Everton Independent Research Data
LEAVES FROM MY NOTEBOOK AND TAPPING FROM MY TYPEWRITER
October 1, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Ranger.
Good as Everton’s opening performance this season has been, it fall’s short of what they accomplished away back in 1894-95; when they set off with twelve victories –but not all of then League games –and a goal average of 49 for and 13 against. For the sake of those who like details of these things, as well as for the older generation to whom it may recall some happy days. I give below the results of these early matches. I am indebted to “AM.J.” and “H.L.” for their letters and cuttings from old programmes on the subject.
1 Sept 1 Sheffield Wednesday (H) 3-1*
2 Sept 3 Small Heath (H) 5-0*
3 Sept 8 Stoke (A) 3-1*
4 Sept 10 Burnley (H) 4-1
5 Sept 15 Nottm Forest (H) 6-1*
6 Sept 17 Hearts of Midlothian (A) 4-2
7 Sept 18 East Shirlingshire (A) 7-2
8 Sept 22 Notts Forest (A) 3-2*
9 Sept 27 Glasgow Rangers (A) 4-1
10 Sept 29 West Bromwich Albion (H) 4-1*
11 Oct 6 Bolton Wanderers (A) 3-1*
12 Oct 13 Liverpool (H) 3-0*
13 Oct 20 Blackburn Rovers (A) 3-4*
League Games *
You will see Everton that year won their first eight League encounters in succession, and did not meet defeat into October 20, when they played Blackburn Rovers. I have turned up an old annual for that year, but it gives no indication as to the nature of the game against Burnley. Other non-League games are marked to indicate either English Cup or Lancashire Cup ties, so presumably the Burnley match was a friendly. At any rate they met twice later in the season in League games. It will be noticed from the above that Everton had three matches in Scotland in the first month of the season. Later in the year they had visits at home from Hearts, Rangers and Celtic. We hear a lot these days about the crowded state of football programme, and the heavy strain on players of midweek games. Yet in 1894-95 Everton took part no fewer than 56 games, of which they won 37, lost 11, and drew 8 with a goal record of 159 for and 89 against. In those days the season did not start until the first Saturday in September, and ended on the last Saturday of April, while players had none of the elaborate massage, electrical and baths treatment and so on that helps to keep them fit today.
The good wishes of Everton followers as well as Wrexham supporters –and for that matter those of Bolton, Middlesbrough, and Villa as well –will go with Tommy Griffiths in his elevation to the job of player-coach at Wrexham. The Welsh side has got a man who not only knows the game from A to Z by practical experience, but what is more –and it isn’t within the capabilities of a lot of good players –has the ability to impart his knowledge to others. Griffiths should do Wrexham a power of good in how new sphere. I wish him well.
A tribute to the Football edition of the Echo, was paid yesterday by Mr. Charles Marshall, of Oshaw, Ontario, who called to see me before returning to Canada. Mr. Marshall has been on holiday here for nearly four months, staying with relatives in West Derby. When I asked him what struck him most on his return he said the improvement at Goodison Park. He was loud in his praise of the Everton ground. But then he is an out-and-out Evertonian, following them closely from 1886 until he went to Canade seven years ago. He reckon the best forward line Everton has ever had was the Latta, Brady, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward combination round about 1889, but he has seen all Everton’s home games this season, and considers the present side bid fair to give us the football and clever play as any which the club has turned out.
Tommy Lawton will soon begin to look upon Alf Young, Huddersfield’s centre half as his own particular “hoodon.” Last Saturday’s game at Leeds Road was his third time these two have been in opposition and each time Lawton has failed to find the net.
GO EASY ON THE FANCY TUFF, EVERTON
October 1, 1938. The Liverpool Football Echo
Shots Were Lacking At Huddersfield
Charm Of Alex Stevenson
By Stork.
A word of warning to Everton. “Don’t mistake the substance for the shadow.” They have been lauded up and down the country for their scientific displays to much so that it is possible that this praise has given them something to live up to. I know their standard of play has been of the highest, so that my warning may appear paradoxical in view of what has happened, but I have seen in their last two games a desire for over-elaboration, and at Huddersfield this was responsible for the lack of shooting. Everton could have won at Leeds Road had more direct methods been utilized. Goodison Park was at one time known as the “school of science” Flattering praise, to say the least, but too much science can prove one’s undoing. They were much more skilful than Huddersfield yet the Town won; won by more direct play. Everton must have had 60 to 70 per cent, of the game, yet finished three goals behind their opponents. What does that tall us? That goals were sacrificed for the asks of over-elaboration, I feel that Everton have become obsessed with the idea of ultra clever football; always a joy to the eye, even though it may not bring the necessary reward in the results column. I don’t want Everton to suffer because of their good football. They have been made to pay dearly for too much finesse in the past, and their followers, while they dearly love good football, must have something to show for it in the league table. One thing I am gad about, and that is that the Everton players are not upset by their first defeat. Naturally they were disappointed that they did not break the record, but like sensible fellows took their defeat in the right spirit, knowing that defeat had to come sometime or other. If it had been left until today that would have been the last straw, for there is one thing they don’t want to happen to be beaten by Liverpool. For the eight-time in succession they are able to play the same team. Willie Cook, Torry Gillick, and Joe Mercer all got knock in the Huddersfield game but were able to take part in the Aberdeen game voted and quoted by all who saw it as the best sample of football ever seen in Aberdeen. One paper described their play thus, “Everton played the Celtic game against the Dons.” It was good football, too, and the Everton party made many friends through this visit. The chairman of Aberdeen said “I have never seen such a happy party. Your boys are the nicest lot I have ever met, and you have helped us make this trip a success by being such good mixers. The subject of my picture this week is Alexander Stevenson, the Irish-born inside left, who like his international club mate, W. Cook, made Scotland the stepping-stone to big football. He was previously with the Rangers. Alex, is as unlike a footballer in appearance as I am like an all-in wrestler. He has only 5ft 5ins, of height and a paltry 10st 4lbs, to help him in a profession which is almost entirely composed of big men. Among football officials there is an old axiom that “a good big ‘un is always better than a good little “un” I can hardly believe that after watching Stevenson for so long. There have been other small men in football, to name Benny Yorston, Fanny Waldon and wee Alex James. Each was a clever footballer. They had to be for they had to win through by sheer skill. They could not go bumping or boring. Such is Alex Stevenson. Craft alone has brought him to the forefront, nothing else. He was not long at Goodison before he was known as “Mickey Mouse.” Well, he is almost as famous as the picture “star.” He has ten Irish caps, with many more to follow unless, I am greatly mistaken. His link with Jackie Coulter, another Irishman, forged one of the greatest wings of all times. They were the cheeky chappies of football, and Stevenson and his new partner, Boyes another diminutive player, looks like following in the same footsteps. The pair have come to such an understanding the season that they are almost as elusive as the Coulter-Stevenson wing of happy memory. Stevenson has a happy nature. He can stand up to all the leg-pulling of his colleagues –and there is a lot of it among the Everton boys –and retort with an Irish witticism which completely floors his adversary. He can floor an opponent just as easily with a simple tricks, and should he be anywhere near goal the keeper must be ever on the watch for his big shot. I don’t know where Alex got his shooting power. He has splendid thigns, but I don’t think it is that, but the timing of his drive is perfect. He has scored some grand goals for Everton, but has made many more for his colleagues. That is Alex Stevenson, Ireland’s cheeky little chappie.
STUDS MARKS
OCTOBER 1, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Louis T. Kelly.
• Everton’s Greenhalgh once filled the centre forward position so well for New Brighton in an emergency that he bagged six goals in as many matches.
• Everton’s Greenhalgh is a great favourite with his fellow players; is a great mischief-maker and known as “Rollicker.”
• Off the twenty-two players who appeared in the 1932 Everton v. Liverpool match all have now dropped out save Sagar and Thomson.
PILOT’S SPORTS LOG
October 1, 1938. The Evening Express
Everton were taking an interest in the future of Baird, the Irish inside forward who has just joined Huddersfield Town from Manchester United.
Everton have adopted the tune “Shovin” right off again,” as their theme song.” After every game the Everton players sing the chorus led by Skipper Jock Thomson, with “Rollicker” Greenhalgh giving his usual support. The players did not forget their song even after the defeat at Huddersfield. There is no curbing this Everton spirit.
Two former Everton players would not be averse to a change of quarters. I refer to Charlie Leyfield, of Sheffield United and Miller of Burnley.
LEADERS THE BETTER SIDE
Everton 2 Liverpool 1 (Game 1654 over-all)-(Div 1 1612)
October 3, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Stork.
Warmly-Debated Penalty.
The first of the season’s Merseyside ’’Derby’’ game fell to Everton, who before 65,000 on their own ground, won by two goals to one. I don’t think anyone, even the most ardent Liverpool follower well debate the righteousness of the victory, but I would like to wager that 90 per cent, of the spectators will debate, Liverpool penalty goal for many weeks. Some, no doubt, will want to know what it was all about so for their benefit I will give them my impression of the affair, Sagar the Everton goalkeeper, had run out to the edge of his penalty area to kick away, Van den berg Struck out his foot as though to intercept the ball and Sagar pushed him out of the way with his hands. Nothing pasty about it, but nevertheless a Penalty; Van den berg had been pushed in the penalty area. There was no agreement if the incident was viewed in the proper manner. The referee was brave man to make the decision but to my mind he was perfectly justified.
The Everton Protest.
His decision brought him a spot of trouble, and the Everton players clamored around him strongly protesting, and it was some minutes before Fagan was able to make the kick but when he did he sent the ball spinning into the top netting. Greenhalgh the Everton back usually a calm young man appeared to lose control of himself over the matter and his temper was not eased when Nieuwenbuys sent him somersaulting with a vigorous charge. So that a few minutes later Greenhalgh oftened against Niewenhuys and his name taken. All has happened just before half-time at which period Everton led 2-1. The first half had been grand with the two sides rather evenly balanced Everton playing the more attractive with Liverpool replying with more open yet just as effective, combination. They were definitely the more punchful side in that half but they had no mark men of any account. Not one of their five forwards could wipe away the goals of Bentham and Boyes scored at the 14 and 39 minutes. Have seen better ‘’Derby’’ games. Some of the luster went out of it in the second half because Liverpool fell away to nothing. Liverpool pride themselves on their fighting finish but they were uncommonly out of touch with themselves in the second half so much so that they rarely crossed the half way line. Everton had taken a complete grip of the game, and judged on the amount of attack they enjoyed they should have added further goals. That they did not so can be placed at that feet of Cooper, Riley and Bush who defended Stubbornly when Everton were cutting through their ranks, with the exception of one brief spell perhaps 10 minutes, when Liverpool made a rally which almost brought Nieuwenhues a goal. His shot rattling against Sagar knees. Everton dominated matter. The right wing carved its way beyond Rogers by Crafty football, but Riley, Cooper and Bush would not admit of further downfall.
Save Of The Match.
Riley made the save of the match when he turned a fierce drive by Bentham up against the woodwork, but shooting was not one of the feature of this game. Lawton was too carefully shadowed by Bush to do much. He got home with one smashing drive the ball going inches over the bar, and Riley plucky the ball off Boyes toe to save his charge. Everton’s superiority at this stage was most patently so that it say much for the great work of the Anfielder defence, that they were unable to score further goals. I have seen better ‘’derby’’ games. Everton were inclined to be too close in the opening half, which played into the hands of Liverpool defences. Liverpool surprised me by doing the same thing in the second session, When they had seen that sweeping passes had served them well in the initial ‘’45.” But the great difference was in the fact that Everton had goal scoring forwards whereas Liverpool had none. It must be pleasing to Everton to know that even though Lawton can be rendered ineffective in the matter of scoring there are other who can take on the manly one of the main reasons why the Liverpool attack did not function in its customary manner was that Niewenhuys got little rope from Thomson and Greenhalgh. Those darting runs missing. He did put across some delightful crosses but his co forwards did not take blame Jones for this for the Welsh international was a strong force down the middle of the field. What a difference there was between Jones and Bush. The Liverpool player was content to be a stopper. Jones combined attack with his stopping quality’s. Both defences stood their ground manfully. It would be hard to pick from the four of them, but Cooper has my vote, despite cook’s good display. Cooper had much more to do than the Irishman, but he seems to thrive on work. Rogers had a poor second half when Gillick was at his brightest and best. He (Gillick) had strong support from Mercer, who was a close second to Busby in points of artistry. Thomson worked like a Trojan, in fact one could not fault any if the halves or full backs. In attack Everton were the superior set of markers. At times they were perhaps inclined to make a pass or two too many, I had one complaint, and that was that several times Lawton was out on the wings with the ball at his toe ready to deliver it to a colleague, only to find that no one was up with him, so that he had to make an angular shot which had little chance of coming off.
Engineer Of The Line.
Stevenson was, usual the engineer of the line, but Boyes, and Gillick were close on his heels in football craft. Bentham took his goal nicely and Boyes got his goal with an accurately placed cross shot Van den berg showed good control and the ability to beat a man, and Fagan was crafty Balmer however could make nothing of Jones and Taylor perhaps suffered because Niewenhuys could not give him much support. It was a more convincing Everton victory than the scoring suggest. The attendance was not a ‘’Derby’’ record. Result, Everton 2 Liverpool 1. Attendance 65,676, approximate receipts £3,500. Teams follow: - Everton, goal; Sagar; Cook and Greenhalgh, backs; Mercer, Jones and Thomson (captain), half-backs; Gillick, Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson and Boyes, forwards. Liverpool: - Riley, goal; Cooper (captain) and Rogers, backs; Busby, Bush and McInnes, half-backs; Nieuwenhuys, Taylor, Fagan, Balmer and Van Den Berg, forwards. Referee Mr. H. C. Williams, (London).
CENTRAL LEAGUE
Liverpool Reserves 1 Everton Reserves 2
October 3, 1938, Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 8)
At Anfield Liverpool were unlucky to lose both points as it most of the game they were the more dangerous team. Their forward play was good until they reached the goalmouth, but they badly needed someone to round off their good work. Kinghorn was very remiss in the respect, no fault could be found with the defence where Kemp, Fitzsimons and Hardy played soundly of the halves Eastham and Browney were tremendous workers and Jones, Shafto and Paterson were the best forwards for Liverpool for Everton Morton was a capable custodian and was well covered by the full backs Jackson and Jones, Gee was strong at centre half. Davies (jw) and Cunliffe were the best in attack. Bell and the extreme wing men being too well covered to be dangerous. Eastham scored from a penalty, and Cunliffe and Bell replied for Everton. Everton Reserves:- Morton, goal; Jackson and Jones, backs;
LIVERPOOLL COUNTY LEAGUE
Earlestown White Star 2 Everton ‘’A’’ 2
October 3 1938, The Liverpool Daily Post
It was an even game throughout at Earlestown. Walters scored first for White star, but Merritt equalised. In the second stage Catterick added a goal for Everton and Dale (Penalty) for White Star. Play 6 won 4, lost 1, draw 1 for 18, against 9; points 9.
EVERTON MAINTAIN UNBEATEN HOME RECORD AT LIVERPOOL’S EXPENSE
October 3, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
Reds Fail To Reproduce Their Usual Second Half Fighting Spirit.
By Rangers.
I can imagine that for some time to come whenever Everton and Liverpool, supporters are gathered together, there will be arguments as to the validity of the penalty awarded which gave Liverpool their consolation goal at Goodison Park. Fortunately the goal had no effect on the result, otherwise the “inquest” arguments might become so heated as the temper of the players when Referee Williams pointed to the spot. Was it a penalty? Judged on the strictly literal interpretation of the laws by which Mr. H. C. Williams had ruled the game up to this point he was right, though I was doubtful whether it was as intentional as it looked, and whether Sagar was not seeking to avoid a collision with Van Den Berg. After the match, Van Den Berg stated that when the whistle went he thought it was for a foul by himself. There was some excuse for his error. The whistle went so often in the first half that the players hardly know whether it was safe to look at one another. This was the first time Mr. Williams had refereed a Division 1 match –last season he was on the linesman’ list –and it seemed to me that someone, kindly disposed no doubt had advised him to put his foot down “right from the start, not knowing that of recent years Everton-Liverpool games have almost refereed themselves and that there has seldom been evidence of trouble that required to be nipped in the bud. Nevertheless a “Derby” game, which starts with the best intentions in the world on both sides, is always liable to had the excitement of the spectators communicated to the players, and the League Management Committee was hardly wise in choosing such a match as a “baptism” for one of the younger generation of referees. I do not want to be unduly critical of a new referee, who, doubtless not knowing that the players could be relied on without outside help to play the game in the right spirit, felt it was wisest to err on the side of severity, but Mr. Williams certainly took the bit much too firmly between his teeth in the first half. I am in agreement every time with the referee who makes it clear that he will stand no nonsense, but he should wait for the “nonsense” to make itself evident, and not pull up the game purely technical hairsplitting trivialities. There were twenty free kicks in the first forty minutes –for the benefit of the argumentative, fourteen were against Everton and six against Liverpool –but I guarantee that the majority of referees would not have given more than half a dozen at the outside, if that. Compared with his severity in the first half Mr. Williams was lenient in the second. When he strikes the happy medium he will be an uncommonly sound referee. He has the courage of his convictions, and means to rule and not be intimidated, and we can do with more of that type. Bar far the most reprehensible foul was that on Nivvy, which lead to Norman Greenhalgh having his name taken –and quite rightly. He was fortunate it was no more than that. I was sorry to see it, for Greenhalgh normally is an even tempered and happy-go-lucky lad without the slightest, trace of venom or malice in his make-up. The excitement of the moment was too much for him. One point escaped the referee’s attention, more important than a lot which brought a peep on the whistle. When Fagen took the penalty-kick there were at least ten players inside the penalty arc. According to the rules the kick should have been taken again for while the presence of Everton players did not nullify the goal, the presence of Liverpool players certainty did. Perhaps the referee considered one cancelled out the other.
