friday, stopped Liverpool advance in really superb style, and finely deserved were the encomiums showered upon him. The pace after this was terrifically fast, the crowd being kept at fever heat. Scott was the more seriously menaced, and was called upon to clear two long shots from Hewitt, and an admirable centre by Bowyer.  Then the Blues had a turn, Barlow twice over rendering brilliant service. Barlow in one instance ran back to assist his side's defence, and robbed Goddard in fine style. The paces of the combatants were really electric. Liverpool's forwards were the more aggressive and once Macconnachie got in the way of an almost certain goal from the foot of Orr. Macconachie indeed had been to now Everton’s great sheet anchor in defence. Freeman was offside from a forward pass by Harris, and all told the passages were very fine. Bowyer was doing well in his novel position, and here tested Scott with a troublesome centre. Ere he could clear Parkinson challenged for possession and Scott lost the ball. But a free-kick given against "Parkie” saved the situation to the Blues. Sharp made a thrilling run, but his winding-up shot was just cleverly captured by Hardy. The pace was so fast that It was really hotter than the atmosphere, hence the ability the players to stand it. Everton were now getting more into their stride, and from a neat pass by Sharp, Coleman just tipped the bar with a most commendable effort. In a flash Liverpool were at the other end, and a shot from Goddard swung behind the post. Faulty kicking by Harris and McConnaobie gave the Reds a chance, but Hewitt shot wildly and wide. Bowyer, who was quite a success thus far, again got the better of Balmer, and centred right across to Goddard the latter returned, and Everton’s goal escaped narrowly. The home half-backs had worked unceasingly, and had succeeded in keeping Everton’s inside forwards fairly well under control and we missed Sandy Young's exclusive footwork today. Indeed it seemed as though something were lacking with no Raisebeck and Young playing the part duelists.  Twenty-five minutes had sped without a blot accruing to either goal. At this juncture Liverpool's Citadel In particular experienced two hair-breadth escapes. In the first instance Sharp set Coleman In full cry for goal, but to the consternation of his friends the ex-Gunner crashed the ball wide of the intended billet. A minute later Sharp centred beautifully, but Freeman couldn't give the ball the necessary touch.  Prior to this a lofty centre from Goddard, coupled with the sun’s rays, severely tested Scott, who was found in equally serious straits just afterwards from a centre by Bowyer and a shot from Bradley. The Reds continued a hot pressure—three corners being forced in quick succession. During this period Scott behaved in masterly fashion, one save from Orr being in particular a fine piece of work. In a trice the scene was changed as Freeman put in the finest run of the day. His speed and control of the ball were alike splendid, and he raced to within a few yards of goal. Hardy was drawn out, and Freeman gently tapped the ball into the goal as it seemed but Wonderful to relate, the ball trickled just wide of the far post. Freeman was cheered unstintingly for such a superb run, and his work deserved a better fate. Hewitt missed a favourable opening at the other end by shooting wildly when well placed. Young continued in quiescent mood although he served Barlow well, whilst the Everton right had to face a foeman worthy of their steel in Saul, who worked like Trojan throughout. Three minutes before the Interval Macconnachie conceded a corner in stopping the Reds, and from this Freeman broke right away to emulate his previous performance by again outdistancing all opposition. He ended this great run with an accurate and cool centre, and Barlow drove the ball Into the net. It was a brilliant goal Indeed. Just prior to the truce Hardy saved splendidly from Sharpe. Half-time: Everton 1, Liverpool 0.
COMMENTS.
Possibly the more pressure was brought to bear on the Everton goal during the first half but the Reds had Scott to reckon with, and their sharp shooters were also wild in their finishes when well placed. Bowyer was the equal of any forward on his side, and the defence put up valiant show. Still there is no getting away from Freeman's brilliant individualism; his speed came out in most marked fashion. Barlow, Harris, Sharp, and Taylor had all played well. The Liverpool outlook was not too rosy on returning, seeing they were a goal in arrears and also had the sun to face. However, they began promisingly. Chorlton busied himself and, getting the better of Young, he pushed the ball ahead to Hewitt, who raced across and drove in a hot rising shot, which Scott tipped over the bar, the corner coming to nought. The men were soon going at full pressure, and exciting incidents were many. Makepeace, Bradley and Harris were noticeable for starling half-back endeavours. The game had been free from dangerous tactics, but here a stoppage ensued as Young received a kick in the face. However, it was a pure accident on the part of Goddard.  Hewitt had a penchant for shooting—a commendable trait, but his aims were generally too lofty. It's the lowly shootist who most frequently finds himself exalted.  Freeman was again dangerous with his powerful bursts. From one centre by Barlow there was an appeal for trip against Bradley when inside the box, but as the half-back same away with the ball at his toes his intention was obvious; it was the ball he had gone for and not the man. Macconnachie's defence stood out among the four backs on view, although Captain Saul was rendering valiant service against his rival captain.  
Stirring Events were still in the picture. Liverpool’s wildness in front continued to constitute their undoing. From a free-kick given against Harris, Scott was forced to save under difficulties, and then Sharp raced away merrily, to be beaten in the last fraction the untiring Saul. The refereeing was a fine feature of the day’s play. McConnachie and Saul were vieing with each other for supremacy. Barlow was grassed heavily by West.  Makepeace made a fine run and centre which Bradley saved in excellent fashion.  Then Hardy saved well from a corner, and Liverpool dashed away on the left.  The Blues' backs were beaten, and the Reds experienced bad luck when Hewitt crashed the ball against the crossbar.  The Livers then took a corner, and again, Everton's goal barely escaped, but in a trice the Blues were attacking, and Sharp levelled the hottest shot of the day right on the mark.  Hardy, however, proved equal to a strenuous occasion.  Bowyer, who was the Reds' finest forwards was cheered hereabouts unstintingly for brilliant work, but his comrades again erred in showing too much excitability.  As the end approached Everton put on hard pressure, Sharp was fed splendidly time and again, and he gave a noble response.  It was only Hardy who stood between Everton and further goals at this point.  The game was a remarkable test of endurance, and a more strenuously fought match has never been played between the two great rivals.
Comments
Everton just deserved the victory, their fourth away success of the season out of four-a truly brilliant record taking into consideration their weakened forces.  Liverpool set up a noble fight.  Everton have only twice suffered defeat in 13 League visits to Anfield as Liverpool's antagonists.
Final; Liverpool 0, Everton 1.

EVERTON RES V. BURNLEY RES
(Lancashire Combination.- First Division.)
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 03 October 1908
Everton reserve, who were still without a Lancashire Combination win to their credit, opposed Burnley’s second eleven at Goodison Park this afternoon before a poor attendance.  Everton won the toss, and Burnley started with the sun in their eyes.  Five minutes from the start Buck beat the backs opposed to him, and scored for Everton with a good shot.  Shortly afterwards Bolton missed a chance of scoring again from a centre by Dawson.  Beddow equalized with a header.  Buck got away two or three times, but was on each occasion ruled offside.  Everton had the best of the game, Buck being the mainstay of the forward line.  Jones kicked the ball over the stand as the whistle went for offside.  The Burnley custodian fisted out two or three hot shots and Jones scored a second goal for Everton.  Half-time; Everton 2, Burnley 1. Final; Everton Reserve 4, Burnley Reserve 1.

LIVERPOOL 0 EVERTON 1
October 5, 1908. The Liverpool Courier.
A MEMORABLE STRUGGLE
Games between Liverpool and Everton are always interesting, and Saturday's great contest at Anfield will remain green in the memory of those who were fortunate enough to be present. Up to date Everton had won all their away matches, while Liverpool had won all their home engagements. Naturally this led to a great deal of speculation. Of course, the phenomenal beat was altogether against good football, but despite this fact we were treated to a remarkable fine exhibition of the game. Ever since the two clubs have been in opposition one has never witnessed a more exciting encounter in which the nicer points of the game were always prominent than was the case on Saturday. The fortunes of war favoured Everton, inasmuch as the executive were able to place their full strength in the field, while Liverpool, as is usual when they meet their near neighbours, had to make changes in their ranks. Cox, owing to the illness of his mother, was not able to fill his accustomed position, and Rogers' injury at Nottingham on Thursday last kept him out of the team. The ground presented a very fine appearance, being well filled on all sides, and the attendance will probably stand at a record for the season. With regard to the game, it was splendidly contested, cleanly fought, and worthy to rank as one of the best expositions that have ever been witnessed between these keen rivals. By their victory Everton are undoubtedly creating in record in the matter of League victories away from Goodison Park.

LIVERPOOL'S EARLY EXCELLENCE.
Liverpool were decidedly the better team during the first half of the game, and instead of being in arrear at the interval they quite deserved to lead. Practically speaking, the only real danger to Hardy's charge in the first half hour was when Freeman got away and with an open goal put the ball outside. The Anfielders during this period were exerting severe pressure, and considering the chances that came their way they ought certainly to have laid a solid foundation to success. On one occasion Hewitt, unmarked, with none other to beat than Scott, drove in from a range of 20 yards, instead of taking the ball on. There were other occasions when reasonable chances presented themselves, but as a rule shooting did not soar above the average. The only goal of the match was recorded three minutes from the interval. A dashing individual effort on the part of Freeman led up to Liverpool's disaster. The centre swung the ball across for Barlow to bang it into the net from a position which left Hardy no possible chance of saving.

THE TABLES TURNED.
The stimulating effect of Barlow's goal was noticeable in the improvement, which Everton undoubtedly showed in the second half of the game. Briefly, it may be stated that much as Liverpool had dominated the early proceedings, Everton more than turned the tables in regard to superiority in movement during the second portion. It was really all due to the feeling that with a goal in hand they were inspired to greater efforts, not only to keep their goal intact, but to assume a more aggressive attitude. Still there were times when the “Reds” looked like obtaining an equalising goal. On one occasion in particular the Liverpool side experienced hard luck. This was when after a really fine combined effort on the part of the home forwards, and Bowyer in particular, Hewitt found himself nicely placed, and delivered a remarkably fast shot, which, unfortunately for his side, rebounded from the crossbar, when Scott was practically helpless. For the most part, however, Everton were decidedly the cleverer, both in attack and defence. A feature of the play, which frequently brought out the plaudits of the spectators, was a series of bouts between the alert and brilliant Sharp and the steady and resourceful Saul. Both of these players came out of these memorable rushes with honours easy.

THE LIVERPOOL PLAYERS.
Coming to the players, and dealing first with Liverpool, one must congratulate Hardy upon his excellent exposition of goalkeeping. Saul was the better of the backs, for his display was even throughout, whereas the work of West was discounted by occasional feeble kicking. Half-back play was distinctly good. Bradley was undoubtedly the classiest half on the field. Chorlton played well, and Harrop played an improved game, and the probability is that the latter will continue to show that form which he displayed at the close of last season. The weak spot in the forward line was at inside right. Parkinson has now an extended trial, and there are no signs of improvement. This is practically destroying half the efficiently of the Liverpool attack. Goddard was frequently left to his own resource, but apart from this the continued weakness in this position is exerting a detrimental influence upon the play of the centre-forward. To the ordinary observer it is surprising that a change has not been forthcoming in this direction before now, especially when there are capable reservices to fill the place. Despite this weakness. Liverpool had numerous chances of making their position safe in the first half-hour, but their finishing efforts were erratic, and at other times they experienced hard luck. Bowyer was the best of the line, Dash, pluck, and ability to seize the opportunities that were furnished characterised his work throughout, and if this player is a sample of what the executive have at command there is no reason why experiments should not be made on the other wing.

THE VICTORS.
With regard to the Everton players, they are also to be congratulated upon the general effectiveness of their work. Scott, in goal had many anxious moments, especially in the first period of the game, and there can be no denying the fact that he did everything that could have been done, and moreover, did it well. This display of defensive methods given by McConnachie was solid, both in aim and character, throughout the whole of the proceedings, and with Balmer also in good form, it can readily be imagined that little latitude could be exacted from Everton's last line of defence. While complimenting Taylor and Harris upon their general success and untiring efforts, the palm must be awarded Makepeace, whose resourceful methods were frequently of inestimable value to his side. Barlow was the most successful of the Everton forwards, although Sharp was never wanting when an opportunity came his way. Unfortunately for him, his partner –Coleman –was not in one of his happiest moods, while Freeman, the centre, beyond contributing a few dashing runs during the course of the game was decidedly poor. Young seemed to forget that there were others on either side of him ready and willing, but he continued to be wrapped up in himself, and thereby robbed the forward play of much of its effectiveness. Freeman was not a great success to the centre. He rarely got the better of the opposing half, and when occasion required he failed to keep in touch with his wingmen. Still, the movements of the Everton quintet were always more suggestive of danger than were those of their opponents. A last word. The game was contested in remarkably good spirit. May this generous feeling of hope emulation prevail for years to come whenever the local rivals meet. Teams: - Liverpool: - Hardy, goal, West, and Saul, backs, Chorlton, Harrop, and Bradley, half-backs, Goddard, Parkinson, Hewitt (Captain), Orr, and Bowyer, forwards. Everton: - Scott, goal R Balmer, and MaConnachie, backs, Harris, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs, Sharp (Captain), Coleman, Freeman, Young, and Barlow, forwards. Referee J. Mason.

EVERTON RESERVES 4 BURNLEY RESERVES 1
September 5, 1908. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 5)
The Everton second team gained their first win of the season by defeating Burnley at Goodison Park by 4 goals to 1. The Lancashire Combination champions were undoubtedly the superior team, and displayed a higher standard of football tan at any time during the present season. Buck, the local sprinter, who outpaced the Burnley defenders, and easily defeated the custodian, secured the first goal. Beddow equalised, and just on the interval Jones gave the home side the lead. In the second half Everton practically monopolised the game, and Lacey and Jones added to their score. For the victors Jones Borthwick, and Adamson were the most conspicuous and Wilcock and Beddow best served Burnley. Everton: - Berry, goal, Stevenson and Meunier, backs Rafferty, Borthwick, and Adamson, half-backs, Buck, Lacey, Jones Bolton, and Mountford, forwards.

NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 10 October 1908

• Evertonians elevated
• Everton’s reserve team seem to have lost all the sting they had last season.
• The meeting of the two Liverpool rivals resulted in a keen and exciting game, with the Evertonians declared victors once more.  It now remains for the Reds to return the does when they meet at Goodison.
• Barlow, the amateur outside left pf Everton is a very tricky player for a winger, too much so.  He would be more effective if he would only go ahead and centre instead of waiting to beat the back once or twice before doing so.
• The Dutch team which will take part in the forthcoming Olympic tournament is being trained by Edgar Chadwick, the famous old Everton left-winger.  He resides at Rotterdam, but makes four journeys to Haarlem, Amsterdam, and the Hague, coaching team of those cities.  Holland, he says is taking the competition very seriously.
• Twenty minutes from time Liverpool had shot their bolt and Everton held the whip hand.
• Everton stood the heat better than Liverpool, but it must be remembered they were the lighter team.
• Tim Coleman has had hard lines with his shots at Goodison.  True in direction and the necessary speed, an opponent more by luck than good guidance has generally been in the way of them and the desired haven, spoiling Tim’s “goals for” column.
• J Settle late of Everton, is at present proving his worth to his new club, Stockport County.
• Tommy McDermott has only thrice figured in the Bradford City team this season.
• Donald Sloan gets his chance in the Liverpool goal today.  How has he fared against the Fossils?
• West’s tripping of Barlow was an accident and he did not deserve the hooting that the Everton portion of the crowd treated him to.
• Sharp and Coleman got the better of Saul, as did Young and Barlow, of West, Balmer had all his work cut out against Orr and Bowyer.
• Barlow has come to stay.  Against the Livers he was brilliant and could not have been improved upon.  Like his predecessor, H.P. Hardman, he is full of grit, very speedy, and tricky.  There is a great future in front of the Wigan Grammer School Old Boy.
• Once again the Anfielders have had to bow the knee to the mighty Evertonians.  In the first half they gave the Blues a good game, but Everton led at the interval, and on the general run of the play they fully deserved it.  In the second half, though no goals were scored, the home team were literally swamped, and Hardy alone saved a big score being recorded against them.
• As per usual, Liverpool had to bow the knee to Everton.
• Evertonians have cause to be proud of their team’s successes on foreign soil.
• Liverpool had little consolation, in their game with Everton, for the gate was a “bumper.”
• One Liverpool report said; Sharp shaved the upright.” Sounds funny when you’re reading it in the local barber’s.

BURY RESERVE v. EVERTON RESERVE.
 (Lancashire Combination.—Division I.)
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 10 October 1908
About 2,000 spectators assembled at Gigg-lane this afternoon when Everton Reserve were entertained. Bury’s team included Peter Gildea, who made his initial appearance of the season, having been kept out owing to an injury to his knee. He captained the Bury team, and winning the toss set the Toffeemen to face the brilliant sun and slight breeze. Jones started, and Everton went down with a determined rush, displaying pretty passing and vigorously effective work. Several times the goal underwent narrow escapes, and then Hughie Bolton drove in a terrific shot which rose up the front of Saxon in goal, hitting the underside of the crossbar and dropping to the ground.  Saxon finally cleared amid cheers. An appeal was made for goal, but the referee was at the side of the goal and in a remarkably good position for seeing how far the ball got in the goal. After this Bury wakened up, and forced a couple of corners, from neither which, were they dangerous, but at length J. Currie drew away in fine style, and whipping across, Stevenson tried to stop the ball with his head, but missed it altogether, and the ball was curling in at the foot of the post when' Berry got down to it and saved at the expense of corner. This was again cleared, also was another corner.  J. Currie was very prominent among the forwards, not only on account of his fine turn of speed, but the many excellent centres which he put in, and from which one or two goals ought to have been scored. Mistakes at close quarters were the distinguishing characteristic of the Bury play.  Still, Bury were distinctly overplaying the Evertonians, who had to thank a keen and sterling defence for their safety. Gildea shot inches too high to achieve his heart's desire, and at the other end Jones copied his example. Buck’ was proving veritable thorn to the home defenders, but neither set of forwards could be complimented on their work in close quarters. Berry effected capital save from J, Currie close to the post, and again Berry cleared his lines when Millington delivered a crashing shot at the goal. From this clearance Everton bore down upon the Bury goal, and Saxon had to pick up and kick away a shot sent in by Bolton.  Right away Bury retaliated, and a goal seemed imminent when Mennier intervened, but despite his vigorous attentions, Broome got in his shot, which narrowly missed the post. Everton responded with several storming attacks, the chief danger coming from the left wing, where Dawson was dangerous.  Crossing over, Bury attacked, and a free-kick for hands wide of the goal spelled danger, but Billington headed over.  Coming again, Gildea dropped the ball on to the net.  Immediately afterwards Gildea fell and again twisted his injured knee, having to be carried off the field.  Everton attacked, and Dawson had a rare chance but crossed instead of shooting. Saxon caught and cleared a long shot by Buck. Everton were having the best of matter but erratic work in front prevented them from scoring. Bury roused themselves, but were rarely dangerous. Everton pressed again, and when Lacey handled Bury appealed in vain. The ball went to Jones, who sent in a hard, low drive, Saxon making another attempt to save. FINAL. EVERTON RESERVE 1 BURY RESERVE 0.

EVERTON V. BURY
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 10 October 1908
 (League.—First Division.)
Fresh from their victory over Liverpool and their draw with Manchester United respectively. Everton and Bury appeared at Goodison this afternoon in ideal football weather. Each side was eager for victory—indeed, Bury were more anxious than eager, as their position was a serious one. No club in either Division the League had lost so many goals. Indeed, Bury shared with Bradford City the unenviable distinction of being the only First Leaguers which to date had not picked up a single away point. Everton perforce gave up Makepeace to inter-League calls, and the Bury captain, Dewhurst, was similarly absent—as reservist, however. Adamson deputised for Makepeace, this being Adamson’s first 1908-9 appearance. Bury's attack was at full strength. Duffy still being preferred to Booth at outside left. Not previously this season had Everton’s defensive section beep interfered with. At the last minute Humphreys was included centre half.  Everton;- Scott, goal; Balmer (R.), Right-back, and Macconnachie, left-back; Harris, Right half-back, Taylor, centre Half-back and Adamson, Left Half-back; Sharp (captain), Outside-right, Coleman, Inside-right, Freeman, Centre, Young, Inside-left and G.H. Barlow, Outside-left.  Bury; Raeside, goal; Lindsay, Right-back and McMahon, (captain) Left-back; Bigden, Right half-back, Humphreys, Centre half-back and Rae, Left half-back; Gibson, Outside-right, Pearson, Inside-right, Hibbert, Centre, Kay, Inside-left and Duffy, Outside-left.  Referee; Mr. A. Adams, Nottingham.
Home Team The First To Score
About 18,000 people witnessed the start.  There was a bright sun, and Everton having lost the toss were called upon to open it in the eyes.  The opening was quiet as the Everton left quickly sent the ball into touch.  Then Lindsay thrice cleared his lines with hugh kicks as the Everton left again essayed to press beyond him.  Balmer replied and then from a throw-in Coleman served up a delightful pass to Sharp.  The captain easily rounded his rival captain McMahon and placed a lovely centre, which, however, Freeman failed to get at, and the Bury goal escaped.  Adamson’s was noticeable for persistent tackling but he made a faulty pass.  A race between Lindsay and Barlow was won by the latter, who forced a corner, from which the Bury goal underwent a couple of very narrow escapes, Bigden saving well in once instance after Raeside had conceded a second corner.  Fine dodging and dribbling by Young and Coleman in turn roused the crowd, and then Sharp ran and centred beautifully, for Barlow and Freeman to fail when a goal looked reasonable reward. Spirited play was the order. The Bury right showed periodical smartness, and were also given rather much latitude. Duffy was also decidedly good, and in one instance a centre from him was almost headed past Scott by Adamson. Coleman was prominent with a series of dashing runs, but his finishes flashed a trifle wide. The Everton forwards were playing capital football on either wing, but as yet Freeman hadn’t been seen greatly. Sharp was in merry vein, and Barlow was being well served by Young, and responded well as a rule. But Bury were by no means idle, and their right in particular needed a lot of watching.  Freeman essayed a solo run but McMahon barred the way effectually and then the Everton defence was more sorely put to the test, Kay and Hibbert each trying hard to clinch the good work his outside wingman. Play was stopped for a minute in consequence of a mishap to Pearson; Resuming, a delightful pass by Freeman almost earned a goal, Coleman being stopped in the last fraction by Raeside, who had previously accomplished good work. After a series of interesting play in which Bury held the advantage. Freeman came on the scene with puzzling serpentine run in which evaded man after man. He finished with an unmistakable goal, and all was accomplished, in a delightfully cool fashion. Freeman is certainly recalling the centre-forward play of two decades ago. Bury pluckily tried for the equalizer, and Scott twice saved cleverly, added to which Hibbert just topped the bar, but Everton were destined to soon increase their lead. Their forwards attacked in body, and at the finish Freeman worked in to the left wing, and tried a clever shot from a difficult angle. It tried Raeside to the full, and Young came up to send the partial clearance into the net. After all its goals which count. Thus Everton were two goals ahead after less than half an hour’s play, in spite of the fact that the sun shone the while in their faces. Duffy was a constant source of danger to the enemy and his work deserved better finish.  Freeman was constantly in the picture with his individual runs, and in one instance Raeside was almost beaten. A minute later Freeman served up yet another sensational run and when he had the goal right at his mercy McMahon rushed from behind and took his legs from under him. Sharp took the penalty, and shot straight at Raeside. This is an instance of where the penalty kick does not fit the crime for Freeman was within two yards of goal at the time. Everton had the best of things to the interval, prior which Freeman's work down the centre constituted a marked feature. Indeed his work was nothing short of brilliant and another great run was here stopped remarkably well by Raeside. Freeman will always command a place in a first class team whilst he can serve up such solo dribbles as we witnessed to-day. Kay missed a rare chance as he shot straight at Scott from close quarters. The Shakers had been full value for a goal, but then Everton should have had four. Half-time; Everton 2, Bury 0.
AFTER HALF-TIME
The sun had in sympathy with the weaker team retired ere the second stage opened. Scott was the first goalkeeper called upon, but it was a puny shot. Everton responded on the right, and from Coleman’s pass Freeman again hypnotized the Bury backs as he raced through and finally returned to Coleman, who flashed the ball across the goalmouth. Barlow missed it, and the Bury goal escaped. However, the ball was returned, and Freeman hit the near upright with a tremendous shot, Raeside otherwise being well beaten. The ball rebounded to Young, who lofted it high over the bar. This was indeed an escape for the Shakers, whose backs adopted wrong tactics in dealing with Freeman, for they repeatedly hung off the home centre instead of fearlessly meeting him. Bury had another turn, and another abortive corner, but Scott generally was their master, Freeman appeared a certain scorer once again as he raced through, but his shot couldn’t find a passage, as he shot right at Raeside. He then missed the ball when attempting a flying kick for goal. After this Barlow and Young busted themselves on the home left, and the game was easily Everton’s at this point. The Blues, indeed, seemed inclined to rest on their well-won laurels. However, after a period of uninteresting play, the crowd were roused with a splendid goal from the foot of Freeman, who took a delightful pass from Adamson on the run, and instanter shot with terrific force from 15 yards range; Raeside was left helpless. The goal reminded one of a bit of Geary’s best work in the old Anfield-rd, days. Barlow made a fine run, and two minutes after Everton's third goal, Coleman, showing rare persistency, added a fourth with great shot, and Bury's downfall became complete. "Tim" had been waiting a long time for that goal. The Bury halves were completely overplayed, and the visiting forwards received few chances. Everton showed great cleverness and shot frequently, the result being a warm time for Raeside, who saved one rasper from Coleman in brilliant style. McConnachie saved another certain goal from Hibbert as the ball was about to enter the net. It was a fine save indeed on the clever Scotsman's part. Play opened out again, and Young, Freeman, and Sharp all assisted in hot target practice, but the shots persisted in playing on either side of Raeside's charge. However, one shot from Sharp was brilliantly kept out. At this point the game resolved itself largely into matter of shooting practice for the Blues, who were evidently enjoying themselves. Duffy did well For Bury under depressing circumstances. The closing stages were rather tamely fought out, but Everton could afford to take matters coolly.  Balmer strained his leg just before the finish, but did not come off.  Everton’s win was a ridiculously easy one, for the Shakers were in bad way, never really seriously extending themselves. The Bury side was beaten fore and aft. Their right wing did little after the interval, and only Raeside and Duffy distinguished themselves. Freeman’s individualism was a marked feature for Everton, but candidly speaking, there was only one team in the running. Taylor had played an admirable game, but Hibbert’s shots were seldom seen. Final; Everton 4, Bury 0.

PARS ABOUT PLAYERS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 10 October 1908

• Hardy and Sharp were well matched at Anfield when it came to a question of delivering and receiving goods.
• Everton’s Taylor proved a rare obstructionist in the match against Liverpool.  His object was the ball, and this he was determined to get at almost any cost.
• Sharp finished as keen as mustard and as incisive as a needle.  His bouts with Saul were fine to witness, and his rasping shots as levelled at England’s keeper, fairly stirred the pulse.
• Freeman- The Anfield enthusiasts were fairly of opinion that Freeman would not have had much rope with Raisebeck in his usual position.  There is something in this, for Harrop did not fill the picture too well.
• Makepeace- the Everton half-back is in great form this season, and fully deserves the honour of being included in the first representative team.  Against the Anfield Road team, he played splendidly, and was about the best half on the field, whilst the previous Saturday he had been chiefly responsible for the ineffectiveness of the Manchester City forwards.
• Macconnachie was a potent factor in the great game at Anfield on Saturday.  His coolness under such exciting conditions stood him in good stead.  He is an ideal man for a Derby Day match, or an English Cup-tie.  What a pity he was not given his chance alongside R. Balmer in last season’s competition.  However, he will have his chance this time round.

