Everton Independent Research Data
EVERTON TEAM TO MEET SUNDERLAND.
October 1, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton are due to visit Sunderland on Saturday when the League champions are likely to provide a very severe test. The meetings between the sides in recent years have proved highly interesting and another fine match is anticipated. Last season Everton lost three of the four points at stake –a draw of 3-3 at Roker and a defeat by 3-0 at Goodison Park. The 1934-35 meetings produced no fewer than 15 goals. Sunderland piled on seven without reply at Roker and Everton won 6-3 at Goodison Park. The scoring may not be anything like so heavy on the occasion, but a stern tussle is assured. Everton have decided to field the team that defeated Huddersfield Town at Goodison park, namely Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Hurel, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. Compared with the side successful against Oldham Athletic in the Lancashire cup-tie at Goodison Park, yesterday, Cook, Britton, and Stevenson return for Jones, Thomson, and Miller.
White’s Operation.
White, the Everton centre half-back, had had a minor operations, and he may be ready for service in the senior team in about two weeks. Cunliffe and Leyfield are progressing favourably after their operations.
TWO EVERTON TRANSFERS
October 1, 1936. The Liverpool Echo
Stein and Miller Leave.
For Burnley Club
By “Bee.”
Everton, for the second time in their career, have transferred two players to Burnley F.C., on the same day. Years ago they sent Bertie Freeman and the winger, Mountford to Burnley. Today they have transferred Jimmy Stein and “Dusty” Miller to Burnley and here again both are forwards. Stein has been with Everton many years and was the first goal-getter for the club in their final tie at Wembley v Manchester City. He went on tour with the club two years ago and broke his leg in a match in Switerland. Miller was hailed by some critics as “The Golden Miller” when he made his debut with Everton twelve months ago. He never really lived down the high-sounding title and was happier when known to his comrades as “Dusty” Miller. A craftsman he had been signed from Patrick Thistle, and when he dropped out of First division football he “took it to hard and felt he had not had a fair crack. Brought in to play at Sheffield last season he scored a goal in four, but immediately dropped in favour of young Hurel for the game at Bolton, he has art and much finesse, but fine the English game had been a hard and could not get used to in a few matches. For Stein and Miller in the reserve game Webster and Wolf-try on, will appear at Goodison.
LANCASHIRE SENIOR CUP
October 1, 1936. The Liverpool Echo.
Bee’s Notes.
Everton won their Lancashire Cup match against the struggling Oldham side, who have never had to complain their wages were not forthcoming. The game had one unusing aspect, Coulter, the producer, and a foul, the sequel. The goalkeeper had collared the ball and was making the customary swerve side-track, and kick clear when Coulter from behind swept his hand behind him and tried to “hand-out” the ball. The crowd laughed and were glad of a laugh because there was little else to laugh at in this game, which went the almost customary way of a Lancashire Senior Cup-tie. Buckley, of Oldham, shaped very well at outside left. Davis and Radcliffe were remembered for their appearance here with other sides. Gillick got the first goal. Miller took a beauty, Dean a header –his fifth header this season in seven goals registered by him. Davis got both Oldham goals. Everton are due to visit Sunderland on Saturday, when the League champions are likely to provide a very severe test. The meetings between the sides in recent years have proved highly interesting and another fine match is anticipated. Last season Everton lost three of the four points at stake –a draw of 3-3 at Roker, and a defeat by 3-0 at Goodison Park. The 1934-35 meeting produced, no fewer than 15 goals. Sunderland piled on seven without reply at Roker, and Everton won 6-2 at Goodison Park. The scoring may not be anything like so heavy on this occasion, but a stern tussle is assured. Everton have decided to field the team that defeated Huddersfield Town at Goodison Park, namely Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Hurel, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. Compared with the side successful against Oldham Athletic in the Lancashire cup-tie at Goodison Park, yesterday, cook, Britton and Stevenson return for Jones, Thomson and Miller.
White’s Operation.
White, the Everton centre half-back has had a minor operation, and he may be ready for service in the senior team in about two weeks. Cunliffe and Leyfield are progressing favourably after operations.
EVERTON’S TEAM TO MEET THE CHAMPIONS.
October 1, 1936. The Evening Express.
Three changes For Roker Park Battle.
By The Pilot.
Everton make three changes for their match against the Football League champions, Sunderland, at Roker Park, on Saturday. Compared with the team which defeated Oldham Athletic 3-2 in the Lancashire Senior Cup at Goodison Park yesterday, Cook, Britton, and Stevenson return, so that the club reverts to the eleven that defeated Huddersfield Town last Saturday. Cook comes in for Jack Jones, Britton takes his usual place at right half for Thomson, and Stevenson resumes his partnership with Coulter on the left wing. So young “pat” Hurel, the Jersey boy, gets his third chance in the senior side in a league game. So far he has shown promising form as Cunliffe’s deputy. Everton: - Sagar, Jackson, Cook; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Hurel, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. Everton entertain the Central League champions, Derby County, at Goodison Park. Everton Reserves: - White; Lambert, Jones (JE); Lindsay, Jones (TG), Thomson; Geldard, Bentham, Bell, Miller, Stein.
EVERTON PLAYERS FOR BURNLEY
October 2, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post
Stein and Miller Transferred
By John Peel.
Clubs are beginning seriously to make efforts to strengthen weak places in their ranks, and Burnley have innate a move in the right direction by securing from Everton the transfer of Stein and Miller, a pair likely to make a strong left wing. If these players turn out as successful as two former Everton forwards did years ago at turf Moor, Burnley will have every reason to be graceful. I refer to Freeman and Mountford, who proved very successful. The former player followed his goal scoring exploits at Goodison Park when the Coleman as the guilding star, he raced through defences to create, at that time, a new scoring record, by accomplishing excellent work for Burnley, and he went on to score the goal which defeated Liverpool in the Cup final of 1914 at the Crystal Palace. Miller is a Scottish forward who had not altogether fitted in at Everton, but he is a skilful player and may easily strike his best for the Lancashire club in the second Division. At his best a real craftsman, Miller was signed from Patrick Thistle. Stein has played many fine games for Everton and helped to win the Cup and the championship. A broken leg received while on tour with Everton in Switzerland kept him out of the game for sometime, but he is now quite fit again and has regained his old confidence.
EVERTON IN THEIR HARDEST TEST OF THE SEASON.
October 2, 1936. The Liverpool Echo
Champions’ Desire.
Bee’s Notes.
Everton have had some testy games this season, and their position in the League is really extremely good when one considered the standing of the opposition party. Sunderland as champions, will be the biggest test of the season and judging by the game v. Arsenal, and yes, I’ll say it, Liverpool is forced to the conclusion that Everton is playing better against the best teams. Sunderland will always look a mighty proposition, but in out visits to Roker there have been strange upsets of cup and League form. This game should be full of football meat, and I go far north expecting to see something astonishing in football art. Fortunately, Sunderland have their frail portions, and defence has ever been one of their bugbears. The attack will be hard to hold, as will Everton’s although one notices in the visitor’s attack a lack of inches and “beef” that is not altogether wise. The absence of a Cunliffes takes height from the line, which on the right and left in unusually small –clever, yes, that is true, but not sufficiently “massive” as a whole. Everton’s steady and consistent showing this season proves their chance to a half, if not a victory, tomorrow, I hope I am a good prophet. Team; Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Hurel, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter.
EVERTON MAY BE LEAGUE LEADERS TOMORROW!
October 2, 1936. The Evening Express.
Blues’ Tilt at champions.
By The Pilot.
Everton have a great chance to lead the Football League tomorrow when they tackle the champions, Sunderland, at Roker Park. The Blues have not been in the lead since season 1931-32, but now they are only a point from that position. The present leaders are Derby, and the Blues are level with Portsmouth and Stoke City. Everton have a match in hand of all three clubs. Derby and Stoke have home games tomorrow, but Portsmouth are called on to travel –to Chelsea. Only a win will take Everton to the position of eminence, but their task is one of extreme magnitude. Although Sunderland are not the power they were last season, they still have a 100 per cent home record. They have recorded wins against Derby, Preston, and Brentford t Roker Park. Everton will be out to record their fourth successive victory. This should be one of the best games of the day, and if the Blues can capture a point they will have reason to be proud of the achievement. Team; Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Hurel, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter.
• Advertisement in Evening Express. Central League Match at Goodison Park Tomorrow (Saturday) Everton Reserves v. Derby County Reserves. Kick-off 3.15. Admission 6d, Boys 2d. Seats Extra, including tax.
SUNDERLAND’S SUPERIORITY
October 3, 1936. The Liverpool Football Echo.
A Quite Display By Everton.
Cap For Gillick.
By Bee.
Sunderland won their fifth home game in succession, and Everton, although often spectacular, did not specialise in quick shooting, their finesse counting for nought as a result. Gillick will get a cap for Scotland v. Germany on his display today. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Cook, backs; Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Hurel, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Coulter, forwards. Sunderland: - Mapson, goal; Hall and Collins, backs; Thomson, Johnston, and Hasting, half-backs; Duns, Carter, Gurney, Gallacher, and Connor, forwards. Referee Mr. Jennings, York. The Scottish selectors were present watching Gillick and Hasting in regard to the match versus Germany. Gillick I am told is a certainty, and he and Britton opened the game, against the unconquered home team, Sunderland, in a manner as bright as the sunshine which beamed upon the 40,000 spectators. Referee Jennings is the man Everton objected to the first Cup-tie with Sunderland, and his early decisions were extremely satisfactory. Most of Everton’s starting point in the early play came from Britton prompting Gillick and Hurel, but Stevenson had a fine eye for the long pass. Connor could make nothing of Britton, and Mapson hardly knew what to do about a long dropping centre by Coulter. Coulter’s enthusiasm carried from the left wing to the extreme right portion for the sake of a throw-in which shows he is content to accept trifles and to work for them. Twice Hurel tried long shots without even getting the ball accurately timed. Sunderland miss of a first-class scoring chance arose through a centre from the left, which Gurney had merely to flick into the net from two yards distance. But he had to take the ball with speed, the result being he swirled the ball over the bar. Gee and Hurel went to the knees to head with judgement, and one of Dean’s through passes for the benefit of the acting centre, Gillick, narrowly missed fire through Gillick having to race through pell-mell.
Sagar Recovers In Time.
Sagar started to go the wrong way for a Connor shot, but was able to dab the ball round the post with his right hand, and the clearance from this corner came from Dean, who became a full back for a moment. A lot of the passing by the Sunderland side was of an intricate and subtle character, but Everton were playing extremely well in every department. There was danger to the goalkeeper when Connor squared through and angled and laboured for his chance of a shot. He poked the ball across and Gurney, a yard from the goal, was unable to connect. Unfortunately, there was a melee on the goalline in which the danger of injury did not seen to strike the referee. Sagar came out clear, the ball never crossed over the line and no harm had been done. It seemed to me this was just the sort of case the new rule seeks to present accident.
Gallacher Gets Through.
Dean and Sagar were in doubt as to who should take a clearance, and although Dean headed the ball away as in the manner of a true full back, the danger was not cleared, and when Connor shot, through a still well-packed defence the ball evaded everyone except Gallacher who ran in and scored from a trifling distance from the inside right position. Sunderland were one up in twenty-four minutes. Coulter was caught in the tolls of Hall when he tried to revive Everton’s chances in a game that now showed the artists and the punch of the Sunderland forwards when they got on the move. Gurney had a couple of drives and the home forwards were now proving irresistible in their approach work. Their main armour was the body swerve by which the defence was sent the wrong way of the original pretence. Sunderland went further ahead with another goal in half an hour the result in a large degree of Everton’s method of stepping to appeal for offside Connor –Gurney, Carter –that was the trinity which produced the little liver pill for the Everton defence. Neither goal was a picture; each goal had counted, however, towards Sunderland’s home success. The only other jarring note was the hold-up in which the linesman called the attention of the referee to something concerning Cook, who was limping and was now lectured. The brightest forward in the Everton line was Gillick who ploughed his way through with earnestness and with a nice method of combines on the part of the boy Hurel, the faster being unlucky with a back header that would grace Dean’s heading remembrances.
Half-time Sunderland 2, Everton 0
Gurney and Stevenson Score.
In the second half was a minute old when Britton was unable to keep the ball in play near the by line, and from the course taken by Connor the ball was headed through by Gurney. Everton a year ago had surprised Sunderland by drawing 3-3 after being 3-0 down. History could be repeated if Everton could produce more shot instead of a superabundance of twisting and turning in dribbling without the grand finale. History repeated itself when Everton went to 3-1 as the result of nice shot by Stevenson, who received the ball from Britton on the right wing and beat Mapson with the first real shot Everton had applied. A moment before the score came Dean’s best placed header had been caught by Mapson, but the goalkeeper had received great consideration from the Everton forwards. Hurel, often at outside right in this half, took the corner kicks that came that way, and one of his best centres led to Dean challenging Johnston, who was damaged in the process. Gee was good throughout and Coulter and Mercer were captivating in the way they got the defence on tenterhook; but the absence of shot only served to show up the tactics as all for nought. The referee was in a slight scene when it was a question of a goal kick or a throw-in for a ball that eventually struck the corner flag and came back to play. The referee was adamant, and a linesman far from the scene of the incident wagged his flag. Sunderland players attempted to tell the referee of the intervention of the linesman, but the referee refused to listen to any intervening he had seen what he had seen, very earnest was the calm of Sunderland for a penalty kick against Gee on Gurney, who was injured, Hastings, the left winging damaged about the same time.
Ruffled Tempers.
The fire had gone out of the game, and much of the charm of the first half gave way to tempers-measures not helpful to the game. Hastings went outside right and Gallacher outside left through their injuries. Sagar ran out to the edge of his box, and twice failed to get the ball on that when Duns shot to the empty goal he should have made no error. Once more Cook was bothered by officialdom. Stevenson was the one shooter of the Everton line, and in attempting to make it a battling finish he tried a left hook which sped over the bar. Coulter added a charming centre and Mapson’s gave was effectively handled, the goalkeeper becoming unbalanced, however, and quite near to carrying the ball over his own line. Everton died fighting without ever threatening to attain a further goal. Sunderland’s defence is not so tainted as it is painted. Mapson missed his way with a save from Stevenson, but failing on the ball brought the new law to his aid. Final Sunderland 3, Everton 1.
STUD MARKS
October 5, 1936. The Liverpool Football Echo
By Louis T. Kelly.
• Saturday’s double ordering off incident, the first instance of this kind at Goodison since 1927-28, when “Tony” Weldon and McClelland (Middlesbrough) incurred the referee’s displeasure. Brewster was sent off v. Huddersfield Town in 1920.
• Everton have the two smallest “insides” in Division 1, in Stevenson and Hurel.
CHAMPIONS QUICKER ON THE BALL.
October 3, 1936. The Evening Express, Football Edition.
Forwards Brilliant Against Everton.
Connor The Man of the Match.
By The Pilot.
Sunderland gained a convincing victory by 3-1 over Everton at Roker Park. The champions’ forward work was brilliant, with Connor the man of the match. Everton staged a rousing rally in the second half but Sunderland defence seldom faltered. The Everton players sent a telegram of good wishes to Miller and Stein their former colleagues, who were making their debut for Burnley at Southampton. It was a glorious day, sunny, yet not but warm. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Cook, backs; Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Hurel, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Coulter, forwards. Sunderland: - Mapson, goal; Hall and Collins, backs; Thomson, Johnston, and Hasting, half-backs; Duns, Carter, Gurney, Gallacher, and Connor, forwards. Referee Mr. W.R. Jennings, York.
Roker’s new stand make this a grand ground, and there were 30,000 to see the game open with a series of throw-ins and miss passes. Then came a sudden thrill as Connor put the ball across from a sharp thrown-in, and Thomson running in 15 yards, had only to tap the ball through, but he got under it and placed right across goal.
Sunderland’s Skill.
Sunderland revealed nice passing movements without being able to trouble Sagar. Their interchanging of positions was exactness personified. Coulter had a hard chance, but in trying to beat his man twice, lost the ball. Sagar saved from Carter and a quick tackle enabled the Wearsiders to get away through Gurney. Connor’s return from a wing pass left Carter with an open goal, but Carter headed over. What a miss! Sunderland came again, Connor this time electing to shoot, and Sagar saved at full length. Hurel, was easily dispossessed, and away went Connor to provide another thrill. What a great player he is! His low centre left Gurney with a goal chance, not a yard from the line, and with Sagar sent. Gurney only half kicked the ball, so that Sagar came back to take another attempt on his leg. The ball swirled away, and as Gurney came for his third effort, Sagar fell on the fell on the ball prove that the age of miracles is not past. How Gurney could miss is inconceivable.
Sunderland Lead.
In 25 minutes Connor paved the way for the opening goal, following a corner conceded owing to a misunderstanding between Gee and Sagar. Connor got the ball and drove a fierce, low ball back to the goalmouth. It was an effort out of Daily Duncan’s book. This pass carried the ball through a bunch of players, so their Gallacher had only to tap the ball into the net. Connor was playing Hamlett with Everton’s defence, and now Coulter took a line out of his book to enlist Gillick’s aid in trying to work a Dean chance. Mapson was just too quick. Gurney got through on his roving tour,” and crashed a beauty against the side netting.
Connor Again!
Sunderland made in two in 30 minutes, and again it was the “Red” and while devil,” Connor, who did the spade work. Everton stood appealing for offside and Connor ran to the line. He worked towards goal, and drew Sagar, whose, one chance was to come out. Carter did the Gallacher trick –just pushed the ball through from short range. They were two goals of a similar variety –all praise to Connor. Gillick was Everton’s most potent raider, and from the cross Dean tried to head in, the ball striking Johnson’s arm and running to safety. Everton had a half chance from a free kick, yet Dean, in his eagerness, got in the way of Gillick.
Half-Time Sunderland 2, Everton 0
Sunderland made it three two minutes after the interval. After clearing Duns’ centre, Britton, with time to clear dribbled the ball over the line for a corner. From this Gurney, standing opposite the near post, headed through, oh yes. It was Connor’s corner kick.
Gillick’s Fine Dribble.
