WHITLEY TO STOKE
Nottingham Evening Post - Thursday 01 September 1904
At the eleveth hour L.R. Roose, who took part in a practice match at Stoke last Saturday, has expressed his intention of not playing again for the "Potters" The Stoke management at once looked out for another goalkeeper, and persuaded Everton to part with whitley, the quondam Aston Villa player. Whitley will play against Derby County today.

WHITLEY LEAVES EVERTON FOR STOKE
September 1, 1904. The Liverpool Daily Post
Now that the Everton have signed on Scott, as goalkeeper, a pussle seemed to arise as to where Whitley would play, as Kitchen would be among the Reserve men. Now, however, this pussle is solve, for Whitley has been transferred to Stoke at a substantial fee.

NOTTS COUNTY V EVERTON
Sheffield Daily Telegraph - Monday 05 September 1904
Last season's results-At Nottingham, Everton 3, Notts County 0. At Everton;l Everton 3, Notts County 1
Notts County's match with Everton on the City ground at Nottingham attracted 12,000 spectators. The home team played Earle, formerly of Clapton, in goal, and Everton had Scott, the Irish international, between the uprights, while the veteran Taylor took the position of Wolstenhomes, now of Blackburn. Everton were the superior side in the first half, and after earle had saved finely from Settle, McDermott and Settle scored. A mix-up in the Everton defence gave Green a chance of reducing the visitors lead, 2 to 1 at half-time. In the second half Sharp put through again for Everton, but the ball had previously gone over the line. Everton held the whip-hand to the close, without agin scoring. result; Everton 2, goals Notts County 1 goal.

CAPITAL DISPLAY BY EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 05 September 1904
In their opening game, the champions of last season exhibited some of the form which made them a team to be feared whenever they went, and Earlestown, although offering a stubborn resistance, were eventually beaten by five goals to one.  They scored first by Hilton but before the interval Sheridan equalized.  In the second half, Sheridan, Dilly (2), and Caldwell obtained further goals, with the result that Everton won as above stated.  The home forwards were seen to great advantage, and Dilly especially played a fine trim, and, despite some fine defensive work on the part of the visitors, their goalkeeper was unable to keep the dangerous Everton front rank in check.  Makepeace was the most prominent of the half-backs, and Wildman gave a capital exhibition at right full-back.  For Earlestown Grime, despite the big score against him kept a grand goal.

EVERTON START PROMISINGLY
Athletic News - Monday 05 September 1904
By Junius
Trent Bridge has proved a fortunate place for Everton during recent years in the matter of securing points, and their victory on Saturday was to some extent expected.  Last season Everton won by three clear goals and, though such a decisive triumph was not again anticipated every confidence was felt in the ability of the players to avert defeat.  A success on foreign soil in an opening match is decidedly promising, and with the constitution of the side as it is at present Everton should again do well in the League. 

TRANSFER OF WHITLEY
Athletic News - Monday 05 September 1904
By Junius
Some surprise was occasioned when the news of the transfer of Whitley to Stoke was made known, and the decision of the Everton directors to part with him has caused much dissension of opinion.  In the trial games, Whitley shaped in a splendid style, and there are not wanting those amongst the supporters of the club who consider that he was the best custodian they possessed.  He was unfortunate in coming to Everton when they had a keeper of the caliber of Kitchen, but on the few occasions when he had a chance of figuring with the League team he invariably gave a good account of himself.  It will always be a matter of surprise why Everton signed on a third custodian in Scott when they possessed two League custodians like Kitchen and Whitley, and, in giving the Irishman the first chance of keeping in the League eleven, I do not think the club have particularly pleased their following.  Off with the old love and on with the new is not always a policy to be pursued, and Kitchen has been a rare custodian for Everton.

A BAD START FOR NOTTS
Athletic News - Monday 05 September 1904
By Trentsiders
In general accordance with their customs, Notts opened the season in a manner not calculated to give much cause for satisfaction to their followers, being beaten by Everton at Nottingham by two goals to one.  Owing to the County Cricket Club requiring Trent Bridge for a week of two longer, the game had, with the permission of the League to be played on the City ground, and Notts had not, therefore, the full advantage which is supposed to accrue from appearing at home.  Still they were expected to give a much better account of themselves than they did, and their form, taken all through, was far from satisfactory.  Their attack was altogether disjointed.  Individually the forwards could be found little fault with, but they did not work together in a fashion worthy of any commendation, and were consequently a force with which the Everton defenders found it perfectly east to deal.  They were dangerous in some of their rushes but their efforts were sadly lacking in finish.  At half-back they made a fair display, although Anderson and Griffiths were scarcely equal to keeping Hardman and Sharp in check, and allowed them too much latitude, whilst in the back division the same unreliability was noticeable, as was the case last year.  Earle in goal made a fairly promising first appearance.  He was evidently a little nervous and did one or two rash things, but on the whole he should prove a safe keeper when he settles down with the side.  Everton had a thoroughly sound defence, and at half-back, too, they were strong. The combination of their forwards, like that of Notts, was, however, open to considerable improvement.  There was more method in the tactics attempted than was apparent on the home wide, but they were carried out in a somewhat crude style.  On the whole the visitors played better football than Notts, and they quite deserved their victory.
A Scrappy Game
For over twenty minutes play was of the poorest description.  Everton, with the wind behind them, and the best of matters but it was not until Sharp made a capital run that they could claim much advantage.  They were then kept from scoring in a rather remarkable manner, but Notts did not benefit by the escapes, as McDermott scored from the corner kick which ensued.  A claim for a penalty kick by Notts passed unnoticed and there was little else of any moment for an quarter of an hour.  Then Sharp put in another neat centre, and Settle very skillfully headed a second goal.  A minute later Muir also placed a pretty centre, and Reid, getting a clear course, beat Scott at close quarters.  For half an hour in the second half Notts made some desperate attempts to drew level.  They were full of dash, and they gave some glimpses of first-class form.  But all their efforts were unavailing.  Humphreys and Green had two splendid opportunities from centres by Muir, the former over-running the ball when he had only Scott to beat, and latter heading over.  Everton came quite as near scoring.  Sharp had previously made another of his brilliant runs, and Young had put through but the referee held that the ball had been over the line, and the point was not allowed.  Later Everton were again in front, and Earle was drawn from goal, two shots being put in during his absence, Mainman, fortunately clearing.
A TAME FINISH
The match ended in the tamest possible manner.  A quarter of an hour before the final whistle sounded most of the players had quite enough of matters, and went about as restlessly as could be.  Notts could not respond to the calls of their supporters and were thoroughly beaten.  As mentioned earlier the Clapton goalkeeper, shaped very well, and Notts ought not to suffer in this department as they have done.  Prescott and Montgomery, however, were not altogether safe in their tackling, and Notts were seen to less advantage at back than anywhere.  Under pressure the pair did not seem able to get the ball away, and the side was consequently often in great difficulties.  Anderson the new right half should do well with Mainman, who played a great game.  Muir was about the best forward though Reid was hard-working and clever.  Green also put in some capital work, whilst Humphreys and Gee played moderately.  So it kept a fine goal for Everton, but it was in his favour that he had such a steady and capable pair of backs as Balmer and Crelley in front of him.  Booth gave a splendid account of himself at centre half back, Taylor and Abbott rendering useful support whilst Sharp, Settle and Hardman led the attack with split.  The first named was as speedy as ever, and he finished his runs with judgement.  Notts –Earle; Prescott, and Montgomery; Anderson, Mainman, and Griffiths; Muir, Humphreys, Green, Reid, and Gee.  Everton; Scott; Balmer, Crelley; Taylor, Booth and Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.  Referee; F.H. Dennis, Middleborough. 

NOTTS COUNTY 1 EVERTON 2
September 5, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Everton opened their League season at Nottingham. Their opponents were Notts County, but owing to the County Ground being required for cricket the match took place on the enclosure of the Forest club. The weather was more suggestive of cricket than football, but there was naturally a large crowd to witness the first League game of the season in the town. Teams: - Everton: - Scott, goal, W.Balmer, and Crelly, backs, Taylor, Booth (captain), and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Notts County: - Earle, goal, Prescott, and Montgomery, backs, Anderson, Mainman, and Griffiths, half-backs, Muir, Humphreys, Green, Reid, and E.Gee, forwards. Referee F.H.Dennis. The County opened the game when a smart check was administered by Abbott, which led to Settle and Hardman racing to within a few yards of Earle, the ball rebounding from the keeper, and just as Settle was about to put on the finishing touch Earle pushed the ball over the line. A change came over the proceedings on Green passing out to Muir, as a raid was at once made on the Everton defence. After several smart movements the ball the ball was given to Humphreys, who shot grandly into the net, but was palpably offside, and the point was promptly disallowed. A further attack in which Gee kept the Everton defenders busy, and the best efforts of Booth and high co-defenders were required to hold the County forwards in check. Sharp was given a chance of getting away, but it was not accepted, and a moment later, the ball was driven over the line. Pulling themselves together, the visiting quintet went off in fine form, and Prescott in order to save charge conceded a corner kick. Hardman placed well, and the followed a stiff bully in goal, but Everton lost their chance by a player handling the ball just in front of the goalmouth. Another severe attack followed, and a strong drove by Booth only missed the mark by the merest shave. Settle and Hardman meanwhile were putting in much good work, but in T.Anderson at half-back they found a sturdy opponent, and further behind, Prescott allowed little quarter. From a free kick, Balmer placed well to Settle, who worked himself into a nice position, but his shooting he put the ball straight to the keeper. A clever movement by Muir and Humphreys led to a heavy pressure on the Everton goal, and gave Gee a simple chance of scoring, but he missed the ball altogether. Scott had then to clear from green, and in a trice was at the other end, where Sharp put in a clever centre, Earle came out, but could only put the ball to Settle, whose shot glanced off Montgomery over the line. The corner kick was well taken and McDermott rushing up headed the ball into the net quite out of the keeper's reach. This success came after about twenty minutes play, and on getting to work again the County forwards bore down in almost irresistible style. Humphreys looked like getting through when Booth with a clever effort just managed to get his toe to the ball, and directly afterwards McDermott when going strongly was pulled up for fouling Griffith. A clever shot from Hardman was the next item, but the keeper attended to it in able fashion, and directly afterwards and no difficulty in dealing with a weak attempt by Booth. Reckless passing by the Everton forwards resulted on severe occasions in the ball rolling harmlessly over the goalline. Young then broke though, and when he had practically no opposition he preferred to pass back to McDermott instead of shooting. The latter put the ball ridiculously high over the bar, and after a further attempt to make headway by the Everton left the County got well under way, and gave Balmer, and Crelly plenty to do. Eventually Everton right got down, and after defeating Montgomery Sharp centred, and Settle meeting the ball headed into the net. Play had no sooner been set going again, than the County notched their first goal through Reid. after several smart passes across the goalmouth, Everton become once again aggressive, and looked like adding to their score, when Hardman took a pass in an offside position. Closely following the outside left sprinted down nicely, and was only a trifle out of his reckoning with a shot which, dropped on the crossbar. Half-time Notts County 1, Everton 2. On resuming the home side were first to get away, and had a free kick in a favourable position, but Griffiths shot over the bar. Everton retaliated but were driven back, and Balmer had to pass back to Scott in order to stop the opposing wing. Notts were having rather the best of the exchanges, but the Everton forwards were by no means idea, and Earle had to negotiate a stiff shot from Young. Green was hurt, but quickly resumed, and twice Muir sent the ball across the Everton goalmouth but the defence was too strong. The Everton pressed with determination, and on the two occasions. Mainman managed to divert capital shots, when Earle was out of his goal. Notts then gained a fruitless corner, while Scott saved from Gee. Nothing further was scored, and the result was Notts County 1, Everton 2.

