Everton Independent Research Data
October 1, 1935, Evening Express
Cupholders' Task
By the Pilot.
Everton are the present holders of the Lancashire Cup. The Blues have won the trophy on four occasions – in 1894, 1897, 1910, and last year. It is possible that Everton will include five or six players with the first experience and possibly three who have assisted the Football League side this season. The directors meet tonight to choose the eleven, but whatever the constitution, the Blues will probably put up a good fight for the Central League form this season bears the closest inspection. Everton: - (Probable) – King; Allen, Cresswell; Kavanagh, White, Watson; Hughes, Miller, Dickinson, Hanson, Sandham.
EVERTON'S TWO CHANGES
October 2, 1935, Evening Express
Britton and Thomson Resume.
Visit of Famous Midlands Team.
By the Pilot.
Everton will revert to their all international half-back line for the match against Aston Villa at Goodison Park on Saturday. After being given one week's rest following the strenuous early days of the season, Cliff Britton and Jock Thomson are brought back into the team. Britton comes in at right half in place of Mercer, and Thomson resumes at left half for Archer. These constitute the only changes as compared with the side which lost 6-1 at Middlesbrough, so it is evident that the directors are satisfied with the form of the defence and attack. It will be the first time that Hartill has played in a match at Goodison Park with Cunliffe on his left and Stevenson on his right. This will be Everton's fourth home match of the season, and so far they have defeated Derby County and Portsmouth - without' conceding a goal –and lost to Huddersfield Town. The Villa are always a tremendous attraction on Merseyside – a famous team of famous players. Morton, the goalkeeper is regarded as one of the best in the country, while they have two strong courageous backs in Beeson, ex-Sheffield Wednesday, and Danny Blair, the former Clyde and Scottish international player. At centre half will be the highest priced footballer in the country – Jimmy Allen, who cost the Villa £10,775 when they secured him from Portsmouth – while the Scottish international Gibson is likely to appear on the right. In attack will be the Birkenhead product “Pongo” Waring, and Ronnie Dix, formerly of Bristol Rovers and Blackburn Rovers. If the Villa do not release Dai Astley to play for Wales, then we can expect to see the Welsh international leading the attack, and for wingers the Villa have the choice of the English internationals, Houghton and Cunliffe, and the young forward, Broome, who played so well at centre-forward against Liverpool last season. Everton: - Sagar; Jackson, Jones; Britton, Gee, Thomson; Geldard, Stevenson, Hartill, Cunliffe, Leyfield.
MANCHESTER UNITED 3 EVERTON 1
October 3, 1935. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
Lancashire Cup Tie
Everton Beaten.
Manchester United The Better Side.
Everton, holders of the Lancashire Senior Cup gave anything but an impressive display at Old Trafford in the first round tie of the competition; Manchester United were clearly the better side and deserved the success by 3-1. The game was played at a fast pace on a treacherous surface and the visitors fought back pluckily against a smarter side which swung the ball about well from the start. Despite the dismal conditions it was a lively encounter. Manchester were especially strong in attack, and had in Morton a dashing and fearless leader who kept White busily engaged throughout. The Everton defence was also troubled by L. Bradbury, a local amateur inside forward, and Forrier, while the home wingers, Wassell and Own, were too speedy for Kavanagh and Mercer.
Half-Back Injured.
Everton were seen at their best in the opening minutes and forwards the close, when the United were handicapped through the absence of McLenahan. The half-back injured his leg midway through the second-half and was carried from the field. It did not take Manchester long to dominate the exchanges, and they would undoubtedly have opened the score but for the cool tactics under pressure of Cresswell and some splendid saves by King. The goalkeeper dealt in confident style with a fast drive from Owen, and managed to scramble clear a first-time shot by Ferrier. The visitors almost snatched a goal towards the interval, but the ball from a great drive by Dickinson struck the upright and was cleared, by Redwood. Manchester opened the score immediately on the resumption, and Morton added two goals before Hannon replied for Everton. Everton showed any amount of determination, but the side was not well together. Everton showed any amount of determination, but the side was not well together. There was little method about their play, Miller, in particular, having a poor day. Teams: - Manchester United: - Breesdon; Redwood, Jones; Whalley, Robertson, McLenahan, Wassell, L. Bradbury, Morton, Ferrier, Owen. Everton: - King; Williams, Cresswell; Kavanagh, White, Mercer; Bentham, Miller, Dickinson, Hannon, and Sandham. Referee Mr. A. Taylor, of Wigan.
EVERTON'S CUP DEFEAT
October 3, 1935. Liverpool Echo
Bee's Notes.
Everton's experimental side had a lean time at Old Trafford in the first round of the Lancashire Senior Cup, which trophy at present reposes at Goodison Park. They opened brightly enough, but the attack, which showed little method, was soon subdued by a sound Manchester United defence in which Redwood, a rising young full back and Jones kicked extremely well. Cresswell gave a delightfully cool display for the visitors, but Williams was not comfortable on the greasy turf against Ferrier and Owen, the lively Manchester left wing. The United played smart football, the forwards in particular being on form, and with any luck might have run up a hefty score before the interval. White allowed the dashing Morton far too much scope, and Mercer, who was not afraid to try a shot at goal was Everton's best half-back. After Bradbury and Morton (2) had scored for Manchester the visitors improved, but a solitary goal by Hannon was about all they deserved.
• Advertisement in Liverpool Echo. League Match at Goodison Park, Saturday Next October 5, Everton v Aston Villa, Kick-off 3.15 p.m. Admission 1/; Boys 4d, stands extra, including Tax. Booked seats Sharp's Whitechapel.
ASTON VILLA'S EXPERIMENT.
October 4, 1935, The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
Everton and Aston Villa, two of the most famous clubs in the League, have not, so far, been able t strike the form usually associated with the clubs, and the search for the right blend has been going on from the opening match. Injuries to players has restricted the field of selection and both clubs have made experiments. The pair meet at Goodison Park tomorrow, and Aston Villa have decided to place a half-back at inside left to Houghton. McLuckie is the player chosen. The clever Scot proved a most useful member of the Manchester City team, but he has not had a successful career with the Villa owing to injuries. Houghton, who is one of the strongest shots in Football, has been off his game, but it is expected that McLuckie will be able to provide the winger with the passes he desires. Dix and Cunliffe have gone into the Reserve side, and the team to meet Everton is: - Morton; Beeson, Blair; Gibson, Allen, Kingdon; Broome, Astley, Waring, mcLuckie, Houghton.
Previous Meetings
Aston Villa usually does well on Merseyside, and from post-war games at Goodison Park have captured eleven points by means of two victories and seven drawn games. The results of the meetings have ended (Everton's score first) as follows: 1-1, 1-1, 3-2, 2-1, 2-0, 2-0, 1-1, 2-2, 3-2, 0-1, 3-4, 4-2, 3-3, 2-2, and 2-2. In all the clubs have met at Goodison Park forty-one times under League auspices, and as a result Everton have twenty victories to their credit to the Villa's ten, the remaining games having been drawn.
ASTON VILLA'S GLORY
October 4, 1935. Liverpool Echo.
Men Of Mark in Their Ranks
Everton's Attraction.
Bee's Notes.
At Goodison Park there will be a meeting of two rather wayward sides, two who have given some promise of being top-notchers and then proceeded to lose a string of matches and thus upset all preconceived notions of collateral form. Everton's opening game was a triumph. The writers coined the phrase “Golden Miller.” Derby County, whom they met, had requests from new players for a rest in the reserves side till they could get the hang of English football. It isn't forgotten that stars like Nibloe and Danny Blair came to Aston with a flourish of trumpets and spent nearly six months in the reserves side getting their English legs. Now Derby have grown into a really good side and Everton have gone gone back through a multitude of reasons, the chief being their loss of really able footballers, whose slowness was covered up by their artistry and their ability to fore-think football moves. Two of the tanding and standard of Dean and Cresswell cannot readily be duplicated. Which reminds me; tomorrow's Football Echo will contain a remarkable “feature” concerning Dean and Cresswell. Now Everton feel the need of some bright forwards and half-backs who make the pass at the first moment of conveniences. They have been an attractive side (when I have been away with them), but there has been a definite lack of sternness near goal. They went their own particular ways towards goal and allowed defenders sufficient time to cover up a centre. They must have learned a lot from their visit to Middlesbrough; no player with a keen eye could escape the changing style of attack on the part of the Borough forwards. Everton have become rather slavish to certain routes to goal and the centres are not being flung over sufficiently quickly; it seems as if the winners do not want to be charged with wasting a ball, which is a nice through till one remembers their hold-on continues till there is no room to get a centre of any kind to the goal area. Such good work as Stevenson and Cunliffe have been doing can only gain its full reward if and when there is a forward prepared to shoot with string and direction. It has been left to too few to do this crowning act. Tomorrow all the forwards must take their task to heart and the half-back line must be prepared to sacrifice some of its beauty for a lustre that comes of making the pass when convenient, and not after an unnecessarily winding course of jugglery. Aston Villa should not be hard to beat unless they produce something their own spectators have not been favoured with; so I expect a revival of the Everton side tomorrow, when they meet the men of mark from Aston in whose ranks names such as Blair, Morton, Allen, Waring, Astley make good the belief that whatever happens this will always be a great match to witness. Everton: - Sagar; Jackson, Jones; Britton, Gee, Thomson; Geldard, Stevenson, Hartill, Cunliffe, Leyfield. Aston Villa: - Morton; Beeson, Blair; Gibson, Allen, Kingdon; Broome, Astley, Waring, McLuckie, Houghton. I would warn the local that Everton will doubtless be playing for the second week, their third back principle, so don't let the onlooker be hasty to say his little piece against any individual player. Let each players get on with his ordered game.
ASTON VILLA AT EVERTON
October 5, 1935. Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
The name of Aston Villa has always been linked with the highest standard of football, and even if the present side is not as good as many of the combinations which have represented the club, the team will give Everton a good run today at Goodison Park. Everton have been going through the mill, and the heavy defeat at Middlesbrough last Saturday was a setback. The regular wing half-backs, Britton and Thomson, return this afternoon and I look for n improved display. The Villa are introducing McLuckie, the former Manchester City half-back, as an inside forward, and the Midland club hope by their alterations to secure a blend in keeping with the high traditions of the club. The kick-off is at 3.15, and the teams are: - Everton: - Sagar; Jones, Jackson; Britton, Gee and Thomson; Geldard, Stevenson, Hartill, Cunliffe, Leyfield. Aston Villa: - Morton; Beeson, Blair; Gibson, Allen, Kingdon; Broome, Astley, Waring, McLuckie, Houghton.
EVERTON MISS THEIR WAY
October 5, 1935, Liverpool Football Echo
Broome Gets Through For A Draw
By Stork.
Villa would be satisfied with a draw, for three-quarters of the game they have been well mastered, Everton should and could have won this game in the first half with the chance at their disposal. Jones was a great defender throughout. Everton: - Sagar; Jackson, Jones; Britton, Gee, Thomson (captain); Geldard, Stevenson, Hartill, Cunliffe, Leyfield. Aston Villa: - Morton; Beeson, Blair; Gibson, Allen, Kingdon; Broome, Astley, Waring, McLuckie, Houghton. Referee Mr. W. B. Bristow, Stafford.
The Villa and Everton are two of the most famous names in football, and, despite the fact that each occupied a lowly position in the table at the moment, there was every indication of a classical exhibition. Everton brought back Thomson and Britton, and Waring was at centre forward for the Birmingham side for the first time for some weeks. The crowd was not as big as anticipated owing to the rain, but there would be 25,000 at the start. Blair, the Villa back, had to make a back-pass to his goalkeeper in the first minute, and after one raid by the Villa Everton got to grips with the defence, but there was no finality about their work. The ball was handled about in front of Morton without any calls being made upon the goalkeeper. The Villa showed that the more direct pass was the right one when Waring and McLuckie joined forces and came within an ace of scoring, Sagar being only just in time to prevent the ex-Tranmere Rovers going through for a goal. Waring showed amazing control of the ball a little later, but he too wanted to finesse more than was necessary. Jackson was responsible for some stern and clever defensive work against Houghton and McLuckie, and when the Villa were awarded a free kick. Houghton put tremendous power behind the shot, but his direction was faulty.
