OPENING OF SEASON
September 1 1902. The Liverpool Mercury
It must be admitted that the directors have brought together a capital array of talented players from which to select their League team. Particularly is this the case with respect to the forward line, where two really capable quintets might be put on the field, from the men at their disposal. The forward line as chosen to represent the club at West Bromwich to-day, is a splendid Combination but the most satisfactory part of the affair is that there is an excellent substitute for each position in the ranks, should the occasion require. It will be a great surprise if Everton prove weak in attack, with such reserve force as, Bowman, Dilly, Sherdian, Rankin, and Monks to fall back upon.
At half-back the recurrence of Wolstenholme's complaint is to be deplored, but the relapse may prove only a temporary one, his defection lets in Taylor, and with Booth and Abbott in their usual trim, this branch of the team is sound enough, for the reserves include Clarke (Centre), Chadwick (Blackburn), and Clayton (Ormskirk). Further behind, Balmer, Henderson, Crelly, and Lee, the latter is promising recruit from Tranmere Rovers, are the back bone of the defence, and to-day against the West Bromwich Albion, the selected are Balmer and Lee, the Cestrian getting his place thanks to a capital performance in the trial match on Thursday evening. Kitchen and Whitley are a couple of splendid custodain's and in the case of emergency, the director's have signed a youth-Joyce who shapes exceedingly well. The League team will be on view on the 13 th at Goodison Park, when Newcastle United will form the opposition.

THE EVERTON TEAM.
Athletic News - Monday 01 September 1902
By Junius
Much curiosity will be evinced regarding the fate of Everton at West Bromwich to-day, seeing that the directors are making two important changes in the side from that which did duty last season. The selection of Lee to partner Balmer, as left full back, was forced upon them by reason of this player’s clever performance in the trial match last Thursday, though it should be understood that towards the latter end of last season this latest recruit to their ranks was practically secured. He hails from Tranmere, and shaped very well in the Rovers’ tie with Liverpool in the semi-final round of the Liverpool Cup last year, and this favourable impression was substantiated in the recent trial games. He assisted New Brighton when the latter were in the Second Division of the League but was never seriously tried, and the Everton people have decided to give him a fair chance of showing what he is really capable of doing. He stands 5ft 10in.. and about 20 years age. Taylor takes Wolstenholme’s place, for the latter has not yet recovered from his last Saturday’s attack, and these two experiments will be watched with eagerness by the supporters of the club. Another local youth— Joyce—has been retained the directors, and he certainly performed like a coming custodian in some recent trials. It will be pleasing indeed to hear of the success of these new comers, and particularly so should Lee found capable of facing the strain of League campaign. The more local players we can find for League warfare the more creditable will it be for Liverpool football generally. Everton have a stiff task in having to face West Bromwich away, for it was Everton who pushed the “Throstles” into the Second Division the year that Liverpool won the championship, and, in fact, paved way for the Anfielders to their ultimate triumph of heading the League table. Then, the following Saturday, they tackle another promoted club—Middlesbrough—on foreign territory, and the time these two games are decided we shall able to form some estimate as to the real value of the team. For sake of reference I append the Everton eleven for today's match;—Kitchen; Balmer, Lee; Taylor, Booth, Abbott: Sharp. Brearlsey, Young, Settle, and Bell.

WEST BROMWICH ALBION v. EVERTON.
London Daily News - Tuesday 02 September 1902
West Bromwich opened their season on their own ground yesterday, having Everton as their opponents and the game attracted about 15,000 spectators The Albion opened with making several smart attacks. Lee shot over the bar and later put the ball through, but the point was disallowed for a previous foul. At length McLean beat the Everton goalkeeper, and Simmons headed through second point. At half-time Weal Bromwich Album were leading two goals to none. After changing ends a penalty kick was given against Palmer, but the Everton goalkeeper was equal the occasion. For a while the Albion were the smarter their movements, but eventually Everton made strong attack, and Young scoring in easy fashion. That being the only score in the second half. West Bromwich Albion won a good game by two goals to one.

WEST BROMWICH ALBION v. EVERTON.
Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer - Tuesday 02 September 1902
Played at West Bromwich last evening before 11,000 spectators. The Albion played with characteristic from the commencement, and outplayed Everton in all departments. It was not until an hour had elapsed before their efforts were rewarded, however, when Mclean scored a goal. ten minutes later Simmonds added another as the result of a fine combined effort. Interval score;- Albion 2 goals, Everton none. In the second Half Everton showed grealy improved form, and notwithstanding the fine defence of the home back, Young succeeded in reducing the margin. From this point both teams strove desperately, Everton especially working hard for the equalising point. The Albion, however, more than held their own, and came near scoring again, but failed to do so. result; West Bromwich Albion 2 goals, Everton 1 goal.

WEST BROMWICH ALBION v. EVERTON.
Leeds Mercury - Tuesday 02 September 1902
At West Bromwich, before 15,000 spectators. The Albion kicked towards Birmingham-road in the first half, and opened with several smart attacks, Lee putting the ball just over the bar. A couple of comers to the home side were neutralised, and Lee got through, but was disallowed for a previous foul. McLean at length scored, and Simmons headed' in the second, a beauty. Half-time; Albion two goals, to Everton none. resuming a penalty was given against Balmor, but the custodian saved hia charge. Play was exciting and somewhat even for the next quarter of an hour, the Albion being sharper their movements than their opponents. Everton's persistency, however, length told, and Young registered their first point in a somewhat fashion. Play then became much more even and very spirited- Result: Albion two goals, to Everton one goal.

WEST BROMWICH ALBION 2 EVERTON 1
September 2, 1902. The Liverpool Courier.
Two penalties missed during the second half.
Everton opened their League programme yesterday, when they encountered West Bromwich away from home. Success, however did not attend them in this, their initial effort and their defeat by the Throstles by two goals to one is somewhat disappointing to their numerous supporters. Lee, the ex-Tranmere Rovers man, was tried for the first time in first class football, partnering Balmer whilst Taylor took the place of Wolstenholme, who had sufficiently recovered. Great interest was centred in the match, and there was an attendance of something like 15,000 at the Hawthornes when the game stated at half-past five. The Albion supporters were naturally anxious to see how the team, which successfully fought its way back to the First Division, would fare in first-class company. The Albion directors were able to place on the field the same eleven that brought last season to a successful finish. The teams were: -
Everton: - Kitchen goal, Balmer and Lee, backs, Taylor, Booth (captain), and Abbott half-backs, Sharp Brearley, Young Settle, and Bell forwards. West Bromwich Albion: - Webb, goal, Kifford, and Adams, backs Nurse, Stevenson and Hadley half-backs McLean. Simmons Lee Worton, and Dorsett, forwards . Everton kicked off, and soon Dorsett was busy on the left. He and Worton ran down, but were stopped by Balmer, who put in a good return. The pressure on the Everton goal for the next five minutes was fairly severe, and once Lee, the Albion centre, had a shy, but without success. A corner against the visitors was successful dealt with, after which the home forwards, in spite of some good work by the Everton backs, got close up, and the position for a time looked dangerous for the Toffeeities. Lee shot in at short range, but the ball caught Balmer foot and went over the line. The Everton forwards now broke away, and Settle shot right across, the ball going in the direction of Adams, the left full back. Everton were penalised for a foul in the Albion half but Kifford kicked strongly into the Everton half, improving the situation greatly for the home team. Lee the home centre, got possession, and made a grand attempt to score, but he was adjusted offside, after which Kitchen was called upon to handle from a splendid shot by Simmons. The Throstles up to now were showing infinitely better form than their opponents, and were having more of the play as well as more than their share of ill-luck. The venue was suddenly changed through the instrumentality of Bell and Settle, and Brearley sent in a shot, which Webb safely piloted away. Dorsett, on the left, ran down smartly with the ball at his toes, but it went over the line off Balmer, a corner resulting. On the other wing, McLean after a good run, kicked behind. Everton had another look in, and from a throw-in, Everton were penalised. A corner to Everton looked dangerous for the Stripes, but Kifford got his foot to the ball, and cleared in fine style. Then Bell gave Webb a long high shot to deal with, and he successfully negotiated it. Simmons and Lee transferred play to the other end, and the latter parted with the ball, which Balmer returned. The pressure on the Everton goal was renewed with dash and spirit, and after Simmons had missed a beautiful opportunity, McLean, who was operating smartly on the outside left, received a pass from Dorsett and completely beat Kitchen, opening the score half an hour after the kick off. This put the Albion people in a good humour, and the players were urged to continue this form. Hadley the Albion left half, kept a strict watch on Sharp, while Stevenson the centre half, spoiled numerous opportunities of the Evertonians. A breakaway by the Albion left wing pair was the initiation of another goal for the home eleven. Dorsett ran up almost close to the goal line, and then centred beautifully. The ball dropped amidst a bunch of players, one of whom, Simmons, put it through to the unbounded satisfaction of the home supporters. Brearley was next applauded for a piece of smart work, and Bell tried his best to lower the Albion's colours. This brought about half-time, when the Throstles were leading by two goals to nothing.
The first item of note in the second half was a penalty kick against Balmer. Simmons took the kick, which was in a favorable position, but Kitchen kept it out in good style. Offside was next given against Everton, after which Settle, dispossessed Simmons, Bell was fouled, and Lee took the Penalty kick , which availed nothing. Bell had the ball at his toes up to a yard or two of the goal line, when Kifford kicked over the line in the nick of time, the Evertonians being robbed of a good opportunity. After a fruitless corner to Everton the Throstles dashed away to the opposite end, but nothing accured. Settle next made an opening for his colleagues, but it was not an easy one, and he could not do more than kick over. Brearley was next a little wide of the mark with an oblique shot. McLean and Lee showed signs of giving trouble on the right, but Taylor beat Lee with the ball. A minute later Kitchen only justed barely saved from a corner, and Everton were again penalised for a foul after which Kitchen had tom handle from Worton. Simmons dispossessed Young, and after some desultory play in the Everton half, the visitors worked their way to the Albion goal, Bell Settle, and Young being conspicuous in the movement. Young received a pass and scored the first goal-a lucky one-for his side. There were cries of “play up Everton” from their supporters, and Sharp getting near, sent over the bar. A free kick to the Evertonians brought no success. Settle was applauded for the clever way in which he bested two of the opposing forwards, but Everton found a hard nut to crack in the Albion backs, and could not get through. Bell made a splendid run, and unfortunately, when there was a clear opening for him he collided with Kifford. The Throstles had a corner in a capital position. Dorsett tried to drop the ball in the goal mouth, but made a poor attempt. There were now only a few minutes left for playing, and the visitors were striving hard at anyrate' to equalise. Kitchen next had to repel a shot from Lee. Result Albion 2; Everton 1.
Everton's display was much below expectation. They were confident of success beforehand, but on the day's play they were more inferior to the Throstles. The front rank lacked that cohesion and smartness, which make for success, they could not get on the ball with the same readiness that has oftentimes distinguished their play, indeed, they did not seem to have “found their feet” properly. Bell was the best of the quintette, but he was only feeble supported, and had to make the most of his chances. Settle was far away from his best, as was also Sharp, whilst Young has often done better, though it must be said that he occasionally put in some rasping shots. Brealey was as good as any of the forwards, and now and again accomplished some clever work. It is quite evident that the front line will have to smarten up its success is to be achieved. Taylor was very useful at half-back, Abbott worked hard, but Booth was somewhat uneven, although at times there were some good old flashes of play on his part. Balmer was safe, resourceful, and judicious, but rather below his customary form. His partner, Lee was hardly equal to the requirements of the position his kicking being weak, but at the same time it must be remembered that Lee has youth on his side, and further, that it was no doubt a trying ordeal for him in his first appearance in first class football. He certainly has the making of a good player. Kitchen performed admirably in goal, and it was due to his excellent goalkeeping that more goals were not recorded against Everton. The Albion played a dashing game throughout and this undoubtedly the secret of their success, but, man form man, the Everton, on their true form, would be more than their equal.

WEST BROMWICH v  EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post –Tuesday 2 September 1902
This match was played yesterday afternoon, before about 15,000 spectators, and in sunny weather. Albion won the toss, and elected to kick towards the Smethwick end, Young starting the game punctually to time. A short, quick pass, and a run down the right brought the ball into dangerous proximity to the home goal, but Gifford got his head to the ball as it flew towards goal, and the leather rolled over the line, the ensuing corner yielding no result. The Albion took up the running, and Worton was unfortunate with a shot that deserved to score. Some clever play between Simmonds and Mclean was the next feature of interest, the ball being nicely dribbled past the opposing halves, and the latter, getting into the corner, put the ball across, but Taylor was on the alert, and catching the sphere as it flew across the goal, and eluding Lee, sent it spinning into midfield. A foul against Nurse brought the Evertonians swarming round the Albion goal, where the defence was severely attacked, their goalkeeper twice saving brilliantly in as many minutes. McLean got down, and closing in, sent in a fine low shot that fairly beat Kitchen, and Albion were one ahead. Even play followed, and from a scrimmage the homesters sent in a second goal, having at this time the bulk of the play. Soon afterwards the Evertonians were having the better of matters, and for some time the ball was kept in the home half, where Taylor and his backs were kept fully occupied. Brierley sent in a shot that nearly beat Taylor, and later Young hit the post, the ball going over the line. The Throstles eventually relieved the pressure, and, getting possession, made a nice run down the wing, but an offside decision neutralised their efforts. The Albion were the better team, however, and always had a little in hand, and when the interval came the score stood;-
West Bromwich Albion 2, Everton 0.
On resuming, a penalty was given against Balmer, but the Everton custodian saved his charge. Play was exciting and somewhat even for the next quarter of an hour, Albion being sharper in their movements than their opponents. Everton’s persistence, however, at length told, and Young registered their first point in a somewhat easy fashion. Play now became much more even and very spirited. Result;- West Bromwich Albion 2 goals, Everton 1.

WEST BROMWICH ALBION v  EVERTON
Birmingham Daily Post - Tuesday 02 September 1902
The Albion last evening opened their season at the Hawthorns by opposing Everton, before 15,000 spectators. The home side was represented by7 exactly the same team that won the Second Division championship, and Everton were also at full strength. The teams were as follow;-
Albion.- Webb, goal; Kifford, and Adams, backs; Nurse (Captain), Stevenson, and Hadley, half-backs; Mclean, Simmons, Lee, Watson, and Dorsett, forwards.
Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Lee and Balmer, backs; Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Brearley, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards. Referee; Mr. S.R. Carr, London.
Nurse was fortunate in winning the toss, and Young started for Everton towards the Smethwick end. The Albion speedily made tracks for Everton’s position, and Weston neatly headed over to Lee and Simmons, who threatened danger, Balmer, however, cleared in the nick of time. The visitors transferred play, and Brearley had a long shot at goal, the ball doing an inch or so wide. The Albion again attacked vigorously, and Lee almost scored, Kitchen effecting a timely save, whilst subsequently Balmer, in clearing a brilliant centre by Dorsett came very near kicking through his own goal. From the corner nothing resulted, the Everton defence being firm. Play became very fast and exciting, and the Albion were now having slightly the better of matters the Everton defenders having the utmost difficulty in keeping their position intact. Two corners in succession fell to the Albion, but these came to nothing, and a minute or so later Worten made a capital attempt to get through, but Balmer came to the rescue at the right moment  and averted disaster. A foul close in was awarded the Albion, but the ball was easily kicked away and transferred to the other end, where Webb was called upon to handle, but the home defence being strong and reliable Everton failed to het in any way dangerous. The Albion forwards combined splendidly, and time after time the Everton goal had some exceedingly narrow escapes from downfall, Kitchen being applauded on several occasions for his clever saves. After twenty minutes’ play Lee, during a scrimmage, shot through for the Albion, but the point was disallowed. The Albion continued to play with the greatest determination, and Dorsett forced a corner, which, however, came to nothing beyond a slight scrimmage. Everton made some spirited attacks but they were pulled up frequently for infringements of the off-side rule. Sharp was given a chance, but he was too well looked after by Hadley, and was unable to centre. The visitors again got into close proximity to the Albion goal, and Bell forced their first corner, which was unproductive, although Webb saved a stinging long shot from Young. The home side made a strong raid on the Everton fortress, and from a difficult centre by Dorsett, Mclean with a fine low shot registered their first point, amidst tremendous cheering, after thirty-five minutes’ play. This reverse stimulated the visitors to renewed positions, and for some time the Albion position was jeopardised, but the defence proved quite equal to the occasion, and Webb was steady in goal. Away went the Albion forwards all in a line, Dorsett sending in a centre which Simmons met with his head and beat Kitchen for the second time.
Half-time; Albion 2, Everton 0
On crossing over the Albion made a rush for the Everton goal, and a penalty was given against Lee. Simmons took the kick, but Kitchen saved at the expense of a corner, which yielded the Albion no advantage, the ball being eventually sent over the bar. The Liverpool men strove hard to penetrate the home defence, but the Albion half-backs, who were going strong, had to be reckoned with, and the visitors were repeatedly driven back. Lee and Simmons were getting dangerous when the latter was pulled up-for-off-side, and Bell raced away to the other end, but after beating Kifford he was frustrated by the timely, intervention of Stevenson. Everton came near scoring from a corner, and Dorsett dashed off them beating several opponents, and finished up by placing the ball into the net, but the referee’s whistle having sounded previously this point, which was cleverly obtained was not allowed. The visitors attacked strongly, but they could make no headway against the Albion defence, and the home team had hard lines on two distinct occasions, when Kitchen saved in the luckiest manner possible. From a corner Everton obtained their first point, Young putting the ball into the corner of the goal in simple fashion, but Webb had no chance of saving. Everton afterwards pressed, and Young missed by inches only with a fine long shot, whilst a little later Bell had a clear opening, but Webb run out and met him, with the result that his final effort went wide. The Albion played up well towards the finish, and secured two corners in succession, but nothing resulted. The closing stages of the game were exciting, but no further score took place, the result being;-
Albion 2 Everton 1.

ALBION OPEN SPLENDIDLY
Birmingham Daily Gazette - Tuesday 02 September 1902
West Bromwich Albion opened their season at the Hawthorne last night under the happiest auspices. They had a splendid attendance, and the team secured a meritorious victory over Everton, one of the strongest organisations in the League. It is too early as yet to judge of the team’s abilities to hold its own in First League football, for one victory will not prove this, any more than one swallow will make a summer. Still the Albion deserve every credit for making such an excellent start, and at all events they were the superior team in this particular match. They pulled all together just as they did in the Second Division last season, and Everton were completely outplayed for the first hour of the game. The Albion adopted forcing tactics from the start, and the Everton defence was severely taxed several times. However, half-an-hour elapsed before an opening could be effected. Dorsett was mainly instrumental for the first goal, as he got the better of Taylor, and sent a beautiful shot across the goal-mouth. McLean deftly met the ball and sent it into the net. Just before the interval Dorsett again beat the defence in the left corner of the field, and by a well-placed centre enabled Simmons to add a second goal. Almost immediately after the restart Balmer hit the ball down within the penalty area, and Simmons was entrusted with the penalty kick. It had plenty of force behind it, but it went straight to Kitchen, who brought off a good save. Everton pulled together better, and from as free-kick taken by Bell the leather slipped just between one of the Albion players and the upright, Webb having no chance whatever of getting it. This encouraged Everton to play up, and it was clear they had a large stock of reserve force left, for they worked harder and more effectively than in any other portion of the game. The Albion managed to keep them from scoring again, and occasionally came very near adding to their own total, so that they have every reason to be satisfied with the result. Theu worked exceedingly hard in the first half, and earned their two goals by following up their opponents in that dogged, determined manner which enabled them practically to carry all before them last season. If they continue to exhibit this form throughout there will be few teams to outplay them on their own ground. Probably they will be capable of doing even better than this when the men have settled down properly. Webb did not have a lot to do between the upright, but he was always there when called upon, and made a few excellent saves. Both backs kicked and tackled well, but it would be well for them not to handle the ball as often as they did in this match, or they will have a tendency to do it sometimes within the 18 yards limit. Too much praise cannot be given to the half-backs, who were a plucky, hard-working, and effective trio. The forwards also made good use of their opportunities, so that there was not a weak spot in the whole team. Their best form was not exhibited, but for an opening match they did splendidly. With regard to Everton they have evidently not yet got into their true stride, but at times towards the finish they give glimpses of the skill of which we know some of the men are capable. Settle appears to be carrying superfluous flesh, but he was the pick of the visiting forwards, although Bell and Young did some clever things, and Sharp was a constant worker. The half-backs were strong, but Lee did not shape like a powerful back. Balmer did splendidly, and Kitchen seems like a capable custodian. The victory should do the Albion a lot of good and encourage them to make great efforts to hold their own in the upper and select circle.

WEST BROMWICH ALBION v  EVERTON
Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 02 September 1902
Played at West Bromwich last evening, before 15,00 spectators. The Albion played with characteristic dash right from the commencement, and outplayed Everton in all departments. It was not until half an hour had elapsed before their efforts were rewarded, however, when McLean scored a lovely goal. Ten minutes later Symmonds added another as the result of fine combined efforts. Half-time- Albion 2 goals, Everton nil.
Crossing over, Everton showed greatly improved form, and, notwithstanding the fine defence of the home backs, Young succeeded in reducing the margin. From this point both teams strove desperately. Everton especially working hard for the equalising point. The Albions, however, more than held their own, and came neat scoring again, but failed to do so.
Result;- West Bromwich Albion 2 Everton 1.

CHESTER 0 EVERTON RESERVES 4
September 4 1902. The Liverpool Courier
Chester opened their season yesterday evening, playing a friendly match with Everton combination. The weather was fine, but a strong wind blew from end to end and greatly interfered when the teams faced as follows: - Chester: - Ledsham, goal, Ashbury, and Stewart, backs Delaney, Turner, and Barker, half-backs Hodnett, Cartwright, Bromfield, Copeland and Miller, forwards. Everton: - Whitley, goal, Henderson, and Balmer (r), backs Clark, Russell, and Chadwick (Tc), half-backs, McDonald, Dixon, Bowman Sheridan, and Dilly forwards . Chester kicked off with the wind and sun against them. The visitors got through on the left, and Bowman hit the crossbar from a pass by Dilly, Ledsham kept out a shot from the right wing, but was then beaten by McDonald with a cross shot, which rebound from the upright into the net. The Cestrians broke away on the right, but the ball was worked out of play. Baxter gave Everton a corner, and Delaney intercepted, Ledshan effected a good save, and Chester got the visitors quarters again, Copeland finishing a good effort by heading just outside. Chester returned to the attack, and Copeland had hard lines with a good shot, Whitley conceding a fruitless corner. Hodgett made a good run on the Chester right but was robbed by Chadwick, who transferred the play. Everton forwards worked their way down and Bowman evoked a hearty cheer for a splendid shot, which just grazed the bar. Sheridan scored a second goal for the visitors with a fast shot, and soon afterwards the same player called upon Ledsham, who saved well. A clever movement on the Everton right finished with the ball being swing onto Bowman, who scored a third in ease fashion. Halt-time; Chester nil, Everton 3.
In the second half Everton again opened with a spirited attack, and Ledsham and was applauded for a good save from Sheridan. Chester retaliated in capital style, and the Everton goal narrowly escaped capturn by Miller, Hodnett, and Turner in succession, Whitley having a lively time of it. Rain fell heavily at this stage and interfered greatly with the play. Chester continued to improve, and Hodnett and Delaney, the former putting in some dashing runs, did excellent work. Whitely however, was very safe, Dixon scored a fourth goal for Everton, result Chester nil, Everton 4.