EVERTON ON TOP
October 8, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
The first of this season’s “Derby” meeting will not go down as one of the best of the long series, for it was not a game to live in the memory. It was a one-half affair, for the second half belonged so much to Everton that the game lost some of its lustre. Two thing stand put in the game the premier one being the penalty award against Ted Sagar for pushing Van Den Berg. Now there was nothing malicious in the push, but a push it’s a push, and should it happen in the penalty area then there can only be one decision –a penalty. It may have been that Sagar tried to save himself from “Vandy’s” boot, which was thrust up with the intention of intercepting Sagar’s clearance, but the fact remains that Sagar pushed Van Den Berg away with his hands. The second outstanding thing of the game was Greenhalgh’s foul on Nieuwenhuys I know that Nivvy had previously treated Greenhalgh rather ruthlessly when turning him a complete somersault visit two blacks do not make a white. One thing which will please all Evertonians was that, although Lawton was unable to score there were others in the line who could do the needful. Lawton made the hardest shot of the match; played well in a general sense, but could not get a chance to show us his cannon-ball drive. Blame Bush. It was a curious game, foe we had become accustomed to Liverpool delivering sledge-hammer blows in the second half of their games, when their undoubted stamina has so often brought them success. On Saturday they failed to produce their grand slam. In the first half they had been as good if not a shade better than Everton; but with the turn of ends Everton got a strangle hold on them and dominated the game. Liverpool were weak where we had expected them to be strong, as Everton, with the exception of ten minutes when Liverpool almost snatched an equaliser –Sagar saw a Nivvy shot bound from off his legs –were practically domiciled in the Anfielders goal area. It was then that the Liverpool defence showed its sterling quality. The Everton forwards riddled and raddled their lines, but could not find a way beyond Riley whose best saves came when he edge a Bentham drive on to his woodwork and snatched the ball off Boyes’s toe left than three yards out.
Value Of Nivvy.
No one could cavil at the first half fare and no one could help but admit that the better side ultimately won; not of course, if one looked at the game through biased eyes. While being better ball manipulators than Liverpool. Everton to my way of thinking. Lot some chances through their desire to make just one more pass. Liverpool lost theirs through having no shooters I liked their half methods, for there was some football, straightforward fact ball; but their second half, well, I am still wondering what happened to then forwards. With the pinning down of Nieuwenhuys the line lost its balance; it trustfulness, for there is no doubt that Nivvy, with his darting runs, his accurate centres, plays a big part in Liverpool’s attacking schemes. He was not allowed to exploit them Fagan did some good work, and Taylor and Van Den Berg were useful, but Balmer could make little of Tom Jones. Jones to my mind was one of the outstanding players of the match, and I am the unmindful of Cooper’s grand exhibition. Jones smothered out any of the three centre forwards Liverpool utilizes in the game. Everton’s forwards had greater skill artistry if you like it better yet here again there was not a lot of shooting not nearly as much as there should have been. Gillick was almost unstoppable in the second half, and the Boyes. Stevenson wing “jinked” is way to goal. It was forward where Everton held the whip hand, for the half backs and back were all very much of a level a high level, even though Rogers had a rough time against Gillick. The goalkeeper could not be faulted, even though Sagar handling of the ball early on was not as secure as usual. Busby and, Mercer, view with each other for half backs honours.
SCOTTISH “CAP” WILL FIT GILLICK
October 3, 1938. Evening Express
Everton Winger Brilliant In “Derby” Triumph
By Pilot.
Gillick, of Everton, may be choice number one for Scotland’s outside-left position against Ireland on Saturday. I know he was under review in Saturday’s “Derby” match, at Goodison Park, when Everton beat Liverpool 2-1 in a hard, pulsating game. Messrs, Bayley Martin and Will Struth, who were talent spotting on behalf of the Scottish F.A., were vastly impressed by Gillick’s display. They must also have been greatly impressed by the Liverpool players, Busby and McInnes. Unfortunately they cannot have the services of Busby and McInnes because no application to the Liverpool club for their release was made within the stipulated time. Busby and McInnes, however, are likely to play for Scotland later this season. Gillick was in my opinion, the best forward on the field on Saturday, and the play of Busby and McInnes was a positive joy. They were the real power behind that electric quick-moving Liverpool machine, which, is the first half, gave indications of running to victory. Gillick had a brilliant second half. The ease and speed with which he changed positions and controlled the ball was glorious. I know the Scottish folk –and those in Glasgow in particular –hold a high opinion of him.
Irish “Certainties.”
If Gillick goes to Ireland it will mean the Blues will face Wolverhampton Wanderers next Saturday without three regulars, for Stevenson and Cook are “certainties” for Ireland –and they have also been released. This “Derby” game brought a just result, and, to me, complete satisfaction so far as spectacle and thrill was concerned. Liverpool have a lesson to learn from their defeat. It is this. Their attack functions better and is more cohesive when Fagan is the leadership I have said this before, but never was it more clearly demonstrated than on Saturday. Fagan led the attack during that bright opening quarter, when the Everton defence was harried no end by the speed and accuracy of the Reds’ attack. Then Liverpool began their switch tactics, and Everton secured the wining leads, which they held to the end. In the second half Fagan returned to centre-forward for a spell and Liverpool almost snatched the game out of the fire. Fagan returned to inside-left and the last hope of the Reds faded away. Fagan is a real worrier a centre forward and can upset any defence, while Balmer –in particular –and Taylor are much more effective at inside forward. It is when they more room in which to operate that these two players are more effective. Besides I noticed that when Liverpool’s forwards played as per team sheet the wingers, Nieuwenhuys and Van Den Berg were brought more into the game. It was a Liverpool fault that there two lads were neglected too much. Van Den Berg was grand with the few chances he had and Nieuwenhuys always gave promise of big things. The lesions for Everton are to learn to accept chances –they threw away golden openings –and to remain unruffled when things go against them. The Blues might have had four goals in the first half alone. Strange that prime schemer, Stevenson, should be the guilty party so often. Everton did not distinguish themselves when the penalty from which Fagan reduced the lead established by Bentham and Boyes was awarded. Personally, I thought the award rather drastic, but the vigorous protests were useless. I fully appreciate that Mr. H. C. Williams, of London, handling his first ever game out of the Third Division was keen to do well, but in my opinion he was rather too keen with the whistle. Players lost their heads for a moment, and, apart from the orange-peel throwing, it was the one blot, on a match which, although not a classic from a constructive point of view, nevertheless was wholly satisfactory and rich in excitement. Everton were just a shade fortunate to be leading at the interval, but they were infinitely superior later on, when only the sternness of the Reds’ defence kept them at bay. Liverpool were eventually played almost to a standstill. Riley was magnificent, and I did not agree with those who said he erred when Boyes scored. It was the precision of the shot which beat him just as it would have beaten any goalkeeper. Cooper was sound all through, and Rogers did well, although handicapped by lack of “direction” in position. Busy kept Lawton on the right rein, when Lawton did escape he leveled the shot of the match!
Individual Skill, But –McInnes’s neatness is command and feeding, and Busby’s persistent motion along football’s true path completed a fine Liverpool intermediary division, and in front there was individual skill, but little collaboration. Van Den Berg and Fagan took the major honours. Everton had two grand wingers in Gillick and Boyes, and Stevenson was the prime schemer. Yet they had nothing on Bentham who was a 100 per cent, player in every phase of the game. Bentham has never played better and he deserved his goal, Lawton met his match this time. Jones, was the perfect centre-half, but Mercer had a scratchy first half. He did well later. Thomson was the epitome of the general and diligent worker, while the Everton defence was brilliant. Sagar made no error and Cook gave further evidence that at the moment he has no superior at right back in the Football League. True, I thought Greenhalgh was a shade better than Cook in this game, but the fact remains the Irishman is at the top of his form. Greenhalgh was flawless and his tackling was fine. So another “Derby” goes down to history with the Blues still 100 per cent at home and the Reds still seeking their first away point of the seasons. One record was established. Although the attendance of 65, 076 was not a record, the receipts of £4,249 5s 10d were the highest-ever for a “Derby” game. The previous best was £4,144 in October, 1927.
THREE EVERTON PLAYERS HONOURED BY INTERNATIONAL SELECTORS
October 4, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
Gillick Crosses to Left Wing For Scotland At Belfast
Barber likely To Get His Senior Baptism Against Wolves
Ranger’s Notes.
After fielding the same side in all their eight games, this season, Everton will have three changes forced on them for their match at Goodison next Saturday against Wolverhampton, owing to the selection of Cook and Stevenson for Ireland, and Gillick for Scotland in the international at Belfast. Everton, of course were under no compulsion to supply these three players, but their customary sporting fashion they signified some time ago their willingness to release them if desired. It is no small sacrifice to make, particularly in view of the club’s position, and the natural desire of all concerned to maintain the leadership as long as possible. The team for Saturday will not be chosen until this evening but in an probability Jackson will come in vice Cook; Cunliffe –who is now thoroughly fit again and has been playing in the reserve side for some time –will take the place of Stevenson, while at outside right I should not be surprised to see young barber get his senior baptism. Barber is the lad who came on trial from Weston-super-Mare at the beginning of the season. Everton intended to give him one trial game, but through some misunderstanding the lad was given to think he was here for a month, and came prepared accordingly. Before the month was up Everton realized they had made a find and Barber, who was signed almost right away, has been fulfilling his early promise in the reserve side. So far he has played three games for the “A” team, three for the Central League, and has taken part in one Lancashire Senior Cup-tie, against Burnley at Goodison Park, a fortnight ago. In these seven appearances he has scored 8 goals –exceptionally good going for an extreme winger. He has a very strong shot.
Good For Gillick.
One of the most pleasing features of the Everton side this season has been the big improvement in the play of Torry Gillick of which his selection for international honours is a tangible recognition. It will be his first appearance in an international against a home country, but eighteen months ago he was chosen to accompany the Scottish side that toured Austria and Czechoslovakia. Whether Gillick will be able to give of his best at outside left, however, is doubtful. He was never happy there last season, and it is obvious from the manner he has played since he occupied the outside right berth, regularly, and not been shifted about from one wing to the other, which comes most natural to him. Anyhow, the Scottish people played him at outside left in both the Continental games, and apparently are well satisfied. Probably the fact that Cook is at left back for the Ireland team –which once more the captain –had something to do with it. Wisely enough, the selectors do not wish to play club mates in direct opposition if it can be avoided. Two old colleagues come together again in the pairing of the Stevenson-Coulter wing for Ireland. The former Evertonian and Grimsby winger is now with Billy Walker side at Chelmsford. This will be Cook’s thirteenth international game for Ireland, and Stevenson’s twelfth.
YOUTH REACHES STARDOM –IN TWO MONTHS.
October 4, 1938. The Evening Express
May Play For Everton First Eleven
Came For One Trial Stayed A month
By Pilot.
A 19-Year-Old footballer who, not more than two months ago, was “unknown,” may play for a First Division side on Saturday. The player is Arthur William Barber, the young Everton outside-right. If Barber is chosen to deputise for international Gillick against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Goodison Park. It will seal a romantic rise to fame. Last August Barber did not even dream that he would be playing in the highest sphere of football, and his advance is one of the most sensational in the history of the Everton club. Barber hails from Western-Super-Mare, where the Blues have a good friend in Mr. Bill Wallace. Mr. Wallace recommend Barber to Everton and advised a trial. The Blues agreed to give Barber a run in the second practice match at Goodison Park. Everton meant to give Barber just one game to see what he could do, but the lad travelled north under the impression that he was being given a month’s trial. The Blues, naturally, allowed the boy to remain, and he celebrated his debut in the practice match by scoring. He has been scoring ever since. He scored eight goals in three “A” team matches, four of them in one match! Everton stepped in at the expiry of the month’s trial period and made Barber a professional. The lad became a paid player on September 14 and went into the Central League side. He scored again! Barber followed that up with two fine goals against Burnley in the Lancashire Senior Cup match and now will probably have a chance of seeing if he can keep his good work in the select circles of the First Division. Of course, it all depends on the deliberations of the directors at their meeting this evening, but Barber is the natural deputy to Gillick.
Congratulation.
Let me join in the hearty congratulations to Gillick, Stevenson and Cook the three Everton players who will figure in the Ireland v. Scotland international match at Belfast on Saturday. Gillick gets his first full international cap for Scotland –he played against Austria and Czechoslovakia in 1937. Cook is “capped” for the eleventh time and Stevenson the tenth time for Ireland. Everton may feel the loss of these three great players, but the directors are fully prepared to make the sacrifice for the sake of the honours coming to the club.
L’POOL F.C. CAPTAIN’S GOLF HAT-TRICK
October 4, 1938 The Evening Express.
Tom Cooper Wins After Play-Off
Great Display At Woolton.
By Pilot.
Tom Cooper, the Liverpool F.C captain, is supreme as football’s best golfer in the North. He has won the Merseyside Professional Association Footballer’s Golf Championship for the third year in succession. He triumphed on the Woolton course in a grueling test under the worst possible weather conditions. In the morning round he tied with Eric Brook, the Manchester City outside right with 76 gross. By the time all the competitors had come in Cooper had gone out in four ball match, not knowing he had to play off. He was actually playing the 15th hole when he was recalled. In a terrific wind and lashing rain, Cooper and Brook set out for their decider over 18 holes, with Mr. Bob Simpson as official marker. Those who composed the small gallery had to give in to the weather, but those three went on. Cooper did a wonder round of 79, going out in 41 and home in 38 –one over par figures. Brook returned a 90, and so Liverpool retained the trophy against brilliant opposition from outside clubs. To mark the occasion, Cooper was presented with a special trophy. The fixture was a great success. No fewer than 66 footballers, including many famous internationals reported to the starter, Mr. Jack Rouse, and every man brought in a return to Mr. Theo Kelly. More than 40 competitors returned net scores in the 60’s and 70’s. Players came from Preston, Burnley, Bolton Wanderers, and Manchester to challenge the Merseyside clubs, and the extension was fully justified. This may lead to further expansion next season to bring in still more Football League clubs.
Nine Clubs In Prize List.
Nine clubs were represented in the prize list, and all the players had a great day.
Mr. W.C. Cuff, the president, presenting the prizes, paid a high tribute to the work of the pioneers of the event and the present organizers. He emphasized that the competition was formed to promote sportsmanship among footballers, foster a friendly feeling, and to assist in the ‘keep fit” portion of a player’s life. Mr. Ernest Green, chairman of Everton F.C. expressed thanks to the Woolton Golf Club for again placing their course at the disposal of the Committee, and Mr. W.Fraser, captain of Woolton replied. Messrs W.S. Bibby and R. G. Simpson, joint hon, treasurers, thanked the subscribes for their aid, and Mr. J.H. Troop, vice-chairman of Liverpool F.C. paid tribute to Mr. Cuff.
This is the complete prize list.
Championship Cup, memento and special prize T. Cooper (Liverpool), 76 and 79.
Handicap Cup and mementos; D. M. Colquhoun (Southport) 83-20-63.
Handicap (13 and under); Eric Brook (Manchester City) 76-10-66; A. Riley (Liverpool) 78-10-88; M. Busby (Liverpool) 81-12-69
Handicap (14 to 20) 1 A Clark (Tranmere Rovers), 80-15-63; 2 F. Howe (Manchester City) 8-14-66; 3. E. Hartson (Liverpool), 81-14-67 (included on best first nine holes after tie).
Handicap (21 to 24); 1 G. Jackson (Everton), 95-22-73; J.H. Rogers (Chester), 96-22-74; 3. W. R. Miller (Burnley), 101-22-79.
Hidden Nine Holes; J. Stein (New Brighton); 21, High-test Gross Score; S. Eastham (Liverpool) 135-20-116.
Putting 1; A Beattie (Preston North End); 2, W. R. Miller (Burnley) 3; J. Griffiths (Tranmere Rovers)
Billiards Handicap; 1; G. Jackson (Everton); 2; A. Riley (Liverpool)
Directors and subscribers Competition 1; W.J. Mansley (Chester); 2; S.R. Williams (Liverpool F.C).
Directors and subscribers putting; 1, L.E. Edwards, 2; T, Hughes.
Players Sweepstakes; 1, D.M. Colquhoun; 2, A. Clark; 3, J Stein and P. Taylor (Liverpool), divided.
THREE CHANGES AGAINST WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
October 5 1938, The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Having played 8 league matches without making a change in the team, Everton on Saturday will have three alterations. This step is brought about by internationals calls on their players, and substitutes have to be found for Gillick who is to play for Scotland against Ireland for whom Cook and Stevenson play Strong Reserves are Necessary of a club is to make Headway in the League Tournament, and in this resect Everton are Fortunate in having experienced exponents like Jackson and Cunliffe, who are in the side to oppose Wolvehampton Wanders at Goodison Park on Saturday Jackson will come in as partner to Greenhalgh and Cunliffe resumes on the left wing as partner to Boyes. Cunliffe thus has his first opportunity in the first team this season and as he has fully recovered he is likely to be a prominent figure. BARBER’S CHANCE. The most interesting change, however, is the appearance in Gillick’s place of Barber a young play from Weston-Super-Mare, who has shown excellent form with the Reserves and ‘’A’’ teams. Barber went to Goodison park on a month’s trial at the outset of the season, and at once made a big impression with the ‘’A’’ team. He scored two goals against Caernarvon Town in a friendly game and then Four against Prescott Cables in the Liverpool combination games. As a result of his success, he was signed professional, and has since done well with the central League side. Barber has plays three games in all for the ‘’A’’ team three for the central league, and has taken part in one Lancashire senior cup-tie against Burnley at Goodison Park, a fortnight ago. In these seven appearances he has scored 9 goals.
BARBER TO MAKE HIS LEAGUE DEBUT AT GOODISON V WOLVES.
October 5, 1938. The Liverpool Echo.
Ranger’s Notes.
As forecast yesterday, Everton bring in Jackson, Barber, and Cunliffe to fill the vacancies due to international calls, the team against Wolves at Goodison at Goodison, reading;- Sagar; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones, Thomson; Barber, Bentham, Lawton, Cunliffe, Boyes. This will be Barber’s debut in the senior cup. The Everton reserves side to journey to Chesterfield will be: - Morton; Saunders, Jones; Britton, Gee, Milligan; Merritt, McMurray, Bell, Davies (JW), Davies (J).
19-YEAR-OLD WINGER GETS BIG CHANCE FOR EVERTON.
October 5, 1938. The Evening Express
Barber Makes His Debut Against Wolves
By Pilot.