Britton's Tricks.
Some of Britton's play was entrancing. He pulled off as many tricks in five minutes as Alec James does in a match, and they were tricks which made openings. Cunliffe made a nice push forward pass to Hartill, who acted correctly when he took the ball on the run and made a first-time shot without result. Stevenson made a great drive which was not on the line, and when Hartill let go a cannon-ball shot it took all the steam out of Blair, who had to receive attention. While he was doubled up the Villa goal had a narrow squeak. There was a crush of players in front of Morton, yet the goalkeeper was able to save a short, sharp shot despite the crowd around him. The Villa attack did not work at all well. Everton had a great chance, when Stevenson placed a ball intended for Geldard, who had run up in anticipation of the move. Blair defeated the winger, but in doing so put the ball to Hartill's toe. All looked for a goal and it should have been one, but Everton's centre forward pulled the ball yards wide of the mark.
Stevenson Scores.
Geldard made a good run and centre which was converted by Stevenson. The Villa defence appeared to have chances to get the ball away before Stevenson got hold of it, and he had two attempt before he scored at 20 minutes. Everton were much sharper than their opponents, and once Morton had to make a really good save. From a pass by Hartill, Leyfield drove into the crowd. Everton seemed entitled to a penalty when Blair crashed into Hartill, but the referee refused the appeal.
Cunliffe Nods Through.
Morton was hug, when saving from Leyfield. Then came a well made goal by Everton. Hartill, who had drifted out to the right, centred to Cunliffe, and Cunliffe nodded the ball into the net 33 minutes. The Villa had not been in it this half and the margin in Everton's favour was not a true reflex of their superiority.
Half-Time Everton 2, Aston Villa 0.
Everton resumed in the same spirit as they left off, and the Villa defence was often sorely tested. Hartill was unfortunate when he headed up against the upright, and again he shot straight at Morton. It was all Everton, and when Morton went out to pick up the ball inside the penalty area he slipped and just possession. Hartill tried to tip the ball through, but was spoiled by a defender, and then Geldard missed an opportunity.
Turn Of The Tide.
Then came the turn of the tide, Waring put out a long pass of McLuckie, who swept the ball over to Broome. Gee, and Jones seemed to hesitate, and Broome, made a first-time shot, to score at 58 minutes. Kingdon and Jones were hurt, and Geldard had a ball headed out of goal by Blair when Morton was beaten, Broome fed by McLuckie once more produced a great drive to level the score at seventy minutes. Morton made two saves in the last few minutes. Final Everton 2, Aston Villa 2.
ASTON VILLA RESERVES V EVERTON RESERVES
October 5, 1935, Liverpool Football Echo
Dixon converted a penalty for hands against Cook and headed a third. Full time Aston Villa Reserves 3, Everton Reserves 0
Hoylake v Everton “A”
Hoylake attacked but Davies skied the ball from almost under the bar. Everton scored in thirty minutes, Heath accepting an easy chance. Tunney scored a second goal, Sherlock having no chance. Half-time Hoylake 0, Everton “A” 2
EVERTON 2 ASTON VILLA 2 (Game 1529 over-all)-(Div 1 1487)
October 7, 1935. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Feeble Play Near Goal.
Why Everton Lost Their Lead.
By “Stork.”
Everton let Aston Villa off Lightly at Goodison Park, for instead of the visitors being sent empty away they were allowed to take a point. Everton held the whip hand to such an extent in the first half that they should have taken a commanding lead instead of a 2-0 advantage. The Villa in the first half never even suggested that they could score, but in the second half they had two break aways, scored two quick goals, and then went after a victory, and might have got it had it not been for Sagar and hi backs. Everton undoubtedly threw away a point by their feebleness in front of goal when they had the Villa on the run. There is no disputing that Everton were the better side in the first “45”; they were sharper on the ball, were definitely the greater tacticians, and, in spite of many failings in front of goal, the better shooters, until Broome, a converted centre forward at outside right showed them the value of the first-time shot. If Everton had shot more often when they had the Villa defence in a tangle they would not have had to battle to hold a point. As a game it fell short of spectation, not because of Everton's display, but because the Villa were so moderate. Of individual skill there was plenty, but it is collective effort which brings the best results. Waring, for instance, worked the all like a juggler, but for most of the first half he was working for himself. He worked hard, yet I can only recall one shot coming from his boot, and that was hit squarely enough to trouble Sagar. He gave McLuckie some chances, Houghton others, but the Villa team did not work together as a team. Even Allen could not check Everton's forward plans. They just checked themselves by their shot-shy football. Hartill should have had a goal, Leyfield missed a “sitter,” and Stevenson had to have two tries before he finally lodged the ball in the net to mark up the first goal of the day. Hartill was unlucky when he headed onto the upright, and again when he doubled up Blair with a pile-driver. Cunliffe obtained the second goal, through a Hartill pass. The centre forward had to run out to the right wing to avoid the Villa defenders. He then made a long length cross-pass which Cunliffe nodded into the net, but so persistent were Everton in the matter of attack that other goals should have been the natural outcome, but they left the field at the interval with a two goal lead. When Everton resumed as they had left off, attacking, few through that the Villa would make a fight of it. The visitors had altered their plan of campaign. McLuckie, sent the ball out to the right wing, Broome, a speedy winger, went forward, and with Gee and Jones hesitating, Brooms strode forward and hit the ball first time, Sagar came out, but it was of no avail, for Broom'es drive sent the ball into the net at lightning speed. An almost similar plan produced the second goal, McLuckie to Broome who again shot with tremendous power, the ball going into the Everton goal off the edge of the upright.
Great Opening Missed.
The Villa were in the match with a chance for the first time, and exploiting the long game, they had the Everton defence on tender-hooks. Jones was twice hurt, but stood manfully against Broome and Astley. Everton had to start all over again, and they put enough energy into the game to upset the Villa defence. Geldard saw Blair head out with his goalkeeper beaten, but who will forget the opportunity be (Geldard) and Hartill got when Morton's feet shot from underneath him. He lost possession with Hartill and Geldard close at hand. The centre forward tried to tap the ball into the empty goal, but it came out to Gedard, who shot yards wide.
Britton's Artistry.
Everton's first half display was excellent, with the exception that they did not accent their chances. Britton's artistry was greatly admired. It was effective, too, and I will not forget Jones's display at back. He was congratulated by Sagar as they left the field at the interval. Jackson too, was sound, if not quite so skilful. The half-backs kept the Villa attack in subjection, Gee of course, was a third back, and thus undoubtedly stopped Waring from getting among the goals. Sagar was safe, and the forwards, up to a point played well, their one fault being their penchant for passing when a shot would have had a more telling effect. The Villa is not nearly the side of a few years ago. Allen was not nearly as good as Salmond, who blotted out Hartill when Everton played Portsmouth. Blair was a strong defender, but should have had a penalty given against him, when he charged Hartill over when he was heading for certain goal. Gibson is still, a class half-back, but the forward line is made up of units. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Jones, backs; Britton, Gee and Thomson, (captain), half-backs; Geldard, Stevenson, Hartill, Cunliffe, and Leyfield, forwards. Aston Villa: - Morton, goal; Beeson and Blair, backs; Gibson, Allen and Kingdon, half-backs; Broome, Astley, Waring, McLuckie, and Houghton, forwards. Referee Mr. W.B. Bristow, Stafford.
EVERTON STILL WITHOUT A VICTORY FOR WEEKS.
October 7, 1935. Liverpool Echo
Everton Refuse Changes.
Bee's Notes.
It is only natural that one expect something above the ordinary when two such teams as Aston Villa and Everton meet, no matter what their standing in the League table. I won't say the game was a complete disappointment, but it never reached the standard expected of it. Why was it? I can soon tell you. Aston Villa have fallen from their pedestal; fallen to such an extent that they are at the moment just an ordinary eleven playing ordinary football. They have lost their lustre, notwithstanding the big names set out on the team sheet. For seventy per cent of the game they played poor stuff, and this made Everton look a classical side. Everton were not a classical side, but they were vastly superior to the Villa in the first half, and for quite a time in the second “sitting” (writes Stork). Why was it that the result was a draw, you may ask, with Everton so much the superior force? East again, Everton frittered away chances made by good class combination. It was ever thus with Everton. The main chance was omitted for the desire to finesse, finesse to the extent that goals were cast away when they should have been the natural outcome of persistent pressure. If they had scored four goals before the interval to one by the Villa, I would not flatter Everton, for they were that much, and more, the better side. The Midlanders could not stem the tide, neither could they frame an attack good enough to cause any anxiety to the Everton defenders. You will understand, I am sure, by what I have said that Everton were solely to blame for not being in an impregnable position at the half stage. They should have had enough goals in their bag to have allowed the Villa their two, and then won handsomely. I had no fault to find with their plans of progression, but having worked out their position, they should have hit the ball hard and often, and not scorned such chances as came their way. Matches cannot be won by tap-tap methods; there must be something more solid about their play to round off their “ground work.” Of course I mean shooting. What else was wanted to give Everton a convincing victory? They had the Villa where they wanted them –on the retreat, with no confidence in the side; but Everton's flippancy in front of Morton cost them a point and a £1. Hartill and Leyfield should have had a goal with less than twenty minutes gone by but there was an incessant desire to go just one more step or make one more pass. The Villa ultimately showed Everton how to clinch an advance by first time shooting. Broome scored two goals – neither was produced through elaborate scheming. His opening was made by two – three at the most – movements. Waring to McLuckie, McLuckie to Broome, and Broome into the net. The defence had no chance. One of Everton's goal came in a similar manner, but the other was nearly lost through too many cooks. You know what i mean, don't you?
First Tome Methods.
The Villa goals were undoubtedly the best of the match, for they were the kind the crowd clearly loves to see. Bloome's first point unsettled Everton and put the Villa in the game, with a chance, and for the next fifteen minutes they showed more bite than at any other time. They saw a possible chance of a draw. They would be satisfied with that I could tell, and Everton lost the grip on the game, forfeited their position as the dominating party, and in the end were battling to hold on to a draw. Even when Aston Villa were at their best, Everton were the better tacticians, the more intricate machine, but the Villa has seen the advantage of the swift shot as against the elaborate setting Everton must have for their goal-making act. Let me tell you Aston Villa might have won the match, and that would have been an injustice, for they were not worthy of it; in fact, they were fortunate to take away a point, but why blame the Villa for Everton's lapses? Waring is still a clever footballer, perhaps a little selfish, but a match winner given half a chance. He came in patches. Astley was a constructive inside man, and Mcluckie, although on the slow side, was true to the type which come from Scotland. Allen was not such a stumbling back after all. He has yet to strike his Portsmouth form. Gibson was dainty and vigorous in turn, but Blair was the man in defence, along with Morton. No man on the Everton side played better than Jones. He earned Sagar's “congrats” at the end of the first half, and Jackson had put up a bld front to Houghton and McLuckie. Britton was glorious, particularly so in the initial half. It was an object lesson the way he beat a man and then made the perfect pass; more should have come from his promptings. Gee as a third back curbed Waring to a certain extent, and Thomson was tireless in his endeavour. The forwards I have told you about – one failing, shootings.
VILLA LIKE GOODISON.
October 7, 1935. Evening Express.
Four Visits –Four Points.
By the Watcher.
Four visits –four points. This is Aston Villa's record for Goodison Park in the last four years. In the latest game, Everton appeared to be well on the way to victory with a two goals lead, but in the second half the Villa became a real “live force” and snatched a point. 2-2. To my mind over-elaborateness and inability to seize scoring chances cost Everton the point. In the first half there was little wrong with the Everton machine. A sound defence backed up an intermediate line that was always forcing the forwards to attack. The forwards spent almost two-thirds of the opening half in the Villa danger area. Yet, when the ball was slipped across for someone to run in and crash it into the net, Hartill and Stevenson seemed able to take it well. Hartill gave one of his best exhibitions. Constantly harassing the visiting defenders, he was ever ready to “have a crack.” He had a great supporter in Stevenson. Their enthusiasm put pep into the line, and I was sorry their efforts were not rewarded by more than two goals. In the first half lone, the Blues should have taken five goals! Next to Hartill in the honours list must come Jones, the former Bromboro' recruit. His positional play in a sound defence was a revelation to many visiting officials, and rarely did he place a foot wrong. Gee was the pick of the halves, and it was largely due to his fine support that Hartill was sent away so many times. Stevenson and Cunliffe were Everton's scorers but Broome, whom the Villa obtained from a Spartan League club, showed them all how to shoot with two great goals. Take your chances, Everton!