EVERTON RESERVES 5 EARLESTOWN 1
September 5, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 1)
At Goodison-park, before 5,000 spectators. The opening half was splendidly contested play being fast and exciting. Earlestown opened the score through Hilton, and Sheridan equalised. Half time 1 goal each. On resuming Everton were early aggressive, Sheridan giving the home team the lead with a fine shot. Dilly augmented later. Everton had matters all their own way after this, and Caldwell put on a fourth, and Dilly a fifth goal, and Everton won by five goals to one. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Wildman, and McCartney, backs, Makepeace, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs, Rankin, Sheridan McAdam, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 5, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton have opened the season most auspiciously. Their first League engagement was away from home, and whoever their opponents might be some anxiety naturally is felt as to the issue of the match. It is, therefore, all the more gratifying to their supporters that thus early a victory should have been obtained. Such a capital send-off is bound to have a good effect upon the team, for after all, there is nothing so encouraging especially in league football, as a win at the very start of an arduous season's engagements. Their success over Notts County by 2 goals to 1 was not, it is true, very pronounced, but the two points are there, and this is all that the team were asked to accomplish. Last season, in the corresponding fixture, the Evertonians gained the upper hand by three clear goals. That however, need scarcely be taken into account at the present time, in as much as when that result was achieved the Everton players had enjoyed plenty of serious practice, and were at the top of their form. Saturday's game could not be classed as a really first-rate exhibition of Association football. At the same time, this was by no means a matter of astonishment. One can hardly expect in the opening game all the finer points to be accentuated. The players themselves do not get into their regular swing, and the weather-it was more suggestive of cricket than of the winter pastime-necessarily plays on unimportant part, Still, it must be conceded that Everton's victory was the outcome of superior tactics. Right from the commencement this was apparent to every impartial spectators. The Notts County representative certainly tried hard, but the work of the Evertonians was characterised by style and finish, which overshadowed the vigorous efforts of the home side. At one period it looked as if Notts would be simply overwhelmed, for in less than half an hour Everton were two goals to the good. Both goals were cleverly obtained. McDermott heading through from a corner, while Settle also used his head successfully in meeting a brilliant centre from Sharp. These successive, however, seemed to impart renewed energy to the “Lancemen” and temporary weakness on the part of the visiting defence presented an open goal to Reid, who made no mistake. After this neither team succeeded in adding to their score, for although Young placed the ball into the net, the referee disallowed the point, presumably because Sharp before centring had gone over the line. The earlier proceedings of the second half were not so favourable to Everton as the club's followers might have desired. Indeed, had the home forwards taken advantage of ready good opportunities, the game might easily have been equalised. Still the main fault rested with the County attack, who, if they are to be successful, cannot throw away chances of lowering their opponents goal. It is just as well to point this but because unless the Everton defence is maintained at the high standard which distinguished it last season, such opportunities as were offered in Saturday's game would certainly not be discarded by any skilful set of forwards. For the main part little faulty could be found with the work of the Everton defence, but there was occasional slackness which, fortunately for the side, was not turned to profitable account. The only new recruit in the Everton ranks was Scott, the Irish International from Linfield. Although not subjected to any severe trial, he showed that he is a custodian of real ability. A word of caution, however, would not be out of the place. Coolness is an excellent qualification in a goalkeeper, but there is such a thing as carrying it to success. On more than one occasion when he might have punted strongly down the field, he threw the ball to the backs, and if the Notts forwards had been more alert the Everton citadel might have been captured. Balmer and Crelly were a strong couple of defenders, although not so consistent as usual. but no disquietude need be entertained, for with more work they are bound to improve. Taylor filled the vacancy caused by Wolstenholme's transference to Blackburn Rovers, and that he worked like a Trojan goes without saying. Still, right half is not Taylor's true position, and somewhat naturally he could not resist the temptation to act his old part as inside right. Booth and Abbott maintained their reputation, and were always a thorn in the side of the Notts attack. The visiting forwards individually were exceedingly clever, but they did not quite realise one's expectations in the matter of combination. No doubt the necessary assimilation of method will soon be forthcoming, and then Everton will possess probably the smartest quintet in the League. McDermott who was conspicuous throughout for his wonderful trapping of the ball, had the honour of registering Everton first goal of the season, while Settle, who claimed the second, was always smart, not only in robbing opponents, but opening out the game for his comrades. Young was a watchful centre, and both outside men, Sharp and Hardman, were speedy and resourceful, the centre from the former, which led to the winning goal, being a particularly fine effort. The new men who appeared for Notts County rendered a good account of themselves, but there is a lack of balance about the team, which does not suggest a very successful career. It was noticeable that three old players, who have been associated with the district-Prescott, Gee, and Mainman-were amoug the most prominent of the County representatives. Everton victory still doubtless add to the interest which will be taken in the friendly fixture at Goodison park to night with the Linfield club.

EVERTON 3 LINFIELD 0
September 6 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Yesterday Everton played a friendly at Goodison-park with Linfield, the Irish League champions, from whom they secured Scott and McCartney. Although the kick off was not until a quarter to six o'clock, the spectators only numbered a couple of thousands. Everton played a mixed team, which included five combination players while the Irishmen tried new recruits. For a friendly the game was interesting to watch. The visitors displayed smart football, the forwards being very nippy on the ball, but they were scarcely a match for the Evertonians. The only goal in the first half fell to Everton, McDermott after a series of exchanges within the penalty area, scoring with a fast low shot. Occasionally the Itrishmen had hard lines, but Scott and the backs defended strongly. A neat individual effort on the part of Caldwell led to Everton second goal and Sharp followed with a third. Scott was not beaten, and the result was Everton 3, Linfield nil. Teams: - Everton: - Scott, goal, Wildman, and McCartney, backs, Taylor Booth (captain), and Hutchinson half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards. Linfield: - Best, goal, Shepperd, and Wallis, backs, Anderson, Darling and Smith, half-backs, Young, Hagan, Osborne, Stewart, and McClure, forward. Referee J.McGill.

HENDERSON TO READING
Dundee Evening Post - Wednesday 07 September 1904
In the summer Willie Muir, while on Holiday in Liverpool, strongly advised Portsmouth to engaged Henderson, the ex-Everton full back, but the Portsmouth Directors did not consider the Evertonian class for their team, and he signed for Reading.

LIVERPOOL LEAGUE 1 EVERTON RESERVES 1
September 8,1904. The Liverpool Courier
At Bank-road, Garston, last evening, before about 2,000 spectators. Everton won the toss, and playing with a strong sun at their backs, monopolised the opening stages. Balmer secured the first goal from a free kick in midfield. Dodd and Sheridan broke away, and a corner was forced but nothing resulted. At the other end Boyland (Garston Church) shot into Kitchen's hands. Taylor (Sutton Commerical) at centre half, repeatedly broke up the combination of the Everton forwards. Half-time Everton 1, League nil. Restarting the Leaguers forwards, well supported by the halves, were constantly aggressive and Wilson (Sutton) three times in succession tested Kitchen. While Neve (Prescott) got in a brilliant cross shot. A breakaway by the Everton right almost ended in a score, but Whiting saved at the expense of a corner. A few minutes from time Wilson placed the ball in the corner of the net away from Kitchen, Everton 1, Leaguers 1. Everton: - Kitchen goal, Heyes, and R.Balmer, backs, Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs, Rankin Sheridan, McAdam, Dodd, and McCartmey

OSWESTRY UNITED 0 EVERTON RESERVES 4
September 9 1904 The Liverpool Courier
At Oswestry yesterday in dull weather. Shortly from the kick off, Everton got a lead from Sheridan, the second point being registered by Roberts. Everton practically made rings around their opponents, leading by three goals at the interval. On resuming Everton used fine passing, which the salopians warded off successfully. The encounter from this rules somewhat more quick, the visitors only securing one more point throughout the second half. Elsworth also a Liverpool player deserved especial mentions, for his long shot.

ALBERT EDWARD LEWIS.
Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette - Saturday 10 September 1904
Footballer and Cricketer.
Albert Edward Lewis, the successor to John Edward Doig to goalkeeper for the Sunderland Club, seems to be just the right sort of man to take the place of the famous international. Lewis is a Gloucestershire man, having been born at Bristol 26 years ago. He is now a fine, big specimen of the Southerner, being 6ft. lin in height, and weighing 13st 101b. A pretty good weight one would say, but he does not look it, and has not an ounce of superfluous fat about him. He commenced his football career with the Bedminster Club, and played for them for two or three seasons, his positions being goalkeeper, and occasionally right full back "He went from there to Bristol City Club when that organisation became professional one, and was with them three seasons. His joining of this club marked the opening of his professional career. While with the City he did very well both as custodian and full back. So well, indeed, as to secure county honours, and played for Gloucestershire against Somerset and Wilts. Right back was his position in the county games. Then came a season with Everton but he did not once get a game with the League team in a League fixture. next he became associated with the Walsall club, for a season, after which he miragted to the Sheffield United. A couple of seasons there and then Sunderland. On joining the United he played for the first team, as gaoler, in the opening five games - all of which were won - and then the committee dropped him. Twice he figured in the United team at Roker Park, has last appearance as a "Blade" being on December 19th 1903. About ten minutes from the finish, when the score was standing one each, he twisted his knee, and had to retire, peter Boyle filling the vancancy. Fortunately the injury was not of a serious character, and he is now all right again, and been for a long enough. Ever since he joined Walsall he has not figured in any other position than that of goalkeeper. While with the United he took part in the Rest of the Midland v. Champions match, being in the former team. It will thus be gathered that Lewis has had a lengthy and varied experience, and, coming to Sunderland in the zenith of his power, he will no doubt prove a valuable member of the team. Lewis is, like Buckle and Bridgett, a life long teetotaler, but he makes no boast of the fact. A quite unassuming follow Lewis appears to be, and the supporters of the club can rest assured that he is just one of that sort of man that can be depended upon to do his best. Now a word or two as to his cricket career for he is a first class cricketer. He commenced as a pro, with the Offon Club just outside Birmingham, and at the end of the first season he ehaded both the battling and bowling averages. Warwickshire desired him to qualify for their county after a trial match. Better terms, however, were offered by Somerset and to that County he went. He was enagaged on ground staff for three seasons, and on the completion of that terms he was re-engaged for a similar period. This has also passed, and he is now in his third engagement with the County, and at the end of August, 1905, he will have been nine seasons with somerset. For the last six seasons he has regularly figured in the Somerset team, and his battling averages for the County this season was 33, besides which he captured between 40 and 50 wickets. Altogther he made close upon 900 runs. In conclusion we might add that he is a partner in the firm of Messrs Mettam and Lewis, althletic outfitters, at Taunton. May his stay in the far North be a pleasant one.