AFTER SEVEN DAYS.
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 10 October 1908
By Richard Samuel
Saturday's” great local battle has been fought over and o’er again by the rival partisans of Reds and Blues this week.  It would be impossible to imagine a better-matched harder-fought, more sportsmanlike encounter than was this 25th League meeting ’twixt Liverpool and Everton—their silver wedding celebration, speak, wherein the Anfield club obtained its biggest haul gold fish, 41.000 more or less sane people attending, and the collection resulting in £1,200 going into the Anfield treasury. Just two little fishes into the net watched by Scott were, however, wanting to complete the Livers’ joy. I said last Saturday evening that Everton just deserved the victory: also that Liverpool set a noble fight, and after almost a week’s further consideration. I don’t see how it is possible to change either brief sentence in the slightest. I was taking the play as it stood —or rather, as it had moved—when thus commenting and my remarks did not then take into consideration Liverpool’s rather handicapped representation. It always, nearly always, seems to Liverpool’s misfortune meet Everton when they—Liverpool—are under a cloud sort, which time their opponents, per contra, have just blossomed out into the sunshine well-doing: and Saturday was no exception. Everton had, a week previously, performed brilliantly against Manchester, whereas the Reds had been well thrashed at Nottingham two days before the match, and the match itself had to appear minus Captain Raisbeck, Sub-Captain Cox, and that bright recruit. Rogers. Tacking this on to the material work of the rivals Saturday, I would revise my comments into one sentence, and say—Everton were a trifle lucky to claim more than division of the spoil.
Free Chat Concerning Freeman
Looking Lack once more briefly, I would say that Liverpool had distinctly the better of the opening quarter, and that afterwards, to the interval. Jack was as good as his master pressure, during which the Blues scored a wonderful goal—the all-important goal, as it happened. In the second portion pressure was about equally divided until 15 minutes from the end, when Everton put on much as Liverpool employed in the early stages. Thus, taking the match in its entirety, there was scarcely a pin choose, but the fact remains that Everton made just the necessary odd bit more use in their chances. The one goal was a remarkable piece of business, as Freeman came right away from a corner, which had accrued to Liverpool, and despite the fact that he had control the of ball, none could catch him. In the matter close dribbling, when given the slightest lead. Freeman reminds of the old school among centre forwards. He doesn’t allow the ball to get out with himself, and in this he assisted, because he takes such remarkably short, though quicker, strides, keeps wonderfully cool, and thus has both eyes and wits about him. A prominent trait his two great runs on Saturday was that repeatedly allowed his would-be captors to get within an ace of reaching him, but would then just as surely shoot out again with the lead. These bursts were most telling, as were his swerves, first the right and then to the left. Yes. Freeman has improved yards in pace since the season’s dawn. Then, his pace was more apparent than real: to-day, it both apparent and real. But Freeman an opportunist, an individualist rather than an orthodox centre-forward who keeps his wings well served, among other things. He combines only with his two inside forwards, whom leaves almost entirely to feed their outside men. Beyond his two great solo efforts, did not assist Everton’s cause greatly on Saturday. Still, must concede that he had a big say in the final destination the points. When Freeman learns sling the ball well out and link the;, attacking line as a whole, then will Everton rejoice more greatly. Hardy and Scott Not only concerning the result, but regarding the respective duties the two great goalkeepers, Scott and Hardy, have we heard heated debates. Which had the more trying task? That is the question. It is conceded that each was at his best. Two leading writers differ, for whereas one says Everton had Scott to thank that the score was not found in Liverpool’s favor: the other says Hardy was the man who stood out above everybody else engaged in the match. Personally. I thought Scott was requisitioned the more frequently, but that Hardy’s situations needed the more daring treatment. Undoubtedly, the Liverpool attack erred fatally through wildness in front of goal. They worked out more promising situations than the Blues, but a wild finish just as surely discounted everything. The defence on both sides was excellent, and the half-backs were also strong in this respect, if less attentive than 'usual to their own forwards. Thus, the latter found their lot a hard one under which shine. need not look for pretty or combined work in attack’ in these Derby Day events —rather find it a case of hard slogging, hard pegging away—the men chiefly on their own, in the hope of finding a weak spot in the defensive armour opposing them.
The Rival Rear Divisions.
Individualizing briefly. I would say that both keepers added rather to their reputations. At full-back McConnachie and Saul were the leading lights. The former’s case was perhaps assisted because he had only a moderate wing to oppose, but how far was he responsible for that moderation? Our "Derby” matches just appear to rouse Mac from his seeming lethargy ‘tie when we see the real McConnachie. Saul did as. That of a gallant captain could against the powerful Sharp, whom he never left, and when was clear- that the good ship Liverpool was about to founder he stood the bridge to the last. West woe useful if quiet, with Balmer shade the least successful of the four backs on view. At half, the two teams were equally matched. Harris was better in the first than in the second half, but it was the other way round with Makepeace. Taylor never played a more dour game against Liverpool, and he has now figured in about a score ’em. He cared not in the manner of getting there, but usually "got.” Taylor repeatedly confounds the critics who say he cannot stand sustained League football. A man who can stand such minutes’ football, which time the comfortably housed Press were perspiring heavily, should good enough for years League football yet. The meet polished half-beck display, however,-was Jim Bradley’s. He, too, has been "on the road” many seasons. His manipulations wore very spicy, his feints admirable, his interceptions most adroit (as Coleman can verify), his placing and shooting alike good. Chorlton ranked never sparing himself, but Harrop was not quite the force anticipated, .so that Raisbeck was missed, after all.
The Forwards.
Concerning the home vanguard, Bowyer was clearly the surprise packet. Instead being over-awed by the greatness the occasion, and the fact that he was operating in strange position, the light-weight fairly scintillated throughout the piece.  Admirably fed as was both by Bradley and Orr, Bowyer took the ball in his stride and dashed away. Neither Harris nor Balmer had any real terrors for him and what is more almost invariably finished well, thus being constant menace Scott. Truly are both and the Liverpool directors to complimented the success attending this daring experiment. Now that has proved his ability we trust it has, come to stay, and that it won’t confined to one position, did his part 'well, but was keenly shadowed, whilst Hewitt gave good account himself and shot oftener than anyone else the match, yet a trifle too high. Once he shivered the crossbar, but this escape to Everton was equalized in the case the Blues’ failure to lead following Freeman’s initial remarkable solo effort.  The Liverpool right wing was the disappointing spot, and Parkinson did not do the right thing nearly often enough.  Goddard too was below normal, yet his chances were few.  Coleman for Everton was disappointing, and Young would have probably done better with a lower temperature –and a Raisebeck to encounter !  Of Freeman one has spoken.  Barlow was seen to most advantage before the interval, but his share was surely note-worthy in that he finished the scoring business.  Sharp wasn’t fastened as he sometimes is, Harris and Coleman being for the most part, “otherwise engaged,” but the Everton captain took an immensity of subduing and finished the match full of running and stirring shots at Hardy’s citadel.  Three defeats within eight days have bene a serious business for Liverpool, and their table position has naturally suffered.  Everton, on the other hand, were capitally placed this morning, with further good prospects.

Strays Mems from Merseyside
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 10 October 1908

• John Cox has our deepest sympathies.  His mother passed away on Sunday morning after a long and trying illness.
• Everton will appear at Bramell lane a week hence, and as they are the only club in the country which has secured the maximum points away from home a large crowd will doubtless assemble at the home of Sheffield United, where Everton lost by 2-0 last February, when, however, Scott was an absentee.
• Burnley Reserves gave Everton res their first win of the season on Saturday, Meunier is playing a good game at left back for Everton reserve forces as are Tom Jones and Lacey in the front rank. 

FOOTBALL FACTS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 10 October 1908

• BARLOW IS A WELL PLUCKED ‘UN
• Scott has been unbeaten in six matches at half-time.
• The tropical heat did not succeed in melting the ever-cool Macconnachie.
• Freeman’s grand individual run and Barlow’s crowning goal was well worth two points.
• Harris has a fairly good opinion of Bowyer.  The Irishman had a stiff job in eluding the novice.
• Scott was a busy man in the first half against the Livers, and got through his work in a businesslike manner.
• Jock Taylor played the game of a lifetime at Anfield, and went the full 90 just as well as the younger ones.
• Everton had the worst of the first 15 minutes, but the had quite as much of the best of the finishing 15 minutes.
• The Everton defence as it stands now –Scott, R. Balmer and Macconnachie –looks like turning out one of the strongest that has ever represented the club.
• Our various League veterans go along and gradually disappear from view, but Everton’s Jack Taylor is unlike all of them in that he goes on forever, as it were, without disappearing.

EVERTON 4 BURY 0
October 10, 190. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON IN FORM.
BURY BADLY BEATEN.
SHARP SHOT STRAIGHT AT GOALKEEPER FROM PENALTY KICK.
It is not indulging in exaggeration to suggest that Everton have found their feet to such an extent that at present they are entitled to be classed as the equal of any football organisation in the Kingdom. In the first place they can boast the possession of the best average in the First Division of the League and they are also in the unique position of having won all their away matches. True two inexplicable defeats at home –Woolwich Arsenal and Preston North End were the fortunate victors –have spoiled the record, but there is still plenty of time in which to make up leeway, if only the players maintain the present standard. They might have got a fraction more than their deserts in extracting both points from their Anfield-road neighbours, but there was not a shadow of a doubt about their superiority over Bury at Goodison park on Saturday. The verdict in Everton's favour was four goals to nothing. Even granting that Bury deserved at least a goal, the fact remains that Everton might quite as easily have increased their score if the “might have beens” had materialised. As it is the Bury club are now in the “last two.” Let us hope that the club, whose management have with such enterprise unearthed so many great players may soon figure in a more pleasant position in League table.

INCIDENT OF PLAY.
Both Everton and Bury, had a player away by reason of the inter –League match between England and Ireland, but the “Shakers” evidently felt the loss of Dewhurst more severely than did their opponents the absence of Makepeace, Although having to face the brilliant sun the movements of the Evertonians were such as to inspire confidents right from the start. They were nippy on the ball, and went for goal with a whole-heartedness, which was suggestive of success. For all that the Bury attack was not to be despised, and once an Everton defender almost diverted a centre from Duffy into the goal. Well was it for the home side that during this period Scott was as safe as a house. Twenty minutes had elapsed when a brilliant individual effort on the part of Freeman gave Everton the lead. The ex-Arsenal man obtained possession about the halfway line and dashing through all opposition he had Raeside hopelessly beaten. Within another few minutes the Bury goal was again captured, Young doing the needful after Raeside had partially saved. Yet Everton might have had another before the interval, Lindsay brought down Freeman, but Sharp shot straight and Raeside cleverly got the ball away from the penalty kick . Everton's superiority was well maintained in the second half, though there were times when the home goal was in great jeopardy. Good work by Adamson gave an opening to the irrepressible Freeman, and this was followed by a fourth from Coleman. The Bury forwards to their credit, be it said, never gave up, and just before the whistle went Scott effected a great clearance.

CONCERNING THE PLAYERS.
Considering the conditions, with the sun bothering the players at times, the game was of a high standard. No one could deny that the honours of the contest went to the better side, but it was one of those encounters in which one would have liked the losers to have been credited with at least a goal. The Everton attack was in splendid trim, indeed the whole team gave a display, which was highly satisfactory. With a little more luck the score might even have been doubled. It was one of Freeman's best days. He was in sparkling form, and his grand runs greatly pleased the spectators. In comparison his colleagues in the front line were only ordinary, though this does not imply that they failed to accomplish many smart things. Adamson ably substituted Makepeace, but the pick of the halves was undoubtedly Val Harris, who played his best game since he joined the Everton club. Unfortunately he, like R. Balmer sustained an injury, which may keep both players out of the Lancashire Cup-tie with Burnley this afternoon. Everton's rearguard was for the most part impregnable, though on one occasion when Scott was in a helpless position, McConnachie's coolness averted a downfall of the goal. Raeside was the shining light on the Bury side, for he kept a brilliant goal. The defence fell to pieces when closely tackled. Although Hibbert led the attack with judgement, he had not many chances, the cleverest forward among the Buryites being the outside left, Duffy. Teams: - Everton: - Scott, goal, R. Balmer, and McConnachie backs, Harris, Taylor, and Adamson, half-backs Sharp (Captain), Coleman, Freeman, Young, and Barlow forwards. Bury: - Raeside goal, McMahon, and Bigden, backs, Humphreys, and Rae, half-backs, Gibson, Pearson, Hibbert, Kay, and Duffy, forwards. Referee A. Adams.

BURY RESERVES 0 EVERTON RESERVES 1
October 12, 1907. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 6)
Now that Everton have reintroduced Jones into the centre-forward position, they are showing something like their proper form, and may be expected to rapidly advance in the competition. Their 1-0 win at Bury was a very smart performance, for a few clubs are able to account for the Shakers reserves at Gigg Lane. There was not much to choose between the teams in the first half, but Everton had the best of matters afterwards, and Jones scored the goal, which brought the points. Berry was very smart in goal for Everton, whose backs and halves also were sound. Buck and Jones were the pick of a smart forward line. Bury were unfortunate in losing Gilden injured after the interval, but up a gallant fight all round. Everton: - Berry, goal, Stevenson, and Meunier backs, Pratt, Borthwick, and Rafferty, half-backs, Buck, Lacey, Jones, Bolton, and Dawson, forwards.

MAKEPEACE INTER-LEAGUE HONOUR
October 12, 1908  

EVERTON RESERVES 4 BURNLEY 1
October 13, 1908. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
Lancashire Senior Cup Round One.
Everton Beat Burnley by 4 goals to 1, Everton ousted Burnley from the Lancashire Cup Competition, and thus turned the tables on the North-East Lancashire club, who by the same result put Everton out of the competition last season. The meeting provided a capital contest for the 5,000 people who assembled. Although Everton always held the whip hand, Burnley at times gave glimpses of more than ordinary merit. The most marked difference in the sides lay in the work of the forwards. The Everton five were better marksmen than their opponents, and once within the shooting zone, the Burnley goal was already in danger of being captured. On the other hand, the Burnley forwards while their preliminary work was several times happily conceived and splendidly excuted, lacked the power and skill to overcome Scott and his backs. In the initial half the game was seventeen minutes old when Jones converted a fine centre by Buck, and ten minutes later Lacey added a second after excellent work by Bolton. After the interval Lindley headed past Scott from a free kick well placed by Abbott, and subsequently Lacey and Jones further increased Everton's lead, so that their victory was pronounced and complete.