SAGAR'S FIRST CAP.
October 8, 1935, Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
Everton meet Chelsea at Goodison Park on Oct 19, when Sagar, for the first time, will guard the English goal. The Everton goalkeeper on his day is as clever as any man in his position in the game, and he is not likely to let England down. Last season Sagar kept goal for the Football League against the Scottish League. Everton will also lack the services of Cunliffe on Saturday week as he has again been chosen as reserve.
FROM COAL TO ENGLAND'S GOAL.
October 8, 1935, Evening Express.
Everton Defender's First “Cap”
Sagar Merits The Honour
By the Pilot.
Seven years ago Teddy Sagar, Everton's brilliant goalkeeper, was working in a Yorkshire coal mine. On Saturday, October 19, he will guard England's goal in an international match against Ireland at Belfast. The selection of Sagar brings Everton's list of full internationals to 12. They are composed of seven Englishmen, one Scotsman, one Welshman and three Irishmen. For some seasons now Sagar has been knocking t the international door, and though he has played for the Football League on many occasions, this his first ”Cap.” Never was a player more deserving of the honour. It was in 1928 that Hull City spotted Sagar playing goal for Thorpe Colliery, Doncaster, Hull took Sagar on trial, but turned him down! Everton then brought Sagar to Goodison Park on trial and played him in a CentraL League match against Manchester United at Old Trafford. The following week Sagar played in a reserve game at Goodison Park and immediately after the match was signed on as a professional. In less than a year Sagar had earned a place in the first team, and he took over from Arthur Davies, who is now with Plymouth Argyle. Sagar, however, lacked the experience necessary to success in First Division football, and when Everton, secured Coggins from Bristol City, Sagar reverted to the Central League side. Sagar, however, came into his own in season 1931-32, when Everton, having won the Second Division championship, carried off the First Division title, and followed by winning the F.A. Cup. Having been awarded an international cap Sagar has now gained every football honour open to him.
Great skill.
There is not a goalkeeper in the country with the same faculty as Sagar for leaping out at flying centres and shots and catching the ball with skill and cleanness of a Don Bradshaw fielding on the boundary. Sagar is keen and quick to take up perfect position and his fielding of the ball is ideal. Sagar does not try to make his work spectacular. In his make-up efficiency comes first. It has been said that Ted Sagar that he trains more zealously than any other goalkeeper in the country. Sagar does exactly the same preparation as all other members of the team.
EVERTON'S ELEVEN
October 9, 1935. Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
Everton's side to oppose Wolverhampton Wanderers at Wolverhampton on Saturday will be the same that Drew with Aston Villa at home last week. This is Sagar; Jackson, Jones; Britton, Gee, Thomson; Geldard, Stevenson, Hartill, Cunliffe, Leyfield. In the Central League side to entertain Wolverhampton Reserves at Goodison Park, kick-off 3.15, Cook, the Irish international, who was injured in the opening game against Derby County, is to have a try out. The side is King; Williams, Cook; Tunney, White, Mercer; Hughes, Miller, Dickinson, Hannon, Archer. Archer I being tried at outside left, a position he has not before filled.
AMATEURS FOR EVERTON
October 10, 1935. Evening Express.
Everton have signed, on amateur forms. Stanley Gandy, a 17 year –old outside right, and Alfred Gregory, an 18 year-old outside left, who have been playing with Pool Bank in the Chester and District League. Gandy is the son of Mr. W. Gandy, the hon. sec, of the Chester League.
EVERTON SETTLING DOWN TO NEW STYLE.
October 11, 1935. Liverpool Echo.
Bee's Notes.
Everton go to Wolverhampton with Hartill making his debut against his old friends. The Everton eleven is trying out a new formation and the third back game has thus far proved a stiffening effect upon the goals-against figures. Everton's position is not serious and not nice the absence of star members was a severe test of the younger fry. One maker of newspaper football tables has actually put Everton bottom of the League! He has made no allowance for the number of games played away from home. Yet we surveying their position, should not offer excuses where defeat comes because that measure only produces further defeat. Having got a seemingly sure win against the Villa they allowed the nine-stone Broome to take a draw with two good shots. There is need for a continual eye for business, too often goals re scored against Everton in the 40 th minute of there abouts, and near the finish of play. Their form for an hour at Middlesbrough was so good they have only to reproduce this at Wolverhampton to make a surprise mark. Let them forget their appalling away register of a year or two; let them get into their game in a practical manner, eschewing fripperies for the first time- pass and shot. It is interesting to note that Mat O'Mahney, the former Liverpool, and Southport half-back, is being given a run by Wolves at right half back at Goodison Park tomorrow in a game which, has added attractions, none brighter than the oft-recommended test of Archer as an outside left, while Edward Tunney, who played a cup final for St. Malachy's boy a season ago at Goodison Park, is being given his first run in Central League games at right half-back. He has been shaping well with the “A” team and has earned his promotion badges. Everton: - Sagar; Jackson, Jones; Britton, Gee, Thomson; Geldard, Stevenson, Hartill, Cunliffe, Leyfield.
A week hence Everton play Chelsea, and may be Cook and Dean will be in the top team for the first time for many weeks.
• Advertisement in the Liverpool Echo. Central League Match at Goodison Park tomorrow, (Sat) Everton Res v. Wolverhampton Res. Kick-off 3.15 p.m. Admission 6d, Boys 4d, Stands extra (Inc tax).
EVERTON AGAIN FADE OUT
October 12 2010The Liverpool Football Echo
Wolves Easy Winners; Scouts Very Busy
By Bee.
Everton's forwards work at Wolverhampton was futile. The chances of scoring small. Teams: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Jones, backs; Britton, Gee and Thomson, half-backs; Geldard, Stevenson, Hartill (captain), Cunliffe, Leyfield, forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers: - Weare, goal; Hollington, and Shaw, backs; Rhodes, Morris, and Richards, half-backs; Phillips, Thompson, Smalley, Jones, Wriggleworth, forwards. Referee Mr. Gould, London. Thanks is a very nice gesture on the part of Jock Thomson, Hartill, making his first appearance against his old club, was invited to be captain of Everton for the day. Hartill's reception from 30,000 of his old-time spectators was most enthusiastic. The day was perfect, hardly a breath of wind, flashes of sunshine, a “Gould” referee, and Wolverhampton waspish in the golden jerseys. The main point before the start was the surprise appearance of Liverpool directors, Messrs McConnell and Richards, the Sheffield Wednesday manager Mr. Billy Walker, Manchester City officials, and others ready to spend money, I understand the players being watched Dick Rhodes, the right half-back of Wolverhampton. Hartill was in the news in the first minute. He chased after a centre, and his former full backs appeared to be in fear against their discarded member, as though they knew Wolverhampton had discarded some strength. Certainly Hartill played his best game this season at his old ground, and after Richards had made a foul on Stevenson, with no more than a free kick as his punishment, play became more interesting and much cleaner. Thomson edged away one lump of danger and Sagar punched away another in international style. Leyfield twisted his left knee in making a perfect switch round and centre which Hartill was too late to head through. Gee was damaged in the Wolves' but effort, in which Thomson swept in and was charged over by Thomson. The crowd roared when Hartill used his elbows in illegal manner to keep off an opponent, and Britton was unusually rugged in his attacks and tackles. Geldard made some fine runs without, quite the practicability of Stevenson and Cunliffe when it came to shooting.
Cunliffe's Great Shot.
Stevenson went very close, and Cunliffe using the “dummy” expertly wound up with a swerving, deceptive shot going in towards goal at every yard of its flight, and finally the nonplussed goalkeeper was happy to see the ball skim over the angle of the post. Hartill was keen against his former bedmates, and when he went out to the right and centred other forwards should have closed in to accept his free offering. Gee, for one moment forgot the third back role and went far forward, and Geldard, caught offside, once more displayed his brilliance in close work without getting the finality one yearns for The Wolves' Thompson playing in his first home game in the first team, did some neat things and made Sagar take great care off a bumping ball. Geldard shot across to face of the goal; Jock Thomson was unlucky to miss scoring after a corner kick by Geldard, and the limping Leyfield shot well when angled, and Weare had to make a useful save. Everton now took complete control, finding their men with admirable passes and making advances by the best methods, but in a breakaway Jackson saved Everton after Thompson had made a way for Smalley. The boy, Thompson, was playing in a new class and was doing his job in unusually clever manner. And it was the boy who dwelt on the ball, and finally passed forward instead of the wing.
Wolves In Front.
Smalley was boxed in, but attempted a shot, and Sagar turned the ball away to find Thompson close in, angled, but successful in driving into an open space. Half-an-hour –Wolves 1-0. Jock Thomson tried to emulate his namesake in the Wolves side by going up into the forwards, and coolly dribbling right up beyond the penalty area- helpful towards what might have been an equaliser. Twice Jackson kicked off the line and found Wrigglesworth, and best forward on the field, fast, elusive, and able to produce a shot. Sagar caught a hot one from Thompson, and another from Smalley, and in reply, Jock Thomson made a shot which Weare held high in the air.
Half-Time Wolves 1, Everton 0.
Making Things Hum.
In the second half Smalley, a half back converted into a centre forward began to make things hum. He is an opportunists, and after he had narrowly missed the referee spoke to Gee about a leg up. Smalley responded with a foul, and then Wolverhampton got unmistakably on top. They should have scored when Phillips shot across the goal, and Wigglesworth slid into the back of the net and by some miracle did not take the ball with him.
Smalley Gets Through.
This move began by a very adept pay-off on the part of Thompson, who gave Phillip a clear chance of shooting instead of himself taking the ball. At the fifth-fifth minute Wolves were two up. Wriggleworth have rounded Jackson, at the second attempt, and after nudging the full back Wrigglesworth centred discreetly and Smalley headed into the net. Wolverhampton would have got a third goal if Smalley had not been in the way of Jones' shot or rare power. At this juncture it was a very on-sided game. Everton had been woefully lacking in the shooting department in the first half now they had little chance of scoring whether they can shoot. Sagar was in best form, hence the deflection of two brilliant efforts by Idris Jones. Gee unwisely decided to use his hands in the penalty are, and Shaw, the full back, took the shot success. Stevenson who had chance places with Cunliffe this half, went along on his own by the corner flag and made a praiseworthy solo effort, but Everton were really very easily overpowered. Jock Thomson, although limping, now went inside right and inside left in turn to make a shot with the idea of showing the forwards what was expected of them. Phillips scored a fourth, and Sagar kept the score from reaching double figures. Result Wolves 4, Everton 0.
WOLVES TROUNCE EVERTON
October 12, 1935. Evening Express, Football Edition.
Blues Lack Shooting Power.
Sagar Keeps The Score Down.
By the Pilot.
Everton need marksmen. It was failure in shooting that led to their 4-0 defeat at Wolverhampton today. Wolverhampton were much the superior side, particularly in the second half when Everton were never in the hunt. Sagar's brilliant in goal kept the score down. Four First Division clubs were represented in Molineux ground. Mr. W. McConnell and Mr. G. Richards were there to run another eye over a Wolves' half back. Manager Billie Walker represented Sheffield Wednesday, and Manchester City and Leeds United were also on scouting business. An attendance of 35,000 gave Hartill a grand reception when he lead out Everton, Thomson having handed over the reins of captaincy. Teams: - Weare, goal; Hollingworth and Shaw, backs; Rhodes, Morris, and Richards, half-backs; Phillips, Thompson, Smalley, Jones and Wrigglesworth, forwards. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Jones, backs; Britton, Gee, and Thomson, half-backs; Geldard, Stevenson, Hartill (captain), Cunliffe, and Leyfield, forwards. Referee Mr. G.T. Gould (London).
Hartill won the toss and immediately forced a corner for Everton, Geldard's centre being blocked. Stevenson was brought down, but Hartill ran into an offside position from the free kick. Smalley let the ball pass between his legs instead of taking a shooting chance, and Thomson was able to clear. Phillips tried a first-timer which was off the mark, before Geldard tice left the Wolves' defence standing with scintillating runs, but for some reason he delayed his centres, and paid the penalty.