Gillick dribbled his way through at a great pace to win a corner from which Mapson saved well. Everton were trying hard to stage a rally, as they did here last season, and Coulter was seen often as an outside right and right half as in his own position. Mercer contributed a swerving dribble without making good use of a fine pass. Play had deteriorated for Sunderland were content to defend and defend well. Gillick made a perfect centre and Dean drove it in his best manner, Mapson grabbing the ball at is was passing under the bar. Everton seemed to get a grip of the game and press for long spells. It was after 67 minutes that they were rewarded with a goal from Stevenson. The attack developed on the right, moved to the other flank, and eventually Stevenson received on the edge of the penalty area. He moved forward a few paces and scored with a right foot shot, which Mapson touched at full length but failed to hold. Everton thus maintained their record of having scored in every match to date. Sunderland were quicked on the ball than Everton, whose forwards were too easily crowded out. Final Sunderland 3, Everton 1.
SUNDERLAND 3 EVERTON 1 (Game 1570 over-all)-(Div 1 1528)
October 5, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post.
Everton Fight Hard.
Sunderland The Superior Side.
Ineffective Moves.
By “Bee.”
Everton have had some stirring times at Sunderland, and after drawing level a year before in spite of a 3-1 lead, one hoped they might do something in keeping with their excellent home form. The disappointment was not intense, because Sunderland won cleverly and well, and were the superior side in most respects, man for man. However, there was an air of “mystery” about the game from the start, it was an almost doleful opening, and one imagined the burst of sunshine had warmed the hearts of the players, but the opposite seemed to be the case, and there was a languid outlook on football moves. By degrees the game warmed to a splendid standard, with Sunderland unable to round off those charming raids of theirs that begin with Gallacher, carried along by Gurney or Connor and find a shot for the locker of Carter. Everton could have been made to pay heavily in the goals account in the first half, but somehow the uprising of Sunderland was chiefly by the approach method, and simple “pulls left the forward rank tainted. The dew on the ground may have led to the considerable amount of slipping down that occurred in this game, but the 40,000 spectators do not care to make allowance for such matters.
Gallacher and Gurney.
One could foresee the home men taking the lead and this came through Gallacher when a chance-shot from the left evaded everyone and Gallacher took up possession quite close to goal. The covered Sunderland’s previous sins and when carter made it two before half time Everton had stopped to inquire about a supposed offside case, which did not tally with the referee’s ideas of offside offences, Everton had not done well this half, and when the score went to three a moment from half-time through a converted corner kick headed by Gurney, one began to wonder whether Gurney would offer a vote of thanks for those who left him unmarked. It was then Everton began to rally their ideas and be keener in their striving. Stevenson’s goal from Britton’s cross served to make them keener, but still the mysterious air of something that was not indifference came over their efforts. They bothered Sunderland to the final kick, not with rushing raiding, but by dint of nicely balanced attacking veins founded on combination.
Mapson’s Effects.
It would have been difficult to reconcile the Everton display if one had not through fit to consider the case of Mapson, the goalkeeper, who took a splendid header by Dean and some other spasmodic effort. It was chiefly in lack of shot that Mapson’s game was ear-marked. So that was what was wrong with Everton; they had no virility near goal, and shots were so few they could hardly hope to draw. So Sunderland got 3 goals, all of a character not at all rousing in their finale, but going to the register, and Everton got one, and was thankful to have escaped some more, because Sunderland have a renowned attack which today fields the boy Duns instead of Davis. Duns was the weakest link in the line, but the grace and symmetrical draughtsboard work of Connor and Gallacher with Carter a shooting force, and Gurney, the ever-faithful centre, who works for everyone else’s glory and benefit, made the home team a veritable thorn in the defensive flesh. Jackson throughout was in sparkling form, going out to meet and challenge and tackle his man, in contrast to his partner. Britton opened extremely well, but was not at his best, and Gee, with Mercer, took the half back honours of the losers. Forward, Everton lacked something; there was a little too much wandering on the part of Coulter, and Stevenson, apart from the goal and occasional shots, were not prominent.
Gillick’s Fiery Display.
On the right wing Hurel was best in making passes for Gillick, whose fiery display has probably caused the Scottish F.A selectors to make him their choice for Scotland v. Germany. Gillick is a changed man at outside right and appears almost fast in the position, where he had been show on the left wing. Hurel is growing good, but is naturally far short of the glory necessary to keep him in the highest grade. Dean never tired of worrying his way through, and his drag pass was in acme of judgement with a moving ball. However, this match proved that the stories of Sunderland’s poor back division are not too trustworthy. Hastings and Johnston were excellent and Collins, although a veteran; linked up with Hall to make a stout pair of backs. Sunderland finished with three men hurt, and a referee damaged by the interference of a linesman who took upon himself the task of judging an incident near the referee, but the width of the field away from the linesman concerned! The second half faded out, but the first half was a gem, and showed how strong Sunderland’s attack can be and how they are already 8 points up through home victories. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Cook, backs; Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Hurel, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Coulter, forwards. Sunderland: - Mapson, goal; Hall and Collins, backs; Thomson, Johnston, and Hasting, half-backs; Duns, Carter, Gurney, Gallacher, and Connor, forwards. Referee Mr. Jennings, York.
EVERTON RESERVES 2 DERBY COUNTY RESERVES
October 5, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 9)
At Goodison Park. Geldard opened the score at the seventeen minute. After the resumption Jones (TG) put them further ahead from a penalty kick. Derby’s display was mediocre, although at times they gave rare glimpses of good football, and Everton did not take their opportunities readily. Bell was closely guarded by the Derby backs but he went close on one or two occasions. Geldard started well but had a poor second half, and it was the defence that took the honours, Jones (TG), Lambert and Jones (JE), all doing well. The latter player received a rather bad head injury, but pluckily play later. Everton: - White, goal; Lambert and Jones (JE), backs; Lindley, Jones (TG), and Thomson, half-backs; Geldard, Bentham, Bell, Webster and Wolf, forwards.
SUNDERLAND ILLUMINATION
October 5, 1936. The Liverpool Echo
Stevenson’s Goal
Bee’s Notes.
Sunderland had the lights turned up on Saturday night, and during the afternoon the team were illumining because their attack moved off with the sweetness of its left flank (Connor and Gallacher), with Gurney, the dependable bolster at centre forward; the keen shooter Carter, at inside right, and young Duns, of Newcastle (unwanted by United), at outside right. Duns was the only weakness of the line in the game with Everton, but for the rest one rejoiced to see them is some sense of combination in the football world which had become something of a wilderness of wild rushing and fearful effort, rather than good road to success and spectators’ pleasure –the combined way. Sunderland will ever be welcome visitors if they continue to play in this manner. They are an attraction in an unattractive League bill. Everton were not good enough to master this side, and moreover they made the Sunderland defence, which is said to be de trop, look really good. That may have been due to Everton’s weakness or Sunderland’s strong defence –or a blend of both measures. Certainly Everton never ceased their effort to flight back at three goals at Roker, and on that count they are awarded marks, if not meritorious medals. It was like the bygone days to have a chat with Alf Common, the first of the £1,000 transfer men, who played for Sunderland, Sheffield, and others. Alf Common went to 19 stones, and never forgot that the ready road to success is marked with instructions such as this “Keep the ball on the ground and aim at all-round combination,” Alf Common whispered in my ear, “By jings, I’d like to play besides Gillick; I’d have him outstanding in all teams in a year. He needs the strong-man act at his side, because he has the football sense of position and calls for work in a variety of paths. He does not stand on the touchline and call for the regulation pass towards him; he moves about quickly and stealthily and with a big man at his side to take off some of the lumps for Gillick and some others for the big man, Dean, who seems to have to do everyone’s hard labour. Gillick would be shooting star.” And mind this; Common played when Templeton was the complete winger, the intricate dribbler who beat six and then came back to beat some more. So All known of what he talks. Mr. Phil Bach, former captain of Middlesbrough F.C, director of the club, cricketer, billiard expert and authority on football, joined the Everton party, and was found to be much improved in health –which was very gratifying to all of us who have had his friendship so many years.
Gillick “Played In.”
Gillick had probably played himself into the Scottish team v. Germany, and by his side Hurel, the stripling from Jersey, continued to try to do too much work. The ideas in this lad’s football brain show up, but he has not yet developed the speed to carry them through after he has got the defence going the wrong way. Time is his greatest need –plus our encouragement actually his passing with Gillick was adroit. Dean was covered up by the persistence of a pivot and the sure foot of two quite good backs. Mapson had not much to do, because Everton had left their “extra boot,” of which we heard in the home land, that was a pity because Everton did much good work to the end in their own known manner but the absence of fire near goal left Mapson in a comfortable position. Stevenson’s crop of goals grow bigger with a steadiness more comforting, but the wing men have not yet got the registers buzzing their names. Coulter in his search for work breaks all conventions and is to be praised for his roaming providing the others fit the vacancy when they see him go, and providing Coulter does not see the necessary for going to right back when there is no special reason for defence. Sunderland showed Everton how attack could save defence, and like Coulter beat when he is making his crosses even if some of them are “nought” through lack of conversion. Gee, Mercer, and in a minor degree, Britton, had a stiff task, and behind them I rated Jackson’s display as the soundest he has given since he joined the club. He has toned down that unutterably fierce clearance, and his decision to go in and make the tackle, he wins it or otherwise is to be commended. He had to face, the arty wing, Connor and Gallacher, and for the first 15 minutes he was always making them work for the ball –a great display, Jackson. Sagar did sound work, and Cook offered the length-kicks without quite satisfying one’s appetites for close quarter action. Sunderland hope to win the championship’s second time in succession. Whatever happens they will provide some good fun for those, who like to see the rare fruit of uncommon football movement, for which the game, was starving. Lack of consistency and constancy near goal cost them dearly, and gave Everton’s fighting chance of a draw till the last moments if Everton had been good enough.
THE “LITTLE RED AND WHITE DEVIL”
October 5, 1936. The Evening Express.
Wonder Winger Worries Everton To Defeat.
By the Pilot.
Jimmy Common, alias the “Little Red and White Devil,” of Scotland and Sunderland, put paid to Everton’s bid to record four successive victories when, at Roker Park, on Saturday, he paved the way for the Wearsiders’ 3-1 win over the Blues. The Scottish international selectors were present at the match, and they must have realised that Connor is the greatest outside-left in the game at the moment. Connor proved himself to be alertness personnel. He seemed to think twice as quickly as any other player, was nippy off the mark, went first this way and then that, and his control and use of the ball was akin to perfect. Connor provided all three Sunderland goals, and also gave opportunities for several more in the opening half, when Sunderland were much the superior team and may easily have been six up at the interval. Three times the inside forwards failed merely to tap the ball across the line after Sagar had been beaten by the cunning of Connor’s finishing. Sunderland’s dominance was not because Everton were a poor side, but because the Roker Park men played as a great team from stem to stern. The much-criticised Sunderland defence was excellent. Everton came into their own in the second half, and at one time, shortly after Stevenson had reduced the lead, it looked as they would go a long way towards staging another of their famous Roker revivals, but then young Mapson, the Birkenhead boy, came through with two grand saves off Dean’s headers, and so the points went to the side that deserved them. The Everton attack had not its usual rhythmic motion. Coulter was out of touch and Stevenson held to the ball too long against quick-tackling defenders, Hurel, too, was crowded out. The honours fell to Gillick, who had a grand game and again confirmed that at outside right he has few superiors, Dean was a zealous worker, even though he got little change out of the resolute Johnston. Gee was the pick of the half-backs, although Mercer and Britton played well, and Jackson was the better of the backs. Sagar made no mistakes. Sunderland are again a great side, and once they get the knack of picking up away points they will prove a power Mapson, Hall, Johnston, Carter, Gallacher, and above all, Connor excelled. Gallacher, Carter and Gurney, got their goals.
FOOTBALLERS GOLF TITLE FOR TOM COOPER
October 5, 1936 Evening Express.
By the Pilot.
Tom Cooper, Liverpool’s international full back, won the Merseyside and District Professional Footballer’s’ Golf Championship, played over the Woolton club’s course, Liverpool, today. Cooper returned a gross score of 73. Albert Gray, the Welsh International goalkeeper, of Chester, who has won the cup during the last three years, was second with a score of 76. Cooper had a wonderful round which included ten bogeys, one “birdie” and one “eagle” –a three at the 417 yards 14th. His play was almost flawness. He went in 38 and was home in 35, being only one stroke over the standard scratch score. His figures were:- out, 4,4,4,5,4,5,4,3 -38; In 5,4,3,3,,3,4,4,5,4,-35-73. Thirty three players from Merseyside clubs completed. Under the rule that no player shall receive more than one prise, the handicap prize went t W. Fogg, of New Brighton, who returned a score of 86 off a handicap of 22. The second handicap prize was won by W. Cook (Everton) with a gross score of 95 (handicap 18). The prizes were presented by Mr. W. C. Cuff, the president. Scores T. Cooper (Liverpool) 73-10-65, W Fogg (New Brighton) 86-22-64, W Cook (Everton) 85-18-67, C.S. Amery (Tranmere Rovers) 92-22-70, B. Nieuwenhuys (Liverpool) 90-20-70, T.G. Jones (Everton) 92-22-70, J. Thomson (Everton) 82-11-71, E.V. Wright (Liverpool) 93-22-71, E.W. Common (Chester) 93-22-71, J. Hamilton (Wrexham) 89-18-71, H. Bulloch (New Brighton) 94-22-72, A. Gray (Chester) 76-4-72, J. Stein (Everton) 88-15-73, C. Gee (Everton) 86-12-74, J. McDougall (Liverpool) 84-9-75, l. Carr (Liverpool) 97-22-75, C. Britton (Everton) 87-11-76, J. Mercer 92-16-76, W. Vaughton (New Brighton), J. Fryer (Wrexham) 100-32-78, V Dabbs (Liverpool) 93-14-79, R Platt (Tranmere Rovers) 103-24-79, E. Temple (Tranmere Rovers) 93-13-80, J.E. Jones (Everton) 104-22-82, F. King (Everton) 108-24-84, J. Balmer (Liverpool) 106-22-84, T. Bush (Liverpool) 107-22-85, W.R. Miller (Burnley) 108-22-86, A. Hanson (Liverpool) 103-16-87, C. Leyfield (Everton) 113-24-89, H. Howarth (New Brighton) 116-22-94, J Browning (Liverpool) 129-22-107
TODAY’S CUP-TIE AT PRENTON.
October 7, 1936. The Liverpool daily Post.
By John Peel.
The Liverpool Senior Cup-tie at Tranmere Rovers and Everton is the chief item in the Association code on Merseyside today. The local senior competition provides some keen tussles and the match at Tranmere this afternoon, kick-off at 30’clock, is likely to maintain the standard, particularly as the Rovers are anxious to improve their team for Northern Section games. The Rovers are making sweeping changes. All departments are affected with the exception of goal, Jackson is brought in at right back; and there will be a completely changed half-back line in which Miller moves into the pivotal role. He will be flanked by Edwards and Amery. Jones is restored to the leadership of the attack to the exclusion of Robertson. Hurel and Leyfield form the Everton left wing, with Bell well renew acquaintance with the Prenton ground. The teams are: - Tranmere Rovers: - Poskett; Jackson, Whyte; Edwards, Miller; Amery, Dellow, Eden, Jones, Wood, Almond. Everton: - White; Allen, Morris; Thomson, Jones (TG), Watson; Arthur, Bentham, Bell, Hurel, Leyfield.
TRANMERE LEAD.
October 7, 1936. The Liverpool Echo.
Liverpool Senior Cup-Tie With Everton.
Tranmere had many changes for their Liverpool Senior Cup tie against Everton at Birkenhead today, when the teams were: - Tranmere: - Poskett, goal; Jackson, and Whyte, backs; Edwards, Miller, and Amery, backs; Dellow, Eden, Jones, Wood, and Almond, forwards. Everton: - White, goal; Lambert, and Morris, backs; Thomson, Jones (TG), and Watson, half-backs ; Arthur, Bentham, Bell, Hurel, and Leyfield, forwards. Jones missed a good chance early on, but later rounded White and opened the scoring. Eden followed with a splendid individual goal, and Jones, from a very bad angle, struck the posts, when no one expected him to be able to slow the ball round sufficiently to be dangerous with a shot. Tranmere played much improved football although neither side seemed to take the game very seriously. Bell had few chances against his old side. Indeed the Everton attack as a whole was very rarely in evidence.
Half-Time Tranmere Rovers 2, Everton 0.
Early in the second half Poskett made a good save from a header by Bell, and White made an equally good save from a swirling shot by Eden.
TRANMERE HOLD ON TO LEAD.
October 8, 1937. The Liverpool Daily Post.
Cup Victory Over Everton.
Tranmere Rovers are in the second round of the Liverpool senior Cup. They beat an Everton eleven at Birkenhead yesterday by 2 goals to 1 in the first stage, and although the game threatened to be marred by serious injury to White, the Everton goalkeeper, and Dellow, of Tranmere, who collide heavily and was carried off it turned out that Dellow was able to resume, and White, and White’s trouble was a badly injury thigh. Both sides played as though little was at stake, and Tranmere took a two goal lead in the first half, when Jones and Eden each scored after good individual efforts. Later on the jersey boy, Hurel, reduced the lead, but apart from the goal he was not as promising as usual, and possibly the ground, which was bumpy, had its effort on his and others play. Tranmere had made a lot of changes, and Miller did quite well at Centre half, although Edwards was rather too lackadaisical at right half-back. Eden was the live force in the attack, which played 50 per cent better than when they touched the lowest level against Mansfield. Almond, too, had a good day. Everton’s rather mixed team was notable for the strong goalkeeping of White, until he was hurt and Thomson took his old team. Result Tranmere Rovers 2, Everton 1.
Teams: - Tranmere: - Poskett, goal; Jackson, and Whyte, backs; Edwards, Miller, and Amery, backs; Dellow, Eden, Jones, Wood, and Almond, forwards. Everton: - White, goal; Allen, and Morris, backs; Thomson, Jones (TG), and Watson, half-backs ; Arthur, Bentham, Bell, Hurel, and Leyfield, forwards.
‘G’ MEN WILL FORM THE EVERTON RIGHT WING!
October 8, 1936. The Evening Express.
Geldard and Gillick as Partners.