Everton make their first team changes of the season for the match against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday. The changes –two forward and one defensive –are necessitated by international calls. Gillick, Stevenson, and Cook will be playing in the Ireland v. Scotland match in Belfast, and so 19-year-old Barber is given his chance to win fame –as foreshadowed in The Evening Express. Barber, who came from Weston-Super-Mare six weeks ago, on trial will be making his Football League debut as Gillick deputy at outside-right. The directors have decided on no team switches, but have allowed the reserves for the vacant places to step up. Jackson, the local born player, becomes right-back in place of Cook, and Cunliffe plays for Stevenson at inside-left. Cunliffe was operated on a few weeks ago for the removal of small pieces of bone in an ankle, but played with confidence and effect for the Central League side at Anfield last Saturday. Everton; Sagar; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones (TG), Thomson; Barber, Bentham, Lawton, Cunliffe, Boyes.
EVERTON SHOULD KEEP AHEAD IN LEAGUE RACE
October 7, 1938. The Evening Express.
But Wolves Will Be Hard To Beat
Goodison Park Duel.
By Pilot.
Everton tomorrow will have one of their hardest tasks of the season in the Football league. Wolverhampton Wanderers, a real danger side, visit Goodison Park. The Blues have a 100 per cent, home record, but the directors sportingly decided that any internationals needed for the Ireland-Scotland game in Belfast tomorrow should be released. Stevenson, Cook, and Gillick were chosen and so the Blues will be without three internationals. Still I think Everton will beat the Wolves. In Cunliffe and Jackson, who deputise for Stevenson and Cook, they have men of wide experience. Cunliffe will be playing his first senior game since ankle operation, but is sound again, while Jackson is a reliable defender. In place of Gillick will be the Westin-super-Mare boy, Barber, who has enjoyed such a remarkable rise to frame. A lot depends on Barber’s linking up with Bentham and Mercer. It will be a tremendous occasion for the boy who three weeks ago, was an amateur, but he is a real menace to any defence because of his terrific shooting powers and quick moving to shooting position. The main strength of the Wolves’ side lies in the defence, and one of the tit-bits of the game should be the duel between Tommy Lawton and Stan Cullis-the Football League stars. Lawton has not scored since he bagged his quartet against the Irish League. You can expect a big gate for this game. These are many Wolverhampton folk at Ellesmere Port, and special trips are being made to Goodison Park, where I expect them to see Everton win and keep at the head of affairs. Everton; Sagar; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones (TG), Thomson; Barber, Bentham, Lawton, Cunliffe, Boyes.
Everton “A” and “B”
Everton “A”; Burnett; Prescott, Lambert; Wykes, Edwards, M. Hill; D.W. Butler, N. Sharp of S. Simmons, Catterick, F. Griffiths, H. Roberts.
Everton “B” team will also appear at Bellefield in a Bootle J.O.C. League game against Kingsdale. Everton:- “B” J. Canavan; R. Ireland, G, Dugdale; G. Sharrett, M.R. Beardwood, B. Atkins, W. Sunmer, F. McDonald, W S. Price, J. Lyon, G. Bailey.
FROM JUNIOR TO SENIOR FOOTBALL IN SIX WEEKS
October 7, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
Barber Product Of North Devon League, Makes His Debut At Goodison Tomorrow
Everton Should Win
Ranger’s Notes.
Chief Interest at Goodison Park tomorrow will centre in the League debut of Barber at outside right, a stern test for a 19-year-old boy who, up to six weeks ago, had never played in more serious football than the North Devon League, which is about equivalent to the Liverpool County Combination. I had previously detailed how he came to Goodison Park, how the player himself thinking he was booked for a month’s trial, was so disappointed to find that Everton intended giving him only one trial game, that the club at once promised him the tern he expected. Barber made good immediately and was signed on professional forms at the month-end Nine goals in seven second and third team games is his scoring record to date. My counsel to Barber is to play his natural game, and not let the occasion unnerve him. I can assure him that neither the crowd nor the scribes will be over critical. So long as he does his best we shall be satisfied; miracles are not expected and he can go into the fray confident that he has his best wishes of everybody behind him. Good luck, laddie.
Everton Should Win.
In spite of Everton’s changes through international calls I think the Blues will maintain their unbeaten home record. Wolverhampton these days are but a shadow of the rampaging Wolves of last season, and but for the solidity of their defence, which has been changed only in one position all season, and has been debited with only six goals, they would be well down the table. All the driving forces seems to have gone from the attack since the departure of Bryn Jones and Ashall. Prior to their three goals at home against Huddersfield last week the forward had found the net only five times seen matches, which hardly indicates marksmanship of sufficient quality to unduly worry the home defence. Wolverhampton, by the way, have scrapped their big scheme for a players’ hostel. The players themselves have turned it down, leaving the club holding a Wolverhampton, by the way, have scrapped their big scheme for a players’ hostel. The players themselves have turned it down, leaving the club holding a £3,000 “baby” in the form of the big house and grounds they brought when the scheme was mooted. Even Wolves can make a false step on occasion.
EVERTON HANDICAPPED
October 7, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
International calls have made a big inroad into the Everton team to meet Wolverhampton tomorrow, for the Ireland-Scottish game at Belfast has taken Stevenson, Cook, and Gillick. To be deprived of three such players is a big handicap, but it has been shouldered by Everton gladly. I cannot recall Everton having ever stood in the way of international calls on their players, a splendid gesture to say the least. It may cost them dearly, but like Cardiff City a few years ago they take the risk with a smile and by so doing the team shows changes for the first time this season. Let us hope that the cost is not too great. One thing it will enable us to see this young man Barber in more serious football. He has done great work since he signed for the club, a few weeks back.
Clean-Cut Victory.
Cunliffe and Jackson were bound to come in, and it may be that they will by their ear nest endeavour, keep up the standard of good football that now delongs to Everton. Both have been playing well in the second team, and as both have had a long experience of senior football they are not likely to let the side down. The Wolves have won at Goodison in their day. I can recall a Cup-tie between the two clubs some few years ago when they surprised the locals by scoring the only goal of the day. If my memory serves me right, Edmunds scored the goal and Stanley Fazackerley and George Brewster were in the Wolves team that day. That, of course, was before the days of Major Buckley, who has since brought the Wolves up to a high Standard. The Major has his own ideas about building up a team. Youth should be served, is his motto, and he created a sensation a couple of seasons ago by disposing of his older players and banking entirely on youth. Cullis is a grand player. Perhaps a little flashy, but nevertheless most effective, more so than Young, of Huddersfield, who is a stopper of the first water. The Wolves pivot is more than that, but I can promise him a busy afternoon’s work looking after Lawton (he has gone two matches without a goal), who will be keen to resume his scoring ways to get upsiders with Gordon Hodgson, the leading scorer. Everton; Sagar; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones, Thomson; Barber, Bentham, Lawton, Cunliffe, Boyes.
Scouts’ Collection.
The collection which should have been taken at Goodison Park last Saturday for the Boys Scouts National Appeal Fund, will be made at Goodison tomorrow.
HOME RECORD RETAINED, LAWTON GOAL DECIDES MATCH
Everton 1 Wolverhampton Wanderers 0 (Game 1655 over-all)-(Div 1 1613)
October 8 1938, Liverpool football Echo
By Stork.
Wolves Late Arrival
Cullis and Bentham carried off.
Not the classic anticipated neither was it Everton’s best form. The Wolverhampton Wanderers played excellent football without goal punch. A Lawton goal kept Everton’s home record intact. Teams: - Everton, Sagar, Jackson, Greenhalgh Mercer, Jones (TG) Thomson (captain), Barber (debut) Bentham, Lawton, Cunliffe, Boyes. Wolverhampton Wanderers; Scott, Morris, Taylor, Galley, Cullis Gardiner, Burton, McIntosh Westcott, Thompson, Maguire Referee AW Barton. For the first time this season Everton had to make a team change in fact they had 3 alterations two of them in attack-Wolverhampton Wanderers has some difficulty in getting to the ground in time. They had to alight at Edge Hill and take taxis to the ground and even then did not reach Goodison until three o’clock. As a consequence the game started five minutes late and some of the crowd became restive when the Wolverhampton Wanderers did not appear with the Everton team. There was a good attendance for wolves can always be depended upon to being a good crowd to the Merseyside grounds. On the last occasion a team arrived late, Everton suffered a heavy defeat. It was when Manchester City came and netted up half dozen goals, Johnson scoring five. The first item of note was an intervention by Cullis who cleverly held up the Everton Left wing. Soon the Wolves were attacking strongly, and Thompson, by a very neat move opened a way for a shot from Westcott. Thompson stopped the ball moved away so that it lay there for Westcott to have a shot, which he refused because he has not anticipated the move. The came an Everton attack which had the wolves defender into a hopeless position, and how their goal did hot full will ever remain a wonder, first Cunliffe shot and the ball failed to fine the net, Lawton took up the challenge, and his shot seemed destined for goal, but again the Wolves defence got out of their difficulty more by good luck than good management. Yet a third time a shot was leveled a Scott’s charge, but the goalkeeper saved, it was one of the most tense moments I had seen in a match sometime. Cullis won a race with Lawton, preventing the latter reaching the ball. The Wolves were extraordinarily fast, passes were made quickly, and the Everton defence was often widely open to those trustful Young man from the midlands. The comparison in styles was not noticeable. The Wolves made the quick pass and in instantly ran into position, Everton wanted to do more so that the Wolves in some respects were the more dangerous side so far. Barber had not a great deal of chance to show what he could do, but when the Wolves got moving they were ever a source of danger. A slip by Galley allowed Boyes to work his way through, and the result was a pass to Lawton. Cullis, for a change, was nowhere near and the Everton centre tried to place the ball wide of the goalkeeper, failing by a matter of inches. Two minutes later Lawton got his goal; a goal he promised Cullis he would score against him. Bentham nodded the ball to Lawton who was out on his own and drawing the goalkeeper from his goal, he shot into the net at the 28 minute. Burton was dandily little winger giving Thomson and Greenhalgh plenty to do. The duels between Cullis and Lawton were always interesting. The shooting has not been good on either side even through the passes of the Wolves were extraordarily accurate considering the speed at which there were made.
Halt-time Everton 1 Wolverhampton Wanderers nil.
Everton opened in startling way and Lawton inside 30 seconds had driven home a tremendous shot which only missed its mark by inches. The Wolves were putting up a bunny flight and a header by Thompson went too close to be pleasant, and then Westcott tried his lucky with a shot which was dead of the mark. Cullis was finding Lawton a rare handful. And not for the first time did he get the better of his adversary by vigorous charging. The crowd were not slow to see what was happening and booed the Wolvers man. But for all the one could not but admit that Cullis was playing a grand game for his side. He repeatedly stepped in front of Lawton to cut out a danger to his goal. Maguire forced Sagar to pull an oblique shot from under his crossbar, of which point the Wolves were showing plenty of flight in the hope of an equalizer. The visitors, were still playing good class football, but it lacked the one vital point-shots. The game was uncommonly void of shooting; Everton at no time touched the best form. It was hardly to be expected with three regular men away. They seemed content with their goal lead, which was all narrow a margin against the side like Wolves. There was no doubt about it that Wolves were the better side this half. Mercer ran through the Wolves defence and slipped the ball over to Lawton, who hit it first time only to see it cannon off a defender and away. Boyes should have scored from a Lawton pass and Cullis was spoken to by the referee for something he had done. Cullis and Bentham ran into a head on collision, and both had to be carried off on stretchers. Bentham’s face was covered with blood. Which was being mopped away by a st John’s ambulance man. Attendance 56,681.
CENTRAL LEAGUE
Chesterfield 4 Everton 0
October 8 1938, the Liverpool Football Echo
Central League (Game 9)
Everton’s football at Chesterfield before 5,000 spectators was distinctly good. Merritt and Davies sent across some excellent centres, Richardson scored for Chesterfield in 15 minutes after lane had missed an open goal. Morton drive to make a striking save from Richardson, and Moody affected a great clearance from Bell. Gee nearly headed through his own goal in making a desperate clearance. Fisher increased Chesterfield’s lead after 35 minutes.
Half-time Chesterfield 2 Everton 0.
Ottewell header Chesterfield’s third goal direct from Fishers corner kick in the 60 minute, and Richardson the fourth goal seven minutes later. Morton saved a penalty kick in the latter stage. Everton team: - Morton, goal Saunders, and Jones (je), backs Britton, Gee (captain) and Milligan, Half-Backs; Merritt, McMurray, Bell, Davies (jw), and Davies (j), forwards.
LIVERPOOL COUNTY LEAGUE
Everton ‘’A’’ 4 Wargreaves 1
October 8 1938, The Liverpool Football echo
Everton took the lead after ten minutes through Catterick. The visitors forwards tried hard to get going, for the home defence played strongly. Pendlebury equalised the score through a penalty. During an Everton attack, Roberts struck the upright halt-time score 1-1. Final Everton 4 Waregraves 1
LEAVES FROM MY NOTEBOOK AND TAPPINGS FROM MY TYPEWRITER
October 8, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Rangers.
• Albert Geldard, the former Everton right winger, who was transferred to Bolton Wanderers during the close season for something like £7,000 has been unlucky with his new club. He was injured in the second match of the season against Manchester United, and Woodward, who took his place has since been playing so well that Geldard has been unable to get back to the first team.
• Monty Wilkinson, who used to understudy Dean, performed the hat-trick for Charlton, and Hullett also ex-Everton –and one of the most sought after young man at the moment –got his usual for Plymouth Argyle, and has now scored nine of his side’s thirteen goals to date.
• Football provides us every season with a fair number of meteoric rises to first team membership of unknown lads who jump almost in a day, from the junior to the senior game, but few have had so quick a promotion as Berber, who made his debut in the Everton team at Goodison Park, today. Up to six weeks ago the 19-year-old lad had sampled nothing more testing than the North Devon League, in which he played for Weston-super-Mare Borough Employees F.C. He was recommended to Everton by Mr. Bill Wallace, a former Wallasay resident and a good friend of the Blues, who now keeps an hotel at the Devonshire seaside resort. When Barber came north Mr. Harold Pickering went to meet him at the station, and to use his own words; “I was flabbergasted when I saw the size of his suitcase.” “Are you going on holiday after you have had your trial” Mr. Pickering asked. “No replied Barber, but I’ve brought my things for the full month.” That was the first Everton knew that the lad had been promised a month’s trial, instead of a single game, but the club made no bones about it when they realized the position. And they haven’t regretted it.
SCOTLAND IGNORS EVERTON DISCOVERY
October 8, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
Plays Gillick On left wing After Goodison Experience Showed Him Best On Other.
By Stork.
Looking through the record, I find that Everton have lost only one match since April 19, when they were beaten at Sunderland. What a great run it has been, and don’t forgot that they won two games in Scotland and the Fund game against Liverpool. Huddersfield must be proud of their victory over such worthy leaders. In a few weeks time it is likely that Everton will have to release two other players, for there is every indication that Lawton will be chosen for England and Tommy Jones cannot be kept out of the Welsh team. Lawton has threatened to score some goals against Jones that day –few centre forwards have the honour against the Welshman. Jones’s retort to Lawton’s gibes is “Centre forwards? They’re easy! This baiting is all good fun, for Lawton and Jones are great pals. By the release of three of their players Everton jeopardized their chances against Wolverhampton today, but I don’t think one single person will mind should the Wolves come and conquer. One would rather our favourite playing members received their caps than otherwise. Cardiff City, it will be recalled, lost the championship through international calls the year they released five of their staff to represent Ireland. Everton are not likely to suffer that fate, but as every point is of immense valve at this period of the season, the directors are to be congratulated on offering their players to their respective countries. The surprise was the selection of Gillick as outside left for Scotland. We, of Merseyside, know that Gillick, who came from Rangers as a versatile forward, good in any position, has settled down the best as a right winger. Everton gave him an extended trial on the left, and Torry made it plain to everyone that he did not like the position. I would like to wager that he did a little swear when he heard that Scotland had taken him for outside left, a position he filled with the Rangers. It is not fair to the players, neither is it fair to Everton. Gillick has been playing great stuff on the right all this season, so is it right that he should be taken away from his club to play on the opposite wing? I say no. If he has a poor game in Belfast it may spoil him from future international selection. He has been splendid at outside right this season, and has caused those who were his bitterest critics to veer right over to him. Since the Derby game I have heard nothing but “that penalty kick against Sagar.” It is now a thing of the past, but I cannot pass it by without paying a tribute to Mr. Williams, the referee. He has been critised because of his keenness in keeping strict to the rules. That was only natural his first appointment as a First Division referee. He did have the courage of his convictions, and that is something in a referee, especially when his decision was given against the home team. I am delighted to say that the directors he given young Barber his chance. So very often a make shift change, is made when there young fellow in the second team is waiting for his move up to senior set up. Barber has only been with us for a matter of weeks, but he has done so well that he was worthy of his chance when the time came. Had he been passed over –he could not have complained had it been so –it might have damped his soul for the game. Thus display of confidence in him may be the very thing he needs. I cannot imagine that he will be overawed by the occasion, for does not seem to be built that way I wish him well on his debut. How often has a young player played up and become a immediate hit? I can readily recall the case of Race, who had never seen a League ground when he was called up by Liverpool to go to Derby, from a junior football. He gave an display that will never be forgotten and then there was Clifford Bastin, who played for Arsenal on his debut at Goodison Park as inside right, he gave an exposition out -Jamesing James.
BENTHAM EXPECTS TO PLAY AGAINST Bolton
September 10, 1938. Evening Express.
Everton Forward’s Good Recovery From Injuries
Tense Duel With Wolves.
By Watcher.
Stan Bentham, Everton’s inside-right, has made up his mind that he will play against Bolton Wanderers, at Burnden Park, next Saturday. Bentham has made an encouraging recovery from the injury he received in Saturday’s game against Wolverhampton Wanderers, which the Blues won 1-0. Thanks to Lawton’s goal in the opening half. Near the end, Bentham and Cullis came in collision, and both were carried off on stretchers. Bentham had to have stitches inserted in a cut on the lip and he also suffered from concussion. An Everton official went to see him on Saturday night and Bentham had shaken off the concussion. “I shall be fit to turn out on Saturday,” said Bentham. If so, the Blues will be able to revert to their original combination, for although most players came off the field suffering from knocks and bruises – Mercer’s face was swollen –the injuries are not serious, and Stephenson, Cook and Gillick will be back from international duty.
Tension In The Air.