EVERTON 2 SHEEFIELD UNITED 0
September 10, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Everton played their first League match of the season at Goodison Park on Saturday, when with fine weather prevailing, a “gate” of about 23,000 people was attracted to witness the match with Sheffield United. Owing to an injured toe, Booth was unable to turn out in the home team, his place being taken by Chadwick, while the United made several changes: - The teams were: - Everton: - Scott, goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs, Taylor, Chadwick, and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young. Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Sheffield United: - Foulkes, goal Groves, and Milnes, backs, Johnson, Wilkinson, and Needham (captain), half-backs, Lang, Donnelly, Brown, Drake, and Lipsham, forwards. Referee Fred Kirkham Balmer beat Needham in the spin of the coin, and them gave Everton the advantage of playing with the sun at their backs, Brown kicked off, and the Blades opened strongly. The ball being taken down on the left Lipsham forced a corner, which was not improved upon. The Everton took up the running, and amid applause Sharp dashed in a long shot to Foulkes, who fisted the ball down the field. At the other end Lang, was erratic in his shooting, and in the course of another attack Milnes was penalised for fouling Sharp. Taylor took the free kick, and placed the leather in the goalmouth. Foulkes got his arm to it, but could not deal with it adequately, and Hardman rushing up, headed the leather into the net. This success came after about six minutes play. Immediately after the ball was again set in motion, Foulkes splendidly saved the United goal, who intercepted in clever style a dangerous shot from Sharp. The Blades had a look in, but beyond a long shot from Lipsham the home defence was not seriously troubled. Again the Everton forwards swooped down on Foulke, and after a most entertaining series of passes McDermott tried his luck, only to end the ball high over the bar. Lang shot across the Everton goalmouth, and a corner being conceded the ball remained in the vicinity of the goal for some minutes, Scott dealing effectively with a high dropping shot from Donnelly. A wild kick by Chadwick gave the Blades another corner, Scott this time having to deal with a dangerous header. Needham was the next to call upon Scott, the visiting side at this period undoubtedly having the better of the augment. Suddenly there came a change. Young passed well forward, and with Sharp racing for it Foulkes also left his goal. The Lancashire cricket managed to evade the giant custodian, and a goal seemed certain when Groves intercepted the leather. It was a decidedly lucky escape for United. Play continued to be of a lively and interesting description, though naturally the Evertonians felt the loss of Booth's services. Hardman was applauded for a run down the wing, which he finished with a nice pass to Settle, who, however, sent the ball yards from the desired haven. Another abortive corner fell to the Blades, and play ruled pretty even. Capital work by the home attack followed the outside men both being conspicuous. From Hardman's centre McDermott had hard luck in heading outside the post, but Settle was at fault, when splendidly placed in dealing with a cross from Sharp. Young shot into the net after the whistle had blown for offside, and then Sharp finished a fine run by sending wide. A corner to the Blades led to some exciting work in the vicinity of Scott, who was applauded for his smartness in fisting out a dangerous shot. Soon Everton were again swarming round Foulkes, but he was not called upon to handle, Sharp when in good position placing high over the crossbar. After midfield play, the home attack delighted the crowd with a capital exhibition of passing, in which Abbott, Settle, Young, McDermott, and Sharp participated, the latter ending the movement by lifting the ball just over the bar. Half time Everton 1, goal, Sheffield United nil.
On resuming the Blades at once took up the running, and Lipsham got in a splendid oblique shot, which Scott dealt with in masterly fashion. The ball was quickly worked down to the other end, where Abbott tried his luck. However, he did not get sting into his effort, and Foulkes had no difficulty in clearing. A corner was forced, from which Everton might have added to their score. A second corner was conceded without leading to anything tangible, and although Balmer miskicked, the Blades forwards could make little impression upon the Everton defence. The Blades were driven back, and Foulkes had to use his trusty fist. Certain of the referee's decision did not meet with the approval of the crowd, who, however, quite agreed when Groves was penalised for bringing down Young outside the penalty line. From the free kick Sharp dropped the ball into the goalmouth, and though Settle twice got his head to it he could not direct it into the net. Everton were now going in great style, and after enjoying several narrow escapes, the United goal was captured, Young running round Groves and Shooting past Foulkes amid a terrific outburst of cheering. After the second reverse the United forwards exerted pressure, and following a corner Scott was almost taken by surprise. Everton quickly retaliated and from good work by Hardman and Sharp, the latter presented a fine opening to Young, who sent the ball high over the bar. Result: - Everton 2, goals, Sheffield United nil.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 12, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Although unable to place their strongest side in the field. Everton managed to account for Sheffield United by two clear goals, and thus repeated the verdict of last year in the corresponding game precisely. Booth was an absentee owing to the suffering from an injured toe, and the reserves team player Chadwick was called upon to fill the vacancy. It is no easy matter to effectually substitute such a clever half back as Booth undoubtedly is, and if Chadwick's debut in First League football was not exactly a triumphant one, it was probably no worse than could have been accomplished by any of the other reserve half-backs, which the club possesses. To make the situation worse. Abbott twisted his knee in the first half of the game, and this materially lessened the efficiency of the work, and with their intermediate line thus below its customary strength, Everton may be said to have fared exceedingly well in winning so decisively. On the United side Priest was unable to play at full back, and this let in Milne an amateur who assists the second eleven usually, and also one of the Sheffield minor clubs on special occasions. Thus both teams had to bemoan the loss of one of their most experienced men, and may be said therefore, to have opposed each other on an even basis. The feature of the first half was the fine play of the extreme wings forwards on the two sides. Sharp and Hardman-especially the former- were given every opportunity of displaying their fine turn of speed, and they made the most of their chances. Repeatedly did the Everton right winger dash past his opponents, and centre beautifully in front of goal, and scarcely ten minutes had elapsed before Hardman had converted one of these chances with a neat header. Foulkes got the ball, but he could not keep it from entering the net. On the United side, the right wing past were not so prominent as Lipsham on the left, and the Chester youth initiated the majority of the raids on the home goal, but his efforts were not backed up by his comrades as they should have been. Lang and Donnelly proved more than serviceable recruits, and they know the location of the goal posts. But taken as a body, the Everton forward line was decidedly superior to that of the United. Young gave further evidence of the complete returns to form and, though faulty with a couple of glorious centres, which he bounced upon quite close to Foulkes, he compensated for these shortcomings by the able manner in which he distributed the play to his wings. There was life in his movements which, last year were often characterised by lack of determination near goal, but these latter failings were completely absent in the match with the United, and the difference in the effeciency of the forwards was most marked. Little fault could be found with the work of this line, for the men were eager, and when in possession alert and aggressive straight away. There was one exception perhaps for McDermott carried his coolness almost to the verge of disaster at times, and his attempts at goal were alarmingly ambitious. Settle was in a lively vein, his footwork being exceedingly clever, and frequently the passing all along the line was of the highest character. This was achieved in spite of the fact that the half-backs were not up to their usual standard of efficiency, and did not augment the efforts of their forwards to the extent that is generally the case. As already stated, Chadwick was attempting something a bit above his calibre, and he has much to learn before becoming even a likely candidate for the League eleven. Abbott stated well, but was handicapped in the later stages by the injury to his knee. Taylor was not very prominent, and is a lost force as a half-backs. He got through a vast amount of work however, and is unfortunate that his energies can not be utilised in the front rank. The full backs were left with more tackling to perform than has been the case for some time, and Crelly fairly distinguished himself in this respect, which more than compensated for some occasional mistiming in his returns. Balmer played a useful game, and Scott kept a really fine goal, two of his clearances near the finish from Donnelly and Lipsham respectively smart. United posses a very serviceable side, and they were not beaten until the final whistle blew. In fact they shaped more dangerous in the closing, stages that any other part of the game, and their perseverance deserved some reward, but they could not get the ball past, Scott though one cross shot from the right wing near the call of time found the keeper, as well, as the United left wingers unprepared for the leather. As already stated, Lipsham was the chief performer but the right wing, composed, of Lang and Donnelly displayed creditable form, and Brown in the centre also did well. In the intermediate line, Needham bore off the honours, and he had a sultry time of it in keeping Sharp under control. Wilkinson was like wise always worrying his opponents, but his efforts were not as successful as had been the case in former matches against Everton. Johnson gave a fair exhibition, and the same remark applies to the full backs, who kicked well when allowed plenty of room, but were not so effective when bustled. Foulkes gave a characteristic display in goal his hugh lunge and mighty fisting away of the ball eliciting the wonderment of the spectators. He kept out the low shots with as much ease as the higher ones, and considering his weight, he is a remarkably active keeper.

EVERTON’S SUCCESSFUL OPENING.
Athletic News - Monday 12 September 1904
By Junius
Everton have commenced their League campaign in promising style, and their first home match of the season, against Sheffield United, ended in precisely the same manner as last year, in a victory by two clear goals. At the last minute they had to make a change in what I consider the weakest part of their team —the half-back division—for Booth, who is suffering from an injured toe, found himself unable to turn out, and Chadwick. A local lad, who has figured in the Reserve team for some time, was called upon to fill the vacancy. This was a tall order for the young fellow, for he had never before played with the team in a League match, and, as after events proved, the task was too much for him.  Sheffield made one alteration in their eleven, Milnes, the amateur, taking the place of Priest at left back, but I don’t think this change handicapped the United as much as the absence of the Everton skipper affected the efficiency of the home combination. The United had to face a brilliant sun in the first half, and the conditions were more suggestive of cricket than football, a fact which, no doubt, may account for the rather lengthy interval. The early stages of the play were marked by some dashing work on the part of Lipsham, the United left-winger, but he did not receive the support which was necessary to crown his efforts from rest of the forward line. Gradually the Everton front rank settled down to some really clever combined movements, and Sharp was prominent in every raid, his fine turn of speed causing Needham and Milnes much anxiety. In one of his frequent attempts to stop the Everton outside right the Sheffield back resorted to illegal tactics near the penalty area, and the ball being well placed from the free kick, Hardman urged the leather into the net with his head, Foulke making a great effort to clear but without success. This came after seven minutes’ play, a represented the state of affairs also at half-time.
Donnelly and Lang tried to break past Crelley, but the left back was in rare tackling trim, and repeatedly pulled up the smart youngsters opposed to him. But Sharp was the star artist this half, and when long pass from Young enabled him to get clear away the danger caused Foulke to run out to get at the ball, with the result that he was baffled, and the Evertonian had an open goal in front of him. However, Groves dropped from somewhere in the immediate vicinity and managed to charge down the shot—a distinct slice of luck for the visitors. Up to breathing time Sharp was always in evidence, and his centres ought certainly to have been turned better account. In the second half the United played up in their stubbornly characteristic fashion, and Scott saved brilliantly from Lipsham in the first five minutes. A quarter of an hour later Young caught Groves in an undecided humour near goal, beat him in the struggle for possession and did likewise with Foulke, who was helpless. This was a coal due entirely to the vacillation of the full-back. But the "Blades” never ceased trying, and though Everton had more chances than their rivals in the remaining stages, the United gave Scott the more difficult shots to deal with. In the last minute almost, this young Celt displayed grand judgment in keeping out a beautiful cross from Lipsham, and Everton won two goals to nil. Everton held a decided superiority forward, and the capital work accomplished by this line was the cause of the disintegration of the United. There was only one weak spot, and this was at inside right, where McDermott was inclined to be tantalizingly cool—in fact he played into the hands of a worrying half-back like Needham by his dilatoriness at times. Otherwise it would be impossible to find fault with the Everton forward line. Young in the centre reminded me of his form of two seasons ago; there is a dash and vim about his work which suggests that this clever leader is once more in robust health. He distributed the play most judiciously to each wing, and though he missed two glorious chances of scoring from centres which came right to his toes. I make haste to say there was not a solitary onlooker that felt more like kicking himself than the good-tempered Scot. Sharp was brilliant at times, and the way he flashed along the touch-line, leaving the Sheffield backs practically standing still, was exhilarating to witness. More should have been made of his centres, which were placed most seductively in front of goal. Settle exhibited some clever footwork, and Hardman was irrepressible on the extreme left, and had Booth been in his usual place I fancy the United defence would have had a grueling time, for the forwards were keen and anxious for work, and there was any amount of go-ahead method in their movements. The half-barks were only moderate, for Abbott twisted his knee and this prevented him from doing himself justice, though he pluckily returned a few minutes after the interval.  But Taylor is not a half-back, and don’t fancy him in this position at all. He is a valuable unit wasted in the half-back line.  Chadwick did his best, but Booth was badly missed. Further behind, Crelley played a good game; his tackling was exceedingly fine, and he never made a mistake in this respect, but his returns were occasionally faulty.  Balmer was in his usually effective vein, kicking as sturdily as ever, and Scott kept a really excellent goal, exhibiting consummate judgement a few minutes before the finish in clearing Lipsham’s shot.  He is a capital keeper, and seems to know instinctively what is the best manager of dealing with the ball, no matter how it comes to him.  One quality forced itself to the front in the United’s display, and that a characteristic one; they never gave up, and their best and most dangerous efforts came when two goals in arrears.  Lipsham was by far the best for forward on the side, and with his long raking stride he sped along touch, centring with dangerous precision time after time.  The right wing pair, Lang and Donnelly, displayed promising form, and some of their attempts were deserving of a better fate than actually befell them.  As was the case on the Everton side, the half-backs were not so prominent as usual, though Needham got though a vast amount of work, and he stuck to Sharp like a leech, thus enabling Milnes to find space for breathing occasionally.  Wilkinson was useful, and Johnson accomplished much hard work, but none of the trio were especially noticeable.  The full-backs were not very reliable when hard pressed, and Groves ought never to have allowed Young to get the second goal.  Foulke could not be blamed for either of the shots which took effect, and his mighty clearances were hugely enjoyed by the crowd.  The giant keeper is a great favourite in Liverpool, and his display in goal was worthy of his best days.  Everton; Scott; Balmer, and Crelley; Taylor, Chadwick, and Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Sheffield United;- Foulke; Groves and F. Milnes; Johnson,