JOHNNY HOLT
Edinburgh Evening News - Thursday 04 September 1902
J. Holt, the well-known Reading and ex-Everton player, has just been informed by the English Football Association that his application to be reinstated as an amateur must stand over until next season. Holt is greatly disappointed at the delay, as at a recent meeting of the Reading F.C. shareholders, he was -the meeting being under the impression that he would be reinstated-elected a director of the club, which position, as a professional he may not fill. Holt, who is now a partner in a mineral water business in Reading, is determined not to receive any further remuneration for his services as a footballer.

CHESTER v  EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 05 September 1902
These teams met on Wednesday evening in a “friendly” on the occasion of the opening of the season. Fine weather favoured the match, but a slight breeze spoilt very accurate play. There was a fair attendance present at the opening of the game, and it increased as the match proceeded. The teams lined up as follows;
Chester; Ledsham, goal; Astbury and Stewart, backs; Delaney, Turner and Barker, half-backs; Hodnett, Cartwright, Bromfield, Copeland, and Miller, forwards.
Everton;- Whitley, goal; Henderson and Balmer, backs; Clarke, Russell, and Chadwick, half-backs; McDonald, Dixon, Bowman, Sheridan, and Dilley, forwards.
Everton won the toss, and put their opponents to face the sun and the wind. Early on Bowman placed the ball on top of the Chester crossbar, and the ball went behind. Five minutes from the start McDonald scored for the visitors when close in, and immediately afterwards the Cestrians broke away, but Balmer checked the advance and dribbled to the centre line, where he was robbed, and Hodnett made a good run on the right. After some midfield play Everton nearly scored, but Delaney made a fine clearance. Give-and-take play followed, and from a dangerous breakaway Copeland just missed heading into the Everton goal. The same player sent across a beauty a minute later, and Whiteley gave a corner, which proved abortive. At the other end, Bowman earned a cheer for a splendid 30 yards shot, which just passed over. Sheridan did the trick with a shot which Ledsham only half saved, and the leather rolled into the corner of the net. Chester were kept on the defensive for some time, Delaney and Turner doing a fair share in defending their charge. After a a brilliant movement of combination Bowman out on a third goal for the Evertonians. Half-time arrived with the score;- Everton 3 goals, Chester nil.
The second half opened briskly, both end being visited in turn, Ledsham and Whitley both being called upon. Miller got in some splendid shots, and an exciting scrimmage took place round Whiteley’s charge, a corner being forced. Hodnett made several good runs on the right, and Whiteley had to clear several dangerous shots from Miller and Delaney. Rain at this point rather damped the enthusiasm of the spectators, but the players kept up a brisk display, and Dixon scored a fourth for the visitors. Ledsham made several creditable saves, and prevented the Evertonians increasing their lead. Astbury pulled up Bowman when a goal seemed certain, and free kicks gave Chester a look in, without avail. Final; Everton 4 goals, Chester nil.

TODAYS TEAM NEWS
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 06 September 1902
Everton v Middlesbrough, League match, at Middlesbrough; kick-off 3.
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; W. Balmer and Lee, backs; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Brearley, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards.
Everton v Turton, Lancashire Combination match at Goodison Park, Kick-off 3.30.
Everton.- Whitley, goal; Henderson and R. Balmer, backs; Clarke, Russell, and Makepeace, half backs; Rankin, Monks, Bowman, Sheridan and Dilly, forwards.

MIDDLESBROUGH v  EVERTON
The Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, September 6 1902
A CLEAN SHEET AT THE INTERVAL
Everton’s second engagement of the present season was at Middlesbrough, and in order to fulfil it the players left Liverpool yesterday afternoon for Redcar, the evening being spent at that popular seaside resort. The men came to Middlesbrough in good time this morning, and an early start was made so that the visitors could catch a convenient train home. The morning opened warm and sunny, but at two o’clock a drizzling rain set in, and there was every promise of a wet afternoon. There was no change in the Everton ranks, the same eleven appearing as at West Bromwich on Monday, when they were beaten by 1 goal to nothing. (it was 2-1) The Ironopolis team was fully representative, the men facing each other as follows;-
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Lee, backs; Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Brearley, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards.
Middlesbrough.- McFarlane, goal; Blackett, and Ramsey, backs; Smith (Captain), Jones and Davidson, halves; Robinson, McAuley, A. Robertson, Cassidy, and Muir, forwards. Referee.- Campbell, of Blackburn.
In spite of the wet weather, a tremendous crowd put in an early appearance and at five minutes to three, when the ball was set in motion, there would be 12,000 present. Middlesbrough won the toss, and Everton started towards the plantation end. After the opening exchanges play, although fast, proved pretty even. The visitors were the first to break away, but Settle overran the ball. The home men attacked and a foul against Balmer close in led to a hot bombardment of Kitchen’s charge. Booth was instrumental in staying off defeat; but, although he relieved temporarily, Robertson returned and sent a very terrific shot, which Kitchen tipped over the cross-bar. From a corner which followed there was another hot fusillade, but the Everton defence was fully sound. The home left wing then came down again, and Balmer was forced to concede a second corner. This led to another terrific onslaught, and Lee in turn had to grant a third corner. This, however, was safely negotiated and then Sharp, Young, and Brearley ran down in splendid fashion. Blackett was beaten, and John Bell, getting possession, centred splendidly, but Sharp’s shot went over the bar. From this point Everton showed exceedingly clever football, and kept the Middlesbrough backs penned within their 25-yards line, but try as they would they could not find the net. Clever work by Bootle let Settle in, but the latter was robbed when about to shoot. A long spell of midfield work followed, and then Everton moved off by a series of easy stages, Sharp having a fine chance at goal when he shot wide, and then Abbott from long range sent in a magnificent effort which McFarlane cleared. Up to this point play had been tremendously fast and exciting, the home supporters cheering every movement of their team, and it is very evident that the Middlesbrough club are certain of a large and hearty following throughout the season. Following upon this, Booth tried a long flying shot, which, however, went wide, and then play was suspended for some minutes through an accident to Smith, the home captain. On resumption, matters proved rather more quiet, the rain having an obvious effect upon the players. Middlesbrough left were clever, and twice got down in dangerous proximity to Kitchen. The next item of interest was a fine shot on the part of Ramsey, which, however, was unsuccessful. Everton then took up the running, and Jack Beel, as the result of a capital movement, sent in a fine shot, but it was kept out. Following upon this the home forwards got down and Kitchen was given an anxious time. Muir sent in a beautiful screw shot, but the Everton custodian knocked it round the post. More midfield play followed, but the home team were not long before they once more paid a visit to Kitchen, and from a foul by Booth the Everton defence were sorely pressed for a considerable time. Both Balmer and Lee played grand football, and though the home forwards forced a sixth corner, nothing came of it. A breakaway by the Evertonians led to Sharp being given possession when in an offside position, and though he netted the ball the point was disallowed. Another attack by the home left caused the Everton defence considerable trouble. Muir and Robertson both coming within an ace of scoring, the latter’s shot just scraping the wing side of the crossbar. Play continued to be often exciting and interesting character, and though the bulk of the spectators were not under cover and being gradually saturated by the drizzling rain. They followed the varying fortunes of the struggle with undiminished interest. Following upon another bully in front of the Everton goal. Balmer was rendered hors de combat, and play was stopped for some minutes. He soon recovered, however, and the match was continued in ding-dong fashion. A dangerous run down by the visitors right wing was followed by Sharp shooting strongly, but he was proved off-side. When he did so, however, the visitors continued to press, and it was only after a warm tussle that Blackett administered a check. Sharp, who was now playing capital football, got down several times in excellent fashion, and on one occasion he sent in a fine screw shot from long range which was distinctly unlucky in not finding the net. A foul against the visitors relieved the pressure on the Middlesbrough citadel, but play continued at a fast pace. Everton were playing a most determined game, but they could make very little impression on the home defence, which though at times slow, was always secure. A breakaway by the home left led to an attack on Kitchen’s charge, but nothing came of it. The visitors in turn took up the argument, but Booth, Blackett, and Ramsey kept them at bay. The visitors showed great persistency, and Settle sent in a stinging shot, when he was ruled offside. Following upon this the ex-Bury man tried his luck again, but without success, and then shortly before the interval Brierley shot, but this, too, lacked direction. Just before half-time, Everton put on extra pressure, and the home defence was given a very warm time. Greatly to the delight of the crowd, however, they succeeded in placing their speedy and tricky opponents outside the lines, and when the whistle sounded there was no score.
Half-time score; Middlesbrough Nil, Everton Nil.
EVERTON’S SECOND DEFEAT
ROBERTSON SCORES CLOSE ON TIME
During the interval the crowd, in spite of the wretched weather, increased considerably, and when the players reappeared there was not even standing room. On restarting Everton went off in brilliant fashion, but the defence of the Middlesbrough backs was wonderful and shot after shot was charged down. A diversion was created by J. Robertson getting through, and sending in a swinging pass to Cassidy, but the left winger’s efforts were frustrated at the last minute. Sharp then went away in brilliant fashion, and sent in a beautiful shot which just passed the wrong side of the bar. At this point Everton were enjoying all the best of the argument, their forwards showing splendid judgement in passing, but the final shots lacked accuracy. Bell on one occasion ran through his field and shot dangerously near. The next item of interest was an essay on the part of Sharp, who, however, failed also to pierce McFarlane defence. After this there was a fierce rush from the home goal, and Lee had his knee twisted through coming into collision with Smith, and this necessitated his leaving the field. After this, the visitors played a one back game, but this did not prevent them at times making incursions in the directions of the Middlesbrough goal, and more than once it came within an ace of being penetrated. For a long time Middlesbrough were kept on the defensive, but at length Muir broke away, and Balmer only brought him up when within a few yards of Kitchen. From this point the game became somewhat slower, the wretched weather and the heavy ground telling its inevitable tale. There was no gainsaying the fact that both sides were straining every nerve to gain the lead, and Everton’s cleverness was very agreeable to those of the club’s supporters who were present. It was somewhat disappointing, however, to notice the uncertainty in shooting in front of goal. A. Robertson scored for Middlesbrough five minutes from time.
Final result; Middlesbrough 1 goal, Everton Nil.

EVERTON COMBINATION v  TURTON
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, September 6 1902
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION
The opening match at Goodison Park took place this afternoon, between the above clubs. The weather was dull and threatening, but the attendance was very good, considering the strong attraction across the park. Prompt to time the teams faced, and Turton kicked off, and after a slight check, made their way to the Everton goal, the centre forward sending in a splendid shot, which was well saved by Whitley. The same player just sent over the bar a minute later. The Evertonians retaliated and Bowman, when in a good position, just lifted the ball a trifle too high. A foul against a Turton player for tripping gave the home side a good chance, but Monks shot yards too high. Shortly afterwards Turton, showing pretty combination, made a determined attack. Whitley again saving his charge marvellously. Everton next had a turn, and though two splendid openings occurred, bad shooting spoiled them. A few minutes later, however, Everton made a mends, Makepeace drawing first blood with a grand shot, and Bowman, before almost the cheers had died away, added a second point. The home club had now the measure of their men, and for a long time they kept play confined to the visitors’ half. Half-time;- Everton Reserve 2 goals, Turton nil.

MIDDLESBROUGH 1 EVERTON 0
September 8 1902. The Liverpool Courier
Lee carried off with knee injury on the 63 minute mark
Having been beaten by West Bromwich Albion, the Everton team tried conclusions with the other, ex-Second Leaguers. Middlesbrough, on Saturday. They travelled to Redcar on Friday, and reached Middlesbrough at two o'clock. The visitors played the same team as against the Albion, the sides facing as follows: - Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Balmer, and Lee, backs, Taylor, Booth (captain), and Abbott half-backs, Sharp, Brearley, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards. Middlesbrough: - MacFaralne, goal, Blackett, and Ramsey, backs, Smith, Jones and Davidson, half-backs Robertson, Macauley Robertson (a), Cassidy, and Muir, forwards. Referee T.P.Campbell. The teams took the field at ten minutes to three, and had a great reception for a fully 20,000 spectators. Everton opened the play, which at once became interesting. The speedy home right frequently bore down, and after the game had been in progress five minutes, Macauley looked like getting in a shot, when Balmer tackled, but at the expense of a free kick, which almost provided vital. A corner followed, when a neat movement was taken up by Settle and Bell, and the latter centred accurately, and Sharp shot in, but the advantage was lost on Young impeding the custodian. Play was now running favorably for Everton, but there was no mistaking the earnestness of the Middlesbrough defence, which up to this period left nothing to be desired. Settle and Young tricked the home half-backs, and on the ball coming out to Booth the last named sent in a terrific shot that passed across the goal. Again the Everton forwards displayed pretty passing movements, only to be finally held in check by the opposing defence. Still, Settle had a chance, but dallying was hustled off the ball, and within a minute Kitchen had to save a hot long shot from Ramsey. Another capital save was effected, and then Young, when close in, lifted the ball over the bar. It was only with difficulty that the Everton forwards could keep their feet on the turf when going at high speed, and thus handicapped both Sharp and Bell were unable to convert openings. A brilliant shot from Muir was splendidly saved by Kitchen at the expense of an abortive corner. Sharp put the ball into the net, but was ruled offside, and then followed a most persistent attack on the Everton Goal. On several occasions the home forwards showed capital movements, and but for the clever saving of Kitchen they must have opened their account. The high pace that had prevailed early on the slowed down considerably, and play for a time hovered about midfield. Getting away again, Young was given offside. But a moment later Booth head in, only to find the ball pass the side of the post. This narrow escape together with another at the other end infused fresh dash into the play of the sides, and exponents ran high as every inch of the ground was fiercely contested. The Everton forwards combined well, but as before stated a secure foothold was difficult, and many were the occasions when the players slid to earth. At the interval approached the home forwards put on a tremendous efforts to take the lead, and both Muir and Macauley came within beating distance of Kitchen and Balmer, Lee and Taylor put in good defensive work, while between the upright, Kitchen although his work capifally. The pressure was followed by a strong attack by Everton and, assisted by a free kick, the latter got well within shooting range only to be finally beaten, by the backs. Settle and Bell made off, but the latter was neualised when close to the touch line. Half-time now arrived, nothing having been scored. Halftime Middlesbrough nil, Everton nil.
The second half opened with a smart run down by the Everton left, but the wings owing to the persistent attention of Blackett was not able to get in a swinging centre. Ramsley then came under the notice of the referee for fouling Brearley, but no advantage accured by reason of bad placing by Taylor. The home side were seen going great guns, and following a couple of wide shots, Robertson just glazed the bar with a lovely shot. Immediately following, Lee was lucky with a chance kick, and relief at length came from a sprint by Young, and a timely pass out to Bell, Booth Abbott, and Taylor put in much good work, and at length a lovely chance was given to Sharp. The movement was initiate by Abbott and Settle and Bell both supplemented the latter player putting across to the right winger, who with no opposition made a ridiculously poor attempt to score. At this period of the game the Middlesbrough forwards swung about the ball, and rushing up gave the Everton defenders much trouble. It was during one of the rushes that Smith collided with Lee, and the Everton full back had to be carried off the field, apparently having had his knee injured. This misfortune occurred eighteen minutes after the interval and Balmer represented the full back division only. Offside decisions were now naturally frequent, and the Everton forwards were kept busy ahead from the resulting free kicks. The home team, however, continued to attack in vigorous and persistent fashion. Five minutes from the close Robertson scored for Middlesbrough, and thus annexed two useful League points for the home team. Final result: - Middlesbrough 1, Everton nil.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 TURTON 0
September 8 1902. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination (Game 1)
At Goodison Park. Even play was the order of the start. Then Everton attacked but Monks was tripped. The same player took the penalty kick, but sent the ball over the goal stand. Turton retaliated and Whitley brought off two brilliant saves. Afterwards Everton pressed hotly, and Makepeace and Bowman each scored, the home side leading by 2 goals to nil at the interval. Everton had much the better of matters in the second half, but failed to score again, the shooting being bad. Final result Everton 2, Turton nil. Everton: - Whitley, goal, Henderson, and Balmer (r), backs, Clark, Russell, and Makepeace, half-backs, Rankin, Monk, Bowman, Sheridan, and Dilly, forwards.

MIDDLESBROUGH MASTER EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 08 September 1902
By Vulcan
Interest in this game at Middlesbrough was of a cumulative character, and the scoring of the only goal two minutes from the close was a fitting climax.  Everton’s initial spurt was altogether abortive, and, strangers to each other’s tactics, each team seemed disposed for some time to sturdy their opponents’ style.  Instituting comparisons, it may be said that Everton were artistic, and Middlesbrough men been in excellent form the pace which Everton forced from start to finish would have worn the Tee-siders down.  The most gratifying revelation to Middlesbrough followers was the ability of their favourities to respond to the pressure.  Everton had the advantage in smartness, balanced however, by Middleborough’s pertinacity.  During the first half the home team only held their own by dogged persistence.  Everton giving many brilliant exhibitions which Middlesbrough could not emulate, but which they contrived to render ineffective.  An injury to lee in the second half seemed to give Everton additional stimulate, but during the last ten minutes of the game Middlesbrough were the better team.  By forcing Everton back the one-back game was annulled, and the home team made more shots than during the rest of the match.  The forward line in which most changes have been made is not yet knit together, and more accurate play is required.
THE DEFENCES CONTRASTED
Although Middlesbrough have reason to be pleased with McFarlane’s exhibition, Everton appeared to have the advantage in Kitchen, for the former has a tendency to leave his goal too much.  Lee and Balmer played a very safe game, their only disadvantage compared with Blackett and Ramsey being that they cleared only while the latter had regard for placing the ball.  At the same time, both the Middlesbrough backs made mistakes which threatened to be disastrous, for Everton were always the prompter to take advantage of circumstances than the less experienced Tee-siders.  In the half-back line both teams were equally well served.  Smith, Jones, and Davidson were acknowledged to the best half-back line in the Second Division, and to this strong trio Middlesbrough owed much for their promotion.  Yet Smith, in looking after Bell and Settle, had often more than he could do, for being rather slow, he was not able to shine in his wonted style.  Jones came out best towards the close, and he frustrated many of the brilliant passages of the Everton forward line, while Davidson never a showy player, proved a thorn in the side of the old Middlesbrough favourite, Brearley. 
THE RIVAL FORWARDS.
Bell and Settle were undoubtedly the best wing on the field.  They often showed a clean pair of heels to their opponents, but each time there was something lacking in the finishing touches.  There was a want of perfect understanding between the visiting forwards and their centres were less frequently improved than might have been expected.  Sharp made many clever runs, and generally created a good impression.  Brearley compares with Settle for artistic style, and should fit in admirably with Everton’s tactics, but as he was known so well in Middlesbrough it may readily be understood he was closely shadowed.  The Middlesbrough forward line is not quite as satisfactory as one would like to see.  Sandy Robertson, who last year frequently lost his place, has been for this opening week in his best form, and scored both at Blackburn and against Everton.  His strong point is that he is always forging ahead, his weakest that he misses the apparently easiest of openings.  He made one such miss on Saturday.  Cassidy the other old Middlesbrough player worked energetically, and contributed largely to Middlesbrough’s aggressiveness.  Yet he, too, missed the chance of the game.  The other three forwards are new men; but while not yet showing the highest form, are decidedly promising players and should ere the season closes make their influence felt.  McAuley, the inside right is excellent in midfield, but his shots are lacking in precision.  Muir, the left outside, and J. Robertson, on the right wing, were hard working, and satisfactory.  On the whole the forward lime missed such a man as Wardrope, but on the day’s play Middlesbrough deserved their victory.  Everton; Kitchen; Balmer and Lee; Taylor, Booth (captain), and Abbott; Sharp, Brearley, Young, Settle, and Bell.  Middlesbrough; McFarlane; Blackett, and Ramsey; Smith, Jones, Davidson; Robertson, McAuley, A. Robertson, Cassidy, and Muir.  Referee; Mr. T.P. Campbell, Blackburn. 

EVERTON REVIEW
September 8 1902. The Liverpool Mercury
With two reverses' in the opening week of the season, Everton have their long League campaign in a by no means auspicious manner. Still there is no occasion for their supporters to be down hearted. The Evertonians probably entered upon their season's work with a more difficult task before them, than any of the other League clubs. It has invariably proved to be correct that the clubs, which have gained promotion to the upper circle, commence their first League programme in Astonishing successful fashion. It was Everton's task to encounter away from home the two latest aspirants to League honours. Knowing how determinedly the most youthful members of the League play in their earlier matches, especially before their own supporters, it is scarcely surprising that Everton should have suffered reverse both at West Bromwich and Middlesbrough. In the former game there is no doubt that the Goodison road players were beaten on their merits, but one could scarcely make the same assertion about the match at Middlesbrough on Saturday. Indeed had not the Everton left back sustained an injury, which led to his withdrawal, from the game it is exceedingly likely that the visitors might at least have shared the honours of the game. Under these circumstances, while giving due credit to the stubbornness and determination of the northern team; it does appear that luck to some extent has been the portion of the Evertonians. This feeling was accentuated by the fact that Sharp, after one of his brilliant dashes during the first half of the game, placed the ball into the net, only to be ruled offside. The decision left room for some doubt as to its accuracy, but with a player like Sharp, who has such a wonderful turn of speed difference of opinion as to weather he was onside or not may be easily forthcoming. Still the benefit of the doubt on this occasion, unfortunately for the visitors was not given in favour of the speedy outside right. Although handicapped by the loss of Lee's services, it was not until the last few minutes of the game that A.Robinson turned to account a corner that gained the only goal which meant so much to both teams. When play commenced one was not long in coming to the conclusion that the players had determined to force the pace, and excitement was at a high pitch practically throughout the whole of the game. The Everton forwards gave a capital display of concerted action, but the Middlesbrough half back line, upon whom the laurels of the game primarily rested were keen and worrying workers and the manner in which they hampered their clever opponents when in the vicinity of goal was gleefully recognised by a delighted crowd of 20,000 spectators. They hung on to both man and ball with a persistency that finally brought about their object, and once could not but recognise the fact that had the Evertonians at times varied their plan of campaign success must have crowned their efforts. The bulk of the attack was directed from the left wing, and while Young did fairly well in the centre and Sharp on the right, Brearley was little behind in point of effectiveness. Indeed, with such a quintet at command it is inexplicable that scoring should not have been forthcoming, but there was the want of their dash at the critical moment that is so essential to success. Settle as usual, was generally well shadowed, but still he has scored under more trying conditions than on Saturday when more than once he paid the penalty of delaying his shot. The half-backs were hard workers and both Booth and Abbott twice came near scoring, while the back division though it was not often penetrated, did not strike one as being thoroughly sound, for many of the clearances were of a slipshod character, and recovery came at the expense of a great effort. There was no question about the ability of Kitchen as custodian, for he timed shots and cleared the ball with all his old cleverness several of his saves in the first half when the home left wing pair were exceptionally aggressive being nothing short of brilliance. The Middlesbrough club quite justified their elevation to the ranks of First League football. As will readily be gathered, the club is represented by a powerful set of defenders, who judging by the whole heartedness of their work, will offer stubborn resistance to the most powerful attacking side. Ramsley the left full back, put in much good football, as no doubt Sharp will be ready be admit; and of the halfbacks it would be invidious to single out any or special commendation, as all did well both in tackling and putting their forwards in possession. This department, together with that in charge of McFarlance were formidable barriers to Everton's success, and whatever the forwards lacked in disclosing the nicer points of the game they certainly made amends by their dash and persistent goaheadedness from the start to the final blowing of the whistle. Taking a broad view of the game a division of points would have been more in accord with the general run of play.

