EVERTON RESERVES 4 SOUTHPORT CENTRAL 4
September 2, 1908. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 1)
A Lancashire Combination match between Everton and Southport Central, a fair attendance being present, opened the season at Goodison-park. The teams were Everton: - Ashcroft goal, Stevenson and Meunier, backs, Rafferty Borthwick, and Adamson, half-backs Buck, Jones Couper, Lacey, and Dawson, forwards. Southport Central: - Gaskell, goal Spink, and Morris backs, Taylor, Edmonds, and Turner half-backs, Roberts, Graham, Brunton, Lawson, and Gate forwards . Everton commenced operations, and both sets of forwards were early in evidence without however, anything tangible accerning. After Couper had tested Gaskell with a fine low drive, which found the Southport custodian very alert, the visitors moved away in easy fashion. The movement, however, was destined to bear fruit, as Lawton getting in between the backs, had little difficulty in placing the ball into the net, just out of Ashcroft reach. The defeat led to some lively exchanges in the Southport territory, and Gaskell was repeatedly called upon to negotiate awkward shots one from Lacey being particularly dangerous. Then the Southport rightwing troubled Meunier, and Roberts got in a centre, which Borthwick almost placed into his own goal, but Ashcroft picked up the sphere and kicked clear. This was followed by several determined attacks on the Southport goal, but despite several well-conceived movements, the Southport defence presented a solid front. When, however, the visitors did invade Everton territory Lawson prevented Brunton with a glorious opening, of which he made the worst possible use by sending wide from a few yards' range. For some time the visitors had the best of matters, and some useful passing, led to Roberts striking the crossbar with a good effort, and Bruton meeting the rebound, notched a second goal for Southport. A few moment's later however Rafferty reduced the margin against his side with a splendid drive through a rack of players. Half-time Everton 1 Southport Central 2. After the interval Everton opened in brisk fashion, but the visitors came nearer doing the trick than their opponents, as Ashcroft only just managed to get rid of a difficult shot from Brunton. Everton however, again took up the attack and on this occasion Adamson drove the leather home with excellent judgement. A determined raid upon the Everton goal followed this, and Turner placed the sphere into the net for a third time from very close range. Not to be denied the Blues went away, and Jones neatly converted a fine centre by Dawson, the score being again level. The scoring was not yet finished with, as following a smart run by Buck, Jones again got through for Everton. Ashcroft made a series hash of a long shot from Lawson, which found its way into the net. Everton pressed towards the finish but failed to again pierce the visitors defence.

WOOLWICH BEATEN BY THEIR OLD PLAYERS
September 3, 1908. The Liverpool Echo
Everton Features
By Bee
So far so good! Our Liverpool clubs have got the full number of points from their first matches. Both were value for their victories and this is nice, for there can be no excuse offered for Villa or Woolwich Arsenal, the latter club last night being simply over-whelmed. Personally I am glad for Everton have such a longing for the Cup that if they get through more than one round they well high sacrifice everything in the League and last season this proved a dangerous matter if the club get well up in the first half of the season then they can afford to drop a point or more when the Cup claims their greater energies. The start was sensational indeed. When people brought the special “Echo” last night they could hardly believe their own eyes. Four-nil. However bad the opposition this result showed up the forwards to advantage and also proved that the defence has been amply good enough. The strange past about the score was the fact that the two former Arsenal members Coleman and Freeman shared the goals. This is surely the irony of things. I am glad the popular inside forward has not lost any of that form which made him the eye of the Everton crowd last back end and I am glad that Everton had Freeman playing. I hope I am not misunderstood in the Freeman case. When recommended him Everton needed a goal-getting pivot. Young had temporarily lost his form and I knew what Freeman was good for. I do not desire to bolster the young centre up and shall always criticize him as he deserves. However his worth hits so far been shown and as Young has been absent the opportunity has been probably taken by the former Gunner. He got two goals yesterday and helped Coleman to score his second. Woolwich it is apparent are in for a poor season and we must go no further with last night's result than to congratulate the players on their first success, hope for many more, and wait awhile ere we meet tougher stuff. The Woolwich peg is too tender to hang upon it Everton's future. We must wait a little longer. I must say this much however. Everton badly need a class goalkeeper. Whom can you suggest? Scott is A1. If he were laid up with injury or any other cause just now Everton would rue the day because Berry is the only man at their command. The names of the goalkeepers on their list are Scott, Berry, Arthur Kelly and Ashcroft. At the present moment the number is reduced by two because Ashcroft (nephew of the old Liverpool player) made a mess of things on Tuesday against Southport Central, nerves probably being the cause while the Northern Nomad, Kelly was hurt yesterday in the match against Everton and had to leave the field. Everton must look to this especially weak position. It is not many seasons ago that they were in a similar position in regard to custodians. There is a splendid repeat of the Everton victory from our own representative and I shall content myself with giving his verdict and also one or two interesting comments of the London critics. Our own correspondent says;-

How It Came To Pass
Weaknesses were apparent in every Woolwich quarter. Shaw (took the place of Sharp) was bewildered by the other famous footballer of that name –Jack Sharp –and he kicked weakly. Gray, too became unreliable and Raybould whom Liverpool supporters know so well was absolutely helpless against Taylor who reveled in the discomforting of the Liverpool cum Sunderland player. On the extreme right Maxwell who went to Woolwich Arsenal from Sheffield Wednesday with a reputation of being a brilliant outside right played worse than a mere novice. His failure was inexplicable. It is not my desire to allow the wide margin of four goals to gave a too exalted idea of Everton's play but I must frankly say that the team, as whole is a really fine combination. To those who have known the Everton side for some years a combination without Abbott, Settle, Young, Hardman and W. Balmer, was a strange spectacle. Yet, in spite of these defections, every man in the Everton side had played for the club last season. Macconnachie partnered R. Balmer and Val Harris who is memory serves me right made his League debut last season at Woolwich was at right half while both the ex-Arsenal men, Coleman and Freeman played against the Arsenal towards the end of last season as did Donnachie at outside left. To review the play of the men in order, I was much impressed with the agility and the accuracy of judgement displayed by Scott. He was never at fault. Balmer kicked and tackled well, but there was not the polish and finish about his play that characterized the work of Macconnachie. He was brilliant. He completely eclipsed Maxwell and time and again he pulled Lewis up, while there were occasions when he went over to the other wing and assisted in the repulse of a stronger pair. This fair-haired Scotsman should make his name in League football this year. Taylor is like Tennyson's break, he seems to be going on for ever. He was always the complete master of Raybould. Harris played thoughtful football. He used his head in all he did and his tackling was the essence of good judgment. Makepeace with an easier task, was no less successful. Coleman and Sharp were the cleverer and more thrustful pair, but it must be noted that they were against the weaker side of the Arsenal defence. Sharp had a rare outing against Shaw, and Coleman crowned his excellent work by two splendid goals. Bolton was quietly effective, and Donnachie while slightly deficient in force, sent across many valuable centres. Freeman is a centre forward of an unorthodox school. He is a wonderfully powerful youth, who has little of the artistry or strategy of Young. But per contra he known the value of giving straight for goal, of shooting when the chances come his way and of never allowing the opposing backs a single moment's peace. Therein lies Freeman's success. He is always on top of the ball when it is in the clear vicinity of the goal, and the value of his style of play was potently exemplified last night when after eight minutes he dashed into goal when McDonald and Gray were hesitating as to who should clear. The ball had been beautifully dropped in by Balmer from a free kick, and Freeman's enterprising dash gave Everton a simple goal, and went a long way forwards demoralizing the Arsenal team. Then again Freeman's second goal midway through the second half was entirely due to his forcing methods for with the ball at his feet he literally swept Gray and Shaw out of his path and easily beat the helpless McDonald. So much for Freeman's value.

Macconnachie Delights
Mr. McWheeney sums up thus. The Arsenal had eleven players on the field but they did not have a team. They had no settled convictions. Every man practically, was a rule unto himself. Thus Lewis did not seem to realize that he had a partner. The backs from appearances might have said to each other. “You go your way, I'll go mine.” Raybould was in the game but not of it. Maxwell was a wonder at getting in front of the ball and was an adept at placing himself where the leather would not come. But, really there was no handing together. I like Macconnachie especially. We shall hear a great deal more of him. There was much that was wrong with the Arsenal team. Everton gave a very fine display of combined effort for a first match of the season, and if there was any light to the Arsenal about this match it was the fact that Everton had but a moderate left wing in Bolton and Donnachie-Corinthian.”

The Arsenal's chief defect was one of condition (says D.D in the Daily News)
They were sadly lacking in staying power, and slowed so obviously as the game progressed that Everton talk once they had taken a lad with easy. The eleven had been selected not altogether on the result of the practice the reputation of the men having had first consideration. Everton's exhibition was a tribute to the man who so splendidly prepared for the ideal. Even veteran Taylor stay the pace to the ninetieth minute and his younger colleagues. Their only weakness was on the left wing, Bolton and Donnachie poorly supporting Freeman and Sharp. The last named however needed little assistance in such form were they, Freeman centre forward . He was always a great hearted pivot but they have taught him to play football at Goodison Park. For the first time I saw him as an ideal centre forward, has control of the goal and his deft touches invariably to the right man, and at the right moment having been during the past twelve months. Coleman was just himself than whom there is no better exponent of the inside forward in first class football, and Sharp is an young speedily determined and grited as the old Macconnachie is the best back. Everton have had for seven years.

WOOLWICH ARSENAL 0 EVERTON 4 (Game 625)
September 3, 1908. The Liverpool Courier.
The Everton players commenced their season yesterday in a match against the Arsenal at Woolwich, and 10,000 people saw them gain a well deserved victory by 4 goals to nil. A thunderstorm broke over the ground about two hours before the start, and this rendered the turf greasy, but the Lancastrians kept their feet in surprising fashion, and by superior all-round play defeated the Southerners in the easiest possible fashion. One missed the familiar faces of Abbott and Settle on the Everton side, and Ashcroft and Sharp from Woolwich, but it must be confessed that the team put into the field by the homesters badly disappointed their patrons. At no period in the game did the men seem to get together, and two of the new forwards, Raybould centre, and Maxwell, the outside right, were seldom in the picture.

THE FIRST PORTION.
From the start the Arsenal side made a lighting like dash towards the Everton goal, and Lewis had a chance presented to him by Scatterthwaite, but he shot well over the crossbar. It took the Everton forwards some time to settle down, and with the game ten minutes old they had a piece of good fortune. A free kick was nicely taken by Balmer, who placed the ball capitally into the goalmouth, Grey made a rush to clear, until McDonald shouted for him to let it go, and between the two they allowed Freeman to nip in and glance the ball out of McDonald's reach into the net, so that Everton got an unexpected lead. From this moment Everton got a grip on the game, and there was never the slightest doubt about their success. Sharp and Coleman were continually working their way through with some clever passing, and one centre of the former's was trapped by Freeman and crashed into the goal for McDonald to accomplished a clever piece of goalkeeping. Quite the best thing the Arsenal did in the opening half was a neat run by Neave, and Scatterthwaite meeting his centre, struck the crossbar with a very hot drive. The Everton second goal, scored after 33 minutes play, was the result of a clever efforts by Colemans, who, taking a pass from Freeman, wiggled himself past several of his opponents, before beating McDonald with a low shot. Two minutes later Sharp almost increased the lead, but a shot –a beauty –struck the post and returned to play, before the interval McDonald tipped another difficult shot from the Lancashire cricketer over the crossbar in great style.

VISTOR'S CONFIDENCE.
With a lead of two goals Everton crossed over full of confidence, and in eight minutes Coleman had registered a third goal from a long forward pass by Makepeace, while the fourth and last obtained by Freeman was quite the best of the match. Donnachie had centred down the field, and from his centre Freeman took possession, and, slipping between the backs, he surprised the home defence with his dash, and in a second but the ball in the net. Everton might easily have obtained further goals in the closing portion, but they seemed content with their score, so the game came to a dull close. On the whole it was not a great display by either side.

EVERTON'S SUPERIORITY FORWARD.
Everton played as well as their opponents demanded, but it was chiefly in forward movements that they demonstrated their superiority. They certainly had better assistance from their half-backs than the Arsenal, and this often enabled them to get right on top of the home backs. Sharp did several of his characteristic sprints, and seems to get along splendidly Coleman, but Freeman was the surprise of the side. Frequently he would go through the opposition individually, and his great pace was always a source of trouble to Gray. Bolton at inside left was a success, and he had hard luck with some excellent shots while Donnachie should prove a capable substitute for the departed Hardman. Taylor was the chief worker amongst the halves, and he keeps his form year after year in surprising fashion. His tackling is as keen as ever. Makepeace and Harris also had a large share in their side's victory. Balmer was the better of the backs, his kicking being wonderfully accurate under the trying conditions.