• Hull’s new Association team beat Everton Reserves 2-0 at Hull on Saturday, before 4,000 people.  There is hope for the “soccer” game there yet. 
• L.R. Roose, who has definitely severed his connection with Stoke, has bidden farewell to the North Staffordshire public, thanking them for their kindness to him.  The directors of the Stoke club on their part have passed a vote of thanks to Roose for the brilliant services he was rendered to them in the past.

NEWLY FORMED HULL CITY
Athletic News - Monday 12 September 1904
The newly-formed Hull City Association team played their first-week-end match on Saturday, when they defeated the Everton Combination by to goals to none.  Over 80 pounds was taken at the gate, which is an exceedingly good start, seeing that a first class Northern Union game was being played in the City between Oldham and Kingston Rovers.  The Associationists’ recent game with Notts County at Hull yielded nearly three figures on an off day.  The dribblers are likely to take root at the Third Port. 

ASTON VILLA v. EVERTON.
Leeds Mercury - Tuesday 13 September 1904
At Aston on a wet ground before 4.000 spectators, both teams were rearranged owing accidents and other considerations. Villa requisitioned Noon at right half and Watkins at centre, and Brown was dropped for Miles ait back, -while Makepeace, Chadwick, and Dilly came in for Everton. Goals by Dilly and Settle were disallowed for off-side. Both custodians were active, and at half-time there was no score. After the interval both sides came near scoring. george saved finely from Settle. Brawn got in some clever shots, and Gray and Noon also severely tested the Everton defence. Villa got the upper hand, and Brawn scored a grand goal just on time. Result Villa 0ne goal, to Everton nil.

ASTON VILLA V. EYERTON.
Dundee Courier - Tuesday 13 September 1904
At Aston, in dull weather. The ground was greasy, and the football seen was not of a high class. The Villa attacked at the start, but the Everton defence was sound. From throw Everton found the net, but Settle was palpably offside when he shot. The home side were weak in front of the goal subsequently. Interval: —Aston Villa, 0; Everton, 0. In the second half the Villa played much better football, Brown getting in some fine centres which were cleared with difficulty. Spencer and Miles had plenty to do, but generally the Villa were the better side, although was not until about a minute from the end that Brown ran through and scored the only goal. Result: —Villa, 1; Everton, 0.

ASTON VILLA 1 EVERTON 1
September 13, 1904 The Liverpool Daily Post
Sharp sprained his Knee and retired early in the first half.
The remarkable popularity of the Everton team was strikingly emphasized yesterday when several thousands followers of the club travelled to Birmingham to witness the encounter between the Goodison Park brigade and Aston Villa. The weather unfortunately was wretched, the Midland capital being enveloped in a dreary drizzle, and this had a great effect on the gate, these being a very small attendance when play began. Owing to injuries and other causes, neither side was at full strength. Hardman, who is suffering from a sore throat, was unable to play, and Abbott, owing to a severely wrenched knee, was also an absentee. It had been hoped that Booth would be able to turn out, but his toe was still damaged, and Chadwick had again to do duty for him. Dilly took Hardman's place and Makepeace appeared instead of Abbott. The enforced absentee of Evans also handicapped the Villa. Wilkes and Johnson so that neither held any great advantage so far as personnel went. Teams: - Aston Villa: - George, goal, Spencer, and Miles, backs, Noon, Gray, and Leake, half-backs, Brawn Hall, Watkins, Bache and Garratty, forwards. Everton: - Scott, goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs, Taylor, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Dilly, forwards. Referee Mr.Nunnerley. Balmer won the toss, and the home team started in the face of a fresh breeze. After the opening exchanges, the Villa moved down strongly on the left, and Garritty, going at to speed, put in a splendid shot, which Scott fisted out. The Evertonians then advance on the right, but they were pulled up short, and a free kick to the Villians looked ominous. Spencer placed the ball splendidly, and Bache running in gave Scott a difficult task, but the latter rose to the occasion, and cleared coolly. Everton gain took up the running and Settle was about to shoot when the home skipper cleared. The home side were now, having the bulk of the attack. From a couple of free kicks Spencer placed the ball in the goalmouth, but on each occasion the Everton defence proved sound, and the danger was averted. From this point the Evertonians beaten in assert themselves strongly. Dilly raced down the wing, and passed to Settle who banged the ball in, but George intercepted and Young catching the return, spoiled a splendid chance by shooting high over the bar. It was not long, however, before the visitors resumed to the attack with renewed vigour, and a corner was forced of Milnes. This was well placed by Sharp, and after a short scrimmage in front of George, Settle, headed the ball into the net, but the referee after consulting both linemen, disallowed the point- apparently on the ground for offside. Play now became faster than ever, and Sharp on one occasion sprinted grandully down the wing. He centred well, and Young got to the ball but he shot, failed in making the centre, Sharp sprained his knee, and he had to retire from the field. In spite of this the Evertonians continued to enjoy all the best of the argument and Dilly had a open goal before him, when he shot remarkably wide. Still the Goodison park men kept pegging away and both the home backs had more than once in trouble. They were however, very ably aided by the halves, who constantly dropped back to their assistance. And so saved off defeat. Some neat dribbling by the Everton forwards ended in a good centre, but Settle was obviously offside, when he netted the ball with a low shot. The next item of interest was a break away on the inside left which, scrimmage to Garritty who sending in a clever shot, when just topped the crossbar. Then the visiting forwards once more took up the running, and McDermott from long range shot high over George's charge. Each side being but on the defensive in rapid succession. A dangerous shot from Brawn was well cleared by Balmer and a moment later George had to deal with a difficult dropping shot from the foot of McDermott. Then Settle from a pass by Sharp who had resumed, shot in a low swift one, which was most dealt with by Spencer. Towards the interval the play slowed down considerably, and a series of long kicks, and rushes materially spoiled the quality of the football. Everton during this period were still the aggressors for the most part, but their shooting when within close range was always lacking in sting. Just before half-time Brawn made desperate efforts to rush away on the wing, but speedy through he was, Crelly so hampered him that he was unable to get in a fine shot. Then, from a run down by Garritty, Bache put in a magnificent low shot, which brought Scott to his knees, but the Irishmen cleared brilliantly. A second later Garritty put one towards the corner of the net, but Scott throwing himself prone, saved at the expense of a fruitless corner. Half-time Villa nil, Everton nil. When play was resumed there were fully 6,000 people present. The home team began to put on pressure, and in the first five minutes. Brawn sent in a glorious ground shot right from the corner flag, which the Everton custodain saved with rare skill. After this the Villians began to exert the greatest pressure, and the Everton goal was distinctly lucky in escaping capture. Time after time the forwards who were now showing improved football, attacking down on Scott's charge, and it was only the vigilance of the custodian that averted disaster. On one occasion Noon sent in a rally terrific shot, which seemed certain to score but Chadwick managed to intercept it just under the bar. The Villa, however, maintained their attack, and they were rewarded in the very last minute of the game, Brawn scoring with a somewhat lucky shot, result Aston Villa 1 Everton nil.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 ST HELENS TOWN 1
September 13, 1904. The Liverpool Daily Post
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 2)
At Goodison Park, before a poor attendance. The teams were as follows: - Everton: - Kitchen goal, McCratney, and Wildman, backs, Clayton, Hanlin, and Hutchinson, half-backs, Rankin, Sheridan, Roberts, Caldwell, and Dodd, forwards. St Helen Town: - Critchley goal, A.N.Other, and Yates, backs, Dixon, Prescott, and Lorat half-backs Rogers, Howarth, Taylor, Rigby, and Barendale forwards. Roberts commenced operations, and the first few minutes were spent in midfield. The Everton forwards eventually got going and the St Helens custodian was subjected to a revere bombardment. Roberts however, put an end to the pressure by shooting yards over the bar, a performance which was represented in every detail a few minutes later by Howarth at the other end. Roberts was again at fault with his final effort when favourably placed. Both sides put in some clever work, the Forwardss in each case being particularly active in the open, but they failed miserably in their attempts to force home the attack. Rankin was prominent with some really fine runs. His centres however, were usually charged down or made bad use off by the home centre. A mistake on the part of one of the St.Helens backs let in Roberts, who taking deliberate aim, easily beat Critchley. Everton continued on the aggressive, but the visitors were by no means idle, the forwards finding plenty of work for the Everton backs. Rankin cleverly outwitted the St.Helen's defence, and centring at the right moment Sheridan very neatly beat Critchley for the second time. Howarth sent the leather high over the bar, while Dixon was very little out in his final reckoning from long range. At the interval Everton led by 2 goals to nil. St Helens started after the interval, and each end was visited in turn with nothing, save a baron corner to everyone. Clever work by the whole of the St.Helens forwards enabled Taylor to notch their first point. This encourage helped to put new life into the visitors attack and Rodgers after running half the length of the field put the leather hit the corner of the goal. While Everton were quite determined to prevent them scoring, later on Critchley saved a beauty from Sheridan, while a moment later Dodd missed an open goal, and Everton won by two goals to one.

NELSON S IMPORTANT CAPTURE
Lancashire Evening Post - Thursday 15 September 1904
The Nelson Football Committee have to-day signed Simpson, who last season played with Everton Reserve. and who also acted as pro. to the heywood Cricket Club. He formerly played with Leicester Fosse, and a transfer fee of £2OO was paid when he went to Everton. He will be included in the Nelson team at outside left on Saturday in the friendly match.

EVERTON AGAIN DEFEATED.
London Daily News - Monday 19 September 1904
Both Everton and Newcastle made several changes in this match at Newcastle, account players being injured. The United pressed from the start, and Scott had plenty of work to do. At length Rutherford scored for and Veitch increased the home lead. Before the interval Hardman got through for Everton. who were still one goal down when ends were changed. The visitors played strongly in the second half. Settle equalizing, but Veitch scored again for Newcastle, who won by three goals two.