THE PLAYERS.
It is an excellent tribute to the skill of the Combination forwards that they should so successfully bring about the undoing of a Second Division defence, and goes far to prove that when opposed to worthy opponents they are able to rise to the occasion in unmistakable fashion. The whole five forwards were worthy of praise. The inside trio, Bolton, Jones and Lacey, did many smart things, and worked together in perfect harmony, although Jones has yet to learn to take up the centres from the wing men without losing time, and very often an excellent position, Buck was speedy and often brought about the discomfort of Abbott and Leake, and when he is able to finish his work with the same skill, so that which marks his preliminary movements he will be one of the most dangerous outside men in the district. Dawson does not exhibit perfect control of the ball, but his display was, nevertheless, full of merit. The halves were a very serviceable lot, and held the Burnley forwards well in hand. MaConnachie was by far the better of the backs, with Balmer having obviously lost of his old-time fire and dash. Scott worked with his customary coolness and discretion. Teams: - Everton: - Scott, goals, W. Balmer, and MaConnachie backs, Harris, Borthwick, and Adamson half-backs, Buck, Lacey, Jones, Bolton, and Dawson, forwards. Burnley: - Green, goals, Barron, and Leake, backs, Ogden, Parker, and Abbott half-backs, Morley, Lindley, Smith, Valentine, and Smetham, forwards.

EVERTONS’ LATEST HOME SUCCESS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 17 October 1908
By Richard Samuel.
Three successive defeats sustained at Goodison must have caused Bury to quite forget the sweets occasioned when they came to see and conquer at Everton’s headquarters one Boxing Day three seasons ago. Bury's almost pitiful behaviour on Saturday made one feel there was need for new blood in the Shakers’ team; indeed, from an ‘‘Observer’s” standpoint, matters could not have looked blacker. Yet the men in white deserved the goal which last weeks “F.F." credited them with, but which Scott unfortunately had denied. The two players who came out with top marks were Duffy and Raeside. The former played a game worthy Jack Plant at his best. The Shakers’ backs were very shaky, as I opine many defenders opposed to Everton’s botheration vanguard will be ere the season terminates. The Men in Blue played a really fine game, and are bound to take a high position in the polling, given a continuance of such behaviour. There was solidity and resource in defence which augurs well and the attack is so beautifully varied that to this much Everton’s success is due. Of course, repeatedly in Saturday’s encounter the visitors’ forwards worked through cleverly, and it was only Scott at his best who deprived them of at least a couple of goals. Scott kept goal in a fashion which even did his great reputation credit. In the rear division McConnachie again stood out in front of Robert Balmer.  There was a nonchalance, yet a delightful ability, about the Scot which could not fail to-please. It is pleasing also to note that by steady stages he is advancing in that dash and vim so essential to success. His tackling in consequence is much more satisfactory; he is coming along to do in cramped positions that which he formerly only accomplished with so much polish when given more reasonable latitude.
Candid Comments.
It was good, too to see tie home halves so effective, despite the absence of Makepeace.  Adamson made a capital first 1908-9 appearance, whilst Harris and Taylor were most unceasing. Adamson’s recovery work is a strong point.  I like the half-back who, when passed, isn't beaten. "Wonders never cease,” they say.  Then Taylor is a wonder, for he once again gave a practical demonstration of perpetual motion. Then, despite his 24 summers, Harris grows; he is a genuine footballer, for he always plays the ball, and in so doing, of course, "plays the man"  Everton’s attack gave more level satisfaction than in perhaps any match of the season. If I may say so, I would put it that the present line  is comprised of a right wing pair, an outside left,  a centre-forward (Young), and a soloist— Freeman—and the blend, admittedly, has worked admirably to now!  In four matches to date has the line been thus constituted, and four times have they assisted the Blues on towards glorious victory with a total of 14 goals. Freeman is steadily ascending the ladder of fame, and the motive power is found in his specially-designed and executed individual bursts, which time he has that evasive “compressed air” parcel at his toes. Judgment was writ large in most things that he did on Saturday, even to keeping outside positions. He appeared to run with his eyes fixed in his temples, was very tricky, and as dangerous as a motor-car.  Young in the main, looked after feeding his wing, and this quite satisfactory, whilst his friend Freeman is looking after the goals. Barlow and Sharp were quite good enough, whilst Coleman gave one of his most sparkling displays. Yes, Everton’s two Woolwich recruits have added to the attractiveness of the team extent most exceptional.

NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 17 October 1908

• Bury buried.
• Everton jubilant, Liverpool downhearted.
• It was a case of Everton v Raeside at Goodison Park.
• Young and Macconnachie are playing in international form.
• Burnley did not deserve to lose by four goals to one against Everton.
• Everton are serving their toffee up hot, as Bury found out to their cost.
• Once Freeman fastens on to the ball, it seems almost impossible to remove him.  Wonder if he is a hypnotist?
• Tim Coleman showed his best form against Bury, and his patience and perseverance was rewarded with a splendid goal.
• The Everton supporters think that the display of their pets in their last two home matches have made up for their two previous failures.
• Jones (Everton) is about one of the best deputy centre forwards playing.  What a pity he hasn’t the opportunity of having a regular place in the team.
• Have Everton got their first away defeat today?
• Everton have won their last four matches; Liverpool have lost theirs.
• As usual, the weakest part of the Bury team at Everton was the half-back line.
• Everton people cannot understand how Bury got a two goals’ lead over the United.
• Although Freeman’s play does not suit all Evertonians, he is evidently a dangerous man, seeing that he knows where the goal lies.
• Raeside seems fated to have a hot time at Goodison, and but for his good work, the score might easily have reached a much higher total.
• Freeman’s corkscrew “stick to the ball and score runs” are all the talk.  They are an improvement on the style displaced by Geary at one time.
• Adamson is ready whenever his services are required.  Critics re Everton’s half backs have been confounded for this is one of their strongest parts.
• The feet of the Everton players seem educated to perfection.  No needless running about, but a gentle tap from one player to another –and a sprint down the wing or centre.  That is their style of play this season.  Have they copied Macconanchie or Tom McDermott.
• Walter Abbott showed up better in attack than in defence against Everton.
• Freeman’s second goal reminded us of Fred Geary in his palmiest days.
• Sandy Young seems to revel in his new position, and is looking after young Barlow like a father.
• Both Everton and Liverpool entered the next round of the Lancashire Cup, for which they can thank reserve men.
• Everton showed no mercy to Bury, and by four goals to nil were credited with the most pronounced victory of the afternoon.
• Only Newcastle United, Everton and Preston North End have succeeded in retaining an unbroken defence in four League matches to date.  Where would Preston be without their defence, we wonder?
• Joe Donnachie (late of Everton) who has just been signed on by Oldham Athletic, is a very clever player, who can operate on the extreme of either wing, and his only fault when at Goodison Park was a tendency to dally a little before centering.  He is a splendid dribbler, and on one or two occasions in Combination matches showed great promise at inside left.
• Evertonians exuberant.
• Roose was caught napping at Chelsea, and in the end the whole Sunderland team were put to sleep.
• What service would Hughie Bolton be to the Wanderers?  Surely Everton would help a friend in need.
• Everton are at the top of their form.  Their display against Bury was a revelation even to the home spectators.
• The Everton centre forward was a Freeman by name and by nature, as the whole of the Bury defenders were unable to hold him.
• It looks as if Freeman’s inclusion in the Everton team is changing their style of play.  We are seeing less combination and more goals.
• Bury were woefully weak against Everton.  Surely it was their regular form that was on view.  Let us hope it was one of their off days.
• Macconnachie’s coolness was never better displayed than when he saved that certain goal from Hibbert, with his foot on the line, and Scott hopelessly beaten.
• Everton’s front line was again in sweeping form, and Bury’s halves were powerless against them.  There are few better lines playing at present than the Goodison five.

SHEFFIELD UNITED V EVERTON
 (League.—First Division.)
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 17 October 1908
With many recent triumphs to inspire them, and with a specially remarkable record in their out engagements, Everton travelled to Bramall lane today, having Harris as their right half-back, and altogether a team that gave promise of success. The United played the same eleven as did so well a week ago against the champions at Clayton—for, whilst not winning or even drawing, they forced Manchester United to exert all they knew to wrest the honours. The weather was dull when the teams lined in the following order;- Sheffield United;- Leivesley, goal; Benson, Right-back, and Johnson, Left-back; Parker, Right half-back, McGhie, Centre half-back, and Needham, Left half-back; Lang, Outside-right, Featherstone, Inside-right, Kyle, Centre, Batty, Inside-left, and Evans, Outside, left.  Everton; Scott, goal; Balmer (R.), Right back, and Macconnachie, Left back; Harris, Right half-back, Taylor, Centre, and Makepeace, Left half-back; Sharp (captain), Outside-Right, Coleman, Inside-right, Freeman, centre, Young, Inside-left, G.H. Barlow, Outside-left.  Referee; J.G.A. Sharpe, Lichfield. 
BALMER’S SORRY BLUNDER
About 16,000 people were present. The start was quiet, but the game had only been in progress something like five minutes when the United were a goal up. Harris had once beaten Lang very smartly, but the home forwards came again, and a long centre from the right saw Balmer make a sorry blunder. He mis-kicked, the ball going away to Evans foot, and the old Villa man put it straight back. Scott was to all intents and purposes unsighted, and the ball was probably over the line before Kyle gave the finishing touch. After this Everton showed the stronger form, and some of their forward work was quite good. Sharp made the scores level three minutes later, and Everton deserved their equaliser. This was through free kick against Needham just outside the penalty line, and dead in front of goal. Sharp Took the Kick, and letting fly like a rocket beat Leivesley grandly, one else touching the ball. After this Everton soon scored again, three goals coming in 11 minutes. This second goal for the visitors was through a corner, Sharp giving Freeman the chance of a great shot. Leivesley went down, but Freeman followed up and kicked the ball into the net. Another corner by Needham was dangerous, but it was cleared. Lang deserved equaliser by a grand centre across goal. However, Everton’s defence was fine, and Balmer, by a wonderful left foot kick, cleared his lines grandly. Still Everton were the sounder side in attack.  Lang was the most dangerous of the United forwards, and his centres were all good though he once failed badly with a clear shot.  One mistake by Lang was a bad end to a fine movement by the United forwards, and later on Scott made two glorious saves, one at the expense of a corner. The United were playing quite well, but Everton's forwards were the better, showing very pretty combination and Sharp, always having the easy beating of Needham, for pace, putting the ball into the goalmouth with fine accuracy.  Once as the Macconachie only got clear a lovely hook and Needham, racing through, finished up with a dazzling drive only a foot wide.  At this stage the United were well holding their own  and playing good football, but they were beaten back  and Freeman going on, drew the Sheffield goalkeeper cleverly, and then screwed the ball round him for a third goal.  Interval Everton 3 Sheffield United 1.
GROUND UNDER MIST.
In the second half a very curious haze had settled over the ground and it was so thick as to make the cricket pavilion a mere blurr. At   the outset Everton pressed, but were driven back, and the United going to the other end almost had a goal given to them, as taking a goal kick   MacConnachie kicked right on to Kyle. However, the Scotsman first-named followed up well and Kyle’s shot went wide though he should certainly have scored. The haze made it hard to follow the game, well, but most of it now went on in midfield.  The Everton defence was by no means as safe now as in the first half, and the United were a good deal the stronger side in attack though once Benson had to better himself as Coleman dashed through with a likely chance of another goal.  A Corner to the United was very finely saved through Lievesley's good Judgment, and at the other end Evans twice shot well in for Scott to again triumph. The game nevertheless had fallen away a good deal though the United were desperately eager. Once more Kyle, as the result of fine home passing the right wing, was finely placed for a score, but his shot was very wide, and another grand chance went begging. Coleman added a fourth for the visitors, and Freeman a fifth.  Final; Sheffield United 1, Everton 5 .

TWO GOOD IRISH EVERTONIANS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 17 October 1908
Val Harris, the Irishman, is not a showy player, but he is a genuine worker, who has quite deserved a regular place in Everton’s League team.  Were he a trifle more speedy Harris would be a still more valuable man to his side.  It is quite clear that, barring accidents, Everton will supply Ireland with a couple representatives for International matches this season.  Harris is the fourth Irish Internationalist, who has assisted Everton, Scott, Sheridan, and Kirwan being the other three.

SHEFFIELD UNITED 1 EVERTON 5
October !9, 1908. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON'S LATEST VICTORY.
“AWAY” RECORD MAINTAINED.
FREEMAN SECOND “HAT-TRICK”
Matters are very rosy with Everton just now. Everything is going their way. That they deserved their success is undoubted. The team are playing remarkably good football, a fact which the supporters of Sheffield United will doubtless be quite willing to acknowledge. At Bramell-lane last Saturday Everton simply outclassed the United eleven, and received no more than their deserts in winning by 5 goals to 1. It is rarely that a team credits itself with five goals on an opponent's enclosure, but then Everton are quite exceptional performers this season in “away” matches. This is their record –Woolwich Arsenal beaten 4-0, Bristol City beaten 2-0, Middlesbrough beaten 3-2, Liverpool beaten 1-0, and Sheffield United beaten 5-1. This is five matches and gained 10 points with 15 goals to 3, in their favour. This is a record, which has probably not been equalled, in first-class football. It is an achievement upon which the club –players and management alike –alike –are to he heartily congratulated. Everton are now the leaders of the First Division. Manchester United, however, with a game in hand, are only a point behind them, but one cannot help suggesting what a “pull” the Blues would have had if it had not been for those unfortunate displays at Goodison Park against Woolwich Arsenal and Preston North End. As it is, nine games have yielded 14 points, with a goal average of 25 to 10 –a long way the best in the division.