ARSENAL'S DISAPPOINTING TEAM.
With the exception of Ducat, the Arsenal were a disappointing side. There was no methods in their work, and most of their attacks were made up of wild kicking. Gray and Shaw, the backs, were both weak in their kicking, and lacked resource. Ducat did splendidly at half, and he worked with tremendous energy, Sands tackled soundly, but invariably placed the ball to the wrong player. The forwards on their form in this game are a poor lot. Never for a moment did they shape like scorers, and combination was a thing to be developed. The following were the teams: - Woolwich Arsenal: - McDonald, goal, Gray, and Shaw, backs, Ducat, Sands, and McFactrane, half-backs, Maxwell, Lewis, Raybould, Scatterwaite and Neaves, forwards. Everton: - Scott, goal, R. Balmer, and McConnachie, backs, Harris, Taylor, Makepeace, Sharp, Coleman, Freeman, Bolton, and Donnachie, forwards.

EVERTON AND BRISTOL CITY MAKE NO CHANCES
September 4, 1908. The Liverpool Echo
F.E.H will cover the Everton v. Bristol City match. I find that I have not been quite fair to young Ashcroft. He has nothing about it, but from another sodice I learn that he was not well treated by the back of goal spectators. That he is worthy of a trial was shown in the match with Northern Nomads for, though the Manchester correspondent said Berry kept a fine goal, it was Ashcroft who was guarding the breach. Many a really good footballer has been unable to come right through to the front ranks because of the chippings, from a certain class of folk who pitch their tent at the back of the goalkeeper and make no allowance for age experience or of anything in the shape of nerves. It is not sportsmanlike. Continuing the gossip on goalies, I find a line from a friend who answers yesterday's request for suggested goalkeepers whom the Everton directors might approach. This correspondent points out that Lewis, the Somerset cricketer and Bristol City goalkeeper, has not been fixed up for the season. He suggests Lewis as a stopgap for Everton. Lewis to my mind, is a better cricketer than footballer. He showed at Anfield that he was none too sure, and really I do not remember having seen another custodian so lucky to get shots away as Lewis did at Anfield last season. The Bristol City team will rely on Clay for their last line of defence tomorrow against the Everton team and the Blues will find it a very stuff to beat him. The Citizans ground has its peculiarities unless it has greatly changed since it was there some years ago, and possibly the Everton forwards will not be able to combine with that accuracy which leads to goals. All the old hands are at trial again, this as regards both Everton and Bristol City. Everton have Adamson down at Ashton Gate in readiness but so far as I can find there is not a fear of an eleventh change I am of the opinion that when the following elevens have finished their day's work the result will be more favourable than last season when the Citizens won narrowly by the odd goal in five. Teams; Bristol City; Clay; Young and Cottle; Spear, Wedlock, and Hanna; Stanfield, Maxwell, Gilligan, Burton and Hilton. Everton; Scott; Balmer (R), and Macconnachie; Harris, Taylor, and Makepeace; Sharp, Coleman, Freeman, Bolton, and Donnachie.

EVERTON’S TRIUMPHANT START.
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 05 September 1908
By Richard Samuel.
If Liverpool made a very good start at the expense of Aston Villa, what shall be said of Everton's brilliant beginning at Woolwich ? Candidly, Wednesday’s 4-0 win gave Merseyeiders a" shock, but of that character which a man experiences who wakens up to find Fortune knocking at the door. The anticipated Everton team took the field at Plumstead, Harris being preferred to Adamson, and the more experienced Donnachie and Bolton being persevered with as a left wing. In the battle which ensued. Everton proved themselves immeasurably the superior team, and at the outset their behaviour would go to show that the directors policy in allowing certain the old famous names to disappear in favour of younger blood has already been justified. Of course, it is full early yet to tell. Woolwich may have been a wretchedly poor lot, or perhaps badly trained: and instead of running into ecstasies over Everton as a certain championship-winning nothing-to-stop-us team, I prefer to wait and see what today and the next seven show, ere I begin serious brick-building of that kind. Let us have the foundations first,-please. However, we can all pour out nothing but praise for the able manner in which Captain Sharp has launched the good ship Everton. I spoke last week against the pessimistic vein running in some quarters, to the effect that Everton and Liverpool were going to be two weak teams this year. They have, at any rate, given us a good lusty kickoff 
At Woolwich there was no comparison between the two teams. Everton had the understanding, the pace, the cleverness, and hence the goals; indeed, the Arsenal were thoroughly outclassed, throughout, and never looked like making a real fight. It was Freeman who early gave the Blues the lead, and before half-time Coleman added a beauty. In the second stage the pair scored, Coleman this time leading the way, and the end finding Everton handsome winners, and the only First Leaguers who had got off the mark mid-week with a win by more than the odd goal. As I anticipated Woolwich sadly missed Ashcroft and Sharp, and it passes comprehension why the former was allowed go the Rovers. The Gunners, too, were sadly made aware of the presence of Freeman and Coleman', for it must have been a bitter thing to find these two dropping the ball into the wrong socket on all four occasions. Everton as team, had the full measure their opponents who must improve wonderfully If They Intend Troubling the Blues seriously at Goodison on Monday evening, when the return match becomes due. Regarding the behavior of the winners at Plumstead Scott and R. Balmer were never found wanting, and it was most cheering to find that Macconnachie came right out at top of his form.  He captivated the crowd, just as he created wonderment among his opponents.  This Scot is indeed the concentrated essence of coolness at all times, and when to this he elects to add effect, I desire nothing finer.  All three visiting halves were powerful, Taylor in particular having quite a field day against Sam Raybould.  As anticipated, Sharp and Coleman constituted a sparkling right wing.  Freeman proved an effective pivot, and the left wing were useful against the strongest section of the Gunners’ defence.  There is no question concerning Bolton’s and Donnachie’s abilities.  What we require is to see them using same to the full.  Last season Everton’s League successes were all too few and far between both at home and abroad.  But such a kick-off as we had at Plumstead is enough to make the most matter-of-fact among the club’s partisans jubilant.  What has today brought forth at Bristol?

STRAY MEMS. FROM MERSEYSIDE
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 05 September 1908
By Richard Samuel.
Everton are due to receive Woolwich Arsenal on Monday afternoon at Goodison Park, and one confidently anticipants the Blues being able to confirm Wednesday’s Plumstead result.  On Saturday next Preston North End are to be Everton’s visitors.  Seeing that these twain constitute the first clubs to hold the League championship, a special interest attaches to such a renewal of “friendships” but more particularly in that the Preston team will all being well, include Chadwick, who is so well known to Goodison Park habitués.   The Merseysider Reserve eleven did not get off the mark nearly so well as anticipated after witnessing their fine form at practice, thereby once more demonstrating the little confidence to be placed in such bouts.  Everton could not do better than record a 4-4 draw at home on Tuesday with Southport Central, a result which suggests a defensive loophole somewhere.  I shall expect last season’s Combination champions to do much better than this ere long.

NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 05 September 1908

• Everton’s two men – Freeman and Coleman
• Everton supporters are already dreaming of League and Cup honours – a result of the victory at Woolwich.
• Macconnachie, the best back Everton have had for seven years.  Such is the comment of a Southern critic.
• Have Lancashire seen the last of Harry Makepeace?  He is advertising for a cricket engagement for season 1909.
• Fancy Freeman and Coleman scoring all the goals against their old team!  It must have been galling to the Arsenal supporters.
• Berry, Everton’s young goalkeeper, played a fine game, and made some wonderful saves, but it was hard lines to be beaten by a penalty kick.
• Trainer Elliott turned the Everton team out in splendid condition at Woolwich, and every man at the close of the game looked fit for another hour and half’s play.
• The old familiar face and form of W. Abbott will be sadly missed out Goodison way this season by many of his old friends.  He was a good and faithful servant and always did his best.
• As well as being a worrier and breaker-up, Borthwick displays a great judgement, and he should prove a worthy successor to the famous Taylor.
• Harris, Borthwick, and Makepeace will make a formidable half-back line, and will not disgrace their predecessors, Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, or Wolstenholme, Booth and Abbott.
• With the exception of Prescott Jones the reserve forwards of Everton require a lot of polishing up.  They are all made of the best of stuff, however, Buck, lacey, and Dawson, of the newcomers, are indeed finds.
• Last Saturday’s practice match at Goodison was rather tame.  The only outstanding feature was the display of breaking-up tactics given by young Borthwick.  He is ready for First League football whenever Everton require his services.
• Everton folk would be pleased to read that Chadwick made a fine debut for Preston North End against Chelsea.  He played centre-half, and got through a tremendous amount of work, looking well after Hilsdon, which is a difficult job, as Everton and Liverpool enthusiasts know to their cost.
• The Everton left-wing, if not as brilliant as the right, were decidedly serviceable against Woolwich.
• Everton’s victory at Woolwich is a gain of two points compared with last season’s result –a very promising opening.
• Jack Bell has not been retained by Preston.  His playing days are apparently over, but what a grand coach he would make!
• Harry has had so few opportunities for Lancashire this season that his decision to seek fresh quarters will cause little surprise.
• Woolwich spectators would hardly relish the goals scored by Coleman and Freeman of Everton.  The Gunners’ loss is the Toffees’ gain.
• The persistent selection of one Lancashire’s amateurs in the place of Makepeace during the last season can hardly have been encouraging to the latter.
• What a relief to look upon the green sward of Goodison Park once more after Lancashire’s disappointing season.  But let’s hope for better things from the boys in blue.
• Meunier, Everton’s latest capture from Southport, looks like turning out “the catch of the season”  His trail against the clever Sharp-Coleman wing was very creditable indeed.
• Everton by their 4-0 victory at Woolwich head the League table.  We wonder will they be there eight months hence?
• Evertonians were indeed a happy family on Wednesday evening.  Their team won a great victory at Woolwich by a splendid play.
• The Everton directors’ decision to play Donnachie and Bolton on the left wing did not meet with popular approval, but when the result from Woolwich was received, the forward line proved to have justified their selection.

BRISTOL CITY V EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 05 September 1908
In this game on the Westerners ground, the teams turned out as expected, almost to the man.  Last year Bristol won by the narrow margin of 3-2.  The mid-week performances of the two clubs left the result a very open question.  Everton won the toss, and the men lined up in the following order;- Bristol City; Clay, goal; Young, Right back, and Cottle, Left-back; Spear, Right half-back, Wedlock, Centre and Hanlin, Left half-back; Maxwell, Outside right, Staniforth, Inside-Right, Gilligan, Centre, Burton, Inside-left, and Hulton, Outside-left.  Everton; Scott, goal; R. Balmer, Right-back, and Macconnachie, Left-back; Harris, Right half-back, Taylor, Centre half-back and Makepeace, Left half-back; Sharp (captain), Outside right, Coleman, Inside-right, Freemna, Centre, Bolton, Inside-left, and Donnachie, Outside-left. 
Visitors Open the Score
The toss gave the advantage of the breeze, whilst the City also had to face fit-ful sun. Play was at once exciting, for after the City left ‘wing had been repelled by Macconnachie, Everton were dangerous on the right, and Sharp sent in fine centre. Spear, however, nipped in, and with a clever low kick put Staniforth in possession. He feinted as it to pass to Maxwell, but he went on himself, and threaded his way into the Everton goalmouth, where Macconnachie dashed across and robbed him at the expense of a corner. This Staniforth placed well, but there was no colleague handy, and Balmer cleared. Everton again took the attack, their forwards being both clever and fast. Sharp especially shining with passes. Once Freeman appeared to be getting through nicely for the visitors, but Cottle and Wedlock between them Robbed him, and the latter cleared with a big effort, whilst this was followed by a long shot from Makepeace that sailed well clear of goal. Everton had the best of the opening exchanges, but this was entirely due to their forwards, who dovetailed beautifully and passed perfectly, so that but for fine work by the City halves, especially Wedlock, they would have given Clay a lot work. Once tame work by Harris let Hanlin relieve with a big kick, and the ball, going over to the opposite wing, reached Staniforth, who was quite the fastest forward on the Bristol side, but Makepeace at the psychological moment met the ball with the Bristol man, and exciting incident ended with the ball going into touch- Wedlock tried his luck with a long one for the City that missed fire. This was the only shot that went near Scott for long time, Spear later put in fine shot that Scott had to jump up to clear, and then the Everton left with Freeman got away in great style. The Centre Forward Scoring with a splendid effort at the second attempt after Clay had once cleared. The Bristol forwards showed much better form after this, and after Gilligan and Staniforth had each failed with individual efforts there were combined movements that gave Maxwell and Burton fine openings in turn, but neither was turned to account. Spear was very active at half for Bristol, and just before the interval by very dashing play stopped the Everton left when they seemed certain to score. This was followed by another breakaway by the City rights, but Balmer cleared, though appeared handling inside the penalty area. Burton followed this with another great shot, and brought Scott to his knees, but the interval Everton led by goal to nil.
EVERTON MAKE VICTORY SURE.
Bristol started the second half in more dashing style, but Balmer and McConnachie played with such resistless dash that they kept the home forwards at long range. Even thus handicapped, Hilton twice swung in brilliant efforts that Scott only just saved, whilst another time when the City left-winger tried a similar effort, Macconnachie thought it wiser to concede a corner. This was well placed, and though Spear and Wedlock each plied their forwards with openings, they were unable to single out a fruitless corner.  Another corner was forced the City by the opposite wing, and again another followed its placing, but the City had no luck in the goalmouth.  Coleman followed this with a fine breakaway. But Clay came out the right moment and affected a fine save, the ball polling into touch just outside the goal after the two had collided, and were sitting on Mother Earth. The City forced two more futile corners. Clay after a sensational save from Coleman had very little to do, but although defence did their work so well the City attack seemed unable to sparkle in front goal, and ten minutes from time Freeman broke away and put Everton farther ahead. The closing stages were tamely fought out, and showing the City attack in very poor light. Everton deservedly won. FINAL Bristol City 0, Everton 2

EVERTON RESERVE V. OLDHAM ATHLETIC RESERVE
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 05 September 1908
At Goodison Park, before a fair attendance.  Play of a fast character was displayed at the outset, the early stages, however, being distinctly favourable to Everton.  Butterworth was injured, and left the field, but soon came back.  Everton forced two corners in quick succession, nothing accruing.  A brilliant shot from Bach cannoned off the crossbar.  A change of referee occurred.  A grand shot by Borthwick just missed.  Oldham pressed hard.  Interval; Everton 0, Oldham 0.
After the interval, busy exchanges were witnessed.  Bad shooting spoiled Everton’s efforts, and Swarbick scored for Oldham.  The Athletic had slightly the better of the game at this stage.  Play was becoming rough, two or three fouls being awarded.  The Everton Blues were trying hard to score.  Matthews saved a good centre from Dawson and the Oldham custodian played a grand game.  Offside spoilt Everton several times, and Berry had little to do in goal.  Final; Everton Reserve 1, Oldham Athletic Reserve 1.