There was tension in the air for more than 60 minutes of Saturday’s game, which was remarkable for the number of free kicks. The majority of these were awarded against the Wolves, whose tackling, to say the least, was rebust. The climax came five minutes from the end, when Bentham and Cullis came in collision. Before that the same players had been in collision –just after Lawton’s goal –and during the interval Bentham had two stitches in his head. The form shown by both sides was good, although the team changes unbalanced Everton. Barber, making his first-team debut, tried hard without much luck. Lawton had some rare duels with Cullis, who played a grand stopping game, and Jackson, along with Greenhalgh, put in some good work. In the middle line Jones (TG) had an exacting task against the fleet-footed Westcott. Boyes was the star forward.
WE WANT RHYTHM
October 10, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
There was not the usual rhythm in Everton’s game against the Wolves. If you want to know the reason why you would have to go to Belfast to get if, for them. Three of their band were playing over their. It is no use trying to deny that Everton did not miss Stevenson, Gillick and Cook, for which team could dispense with three such players and not feel its effect? That Everton won without their services is a feather in their cap, for the Wanderers are not an easy side to beat, particularly away from home. With no thought of disparaging the men who took their places, the absence of that trio took the rhythm out of the Everton team. Barber, Cunliffe and Jackson played their part in Everton’s victory, but Everton were not the clever Everton we have become so accustomed to watching. They found it difficult to win, and it is my firm belief that had the international been there it would not have been such a grim struggle to dispose of a shot-shy Wolverhampton team.
Tremendous Speed.
Wolves were a better combination than Everton. They seemed to have an abundance of stamina and their speed was tremendous. They passed like grease lightning and often shot through the Everton defence, but there their shooting ended, for I cannot recall one descent shot coming from their boots. It was all so futile. Here was a team, capable of excellent midfield work falling down at the final obstacle, the most vital one at that. Everton could not be acclaimed shooting stars, for they were not a great deal of trouble to Scott, but they did call upon him more frequently than the Wolves members called upon Sagar. Everton did have bad luck in the first five minutes, when four shots were leveled at the Wolves goal, each one of them being kept out of the net by a leg, body, or a head in a lucky manner. Lawton’s goal came almost at the half-hour. Bentham having beaten Cullis in a heading bout and nodded the ball to his centre forward who quickly had it in the net. Bentham was badly knocked out by the collision, but he was to suffer more serious injury five minutes from the end. He and Cullis raced for the ball together. Bentham slipped the ball to Lawton when they crashed into each other. Both went down as though they were pole-axed. Their heads had met and Bentham face was soon smothered in blood, and Cullis lay inert. Two stretchers were sent for, and they were carried off, Cullis with concussion and Bentham with a badly cut lip, which necessitated two stitches. Cullis has always been one of my favourites, but I did not like a lot of his work on Saturday. He was quite unlike his usual self, and got across the crowd by his over-vigorous tackling. Cullis is such a good player that he only need stick to his football craft to win him through. He was particularly savage to Lawton. It was not a great game by any means, it was grim; Oh, yes, there was plenty of stern tackling, but as I have already stated Everton’s smooth-flowing style was not there. Barber did well in the circumstances –it being his first match –but Cunliffe appeared slow in making up his mind. Jackson was an able deputy for Cook. The defence of both sides were more than the equal of the opposition attack, and Jones and Cullis vied with one other for honours. Jones did just as much as Cullis in a much quieter way.
EVERTON AT FULL STRENGTH
October 12, 1938 Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton are going to have a stiff match on Saturday, when they visit Bolton Wanderers, who are third in the league with 12 points from 9 matches against Everton 16 points from as many games. It is good news that Bentham, who was injured on Saturday, in the game against Wolverhampton Wanderers, is expected to be able to play and with the return of the internationals Cook Gillick and Stevenson Everton will be at full strengthen, Jackson Barber and Cunliffe stand down, and the team chosen last night is Sagar, Cook Greenhalgh, Mercer, Jones (TG), Thomson (captain), Gillick Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson Boyes.
EVERTON RELEASE TF JONES
October 13,1938, Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel
There is a prospect of Everton players being in direct opposition when England and Wales meet at Cardiff On Saturday week. Lawton is expected to lead the England side and Everton have intimated to Mr. Ted Robinson, the Welsh football association secretary, their Willingness to release TG Jones their centre-half if called upon.
BENTHAM WILL PLAY
October 13, 1938. The Evening Express
By Pilot
Here is good news for The Everton followers Stan Bentham, the inside right, will be fit to play against Bolton Wanderers at Burnden Park on Saturday. Bentham had stitches inserted in a cut on the scalp at half-time during Saturday’s game against the Wolves and late in the game was carried off unconscious on a stretcher with a split lip. Two stitches were put in the lip and Bentham had to be placed in a cold both to bring him round. Yesterday one stitch in the lip was taken out. The Blues thus revert to the team which figured in the first eight games of the season and won 14 points. Gillick, Stevenson and Cook, after international duty, coming back to the side in place of Barber, Cunliffe and Jackson respectively. Woodward, the young outside-right, is a doubtful starter for the Wanderers. If he cannot play Geldard will have the chance of facing his former colleagues. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones, Thomson, Gillick, Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson, Boyes.
Tommy Jones, Everton’s Welsh international centre half, was presented with the key of the door by his colleagues at Goodison Park today. Tommy celebrated his 21st birthday and the players had arranged for him to be represented with a big key. The presentation was made with the “Tom Jones Chorus.” So Everton’s two Toms have celebrated birthdays in the space of a week. Tom Lawton, the centre-forward, reached his 19th birthday on Thursday. As I pointed out in the log, it is possible that these two young men will be opposing each other at Cardiff on Saturday day week in an international game.
EVERTON AS YOU WERE
October 14, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
We saw last week-end what a lot of difference team changes meant to Everton, for in their game against the Wolves there was not that usual rhythm about the team as in their previous games. Without trying to belittle the endeavour of the deputise I don’t think anyone could say that the team moved with that easy flow which has brought them victory, so that I am glad Bentham will be fit enough to keep his place and so that the side will be unchanged from that which has trod an almost triumphal march since the season opened. He and Gillick have made a strong wing, and I can see improvement in Bentham’s play week by week. When his first came into the team he was just a hardworking forward, but today he is something more than that; he is a part of a well-oiled machine, doing the clever stuff just as well as some of the senior members. The Wanderers have got together a smart –team -make no mistake about that –but who would say that Everton are not smart this season. London and Birmingham think they are the smartest side in the League, and records speak for themselves. The only blot on their escutcheon was that defeat at Huddersfield, the one place that Everton did really fancy their chance. It was one of these cases where a side has all the play and the other side scores the goals. The Wanderers have quite a number of local boys in the side, when players like Jack Tennant and Albert Geldard can be kept in the reserve side, there must be a lot of youthful talent out Burnden way. I may appear super optimistic when I say that I don’t expect Everton to be beaten, but I honestly do not think that the Wanderers will break down the Everton defence, which these days is something to be proud of. Westwood will have to be closely watched, for he is the pivot of which most of the Wanderers attack circulates, I think we can safely leave the attack of its own resources. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones, Thomson; Gillick, Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson, Boyes.
BURNDEN PARK CLASSIC
October 14, 1938. The Evening Express
By Pilot.
Burnden Park will stage a great clash between top of the table teams tomorrow. Bolton Wanderers third in the table, face the League leaders Everton. It should be one of the greatest games in a fine programme. If Everton continue their winning ways it will be their ninth victory. The Blues usually do well at Burnden and are, as a matter of fact, aiming at a hat-trick of wins there, having won 2-1 in the last two seasons. The Wanderers are a fine young team, however, and If Everton can get away with only one point they will have every reason to be satisfied. Gillick, Stevenson, and Cook are back from international duty and the Wanderers make no changes. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones, Thomson; Gillick, Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson, Boyes. Bolton Wanderers: - Hanson; Winter, Hubbick; Goslin, Atkinson, Taylor; Woodward, Roberts, Howe, Westwood, Rothwell.
Pilot’s Sports Log
Everton will have plenty of support at Burnden Park tomorrow, when they tackle Bolton Wanderers. The match marks the occasion of the first trip of the club Shareholders’ Association. Several non-members of the Association are joining the official party, and if the venture is a success –as I think it well –then further trips will be arranged during the season. Everton reserves make an interesting experience against Leeds United, at Goodison Park. Joe Davies, the tall outside left who is coming on apace, moves to inside left. His form will be watched with interest. Trentham returns to outside left. Everton Reserves; Morton; Jackson, Jones; Britton, Gee, Milligan; Barber, Cunliffe, Bell, Davies (J), Trentham.
Everton “A” team visit Hoylake with the following team: - Lovett; Prescot, Saunders; M. Hill, Edwards, Lindley; N.W. Sharp, Wykes, Catterick, P. Griffiths, and H. Roberts.
The “B” team entertain St. Elizabeth’s at Bellefield, West Derby. Everton “B” Duncalf; Ireland, Dugdale; Sharrett, Breadwood, Atkins; Sumner, McDonald, Price, Lyon, Bailey.
BOLTON BEAT EVERTON IN BRILLIANT GAME
October 15, 1938. The Evening Express
Blues Twice Draw Level
Wanderers’ Defence Saves Day
By Pilot.
Everton were beaten 4-2 by Bolton Wanderers, at Burnden Park, after the Blues had twice drawn level in the first half. The score was level at the interval of a wonder game marked by brilliant intervention and brilliant football. The score rather exaggerated the Wanderers’ superiority, but their defence, especially Atkinson made this win possible. No fewer than 54,564 people paid for admission. The Wanderers have now gone six games without defeat. Roberts (3) and Woodward were their scorers today and Stevenson and Lawton scored for Everton. Milligan the former Oldham Athletic player, made his first First Division debut, for Everton, deputizing for Thomson, who was down with influenza, contracted yesterday. I understand it is possible that Ipswich Town will enter in negotiation for the transfer from Notts County of Dixie Dean. Inquires have been made. Reading are also interested in the former Everton international. More than 1,000 Everton supporters made the journey to Bolton today. Albert Geldard came along to greet his old colleagues. He is suffering from an ankle injury, but looks really well. Teams: - Bolton Wanderers: - Hanson, goal; Winter and Hubbick, backs; Goslin, Athkinson, and Taylor, half-backs; Woodward, Roberts, Hunt, Westwood, and Rothwell, forwards. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook (captain), and Greenhalgh, backs; Mercer, Jones and Milligan, half-backs; Gillick, Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson, and Boyes, forwards. Referee Mr. T. S. Blackhall (Wednesbury). Willie Cook captained the Blues. Bentham had plaster over a cut lip. The Wanderers should have taken the lead within three minutes, for Hunt found himself out on his own, with Everton under the impression that he was offside. The ball went away to Rothwell whose quick low shot was turned around the post in grand style by Sagar. Everton also had their big chance when Lawton turned the ball across to Boyes, but the ball ran a little too far, Hanson ran out beyond his penalty area to kick clear, but the ball rebounded to the feet of Gillick, who had an open goal facing him. In his haste he lobbed the ball back just a little too high, and it scraped over the top. The Wanderers went ahead in 12 minutes, Robert being the scorer. Woodward sent across a perfect pass, which Roberts snapped up and drove low into the net from a sharp angle. Gillick almost scored the equaliser when he went through on his own, beat Hubbick, and let go a low shot. Hanson saved well.
Everton Level.
Everton drew level in the 24th minute and luck was on their side. Boyes slipped the ball up the middle, and Gillick who had taken over Lawton’s role, headed the ball forward for Stevenson to run in and score with a shot which struck Hanson’s arm and bounded into the roof of the net. I thought Stevenson was offside. So did the Wanderers, but the referee refused to listen to all appeals. Atkinson twice came to the Wanderers rescue with timely interventions. Everton’s defence was subject to the harder pressure, however, and in 29 minutes Roberts restored the lead. Bentham had been penalized for a foul, and from there the ball was pushed aside for Roberts to drive into the far corner of the net just as Greenhalgh was making his tackle. A good goal this. Gillick drove in a fast, rising shot which Hanson flung himself out to and turned over the bar. Then came the best goal of the game so far, and to Everton, Lawton was the scorer –time 37 minutes. This how it went. Milligan to Bentham, and then forward to Gillick. Gillick moved inwards at pace, swept the ball through Atkinson’s legs, and so away to the line. He lobbed it to the far post, and although Goslin touched it, Lawton was there merely to touch it home with the side of his foot. This was getting more like a cup-tie every minute. Everton showed improvements towards the interval and were more than holding their own against this fast nippy Wanderers. Atkinson was the big stumbling block to more scoring successes. Great player this.
Halt-Time Bolton Wanderers 2, Everton 2.
Opinion during the interval was that Atkinson touched the ball when Stevenson scored and so put him on side. I did not see it. The Blues reopened with some perfect forward approach work and Bentham shot over. Hunt went through in fine style but Sagar tipped his scoring effort over the bar. The Wanderers had lost some of their erstwhile pace, and it was Everton who were calling the tune, and a pretty one at that. Lawton and Stevenson missed good chances. Lawton headed in from Mercer’s free kick, Hanson saving on the line. Everton were so much on top that even Cook went into attack. Westwood and Rothwell changed places, but Westwood twice ruined matters by getting offside. Lawton put Gillick through, and the Scot’s lob shot was saved in brilliant fashion, high up, by Hanson. Boyes cut to the line and Hanson had to dive at Lawton’s feet to avert another goal. Bolton gave Everton a shock when in 77 minutes they took the lead for the third time, a grand cross-shot by Woodward doing the trick after the winger had been put through by Roberts. No goalkeeper could have stopped this shot. The Wanderers had made it game and rubber in 82 minutes, Woodward put the ball up the middle and Hunt was through. Sagar was late in coming out, but he managed to deflect the ball, which was running towards the line when Roberts ran in and crashed it home. Final Bolton Wanderers 4, Everton 2.
SECOND DEFEAT OF SEASON.
October 15, 1938. The Liverpool Football Echo
Bolton’s Winning Rally.
Thrilling Game.
By Ranger.
Everton sustained their second defeat of the season at Bolton today, in a game which was packed with thrills from beginning to end. The score rather flattered the victors, but they deserved victory for their magnificent rally in the closing stages. Teams: - Bolton Wanderers: - Hanson, goal; Winter and Hubbick, backs; Goslin, Athkinson, and Taylor, half-backs; Woodward, Roberts, Hunt, Westwood, and Rothwell, forwards. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook (captain), and Greenhalgh, backs; Mercer, Jones and Milligan, half-backs; Gillick, Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson, and Boyes, forwards. Referee Mr. T. S. Blackhall (Wednesbury). Everton had to make a last minute change for their visit to Bolton. Jock Thomson, reporting unfit this morning with a heavy cold, Milligan, the former Oldham Athletic player, came in at left half, and thus made his debut in First Division football. Willie Cook acted as captain. The game was made the occasion of the first outing of members of the Shareholders Association, among whom Mr. Alf Deanaro, the chairman, made the trip. For Greenhalgh, Bentham, and Lawton this was a case of going home, for the first two were on Bolton books some years ago, while Lawton was born in the town. Albert Geldard, who is on the injured list for the second time this season, came along to the station to welcome his old colleagues. Cook stated his captaincy by winning the toss, but Bolton were soon on the attack. Winter, who had come up from his position, finishing off with a shot that passed right across the goalmouth.
Wanderers Open The Score
Bolton had the better of matters so far and they were not flattered when Roberts scored after ten minutes, Woodward started the movement, but his pass struck a defender a second attempt was made to get it away, but this time the ball came off Greenhalgh to the inside man, and though Sagar made a flying leap he just failed to reach the ball. Milligan was finding the pace of the Bolton right wing rather too hot for him at times, but Greenhalgh, behind was playing excellently. Sagar had to be alert on more than one occasion and Jones twice came to the rescue when the visitors goal was undergoing a hot attack. After 20 minutes Stevenson equalized with a goal about which there seemed to me to be a tinge of doubt regarding offside. He received the ball from Gillick, who had gone into the inside left position, and it appeared to me that Hanson, thinking Stevenson was offside, made only a half-hearted attempt merely touching the ball, which bounced from his hands into the top of the net. Bolton claimed for offside without success.
Second From Roberts.
Westwood was again prominent with some well-placed passages, and it was he who initiated a movement from which finally Roberts put Bolton ahead with a beautiful shot from 12 yards out, which never rose an inch from the ground. Everton were now coming to their best after a rather shaky start, and Gillick produced one of his best efforts so far when he nearly tricked Hubbick and put in a drive which Hanson just managed to deflect with his finger tips for a corner via the woodwork. The corner proved abortive, but Everton could not be denied long, and they equalized through Lawton’s at 35 minutes by the finest piece of combination seen so far. Milligan started it just inside the Everton half by tipping the ball over the head of Taylor to Gillick. He went up, ran down the field and beat the advancing Hubbick by pushing the ball between his legs and centred for Lawton to add the finishing touch from six yards out.
Half-Time Bolton Wanderers 2, Everton 2.
Perfect Combination.
The second half opened with a Bentham shot from long range, the ball sailing over the bar, and then came a beautiful piece of Everton combination which took the ball right from the penalty area to the Bolton goalmouth without a home player touching it. The order was Jones, Boyes, Lawton, Stevenson, and back to Lawton, and the move only broke down when the latter’s return pass to Stevenson was blocked by a defender. Everton this half had indulged in a series of forward switches which had the Bolton defence in more than one tangle. Lawton was frequently on either the right or left wing, with Gillick as roving centre forward. The first stoppage for injuries came when Hunt and Sagar were in collision on one of the rare occasions when Hunt got the better of Tommy Jones, who all along had played a brilliant defending game. Gillick and Stevenson changed places for a moment; the latter’s shot being wide of the mark, as also was his second attempt a moment later. Milligan was distributing the ball nicely, but was beaten by Woodward and Roberts when it came to a matter of pace. Milligan, however, came to the rescue, in the nick of time by kicking away from Westwood’s toe on one occasion. Gillick put Lawton in possession for a shot of the real Lawton type, which fortunately for Bolton, struck Atkinson. Westwood and Rothwell had now changed places, and Sagar was twice called upon to make saves at short range from Westwood. Considering the pace of the first half it would not have been surprising to find the players taking it easy, but this was not so, and the football continued to be as fast and thrilling as ever. Bolton came back to the attack after a quite spell, but good work by Cook, Greenhalgh, and Jones kept them in check. Cook cleared in clever fashion when Westwood was winging his way through, and a second time the Everton acting captain transferred play to the Bolton goalmouth with one of his fine clearances. Everton had done the major portion of the attacking this half, but Bolton were always dangerous, when they got away, and this was proved at the 75th minute, when a clever combined move by Woodward, Hunt, and Roberts led to the first-named putting Bolton ahead with a drive which Sagar just failed to reach. Tommy Jones went up in an endeavour to help Everton get on level terms, but actually the move led to a further reverse for the ball was cleared well up the field to Hunt, who was standing unmarked. Sagar ran out and fell at Hunt’s feet, but could not gather the ball, and Roberts, dashing up, shot into the open goal. Everton made desperate efforts but the task was too great. The game finished with Stevenson’s shooting narrowly outside when well placed. Final; Bolton Wanderers 4, Everton 2. Official Attendance 59,000.