SATURDAY’S FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 08 September 1902
The “newly initiated” Middlesbrough have shot out like a ricket. Small Heath did the same last season, but the Midlanders afterwards finished most disastrously. However, those in the know predict something better for the Northern club. The players are a sturdy well-balanced lot, and the team, as both Blackburn and Everton can vouch for, will have to be a good one to rake down their number. On Saturday against Everton they played a winning game from start to finish, and secured the points on merit alone, notwithstanding that these were obtained just a few minutes before the finish and that the visitors had a man short on the field. It would be unfair to belittle the play of the Evertonians. The forwards played one of those nice skilful games which won for them any amount of praise, but as a Middlesbroughian spectator remarked, “it requires something else besides pretty football to score goals”; and he tersely finished up by saying “Everton couldn’t score against those lads- meaning the home team-if they played against them for a month.” The main strength of the Middlesbrough team lies at half back. In Smith, Jones, and Davidson they have a champion middle line, and it was this trio that completely upset Everton’s form. Sharp has cause to remember Davidson, the left of this string. The Old-Trafford-Cum-Goodison-Park man made many pretty runs during the game, but they were always nullified by Davidson; in fact, the three Middlesbrough half backs started with a mission, and they fulfilled it perfectly; besides which, they always found time to look after their own forwards. It is to be hoped that the mishap to Lee’s leg will not be serious, otherwise Everton might find itself in a pickle. Unfortunately the directors allowed Eccles to go, a fact, no doubt, they are now grieving over, for if Lee’s injuries are of such a nature as to keep him off the field for any length of time, the directors have no reliable player to put in his place.

EVERTON v.  MIDDLESBROUGH
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 08 September 1902
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
Played at Middlesbrough, about 20,000 spectators being present. Teams;-
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Lee, backs; Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Brearley, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards.
Middlesbrough.- McFarlane, goal; Blackett and Ramsey, backs; Smith (Captain), Jones, and Davidson, halves; Robertson, McAuley, A. Robertson, Cassidy, and Muir, forwards.
Referee.- Campbell, of Blackburn.
Middlesbrough won the toss and Everton started towards the plantation end. After the opening exchanges, play, although fast, proved pretty even. The visitors were the first to break away, but Settle overran the ball. The home men attacked and a foul against Balmer close in led to a hot bombardment of Kitchen’s charge. Booth was instrumental in staying off defeat; but, although he relived temporarily, Robertson returned and sent a very terrific shot, which Kitchen tipped over the cross-bar. From a corner which followed there was another hot fusillade, but the Everton defence was fully sound. The home left wing then came down again, and Balmer was forced to concede a second corner. This led to another terrific onslaught, and Lee in turn had a grant a third corner. This, however, was safely negotiated, and then Sharp, Young, and Brearley ran down in splendid fashion. Blackett was beaten, and John Bell, getting possession, centred splendidly, but Sharp’s shot went over the bar. From this point Everton showed exceedingly clever football and kept the Middlesbrough backs penned within their 25-yards’ line, but, try as they would, they could not find the net. Clever work by Booth let Settle in, but the latter was robbed when about to shoot. A long spell of midfield work followed, and then Everton moved off by a series of easy stages, Sharp having a fine chance at goal when he shot wide, and then Abbott from long range sent in a magnificent effort, which McFarlane cleared. Up to this point play had been tremendously fast and exciting, the home supporters cheering every movement of their team, and it is very evident that the Middlesbrough club are certain of a large and hearty following throughout the season. Midfield play followed, but the home team were not long before they once more paid a visit to Kitchen, and from a foul by Booth the Everton defence were sorely pressed for a considerable time. Both Balmer and Lee played grand football, and though the home forwards forced a sixth corner, nothing came of it. A breakaway by the Evertonians led to Sharp being given possession when in an offside position, and though he netted the ball the point was disallowed. Another attack by the home left caused the Everton defence considerable trouble, Muir and Robertson both coming within an ace of scoring, the latter’s shot just scraping the wind side of the crossbar. Play continued to be of an exciting and interesting character, and though the bulk of the spectators were not under cover, and being gradually saturated by the drizzling rain, they followed the varying fortunes of the struggle with undiminished interest. Following upon another bully in front of the Everton goal, Balmer was rendered hors de combat, and play was stopped for some minutes. He soon recovered, however, and the match was continued in ding-dong fashion. A dangerous run down by the visitors’ right wing was followed by Sharp shooting strongly, but he was proved off-side. Everton, however, continued to press, and it was only after a warm tussle that Blackett administered a check. Sharp, who was now playing capital football, got down several times in excellent fashion, and on one occasion he sent in a fine screw shot from long range which was distinctly unlucky in not finding the net. A foul against the visitors relieved the pressure on the Middlesbrough citadel, but play continued at a fast pace. Just before half-time Everton put on extra pressure, and the home defence was given a very warm time. Greatly to the delight of the crowd, however, they succeeded in placing their speedy and tricky opponents outside the lines, and when the whistle sounded there was no score. During the interval the crowd, in spite of the wretched weather, increased considerably, and when the players reappeared there was not even standing room. On restarting Everton went off in brilliant fashion, but the defence of the Middlesbrough backs was wonderful, and shot after shot was charged down. A diversion was created by J. Robertson getting through, and sending in a swinging pass to Cassidy, but the left-winger’s efforts were frustrated at the last minute. Sharp then went away in brilliant fashion, and sent in a beautiful shot which just passed the wrong side of the bar. At this point Everton were enjoying all the best of the argument, their forwards showing splendid judgement in passing, but the final shots lacked accuracy, Bell on one occasion ran through his field and shot dangerously near. The next item of interest was an easy on the part of Sharp, who, however, failed also to pierce McFarlane’s defence. After this there was a fierce rush from the home goal, and Lee had his knee twisted through coming into collision with Smith, and this necessitated his leaving the field. After this, the visitors played a one back game, but this did not prevent them at times making incursions in the directions of the Middlesbrough goal, and more than once it came within an ace of being penetrated. For a long time Middlesbrough were kept on the defensive, but at length Muir broke away, and Balmer only brought him up when within a few yards of Kitchen. From this point the game became somewhat slower, the wretched weather and the heavy ground telling its inevitable tale. There was no gainsaying the fact that both sides were straining every nerve to gain the lead, and Everton’s cleverness was very agreeable to those of the club’s supporters who were present. It was somewhat disappointing, however, to notice the uncertainty in shooting in front of goal. A. Robertson scored for Middlesbrough five minutes from time.
Final result; Middlesbrough 1 goal, Everton nil.

MIDDLESBROUGH v EVERTON
North Star (Darlington) - Monday 08 September 1902
A PECULIAR GAME
Last season’s runners up, with bitter memories of a defeat by the reinstated Throstles on the first day of the season, came to Middlesbrough on Saturday with a grim determination so lower the Tees-siders’ colours, and avoid any chance of defeat by both the new comers in the first week of the campaign. The Northerners, having opened the season in brilliant-not to say sensational- style away from home, were naturally anxious to please their followers by opening the home season equally as auspiciously. They have opened it well, by another “only goal of the match” victory- but what a victory! Granting that the Tees-siders deserved to win, that they had much the better of the game throughout, yet their victory cannot be described as lucky. Everybody anticipated a tough game, and that was how it came that the field was packed in every corner with a crowd which cheered the “Borough” to the echo as they entered the field, and a tough game was seen, but a peculiar one. Everton will doubtless complain, and not without good reason, that they were robbed of one point when their goal was disallowed. Then, again and again the Middlesbrough forwards refused scoring chances, and it was only within three minutes of the call of time that the deciding score came. To a great extent, the state of the ground, which had been made very greasy by a steady and persistent drizzle during the forenoon and afternoon, accounted for the many mistakes made on both sides. The teams which did duty were as announced, Middlesbrough playing the same team as that which defeated Blackburn, with the exception of Crawford, whose place was taken by J. Robertson. In the Everton ranks there appeared Brealey, the ex-Middlesbrough centre forward, who was quickly picked out and cheered by his old friends on Tees-side. Having won the toss in the first match away from home, it was but fitting that Smith should be equally successfully on the first appearance at Linthorpe-road. Thus it came that the visitors started with their backs turned to Linthorpe-road. The first few minutes of the game saw home territory invaded, but Sharp, the visiting flyer, having put feebly outside, Cassidy, taking the ball from the goal kick, helped Muir to force the ball out of play, and from the throw-in Everton again came away, Blackett, who was not in the best of form during the day, pulling the visiting left up pretty smartly. The home right were now seen to advantage. J. Robertson and McAuley putting in some pretty work, though the inside man indulged in too much gallery play. Now play ruled in the visitors’ quarters, and the excitement gradually rose. With a free kick against Abbott for hands, and with the leather nicely placed by Jones, Balmer, Lee, and Kitchen were given an anxious five minutes, but fortunately the defence, loose enough in the open, performed prodigies at close quarters, and Brearley and Young were sent on a journey towards MacFarlane. It was a fruitless errand, however, and Muir, at the other end, gave the crowd an exhibition of his shooting powers which was most thoroughly enjoyed. With play ruling in their favour, the Borough forwards forced corner after corner, but though each time the placing was admirable, nothing tangible resulted. A moment after Ramsay had checked an ugly rush, Smith found a head harder than his own, and sat down to collect his scattered wits. The most dangerous shot up to now came from Ramsey, who gave Kitchen a big handful from the centre-line, Cassidy following immediately with a dangerous raker. A notable single-handed run by Sharp preceded one by Young, which the centre terminated by a sun-seeking shot from close quarters. Muir was the next man to call attention to his doings, getting in a low, rasping shot from the corner, which struck the back of the goal-post, as everybody shouted. Another succession of useless corners formed the homesters’ reward for smart aggressive work, and then the ball was netted for the first time. Sharp raced away down the field, outwitted all opposition, and tricked MacFarlane, who went out to meet him. a none too grand shot sent the ball rolling over the line, but for some reason- presumably offside-the whistle sounded, and the score was annulled. The remaining few minutes of the first half, which passed goalless, were occupied by fine work on the part of the Borough front rank. Crossing over, the tees-siders opened weakly, and allowed the Lancashire representatives to come near goal, a large slice of luck aiding very moderate play to repel the attack. Hardly had the home forwards crossed the line than two successive fouls sent them back, until the right wing forced the game, enabling Muir to shoot rather wide. This brought a change, and for some considerable time the Reds had matters entirely in their favour, giving birth to visions of a handsome victory. But an accident, which deprived the visitors of Lee’s services, a twisted knee rendering his removal necessary, changed the whole order of the game. Playing the one back game, Everton, though numerically in the weaker, were actually in the stronger position, and now began a series of desperate attacks upon the home goal for that odd point which it was becoming more and more evident would decide the fortunes of the day. Settle, Brearley, and Sharp worked, nay, slaved, for that point, but their efforts were spoilt by good defence, in which MacFarlane played a by no means insignificant part. It was during this period that some little amount of roughness was introduced, both teams being at fault in turn, though the visitors were undoubtedly the greater offenders. Several runs by the home forwards all had the same unsatisfactory termination-offside, whilst on two or three occasions “lifetime” chances were missed. Everything pointed to a goalless draw, when J. Robertson and McAuley got down, forcing a corner. Amod cries of “Hurry up”- there were hardly two minutes left-the new member of the team took the kick, and placed beautifully. “Sandy’s” head rose amidst a knot of players, and the ball changed its course, finding a resting place in the net. What a scene followed! What had hitherto been an almost placid sea of faces now became a roaring, surging, swaying mass of excited-madly excited -humanity, over which hats and caps bounced up and down in token of their owners’ delight, whilst handkerchiefs waved frantically. It was all over. The remaining few seconds found the Middlesbrough forwards irresistible, and the crowd left the field proudly satisfied with the two points given to them by the score;- Middlesbrough 1; Everton 0.

MIDDLESBROU’ v  EVERTON
Newcastle Daily Chronicle - Monday 08 September 1902
HOME TEAM VICTORIOUS
THE TEESIDERS REJOICE
Middlesbrough;- Goal, McFarlane; backs, Blackett and Ramsey; half-backs, Smith (Captain), Jones, and Davidson; forwards. J. Muir, Cassidy, G. Robertson, McCauley, and J. Robertson.
Everton.- Goal, Kitchen; backs, Lee and Balmer; half-backs, Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Abbott; forwards, Sharp, Brearley, Young, Settle, and Bell.
Referee- Mr. J.P. Campbell (Blackburn); Linesmen, Mr. White, Newcastle, and Mr. Chard, Gateshead.
Following their success in their initial First League match at Blackburn, on Monday afternoon, Middlesbrough were at home to Everton, and the match was by far the most interesting of any local fixture. Of course there is a difference between First and Second League football, and though Middlesbrough so very creditably defeated Blackburn Rovers on Monday night, at Ewood, it must be remembered that the Rovers’ team is not nearly so strong as was the case last year. The absent players included the pick of the men in Darroch, Somers, Bryant and Houlker. Still, looking at the teams that did duty, it must be admitted that the Tees-siders’ performance was a fine one, and great were the hopes in Middlesbro’ that their club would emulate the performance of West Bromwich Albion, who were promoted along with the Tees-siders after a fine show in the Second League last year. Everton had already opened their season, and at Birmingham, where they met West Bromwich Albion, on Monday, they were defeated by 2 goals to 1. When the teams lined up there would be fully 20,000 spectators present to witness the encounter. A collection was made on the ground for the Harry Walker testimonial fund. The visitors were the first to enter the arena, and they were warmly welcomed. Directly afterwards Smith led his team into the field amid a burst of cheering.
THE GAME
Everton started the leather, and at once ran down on the right. Only a goal kick, however, resulted. From the kick the home forwards took possession, and put in some pretty work. They were checked by Balmer, who relived. McCauley did some rather smart passing and shot, but without success. Even end to end play followed, and then Middlesbrough were awarded a free kick for hands in a splendid position. Bell put well into the goal mouth, and Kitchen saved by tipping the ball over the bar amid much excitement. The corner proved useless for the homesters. Everton now raced away, but they were quickly driven back, and the home forwards quite delighted their supporters by their excellent combination. They forced a couple of corners. Though they were both well placed, the visitors’ defence could not be penetrated. The home backs were next taxed. They had rather a warm time of it, but they proved equal to the occasion. At length the ball was landed to midfield. Everton were not long in returning to the attack, and Booth put in a grand shot, which, however, went wide of its mark. Smith, a home player, was at this stage of the match injured, and play was suspended for a while until he recovered. On restarting Cassidy and Muir ran well into Everton’s territory, but Lee and Balmer did not allow them to become very dangerous. From a throw in the visitors got well down, and were awarded a free kick, but Balmer sent behind. Bell got possession, but he was forced into a corner, and he put past. Play ruled very quiet and uninteresting for some time, and then Everton’s forwards lining up in good style did some fine passing. They were, however, considerably harassed by the home halves. The visitors looked very dangerous, but relief came to the Tee-siders in the shape of a free kick for a foul. At the other end Kitchen saved splendidly from Ramsey, who put all his power behind a shot. Again the visitors raced away, but Sharp over-ran himself, and put the leather out of play. Immediately afterwards Young had a grand opening, but he shot over the bar. Everton were now doing most of the pressing, but Ramsey and Blackett kept them well at bay, once more Middlesbrough took up the running, and S. Robertson troubled the visitors’ custodian a good deal; but the latter managed to clear. Directly afterwards Muir got in a perfect beauty, which Kitchen just saved at the cost of a corner. Middlesbrough kept up a warm attack and landed a couple of corners in quick succession. Sharp next got clear away. McFarlane ran out, but Sharp got past him and found the net. The point was disallowed on the ground of off-side. At the other end a stiff scrimmage occurred in the goal mouth, but the ball was ultimately got away.
Half-time;- Middlesbrough Nil, Everton Nil.
On resuming, midfield play ruled for a while, and then a free kick awarded the visitors resulted in Taylor sending behind. At length, Middlesbrough got well away, and J. Robertson sent smartly to Muir, but that player shot very wide. The home forwards were now showing better combination than at any other period of the game. Their passing was magnificent. J. Robertson kicked in a perfect beauty, which Kitchen just manged to save. After defending for some time, Everton broke away in good style and Sharp had an opening; but he was pulled up for off-side, and play was once more transferred to the visitors’ quarters. At the other end, Settle put right over to Sharp, who had a grand opening, but he shot high over the cross-bar. Smith brought Lee to grass, and he was injured to such an extent that he ahd to be carried from the field. Though playing with ten men Everton pressed, but they were not allowed to become dangerous. Ultimately, a free kick enabled the Tee-siders to get away, but they were pulled up for off-side. Everton only played with one back, and off-side was frequent. A hot scrimmage in close vicinity to the visitors goal ended in Macauley shooting grandly, but Kitchen was all there and saved in brilliant style. The leather was taken to the other end, and Abbott sent right across the goal, the ball finally gliding past. Again the Everton goal was endangered. Muir sent to Cassidy who bungled a splendid chance. The visitors then put in some smart work, and McFarlane had to save from Settle and Brearley. McFarlane did what was required of him in capital style. Ramsey missed his kick, and let in Sharp, who raced away; but Ramsey recovered, and following his aggressor, he managed to force him out of play. A free kick for Middlesbrough, in a grand position, was landed well in by Ramsey, but an infringement of the off-side rule allowed Everton to relieve the pressure made upon them. With only a few minutes to play, Middlesbrough stuck into their work with great determination and secured a corner. J. Robertson took the kick, and placing the ball splendidly, “Sandy” Robertson scored in the last minute of the game, amid the wildest enthusiasm. Final; Middlesbrough 1, Everton Nil.

MIDDLESBROUGH v  EVERTON
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 08 September 1902
Everton made the journey to Redcar on Friday in order to fulfil their fixture with the newly-included Middlesbrough club. There were 20,000 spectators, and on Everton commencing play the home team had the better of the earlier stages. Several corner kicks were forced from Balmer and Lee, and but for brilliant keeping by Kitchen the visitors’ goal must have been captured. Sharp later on got away and netted the ball, but was ruled offside, and Brearley, the old Middlesbrough man, also made great efforts, but was unsuccessful. Towards the interval McFarlane had a busy time, but a fast half ended without a score. After the change of ends, grand footwork was displayed by both sets of forwards and on two occasions Bell and Sharp each missed excellent opportunities of scoring when in close range. Twenty minutes after the resumption Lee, in tackling Smith, strained a tendon in the knee, and retired for the remainder of the game. Playing one back, free kicks were frequent, and the Evertonians just now more than held their own. Sharp put in a capital sprint, but, hampered by Ramsey, the ball was rushed over the line. Five minutes from the close A. Robertson converted a well-placed corner kick. Result; Middlesbrough 1, Everton 0.
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Balmer and Lee, backs; Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Brearley, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards.
Middlesbrough.- McFarlane, goal; Blackett and Ramsey, backs; Smith (Captain), Jones, and Davidson, halves; Robertson, McAuley, A. Robertson, Cassidy, and Muir, forwards.
Referee.- Campbell, of Blackburn.

AN UNFORTUNATE PLAYER
Bolton Evening News - Friday 12 September 1902
H.F. Briggs, once goalkeeper for Everton and latterly wicket-keeper for East Lancashire, has been tasting the bitters of life. Yesterday was selected as the date of a benefit for him, when an East Lancashire eleven should have played a Blackpool team, but rain prevented play. He has been rendered incapable of work, and has a wife and four children. With a five-guinea subscription from Everton, however, and a fairly good sale of tickets he should receive at least a welcome and helpful sum, albeit not so great as he deserved.

TODAY TEAM NEWS
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 13 September 1902
Everton v Newcastle United League match at Goodison Park; kick-off 3,30
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Henderson and Balmer, backs; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Brearley, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards.
Manchester City Reserve v Everton Combination
Lancashire Combination match, at Manchester; train leaves Lime-street at 2; kick-off 3.30.
Everton.- Whitley, goal; Crelly, and R. Balmer, backs; Clark, Russell, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, Monks, Bowman, Sheridan, and Dilly, forwards.

OUTDOORS SPORTS
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 13 September 1902
The League campaign will be opened at Goodison Park by Newcastle United, and much interest is sure to be felt on Everton’s initial appearance at home. Their visitors made a sad example of Stoke a week ago on the banks of the Tyne and put on the biggest score of the afternoon. With an admittedly dangerous forward line, the team is bound to command respect; hence the anxiety of Everton’s supporters to see how their favourites will fare against such doughty opponents. The Novocastrians shared the points when last at Goodison Park, and ti would cause no surprise were they to repeat the performance this afternoon. Everton are playing Henderson at full back with Balmer, owing to lee being injured at Middlesbrough, and it is here where the greatest interest will be centred. If the new back can inspire confidence into the rest of the team by his display, then all will be well, but there is some uncertainty about this. The forwards will doubtless prove more prolific goal-getters than in their two previous away matches, and, as the team badly need a victory, it is to be hoped they will achieve this, their first success, to-day.
Everton v Newcastle United, Goodison Park.- Referee J. Adams; Linesmen, E.J. Whittaker and A.H. Downs. Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Henderson and Balmer, backs; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Brearley, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards. Kick-off 3.30.
Manchester City Reserve v. Everton reserve, Manchester.
Everton;- Whitley, goal; Crelley, and R. Balmer, backs; Clark, Russell, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, Monks, Bowman, Sheridan, and Dilly, forwards. Train leaves Lime-street Station at two. Kick-off 3.30.