EVERTON DRAW WITH SOUTHPORT
Athletic News - Monday 19 September 1904
Much interest was centred in the meeting of Everton Reserve with Southport Central at Goodison Park, and after a well-contested game the honours were shared, though on the play the visitors deserved to win.  Dawson opened the scoring for the Central, but before the interval McAdam equalized and as nothing was registered in the second half the final verdict was one goal each.  Everton were without Chadwick, Makepeace, Rankin and Kitchen, the three former being engaged at Newcastle with the premier eleven, and this of course, affected the chances of the “Blues,”  Though the game was hard fought the Central player gave a capital exhibition, and were more dangerous than the home side.  Dawson played a capital game forward, and Smith in the centre distributed the work along the line very judiciously.  Spink was the most prominent of the full backs, and Garvey, who had little to do in goal, saved one or two shots smartly.  On the other hand, his vis-à-vis, Dent, proved himself a very capable keeper. 

LUCKY WIN FOR NEWCASTLE
Athletic News - Monday 19 September 1904
By Northumbrian
At St. James’s Park, Newcastle United defeated Everton by three goals to two, and I venture to assert that the 22,000 spectators who passed through the turnstiles will readily confess that the Novocastrians were extremely lucky to appropriate the maximum points with a goal that was scored in the last three minutes.  The robust tactics of McAllister, the old Sunderland half-back who is now association with Derby County appears to have wrought havoc amongst Tyneside forwards on the occasion of their visit to Derby last Saturday, for both Appleyard and Orr were rendered incapable of figuring in their customary places in the team that opposed Everton on Saturday.  Newcastle United possess several powerful reserves for their defence, but they have not a single forward with any special pretensions to First League form, and consequently they selected Colin Veitch and McWilliams, two half-backs, to understudy Appleyard and Orr in the forward line.  It was a wise decision under the circumstances, and if McWilliam was not an ideal partner to Templeton, Colin Veitch signalized his first appearance for the “Magpies” this season by scoring a couple of goals, the all-important factors in deciding the issue in favour of Tyeside.   Everton. too, were similarly handicapped in being robbed of the services of two of their best men. Sharp and Abbott, whose positions were taken by Rankin and Chadwick. Newcastle United quickly settled down into their paces, and cleverly outplayed their guests in scientific footwork, the forwards and half-backs joining together in the execution several magnificent movements, which yielded three corners in quick succession, and from one of these Howie sent the ball only few inches wide of the uprights. Rankin and McDermott next furnished Young with a nice opening at close does range, and the visiting centre suffered rather hard lines with a swift low volley that grazed the foot of the upright. Though the Novocastrians always played the leading business by their superior pace on the extreme wings, Everton were the first to get nearest to a score. A masterly effort by Rankin led to Hardman testing Watts with a lightning shot, and Watts only partially clearing, the visitors nearly rushed the ball through before Watts could return between the sticks. After this narrow escape (due, I should add, to the heavy tackling of McCombie and Carr, who bowled over several opponents in the goal-mouth) the home forwards speedily transferred the venue of operations to the Everton lines, where Rutherford drew out in possession on the touch-line, from whence he dropped the ball into the goal-mouth, utterly deceiving Scott by its peculiar flight. Owing to the cross wind the ball hit the upright and rebounded into the net—a beautiful goal thus rewarding the Tynesiders for their large monopoly of the play at the end of twenty-three minutes. Five minutes later Colin Veitch smartly headed through a rocket-like centre from Templeton, and in the last quarter of an hour Everton fought with grim determination to get on level terms. A faulty clearance with the head by McCracken let in McDermott, who volleyed the ball into the net before the home custodian could really understand what had happened, and it seemed Lombard-street to a China orange upon another goal materializing when Young ran within the penalty area to an open goal. Watts, however, evoked the wildest enthusiasm when he dashed out and charged Young down before he could shoot. Newcastle United opened the second half tamely, and palpably under-estimated the abilities of their adversaries to wipe off the arrears of a single goal. The home backs were successful in keeping their opponents at bar, however, until four minutes from the close, when there was most sensational development. Settle stole round McCracken to send a cross from Taylor like a flash past Watts, and another minute saw the United snatch the verdict out the fire with a marvelous goal from the foot of Veitch. Newcastle United could not under any circumstances claim a victory over Everton any striking superiority in form. They certainly held the balance of power before the interval, but after wards Everton far surpassed them by their artistic manipulation of the ball, and were full value for one of the points at issue. Veitch operated successfully at centre forward, but was feebly supported by McWilliam and Howie. Rutherford revealed sterling form, and Templeton occasionally was conspicuous for his touch line dashes when properly supported by McWilliam. Neither Aitken nor Gardner was at his best, and it was fortunate for the United that McCombie, McCracken, and Watts were in such great form.  Hardman, Rankin, and Young were the most prominent of a dashing and resourceful forward line that was admirably fed by the halves, of whom Taylor was especially noteworthy for soundly tackling Templeton as well as opening out the game for his forwards. Balmer, Crelly, and Scott each rendered yeoman service to his side, the backs kicking with considerable judgment throughout a severe game. Newcastle United;- Watts; McCracken, and McCombie; Gardner, Aitken, and Carr; Rutherford, Howie, Veitch, McWilliam, and Templeton.  Everton; Scott; Balmer, and Crelley; Taylor, Chadwick, and Makepeace; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.  Referee; D. Hammond, Heywood. 

EVERTON IN RARE FORM
Lancashire Evening Post - Monday 19 September 1904
Everton, whom North End oppose at Goodison Park next week, were admittedly unfortunate in losing at Newcastle by the odd goal out of five. The Tynesiders were minus Appleyard and Orr, but the Toffee men were even worse hit, for Booth, the captain, Abbott and Sharp were all absent. Nevertheless, The Everton team fought well to the end. Their defence was fairly stromng, but if Booth and Abbott are fit next Saturday, it will be infinitely stronger. The Everton outside wingers were fast and proved difficult to hold. McDermott and Settle were the scores of Everton's goals, and though the latter is not always prominent in the open, he has a rare eye and a ready foot for any chance near goal. In their last two League matches, Everton have been beaten in the last minute or two.

Ex Everton Player Eddie Hughes played for Everton between 1898-99

NEWCASTLE UNITED 3 EVERTON 2
September 19, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
In order to fulfil their engagement with the Tyneside club the Everton team made the journey North on Friday, and spent the night at Harrogate, entraining for Newcastle in good time on Saturday. Unfortunately for the prospects of the visitors the side ha, owning to injuries, to take the field without the services of such clever exponents as Sharp, Booth, and Abbott. There would be quite 25,000 spectators on the enclosure when the sides took the field as follows: - Newcastle United: - Watts, goal, McCracken and McCombie, backs, Gardner, Aitkens, and Carr, half-backs, Rutherford, Howie, Veitch (captain), McWilliams, and Templeton forwards. Everton: - Scott, goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs Taylor, Chadwick and Makepeace, half-backs, Rankin, McDermott Young, Settle, and Hardman forwards. Referee H.Ward. Balmer lost the toss, and Young opened play against a fair breeze. The home left at once raced down, and Crelly had to kick back to Scott to prevent Veitch finding a likely opening. Some capital play then followed, in which Settle and Hardman took part, but unfortunately the Everton inside left over ran the ball when within a few yards of goal. A pretty piece of combined play by Aitken, Howie and Rurtherford ended in Taylor kicking over his own line. The resulting corner kick was well placed, and Howie, with a terrific just shaved the upright. Everton now had a turn at the attack, and a fine cross shot from Rankin troubled Gardner, who cleared after a tussle with Hardman. The Everton forwards came again, and Settle found an opening. Young, however, shot against the side of the net. Another fine centre from Rankin harassed Watts and his backs when a powerful kick by Aitken transferred the play to midfield. By steady stages the Tynesiders got within range of Scott, but both Balmer and Crelly attended well to their work, and repeatedly kept them out. Another severe pressure followed, and McWilliams, with a long shot, called out Scotts best work. Further pressure ended in two shots from Veitch and McWilliams in close succession and within six yards of goal the keeper somewhat luckily warding off both efforts. Two district chances fell to Everton, once when Watts was out of his goal, and again after a fine cross-shot by Rankin, but the inside men failed and Hardman made a poor attempt to cover. The United forwards then broke away, and after several smart touches Rutherford put in a high shot from the wing, which struck the inside of the upright, and quite defeated Scott, This success had scarcely been obtained when the home forwards again got under way, Taylor, however, checked their onward course and putting well ahead Young supplemented, only to find Aitkens in attendances. Templeton drew Balmer and Taylor round him and passed to Carr, who gave the ball to Veitch. The latter was in a fine position, and with a swift low shot drove into the net. The Everton forwards, the most, effective coming from Rankin, who several times got the better of McCombie, and put in a rasping centre. The breeze militated against accurate shooting, but one of Rankin's efforts met with success, as after a spirited run down the ball was sent across to Hardman, who, with a raising shot, completely defeated Watts. This infused more sting into the visitors methods and for a few minutes play hovered round the home goal. A sharp attack was levelled at the other end, when from a free kick, Young got clear away, and had only the keeper to beat. He, however, held on too long, and Watts fell at his feet, and this prevented an otherwise an otherwise certain goal. Half-time Newcastle United 2, Everton one. Immediately on resuming Rutherford and Howie raced along the wing, and the Everton goal was threatened with a capital cross shot from the winger. Balmer came to the rescue, and smart passing by Young Settle, and McDermott followed this up, but, as before, the United defenders offered a most stubborn resistance. Returning again Hardman drew out cheers from the crowd as the result of some very clever mancenrving, which culminated in a brilliant shot at goal. The ball was about to sail in at the corner of the net when Watts got to it, and conceded a corner. This was worked clear, but again the Evertonians with the strong wind behind them pressed severely, and were somewhat unlucky in not drawing level. Taylor was just now putting in some capital work in the tackling line, and it was mainly due to his efforts that the Everton forwards enjoyed the greater share of the play. At length Settle equalised for Everton, but shortly afterwards Veitch gained another goal for Newcastle. The game was most exciting in the closing stages, the equalising and winning goals being scored in the last five minutes. Newcastle United 3. Everton 2.