INCIDENTS.
Although the weather in Sheffield was the reverse of pleasant –the mist rendered it difficult to follow the play closely in the second half. Some 15,000 spectators witnessed United's discomfiture. The heavy dew on the long grass caused the ball to become greasy, and on the slippery surfaces no wonder mistakes were frequent. Still, it was a fine exposition of football, especially on the part of Everton. The first ten minutes or so of the match were full of incidents, for in that period three goals were forthcoming. Sheffield led off with what proved to be their only success. A mistake by Balmer let in Kyle, who had Scott at his mercy. Then Everton proceeded to turn the tables with a vengeance. The veteran Needham was penalised for “hands” half a dozen yards outside the penalty line. Sharp took the free kick with a might effort landed the ball in the corner of the net, with Leivesley helpless. A moment later Needham gave away a unnecessary corner, and the ball being nicely centred by Sharp, Freeman had Leivesley easily beaten. United after this made up for lack of science by dash and Scott had some dangerous shots to negotiate, but for the most parts the efforts of the Blades to find the net were too wild to, be successful. On the other hand, Everton's attack was in rare trim, the United defenders time after time being completely baffled. Leivesley was drawn out of goal just before the interval, and Freeman put on the third point. In the second half the Evertonians eased up somewhat. They were always “top sawyers” though United had more than once chance presented to them. Once when MaConnachie missed his kick, Kyle had no one to beat but the goalkeeper. He was quite unequal to the emergency, for he sent the ball high over the bar. Before the finish Coleman and Freeman defeated Leivesley and United had to accept a five goals to one reverse.

PERSONAL.
As has been indicated Everton were far and away the smarter side though had United availed themselves of the openings their defeat would have been less pronounced. Not for some time has the Everton attack been seen in greater advantage, especially in the earlier stages of the encounter. Their hardwork was delightful, and the blending of the first and second lines was a treat to witness. Indeed the whole side was wonderfully well balanced, although in view of the greasy ball mistakes occurred. Those who witnessed his magnificent drive remember the shots with which Sharp equlised the score will long. Young, particularly in the first half displayed masterly tactics, and Freeman, although not indulging in the brilliant run which he gave in the Bury match, was always ready to seize an opening. Moreover, he was commendably unselfish. The feint, which enabled him to score Everton's last goal showed rare judgement such as, is required in an effective centre-forward. As for the halves, absolutely no fault could be found with them. Makepeace was at his best, the old war-house Taylor was ever ready to break up threatening combinations, and Harris was most effective without being showery. Balmer and McConnachie on the whole covered Scott well. For all that the custodian had some ticklish shots to deal with, but he never made the slightest mistake. Teams: - Sheffield United: - Leivesley, goal, Benson, and Johnson, backs, Parker, McGhee, and Needham, half-backs, Lane, Fentherstone, Kyle, Hitsyi, and Evans, forwards. Everton: - Scott, goals, R. Balmer, and McConnachie, backs, Harris Taylor, and Makepeace half-backs Sharp (Captain), Coleman, Freeman, Young, and Barlow, forwards. Referee J.GA Sharp.

EVERTON RESERVES 5 CREWE ALEXANDRE 2
October 19, 1908. The Liverpool Football Echo.
At Goodison Park. Teams: - Everton: - Berry, goal, Osborne, and Stevenson, backs, Rafferty, Biorthwick, and Ormesher, half-backs, Buck, Lacey, Jones Anderson, and Woods, forwards. Crewe Alexandra: - Birchenough, goal, Bradley, and Shittle, backs, Peters, Hawkins, and Clarke, half-backs, Williamson, Watkins, Smith, Whalley, and Preston, forwards. Everton were the first to show up. The centres by Woods and Buck caused the Crewe defence some trouble to remove. Strettell, however, was prominent with good work, and repulsed the advance. Then the Crewe forwards had a look in, without, however, being really dangerous. A pretty triangular movement by the Everton left wing resulted in Woods getting in one of his characteristic centres, which Jones missed through slipping, but Buck captured the ball, and without hesitation banged it into the net. Shortly afterwards Woods came very near increasing the Everton score with a fast shot just outside the post. For some time the Everton forwards kept up a very persistent attack on the visitors goal, and no surprise was created when Anderson, with rather a long shot defeated Birchenough for the second time. This was followed by some smart forward work by the visitors' and Berry handled a close attempt from Watkins. There was no mistaking the fact that the work of the Evertonians was in pleasing contrast to their previous display this season. There was more polish and effectiveness about it, while there was also a better understanding amongst the forwards. The outcome of another Everton advance was the successful attempts from lacey, who got in a shot from 20 yards' range, which just failed. So far, the Blues were complete masters of the situation, and the contrast was chiefly noticeable, for the many fine shots the Everton forwards aimed at the Crewe goal. Birchenough fell full length in saving another express delivery from lacey, while Buck was a trifle late to convert a centre by Woods. The contest resolved itself into a duel between the Everton forwards and the Crewe defence, the visiting attack finding few opportunities for seriously engaging the Everton division. The outstanding figure in the Everton line was Lacey whose tricky footwork repeatedly enabled him to outwit his opponents in the most astounding fashion. Twice he was brought down within a yard of the penalty area, but the free kick brought no tangible result. Crewe were awarded a penalty, from which Smith placed outside. Half-time Everton Reserves 3, Crewe Alexandra nil. After the interval, Smith scored for Crewe, and Lacey for Everton, Jones scored a fifth for Everton. Final result Everton 5, goals, Crewe 2.

DONNACHIE’S CHANCE
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 24 October 1908
Olympian’s Corner
Only a season or two ago, an appreciation of Joseph Donnachie, Oldham Athletics’ new forward, was penned by a Liverpool writer who summed up in the following terms;- “His time is sure to come if he only possesses his soul in patience, and there is no club where he will have a better chance than the present one (Everton).”  As everybody knows, he never got that chance- at least, he was not permitted to remain long enough in Everton’s League team to get thoroughly settled, first appearing on the extreme right and then on the opposing wing.  Is it not curious that he made his first appearance in the League football for Newcastle against Birmingham, and that his first Second Division game for his new masters should also be in opposition to the Midlanders?  Donnachie comes from Kilwinning, in Ayrshire, and he migrated to Newcastle by way of Rutherglen and Greennock Morton. 

EVERTON'S BIG SHEFFIELD SUCCESS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 24 October 1908
By Richard Samuel
Whatever may have happened in the great Goodison Park meeting of this afternoon. Everton are entitled to unstinted praise for bringing off a splendid and almost unexpected triumph at the home of Sheffield United. It was their fifth away win in succession, and never in the previous history had an Everton team been found equal to such brilliant series of victories. It was also their fifth triumph running for home and away matches. A team which has proved capable of such great deeds on foreign soil must surely possess a distinct chance for championship distinction. An ability to win away is a greater indication of power than is shown in a big string of home successes. Keep on winning away, and club is almost bound to come out near the top ere the eight months’ course is run. Everton admittedly completed a tall performance in winning handsomely at Bramall-lane, and the hero of the piece once again was "Bert” Freeman who is surely doing something revives the old-time style of forward play—that the individualist,  Young Freeman revives the Old Forward Game. At Sheffield he scored no fever than three goals (beauties they were) and did much in paving the way towards another. I learn that he determined upon taking the most direct route for goal in this match, more pronouncedly than in and preceding game, and you will note how his judgment was marked "great" —as in the Liverpool and Bury matches—by his manner of drawing first the backs and then the goalkeeper, to finally hoodwink the latter by virtually tipping the ball into the net. This shows that Freeman both uses his head and keeps it. His speed has grown more pronounced in each succeeding match, too. His weak point is his feeding, his strong point is his individualism. Of course, no player can serve two masters faithfully. So it is with Freeman, who late has been perhaps the most-talked-about forward in the country. Then no player, unless it is Sharp, appears to have so much up his sleeve in the shape reserve power when the goal is reached as Freeman. The majority of men are, well spent at this- point, but not so with Everton's pivot; hence his dangerous character.  He was asked something especially tall today versus his native town's club and splendid centre half like Buckley in particular. How far he has succeeded or failed is a different story, which will found in another corner of the "Field.”
Everton’s Greatness
Freeman was not the only great man at Sheffield.  The team, fore and aft, behaved splendidly after losing the first goal so unexpectedly.  Possibly that goal constituted the one great tonic needed.  At any rate, Everton behaved like men stimulated rather than discouraged. There was a unity, an oneness, a collectiveness about the team which went far to spell success. It was Everton’s plant, Everton's machinery in perfect working order that the crowd saw, and seeing cheered. They admitted Everton’s superiority just as much as Leivesley did.  Of course Scott was idler, but it was generally a long way round to his goal and he was always at home. Balmer also played well; and McConnachie created a big impression upon this his first visit to Bramall-lane, whilst those who witnessed him at Owlerton as a right-half last season must have been astonished to find how he had come on by falling back.  Everton’s halves were three excellent who gave (passes) and took (the ball) with marked regularity. The two wings moved well. Coleman and Sharp, Young and Barlow raced and strove, passed and repassed to a harassing tune; and it was here that they played a big part in demanding Benson and Co.’s serious attention and thereby permit the gliding of the ball Freemenanwards for the latter’s highly sensational runs in.  Needham had heavy day and heavy heart, for Sharp gave him no rest and Freeman no encouragement. Sharp I was glad to find, again showed us how to take free kicks by firing at the billet. All round however, Everton enjoyed themselves splendidly against the men of steel, upon whom they stole such an unexpectedly big march. - Their reward came in seeing their club ascend to the head of the League table once again.

NUGGETTS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 24 October 1908

• Freeman, England’s probable centre!
• Everton’s Freeman and Coleman are now moving in their best form, and are giving unbounded satisfaction to their new masters.
• They play as one man, and one is as good as another.  That is the secret of Everton’s success.  There is not a weak spot in the team.
• There is no room for Hugh Bolton or T. McDermott in their respective teams.  Now, Liverpool, choose your man and pay up.  Either will suit you.
• Harris, the Everton half-back, played a fine game against Sheffield United, being quite the best half on the field.  He seems to be improving in every match.  It is rather surprising that this young man was not induced to leave the Emerald Isle long before he did, as halves of his class is very scarce.
• Jack Sharp is reserving a place for the Cup in Whitechapel.
• The Derbyshire cricketer found the Everton outside too Sharp to hold.
• Everton, the away champions, look very much like being the League champions.
• Everton by defeating Sheffield United, secured their fifth away victory with 15 goals to three in their favour, a record which has probably not been equally in first-class football, and one that club, players, and management alike may well be proud of.
• Everton and Aston Villa seem to be coming to form, whilst Manchester United and Newcastle are going the other way.
• It is interesting to note that Donnachie, who was only transferred from Everton last week, had a big hand in Oldham’s victory.
• Freeman at present is probably the best centre forward in the country.  He is very fast, has splendid control of the ball, and is a deadly shot.  Considering that he is only 23 years of age there should be a great future before this young man.
• Coleman, of Goodison, says he is very comfortable in his present quarters.  He is clearly not the only Gunner who like Merseyside –look at Freeman; in fact, look at the two Woolwich teams that have been on view at the Mersey’s side this season.  They have all immensely enjoyed themselves!
• Everton’s sweeping win at Bramall-lane was a genuine surprise.
• The Blades’ defence was mowed down by the Everton vanguard.
• Has Walter Abbott met his old friend David Stokes today, and revived memories of the Everton-Bolton cup-ties?
• From the way in which they commenced the season one was inclined to predict a chequered career for the Everton club, but they have since made headway in such wonderful fashion that they quite justify their position at the head of the League table.

EVERTON 3 ASTON VILLA 1
October 26, 1908. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON STILL CONQUERING.
A STRENUOUS GAME WITH THE VILLA.
Everton have given further proof of the triumphal march in which they seem to be at present engaged in the League. This was afforded by the handsome victory over Aston Villa at Goodison on Saturday, which makes their sixth successive win in the tournament this season, and further secures them their hold of the proud position at the head of the table. As it always the case when these clubs meet, a fine exposition of football was the result, and the fact that the Villa have so far this season had a run of success which compares favourably with that of the Evertonians imparted special interest to the fixture, which was evidenced by an attendance of quite 40,000 people. The Birmingham men made a fine bid for victory, and for the first part of the game they certainly looked all over winners, but luck was somewhat against them, and it must have been particularly galling to them, after the sterling manner in which they worked, to have to accept defeat by three goals to one. They will certainly not be inclined to view with equanimity their two visits to Liverpool this season, for these, singularly enough, have provided the only reverses they have sustained –first at Anfield and now at Goodison. They may think the fates are unkind to them. For the first time for several weeks the complexion of the brilliant Everton front line was in one instance changed owing to George Barlow being requisitioned, as reserve man in the Amateur International match at the Stadium, and the vacancy was filled by Dawson. In all other respects the team was the same as the one which has in recent matches raised the club to its splendid position in the present League record.

VILLA'S DASHING START.
The businesslike and slashing manner in which the Villa started off conveyed unmistakably the impression that all would not be well for Everton. For fully three-part of the first half the visitors were the hot attacking parties. Keeping the home defence fairly on the quivive. It was during this period that one saw the soundness and excellence of Evertons defence, which was proof against an attack that would quickly have made havoc with most other teams in the League. Try as they would, and truly that did try, the Villians could make little impression on it, although on occasions they did outwit the backs, and had only Scott to deal with, but that worthy was as safe as the bank. He was first tested by Bache, from Wallace's centre, and difficult shot though it was Scott dealt with it in his usual masterly fashion. The crowd were particularly struck with the wonderful combination of the visitors, and the untiring way in which the halves fed these front line, which kept them on the move and caused their play to be very open. Everyone body looked for the home colours being lowered when MaConnachie, who up to this point had effected some very able clearances easily allowed Wallace to get past him and have a shy for goal. The spectators heaved a sign of relief, however, as the ball rebounded from Scott's body. The visitors were as keen as mustard, and some of the shots, which were aimed at Scott, certainly deserved better success. One of these, from Reeves was the most dangerous of the half, as it was also the most superb save of the match. Strangely enough it was left to the side which had been overshadowed in point of play up to this stage to open the score, this being effected by Coleman from a pass by Dawson. From this point the Evertonians realized their possibilities better, and their opponents were not allowed to have as much of their own way as they had been having. The home halves were showing up to great advantage, and so especially in the second half. The improvement spread to other departments, Sharp being frequently dangerous and scoring. Everton's second goal very soon after the interval. A little feeling was evinced by the Villa, and doubtless they were annoyed at the non-success of their incessant work. This led to a little episode between Taylor, and Hampton, which fortunately did not develop into anything serious. At length the Villa had some grain of encouragement when Reeves scored with a low shot, which Scott had no chance. Everton still improved their score during some very hard-fought football, and the effort with which Freeman brought this about was a brilliant one.