EVERTON v.  NEWCASTLE UNITED
Liverpool Football Echo- September 13, 1902
STEWART OPENS THE SCORE FOR NEWCASTLE
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
The loss of four points in their first and second League engagements has, as might well be expected, caused an uneasy flutter amongst the club’s supporters, so that to-day there was very considerably apprehension as to whether a vein of good luck would be struck in the struggle at Goodison Park this afternoon with the hardly Novocastrians, Everton’s supporters are, however, renowned in football circles for sterling loyalty to the club and they are very sanguine that once the players get into their stride a fair share of victories will be theirs. In the keen struggle for supremacy the greatest importance is attached to success in away matches, and the “Blues” duel defeat at Middlesbrough and Brum may reasonably be regarded as nothing more than a moiety of that non-success which sours a club on to ultimately finish well up the latter. Although the morning broke bleak and sunless, it was very evident a long time before operations that a big crowd would welcome the Evertonians and cheer them on to a successful debut at Goodison Park, where so many glorious victories have been achieved in the past. The following were the teams;-
Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Henderson and Balmer, backs; Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Brearley, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards.
Newcastle.- Kingsley, goal; Bennie, and Agnew, backs; A. Gardiner, Aitken, and Carr, half-backs; Stewart, Orr, McColl, Rutherford, and Roberts, forwards.
There would be about 20,000 spectators present when the captains tossed for choice of positions. The spin of the coin went in favour of the Newcastle skipper, and Everton had to defend the Park goal. The start of the play was very keen, each side being thoroughly on their mettle. The Evertonians, however, had slightly the best of matters, their defence being practically but once called upon during the first five minutes’ play; whilst on the other hand the home forwards kept pressing steadily onward, and notwithstanding worthy efforts by Bennie, Carr, and Aitken, they succeeded in getting to close quarters. Abbott having been several times instrumental in keeping them in possession. Young had the first pop at goal, and then some nice work all round enabled Brearley to try his hand at goal, but he missed by what seemed but inches. Then a centre from Bell was missed but a moment later Bell passed in, and Settle nearly scored. A breakaway from the visitors was only of momentary duration, as Brealey took possession on the left, and sent a rouser over Kitchen’s head. The United made another move in Kitchen’s direction, and the custodian took the measure of a beauty from Rutherford with a capital kick out of the goalmouth. Booth put Settle in possession but he passed the leather over rapidly to the other wing, where Agnew was on the alert, and averted danger. Balmer was on the alert, and averted danger. Balmer next dashed in and stopped an ominous rush by McColl and his left wing. Pretty play by Bell and Young wound up with a pass out to Bell, who, however, made a very feeble attempt to find Kingsley’s whereabouts.
When the game had been in progress nearly twenty minutes the Novocastrians once more passed the dividing line, and, like a flash there came from close on the touchline a shot which Stewart propelled. This sailed well for the Everton goal, and it looked any odds on Kitchen saving, as he stood calmly waiting, and appeared to have the situation well in hand. However, to the amusement of perhaps everybody present, he entirely misjudged the spin of the sphere, and in the twinkling of an eye the Tynesiders had opened their account. As soon as the restart had been effected Sharp darted along his wing and essayed to equal Stewart’s effort, which had proved so successful at the other end. His shot, however, lacked the requisite direction. A couple of minutes later the Evertonians had hard luck in not scoring. Brealey putting in a remarkable header, which Kingsley cleverly saved. After a lengthened visit to United territory, where disjointed play was the chief feature, Settle got a pass from Young, but just as he turned round to steady himself Beaven tripped at full length, and received not only the ball in his ribs, but the force of Settle’s kick as well. United once more turned on full stream and forged well ahead of the Everton half line. Orr, Stewart, and McColl taking the chief part in the operations, and just us matters looked distinctly dangerous for the Blues the referee’s whistle sounded a half. The visitors’ halves were very clever, and gave their front rank some very fine opportunities with the result that Everton’s defence was severely tested. Stewart again proved himself a dangerous shot, but on this particular occasion Kitchen had the proper measure of the ball, and brought off a very fine save. After some close touches in the middle of the arena, Sharp raced for the ball along the touchline, but he was travelling so quickly that he failed to keep command, and Agnew easily beat him. A couple of free kicks to Everton failed to render then any real assistance, and the Newcastle team was again penalised on a couple of occasions by Orr and Rutherford being offside. The visitors’ workmanlike efforts were almost rewarded when Orr sent in a smart shot which seemed for a moment to trouble Kitchen, but eventually it was evident that the Everton goalkeeper had made no mistake. A very short spell of pressure by the homesters was repelled by A. Gardiner, and then the visitors Everton territory again. Roberts being offside. Henderson took the kick, but although the ball was well placed, Everton’s forwards failed to make any real impression. In fact, there was a distinct want of cohesion and understanding between the quintet. Most of the Newcastrian attack was coming from the right wing, where Stewart and Orr made matters very anxious for Abbott and Balmer. After Orr had been robbed by Booth, Young failed to hold, and Aitken chipping in smartly, gave Stewart another chance, of which he took full advantage, winding-up a speedy dash with a terrific shot about a yard wide of the desired spot. Bell next raced away. But passed into the centre recklessly, where Agnew was waiting to receive, and cleared easily. Very soon afterwards Stewart was observed to be busy, he easily brushed aside the poor opposition offered by Balmer, and effected a fine centre, in continuation of which Rutherford endeavoured to direct the ball between the uprights, but he was given offside when the visitors seemed certain to score. Half-time came soon afterwards and at this time the Newcastle men were still attacking.
Half-time-time score Newcastle United 1 goal, Everton Nil.
The exhibition of the home lot in the first half of the game was certainly disappointing, and particularly the front rank. Settle and Bell could never show any of those dangerous and well-though-out moves which the spectators expect was a master of course, and, on the other wing, Brearley was much more dangerous than the partner, who was very well looked after. Young could never get at close quarters, so stonewall-like was the defence of Agnew and Bennie. On the other hand, the Novocastrians’ front line was speedy and full of ash, and really worried Everton’s defence; and, though Kitchen had not much handling or clearing to do, he had to pay close attention. On the restart Everton gained possession from a throw in by the United, and the ball was sent right across to Sharp. He parted smartly to Young, who fumbled the ball, and wound up by embracing Mother Earth. Stewart and Orr were very soon away again for the Novos,and the outside man drove the ball across Kitchen’s goalmouth. A visit was next paid to United’s territory, the ball being taken down on the right, Sharp winding up by placing the leather on the offside of the post, where Bell made an ineffectual attempt to get his knee at it. The visitors now took up the attack, and were soon in front of Kitchen. More trouble was in store for the home side from the persistent efforts of Stewart, who nearly scored another point for his side, Bell made a plunge along his line, but he was quickly checked, and the Tynesiders again surged into the Everton country. Roberts sent in a couple of swinging centres, and shortly afterwards shot for goal. Then Orr and McColl became busy, and from one of this pair the Everton goal was in jeopardy, but saviours of the situation came in the form of Taylor and Kitchen, who between them staved off the attack. End-to-end play followed, and in the course of one more Henderson served up well, Settle following the sphere and dropping to his knees in his anxiety to score. Brealey now showed a good turn of speed, and carried play to close quarters, but this player up to now had proved anything but a valuable partner to Sharp. Individual play was soon at a discount, and the result was that the tables were turned on the Evertonians. Accurate passing by the visiting forward rank left Orr with an opening in front of goal, but just as he was in the act of driving the ball home he missed his kick and disturbed the turf. At the other end Bell tried a long shot, but Kingsley was on the alert, and had no difficulty in keeping his charge intact.
Final Result; Everton Nil, Newcastle United 1 goal.
Neither side scored in the corresponding game last season.

MANCHESTER CITY v.  EVERTON COMBINATION
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, September 13, 1902
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION
This match was played at Hyde-road, before a good attendance. Gillespie set the ball rolling, and on two occasion Everton came within an inch of scoring. The Everton forwards worked well together, and Clarke scored an off-side goal. A smart run by Threlfall finished up by shooting over. The Everton forwards were smarter with the ball than their opponents, but they found a hard nut to crack in Hunter and Slater. The home team gained a corner, but nothing came of it. Rankin missed a good chance by shooting wide. Gillespie missed a fine chance of notching the first goal by only just touching the ball. A spell of midfield play followed. Each team tried hard to get through, but it was of no avail. Half-time- City nil, Everton nil.

MANCHESTER CITY V EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 15 September 1902
Lancashire Combination
“Sweet are the uses of adversity” sings the poet, but it is questionable whether this will strike Manchester City as consolation for their defeat by Everton on Saturday.  To taste the bitter fruits of loss so early in the season is a distinct disappointment for the champions.  How it came about may be told in a few words.  Everton have a speedy inside right named Sheridan and this player, after three-quarters of the game, had passed without score, outwitted the City halves, and flying past Slater planted the ball right in the middle of the net.  Everton, though in the first half had to thank indifferent shooting of the City forwards for not being at least one goal in arrear at the interval.  Gillespie missed several capital chances.  Threlfall did a lot of work, but was scarcely up to his usual form, whilst of the others Reynolds was perhaps the pick.  Throughout the visitors played consistently and well, especially Monks, Rankins, and Dilly, the Arbroath man, whenever he got the ball always looking dangerous. 

EVERTON’S THIRD DEFEAT
Athletic News - Monday 15 September 1902
By Harricus
For a team figured as runners-up to Sunderland last season, Everton have indeed got off their mark badly, and though their defeat at the hands of two promoted clubs may have been minimized somewhat by the fact that they were both played on foreign territory, yet a like result was attained in the very first home game, so that the Evertonians have lost all three matches played so far.  This is ominous, but after all the season is young.  The results of the past two years prepared the pessimists somewhat, for last season Newcastle United shared the points, and in the previous campaign they won outright, so that the Novcastrians will be of the opinion that Goodison Park is a happy hunting-ground.  Judging by the scene on the Pier head one was prepared for a big crowd, for car after car left the starting point unable to take up passengers, enthusiasts knowing the ropes having paid an extra penny for a journey in from 20 to 100 yards.  Therefore it was not surprising that the attendance should reach 24,000 or over- figures supplied to me officially.  They did not all stay to the finish, however, as their team was well beaten long before, the end, even though there was only one goal scored against them, and that might have been prevented had the Everton defenders displayed any smartness at all.
ONE GOAL; TWO POINTS.
The solitary goal which decided the game was obtained after sixteen minutes’ play.  The ball came from the left wing to the centre, and across to the outside right, during which time the “blues shirts” seemed to be taking little interest in the proceedings.  Stewart was certainly tackled, but he was enabled to centre right from the touchline apparently, and to the amazement of the crowd the ball curled into the net.  Kitchen appeared dumbfounded, and I am not inclined to put too much blame on him, for I for one, certainly never expected the ball sailing into the net from the position of Stewart..  However, it did so, and though it, in my opinion, ought never to have reached that stage, the fact remains that it was the cause of Everton’s downfall.  Apart from the merits of demerits of the goals, and from the point of view of Stewart it was a brilliant effort, there is no doubting the superiority of the Novocastrians.  They did not show it to a great extent in the first half, albeit they gave the best exhibition of football, but in the second half they were clearly the better side, and had they not shown a tendency to play to the gallery more goals might have accrued, and thus, with the assistance of the 5-0 victory over Stoke, laid the foundation for a good goal average.  Yet, for all that their victory might easily have been turned, as many chances came the way of the Evertonians, and it was only the smartness of Kingsley which prevented them getting through.  Of course, on the other hand, Kitchen had many times to clear his lines, so that perhaps after all, the winners will be well satisfied as matters stand. 
CLASS FOOTBALL.
What Newcastle may do later on, or what they may not do, on Saturday’s form I do not think there is a team in the League which can display the same high-class football.  I believe I said something of the same kind once last season, but I should think they were at their best on Saturday.  Perhaps the disappointed supporters of the Everton club may not agree with me, but they did not gain their victory over a weak eleven, but over a pretty good one, and therefore the win is all the more deserved.  Such forward and half-back play combined as they showed was most admirable, though to put in a little jarring note, the forwards were inclined to over-do the trickling business when the game was won in their estimation, and once Tom Booth, who does not like to be fooled as well as beaten, was so engaged that he fairly went for smashing Stewart into the earth, but had only a free kick given against him for his pains.  Really such forward play should have been rewarded by more than one goal.
McCOLL THE ARTIST
Rob McColl, the ex-Queen’s Park Scottish International, had a great reputation before he came to England, but I should imagine that he has played very few better games than he did at Everton.  He showed ideal football, and were charging not allowed I believe he would score goals at will.  He is a marked man, but I trust for the sake of football he will enjoy better luck than last season.  One cannot but admire his pretty touches and his unselfishness.  If I mistake not, young Rutherford will develop into a like artist, the pair playing a fine game together- perhaps a little to the detriment of Rutherford’s partner, Roberts.  The other ex-Queen’s Park man, Stewart, at outside right, is also an artist who is never ruffled, rather is it his opponents who feel ruffled at the apparent easy manner in which they are baffled.  Orr, his partner, makes headway by downright honest work rather than by the neatness of Stewart and McColl, and as a line of forwards will want some beating.  A little more of Orr’s fire, perhaps is desirable if the championship is to be attained.  The half-backs are really part of the forwards, and this is one reason why the forwards worked so smoothly.  Alex Gardner was continually pushing the ball out to Stewart.  Carr was a sturdy tackler, and a judicious placer, while Andy Aitken, as usual, played with a level head.  If the back was beaten he fell back and played his part.  If the wing men were beaten he turned across to their assistance.  It is, perhaps, not desirable to have too many of the “dandy” type in the team, and least of all the backs should attempt no artistic play.  Both Rennie and Agnew are of the sturdy type, and kick the ball as though they meant it, further from the goal the backs.  The Kilmarnock man may be concerned an acquisition.  Kingsley is getting like the smaller edition of Foukle and must be has heavier than he was last year.  I take him as a stripping playing for a team when he was but a shadow of his present self.  He still bears the hall-marks however. 
SOME PRAISE FOR THE LOSERS
Henderson the new back from Southampton, though he has previously seen service with Everton, is not a bad defender, but Brearley, a Liverpudlian, last with Middlesbrough, did not play the game I know he can.  The forwards generally started well, but Young did not maintain early impressions, his passing being rather unfortunate.  Abbott was the pick of the half-backs and Kitchen kept a good goal.  Everton; Kitchen; Henderson, and Balmer; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott; Sharp, Brearley, Young, Settle, and Bell.  Newcastle United;- Kingsley; Bennie, and Agnew; Gardner, Aitken, and Carr; Stewart, Orr, McColl, Rutherford, and Roberts.  Referee; J. Adams, Birmingham. 

EVERTON’S THIRD REVERSE
Athletic News - Monday 15 September 1902
By Junius
Three games played and not a victory to boast is Everton’s record up to date, a state of affairs so different from that of last season that one is bound to pause and seriously consider the situation.  The two defeats on foreign territory can to some extent be explained away, but to be trounced at home is an entirely different matter.  Although the forward line was considered to be the strongest part of the team, it would appear as if this early anticipation was to be discovered an entirely erroneous on.  Looking squarely at the facts of the case, it seems clear to me that is in the front ranks where the blame of defeat is to be attributed, and if the exposition given against Newcastle be any criterion of what was accomplished at West Bromwich and Middlesbrough, then the supposition become an indisputable reality.  The attacking line, so deadly last season, and now strengthened by the addition of Brearley, utterly failed to justify its reputation, and when we consider that this quintet has played in three League games and scored a solitary goal, it is quite evident where the weakness lies.  Compared with the Novocastrians they were mere paste brilliants, whereas their opponents were scintillating gems of the first water, and they will not only have to display more combined effort, but will need to add increased speed to their movements if they wish to check their run of ill-luck.  It was difficult to imagine in the lifeless attempts of Young, Sharp and Bell that here was the nucleus of an exhilarating forward line only a few months ago, and it is pretty evident that the trainers’s presence is sadly needed in this department of the team.  Then at half-back Wolstenholme’s absence is keenly felt, despite the good intentions of Taylor and further behind the want of a partner for Balmer is even more to be deplored.  Booth worked manfully, but could not get his men going, and Balmer played a splendid game, but taking the team all round, there was a lack of dash and “vim” that practically courted disaster.  The Tynesiders played most attractive football, their forwards being decidedly bewildering in their maneuvers, but, none too proficient near goal.  Their great strength was at half-back, and this line worked in admirable harmony with the forward division.  They are a well-balanced side, and will want some beating but they had the good fortune to meet Everton in one of their most dilatory moods.  At full back Henderson did not impress me at all forcibly, his clearances being feeble and the constant kicking back to the goal-keeper being the least pleasing part of his display.  Everton want rousing and the sooner the operation is performed the better it will be for the club.

EVERTON 0 NEWCASTLE UNITED 1
September 15, 1902. The Liverpool Courier.
The first League match of the season was played at Goodison Park, Owing to Lee's injury, Balmer took the left back position in the Everton team, Henderson partnering him. The teams were: -
Everton: - Kitchen goal, Henderson, and Balmer, backs Taylor, Booth (captain), and Abbott half-backs; Sharp, Brearley, Young Settle, and Bell forwards. Newcastle United: - Kingsley, goal, Agnew, and Rennie, backs Carr, Aitken, and Gardiner (a), half-backs Roberts, Rutherland McColl, Orr, and Stewart, forwards. There would be quite 20,000 spectators present when Young started for Everton. Settle was early on prominent for the home side, after which Sharp and Brearley put in good work. Everton got well down, and after some exciting play in front of the Newcastle goal. Brearley put in a good shot, which was cleared. The next minute Kingsley had again to clear. From a throw-in in the United half, Brearley ran down and made an ineffectual shy at goal, after which McColl, the visitors centre, dribbled nicely, but his progress was stopped. Sharp was next conspicuous, and shot at long range, but it was short, and then the United got away in promising style, but play settled in midfield for a time. Agnew, who got the ball away, after which, the visitors' lefts showed up well, and were making, spoiled nice work by Brearley, who got the ball away, after which, the visitors' left showed up well, and were making tracks for the home goal when Balmer put in a fine kick. Taylor put in good work, and Everton getting in a good position, Sharp took aim from long range, but the shot lacked direction. The next minute Bell sent in a dangerous shot, but the ball curled outside-rather hard lines on the left winger. Up to now there was little to choose between the teams, although Everton had bad luck with their shots. McColl next initiated a splendid move, which was not checked. Orr and Stewart assisted and the latter, who was playing a smart game, ran nearly up to the goalline, and shot right across, the ball passing through the uprights. It was a shot which Kitchen had no chance with whatever, although he tried hard to keep it out. The Blues were again on the aggressive, Sharp and Brearley putting in good work. A foul against the United gave Everton a good opportunity, which Bell attempted to utilise to advantage by taking aim from short range. The ball, however struck Bennie in transit, otherwise it must have been a certain goal. The Newcastle forwards exhibited a fine combined move, and Roberts got near and shot in, but the referee ruled him offside. The pressure on the home goal was maintained, and Rutherford, next attempted to lower the colours of Everton, but he was unsuccessful. The United looked like giving trouble again, but Abbott stepped in the nick of time. This was followed up immediately with a smart attempt at goal, by Orr, the inside right Kitchen however, cleverly fisted it out. How it missed being a goal was a marvel. For a time the home men had to defend, but at length Booth put in a kick which opened out an opportunity, and Sharp Brearley, and Young made an incursion into the United territory. The next minute the Novcastrians were hovering in front of the Everton citadel, and Stewart got in a pass to McColl, who, however, failed with a shot. A clever run by Bell next occupied attention, but when only a short distance from goal Bennie spoiled his opportunity. Kitchen next had an anxious time, and the visitors were doing their finest to increase their lead. From a throw-in, in the Everton half Taylor got possession and kicked, placing his side in a favorable position, and the United had to concede a corner. This brought about half time, the score then being Newcastle United 1, Everton nil.
Immediately after restarting the home right wing pair were busy, but the ball went out, Brearley was working hard for Everton, and dribbled well down, and a couple of corners were forced. Sharp gave Kingsley a handful, the ball, however, being fisted out after which Settle ran down, but was charged off the ball when he had a clear opening. There was no mistaking the earnestness of Orr and Stewart on the right, this pair understanding each other well, and they often tested both Abbott and Balmer. A dangerous corner was given against the visitors, and the ball dropped in an ominous position, but it was safely piloted away, when Taylor shot in without success. Another corner followed, but nothing accured, and then fine play by Abbott, who had the best of the argument with Orr, and Stewart, was noticeable and came on for applause. Settle was prominent but was dispossessed, and then McColl showed brilliant play in midfield, after which Young tried his luck at goal, but Kingsley was not found wanting. There was another effective spell on the part of the visitors, who were undoubtedly cleverer than their opponents and Rutherford sent in at lighting speed, the ball striking the upright. Everton had a free kick, but this brought no assistance. Settle shot at Kingsley, who fisted out, and immediately after Bell, had a shy, the custodian again fisting out. His effort deserved better success. Abbott next tried his luck, but his shot went wide, Everton seemed to be out of luck, and Sharp made a brilliant effort, and Kingsley only saved by throwing himself on the ball-an equally brilliant save. Though trying desperately hard to the finish, Everton were beaten. Final results, Everton nil, Newcastle United 1.

MANCHESTER CITY RESERVES 0 EVERTON RESERVES 1
September 15 1902. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Combination
Three thousand spectators witnessed Manchester City on Saturday receive their first home defeat. Everton were the visitors and a capital game resulted. Notwithstanding the efforts of both teams, however there was no score at half-time though Gillespie and Threlfull missed a capital chance. In the second portion. Everton went away with great dash, and after Edmundson had saved in remarkable fashion from Monks, Sheridan showing a clean pair of heels to the City half-backs scored a magnificent goal. Threlfall and Reynolds tried hard to equalise, but the above solitary point decided the match. Everton: - Whitley goal, Crelly.and Balmer (r) backs, Clark, Russell, and Makepeace half-backs, Rankin, Monks, Bowman, Sheridan, and Dilly forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 15 1902. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton opened their League campaign in more disastrous fashion than their most pessimistic supporter could have anticipated, and through the two defeats sustained at West Bromwich and Middlesbrough respectively may to some extent be accounted for, it is a more difficult matter to explain their non success at Goodison park against the Newcastle eleven. In their most recent display there were deservedly beaten by a team which was better balanced in every department than themselves, and the simple matter of fact remains that the visitors proved themselves vastly superior in combination, cleverness, and speed, and gave full valve for the two points they carried away. Only one goal was scored, this coming from an unexpected quarter, fully favoured with a considerable sprice of luck. Stewart the visitors outside right who proved the most dangerous forward on the field, received near the half-way line and running along touch sent in a high dropping shot when about 30 yards from the corner flag. This was evidently with the intention of giving his left wing comrades a chance of reaching the leather, but the ball pursued a most deceptive fight, and completely baffling Kitchen managed to drop into the net via the top right hand corner of the goal space. The shot was a capital one, but that Stewart expected it to vanquish the Everton custodian can scarcely be credited, and the Novocastrians must have been a more surprised witness of his success than anyone else on the field. However, the point decided the match and though the efforts was a fortunate one it certainly does no more than demonstrate the superiority of the visitors. Whilst the latter could boast an evenness of movement-which at times be came really bewildering in its rapid exchanges- a solid sturdy defence and three irrepressible half backs, the whole working together in excellent harmony, Everton displayed raggedness of methods that was simply that was simply as founding forwards, where so much had been expected drew blank, and though there were occasional periods when they appeared to be moving in more concerted fashion, the efforts were only spasmodic and unsustained. Yet here were the men who had worked so intelligently together only a few mouths ago, and despite the granite like barrier of halves, which they had to face, they should have made better use of their opportunities. Commencing in pleasing style they flattered for a little while, but during the greater part of the contest they were terribly disappointing. Combination vanished, the men were comparatively extremely slow on the ball, and, with the exception of about half a dozen decent shots they shaped very feeble near goal. Young has rarely been seen to such disadvantage in the centre; here as in other parts of the forward line, there was wanting that life and dash that keen desire to gain possession, and rapidity of exchange to the men on either side which is so essential to the outwitting of an opponent. The usually speedy extreme wingmen in just the same humour. Sharp making repeated blunders and being dispossessed almost at will by Carr, whilst Bell was not one whit more effective. Sythematic endeavor seemed beyond them, and the whole line sadly needs bracing up. One goal in the three matches is their record up to date, and after the exhibition given against Newcastle there need be no surprise felt, at this result. At half-back Booth gave a capital display, though he could not get his forwards going smoothly, but Abbott and Taylor were by no means so effective. The former had more than he could manage in Stewart and Orr, the outside winger in particular getting away with comparative ease from the half back's attentions, whilst the presence of Wolstenholme would have strengthened the weakness on the right wing. Further behind, Balmer bore off the honours and it was just as well that the left back was in rare form, for Henderson cleared in very hesitating fashion, and does not inspire one with much confidence. Kitchen was fairly deceived by the ball that beat him, and taking the team all round with the exception already referred to, it must be reluctantly admitted that their performance was decidedly feeble, and deserving of defeat. The Newcastle eleven is a strong combination in ever department. The forwards showed splendid passing and were excellently backed up by their halves, but they were none too deadly near goal. They also overdid the finishing at times and a reliable set of backs would have shown to advantage against them. Stewart was the most conspicuous forwards, but McColl displayed fine footwork though it was not so much the individual efforts as the fact that each player knew he was only one unit in the team, that led to such excellent combined movements. The halves were in brilliant form, the backs kicked and tackled grandly and Kingsley kept a capital goal, for the shots which came were the result of intermittent efforts which might have trapped a custodian inclined to take matters easily. Everton will need to brace themselves to greater deeds if they mean to registered a victory during the present month.