THINGS HEARD BY THE WAY
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 05 September 1908
Three Great Goalkeepers
By Richard Samuel
Where football specialists differ who shall decide?  The writer was told of an interesting discussion recently between trio of newspaper editors, on the subject as to who was England’s finest goalkeeper of the present time.  Curiously enough all three experts differed in their selection.  The trio of keepers honoured were L.R. Roose, of Sunderland, William Scott of Everton, of Everton, and Liverpool’s Samuel Hardy.  The keen critic and followers of football, however, must admit that there is scarcely more than the proverbial pin’s difference in general ability and merit between these guardians; but probably the most remarkable phase of the situation is that each “selection” is of different nationality.  Personal opinion is that each of the three “tender” named has attributes absent in the other.
Playing To Gallery
For instance, Roose savours more of Scotland’s Rennie in that the unconventional largely enters into his play.  He is as much an “actor” almost as he is a goalkeeper when on duty, and, whilst one would not go so far as say that Roose plays the gallery, there is no doubt that his cat-pawing, his gigantic leaps through space, and his mighty “thuds” against the ball’s outer case, hugely delight the average crowd, even though they frequently go to discomfit his opponents.  Still, it has often been remarked that Roose is a custodian prone to saving the seemingly impossible, and yet allowing so-called “soft shots” to beat him; therefore one is justified in summing up the ex-Potter bas being a brilliant keeper of parts rather than a sound custodian.
The Liverpool Custodian
Liverpool’s Hardy, in a quieter way than Roose, usually succeeds during a match, in touching, and, if necessary, retaining brilliancy point.  When idle you find Hardy busy – busy treading up and down his goal line, like some caged thing, but directly danger is scented he runs instanter at right angles, and –without any flourish of trumpets, as though he would interpret to the crowd.  “I am England’s keeper” –one finds Liverpool guardian quietly ready to meet the foe.  As the attack closes in there is no dancing about on the keeper’s part as though he were either in a state of alarm or else anxious to throw the opposing raiders off their balance.  Hardly merely silently dodges his backs, if that be necessary, to retain his wonderful sight upon the “slidery ba’,”  and it is only when that ball finally leaves the foot or head of an opponent that he, with dexterous move, brilliantly succeeds in coping with the most pressing situation –as was evidenced only three short days ago.  His fielding, gathering, and clearing feats, too, are all of the hall-marked order.
The Thirsty Scott
Everton’s Scott, the prince of Irish custodians, possesses much in common with his friend in the enemy’s red short out Anfield way.  There is a delightful ease about Scott which is absent in most of his contemporaries.  To the writer’s mind Scott is an ideally built man for his task, possessing capital reach; not burdened with superfluous ounces, nor bemoaning any real lack of inches.  Gifted with marked confidence, Scott never allows this to lead him into the dangerous path of rashness.  Like the wise man he is, Everton’s keeper never uses an encased foot where two free hands are available.  But there is an ease, a finish, and a grace about Scott’s goalkeeping which is somewhat missing even in Roose and Hardy, whilst above all things, when he is beaten it is invariably a goal well won by the enemy so far as Scott is concerned.  Roose, Hardy, and Scott ask “F.F” readers to pay their money and take their choice!

FIXTURES AND REFEREES FOR NEXT WEEK
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 05 September 1908
Monday
League Division 1
Everton v Woolwich Arsenal –A.E. Farrant
Tuesday
Lancashire Combination –Division 1
Burnley Res v Everton Res –J. Sweeting.
Saturday
League Division 1
Everton v Preston N.E –R. Horrocks
Lancashire Combination –Division 1
Preston N.E. Res v Everton Res –E.J. Whittaker

FOOTBALL GOSSIP
September 5, 1908. The Liverpool Echo
Everton's team at Woolwich only included five of the Blues opening eleven v. Bristol City a year ago, the survivors being Scott, R. Balmer, Taylor, Bolton and Donnachie. The missing six were W. Balmer, Booth, Abbott, Young, Rouse, and Hardman, who in turn gave way to Macconnachie, Harris, Makepeace, Freeman, Coleman and Sharp. It is rather strange to note that whereas Bolton and Donnachie comprised Everton's right wing at the opening match of 1907-8 season the self same pair should comprise the Blues left wing at Woolwich on Wednesday and moreover, were the Blues only surviving forwards. Yet these two were beforehand looked upon as the Toffess weakest attacking links, and probably had “the man in the crowd” a vote in the team's selection neither would have got in. It would have been strange indeed had Everton paraded a brand new line compared with last September.

The Ashcroft selected to assist Everton's Reserves team v. Southport Central on Tuesday evening is nephew to the great Ashcroft who was developed in Everton's amateur eleven eight or nine years ago, but who was allowed to go South and ultimately gain international honours as a Woolwich gunner – not a crack marksman but a crack at stopping shots.
Stub Marks
Jack Sharp formed a very good opinion of Rogers and Wallace.
The Everton captain although in the Press Box, took no notes.
Is it true, that “Sandy” Young is a free man,”
Harry Makepeace is open for the 1909 season Cricket engagement.
“Sandy” has been very “Young” in some of his movements.
As Hardman's business was in Manchester it is only fair that he should assist in Manchester football.
Jack Taylor thinks it's time to dub him “an old warhorse” when he has had a season or two in League football.
Macconnachie plays best when his opponents are more excited, he is Peter Meehan over again.
Everton's Berry should soon be ripe for League team service when necessary. The wealthy Leaguers mean to force a free hand in the matter of payments to players.

EVERTON RESERVES V OLDHAM ATHLETIC RESERVES
September 5, 1908. The Liverpool Football Echo
(Lancashire Combination).
At Goodison Park. Teams; Everton; Berry, goal; W. Balmer and Stevenson, backs; Pratt, Borthwick and Rafferty, half-backs; Buck, Chetwood, Jones, Lacey and Dawson, forwards. Oldham Athletic; Mathews, goal; Stafford and Cope, backs; Butterworth, Shufflebottom, and Read, half-backs; Griffiths, Shadbolt, Andrews, Wolstenhomes, and Swarbrick, forwards. During the opening stages Oldham threatened danger on their right wing, but Stevenson proved reliable and mastered the advance. Buck tried to get away from a long forward pass, when he was hampered and failed to achieve his object. For the next few minutes play was confined to midfield, and then by the aid of the visitors left wing Griffiths ought to have put through but his shot against Balmer's foot and the sphere was removed to less dangerous quarters. From a smart pass by Jones, Dawson got in a beautiful centre, which Lacey and Buck attempted to consert, but Matthews held the ball on the ground and although injured a dong so, he saved the situation. For a time Everton kept up the attack and Jones was prominent with some excellent serves which however availed his side nothing and in the next minute Oldham were operating in the Everton quarters where Wolstenholmes drove in a sledge hammer shot, which just finished over the bar. The visitors refused to be beaten back but they failed to get within striking distance of Berry so well was he covered by Balmer and Stevenson. Still this did not prevent Andrews from getting in a feeble afford which Berry easily saved. The pressure on the Everton goal was evidentially pressure on the Everton goal was eventually relieved and Lacey in company with Jones marked out a course down the centre for Lacey to finish with a splendid shot, which struck the crossbar and rebounded into play when Stafford cleared with a hugh punt. There was little science observable in the methods of either sides, and the efforts of the forwards chiefly consisted of spasmodic raids to the respective goals, which allowed the defenders ample time to prepare for defence. Buck ought certainly to have opened the account from easy distance when his shot across the goal while at the other end Griffiths got the better of Stevenson and centred with precision, only to find he was badly supported. Shadbolt had retired with a damaged knee just before the interval. Half-time; Everton Reserves 0, Oldham Athletic Reserves 0. After the interval Everton pressed strongly but Oldham were the first to score from a clever run and shot by Swarbrick who shot almost from the touchline the ball enetering the net at the far end. Lacey scored for Everton combination.

BRISTOL CITY 0 EVERTON 2
September 7, 1908. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON'S BRILLIANT START.
SIX GOALS AND FOUR POINTS.
Not since Everton joined the League over 20 years ago has the club started a season in more brilliant fashion than has been the case during the past week. They have won matches right off the reel for some weeks together, but they have done nothing to surpass their debut in the season 1908-09. They have fulfilled two engagements, both of them away from home. Woolwich Arsenal were beaten four goals to nothing last Wednesday, while on Saturday the “Blues” lowered the colours of Bristol City by two goals to nothing. Thus in two “away” fixtures six goals have been forthcoming, while not once has the Everton defence been penetrated. What more could the most expectant supporters of the Goodison-road brigade desire? Surely their cup of rejoicing is filled to overflowing. It would however, be a mistake, remarkable as the performances are, to run away with the idea that Everton are likely to move all powerful. Of this there is no danger as regards either the directions of the players. Both recognise how exceedingly arduous is the struggle for championship honours and how equally balanced clubs in the League have become. The management on the one hand are desirous, as they have ever been of treating their servants with every consideration while the players are determined to give of their best. This is at it should be. After the Woolwich Arsenal game the Everton players were entertained at Richmond, enjoying a sail on the Thames one day and a visit to the Exhibition the other. Then they travelled to the West of England, encountered the Bristol City team, and did that which was expected of them, namely, annex a couple of points.

A MODERATE GAME.
It could hardly be said that the play approached the highest standard, or that it was of that intensely exciting description which is distinctive of really great struggles. For all that the football was interesting, though necessarily not very consoling to the Bristol crowd, who, be it said took the defeat in true sporting spirit. Early on it was evident that Everton –who, by the way, made no change in the side which overwhelmed Woolwich Arsenal –had not a very formidable task on hand. They were far nippier in their movements, and had a much better understanding than was exhibited by their opponents. Probably the latter were somewhat hampered by the sun, which they had to face, certain it is that for fully half-an-hour Scott's position in goal was a sinecure. On the other hand the visiting quintette were continually harassing the Bristol defence, and after twenty-six minutes play the reward of much clever work was forthcoming. Freeman drove in straight at Clay, who managed to get the ball away, but the sturdy centre forward obtained possession again and sent it flying into goal with such force that though the custodian touched the ball he could not prevent it reaching the net. Only in the closing stages of the initial half were the movements of the home side suggestive of danger, and then the backs, with the redoubtable Scott behind them, were fully equal to all calls. The Bristol men started the second half as if they meant to equalise. The Everton defence, however, was as steady as a rock, and when Freeman –as the outcome of a magnificent individual effort –had Clay beaten all the way, and registered his second goal, the Bristol representatives practically gave up hope. Still in the last few minutes Scott effected a magnificent save from Gilligan. Thus the struggle ended in Everton's favour by two clear goals.