Attack Experiment for Saturday
By the Pilot.
Albert Geldard, Everton’s international outside right, will make his first appearance of the season on Saturday, when he will play against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Goodison Park. Geldard, a regular member of the first team prior to the season, takes the place of Gillick, but the experiment is being made of playing Gillick at inside right in place of Hurel. This will be Gillick’s first appearance at inside-right with the Blues, but he played in the position while with Glasgow Rangers. I have high hopes of this wing, and fell certain that the experiment will prove a success. Geldard, on his day, is a grand player, while in practically every match this season Gillick has revealed moves and tricks which stamp him as a player likely to prove a success in an inside berth. In my opinion the changes will bring greater effectiveness to the line. Geldard can prove a match-winner –he is, as a matter of fact, too good to be left out –while Gillick has such a natural football brain that he could play well anywhere. Everton; Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Gee, mercer; Geldard, Gillick, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter.
• Advertisement in Evening Express, League Match At Goodison Park, Saturday, Next October 10, Everton v. Wolverhampton Wanderers Kick-off 3.15. Admission 1/- Boys 4d. Stands extra (Including tax). Booked seats Sharp’s Whitechapel.
TRANMERE’S CUP SUCCESS
October 8, 1936. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes.
A much changed Tranmere Rovers team yesterday beat an Everton eleven in the first round of the Liverpool Senior Cup at Prenton by two goals to one. Everton had a comparatively weak side out, even for a competition of this character, although Hurel, Thomson, Bentham and Bell were included. Although there was never much evidence that either side was particularly desirous of going all out; there was a nasty collision near the end, when Dellow and White, the Everton goalkeeper, collided and White’s hip injury was so serious he was carried from the field on a stretcher. Dellow resumed later. Tranmere played much better football than when they touched low level against Mansfield, although too much notice should not be taken of this 2-1 victory, in so far as the game was to all intents and purposes, an exhibition. Jones opened the scoring. Eden made it 2-0 before the interval and later Hurel, who did not show up too well, reduced the margin. Jackson, at right full back in the Tranmere side, played well, and Miller, at centre half, got through a lot of work against his old club-mate, “Bunny” Bell, who was rarely seen to advantage. Tranmere who are looking at several forwards, with a view to strengthened the attack, are still set a problem to know which is the best available side to go to Crewe, but Eden, Jones and Almond did sufficient in this game to ensure their places. Everton’s Jones at centre half, was a busy man; and so was Jock Thomson, who found the elusive Almond rather too much for him on some occasions.
EVERTON MAY GO “NAP” AT GOODISON TOMORROW.
October 9, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post
Blues’ Great Home Victory Run.
New Right Wing Against Wolves.
By The Pilot.
Everton may “go nap” tomorrow –by recording their fifth successive victory at Goodison Park this season. Their opponents are Wolverhampton Wanderers, one of the best young sides in the First Division, but the Blues are playing so brilliantly just now that I expect the Wanderers will suffer the fate of Sheffield Wednesday, Brentford, Liverpool and Huddersfield, who have all been beaten at Goodison this season. The Wolves have enthusiasm and endeavour, but I think they lack the football artistry of the Blues. Chief interest will centre on Everton’s new right wing pair –Gillick and Geldard. For the past two week’s the directors have pondered over linking these great players up as wing partners. It should prove a successful move. Gillick has been in grand form this season and has repaid the club for the £6,000 odd fee paid to Glasgow Rangers for him. He is much better player on the right flank than on the left. His general play, too, has savoured of many inside forward moves, and seeing that Gillick has always been able to play anywhere in the attack –he did so for the Rangers –I am certain he will not prove a failure.
Geldard’s Chance.
Geldard can be the best outside right in England on his day, and the Bradford boy will be out to re-establish himself in the position. The pair are quick thinkers and have pace on the ball and in moving to position. I have high hopes that they prove one of the most potent attacking flanks Everton have had for a long time. The Wolves are positioned third from the bottom in the league table. in five away games they have picked up three points. They drew at Manchester United and won at Preston. The “star” of the side is young Bryn Jones, the Welsh international forward, while the latest Football league defender Shaw will also be on view. Two Merseyside lads will be in the Wolves’ side. They are Scott, the well known baseball international, who keeps goal, and “Pongo” Waring, the international centre forward, who, like Dean, graduated with Tranmere Rovers. It will be a test between the skill of Everton and the electric dash of the Wolves. It should be a spectacular game.
. Everton; Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Geldard, Gillick, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter. Wolverhampton wanderers; (probable); Scott; Laking, Shaw; Smalley, Morris, Galley; Ashall, Jones, Waring, Clayton, Brown.
• Advertisement in Evening Express, League Match At Goodison Park, Tomorrow (Saturday), October 10, Everton v. Wolverhampton Wanderers Kick-off 3.15. Admission 1/- Boys 4d. Stands extra (Including tax). Booked seats Sharp’s Whitechapel.
BRYN JONES AT EVERTON WITH WOLVERHAMPTON
October 9, 1936. The Liverpool Echo
Bees’ Notes.
Everton’s home performerances have been a hundred per cent and I know their special desire to beat Wolves equals their desire to beat their neighbours, Why? Don’t go into details, just take it from me this in inner information. Wolves would have been on top of the championship table if they had won their home games, but they lapsed unaccountably twice. Away from home they have been particularly good, so that tomorrows match is going to be a stiff and even affair. It was strange to find Everton had brought Geldard and Gillick together as a right wing pair, because one of their earnest followers over the water collared me after the Hoylake cup-tie asking if I would make the suggestion of Geldard and Gillick at about the same time the directors were making that decision Geldard has known what it is to face opposition, because from the start he had to show his pace and goal trace to keep Critchley from the wing berth. Then he got the position so his own special right, but Gillick, at outside left, had undoubtedly been on the wrong side of the fence. This season he has been at outside right without interruption, and has shown a liveness and freedom for cutting in, unseen when he was on the left flank. He has a chance of making one of the youngest and liveliest right wings the game has known if both esteem the combination made rather than individualism. Gillick has been lacking in finish after creating golden chance, and I think his goal making register, which has been so good thus far, will find its numbers increasing by leaps and bounds, because he has a strong side, and in heading the ball he is unusually expert. Thus the Everton match becomes a trial and a try out against stout opposition, and when the eleven faces the starter there will be a big crowd and much enthusisiam for Everton’s endeavour to rise to the top rung of the ladder. Everton; Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Geldard, Gillick, Dean, Stevenson, Coulter.
EVERTON’S CHANCE TO ADVANCE.
October 10, 1938. The Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton have a fine opportunity of consolidating their position among the leading clubs today, and their supporters will expect the team to make the best use of their opportunities. Wolverhampton Wanderers are the visitors to Goodison Park and while they are sure to make a flight of it the form of the team so far does not suggest that they can prevent an Everton victory. However, the season is made up of unexpected happening and it is this uncertainly which adds spice to the game. Still I think Everton are good enough to win here. Special interest will be centred in the play at the right wing pair, Gillick and Geldard, both marksmen, who shoot with power, and if at anything like their best a rousing display may be expected. In the Wolves rank’s Scott, a former Liverpool goalkeeper, renews local associations, while Waring, the old Tranmere and Aston Villa centre forward, is still a force, while Jones is a fine forward. The Wolves have decided to play Morris, the regular centre half, at right back in place of Laking, who is unfit. Cunliffe takes the pivotal berth. The kick-off is at 3.15 and the teams are: - Everton; Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Geldard, Gillick, Dean, Stevenson, Gillick. Wolverhampton Wanderers: - Scott; Morris, Shaw; Smalley, Cullis, Galley; Ashall, Jones, Waring, Clayton, Brown.
SMASHING DEAN DRIVE GAINS EVERTON HARD
October 10, 1936. The Evening Express, Football Edition
Captain’s Great Goal from Free Kick
Sagar Defies ‘Wolves’ Fierce Raids.
Britton’s Brilliant Display
By The Watcher.
A smashing goal by Dean, scored from a free kick, enabled Everton to beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-0 at Goodison Park. Britton gave a first class all-round display. Everton’s new right wing, Gillick-Geldard, played well. I understand that Football League officials were present watching Dean. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Cook, backs; Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Gillick, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Coulter, forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers: - Scott, goal; Morris and Shaw, backs; Smalley, Cullis and Galley, half-backs; Jones, Iverson, Waring, Clayton and Brown, forwards. Referee Mr. C. Fletcher (Davenport). Everton and the Wanderers attacked in term during the opening stages, with the Blues having the better of matters. Dean lacked proper support when he took over the ball, there being no one on hand to assist him to weave through the Wolves defence. A Dean header was well collected by Scott; and an overhead lob by the Everton captain, following a faulty clearance by galley, went well over. At the other end Iverson, the former Lincoln City star, got too far under with his shot when he was well placed.
New Right Wing Shines.
Geldard and Gillick, the Blues new right wing pair, combined effectively, but Geldard’s finishing effort on the line fall short, as it also did when the former Bradford boy took over a perfect ground ball from Gillick to square from the line. Cook came along to extricate the Goodison men from a ticklish situation with Iverson and Jones coming through at top speed, but generally speaking, Everton’s goalkeeper was having nothing like the anxiety which Scott was experiencing. Britton came into the picture when he endeavoured to re-start the home scoring machine, and although his goalward lob was beaten out, it was returned by gee, and in the end only shortage of inches on Stevenson’s, part prevented that player from converting with a well meant header. The crowd of 30,000 got ready to yell “Goal” for the Blues when Gillick came into the centre to fasten on a Dean ball only to tip it over. The Everton halves were working hard against a virile front line which replied to Gillick’s challenge a few minutes later with a fine coring effort by Brown. Sagar only just managed to reach the winger’s cross.
Dean’s Great Drive.
The referee awarded a free kick for an alleged foul on Gillick, who had been brought down heavily just outside the penalty box. Dean took the free kick, with such pace, did he put behind his boot that one of the Wolves players, who had lined up behind the ball, jumped out of the way. Scott had little chance of saving. This goal came at the 30th minute. A feature of this half had been the remarkably good display given by Britton, Gillick, and Geldard were an improvement on the previous wing formation, although I should qualify that with the remark that neither of the two had so far obtained perfect understanding with Dean. Wolves restored to first-time tackling which brought them into the crowd’s unfavoured and also to the notice of the referee, who after awarding a free kick, for Mercer which was sent well over, male one of the Wolves’ defenders.
Half-Time Everton 1, Wolves 0.
The Wolves resumed in storming fashion and only a remarkable last minute save by Sagar, which saw the Everton goalkeeper push a terrific drive from Brown over the top, prevented the Blues losing’s the lead. There was plenty of “fire” and endeavour in the visitors’ attack, which both Jackson and Cook quickly discovered. Dean went to the assistance of Coulter when the winger was hard pressed by Morris, and then Geldard showed up prominently. A speedy interchange of passes took the Wanderers back to the Everton danger zone, nut fortunately Jackson was there, and when next the Wolves came through it required the combined resources of –Gee, Cook and Jackson to hold them off. A flashing wing-centre by Jones gave Waring the opportunity with a low header, after Everton had raced through on the right, via Geldard, the Wolves turned to earn a free kick, almost on the identical spot from which Dean scored.
Everton Line Up.
The entire Everton team, with the exception, of course of Sagar, lined up in front of the kicker, Gwyn Jones, loose effort was hardly as successful as Dean’s, the ball coming off an Everton player. The Wolves during a concerted attack almost got the equaliser. Sagar brought of a glorious full length save from a grounder from Brown. The game was held up for a minute of so, while Scot was attended to after a collision with Dean. Sagar who was showing up brilliantly, once again, saved his side when he pulled up and punched away a great hook shot from Clayton. Near the end Jones and Iverson changed places on the Wolves right. Final Everton 1, Wolves 0.
ONE GOAL DOES FOR EVERTON.
October 10, 1936. The Liverpool Football Echo.
Wolves Make a Fight Of It.
Dean’s Great Drive.
By Stork.
Everton, should have won this game comfortably in the first half, for they were so much the superior side that goals should have come with an easy flow. The Wolves fought back in the second portion, and but for two saves by Sagar, would have take the lead. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Cook, backs; Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Gillick, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Coulter, forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers: - Scott, goal; Morris and Shaw, backs; Smalley, Cullis and Galley, half-backs; Jones, Iverson, Waring, Clayton and Brown, forwards. Referee Mr. C. Fletcher (Davenport). There was a big crowd, many of them evidently attracted by the presence of Pongo Waring and Wolverhampton’s great star, Bryn Jones, to say nothing of Everton’s new wing Gillick and Geldard, from which such good things were anticipated. Everton’s form in the first five minutes was dazzling. Their footwork and general combined ideas were of an intricate nature and at the same time effective, so it was not uncommon to see the Wolves defence being pretty well tied down to their own goal area. Scott very early on had to make two sure catches from a couple of headers by Dean. Right throughout the Everton team there was much cleverness, and Mercer showed to what extent he had improved his game since he rose to first team status by “diddling” two Wolves men in the space of a three penny bit and then made a grand pass of such value that Coulter should have had a happy time, but the Irishman did not responded to the prompting in his old time fashion. At one time Coulter would have been ever ready when he know what was coming about; but in the first ten minutes of this game he was not quite at home, so that many promising forward movements were not fulfilled. Stevenson made two fiery drives that sent the ball high over the crossbar, whereas, up to now, the Wanderers only goal menace came from Iverson, who in his attempt to place the ball, pulled it wide of the upright. The Everton right wing had caused the Wolves defence more than one spot of trouble, and when Geldard scooped the ball from off the goal-line when a goal kick looked assured, it did not bring the trouble it should have done. Still, Everton’s form although there were no goals was enjoyable, because it was full of football meat. The Wanderers could not get the ball through to Waring, for Gee, Britton, and Mercer were so sound in their interception. Dean and Gillick got together with the goal in mind, and it nearly did the trick, for Gillick’s drive was not far off the mark. Wolverhampton were given a grit when the ball slipped out of Britton’s hands from a throw-in; and Sagar had his first call for the time when Brown shot from well out. Britton, by the way, got a nasty knock on the face early on, and did not seem to have got over it.
Dean’s Free Kick Drive.
At the half-hour Everton were recompensed for their clever exhibition with a goal. It came from a free kick given when Gillick, who was vending his way into the goal area, was rather vigorously grounded about five yards outside the penalty area. Dean himself elected to take the kick and although several Wolverhampton players ranged themselves in time. Dean shot with such power that the ball hurtled into the net before even one Wolverhampton player could make a move. Just after this Dean and Cullis were called together and spoken to by the referee. They had just previously been charging each other unnecessarily. Wolverhampton had a teeting time, yet they nearly produced an equaliser when Waring back-headed to Iverson who swept the ball over to the left wing so that Brown made a shot which left little daylight between the ball and the top side of the crossbar. It was so close that many thought Sagar was forced to edge the ball over, but such was not the case. If Everton had their right they should have held a commanding lead at the interval, for the wolves, apart from their defence were a very ordinary side.
Half-time Everton 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0.
Wolverhampton opened the second half with a fighting spirit and Brown made a shot of great power and accuracy, so much so that Sagar had to edge the ball with his finger trips to save this goal, It was a magnificent shot and an equally fine save. The Wolves hardened by this complete change round, gave Everton a taste of their own medicine and Brown was again close with a effort from a nasty angle.
Everton “Wall.”
Waring without support, was a danger to Everton’s plans, and when he was brought down and a free kick awarded to his side in exactly the same place from which Dean had scored his goal the whole of the Everton team with, of course the exception of Sagar, lined up against the shooter, and the barrier proved too great for Wolverhampton. It must be said, however, that the Wanderers were this far a different side entirely from what they had been in the first season. The Wolves were now playing with fire and spirit. Dean and Scot were injured when Everton made an assault and later Dean was punched in the back, but the Wolverhampton offender “got away with it” although the referee was on the spot. All the cleverness had gone from the Everton side which was now fighting hard to hold on to its slender lead, Sagar saved from Jones, but Scott should have been given no chance when Stevenson was put through, but the wee fellow in trying to find the far side of the net found the spectators instead. Scott was in the wars again when he came out to a Geldard centre, knowing that Gillick was close at hand and when the twain met both came to earth with Scott the more severely injured yet he soon resumed. There was nothing in the game now for the Wolves had died down and Everton had not regained their first half brilliance. Cook had a lecture from the referee for kicking the ball away and therefore washing time. The Wolves nearly snatched a half when Galley from far back gave the ball plenty of boots and Sagar through of yet another of his excellent saves. Final Everton 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0.
EVERTON 1 WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 0 (Game 1571 over-all)-(Div 1 1529)
October 12, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Scrape Through
Football Skill Without Finish
Dean Gives Lesson On How To Drive
By “Stork.”
Wolverhampton Wanderers had been so poor in the first half of their match with Everton that one expected the Goodison Park team to run up a comfortable score against the Staffordshire team, but the Wanderers showed such a fighting quality that Everton were somewhat fortunate to run off with the two points through a Dean goal scored at the half-hour. I have not seen such a turnabout for some time, for I am not exaggerating matters when I state that Everton should have gained sufficient goals in the first “45” that they need not have found it necessary to battle and fight to hold their slender lead. They gave the Wanderers an object lesson in football skill in the first season, but, with all their brilliance, they did not give Scott the Wolves goalkeeper half the work he should have had. The difference in the teams was such that Sagar had to handle but three times up to the interval, whereas Scott was very busy.
Pressure Without Finish.
Despite Everton’s pressure, and their presence in the Wanderers’s goal area, Scott’s duty was lessened by Everton’s poor fighting. This has been a had fault with Everton in recent weeks, and I was the one reason why they had to withstand a rallying Wolverhampton in the second half, and were so tested that they might easily have lost their lead. One had to pay tribute to Wolverhampton for their spirited recovery, for up to the half-way stage they had been outplayed and outclassed by a side which had the ability to run through its opponent’s defence at will, only to fall short at the crucial moment. To think that it was left to a free kick to supply the only goal of the match is not complimentary to a set of forwards who were so much in front in actual football craft, but that was just what happened, besides the goal area Everton’s play was a joy. It stopped there. Scott, taken right through the game had not to make two such saves as Sagar had to make in the second half when the Wanderer’s promised to steal a march on their rivals. True, he had more handling catchs, but they were not of the type likely to bring about the defeat. He should by right have been peppered with shots, but most of his work was confined to catching the ball from headers and punching away centres from the wings.