FREEMAN BRILLIANT.
Everton's form on Saturday will do much to inspire confidence in their performances for the rest of the season. In point of combination and nicely conceived movements, the forwards were not perhaps as attractive as the Villa front line, but there was all excellent understanding and opportunities were taken advantage of. Dawson in one or two attempts at shooting, lacked judgement, but he centred with good judgement, and proved altogether a very serviceable and valuable substitute for Barlow. The hero of the line, however, was Freeman. The ex-Gunner was not only credited with one of the goals, but he had a prominent hand in the other two, the way in which he touched the ball to Sharp and so evaded a theantening contingent surrounding him being very clever. In the case of his own scoring nothing could have more cuts or masterly than the way in which he drew George out of his goal, and then coolly put the ball through. It was one of the choicest items of the match, and came in for enthusiastic recognition. Sharp, too, played one of his familiar stirring games. The half-back line was in excelsis. Each man was an untiring worker, good tackler, and otherwise resourceful and it would be hard to say which of the three was the best. Taylor certainly performed wonders, and Harris earned applause for the effective way in which he got the measure of Hall and Bache. Both backs preformed well, McConnachie making up in the second half for a little weakness in the first half. As to Scott, he was superb. His exhibition on Saturday was one of the finest that he ever given at Goodison.

POINTS IN THE VILLA'S PLAY.
The Villa's persistency and cleverness were not reflected at their right value in one goal, these admirably displayed qualities were deserving of better results. That they played fine Football is agreed. The forwards were speedy, alert and judicious, and made their opportunities tell in a manner which often times looked serious for their opponents. That famous left wing pair was too closely watched, and their movements broken up by Harris to be more than ordinarily demonstrative and for this reason the principal danger came from the other wing. Wallace and Reeves, who were not so much fancied. Hampton was not as successful as he usually is, showing a weakness in feeding his wings. It was a rattling and bustling half-backs line, whilst the backs were always safe. George had got the same trying time in goal as Scott, but he performed well. Teams: - Everton: - Scott goals, R. Balmer and MaConnachie, backs, Harris, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs, Sharp (Captain), Coleman, Freeman, Young, and Dawson, forwards. Aston Villa: - George, goal Lyons, and Miles, backs, Trenter, Buckley, and J Logan, half-backs, Wallace, Reeves, Hampton, Bull, and Bache, forwards. Referee Mr. Sykees.

ROSSENDALE UNITED V. EVERTON RESERVE
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 24 October 1908
Rossendale played Ingham, formerly of Barrow, at half-back.  The home team opened well, Cox showing fine football, while Hall just missed scoring.  Ingham, however, found the net after a grand effort by Cox.  McGregor saved marvelously, and Everton pressed, but met with a sound defence.  Lacey, however equalized after 35 minutes.  There was no further score at the interval. Half-time one each.  Final; Rossendale United 1, Everton Reserve 3

EVERTON V. ASTON VILLA
(League.—First Division.)
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 24 October 1908
GREAT CHAMPIONSHIP MEETING AT GOODISON PARK.
Everything tended to make Aston Villa’s visit to Everton’s home this afternoon a wonderfully attractive affair. Each club had been showing splendid form in League life, the Villa so recently as Saturday last administering a decided check to Manchester United, and Everton setting an equally brilliant performance in routing Sheffield United by five goals to one at Bramall-lane, to thereby ascend to top place the table. No clubs have aggregated so many points since the League’s inception as Everton and the Villa; hence it was most appropriate that Goodison habitués should be promised such a rare fight for supremacy this afternoon. It was unfortunate, from an Everton. standpoint, that the home club’s remarkably successful forward-line arrangement should perforce disturbed for the first time since their big run of successes began, their amateur, George Barlow, being required as a "stand-by” in the English Amateur International cause at the Stadium, this letting in Dawson, the ex- Rossendale United youth, as partner to “Sandy” Young. The Villa were at full strength, and thus paraded the identical side signally successful over the League champions.  The day proved beautifully fine, and there was every indication of a great attendance, the crowds rolling up for fully two hours prior to the start.  Teams; Everton; Scott, goal; Balmer (R.), Right-back and Macconnachie, Left-back; Harris, Right half-back, Taylor, Centre half-back and Makepeace, Left half-back; Sharp (captain), Outside-right, Coleman, Inside-right, Freeman, Centre, Young, Inside-left, and Dawson, Outside-left.  Aston Villa;- George, goal; Lyons, Right-back and Miles, left-back; Tranter, Right half-back, Buckley, Centre half-back, and Logan, Left half-back; Wallace, Outside-right,  Reeves, Inside-right, Hampton, Centre, Bache, Inside-left, and Hall, Outside-left.  Referee; Mr. J. Sykes, Stockport.
A Splendid Gate
The new goal stand (double decker) was packed long before the start, and there was every indication of least 40.000 crowd; indeed this would be about the number present rival teams stepped- forth, each being accorded a tremendous reception. The Villa, who discarded claret for red, did not trip forth until 3-15, and a minute later the men were off. Everton having won the toss and playing with the sun at their backs. The Villa instanter attacked on the right and Wallace centring Bache, who had worked across, tested Scott with a beauty whilst Hall just afterwards shot barely past the far post.  Everton replied, and Young finessed for position, to gain a free kick against Tranter for illegal holding.  The free kick was headed clear by Miles and then Buckley was noticeable for smartly outwitting and maneuvering around the home inside forwards only to find Macconachie clearing deftly.  The Villa wing tried hard to get a footing in Everton's half, but Harris and Makepeace in turn barred the way. A rush by Freeman stirred the crowd, but Dawson twice' shot wildly instead of centring.  The Villa were now seen to splendid advantage.  Their halves fed the men in front profusely, and Bache and his fellows responded brilliantly, only superb tackling by Taylor and Balmer saving the situation in two instances. Bache and Hall showed a rare understanding, and the latter here worked in towards goal and fired obliquely and speedily, but the ball just missed its intended objective. Despite two rushes by Sharp and a free kick taken by the home captain for hands by Lyons, Everton were chiefly seen on the defensive. McConnachie twice saved his lines well, and the Villa were certainly behaving like a fine crew to this stage. They were keen to a degree, and the pace and understanding of their vanguard won the applause of the now giant crowd. Everton’s attack had quite paled by comparison. The Villa were undoubtedly playing a great game, and another free kick to Everton in no sense assisted their cause. Here Everton experienced a genuine let-off, as Wallace was let in by McConnachie. He ran on unerringly, and shot just as surely, but the ball flashed against Scott’s body to rebound into play. It was a near thing indeed. Then Hall raced brilliantly, to eventually back-heel the ball a la Bassett of old to Bache, who went very close for goal. The Villa were irrepressible, and their footwork hereabouts has never been exceeded in these parts. After another great attack Reeves received the ball and shot superbly, Scott bringing off the save of the day.  The visitors fairly reveled in their work, and still another storming attack ended in Logan shooting past. Again did the crowd cheer unstintingly at such brilliant play, and well it was for Everton that Scott was witnessed at his best. A rush by Everton saw Dawson put in his first good centre, but it flashed right out on the other side of the goal-line. With half-an-hour gone George had practically been a spectator. Scott again saved finely, from Wallace, Everton just at this point showed a tendency towards improvement. Shots by Freeman and Young being charged down, George being excellently covered by his backs.  With the game 31 minutes old the side which on play had been points behind took the lead. Freeman when well out on the right wing saw Young uncovered and served Sandy with a beautiful long pass, Sandy transferred to Dawson, who got in a centre against odds right off the goal-line. The ball travelled right across the Villa goalmouth, and Coleman rushing in left George helpless as he crashed the ball into the netting. It was a finely-worked-for goal, and the crowd simply went frantic. All the same, it was rough on the Villa. Everton were now holding the enemy better, and eventually Freeman put in one of his sensational runs, in which the enemy were outwitted, but just as be approached the Villa penalty area Miles tripped up the home centre in glaring fashion, the free-kick proving a useless solarium. Buckley and Logan were playing fine football for the visitors, who still appeared desperately keen on beating Scott, Makepeace was now coping splendidly with a dangerous wing. Young twice tried to find the goal by shooting hurriedly ere trapping the ball, but in each instance the shot went very wide. Just before the interval a dashing attack by the home right wing won a corner, but this was cleared, and the Villa left raced away, Hall first beating Balmer, only to find the latter recovering the position smartly. Taylor’s determination was a marked factor, and Hampton always found him a hard man to beat. A slashing first half ended with Everton a goal in front, although the balance of play was the other way round.  Half-time; Everton 1, Aston Villa 0.
After Half-Time.
On resuming Everton attacked per the right wing, and Sharp shot with great accuracy, bringing forth a fine effort from George, who though surrounded by a small army of our rushing Evertonians managed to clear. Everton appeared to have a new lease of life, and in contrast to the first half were greatly improved. With some dashing forward movements, the three inside men nonplussed Lyons and Co., and Freeman with a smart pass, gave Sharp possession, and in a twinkling the speedy winger outwitted Miles, and with a lightning shot George was defeated. Everton certainly deserved this success, which accrued six minutes after the resumption. The Villa did not relish this second reverse, and Taylor and Hampton came near a pugilistic display. The game, however, was furious, and the Villa tried desperately reduce the lead. After 10 minutes the visiting left advanced in fine form, and Reeves, manipulating the ball when well placed, scored with a fine low shot. This caused the game to be more open, and both sides were exerting full pressure. Excitement seemed To fill the atmosphere when Freeman, obtaining near the half-way line, raced lightning-like down the centre, Buckley and Lyons were on his heels, but notwithstanding their closest attentions, the speedy Centre travelled right to the goalmouth, and George, running out, Freeman took the opportunity of coolly passing the ball through the untenanted goal. This individual effort was cheered to the echo, and Freeman certainly deserved all the praise showered on him. His veering on to the left wing and the drawing out of George was masterly in each instance. Such a man can turn the whole aspect of a game in a twinkling. Of all Freeman’s fine goals this season, the one just recorded deserves first place. The Villa appeared chagrined at the manner in which the game had again turned away from them, but they played just as hard as ever, only to find Scott, Balmer, Taylor, and Makepeace excelling. Several stoppages occurred through minor injuries received during the heat of battle. The Villa were very strong at halfback, and it speaks volumes for Everton that three goals should be recorded against George. Indeed, only Everton and Liverpool have obtained more than an odd goal against the Villa this season. As the end approached Everton sought to increase their lead, and George was kept on tenterhooks in dealing with shots from Young and Coleman. Everton also took a fruitless corner. The Villa had lost much of their dash.  Of course, there was a possibility of their coming along with a last expiring effort.  The Villa tried hard but unsuccessfully to lesson the breach, and in the end Everton came through winners of a great game.
Villa’s Second Defeat
Freeman undoubtedly exerted a wonderful influence on the game, as the two first goals came from his initiative.  The Villa now know what a treasure they allowed to depart unawares when he was transferred to the Arsenal.  Scott, Balmer, Taylor, Makepeace, and Sharp all came through with high honours.  As for the Villa, they showed themselves a wonderfully fine team, up nine out of every 10 opposing elevens.  It is certainly coincidental that the Villa’s only two defeats of the season should have been sustained on Merseyside.  Final; Everton 3, Aston Villa 1.

FOOTBALL FACTS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 24 October 1908

• Everton on Saturday headed the League table for the first time since January, 1907.
• Prior to visiting Everton the Villa hadn’t lost a goal in the first half in any of their last five matches.  What have Everton done?
• Blackburn Rovers share with Everton the distinction of having lost no away games.  Both, however, have been beaten more than once at home.
• Not until Saturday had Aston Villa succeeded in recording three goals in a match this season.  Everton have won all their five away matches, totaling therein 15 to three- a magnificent total.
• After Everton’s home defeat by Preston, many excited and “enthusiastic” supporters urged the eviction of such as Harris, Taylor, and Freeman.  But the club’s directors exercised more patience, and have been rapidly witnessing the team securing numerous triumphs.  What a calamity it would have proved had even Freeman been omitted.  So long as “Bert” continues to get goals, he must naturally silence his critics re individual tendencies.

ROSSENDALE UNITED 1 EVERTON RESERVES 3
October 26, 1908. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 7)
Since Everton re-introduced Jones into the centre they have done exceedingly well, and their latest performance in winning 3-1 at Rossendale was a good one. Jones played a capital game throughout and led the forwards well, with the result that the Rossendale backs had a bust time. The scorers were Lacey, Buck, and Jones for Everton, and Ingham for Rossendale, and the score represented the difference between the play of the teams. Everton: - Berry, goal, Stevenson, and Meunier, backs, Rafferty, Borthwick, and Adamson, half-backs Buck, Lacey, Jones, Bolton, and Mountford, forwards.

BLACKPOOL 0 EVERTON 2
October 27, 1908. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Senior Cup Round Two
EVERTON VANQUISH BLACKPOOL.
Everton journey to Blackpool yesterday, and had an easy journey to the semi-final at the Seasiders' expense, the margin being 2-0. The weather was cold, and only a meagre company assembled. On the whole it was an uninteresting exhibition. The visitors not exerting themselves. Blackpool had a good show in the first half but Scott was easily able to deal with the few shots –generally weak ones –he was called upon to negotiate. The home custodian was more troubled, and failed to stop a capital long-range effort by Adamson, and this was all the scoring in the initial half. Everton gave a polished display in the second portion, and easily had the game in hand. Both teams made changes, Blackpool had Sam Whittingham at left back, and Millar, therefore stood down, and they were short of Threlfall at right half, and Western and Baddeley among the forwards. Everton played their combination attack, the team being exactly that, which opposed Burnley.