THE PLAYERS.
The victory was achieved as the result of a good understanding between the various sections comprising the team. Freeman, of course, was conspicuous by reason of the fact that he was responsible for both goals. This success, coming as it did after his couple of goals against his old club mates, is agreeable proof of the “ex-Gunner's” capabilities as a scoring centre forward. Freeman has the requisite heights and weights, and though he may not be endowed with the gifts in the direction of knitting the wings together, which distinguish really great pivots, he possesses the happy faculty of seizing an opportunity for forcing his way through by sheer weight and determination, and shooting with deadly effect. Anyhow, four goals in two away matches is a performance upon which he may be congratulated. Sharp and Coleman constituted a fine right wing, but this can scarcely be said of the other wing. Bolton is more at home on the right, and for Donnachie, he is disappointing, he is disappointing, if only because he too often flatters only to deceive. In Saturday's match he and Bolton at times indulged in some pretty finessing, but for the most part Donnachie's finishing efforts were decidedly feeble. It seems as if the Everton directorate will have to find another outside left. Harris, Taylor, and Makepeace, formed a capable half-back line, not the least successful being the veteran –this with all respect –john Taylor, who wears wonderfully well, R. Balmer and MaConnachie were a sturdy pair of backs. The latter shows steady and consistent improvement, and looks like developing into one of the best backs in the country. As for Scott, he kept goal with his customary ability. He is indeed a valuable asset of the Everton club. The Bristol attack failed to realise expectations, and while Wedlock, for once in a way, was not too prominent, the goalkeeper, Clay, could not be blamed for his side's reverse. Teams: - Bristol City: - Clay, goal, Young, and Cottle, backs, Spear, Wedlock, and Hanlin, half-backs, Staniforth, Maxwell, Gilligan, Burton, and Hilton, forwards. Everton: - Scott, goal, R. Balmer, and McConnachie, backs, Harris, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs, Sharp (Captain), Coleman, Freeman, Bolton, and Donnachie, forwards. Referee C.C. Fallowfield.

EVERTON RESERVES 1 OLDHAM ATHLETIC RESERVES 1
September 7, 1908. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One. (Game 2)
Two points as the result of two home matches is not the form expected of Everton Reserves. They were somewhat unfortunate in not winning the game with Southport Central on Tuesday, but did have anything to spare against Oldham on Saturday, and only drew level towards the close. Although Oldham had a player hurt in the first half, they secured the lead soon after the change of ends, and then confined themselves almost entirely to defence. Lacey, however, did the trick five minutes from time from a centre by Buck, and the points were diverted. It was a game in which stubborn defence was always the feature, and the forwards were given few opportunities of shinning. The Everton attackers were very uneven, at times, but it must be said that the “Oldham” halves and backs gave them little quarters. The backs on both sides were in rare form, so that neither goalkeeper was overworked.
Everton: - Berry goal, Stevenson, and Strettell, backs, Pratt, Borthwick, and Rafferty, half-backs, Buck, Jones, Couper, Lacey, and Dawson, forwards.

EVERTON 0 WOOLWICH ARSENAL 3
September 8, 1908. The Liverpool Courier.
STRIKING REVERSAL OF FORM.
For the second time with in six days, Everton and Woolwich Arsenal have met in the League tournament. On Wednesday last Everton prevailed on the Woolwich ground by four goals to nil, last evening Woolwich Arsenal triumphed at Goodison-park in the opening home match of the season by three clear goals. This is a reversal of form with a vengeance. It is one of those extraordinary upheavals, which, after all, are the salt of League football. How to explain such an extraordinary “turn up” is well nigh impossible. Just as Everton earned their victory at Plumstead, so did the “Gunners” deserve the two points, which came their way at Goodison Park. It was a most disappointing experience for Everton's steadfast supporters, but the crowd of something like 18,000 people which witnessed the game had to admit that on the play the honours went to the more capable side. Everton did not merit a three goals to nothing defeat. Coleman's work in itself was worth a goal at least. He had no luck, however, with his many sterling shots, and, although success was not his, he undoubtedly did his utmost for the club of his adoption.

INCIDENTS OF THE PLAY.
Everton had only one man absent from the side, which recorded easy victories –six goals to nil –at Woolwich and Bristol. Sharp, the captain, was the absentee; and, while Donnachie was brought over from the other wing to fill his place, Dawson, a smart youth from Rossendale, had his baptism in First League football at outside left. The Arsenal had several changes from the sides beaten at Plumstead and at Nottingham, and as events proved they were all for the better. Certainly the “Gunners” did not start in as manner suggestive of their being what has been described as the weakest team in the League. There was a dash and go-head spirit about their movements, which was suggestive of no easy task for the Evertonians. Still, there was always hope that the men in Blue would assert themselves, but as the minutes passed and no goals were forthcoming the home supporters began to show signs of anxiety. There was a woeful lack of understanding between the Evertonians, and although the Arsenal custodian, McDonald, was frequently called upon, he always seemed to be in the right spot to deal with the shots. The first half looked like finishing without a goal being recorded. But a couple of minutes before the interval, Woolwich Arsenal's initial success arrived. A free kick was given against Makepeace. Ducat was entrusted with the kick, and the ball was pushed away by Scott, but Raybould placed it to Neave, who shot in hard. McConnachie tried to get it away and did so, but the referee ruled that a goal had been scored, and thus Arsenal crossed over with a point to the good. In the second half the visiting side played with more confidence. That a goal spurred them on to greater efforts. Everton's attack with the exception of Coleman, was far below the standard expected even though McDonald in goal had plenty of work, chiefly as the result of Coleman's grit and skill. Fifteen minutes had gone when Greenaway sent in a simple sort of shot to Scott. unfortunately, the goalkeeper slipped, and before he could recover himself Raybould had the ball in the net. The game now was as good as over, Woolwich Arsenal, however, was not satisfied, and ten minutes, before the finish Lee registered a third goal as the outcome of fine work on the part of the left wing.

COLEMAN THE SHINNING LIGHT.
From an Everton point of view the game had only one redeeming feature, and that was the wonderful display of Coleman. No man could have worked harder than he did and from the number of shots he banged in at McDonald he ought to have had at least one goal. Sharp was badly missed Donnachie was not a success at outside right, but what could be expected after two previous appearances on the other wing? Freeman at centre was all right, but he was altogether too erratic. Bolton was off colour altogether, and this perhaps had something to do with the ineffectiveness of the Darwen recruit, Dawson. The halves, too, never approximated their true form, and with the backs shaky and at times uncertain in their kicking, the reason of Everton's discomfitures is not far to seek. It was not one of Scott's brilliant days, but, after all, he was not to blame for the defeat of his side. The Woolwich Arsenal gave a very different exhibition to what was expected, and are to be congratulated on a remarkable victory at a time when the fortunes of the club seemed to be in a particularly bad way. McDonald in goal was lucky in having shots directed straight at him, but still he kept a really good goal. The backs kicked strongly, though not always with judgement, and as for the attack not the least conspicuous was Raybould, formerly of Liverpool, who seems top have found his proper place in these latter day at inside left. Disappointing though it was the fact remains that Woolwich Arsenal registered an unexpected victory by three goals to nil. The teams were: - Everton: - Scott goal, R. Balmer, and MaConnachie, backs, Harris, Taylor (Captain), and Makepeace, half-backs, Donnachie, Coleman, Freeman, Bolton, and Dawson, forwards. Woolwich Arsenal: - McDonald, goals, Gray, and Cross backs, Ducat Theobald, and McEachrane, half-backs, Greenaway, Lewis, Lee, Raybould, and Neave, forwards. Referee, Mr. A. E. Farrant.

BURNLEY RESERVES 4 EVERTON RESERVES 3
September 9, 1908. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 2)
At Burnley yesterday, Everton pressed at the outset, but Dawson broke away, and beating Stevenson, struck the upright, and the ball going into the net, registered a point for Burnley. Everton attacked, but found the defensive safe, and then Burnley assumed the upper hand, and Dawson headed in from a corner. Everton played up, but Buck and Couper shot wide. Ashcroft saved twice from Beddows and Lindley, and then Jones registered a goal from a penalty kick for hands. Interval Burnley 2 Everton 1. In the second portion Mountford and Lacey scored, however, Burnley winning by 4 goals to 3.

EVERTON TRY DAWSON AGAIN IN PLACE OF DONNACHIE
September 10, 1908. The Liverpool Echo
Bee's Notebook
G.H. Barlow Signs For Blues
Letters have continued to pour into the bag concerning the constitution of the Everton team. Many of them are unreasonable and have been cast away, and others concern a complaint which has as will be seen by the teams given below been remedied, wholly or partially. “Liscardite and “W.R.F” are correspondents I thank for their contributions, and regret I cannot publish their letters especially the Logic of the letter genetleman, who points out that “Just be it is much happier to be born their to a million than to have to work on it is much happier to be born to a place in a First League football team than to have a struggle for it. Last night the Everton directors met to select the team to meet their rivals from Preston at Goodison on Saturday and decided to omit Donnachie from the forward line and include Dawson with Bolton on the left. Sharp of course resumes and we shall look for a vastly different forward line display to that seen on Monday last. The other three lines are unchanged so the team line up under Mr. Horrock in the following order;- Scott; R. Balmer, and Macconnachie; Harris, Taylor, and Makepeace; Sharp, Coleman, Freeman, Bolton and Dawson.
Undoubtedly the left wing is the special weakness of the Everton club. That is the one thing everyone is unanimous upon. That the directors realize it is shown by the fact which I can definitely state this afternoon that George H. Barlow has signed for them. Barlow is quite young, but he is as experienced. Learning his football with Wigan Grammar School he was “wilted” into joining the ranks of the Preston North End club with whom he made many appearances at outside left. He is a sturdy fellow, and when I have seen him has done good service to his side. I saw him once at Stockport when he made his own openings as he could not get anyone to make their for him and before that he was seen out at Anfield against the Reds, in which match he was early on hurt so badly that he could not do himself justice. Will he prove Hardman the second, it is more than strange that Barlow's father is a solicitor in Lancashire, as was Hardman's father. Barlow has done little work in the football field so far this season, and a week of so must elapse and he is properly fit. He is of about the same height as Harold Hardman, and is much stiffer built though, from what everyone saw of Hardman, it is questionable if he can have greater grit and ceaseless energy. Last season Barlow played for the Northern Nomads with whom Everton have been negotiating. He is an amateur international, having played for England against Holland at Darlington. I should say he is not twenty years of age yet, and time and experience of sound football ought to improve his already good play. Everton and Preston have many deals. Have you noticed it? Speaking from memory the Mersey clubs have provided them with Jack Bell, Carlin, Chadwick, Winterhalmer, Stringfellow, and McLoughlin and recent years. These bargain sales have been immediately profitable to the North End club with only one exception. Jack Bell.

G.H. BARLOW SIGN FOR BLUES
September 10, 1908. The Liverpool Echo.
I can definitely state this afternoon that George H. Barlow has signed for Everton. Barlow is young, but he is experienced. Learning his football with Wigan Grammar school, he was “Wiled” into joining the ranks of the Preston North End club, with whom he made many appearances at outside left. He is a sturdy little fellow, and when I have seen him, he has done good service to his side. I saw him once at Stockport, when he made his own opening, as he could not get anyone to make them for him, and before that he was seen out at Anfield against the Reds, in which match he was early on hurt so badly, that he could not do himself justice. Will he prove a Hardman the Second? It is more than strange that Barlow's father is a solicitor in Lancashire, as was Hardman's father. Barlow has done little work in the football field so far this season, and a week or so must elapse, and he is properly fit. He is of about the same height as Harold Hardman, and is much stiffer built, through from what everyone saw of Hardman, it is questionable if he can have greater grit, and ceaseless energy. Last season Barlow played for the Northern Nomads, with whom Everton have been negotiating. He is an amateur International, having played for England against Holland at Darlington. I should say he is not twenty years of age yet, and time and experience at senior football ought6 to improve his already good play. Everton and Preston North End have many deals, having you noticed? Straight from my memory, the Mersey clubs have presented them with Jack Bell, Canlin, Chadwick, Winterhalmer, Stringfellow, and McLoughlin in recent years. (Bees).

G.H. BARLOW SIGNS FOR EVERTON
September 11, 1908. Lancashire Evening Post
It transpired yesterday afternoon that G.H. Barlow the Wigan Grammer School boy, who last season figured with success in a number of the games for North End, was signed for Everton. The stocky little amateur is very useful at outside left, full of pace, pluck and had to knock of the ball, and Everton are expecting him to turn out a worthy successor to Harold Hardman, whose further strange to say, is also a solicitor. Barlow has done little real work in the field so far this season, but he does not take much getting fit. It may be recalled that he played against Holland at Darlington in the amateur international and given plenty of opportunity, should get more honours.