SATURDAY’S FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 15 September 1902
The Everton Club is at present occupying a very poor position in the League table results of results- practically bottom place, having played and lest three games, with only a solitary goal to its credit; West Bromwich Albion, Middlesbrough, and Newcastle United each having taken the points. Thisis a serious matter for the consideration of the directors. In the match at Goodison Park on Saturday, the Everton front line, as in the previous games, was disappointing. There was no method or understanding between the wings and the centre—in fact, cohesion of any sort was lacking. There were one or two bits of bright individual work done, but play of this sort does not win matches or score goals. The home forwards commenced their work at a rushing pace; but the United half backs proved stubborn customers to deal with. Indeed, the visitors’ intermediate line was always a stumbling block to the Evertonians' progress, whose forward combination more often than not collapsed like a punctured concertina case. On the other hand, the Newcastle forwards gave some fine displays: their tactics were excellent and well-timed, and their football generally of a brilliant character. Compare Stewart's and Orr’s work with any of the home forwards. The two men named overshadowed anything on the opposing side; while thecleverness of the United half backs was beyond compare with the work done the Liverpool trio. Kitchen saved a lot goals, andhe had much more of the play to attend than his vis-a-vis Kingsley. There is no doubt that the visitors were the better team, and deserved their points. It may be stated that Newcastle have a habit of rubbing it in to Everton, as out of the seven games they have played Everton have only won one. Perhaps Everton might make a start next Saturday, when they visit Wolverhampton.

EVERTON v NEWCASTLE UNITED.
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 15 September 1902
At Goodison Park. The following were the teams;
Everton.—Kitchen, goal; Henderson and Balmer, backs: Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs: Sharp, Brearley, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards.
Newcastle.—Kingsley, goal; Bennie and Agnew, backs: A. Gardiner, Aitken, and Carr, half-backs;Stewart, Orr, McColl,Rutherford, and Roberts, forwards.
There would about 20.000 spectators present when the captains tossed for choice of  positions. The spin of the coin went in favour of the Newcastle skipper, and Everton had to defend the Park goal. The start of the play was very keen, each side being thoroughly on their mettle. Young had the first pop at goal, and then some nice work all round enabled Brearley to try his hand at goal, but he missed what seemed but inches. Then a centre from Bell was missed, but a moment later Bell passed in, and Settle nearly scored. A breakaway from the visitors was only of momentary duration, as Brearley took possession on the left, and sent a rouser over Kingsley’s head. The United made another move in Kitchen’s direction, and the custodian took the measure of a beauty from Rutherford with a capital kick out the goalmouth. Booth {put Settle in possession, but he passed the leather over rapidly to the other wing, where Agnew was on the alert, and averted danger. Balmer next dashed in and stopped an ominous rush by McColl and his left wing. Pretty play by Bell and Young wound up with a pass out to Bell, who, however, made a very feeble attempt to find Kingsley's whereabouts. When the game had been in progress nearly twenty minutes the Novocastrians once more passed the dividing line, and, like a flash, there came from close on the touchline a shot which Stewart propelled. This sailed well for the Everton goal, and it looked any odds on Kitchen saving, as he stood calmly waiting, and appeared to have the situation well in hand. However, to the amazement of perhaps everybody present, he entirely misjudged the spin of the sphere, and in the twinkling of an eye the Tynesiders had opened their account. As soon as the restart had been effected Sharp darted along his wing and essayed to equal Stewart’s effort, which had proved so successful at the other end. His shot, however, lacked the requisite direction. A couple of minutes later the Evertonians had hard luck in not scoring. Brearley putting in a remarkable header, which Kingsley cleverly saved. Stewart again proved himself a dangerous shot, but on this particular occasion Kitchen had the proper measure of the ball, and brought off very fine save. After some close touches in the middle of the arena, Sharp raced for the hall along the touchline, but he was travelling so quickly that he failed to keep command, and Agnew easily beat him. A couple of free-kicks to Everton failed to render them any real assistance, and the Newcastle was again penalised on a couple occasions by Orr and Rutherford being offside. The visitors’ workmanlike efforts were almost rewarded when Orr sent smart in a shot which seemed for a moment to trouble Kitchen, but eventually it was evident that the Everton goalkeeper had made no mistake. A very short spell of pressure by the homesters was repelled by A. Gardiner, and then the visitors raided Everton territory again, Roberts being offside. Henderson took the kick, but although the ball was well placed, Everton’s forwards failed to make any impression. In fact, there was a distinct want of cohesion and understanding between the quintet. Most of the Newcastrian attack was coming from the right wing, where Stewart and Orr made matters very anxious far Abbott and Balmar. Half-time came soon afterwards, and at this time the Newcastle men were still attacking. Half-time score;- Newcastle 1, Everton nil.
The exhibition of the home lot in the first half of the game was certainly disappointing, and particularly the front rank. On the other hand, the Novocastrians’ front line was steady and full of dash, and really worried Everton defence; and though Kitchen had not much handling or clearing to do, he had to pay close attention. On the restart Everton gained possession from a throw in by the United, and the ball was sent right across to Sharp. He parted smartly to Young, who fumbled the ball, and round up by embracing Mother Earth. Stewart and Orr were very soon away again for the Novas, and the outside man drove the ball across Kitchen’s goalmouth. A visit was next paid to United’s territory the ball being taken down on the right, Sharp winding up by placing the leather on the offside of the post, where Bell made an ineffectual attempt to get his keen at it. The visitors now took up the attack and were soon in front of Kitchen. More trouble was in store for the home side from the persistent efforts of Stewart, who nearly scored another point for his side. Brearley n ow showed a good turn of speed, and carried play to close quarters, but this player up to now had proved anything but a valuable partner to Sharp. Individual play was soon at a discount, and the result was that the tables were turned on the Evertonians. Accurate passing by the visiting forward rank left Orr with an opening in front of goal, but just as he was in the act of driving the ball home he missed his kick and disturbed the turf. At the other end Bell tried a long shot, but Kingsley was on the alert, and had no difficulty in keeping his charge intact.
Final result; Newcastle United 1 goal, Everton nil.

NEWCASTLE UNITED v. EVERTON.
Newcastle Journal - Monday 15 September 1902
VICTORY OF THE TYNESIDERS.
Newcastle United played Everton at Goodison Park, Liverpool. The Novocastrians left the northern metropolis on Friday afternoon, and were billeted at the Alexandra Hotel overnight. There was no change in the team that defeated Stoke the preceding week by five clear goals, Agnew being given a further trial in partnership with Bennie in the back division, as Davidson is not yet considered sufficiently robust to do himself justice. At any rate, the management wish the stalwart and polished back to recover his full strength before allowing him to undergo the severe ordeal of a League game. Besides, the Selection Committee were anxious to give the Kilmarnock recruit ample scope for displaying his qualities in English League football. Everton had previously exhibited very poor form, having fallen victims to Middlesbrough and West Bromwich Albion, and following in the wake of these reverses, the Novocastrians naturally expected a stiff struggle. In the previous eight matches decided between the representatives of the Tyne and the Mersey, Everton had won three, lost two, and drawn three games, with an aggregate score of ten goals to eight in their favour. Last season both matches resulted in a division of the points, a goalless draw at Liverpool, and a score of one goal each at Newcastle. The following were the teams:— Newcastle United. Goal: Kingsley,Backs: Bennie and Agnew. Half backs: Alex Gardner, Aitken, and Carr. Forwards: Stewart, Orr, McColl, Rutherford, and Roberts. Everton;- Goal Kitchen; Backs Lee and Balmer; Half-backs; Abbott, Booth (Captain), and Taylor; Forwards, Bell, Settle, Young, Brearley, and Sharp.
THE GAME.
Newcastle won the toss, and for the first five minutes or so the visitors were kept defending, in which Bennie and Carr showed good work. The United goal had a narrow shave from the foot of Brearley, and later on by Settle.  The visitors after this roused themselves, and dribbling grandly up the wing the leather was passed by Orr to Rutherford, the last named giving Kitchen a real beauty to stop. Agnew spoiled a nice combination by Sharp and Brearley when going well. So far the home side had the best of the encounter, but gradually the Tynesiders assumed commanding tactics, and the visitors’ front line shot out like a flash. Stewart took up the running, and with a long dropping shot opened the score for the visitors, Kitchen entirely misjudging the ball’s flight. Almost immediately after Sharp had an opportunity of equalising, but his kick lacked sting, and Kingsley easily negotiated the ball. Play was fast and well contested, both forward lines putting in good work. Orr, Stewart, and McColl were very prominent by their judgement, assisted by the skilful placing of Gardner, Aitken, and Carr at half-back. This trio not only broke up all attempts at combination on the part of the Everton forwards, but fed their own forwards in capital style. Stewart made many fine attempts to further increase United’s lead several of his shots failing only by inches. There was an entire absence of collection effort on the part of the Everton forwards, and consequently as the game wore on the visitors monopolised the play, with the right wing repeatedly in the van. Just before the interval Stewart made a splendid centre for Rutherford but the intervention of the referee’s whistle spoiled what looked like another goal. At half-time Everton were a goal to the bad; and after restarting an effort was made to wipe off this deficit by Young and Brearley, but the stonewall defence of Agnew and Bennie was much too effective. Throughout this half the visitors fairly worried the Everton defence, and it was more by luck than anything else that kept the Novocastrians from securing additional points. Their forward play was grand, and repeatedly applauded and altogether they not only deserved their victory, but were voted by far the better team, their forwards quite outclassing the Everton quintette. Result;- Newcastle United 1 goal, Everton None.

EVERTON v.  NEWCASTLE UNITED
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 15 September 1902
LEAGUE DIVISION ONE
The above league match was decided at Goodison Park before 20,000 spectators. Everton started, and Kingsley was quickly called upon to clear from Settle, a chance being missed owing to none of the home forwards being ready for the rebound. The visitors gradually forced the play, and their forwards, conspicuous amongst whom were McColl and Stewart, made several spirited attacks. The outside right eventually scored with a high dropping shot from long range, Kitchen being evidently deceived by the flight of the ball. Newcastle continued to hold the upper hand, their forwards combining splendidly, but nothing further was scored up to the interval, though Everton were about to take a corner kick when the whistle sounded. The second half was well contested, but Newcastle were decidedly more dangerous. Kitchen cleared in the first minute from Roberts, whilst Kingsley saved in fine style from Young and Sharp. Everton played better in the closing stages, and had the forwards displayed more ability near goal they should have equalised. They could not accomplish this, however, and retired well beaten. Result- Newcastle United 1, Everton 0
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Henderson and Balmer, backs; Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Brearley, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards.
Newcastle United;- Kingsley, goal; Bennie and Agnew, backs; Gardner, Aitken, and Carr, half-backs; Stewart, Orr, McColl, Rutherford, and Roberts, forwards. Referee, Mr. J. Adams.

EVERTON v. NEWCASTLE UNITED
Newcastle Daily Chronicle - Monday 15 September 1902
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Henderson and Balmer, backs; Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Brearley, Young, Settle, and Bell, forwards.
Newcastle United;- Kingsley, goal; Bennie and Agnew, backs; Gardner, Aitken, and Carr, half-backs; Stewart, Orr, McColl, Rutherford, and Roberts, forwards.
Perhaps more than ordinary interest was evinced in the League match at Goodison Park, Liverpool, on Saturday, by local supporters, because of the fact that Middlesbrough, a week ago, on their own enclosure, just succeeded in winning in the last few minutes of the game by a goal to nil. So far as the present season has gone, Everton, previous to Saturday, had opposed both of the newly admittedly clubs-West Bromwich Albion and Middlesbrough-and on each occasion had lost by the odd goal. Both these matches had been decided on foreign territory, and naturally the first home game of the “Toffees,” as they are familiarly called, was an attractive one. The visit of Newcastle United to either of the Liverpool clubs usually draws a big crowd, as indeed is generally the case when the Novocastrians pay a visit to any of the other clubs. The fine performance of the local team last Saturday, in defeating Stoke by five goals to nil, gave signs that much might reasonably be expected of them, if the same form be maintained. The ground was on the soft side. Newcastle is always a good draw at this ground, and great preparations had been made for a big gate. Everton had been in hard training throughout the week.
THE GAME
The teams were loudly cheered on entering the field. The spin of the coin resulted in favour of Newcastle, and Everton had to face the sun. Young kicked off for Everton, before an attendance of some 20,000 spectators. Away went the visitors with a rush, but Rutherford was pulled up sharply by Taylor, and the ball was returned into midfield. A free kick for hands against the Tyne-siders brought the homesters into close proximity to their opponents’ goal, but they were not allowed to become dangerous, for Agnew dashed in and sent the ball spinning into the middle of the field, where, for the space of some minutes the mimic battle raged. Some tricky passing between Stewart and Orr disposed of the attentions of Abbott and the former getting the ball well into the corner, put it nicely across, but Henderson dashed forward, and got his head to the sphere, and sent it to Taylor. That player was not slow in sending, in turn, to Sharp, but the outside right man was not allowed to proceed far, as Carr was promptly on his track, and knocked him none too gently off the ball. The home team now made the running, and for a time penned their opponents, rarely giving them a chance of breaking away. A hot shot from the toe of Young flew into the hands of Kingsley, that custodian getting rid of the ball before any of the passing forwards could reach him. The ball was now passed forward to Rutherford, but directly he touched the referee blew his whistle, for he was all too palpably offside. A free kick once more made things lively round the visitors’ goal, but Agnew got in the road of a straight one from Brearley, luckily for his side, as the ball was going direct for the net, and it looked any odds on its going between the sticks. A bully in the home goal was the next feature of interest, and in the scrum Balmer was winded. He was soon up again, however, and the ball going harmlessly over line from the goal lick, the play was transferred tom midfield. Stewart tried to break away, but did not cover much ground before being dispossessed by Abbott. A foul, a little later, gave no tangible results. Again the visitors came to the attack, Roberts and Rutherford showing clever forward work respectively. The ball finally alighted at the foot of McColl, but Kitchen, showing fine speed, reached the ball first, and succeeded in putting it over the line, and saving the situation. Gardner showed great dash in beating back the home forwards, and when Bell and his partner rushed away, he went clean through them with the ball at his toe. Abbott was penalised for a foul, and Stewart gave his partner a pretty back-heel pass, but he only succeeded in running the ball over the line, as Booth worked him on the way, so that he was unable to get in a centre. A grand sprint and a good centre from Bell were loudly cheered, but in his rush and eagerness to get possession, Young badly missed it. The visitors’ right now took up the running, and Rutherford sent in a centre that curled in the air. McColl wheeled sharply round, and show low and swiftly, as the ball dropped, but Kitchen literally hurled himself at the ball, and managed to save his goal, at the expense of a fruitless corner. The homesters were now having the better of matters, and their right wing was repeatedly aggressive. A grand centre by Sharp brought the ball flying across the mouth of the goal, but unfortunately, no one was close up to it to turn it to account, and a good chance was lost. Some smart tackling by Gardner and Aitken successfully disposed of an attack by the home left, and a foul, a little later, gave an opening to the visitors, of which they were not slow to avail themselves. They swarmed round their opponents’ goal, sending in shot after shot. The siege only came to an end by McColl sending the leather flying high over the bar. The home right wing was conspicuous, but Kingsley had no difficulty in reaching a long range shot. Taylor was winded for a time, but they play was soon resumed. The Newcastle goal now had a narrow escape, Kingsley having to save from Bell, when closely hampered. After this close shave the visitors gave nothing away, and going along in line, Roberts put in a lovely centre, which McColl just scraped over the bar. Still Newcastle played up strongly, and as a result of a grand run, Stewart scored, Kitchen misjudging the ball. Loud cheers from the Northern spectators greeted Newcastle’s first goal. The visitors were playing much the better football at this stage, but the homesters were vigorous and determined. Everton now had a short innings, and the visitors’ defence was severely taxed. With a good dash, they went for goal, and the visitors seemed for a time unable to clear their line; and Kingsley, only partially stopping a grand shot from Sharp, two or three of the home forwards were upon him in a moment. He recovered himself, however, and, managing to dodge between them, succeeded in getting the ball away. It was a clever save and deservedly cheered. Some clever passing by Settle and Bell baffled the visitors’ defence, and the latter trying to centre from the line, the ball went out. The home side were now having decidedly the better of matters. They were quicker on the ball, and controlled it with judgement. Carr was putting in a lot of work, and McColl did his best to pull his wings together. McColl gave to Orr, who neatly transferred to Stewart, but the latter at this juncture was pulled up for lying offside. The whistle soon afterwards blew for the interval.
Half-time; Newcastle United 1 goal, Everton Nil.
After a change of ends, Young at once dashed away, but Aitken dispossession him. It was left to Henderson to finally undo Aitken’s work, and he managed it well, just as Newcastle were getting dangerous. There was a game struggle in the region of the centre line, between the Newcastle half-backs and the Everton forwards. Sharp went down, but was fouled. Pretty work by the home forwards was spoilt by Brearley kicking out in passing to Bell. Settle forced a corner. Bell, from the corner, put in splendidly, and Brealey headed just a few inches wide of the posts. Stewart now secured, and, making a splendid run, beat several opponents. Finally he swung the ball across to Roberts, who missed a good chance. For a time, the homesters were penned into their won half, and frequent shots were sent in. the ball eventually went over the line, and the goal kick brought the play once more into midfield. Sharp broke away, but his effort ended in a goal kick. Another splendid run by Stewart transferred play to the other end. The homesters retaliated, and Bell and Settle were neatly checked by Carr. A good run by Roberts was the next feature of interest, but this was neutralised by McColl accidentally fouling the ball, a free kick resulting. Some rare combination between McColl and Orr resulted in Rutherford heading just past the post. The homesters again returned hotly to the attack, and a scrimmage ensued in front of the visitors’ goal, during which Kingsley saved twice in brilliant fashion. Roberts again raced down the field, and McColl shot hard over the bar. The Evertonians tried hard to equalise the score, but could make no headway against the splendid defence of Newcastle. Final; Newcastle United 1 goal, Everton Nil.

UNFORTUNATE EVERTON.
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 20 September 1902
Everton have started the League tourney badly by losing their first three matches—two away, one at home—to teams which only Newcastle United can be said to be above an average. Apart from any natural inferiority of the Toffees their rivals, their failure, says “Tom Tiddler,” is due the suspension of Secretary Cuff and Trainer Elliott during the off season for poaching.” Mr. Horace Wright is the acting scribe protem, and Toman is the provisional trainer until October Ist; but, as may be easily imagined, these changes paralysed the attempts to get new blood, with the result that the stables contain far too large proportion of “old crooks,” while the absence of the regular trainer has not allowed even the “ old crocks ” to be patched up for work again. In other words. Everton are deplorably short of being fit.” and by the time they have got into trim they may have lost their chance.

WOLVERHAMPTON v. EVERTON.
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 20 September 1902
At Wolverhampton, in fine weather. Everton left out Sharp, Settle. and Balmer, all on the sick List, places being respectively taken by Rankin. Sheridan, and Crelly. There were 7,000 spectators. The Wanderers won the toss, and the opening exchanges were in favour the visitors. Abbott conceded a corner to save his goal, but judicious heading got the ball away when Sheridan and Bell seemed dangerous. The leather just skimmed the upright. Everton again pressed, and Wanderers conceded a corner, but Baddeley saved cleverly. Kitchen had next twice to exert himself to save his goal. Beats managed to put over the bar, and the Wanderers were now certainly having the better play. Bettelley stopped a dash by Sheridan, and after warm work in front of the visitors' goal, Woolridge shot wide. Kitchen stopped dangerous high shot from Miller. Once the home defence was severely taxed, but relief came, and , Baddeley cleared after a grand run by Bell. Half-time—Wolves 0, Everton 0. On the resumption, the Wanderers attacked strongly. and Kitchen had two hot shots to deal with. The ball carried to the other end, and Baddeloy saved grandly four times in quick succession. Then Rankin scored from an oblique angle for Everton. The Wanderers played weak game in the forward line. Kitchen was in fine form. ResuIt—WOLVERHAMPTON. 1; EVERTON. 1.

Everton Reserves v. North End Reserves
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 20 September 1902
At Goodison, in dull weather, before 3,000 spectators. The visitors started against the wind, and Wilson handled a low shot from Bowman in the first minute. Warner cleared again and Rhodes giving to the Preston right wing, Bond and Bradshaw made a dashing run into the home half, where a centre by Bond was taken by Russell. Everton returned play to the visitors' half, Dixon sending a yard wide. several times the Preston goal was nearly rushed, and Derbyshire just stopped a straight shot by Dixons. The visitors were hard pressed, the ball being continually shot at wilson but Everton's aim was poor owing to the wind. The first corner fell to the visitors. Whiteley cleared by jumping up in a scrum and shoving away. When the home team got going again they ran right through their men, and Warner only saved by giving a corner. A neat centre by Bond was not accepted. Bowman scored on the interval. Half-time; Everton Reserves 1, North End Reserves 0. With the wind behind them the visitors now had a better chance. They led off dashingly, and Whiteley dropped a shot with some sting in it by Beardsworth. he got away after a severe tussle with Rhodes and Whittle. A few minutes later they were at him again, and the visitors resoluteness looked like succeeding until Balmer back heeled the ball into touch, and a resulting corner was sent by Bond. Result; Everton Reserves 6, North End Res 0

THE EVERTON CLUB
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 20 September 1902
In their match at Wolverhampton to-day, against the Wanderers, Everton will be deprived of the services of both Settle and Sharp, both of whom are on the sick-list. Their places will be taken by Sheridan and Rankin, two men who have rendered good service with the reserve team, and who should do well in this trial in the senior ranks. The second team play Preston North Ed Reserve, at Goodison Park, in a Lancashire Combination game. The matches between these reserve teams have always provoked great interest and provided good football and as both teams have been strengthened there should be no lack of interest in to-day’s game.
Everton v Wolverhampton Wanderers. At Wolverhampton; Kick-off 3,30.
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Henderson and Balmer, backs; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, Brearley, Young, Sheridan, and Bell, forwards.
Everton v Preston North End Reserve. At Goodison Park; kick-off 3,30.
Everton.- Whitley, goal; Crelly and Clark, backs; Clayton, Russell, and Makepeace, half backs; Dixon, Monks, Bowman, Chadwick, and Dilly, forwards.

EVERTON v  WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
The Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, September 20, m1902
So far this season, although three games had been played, the Everton team up to this morning had no earned a single point. This afternoon they were due to appear at the Molyneux Ground, Wolverhampton, and the supporters of the club had some stiff solation in the reflection. The team left Liverpool in charge of the chairman of the club at noon today, Wolverhampton being reached about half-past two the weather was beautifully fine, and there was a large crowd present some time before the start. There were three changes in the Everton eleven from last week. Sharp and Settle are both on the sick list, the former suffering from an injury. The third absentee was Balmer, who has been seized with influenza. The forward line was reinforced by Sheridan, who took Settle’s place, and Rankin, who appeared in the position usually occupied by Sharp; while Balmer’s place was taken by Crelly.