Wolves' Offside Trap.
The Wolves, endeavouring to lay an offside trap, Britton went through on his own, but his shot passed across goal. Cunliffe let go a pile driver the edge of the penalty area, and the ball just missing the far post. Leyfield had to have his left leg bound with plaster after straining a muscle in a close tackle. It was entertaining football with fast lines of forwards. Geldard drove low across the Wolverhampton goal and Britton was twice pulled up for fouls. Sagar, who was playing splendidly in goal, tipped over the bar from Smalley. Thomson drove behind, and this was the prelude to five minutes' solid pressure for the Blues, during which Weare made a fine save off Hartill and turned aside a cross shot from Leyfield.
Wolves Lead.
In 30 minutes Wolverhampton took the lead. Smalley had a shot charged down following excellent work by Jones and Rhodes, and the ball fell back to him in an open space. Smalley shot quickly along the carpet and Sagar contrived to turn it aside, endeavouring to pass it out for a corner. Thomson came up at top speed to hook the ball into the net. Just before this goal, Smalley had got through on his own, but Jackson came across with a wonderful tackle. He saved the day for Everton. Only the brilliance of Sagar prevented the Wolves from increasing their lead the interval. He saved magnificently from Smalley and Phillips, while shots from these same players were kicked away off the line. Wrigglesworth was giving Jackson a warm afternoon, and now he raced beyond the back to let go a shot which just missed the near post. Everton were playing well, but they were not nearlyso dangerous in front of goal as the Midlanders.
Half-Time Wolves 1, Everton 0
Everton's lack of shooting willingness as again apparent when they resumed, Stevenson, in particular, threw away a “chance of a lifetime.” Geldard made ground and pulled the ball back along the carpet. Stevenson had no one with him, but instead of taking a first-time shot, he dallied so that defenders were able to run many, yards and crowd him out. The Wolves exerted heavy pressure and monopolised the game. Wrigglesworth just failed to connect with a low shot by Phillip, but in 55 minutes Wrigglesworth levelled an excellent centre, from which Smalley headed into the net.
Sagar in Form.
Next Jones came through to rattle the cross-bar, and in further attacks Sagar proved that England had not made a mistake in selecting him for next Saturday's game. He made a super save off Smalley who was well clear on his own.
Everton Mastered.
Stevenson and Cunliffe changed places but it was of little avail for Everton were completely mastered, Sagar being the busiest man on the field. Jones made one brilliant run, then with Thompson made a harmless pass Gee for some unknown reason knocked the ball away with his hand to give a penalty from which Shaw increased the Wolverhampton lead in 75 minutes. Weare made a good save from Thomson, but it was only in keeping with the run of the game when Phillips scored a fourth for the Wolves with a low shot off the far post in 84 minutes. It was Everton's poorest away display this season. Final; Wolves 4, Everton 0.
EVERTON RES V WOLVES RES.
October 12, 1935. Evening Express, Football Edition.
There was little between the sides, but after ten minutes play Dickinson headed a goal for Everton, with the Wolves' defenders holding on with the expectation of an offside decision. Despite protests the goal counted, and subsequent play showed the Wolves in a favourable light. Williams and Cook, however, defended well, but when Brown headed in it seemed an equaliser. King Flung out his arm to make an outstanding save. The Everton keeper again distinguished himself with a clearance from McDermott, and then Everton scored he second goal, Hughes netting easily when Utterson failed to hold a centre from the left wing. An interesting half ended with Everton attacking. Half-time Everton Res 2, Wolves Res 0.
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 4 EVERTON 0 (Game 1530 over-all)-(Div 1 1488)
October 14, 1935. Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
Wolves' Sweep Through
Thrustful Forward Work
Everton's attack Breaks Down Once More.
By “Bee”
Everton hoped o change their tide of affairs at Wolverhampton. They had the team that had played against Aston Villa a week before, and Wolves brought in the three Welsh internationals who had been absent at Derby. The effect was electrical so far as the home side were concerned. Everton started well enough to shock the Midland side. The early goal could have been Everton's if Hartill made captain for the day as a gesture of remembrance –he came from Wolves in the summertime –whose forte is his heading, did not arrive to take Leyfiel's centre and the centre of the ball was lamed in the effort to beat the back and cross the ball. At the point when Wolves went up to take the lead, Everton had the home side in the hollow of their hands, and the 30,000 spectators must have felt awkward about their team's chances, because Everton were playing skilfully, speedily, and with rare judgement. But those who follow them week by week in their visitations know that whatever they do in the middle means nothing to their bright lives if there is no shot applied. And so it was here; finesse without finality means a nought in the goal-for columns. Everton got none and deserved none, and by degrees the speedy and clever inside forwards of the home club got into their stride, and nothing but a superlative display of goalkeepering by Sagar, prevented this being the sensational result of the season. It might have been a dozen goals, and Everton could not have complained. Four had to suffice, thanks to the way the Sagar kept the hungry Wolves from the goal door. The game developed into an one-sided effort and although Stevenson and Cunliffe changed places in the second half there was no tangible result to this change of front. Everton were futile in attack, and finally became a swamped side. Wolverhampton Wanderers were made to look a remarkably good side. On any form this season they must be considered in the light of a good side, but with Everton's poverty-stricken display, without resolution, force or desire, or shot, one may easily be praising Wolves too highly. There was a fine rigorous vigour about their forwards, but they were not wild movers; their football craft was not forgotten in their rushes, and the ball was kept low. The scissors pass was brought into action, and the two inner forwards, Bryn Jones and the newcomers Thompson, were in excellent form. It was not exaggerating to say that with a swooping of the forward lines the visiting side would probably have won by a 4 goal margin. This line worked in unison, and Wrigglesworth carried too much pace for Jackson, who is not a slow coach.
Jackson's Saves.
Jackson saved two goals in the first half, and Thomson took another as also providing two of the few sots marked to Everton's credit. But Thomson, of Everton, is a half-back, and he was doubtless showing the forwards in front of him the need of the moment, even at the cost of leaving his wing open. Jones was Everton's best back, and Britton was unusually willing to be a rugged half-back as well as a dainty worker of the ball. The forward line hardly bears comparision with the Wolves line. Leyfield was always sound in his use of the ball despite his bad leg; Hartill was best at the finish when all was lost. Cunliffe and Stevenson each had one good shot, and Geldard, without the best service, from his comrades, made sparkling runs and failed to get his co-forwards to link up with him. Everton have a bad habit of fading out in the second half. Here they were still but one goal down at half-time, with a fighting chance, but the fight seemed to have gone out of a side which has lost its football skill and confidence.
Sound Defenders.
The Wolves backs began shakily and finished on a sound note; the half-back line was strong, but Rhodes, being watched by Liverpool and other clubs was not unduly impressive, albeit he was workmanlike and artistic. Forward Wrigglesworth was a sharp mover and centred without loss and centred without loss of time, and with a fine direction. Smalley banged into the third back (Gee) and scored well; but it was the two inside forwards who touched the highless class. The scorers were Smalley, Thompson, Phillips, and Shaw (the latter from a penalty for afoolish handling case by Gee). Gee kept rigorously to his third back job and did his work quite well, but the whole of the defence appeared to feel the futility of their own work when the forward line was so unimpressive. Teams: - Wolverhampton Wanderers: - Weare, goal; Hollingworth and Shaw, backs; Rhodes, Morris and Richards, half-backs; Phillips, Thompson, Smalley, Jones and Wriggleworths, forwards. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Jones, backs; Britton, Gee and Thomson, half-backs; Geldard, Stevenson, Hartill (captain), Cunliffe, Leyfield, forwards. Referee Mr. G. T. Gould, West Norwood.
EVERTON RESERVES 5 WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS RESERVES 0
October 14, 1935, Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
Central League (Game 10)
Everton were good winners of a hard, fast and interesting encounter, but on the general run of the play the Midlnders did not deserve to lose by so decisive a margin. They were a fast-moving and attractive side –particularly in forming attacks –but their failure was the inability to overcome Evertron's solid defence, in which King, Williams, Cook and White were the outstanding stalwarts. Everton snapped the chances offered, and having got on top, proved the more convincing in goal area work, so much so that the Wolves became very uncertain in defence and Goalkeeper Utterson should at least have saved two of the goals. Some feeling crept into the game in the closing stages, and the referee ordered Laking the right back off the field for alleged fouling of Archer. The goal-scorers for Everton were: - Dickinson (3), Hughes and White (Penalty). Everton: - King, goal; Williams and Cook, backs; Tunney, White, and Mercer, half-backs; Hughes, Miller, Dickinson, Hannon and Archer, forwards.
EVERTON'S TIP-TAP FORWARDS.
October 14, 1935. Evening Express.
Lack Of Punch At Wolverhampton.
Everton's forwards were shot-shy at Wolverhampton. Instead of blazing at goal on each and every opportunity they tipped and tapped the ball until failing victim to first-time grim tackling. I wonder whether the Blues' forwards have lost confidence in their shooting ability? It certainly looks like it. Sometimes good in approach, the forwards fell away to an inept line. With forwards frittering away good chances it is only to be expected that the defence loses heart. It is the natural outcome. Everton began well enough and, at times in the first half, had the Wolves penned in for spells, but apart from the valiant efforts of Thomson, they never looked like scoring. It was not that the opportunities did not occur.
Sagar Brilliant.
The man who stood between Everton and a big adverse score was Sagar. The England goalkeeper was positively brilliant and saved at least five certain scoring shots by keen anticipation and perfect handling. It was certainly impressed by the Wolves, who cut out a great deal of the “bite” which has brawn criticism and, in the second half especially, served up quick, precise football, with Thompson, a young Scot, and Bry Jones the schemers in chief. The Wolves were street ahead of Everton, who gave a lukewarm display. Geldard was the best forward and Thomson the outstanding intermediate. Jones and Jackson played well in defence. Thomson, Smalley, Shaw (Penalty) and Phillips scored the goals.
EVERTON'S SERIOUS POSITION.
October 14, 1935. LIVERPOOL ECHO.
Bee's Notes
I have to tell the Everton public of a 4-0 defeat, which might have been double figure item but for the magnificent of Sagar, the international of next Saturday. Having made all allowances for injured players – Everton have had their fill, but other clubs are not immune from injury – one is left the framework of a far-lamed team. This is not an Everton team –away from home, anyway – and there is no other time for me to judge them. The team was ragged, insipid, futile, lacking in courage or vision, having neither the skill nor the thrust of the Midlands side. There was no charge this time against the Wolvers of being unduly severe. They won cleverly and well, and we may easily get a thoroughly wrong idea of the Wolves strength through applying the test of the Everton side to their standards. In short, Everton were bad, really bad, and the Wolves were made to appear brilliant. And it was in the main through the forward failures Everton lost heavily. I am not inclined to blame the defence. Any defence continually watching forwards fritter away simple chances of making progress would tire and become tarred with the same brush. It may sound odd, but it is a fact that Thomson and Britton applied shots when none came from their own forwards. Leyfield started finely, and was damaged attempting to make a goal that did not come in two minutes. Everton had the Wolves shocked and in the hollow of their hands in twenty minutes. One goal again should not have been sufficient to make Everton curl up, but once again, away from home, a goal deficit sent them in wonderland.
A Galling List
Away from home Everton have put up these figures -0-2 at Bolton, 0-6 at Anfield, 1-6 at Middlesbrough, 0-2 at Portsmouth, 2-2 at Preston. It is a galling list. What is wrong? First of all, the absence of men of standing and balance. Not for the wingers the cross centres when Dean is away. The rot set in weeks ago. The line of demarcation was seen when Everton won 3-0 against Portsmouth at Goodison. They played very moderately that night, but excuses were found for them. To-day the club needs a thoroughly over hauling. Time is flying goals against are being piled up; the third back principle I not to blame; it is something more than that. It is the forward line which has no power, it is the lack of precision in pass in the attacking division, it is the generally frailty of the side near goal. At half-back there might be changes, but I doubt if any benefit would some through that channel at back Jones was excellent all through and Jackson stopped two goals by rousing defence near the jaws of the goal. Lack of confidence and some degree of fear are the ruling faults, but at roof the side is without a shooter. An occasional long drive is registered, but here Bryn Jones and the boy Thompson drive home short, sharp snorthers. Everton find themselves without any forward who can enjoy his driving licence. Well, something will have to be done to alter this state. Shoot or shunt –that will be the directorial slogan to their forward lines in the near future. Having said so much about Everton let us say one word about Wolves; their inside three –with a half back made into Hartill's successor –were a delightful line, not slavish to certain passes and all eager to have a shot at goal. I hope the disease is catching the Everton fellowship are concerned. Everton have not a class player on their books necessary to keep the club in a position it should occupy.