SUNSHINE AND SHOWERS AT EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 12 September 1908
By Richard Samuel.
With only a little more than the first week of the season gone, Everton enthusiasts have experienced both ups and downs of things.  The Goodison men’s work at Bristol led to the birth of all sorts of nice hopes, but, alas! These were dashed to the ground on Monday by the reputed weakest team in the League.  But let one dwell for a few brief minutes on Everton’s good work.  Following their pronounced Plumstead victory, the Blues were set to face Bristol at far-away Ashton Gate, and there Everton succeeded in recording their maiden win on the City enclosure by two-nil.  They were full value for the two points, and be it known, too, that their opponents had been to Blackburn and drawn four days before, whilst this current week they have trained it to Newcastle, only losing there by an odd goal (recorded in the last minute), after having given the Tynesiders a grueling 89 minutes.  At Bristol, Bert Freeman was the artist who denied the City to draw, for he twice prettily worked his way through the home defence, and being voted a regular brick for the manner in which he defeated Clay.  Thus we had a most effective picture perfected for Saturday evening’s “F.F” League table, seeing Everton were at the head of the class, with two away wins to their credit and a 6-0 goal record.  A most pleasant feature in connection with the situation was that the dual wins at Plumstead and Bristol represented a net gain of four points compared with last season.  Everton were quite two goals the better side at the Western centre, and Freeman, of course won an extra good word by reason of his two all-important goals.
A Woolwich Surprise Packet.
Of course, there never was a greater “certainty” connected with the game than Everton’s return match v. Woolwich on Monday evening, and fully 16,000 people went along to Goodison to see Everton not only win, but also to see them strongly augment their goal average.  What they actually saw was something tremendously different.  Captain Sharp seized the opportunity – or his directors did it for him –to take a well-earned respite, after several months’ continuous work, and his absence apparently made a seven goals difference to the team, for whereas Everton were four goals in front less than a week previously at Plumstead, they were now three goals in arrear against a slightly remodeled Arsenal team.  We know what an adept Sharp is at placing the ball through the slips, but surely Monday’s absence was the unkindest “cut” of all!  The only change in the Everton team was the placing of Donnachie in sharp’s position, and the introduction of Dawson, the Rossendale recruit, alongside Bolton.  Right from the start Everton struck one as being far below the anticipated standard.  There was no spirit in their play, and Sharp’s absence appeared to lesson the pace of the attack by yards and yards.  It generally does.  One can rely upon Everton’s captain to keep the ball rolling, as it were.  Gradually Woolwich gained courage.  They trooped out on to the arena before the start like men who expected being eaten up by the enemy, but steadily were Everton’s badly-conceived, semi-listless, and wretchedly-executed attacks warded off.  The Blues never looked like scoring during the first half, but just on the interval following a free kick, Neare drove the ball in from close quarters.  It appeared to strike one of the uprights and then cannon right across the goal line, where Scott at the second attempt cleared.  Referee Farrant, however, pointed emphatically to the centre, and Everton crossed over a goal in arrears.  There was no time to retire, and the men were soon at it again, but as before, there was no life, no concerted action about Everton.  The team as a whole was absolutely tame, and nowhere as much as in the forward line, where one man alone was acting his part well, and he Coleman.  The crowd looked on aghast, and as the Woolwich attacks increased in force it made one wonder if the Blues had put on the wrong jerseys.  Retribution was at hand when Greenaway spun in a long fast shot to Scott, for the latter to push out to the on-coming Raybould, who banged the ball into the net for the second time.  Then it was that Coleman sought hard to reduce the margin, but McDonald always barred the way.  Yet another miss-up by the Everton defence followed, and Mordue registered an unmistakable third goal for the visitors, who subsequently tried hard to secure a fourth goal, and would have been heartily cheered, I believe, had they done so.  Coleman, poured in a series of shots to McDonald, all to no effect.
Everton the Inexplicable.
Everton’s behavior was as puzzling as it was unexpected.  With the exception of Coleman there was not a man who played up to standard, and one cannot help thinking they had been lulled into a feeling of false security and over-confidence by reason of what they had done in their first two matches, and by what Woolwich had failed to do.  Slipshod behavior will never win matches.  Everton realized that things were going away from them; the Gunners were moving with that alertness born of goals, and in the end “too late” was the Goodison cry.  Even Scott was not immune on this occasion, and I cannot recall him having such an unhappy time.  The ball, however, came awkwardly to him, whilst the covering of his backs was at times so scant as to give one the shivers even on a moderately warm day.  Everton’s backs are still a bone of contention with the critics.  Macconnachie for instance, proved a “brilliant” in the South, but here, against a young wing, and with Makepeace to assist, Mac, was by no means safe.  The Everton halves were no better than their backs, and shaped like a tired trio indeed, whilst forward the line seemed completely disorganized by reason of Sharp’s absence.  Donnachie was a complete failure at outside right, and Freeman neglected his wings, apparently in the hope of repeating his Bristol and Plumstead individual bursts for goal.  But he was too well watched even to become dangerous.  Bolton and Dawson somehow didn’t dovetail in the manner essential to a wing’s success, but Coleman’s stirring advances and shots deserved a better fate.  Of Dawson, I would say that one trial under such unfavorable conditions cannot tell one much.  His fault was in bad centring, for he persisted in crossing the ball too far back and too low.  Woolwich are to be complimented upon making the most of what came their way, but Everton lost a rare opportunity of building up a strong position in the table.

FOOTBALL FACTS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 12 September 1908

• Last season Everton only experienced one home defeat until April was reached.  They are early placed on scratch to obtained a similar position this season.
• Everton have added one more to their long string of outside left this week by obtaining the signature of George H. Barlow, who has assisted Preston North End as an amateur for a couple of seasons past, although he only appeared once with the Ribblesiders’ league team in 1906-7.  Curiously, that appearance was made against Everton’s neighbours, Liverpool, and Barlow scored Preston’s second goal in clever style.  Last season he assisted North End in nine League matches, and favourably impressed the writer with his dash and cleverness combined.  Barlow is small and light and his quickness of movement is strangely akin to that shown by Harold Hardman.  He is the son of a Wigan solicitor, and graduated with the Wigan Grammer School.

NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 12 September 1908

• Going to make a name is Winterhalder.
• The idea at Goodison seemed to be;- Oh! We can beat this Woolwich lot anyhow, any time, and with any team! H’m!
• The season so soon has furnished us with a few surprises –not the least being the downfall of Everton by the Gunners.
• Goalkeeper Scott was responsible for two goals; the Everton forwards were responsible for none.  Quite a reversal of function.
• Makepeace’s first appearance as Everton’s captain was not an auspicious one, his team being beaten.  The more severe critics say “disgraced.”
• Winterhalder, the ex-Evertonian, played a big part in Preston North End’s victory over Chelsea.  He was very tricky, and always passed the ball to advantage, besides which his shooting was powerful and accurate.
• Everton’s quick-firer; Coleman.
• Did Sharp’s absence make the difference of seven goals?
• Everton have had a happy send off at the expense of Southern clubs, and a setback.
• Everton’s left wing is giving trouble – but not to the opposition –as Evertonians would like.
• We hear a lot about harry Mountford as a special line in left wingers, but why not produce the goods?
• Young will, it is hoped, turn out for Everton very soon, either as centre forward or on the left wing.  He will strengthen the attack.
• Willie Scott mulled a couple of shots on Monday night which spelt goals to the Gunners.  With the exception of one or two wild kicks, R. Balmer and Macconnachie were excellent.
• The ingress to the Everton week-day matches could be much improved.  Many were the complaints heard last Monday night at the cheese-pairing policy of only opening one or two of the sixpenny gates.
• It is strangely coincident that Chelsea and Everton should each play such pretty, “tic-tac on the grass” football, and that Liverpool and Woolwich should gain the points.  Are we to assume that in these decadent days good football does not pay?
• Everton confounded the prophets on Monday.
• Everton Combination have made a poor start.  Two draws at home and a defeat at Burnley is not championship form.
• That Everton directors and players held Woolwich Arsenal too cheaply, is the probable explanation of the “Blues” defeat.
• The sweets of foreign victories, fought and won, turned to dry ashes in the mouths of Evertonians, players and spectators alike.
• Raybould was in a frisky humour at Goodison Park.  He was evidently pleased to score a goal before a crowd that contained many old admirers.
• Everton’s team requires strengthing, but the form of the Reserves so far gives little hope for an improvement by the introduction of any of these players.
• Everton spectators are not likely to improve the play of Bolton by their loud voiced criticisms.  They have quickly forgotten his donkey-work on the right wing in past seasons.
• The opinion that the play of the Everton right wing, Sharp and Coleman was mainly responsible for their victories at Woolwich and Bristol was fully justified by the forward play in the return match with Woolwich, for with Sharp away there was little deadliness in the attack.
• Donnachie is not Sharp enough.
• Everton are beginning to miss Hardman already.
• Everton reserve have got off the mark badly for champions.
• Alec Young is badly missed from Everton’s front line.  It is hoped he will soon be ready again.
• There is no truth in the rumour that Everton have put a bloodhound on the track of their mascot, the black cat.
• Everton supporters are asking why it was necessary to so soon rest sharp, especially in the first home match.
• It is hardly fair that Donnachie should play on the left wing one match and right the other.  The position he seems happiest in is undoubtedly outside left.
• Donnachie opened well, but fell away in the second half.  The ignorance of some of the spectators had a lot to do with this.  No player can do well while being jeered at.
• Overhead at Goodison Park after the Woolwich match;- First spectator; Are you coming on Saturday for the Preston match?  Second spectator; No! I will go to one of the parks to see some juniors playing FOOTBALL.

EVERTON V.PRESTON NORTH END
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 12 September 1908
(League.-First Division.)
The league’s two earliest championship winning clubs were found in opposition at Goodison Park this afternoon, and tempted with fine weather and a possible curiosity to see how far last Monday’s “phenomenal” form of both clubs would be confirmed or refuted a crowd of 24,000 put in an appearance.  Despite Everton’s woeful failure against the “Gunners” there was only one change in the home team.  Captain Sharp returning and Donnachie dropping out.  The Rossendale youth, Dawson, whose initial trial was made under such unfavourable conditions, again partnered Bolton, and hoped to do himself more justice.  He was obviously nervous and upset against Woolwich.  Preston North End naturally relied upon their eleven conquering heroes who had brushed Chelsea aside, and it was interesting to find two quondam “Blues” included in Winterhalder and Chadwick, the former in the novel position of outside right.  The weather was brilliantly fine, the only deterrent, of course, being the sun’s pronounced presence.  Teams;- Everton; Scott, goal; Balmer (R.), Right back, and Macconnachie, Left back; Harris, Right half-back, Taylor, Centre half-back; and Makepeace, Left half-back; Sharp (captain), Outside right, Coleman, Inside-right, Freeman, Centre, Bolton, Inside-left, and Dawson, Outside-left.  Preston N.E;- McBride, goal; McFadyen, Right back and Rodway, Left-back; Chadwick, Right half-back, McCall, Centre half-back, and McCall, Left half-back; Lyon, Outside-right, Winterhalder, Inside-right, Wilson, Centre, Dawson, Inside-left, and Danson, Outside-left, Referee; Mr. R. Horrocks, Farnworth. 
Goalless First half
It fell to Everton to face the sun during the first half, Coleman soon tried to set his skipper going, but placed the ball into touch, and then Macconnachie, crossing to the right, cleared his lines neatly after Preston’s left wing had rounded Harris.  A shout went up as Everton’s right-wing appeared to be let in by Rodway, but the thick-set McBride raced out with alacrity and kicked clear. Everton still applied the pressure, however, and after Harris had finessed somewhat long apparently, he succeeded in placing ahead to Bolton, who must credited with giving Coleman a delightfully-judged pass, which Tim took on the run, and almost knocked the 16-stone McBride over therewith. It’s remarkable how the Gunner does find the bull’s-eye in the shape of opposing goalkeepers. Just prior to this stirring event, Sharp was allowed in the referee, one thought, when well offside; but his Lightning Centre crashed into the side net. Everton were working with great resolution, Bolton being very prominent in this respect. Sharp several times forged ahead, but was unlucky in just losing the ball at the last minute. Everton’s Dawson cheered for good bit of play. Blues had the balance of play still, but Preston defence held out, and then came the first serious work the visitors, whose Dawson raced in and struck the upright with last shot. Platt soon afterwards worked his way well through and shot, but Scott easily saved.
Some hard even play was the order at this stage.  Macconnachie was prominent with some sterling defensive work against his club mate, Winterhalder.  Danson was soon in tricky vein for the visitors.  After a spell of uneventful play.  Dawson for Everton worked his way through and into the penalty area but was charged off the ball when just in the act of shooting.  As yet the players were more individual than collective in their work, and that cohesion so essential to success, was missing.  Makepeace made one fine save in the course of a dangerous Preston attack, Freeman had not been seen much to this point, but Coleman was a sterling factor in Everton’s attack, he trying here to open the Blues’ account.  Preston did not attack so frequently as their opponents, but Scott twice saved well.  The play continued hard fought if still somewhat nagged in character.  With half an hour gone the crowd was stirred, as Balmer saved his lines brilliantly to set Freeman on his way with a splendid run half the field’s length.  Freeman finished well with a splendid centre, which Coleman took and placed wide.  Had he left it to Sharp.  Everton’s first goal might have accrued the latter being the better placed at the moment for driving the ball home.  In the course of one Preston attack Makepeace handled inside the box, but as it was a case of accidental hands no penalty accrued.  Everton’s left wing was moving smartly.  Dawson acting a most creditable part, for he led several attacks, with ability.  Bolton, too, was most satisfactory, and was now deservedly cheered for putting in one of the cleverest shots of the day.  McBride saving brilliantly.  Everton were working with a zeal which deserved a lead, for as Sharp volleyed the ball over the bar at a great pace the crowd evinced further pleasure.  Freeman was a weak link in the Everton chain of attack, despite his one big individual burst.  He was not nearly unsparing enough.  Rodway shone in a duel with Coleman.  Preston were dangerous once again, following a rush, Scott saving under difficulties.  Just before the interval Wilson was penalized for a rather serious foul on Taylor.  Half-time was called without a goal scored.  The Everton attack had been crippled by reason of Freeman’s lack of attention to his wings.  Passes out to either Sharp or Dawson were not seen.  The home halves had acted their part well, and there North End Rodway, Lyon, McCall, Platt, and Danson each acted a noble part.  Half-time Everton 0 Preston North End 0.
After Half-Time
The sun had waned considerably when Platt re-started for Preston.  The re-opening was sensational, for inside a minute McBride saved brilliantly from Sharp.  Instanter, Preston responded on the left, and a centre from the wing came right across the Everton goal mouth, where Platt and Dawson were in attendance, also Taylor and Macconnachie.  The defence failed to get a boot to the ball and in a trice it was in the Everton net.  Platt was presumably the scorist although some said Dawson was the lucky man and others again, that the ball went beyond Scott off an Everton defender.  Naturally there was consternation in the home ranks, and likewise with the crowd.  Sharp and Coleman tried hard to force an equalizer after this but their shots persisted in crashing wide.  Preston may have lacked something in method, but they were dreadfully in earnest, and repeatedly despoiled the Blues.  They were also an object lesson when it came to shooting, Platt and Dawson excelling.  Balmer’s defence was very good.  Makepeace, tiring of his forward failure, now tried his luck, but the ball topped the bar.  Everton’s form was not an improving quantity, but the crowd displayed a patient hearing as yet.  Freeman now raised faint hopes with a capital shot, but what was this compared with his many failures in other respects?  The Blues’ Dawson negative much of his good work by a fatal tendency to stick to the ball too long.  Makepeace tried another shot, and after a semblance of combination between the Everton inside forwards McBride was called upon to save a weak header.  The Blues’ policy should have been to feed Sharp and Coleman more than was the fact.  As yet the Preston defenders were complete masters of the situation.  Bolton at inside left was not the cause of Everton’s failures, it must be said, for he had worked well.  Everton showed but little improvement as the end approached, being a disheveled crowd indeed Preston being a goal in front did not hesitate to kick out, but there was little to fear, so dreadfully weak were the men in blue.  Everton’s display went to show that Monday’s result versus Woolwich, far from being all wrong, was not so wide of the mark.  It is clear that changes will have to be made in the team.  Couper and Barlow are names which come in mind as being a likely couple of strengthen the Everton attack.  There are also Lacey and Harris with Adamson included at half-back.  It is quite clear that some changes are imperative.  Final; Everton 0, Preston North End 1.