Archie Goodall a Pre Football League Ex Everton Player

EVERTON RESERVES 1 SOUTHPORT CENTRAL 1
September 19, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 3)
At Goodison park, before 5,000 spectators. The Central played well during the first half, Dawson scoring for them in ten minutes, while afterwards Dent had a bust time in goal. Everton pressed forward towards the interval and McAdams equalised. In the second half play was much more in favour towards Everton, who attacked with vigour, but found Platt in splendid form. Everton: - Dent, goal, Wildman and R.Balmer, backs, Hanlin, Muir, and Hutchinson half-back Tuft, Sheridan, McAdams, Caldwell, and Dilly forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 19,1904. The Liverpool Mercury
St. Jame's Park, Newcastle has never proved a happy hunting ground for Everton. Previous to Saturday they had on six occasions played a League match there without the satisfaction of a solitary victory. As a matter of fact, only twice have they succeeded in dividing the points. Consequently it was but in accordance with the fitness of things that the outcome of Evertoin's latest visit North was the loss of a couple of points. Even apart from past experienced-and it is curious even in football, how much environment affects certain teams-there were consideration which were scarcely suggestive of victory for the winning side. As has been pointed out, Everton's weak spot this season is undoubtedly centred in the half-back line. The defection of Wolstenholme meant a great deal to the team for it broke up admittedly the cleverness half back division possessed by any club in the League. The absence of an efficient substitute for such a pastmaster in right half-back play was bad enough in itself, and it only needed injuries which can hardly be obviated to reduce the Everton first line of defence to a position bordering upon ineptitude especially when compared with the wonderfully effective work of last season's remarkable trio, Wolstenholme, Booth, and Abbott.
In the game with Newcastle United, Taylor, Chadwick, and Makepeace filled the places to which reference has been made. No one for a moment would dream of suggesting that either of these players did anything but place their best talents at the disposal of the club. Taylor times without number has proved what a wholehearted enthusiast he is when on the field. He has won his spurs, and as for Chadwick and Makepeace, they had the stimulus, which buoys up the youthful aspirant to the highest honours of the football field. As a line they may be said to have creditably understudied more experienced and brilliant half-backs. It would not be fair to attribute Everton's defeat to any pronounced lack of ability on their play. At the same time, even a team like Everton cannot expect to make such a brave display when sat artists like Booth and Abbott are on the shelf owing to injuries. Chadwick improved upon his exhibition at Goodison Park against Sheffield United. He has many neat touches, and there is a certain degree of promise about his method which experience might bring to fruition. Makepeace was set a rather difficult task seeing that he was brought face to face with Rutherford, who was probably the most dangerous of the Newcastle forwards. While he did not some conspicuously, he certainly proved of considerable service to his side. Taylor, as ever, was a thoroughly worker, and it was largely owing to the close attentions that Templeton, the erst while Aston Villa winger and Scotch international, was for the most part quite out of the picture. The game considering the excessive heart, was contested throughout at a remarkable pace, although during the latter stages both sides gave evidence of fatigue. While Newcastle in the end claimed the minimum points, it is still a moot question as to whether they really deserved their win. Admittedly in the first half during which they scored twice to Everton once they were the superior side, and displaying the better football were at least a goal ahead of their opponents. After crossing over the advantage rested with the Evertonians, who had even more of the game than the United could claim in the opening portion, and considering their number and the accuracy of the centre which came from Rankin and Hardman, a perfect harvest of goals might have accrued had Young been in one of his happiest moods. As it was, while he never shirked work he somehow or another never seemed to get in the proper groove with the result that the loss of a second or two means all the difference between success and failure. It was a smart bit of judgement on the part of Settle, which led to Everton's equalising goal. He cleverly outwitted the Newcastle backs, and astonished them not a little by his deftness in diverting into the net a ball which McCracken and McCombie both imagined was going out of play. At this period everything pointed to a division of honours, and with a little more generalship and strengthening of the defence at the crucial moments Veitch's all-important goal might have been averted. Rankin proved an admirable substitute for Sharp, and was one of the most prominent men on the field. His fine turn of speed was of invaluable service to his side, particularly when one bears in mind the successful manner in which, he frequently centred the ball. Hardman too, gave another delightful exhibition. Although of slight build the Everton amateur is as plucky and fearless a forward as any engaged in First League football to day. His experience with McCracken was not always pleasant. but the invariably came up similing, and on one occasion after being somewhat severely dealt with, he surprised the Irish International by a quick recovery and a brilliant centre. Settle and McDermott rendered useful assistance to the outside men; while Scott was well protected by Balmer and Crelly, who were as usual reliable. Newcastle United gave one the impression that other teams besides Everton will fare badly at St.Jame's Park. The two Macs are a powerful pair of backs, and although the halves were scarcely as effective as the home supporters desired the forwards were always alive to any chance of scoring which came their way.

UNFORTUNATE EVERTON
September 20, 1904. The Lancashire Evening Post
Everton have started the League tourney badly by losing their first three matches –two away, one at home –to teams of which only Newcastle United can be said to be above an average. Apart from any natural inferiority of the Toffees to their rivals. Their failure, says “Tom Tiddler,” is due to the suspension of Secretary Cuff and Trainer Elliott during the off-season for “poaching.” Horace Wright is the acting scribe pro tem, and Toman is the provisional trainer until October 1 st ; but, as may be easily imagined, these changes paralyzed the attempts to get new blood, with the result that the stables contain far too large a proportion of “old crocks,” 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.

L.R. ROOSE AND EVERTON
London Daily News - Tuesday 20 September 1904
Rumours has lately been busy with the name of L.R. Roose, the Stoke and Welsh international goalkeeper. Roose is resting at present, but it has been stated that he will probably be found in the rans of a Southern League club before the season is much older. Roose informed a "Daily News" representative yesterday that he had no intention whatever of playing for any Southern League club. In fact he is thinking seriously of retiring from football altogether. \if he does play it will be for a First League club. We should not be surprised to find the ex-Stoke amateur becoming a member of the Everton team.

S.B. ASHWORTH
Nottingham Evening Post - Thursday 22 September 1904
It is stated on good authority that there is every probability of S. B. Ashworth, the ex-Stoke amateur, who played for Manchester City last season, turning out for Everton in the near future. Business connections will take him to Liverpool a good deal during the winter months.

S.R. ASHWORTH THROWS IN HIS LOT WITH EVERTON
Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser - Friday 23 September 1904
Owing to business reasons "Sam" Ashworth, the poular amateur left half back, who assisted Manchester City to win the English Cup last season, has severed his connection with the Hyde-road club. He has applied for his transfer, at the same time intimating that he is desirious of playing for Everton. The Goodison Park club are of course, only two pleased to secure the services of such a capable player. It will be remembered that he transfered his allegiance from Stoke to the City at the end of the season 1903. Last year, when not engaged with mancunians he occasionally turned out for Reading. That his departures will be distinct loss to the Cup-holders cannot be denied.

NEW PLAYER FOR EVERTON
Lancashire Evening Post - Friday 23 September 1904
S.B. ASshworth the well known amateur half-back, who has assisted Stoke and Manchester City among other clubs, has, it in stated, joined Everton.

S.B. ASHWORTH TO PLAY FOR EVERTON
September 23, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
For some time past, S.B.Ashworth, Stoke amateur, who helped Manchester City win the English Cup, has been connected with the club, and he has transfer intimating that it wants to play for Everton

S. B. ASHWORTH GOES TO EVERTON
Sheffield Daily Telegraph - Saturday 24 September 1904
For business reasons, S. B. Ashworth, the wellknown amateur left half-back, of .Manchester City, has severed his connection with the Hyde Road club. He has applied for his transfer, at the same time intimating that he desirous of playing for Everton. The Goodison Park club, are, of course, only too pleased to secure, the services of such a. capable player. Ashworth is by profession an architect. ]t will remembered that he transferred his allegiance from Stoke to the City at the end of the season 1903.

STALYBRIDGE ROVERS.
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 24 September 1904
Boardman the ex-Everton player, is not expected to play again for the Rovers, he having signified his intention of retiring from the game.

NORTH END RES V. EVERTON RES.
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 24 September 1904
The second home match of North End Reserve saw the team once more altered in its constitution, this being in consquence of trials given to Rodgers, of Newcastle, and Knibbs, from Burton-on-Trent district. Tod also appeared at right half and at the other end a ppalce was given to a local player named Butterworth. The visitors brought a fairly strong eleven, including Dilly, an Irish international. teams; North End; Taylor, goal; Warner and Orrell, backs; Tod, Rowe, and Butterworth, half-backs; Rodgers, Wilcox, McKie, Carterall and Knibbs, forwards. Everton Reserve; Dent, goal; Wildman and Balmer, backs; Clifton, Chadwick and Hutchinson, half-backs; Hanlon, Sheridan, Adams, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards. Referee; Mr. C.H. Turner. The visitors kicked off before about 4,000 spectators, and the first serious attempt came from Dilly, whose shot was stopped by Orrell, while a later one by the same player was intercepted by warner. Then the ball was worked up the right by Rodgers, and a dangerous atatck ensued on the Everton goal. Catterall sent over the bar. Dent saved a swift, low shot from Rowe, and later Wilcox sent in a teaser which the custodian in falling just saved on the line, and although McKie rushed up the ball was got away. In a temporary visit to the other end, Taylor had to save from Dilly, while an attempt from the Everton right went wide. North End maintained a hot pressure and were admirably fed. Dent saved on inmunerable occasions, and once when danger threatened Balmer gave a strong clearance. A free kick just outside the penalty area was awarded, North End, but Wilcox shot over the bar, and following this Dent, who was playing capitally in goal, was injured. on play being resumed the visitors began to exert pressure, and Dilly, who was the most prominent player among the forward line, forced Taylor to give a corner, which, however, was of no avail. Play opened out more, and both ends were visited alternateltys. Five minutes from he interval Rowe nicely dribbled up and gave to Wilcox, who entirely defeated Wildman, and found the net. Following a corner fell to North End, but was placed behind by Knibbs. Succeeding play was in favour of the homesters. half-time; North End Res 1, Everton Res 0.
On the restart Everton had the advantage of a slight breeze. North End were the first to atatck, good work being done by Butterworth and Knibbs, Hutchinson sent in a long shot which Taylor threw away, and from a succeeding corner the North End goal was saved. The visitors were anxious to change the state of the score, and put more effort into their work in the opening stages. Taylor was found safe on several occasions, and another shot from Hutchinson went over the bar. Butterworth was applauded for smart play, and in him Sheridan and Hanlon for smart play, and in him Sheridan and Hanlon found a formidable opponent. Criticism and Rogers for not passing to his colleagues and turned into applause, when it was seen that he outplayed nearly half of the opposing side, but his shot at goal was weak. North End once more applied pressure, and several threatening atatcks were made, Dent admirably saving from Wilcox when close in front of goal, and although the North Ender headed in a swift return, it was cleared. Following this Tod hit the bar, and Rogers also tried a shot at shot. On play going to the other end Hanlon sent in a beautiful shot from near the corner flag, but this Taylor neatly caught and on play being one more transfered Knibbs was prominent and a hot melee ensued near the Everton goal. Dent, however, played a fine game and saved his saved his side on several occasions Wilcox made a splendid run, outpacing his opponents, but the custodian was again safe. Other shots from Rodgers and Tod went wide, and on play once more travelling to the Preston half Sheridan had a splendid opportunity of equalising had a splendid opportunity of equalising, but the shot was miserably wide. In their efforts to equalise the visitors changed their forward line, Dilly going centrre, and in the later stages of the game the Everton men applied pressure, and Taylor saved on two occasions are smartly fisting out from a corner kick taken by Adams. In the last few minutes of the game the North End forwards rushed up the field, and Carterall scored a second goal. Result; North End Res 2, Everton Res 0.

PRESTON LOSE AT COODISON PARK
London Daily News - Monday 26 September 1904
For the first time in four years Everton and Preston North End met in a league match. Evcrton were still without Sharp and Abbott, Booth reappearing; while Bell played instead of Bond for Preston. Fast, though by no means exciting, football was seen in the first half. Both sides pressed in turn, and McDermott scoring Everton led by one goal to nothing at the interval. The home side lost Booth early in the second half, but still Everton had the better of the game. Both goalkeepers did good work, and nothing further was scored. Everton winning by one goal to none.

EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 26 September 1904
Nowhere was there such an assembly as at Everton, for no fewer than 32.000 people watched the Goodison Park Club renew their struggles with Preston North End. Prior to Saturday these foemen had played 26 League matches since December 22,1888, and each side had won ten, while Preston had obtained 48 goals and Everton 42. Three times, namely, in 1888-89, 1890-91, and in 1896- 97. Have the Prestonians carried off the spoils in both matches of the season, while Everton have had the same pleasure in two campaigns. Only once have Preston prevailed at Park, and that on February 6, 1897, when the North End conquered by 4—3, the winning goal being scored in the last minute or so. Only on Saturday Mr. T. Houghton, of Preston, declared that this was one of the best games he ever saw. * * Usually speaking, the goal-getting has been small when these rivals have met of late years, and Saturday was no exception, for the public paid into the Everton exchequer over 768 pounds to see one goal placed on the books. Still that sufficed to decide a very hard struggle, in which there often some clever football. Everton richly deserved the victory which McDermott's goal gave them.
This is particularly so when we recollect that for the last half hour Booth, the Everton captain, was in the dressing room nursing a kicked and slightly sprained ankle. Booth played against Notts on September 3, when he injured the calf of his leg. After missing three matches he was very anxious to play against Preston, and this is the result—a most unfortunate incident when one remembers that it will probably keep him out of football for two or three weeks, and that when Abbott has a damaged knee joint and when Sharp is incapacitated by an injury to the hamstring muscles. At a time like this Everton are fortunate to secure the transfer of Sam Ashworth, late of Stoke and Manchester City. As a matter of fact, Ashworth wanted to join Everton when he left Stoke, and now his wish is gratified. In addition to this sterling little player, Everton have good half-backs in Makepeace and Rankin—both Liverpool youths—for Rankin seems more like half-back than a forward. One of the best displays on Saturday was given by John Taylor, the old Dumbarton utility footballer, who now assisted Everton for twelve successive seasons, and will, stand comparison with many of the great players. All being well Ever ton have a desire to reward this faithful soldier with a second benefit next season. We trust that he will live to enjoy a bumper, and in the meanwhile he well do his best to insure the successes of the testimonial matches to Abbott and Sharp, Kitchen and Settle, four who have been rewarded with the League matches against Bury and Aston Villa this season. Everton do not believe in doing these things in a half-hearted manner.  If a man is worth a benefit they will see that it is a fitting solatium for many hard knocks, as Taylor can testify. Preston would have been quite content with a drawn game, but their forwards were too remiss in front of goal to deserve half the points involved. 

EVERTON ECLIPSE PRESTON.
Athletic News - Monday 26 September 1904
By Tityrus.
SO far as this season has progressed Preston North End had a novel experience on Saturday at Everton, as they had to endure the bitter experience of reverse. It was their first offence. When Midshipman Easy had to apologies for his baby he pleaded that it was very small one. So Preston can urge that they could not have suffered less-for the only goal of a desperately fought game was credited to the Evertonians. At the same time, the gallant Prestonians never conveyed the impression that they would maintain their sequence of successes.  Although the North End were vanquished they gave us purer and finer football than when they overcame Sunderland at Deepdale. The visitors to Goodison Park need not make any excuses. They have not much to reproach themselves for. The explanation of their downfall is perfectly simple. They met a more evenly balanced and a cleverer combination. Any sound critic of the game could not escape from this conclusion. At the outset there were several prettily executed movements, and for twenty minutes the Prestonians did not suffer by comparison. But the only attack of the match which was brought to a happy consummation—the climax of all striving—was made by Everton. McDermott had wandered to the left wing, and when he was in possession I wondered why he did not pass out to Rankin, who was quite unmarked, for Lyon had also deserted his wing. This was a fatal error, as it happened. For when McDermott eventually transferred to Hardman the leather rolled over the touch-line. From the throw in Booth made a swinging pass, and McDermott, who had returned to his place as inside-right, shot with such splendid pace and precision that McBride was unable to cope with the ball as it flew neath the bar. Thus at the end of half an hour the “Blues” took a lead of which they were never deprived. Had Lyon been back on his wing perhaps McDermott would never have had his chance. Still, one never knows. Of course, the North End tried desperately to get on terms with their opponents. Following rapidly on this goal there was a foul which helped Preston considerably, but Scott was on the alert. In the second portion of the game the visitors could not complain for want of opportunity, for Booth was so badly kicked on the ankle that he had to be carried off the field. So for quite half an hour the Evertonians had only ten men. Taylor went to centre half-back, and Rankin was called from outside-right to the middle line on the same wing. But the ten “Blues” seemed to exert themselves just a little more. It might have been one-tenth more of energy on the part of each player. Ten-tenths would atone in a large measure for even Booth.   But Everton had the better of the combat, for the middlemen kept swinging the ball out to Hardman, who kept Derbyshire everlastingly on the stretch by his runs and centres. McBride had many an anxious moment, but such a master was equal to very strain. This could not be said of Percy Smith, who had one superb chance of equalizing, for Scott had been drawn out, and had not recovered his position when Smith had the whole mouth of the netted haven to fire at, and then was guilty of an “outer.” But indifferent shooting was one of the features of the game, and it is really difficult to say who were the greatest sinners in this respect.  Still, one goal covers a multitude of sins—both omission and commission—when the other fellows go empty away. As a display of League football the game was rather above the average, especially when we consider that the lively ball often bothered the teams, and was really difficult to keep on the grass. The least touch and it was away up in the air, and too frequently over the cross bar. When we remember that Sharp was absent, and that Abbott was also away, as well the injury to Booth, Everton deserve to be heartily congratulated on their performance. The victory gave unalloyed pleasure to 32,000 spectators. Everton look like developing into a strong side. They nearly always do at the beginning of a season, and then they too often disappoint when most is expected of them. Let us hope that this season will bring compensation. They have had more than their share of ill-luck at the outset with players like Booth, Abbott, and Sharp in the wars. Therefore their present rank is the more creditable to them. Judging by what I saw, I should say that the only faults to correct are in the haphazard returns of the backs and the lack of systematic feeding of the forwards. The two are intimately related, for the good back is he who picks out attackers well placed and tries to drop the ball to them. Scott, the Irish International goal keeper, fields beautifully, and it occurred to me that his handwork is better than his footwork in clearing. Balmer and Crelley were, as I have suggested, rather loose and impulsive. Quite early in the game it seemed as if they could out-maneuvered, and yet the Preston vanguard never quite grasped the situation. Incidentally I may add that I have seen both of them more accurate in their returns.  Strategy was the keynote of Booth's play, and his transferences were oft an object lesson. Tis a pity he is again incapacitated, and probably for two or three weeks. Taylor is simply a wonder considering the many years that he has worn the Everton jersey. Always fit, he reminds one of the Scot who declared that he would play until he “drapped.” His experience admirably served his side when Booth was laid by. In Henry Makepeace, the cricketer, Everton have discovered a recruit of great promise. He plays honest football and plays it well both in attack and defence. There is no denying the ability of the Everton forwards, even admitting the fact that they are prone to overelaboration and would be the more effective if they went straighter for goal and, having arrived, shot on the ground without delay. Settle retains all his cleverness, and he is difficult to dispossess. Indeed he might often pass sooner with advantage, but really he and Makepeace gave Harold Hardman countless opportunities.  But they never seemed able to overwork the Blackpool youth.  Ever willing, and always ready, Hardman has a happy knack of receiving the ball and hooking it with him.  Very quick into his stride his pace is most serviceable and his centres good, although they can be improved, and he would benefit by making them earlier. In these days, when outside lefts of capacity are comparatively rare, Hardman is a wiry youth who is likely to go far. It seems impossible to give him too much to do, and he led Derbyshire a dance, especially during the last half hour. Young and McDermott are above the average in merit, and the latter is certainly an artist in midfield; but Rankin struck me as likely to develop into a sterling half-back.  With so many accidents, he may have his chance. Preston made a fatal mistake in reintroducing John Bell, as outside right.  He was seldom seen, and when he did get possession I felt inclined to sympathize with him, for youth will be served especially in speed.  Bond should surely have been allowed to retain his place.  Percy Smith made one good run, but he was handicapped by a kick just above the right knee and was not in his sharp shooting mood. And yet I should describe him as dividing the honours with Wilson in the attack for Brown was often cumbrous near goal and seemed irritated by Balmer, while Bourne was too often off-ide.  The half-backs are unquestionably the strongest section of the Preston team, and as a body they played a hard but not a brilliant game, Lyon being the most accomplished of the three.  Rodway was the sturdier and more resourceful back.  I liked him much better than against Sunderland.  In all that he had to do McBride defied criticism.  Everton; Scott; Balmer, Crelley; Taylor, Booth (Captain), Makepeace; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P.Hardman.  Preston North End; McBride; Derbyshire, Rodway; Mclean, Hunter, Lyon; Bell, Smith, Brown, Wilson, and Bourne.  Referee; John Lewis, Blackburn.

EVERTON’S LATEST CAPTURE
Athletic News - Monday 26 September 1904
By Junius
The signature of S.B. Ashworth was secured by the Everton secretary on Friday and he will probably turn out for his new club a fortnight hence, when the “Wolves” visit Goodison Park.  Everton have experienced bad luck in their half-back line this season, for following the defection of Wolstenholme, Booth and Abbott have already been in the wars, and the former received a severe kick above the ankle on Saturday, which necessitated his removal from the field just after the interval.  The acquisition of Ashworth therefore, comes at a most opportune moment, and he should strengthen the intermediate line. 

NORTH END'S FIRST REVERSE
Lancashire Evening Post - Monday 26 September 1904
In reviewing the game at Goodison Park, I shall make no attempt to conceal the fact that the victory of Everton was a fair result of the actual play. On the contrary, let me start with the statememnt that thir success was the legitimate issue of the game; they were the smarter side. At the same time I have not the slightest intention of putting on the cap of the captious critic in regard to the play of the Preston team. There is not the tiniest atom of disgrace in going down on the Goodison ground, and in losing by a single goal only. North End improved on the performance of the only other team who have visted Everton this season, that is on Sheffield United, who were sent away defeated by two goals to nothing. It is easy to imagine that the reverse would be galling to those optimistic enthusasts who have conjred up visions of a similar sequence of successes to last season, when the Prestonians ran to the middle of December before they finished a game on the wrong side. Those who look at the matter calmly and sensibly will recognise the vast difference in the calibre of the teams North End are having to face in the First Division, and will be highly delighted that the first five games, three of them away against Aston Villa, Woolwich Arsenal and Everton, have produced seven points. Despite the defeat at Everton, North End have this season performed splendidly, and I take, perhaps a peculiar pleasure in making this remark in the hour of their first reverse.
Fitting Result
The match attrached a magnificent crowd, which must have exceeded 30,000 at its strongest, and North End had a capital following from Preston. The game as a whole did not reach the standard the majority of these spectators must have expected. There was a spirited commencement, and for a quarter of an hour the vistors were equal to their opponents in some sharp exchanges which kept the crowd thoroughly alive with interest, and even excitement. Afterwards the pace slowed down and Everton began to have the larger share of play. Bad shooting, however, was a distinct failing in their football, but some time before the interval McDermot seized a chance, which good luck had a part in providing and Everton were a goal to the good. On turning round, North End almost recalled their lead off by some clever football, and when Booth, the Everton centre half, was carried off half an hour before the close with an injured knee, there seemed a really considerable chance for the Prestonians. The Everton defence was strengthened by drawing Rankin back into the half-back line, and the backs showed some skill in placing the visiting forwards offside. In point of fact, Everton did better after the retirement of Booth than they had done in the second half when he was on the field. Play was somewhat straggling, and on the whole the home team looked rather more likely to increase their lead than North End did to draw level. In point of fact, however, McDermott's goal remained in "Splendid isloation" to the end.
Where Everton Were Superior
In seeking to set out the points in which Everton were superior to their opponents, i give a prominent place to their quickness on the ball. They were particularly smart and for the first time this season North End found themselves inferior to the other side in this matter. This was especially the case with the forwards. Everton's atatck, too, was rather more skilful in the open than that of the Preston team, and at all events it was better ablanced, both wings doing a fair share of clever work, and both outside men showing plenty of speed. I think, too, that there was more co-operation between their halves and forwards. So much for the strengths of the Everton eleven, There were weaknesse's and the greatest of all was the signal failure of the forwards to follow up their neat passing in the opening with effective shooting. despite the soundness of much of the Preston defence the home forwards had more chances than were accepted, and it was near the finish before they really exhibited anything like good form near goal. Settle and Hardman were the smartly wing, ythough the former has often been sharper at close quarters. Rankin and McDermot, the outside man being very fleet footed, werew a useful pair, but of Young I did not think a great deal. He lies right on the backs waiting for chances, and then neglects to take them when they come. The halves were a really good line, and Crelly was the better back, Scott in goal, had an easy afternoon.
Prestonian Points
Having admitted that Everton deserved their victory, let me say that they did not play such a game as would have achieved success had North End shown the same form as against Aston Villa, Sunderland, and Derby county. I think the game might have gone differently if North End had not been latally weak on the right wing. Bell, who felt perfectly fit, reappeared, and he was exceedingly anxious to do well against his old club. Probably he would be the first to admit that he had a bad day. His speed was by no means equal to Crelley's and he has seldon played less effectively. Then Smith, his partner, was entirely off colour. A nasty kick early in the game certainly made him limp badly for a little time and it may have influenced his game all through. At any rate, he was very poor for Smith. When you have one wing totally "off" the atatck, and indeed the whole team, is bound to suffer. The other three forwards played about as well as could be expected under the circumstances, and Borne certainly improved on recent form. There were some bouts of good passing, and had the right wingers been in form I think the atatck might easily have settled down all right. As it was, there was unmistalenable weakness. This threw additional work on the defence. All the halves put in all they knew, though they bhad more running about than they could have cared for. Hunter was the best of the trio, with McLean next. I place Lyon in the unaccustomed position of third man, not because he lacked skill of energy, but because he failed to keep his palce and gave the home right wing too much rope. Both backs did valuable work, with Rodway, who played a game unexcelled by anyone on the side, the safer of the two. Derbyshire hardly playing vigorously enough on Hardman. In spite of Everton's frequent failure in shooting, McBride was severely tested on several occasions, and was clean and certain as could be. It certainly speaks well for the Preston defenders this season that fewer goals have been scored against them than against any other club in the division.