Great Shot By Dean.
Dean’s goal was brought about through Gillick being fouled just outside the penalty area, and Dean who was in one of his fiery moods, strode back, and although the Wolves augmented defence lined up against him there was so much power behind Dean’s shot that the ball was in the net before anyone realised it. It was a magnificent shot, worthy of winning a match, but I do not forget Brown’s great drive which Sagar fingered over his crossbar, nor the long-length shot by Galley which Sagar clutched safely in a firm grip. A slip here and Wolverhampton might have gone on to a sound victory, for they had got the measure of the ultra clever Everton, who had been more fanciful than effective in a goal scoring sense. It was a game of two phrases, and the manner in which Everton fell from grace in the second stanza was not encouraging, for the Wolves had been so poor in the initial half that had they snapped a win, or even a “half” Everton would have considered themselves unlucky, but when chances are made they must be taken, for no excuse will cover lost opportunities. From stem to stern. Everton had given a glorious exhibition of skilful football –in-midfield-football which should being goals in its train, and if it does not then it has all been to so account, I did not anticipate such a revival on the part of the Wanderers, whose first half display was a matter of kicking away of kicking away from their own goal mouth.
Changed Tactics.
Then came the heartening effect of Brown’s smashing drive. This produced a belief in the Wolverhampton side that this match could be won with a little enterprise. Tactics were changed, fortune was changed, and it was Everton who had to do the defending, for a single goal in hand was not sufficient to guarantee success. Much of Everton’s cleverness had vanished with Wolverhampton’s rise and as already stated Sagar had to make two outstanding saves to secure the victory. But it was a near thing, and had there been a little longer time to play Everton might have found themselves in arrears. I could not help but admire Wolverhampton ‘s fight back after their gruelling. The new Everton right wing, Gillick and Geldard created a lot of trouble for Wolves and Dean was always a dangerous leader, but the left wing was impaired through Coulter’s “tenderness.” He has not yet regained his full confidence yet has still great ability when in possession of the ball. The half-backs were very sound, but Jackson was one of the outstanding men on the side, for he tackled confidently, kicked cleanly; in fact was the complete full back in every way. Wolverhampton have got some smart material in their side. Brown of the forwards could be damaging to any defence, and Waring did some neat things when he got the slightest chance. His glides; his back ideas, and his back-headers were the work of the true artists. Jones out of position, veered to inside right and made some choice passes, but the line was until the second half securely battened down by Everton’s defensive plan. Cullis, the centre half, was much too fond of using his arms to get the better of Dean, but Morris and Shaw were stalwart defenders when Everton were smashing their way through. The new instructions to the referee had its effect, for Cullis and Dean were spoken to for a breach of law, and Cook was lectured for kicking the ball out of play following a thrown-in. Teams: - Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Cook, backs; Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Gillick, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Coulter, forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers: - Scott, goal; Morris and Shaw, backs; Smalley, Cullis and Galley, half-backs; Jones, Iverson, Waring, Clayton and Brown, forwards. Referee Mr. C. Fletcher (Davenport).
ASTON VILLA RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 2
October 12, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post
Centre League (Game 10)
Everton rallied finely, at Aston to take a point. It was an even struggle for some time, but the Villa eventually went ahead through goals from Cummings, who scored from a penalty kick, and Martin, who finished off a fine movement with Phillips. Everton rallied, and from a fine centre by Arthur, Bell scored a fine goal, and Bentham obtained the equaliser.
Everton “A” 2 Skelmersdale United 1
George Mahon Cup First Round.
At Sandforth-road, West derby. Two splendid saves by McCoy, the Everton goalkeeper, in the last few minutes prevented Skelmersdale making a draw. There was little between the sides during the first half. Hullett and Joyce for Everton, and Constantine and Kavanagh of the visitors, had good efforts saved by McCoy and Holt. Both sides displayed clever midfield play. Quinn headed the leading goal for Everton soon after the interval. Hullett later from an awkward angle added a second. Heath netted for Skelmersdale. Constantine badly missed equalising from an easy position. McCoy’s good display near the end gained Everton, the holders, a further interest in the cup.
EVERTON GAINING MORE POWER.
October 12, 1936. Evening Express.
Success Of New Right Winger.
By The Watcher.
When Everton’s new rightwing pair, Gillick and Geldard, have had a further trial and obtained a better understanding, the Blues should not only have one of the best attacks in the Football League, but also be well equipped for a tilt at the championship. This may sound a bold statement but, after watching the Goodison men defeat Wolverhampton Wanderers by 1-0 at Goodison Park, I am convinced that the side now only needs more “fire” in the front line to convert it into a brilliant combination. Against the Wolves, the defence and halves again revealed all-round strength and, in attack, the inside-forwards were fairly good, especially at the start, but the wingers were not on their best form. Gillick gave Dean more support than he has had for some time. Sagar in goal was in international form and both Jackson and Cook kicked well. Britton was brilliant in the first half, and his other half back colleagues, Gee and Mercer, were also in grand form. Gee was only rarely at fault in checking Waring, and neither Iverson nor Jones, the Wolves’ nippy left-wing pair, got much change out of him.
Dean’s Great Goal.
Dean has not yet missed scoring in a home game, and Saturday’s goal, which gave the Blues full points in a hard-fought match, was scored with a shot of great power. He took a free kick for an alleged foul on Gillick just outside the penalty “box” and hit it to such purpose that one of the Wolves players, sensing Dean’s determination to net, leaped out of the way and the ball whizzled into the back of the net, with Scott helpless to save. Wolverhampton are one of the youngest teams in the First Division, and if they play with such determination as they revealed after the change of ends on Saturday, I can see them speedily climbing away from the foot of the chart. They tried hard to force a division of the points.
AN EVERTON SCARE.
October 12, 1936. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes.
Everton had a scare on Saturday when Wolverhampton Wanderers after a most deplorable first half, hit back at Everton’s one-goal lead, and all but snatched a half if not a full quote of points Everton should have been set fair for a comfortable victory at the interval, for they were many goals superior in tactical skill to the Wanderers, so much so that the Staffordshire side were made to look second-raters, unable to cope with the intricacies employed by their rivals (writes “stork”) That they were let off with a single goal deficit was not entirely due to any great brilliance in their defence, which was often in a tangle, mainly concerned with kicking the ball away from their goal area, and so pushed for time were utilise the ball or place it to a colleagues. Consequently they were soon back without, however, testing hard enough to test goalkeeper Scott, the Liverpool, man. For all their smart combination Everton could only boast a single goal lead, so was it to be wondered at that the Wolves gained a belief in themselves –a belief that they could, with a little enterprise, pull the game out of the fire. How near they came to crediting themselves with a victory only those who witnessed the game can know and they were fully aware of the two great saves Sagar had to take to keep the wolf from his door. Need I point out that Everton welcomed the sound of the final whistle, for the Wanderers were hitting back mightly hard at the finish.
Cutting And Carving.
Such a state of affairs should never have existed, for when the Wolves were at the poorest Everton were bubbling over with artistry, cutting and carving their way through to goal with considerable ease, only to fall at the final fence –the goal points. Such football as Everton produced should have had a natural ending, the defeat of the goalkeeper, but Everton treated Scott with great kindness, and it was left to a free kick to give them their reward. How often this season have Everton been on top in actual footwork, and then only sneaked away with the points? Too often to be entirely satisfactory. The free kick goal with a delight in that it showed that Dean can still score goals with his feet. He crashed home a shot which brought back memories of his former days. The Wolves built up a human barrier against him, but that did not step him, and the ball went sizzling into the net at lightning speed. Dean had previously made some nicely-placed headers, but others in the line were guilty of some bad misses when excellent chances were laid before them. A goal lead is too slender a margin in these days, but I will be honest and considered enough to give Everton the points, for the Wolves had been so feeble in their attempts at goal-making that I did not anticipate such a revival as they ultimately provided. The change of plan found the forwards getting the ball, they had been without it in the opening stanza, and they proceeded to test the Everton defence for the first time in the match in the very first minute Brown the left winger, forced Sagar to being off one of the most spectators saves to prevent the equaliser, and from them on the Wolves gave as much and more than they had received for there was more pep about them near goal.
Sagar Stand Solid.
Again Sagar stood between them and success, so you see Everton had to battle to hold what they had, when they should never have allowed their opponents to get within sight of an equalising goal. But they had lost their cleverness; the fact that the Wanderers were testing their line as never before was the root cause so that their attacking scheme had perfected out and defence took its place. The Wolves showed that they, too, could combine to effect even though it was not accomplished with the flourish Everton exploited, yet it nearly brought them success. Everton new wing Geldard and Gillick, linked up nicely and gave the Wolverhampton defence many anxious moments, and Dean was in a fiery mood, but Coulter has not gained his full confidence.
EVERTON TEAM CHANGES.
October 13, 1936. The Evening Express.
By The Pilot
Everton make two changes for their visit to Leeds United, at eland-road on Saturday. Jack Coulter, the Irish international outside-left, is omitted from the side for the first time this season. His place will be taken by Charlie Leyfield who make his first appearance of the campaign. The other change is enforced. With Gee under suspension T.G. Jones, the former Wrexham player appears at centre half. This will be the first time Jones has played in a First Division match. Everton: Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Gillick, Dean, Stevenson, Leyfield. Coulter is included in the Central League eleven to oppose Bury, at Goodison Park. Everton Reserves: King; Lambert, Jones (JE); Lindley, Walkden, Thomson, Arthur, Bentham, Bell, Hurel, Coulter.
JONES TAKES GEE’S PLACE.
October 14, 1936, The Liverpool Daily Post.
By John Peel.
Everton are making changes in the side to visit Leeds United on Saturday the alterations being the substitution of Leyfield and Coulter at outside left and the inclusion of T.G. Jones, the former Wrexham player at centre half in place of Gee. This will be the first appearance of Jones in senior football. He is a tall and spirited player, who has already made his mark in Central league football, and is likely to prove a capable substitute for the regular Everton pivot. The team chosen is : Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Gillick, Dean, Stevenson, Leyfield. The reserve side meets Bury at Goodison Park, Coulter and Hurel forming the left wing. The side is: King; Lambert, Jones (JE); Lindley, Walkden, Thomson; Arthur, Bentham, Bell, Hurel, Coulter.
EVERTON CAN COMPLETE THE DOUBLE EVENT.
October 16, 1936. The Liverpool Echo.
Bee’s Notes.
Everton, at Leeds will not be sacrificing any of their international wares, though I think they could not have done better than choose Dean and Britton, to name but two. Dean is playing better than he has played for three years due, probably, to his slightly reduced frame of body and to his keenness for the game –keenness no other player of his size and knocking about has ever shown. His free kick goal set Goodison slight, and the opposition party played well enough for my rabid Anfield friend, Jock to take the odds that Wolves win the cup New the Everton attack is continuing in its smallish physical strain. Leyfield brought in for Coulter at outside left, does not add an inch to the general level, of attackers, but he does add a lot of fire and goal-threat. At centre half back Jones, of Wrexham, makes his debut, and this in itself will be a sturdy because one wants to know whether his easy and graceful action –so unlike his dynamic drives –will be suited to First Division tests, which are born of pace in modern days when more haste, less football, is the order of the day. Jones must show up well, and I think Everton will make a Mersey double by an away win against a team that looked woefully poor in their win three weeks ago when we visited them. Leeds foot the bill, and will be attired to action, so it will not be an easy game to win. However, I take sides with Everton for the full points. Their team is; Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Britton, TG Jones, Mercer; Geldard, Gillick, Dean, Stevenson, Leyfield.
EVERTON’S TASK AT LEEDS
October 16, 1936. The Evening Express.
Yorkshiremen’s Five Points From Ten games.
Everton have a fine opportunity of taking over the leadership of the First Division tomorrow if they beat Leeds United at Elland-road. Three of the teams above them –who hold a one-point advantage –are playing away from home. Only Portsmouth, the leaders, have the advantage of playing before their own supporters. Leeds United have a poor record sp far and are at the foot of the table with only five points for ten games. They have won only two matches. The United, it is true, always do well against Everton in League games; in fact the Blues have beaten them only once in the last ten meetings. However, Everton are the superior football side and with a little more alertness in snapping up chances, they should conquer a side lacking its best defender, Sproston, who will be playing for England. Everton will have T.G. Jones at centre half, this being his baptism in the First Division, and Leyfield comes in at outside left for Coulter. Everton; Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Gillick, Dean, Stevenson, Leyfield. Leeds; McInroy; Milburn (G), Milburn (J); Edwards, McDougall, Browne; Armes, Thomson, Hydes, Stepheson, Buckley.
• Advertisement in Evening Express. Central League Match at Goodison Park, Tomorrow (Saturday) Everton Reserves v. Bury Reserves, kick-off 3 p .m. Admission 6d; Boys 2d, Stands extra including tax.
Referee Kirkham
Derby Daily Telegraph - Saturday 17 October 1936
Mr. Fred Kirkham of Lyttham St. Annes, died to-day. Mr. Kirkham. who would have been 71 years of age to-morrow, had been ill for some time. He refereed the F.A Cup final of 1905-6 at the Crystal Palace', when Everton beat Newcastle United.
EVERTON AT LEEDS.
October 17, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post.
By John Peel.
Everton try conclusions with a desperate side occupying the bottom step of the ladder at Leeds, and while the records of the teams suggest that Everton may succeed, the Yorkshire club will make a great fight, so that the Goodison Park players must be at their best if they are to gain a point. The right wing, Gillick and Geldard, may do better today as last week they did not get the customary fine services from Britton, who received a knock early in the game, Leyfield returns in place of Coulter, and in the absence of Gee, Jones (TG), the former Wrexham half-back, has his first chance in First Division football. Everton; Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Jones (TG), Mercer; Geldard, Gillick, Dean, Stevenson, Leyfield. Leeds; McInroy; Milburn (G), Milburn (J); Edwards, McDougall, Browne; Armes, Thomson, Hydes, Stepheson, Buckley.
BEE’S LEEDS CRITIQUE
October 17, 1936. The Liverpool Football Echo.
Everton’s Effort At Elland-Road.
Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Cook, backs; Britton, Jones (TG) and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Gillick, Dean (captain), Stevenson, Leyfield, forwards. Leeds United: - McInroy, goal; Milburn (G) and Milburn (J), backs; Edwards, McDougall (captain) and Browne, half-backs; Turner, Thomson, Hydes, Stephenson and Buckley, forwards. Referee Mr. S. Ames, Redditch. Wet, windy, and uncomfortable. Jones, making his debut in English League football, Leyfield for Coulter. Everton started very brightly on the right, only to find Leeds take the lead in five minutes. The ungainly Buckley, after feinting and deceiving a defender, centred in simple manner, to surprise the goalkeeper and the spectators. The ball rolled to the line, where Thomson made sure. Everton made a good response by the neatest of combination in which the left wing was particularly good. Jackson made a fine solo effort, stretching himself to the left wing. Sagar made one save only, and then was beaten again in ten minutes by Stepheson after a series of kick-and-clog attacks and muddled defence. There was a long conversation between the referee and Cook when a Leeds winger was put out of action. Prior to this Everton had continued in a neat if unavailing way and McIntroy had to save Geldard’s well-placed corner as well as which Dean’s first effort when the ball passed round the post, McInroy appearing surprised, though not beaten. Nothing excelled the endeavour of Geldard and Gillick, the extreme winger being full of endeavour and grit. The Milburn brothers were full of effort and ferocity, while McDougall, the Leeds captain, stood at attention with complacency and steadiness.
Stylish Play But No Medals.
Everton’s passing left Leeds with not even a chance of a ball, but there were so medals for this stylish play, and Stephenson now took the liberty of charging the goalkeeper off his balance. Everton were entirely on top at this stage. Gillick made a corner and nearly converted it, but later, when manufacturing a good position, he nearly destroyed the structure by waiting too long instead of passing to Dean. Rain had made the pitch sticky, and McInroy was not at all content with the way the ball was playing tricks. From 30 yards range Jones made the first Everton shot of the day, and would have scored his maiden goal at his debut if McInroy had not produced a magnificent save which sent the ball over the bar. Mercer was another who came under referee’s ban, apparently for something said, and before the ball was away the linesman called the attention of the referee to the same player for a second chapter from the book of correction. Leyfield got a ball on the roof of the net when an attack had developed on the best on lines. Everton were pretty everywhere and in front of good pretty awful because not one forward had a shot. Everton’s worst luck came when Leyfield struck the upright following the precise pass of “Dixie” Dean, Gillick was unmistakeably fouled when to full fight without getting a free kick.
Half-Time Leeds Utd 2, Everton 0.
Everton were very discontented about their final first half flutter and thought they should have had a free kick or penalty for an unmistakle offence. Leeds began the second half by missing a sitter after Buckley had centred. The home side had been bothered about the illness of their outside right, but the left wing was brothering Britton. Mercer too now missed his kick. Nothing had been seen of Hydes, but Thomson was dandy and Hydes hearing my chide now headed in for what seemed a goal, but the ball passed outside.
Jones Helps One Through.
Stephenson tried a left foot bock, but his shot went wide. Leeds replied on the right, and Jackson delayed his clearance to that the ball went out to Hydes whose shot knocked the outstretched leg of Jones and left Sagar helpless so that Jones had now made the best shot of the match and had helped another one through his own goal. Everton fought back with a lot of fire without making McInroy turn one of his grey hairs. Dean hung back further than usual and Stevenson and Gillick were the mainspring of one attack.
Second Penalty Appeal.
Again Everton appealed for a penalty kick, which was not allowed. Mercer saved three possible goals through intrepid action in the goal month. The Leeds goalkeeper dropped the ball from a centre by Geldard and the referee failed to see Jack Milburn tread on Dean who had attempted to edge the ball into the net. Dean can take it but in this case a penalty kick should have been taken. Jackson went up amongst the forwards to try and force the issue, but it was all without avail. Bad light threatened to stop Everton’s change to white jerseys had not brought a change of fortune in their away record. Leyfield made the best dribble of the match and Gillick got late trouble with McInroy and actually stopped play to go up to goal and tell McInroy all about it. Hydes was more business s like now and was unlucky not to score. Final Leeds United 3, Everton 0.