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 1 EVERTON 1
September 22, 1902. The Liverpool Courier.
After their defeat, Everton on Saturday journeyed to Wolverhampton, unfortunately they were by no means at full strength. Sharp being hurt and Settle and Balmer unwell. Rankin, Sheridan and Crelly took the places. The Wolves made no change and the following teams lined up before 6,000 spectators. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Henderson, and Crelly, backs, Taylor, Booth (captain), and Abbott, half-backs, Rankin Brearley, Young Sherdian and Bell, forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers: - Baddeley, goal, Jones, and Betteley, backs, Whitehouse, Pheasant, and Annis, half-backs, Fellows, Smith, Beat, Wooldridge, and Miller, forwards.
Young, started and Bell and Sheridan took up a fine movements at once. The outside man put in a fine centre to Young, and had the latter put in a shot instead of preferring to pass out the visitors might easily have taken the lead in the first minute of play. A breakaway to the other end found the visiting backs in great form, and the incursion was but of short duration. Rankin speed away on the right, only to be finally checked by Baddeley, and for a few minutes play hovered about midfield. So far the pace was of the keenest and pointed to the tussle as being at the finish a test of staying power. Kitchen was called upon by Beats, and following the clearance the whole of the Everton forwards moved off in fine style, the finishing touch by Bell passing across the goalmouth at a time when Baddeley was practically beaten. This was a narrow escape for the home side, and they signallised it by at once pressing Everton. Immediately afterwards the visitors again got away, this time on the right, and Rankin who had cleared the opposition, had an open goal, but shot across its mouth. The Wolves defenders by this time had evidently tumbled to the idea that some special effort was required to keep to keep the up to now busy forward rank of Everton in check. But Jones and Betteley gave very little quarter, and Pheasant was at this juncture particularly attentive to Young. Play was quickly at the other end, and when Fellows looked like scoring with practically an open goal, Henderson stepped in more by good luck than management, and saved the downfall of the Everton citadel. The Wolves continued to have the better of the exchanges and from a free kick Pheasant shot, wide. For a time play was entirely confined to Everton's half and it was rather remarkable how the goal escaped being captured Abbott, Bell, and Sherdian were instrumental in taking play to within a few yards of the Wolves line, but Bell was unfortunately given offside, and the advantage was lost. Booth shot in to Baddeley, who placed the ball in a position for Miller to clear the field. A pass to Beats supplemented the Wanderers chances, when Taylor with a determined tackle, prevented a shot being levelled at Kitchen and though several other incursions followed, the Everton defence proved themselves ready for any emergency. Once again the visiting left wing were seen to great advantage, and a particularly smart bit of play ended in Sheridan only bring slightly wide of the mark. Returning in the attack, Bell and Sherdian were particularly busy, and a clever effort on the part of the outside man gave no option to the custodian but to grant a corner, which resulted in nothing tangible. A sudden dash by the Wolves forwards resulted in Kitchen saving cleverly from Beats, and for some time the Everton goal was in imminent danger. The defence prevailed and after smart passing in which Abbott and Bell were particularly prominent. Rankin was presented with a perfect opening. However, in the great satisfaction of the crowd, he sent wide of the mark. A moment later Rankin made amends for his mistake by putting in a brilliant centre, which was cleared by the goalkeeper with difficulty. Just on the interval the Wolves made a determined attack on the Everton goal, and saving twice, Kitchen at a third attempt just tipped over the bar a really brilliant shot from Miller. Half-time Everton nil, Wolverhampton Wanderers nil.
On the general run of the play during the first half there could be no denying the fact that the Evertonians had just a lead. The forwards combined well, and Rankin made a capable understudy for Sharp, while Sherdian quite justified his incursion as a partner to Bell. On resuming the Wolves left went off with rare dash, and after two futile attempts to get through, Wooldridge put in a fast rising shot, which Kitchen attended to in his usual effective fashion. Then followed a most persistent attack on the home defence, and nothing but the determined attentions of the halves and the full backs who harassed the visiting forwards to a close degree, could have prevented Baddeley from being beaten. After two or three minutes pressure, during which the ball was never more than twenty yards from the Wolves goal, a shot from Young which just grazed the bar, brought the home side a welcome relief. The Evertonians still kept up the pressure, and both Rankin and Abbott tried their luck, with no better result. Brearley with a long ground shot, and at the other end, Wooldridge, in attempting to beat Kitchen, had his shot charged down by Henderson. A moment later Baddeley was lucky in saving his change when out of goal, and there was a persistency in the Everton attack, which almost presaged victory. The Wolves defenders however, were on absolutely their best behavior, and the cleverness of the visiting forwards was repeatedly frustrated. Rankin scored for Everton after thirty minutes of the second half, and the Wolves equalised, the game ending in a draw. Final score-Everton 1 goal, Wolves 1.

EVERTON’S FIRST POINT
Athletic News - Monday 22 September 1902
By Junius
Everton made the journey to Wolverhampton with feelings of anxiety, for the team had not gained a single point in the three League match decided previously, whilst Sharp and Settle were both unfit to take the field, and to make matters worse, Balmer was ill and had to stand down.  Thus with two forwards and their mainstay at full back incapacitated, it will be readily understood that although the hope of gaining a point before the opening month had passed was seen enough the chance of its accomplishment became more remote owing to these unfortunate happenings.  Rankin and Sherdian, who took the vacancies forward, are among the most promising recruits the club possesses, and they have rendered good service with the reserve team this season already.  It was pleasing therefore, to find the former scoring the first goal for his side, and as Everton had not netted the ball in their two previous matches this success was all the more gratifying seeing that the “Wolves” only gained one goal, and Everton defence must have shaped creditably.  This success is bound to have a beneficial effective on the players and in view of the stiff character of their League programme for the next two months, stray points will be heartily welcomed.  Out of their next nine League games no fewer than six are on foreign territory and that the anxiety about the match at Wolverhampton can be readily imagined. 
EVERTON RESERVE WIN EASILY
There was a capital crowd present at Goodison Park to see the Lancashire Combination match with Preston North End.  The first half was noticeable on account of a fine display of goalkeeping by the Preston custodian, and though Everton had practically all the play they could only score one, by Makepeace before the interval.  The second half was more prolific in the matter of gaining goals, for after a false finish, when the total was five goals to nil, play to be resumed and the final figures were 6-0.  For the winners Russell gave a creditable exhibition at centre half, and of the forwards Bowman and Dilly were the most prominent.  But Everton were masters of the situation throughout, the steady work of Wilson in goal preventing a more complete rout.  The Everton forward line is a rare good one, considering as it does such experts as Monks, Bowman, and Dilly, and each of these players is quite capable of stepping into the League team should occasion require. 

“WOLVES" LUCKY AT WOLVERHAMPTON.
Athletic News - Monday 22 September 1902
By the Wulf
The appearance of Everton at Molineux Grounds gave thoughtful enthusiasts food for reflection. It showed, firstly, that the Everton ranks had deteriorated in strength, in fact the deterioration seemed so apparently obvious that appeared as if a new combination from last year’s giant success had stepped in the field, and secondly that the Wanderers as a home team are getting pronouncedly off colour. Everton were deservedly superior, and at times they showed a combined effort which was almost lacking on the part of the “Wolves.” The Lancastrians were leading by a goal, and nothing on earth seemed likely to stop a one goal margin victory until two minutes from time when the burly Wooldridge chipped in somewhat rudely and equalized amid frantic excitement. There were drastic changes in the visitors’ ranks, but I, who watched Rankin's play on the extreme right, can truthfully assert that he gave a brilliant and effective display. He shone by himself, and the goal he scored was a delicious confection too lovely for words. At the last moment, too, Balmer was displaced by Crelly, and Sheridan partnered Bell.
EVERTON’S SUPREMACY
The game from start to finish was, practically speaking, always in favour of Everton, but when they shone was in the second half. In the first moiety the “Wolves” tried hard, but Fellows, on the right wing, turned out to be only a passenger, and never during his connection with the Wanderers has been seen in so hopeless a plight. There was nothing of importance in the first halt. What flashes there were came from the feet of Rankin and Bell, combined with the effective and hard kicking of the home defence. The second half was more lively, thanks to the life-giving and healthy rushes of the Everton forwards, who tacked on a bit of combination now and then to show such a quantity was not unknown. For the space of five minutes in this half it was computed that the home defence had the hottest time in its history. The rushes of the Everton quintette, backed up by sterling worth in the shape of Booth, Taylor, and Abbott in the half-back line, were stubbornly resisted by the backs, Jones and Betteley, and  in this instance Baddeley as  a star shone effulgently.  He was here, there, and everywhere, and close upon half a score of times he picked up the ball from the feet of the attackers and kicked away.
AN EXCITING TIME
Then came the crucial point, Rankin, who all along had been dangerous customer, came along at a terrific speed, beating the halves and backs in his stupendous effort, and when at a wonderfully acute angle shot towards the goal, the ball whizzed at lightning speed right over Baddeley’s bead into the net. It was a grand and spicy goal, and one that is seen only on rare occasions, more often in imagination. This was ten minutes from time, and as Sunderland did so did Everton play in a winning vein, but it was not to be for two minutes from the final whistle the Wanderers bore down like wolves on the fold, and with Crelly and Henderson beaten it was odds on Wooldridge, who with the ball at his foot recorded the equaliser. On the whole, it was a poor game, and but for the Wanderers’ plucky defence the result would have been otherwise. Miller was the best forward in the home line, playing excellently at times when it was needed, while Wooldridge was a good second. The halves were not so strong as the Everton trio, who were wholesomely sound in every respect. The Everton forward were a fairly even lot. Rankin especially so, as a man of speed and resource. Crelley, Henderson were feeble at times, and did not approach the strength of the opposing couple. Baddeley was brilliant, while Kitchen did not have much to do.  Wolverhampton Wanderers; Baddeley; Jones and Betteley; Whitehouse, Pheasant, and Annie; fellows, Smith, Beats, Wooldridge, and Miller.  Everton; Kitchen; Henderson, and Crelly; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott; Rankin, Brearley, Young, Sheridan, and Bell.  Referee; Mr. P. R. Sarrower, London.  

EVERTON RESERVES 6 PRESTON NORTH END RESERVES 0
September 22, 1902. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination (Game 3)
At Goodison Park, before a good attendance. Play during the first 20 minutes was very even, each end been visited in quick succession. The Everton attacked, but Wilson gave a fine exhibition in the Preston goal. Monks hit the bar, with a grand shot, and five minutes off the interval, Makepeace scored. On resuming Everton continued to have the best of the matters and Monk quickly added two more goals. Whitley was hurt, but resumed and Bowman beat Wilson on three more occasions, Everton running out easy winners by six goals to nil. Everton: - Whitley, goal, Crelly, and Clark, backs Clayton, Russell and Makepeace, half-backs, Dixon, Monks, Bowman, Chadwick, and Dilly, forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 22, 1902. The Liverpool Mercury
Following three decisive defeats, it is quite gratying to record that Everton secured even one point on the well known Molineux Ground. As a matter of fact, they deserved infinitely more, for the team gave altogether a better display than that which was exhibition by the Wolverhampton Wanderers. Throughout the game the Evertonians were always prominent, and it would not have been astonishing had chances been take advantage of if they had won by a very comfortable margin. As events turned out, the quality of play on both sides rarely rose above the level of mediocrity for neither team seemed to be the possessor of the happy idea of realistic and effective combination. To a great extent, no doubt this falling off, so far as regards his interesting display from the point of view of the spectators was due to the harassing tactics of the half-backs on each side. During the first half this was a feature which was particularly noticeable and while the Wolves forwards are not what they were in the days of yore, a compliment must deservedly be paid to the persistency with which, Taylor, Booth and Abbott attended to the occasional, but none the less effective, movements initiated by the Wolves front line. Neither goalkeeper was especially troubled during the first half of the game, which in fact resolved itself into a struggle between rivals half-backs lines, each of which can justly be complimented upon the effectiveness of their work. It was not until the second half of the game had been in progress for something like half an hour, that the spectators were provided with any items at all likely to appeal to them in anything like full measure. When Everton. as the result of a really meritorious exhibition of how the forwards game should be played, scored, the initial point as the outcome of an extremely well judged and timely shot from Rankin, there seemed to be an almost absolute certainly that the visiting side would carry back the maximum points. Let it here be stated that great praise is due to Rankin, who, apart from being an assistant in the Everton training department has also the recommendation that he has learned his football in Liverpool, and on his form last Saturday, is destined, one would magine, to make a name for himself in the higher circles of Association football. Naturally the success which attended the persistent efforts of the Everton attacking line was not appreciated by the crowd of onlookers, and as is not uncommon on the Molineux Ground, the cries of the spectators roused the home team to such an extent that during the last quarter of an hour, it was evident on the face of it that “Wild horses” would not prevent them equalising if they had any possible chance whatever of accomplishing that much desired result. This determined attitude was rewarded by an equalising goal from the foot of Wooldridge, after a smart centre from the right wing. Reviewing the game as a whole, one could only state that the Wanderers were extremely lucky to share the honours of the occasion. This idea has already been indicated, and even the most ardent supporters of the Wolves frankly admitted that on the day's play Everton were justly entitled by reason of their cleverness in attack, their strenuous half backs play, and their capable defence in the vicinity of goal, to the full honours of a couple of League points, of which they at the present time are so greatly in need. The partial victory, which Everton achieved, was all the more gratying on account of the fact that the side were deprived of the services of three of their most prominent members. Seeing that men like Balmer, Sharp and Settle were absentees, the fact that a depleted eleven could journey to Wolverhampton and return with a point, emphasis's the strength of the resources which the management have at command. Whilst it can hardly be said that either Henderson or Crelly proved efficient backs in the manner in which some of the older Everton backs have distinguished themselves, they are fairly entitled to commendation for effective tackling and judicious kicking, though there may have been lacking in their efforts the crispness the judgement and the absolute certainly which are associated with a really first class exponent of back play. Reference has already been made to the excellent work accomplished by the Everton halves. It was in almost all respects admirable, and the main feature-to all intents and purposes a feature which gained Everton's first point this season-was the remarkable tenacity which each member of the trio displayed whenever there was anything like a dangerous attack on their goal. Of course, it goes without saying that Kitchen worthily sustained his reputation as one of the most capable custodian in Assoication football. True, he had not many difficult shots to negotiate, but whenever danger threatened he was ever alert, and in the right position, and as far as the ball which counted against his side was concerned, he had no possible chance whatever of stopping its progress into the net. Certainly the display of the forwards was a decided improvement upon anything which Everton have yet done in this department this season. In three matches the attack had only credited themselves with one goal, and this was when the line was presumably at its full strength. Against the Wolves both Settle and Sharp were absent, one owing to injury and the other in consequence of illness. Whilst it may be uncharitable to suggest that the absence of these famous players had the effect of improving the forward line, it must be admitted that their substitutes were eminently successfully especially in view of the previous performance of the team. The goal, which Rankin scored was one which, could only have been obtained by a player who, apart from speed, has a knowledge not only of the opportune moment for shooting, but of the right time to dodge and circumvent an opposing back. Sheridan has shown by his work in reserves team matches that he is a player who is justly entitled to figure in a first League team. There were times when he did not altogether fall in with the methods of the that past master of the art of forward play, John Bell, but at the same time he gave one the idea that a little more practice in class company would result in his development as a most serviceable and dangerous inside left. The Wolves are to be congratulated upon their tenacity after Everton had opened the scoring. They are hardily the same”Wolves” that represented the club a few years ago, but still they inherit the capacity for adapting themselves to the circumstances of the game which, apparently is going all against their side. It was their determination, which brought them an equalising point, with regard to which that clever forward Wooldridge, and their custodian, played a conspicuous part. The point gained by Everton was most acceptable, not only to the players, but to the supporters of the club, and it will only accentuate what will be taken as the great meeting next Saturday with their formidable opponents of Anfield-road.

EVERTON v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 22 September 1902
Played on the Molineux Ground, Wolverhampton, before 10,000 spectators. The Wanderers had their full team, but Everton had Balmer, Settle, and Sharp absent. Play was tame during the first half, when Everton did most of the pressing, and Baddeley, though kept well employed, had few shots of a difficult nature to attend to. Rankin and Young made good attempts to open the scoring, and later on Sheridan struck the crossbar. The finishing efforts of the Wolves were very feeble, and breaking away again Rankin missed a fine opening, and close upon the interval a shot from Miller rebounded from the bar. Nothing was scored up to the change of ends, and on resuming the Wanderers attacked strongly, and Kitchen had two hot shots to deal with from Wooldridge and Beats. The ball was then taken to the other end of the field, where Baddeley distinguished himself by effecting several clearances from the visiting forwards, who in quick succession rained in several shots of good quality. Eventually Rankin broke away, and with a beautiful oblique shot defeated the home custodian, who had no chance of saving. The Evertonians looked certain winners until the last ten minutes, when the Wolves played desperately, and kept the visitors’ backs extended to their very best efforts. Two minutes from time their persistent pressure was rewarded by an equalising goal from Wooldridge. Result; Everton 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1.
Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Henderson and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, Brearley, Young, Sheridan, and Bell, forwards.
Wolves;- Baddeley, goal; Jones and Bettelley, backs; Whitehouse, Pheasent, and Annis, half-backs; Fellow, Smith, Beats, Wooldridge, and Maher, forwards.

SATURDAY FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 22 September 1902
Everton have gone and done it: that is they have broken their record by registering one point. This scarcely consistent on their part, and it is certainly not  “pally” to leave Bolton Wanderers all alone in the cold. However, things turned out as we anticipated in this column last week, and it is not for us to complain under these circumstances if the “Wolves” failed to accomplish what they did last season. On Saturday the Everton Club was represented by what was styled a weak team, Sharp, Settle, and Balmer being absentees. However, as things turned out, this weakness proved to be Everton’s strength and saviour for Rankin, who filled Sharp’s place at outside right, managed to secure for the visitors their first point of the season. Rankin, it may be added, played a capital game throughout, and if the Everton directors feel disposed to give him a fair trail there is a probability he may prove an acquisition to their forward line. He is fast, a good shot, and resourceful. Everton had most of the game throughout, and it was rather hard lines that at the very last moment a complete and perfect victory was upset by Wooldridge slipping through and beating Kitchen. Of course, one point is better than nothing, and, having made a start, it is to be hoped a few “whole leaves” will soon follow.

WOLVERHAMPTON v  EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 22 September 1902
Played on Molyneux Grounds, Wolverhampton. There were three changes in the Everton eleven from last week. Sharp and Settle are both on the sick list, the former suffering from an injury. The third absentee was Balmer, who has been seized with influenza. The forward line was reinforced by Sheriden, who took Settle’s place, and Rankin, who appeared in the usually occupied by Sharp; while Balmer’s place was taken by Crelly. The Wolves played the same team as last week. There were 6,000 people present when the men lined up in the following order;-
Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Henderson and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, Brearley, Young, Sheridan, and Bell, forwards.
Wolves;- Baddeley, goal; Jones and Bettelley, backs; Whitehouse, Pheasent, and Annis, half-backs; Fellow, Smith, Beats, Wooldridge, and Maher, forwards. Referee, Mr. Harrower, of London.
Everton lost the toss, and Young started against the sun. the visitors were at once prominent. Bell and Sheridan going down in fine style, the outside man centring splendidly. Young, however, failed altogether to take advantage of the opening, and a splendid opportunity of scoring was lost. A brief breakaway on the part of the Wolves was succeeded by another series of clever movements on the part of the Everton forwards, the whole front line, who showed at the outset a determination to wipe out the last three defeats, moving off in grand order, and several warm shots were peppered into the home custodian, who, however, proved equal to all the demands made upon him, while he as given splendid support by both backs. The first ten minutes of the game were all in favour of the visitors, who were displaying a dash that gave those of their supporters who were present every encouragement to hope for the best. Both Jones and Bettelley, however, were equal to all the calls made upon them, and though Rankin got through very cleverly on one occasion his shot was well dealt with by Baddeley. A brief spell of midfield work was followed by an advance movement on the part of the Wolves, who were now asserting themselves and a very dangerous shot from Fellow was charged down by Henderson. The ball, however, crossed the line, and from the corner which resulted there was a hot attack upon Kitchen’s charge, but the danger was eventually cleared, and the Evertonians took up the argument by advancing on the left. They were, however, at once checked, and a moment later the Wolves ran down in dangerous fashion, Pheasant, when in a good position, shooting yards wide of the mark. The homesters again took up the play, and a fine movement on the right ended in Smith shooting wide. After this the Wanderers for a long time quite monopolised the game, and both Henderson and Crelly were given an anxious time. They behaved manfully, however, and shots by Smith, Beats, and Wooldridge were admirably dealt with. Abbott at length removed the pressure, and with a nice forward shot gave Sheridan possession. The latter ran through with lightning speed, and sent in a magnificent shot, which just grazed the crossbar. It was a splendid effort, and even the Wolverhampton supporters applauded it to the echo. By the time the weather, which was exceedingly warm, was beginning to tell its tale, and at last the pace slackened somewhat. The Everton forwards, nevertheless, did some very clever work, and Bell, after engineering his way down the left wing, sent in a fine shot, which was only disposed of at the expense of a corner. This was cleared, and Bell subsequently passed to Rankin, but the latter, though in a splendid position, failed to steady himself, and as a consequence his shot went over the crossbar. Approaching the interval the Wolves made desperate efforts to gain the lead, and it was only the soundness of the Everton defence, the work of the half-backs, that kept them out. A minute before the interval the home forwards got down in fine order, and Miller sent in a good shot, which grazed the crossbar. The interval came without either side having scored. The game so far had been distinctly in favour of Everton, whose forwards had displayed highly commendable dash and cleverness. There was, however, a lack of accuracy and Judgement in shooting when in front of goal, which rendered several brilliant passing movements altogether futile. There was a capital crowd when beats restarted. The Wolves at once ran down, and Wooldridge sent in a warm shot which Kitchen threw away very cleverly. After a clearance by Crelly the Wolves again moved down, and Sheridan was accidentally kicked in the face by Pheasent, but he speedily recovered, and the game proceeded at a fast pace. The Wolves at this time were in the ascendant, and Henderson and Crelly were kept hard at work. It is only fair to say that both men rose to the occasion, and more than once they managed to keen the Wolves at bay. The home left wing were, however, very persistent in their attention to Kitchen, and after a fine breakaway Smith sent in a clinking shot, which the Everton custodian had considerable difficulty in dealing with. The next item of interest was a run down by Taylor and Young, the latter concluding with a shot that caused Baddeley considerable anxiety. The succeeding stages of the game were of a give-and-take nature, both sides attacking in turn, but in neither case was there ever any serious sting in the attack. Rankin scored for Everton after thirty minutes’ play, and Wooldridge equalised just on the call of time.
Final result; Wolverhampton Wanderers 1 goal, Everton 1 goal.

COMMENTS ON SPORT
Liverpool Daily Post - Thursday 25 September 1902
By Lynx II
The Evertonians’ performance in drawing with Wolverhampton Wanderers on the Molineux Grounds last Saturday came as a pleasant surprise to most supporters of the home club. The team had heretofore displayed such palpable mediocrity of form that many of those interested in the welfare of the club had almost cheerfully resigned themselves to a whacking. But as matters actually turned out, Everton should have won. From start to finish they played an excellent game, always holding the upper hand of their opponents and the latter were distinctly lucky in equalising at the last moment. Rankin, who occupied the Everton outside right position, and who scored the goal, created a highly favourable impression. He is fast, a thorough trier, and a good shot. Others of the same front line might with advantage imitate his example. The two backs, Henderson and Crelly, are not perhaps “absolute flyers,” but they put in some very sound work against the ugly rushes of the Wolves.

EVERTON'S SUSPENDED SECRETARY
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 27 September 1902
Secretary Cuff, or ex-secretary, as I ought to call him till October 1st, is anxious to get back with Everton. He i modest enough to believe, I dare say, that the "Toffies" are losing through his enforced absence. I would be glad to think so, too, myself, for then victory would be near at hand; but I have an uncomforable conviction that the cause of theirt disasterous career is not an absentee secretary -it is themselves. Still, it is pleasant to see Secretary Cuff so anxious to do some work and draw his salary again. The shareholders are strangely divided on his merits. "How much?" one of them queried at the annual meeting when his salary was mentioned. "$200 a year," was the replay. "Too much!" yelled the shareholder. "Not half enough!" retorted another. I express no opinion either way, but he is zealous and well-meaning, and even his bitternest ememy will admit that things cannot be worse with Everton when he is back than they are.