NORTH END'S SECOND VICTORY
Lancashire Evening Post - Monday 26 September 1904
North End Reserve, in their second home match, again secured the full points by a victory of 2-0 over Everton. The first goal was secured by Wilcox just before the interval, and the second came from the foot of Catterall in the last few minutes of the game. On the whole the homesters were the better team and had most of the play. While Everton atatcked it was with no little energy and wim, and Taylor was seen at his best, which is saying a great deal for the North End custodian. Both the home backs played a capital game. In the half-back line Tod was below his form, and this, perhaps, might be accounted for in some measure by the fact that he was not in his customary position, and that fact that he was opposed to so capable a player as Dilly, an Irish international, who was the pick of the Everton forwards. Rowe defended and fed his forwards well, and at left half Butterworth, who comes from Liverpool district, and who made his second appearance, and looks as if he has the making of a good player in him. Two new men were tried in the forward line, these being Rodgers, of Newcastle, and Knibbs of Burton-on-Trent.

EVERTON 1 PRESTON NORTH END 0
September 26,1904. The Liverpool Courier.
The visit of the famous North End to Goodison Park on Saturday was favoured with fine weather, and there was a splendid attendance, about 25,000 people being present. Preston had a great reception on entering the enclosure. They were at full strength, but Everton were still without Abbott, and Sharp, their places being taken by Makepeace and Rankin. The teams were as follows: - Everton: - Scott, goal, W.Balmer, and Crelly backs, Taylor, Booth (captain), and Makepeace, half-backs, Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Preston North End: - McBride, goal Derbyshire, and Rodway, backs, McLean, Hunter, and Lyon half-backs, J.Bell (captain), Smith, Brown, Wilson, and Bourne, forwards. Referee John Lewis. Bell won the toss and Young kicked off shortly before time. The home right were immediately prominent, but Lyon relieved. Smart passing by the Everton front line was nullified by Settle passing to an opponent. Then the North End left broke away but Brown shot wide, North End kept up the attack for some time, and a fine centre from Bourne was headed over by Smith. Makepeace smartly gave Settle possession and the latter passed out to Hardman, who ran the full length of the field. From his centre, however, the ball was placed high over the bar. Next Rankin tried a run on his own but Lyon sent the ball out to touch. Next Scott handled, and the Everton right raced away, an appeal for a corner being disregarded. Nice passing between Settle, Young, and Hardman brought no result, and in the course of a vigorous attack by the visiting side, Wilson was penalised for offside just as Brown shot strongly into the hands of Scott. In an attack on the Everton goal, Bell was penalised for bringing down the goalkeeper. Brown also fell under the ban of the referee for an unfair charge out Everton could make nothing out of the resulting free kick. They attacked strongly, but McBride was never in difficulties. Smith was temporarily disabled and when he recovered the Evertonians assumed the aggressive in real earnest. Rankin, McDermott, and Young were prominent and then Booth forced a corner which was admirably placed, McBride however, fisted it away, but still the Everton forwards were persistent. Settle provided a beautifully opening for Rankin, who however, quite failed to rise to the occasion. McDermott made a mull of an attempt to open the score, but he was by no means the only offender. A moment later the home inside right made ample amends for any previous shortcomings. Hardman initiated dangerous movements, and from his centre the ball cannoned off one of the Preston backs to Young. The latter tipped it over to McDermott, who then in an awkward position planted the ball in the net quite out of the reach of McBride. It was really brilliant goal, and was deservedly cheered to the echo. The visitors after this reverse played up with renewed energy, but without making much impression on the defence. From long range Booth sent in a fine shot which McBride only diverted at the expense of a corner. Hardman placed the ball splendidly, and after McBride had fisted away McDermott's shot was somewhat luckily charged down. It was a narrow escape for Notts End. Still the latter were not depressed, and working their way down Bell had a rare chance from a centre, but his effort was as wide as was that of Smith a few minutes later. Good play by Bourne caused Scott to come out of his goal, and kick away, and immediately afterwards Brown missed a rare chance of equalising. Half-time Everton 1, Preston North End nil.
On resuming Everton went off with rare dash, and a goal seemed likely to accrue in the first minute Rankin was conspicuous with an unexpected back pass which, however, neither Young nor Settle could turn to account. Suddenly the North End forwards dashed off to the other end, but Borne made a terrible mess of an attempt at goal. At the other end McBride conceded a corner, which proved to be useless. Next the visiting forwards with in evidence, but Scott had no difficulty in maintaining his charge intact. Wilson when well placed shot wildly the wrong side of the upright. Booth unfortunately injured his knee, and had to be carried off the field by Elliott, the trainer. This was a serious loss to Everton, and in the necessary rearrangement of their forces, Taylor went centre half, Rankin failing back to right half. The players, however, struck gallantly to their work, and had quite as much, if not more of the game than their opponents. The North End forwards seemed to have little idea of where the goal posts lay, while the Evertonians were quicker on the ball and had more methods in their movements. Everton were the better team to the finish, but could not added to their score. Result Everton 1, Preston North End nil.

PRESTON NORTH END RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 0
September 26, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 4)
At Preston. Before 4,000 spectators. Play was well contested in the first half, both goalkeepers making some splendid saves. Dent particularly doing good work. After Sheridan had missed a fine opening, Wilcox scored for Preston. In the second half the home side added another goal, Everton failing to respond. Final Preston 2 Everton nil : - Everton: - Dent, goal, Wildman, and R.Balmer, backs, Clayton, Chadwick, and Hutchinson halfbacks, Hanlin, Sheridan, McAdams, Caldwell, and Dilly forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 26 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton administered the first check of the season to Preston North End, and as both Newcastle United and the Rovers were likewise sustaining their initial reverse at Small Heath and Nottingham respectively, Sheffield Wednesday now rank as the only unbeaten team in the First Division of the League. This defeat of the North Enders was the only occasion in which they had been on the losing side since March 12 last season, when they were trounced in a second League fixture with the City. Considering that Everton were still without Abbott, and that Booth was so badly kicked above the ankle shortly after the interval, that he had to retire permantely, their performance is a creditable one, and although their success was secured by the only goal of the match, obtained by McDermott, they were the better team and fully deserved to win. It cannot be said that the exposition of the football given by either side was particularly attractive, and in the first half especially it was utterly devoid of any incident worthy of note, with the solitary exception of the movement which, enabled McDermott to register the goal that won the game. The shot which he sent in was beautifully judged, and placed with accurate precision in the very spot which gave McBride the least chance of getting at the ball, the result being that the Keeper was hopelessly beaten. On both sides the forwards play was ragged, and there were weak spots noticeable which stood out in marked contrast, to the capital work accomplished by others in the front rank. Young was not seen at his best, and neither in midfield nor near goal did he exhibit the form which he produced in some of his earlier games. This is somewhat strange, for the man on either side of him were in a cunning vein, and frequently bluffed the Preston half-backs affording the centre ample opportunities of making headway. More dash and determination is necessary especially when going for goal. Rankin was not a success on the extreme right, and he failed to utilise several excellent chances of showing his speed, whilst he was easily dispossessed. Curiously enough when he retired to right half on the withdrawal of Booth he shaped exceedingly well, and altogether surpassed everything he had done in the forward line. A reproduction of such form would lead one to suggest that right half is his proper position, to which by the way he is no stranger. McDermott is an adept with the ball, and with the only exception that he was inclined at times to take matters too coolly played a capital game. His drawing of the Preston half-backs around him, and then flashing the ball to the right of left as the circumstances of the case demanded were most ably achieved and it was unfortunate that much of his good work was nullified by his partner. Settle seemed to have regained his pristine form, and the combined movements on the left wing constituted the most dangerous part of the Everton attack. Hardman was knocked about considerably by the Preston heavy weight, but he bore his grueling manfully, and in the last quarter of an hour got back some little satisfaction for his earlier trouble, for he ran Derbyshire almost to a standstill, which no doubt afforded him soothing consolation. But there was room for improvement in shooting taking the forwards as a body, and it was only in the closing stages that McBride was ever in difficulties. One terrific drive from Hardman, about five minutes from time was more artistically tipped over the bar, and with Taylor unable to keep away from the fighting line, the Preston defence was more severely taxed during this period than in any other portion of the game. In the half-back division an average level was reached by the trio, none of which, however, displayed particular prominence Booth was the most effective, though Taylor, in his characteristic fashion, entered into the fray with unabated vigour, and Makepeace in the second half gave a decidedly useful display. Prior to the interval he contented himself too much with defence, but later on he was more aggressive and his play improved vastly as a natural consequence. Crelly was the better of the backs, for Balmer was at times none too reliable in his kicking, and Scott who had little to do, maintained his charge intact. He should have been easily beaten in the second half after saving as shots form the right wing, which he failed to get clear away, but near the finish he repelled a beautiful drive from Smith, who had dribbled close in. Preston lost all chance of averting defeat by the feeble shooting, and some easy opportunities of equalising were allowed to pass unheeded. As was the case on the home side, the left wing was the most efficient part of the front line. Bourne running, and centring in excellent style. In midfield some defy footwork was witnessed at times, but the forwards seldom appeared likely to score, and were frequently at fault when within range off the home custodian. Rodway and Derbyshire proved a sturdy pair of backs kicking with commendable precision, but they fell away somewhat towards the close of the game. In the half-back division each of the three players proved expert in the adoption of worrying tactics. McLean being especially noticeable in this respect, whilst the old Liverpool player, Hunter, also got through a vast amount of harassing work. In goal McBride was like his vis-à-vis, seldom requisitioned, but he was never at fault with what he had to deal with, and could not possibly be held responsible for the shot that did take effect. Judging from their form in this match, North End will acquit themselves with credit in the first division, but the attack does not seen as reliable as the defensive portion of the team.