THE CONTEST.
Everton started against a northeast breeze, and in the first minute Reid shot out from long range, after Swann had thrown in three times. Jones was just steadying himself for a shot on the penalty line when S. Whittingham assisted Parkinson to frustrate him. Coming again, Jones shot yards over from a similar position. Offside spoiled a further effort by Dawson from near the corner flag, and then Balmer, after dealing with Walker gave a corner, from which Scott had to fist away. Buck carried the ball nicely to the Blackpool end, but his centre went astray. After 20 minutes the home defence were severely tested and Adamson tried a long-range shot, which easily beat Fiske, thus giving the visitors the lead. A splendid shot by Beare having passed across the Everton goalmouth, Reid shot wide from the corner-flag, Dawson ran round three or four opponents, and caused Fiske to pick up, as he also did a few moments later, Scott had to use his fist, and Crewsdon headed out from a free kick by Balmer. R. Whittingham was penalised, Parkinson heading away from McConnachie's kick. McConnachie saved from Swann, and the next moment Scott negotiated a high one from Crewdson. A long kick from Connor to Beare enabled the latter to slip past Balmer, but the final shot was weak. Towards the interval Blackpool improved, and Parkinson headed into Scott's hands. Half-time Blackpool nil Everton 1. By the time the second half was commenced the wind had risen, and Everton, who had it at their backs, were continually round the home goal, but Jones and Bolton missed fine opportunities. After this the Blackpool goal had a miraculous escapes from a further effort by Bolton. Blackpool gained a corner, but nothing came of it. A free kick taken by Balmer enabled Bolton to score a second goal for Everton. play after this was of a scrambling nature, but Everton had the best of matters, and ran out comfortable winners by two clear goals.

THE CONTESTANTS.
The game clearly did not at any point grip the 2,000 spectators. It was scarcely more exciting than a friendly, but Everton always had the upper hand, and when they chose could meamerise the home lot. Alterations on both sides doubtless had a disappointing effect on the play, but indeed Blackpool were literally out-classed. They had comparatively no method, and their defence was as erratic as the forwards were slipshod. The Everton line, though not up to First League standard, were nippy, self-contained, and full of dash. Their shooting however, might have been improved. Jones was well watched by Parkinson, but on at least two occasions he might have netted. Dawson was the best man of the quintette, and amused onlookers by spasmodic demonstrations of his skill, Swan could make nothing or either Dawson or Bolton. Buck and Lacey often beat connor on the other wing. Buck was little inferior to Dawson. Borthwick was the most judicious half. Harris and Adamson not seeming to take matters very seriously. Balmer played like a Trojan, and Scott having little to do, performed it admirably. Teams: - Blackpool: - Fiske, goal, Crewdson, and J. Whittingham, backs, Swann, Parkinson, and Connor, half-backs, Reid, R. Whittingham, Gullbrand, Walker, and Beare, forwards. Everton: - Scott, goals, W Balmer, and MaConnachie, backs, Harris, Borthwick, and Adamson, half-backs, Buck, Lacey, Jones, Bolton, and Dawson, forwards.

NOTTINGHAM FOREST 1 EVERTON 2 (Game 635)
October 31, 190. The Liverpool Football Echo.
MOMEMTOUS MATCH.
SCOTT SAVES PENALTY KICK
BY F.E.H.
Last week Everrton won handsomely, Nottingham Forest, at the same time, were keeping up their wonderful form. The pair today meet in rivalry at Nottinghm, and there was great issue at stake. Either the Forest's run of success was to be stopped or else Everton's away successes were to be checked. It was a great occasion, and the Blues at full strength - because Barlow was back again and disposed Dawson –were in splendid trim for a fine fight, and they hoped victory. It is worthy of note that in successive visits they have conquered Woolwich Arsenal, Bristol City, Liverpool, Middlesbrough, and Sheffield United, -a great performance, which needed only to-day's rivals to be added to it to make a record. Last week Forest drew 2-2 at Clayton. To-day's team differed from that eleven in the last line, Linacre returning after a week's absence. The Everton team, accompanied by Mr. Bainbridge, the chairman, Mr. Cuff, the secretary, and other directors, left Liverpool early this morning for their all-important match with the Forest club. High hopes were entertained of gaining another victory, and thereby establishing a record in the matter of consecutive wins away from home. Certainly the men were all optimistic, and as we sped through the delightful Peak country, lightly clad in mist, but marvellously beautiful in the autumn garb, the pros and coins of the engagement were discussed. Nottingham was reached at half-past one, and the weather here was close and rather foggy, but in view of an exciting game, a large crowd was assured. The Evertonians turned out as selected, Barlow of course reappearing at outside left. Teams: - Everton: - Scott, R. Balmer, and MaCoonachie, backs, Harris, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs, Sharp (Captain), Coleman, Freeman, Young, and Barlow, forwards. Nottingham Forest: - Linacre, goal, Dubley, and Maltby, backs, Hughes, Wolfle, and Armstrong, half-backs, Hooper, Marrison, West, Morris, and Birch, forwards. Referee H.S. Bamlett. The only change in the home ranks was in goal. Linacre coming in for Iremonger. There were 15,000 people present when West started. The choice of ends presented no advantage, for there was scarcely a breath of air, and the mist indeed, threatened to hamper the later stages of the game in the matter of light. From the very kick-off. The Forest made ground on the right, but Hooper over ran the ball, and from the throw in, McConnachie was able to clear with a hugh punt. The Evertonians than got going, and Makepeace being fouled, they had the benefit of a free kick. following upon this, Barlow put in a beautiful centre, and Freeman was rushing to convert it when Moltby saved the situation with a timely kick. The forest at once got down again, and there was no mistaking their obvious determination to gain about at the outset of possible. West led his forwards gallantly on to the attack, but he had to reckon with Taylor, and the old warhorse was not found wanting for he checked them finely, and Everton preceeded to make play on the left. Hughes, however, was too clever for both Barlow and Young, and for a few moments play ruled in midfield. Here Everton had the benefit of another free kick, and Coleman was given a nice opening, but he passed badly to Sharp, with the result that Maltby had little difficulty in clearing. Everton, however, came again in workmanlike style, and Young gaining possession made straight for goal. He shot straight and hard, and the ball caught Dudley full in the stomach, with the result that the Forest back was horse de combat for a couple of minutes. On resuming the home forwards worked their way down by a series of adroit movements, but Makepeace sent them to the right about, and the spectators were than treated to a magnificent bit of forward work on the part of the Evertonians. Barlow racing round. Hughes put in a lovely square pass, which Coleman trapped and put in, but Linacre brought off. A brilliant save. This pared the way to a strenuous attack on the part of the Forest, whom swept the Everton halves aside, and Scott was called upon to deal with shots from both Morris and Birch. This he did in his most approved manner, and for a time there was a lull in the pass. The Forest, however, displayed great persistence and moving down on the right, Hooper put in a dropping shot, which was intercepted, whilst Taylor subsequently charged down one from West. At the other end Everton were busy on the left, but all to no purpose, and an attempt by Sharp to make off on his own account was nullified by Maltby. The victors, nevertheless returned speedily to the vicinity of the Forest goal, and a movement by the three inside men ended in Sandy Young sending the ball high over the bar. The character of the game was now much slower, and though the footwork on such side was very pretty to watch, it was by no means so effective as one could have wished. The Forest were still the more determined, and from a bully in front of Scott Morris put in a header that was very luckily intercepted. Keeping up the pressure, the home forwards were again dangerous, and a terrific shot by West was just fisted outside the upright by Scott. From the corner, which resulted there was a tremendous bombardment of the visitors goal, but the defence was not to be shaken, and the danger was eventually disposed of Bob Balmer. Long kicking brought no great advantage to neither side, and the next movement of interest was an individual run by Young, who was eventually dispossessed by Dudley. West and MaConnachie were than in collision, and the Everton back had scarcely recovered when Birch put in a grand shot, which Scott fortunately was able to stop. The Everton forwards got going again, and this time their efforts were crowned with success. Young wriggled his way through the field of opponents, and passed easily to Freeman, the latter with his usual cleverness drew the home goalkeeper out, and Linacre in racing for the ball only partially touched it, the result being that it rolled into the unprotected net a very welcome goal for Everton. This reverse acted as a stimulant to the Forest, who raced away as top speed, and after Balmer had checked Morris shot with such strength that Scott was only just able to deal with it. As it was the Forester appealed for the Everton keeper being over the line when he headed the leather, but the referee ruled otherwise. The pace was now terrific, and the pressure of the home forwards was such that the strain upon the Everton defence was at time strained well nigh to breaking point. Hooper forced a corner off MaConnachie, and this led to a second, granted by Harris, but the places kick was put behind by Morrison, Taylor initiated a movement, while gave Barlow an opportunity of running the ball to within a few yards, the Forest goal, but here Maltby came to the rescue, and the home forwards got down by means for a free kick. They were however, speedily put to the right about and Sharp and Coleman were conspicuous with clever, but effective wing play Wolfe then gave his forwards possession with a hugh punt, being supplemented by a free kick the Forest were again dangerous. Hooper lobbed the ball up in the goalmouth, and Birch ought to have met it, but he was just too late, and the leather passed outside. Just before half-time Young tried to get through on his own account, but without avail, and as the other end West made a desperate break away only to be defeated at the critical moment by the ever watchful Scott. Further neat forward work on the part of the home quintet promised well, but Hooper shot very feebly and as even forty-five minutes ended with the score Notts Forest nil, Everton 1.

The first half had been productive of very pretty football on which the Forest were rather the more strenuous triers. Everton however, showed very clever footwork, whilst their defence was really magnificent. On crossing over the restart was somewhat sensational. Everton pressed and Sandy Young, worming his way between Wofle and Dudley, managed to deceive both, for with his left foot he put in a medium pace shot which entered the corner of the net. It is only fair to say that Linacre appeared to be caught. This second success stirred the home team to further effort to reduce the margin, and West going off on his own account, but in a beautiful shot, which grazed the outside of the upright. The game was now faster and more furious than ever, and a second onslaught on Scott's charge resulted in Taylor, bringing the home centre forward down within the penalty area. It appeared to be a fair enough trip, but the referee rewarded a penalty kick . This was entrusted to West, who shot right at Scott, but the Irish international greatly to the delight of the Evertonians, who were present, effected a magnificent save. The saving of the penalty only served to stir the Forest to further effort, and in due time, they met with their reward, Hooper, racing along his wing, centred with fine judgement, and West scored with a beautiful shot. The remaining half-hour's play was full of incident and excitement, the Notts forwards trying valiantly to get on level terms. Everton certainly created a record in modern football, for since the enlargement of the League no other club has won six battles on foreign soil in succession.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 WORTHINGTON 0
October 31, 1908. The Liverpool Football Echo.
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 8)
Everton: - Berry, goal, W. Balmer and Strettell, backs, Rafferty, Stevenson, and Adamson, half-backs, Buck, Lacey, Couper, Bolton, and Mountford, forwards. Worthington: - Callis, goal, Troughear, and Wallace, backs, Duffy, Gallacher, and Watts, half-backs, Garland, Musgrove, McGraw, Pickering, and Hamphill, forwards. The opening stages favoured Everton, and Rafferty tried to improve matters, but his shot went high over the bar. Then followed a determined attack by the visitors, and the Everton defence rather luckily escaped defeat. The Blues returned to the attack, in persistent fashion, and Mountford almost did the trick after good work by Buck and Couper. Gradually the Workington defenders put their forwards in possession and Pickering ought to have met from easy distance while in the next minutes McGraw , finished with a ground shot, which Berry easily landed. Following some lively exchanges in the visitors half, lacey shook the side of the rigging with a terrific drive, and shortly afterwards the same player was prominent with pretty footwork, although the movement came to nothing. Everton were now superior, and several promising movements in the Worthington half looked certain to bring about the desired result, but the finishing touch was invariably lacking. Rafferty put in a strong drive, which just finished wide of the upright, and Tallis almost brought about his own undoing by booting the ball against the post in saving a cross shot from Mountford. Everton continued to apply extreme pressure on the visitors' defence, and, although the quality of the play improved the all-important point was not forthcoming. Then Workington had a turn at attacking, and came very near accomplishing their purpose, several ticklish shot being aimed at Berry. Half time arrived with no goals scored. Couper and Mountford scored for Everton in the second half, and Everton won by two goals to nil.