PRESTON NORTH END RESERVE V EVERTON RESERVE
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 12 September 1908
Played at Deepdale, in beautiful weather, before about 4,000 spectators.  North End played up-hill with the sun in their eyes.  They made several attacks on the Everton goal, but were always pulled up.  At last Everton were seen to advantage, and commenced to give trouble to the home defence.  The home goalkeeper was several times called upon.  From a corner Adamson was only a few inches wide with a capital shot.  After half an hour, the home left couple got past Stevenson, and from a centre by Sanderson Smith easily scored.  Five minutes later Jones beat McLean, and equalized the score for Everton.  Bond and Worthington were given several opportunities, but always shot badly but finally Bond made a desperate effort, and both Berry and Stevenson had to stop his shot.  A corner was conceded, which had just been taken when the interval with the score one each.  Play was very fast in the second half, North End were aggressive, and had three corners in quick succession.  Once Smith ran past the backs, but with no one but Berry in front of him he put the ball a few inches wide.  Everton only made spasmodic efforts.  Jones made a grand run almost the length of the field.  He got past the North End backs and passed to Chetwood, who put the ball into the net.  Within two or three matches North End had a corner, which was well placed by Sanderson, and the score was again equalized.  Play remained fairly score was again equalized.  Play remained fairly even until the finish, but there was no more scoring.  Final; Preston North End Reserve 2, Everton Reserve 2.

EVERTON 0 PRESTON NORTH END 1
September 14, 1908. The Liverpool Courier.
ANOTHER EVERTON DEFEAT.
LUCKY PRESTON GOAL.
Deciding things are going badly with Everton. On Monday last Woolwich Arsenal beat them at Goodison Park by three goals to nothing, and on Saturday Preston North End carried away maximum points as the result of a fluky goal. There is little consolation in the reflection that the proud Prestonians were in luck's way; the galling tact is that Everton lost the game. It made the pill all the more bitter seeing that the defeat came on the top of the unsatisfactory display against Woolwich Arsenal. What can be the matter with Everton? The players started the season in brilliant fashion, actually winning four –nil at Woolwich and two –nil at Bristol. Then came –and at home the –three –nil on the wrong side with Woolwich Arsenal, and now one –nil with Preston North End. What can be made of it ? The four away points gained have been ruthlessly thrown away. This is the disappointing feature. It is indeed an unkind cut, Moreover, the spectators –many of them were ever fickle –are apt even at the beginning of a season to pretend to a feeling of disgust if they do not really possess it. There will have to be something done with the Goodison park team.

THE DECIDING GOAL.
Although Preston North End carried off the points, it cannot truthfully be said that Everton on the play deserved to be beaten. They were responsible for much more pressure than their opponents, but whereas they failed to find the net, the visiting side were blessed with the good fortune to be practically presented with a goal which meant so much to them. The first half of the game was barren in the matter of goals, and the Blues more than held their own, not withstanding that they had to face the sun. It was shortly, after the second portion of the game was entered upon that the fateful goal arrived. North End's centre forward, Platt found himself unwatched, or rather the Everton defenders were relying too much on each other, and the consequence was that the ball apparently off Taylor went past Scott, and reached the net. It was distinctly a bit of luck for they did not forget to profit by their good fortune. The defenders allowed no loophole to the home attack, and though the ball was for the most part in North End's half McBride and his backs were equal to all demands. Indeed, so rocklike was the defence that there was no occasion to resort to the tantalising expedient of kicking into touch whenever the opportunity presented itself.

THE PLAYERS.
There is no doubt that Everton have been woefully disappointing in their opening home engagements of the season. It is not at all palatable for a club with the resource of Everton to be taken down in two successive matches before their admirers. Of course several of the old faces are missing, and it seems likely as if some of the younger blood will have to be given a chance of distinguishing themselves. Except for the regrettable mistakes, which led to the goal that was so valuable, no great fault could be found with the defence. But there was a lack of understanding between the halves and the front line, which was by no means suggestive of success. Age is telling on the sole-hearted player John Taylor, and in front of him, Freeman seemed quite unable to produce the form of which he is capable. Indeed he was quite out of the picture. So also was Bolton, who was lamentably weak. Dawson, at outside left, showed that he is possessed of cleverness, but one will be the better able to form a judgement as to his capabilities when he has a partner, who understands him and plays to and with him. Sharp and Coleman were useful, though far from brilliant. The victors' football was not of a high standard, and they were best served by their defence, particularly in the case of the goalkeeper, McBride.
Teams: - Everton: - Scott, goal. R. Balmer, and McConnachie, backs Harris, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs, Sharp (Captain), Coleman, Freeman, Bolton, and Dawson, forwards. Preston North End: - McBride (Captain), goal, McFayen, and Rodway, backs, Chadwick, McCart, and Lyons, half-backs, Winterhalmer, Wilson, Pratt, Dawson, and Danson, forwards. Referee R. Horrock.

PRESTON NORTH END RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 2
September 14, 1908. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 4)
The Everton Reserves team appears to have a partiality for drawn games this season. three of their four Combination fixtures have resulted in the point being divided, and as the other game was lost. Everton have only obtained three points out of a possible eight, an early victory will be welcomed. At Preston on Saturday the Evertonians showed better form than in some of their previous engagements, and were fully entitled to their drew of two goals each. Smith opened the scoring from Saunderson's centre, but Jones equalised in fine style. After the change of ends Buck gave Everton the lead, only for Sanderson to equalise from a corner. It was a hard fought game all through, and both sides showed smart foot work. Everton: - Berry, goal, Stevenson, and Meunier, backs, Rafferty, Borthwick, and Adamson, half-backs, Buck, Chetwood, Jones, Lacey, and Mountford, forwards .

MIDDLESBROUGH 2 EVERTON 3
September 21, 1908. The Liverpool Courier.
SIX “AWAY” POINTS.
Truly the Everton team have began the season's work in extraordinary fashion. They have fulfilled five League engagements, three away and two at home. Yet what has been the result? The away matches have been won; the home games lost. Again at Goodison-park the Blues have failed to credit themselves with a solitary goal, while no opponent's enclosures they have averaged three goals a match. This is, indeed, remarkable, it is altogether contrary to the accepted theory of the League competition. The usual idea is that if a team cannot win fixtures on its own ground, it has little chance of earning anything approaching distinction in the tournament. Everton apparently take a different view of the situation. Their supporters are delighted to hear of their success in different parts of the country –that against Middlesbrough on Saturday was very comforting, but what they would appreciate even more would be a series of victories at Goodison-park. And is it too much to suggest that the satisfaction will soon be afforded them?

PLAYER'S LEG FRACTURED.
The visit to Middlesbrough was especially interesting in view of the fact that “Sandy” Young returned to the field, and that he with G.H. Barlow, an amateur who last season assisted Preston North End, constituted the left wing. Let it be stated at once that the re-arranged line was a distinct success. Everton certainly were full value for their win by three goals to two. Indeed, but for a regrettable accident, their victory might have been more pronounced, it was just as the referee was about to blow his whistle for the interval that Freeman and Campbell, the Middlesbrough right back, came into collision, the unfortunate result that the latter sustained a compound fracture of his leg. Freeman, it appeared had raised his leg to get the ball away when Campbell made a strong kick, his shin coming into contact with his heel of Freeman boot. Campbell at once fell to the ground, a stretcher was produced, and he was carefully removed to the dressing room, and thence in the ambulance to the infirmary. The mishap cast a damper on the proceedings, and moreover, had an unsettling effect on certain of the players, which detracted from the character o the play in the second, half.

EVERTON'S GOALS.
Until the accident the game, considering the heat had been productive of some excellent football, full of nice touches, and refreshing endeavour to give of their best both sides. It was a rather curious half. The Middlesbrough men had all the better of the exchanges in the earlier portions; then the change which came over the scene found Everton masters of the situation. There was, however, a wonderful difference in the matter of result. Whereas during the time that Middlesbrough were pressing –they shot, too, with stern determination and accuracy. Scott and his fellow defenders maintained the goal, infact once Everton settled down they completely baffied the home defence. Their first point was the outcome of judicious work by Makepeace, which was improved upon by Freeman, who wiggled between the opposing backs, and shot into the net. Barlow was credited with the second goal. The ball had been swung over from the wing by Sharp, and although Young missed it the Wigan amateur, from a difficult angle, crashed in a hot shot, the ball screwing through Williamson's hands, into the net. Yet a third time, the now demoralised Middlesbrough defenders were beaten. They were quite at sea with the judicious, and masterly onslaught of the Everton vanguard, and the nippy Coleman taking a pass from Sharp, this time gave Williamson no chance. It was in the course of another Everton attack that Campbell met with his accident. After the change of ends, the play was not nearly so enjoyable. There was an undercurrent of feeling. Perhaps natural, after Campbell's injury, and also too much ankle trapping. Andrew Aitkens partnered Watson for some time, but then the one back game was adopted. The Teesiders imparted considerable vigour to their movements, and thanks to Bloomer, who has not lost much of his old scoring powers, they obtained a couple of goals. They tried desperately for an equalised, but the sound Everton defence prevailed.

THE PLAYERS.
The Everton team were more like themselves than on any occasion this season. Especially was there improvement forward. There was a much better understanding between the members of the line, and when, after Middlesbrough's spurt failed, they found their feet they gave the opposing defenders no mercy. Each man worked with rare determination, and the combination was a treat to witness. Freeman distributed the play with judgement, and of course, he was admirably supported with Sharp and Coleman, the more effective wing. Still, for a first appearance, the left wing Young and G. H. Barlow, showed what they may be capable of when they know each other's play better. Young was done up towards the finish, but it must be remembered that it was his first game for nearly five mouths. The amateur was not too well pleased with his own display. At the same time he rendered a good account of himself. He is speedy, and ever on the look out for work, and knows how to centre and to take corner kicks. Makepeace was the best of the halves, but as a matter of fact there was little fault to be found with any section of the defence. Bloomer, if not the hardest worker, was the outstanding forward on the losing side, if only on account of the number of shots he got in at Scott. For once in a way Williamson did not shine in goal . Everton: - Scott, goal, R. Balmer and McConnachie, backs, Harris, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs, Sharp (Captain), Coleman, Freeman, Young, and Barlow, forwards.