EVERTON HAVE BIRTHDAYS AND A CHEERFUL CHAIRMAN
October 15, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
Lawton And Tommy Jones In The Twenties
Ernie Green Once Sprinted Alongside American Ace
By Stork.
Everton have proved to have suitable reserve strength, for to beat Wolverhampton with three second team players in the side cleared something we were doubtful about. But it was plain to be seen that the side lacked its usual swung. Would you have been surprised if it had not? I would, for three such players as Cook, Stevenson and Gillick are not easily replaced. The game showed us something else, that young Barber, the Weston-super-Mare boy, who came for his one trial with a few month’ a keep, is not quite ready. He did not fail, but he just stepped into shoes which were a trifle too big for him. Now he is a professional he will more than likely improve his play, for the Everton boys are only too pleased to pass on all they know to the younger element on the staff.
Tommy Lawton, who was only twenty, last week, was tutored in the art of heading by that prince of headers, Dean. It has stood him in good stead, but Lawton prefers to reply on his trusty feet. I am not surprised Tommy Jones was twenty-one on Wednesday. May I offer him my greetings? He and Lawton are almost bound to be in opposition at Cardiff next week. Jones has promised his bosom pal that he shall not score, but Cullis made the same promise to Lawton when they were at Belfast together. Lawton broke that promise of the Wolves’ captain. Now let me introduce you to Mr. Ernest Green, the new Everton chairman, who took over the reins of office at the commencement of the season. Football is the greatest love. He would go anywhere to see a game, and it need not be a Division 1 game, either. I know others who would deem it below them to go anywhere but to a Division 1 ground. Such is Mr. Green’s enthusiasm for the game. Football is not his only joy. He has had a life time in sport, football, cricket, baseball, athletics, cycling and walking. Can you visualize Mr. Green running against such men as A.S. Duffy, the American 10 sec flyer. Well he did, and was only beaten a yard by the great star. Being a schoolmaster, it is only natural that he should take his full share in the organization of sports among the youngsters of the city and I know that the boys of his school, Walton Lane School, look upon Mr. Green as their ideal. He had told me some amusing about His boys, as he calls them. A quiet personality Mr. Green has, however, very set ideas about football. He and I have pulled each other’s legs about a certain Everton player in whom he had the greatest faith, whereas I failed to see where the faith had come from. It was all good fun, but Mr. Green was right in the end. His faith has been justified up to the hilt this season, One up Mr. Green. He is very firm in many of his football views, and always been a strong advocate of the wisdom of talking over a plan of campaign before a match “It is no good going into the game in a haphazard manner. When you tackle a job you must have some plans as to how you are going to carry it through,” is his motto. His liking for football started as far back as 1898, when he was a member of the Liverpool Colleague team which won the Senior Shield, and later he played outside right for Liverpool University side. I have often wondered where he got his knowledge as to what constituted a good outside right. But while the Everton chairman has one eye on the team, his other is on the ground. The spectators is never forgotten by Mr. Green. He knows that the man round the “ring” is the one who keeps football going so he has given great attention to the question of covered accommodation, and you, readers, know with what result. He joined the Everton board 25 years ago, the last 16 of which he was vice-chairman. Greatly respected by the players, with whom he is on the friendlies forms, he will never forget the night he left Aberdeen for Liverpool. The players had prepared a joke for us as we left. Bags and bags of confetti were hurled at us, and to show you the spirit which exists between player and their chairman, Mr. Green came in for the greatest battering of all. He thought it was grand fun. Few teams could have done this with their chairman and got away with it. Such is Mr. Green.
HOW BOLTON WANDERERS BEAT EVERTON
Bolton Wanderers 4 Everton 2 (Game 1656 over-all)-(Div 1 1614)
October 17 1938 The Liverpool Daily Post
By Ranger
Atkins Foils Lawton
Everton sustained their second defeat of the season against Bolton Wanderers by a margin, which rather flatters the visitors. Bolton deserved to win, for while Everton played excellent football, so also did the Wanderers, and on top of that the latter had just the extra bit of finishing polish in front of goal, which made all the difference. The difference, however’ was not as pronounced as the score suggest, and up to 15 minutes from the end it was anybody’s game. Twice Everton drew level in the first half after being a goal down. Following a rather different and uncertain start they gained the upper hand after half an hour, and for the remaining portion of the halt Bolton were concerned mainly with defence. The first 45 minutes were packed with such speedy and thrilling football that it seemed inevitable that the second portion must sifter by comparison. Actually that was not so. The second half was every bit a good as the first.
The Turning Point.
The turning point came just before the 75th minute when the score was two-all, Everton had a long spell of attack with Bolton confined to spasmodic, but always dangerous raids. In one particularly fierce onslaught on the home goal, three shots were rained in quick succession by Lawton Boyes, and Stevenson. Two struck the defenders and the third had ‘’goal’’ written all over it when Winter popped up from nowhere and breasted it outright on the goal line. Almost immediately the ball was returned to the half-way line, where Hunt Roberts and Woodward combined so effectively that they went through the Everton defence like a knife through cheese, the latter scoring the best goal of the day, with a terrific cross drive. With 15 minutes to go Everton put all they knew into attack for the first time Jones left Hunt unguarded and went up to help his Forwards, but the gamble did not come off. The ball was returned to Hunt, who standing entirely unmarked, look a certain score until Sagar threw at his feet. The Greasy ball slipped cut of the goalkeeper Grasp and slidded in front of Roberts, who had only to tap it into the empty net.
Welsh Boy’s Triumph.
This was Robert’s Third goal, and put the seal in a personal triumph for the 20 years old Welsh boy. The first goal came at the end of 10 minutes, Stevenson equalized at 20 minutes from what would have been an offside position, but for Gillick’s pass striking Atkinson. Roberts got his second just before the half-hour and Lawton again put Everton level after 35 minutes, with a goal which was Gillick’s in all but name. Everton have already earned high praise of Highbury and Villa Park for the Quality of their football. This game was another worthy of elevation to the same pedestal, and one which will long be remembered by 60,000 people who saw it. It was a record crowd for a league match at Burden Park. This time however the visitors found the virile and confident Bolton side more than a match for them. Thanks partly to the good work of the home defence, but chiefly because of the remarkable speed and understanding of the Wanderers five point attack. There was no ‘’switching’’ in the home forward line-thought Westwood, who was brilliant all through, and Rothewell changed, places permanently in the second half -but when Bolton attacked they always did so by accurate and well timed pass, with all the forwards coming up, in a line together on the ‘’losers’’ side everybody played his part well, and though beaten, Everton were by no means disgraced. Sagar had not the ghost of a chance with any of the goals. Cooks who was acting captain in the absence of Thomson, and Greenhalgh were sound thorough and so were Mercer and Jones, Milligan, the former Oldham Athletic half-backs making his first division debut, showed intelligence in positioning himself and distributing the ball to his forwards, but Woodward and Roberts were frequently, too speedy for him and when he was beaten there, was no hope of recover. Gillck was the best of the forwards with Stevenson not for behind. Lawton had one of his worst days this season, thanks to excellent work of Atkinson whole tackling was brilliant. Teams: - Bolton Wanderers: - Hanson, goal; Winter and Hubbick, backs; Goslin, Athkinson, and Taylor, half-backs; Woodward, Roberts, Hunt, Westwood, and Rothwell, forwards. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook (captain), and Greenhalgh, backs; Mercer, Jones and Milligan, half-backs; Gillick, Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson, and Boyes, forwards. Referee Mr. T. S. Blackhall (Wednesbury).
CENTRAL LEAGUE
Everton Reserves 1 Leeds United Reserves 1
October 17, 1938 The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 10)
At Goodison Park, Everton should have won comfortably, but at it was only succeeded in equalising after 80 minutes, for the home team, Morton played well and Jackson was the better back. The halves of whom, Gee was the pick. Who broke up many threatening movements by the visitors, and also served up serviceable passes to the forwards, the best of whom were Cunliffe, Davies (j) and Bell. For Leeds United, Savage, played a wonderful game in goal, and repeatedly saved shots from all angles. He was well covered by Milburn and Scalife. Ainsley and Armes were dangerous forwards, Buckley scored for Leeds, and Bell replied. Everton team: - Morton, goal Jackson, and Jones (je), backs; Britton, Gee (captain), and Edwards, half-backs; Barber, Cunliffe, Bell, Davies (j) and Trentham, forwards.
LIVERPOOLL COUNTY LEAGUE
Hoylake 1 Everton ‘’A’’ 3
October 17 1938, THE Liverpool Daily Post
Hoylake enjoyed as much or more territorial advantage as their opponents, and Everton gained victory through defensive lapses during which Roberts scored two snap goals at 15 minutes and 17 minutes respectively. Sharp registered a third point at the half-hour, but Sullivan reduced the arrears prior to the interview. Hoylake put on considerable pressure in the closing half, and Lovett in the Everton goal, brought off many masterful saves, especially from Snarl and Snelgraves. Play 8, won 6, lost 1, draw 1, for 25 against 11 points 13.
EVERTON GLORIOUS CIN DEFEAT
October 17, 1938. Evening Express
Match That Might Have Gone Either Way
By Pilot.
Todd, the Glentoran outside right, was the player Everton were watching in Ireland on Saturday –as announced in the Evening Express –but I doubt whether there will be any further developments. After seeing Everton against Bolton Wanderers at Burnden Park, when the Blues lost 4-2, I say the Goodison side is good enough for anything. This was the best football game I have seen since the classic Everton –Sunderland Cup reply. It was rich in thrills and high-grade endeavour. The points might have gone either way and Bolton secured the vital goal only late on. Everton gained honour in defeat, for they were opposed to a brilliant scintillating constellation of “stars” from Bolton’s young “school.” There was hardly a pin to chosen between the sides however. The man who made Bolton’s victory possible was Atkinson, the centre half. It was he who stood out against Everton’s menacing raids when the Wanderers had lost their erstwhile fire and grip of the game. If Everton could be faulted it was their second half neglect of Boyes who, early on, had led Goslin and Winter a merry dance. The highlight of the match was Lawton’s goal, following scores by Roberts (2) and Stevenson. Gillick’s run was astonishingly clever –a job over Hubbick’s head, a push through Atkinson’s legs, a run to the line, and then a lob centre which could not be missed by Lawton, standing barely a yard out. Gillick was the best forward with Bentham next in order of merit while Mercer was the best half-back. Milligan, making his debut tried to be too precise and so appeared rather slow, but his start is encouraging, Jones again played well through making one fatal mistake, and Cook and Sagar were outstanding in defence.
EVERTON AND BOLTON PROVIDE A CLASSIC EXHIBITION
October 17, 1938, The Liverpool Echo
But Lawton Has A Bad Day
By Rangers.
At their present rate of progress Everton look like supplanting Arsenal as the biggest attraction among the senior sides when they go visiting. Recently, at Huddersfield they drew the biggest crowd Leeds Road has seen at a league game for years, and on Saturday the 60,000 people who came to watch them constituted a league record for the Burnden Park ground. Everton have already earned high praise for their exhibitions of clever football at Highbury and Aston Villa. They added to their laurels at Bolton, for, by general consent, the game was the finest seen on this ground for years it was full of football meat from beginning to end –fast, thrilling, and packed with incident –but for one rather scrappy period of ten minutes in the second half. Sir Williams Edge, president of the Wanderers, expressed, the opinion afterwards that if football of this type was served up regularly grounds would not be big enough to hold the folk who would want to see it, and he wasn’t far wrong. Bolton deserved to win for the way they took their chances, of which they had no more than Everton, but the final score exaggerated their superiority. It was anybody’s game up to fifteen minutes from the end, when the score was two all and Everton were doing most of the attacking. In one onslaught the Bolton goal bore a charmed life. Two Everton shots were blocked in the nick of time, and a third was created out by Winter right on the goal-line. It looked almost a certainty that Everton would go ahead, but as so often happens, the defending team actually took the lead. A hefty clearance right from the Bolton goalmouth was collected by Hunt, passed on to Roberts and thence to Woodward, who scored with a brilliant Lawton –like cross-drive which left Sagar helpless. The ball went from the Bolton penalty area into the Blues’ net without an Everton man touching it –a magnificent piece of combination. In an effort to pull the game out of the fire Jones left Hunt unmarked for the only time, and went right up the field. Back came the ball from the Bolton end to Hunt whose shot Sagar smothered, but the greasy ball slipped from his grasp and left Roberts with a gift. I have heard criticism of Jones’s move. To my mind he did the best thing in the circumstances; it was a gamble which might easily have come off.
Gillick’s Best.
Everton fought back valiantly in the first half, after a rather shaky start, to get on level terms twice after being a goal in arrears. Roberts’s first goal was neutralized by Stevenson, who receive a Gillick pass via a defender to put him on-side, and Roberts’s second was equalized by Lawton, who will be the first to admit that most of the credit should go to Gillick. Gillick was Everton’s best forward, I have rarely seen him play better though on a couple of occasions his shooting could have been improved on. His positional sense was excellent, and when Lawton tired of the ceaseless policemanship of Atkinson, took to meandering on the wings, Gillick was a constant source of danger in the centre. Lawton had his worst day this season for Atkinson, never more than a yard from his shoulder, tackled in deadly fashion. The tackling on both sides, in fact was always deadly and often severe, but it was the severity of vigour and not viciousness, and considering the amazing pace of the game, it was an exceptionally clean exhibition. With Atkinson a rock-like stopper, Everton made a mistake in putting the ball too much down the middle to Lawton. It would have paid them to swing it out more to the wings. Stevenson and Bentham worked hard and did some good things without tangible result bar the former early goal. Boyes did well considering he got few passes of real worth and Mercer and Jones were excellent. Westwood made some brilliant individual runs, but apparently the Bolton man tired of finding Mercer always popping up again after he had been beaten, for he went on the extreme wing later on. Jones kept intact his record of never having been scored against by any opposing centre forward this season. I am not counting Fagan’s penalty, in the “Derby” game –though he had a narrow escape with Bolton’s fourth. Cook, Greenhalgh, and Sagar were sound, and the latter was helpless to prevent any one of Bolton’s goals.
Short Of Pace.
Milligan, who was making his First Division debut, did not let the side down, but it is obvious that he needs speeding up considerably. He will be at his best when the going is heavy. Bolton’s clever right wing pair had too much pace for him, and when he was beaten, recovery was out of the question. His distribution the ball well, however, and was the starting point of the move which led to Everton’s second goal. The secret of Bolton’s success lay in their five point attack, together with the fact that their shooting, while no more frequent than Everton’s was much more accurate. Their forward line is amazingly fast and skillful, and when it moves up it does so with a straight line. Westwood and Hunt provide the experience and with Woodward, Roberts, and Rothwell, these 20-year-olds, who have brought youth and virility to this side, the Wanderers attack is going to make holes in a lot of defences. Everton were beaten on their merits, but by no means disgraced. Sir George Haslam summed it up in a nutshell when he remarked “If these two teams met seven times in succession I would not like to say which would win the odd game. Neither would I. Whatever their final places in the league table Lancashire will be proud of Bolton and Everton if they continue to serve up football of this caliber.
Thomson Doubtful.
Jock Thomson is still suffering from a severe attack of ontarrh, and must be regarded as a doubtful starter for Saturday’s home game with Leeds, though there is a possibility he may throw it off in time.
NO CENTRE HAS SCORED AGAINST TOM JONES
October 18, 1938. The Evening Express.
Will Lawton, At Cardiff?
Pilot’s Sports Log.
Tommy Jones, Everton’s centre-half, will play for Wales against England at Cardiff on Saturday with a record to preserve. This season no centre forward has scored a goal against him in actual play. Billy Fagan, of Liverpool, of course got one from the penalty spot. Jones is proud of that record, and now he stakes it against his bosom pal and clubmate, Tommy Lawton! In only two games this season has Lawton failed to score! What a duel it will be! Those looking forward to it more than anyone else are Lawton and Jones.
The ‘National Team.
Congratulations to Jones, Lawton, and Boyes, the Everton winger, on being chosen for this match. They deserved the honours –and o does the Everton club. Everton now hold the distinction of having supplied more international players this season than any other club. Celtic recently had five players in the match against Ireland, but altogether Everton have supplied six players for international duty –Lawton and Boyes to England, Jones to Wales, Stevenson and Cook to Ireland, and Gillick to Scotland. In addition, Mercer went to Ireland as reserve for the inter-League game. So, the only player in Everton’s regular eleven not to travel on international duty is Norman Greenhalgh and even he was in the Football League “shadow team.”
EVERTON PROVIDE THREE PLAYERS FOR ENGLAND-WALES INTERNATIONAL
October 18, 1938. The Liverpool Football Echo
Some Keen Lawton-Jones Duel In Prospect
Ranger’s Notes.
The award of English caps to Lawton and Boyes for the game on Saturday against Wales means that Everton’s first team will now include no fewer than eight internationals. Greenhalgh, Mercer, and Bentham are the only uncapped players, though the way they have been playing this season the first two named will be challenging for inclusion before long. I understand that Mercer was actually considered on this occasion, and certainly he has been playing well enough, but Whittingham remains by reason of his solidity, stamina and wonderful consistency and will take a lot of shifting. Liverpool folk will join me in congratulations to the local lads. It is Lawton’s first international honour, and Boyes’s first cap in the home series, though he was in the F.A. team that toured the Continent three years ago and played against Holland, Jones, of course, played against Ireland at the back end of last season. It has been evident for some time that Lawton and Jones were practically certainties for this game. Whether it is advisable that clubmates should be in such direct opposition is a matter of opinion. A lot depends on the players themselves, and in this case I see nothing against it, for they are fine sportsman and firm friends, and while each will do his best for his country, we can rely on it that the duels between them will be fought out in the best possible spirit. We look to international games for the highest ideals of good sportsmanship, and to my mind the opposition of clubmates tends this way. At Bolton, on Saturday, Lawton “promised” Jones that if they were both chosen he would pop in at least one goal against Wales, to which Jones jokingly replied that no centre forward this season had scored against him, and Lawton wasn’t going to be the first to break the ice. We shall see.