STUB MARKS
October 17, 1936. The Liverpool Football Echo
By Louis T. Kelly
• Everton, Middlesbrough and Derby County alone had scored in every match.
• A word of praise for George Jackson, the only Liverpool-born man in the Everton side v Wolves. Personal opinion was that Jackson played the game of his life, and was not excelled by anyone man of the other twenty-one on view. In speed, tackling and kicking from all positions young Jackson, who learned most of his football with the Everton club, was just about faultless.
• Talking of backs, Common, ex-Everton and Preston, has turned out a very valuable recruit for Chester. Still lives close to the Everton ground.
• Everton have now but two Scots on their books –Gillick and Thomson, years ago they could be numbered by the dozen.
• Everton have been given fewer penalty awards than any other first-class club in the last two years. Yet who is bumped off more frequently than Dixie?
LEEDS TAKE DIRECT ROUTE TO VICTORY
October 17, 1936. The Evening Express, Football Edition.
United’s Jolts For Blues.
Everton Show Polish Without Push.
By The Watcher.
Leeds United more direct methods carried them to 3-0 victory over Everton at Elland-road. A shock goal by Thompson after one minute and another by Stephenson after nine minutes took the wind out of Everton’s sails from the start. Everton’s cleverness got them nowhere. The long lob and the quick thrust were the methods on a greasy turf and Leeds exploited them to perfection. Jones, Everton’s debutant, had the misfortune to concede the Blues’ third goal, diverting the ball into his own goal. I understand that work on the erection of Everton’s Gwladys-street new stand, which has been under consideration for some time, will start next year, Mr. W. Gibbons, one of the Everton directors, told me today that they were going to start demolishing the Gwlady’s-street houses next week. They are hoping that the girders for the new double-decker will be in place before the end of the season. There were several league “scouts” present, the Arsenal and Newcastle U, being among those represented. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Cook, backs; Britton, Jones (TG) and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Gillick, Dean (captain), Stevenson, Leyfield, forwards. Leeds United: - McInroy, goal; Milburn (G) and Milburn (J), backs; Edwards, McDougall (captain) and Browne, half-backs; Turner, Thomson, Hydes, Stephenson and Buckley, forwards. Referee Mr. S. Ames, Redditch.
Everton, who played in all-white shirts, opened disastrously, being two goals down in nine minutes. Following an abortive raid by the Blues on the right flank, the ball was pushed down the middle and then squared to the waiting Buckley, who levelled a nice ball into the goalmouth. Sagar leaped up but missed, and the ball hit the inside of the far upright, spinning backwards. Thomson dashed up to connect with a downward header, and put the ball into the net. Then came the second goal. The United forwards got Everton into a tangle and out of the crowd of players came Stepheson to swerve slightly to the left before hitting a low ball which Sagar was entirely unable to prevent entering the far corner. So far, at any rate, the Blues did not deserve to be so far in arrears, but I thought there had been an early weakness in the middle line.
“No Road This Way!”
Milburn (G) proved a stumbling block when Gillick tried to go through on a lone trail, and when next the former Rangers started to take over a grounder from Dean, Edwards stepped in. When a corner earned and taken by Geldard fell just where Dean wanted it, Mcinroy saved the day by leaping high to punch away from the Everton captain’s head. We had a similar thrill when Thomson and Hydes ran through on a goal-scoring route to be checked by Cook. The referee spoke to Cook when the left full back brought Turner down heavily on the line, the winger having to receive attention. Leeds were more direct, Everton sometimes pleased the crowd of 28,000 with their subtedly, but found it was not getting them anywhere. The slippery turf made the ball control difficult, but Leeds, scorning the short pass and replying on the long lob and the rush through, were still proving more dangerous near goal. The Everton attack was moving well, but not well enough to overcome the United’s shout defence. When Dean slipped a brilliant long ball for Leyfield to run up and hit low, the ball crashed against the upright.
Half-time Leeds United 2, Everton 0.
Everton missed conceding another goal only by the greatest of luck, Jones was at fault. Edwards, who was having a great game, gave Jackson something to think about when he drew Mercer before pushing the ball forward for Turner. The Blues had a great let-off, Hydes heading over a line centre when that player was almost under the bar. A few minutes later the United went further ahead and the goal must be debited to Jones the Everton debutant, Hydes, who had swung out to the left, crashed the ball across Sagar jumped out ready, but Jones stuck out a leg and diverted the ball well out of the reach of Sagar, who threw down the cap in disgust. This goal came at the 51st minute. Dean and Gillick plodded away, but neither winger responded well to their prompting, and at half-back there was a definite weakness. Leeds showed more endeavour, and it was this that was carrying them through. Stevenson had a late shot beaten out, and then Gillick gave a pass to Buckley which ended in Hydes putting outside. Final Leeds United 3, Everton 0.
LEEDS UNITED 3 EVERTON 0 (1572 Over-all)-(Div 1 1530)
October 19, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post
Leeds Surprise Everton.
Speedy Forward Play
Lack of Inches in Visiting attack.
By “Bee”
Everton had high hopes of winning at Leeds. They had heard from their Liverpool friends that Leeds United were justifiably at the foot of the League. Leeds surprised Everton by their virility and their varying methods of speedy attack. This was due in part to the inclusion of Buckley, the winger from Oldham, who was making his home debut at Leeds, and got much encouraging from a crowd which had not seen such winging work for many seasons at this ground. Leeds took an early goal and that, in my opinion, safeguarded the result for their side. Buckley created and possibly converted the goal with his sweeping centre –a centre that appeared as if it was takeable by the goalkeeper. Thomson certainly put the finishing touch to this raid and Leeds forgot the name and power of their rivals, although the Everton team as a whole started in a manner positively dazzling by means of the deft touch in pass and the all-round combine. The flick pass as introduced, the wheel-round and the deint and swerve. All these adjuncts to good attack were shown to the Leeds defenders who happen to be two burly and massive full backs named Milburn.
Art Without Result.
These brothers could not see any beauty in this framework of attack, and by degrees Everton hung themselves up on their own barbed wire because they played far too closely and far too often. Their approach work was good to look on in these drab days of football art, but it had no result and could have none because near goal there was no punch and pertinacity. The forwards simply crunched into dust when they got to a shooting zone, and it was plain the test of Gillick and Geldard as a wing was productive of much interchanging of place and pass but had no merit in matters of reality. Gillick and Stevenson were Everton’s best forwards all day, promising much and frittering away to nothing at the vital stage, but at least these two men added lustre and fire to the Everton attack, behind which came two wing half-backs, neither of whom touched their known form. J.Jones ex-Wrexham was making his debut for Everton’s first team, and the tall young pivot, aged but 19, showed up in many ways as a centre half back of understanding. He is not a resolute or deadly tackler, till he gets his long legs in a double-footed stabbling effort, yet he has splendid points in the matter of attack and a graceful movement as well. His methods of taking the ball up and swinging it to the wings was ideal, and the time came when he let go his famous long shot drive which McInroy did really well to stop. Prevented getting a goal, Jones eventually helped Hydes to his third goal-the second arrived at 10 minutes’ play through persistency on the part of Leeds with Stepheson the scorer –the ball cannoning off his leg beyond Sagar. Everton struck the upright, Leyfield being thus baulked of a well, earned goal, the shot being masterly and the finely-drawn pass by Dean being of a captivating character. However, this was not the real Everton in attack or defence, and Leeds won cleverly and well through their rugged backs, their solidity at half-back on the part of their captain, McDougall, and the fine show put up by the everlasting plant, Willis Edwards, added by Mills.
Running Fire Of Comment.
Leeds United were not so cunning and cute as Everton’s attacking line, and the difference in the scores was attributable to one feature –Leeds had a go at goal without desiring to march a yard further, and they took the ball as it came to them. Everton disappointed most in their inability to do more than meanceurve; the net result of such endeavour was nil. Cook was probably taken off his normal game by a referee edict when Turner and Cook got to close quarters early in the game, the crowd keeping up their running fire at the defender for the rest of the game. Jackson did well, and Leyfield had his moments when his skill surprised the Everton followers and the 17,000 spectators. The referee, Mr. Ames of Reddick, not only spoke to Cook, finding it necessary to talk to Mercer and finally to Dean, the last named having protested too much. Gillick once ran amok with the goalkeeper, McInroy, and forgot all about play, at the other end of the field to hold a conference, which was probably concerning anything but peace, with the home goalkeeper –a quaint if not edifying sight. Everton could not understand or tolerate the referee’s inability to see certain handling cases, and it is quite true that twice Everton claimed a penalty kick allowance. They got none. Had they finished off their early and excellent approach work with a stinging shot, there would have been no need to consider penalty grants. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Cook, backs; Britton, Jones (TG) and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Gillick, Dean (captain), Stevenson, Leyfield, forwards. Leeds United: - McInroy, goal; Milburn (G) and Milburn (J), backs; Edwards, McDougall (captain) and Browne, half-backs; Turner, Thomson, Hydes, Stephenson and Buckley, forwards. Referee Mr. S. Ames, Redditch.
EVERTON RESERVES 2 BURY RESERVES
October 19, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 11)
Everton did not impress at Goodison, and only equalised in the last minute of the match. Bury were much quicker on the ball and their passing was more accurate. Opening the score at the 10th minute, Buttery took King by surprise with a fine cross-drive. Coulter secured the equaliser at the 25th minute, but Cope put the visitors ahead again just before the interval. On turning round Everton improved but their attacks were of brief duration, and Bury held out well. King had several good saves to his credit. The best shot of the game came five minutes from the end when Bell equalised. Coulter made some intricate moves, but did not produce his best form. Everton: - King, goal; Lambert and Jones, backs; Lindley, Walkden and Thomson, half-backs; Arthur, Bentham, Bell, Hurel and Coulter, forwards.
ONLY FIVE REAL SHOTS IN 90 MINUTES
October 19, 1936. The Evening Express.
Everton’s Lack At Leeds.
By The Watcher.
The main difference between Everton and Leeds United, at Elland-road was that while the Merseysiders provided most of the polish, the Yorkshiremen shot on every occasion and thereby landed the points. It was a game in which neither side touched First Division standard. Everton put in only five shots of any power. Everton opened well, but two goals to Leeds in nine minutes put the Goodison machine out of gear. Dean and Gillick were the pick of the attack. Dean was well watched by McDougall, the United centre half back, but one admired the manner in which he plodded away, especially in view of the fact that the halves gave him little support: Gillick contrived to weave through the defence with Dean’s support, but neither Leyfield nor Geldard, the wingers, responded to their promptings. Joe Mercer was the hardest worker in the intermediate line. He did many choice things. Britton was not in his happiest vein and T.G. Jones, the Welshman, disappointed. The defence was unsteady at times against a United front line which never hesitated. They were overworked, but, on a turf slippery by rain which fell almost continuously throughout the game, they put up a good show. One could lay little blame at Sagar’s door for the three goals. I thought there was just a chance that he might have taken the first when the ball came across from Buckley, but the other two gave his absolutely no chance. Thomson, Stephenson and Jones (Everton) were the scorers for Leeds.
Honours For 3 Everton Players.
Three Everton players have been chosen to play for the Football League against the Scottish League in the concluding inter-league match of the season which takes place at Goodison Park on Wednesday. There are Dean, Britton and Gee –all three English internationals –who this season, have been playing brilliant football. Their selection will delight the Merseyside enthusiasts. Dean has not played in representative football since 1933, but he is playing at the top of form this season. Britton was in the England teams which opposed Scotland, Ireland, and Wales in 1935, and he was in the previous eleven to oppose the Scottish League. Dean has played three times against the Scottish League. Gee’s one appearance for England was in 1932 when he appeared at Anfield against Wales.
Arsenal-Everton Match Inquiry.
The Football league are inquiring into matters connected with the Arsenal and Everton match played at Highbury on August 29, when Arsenal won 3-2. It is alleged that the ground was incorrectly marked out and the question is if this is found to be a breach of football law whether the result should be allowed to stand. The two points to Arsenal may affect the destination of honours or relegation, and the League authorities are inquiring of the clubs concerned and the referee the facts and circumstances of the game.
• International Match at Goodison Park, England v. Scotland, Wednesday, Oct 21st. Kick-off 3 p.m. Admission 1/- Boys 4d. Stands extra (including tax). All Pay. Seats bookable at Sharp’s Whitechapel, and Goodison Park.
LEEDS TAKE IT OUT OF EVERTON
October 19, 1936. The Liverpool Echo.
Bee’s Notes.
There was a football load on our train to Leeds. First the Everton side and their followers, second the Liverpool Reserve side, and at their side a mysterious scouting expedition in which Mr. Manager George Kay appeared with his little bag.” After which he linked up with the St Helen’s Rugby League players, and finally, a Canadian visitor, who is taking a turn at our Baseball games –probably with the Manchester White City team. All was joy “going up,” but the lift descended when we returned because Everton had not only lost, they had given a frail exhibition in many directions and all their arts and sciences of the attacking vein had ended in smoke. Leeds, whom Liverpool friends had told them, were the weakest team they had met in the League, won with a good margin and with two goals almost as “sloppy” as those I recorded against Liverpool when they were up there a few weeks ago. But “Sloppy” goals count just as assuredly as the other kind. And one must not blame Leeds for taking such goals; they are part of the game, and when they come to our side’s register we accept them without the slightest chargin or effort at reducing the beauty of a goal. Let us be frank with each other; Everton played badly; Leeds played well. Leeds got the goals –by what final method is no special concern, and Leeds showed a nicer sense of preparation and touch when they got to the shooting gallery than Everton showed all day. I had hoped for an away victory. It did not come because the Everton you see at Goodison Park is thoroughly different from the Everton you see away –with certain exceptions like Highbury, Anfield, and Sheffield Wednesday’s ground. Here Everton did not relish running into a brick wall, for that’s what the Milburn brothers build up when Sportston is away helping England. The Milburns are described by some as awkward but others as dangerous, by other’s as “cart horses.” I prefer to think of them as defiant and lunging. They ask no quarter and give none. They bust the ball in the simplest of clearances. It is part of their make-up. Not for them the fripperies of defence touches. They get the ball away instantly, but certain in terrifying lunging passing, is that dangerous, it is not pretty, but it was pretty effective against Everton because the attack as framed on Saturday was a thing lacking in inches, weight and finishing power. In the first half Jones, the deputising pivot for Gee, was the one man who shot well, and McInroy handed out and over this fierce shot. Leyfield struck the upright and showed many resourceful touches such as born of the football nature, but the line as a line lacked the physical attributes necessary for modern football. The right wing pair had their moments, with Geldard very elusive first half and Gillick always throwing his zeal and close quick dashes into the game. Dean had a hard match for the masterly and dour McDougall, and Stevenson were the dominating forwards who not only engineering attacks by subtedly and also shot. As a line, it was too finicky and tempestuous arguing with referee about hands and penalty kicks.
The New Boy
Everton gave birth to the new centre half back of Wrexham, Jones by name, and, unlike’s Griffiths as ever you saw! Same in height as near as no matter, 19 years old, stately framed and football minded; able to give the wingers passes, and altogether a gem in attack, needing the defending vein which does not come easily to these nonchalant-looking pivots. He would use the ball, but it had to come to him from the loose. His heading was good and his general demeanour praiseworthy. It is good to see the promise of a boy of this character. Unfortunately, the wing half backs did not have a happy day, and Cook lost some of his sting through a checkmate scene when Turner was damaged and the referee held the scales. After that came a talk with Mercer and a talk with Dean’s protestations about hands. Gillick meantime had shown his displeasure over handling cases and one trip all the spectators could see, but when the young man held up his game to have a Geneva-like conference with McInroy about some bumping and boring incident I felt the whole side had become wordy and a trifle unworthy. It is not easy to keep one’s vexation under control about things which seem so patent to us, yet a team of Everton’s standing should set an example to others. The defeat has its lessons for those who can run and read. If not –and they occur again –I promise to make them so plain that everyone can understand. This is not a dictatorial attitude, it is an endeavour to remind all concerned of Everton’s reputation in the world of sport, and to spur them on to better, stronger football, with finishing power, allied to the beauty of their midfield play.
EVERTON CHANGES.
October 20, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel
Everton are early in the field this week with the selection of their team. In the side to meet Birmingham at Goodison Park on Saturday (kick-off at 3 o’clock) a number of changes have been made. Compared with the side beaten at Leeds, Gillick resumes on the wing at the exclusion of Geldard, Hurel returning as the Scot’s partner. Gee resuming at centre half in place of Jones and the team is Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Hurel, Dean, Stevenson, Leyfield. It’s is interesting to note that Bell is to play inside right to Geldard in the Central League team to visit Stoke with White at centre forward. The team chosen is King; Lambert, Jones (JE); Lindley, Jones (TG), Thomson; Geldard, Bell, White, Bentham, Coulter.
EVERTON MAKE THREE TEAM CHANGES
October 20, 1936. The Evening Express.
Back to the old order. That is Everton’s decision for next Saturday’s Football League match with Birmingham at Goodison Park. Three changes have been made –one positional –and it means that the 11 which played at Sunderland a couple of weeks ago is brought back. Gee returns to centre half for Jones (TG), and the other changes affect the right wing of the attack. Gillick, who has played two games at inside-right, is once again moved back to outside-right to the exclusion of Geldard, the international. Hurel, the 18 year-old Jersey boy, who has had three games this season, returns to inside right. Everton; Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Hurel, Dean, Stevenson, Leyfield.
Reserves’ Experiment.
An interesting experience is made in the reserves eleven to visit Stoke City in a Central League game. “Bunny” Bell, the former, Tranmere Rovers centre-forward, is being experimented with at inside-right as partner to Geldard. This is done, no doubt, in an effort to solve the forward problem facing the Blues. The attack will be led by Tommy White, the international centre-half, who has recovered from adhesions in the knee, and who was a regular centre forward in his early days at Goodison Park. Everton Reserves: King; Lambert, Jones (JE); Lindley, Jones (TG), Thomson; Geldard, Bell, White, Bentham, Coulter.
International Honours.
Cook, the Everton vice-captain, and Stevenson, the Everton inside-left, have been chosen to play for Ireland in the international match against Scotland on October 31 in Belfast.