EVERTON RESERVES 1 BIRKENHEAD 1
September 21 1908. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
Everton gave a most disappointing display in their friendly encounter with Birkenhead, just managing to effect a draw in the last minute of the game. The play throughout was a luke warm character, and with nothing at stake it was not surprising that the players did not extend themselves. Still, this was not sufficient excuse for the mediocrity of the play of the Blues. Little fault could be found with the Everton defence, while the halves although lacking in finish, playing a worrying sort of game. The forwards supplied the weak link in the Everton side. There was little or no combination apparent, while their shooting was poor in the extreme. Couper made a remarkably poor pivot. He displayed poor ability in distributing the play, and his shooting was ill-timed and aimless. The Birkenhead eleven played a serviceable sort of game, Chapman, the custodian being most prominent. The visitors led by a penalty goal at the interval granted by Balmer handling, and just on time Anderson succeeded in drawing level. Everton: - Berry, goal, W. Balmer, and Meunier, backs, Pratt, Webb, and Ormister, half-backs, Evans, Lacey, Couper. Anderson, and Woods (Len), forwards.

NEW EVERTONIANS
September 24, 1908. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
Two Warrington Albion F.C. youngsters have been signed by Erverton Football Club, and will probably play on Saturday with the Reserves. One is Webb, a centre half, who played in the friendly fixture on Saturday and shaped very well, and the other is Osborne, a right full back.

LETTERS WE DIDN'T POST
September 26, 1908. The Liverpool Football Echo
Jack Bell Late Everton and Preston North End
Dear John– You will possibly feel that you hard had sufficient trouble lately in having to contemplate the spectacle of weeping skies and practically empty benches on the occasions of your benefit match the other night without having the further annoyance of people writing letters to you. But let me remind you that the art of getting letters is something like greatness some men achieve letters while others have letters thrust upon them (county court and other summonses come under the latter heading). You therefore in this case are suffering from an attack of “thrustness.” There is just the chance that you have had so many letter's dedicated to you one way or another that you will grasp the purpose of this epistle before you have properly read it. But I must risk that, for whenever there steals over my sprint the feeling thus I've got an inspiration to write to somebody, then I simply must do it. Of course you might say that I have anything of importance to tell you I might come round and see you,” as the song has it but I am confoundedly bashful and besides I fear that if I did call on you I might get a Harry Lauder record turned on me. You have a gramophone, haven't you” At the same time I cannot but express my pleasure that you have settled down in Liverpool after you have got all your wonderings over. Mention of your wanderings reminds me of a story I heard in which you were an unconscious actor. While you were associated with Glasgow Celtic a certain young man who was enthusiastic supporter of the green and white bridge took his best girl to Celtic Park to see his pets perform. He thought the young lady would enjoy herself. She enjoyed herself a great deal more than her hence expected and she grew quite enthusiastic over one of the Celtic players. “Who is that awfully nice-looking chap with the black hair she asked. The young man indicated “John Campbell” and asked if he was the object of her solicitude. “No –he's too stout I mean that well built fellow, the one with the lovely moustache. Then he knew. You Know “Jack” there never was another moustache in first-class football quite like yours. Well, the upshot was that the maiden fair insisted on being taken to see Celtic on all possible occasions, and she raved about Jack Bell and his upper tip decoration to such an extent that her swain was driver to desperate extremities. He decided to grow a moustache like unto yours. You could have stocked a fair shop with the “hair tonics” patcho, &c, that he brought, but all he achieved was something that at least had some connection with football. It was about eleven a side. it is difficult to say exactly what might have happened had it not been that your decided to return to England and your moustache is to that gin now nothing but a memory. Her husband is clean shaven.

I referred to your moustache just now as a “decoration and while on the subject let me offer my condolence on the fact that the “decoration” you wanted most you never got.” I mean the English Cup winners medal. The nearest you even came to getting it was in 1897 and by your play in the final against Aston Villa you certainly deserved one. I should fancy that the mere mention of tat encounter will bring a rosy blush to your manly blow. That was empfiatically your day and I hold that no injustice would have been done had a special medal been given you for your performance then. As it was you got a runners-up badge. Tantalizing things these runners up badges! How they in after years conjure up bitter memories of the “might have been” which brings up another story of a marriage ceremony where the best man was hustling around trying to keep things lively. He spied a young man standing in a corner looking rather disconsolate so, with the intention of cheering him up a bit he remarried. Come on man, you're wasting time here – have you kissed the bride?” “No recently” was the mournfully reply that young man, Jack was likewise a runners up. Your Everton days were I should think the best of your football life, and even now out Goodison way they talk affectionately of Jack Bell and his brother. I often thought that it was a very fortunate circumstance that the Blues' headquarters were not in another part of the city that I wot of, for it saved us the pain of hearing you and Laurie referred to as “Dingle Bells.” That would have been too much. His strange though, that the opportunity which your association with your brother in Everton gave to the poets of immortalizing you in verse was never taken and I am certain that had Edgar Allan Pee known of your illustrious well you would have had a “chime” of “Bells” all on your own. As the matter helped his notice owing to the fact that his poet was written too soon I myself will do my best to rectify the omission. I may say that it is only the very clear sense of duty that I held and the knowledge that means of transport from Liverpool are many .

STUB MARKS
September 26, 1908. The Liverpool Football Echo
The first of the local matches next Saturday.
Secretary Mr. Will Cuff lost a valuable ring at Teeside. A looped the loop. The finder will be. –Happy!
The Everton eleven are a veritable fifteen puzzle.
Sandy Young sprung a bit of a surprise on the local public last week, as did Barlow –on Williamson.
A fine fat gale was predicted for Goodison Park this afternoon.
Everton's practice games resulted in the giving of £212 one and one pence to local charities.
The Joke of the season;-
Harold Hardman is an inside right
Everton's away successes and home defeats are not fair to the club's shareholders.
It is surely shabby treatment to rescue shareholders season tickets to a merely nominal sum –half a clown wasn't it?
And then to serve up penny-three-farthing football at Goodison Park.
Unless a change for the better has set in today we may expect rumpus at the club's annual meeting next May. Indignant shareholders may demand
a portion of their ticket-purchase money being returned.
But they won't have a leg to stand on (no reference to adjacent beershops intended)
For nineteen League matches at 1 ½ d to up to 2s 9 ¼ which more than covers that half-crown original outlay referred to. Everton should go far in this season's League journey judging from what they can do at such distant places as Bristol, Middlesbrough and Woolwich.
Barlow is the third-tried outside left of the Everton season.
Everton's latest outside left is an engineer
He did himself ample justice at Teeside if he was a shinning light, and in so sense a “gilty”we are any judges of good and weak play. He was a shining light, and in some sense a “gilty” one.
Everton and Freeman have continued to confound the critics.

EVERTON THE UNWEIGHABLES.”
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 26 September 1908
By Richard Samuel.
For the second Saturday within fifteen days but two First Leaguers Saturday earned a brace of points apiece. Everton’s opening successes at Woolwich and Bristol, followed by their home failures, had put the club’s supporters in a curious frame of mind. Hence, when their half-time reading v. Middlesbrough was announced at Anfield, there was noticeable some little laughter intermingled with the cheering. But can you wonder? For are not Everton the genuine surprise packets of 1908-9, always doing the more or less unexpected thing? It was bold stroke the part of the management to include Sandy Young and the young amateur recruit, G. H. Barlow, a left wing, for Sandy had undergone no real preparation, nor had he kicked a ball for Everton since April last, whilst the ex-Prestonian had only participated in one friendly match prior to Saturday. The Everton directors, evidently, agreed to look upon Freeman’s form against North End as untrue; at any rate, he was retained for centre forward, and although Adamson made the journey to Tees-side he was not called upon 'relieve either Taylor or Harris. In a heated encounter, marked, alas! a really deplorable accident to Campbell, the Middlesbrough right back (who sustained a compound fracture the leg in a collision with Freeman), showed themselves capable withstanding heavy pressure at the outset, following which Freeman again displayed his fondness for individual goal scoring. Directly Everton were one up the home team faltered; and Barlow, with Coleman, added further goals before Campbell’s misfortune arrived. I am sure all sympathize with this promising back in his trouble, and wish him recovery of a complete character. His case seemed to upset the visiting team more than the Boro’, for Bloomer rubbed two goals off in the second stage.
Everton’e New Left Wing.
Everton’s experiences to date are quite without precedent, and truly can it be said that they are one of the most amazing teams of the year, confounding the critics, be the latter kindly or otherwise disposed. Apart from the two points won, the success of Young and Barlow as a left win! Constituted the most pleasing feature of the day’s play. On Saturday’s form the Everton directors may be said to have solved the left wing problem, just as they did it two years ago, when George Wilson was sent inside left to partner Hardman. I must congratulate Barlow upon his very promising first appearance under the Everton standard start which was stimulated with early goal and an early victory. As I remarked a week or two ago, upon learning that Everton were negotiating for’ his transfer, considered Barlow is a really good and bright outside left, when watching him against Liverpool at Anfield. He was quick of movement, able to combine, and in general a most progressive young man of the Hardman type. Goodison habitués will have had an opportunity to take peep at him this afternoon, when they would be able to judge for themselves. I trust that Barlow has borne out one’s previous impression. Like Young, he was scarcely prominent after the interval at Middlesbrough, but this wasn’t surprising, all things considered, Sandy Young’s resurrection, of course, was the one topic of conversation last week-end. The invalid not only looked well, but played well position he warmed to last spring. His swerves and drawing of the opposition, also his feints, were pronounced as ever. Hope to see Young in the Everton team for many seasons yet; can certainly add to its attractiveness, and also to Its effectiveness. Concerning the ether players, I will merely say that Freeman showed considerable improvement, did the half-back line, whilst Robert Balmer was the greatest light for good in defence.

FOOTBALL FACTS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 26 September 1908

• Prior to last season Liverpool hadn’t gained a League victory over their great Everton rivals since January, 1899.
• Everton’s trio of away successes are all the more remarkable in that they have followed long journeys to far away Bristol, Middlesbrough, and Woolwich.

FOOTBALLERS VISITING LIVERPOOL
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 26 September 1908
Should take dinner of Tea at “THE CANTON,” 14, Temple-st, off Dale-st (2 minutes from Exchange Station, 5 minutes from the Ferries).  Trams for Everton and Liverpool Football Grounds pass top of Street.  Large or small parties catered for.  Popular Prices.  Write for tariff, Wines, Spirits, Bass, &c of the finess description.

NUGGETTS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 26 September 1908

• Wilson, the Everton international, is proving his worth to Newcastle.
• Everton Reserve gave a very weak display against Birkenhead in a friendly.
• Some Evertonians are particularly anxious that Adamson should have a trial.
• Bloomer will soon have a nice pile of goals to his credit-another couple against Everton.
• Everton held a commanding lead at half-time against Middlesbrough, but the Teesiders pulled themselves together, and with the least slice of luck would have equalized.
• Hardman’s Everton friends were surprised to find him selected for the unusual position of inside right.  He was hardly a success in his new role, though his work lacked nothing for the want of trying.
• United’s centre forward is almost as useful with his head as the famous “Sandy” of the same ilk.  It will be a case of “heads we win” when Wall’s “fragile” partner resumes.
• Middlesbrough made a big effort to neutralize Everton’s half-time lead of three goals, and were extremely unfortunate in having Campbell carried off with a broken leg.  Subsequently Steve Bloomer notched two great goals, but the Northern team’s continuous bombardment of their opponents’ goal was otherwise fruitless.
• It is a pity to keep a player like young Adamson out of the Everton team.
• Ayresome Park the home of Middlesbrough is one of Everton’s happy hunting grounds. 
• What would be the funniest thing in life today?  Everton 0, Manchester City 3.  At Goodison.
• Everton have not been beaten at Teeside since October 1st, 1904.
• Sandy Young’s return to Everton’s forward line has greatly improved it.
• Sam Wolstenholme, it is said, has retired from the game.  Surely this player is yet far from a spent force.
• G.H. Barlow must be said to have made a promising debut, as outside left for Everton.  As he was short of practice at Middlesbrough an improvement in his play may be looked forward to with confidence. 
• A question asked this morning at Everton; Who will be the first Blue brave enough to score at Goodison Park?
• The Goodison Park Club brought two valuable points away from Arysome Park, but one of their directors unfortunately left behind him a very valuable diamond ring.  Perhaps it was in consolation to Teeside supporters.