Four Everton Changes?
The Everton board meets tonight to pick the side to oppose Leeds, at Goodison Park, on Saturday, and will possibly have to fill four vacant places, for Thomson is still a doubtful starter. If he cannot play, choice will rest between Gordon Watson and Milligan, with Bell, Gee, and Trentham probably taking the places of the three absent internationals. Trentham has been on the injured list for the past few weeks, but turned out for the Reserves last Saturday and reports fit again.
A Father’s Complaint.
Mr. William Cullis, of Ellesmere Port, father of the Wolves famous half has written me complaining of the treatment he received at Goodison Park a week ago when his son and Bentham were injured. He says: - “Dear Ranger –Congratulations on your outspoken criticism on the poor sportsmanship of a certain section of the spectators at the Everton v. Wolves match. Whatever happened on the field of play did not warrant the booing from the crowd especially when one of the players was unconscious. It appeared to me that neither of the players would draw back hence the collision. “Immediately after the accident I left my seat in the stand and made my way to the main entrance to see the condition of my son. Bentham’s father arrived there at the same time, and was admitted immediately to see his boy. I was hustled by a man in uniform into the street, where a policeman ordered me away. After walking about for a time, I returned and asked to see Major Buckley, and he immediately told me to go in and see my son, who was lying unconscious in the dressing room. Was the reason, for the delay in my being admitted due to the fact the my lad was a visiting player? I do not think the Everton directors would admire this sort of thing. “I can understand and appreciate Mr. Cullis indignation, the more so as his son, when carried off, appeared to be seriously injured, and the father naturally must have been very anxious, but he can take it quite definitely that the fact that he was a visiting player had nothing to do with it, I have spoken to Mr. Theo Kelly, the Everton secretary, and until I acquainted him of the circumstances he had no idea that Mr. Cullis was at the match. No message was conveyed to Mr. Kelly or any other official of the club that the father was outside and wanted to see his son, otherwise he would have received every courtesy and assistance. The prompt admittance of Bentham’s father was due to the fact that he was known personally to the commissionaire, to whom he spoke. Unfortunately Mr. Cullis was not known, and in view of the fact that so many unauthorized persons attempt to force their way into the club’s private premises, the doorman, have strict instructions to let nobody in without proof of identity. I can assure Mr. Cullis that the Everton club regrets the circumstances. Had they known he was present he would have received every help and consideration.
• Everton and Liverpool F.C. players will compete against each other in a swimming squadron race at Dovecot Swimming Club Gala, tonight, at the Harold Davies Baths, Knotty Ash, beginning at 7.30.
FOUR CHANGES AGAINST LEEDS UNITED
October 19 1938, Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel
With Everton first team players doing so well there has been little opportunity for the men in the Reserves ranks to step up when Gillick, Stevenson and Cook were called on to play in the Ireland against Scotland game there were vacancies and now with Lawton, Boyes and Jones (tg) on duty at Cardiff, reserve men have further chances and Bell Trentham and Gee appear in the first team once more. Everton are fortunate to have experienced players like these to call on and play for no doubt they will welcome the opportunity to help themselves and the club in the highest circle. Bell, who has been doing well with the centre league side, takes on the centre-forward berth against Leeds United on Saturday at Goodison Park, while Gee deputizes for Jones, and Trentham comes in place of Boyes. Thomson is not yet fit and Watson takes up the left half-back berth in place of Milligan who deputized for Thomson last week. Gee of course is an international pivot and in this occasion he will have as a direct opponent his old rival Hodgson. This will be Gee’s 195 league appearance of which 25 were for Stockport County from where Everton secured him. Gee played in the Leeds United matches last season. Trentham 15 and Bell was called on five league duty’s.
NATIONAL CALLING
October 21, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
Everton are finding international calls a bit of a nuisance this season. The directors have been perfectly willing to release any player chosen for honours in the full knowledge that it may mean the loss of a game and two valuable points. A few weeks ago Cook, Stevenson, and Mercer were in Ireland what time Everton were tackling the big proposition in Wolverhampton, and now Lawton, Jones and Boyes have been called to Cardiff for the England’s game with Wales. Again the opposition to Everton at Goodison Park is formidable for Leeds United are one of the strong sides of the tournament this season. Gordon Hodgson is, with Tommy Lawton top of the First Division goal-scoring list, and be may through Lawton’s absence go right to the top Everton have brought in Gee, Bell and Trentham for the missing internationals, while Watson does duty for Thomson. Good though the deputies may be the “seniors” are sure to be missed. They have played so long together that they know each other’s play to a nicety. The changes may or may not have any effect, for the incoming players all have first team experience. A great deal will centre round Hodgson and Gee. The winner of the duel will go a long way of winning the game, for Hodgson is the United’s chief marksman. Both defences are dominating, and it is quite possible that one goal will decide the issue. Everton’s home record has stood some severe tests this season, but tomorrow’s is, in my opinion, the biggest of them all, and I am not unmindedful of the narrow escape it had against Wolverhampton. I did not fear the Wolves quite so much, for I knew that their attack, was not so punchful as that of Leeds. There may not be such clever play in the United side, but there are goal-scorers all along the line. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Gee, Watson; Gillick, Bentham, Bell, Stevenson, Trentham. Leeds United; - Twooney; Milburn, Gadsby; Edwards, Holley, Mills; Cochrane, Thomson, Hodgson, Powell, Hargreaves.
EVERTON WILL HAVE TO FIGHT ALL THE WAY
October 21, 1938. Evening Express
To Keep Home Record Intact Against Leeds
By Pilot.
Everton have not dropped a point in their first five home games this season. Tomorrow their visitors will be Leeds United. International calls and illness bring about four team changes, and Gee, Watson, bell and Trentham take the places of Thomson, Boyes, Lawton, and Jones (T.G). Thomson is ill, and the other three will be playing in the Cardiff international. Two weeks ago the Blues met and defeated Wolverhampton Wanderers with three internationals away. Is there any reason to doubt they can win again tomorrow? Adroitly fed, Bell is a match-winner, especially if he gets that left foot into action, while Gee will certainty prove a match for Gordon Hodgson, the former Liverpool forward, who is certain of a warm welcome from the Merseyside enthusiasts. Further, Watson and Trentham are good footballers and I expect them to link up with Stevenson into an effective flank. Leeds, however, are one of the most dangerous teams in the First Division. Hodgson is playing as well as ever he did and beside him are four young attackers possessed of rare football ability and the enthusiasm of youth. The United side, as a matter of fact, is an ideal blend of youth and experience, with Hodgson and evergreen Willis Edwards the guiding influences. Leeds have gained a point a match away from home and are behind the leaders in the table. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Gee, Watson; Gillick, Bentham, Bell, Stevenson, Trentham. Leeds United; - Twooney; Milburn, Gadsby; Edwards, Holley, Mills; Cochrane, Thomson, Hodgson, Powell, Hargreaves.
HAT-TRICK FOR BELL
October 22, 1938. The Liverpool Football Echo
Hodgson Taken To Hospital
Everton Four Up
By Stork.
Injury to Hodgson in five minutes spoiled the game, and Everton were able to step forward to yet another home win. Bell got a nice hat-trick, and Trentham the first goal, so often the all-important one. Teams: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook (captain) and Greenhalgh, backs; Mercer, Gee, and Watson, half-backs; Gillick, Bentham, Bell, Stevenson and Trentham, forwards. Leeds United; - Twoomey, goal; Milburn and Gadshy, backs; Edwards, Holley, and Mills, half-backs; Cochrane, Thomson, Hodgson, Powell, and Hargreaves, forwards. Referee Mr. G. T. Davies (Bury). Considering that Everton were without three of their regular players there was an excellent attendance at Goodison. It was a nice day even though there was a blustery wind which blew down field forwards the Gwladys Street goal. Everton kicked of into this direction and were soon in an attacking mood. At five minutes Greenhalgh and Hodgson participated in a keen bit of tackling and the Leeds man came out of it feeling his ankle. Although he did try to continue, he had to leave the field for attention. During his absence the Everton left wing got close into goal, Trentham putting the ball across the goal face only to find there was no colleague at hand to finish off his work. There was almost an Everton goal when Stevenson pushed the ball neatly through to Bell, who was very deliberate with his shot, the ball travelling just outside the upright.
Hodgson Taken To Dressing room.
Hodgson was still off. I saw they had put his boots on again and he was itching to get back to business. He actually stood at the touch line trying out his injury, but after a few steps backwards and forwards the ankle went again so that this time he was taken to the dressing-room. It was a quiet sort of game until Stevenson livened things up when he went forward to take a shot, which was cannoned out. Bentham smashed home a fierce shot, Twoomey putting the ball over his crossbar –quite the most exciting bit of play thus far. Naturally, with Hodgson’s absence the United’s attack was well held, and Everton were more often than not on the offensive. Stevenson swept his leg at an oncoming ball and steered it outside. Hodgson returned after 25 minutes and went on the wing. There was an uncommon accident when bell made an effort to beat Twooney. He seemed to kick Gillick in the process, and as the ball went to Twooney, Gillick ran to his position with a decided limp. Something was needed to bring some spice into the game, and it came when Leeds were given a free kick just outside the penalty, for we all know how Milburn (J.) can hit these free kicks. Everton put up a barrier of bodies before him, and Sagar ran out to his guard with some sort of instruction; but Milburn, instead of slamming the ball, just lobbed it over the heads of the line so that Powell ran forward, only to be caught offside. Stevenson, who had been Everton’s chief marksman, made a good shot, a rare one, too. Twooney did well to push the ball out.
Trentham’s Goal.
Stevenson had a big hand in Trentham’s goal, which came at 33 mins. He drew the United defence before he pushed the ball to Bell, who edged it further along to Trentham, whose left-footed shot beat Twooney to pieces. Trentham tried a similar one a little later, also from Bell’s pass, but this time the Leeds goalkeeper saved magnificently. Hodgson finally left the field as Everton scored their goal. Bell scored a second goal for Everton at 41 minutes. It came about through a big clearance by Gee hitting a Leeds defender and thereby putting Bell onside. Bell himself must have through he was offside for he hesitated, but when he saw the all clear he went on and shot past Twooney. United contested the genuineness of the goal but there was never any doubt about it to those who know the rules. Bell scored a third for Everton at 44 minutes. He nodded the ball home from Trentham’s corner kick after Gee had headed it goalwards. Stevenson netted a fourth time but was given offside.
Half-Time Everton 3, Leeds United 0.
Hodgson Goes To Hospital.
During the interval I heard that Hodgson has been sent to hospital for a further examination. Naturally Everton were the more dominating party in the second half and within 7 minutes of the restart Bell had put up his hat-trick of goals, scoring with a picture header from Trentham’s corner kick. Other goals should have come the way of Everton for Gillick was through and Stevenson missed an easy one. Bell and Trentham had done grand work in the Everton attack, but one had to acknowledge the weakness of the depleted opposition when giving out praise to the victors. It was a very ordinary sort of game, and Leeds could making nothing of the Everton defence, so that Sagar had little or no work to do. Powell was a great worker and a good player to boot in the Leeds attack, but ten men can hardly be expected to beat eleven, particularly so when the spearhead of an attack had to leave the field within five minutes of the start. Gee naturally found the job down the centre considerably eased, so that Everton were able to go forward to a nice comfortable victory. Towards the end Greenhalgh went up in an effort to take a goal, the game ending on a very quiet note. Final Everton 4, Leeds United 0.
LAWTON IN FOR A ROW OF CAPS
October 22, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
Everton’s Boyes-Stevenson Wing Triumph
Tom Jones “The Quiet Sort Who Does Things
By Stork.
Tommy Lawton is proving a rare money-spinner for me. Last season I lost a few wagers because he did not get a “cap,” for I had gambled that he would, but he looks like getting back all my losses this season. I won one small wager with him over the inter-league game, and now I will draw over his selection for England at Cardiff today, and again over his inclusion in the England team to play Europe at Highbury on Wednesday. They are only friendly little affairs, and I know that Tommy will only be too glad to “pony” up over them. He has played himself into the team, and I have a feeling that he will go through the complete series, if of course accidents don’t happen, as they have a habit of doing in all games. By the way, let me right a wrong Lawton was 19 on October 6, not 20. Another thing, someone has been pulling my leg; it takes some doing, for I am too old at the game to be “kidded” as a rule but I did fall for a story that Dean had coached Lawton in the art of heading a ball. This is denied most emphatically. I wonder what West Bromwich Albion think about Walter Boyes now? I know a lot of their supporters were dead against his transfer from the Hawthorns. When in Birmingham recently I heard it said that his place had not been successfully filled. Now he has got a full cap. That must be galling to a club. It has happened before and will happen again. Boyes was some time striking his form, but this season he and Stevenson have been a nightmare to opposition defences. Wales has always had a dominating centre half-back. Let me name but two of them. Fred Keenor and Tommy Griffiths. They will see something entirely different when Tommy Jones steps on the field at Ninian Park. In his first national, Jones did not quite satisfy because of his quiet demeanour. It was something new to the Welshmen. He will do just the same thing as Keenor and Griffiths did, but in a much more gentle manner. He will dominate without appearing to do so, I admit he was a trifle nonchalant last season, but today I consider him the best centre half back in the county. Who is the youngest secretary in the First Division? I should say Theo Kelly, of Everton. Young in years he may be, but he is stepped in football lore. As a boy of nine he was a “runner” from press-box to phone, and let me tell you Theo missed few kicks of the game. Believe it or not Mr. Kelly, was a rank “Liverpoolian” (as he says himself, “rotten to the core) owing to Sam Hardly, Liverpool’s and England goalkeeper. He had a learning that way, and would have been Walton Lane’s keeper had not music lesson’s intervened. Sneaked music once, and saw the school team licked by Arnot Street 6-0. Ernie Green was his sports master. Was in the Navy during the war and used an Echo football at Bombay Free-town, Sydney, Montreal and Archangel, among other big seaports. He referred on the old Cup Final ground at Crystal Palace on many occasions. No oranges thrown; reason, no spectators. Sam Chedgzoy was in the visiting Scots Guards’ side. Before and after the war. Theo was closely associated with Liverpool Wednesday League –the best ever –as player and official, and still retains hope of seeing the purely Wednesday players come into their own by support of the only organization which caters exclusively for them. Theo has ever had a penchant for the executive side of football, and on the advice of his father (“Studmarks”), applied for Danny Kirkwood’s position looking after Everton’s “A” team. Changed his colours without compunction on his appointment for the atmosphere of Everton was marvelous –his own words. Immediately struck oil with some amateur players –no names needed, and under the guidance of the late Mr. Tom McIntosh, to whom he was assistant, because the complete secretary with the confidence of the board behind him. When on special training –Mr. Kelly is top of the class. He is a glutton for work, and cuts down those tiresome idle moments to the minimum. At organization he is a genius. The players are never left twiddling their fingers for want of something to do. His joy is to see his players happy, and he will go to any trouble to see that they are happy. You have got to travel with Everton to know the real value of Mr. Theo Kelly. He has justified the directors decision to give him his big chance, and he has taken it with both hands.
CAPS FOR EVERTONIANS
October 24 1938 daily post
Wales beat England 4-2 Jones (debut) for Wales, Lawton (1 goal from a Penalty kick) and Boyes for England, in front of 55,000 at Ninian Park
EVERTON KEEP HOME RECORD
Everton 4 Leeds United 0 (Game 1657 over-all)-(Div 1 1615)
October 24,1938, Liverpool Daily Post
By Stork
Bell Scores Three Goals
Leeds Lose Hodgson Injured
Everton’s home record remains intact. It was through that the release of their three internationals players might spoil the homeward run but as things turned out the deputies were the deciding factor in their easy victory over Leeds United. They won 4-0, and with more steadiness in front of goal that figure would have been considerably larger, Leeds United, had the worst bit of bad luck imaginable five minutes after the start of the game, and what bearing Hodgson’s injury had on the United’s prospects, can be judged by the fact that Sagar had a comfortable afternoon in the goal. It was a simple little tackle which caused Hodgson’s ankle injury. It did not seem serious at first, but when he attempted to return to the field his foot would not stand any pressure. He came out later but it was obvious that he was in pain. He ultimately was sent to Stanley Hospital to have the injury X-rayed. The leg was put in plaster and he returned home. To lose a man in five minutes is bad enough but when it is a man of the caliber of Hodgson it was infinitely worse. For there was no forward left in the line to deliver the shots. Hodgson departure spoiled the game so far as Leeds were concerned, yet the United pat up a magnificent front considering their great handicap.
Three Quick Goals.
Everton were a long time in getting on top. Up to the scoring of the first goal by Trentham at 33 minutes the play was moderate and without feature, but in 11 minutes Everton had burst through the Leeds United defence and put on three goals. That was the end, for it was hardly to be expect that their 10 men could stand up to Everton’s full side for another 45 minutes.
Live Wires Of The Side.
Bell did something, Lawton has never done for Everton, scored a hat-trick so he was a worthy deputy for the England centre-forward. He and Trentham were to my mind the live wires of the Everton attack even though Stevenson did his quote of gathering and fetching. How the Irishman tried to score. That he did not was due to poor direction. And the presence of Twooney who made some smart saves to keep the Everton score down to reasonable dimensions. How easily one can err in football rules. A linesman flagged for offside when Bell got his first goal despite the fact the Gee’s by clearance was undoubtedly headed onwards by a Leeds man, so that Bell could not Possibly be offside. It was a tense moment for some, when the referee strode across to the linesman to get his opinion; an opinion that was not needed for the whole incident was their to be seen. The goal was rightly allowed to stand. Bell’s other goals were from headers the last one at 57 minutes being a perfectly taken header from Trentham corner. It was very gratifying to see the Everton Reserves playing performing so well. The directors confidence in the second team players has been justified. I though Mercer’s display faultless, and Gee strode about shutting down the way to the weakened Leeds forwards line. Gillick did many fine things in a great way. Greenhalgh was rarely at a loss what to do.
Clever Inside Men.