AN EVERTON GOUSE.
October 15, 1935. Liverpool Echo.
“Veteran” says: - I am sure the present unsatisfactory form of Everton must be causing concern to supporters and I who saw them when they were really a team fell grieved at their present standard, a standard that is not good enough to keep them in first-class company, and possibly not in the second class. The management as a propensity for instant change, and also lack of understanding by players right and left wingmen on left and right wings respectively, and playing two backs who lack experience, and the constant change re White and Gee. One begins to wonder whether it might not be the fault of the management that the team is now in such a deplorable position. You may wish to placate the situation to those who care by speaking of injuries, but this would not be sufficient to explain their present position. They have the talent available, and it seems that the only thing lacking is the ability to fit the men to the best positions. If the management has any delusions concerning their standing now, I would refer them to the days of Settle, Taylor, and such others and compare the reputation then attained with that of today. Admitted that the team has obtained one or two honours in latter years, but this does not compensate for the fickleness of their form, which I may say has been more or less evident for ten or twelve years, and which has created a feeling of dissatisfaction.
SEVEN EVERTON CHANGES
October 16, 1935. Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton have had such a bad time, and their position at the lower end of the table is so disconcerting to the club and its followers, that alterations were looked for in the team to meet Chelsea at Goodison Park on Saturday, though, perhaps some of the changes made by the directors last night were not anticipated. In the first place of course, substitutes had to found for Sagar and Cunliffe, who are to travel as England representatives, the goalkeeper to play against Ireland at Belfast and Cunliffe to stand by as reserve. Leyfield is on the injured list, and these are the alterations decided on: - King for Sagar in goal, White for Gee at centre-half. Mercer for Thomson are left half. Miller, inside right for Stevenson, who crosses over to his original position at inside left. Dean for Hartill t centre forward. Archer for Leyfield at outside left. Thus there are seven changes, one positional, and the team is: - King; Jackson, Jones; Britton, White, Mercer; Geldard, Miller, Dean, Stevenson, Archer.
Dean's Recovery.
All followers of the club ill welcome the return of Dean, who has had more than his share of injuries during the last season or two. He played in the first three matches, but against Liverpool at Anfield on September 7 he badly damaged a toe and has been out of the game ever since. He is fit once more, and if anything like his old form he should add much-needed thrust to the attack. Miller, the Scottish forward played remarkably well in the opening match at Goodison Park, though he did not maintain his early promise, but now that he is in the team again he is likely to make the most of his chance. I am told he played very well indeed in the reserve team last Saturday.
A Converted Half-Back.
It was an expected move that Stevenson should take up his former berth at inside-left, and will have for his partner a converted half-back in Archer. This player until last week had appeared at left half, but he was tried at outside left in the Central League game last Saturday, and he now has a chance to distinguish himself as a wing forward in first Division game. White resumes in place of Gee, and Mercer, who has also played before in the League side is preferred to Thomson.
King's Chance.
The backs, Jackson and Jones, may be relied on to give King, the reserve goalkeeper every support. This young player has rendered valuable services in Central league football, and last season five times assisted the League team. It is hoped that this reorganisation of the side will be without two of their regular players in Mitchell and Bambrick, who are assisting Ireland. With earlier filing of the light the kick off in this and the majority of other games is t three o'clock.
Everton Reserves
Everton Central league side to visit Bury will include Williams and Cook at back and Thomson at half-back, the side being White:-Williams, Cook; Tunney, Clark, Thomson, Hughes, Bentham, Dickinson, Hannon, and Sandham.
EVERTON'S TEAM TESTING TIMES
October 18, 1935. Liverpool Eco
Chelsea Can Produce Some Remarkable Football.
Bee's Notes
Hartill was playing his best at the finish of the Wolves game. He has a special faculty for getting goals at great angles and here he was driving in Everton's best shot of the day right on the close of the innings. Wherefore one felt sorry he had to leave the line, albeit the return of Dixie Dean was too apparent for words. Dean's absence from home games is always a bit of a tragedy. He exercises much in the confidence trick line to the younger members of the side. His return, after absence since the Liverpool game, is a matter of joy to the Goodison people, especially as he comes back at the moment Miller is returning to first-class football, and Stevenson goes to inside left-his best position. The return of Dean, and the trial of Archer at outside left are all features of moment for the Everton fan tomorrow, and they can take it for granted Chelsea have grown in football graces since the opening day when they disappointed against Liverpool, yet made a draw late on. Chelsea have given the most remarkable in-and-out football feats this season in a crazy season, but at the return of the fine old warrior Law, they have become solidified in defence, and Gibson is always working the ball to some purpose. On the wing, Spence is one of the most dangerous raiders the game has known, and on the left Barrowclough is always a menace. Bambrick will not be there to plough his way through, but the side reads good enough to make a captivating game for Goodison Park. At the moment Everton stand bottom but one on the rungs of the League ladder, thanks in a measure to their many “away” failures. However, I think you will find the return of Tom White to centre half will not alter Everton's decision to play the third back game. White was tested in the feature a week ago, and played it extremely well. Mercer can always be trusted to do his part, and so Everton start out afresh with a new hope and a belief that the attacking line will not only make opening, but will accept them with a degree of shooting-certainly not witnessed from them since the opening day. Everton are on their mettle; are being tested to the full; and are on trial as new combined forces. Everton: - King; Jackson, Jones; Britton, White, Mercer; Geldard, Miller, Dean, Stevenson, Archer.
EVERTON MUST WIN.
October 19, 1935. Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
By John Peel.
The worst feature of international football is that some clubs are deprived of the services of players at a time when they can ill-afford to lose them. Thus, Everton, who are in distress on the bottom steps of the ladder, must field a reserve goalkeeper in their home match against Chelsea today, but I am sure King will rise to the occasion. The fact that Chelsea held the Arsenal to a draw last week shows that the Stamford Bridge side has improved. Everton's however, must make every effort to win the game as the points are badly needed. Cunliffe is also absent on reserve for England), while Chelsea have Mitchell and Bambrick Irish team. In all, there are seven changes in the Everton team compared with last week. The re-appearance of Dean and the reorganised side generally will create unbounded interest in the match. The kick-off is at 3, o'clock, and the teams are: - Everton: - King; Jackson, Jones; Britton, White, Mercer; Geldard, Miller, Dean, Stevenson, Archer. Chelsea: - Jackson; O'Hare, Law; Hutchinson, Craig, Miller; Spence, Argue, Mills, Gibson, Barrowclough.
WINDFALL FOR EVERTON.
October 19, 1935. Liverpool Football Echo.
A Poor Chelsea Easily Mastered.
Chelsea were never a danger – one of the poorest teams seen on Merseyside. They were too soft-hearted in their tackling, and with goalkeeper Jackson uncertain, Everton should have more than five goals. Teams: - Everton: - King, goal; Jackson and Jones, backs; Britton, White and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Miller, Dean (captain), Stevenson, and Archer, forwards. Chelsea: - Jackson, goal; O'Hare and Law, backs; Hutchinson, Craig, Miller, Spence, Argue, Mills, Gibson, and Barraclough, forwards. Referee Mr. E.C. Carnwell, (Lichfield). It was not a good day for football, for Goodison Park. It was a strange looking Everton which faced up to Chelsea, who have shown improved form in recent weeks, but the onlookers soon showed their pleasure of having Dean back in the side. Mills beat White by a simple trick, and when he had got the impression that he had done with White for the time being he was surprised to find the Everton centre half come back to him, and eventually defeat him at a tackle not more then ten yards from the goalmouth. Archer made a wise pass when he swung the ball over to Geldard, but there was just a little too much pull on the ball. Mills was quick off the mark, and the Everton defence had not to give him the slightest rope. Geldard made a long run and centre, but the pensioners defence stood solid, Miller tried a shot which got up in the air too much to be successful. Everton were showing good football, but so far neither of Chelsea's fiery wingers, Spence and Barrowclough, had been able to cut any sort of dash against the Everton defence. Miller nearly took a goal in an uncommon way. He had made a shot, and Jackson found it easy to catch the ball and pull it down, but in doing so he dropped it and it narrowly missed going into the net.
Jackson's Error Leads to Goal.
Another mistake by Jackson in the next minute presented Everton with a goal. Stevenson shot, and the ball was stopped on the goal line by the Chelsea goalkeeper, but his uncertainty again caused him to release his hold, and from the press-box it looked as through the ball had gone over the goal line before Jackson had covered it. Everton claimed, and the referee, having discussed the matter with his linesman awarded a goal. Time 12 minutes. Chelsea, through Spence made a quick raid on the right flank, and when King missed a punch, which was to clear Spence a centre, Jackson stepped in to save.
Dean's Fine Goal.
At the 17 th minutes a further goal to Everton, and it was Dean's head that did the damage. White started the movement, which culminated in a long lob forward pass by Miller. Law stepped out t head, but Dean ran round him and glided the ball into the far side of the net, yards away from Jackson. Dean got a great reception. Miller made a good drive, and at the other end King had little to do. Dean, who had few chances made another header, but it was not up to his usual standard. King rushed out to save from Mills and forced the Chelsea centre to shot hurriedly and inaccurately. It was a close call. Jackson saved from Miller. The Everton backs appeared to be disinclined to leave it to their goalkeepers – surely not the way to give any young player confidence. Chelsea “left it” to Jackson, and he nearly made a third mistake when he patted a ball down, and it was good fortune that there was no Everton man to accept a presentation goal. Geldard was knocked out in collision with Barraclough. Britton and Archer between them made a glorious opening for Dean, but to the dismay of all, the Everton captain shot over the bar.
Half-Time Everton 2, Chelsea 0.
Chelsea offered little resistance. In fact they were the most genteel side, I have seen for an age. Take Everton's third goal as an example. Stevenson and Archer were allowed to walk the ball through to goal before the latter finally shot into the net at 45 minutes. I began to wonder how Chelsea had held Arsenal to a draw. In one of the Londoners' few advances Milla scored a good goal at the hour. Five minutes later, however, Miller walked his way through for a fourth goal for Everton. Law, who had been limping for some time, went outside right. Archer when challenged by the goalkeeper, hit the base of the upright. Five minutes from the end Geldard made a bonny solo run and finished with a long centre to Dean. Deans header taken from terrible angle, hit the upright and went on to Stevenson, who only had to touch the ball to make the score 5-1. Final Everton 5, Chelsea 1.
BURY RES V EVERTON RES
October 19, 1935
In the first minute Williams put the ball through his own goal to give Bury the lead. Everton attacked continuously, Hannon and Dickinson shooting wide. Sandham hit the woodwork and five corners were won in as many minutes. Bentham beat four Bury defenders only for Hughes to shoot into the side netting. In a lone Bury raid Patrick missed from two yards range. Just before the interval it was all Everton, but the wind made the half backs over kick their forwards and chances were washed. Half-time Bury Res 1, Everton Res 0.
EVERTON 5 CHELSEA 1 (Game 1531 over-all)-(Div 1 1489)
October 21, 1935. Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
Everton Break The Spell.
Chelsea Easily Mastered.
Outstanding Players.
By “Stork.”
At long last Everton have broken the spell. Not since they defeated Portsmouth on September 11 have they enjoyed the sweets of victory, but they came back with a bang against Chelsea, whom they defeated 5-1. Saturday's victory will mean a return to better form. White is impossible to get away from a 5-1 victory, it has to be admitted that Chelsea offered little resistance. How ever the Pensioners came to hold the Arsenal in a draw a week ago is beyond me, unless it was that they played above themselves, for on Saturday's form they would not have beaten any side. Chelsea are the poorest side I have seen here this season.