EVERTON V. MANCHESTER CITY
(League.—First Division.)
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 26 September 1908
The re-appearance of Everton at Goodison Park this afternoon had been eagerly awaited not only in view of their curious “away" and “at home” form, but also because their supporters were being promised a first peep at the ex-Preston amateur Barlow, coupled with Sandy Young's presence for the first time this season in an Everton “at home." Everton were desperately anxious to do themselves more justice than hitherto, before their own supporters, and naturally relied upon the team which prevailed at Middlesbrough last week.  By the way, Adamson’s health has not been good late, hence his recent absence. In Manchester City Everton were faced by a determined and a capable team, who came at practically full strength. Little Holdford was preferred to the lengthy Eadie, this being the ex-Potter’s initial 1908-9 appearance. Ross was retained at inside left, and Grieve returned to inside right, this meaning the absence of that charming champion beneficiare “Lot’’ Jones. There was a large attendance, an exciting game evidently being anticipated. Our football clubs have been in luck this season, each Saturday locally being fine. There was fair wind, however, blowing from goal to goal. Everton; Scott, goal; Balmer (R.), Right-back and Macconnachie, Left-back; Harris, Right half-back, Taylor, Centre half-back, and Makepeace, Left half-back; Sharp (Captain), Outside-right, Coleman, Inside-right, Freeman, Centre, Young, Inside-left, and G.H. Barlow, Outside-left.  Manchester City; Smith, goal; Kelso, Right-back and Jackson, left-back; Buchan, Right half-back, Holford, centre half-back and Blair, Left half-back; Webb, Outside-right, Grivie, Inside-right, Thornley, Centre, Ross, Inside-left and Conlin, Outside left.  Referee; Mr. J. H, Pearson, Crewe,
LIVELY OPENING.
When the teams appeared the crowd would probably number some 20.000. The City won the toss, but gave Everton both the wind and the sun in the first half, the sun, however, being in spasmodic mood. Everybody appeared the quivive when Freeman set the ball rolling. The start was sensational, in that Everton failed to score in the first minute, when Makepeace worked beautiful opening for Freeman, who tricked the City defence and arrived to within a few feet of Smith. It looked a thousand to one on a goal, but, wonderful to relate, Freeman banked the ball wide when it appeared absolutely impossible to do. It was a woeful miss, and the audience were astounded. Barlow twice showed Splendid Work in crossing the ball in front of Smith. After this the City showed rare forward work their left wing particular doing great things, Ross on one occasion being cheered.  During this period of pressure Scott and Makepeace shone in defence for Everton until Sharp broke away with a thrilling run- More work by Barlow was followed by a slashing right wing attack. Coleman and Sharp had shots charged down, following which Freeman again missed the goal when it appeared odds on a goal.  Jackson and Macconnachie in turn showed an able defence.  Colin delighted the crowd again, but Balmer held his ground well, and then Everton had an abortive corner.   After a fierce 15 minutes play again slowed momentarily.  Balmer and Taylor were cheered for smart defensive tactics.  The Everton forwards were dreadfully anxious to open the goal-scoring account at Goodison, but at the critical moment the extra lively City backs repelled their advances.  However, a goal was not long delayed.  Freeman, despite his missed goal and the fact that he did not pass to his outside forward was combining much better than usual with his inside forwards.  After Coleman had experienced bad luck with two capital attempts, Everton worked in closely and Freeman, being hampered, touched the ball to Young, who drove it in towards Smith at a great pace.  Smith partially stopped the ball but failed to clear and it dropped about a foot inside the goal line.  Thus did Everton’s first home goal of the season materialize after nearly four weeks waiting.  After Everton were debited and credited with two rather curious free-kicks, nothing accruing therefrom.  Five minutes after Everton’s first success, the Blues’ previous performance was repeated almost to the letter, Freeman ending a raid by touching to Young, who drove hard into the net.  Thus Freeman, by the aid of the two passes named, compensated for his previous failures, making two goals in five minutes.  Hereabout Ross collided with a Blue in the Everton penalty area, and was laid out for repairs.  During this brief period of rest, Balmer and Buchan got at loggerheads, and it appeared as though a face was slightly smacked.  The balance of play, however, was surely Everton’s their passing being splendid.  Ten minutes after his first success, Young nearly knocked over Smith with a shot, and following up again, netted, thus completing the hat-trick and scoring three inside ten minutes.  It is interesting to recall that in the corresponding match last season Thornley performed the hat trick for the City.  There was no holding Everton, who were certainly out for goals today, what-ever they had previously done at home.  A minute after the third goal had been obtained, Coleman was fouled by Holford just outside the box.  Sharp took the free kick, and Smith, as in the case of Young’s first goal, found the ball too hot to hold, and it trickled a foot inside the line –result, Everton four goals up.  The time of sensation was not o’er, for a minute later Thornley was grassed by Taylor, and a penalty was conceded.  After much preparation, Holford  took it only to shoot straight at Scott.  There was a reason for Everton’s great superiority apart from the cleverness of their attack, and this was to be found in the wonderful work of Makepeace at left half, and the scarcely less brilliant behavior of Val Harris.  Right to the interval Everton were the aggressors Smith seemed absolutely shaky and overawed with superiority of his opponents.  Coleman seemed unhappy in his finishes, but Young and Freeman each made several fine attempts to further increase the Blues’ lead, which might easily have been seven goals at half-time. 
Everton 4, Manchester City 0
Comments
Young was cheered upon retiring at half-time.  His inclusion had certainly exercised a wonderful influence for good, as did that of Barlow, who, however, might profitably have been given more work to do.  His play was hall-marked throughout, however.  It had been a great time for Everton, and the second stage was awaiting with equanimity.
After Half-Time
On resuming City were the first to become dangerous by the agency of their left wing.  This ended in a weak shot by Grieve who looked suspiciously like offside.  Balmer brilliantly relieved another situation as Thornley menaced.  Freeman and Young saw-sawed beautifully until a false move by Sandy ended the business.  Then Barlow sent in a long one to Smith which the latter fumbled, although not fatally.  Then the City had a crumb of encouragement, as following a throw in the ball went to Thornley who got the better of Taylor, and with a fast rising shot, scored a capital goal, this accruing five minutes after the restart.  Balmer was doing finely at right back.  Today’s sharp-shooters hadn’t yet shot their bolts, and from another quiet advance by the Blues, Coleman put the ball to Taylor, who recorded Everton’s fifth goal.  Smith in the City goal had throughout the game been under a cloud, and he was by no means in his work.  Kelso was hooted for fouling Barlow, and then the game was stopped awhile as Jackson damaged himself in trying to stop Sharp in a brilliant run.  The winger got his centre across, and how Coleman managed to shoot straight at Smith was a puzzle.  Barlow was working with much cleverness and determination, and it is quite clear that he and Young have quite solved the left wing problem.  On the other extreme Sharp was seen in refulgent mood this half.  Against Preston the Blues were as the Genesis page of the book.  Today they were the other extreme.  Sharp’s opponent could only race and chase after him, and wonder how he did it.  Everton were a positive delight.  The City were being walked around even more pronouncedly than when they lost 9-1 at Goodison two seasons ago.  That goal did not come hereabouts was astonishing.  Seldom indeed did the City cross the half-way line.  Everton form today should mean hundreds of pounds to Liverpool next week, even if it does not mean defeat.  Coleman couldn’t do anything right near goal, which was a good thing for Smith.  Young continued a glutton for work, and many of his movements were utterly amazing.  Another surprise goal for the Mancunians.  After a breakaway Thornley tried a cross-shot which came off, Scott scarcely showing his best in attempting to deal with it.  It was remarkable that nearly all today’s goals came other than as the result of sustained pressure on the part of either side.  City had a short run and then Barlow splendidly got the better of Kelso, and finished with a lovely centre which Sharp lofted over the bar.  Further strenuous endeavours by Young and Barlow saw the little outsider worm his way towards goal, for Buchan to trip him.  A penalty followed, and Sharp made no mistake with a hurricane shot.  The City will long remember their latest visit to Goodison, wherein they caught Everton at the top of their form.  Sharp, Young, were the outstanding brilliants in attack, and Makepeace, Balmer, and Harris in defence.  Taylor also played a good game.  Five minutes before the end Thornley scored a wonderful goal.  He found himself out on the left wing, and with a trio of opponents hanging on to him, the visiting centre actually worked his passage right along and crossed Scott’s vicinity, finishing up with an unmistakable goal, and thus not only sending up the second hat trick of the day, but also repeating his three goals score in the corresponding match of last season.  Today’s happenings at Goodison will live long in the memory of Manchester.  Final; Everton 6, Manchester City 3.

EVERTON 6 MANCHESTER CITY 3
September 28, 1908. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON'S REMARKABLE VICTORY
MANCHESTER CITY OUT PLAYED
SCOTT MAGNIFICENT PENALTY SAVE
Everton were themselves again last Saturday. They had played a couple of League games at home, and not only had they dropped the full measure of points, but they had not even the Satisfaction of being able to claim a single goal to their credit. It was a humiliating positions, despite three “away” victories, but it was all wiped off at the expense of Manchester City. A result such as six goals to three speaks for itself. But pronounced, as was the margin, it by no means represents the run of the play. Everton might just as easily have doubled their score. A remark of this kind may appear far-fetched, but to anyone who witnessed the discomfiture of the City representatives, it must bear the impress of a truthful representation of the proceedings. Not for a long time in First League warfare has a team been so absolutely outplayed as Manchester City were by Everton, is there a screw loose somewhere in the Manchester club's ranks? This was the conclusion, which not a few reliable judges of the game arrived at after Saturday's match. How far the suggestion may be correct is a matter of opinion. Certainly Manchester City's display was altogether too bad to be true. The Everton representatives were in their happiest vein, and probably would have vanquished the strongest side in the League. Still what was casue of Manchester City's feeble exhibitions? An answer may be forthcoming later.

A BIG OF GOALS.
Two seasons ago Manchester City sustained their record defeat –9-1 –at Goodison Park. That was at the time when the City's old players had come under the ban, of the Football Association. Last Saturday there was no such contretemps and the management of the club placed what they regarded as their strongest side on the field. It is quite unnecessary to enter into the details of the play. A mere recital of the goals will occupy quite enough space. In the first half-minute of the game Freeman with only the goalkeeper to encounter, ought to have scored. Then for a quarter of an hour the match was as even as could be with the pace something out of the common. It was “Sandy” Young who earned fame for himself and the club. He popped on three in the space of about ten minutes –one undoubtedly ought to have been saved by the goalkeeper- and great were the repoicings of the 30,000 spectators. Sharp put on the fourth (Later acknowledged as Freemans goal)–again Smith was at fault –and Holford having failed with a penalty-kick (After Balmer fouled Thornley). . Everton were in the extremely happy position of crossing over with a four clear goal lead. It was pretty evident that they could not lose and yet the second half produced five goals –three to Manchester (all from the foot of Thornley) and a couple to Everton, one a simple lob by Taylor and the other a penalty kick goal, taken, by Sharp for a foul on the amateur Barlow. On the face of the scoring in the later portion it might be though that Manchester City had the better of the play. This was far from being the case. Except for occasional breaks away, in which Thornley was conspicuous, Everton simply toyed with their opponents, who for the most part were made to appear as if they were more novices at the game.

HAT TRICKS.
It rarely happens in a League encounter that a player on each side can boast of the feat of accomplishing what in football, like the summer pastimes, is regarded as the hat-trick. Yet, Young scored thrice in the first half for Everton, and after the change of ends Thornley did ditto for Manchester City. More remarkable still is the fact that in the corresponding game at Goodison-park last season Thornley scored the three goals which enabled his side to draw. Indeed, the centre forward was the only player in the visiting team to do himself anything like justice. Conlin was a trier, though handicapped by a bad leg, the halves were extremely moderate, and the backs, Kelso and Jackson, were quite unable to cope with the dashing Everton attack. At times Smith brought off brilliant saves, but he ought to have prevented at least two of the goals. As for Everton, there was not a weak spot in the team. Scott has been seen to better advantage, but then he was left out in the cold so long that no wonder he was caught napping. Balmer was the clever of the backs, and as for the halves, Taylor, though he played a sound game, was overshadowed by the success of Harris and Makepeace. Freeman was good and bad by turns, but for all that the work of the front line was eminently pleasing. Everton would seem to have found their left wing at last. Young apart from his three goals, was as tricky as ever, while G.H. Barlow, a little player full of pluck and cleverness, created a most favourable impression. Sharp and Coleman were great though both missed easy chances. It was a treat, especially in the second half, to watch the ease with which they rounded the opposition. Sharp had quite a field day. In view of his wonderful display one could even forgave him for lifting the ball over the bar, when it seemed much easier to plant it in the net. Teams: - Everton: - Scott, goal, R. Balmer, and McConnachie, backs, Harris, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs, Sharp (Captain), Coleman, Freeman, Young, and Barlow, forwards. Manchester City: - Smith, goal, Holford, and Buchan, backs, Kelso, Blair, and Jackson, half-backs, Blair, Taylor, Barlow, Holford, and Thornley, forwards. Referee J.H. Pearson.

OLD XAVERIAN 2 EVERTON RESERVES 5
September 28, 1908. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
Everton Reserves gain a substantial victory over the Old Xaverians, at Wavertree by five goals too two. Although heavily beaten, the amateur were by no means disgraced. It was a tough struggle all through, and the contest sparkled with several bright bits of play. The Blues were more dashing than their opponents, and early in the game Couper gave Everton the lead after good work by Lacey, and then Pratt drew level with a good individual effort. Couper got through again, and Lacey also did the trick before the interval. Afterwards Evans scored for the Blues, and Pratt got a second for Old Xaverians, after Berry had bungled the ball. Strettell added the fifth goal from a penalty kick. Everton: - Berry, goal, Osborne, and Strettell backs, Pratt, Webb, and Ormister, half-backs, Evans, Lacey, Couper Anderson, and Woods, forwards.