YEARNS FOR THE BEST
October 20, 1936. The Liverpool Echo.
Bee’s Notes.
This city yearns for the best class football and when the Scottish League tackle the English League tomorrow at Goodison Park, the ground will be tested. All Scottish’s sons exiled in this city will be there will be many visitors from Scotland, and Merseyside will always take a chance to see stars such as Tommy Walker, Brown the most consistent half back Scotland has ever known, and McPhail, for whom Everton offered a large sum so many years ago that I always feel astonishment when I see him still holding his own in this type of game –a great forward, an uncommon forward. But then are not all the Scottish footballers likely to give us the “joy of football arts,” tomorrow? This Scottish League side, if played each week in this city, would never draw fewer than 40,000 spectators –until they danced to death at the expense of getting goals. The Football league side looks good –all the selected sides look that way; it is when they get on the field they appear to be so many units with no sense of unanimity about the order of going on.
Dean Is Still The Best.
The selectors have sunk Barker, of Derby County. So the kernel of the game is being changed. Gee has never played better than this season; it is a compliment to him to say White has not been missed. He was resting on Saturday –looking on at his deputy at Leeds, so tomorrow Gee will be quite fit for the task imposed on him. Dean’s return to centre will please locals –so say the folk down London way, but the fact is we know he has been playing better than any other English centre forward this season, and slimming process has brought him to attacking life and power. It will not be Steel’s confidence any good to know he has been buffeted about in this manner, but at least Dean will operate for him on his favourite spot, and that means much to this big fellow who has come back to like when he had been voted “finished” anything up to four years ago.
To Hold 80,000
Goodison Park has just started on its endeavour to make the ground the most compact in the Country. The houses at the back of the Aintree’s goal are being demolished, and when the new goal stand goes up there will be room for practically 80,000 people. The new stand will create 4,000 seats, and the stand will roll round the corner of the ground to link up with Bullins-road stand. It is impossible to complete the chain of stands to the directors’ grand stand, became the church intervenes. However, the completion of the change by next September will see an additional 10,000 spectators at an end long since out of date, and showing a number board not worthy the club despite the attention given to it this season. The ground may not be fully taxed tomorrow for the inter-league game, but anyone who can cast his mind back eleven years ago to the grand 4-3 game we saw between the two leagues, will deem it necessary and urgent he should be in attendance at Goodison Park tomorrow to see the following side match their skill.
ENGLAND CAPS FOR EVERTONIANS
October 22, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Posy
England beat Scotland 2-0 at Goodison Park, Dean, Britton and Gee –may have been looked upon as a gesture to local spectators. At any rate whatever the selectors had pictured by the local strain, they were happy to see each of the three did himself justice and Gee played a shade above himself, while Dean’s presence was sufficient to get the Scottish defence into a state of fear without terrorism. Dean merely played a dashing game, and the Scottish backs could not stand up to his attacks, most of which were of solo character.
EVERTON’S HOME RECORD IN DANGER TO-MORROW.
October 23, 1936. The Liverpool Echo.
Bee’s Notes.
After the Inter-League brush we get on our marks for the knock-knock of the League matches. Who’s there for a hiding tomorrow? Whose turn is it to have the limelight of sensation put upon their figures if not their faces? One is getting rather accustomed to the battery of knocks that come along with regularity each week. I have a notion that Everton’s home game might provide one tomorrow. Birmingham came to Anfield a three weeks since, and while they impressed most people they had not the finish necessary to carry them through, and now they are revisiting this city at a time when there has been a strenuous midweek game for three week star. Dean, gee, Britton, and I am wondering whether the speed of the extreme wing men of the Brum side will have its effect? Don’t tell me Wednesday was not a test; it was a strenuous time for the three Everton players, and coming close up against another stout set in the improved Birmingham side. Everton will have to be very wary about their tactics to keep their home record completely clean. The recall of Hurel had become necessary. The effort to make Gillick an inner register brought neither goal nor satisfaction. Geldard started in resolute fashion at Leeds, and then came a slump on most of the players pairs that made Leeds look a fast and good side, whereas we had seen then before and reckoned them in their right place. Now Everton’s defence has not been too secure in some games, and a lighting up of the back division is necessary while at half-back the need of less fine works and more completely, satisfying instant passes to the forward line become more than necessary. One does not wish to lose any attractiveness, in the side, but there is a line at which a pass can be made and the forward can “get on with his work.” It is to this end I am asking both wing men to make a quicker pass. In the attack Leyfield will be found to be willing and fast, with boxes of tricks few allow him in their credit side. The need for driving force has been apparent for some time, and it is the duty of each forward to “have a go” when reasonably placed. Otherwise Birmingham with their sure defence and the Devine half back strength show up in surprisingly good manner. Everton’s team reads. Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Hurel, Dean, Stevenson, Leyfield.
EVERTON’S CHANCE TO GO NEARER LEADERS.
October 23, 1936. The Evening Express.
Sixth Home In Succession?
Birmingham Will Be A Big Obstacle.
By The Pilot.
Three points behind the leaders and a match in hand. This is the strong position occupied by Everton in the Football League. Tomorrow they have a chance of consolidating that position. Birmingham, one of the fastest and brightest young sides in the division, visit Goodison Park, and indications are that the Blues will bring their total of home points up to 12. It will not be accomplished easily, however, for Birmingham are one of those teams who often spring surprises. I would describe them as a shock team, with ability in attack and youth and energy in defence. Their speed in tackling and intervention may unset the more artistic endeavour of the Blues. However, Everton apart from that poor display at Leeds, have been serving up fine football and I think their superiority at half-back will enable them to get on top early and stay there. So far Everton have defeated Sheffield Wednesday, Brentford, Liverpool, Huddersfield Town and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Goodison Park, and I do not regard Birmingham as stronger opposition than any of those teams. The Midlanders have gained a point a match and have lost only two of their five away games. They have scored more goals than the Blues, but on the other hand, their defence has conceded more goals. A former Merseyside favourite in C. Wilson Jones who began his career with Wrexham, will lead the attack and the Birmingham side carries two exceptionally fine inside forwards in Harris and Morris, the Welsh international. It should produce a rousing game and I take Everton to prevail. Everton; Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Hurel, Dean, Stevenson, Leyfield.
• League Match at Goodison Park. Tomorrow (Saturday) Everton v. Birmingham. Kick-off 3 o’clock. Admission 1/- Boys 4d, Stands extra (Including tax). Booked Seats Sharp’s Whitechapel.
BIRMINGHAM AT EVERTON.
October 24, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton failed to reproduce their previous form at Leeds last Saturday and they are faced by another determined side in Birmingham today at Goodison Park. Everton are a point better off than their rivals and I expect Dean and his team to win this time. Gillick resumes on the right wing in place of Geldard with Hurel as his partner, and Gee takes up his usual place at centre half in place of Jones. Birmingham have to make changes owing to Barkas and Fillingham being injured. Steel, the former Liverpool full back comes in for Barkas, and Lea deputises for Fillingham. Morris returns to outside left. The kick-off is at 3 o’clock and the teams are: - Everton: - Sagar; Cook, Jackson; Britton, gee, Mercer; Gillick, Hurel, Dean, Stevenson, Leyfield. Birmingham: Hibbs; Trigg, Steel; Stoker, Lea, Loughran; White, Brumskill, Jones, Harris, Morris.
LOST FOR HOME POINT.
October 24, 1936. The Liverpool Football Echo.
Everton’s Rally To Draw.
Six Goals Shared.
By Stork.
Birmingham nearly brought off a prime sensation. Everton had a very bad spell, yet made a great recovery, but forgited their first home point. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Cook, backs; Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Hurel, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Leyfield, forwards. Birmingham: - Hibbs, goal; Trigg, and Steel, backs; Stoker, Lea and Loughan, half-backs; White, Brunskill, Jones, Harris and Morris, forwards. Referee Mr. T. Thomson, Northumberland. Everton were soon in their stride, and Hibbs had to retrieve a lob from Gillick, a swinging centre from the left wing, and other saves, but he should have no chance when Dean with a sweet pass, placed Stevenson for “the kill.” The little Irishman, who has been very sure in his shooting this season, made a bad one this time, the ball going high over the crossbar. To make up for his miss he played some entrancing football for the next few minutes, making choice passes to either side of the field, occasionally changing his tactics of putting one up the middle for Dean. Britton made one of his usual lobs into the goalmouth only to find that Dean was not there. Steel formerly Liverpool, sent the ball so far ahead that Sagar ran out to take it. The Everton goalkeeper had gone a step or two too far, for the bounce of the ball was so high that Sagar had to step back smartly to prevent what would have been a simple-looking goal. Hibbs showed a cool head when he came out, caught a dropping ball, and threw clear with three Everton men in close attention. Jones made a fiery shot which slashed up against Mercer, who was rushing across the goal face, so that an awkward position was temporarily cleared. Sagar, however, had to go down on one knee to keep out a low effort by Morris. The Everton backs were playing a very forward game, and when someone put the ball forward there looked a case for the offside whistle, but the referee was right in ignoring the crowd’s about, Jones bounded on and Sagar came rushing out. The centre forward tapped the ball to the far side of the goal, but there was half-a-yard space between the ball and the upright. It was a close call, however.
Gillick Tape Through.
It was straight from this incident that Everton opened the day’s score. Dean swung the ball out to Leyfield, and Trigg misjudged the fight, so that Leyfield was able to go on, close in, and make a strong shot to the far corner of the net. The ball would have missed its mark had not Gillick, who foreshow what was going to happen, closed in to calmly tap the ball into the net at the 22nd minute. The equaliser, was only delayed. After a header from Jones went very close, Morris, who did so well for Wales, a week ago, shot hard and true, and all Sagar could do was push the ball out and before he or any other man could recover Brunskill had the ball in the net at 31 minutes. Jackson made a flying header reminiscent of Dicky Downs. To show the keenness of the Everton forwards I have to tell you that Gillick and Leyfield came into collision in the centre forward position. A mis-kick by Jackson let in Morris but Gee calmly rolled in took the ball away from the Welsh international and passed it on to Sagar to complete the business. At 40 minutes Birmingham surprised the natives by taking the lead, Morris started the movement which culminated in a goal. Yet to me there appeared to be a little slackness of the part of the Everton defence when Harris eventually drove the ball beyond Sagar. Birmingham were most direct in their methods, and it paid much better than the too elaborate ideas of the Everton side. Morris had now found his true form, engineering movements which put his colleagues on the attack with a solitary pass, and had not Gee cut across Jones Birmingham’s lead at the interval might have been increased.
Half-time Everton 1, Birmingham 2.
For the first ten minutes of the second half Everton looked distinctly bad. Nothing would go right with them, passes went astray, and clearances were faulty. Birmingham a much more progressive side took a third goal through Morris at the 55 minute.
Level Again.
Tactics were changed for a time, Dean lying well behind with Stevenson and Hurel playing well up, but still Hibbs was without the right kind of work. The turn of events came at 65 minutes, when Dean nodded the ball right away from Hibbs from Gillick’s centre. This inspired the Everton side, and two minutes later Stevenson had levelled matters with a grand shot from just outside the penalty line. It was a remarkable recovery, and Everton at this point were fighting so hard to retain their unbeaten home record that the Birmingham defence had very few moments of respite. Mercer was close, as did Leyfield and Dean, but the best save was made when Hibbs turned aside a glorious effort by Gillick. Everton were now shooting when the slightest chance offered. Had they adopted the plan earlier they would not have been struggling for a winning goal. Close on the finish, white was only held up in the nick of time. Sagar had to make a save and avoid being bustled into the net with the ball in his possession. Final Everton 3, Birmingham 3.
STUD MARKS.
October 24, 1936. The Liverpool Football Echo.
By Louis T. Kelly.
• What a gathering of the football clans was that at Goodison on Wednesday –Councillors, directors, secretaries, managers and old-time players galore. In the board room after the match one noticed among other famous right-wingers like Messrs J. Sharp, Billy Bassett, Jack Bell, Jack Taylor, and Scott Duncan. What would their like be worth today? Other former stars at the match included Messrs Alex Raisebeck, Tom Bromilow, Fred Geary, Joe Smith, Ted Vizard, J. Butler, T. Jennings and Charlie Buchan. Again what would their like be worth today?
• It is said that the fee paid Everton when Holdcroft joined Preston North End was £800. Everton were well off for keepers at the time. Holdcroft only Ranking as third stirring to Sagar and Coggins.
• Holdcroft was out of the Preston side on Saturday for the first time since leaving Everton after a run of 158 League games.
• Everton, Portsmouth and Sunderland each held a 100 per cent home record this morning.
• It will be just a year come Wednesday that Mr Tom McIntosh (Oct 28) passed away. He served the Everton club as secretary for 15 years.
• The Goodison Park turf has never been so beautifully carpet as it is this season.
• Holdcroft is not the first goalkeeper to achieve international honours after leaving Everton. Remember Jimmy Ashcroft, a local, going to Woolwich Arsenal over 30 years ago, and gaining caps against all three countries.
EVERTON 3 BIRMINGHAM CITY 3 (Game 1573 over-all)-(Div 1531)
October 26, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post.
Dean Leads In rally.
Timely Recovery To Draw.
Lack of Finishing Power.
By “Stork,”
Birmingham at Goodison Park at one period took a lead of two goals, on a ground which has not witnessed a home defeat this season. Everton came close to losing that record –they drew 3-3. Everton frittered away chances in the first half through their penchant to over elaborate play, and for a long spell in the second half Everton played so badly that Birmingham promised to run out winners. True, Everton attacked most of the game, but, having done that, there was a frailty about their shooting which was not encouraging, whereas Birmingham by much simpler methods, were always the more dangerous organisation when near goal Everton were fitful and fretful. They had fallen from being a good combined side to one which could not do anything right.
Dean Turns The Tide.
Then a Dean goal, a header of perfect accuracy, turned the game into another channel. Everton saw they could pull the game out of the fire if the right plans were adopted. Shots were needed; there had been few despite all the Everton pressure, so that the Birmingham defence had gained a strong belief in itself. They could put up with Everton’s pressure so long as Hibbs was not unduly troubled, but after Dean’s goal Everton’s play caused the Midlanders rear lines to quiver. Not that they ever made any serious mistakes, but just that their confidence had been shaken. Everton’s prospect therefore brightened. They were clamouring round Hibb’s goal for lengthily periods. It was the most tense part of the match, and but for a magnificicent save by Hibbs from Gillick, Everton would have won the day after they had looked well beaten. It was a magnificent rally, and well worthy of the draw it produced, but I am not unmindful of the opportunities they allowed to slip by in the opening half. Birmingham were some soon finding their feet, whereas Everton ran right into the game with one exception, that of goal scoring, for in the first minute, Stevenson was so placed that no one thought he would slash the ball over the bar. From then on to the interval Hibb’s duly was never overpowering. He was beaten by Gillick after Leyfield had been given a grit pass through Trigg misjudging the flight of the ball. The outside left closed in and made a determined shot for the far side of the goal. The ball would have missed its mark had not Gillick rushed in and tapped it into the net at the 22nd minute. The former England goalkeeper was never in serious trouble again, for from then on for the next 23 minutes, Birmingham started to come into the game as an attacking side and Brunskill scored after Sagar had pushed out a hot shot by Morris. Nine minutes later Harris scored owing to slackness by the Everton defence, so that Everton had some leeway to make up in the second half. It was anything put a happy position for them for the Midlanders attack had found ways to defeat the Everton defence in spite of its offside trap, which had often held up promising attacks.
A Bad Ten Minutes.
The opening 10 minutes of the second half was a “nightmare” to the Everton supporters, for their team touched rock bottom. Passes went wrong, players ran out of position; in fact, Everton became higgledy-piggledy; ragged, uncertain of itself, whereas Birmingham, particularly in attack, showed them how it was done. Jones out on the right wing –he did not work to rule of thumb –best Cook and sauntered on before he finally dispatched the ball to Morris, who ran into score with a header –time 55 minutes. There was still plenty of time for Everton to prove they could fight against adversity, but it was not until five minutes after the hour that they again sprang into life. Dean scoring with a perfectly placed header which left Hibbs stone cold. Two minutes later Stevenson had made amends for his early miss with a great shot from far out which screamed into the Birmingham goal. It was now a deadly struggle between Everton’s forwards and the Birmingham defence, and as Hibbs was part of it, be prevented an Everton victory by making a grand save from Gillick. Now the people who had been saying unkind things turned round, and urged Everton on, but a draw had to suffice. Birmingham twice tested Sagar in the fleeting minutes so the match ended on a thrilling note. Everton most produce more punch to clinch their approach work in future games if they are not to suffer similar experience. Birmingham demonstrated the vains of straightforward methods Jones the centre forward was not confined to his own area. He made some spicy shots, and Morris gave an excellent display once he got the measure of Jackson, who was not so sure as usual. Dean was Everton’s best forward, closely followed by Gillick for Stevenson undid a lot of his work by holding on to the ball too long. Gee was sound, but Jackson and Cook must have a care. Their offside plan, while effective on the day may prove costly tomorrow. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Cook, backs; Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Hurel, Dean (captain), Stevenson and Leyfield, forwards. Birmingham: - Hibbs, goal; Trigg, and Steel, backs; Stoker, Lea and Loughan, half-backs; White, Brunskill, Jones, Harris and Morris, forwards. Referee Mr. T. Thomson, Northumberland.
STOKE CITY RESERVES 6 EVERTON RESERVES 2
October 26, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 12)
Robson, the Stoke centre forward contributed largely to the Everton defeat at Stoke. Playing with dash and skill he scored three times in 15 minutes. Everton were hard pressed, Stoke pilling on the pressure. King made many fine saves before Fursland and Pippitt added further goals for Stoke. Everton improved after the interval, Bentham and White reduced the arrears, put Pippitt added a sixth goal for Stoke. Everton Reserves: - King, goal, Lambert and Jones, backs; Lindley, Jones (TG), and Thomson, half-backs; Geldard, Bell, White, Bentham, and Coulter, forwards.
EVERTON’S BAD SPELL
October 26, 1936. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes.