Leeds had two clever inside men in Powell and Thomson, whose work was wasted because of the need for someone in the centre to finish it off. Holley kept a tight hold of Bell for a time, but was eventually run out,, and Milburn and Gadlby had to do some hard greft to keep the scoring down, but the man who did that for United, was the Irish Goalkeeper Twooney, he had one or two shots to deal with but got them away in the manner of a first class keeper, he was once saved by the woodwork. Teams follow: - Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook (captain) and Greenhalgh, backs; Mercer, Gee, and Watson, half-backs; Gillick, Bentham, Bell, Stevenson and Trentham, forwards. Leeds United; - Twoomey, goal; Milburn and Gadshy, backs; Edwards, Holley, and Mills, half-backs; Cochrane, Thomson, Hodgson, Powell, and Hargreaves, forwards. Referee Mr. G. T. Davies (Bury). Attendance: 30,747
CENTRAL LEAGUE
Bolton Wanderers Reserves 5 Everton Reserves 1
October 24,1938 The Liverpool Daily Post
Central League (Game 11)
Everton were well beaten at Burden Park a crowd of 4,500 admired much of their football and accurate passing, but it broke down completely against the solid defensive work of Tennant and Connor. The Bolton backs with Hurst as another effective stopper at the Centre-half. Catterick was obliterated, through he had one great shot splendidly saved. Sharp was the best of the visitors forwards, his consolation goal being well deserved. The halves, Britton Edwards and Milligan could not hold Bolton’s lively forwards the latter conceding a Penalty goal. Grosvenor (2), Howe, Sinclair and Jones (j) scored for Bolton Wanderers; Morton had little chance with any of the goals.
Everton team; Morton, goal Jackson, and Jones (je), backs; Britton, Edwards, and Milligan, half-backs; Barber Cunliffe, Catterick, Sharp, and Roberts, forwards
LIVERPOOL COUNTY LEAGUE
Prescot B.I. Social 2 Everton ‘’A’’ 3
October 24, 1938 The Liverpool Daily Post
At Prescot, the visitors display the better combination and deserved to win because their forwards showed better workmanship than the home front line. For the winners Wylies (2), and Lindsay (Penalty) scored while Reed and Hilton netted for the losers.
EVERTON WIN, BUT –
October 24, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
“Keep your eye on the ball” is the first and last rule of golf, it is no less important in football, as was seen when a linesman flagged offside when Bell scored his first goal against Leeds United at Goodison. He could not have had his eye on the ball, otherwise he would have seen that Gee’s clearance was headed by a Leeds man before it went on to Bell, who therefore could not be offside. Now to be quite fair, Bell’s hesitated as though he was expecting the whistle before he finally shot beyond Twooney. But I think that 29,000 of the 30,000 people present saw that bell was “played” onside by the fact that the ball had touched an opponent. The offside rule, in my opinion, is simplicity itself, yet here we had a linesman making a simple error which might have meant a loss of a goal to “Nine Goals Bell.” Everton’s task of keeping their home record intact was simplified by an injury to Hodgson in the first five minutes of the game. He did return, but it was obvious that he could not be of any material help, for the –injured ankle would not stand the slightest pressure. His injury came about during a simple little tackle with Greenhalgh. No one through it could be serious, so imagine the surprise when it was learned later that Hodgson had been taken to hospital to have an X-ray examination.
Devoid Of Thrills
I need hardly tell you that Hodgson’s going turned the game into one channel, a winning Everton channel, and the surprise was that they did not score more than the four goals obtained. Blame Twooney for one thing, and haphazard shooting for the other. For half an hour the game was uncommonly devoid of thrills. Leeds battled against their handicap with a will, but it was all defence, for there was naturally no bite in their attack –they played four forwards, it could not be anything else, for four forwards can hardly be expected to beat through six defenders. That they struck to their guns so long as they did was praiseworthy. Some were grumbling about the poor caliber of the play when Trentham wiped away the grumble with a goal at 33 minutes. Bell had a hand in it, than popped up himself with two goals in three minutes so that Everton were in a commanding position at the interval. The United had little heart. Their handicap was too great to shoulder, yet only one other goal –also by Bell –was scored in the second-half during which time, Twooney did great work in the Leeds goal. He should have been beaten more often, for Everton had their chances, but Stevenson for one could not find a true line, most of his shots finding their way into the crowd.
Faith In Reserve.
The Everton directors faith in their reserve strength has been fully justified. A few weeks ago they turned out three second teams players against Wolves and won, now they have a victory over Leeds to their credit, with four reserves in the field. It was the reserve men who carried the day, for Bell’s three goals and Trentham’s opening point were good enough to dispose of the United. Bell did something that International Lawton, has never done for Everton scored a hat-trick. With Hodgson away Gee had a rather easy task in closing down the middle, and I rated Mercer as the best half back on the field; although I can still enjoy veteran Willie Edwards’s lovely ground passes. Holley was a strong defender, and Milburn and Gadby did yeoman service when Everton were clamoring round their goal, but it was Twooney who foiled Everton time and again. In Powell and Thomson Leeds have two top class inside forwards, but they needed a Hodgson to finish off their work. Shall we leave it at that?
DEPUTIES “BIG THREE” OF EVERTON TRIUMPH
October 24, 1938. The Evening Express.
Bell, Trentham And Gee
Non-Stop Blues Attack
By Watcher.
Bell, Trentham and Gee, the three Everton deputies for internationals Lawton, Boyes, and Jones, played a big part in the Blues’ 4-0 success against Leeds United at Goodison on Saturday. Bell, Birkenhead-born centre forward scored a hat-trick and also had a hand in the first goal, passing to Trentham before the winger netted. Two of Bell’s goals came from Trentham’s corner. Gee, Tom Jones’s deputy at centre half, was able to adopt an attacking role, with Gordon Hodgson, Leeds’ sharpshooting centre-forward out of the match with an injury after four minutes. Gee pushed the ball down the middle time after time and his brilliance kept Everton constantly on the offensive. Leeds were always struggling after Trentham’s goal and throughout the afternoon Sagar did not have one really difficult shot to deal with. Everton, by contrast, bombarded the United goal for long periods, and several times Milburn and Gadsby just bobbled up in the nick of time. Stevenson’s wanderlust often left Trentham all alone, but the youngster took the honours in numerous duels with veteran Edwards and generally had Milburn “at sea.” On the other wing, Gillick and Bentham always spell danger to Leeds. Mercer and Cook had the measure of Hargreaves and Powell, but Watson and Greenhalgh occasionally had trouble with the hard-working Cochrane, whom I thought was Leeds’ best forward. Cochrane was master in midfield but faded out near goal. Everton dictated play all the way.
INTERNATIONALS RETURN
October 25, 1938, The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel.
Everton will have three of their internationals players back again on duty on Saturday, when they visit Leicester. Jones Lawton, and Boyes return to the side in place of Gee, Bell,, and Trentham, but Thomson will still be absent owing to a cold so Watson retains the left position at Leicester city.
EVERTON INTERNATIONAL STARS BACK FOR LECIESTER GAME
October 25, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton will have their three international’s back on duty for the game at Leicester on Saturday. Jones, Lawton, and Boyes return, and Gee, Bell, and Trentham drop out having done their good deed. Thomson will still be absent, however, and Watson retains his place at left half. Team; Sagar; Cook, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones, Watson; Gillick, Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson, and Boyes. Reserves side v. Sheffield Wednesday at Goodison. Morton; Jackson, Jones; Britton, Gee, Lindley; Merritt, McMurray, Bell, Cunliffe, and Trentham.
EVERTON INTERNATIONALS RETURN
October 25, 1938. Evening Express
By Pilot.
Everton are able to field their best available team for Saturday’s visit to Filbert-Street to oppose Leicester City. Lawton, Boyes, and Tom Jones return to the side following international duty and replace Bell, Trentham and Gee. These are the only changes. Jock Thomson, the captain, is still suffering from the ill-effects of his severe cold and will need another week at least to get fit, so Watson continues as left half, a position he filled with credit against Leeds. Thomson will travel to Leicester with the team, is he is fit enough, to give advice on tactics. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones (Tom), Watson; Gillick, Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson, Boyes. Everton Reserves made several changes for the match against Sheffield United in the Central League at Goodison Park. Everton Reserves; Morton; Jackson, Jones (Jack); Britton, Gee, Lindley; Merritt, McMurray, Bell, Cunliffe, Trentham.
LAWTON SCORES AGAINST FOR ENGLISH LEAGUE
October 27 1938, The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel
England against the rest of Europe 3-0, attendance 40,000 at Highbury, Lawton and Boyes played.
LAWTON’S TOTAL 16
By scoring the second goal for England, Lawton brought his ‘bag’’ for the season up to 16, obtained in 14 games, including three representative matches, one of Lawton’s best feats to date with his four goals for the English league against the Irish league, although in two other occasions he has needed twice in a league match. Only twice has Lawton faded to score in a match this season and their were against Huddersfield Town at Huddersfield and Liverpool at Goodison Park. The centre-forward, goals have been obtained as follows, Irish league (4), Grimsby and Brentford (2). Blackpool Villa Arsenal, Portsmouth, Wolves, Bolton, Wales and the rest of Europe one each.
EVERTON’S QUEST FOR OUTSIDE RIGHT
October 27, 1938. Evening Express.
Pilot’s Sports Log.
Everton Football Club are engaged in an important quest, and although there is no need for them to hurry, do not be surprised if they figure in a transfer deal shortly. There is one position in the side which the Blues want to duplicate in order that they can be prepared to put up the greatest challenge for title honours. That position is at outside-right, where only the youngsters, Barber and Merritt are available if Gillick is absent. In recent weeks Everton have watched several outside-rights, and the men receiving most attention just now are Butler, of Oldham Athletic, and King of Northampton. Butler is the brother of Billy Butler the famous Bolton Wanderers and England right winger, now manager of Reading, while King is a discovery of Warney Cresswell.
EVERTON MAY SCORE FOURTH AWAY WIN
October 28, 1938. The Evening Express
By Pilot.
Everton may record their fourth away win of the season and consolidate their position at the head of the First Division table when they oppose Leicester City at Filbert Street, Leicester tomorrow. Strengthened by the return of their three internationals, Jones, Lawton and Boyes. I think the Blues will prove too good for Leicester, even though the table shows the City having secured seven points out a possible 12 at home. There is plenty of cleverness about Leicester, but their close method of approach is not likely to succeed against Everton’s good defence. Despite the fact that the City showed improvement when winning at Villa Park last Saturday, I fancy Everton to record their tenth win of the season. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Greenhalgh, Mercer, Jones, Watson; Gillick, Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson, Boyes.
Everton Trailist
Everton are giving a trial in their “A” team, against Formby at Bellefield, West Derby, tomorrow, to D. Selby, a young outside-left, from Mickle Trafford, near Chester. This is the club from which they secured Duggie Trentham. Everton “A” – Burnett; Prescott, Saunders; Wykes, Lambert, M. Hill; Barber, S. Simmons, R. Siddell, N.W. Sharp, D. Selby.
Everton “B” team also plays at Bellefield against Mellanear. Their team is:- L.R. Duncalf; G. Dugdale, G. Sherrett, M.R. Breadwood, B. Atkins, W. Sumner, F. McDonald, W.S. Price, J. Lyon, G. Bailey.
• Central League Match at Goodison Park, Tomorrow (Saturday), October 29. Everton v Sheffield United, Kick-off 3-0 O’clock Admission 6d, Boys 2d, Stands Extra.
LEICESTER MEMORIES
October 28, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
Leicester City put the cat among the pigeons when they went to Villa Park and won, and so upset a home banker Everton go to Filbert Street, tomorrow wondering what sort of side this is that can beard the Villa in their den and win. Fortunately Everton will be almost at full strength, for Thomson is the only absentee. It would appear that a full team is necessary after last Saturday’s surprise. I have memories of some thrilling games between Everton and Leicester. Who will ever forget the Goodison game when Everton were leading 3 goals at the interval, yet were ultimately beaten 4-3? Then the game at Leicester; I think it was the occasion of Warney Cresswell’s debut, and the half-back line read Brown, Griffiths, and Reid. Didn’t I get into hot water over the match. Billy Brown came into the office to have my life over something I had said, and it took me nearly two hours to convince him that I was referring to the line, and not him individually. However, the game was most exciting, and one of the directors could not stand the strain and had to go and sit in the boardroom.
Now To The Future.
Leicester won 6-2 after Everton had held the lead, and the defeat went a long way to helping Everton into the Second Division. On the following Monday Everton were knocked out of the Cup, at Birmingham by Hull City, after which Martin came to Everton. However, I must cease delving into the past and centre on the future. What can we expect from this visit to Leicester? It is no easy task set before the leaders, but I think they are up to it. Everton have broken down the “away” bogey this season, and if they cannot win outright I fancy that they will get a point for their defence is welded into a mighty whole this season. They will have to fight hard for success, but a team which can win at Arsenal, Villa and Blackpool should have no fear of a variable Leicester City. Everton; Sagar; Cook, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones, Watson; Gillick, Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson, Boyes. Leicester City: - Calvert; Frame, Reeday; Heywood, Sharman, Grosenvor; Griffiths, Maw, Dewis, Moralee, Stubbs.
LEICESTER PRODUCE BEST FOR EVERTON
October 29, 1938. Evening Express, Football Edition.
Jones’ Injury Upsets Blues
Three Goals Without Reply
By Pilot.
Everton suffered their third defeat of the season when they were beaten 3-0 by Leicester City at Filbert-street. The City played well and deserved their victory, but Everton were upset by an injury to Jones in the second half, when Maw’s first goal was supplemented by Dewis and Griffiths. The Everton attack played below par, lacking its usual “fire” in front of goal. Everton news is that the Goodison Park team may consider an offer from Germany. Dr. Otto Nertz, of the German F.A., was present at today’s match. The tour may be considered at Everton’s next meeting. The Blues have already had an offer to tour Sweden. The best “gate” of the season came to welcome the League leaders. Edwards was Everton’s 12th man for the first time, while Jock Thomson went along to hold a watching brief. Thomson hopes to be fit by next week. Teams: - Leicester: - Calvert, goal; Frame, and Reeday, backs; Haywood, Sharman, and Grosvenor, half-backs; Griffiths, Maw, Dewis, Moralee, and Stubbs, forwards. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook (captain) and Greenhalgh, backs; Mercer, Jones and Watson, half-backs; Gillick, Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson and Boyes, forwards. Referee Mr. L. Dale, (Sheffield). It was good football in the opening quarter, both sides being exceptionally quick on the ball, with Everton using it rather to better advantage. Mercer made a faulty clearance, but Cook came to the rescue and Calvert pulled down a high shot from Bentham. There was much good work by Maw, and he was the centre piece of a fine triangular movement with Dewis and Stubbs. There was no shot to bother Sagar however. Watson cut through and let go a shot which Frame deflected. Calvert, however, could only fist straight in the air corner kick from Gillick, but he recovered to push the ball over the top as he clung to the crossbar. Tom Jones almost gave the City a goal when he put a back pass to Sagar, the goalkeeper coming out to stop the ball with his legs.
Gillick’s Header.
Bentham broke through and with perfect ball control rounded Reeday and centred accurately for Gillick to head in, but Calvert flung himself out to make a brilliant save. Everton always looked the more precise football combination and Gillick repeatedly was dangerous, much so when moved inwards as Stevenson centred. Calvert came out, but could not clear, and when Gillick shot, Frame kicked off the line. Leicester took the lead with a shock goal by Maw, in 26 minutes. Watson had made a faulty clearance which went wide to Stubbs, who allowed the ball to cross the line. From the throw-in the ball was whipped straight along the floor to Maw, standing about 12 yards from goal. Maw hit the ball first time with his left foot into the far top corner of the net. I noticed a weakness down Everton’s right defensive flank, and twice Stubbs came through with terrific shots which finished across the face of the goal. Everton were neater in their constructive art, but just lacked that “bite” in front of goal, and the City, although not attacking as frequently, always looked dangerous. Sagar twice had to cut out passing-centres from Dewis and Stubbs. Boyes was fouled on the edge of the penalty area, and Lawton’s free kick crashed back off Sharman. Lawton, following up, headed over the top. Next Lawton cut between the backs, and his left-foot shot was saved brilliantly by Calvert. Adopting good, open tactics Leicester swung the ball wide to Griffiths who cut in to place into the far corner of the net; but Moralee, in his eagerness, had raced into an offside position, and had also impeded Sagar, so the goal was disallowed. This had been a good half of high grade football, played at top pace.
Half-Time; Leicester City 1, Everton 0.
The excitement increased on resuming and there was several thrilling incidents in the respective goalmouths, Maw striking the side netting. Mercer ran through in brilliant style beating four men before passing to Gillick, who drove in along the floor, Calvert saving by the far post. Griffiths had all the goal to shoot at, but placed straight at Sagar. The goalkeeper was injured when he came out to hold a shot from Stubbs at close range. Jones was also injured, but both were able to resume, and away went Everton. Stevenson cut through and shot in along the floor for Calvert to save at full length. Calvert was injured, but he was able to carry on. The Everton attack was not working so smoothly and the Blues were lucky when a centre from Stubbs was missed by Maw and Griffiths. Leicester took command, Everton’s forwards being easily held. The injury to Jones left gaps in Everton’s defence. The City put up their best display of the season. In my opinion Jones was a yard inside the penalty area, but the referee refused the claim, even after consulting with a linesman. The City received their just reward in 75 minutes, when a kick through pass by Stubbs from well in his own half, caught Everton’s defence spread-eagled and Dewis went through like a flash. Greenhalgh tried to intercept but slipped down, and Dewis ran on to place the ball into the net, as Sagar advanced. They increased their lead in 80 minutes through Griffiths, and it was again the handicap under which Jones was playing which was mainly responsible. Jones could not get to a pass through, and Griffiths, standing close in, scored easily. Final; Leicester City 3, Everton 0.
EVERTON LOSE LEAD
October 29, 1938. The Liverpool Football Echo
Triumph For Leicester City
Blues’ Attack Fails.