THE BLUES’ RED-LETTER DAY
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 31 October 1908
By Richard Samuel
Everybody who is anybody was on good terms with himself in these parts last week-end.  Neither indignation nor extra-ordinary meetings were breathed or thought about, save that extra-ordinary meeting between Everton and the Villa which led up to such lively doings, wherein the storming was done by the foot rather than by the tongue.  True, at the outset a little disorder prevailed – I refer to the early stages, wherein Everton’s challengers sought so repeatedly to interrupt the efforts of the home men to obtain a reasonable hearing, and wherein the Villa agitators sought valiantly to “rush” the Everton platform of defence so ably held by certain blue experts.  Indeed, Scott, the presiding genius, was repeatedly called upon at this juncture to rise and call the opposition to a point of order.  I would even go further and declare that the renowned Irishman named was Everton’s prime minister in their mission of peace, safely, and ultimate deliverance.  His diplomacy proved truly great, for he showed wonderful dexterity and skill in negotiating (which surely is a correct definition of diplomacy?).  Then away on Trentside Scott’s coequal was found simultaneously doing valorous work under the Red flag.  Hardy it was who, in chief –I was almost going to say “entirely” – enabled Liverpool to renew the path of victory with a 2-1 win over Notts County.  He it was who succeeded in turning a half-hearted uncertain display by the Livers into the successful channel.  Nottingham people are fair judges of goalkeepers.  They have possessed International keepers, and have also envied other clubs such men; but never have they viewed anything finer than hardy’s latest.  Surely, with two such keepers as hardy and Scott to back them up, our local League players should never lag behind on the merit table.  Teams set on such foundations, built on such rocks, should seldom falter or fall, whatever be the tides or the winds found beating against them.
Everton’s win over Aston was the reward of stout-hearted defence, stamina, and an ability to seize upon their chances.  The Villa quickly set up a really furious pace, which would have swept most teams off their feet.  There was not only pace, but skill.  With half-an-hour gone, George had nothing to do, whereas Scott had provided an illustration of the other extreme.  Then Everton rushed an unexpected lead, which they never afterwards look like losing, save for a few minutes following Reeves’ goal to he Villa, who began the second half and continued for 20 minutes as though they had entered upon the last five minutes of an English Cup-tie and were a goal in arrears.  Goal-kicks and throws-in were indeed hurriedly taken, and methinks it was the great hurry, this most desperate anxiety, which went largely to deny the Villa the reward of the various pressures brought to bear on Scott’s charge.  Ere the end Everton had well worn down the fierce heat of the enemy’s attack, to come through with a glorious 3-1 victory, obtained against the balance of play – a valuable victory which enabled them to retain the table leadership on goal average over Liverpool’s opponents of this afternoon.  Newcastle were equal to Everton on points to date for the same number of matches, but had played two more matches at home than away, whereas Everton’s 10 home and away matches have been equally divided.  As Manchester United lost a valuable home point to the Forest, Everton’s percentage of points this morning was not excelled by any of their 19 rivals, so that the position all round reads most hopeful provided the Men in Blue have today approached their wonderful away form of the current season and succeed in approaching it in future events.
Scott’s Excellences.
Scott it was who in chief barred the way when the Villans of the piece were almost running riot, during that first half hour referred to. Our best thanks to William the Great! It was during this period that Balmer found himself unable to cope with the artistry of Bache and Hall, who moved with an understanding, a cleverness and a pace that was positively amazing. In fact, one has never seen so finely executed hurricane work as theirs. It is comparatively easy to be slow and accurate, but “scholarship’’ honours go to the rapidly accurate workers. Such were Hall and Bache, and with Harris also worsted Balmer’s position was not an enviable one. But both of the Blues named stuck to their colours, and long ere that tiring 90 minutes race had run its course they had pulled up the leeway, Balmer’s second half work carrying him through with high honours. Macconnachie was more quiet than usual, the Villa right wing being milder than the left pair, ’’Mac" also having a great half-back In front of him in Makepeace, who, however, was closely pressed for top marks by Taylor. The latter’s dogged display set everyone talking after the match. The veteran didn’t give Hampton a look-in, and his marvelous powers set us wondering afresh week by week. Coming to the home attack, Freeman once again had a wonderful bearing on the result, scoring a remarkable goal, giving Sharp the fine pass from which his captain scored, and being the instigator of Coleman’s opening goal. Apart from this he fed his inside comrades splendidly on occasion, but, as I have all along pointed out, he leaves the insiders to attend to the outer men. He was probably robbed of a goal through Miles’ trip.  Freeman’s pace was terrific at times, and even such a superb centre half as Buckley could not keep, him within bounds. Sharp played very well against his old club, whilst Dawson gave his most promising League team exhibition, and shared very largely in the honours attaching to the opening goal. Coleman and Young, however, were not too noticeable, and I thought Sandy Young played like one somewhat jaded and in need of a rest. He lacked the freshness of Sharp and Freeman. The Villa are a fine lot, particularly in attack, and those I would single out for chief praise are Buckley, Bache, Hall, arid Logan. Hall is just about the most dangerous outside left I have seen this season, and much that Buckley accomplished came as a revelation. He is a true genius among centre half-backs, and his equal has seldom been witnessed during two decades of League life.

NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 31 October 1908

• Harry Makepeace is good enough for England.
• Some of the Villa players lost their heads when Everton scored.
• Lancashire have promised to accord a benefit match for Jack Sharp in 1910.
• It is not generally known that Parkinson first received a trial with Everton.
• The popular question in Liverpool of the moment; “What do you think of Freeman?”
• Donnachie has started well for Oldham, Perhaps Bolton (of Everton) would suit the Oldhamites.
• The Villa’s forward line are very nippy.  Luckily they hadn’t their shooting boots on against Everton.
• Chadwick hasn’t developed his form as a half-back since leaving Everton for Preston in quite the manner anticipated.
• Aston Villa were unlucky to be beaten 3-1, seeing that for three-parts of the game they were the attacking force.
• George looked thunderstruck when Freeman, after tricking several Villa players, drew him out of goal, and coolly tipped the ball into the net.
• At least one supporter of Everton is wondering and anxious to see how “Richard Samuel” will gloss over the fact that the best team lost on Saturday last at Goodison Park.
• Everton are a wonderful team.  They rose splendidly to the occasion on Saturday directly they had got their heads in front.  But fortune and Scott had previously been for them. 
• Freeman played a splendid game.  Not only did he score, but had a hand in the other goals.  It was surprising when he got the ball to see four or five Villa men after him, which goes to prove how quick his fame has spread.
• The Villa were defeated fairly and squarely, though against other teams than Everton on their form at Goodison, they would have won.  Reeves is beginning to prove his worth, but Hampton was rendered useless by Taylor.
• Everton in excelsis.
• Freeman is taking the place of Shepherd in the First Division.
• Everton’s claim for championship honours cannot be ignored on present form.
• A toffee team is often used as a term of reproach, but not on Merseyside.
• It is too soon to talk about championships yet, but Everton are doing some wonderful things.
• Makepeace (of Everton) and Buckley (of the Villa) were the two best half-backs on the field.
• Everton and Liverpool have both survived the third round of the Lancashire Cup, but is this competition not a farce?
• The Villa set a terrific pace at Goodison, and given a little luck would have carried all before them.  As it was Everton succeeded in stalling off their repeated challenges, which were set forth once more in the second half.
• Macconnachie has no superior as a back either in or out of Scotland.
• Freeman’s trick was new to the Villa.  He is said to have patented his “solo run and goal.”
• George has lost none of his skill, but he had no chance with any of the shots that defeated him.
• A good hearty cheer went up at Everton when the news came that Liverpool had won at Nottingham.
• Macconnachie’s coolness, Balmer’s daring, and Scott’s judgement successfully kept the Villains at bay.
• It was rather singular that while Scott was saving Everton, hardy was performing wonders in goal for Liverpool against Notts.
• Dawson, in one or two attempts at shooting lacked judgement, but he centred well, and altogether proved a good substitute for Barlow, who was at the Stadium in reserve.
• The old veteran Taylor played one of his best games against the Villa, but why did Hampton and Reeves lose their tempers?  Was it because they could not overcome the old Dumbarton rock?
• Everton allowed the Villains to tire themselves out before they asserted their superiority.  The method is a good one, especially so if the goal can be kept intact whilst the tiring process is going on.  The Blues adopt this plan frequently; with the result that critics give the opposing team all the credit for playing a good game.  But Goodison people know different.
• Everton are the League’s champion goal scorers, with 28, and of these two late Woolwich players are responsible for 18.
• Everton are not in the picture for the first half hour, and it was Scott who kept the Villa from being at least one up.
• Balmer and Harris had a grueling time against the Villa left wing, Bache and Hall, the latter’s display being well-nigh perfection.
• A cloud appears to hang over North End since the genial Jack Bell honourably retired.  Oh! For his good counsel to the forwards just now.
• Everton and Newcastle, who have each played 10 games, have 16 points to their credit, the former taking pride of place by reason of a better goal average.  It speaks well for both clubs that while Everton are the most prolific goal-getters, Newcastle can boast the strongest defence, only having had seven goals registered against them.

EVERTON RESERVE V. WORKINGTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 31 October 1908
At Goodison Park before a good attendance.  Everton had Couper at centre and Mountford at outside left in lieu of Jones and Dawson.  Workington won the toss, and Everton started with the sun in their eyes.  Stevenson was playing centre half, and W. Balmer right full back.  Workington attacked strongly, but the Everton defence was sound.  Lacey sent in a stinging shot which missed by inches.  Everton were awarded a free kick, which Stevenson took but sent wide.  Exciting play was witnessed in front of the Workington goal, but Everton’s shooting was wretched.  Adamson was hurt, but soon resumed.  Balmer kicked the ball over his own goal, but nothing accrued.  Troughear sent in a good shot from the half-way line, Berry saving well.  Rafferty shot wide when in a good position.  A corner kick was given to Everton, nothing accruing.  Shortly after this Workington had another corner given against them, but Everton altogether failed to take advantage, lacey being the pick of them, and it was no wonder that the interval came with the score-sheet blank.  Final; Everton reserve 2, Workington 0.

NOTTINGHAM FOREST V EVERTON
 (League—First Division.)
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 31 October 1908
The weather was dull and oppressive at Nottingham, but fortunately it was fine, and there was a capital attendance, fully 14.000 people, being present. Except that Linacre reappeared in goal for the Forest, and Barlow at outside left for Everton, the players were unchanged from last week. Notts Forest;- Linacre, goal; Dudley Right back and Maltby, left-back; Hughes, Right half-back, Wolfe, Centre half-back, and Armstrong, Left half-back; Hooper, Outside-right, Harrison, Inside-right, West, centre, Morris, Inside-left, Birch, Outside-left.  Everton; Scott, goal; Balmer (R.), Right-back, and Macconnachie, Left-back; Harris, Right half-back, Taylor, Centre, and Makepeace, left half-back; Sharp (captain), Outside-right, Coleman, Inside-right, Freeman, Centre, Young Inside-left and Barlow, Outside, right;  Mr. Mr. H.S. Bamlett, Gateshead-on-Tees.
Visitors Open the Score
Everton won the toss, but the Forest were the first to make ground, Macconnachie skying the ball in front of his own goal for Taylor to head away.  When Everton did get going, Barlow put in a grand centre, but Wolfe kicked clear as Coleman was rushing in.  A grand bit of passing carried the Forest in front, but neither West nor Morris could get in a shot, and a free-kick close in was badly managed.  The Forest continued to force matters for a time, but when Everton got going they quickly made ground, and Dudley was winded by a hard drive from Young at close quarters. Then Linacre saved grandly from Coleman at point blank range, and at the other end Balmer cleared finely from Birch. Scott made brilliant clearances from Hooper and Birch. The Forest then forced a corner, but this availed them nothing, and when they again dashed forward Hooper put the ball out. There was little to choose between the teams, but Young was afforded the best chance of the match, only to shoot over, and then Bull made a wretched pass with Morris right in front of an open goal.  Hooper forced a another corner off Macconnachie, from which the Everton goal had a narrow escape, Morris ‘s header rebounding off a defender and Scott giving another fruitless corner from which he saved.  The ball remained in the Everton half for a time, but both backs defended grandly, and Scott was not troubled.  When Everton tried to get away, Young was at fault with his pass to Barlow, but Maltby intervened in timely fashion when they came again.  Scott then cleared from Birch, and Everton rushing away, Linacre ran out, and the ball going to Freeman, he simply tapped it through the goal, after 27 minutes.  It was a lucky goal, and Everton were most fortunate.  In the next minute Morris hit the bar. More corners fell to the Forest, who were having nearly all the play, but Everton defence was very sound, and they could not get on terms, although they went desperately near from a free-kick.  Interval; Notts Forest 0, Everton 1.
Linacre Gives A Goal Away.
On the resumption Everton at once rushed the ball over the line, and with only a minute gone Young shot and Linacre very clumsily turned the ball through his own goal for a second point.  The Forest assailed after this, but West shot wide.  In the next minute however, he broke right through, and being badly tripped the Forest had a penalty, but West shot right at Scott, who saved.  Everton then had a turn at pressing, but the Forest breaking away were well placed when Birch centred badly.  The Forest, however, remained in front only for Morris to shoot wide.  Grand play by West and Hooper ended in West heading a fine goal.  This fairly set the Forest on their feet, but Everton in a speedy dash were all but through, Maltby being laid out in the scrimmage which took place near goal.  He soon recovered, however, and the game went on fiercely.  When it developed into a series of exchanges in the field, neither side having much advantage, but once when Sharp got away he centre too hard for Young and Freeman to get at the ball.  As the end drew in sight the Forest made great efforts to get on terms, but they found Everton defence too good for them and they failed to save matters.  Final; Notts Forest 1, Everton 2.

FREEMAN ON TOP.
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 31 October 1908
It often happens when a goal is scored from a scrimmage that it is very difficult to tell who is entitled to count the goal. We have in mind two Bolton Wanderers’ forwards who headed at a centre in a cup-tie, and each claimed that the ball went off his head into the net. There seems to have been some such misunderstanding the occasion of Manchester City’s recent visit Everton. In our Records, Freeman was credited with 10 goals prior to last Saturday s match with the Villa, but in Everton’s official programme his total stood at 11. Here is the official explanation:—“ln the game against the City, the free kick which Sharp took did not over the line until Freeman put it there. I (writes the Programme Editor) was immediately behind the goal, and had perfect view. Mr. W. C. Cuff the secretary, is of the same opinion, and declares that until the ball had been touched by Freeman the referee had not signaled a goal. In the Everton books the goal is credited to the centre forward, and give him credit for it in the appended list. Up to this morning 288 goals had been scored in 96 First Division matches, and in the same number of Second Division games 229 goals.
FIRST DIVISION.
Freeman (Everton) 12; Turnbull (J.) (Manchester United 10; Orr (Liverpool) 9;  Hibbert (Bury), 7 ; Holley (Sunderland) 7 Bloomer (Middlesbrough)7;  Thornley (Manchester City) 7;  Halse (Manchester United)  7; Coleman (Everton) 6;  Raebould (Woolwich Arsenal) 6;  Bache (Aston Villa) 6; Morris (Notts Forest) 5; Howie (Newcastle United) 5; West (Notts Forest)5;  Wilson (Sheffield Wednesday) 5 Hilsdon (Chelsea) 4;

Crompton € (Blackburn Rovers) 4; Gilligan (Bristol City) 4; Veitch (Newcastle United) 4; Peart (Sheffield United) 4; Young (Everton) 4; Neave (Woolwich Arsenal) 4; Hewit (Liverpool) 4; Marrison (Notts Forest) 4; Reeves (Aston Villa) 4; Dawson (Preston North End) 3; Platt (Preston North End) 3; Hooper (Notts Forest) 3; Humphries (Chelsea) 3; Burton (Bristol City) 3; Featherstone (Sheffield United) 3; Walker (Leicester Fosse) 3; Cantrell (Notts County) 3; Hampton (Aston Villa) 3; Sharp (Everton) 3; Rouse (Chelsea) 3; Chapman (Sheffield Wednesday) 3; Brown (Sunderland) 3; Mordue (Sunderland) 3.