Everton are might proud of their home record, yet it nearly went by the board when Birmingham paid their visit to Goodison Park; in fact at the hour I doubt if one single person would have accepted 20 to 1 that their homely boast would remain unsullied, for at that point Birmingham were leading 3 goals to 1. That would not have been so bad had Everton been shaping like a side which could make a revival, but they touched the bed-rock, the very worst spell I have seen them go through for an age (writes Stork). Why this sudden fall? Previously they had played good-class football, even though their shooting had been found wanting, but when the Birmingham side got their teeth into their bit, Everton floundered and nearly sank. I cannot explain it. Perhaps they can. Was it the wind? Was it the unsettling effect of Birmingham’s lead? Was it lack of spirit of one who can see defeat ahead? I have tried to think out a reason, but so far without success. All I do know is that they slumped for twenty minutes and became an uncertain quantity; not one to promise the fighting finish they produced. What I do know is that they lost several chances in the first half when they were definitely on top of Birmingham in the matter of attack and football artistry, but it was their very cleverness which proved their undoing. Good class combination is all very well if it is brought to a definite conclusion, and that conclusion is goals, the material factory if one is to have a winning team. It has been Everton’s habit in recent times to draw fire blood and draw it early in the game. Stevenson was grateful the opportunity to bring it into effect against the Midlanders but his shot landed among the spectators.
“Wrongdoers.”
Surely that miss was not responsible for Everton’s ineffectiveness, for it happened too early in the game to have such an influence. No, it was not that, for they still maintain their grip as aggressors until their “zero” spell just after the interval. They had scored first, but Birmingham’s more direct methods produced two goals and the lead before the half stage was reached, and they looked like holding it, aye, even increasing it, for Everton had gone to nothing. They became a collection of “wrongdoers,” Whatever they attempted went amiss, so much so, that Birmingham increased their goal crop, and faces round about me went gloomy and the quietness uncanny. Then came the dawn. A spirited bust, and a goal by dean and Everton had forgotten their patchy spell, so that passes went right, and they became a fighting quality. The fear of defeat was lessened; they were in the game again with a chance, and when Stevenson scored a great goal with a great shot, the sad faces lost their grimness, for Everton had accomplished something which at one point looked impossible. They had saved their home record; in fact, they almost took a victory, for had not Hibbs made a magnificent save from Gillick, Birmingham’s one time assured victory would have ended in a starting defeat. Everton had heartened us all by their gallant recovery, but I still considered that their desperate battle need never have been had they had a mind for a shot instead of being slaves to short passing.
Rested Heavily.
Birmingham had given them a fright which undoubtedly rested heavily on Everton’s shoulders. They were quick to seize their chances they did not want to make just one more pass. Sufficient for the day was the fact that they were within striking distance of Sagar, so the shot was made. Three of them scored –Brunskill, Harris and Morris –other missed, but they had attempted something. Everton on the other hand, were more often in the Birmingham goal area than the Midlanders were near Sagar’s charge, but the great difference was the lack of penetrating shots. Gillick’s goal arrived through a mistake by trig, who mistimes a ball; but there was no luck about Dean’s goal, which was the Dean goal in its perfection, Hibbs being left standing against a gliding header. Stevenson’s goal was the result of a great shot, but Birmingham had given Everton a scare. Up to the interval Everton combination had been classical, and it was a duel between them and the Birmingham defence, which accomplished some solid work in stemming their opponents advances. Hibbs was never overwhelmed with work considering how close to him was the play, which tells of Everton’s frailty in the shooting department. Jackson and Cook play well forward and unlisted the offside trap, which proved successful, but don’t overdo it for one of these days it may prove costly. Gee, mercer, and Britton were good, but even they became enmeshed during Everton’s patchy streak. Dean and Gillick were the best forwards although Stevenson put in a tremendous lot of clever work. Leyfield was like the curate’s egg good in part. Sagar made several excellent saves. Birmingham have got together a smart young side. Jones was a clever leader, unorthodox in his methods, with Morris an able lieutenant, and Harris and Brunskill, the newcomer from Oldham did well in the inside positions Steele, the former Liverpool full back got through a lot or work again Gillick. Yes, I think Birmingham deserved their point.
INSPIRING LEADERSHIP OF DEAN.
October 26, 1936. The Evening Express.
Everton Captain’s Home Scoring Record.
By The Watcher.
Dean’s wholehearted enthusiasm helped Everton to stage a wonder rally against Birmingham at Goodison Park and a draw of 3-3 was almost converted into a sensational last minute victory. The Blues looked set for their first home defeat, when the Midlanders took their score to 3-1 early in the second half but then Everton pulled out their best for the first time in the match, and at the finish they definitely were on top. The home attack did not function so smoothly in the first half as did that of the visitors, and the home defence was shaky, but a perfectly executed header by Dean, which was the signal for Everton’s wonderful revival served not only as a tonic to the rest of the side but as the key to better combination. Once again, Dean played a captain’s part in the fullest sense. He plodded away in an endeavour to get his line into working order and occasionally, one found his slipping back to assist his halves. Dean keeps on scoring, in fact he has not yet missed scoring in a home league engagement so far this season. But he must have better support if he is to maintain that grand record. The wingmen, Leyfield and Gillick, improved the attack, but Dean’s inside partners did not render him proper assistance. Hurel ran out of position too often and Stevenson, who scored a magnificent late goal –he shot his goal from long range –lost several good chances. He should certainly have made no mistake early on when a choice Dean pass gave him the ball close in. Britton took the eye now and again with neat flicks but generally speaking, Mercer achieved most in the middle line. The defence did not earn one’s confidence. Jackson and Cook played too far apart, leaving gaps gaps in the middle, and the Birmingham wing pairs were too fast. Sagar effected many brilliant saves, one, at the foot of the post, being one of the high-lights of the game. Gillick, Dean and Stevenson, in that order, were Everton’s marksmen
COOK AND COULTER CHOSEN.
October 27, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Ireland have again chosen Cook and Coulter, of Everton. This will be Cook’s seventh call to assist his country, Coulter, who broke his leg while playing for Ireland against Wales in 1935, played against all three countries that season, and also the previous season. This time he is chosen as inside left to Kelly.
EVERTON’S COUNTY CUP-TIE TODAY.
October 28, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post.
By John Peel.
Everton are due to meet Manchester United in the second round of the Lancashire Cup at Old Trafford today, kick-off at 3 o’clock. It will be seen that Cook who has been chosen to play for Ireland against Scotland at Belfast on Saturday, is included in the side. The clubs are expected to field strong representative teams in the competition, and Everton will be represented by Sagar; Jackson, Cook; Thomson, Gee, Mercer; Geldard, Bentham, White, Stevenson, Leyfield.
McINTOSH MEMORY
October 28, 1936. The Liverpool Echo.
Supporters Ask That Dean Shall Have A weighty Line To Lead
Bee’s Notes.
Let your memory pass back one year and you will recall the death of Tom McIntosh, the Everton secretary of many years standing. Mrs Betty Mac, Peter, Frank, Ian, Jean, Edna, and Stan still have our sympathy.
“Everton Blue” says: One would have thought that at this stage of Dean’s career the Everton directors would be doing all in their power to lengthen his playing days by playing men who would take some of the weight off his shoulders. Instead, one would think they were trying to shorten them by the look of some of the men alongside him. Surely, the Everton directors can do better than put two 5ft 5in inside forwards with him, as they did versus Birmingham. What Dean and the Everton forward line needs is a man of Tommy Johnson’s build and style to help Dean and open the game out for the others. I wish to thank you for the part you have been playing in trying to point out to the Everton directors this lack of inches in the Everton team.
“Evertonian” (Rock Ferry) writes;- I am very glad to see that you have mentioned the lack of height and weight in the Everton forward line in all you recent able criticism of the Everton matches. I only wish that you would make the matter more prominent, then something might be done. In view of the opposition I was amazed to see the selection for inside right. With all due respect to you, Birmingham are a big hefty side, that know how to tackle! What chance has a small, young inexperienced boy against opposition of the natural.” Obviously, the opposition was not considered when the selection was made, bad work in my opinion. I feel sorry for Dean battling against hefty defences on his own. The inclusion of say Tommy White would take a lot of the weight from his shoulders. Thanking you for your always interesting notes. It is 1936. I suppose, for the first time in thirty-four years I omitted this year, through some forgetfulness, to state the length of services of the “Bee” column. I redeem that error and name the thirty-fourth year because the season is two months old and I have a letter from a man who signs himself “Enthusiast,” and wants to know if I can see any other colour but Blue. Did you see the match on Wednesday or did some other Blue pal see it for you? By your report and your ridiculous praise of Dean I am sure you did not see much of it. The opinion all around me in the 2s 4d stands was –that Dean was the worst player for England. I counted Dean beaten thirteen times by a smaller player –try-to head the ball. Please publish this and let hear some other honest opinions, not Blue ones.
Answer; - You are entitled to your view. I rated Dean’s game as most helpful to a team generally lacking in centre forward ideals. Dean does so much that is good that one has to look deeply into his work to realise the full value of a flick or a touch of the head. There were many times when the inside forwards were not up to carry on his work. It may charm my reader to know that the Hearts manager, after the game told me –without Dean’s name being mentioned by me –how sorry he was his effort to get Dean to Edinburgh had failed. There is no one equal him, he added. It may be recalled told the story of the attempts to get Dean and you may remember certain other papers landing their columns to a story that Dean had never been sought of considered in the transfer world. But he had and he knew it. However, that’s a another story.
JACK COULTER RELEASED.
October 28, 1936. The Evening Express.
The directors of the Everton Club last night decided to release Jack Coulter their outside left to play for Ireland against Scotland at Belfast on Saturday. Cook, the full back, had already been given permission to play. The release of Cook means that Jack Jones will make his First Division debut of the season, but the team to visit Middlesbrough had not yet been selected and will not be announced until tomorrow.
UNITED ON TOP AGAINST EVERTON.
October 28, 1936. The Evening Express.
By The Pilot.
Blackpool, Manchester City and Wrexham were among the clubs represented at Old Trafford today, when Everton opposed Manchester United in the second round of the Lancashire Senior Cup. Everton were stated to be interested in Mutch, the United inside right. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Cook (captain), backs; Thomson, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Bentham, White, Stevenson, and Leyfield, forwards. Manchester United: - John, goal; Redwood and Roughton, backs; McClelland, Mellor and Whalley, half-backs; Bryant, Mutch, Bamford, Rowley, Manley, Referee Mr. A. Taylor. The United opened with greater power, Rowley missing an easy chance before Mutch sent the ball inches over the top with a shot taken on the volley. In twelve minutes the United took the lead. Mutch took over from Bamford, made a sinuous dribble close to the line, pushed the ball back along the floor and Rowley ran it into the net. Just after Mutch drove past the post. Bamford scored a remarkable second goal in 22 minutes. Sagar allowed a centre from Bryant to pass beyond the goal and Bamford, standing practically on the goal line, screwed the ball back with his head for it to enter the net just inside the far post. Sagar was under the impression that the ball would run out of play. Geldard ran through from a perfect pass by Thomson and let go a terrific cross shot which John dived to and turned aside, John made another brilliant save off Geldard, then punched over the top a perfectly placed header by White from Stevenson’s centre.
Half-time Manchester United 2, Everton 0
Everton improved on the resumption, but lacked finish. John tipped over an excellent shot from Jackson, then Sagar saved a point blank range from Bamford, before Mutch had a shot kicked off the line.
MUTCH TO CLEVER.
October 28, 1936. The Liverpool Echo.
Works To Goal v Everton. Lancs. Cup-Tie
For the Lancashire Senor Cup second round tie with Manchester United at Old Trafford this afternoon Everton were without Britton, Gillick, Hurel and Dean. The home side also made several changes in their defence. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Cook (captain), backs; Thomson, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Bentham, White, Stevenson, and Leyfield, forwards. Manchester United: - John, goal; Redwood and Roughton, backs; McClelland, Mellor and Whalley, half-backs; Bryant, Mutch, Bamford, Rowley, Manley, Referee Mr. A. Taylor. Only about 200 people were present to see United win the toss and with the advantage of a bitterly cold wind blowing down the field, give the Everton defence some anxious moments. First of all, Cook held up Bryant and then in the next raid Bamford headed wide from the former’s centre. Manley and Mutch were each at fault in subsequent home raids, and for ten minutes Everton were penned in their own half. Eventually, White tried a shot at the other end, and gained a corner. From this, however, Everton were forced back, and after 13 minutes Rowley scored for the United. Mutch cleverly worked the ball and flicked through to the inside left, who ran through with the ball into the net.
Two Up.
Mercer was cleverly deceived by Mutch, and Everton had to concede a corner which was, however, unproductive. Stevenson by clever play gave the visitors the initiative, but the home defence had no difficulty in repulsing the move. The visitors’ halves then came into the picture. They opened out the game very well, but found the strong wind a big handicap. Stevenson tried a long-range shot, which just scraped the upright, with John, the Manchester goalkeeper, dashing across the goalmouth. After twenty-three minutes United gained a second goal. Again Mutch engineered the move. He put the ball through to Bryant, whose centre deserved both Jackson and Sagar, Manley and Bamford jumped for the ball, and the former reached it and nodded it into the net.
John’s Fine Saves.
Then Everton gave the home defence a busy time. Thomson and Gee were prominent when Geldard made a strong run on the right, and only a brilliant effort by John saved a goal. At the other end Sagar deflected a shot from Bamford, and then Geldard tested John again. It looked a certain goal but the Manchester goalkeeper brought off a wonderful save. White shot wide a minute afterwards. Again Everton came very near to reducing their arrears when gee, Leyfield, Geldard and Stevenson combined in brilliant fashion. White’s header from Stevenson’s pass was just pushed over the bar by John and when the interval whistle came Everton were doing most of the attacking.
Half-time Manchester United 2, Everton 0.
Swung The Ball About.
Thomson out-manoeuvred Rowley and Manley on the resumption, but his final pass saw Geldard out of position. Stevenson was prominent on the opposite wing, but here again the move ended tamely. United swung the ball about a lot more skilfully than the visitors, although play was being enacted for the most part in the United half.
MANCHESTER UNITED 2 EVERTON 0
October 29, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Keep The Ball Close.
Mistaken Cup-Tie Tactics.
Singular Free Kick Incident.
Everton did not employ the correct tactics in their second round Lancashire Senior Cup tie at Old Trafford, and were defeated by 2-0. They made the mistake of keeping the ball too close, especially in the second half, when they had by far the better of the game. They gave a display of pretty football which, however, did not produce the satisfactory result. Against a side that showed no hesitation and revealed rally splendid recovering powers, Everton tried to walk the ball into the net, after Manchester had displayed to them the advantage gained by swinging it short and shooting at every opportunity. Manchester set the pace in the first half. From the start their wide, sweeping passes caused the Everton defence anxiety. Before the game was half an hour old Manchester were 2 goals to the good. Had Everton seen the wisdom of these methods they might have staged a rally and the result would have been a different story; but they took no heed. Possessing the more skilful and polished half back line, they would have found it beneficial to revert to the manoeuvrings of their opponents. Their forwards were also at fault in this dallying business, and enabled the Manchester defence to recover. It must be said, however, that John the Manchester goalkeeper, played a wonderful game and brought off some remarkable saves, notably one from a header by White.
Jackson’s Fine Back Play.
With the exception of John, the home defence was not too sound. Redwood was prominent. Of the Everton backs Jackson was outstanding. Sagar gave a capital display in goal after a shaky opening. Thomson was the pick of the Everton half-backs. He kept Geldard in the picture. Gee did not give Bamford much more scope, neither did Mellor allow White any latitude. Geldard was the pick of the Everton forwards, with Stevenson second best. The home side were well served by Bryant and Mutch. The latter player made the openings for the goals, which were scored by Rowley and Bamford. A singular incident occurred mid-way in the second half when Manchester were penalised in the penalty area for a defender shouting, and Everton were awarded a free kick. Three times the kick was taken. On the first two occasions Referee Taylor ordered it to be retaken owing to a United defender being within ten yards distance from the ball even though Gee netted the second time. On the third occasion, however, Stevenson shot wide after White had flicked the ball through to him. The attendance was 1,684, and receipts £86 12s 6d. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Cook (captain), backs; Thomson, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Geldard, Bentham, White, Stevenson, and Leyfield, forwards. Manchester United: - John, goal; Redwood and Roughton, backs; McClelland, Mellor and Whalley, half-backs; Bryant, Mutch, Bamford, Rowley, Manley, Referee Mr. A. Taylor.
MIDDLESBROUGH MAKE CHANGES
October 29, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post.
By John Peel.
Drastic changes in attack are made in Middlesbrough’s team to entertain Everton on Saturday. The international inside forwards, Yorston and Coleman, are dropped and Fenton, the reserve centre forward who scored eight goals in a North-Eastern League game last week, is recalled at inside right. Higham, formerly with Everton, will play at inside left. The Middlesbrough team is Cummings; Laking, Forrest; Brown, Baxter, Forrest, Birkett, Fenton, Camell, Highan, Cochrane.
EVERTON AND ‘BORO’ TEAM CHANGES.
October 29, 1936. The Evening Express.
Jones At Left Back For The Blues.
By The Pilot.
Everton and Middlesbrough both make team changes for their Football League match at Ayresome Park on Saturday. In the Everton side Jack Jones makes his first appearance of the season with the seniors when he deputises at left back for Cook, who will be leading Ireland against Scotland in Belfast. Otherwise the eleven is the same as that which dropped a home point to Birmingham. The Borough made two forward changes, omitting Yorston and Coleman. Fenton plays inside right for Yorston, and Norman Higham, the former Everton player, figures at inside right left in place of Coleman. Everton; Sagar; Jackson, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Hurel, Dean, Stevenson, Leyfield. Middlesbrough; Cummings; Laking, Stuary; Brown, Baxter, Forrest; Birkett, Fenton, Camsell, Higham, Cochrane.
Mutch Impressed!
Mutch the former Arbroath forward, was a “star” performer for Manchester United against Everton in the Lancashire cup match at Old Trafford yesterday, when the United won 2-0. This player –quick in action and in thought and a bonny ball-controller –has been watched by several clubs of late, including Everton and from inquiries I made at Old Trafford yesterday, the United are willing to enter into negotiations. Everton had Mutch under review last Saturday, and three directors made the journey yesterday. They must have been satisfied with what they saw.