Score Might Have Been Heavier.
With such men as Gibson, Spence and Barrowclough in their attack, one naturally expected something, but they did practically nothing, and if Everton had cut out a lot of their fancy work they would have taken greater toll of their opponents. Even allowing for the fact that there was a high wind blowing, which was not conductive to accurate football, there were times when Chelsea played like a team in a much lower division. There was no snap about them, and when it came to tackling they showed no “devil”; in fact they were too genteel when they went into their work. Everton will not find many teams who will let them walk the ball through their ranks, as did Chelsea, so that it only goes to prove that Everton's big win may have been a false one, but it brings a greater belief in themselves the success should have done some good. Everton were more than five goals the better side, but chances were frittered away through their desire to pass and pass again. That has been their fault for some time, but I will say there was much more shooting against Chelsea than in some of their games. Chelsea were without shot, and that after they had worked the ball forward with some clever football, but they did not stay the distance, as they say in racing, and in the end were almost run to a standstill. The second half became tiresome, even though four goals were registered during the last 45 minutes, but with the opposition petering out and Everton over elaborating instead of going straight for goal; the game lost some of its lustre. It was never at any point a pulsating game, because each side was prone to ultra cleverness, but whereas Everton could afford to indulge in finery, Chelsea could never afford to let anything slip by, for they were two goals in arrears in 17 minutes.
Frail Attack.
Only occasionally was the Everton defence seriously tested, so frail was the visitors' attack for Mills was the only one likely to do any damage, for the rest were quiet as mice. Neither Spence nor Barrowclough could get going, so that Mills had to play a lone hand, and with White stopping down the middle he had little scope for shooting. Goalkeeper Jackson, will not forget this match. He made error after error. The first goal came through his blunder. He stopped a Stevenson centre on the goal line only to knock the ball over his line. It was well that one of the linesman was in position for the referee was unable to make a decision off his own bat. Jackson had tumbled the ball beforehand and again later on without having to pay the full penalty. Dean's goal was an old-time header, which brought a great cheer. The second half brought goals to Archer, Miller and Stevenson, but in each case I blamed the Chelsea defence, which allowed the Everton forwards to go on and on without even tackling them. Mills scored a bonny goal –quite the best of the match –but what was one against so many? Dean brought more unison into the Everton attack. He did little with his feet, but his heading made openings, but Miller was the best of the line, for he carried and fetched, and better than that delivered some fiery shots.
White's Bold Play.
Geldard should have had a great match, for Law was much too slow to cope with his speed. Archer in an unusual position, did fairly well, and Stevenson worked hard. White stood out boldly among the half backs. He made a grand third back, Jones was the better back, for he had greater skill, Jackson standing on his rush tactics. He must keep the ball in play more than he does. The backs often got in King's way when he had the ball well covered. Teams: - Everton: - King, goal, Jackson and Jones, backs; Britton, White, and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Miller, Dean (captain), Stevenson, and Archer, forwards. Chelsea: - Jackson, goal; O'Hare and Law, backs; Hutcheson, Craig and Miller, half-backs; Spence, Argue, Mills, Gibson, and Barrowclough, forwards. Referee Mr. E.C. Cranwell, Lichfield.
SAGAR FINE PREFORMANCE FOR ENGLAND
October 21 1935. Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
England 3, Ireland 1
England, in the fiftieth meeting with Ireland, won on the Linfield-road, ground at Belfast by 3 goals to 1, but the 40,000 people present saw a rather poor match. Sagar, in goal, came through his first international match with flying colours. He saved many shots when Ireland were at their best, and altogether gave a fine display.
BURY RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 0
October 21 1935. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
Central League (Game 11)
Everton were narrowly beaten at Bury where the exchanges went with the wind. In the first half, Everton did all the attacking, and were unlucky when Sandham hit the post. Later Bury were aggressors. The only goal of the match came in the first minute, Williams putting through his own goal. Clark was the outstanding personality of the game, while Bentham was clever at inside right. Everton Reserves:- T. White, goal; Williams and Cook, backs; C. Tunney, AW Clark, and JR Thomson, half-backs; A. Hughes, S. Bentham, A. Dickinson, J. Hannon and J. Sandham, forwards.
WHY EVERTON WON
October 21, 1935. The Liverpool Echo
Bee's Notes
Such a victory as Everton scored over Chelsea leaves little room for doubt as to their superiority, for a 5-1 win is surely convincing enough, but I would implore though did not see the game, and have o reply simply and sorely on the result, not to think that their troubles are over; not to get it into their heads that Everton have come right back to their best form; it may prove a snare, for while Everton's victory was complete, it was accomplished against a side which was not good in any single department (rites the “Stork”) Chelsea drew with the Arsenal. How they did it is a puzzle to me, unless they hit a streak of form which was not produced at Goodion Park on Saturday. By right, Everton could have won by a bigger gaol crop than they actually did, for Chelsea offered them little resistance. Even allowing for a troublesome wind, which was naturally against accurate football. Chelsea gave as tame display as have seen this season, so that Everton victory was not so good as the printed score could denote. It would seem that i am trying to belittle Everton's success. I know they could do no more than win, but when making that statement, I ask you to examine the strength of the opposition. To beat a good side I one thing, but to beat a decidedly poor team is another, and again I say that Everton demoted a distinctly poor side. Chelsea had no “bite.” They had little idea of combination after the first fifteen minutes, and so meagre were they in their shooting that King, the Everton goalkeeper, had few calls made upon him. Everton will rarely find a side so easy to overcome as the Londoners, and that is the reason I ask of you to have a care, and not get it settled in your mind that all is well out Goodison way.
Not Cricket.
Everton simple toyed with Chelsea, so much so that the small crowd actually got peaved at the way Everton wheeled and turned, passed and repassed when they should have gone on with their gaol-coring. Goals for may be valuable later on in the season, and the chances were put in their way to such an extent that Jackson, the Scottish goalkeeper, should have been tired of picking the ball out of the back of the net. It is not considered “cricket” to rub it in, but when one has a paltry goal average, who could blame a side for trying to make it look respectable. No one enjoys clever football more than I, but if it does not lead to anything, what is the use, of it all? Even Everton were guilty of excessive dribbling and passing, but it goes to their credit that they were more dangerous near goal. Chelsea's efforts at goal making were feeble in the extreme, but what surprised me more than anything else was the way they let the Everton forwards trip through their ranks without having to think of the quick tackle. They were too genteel, so much so that many a time an Everton man stood with the ball at hi toe for what seemed an age, but no one came up to challenge him for the ball. Everton's victory started when Jackson, the Scots international goalkeeper, blundered and knocked Stevenson's square centre over his own goal line at twelve minutes. He had previously been faulted in his handling of the ball, and this may have upset his colleagues, for there is nothing worse than to lose trust in your goalkeeper.
A “Hot Plate.”
Jackson treated the ball as though it were a “hot plate,” and having lost his confidence never regained it. He erred several times later, but was not made to pay the full penalty. Chelsea's half backs were not helpful to Mills and his co-partner for they were too busily engaged “training” Everton to lend any assistance, and Law's form was too bad to be true. You will want to know ht influence Dean's return had upon Everton. He rarely used his feet, but he kept the line running a long by his heady passes, and his goal took us back to the good old days. He brought a confidence into the side which had been missing. Miller. However, was the best of the forwards, for, apart from his constructional play, he tested Jackson more than any other Everton forward. Stevenson, as usual, worked like a “demon” and Geldard came in flashes. He soon had the measure of Law, who was chopped for speed. Archer got a goal, and did fairly well. White' part in the victory was a big one. He undertook the role of “third back,” and played it well against Mills, who would be a dangerous centre forward given the right support. Mills, by the way scored a bonny goal. The Everton backs had little faith in their goalkeeper, King. They got on top of him at times, took balls which rightly belonged to him, in fact, must have bothered him no end. Jones was the more dainty defender, for Jackson was inclined to rush in pell-mell. It was an improved Everton, but not the real Everton s yet.
EVERTON'S DISPLAY SETS A PROBLEM
October 21, 1935. Evening Express.
And It concerns Team Selection
By the Watcher.
Everton's great victory over Chelsea has set the Goodison Park club directors a difficult problem to solve. A side that earns the club's first success in five weeks and by a margin of 5-1, is obviously one that should b left undisturbed as far as possible. But Sagar and Cunliffe, back from international duty, must come into the reckoning. Sagar, of course, is sure to return to goal, despite King's good display. But where ill a place be found for Cunliffe? Everton's right wing pair –Geldard and Miller –should be given an extended run and the Archer –Stevenson partnership on the left should also b prolonged. Against Chelsea the Blues opened in better style than they have done or some time. Dean's return had a lot to do ith it but, at the same time, great credit must be given to Miller. Dean's influence and ball control had the effect of welding the front line into a potent combination. He constantly inspired his colleagues by his quickness to take advantage slips and his unselfishness made them all the more ready to follow his head.
Miller Sparkles.
Miller positively sparkled –just as he did in the opening match of the season. He “worked” the ball for his colleagues, and when he found passengers through to them were barred he often moved through on his own with a simple looking body swerve, and never failed to being Chelsea's overworked goalkeeper into action. Geldard might have made more use of the chances that came his way, but he and Miller were first-rate partners. Archer followed up a quiet first-half by storming display, and had a clever partner in Stevenson. White was the mainspring of a strong intermediate line, and Jones was the outstanding member of a reliable defence. Stevenson (2), Dean, Archer, and Miller were Everton's scorers, and Mills got the Londoners' only point.
SAGAR TO PLY FOR LEAGUE X1
October 23, 1935. Evening Express.
Ted Sagar, Everton's international goalkeeper, will play for the football league against the Scottish League in the inter-league match at Ibrox Park, Glasgow, next Wednesday. His choice follows his brilliant display for England against Ireland on Saturday, and means his return to the side from which he has been omitted for two matches (writes the Pilot). Sagar played against the Scottish League and the Irish League in season 1933-34, and also appeared against the Irish League last season. Cunliffe, the young Everton inside forward, has once again been chosen as reserve.
EVERTON'S FIRM BELIEF IN THE PERSONALITY
October 25, 1935. The Liverpool Echo.
Everton have for years been looking for Dean's deputy. They seem as far off as ever. This season trial and other games suggested Dean's absence would not be felt to any great degree, whereas his non-appearance after the game against Liverpool left the forward line without spirit and without combination. His reappearance against Chelsea happened to b against a side not doing its best, but the winners can also no more than beat the other side and this Everton did with a degree of confidence and verve lacking in the last half dozen matches. Archer will continue as winger, Mercer will continue as wing half back and Cook returns to the full back division will make the team look a trifle more like the old self. Blackburn Rovers have done better than one could expect considering the necessity of their transfers. They have new boys in McGrogan, Hamil, and so on, and team spirit that carries them far. Blackburn live in spite of their poor gates, their transfer of players they would like to keep they will make resolute batte and Everton's visiting, they have not inspired one to forecast a victory for them, yet in the list of crazy results we are not afraid to mention a spark of belief in their ability to do something out of the ordinary tomorrow when the teams turn out. Sagar; Cook, Jones; Britton, White, Mercer; Geldard, Miller, Dean, Stevenson, Archer.
A SINGLETON FOR EVERTON
October 26, 1935. Liverpool Football Echo
Direct Corner Goal for Archer At Ewood.
Second Away Point.
By Bee.
This was not good football. A draw was the best verdict, although after Archer scored direct with a corner kick, Blackburn equalised from what seemed to be a definite offside position. It was odd to see Cunliffe, England's reserve forward, acting as reserve for Everton today. Carver, Blackburn's centre half, was watched by Everton a week or two ago “for purpose” and now played expert football, Cook, White, Dean, Jones, and Geldard were Everton's best. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Jones, backs; Britton, White, and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Miller, Dean (captain), Stevenson, and Archer, forwards. Blackburn Rovers: - Binns, goal; Gorman and Crook, backs; Whiteside, carver and Pryde, half-backs; Bruton, Beattie, Hamil, Talbot, and McGrogan, forwards. Referee Mr. P. Snape, Manchester.