EVERTON V LIVERPOOL.
Sheffield Evening Telegraph - Saturday 27 September 1902
Last season's result; , Everton 4 goals, Liverpool 0 goal.
At Goodison Park, before 35,000 spectators. Lord; Stanley started the game tor Everton. Liverpool showed up well in the earlier stages the game. Young at length scored for Everton, and two minutes later Brearley put through. Shortly after Young scored again for Everton. Raybould scored for Liverpool from a penalty. Half-time;— Everton 3 goals; Liverpool 1' Final; Everton 3 goals, Liverpool 1 goal

EVERTON v  LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 27 September 1902
Everton shareholders are requested to be in their places at 3 p.m. to-day, as after that time the public will be admitted to the shareholders stand on payment of 3s each.
Everton v. Liverpool, league match at Goodison Park. Kick-off 3.30.
Liverpool;- Perkin, goal; Glover and Dunlop, backs; Parry, Raisbeck, and Goldie, half-backs; Goddard, Livingstone, Raybould, Chadwick, and Cox, forwards.
Everton (selected from);- Kitchen, goal; Henderson, and Balmer, backs; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Rankin, Brearley, Young, Sheridan, and Bell, forwards.
Everton Combination v. Nelson, Combination match, at Nelson; 3.30.
Everton.- Whitley, goal; Wolstenholme, and Crelly, backs; Clayton, Russell, and Chadwick, half-backs; McDonald, Monks, Bowman, Makepeace, and Dilly, forwards.

GREAT GAME AT GOODISON PARK
The Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday September 27 1902
EVERTON v.  LIVERPOOL
THREE GOALS IN QUICK SUCCESSION FOR EVERTON
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
The annual dual meeting of our premier football representatives at Goodison Park and Anfield respectively calls forth in full force the latest enthusiasm and partisanship of the admirers of both the clubs. It matters little which club fortune has smiled on, myriads of excuses and extenuating circumstances are unearthed on both sides, and the fullest anticipation of victory expressed. Whatever may be the experiences of other League clubs, the adherents of Everton and Liverpool are faithful and true in sunshine and in cloud. Up to the present it must be confessed there has been much more cloud than sunshine, and Everton, who last season steered clear of defeat until the second Saturday in October, have now the inglorious record of one point to their credit’ whilst Liverpool have three points, with one game less played than the “Blues.” A few weeks ago, Liverpool was credited with a brilliant front line, and great achievement were prophesied; but so far they are in the future, and last Saturday’s exhibition was, to put it mildly, disappointing. Everton’s engagements have been stiff, and bad luck has so far dogged their footsteps. To sum up, the balance of form is in favour of the “Reds,” but the advantage of playing on their own ground should counter-balance matters, and lead to a ding-dong game, with a tough fight for supremacy until the whistle’s final blast. The morning broke cold and misty, but long before midday Old Sol put in an appearance, and the weather became of such a delightful character that even non-enthusiasts felt compelled to wend their way towards Goodison Park, where the playing pitch was in the grandest possible condition for the great encounter. As the hour of play approached, the centralisation of football “sports” was the dominating feature of the city. Excellent as the electric car service is, it could not effectively accommodate the converging masses; and at the Landing-stage terminus particularly such pulling and pushing and rushing and crushing was never seen before. The more opulent spectators chartered hansoms and growlers, and for once in a while Cabby admitted good business, and his equine partner pricked back his ears, and wonderful had “old times come again.”
Before three o’clock there were upwards of 20,000 enthusiasts on the ground, and the spectators continued to roll in so rapidly that by the time arranged for the kick-off there must have been something like 30,000 present. Meanwhile a capital band discoursed popular music, and assisted to while away the time. As regards the teams, Liverpool put forward their full strength; but on the home side the front rank was of a somewhat experimental nature, Rankin, who played such a hard game last Saturday, at Wolverhampton stood down in favour of Sharp, and on the opposite wing Settle was absent, his accustomed position being filled by Sheridan.
The teams lined up in the following order;-
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Henderson and Balmer, backs; Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-back; Sharp, Brearley, Young, Sheridan, and Bell, forwards.
Liverpool;- Perkins goal; Glover and Dunlop, backs; Parry, Raisbeck, and Goldie, half-backs; Goddard, Livingstone, Raybould, Morris and Cox, forwards.
Referee; Mr. J. Lewis, Linesmen; Messrs. J. Cooper and F. Kirkham.

HORACE WRIGHT
Athletic News - Monday 29 September 1902
It is unnecessary to emphasize the fact that Everton have for a considerable time been deprived of the services of their regular secretary, owing to a decree of the Football Association.  This placed the club in quite a dilemma, and it stands greatly to the credit of Mr. Horace Wright that he undertook the duties temporarily when it was most difficult to obtain the necessary assistance.  For some months Mr. Wright, who has been a director of the club for three years, has acted as honorary secretary, and the club is certainly under a deep debt to this gentleman, for he has also the management of large works in Liverpool.  The discharge of these manifold duties has left him no leisure, but at least he has the satisfaction of knowing that he has rendered Everton excellent service, and that by his courtesy and promptness he has made hosts of friends.  Mr. W.C. Cuff will be able to resume next Wednesday. 
TOM WATSON
In days gone by the Willington Athletic Club was known under the more bewitching name of Rosehill-a village organization which has given the Association code such players as William Hogg, John Rutherford, W. Jones (Bristol City), and O’Donnell (Lincoln City), and greater than all, such an organizer as Mr. Tom Watson, the renowned secretary of Liverpool.  With malice aforethought we selected the adjective “renowned” for this typical Tynesider, quiet and keen, throughout and industrious, judicious and attentive to the tiniest detail, he has been the most successful team builder and manager of the professional era.  No other man has been the secretary to two different clubs which have secured the highest League honours-the championship.  This, after all, is the surest test of consistent merit.  Indeed under Tom Watson Sunderland not only won the League Championship thrice, but they appeared in the semi-final stage of the Association Cup on as many occasions.  Liverpool, during his regime, have once been the leaders, once the runners-up and twice in the semi-finals for the older challenge vase.  Tom Watson is not a bigoted fanatic, but he is prepared to maintain that in 1899 Liverpool should have won both the League and the national trophies.  He is still hoping for the accomplishment of that wonderful double event.  Born at Newcastle-on-Tyne on April 9, 1859 Tom Watson learned to play the game during his school days at York.  Carrying his enthusiasm back to the North he was one of the founders of the Rosehill F.C., the first club in the mid-Tyne district, and represented them on the Northumberland Football Association.  On leaving Willington, he was in 1881 elected secretary to Newcastle West end, who played on a field Gosforth wat.  And there collected were made for the expense, as the meadow was not fenced around!  Young Watson was appointed to wait on Sir B.C. Browne, the then Mayor of Newcastle, concerning a lease of the ground Newcastle United now play upon.  Supported by the influence of Sir C.F. Hammond, the late M.P for Newcastle, this permission was obtained, with the financial assistance of Messrs, Stanger and Robinson this field was enclosed.  The first gate was between 7s and 8s.  The first lady to attend the matches at St. James’s Park was Mrs. Watson, who has ever since remained faithful to the great winter game of the masses.  Removing to the East end of the town Tom Watson was induced to become the secretary of Newcastle East End, mainly owing to the persuasion of Mr. D. Crawford.  He made no change until 1888, when Messrs, Samuel Tyzack and James Marr went as a deputation and requested him to take the management of the Sunderland club, which was then quite a small organization, although the committee had decided to throw enterprise and energy into the concern and import Scottish players.  Naturally Mr. Watson was loth to leave his birthplace, but he listened to the voice of the tempters and took the plunge, every soul at the East End wishing him well in a position which afforded him greater scope.  Thus he deserted Tyneside, and there collected “the team of all the talents”
However, in 1896 Councilor W. Houlding and Mr. J. McKenna approached Mr. Watson on behalf of Liverpool, and in this year we find him installed at Anfield.  Of course, he has had his disappointments in Lancashire, as on Saturday, but he has periods of triumph, and has accomplished much for the game in Liverpool.  For five years he represented Division 1, on the Council of the Football Association –a post which he resigned on removing from Sunderland to Liverpool, where he has again made shoals of friends.  But, after all, “a man’s career is only the surface of his life.” In the business of a football entrepreneur and schemer he has been eminently successful, but his sterling merit as a man and his magnetic influence over players have gained him the esteem and confidence of his intimates and the loyalty and zealous co-operation of the vast majority of players who have been brought into contract with him.  Tom Watson is quite an outstanding figure of his time. 
The Derby Match
The greatest assembly of the day was seen at Goodison Park, when 40,000 spectators swarmed round the lines, the receipts being over 1,000 pounds.  The folks saw a fine exposition of five minutes about midway in the first half the game was waged on fairly equal terms, but in these sparkling moments Sharp proved himself a strategist and a sprinter.  He made three splendid back passes at an acute angle from the goal-line, and each one of these produced a point by Brearley, Young and Abbott.  Rarely do three consecutive centres bring an equal crop of goals, and, naturally, they decided the game, for the Anfielders could do no better than score from a penalty.  Thus did Everton overcome Liverpool, much to the sorrow of Tom Watson.

FIRST VICTORY OF EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 29 September 1902
By Tityrus
With 40,000 people round the ropes at Goodison Park, and a splendid victory over Liverpool, the Everton executive, their eleven, and their enthusiasts were in high glee on Saturday evening when John Lewis sounded orders for the cessation of the strife.  ‘Tis true that neither of the great teams quartered on the banks of the Mersey have given unallowed pleasure to their supporters during the month.  In fact, they have been sadly disappointing; but how could Everton begin their garnering of points better than by inaugurating their victories in this manner?  A triumph of 3-1 over the Anfield combination covers a multitude of sins, and hope will once more dispel despair in the neighbourhood of Walton.  Moreover, Everton had the unexpected pleasure of a son of a peer being so gracious as to kick off on this great day.  In the morning there was a telephone message from Knowsley asking for three seats to be reserved.  Evidently the describes against professional football have not convinced the house of Stanley.  Indeed, the Hon F. Stanley came into the arena with Dr. Baxter, and gave motion to the new ball as if he had kicked one before-probably at school.  But then the young scion of a noble family left the fray to the “trained footpads” some of whom acquitted themselves nobly, and one, I regret to say, rather ignobly.  But that is another story.  During the week there had been much discussion as the composition of the teams, but when the men filed on to the turf one after the other to please the cinematograph operator, it was seen that Edgar Chadwick and James Settle were the only notable absentees.  Settle has a bad knee, and no joint in the human body is worse to manage, I remember an athlete declaring with a touch of humour that the knee was the worst thing ever invented.  Perhaps Settle could confirm this opinion.  But Chadwick is worrying about the tenderness of his toes for these were badly hurt in the match between Liverpool and the Edinburgh Hibernians.  He ought not to have played against Stoke, but the club was in such difficulties that he did –and since then he has had leeches applied and been wearing boots of a No. 19 size.  These are the ills which footballers are heir to.  And then some folks prattle of the joys and the emoluments of the professional “footpad!.” 
A GLORIOUS FIVE MINUTES
During the first quarter of an hour there seemed to be little difference in the merits of these deadly rivals, for in a fast, determined, and capital game both positions were stoutly assailed.  Everton were the first to make their presence felt, but when Raybould and Goddard began to make tracks the other way one was tempted to think that the Anfielders were bent upon repeating their English Cup-tie performance early in the year.  But all dreams and theories were soon blown to the four winds by the great achievements of the Everton attack.  Sharp had always appeared eager to dodge round Dunlop, and patience and perseverance were rewarded when this back miskicked with the Lancashire cricketer hanging on to him.  This was the signal for momentous events, for Sharp sprinted up to the goal line and then passed back at an acute angle.  The ball travelled right in front of goal, and Sheridan appeared to me to miss a chance of opening an account.  But Brearley, who seems to have an old head on his shoulders, shot hard and true, and the leather rebounded from the shine of Perkins, with the result that Brearley returned it and found the net at the end of eighteen minutes.  What joy there was, and what handshaking of Brearley.  Liverpool rallied, and Livingstone with his sleeves rolled up to his armpits made a tremendous shot to equalizer, but this bullet never reached it billet.  But Sharp was again to the fore, for he flew to the goal line, tricked Dunlop, and again centred when Young with his hair standing on end hustled up with giant strides and breasted the ball into the desired haven.  These tactics appeared so simple and so remunerative that Sharp again tried his feet along the same track.  Once more he middle in front of goal, and Abbott, seeing his chance, stead himself, took deliberate aim, and defeated Perkins with a fine fast screw shot.  This was at the end of twenty-two minutes , Everton were three goals to the good, and had obtained them all in five minutes.  This was a surprise which seemed to stimulate Liverpool to great deeds, but they did not take advantage of most of their opportunities.  However, on thirty-five minutes Mr. Lewis awarded Liverpool a penalty Kick, Balmer jumping and handling, Raybould netted, but this was the only point which the Anfielders scored, although Kitchen made several great saves both in the first and second half.  After the interval there had many a spirited raid, Perkins and Kitchen averted all danger.  The second period was certainly anything but one-sided.  The struggle was maintained to the very end, but although Liverpool were generally the attacking party, they could get no forralder, and Everton were left the winners, all owing to a glorious five minutes.
CONCERNING THE PLAYERS.
It was a game well worth watching, for there was always a modicum of science, plenty of speed, and no lack of determination.  I cannot say that I was convinced that Liverpool were so much the inferior team as the score would indicate, but all the same, during these five minutes their defence was no stronger than tissue paper, and the Anfielders failed just where I expected them to be paramount.  There was really very little in merit between the forwards, but the Everton half-backs were always worrying their adversaries and very useful in front of goal when danger was nigh. Kitchen played well, for he seemed to fill the goal with the great reach, and he showed good judgement as to when to stay at home and when to rush out to an antagonist.  I have seen Balmer play with much more accuracy and power, but I dare say his touch of influenza and went of practice account for his little defects.  He was much superior to Henderson, who in no wise impressed me, and I have no sort of opinion of a man who clenches his fists and strikes a fighting attitude against Cox.  Considering the referee he was dealing with Henderson was lucky to remain on the field.  Taylor played a hard game and gave Cox no latitude, while Booth was always effective and a good general to boot.  Abbott was seen to advantage, particularity in the first half and he shot with plenty of vim when he could.  The Everton forwards were much better than I had been led to expect, and Sharp undoubtedly won the match by his clever wing play and judicious centres.  Those must have been five sparkling minutes for the Lancashire cricketer, who generally seems to be the man for a great occasion.  Brearley and Young were capital, even if the latter has not quite reached last season’s standard.  Sheridan is a worker, but he is not a Settle, and Bell was occasionally prominent for one of his old-time dribbles.  Beyond all doubt Perkins has acquitted himself better, but he was quite powerless against the shots which entered his goal.  At the opening of the game Dunlop received a nasty blow on the head, and this may have troubled him, for neither he nor Glover was so brilliant as I have seen them many a time, especially when they were pressed at close quarters.  In defence, Raissbeck was serviceable, but he had frequently played a greater game; and both Goldie and Parry were good and bad by turn.  Goddard and Livingstone make a fast and fine right wing.  They play well to each other, and Raybould combines splendidly with them, but somehow or other they nearly always failed to finish their work near goal.  At the same time I should say that Raybound is a most improved centre.  The left wing played by fits and starts, for Morris was only moderate, and is by no means a Chadwick; but Cox made the most of many of his openings.  Still, while the Liverpool front rank were quite as able in the open as Everton, they were lacking in marksmanship and in making stinging shots at close quarters.  This difference enabled Everton to become the conquerors.  Everton; Kitchen; Henderson, and W. Balmer; Taylor, Booth (Captain) and Abbott; Sharp, Brearley, Young, Sheridan, and Bell.  Liverpool; Perkins; Glover and Dunlop; Parry, Raisbeck, and Goldie; Goddard, Livingstone, Raybould, Morris, and Cox.  Referee; Mr. J, Lewis (Blackburn). 

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES.
Athletic News - Monday 29 September 1902
THE GREAT GAME GOODISON PARK.
By Junius
The one engrossing topic of conversation in football circles last week was the meeting of Everton and Liverpool.  Having witnessed all the meetings between these clubs in the League tourney. I must unhesitatingly award to the game under notice the palm, for a down-right excellent exposition of football. In contests of this nature,  between two such keen, and withal, genuinely sporting rivals, there may be some excuses for  any extra feeling infused into the play of the respective combatants, but, taken altogether, the exhibition left little to be desired. Barring one or two casual incidents, the men played the game as it should be played, and in this respect I consider the teams deserve the greatest credit for providing such a rich treat.  While we can witness such football, our two clubs never need fear lack of support, for their performance brought credit to the victors, and no less renown to the vanquished. The one side deserved, my opinion, unite as much praise as the other. Liverpool took their beating in a sportsmanlike spirit; in fact, they played with the same wholeheartedness even after being three goals in arrears as they did before these reverses, and I should fancy the Anfielders have earned for themselves hosts of new friends by their plucky display. Liverpool owe their non-success to a lack of shooting power, tor they over-played their opponents for fully three-fourth of the game, as far as midfield work was concerned, but, near goal, the forwards were none too deadly. The combination of the Liverpool front rank was extremely clever, the right in particular being prominent, and Goddard gave a delightful display. Again did Raybould exhibit most dashing form, and had as much deadlines been exhibited by the forwards when within shooting distance as in circumventing their opponents to lead up to a favorable position the result might readily have been reversed. But Everton experienced a glorious five minutes; I fact I was assured by an ardent supporter of the home side that the exact time Iimit  was three minutes forty-five seconds. Be that as it may, during this period three goals were debited to the Anfielders account. The first two were due to some pretty and effective work by Sharp, whilst Abbott delighted the home enthusiasts with one of his express patents. Thus Everton seized their opportunity, and deserved the utmost credit for so doing, for the forwards were always ready to take advantage of any weakness in the opposition defence, whilst the “halves” were exceedingly smart.  Needless to state, Everton were delighted with their victory —their first of the season - and there was more method in their work than was the case against Newcastle, a fortnight ago. But Liverpool have no cause to be downcast, for their display was stamped with the hall-mark of class, and they will not always be so unfortunate near goal. Before leaving this subject I should like to offer a word of encouragement to Morris, who as inside left, was equal to the beat forward on the field. Taylor, however, hung on to Cox so assiduously that the extreme wing flier had few chances of showing his fine turn of speed.  Such games are a credit alike to the successful and the fallen.
JOTTINGS
Settle is suffering from a kick below the knee on the same spot where a year ago he was incapacitated at Newcastle and may be absent for some weeks.  Everton, however, have a capital substitute in Sheridan. 
Wolstenholme is again fit, and was tried as a full-back with the reserve team at Nelson on Saturday.  Everton want a full-back badly.
Today Everton play Glossop at Goodison Park in the first round of the Lancashire Cup competition.  The “Blues” will play practically their Combination eleven, which should be good enough to win. 

EVERTON 3 LIVERPOOL 1
September 29, 1902. The Liverpool Courier
The first of two League fixtures between our local eleven's was down for decision on Saturday at Goodison Park, the event ranking as one of the most important, certainly the most interesting to Everton and Liverpool. The reason for this is not far to seek, for there is the greatest rivalry-healthy rivalry by the way-between the two contending teams for the better position in the League table, and both sides were expected to try their hardest for supremacy. Everton only made one alteration in the team which drew with Wolves last week, Sharp resuming in his old place on the right, vice Rankin, who gave such a good account of himself a week ago. Settle was still an absentee, Sherdian again appearing at inside left with Bell. Liverpool put in a stronger team, though it was seen that Morris was operating for Chadwick at inside left. The day was very favorable for the game, though a trifle warm, but notwithstanding this there was an immense crowd. The teams were: - Everton: - Kitchen goal, Henderson, and Balmer, backs, Taylor, Booth (captain), and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp, Brearley, Young, Sheridan, and Bell, forwards. Liverpool: - Perkins, goal, Glover, and Dunlop, backs, Parry, Raisebeck, and Goldie, half-backs, Goddard, Livingstone, Raybould, Morris, and Cox, forwards .
There would probably by 35,000 spectators at the start. Liverpool won the toss, but there was little advantage, as there was hardly any wind. Lord Stanley was present on the ground, and was privileged to take the kick off for Everton. An attack was at once made on the Liverpool goal, and the game was hardly a minute old when it was stopped through a slight injury top Perkins, which, however, proved nothing serious. Livingstone and Goddard relieved the pressure and got the ball to near the half-way line, when offside was given against Raybould. This player eventually got the ball at his feet and gave to Goddard, who exhibited nice play, centring without success. Morris beat Brearley for the ball, but the Liverpool half was again the centre of operations, though Raisebeck put in a timely kick which, removed play, after which Goddard from a good position shot in, but the ball glanced off another player and a corner was awarded. Shortly afterwards Morris made an attempt to find the net, but only placed behind. The pressure on the home goal was maintained, and Livingstone was applauded for fine play. The next item of note was a capital move on the part of the home forwards, which was not checked, and Young sent in a good shot, which just went outside, this was the signal for brilliant play on the part of Everton. Sharp and Brearley executed a clever run of the right, beating Dunlop, and Brearley receiving a pass sent in a lighting shot, which beat Perkins, thus securing first blood for Everton. The attack was in no way slackened, and after a short period of smart play, Young scored a second goal for Everton thus being after about twenty minutes play. The Everton supporters were simply beside themselves at this unexpected turn of events, but judge of their intense joy two minutes later when Abbott getting in a favourable position, sent the ball in at express speed, and Perkins was completely nonplussed with it. Three goals in little more than as many minutes was very good work for Everton, and could hardly have been more satisfactory. It was certainly an eye opener to the visitors. Following this exciting and, as far as Everton were concerned, productive play, there was a short period of even play. From a throw in, Cox headed to Glover, who was the means of transporting play to the home end. Balmer was all there, however, and his judicious kicking prevented any mischief. A smart run on the left by Cox was neutralised by Henderson, and then the Anfielders were in front of the Everton goal, but there was some bully on the part of one or two of the front rank, added to which Abbott got his toe to the leather. About the half way line Dunlop had his kick charged down by Brearley, who gave Everton a look in. Raybould and Morris worked hard, Cox was again making tracks for the home goal, but the ball had to be brought back, and them the throw-in the game was waged in midfield, from which Bell got possession, and tried with a shot at long range, which Perkins had no difficult in dealing with. Another shot from Sherdian rebounded off one of the Liverpool backs and them from this Livingstone and Raybould got away nicely. There was a good opportunity for Liverpool at this point, and a penalty kick was given against either Abbott or Balmer for pushing Livingstone in the penalty area. Raybound was entrusted with the kick and easily beat Kitchen, thus opening the score for his side. This point was very welcome under the circumstances, put with standing that it accrued from a penalty. For the next few minutes desultory play was the order until the Blues made an incursion to Liverpool territory, when Dunlop got the ball away with a useful kick. Cox got possession only a short distance from the Everton citadel, but he almost dallied with it too long. His final shot hardy missed going through very close to the ground. Raybould next gained possession and dribbled nicely, finally giving to Cox, whose chance was spoiled by Taylor. A foul was next given against Everton in the Liverpool half, and Dunlop took the kick, which availed nothing. This brought about half time with the Blues pressing. Half-time Everton 3; Liverpool 1.
Raybould restarted for the visitors, but before any impression could be made on the opposing side Henderson returned with a flying kick. The home forwards were evidently in earnest, and reached the Liverpool goal, where a free kick was awarded the visitors, which enabled them to again attack Young Sheridan, and Bell worked the ball down, but their efforts were frustened, although they aided by effective play on behalf of the backs. The Reds were now on the aggressive, and Kitchen had to clear from Raybould. A corner to the Reds was safely got away, after which, there were some brief exchanges between Young and Brearley, and Raybould and Livingstone. Raisebeck headed to Livingstone, who got possession, and passed to Goddard, against whom a foul was given. Nice play on the part of Taylor, and Abbott made an opening for the home forwards, who were troublesome in front of the Liverpool goal, after which, the home team were awarded a free kick. Perkins had next to come out of his goal to negotiate a well-directed shot. Immediately afterwards Cox made poor use of an opportunity and to make matters worse for the visitors Raybould, who headed in, had the point disallowed for some reason or other. Still, the disconragements had little or no effect on the persistence of the Reds, who were playing with commendable earnestness. Young and Brearley were next out on their own, but met strong opposition in Raisebeck, who adroitly footed the ball away. Everton renewed the attack, however, and after Sheridan had been robbed, Bell got in position and shot, but it was unsuccessful. End to end play was the order for a few minutes, after which, the Blues were in a favourable position in front of their opponents' goal. Danger threatened, but the leather was at length got away, when Liverpool were again in danger, Dunlop had the best of bout Young, and once more the home team went away empty handed. Goddard next put in a starting move on the right, eventually meeting his superior in Balmer. The Reds were putting in some good work at this point, and their efforts deserved better success, but they were compelled to retire beaten final result Everton 3, Liverpool 1.