Everton found Leicester showing their best form of the season, and Everton’s forward line did not show up in its true colours, the forwards falling away badly. Teams: - Leicester: - Calvert, goal; Frame, and Reeday, backs; Haywood, Sharman, and Grosvenor, half-backs; Griffiths, Maw, Dewis, Moralee, and Stubbs, forwards. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook (captain) and Greenhalgh, backs; Mercer, Jones and Watson, half-backs; Gillick, Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson and Boyes, forwards. Referee Mr. L. Dale, (Sheffield). The match attracted the biggest crowd of the season at Leicester, there being a gate of 25,000. The game started at great pace and a mistake by Jones led to Dewis getting in, but he was unable to control the ball. He was challenged by Cook and ran the ball out. Sagar was surprised when Dewis raced forward to take a pass, but the Everton goalkeeper just managed to turn the ball round the corner of the post. Leicester had a bit of luck when Calvert, went out to save a shot on the right, was unable to clear the ball properly. Fortunately Frame was waiting in goal, and was able to clear. Griffiths, Leicester’s outside right came into the picture at this stage, and one of his centres was missed in front of goal by a couple of his inside forwards. The Everton right wing was better in attack for some time, for Boyes was prone to lose control of the ball, but taking it altogether, the home attack was a little more convincing, with Stubbs playing a great game at outside left and putting in three or four centres which troubled the Everton defence. After 25 minutes one of his centres found Maw unmarked just outside the penalty area, and he tried a first-time drive, getting hold of the ball perfectly and giving Sagar no chance with a drive high up into the net. Towards the interval, Everton became very dangerous, Lawton trying a shot from the edge of the penalty area which Calvert stopped, and from the return the Everton centre shaved the bar. Everton thought they ought to have had a corner for this, as Calvert appeared to get his fingertips to the ball, but the referee decided on a goalkick.
Faulty Passing.
Faulty passing by the Everton right spoiled a good chance, with Lawton waiting for a pass in a favourable position, and in the last three or four minutes before the interval the home team was the more dangerous. Stubbs who had done a tremendous amount of work, went right across the field to centre from the opposite wing, but his centre, like many others he had put in, was not snapped up. A minute from the interval Griffiths netted for Leicester, but the referee at once gave a free kick to Everton on account of offside by Moralee. The first half ended with Leicester enjoying a one-goal lead, the game so far having been full of good football, both sides having played in a free and open manner.
Half-Time –Leicester C 1, Everton 0.
The pace was faster than ever at the start of the second half, Everton started by forcing a corner, which Boyes dropped inaccurately and Calvert cleared from the ruck. Then it was Leicester’s turn once more, a brilliant bit of dribbling taking them close to Everton’s goal, where Sagar turned the ball round the post for an abortive corner. Griffiths followed with some good work, and Maw hit the side net, with a first-time shot. Everton attacked, and though Lawton could not force his way through, the ball went out to Gillick who tried a low shot across the goal. Stevenson could not quite get the ball, or the Leicester goal would certainly have fallen. Then Leicester threw away a couple of admirable chances when Griffiths shot each time straight. Sagar saving on his knees. Lewis put in a dangerous header, which the Everton goalkeeper capacity dealt with, and Leicester were surprising their supporters by the excellence of their football. The Everton attack had fallen away very badly from its opening, and most of the play was in their quarters. Leicester though they were badly treated in not having a penalty when Greenhalgh appeared to handle, and a little later Sagar again came to his side a rescue, beating out a good attempt by Maw.
Dewis Makes It Two
Moralee was injured and went out on the right wing, but his first pass went right to Dewis. Cook tried to tackle Dewis, but slipped and left the latter with an open goal to make it 2-0 in Leicester’s favour after 78 minutes. Griffiths added a third for Leicester ten minutes from the finish and by now Everton were a thoroughly beaten team. Sagar once more saved his side when Maw was practically through. Leicester surprised their own supporters by the best game they have played this season, the understanding between their forwards showing a vast improvement. Everton did not play anything like so well as had been anticipated the forwards falling away badly. Final: - Leicester City 3; Everton 0.
FROM NEW BRIGHTON TOWER TO GOODISON VIA ANFIELD.
October 29, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
John Fare Retires From Everton
Tommy Jones Of Connah’s Quay And Wales
By Stork.
So the Reserves did not let us down. Those who thought they might had the contrary satisfaction of seeing two of the them score all four goals against Leeds United. To tackle a full Leeds United with four reserve players was tempting fate, but they came out of it with distinction. Bunny Bell, “Nine Goals Bell,” or whatever you like to call him, accomplished a feat which has been out of the reach of Lawton in all his football career. When Lawton does put up a “hat-trick” what an ovation he will receive. Bell, in any other side, but Everton, would be a first team man, for he can score goals many of them with his head. Leeds took the field with a full complement, but within five minutes were reduced to ten players through an injury to their crack scorer, Gordon Hodgson. At one time ten players could beat eleven, but times have changed and only on rare occasions can it be done nowadays. I can recall seeing it done within recent years. I can very well visualize why Hodgson scores so many goals for he is well piled. Powell and Thomson are dandy passes of a ball, and Gordon can hit em. With no Hodgson there the punch went out of the un-United line. How simply an injury can come about. I don’t suppose one single person thought that the scrap between Hodgson and Greenhalgh would end up as it did, for there was no venom in the tackle. Yet Hodgson had to go to hospital. Did you see the Leeds defender, head the ball on to Bell when the latter scored his first goal? If you did, and you should have done had you been following the ball, you would wonder why a linesman could possibly flag for offside. He could not have seen the deflection, otherwise that flag would not have wagged. That little flink put Bell onside even though bell himself was a little doubtful about his position. His hesitancy to go an proved that. Another long-service man has parted company with Everton. He is Mr. John Fare, that bundle of information who used to grow! At you over the phone but who, in reality was a charming character when you knew him well. Mr. Fare has gone on pension. If I was ever in need of information, regarding New Brighton Tower, Liverpool F.C. (both of which clubs he helped as a director), of Everton F.C. Mr. Fare could always oblige. And he needed no record books, his marvelous memory served him well. May he live long to enjoy his retirement. Tommy Jones, who has played in twelve games, and has not allowed a single one to score against him –forget the two penalty goals –is rather troubled to think he was made responsible for that penalty goal against England. Jones is such a spotlessly clean player that it rankles. He tells me that he was not responsible; it was some other. No names no pack drill. Now that I have cleared that let me talk of Tommy Jones, this week’s personality. He is the uncrowned king of Connah’s Quay, a little spot on the shores of the Dee. Lawton says if you ran round Connah’s Quay three times you would not have done a lap. There is no place like Wales to Jones and he is naturally proud to think that he helped het to beat the great England. His football life is only yet in its infancy, for he reached his majority only a week or so ago, but whenever he learned his football art must glory in its perfection. Tommy has been nothing else but a footballer. He was captain of the county team when he was thirteen years old, and played right-half for Wales in the schoolboys, international. Wrexham saw in him great possibilities, and took him on their ground staff when he was fifteen. He was allowed to play for Connah’s Quay Amateurs while attending Wrexham, and many were the inquires about this born footballer. Eventually Wrexham signed him on as a professional and it was then that Everton took an interest in him. I asked him on whom, he had modeled his game. He had not set favourities; in fact he saw very little high-class football. Isn’t it strange how a boy’s mind automatically turns to Aston Villa? “I had any ideas about playing for any First Division club it was Aston Villa,” said Tommy, but he is not sorry he came to Everton, where he is very happy among the best lot of lads in the game. Wrexham sent him along to Goodison Park to see three games –Arsenal, Liverpool and Derby County –and Tommy says that was the turning point of his career. He was struck by the easy way Bradshaw, Barker, and Gee found their men and he decided that if he was ever to become a top class centre-half he would have to master the art. Jones is a studious young man, and he was soon following in the footsteps of the great masters, and you know with what result. In my opinion, this tall young Welsh man is the coolest most calculating pivot in the game today, and with all his success he is still the modest young man he was when he came to Goodison Park. He is the butt of the boys, who are always chipping him, but he stands up to them just as effectively as he does to centre forwards, who this season have had no change from Tommy Jones, whom I tipped for a cap when he was playing in the Central League team. He should have as long a reign in the Welsh team as Billy Meredith.
STUD MARKS
October 29, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Louis T. Kelly.
Rules Of Yesterday
Strange to say, up to the time of the formation of the Football Association 75 years ago, no mention was made about heading the ball. In the early sixties the goals were defined by “two-upright posts.” Their distance apart, “8 yards,” remains so to this day. But here is a strange point; whenever a goal was scored, ends were changed! In 1867 a curious new football rule read; Each umpire to be referee in that half of the field of play nearest the goal defended by the party nominating him.” This early we had the notion of the two referees, one in each half of the field being mooted. In 1870, charging from behind was prohibited, and the goalkeeper, who had long been an institution, but a mere competitor, with no larger powers than the rest, was recognized and given the power to use his hands in defence of his goal. The Sheffield clubs –round about 1887 –were the first to introduce “the “cross-bar” (9th from the ground). The majority of clubs had been using a tape. It was at this time, too, that flags first marked the field of play, while the first mention of a corner kick, also appeared in words almost similar to the present rule on the point. Behind the times. The Scottish F.A. was not formed until 1873.
After Each Goal.
The attendance at the first Scotland-England match was 4,000. The old plan of changing ends after each goal had been scored was abolished in 1874-75. As early as 1875-76 the Sheffield club had a “Players’ Accident Society.” The Lancashire F.A. was formed in 1878, and at one had a membership of twenty-one clubs. One funny new law came into Soccer in 1879, it read; “No player shall charge his opponent by leaping on him!” as far back as 1879 too the Cup entries were grouped into divisions to save clubs making long journeys in the earlier rounds. The first North v. South match was played on March 6, 1880 at the Oval. In those days the team when appearing in the Press read from “outside right to goalkeeper,” Today it is the reverse way round. It was not until 1880 that the term “referee” was first mentioned in the rules and regulations of the game. Nothing, however, was said in the laws as to what might happen to a player who was ordered off. The first mention of shin-guards was also made; although before that such a notability as the late Sir Charles Clegg is said to have use mode-made guards to protect his shins in his own brilliant playing days.
EVERTON LACK THRUST
Leicester City 3 Everton 0 (Game 1658 over-all)-(Div 1 1616)
October 31 1938, The Liverpool Daily Post
By Stork
Leicester Find Their Form
Stubbs Revives The Forward Line
Everton were probably surprised by the way in which Leicester City played to beaten them 3-0, but they were not more surprised than the Leicester spectators, who had seen nothing this season and had almost given up expecting the team, with the men available to put up anything more than a stubborn fight against the odds! While it was by no means a one man victory a lot of credit goes to Stubbs the outside left, who for a long time has been wasting his energy in playing as a left back for the Reserves. Coming back to his true position, he lent speed and energy to the line, and for once he found that the forwards worked as a real combination, and not as a collection of individuals. There was a general feeling among the crowd that Everton were playing as much below their true form as Leicester were playing above the style they have shown this season, and which they have shown this season and which has resulted in most miserable gates.
Spectators Reward.
The 25,000 spectators to see Everton was easily the largest and they were rewarded with a keen fast interesting match, in which there was hardly a minute that lacked interest. It was played in the best of spirits, too. While the spectators did not think the referee quite did them justices in disallowing a goal and refusing a Penalty that certainly seems to justify an appeal, they recognized the play of the Everton team. Without qualification if the visitors could have managed to get through in the first 10 minutes, or in the opening part of the second half when they were at their best, the result might easily have been different. With Lawton failing to get the better of his tussle with Sharman and the combination of the attack comparing badly by the side of Leicester, they could not complain of their defeat, but for Sagar, in goal, it would have been much heavier. Good as Sagar was, Griffiths should have beaten him on two other occasions having a perfect sight of the goal, and plenty of time to shoot.
Injury To Jones.
On the other hand, the defeat might not have been so heavy but for An injury to Jones in the second half, when Leicester City were leading by the odd goal. Limping badly Jones should not have been left to look after Dewis. Who had given him a lot of trouble, even when he was fit. Jones slowness aided by a slip from Greenhalgh, presented Dewis with a grit goal, and there was never any doubt after that about where the points were going. Everton’s chief faults were that they could not maintain their thrust sufficiently to get near the Leicester City’s goal. The home team owed a good deal to Reed day, who kept Gillick very much under his thumbs. Boyes started in Brilliant style, but Frame took his measure after a time. The Leicester City defence as a whole was sounder against the Everton attack, partly from the point that the home front rank combined in a surprising efficient manner. Mercer played a very fine at half. Even though he had Stubbs to bother him. But neither of the backs was too safe in kicking under pressure. Everton, perhaps, were a little unfortunate in meeting a team that found itself so suddenly and so unexpectedly and the win will do Leicester City much more good than the loss will do Everton harm. Maw (25 minutes), Dewis (78 minutes ) and Griffiths (80 minutes) scored Leiester goals. Teams: Teams: - Leicester: - Calvert, goal; Frame, and Reeday, backs; Haywood, Sharman, and Grosvenor, half-backs; Griffiths, Maw, Dewis, Moralee, and Stubbs, forwards. Everton: - Sagar, goal; Cook (captain) and Greenhalgh, backs; Mercer, Jones and Watson, half-backs; Gillick, Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson and Boyes, forwards. Referee Mr. L. Dale, (Sheffield).
Referee L Dale, Attendances: 23,964
CENTRAL LEAGUE
Everton Reserves 2 Sheffield United Reserves 1
October 3, 1938, The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton did well to take both points, as Sheffield United proved themselves a strong side and made the visitors fight all the way. The home defence as usual was excellent, and Britton Gee and Davies (jw) were splendid halves. Merritt, who played pluckily, Bell and Trentham, were the best forwards. For the visitors, White was a good Goalkeeper Jessop the pick of the half-backs and Leyfield Hutchinson and Richards dangerous raiders. Bell (2), scored for Everton, and Hutchinson replied. Everton team; Morton, goal Jackson, and Jones (je), backs Britton, Gee (captain), and Lindley, half-Backs; Merritt, McMurray, Bell, Cunliffe, and Trentham, forwards.
LIVERPOOL COUNTY LEAGUE
Everton ‘’A’’ 5 Formby 1
October 31, 1938. The Liverpool Daily Post
At sandforth road, Everton further strengthen their leadership in the league table. Simmons opened the home side’s account after 10 minutes, and Everton with more steadiness would have held a bigger interval lead. The second half was much livelier than the opening period both sides did plenty of attacking and the Everton forwards were the smarter set and Wright the Formby goalkeeper was kept busy. Barber, Roberts and Siddell (2) added goals for Everton. Wagstaff netted for Formby direct from a corner kick.
EVERTON OFF THEIR GAME
October 31, 1938. Evening Express
Are Country’s Calls Upsetting Blues?
Mercer A Star At Leicester
By Pilot.
Are the calls for representative games upsetting Everton’s smooth combination and concentrated effort? I discussed this point after Everton had been defeated 3-0 by Leicester City at Filbert Street on Saturday –the third successive away defeat of the Blues. Certainly Everton had not the speed on the ball or the strength in the tackle which characterized the work of the City, whose success was well-merited, even allowing for the fact that Everton were upset by an injury to Tom Jones. Jones, Lawton and Boyes came back from international duty, but were not up to form. Stevenson, Cook and Gillick all of whom have been in internationals this season, were also off their game. I am inclined to think that the strain of appearing in representative matches –with the inherent desire to succeed – is upsetting the erstwhile brilliant Everton machine. The Blues have lost the leadership of the First Division –for the first time this season –and in this game there was a lack of the determined, convincing work which was a feature of their play in the early matches away from home. Neither Lawton not Boyes had his usual “snap” against Leicester, and the Everton officials will be heartily glad when this spate of midweek representative games is over. The Blues played good, attractive constructive football for an hour, but it lacked conviction. The City, on the other hand, rose above themselves and were yards quicker on the ball. The local people averted that it was the finest game seen at Leicester for years.
Jones Loses Record.
Everton might have kept the score to one goal had Jones, following his knee injury, been moved to outside right earlier. As it was he stayed in the centre and Leicester rattled on two goals simply because Jones could not do his usual work. So Jones lost his record of not conceding a goal to an opposing centre forward in actual play. Dewis gained the honour, the other goals coming from Maw and Griffiths. The City, on this form will have no worries. They were a grand side from goalkeeper to centre-forward, with Stubbs, maw, Heywood, Reeday, Calvert and Sharman –particularly Sharman –excelling themselves. Mercer was easily Everton’s outstanding player –he had no superior on the field –while Watson and Sagar played well, but none of the forwards or backs was up to his usual standard, Greenhalgh was affected by a cold which almost kept him out of the team at the last minute. This was Everton without the usual lustre. Why not another Harrogate “tonic.”
Tom Jones’s Injury.
Tom Jones, Everton’s Welsh international centre half, who was injured during the match at Leicester on Saturday, is suffering from a bruised knee, but Mr. Theo Kelly, secretary, states that Jones is expected to be fit for Saturday.
OUT OF THEIR SHELL
October 31, 1938. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
Leicester City came out of their shell with a vengeance and their defeat of Everton surprised no one more than their supporters. Probably the team was as surprised as anyone, for even their unexpected win against Aston Villa the previous week had not wholley dissolved the inferiority complex that has hung over them so long this season. Everton started like winners. Boyes delightful dribbles on the wing, and Lawton’s surprise shots in the first ten minutes, went far to convince the spectators –the biggest gate that Leicester has had this season, by the way –that it was only a question of time, and only a question of the number of goals they would win by. Then came a sudden goal by Maw, who is a player reminiscent of the girl in the nursey rhyme who when she was good was very very good, and when she was bad she was horrid. Maw has played some remarkably ineffective games in his time, but on Saturday he was on his best behavior. With Stubbs restored to his former place at outside left and the Leicester front line moving with a smoothness and exactitude that has been excelled for seasons, and is far beyond anything seen this or last year, Everton found themselves with a task beyond their powers.
Lawton Held Up.
After the first twenty minutes –except for a brief period early in the second half –Lawton could do nothing against Sharman. Boyes did some clever things, but found his passes wasted, and Gillick was so much under the thumb of Reeday that he very rarely appeared in the picture at all. At the other end of the field Sagar did more than he could reasonably have been expected to, though twice Griffiths should have beaten him. Against the smooth working combination of the Leicester front line Mercer did the best work, the backs not being to sure either in their kicking or tackles. Jones was injured about twenty minutes home the end, and this probably accounted for at least one goal of Leicester’s trio, for he was not able to stop Dewis, and the trouble was added to by Greenhalgh. It was fortunately, one of these games which go through the ninety minutes without anything that any player can regret, and it was undoubtedly one of the fastest and most interesting matches seen on the Leicester ground for years.
October 1938