The customary wet Saturday morning at Blackburn, but a dry spell during the game. The ball awkward to control owing to the skiddry nature of the turf. Everton were in white jerseys. Blackburn threw away their greatest chances early on. A Bruton centre went all along the line, but missed everybody until Cook, who was making his first appearance in the first team, kicked it to safety. Sagar made a spectacularly leap to a Bruton centre, and Archer and Geldard each over-ran the ball in promising circumstances, the latter when Dean had made it appear a grit. Geldard did much better later on. Again we saw half-backs showing forwards their particular duty, Pryde, the best back on the field, making an excellent drive, Hamil was a centre forward of resource and persistence, and he worried White and Sagar into a corner. White kicked away when McGrogan's square centre bumped out of Sagar's hands. Blackburn added a melee of a minute's duration. It was a barrage Everton came through with success, but Bruton should have done better with his shots. Twice he took divots instead of drives. Archer's pull over was too severe, but it was the left winger who scored for Everton in 22 minutes direct from a corner kick. The process began with Dean driving in Britton lob, and Binns turned the ball over for a corner. From this corner came another corner, with Dean in the picture again Crook kicking his shot off the gaol-line. At the third attempt came Archer's in swinger, and Blackburn were shocked to find themselves in a deficit. They were very poor in attack, even allowing for a brilliance of White, Cook, and Jones.
Everton Escapes.
Sagar saved from Hamill's studs. There were rather too many free kicks against Mercer. Archer came near a further goal direct from a corner kick. There were slight stoppages for injuries to Mercer and Pryde. Right on half-time Hamill ran up and White struggled to make a pas-back with Sagar coming out of his goal, but the ball went out to Hamill and once more the Everton goal had escaped.
Half-Time Blackurn Rovers 0, Everton 1.
Bruton twice failed with a half-volley shot after the ball had come to him from the left. Geldard was in sparking form, and his runs created much enthusiasm. Miller's neat and effective passes were a steadying force, and Carver was having one of his best workmanship days. Bruton redeemed his error by scoring in five minutes. From a box he looked well offside, but Dean's solitary protest was passed over. Bruton got his chance through cross-header by Talbot, who had done nought else during the game. Blackburn asked for a penalty grant for McGrogan's very natural fall in the penalty area. There was no harm in asking and hoping, but it was a waste of breath, and fell on the deaf ears of Mr. Snape, of Manchester. Dean tried to bore through on his own account, and the left wing was not striking it game. He got the ball towards goal, and found no one up to help himself. A second time Dean did this enterprising with the same futility. After this Mercer, name was taken by the referee; Cook held up Mcgrogan who, therefore, had no show. Archer centred neatly and the uncertain Binns mishandled once more. It looked good for a goal until Gorman held the fort, Stevenson being wild in a close-up incident. Hen Carver handled the ball out for a corner I could not conceive why a penalty kick was not even considered. Play was not of a good standard, but Willie Cook and White were doing big things. Stevenson levelled a shot at Binns who this time, made a good save of an awkward shot. Shooting had been at a premium but now Pryde put in the best shot of the match, a foot wide. In the closing stages Blackburn were on top, but McGrogan could do nothing right. Britton and Beattie had one of the worse innings I have ever seen. Before the finish the crowd were pouring out, disappointed with an inept display. Final: - Blackburn Rovers 1, Everton 1.
EVERTON RES V LEEDS R.
October 26, 1935, The Liverpool Football Echo
Everton were very convincing against a strong Yorkshire side, and fully deserved their interval lead. Nevertheless, United had good ideas. A delayed pass from Hughes, when a shot was expected, left Bentham open Everton's score. The same player added a second. The home side were on top of a defence that gamely withstood almost persistent onslaught. Half-time Everton Reserves 2, Leeds Reserves 0
On resuming Hartill scored a third for Everton, and Carr reduced the lead. Final Everton Res 3, Leeds Res 1.
ARCHER'S “BULL'S EYE” GAINS BLUES A POINT.
October 26, 935. Evening Express, Football Edition.
Rovers Draw Level With Disputed Goal
Was Bruton Offside?
By the Pilot.
A goal that appeared to be cleanly offside enabled Blackburn Rovers to hold Everton to a 1-1 draw at Ewood Park. Everton had enjoyed a first half lead and the better of the play. Archer scored direct from a corner for Everton. It was hard football, but both sides made many mistakes. White was Everton's outstanding player. It is possible that Everton will tour South Africa next summer.
Teams: - Blackburn Rovers: - Binns, goal; Gorman and Crooks, backs; Whiteside, Carver, and Prdye, half-backs; Bruton, Beattie, Hamill, Talbot and McGrogan, forwards. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Jones, backs; Britton, White, and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Miller, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Archer, forwards. Referee Mr. P. Snape. (Manchester).
There was doubt in some outlying districts to whether the match would be played, owing to fog. The Rovers were early astir when Bruton ran through following a free kick. The veteran glided in a low centre which passed across to McGrogan, but before the young Scot could shoot, Cook had swept the ball behind for a corner. Stevenson pushed the ball over for Archer to take it in his stride, only the winger allowed the ball to run too far forward. Again Archer went through and he crossed the ball to Geldard, who was unmarked. Geldard failed to trap the ball when it was a million-to-one on a goal. He recovered and dribbled two men, only to be forced over the line. Sagar twice pulled down centres before Pryde drove outside. There was a thrill when Mcgrogan centred along the floor and Sagar allowed the ball to bounce away from his chest. Sagar tried to smother the ball, but Hamill and Talbot prevented him, it looked like a goal only White, the unfaltering, came through with a high kick. White was there again when weight of numbers had prevented Sagar reaching a high centre. The Rovers were willing marksmen, both Talbot and Beattie going close. Bruton dribbled close in to shooting position, and then kicked the ground. Everton were playing just a little too delicately to make any impression on the Rovers' defence. Cook and Britton paved the way for Dean to received in front of goal, and Dean let go a swift, rising shot which Binns contrived to turn over the top.
Goal From Corner.
From the corner Dean out-headed Binns, and the ball was travelling to the net when Cook kicked off the line. The ball ran for another corner and this brought Everton the opening goal in 18 minutes. Archer took the corner and adopted the well-known Stein swerve. The ball curled outwards and inwards and Binns was completely deceived, the ball entering the net without anyone touching it. Sagar literally picked the ball off the toes of Hamill and the referee had a word to say to Mercer, who had thrice been pulled up for fouls. Twice Dean raced ahead, and twice he earned corners, but received only one. From this Binns missed Archer's cross, and the ball went right across for another kick. Binns saved the day with a double fist-away. White tried to pass back, and Hamill was able to go through, but the ball stuck. Sagar raced to the edge of the penalty area, and though missing the ball, made Hamill pass square, and Cook was able to get the better of McGrogan in a ticklish situation. Both sides were guilty of many mistakes, but Everton were more than holding their own, and twice Carver raced out to cut out Archer.
Half-Time Blackburn Rovers 0, Everton 1.
Everton soon forced a corner on resuming. Then Bruton just grazed the cross-bar from a good position. Geldard doubled back, beat three men in a grand run, but placed behind when trying to find Dean. Five minutes of the half had gone when the Rovers drew with “gift” goal. Bruton, the scorer, appeared to be clearly offside. The ball had been headed one to the other, by the Rovers' forwards and then headed straight forward to where Bruton was standing, near the goal-mouth. Bruton just banged the ball into the net, and as the linesman flagged the referee pointed as for a free kick. Then he changed his mind, and despite protests, gave a goal. Mercer had his name taken apparently for a foul on Bruton. A drizzling rain made the ball move at an exceptional pace off the turf. Stevenson dribbled right through on his own, and Gorman knocked the ball outside with his hand. Dean ran over for the obvious penalty, but the referee awarded a corner. Stevenson was the chief marksman, twice forcing Binns to go down to fast shots. Everton were having the better of the game t this stage, although Beattie fired just by the post. In clearing a centre from McGorgan, Mercer nearly placed through his own goal, the ball shooting by the post. The Blues' defence was kept at full stretch towards the end, but Cook and Sagar did magnificent work. Final Blackburn R 1, Everton 1.
EVERTON RES V LEEDS U. RES
October 26, 1935. Evening Express, Football Edition.
Two strong reserve sides were in opposition at Goodison Park today, Everton including Gee, Thomson and Hartill, while Milburn and Hart figured in the Leeds side. Through the first half Everton were the more dangerous, and Bentham scored a capital goal after 12 minutes. King made two brilliant saves, both from Stevenson, but Everton were well on top. Hampson and Hartill both missed chances through shooting straight at the keeper, but eventually Bentham lodged a second goal. Cresswell was conspicuous in the Everton defence. Half-time Everton Res 2, Leeds Res 0.
BLACKBURN ROVERS 1 EVERTON 1 (Game 1532 over-all)-(Div 1 1490)
Everton Earn Their Draw
Blackburn's Weak Forward Display.
Cook's Happy Return.
By “Bee.”
If not a win away from home, Everton did the next best thing –they drew at Blackburn Rovers' ground in a rather sombre game. There were many bright bit of defence, and the packing of the Everton goal certainly stemmed the customary free-flowing line from making good. It was a bad innings for Bruton and Beattie and Everton's forward line, while playing the rather clever game had so little finish that they could hardly expect to do more than make a draw of 1-1. Their bad luck was in two cases; a handling case patent and unmistakably an intentional bit of extra defence without a penalty kick, and the goal by which Blackburn drew level after Archer the newly tried outside left had opened the score by converting a corner kick. Bruton seemed to be offside when he scored. Dean made appeal, but I believe other appellants were told by an official not to make complaints, as they could not be heard!
Dean Unsettled The Defence.
If Everton had pushed home their openwork patterns they must have won, because the Blackburn defence certainly showed signs of “Deanitis” the presence of the Everton captain seemed to have a physiological effect upon defences, and this was made evident by the tender way Binns handled some of the slippery shots that rolled towards his goal. He was saved by his back on one occasion, and all through Gorman did fine work in front of the goalkeeper, together with the brightest of displays by Prdye, a strong and rousing half-back who help to head orner kiks towards goal. Carver, the ex-Liverpool schoolboy player, although on the open transfer list, played in a sound manner against Dean and once more came off with the satisfaction of knowing Dean had been unable to score against him. Since the war these teams have had a curious result-board; all their games show the home team immune from defeat.
Absence of Shooting
Everton should have altered that and got their long overdue away win. They could not expect to win, of course, if there was an absence of shooting. The lack of thrust near goal is rather appalling. The inside men take their stand far back and neatness in their cases does not cover the complaint against them of absence of shots. If the inner forwards are not shooting –Stevenson had two and Dean two –than the wingers must. The wingers did no shoot on any occasion. Whence then, can one expect a goal to arise? Dean cannot carry all the gunnery. He played his best for an hour and finally started challenging for half-chance balls going towards the goalkeeper, and having won two of these there was no one else up to take the benefit of his work. It was hard football, but not clever football, and Everton caught Blackburn in a paltry frame of mind. McGrogan was uncertain and wasted many chances late on; the right wing was uncommonly below form; the centre forward was a relentless man for endeavour and hustle without ever getting a reasonable chance against a prime mover in White, the centre half-back who is nowadays “The Man Who Stayed at Home.” Britton had flashes of goodness and neatness, and Mercer was caught in the toils of a referee warning note.
Sound Backs.
One of the reasons for Blackburn failing lay in the reappearance of Cook at full back. His second half display was one of fine quality, stern, heavy yet never flustered. Jones too, had a good day and Sagar apart from one lapse when White came to his aid, was dramatic and excellent. Everton thus earned their draw in spite of their forward failings, and they have a grievance regarding two referee points. On the other hand if good nough they could have ignored these points and won with a definiteness that would have allowed no argument. Blackburn's best early and late in the game, had left Everton a chance to escape with a draw, therefore draw was a very helpful result to their visit. Teams: - Blackburn Rovers: - Binns, goal; Gorman and Crook, backs; Whiteside, Carver and Pryde, half-backs; Bruton, Beattie, Hamill, Talbot, and McGorgan, forwards. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook and Jones, backs; Britton, White and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Miller, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Archer, forwards. Referee Mr. Snape of Manchester.