NELSON 1 EVERTON RESERVES 2
September 29, 1902. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination. (Game 4)
At Nelson. The visitors had rather the better of the opening exchanges, but were opposed by a fine defence. Bowman scored in fifteen minutes, with a good shot, but near the interval Nelson equalised. The game was keenly contested in the second half, and close on time, Dixon scored for Everton, who won by 2 goals to 1. Everton: - Whitley, goal, Wolstenholme, and Crelly, backs Clayton, Russell, and Chadwick (tc), half-backs, Dixon, Monks, Bowman, Makepeace, and Dilly, forwards .

EVERTON REVIEW
September 29. 1902. The Liverpool Mercury
Previous on Saturday the Everton Club had not been overburdened with good fortune in their League games this season, but the fluke goddess was in a most generous humour when they came to tackle Liverpool and as if to compensate for earlier lack of attention, simply overwhelmed them in favours. A glorious victory-the first of the present campaign- and a golden hoard, amassing over £1100, were amongst her donations, and in achieving their success the fortunate players gained more than their share of the luck that was floating around. Even nature itself was in a beautiful mood, the day being an ideal one for football, though perhaps more sultry than the combatants in the Herculean struggle appreciated for judging from their paces in the last quarter of an hour. The previous exertions had told very forcibly upon both teams. No wonder, then that the Everton supporters chuckled with unconcealed delighted at being the recipients of such a concatenation of favours, whilst an unconcreditable feeling of serene satisfaction pervaded the breasts of those whose duty it is to direct the fortune of the club. Close upon 40,000 persons witnessed the rivals clubs strive for supremacy, the company including a select party from Knowsley, and the Hon F.Stanley was prevailed upon to open the game. For 23 minutes the play favoured Liverpool, who displayed fine combination in the attacking lines, but did not cause Kitchen too much in easiness and considering the opportunities they had the Reds forwards should have been ahead during this period. Then came one of those kaleidoscopic changes, which constitute the chief charm of sport, and which in five minutes play Everton in an invincible position, and caused gloom of the darker hue in the Anfield camp. A quick rush on the Everton right wing ended in Sharp cleverly eluding Dunlop the centre came accurately across, and after some exciting work in the goalmouth Brearley shot against Perkins, but the same player securing from the rebound, found the net. Liverpool dashed away, but Sharp was once more given the ball, and another splendid centre enabled Young to come up at full speed and breast a second goal. Still a third was forthcoming, for Sharp again crossed to the goalmouth, the ball was kicked out to Abbott, who steadied himself, and whizzed in a terrific shot, which Perkins never even saw. And this was how Everton won. Liverpool did score from a penalty given against Balmer for jumping and handling the ball, within the prescribed area, but their one failing stuck to them throughout; they couldn't do the right thing near goal. They had no luck with their best efforts, but Raybould appeared to register a second goal, which the referee disallowed apparently for impeding the goalkeeper, while Goddard sent in a lovely shot in the last minute that Kitchen did well to even get at. The cause of Everton's success, and the consequent downfall of their rivals, was solely a matter of one making better use of their chances, when near goal than their opponents. In actual play, Liverpool held a decided advantage and this despite the excellent work accomplished by the home halves, for their forwards displayed capital combination, did no dally or hesitate when in possession, but justed lacked the dash at the critical stage, which would have turned their previous excellent movements to substantial advantage. Nothing better than Goddard work was seen in the match, he is a most gentlemanly yet withal exceedingly effective player, and with a delightfully appearance of languid efforts lures the unwary defenders to his downfall, leaving him in the rare with ease. He went across some excellent centres, but unfortunately for his side none who turned to account. Curious enough it was in the extreme right of the Everton front line that most danger arose, and Sharp fairly covered himself with glory during that exhilarating five minutes in the first half. He completely bewildered Dunlop, who at this stage seemed unable to hold his opponents in hand, and he displayed some masterly touches in retaining possession of the ball until the moment for crossing to the centre arrived when the leather was driven with unerring aim to its billet. Raybould again gave a very fine exhibition in the centre. Morris played a capital game on the left wing, but Cox could not get away from Taylor, who must have carried out his instruction to a nicely. Had the Liverpool forwards shown the same skill in shooting of had they even infused just an extra bit of vigour into their work near goal, they must at least have shared the points, but their shooting lacked keenest, and this led to their overthrow. The excellent work of the Everton half back was the most prominent feature of their side's display, and they backed up their forwards most persistency. Consequently, Young shaped better in the centre than he has before this season, and both Brearley and Sheridan gave evidence that their football ability is of no means order. They deserve great credit for pouncing on to every possible chance, and when they did get away they were always more dangerous than the Liverpool front rank. Taylor played a splendid game at half, but as a matter of fact Booth and Abbott were little behind in efficiency, and this line bore off the honours of the game. The Liverpool trio showed a considerable improvement upon their previous week's performance, though Raisebeck is not yet at his best, and Parry was the most prominent, though Goldie performed well. Further behind the teams were on an equality, Balmer and Glover being the pick of the full backs. Henderson played a very poor game, and seem's altogether lacking in resource; whilst Dunlop though kicking sturdily at times had a very had spell in the first half. The Liverpool defence is not exactly fulfilling antic pations, and eight goals dropped in four matches implies a weakness which needs attention. Kitchen kept a capital goal, but despite the good work of the team generally Everton were fortunate in winning by a margin of two goals, for on the play, a drawn game would have been an accurate result.

EVERTON v LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 29 September 1902
Here would be close up 40,000 spectators at Goodison Park on Saturday to witness the game between the great local teams. Neither Settle nor Chadwick were able to take the field, but otherwise the sides were well represented, and an interesting contest was anticipated. At the outset the pace was tremendously fast, and a couple of corner kicks were awarded Liverpool to no tangible purpose. A smart run down by Bell changed the scene of operations, but play was quickly back again, and Kitchen had to save from Goddard. After sustaining a quarter of an hour’s severe pressure, the Everton right moved off, and, on Sharp centring. Brearley pounced on the ball, and meeting a rebound from Perkins, safely piloted the leather into the net. Play had scarcely settled down again ere Young breasted a centre from Sharp past the Liverpool keeper, following which Abbott put on a third goal. This was certainly a revelation to the spectators, the three goals being obtained within the short space of five minutes. Still, Liverpool pressed their opponents, but could do everything except find the net. Eventually a penalty kick was awarded the visitors, and Raybould reduced the lead ten minutes from the interval. No further scoring took place to the change of ends, after which the Liverpool forwards again put on pressure, but were generally weak in front of goal. A breakaway by Bell and a centre to Sheridan almost brought further disaster, and at this juncture the visiting defence were seen at their best. The play continued to run favourably for Liverpool, and the ball was ultimately forced past Kitchen, the point, however, not being allowed. Several corners followed, but there was no penetrating the home defence, and a stern game ended with the result;
Everton 3 Liverpool 1.
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Henderson and Balmer, backs; Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-back; Sharp, Brearley, Young, Sheridan, and Bell, forwards.
Liverpool;- Perkins goal; Glover and Dunlop, backs; Parry, Raisbeck, and Goldie, half-backs; Goddard, Livingstone, Raybould, Morris and Cox, forwards.

SATURDAY’S FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 29 September 1902
THE EVERTON VICTORY
With such charming autumn weather as was experienced on Saturday, there was no surprise about the attendance at Goodison Park. It is a great sight to see about 40,000 people clustered together in an enclosure like that of Everton, though no doubt a large number of those present were far too excited after the first twenty-five minutes of play top follow accurately the remainder of the game. Those three goals of Everton-all got in the space of five minutes-fairly “paralysed the house,” and took away the breath of the onlookers. It goes without saying that no such sensation had been anticipated; if it had, the boot was more likely to be on the other leg. However, the unexpected always happens; in this respect it is so with football as with cricket. Everton’s brilliant victory was achieved practically by one man, and his name is Sharp. On this occasion he proved a veritable “Jack Sharp.” He was always on the look out for something to do, and to the disgust and surprise of the Liverpool defence he found what he wanted. Sharp kept an alert look out by lying well up his wing. The first goal came through a miskick of Dunlop’s, Sharp at once fastening on the leather and running it up to the goal line. The ball was then passed back to the front of Perkins, where it was dodging about for some seconds, when Brearley, at a second attempt, banged it into the net. Presto! The whole performance was again repeated almost before the delighted Evertonians had recovered themselves, Sharp again being the leader in the movement, though Young, in this instance, obtained the point. Whether or not this bit of famous finessing was a pre-arranged affair or not will never be known, but for the third time Sharp went through the trick, Perkins’s charge being successfully carried. Abbott putting on the finishing touch.
Liverpool, however, were not to be fooled any more in this way, for those three marvellous goals were never added to, except a penalty one just before the interval, which this time fell to the Anfielders, and so ended this notable Everton victory. The winners not only earned their laurels, but deserved them to the fullest as on the play they were all round the smartest, more especially when it was a matter of defence. In this latter department the Liverpool side was sadly deficient, no resource or judgement being shown. The Anfield forward line occasionally were brilliant, but nothing like what was expected of them. Probably those three goals got into their craw, and upset them. The result did not surprise us, but the way the victory was achieved certainly did.

EVERTON v.  LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 29 September 1902
At Goodison Park, before 30,000 and 40,000 persons being present. Amongst the directors’ guests was the Hon. F. Stanley, who honoured the match by making the initial kick for Everton, the visitors having won the toss. As regards the teams, Liverpool put forward their full strength; on the home side Rankin, who played such a hard game last Saturday, at Wolverhampton, stood down in favour of Sharp, and on the opposite wing Settle was absent, his accustomed position being filled by Sheridan. The teams lined up in the following order;-
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Henderson and Balmer, backs; Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Brearley, Young, Sheridan, and Bell, forwards.
Liverpool;- Perkins, goal; Glover and Dunlop, backs; Parry, Raisbeck, and Goldie, half-backs; Goddard, Livingstone, Raybould, Morris, and Cox, forwards.
Referee; Mr. J. Lewis, Linesmen; Messrs. J. Cooper and F. Kirkham.
The game at first was rather tame. At last Goddard by a clever move got his wing going, and he made a long pass to Morris. A determined tackle by Goldie stopped an ominous rush from the Everton right. After the ball had been out a couple of times Raybould got it from Dunlop, and a smart attack came from Liverpool at close quarters, which Balmer broke up, but a corner was immediately conceded, and Kitchen fisted out with both hands over the heads of the pack. Everton failed to stave off the pressure, however, and Livingstone passed out to his partner, who responded feebly, and put this tall behind. Liverpool stuck at it well, until Balmer chipped in smartly, but Kitchen soon after handled from Goddard, who got away by himself. The rushes from both of the Liverpool wings were distinctly dangerous. Sheridan and Bell came away at last on the left, but Glover treated their intrusion very calmly. However, the Everton front rank became irresistible, and came through with rare dash. An attack was commenced by the right wing, and the home forwards crowded up and overwhelmed the Reds’ defence. The ball was put in from the right, and Perkins was all but beaten., however, the leather was kept out of goal for a moment, and Sheridan then had a chance of scoring, but it was left for Brearley to get the coveted first goal for Everton, which came after nearly twenty minutes’ play, and was received with tremendous cheering by the crowd. Hardly had the game been resumed a few seconds when the Everton right wing sailed away in line, and making nothing of the opposition, the ball was centred like greased lightning. Young shot up like an arrow from a bow, and before the unfortunate Perkins realised the situation, the doughty Evertonians were two goals in front in as many minutes. The supporters of the Reds could hardly realise the situation, so rapid had the operation been. The visitors’ cup of sorrow was not, however, full by any means. No sooner had the whistle sounded the resumption of hostilities than the Everton front rank moved off with clock-like precision and the same irresistibility which had characterised their two previous successes, and paralysed Perkins and his two unable defenders. Operations took place to the left of Perkins with startling rapidity, and the custodian just managed to get rid of a hot one at close quarters from Brearley, when Abbott, who was close behind, fastened on the ball, and once more the leather went past Perkins. The Liverpudlians were quickly back in front of the Everton goal, where fell disaster awaited the home side. Balmer being over-anxious to clear his lines, pushed Livingstone inside the penalty area, and Mr. Lewis at once awarded a penalty kick. This was entrusted to Raybould, who had no difficulty in scoring. Thus opening Liverpool’s account. For some time Liverpool remained in their opponents’ territory at fairly close quarters, where Kitchen was twice tested by Goddard and Livingstone to all calls upon him, and was also aided several times by decided luck. Finally Booth changed the aspect of affairs, and enabled his forwards to resume pressure, but it was not of an intertie character, not indeed at all dangerous. Cox was next away for Liverpool, but before he could steady himself he was defeated by Henderson, though the effort brought about a corner which was well taken, and resulted in strong pressure before Glover drove the leather behind the sticks.
Half-time; Everton 3, Liverpool 1.
When the second half opened Liverpool went off momentarily with great dash, as if determined to retrieve the situation. Taylor checked their good intentions, and put Sheridan and Bell on the more. The leather was ultimately centred, when Balmer headed out, and Cox was not slow to take an opportunity and sprint down his wing, but Henderson upset his calculations. However, just afterwards the Red contingent broke away, and the flying right-wingers became very busy; but at the crucial moment the Everton goalkeeper, by a very bold stroke, spoiled the efforts of the pair, rushing out and taking the ball from their toes. A minute later Goddard made another dash, but when Balmer tackled him the Liverpool man was guilty of a foul, which spoiled what would otherwise have been a corner to the visitors. The free kick, however, yielded no advantage to the home side. The Liverpudlians crowded round Kitchen, and the ball found the net, though Mr. Lewis did not allow, Kitchen being obstructed. Following this little incident the Everton right wing made tracks for the Liverpool goal, but Dunlop with a clever kick, sent them to the right-about. Liverpool dashed away on the left, and twice threatened Kitchen’s charge. Then loud claims were made for a corner, which the referee refused to concede. A smart advance by the homesters was knocked on the head owing to one of the Evertonians impeding the goalkeeper. Goddard tried another rush, but he was too well watched, with the result that his well-meant effort went for nothing. A little later the homesters made another raid, and Bell essayed to shoot a goal, but made a wretched attempt, but a shot from the centre nearly took effort.
Final result; Everton 3 goals, Liverpool 1 goal.

STORRIER TO MILLWALL
September 30, 1902. Lancashire Evening Post
Storrier, captain of the Dundee team, has signed for Millwall club. Storrier played for Everton some few years ago, and afterwards went back to his native land and played for the Celtic, and it was during the season 1899 that he was selected to play against England at Birmingham. Last season he captained the Dundee team.

EVERTON 3 GLOSSOP 2
September 30 1902. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashie Senior Cup, Round One.
Everton were drawn against Glossop in the first Round of the Lancashire Cup Competition, and the even was decided yesterday at Goodison-road, in favourable weather. Judging from the mere handful of people assembled on the ground just prior to the start, there did not appear to be much interest centred in the contest, and apparently the Lancashire cup Competition is not calculated to create any extraordinary excitement in the neighborhood of Everton. Everton relied mainly on the combination team, the only first team representatives assisting being Abbott and Brearley with Rankin and Sheridan. The teams lined up as follows: - Everton: - Whitley, goal, Wolstenholme, and Balmer (r), backs, Clark, Russell, and Abbott half-backs Rankin, Brearley, Bowman, Sherdian, and Dilly, forwards. Glossop: - Clarke, goal, Burgess, and Norgrove, backs, Pell, Coates, and Goodall, half-backs, Badenoch, Thornley, McCattney, Thornley (h), and Carr, forwards.
Glossop kicked off, and the first item of not was a wide attempt, the ball going outside. Badenoch and Thornley were prominent with a speedy dribble on the right for Glossop, but Russell completely upset their calculation. Everton returned and though good play by Rankin, Norgrove had to kick out. Clarke soon showed his usefulness at right half-back, after which the Glossop forwards got through the opposition, and Russell unfortunately missing his kick, left the Glossop centre, McCartney with a clear opening, and he had no difficulty in finding the net, five minutes after the start. Glossop next had a free kick, and getting to the centre of the field they were awarded another free kick for a foul. The Everton backs at this point were not exhibiting their best form, and the visitors were somewhat aggressive. A goal kick, which was well got away, afforded welcome relief for the Evertonians, and getting down to the other end, Brearley headed in, causing Clarke to handled for the first time. Rankin received a capital pass, and it was rather hard lines on him when at what appeared a favourable opportunity a foul was given against the visitors. One of the home Rankin heading against the Glossop custodain's cranium, and a free kick was given. The home forwards were displaying anything but clever passing, but improved later, and after ineffective shots by Bowman Dilly, and Abbott. Everton were awarded a penalty kick , owing to Sheridan being pushed in the penalty area, and Abbott equalised. Sherdian and Bowman next tried to find the net, but failed and Rankin hooked the ball, but it was nowhere near the at the finish, and following this, Clarke had to clear from Bowman. Neat work by the Glossop front rank at length transferred play, but Russell and Clarke broke up the attack, and the next minute, Sherdian, after useful assistance from Brearley sent in a stinging shot which beat Clarke, giving Everton the lead. Bowman next hard two terrific shots, both of which went over the crossbeam. He was apparently more eager than judicious Goodall, at the other end, made an ineffectual attempt and McCartney was very unlucky with his shot from a timely pass by Goodall. Half-time Everton 2, Glossop 1. Immediately on resuming the Blues stormed in front of the Glossop goal, and Rankin sent over the bar. A free kick was given against the visitors, and this being well placed, Brearley had an opening, but shot wide, doing ditto a minute later. After some parleying in front of the Glossop goal, Abbott tried in vain to lower the visitors colours. Whitely had next to exercise his resource, which he did in a clever manner. One of the visitors close in, headed into goal, the ball striking the upright. Meeting the ball again, kicked in, Whitley bringing off a capital save. Shortly afterwards he had another handful from McCartney at close quarters, and again averted a goal. Abbott next assayed one right across the goalmouth, and shortly after Bowman had the hardest of luck, a lighting shot striking the Glossop custodian. He, however compensated for his ill-luck a minute later, when he put through in clever style. Increasing Everton's lead. Glossop now became very persistent, and McCartney sent in lighting shot from short range, which gave Whitley no chance. Final result, Everton 3, Glossop 2.

Storrier
Lancashire Evening Post - Tuesday 30 September 1902
Storrier, captain of the Dundee team has signed for Millwall Club. Storrier played for Everton some few years ago, and afterwards went back to his native land and played for the Celtic, and it was during the season 1899 that he was selected to play against England at Birmingham. Last season he captained the Dundee team.

LANCASHIRE CUP FIRST ROUND
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 30 September 1902
EVERTON v.  GLOSSOP
Judging by the very sparse attendance at Goodison Park, yesterday, the fixture was either a foregone conclusion or counterattractions at Greenwich Park and Blackpool had drawn away most of those who had the afternoon off. At any rate, there wero only two or three hundred present when the players turned out. Everton were represented as follows; —Whiteley, goal; Wolstenholme and Balmer backs: Clark, Russell, and Abbott half backs; Rankin. Brearley, Bowman, Sheridan, and Dilly, forwards. Glossop: Clarke, goal: Burgess and Norgrove, backs: Goodall, Coates, and Pell, half backs: Parr, H. Thornley, McCartney, Thornley, and Badenock, forwards. The visitors opened operations, and a foul in favour of Everton let them in, but when Clark had an opening shot badly and was offside at the same time. Glossop next made an ugly rush, and scrambling play followed a centre when R. Balmer relieved, and Everton took up the attack vainly on their left.  Glossop put some determination into their work, and after Clark had badly missed Thornier, the Glossopian passed to McCartney, and Wolstenholme was prettily tricked. Thornley took a rather long shot at Whiteley, who failed judge it, and the leather found the net after five minutes’ play. After Bowman had been fouled Brearley tried to put a twister past Clarke, but shot wide, and a minute after he almost headed through, when the whistle proclaimed him offside. Everton continued to press, but there was very little understanding along the front line, although the attack was very hot at times. Sheridan had the ball in the goalmouth when Norgrove shoved him in the back, and the referee promptly awarded a penalty, which was successfully negotiated by Bowman, who equalised for Everton. The visitors fell off considerably compared with their early efforts, and Clarke had a very anxious time between the sticks, but acquitted himself very well. After a rather unsteady exhibition on the part the Everton defence under pressure. Brearley brought play to Glossop territory, where a very refreshing sequence of truly clever passing took place. Bowman and Sheridan shone to advantage, and as the result the latter*s capital play Sheridan finally beat Clarke very easily.
Half-time: —Everton 2 goals. Glossop 1.
After interval there were 1,000 spectators present, and very early on Glossop were thrice penalised. Pressure was exerted by Everton, and both Brearley and Rankin had hard luck with very good shots. Glossop broke away on several occasions, and tried long shots at Whiteley, but with no success, though the custodian had to punt out on one occasion. A capital movement was carried out by Rankin. Brearley, and Bowman, which well-deserved success, but although the ball bounded all-round the goal-post, it obstinately refused to find the net. Bowman scored third goal for Everton, and a few minutes before time McCartney added another for Glossop. Everton winning a capital game by3  goals to 2.

LANCASHIRE SENIOR CUP-FIRST ROUND
Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 30 September 1902
EVERTON v.  GLOSSOP
The above match was decided at Goodison Park, before a fair attendance. Although the final score would appear to denote a keenly-contested game, such was not the case, for Everton pressed almost continuously, and had their shooting been more accurate they should have prevailed by a large margin. Curiously enough, the Second Division team opened the scoring, Thornley defeating Whitley, but Abbott equalised from a penalty; and after good work by Rankin and Brearley, Sheridan placed Everton ahead. This was all the scoring before the interval, and afterwards the same state of affairs was witnessed, Everton monopolising the attack. The Glossop custodian (Clarke) effected some splendid clearances, however, and chiefly through his efforts the score was kept down to a respectable figure. Eventually Bowman added a third with an exceedingly fine shot, and Brealey sent with terrific force against the upright. Taking advantage of some loose defence, the Glossop front line broke away, and McCartney scored a second point for the visitors in good style just before the finish. Result- Everton 3, goal; Glossop, 2.
Whiteley, goal; Wolstenholme and Balmer backs: Clark, Russell, and Abbott half backs; Rankin. Brearley, Bowman, Sheridan, and Dilly, forwards. Glossop: Clarke, goal: Burgess and Norgrove, backs: Goodall, Coates, and Pell, half backs: Parr, H. Thornley, McCartney, Thornley, and Badenouk, forwards.