HIGHAM PLAYS AGAINST EVERTON.
October 29, 1936. The Liverpool Echo.
The Release of Cook and Coulter
Bee’s Notes.
Norman Higham is playing against Everton. Three weeks ago I met him outside the Middlesbrough ground, and he was prepared to go anywhere outside Middlesbrough. Now he displaces a forward who has been outstanding. That’s football in 1936; unsettling and totally differing from the old-time team sheets which instead for months if there were no accident to a player. Yorston and Coleman go out and Fenton and Higham come in. So I think Everton can win although they have granted Coulter and Cook a permit to play for Ireland. Everton went out of the Lancashire Cup yesterday in a game that deserved no special mention, although there was the debating-class concerning a free kick for a defender shouting.
Dean, The Quick thinker.
“Friend” has this unusual view – Dean is too kind to his own youngsters; he is like a proud father popping sugar-apples into the mouths of his young hopefuls. Figuratively, he is all the time laying “sitters” at their feet and saying, “Now, can Yer?” If only they will shine he will be happy. Well, we must remember that Dean is a phenomenally quick thinker, and all too often his flash takes his own boys by surprise as well as the defence. I know that he thinks a lot of you, and in view of that I would plead with you to take a diplomatic opportunity to suggest in his ear that it might be advantageous to be not quite so slavish in adherence to the unselfish senior idea –“Giving the young feller a chance to make good!” Try to get him to have a few more cracks at the wide open space himself first.
“Johnny the One” writes; I feel convinced Everton’s defence tactics are incompetent. Dean receives more support from the boys pen than the present inside forwards. Here’s wishing you the wish of the sporting public your health, strength and unbiased opinion.
IT ALL DEPENDS ON FORWARDS.
October 30, 1936. Evening Express
Everton’s Chances At Middlesbrough.
By The Pilot.
Everton’s chances of recording their second away win of the season –at Middlesbrough tomorrow –depends on the ability of their forwards not only to make goals but take goals. The Blues’ forward formation has been giving some concern. They are clever in midfield, but are inclined to overdo the cleverness in the penalty area. Quicker methods at Ayresome Park tomorrow may enable them to win at a ground which has yielded no points to them for the past three seasons. The defence, too, has been wobbly on occasion of late, but I still think that if the forwards finish off their work properly that Everton can, at least, gain a point against an experimental side. Middlesbrough have omitted Coleman and Yorston so that Norman Higham, whom Everton transferred to the Borough, plays inside left and faces his erstwhile colleagues. Fenton, the young local player, figures at inside right. Everton: - Sagar; Jackson, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Hurel, Dean, Stevenson, Leyfield. Middlesbrough: - Cummings; Laking, Stuart; Brown, Baxter, Forrest; Birkett, Fenton, Camsell, Higham, Cochrane.
• Central League Match at Goodison Park Tomorrow (Saturday) Everton Reserves v. Blackburn Rovers Reserve Kick-off 3 p.m. Admission 6d, Boys 2d Stands Extra, including tax.
EVERTON’S CHANGE
October 30, 1936. The Liverpool Echo
Bee’s Notes
It is always pleasant travelling, win, draw, or lose. Yet it would be more pleasurable if one could home with a side having forged a draw or a win now and again, and Merseyside’s visitations for years have been without much result in the points column. Tomorrow the chosen Everton side can be comfortable with the knowledge that those who have seen Middlesbrough know how quickly the eleven fades into nothingness if sharp attacks are launched. Cumming, the new goalkeeper from Scotland, has had a fierce time since he made his debut and goals have been cheap against the Borough side. Cumming can improve on what has gone before, it is true, but one doesn’t forget he, the goalkeeper, has talked of the pace of English football which we thought was the phrase used by new forwards, half-backs or backs over here –certainly not in the goalkeeping cases. See? Cummings has had a heavy task and not come through it with flying colours. Now he knows what is facing him in the Everton game. Dean is a magic name, and I think a case can be made for Everton tomorrow for a draw or a win. The need of better positioning and tackling in defence is one necessity to this end, and in the forward line there will have to be more practical endings to the dainty raids. However, I am very helpful. Everton: - Sagar; Jackson, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Hurel, Dean, Stevenson, Leyfield.
• Central League Match at Goodison Park Tomorrow (Saturday) Everton Reserves v. Blackburn Rovers Reserve Kick-off 3 p.m. Admission 6d, Boys 2d Stands Extra, including tax.
SPORTSMEN TO HONOUR DIXIE DEAN
October 30, 1936. Evening Express.
Merseyside Testimonial Fund.
Evening Express Special News.
By The Pilot.
W.R. (Dixie) Dean, the famous England and Everton centre forward, is to be honoured by Merseyside sportsmen. The tribute will take the form of a testimonial. Dean, the greatest goalscorer in the history of the Football league, broke Steve Bloomer’s scoring record this season, and a number of people approached me stating “Such a notable feat should not be allowed to pass unnoticed.” Machinery has been set into motion, and a representative committee formed to administer the fund. The committee will comprise Major James Bennett, chairman of National Sporting Club and Liverpool Stadium, Ltd, and a member of the Liverpool City Council, Mr. John Moores, Mr. T. Bell, Chief Constable of Bootle; Mr. Johnny Best, managing director of Liverpool Stadium; the Rev. Father Gerrard, Mr. G. Gleave, of Seacombe; Mr. V. McKenna, who will act as hon, secretary, and myself. The fund will be opened immediately and trustees will be appointed by the Committee. This testimonial will make an instant appeal to local sportsmen for Merseyside has never had a greater or more popular footballer than William Ralph Dean, a Merseyside-born player who has gained all his honours on Merseyside.
Grit From Sportsmen.
The question of whether the Football Association or the Football League would ban such a fund does not arise. The fund is being organised apart from football. It will merely constitute a grit by sportsmen to a citizen of Merseyside who has won distinction. It is fitting that the fund should be inaugurated this year, for Dean is playing as well as ever he did. He has not only broke the goal-scoring record, but has once again been honoured in representative football, and holds the distinction of having scored in each of Everton’s home matches. Dean began his career as a professional with Tranmere Rovers, and was transferred to Everton in March 1925. Despite a serious motor accident in North Wales, he came back to score 60 goals in season 1927-28 –a record for the Football League which still stands. Dean has shared in Everton’s two First Division and one Second Division championship successes, and it was he who led the triumphant Everton team against Manchester City at Wembley in the 1933 F.A. cup Final. He has been captain of Everton since season 1931-32 –six seasons without a break.
JONES INSTEAD OF COOK.
October 31, 1936. The Liverpool Daily Post.
By John Peel.
For their match with Middlesbrough at Aryesome Park, Everton call on Jones to play instead of Cook, who is to assist Ireland. This is the only change from last week, and the team is: Sagar; Jackson, Jones (JE); Britton, Gee, Mercer; Gillick, Hurel, Dean, Stevenson, Leyfield, Everton are experimenting with White and Geldard. They will be blended as a left wing pair for the reserve team against Blackburn Rovers at Goodison Park the team being; King; Lambert, Morris; Thomson, Jones (TG), Watson; Arthur, Bentham, Bell, White (T), Geldard.
DEAN TO BE REPORTED.
October 31, 1936. The Liverpool Football Echo.
Everton’s Splutter At Middlesbro
Two Goals Down
By Bee.
“Dixie” Dean will be reported by Referee Taylor, or Rotherham, who will be remembered as giving a goal to Dean against Middlesbrough when the Boro’ alleged Dean handled the ball. Now the same referee said “No” to Camsell’s best shot. The ball appeared to me to be over the line. Everton’s forward line lacked inches and weight, and while pretty to look at, was good for nought in the shots department, but Mercer, Gee and Britton were stars, and Sagar made many grand saves. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Jones (JE), backs; Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Hurel, Dean (captain), Stevenson, and Leyfield, forwards. Middlesbrough: - Cumming, goal; Laking and Stuart, backs; Brown, Baxter and Forrest, half-backs; Birkett, Fenton, Camsell, Higham, and Cochrane, forwards. Referee Mr. Taylor, Rotherham. Sunshine again. Everton had the sun at their backs, it was very glary. Gee stepped in briskly, not brusquely, and Stevenson moved the ball up towards Dean who is not often off his feet, but was now sent over. Gee was penalised for a charge that was not unfair and Mercer cut out. Birkett to stop the prospective damage. The wing half did more. Birkett looked all over a winner when Mercer stopped not only his goal chance, but also Fenton’s and the latter was stopped by Mercer’s capable hook pull –a neat defensive stroke. Hurel helped the defence in a corner kick menace, and Jackson followed with some smart work. Everton’s passing was excellent. Leyfield and Stevenson passing and repassing till the centre came and Dean slipped the ball over the angle of the post. Camsell found the defence stop for an offside verdict that didn’t arrive fortunately for the visitors, the centre shot very badly, with one but Sagar to conquer. A free kick taken by Gee brought Dean’s famous header again just a trifle off the goal mark. After which Jackson and Jones collided Middlesbrough looked good for a goal, but Sagar crunching, made a tip-top save.
Fenton Converts Centre.
Mercer was in resolute and charming mood, and Jackson made another “dummy” move. Fenton scored in 13 minutes, however, and the shot was a sharp and true one. His chance came through the agency of the ex-Leeds man, Cochrane, whose centre was converted by the scorer. It was Fenton who made the goal by means of the intricate and cunning footwork. Further misfortune came to Everton when Jones hurt his head in collision. Sagar squeezed Birkett out of a goal. Alec Stevenson tried hard to bore his way through, and at Everton’s revival the Boro defence cracked ominously. It was not helped when Gillick got a chance to centre to the expectant forward line. He blazed away –the indiserstion of youth? Jones had returned to do some fine work only to collide once more, this time with Mercer. Both men were injured, both resumed, and both looked sick. Mercer’s shot was punched out, one handed by Cumming, a risky save, and thereupon Stevenson’s best shot was cannoned out of goal. Gillick was still in the goalmouth suffering a punch from Cumming. Gillick’s jaw was damaged, and the player had to go off for some minutes. Fenton was shaping well and Higham added life to the attack, the result being a grand swinging shot by Birkett near a goal. Brown the half-back also went close with the free kick for the ruely policy given by little Stevenson. Britton and Gee continued to do brave work and Gillick fell when about to take a shooting chance offered by Dean. Middlesbrough were the sharper and better forward line. Sagar’s goalkeeping keeping the score down. No one did more personal service than Stevenson who, at this stage was found outside right making superb centre. Everton were really too clever and their trickiness got them the shooting change. They were clever but vagne. Britton now took charge of Higham and Laking showed stern defence. Birkett broke right through and finished with a cross wise shot which was utterly unwise. He could have taken the ball into the net. Sagar made two saves difficult lobby efforts by Birkett being the danger.
Half-Time Middlesbrough 1, Everton 0
Hurel could not get his passes right, and too which work thereby fell on the older members. The home defence was shaky on the left area, Higham dived right into a ball Sagar would not reach and Sagar was glad to see the ball pass outside. Yet another injury came Everton’s way, Jackson injuring his left leg. Everton’s best move came now, with Britton sending Gillick away and Baxter kicking back on to own goal so hard and every one hope Everton would take the lesson to heart. But not Dean header came to Stevenson left foot and he shot passed a yard out. Everton big chance and come and gone. Would there be other? Now an extraordinary affair. Camsell struck the right hand corner angle with a magnificent swerving shot. The ball was in I had a fine close up view. The referee said “No” yet if he had thought a moment more this grand goal would have counted because the ball carried so much “white” that it must have gathered is all from the roll of the ball in its swerve against the inside of the upright. This is the referee who allowed an Everton goal last season at Goodison Park when it was illegal Dean handling the ball.
Dean “Named”
Dean had his name taken by the referee for something said. Dean desired to call evidence from Baxter and Forrest but the referee, having administered his caution, apparently heard some more as he advanced to Dean and officially took his name for reporting purposes. It had not been argumentative football and Everton had disappointed most in attack where they failed to connect or prove a line or judgement or penetrative character. They lacked much fire and bite. Sagar’s best of many saves was to a great shot from Fenton. Camsell missed a sitter and Everton now fought back with much resolution. Birkett made and completed a second goal, wing-to-wing with Cochrane, the other player to help. So Everton’s sputter had been cut short. Middlesbrough deserved their win, but took too long to make it effective. They should have won a distance. Birkett second goal came late on, when Everton had taken charge of the home side. It was a brilliant goal too. Final Middlesbrough 2, Everton 0.
STUD MARKS.
October 31, 1936. The Liverpool Football Echo
By Louis T. Kelly.
• Alec Stevenson’s picture equalising goal against Birmingham literally “brought down the house” at the Gwlady’s street end. A number of roofs appeared to be completely stripped.
• Everton’s new stand when finished will mean seating accommodation for an extra 5,000. This will be especially welcome when a big Cup-tie comes along and you want all your aunts and uncles to be there who may have hardly a leg to stand on.
• As on the football field so in the swimming bath. Joe Mercer has a tremendous “stride” and fairly eats up space –but no water!
• Jack Taylor was recounting the other day how in one match at Preston, long years ago, an Everton and a Preston man got entangled in the back of the net.
• Last season Everton won the Birmingham match after being behind at the interval, thanks to three “headers” from Dean. They almost repeated the operation on Saturday.
• Jacky Taylor was probably the first servant Everton ever had. He had 20 years in first class football. Gained inter-league honours five years in succession before coming to Goodison Park in 1896. The “carried on” for Everton until 1910, when a series Cup-tie injury at Old Trafford “prematurely” closed his innings.
• During the whole of that time Taylor was never known to play a poor game and he could play almost anywhere
• Everton is the one club in Division 1 that has had no goals from outside left, and Preston and Leeds aside right.
EVERTON CARRY CLEVERNESS TOO FAR.
October 31, 1936. The Evening Express Football Edition.
Boro’ Win By Sound Methods.
Blues Fail With Final Pass.
By the Pilot.
Too much “tip-tap” and not enough “push” was the chief cause of Everton’s defeat at Middlesbrough by 2-0. Everton tried to be all too pretty, and inaccuracy in their short passing enabled the Boro’ quick tacklers to assume command. Fenton and Birkett were the Boro scorers. The Blues travelled to Middlesbrough with only one director –Mr. E Green –which meant that the others were on “important business.” Everton: - Sagar, goal; Jackson and Jones (JE), backs; Britton, Gee and Mercer, half-backs; Gillick, Hurel, Dean (captain), Stevenson, and Leyfield, forwards. Middlesbrough: - Cumming, goal; Laking and Stuart, backs; Brown, Baxter and Forrest, half-backs; Birkett, Fenton, Camsell, Higham, and Cochrane, forwards. Referee Mr. Taylor, Rotherham.
Mercer and Sagar saved Everton at the outset when Birkett, dashing through, had his centre parried by Sagar. Then, as Fenton was going in to do business, Mercer took the ball from his toes. Everton showed footwork and craft, Dean headed against the side netting from Leyfield’s centre, and later just failed to reach the mark from Gee’s free kick. Cochrane was allowed to go through when he seemed offside, but placed three yards past the post with no one near him. Birkett’s dash upset Everton’s defensive make-up, so much so that Jackson and Jones fell over each other, and the international went on to middle a low ball, which Sagar saved brilliantly.
Goal Follows Miss-Pass.
Everton were inclined to be too clever with their short passing, which too often went astray, and a miss-pass by Mercer led to the opening goal in 13 minutes. Middlesbro’ opened up the game with a long pass to the left, Cochrane rounding Jackson and middling a low ball which reached Fenton. The newcomer to the Boro’ side scored with a topped shot past Sagar’s right hand. The Boro’ continued to have the better of matters. Gillick went off for a spell following a blow in the face. Birkett was a source of danger and now cut in from Camsell’s pass to level a terrific shot that flashed inches over the top. Cochrane was doing excellent work on the home left, but Sagar three times took charge when things looked none too happy for the Blues. Everton were having their balance of territorial play, but each and every attack petered out and monotonous regularity owing to the inaccuracy of the final three-yards pass.
Everton’s Escape.
In Everton’s brightest attack Stevenson had a fine shot pulled down. Then Birkett dribbled past three opponents to find himself with only Sagar to beat. He tried to pull his shot by the goalkeeper, but placed straight across goal. It was a lucky escape for Everton. Everton had more of the game towards the interval, but it was the Borough who did the effective work, Sagar having to fist flying shots from Birkett. Everton were trying to e too dainty, and I have never seen their passing so much at fault. In addition they were too prone to wait for the ball instead of going to it. The Borough deserved their interval lead.
Half-Time Middlesbrough 1, Everton 0.
Play was highly exciting on resuming. Stevenson had a good chance from Dean’s headed pass, but drove outside. Then Sagar tried hard to reach a slow ball, but failed at full length. Luckily for Everton it passed just wide of the far post. Dean came into the shooting line, but his shot also passed across the face of the goal.
Goal That Wasn’t?
Middlesbro’ should had a second goal when Higham, the former Everton player, drove a terrific shot against the angle of the bar and post. The ball rebounded to the ground, but in my opinion, it was fully a foot over the line before it spun back into play. The 30,000 spectators present were surprised when the referee waved play on. Everton showed improved form as compared with the opening half. The defence was particularly keen in its tackling. Dean had his name taken, but Dean appealed to the Middlesbrough players to prove that he was not the offender. Play ran on level lines, but Everton were still lacking in goal thrust. Cumming probably has not had an easier day since he went to Middlesbrough from Arbroath. There was a big frill when Higham went through on his own with Everton standing appealing for offside. Higham dribbled Sagar, but Mercer must have broken even time to sweep across goal and save, when all seemed lost, with a wonderful tackle. Cummings fisted away from Leyfield, then pulled down a Gillick centre, with Leyfield charging into the net. The Everton defence was kept going as top pressure, but the side was showing vast improvement on the first half display. Sagar saved at full length from Higham, before Camsell missed an open goal. Then Hurel headed into Cummings’ hands. Birkett scored for Middlesbrough 13 minutes from time. He crossed a wide pass to Cochrane, then raced in to meet the return, heading it into the net in brilliant style. Final Middlesbrough 2, Everton 0.
October 1936