EVERTON RESERVES 3 LEEDS UNITED RESERVES 1
October 28, 1935. Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
Central League (Game 12)
Superior forward play coupled with sureness in defence, enabled Everton to overcome an attractive Leeds team that included Milburn, Hart, and Stephenson. Both teams used the ball effectively for although Everton monopolised most of the pressure and almost persistently harassed the Yorkshire defenders, the visitors, when they did attack, had in Stephenson an accurate finisher. Twice he tested King with efforts that were worthy of goals, but the Everton keeper foiled him with brilliant clearances. Bentham scored two goals before the interval. In the second half Hartill and Carr scored. Everton Reserves: - King, goal; Williams and Cresswell, backs; Tunney, Gee and Thomson, half-backs; Hughes, Bentham, Hartill, Hampton, and Sandham, forwards.
West Kirkby 2 Everton “A” 6
Liverpool County Combination.
At West Kirby. West Kirby twice held the lead, but were soundly beaten in the end. Everton early lost the services of White, their goalkeeper, who sustained a cut over the eye which necessitated stitching. Lambert deputised. When White pluckily returned in the second half, Everton were a much improved side and had the home defence repeatedly in difficulties. Rogers scored both goals for West Kirby, and Patterson (3), Dickinson (2), and Heath scored for Everton.
WANTED, AN EVERTON BARRAGE AND SNIPERS IN THE FRONT LINE.
October 28, 1935. Liverpool Echo
Carver's Proud Boast
Bee's Notes.
Jess Carver's is a son of Liverpool, a schoolboy star, and a fellow who has never lost his grip upon himself. He may not be the world's best pivot, but at least while he is on the transfer list –watched by Everton and others –he is playing well enough to earn his place over the captain, Christie. His display against Dean was excellent, and once more he came through with the knowledge that Dean has never scored a goal against him when he has been on duty. Carver is but twenty-four, and is beautifully proportioned. His display, with that of the excellent Pryde and the relentless trier t centre (Hamill), made Blackburn look almost good. Blackburn have not got here they are without better attack than Saturday's. Neither side was good in front of goal. How do footballers lose the joy of shooting? One could count Everton's shots on one hand, Dean two, Stevenson two, rest nil. Then by what mathematical process could Everton hope to get a victory. True the book of form was against them because every time since the war Blackburn have won or drawn at home, and at Goodison Park Everton have won or drawn, the tussle with the good old Rovers club. Here were two forward lines, full of effort and empty of shot. Everton's need at the moment is forwards who will advance, and having advanced take a shot. Binns was not safe, and still Everton's attacking line was not modelled for hooting purposes. Miller did everything very beautifully and sedately no one questions his power and precision, but with deputy outside left and Dean leading the line in bristling fashion, there must be some power from all the five members of the attack. Blackburn were no better, the right wing famous in its way, being quite off its penetrating quality, but Hamill wants a lot of watching, and here Tom White, in his new role of “The Man who stayed at home “gave a polished and rugged display, Blackburn should have won the game early on; Everton took the lead through Archer's well placed corner kick, and in the end Bruton scored what most people –home and visitors –declared an off-side point, and a penalty kick for deliberate hands should have come the way of the Goodison club. Goals and referees' mistakes are so intermingled in these rushing days that I do not like referring to errors of the whistle, hoping that matters will balance themselves before the season ends! However, in this case, the penalty case was too patent for words.
Looking On.
How curious to find Cunliffe looking on once more; he has become quite an habitual onlooker for representative games and now, having returned from the Irish “storm” he was still “reserve man” –with Jackson –for his team! Luckily the club that can leave but Cunliffe, but no doubt it is but for a moment till the selectors find the better blend and the more trustful forward line. It was not rousing football, but I must pay high tribute to Pryde, Carver, Gorman, and Hamill for their part in the home team's work, and to Sagar late on he was very busy with awkward stuff, the backs, Cook and Jones, and White, Britton and Mercer, with Dean unusually prominent in single-handled endeavour against odds. Cook's return to form, on his reappearance in the main division, was one of the best features of the day. He kicked that skidding ball very soundly and his tackling late on was outstanding. He has replaced a very good young back in Jackson, but Cook on these showing in invaluable to Everton, and his pairing off with Jones was a feather in the cap of the young local back. And now Everton will begin to move up the League ladder starting with Saturday next against the clever Stoke side.
THIRD BACK GAME IS PAYING EVERTON
October 28, 1935. Evening Express.
White's Brilliance at Ewood
By the Pilot.
Everton's third back policy is laying the foundation for a big revival. It was this method that paved the way for a draw at Blackburn on Saturday when two goals were shared. It is five weeks since Everton fell into line with the majority of clubs and ruled that the centre-half should lie well back and throw the burden of constructive work on the wing half-backs, but the full effect has not been felt until the last fortnight. White, the outstanding man on the field at Ewood Park, was the complete defensive pivot, brilliant in his tackling, sure in hi clearances and the master of Hamil, the quick-moving Rovers' centre forward. Since White has been the Blues' third back the club have picked up three out of four points. The steadiness of Everton's defence anguish well for the future, and with the attack settling down to preconceived effort under the experienced guidance of Dean, there is a general trend towards improvement. The third-back methods has come to stay so far as Everton are concerned. The Blues can be regarded as unfortunate not to return from Blackburn with both points for the first time since the war. On the other hand, a draw was a fair reflex of a game which did not inspire as a spectacle but which contained its brighter moments.
That Equaliser.
In the first place Bruton's equalising goal scored in 50 minutes was in my opinion offside, and in the second place Everton should, I though, have had a penalty. However, Everton's half-share is satisfactory, and gives promise of better things to come and a steady climb up the League ladder. No one gained more honours than White, and Cook came back to give a brilliant exhibition in the second half after taking time to settle. He had a willing, purposeful partner in Jones, while the electric, agile Sagar completed a fine defence. Mercer was the essence of enthusiasm, and Britton lent that touch of classic artistry to the intermediary division. Geldard was the best forward without finishing ant too well, and despite the fact that he missed one of the easiest chances which has come the way of any Everton forward this term. Dean found Jesse Carver, the Liverpool boy, a sturdy barrier but always won with the ball in air and kept his line moving well. Stevenson and Miller contributed many joyous flashes without being consistently good, and Archer had a good first-half. Archer scored for Everton direct from corner-kick in the first half.
CUNLIFFE'S RETURN.
October 29, 1935. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Stoke City visit Goodison Park on Saturday. The Potteries' side has done very well so far this season, and Everton must necessarily be at their best to win. Home successes are essential, however, and Everton will be all out to make the most of their opportunities. One change has been made in the Everton ranks, Cunliffe returning to inside left in place of Stevenson. The team is; Sagar; Cook, Jones; Britton, White, Mercer; Geldard, Miller, Dean, Cunliffe, Archer. The kick-off is at three o'clock. The Reserves team to meet West Bromwich Albion is; King; Jackson, Cresswell; Kavanagh, Gee, Thomson; Hughes, Bentham, Hartill, Hannon, Sandham.
EVERTON LIKELY TO TOUR SOUTH AFRICA
October 29, 1935. The Liverpool Echo.
Cunliffe Reappearance in Good-ison Side.
Bee's Notes
Everton have been invited to tour South Africa next summer. They are in negotiation with the Football Association of South Africa, who extended the invitation, and personally would benefit themselves and South African football clubs. This being so, be prepared to find the Goodison club deciding to make the long journey.
Everton's team for the home game v. Stoke shows Cunliffe at inside left to the exclusion of Stevenson. There is no other changes from the side that drew at Blackburn Rovers ground. Cunliffe will add life to the on-goings of the attackers, and maybe at later date the little Irishman will renew acquaintance with the first team, from which he is absented rather soon. Everton's trouble seems to be that there are too many key-men, and not sufficient punishing forwards. Dean heads them, nods the ball back, Miller tickles the ball, Stevenson weaves in and out the defence – and the extreme wingers are not on shooting bent. Where then, can the goals for be expected? It is a problem of generalissimos without a shot being fired –and no battle is won without fire and shot.
A Sports Ground.
“West Dingle” says –I have often thought what a fine piece of land there is at the South End of Liverpool, which, if it has not already fallen into the hands of the builders will shortly do so. It would make a real international sports ground with every facility, gettable from everywhere with trams, railway main line, and Overhead Railway, all of which are two to five minutes from the ground. I venture to say there is no other ground in the country with such transport facilities, and perhaps with a little of your energy and abilities, either through the Corporation or the sporting public, it may be saved.
John Hounding
I can well remember some forty to forty-five years ago, the regrets at that time when John Houlding (honest John), Mayor of Liverpool, owner of the Anfield football ground (Everton) and the Sandon Hotel, was asked by his friend Mr. Orrell (who owned the lawn tennis ground next to the Anfield ground, if he would buy the tennis ground and make one of the best grounds in the country. When told the price John Houlding said it was too much, to which Mr. Orrell replied that he had been offered that price by the builders so the chance was lost and the builders got this ground.
CUNLIFFE RETURNS
October 29, 1935. Evening Express.
Everton's Forward Change For Saturday.
Stoke City At Goodison
By The Pilot.
Everton have omitted an international forward for their match against Stoke City at Goodison Park on Saturday. He is Alex Stevenson, the Irishman, whose place at inside left will be taken by the England and Football league reserve, Jimmy Cunliffe. This is the only change in the team which forced a draw against Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park on Saturday. Cunliffe has missed the last two league games –against Chelsea and Blackburn. On the first occasion he was on reserve for England at Belfast, and last Saturday travelled as reserve to Blackburn. Stevenson will be missing his third match. He was unable to play in the home match against Portsmouth or in the away game at Bolton owing to injuries. The omission of Stevenson has created some surprise, for he scored two goals against Chelsea and was Everton's marksman-n chief at Blackburn. Cook, the Irish international back, came through his test at Blackburn all right, and continues as partner to Jones. Everton: - Sagar; Cook, Jones; Britton, White, Mercer; Geldard, Miller, Dean, Cunliffe, Archer. Everton face their hardest problem in the Central League on Saturday when they visit the champions, West Bromwich Albion, at the Hawthorns. Jackson will be at right back in place of Williams. Everton Reserves: - King; Jackson, Cresswell; Kavangh, Gee, Thomson; Hughes, Bentham, Hartill, Hannon, Sandham.
South African Tour.
The Everton director, at their weekly meeting held last night, considered an offer which has been received for a tour of South Africa next summer. Decision on the matter was deferred, as the proposal is now being discussed between the parties concerned. Last season Everton had an offer to go to South Africa, but this was turned down in favour of the trip to Switzerland. Motherwell and Glasgow Rangers have toured South Africa in recent summers.
DEATH OF EVERTON SECRETARY MR TOM M'INTOSH.
Dundee Courier - Wednesday 30 October 1935
Tom McIntosh, secretary of Everton Football Club, died hospital in Liverpool last night after an illness. He was about 56 years of age, and leaves a widow and four children. Mr McIntosh was one of the best known and most popular men in football. He was appointed secretary of Everton Club 1919. Before going to Goodison Park he was with Darlington, and for eight years was secretary-manager of Middlesbrough. During the war lie served as an officer with the East Yorkshire Regiment.
MR. THOMAS McINTOSH
Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer - Wednesday 30 October 1935
Secretary of the Everton Football Club Mr. Thomas McIntosh secretary the Everton Football Club, died Liverpool last night alter long illness. He had been secretary of the club since 1919, and was charge of the team which, three successive years, was champion of the Second and first Divisions and then went to win the English Cup. He served throughout the war In the East Yorkshire Regiment and rose from private the rank of captain. Before came to Everton played for Darlington, and later became secretary that club. He was also secretary the Middlesbrough club. Mr. McIntosh was 50
DEATH OF McINTOSH
Lancashire Evening Post - Wednesday 30 October 1935
Mr. Tom McIntosh, the poular secretary of Everton Football Club since 1919 died in Liverpool hospital last night after a long illness. He was born in Aberdeen 55 years ago. Mr. McIntosh went to Darlington, for whom he played and afterwards acted as secretary. Then he was secretary to Middlesbrough. he earned the 21 years medal presented by the Football League. Mr. McIntosh joined the Army in August, 1914, and was several times mentioned in dispatches. he was secretary of the Everton club when they secured the championship of the second Division, the First Division and the F.A Cup final in successive seasons.
October 1935