Everton v Burnley August 17 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
The Everton A.F.C opened the season on Saturday by playing Burnley, and as this was the first visit of a Burnley team to Liverpool, great interest centred in the match above 1,000 spectators being present within the Anfield enclosure. During the first half the home team pressed Burnley considerably, work. Farmer and Higgins both scored, and McGill and Brown should also have scored points. In the second half of the game the Burnley men penned Everton within their own lines and scored four goals (Beattie, Hutton 2, and Woods), the game thus ending in favour of the visitors by four goals to two. Teams; - Burnley; - McClintock, goal; Smith and Hargreaves, backs; Raynor, Beattie, and Keenan, half-backs; Hutton, McCrea, Kennedy, Woods, and Bryce, forwards. Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Marriott and Dobson, backs; Pickering, Finlay, and Sutton, half-backs; Richards, Brown, Higgins, and J. McGill, forwards.

Everton v Burnley
August 17, 1885. The Liverpool Mercury
The Everton football Club opened the season on Saturday at Anfield with an exhibition match with Burnley. There was a good attendance of spectators, but the weather was far too warm for good play. Everton with the ground in their favour, scored within five minutes from the start, Farmer putting the leather through from an apace by W. Brown and before the close of the first half Higgins scored the second goal for Everton. This was all the local club obtained, for in the second half Burnley put on 4 goals and thus won by 4 to 2. Farmer and Dobson played hard and well for the home team. Beattie and Brice showed up best for Burnley. Everton; Joliffe, goal; Dobson and Marriott, backs; Finlay, Pickering, and Sutton, half-backs; Farmer, McGill, W. Richards, W. Brown and Higgins, forwards. Burnley:- McClintock, goal; Hargreaves and Smith, backs; Beattie, Raynor, and Keenan, half-backs; Mascae, Hutton, Kennedy, Bryce and Woods, forwards.

TEAM NEWS
August 22, 1885. The Liverpool Mercury
In the match between Everton v Darwen, which will be played at Anfield, the following players will represent the teams:- Darwen; T. Suter, Warburton, Barron, Harnilton, Barnes, Owen, Marshall, Walton, Boston, Campbell, and J.C. Holden (Edinburgh University). Everton; The team will be chosen from the following- Pickering, Marriott, Dobson, M. Evans, Findley, Corey, Fleming, Wilding, Farmer, Higgins, Gurley, McGill, Gibson and Brown. Kick-off at 4.30.

August 22 nd 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
At the Anfield enclosure, today, Everton will be opposed by the first team of Darwen, and no doubt the play will be of a high-class character. The Darwen team will be as follows; - T. Suker, goal; Warburton, and Baron, backs; Hamilton, Barnes, and Owen, half-backs; Marshall, Walton, Rostron, R. Campbell, and J.C. Holden (Edinburgh University) forwards. The Everton team, from what we hear, will be a strong one, and it is just possible that in this particular the followers of the fortunes of the home club have a pleasant surprise in store. The fixture at the Anfield enclosure for next Saturday is with Great Lever; and during September at the same ground the Blackburn Rovers, Blackburn Olympics, and Accrington will put in an appearance.

Everton v Darwen
August 24 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
The ex-Liverpool cupholders had another summer field day on Saturday at the Anfield ground, who they took in hand a team of Darwenians. The contest considering the time of the year and the important counter attraction at Bootle was well patronised, and a good game ending as it did in a draw prizes. Everton set the ball in m motion and the backs being efficient kept the Darwenians at bay, until at length, shortly before half-time Fleming and Richards got under way and a shot by the former striking the post enabled the latter to find the opening. A few minutes after the chance of ends, Rostron, as the result of a scrimmage, put the record even; and there goals being the only point made Everton came off very creditable in an undecided encounter. Teams; - Darwen; - Holden, goal; Warburton and Baron, backs; Owen, Hamilton, and Barnes, half-backs; Marshall, Rostron, J. C. Holden, Campbell and Walton, forwards. Everton; - J. Pickering, goal; T. Marriott and Dobson, backs; Finlay, M. Evans, and Corey, half-backs; Farmer, Gurley, Wilding, W. Richards, and Fleming, forwards.

August 29 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
Today, at the Anfield enclosure Everton will play the third of their exhibition series of matches, the opposing team being a very strong representation of Great Lever. The teams will be as follows; - Great Lever; - Hay goal; McKernan, and Lucas, backs; Shields, McWhirter, and Walkinthaw, half-backs; Howarth, Shorrock, Niel, D. Hay, and Strachan, forwards. Everton; - Pickering, goal; Dobson, and McGill, backs; Corey, Finlay, and Higgins, half-backs; Fleming, Richards, Wilding, Farmer, and Gurley, forwards.

EVERTON V GREATER LEVER
August 31, 1885. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton 0, Great Level 1
Played on the Everton ground on Saturday. The weather was favourable for play, Everton reinforced by Veitch, were sanguine of making a good fight with Great Level, who won by a goal, headed through by Walkingshaw to Milne. The point was made early in the game, but Everton had considerably the best of the play on the change of ends, the Great Lever goalkeeper fisting out several fine shots, whilst several of the backs had to work hard.

Everton v Great Lever
August 31 st 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
Continuing their series of preliminary matches, Everton took in hand Great Lever at their ground on Saturday. With the weather more in keeping with football, and stimulated probably by the good show made the previous week when pitted against Darwen, an increased number of Evertonians was present. With commendable promptness, Wilding kicked off but Farmer failed to follow up the advantage, and play for a time became open, flying visits being exchanged. Pickering was next called upon to meet an attack by Sharrocks and Strachan, and then Everton in turn became the attack a good shot from Richards being well warded off and an attempt by Farmer crossing the bar. Taking advantage of the ensuing kick, the visitors rushed away, and forced a corner, from which Walkinshaw headed a goal. Great lever maintained for a little the pressure, shots being directed chiefly from the right wing. Strachan once striking the post. Richards in reply, initiated skirmishing at the Great Lever goal, but to no purpose, the defence being too perfect, and Pickering soon found himself in trouble again. He, however, managed to hold his own, clearing in particular a free kick at the mouth of goal very smartly. The ensuing play up to the interval was more even terms, and void of special feature. Gurley. Soon after the restart tried the effect of a long kick from the left, but without success, and a visit to Everton end followed, where Veitch did the needful. Everton now began to show better combination, with the result that the ball was more or less hovering about the visitors' goal. Lucas, McKernan the goalkeeper and others, however, behaved splendidly in defence, and permitted no opening, whilst Dobson was equally efficient in checking raids for his side, and as no other point was obtained, the home team were beaten by a goal to nil. Teams; - Everton; - Pickering goal; Veitch, and Dobson backs; Higgins Finlay, and Corey half-backs; Gibson, Richards, Wilding, Gurley, and Farmer forwards. Great Lever; - T. Hay, goal; Lucas and McKernan, backs; Walkinshaw, McWhirter, and Shields, half-backs; Howarth, Niel, D. Hay, Sharrock, and Stranchan, forwards.

Everton v Bootle
September 3 rd 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
The first match of the season between these opponents took place last evening at the Anfield enclosure, and as each had shown such excellent form in their preliminary matches against some of the strongest of the Lancashire clubs much local interest naturally centred in the event, and, despite the unsettled state of the weather there was a large attendance. The visitors were short of their full complement at the commencement of play, but the number was speedily made up, no goal meanwhile resulting. The home team winning the toss Bootle kicked off, but Everton at once rushed up the field and were within an ace of scoring, the ball going just outside the post. Dobson being cheered for a piece of fine play. Farmer then tried to score from a long shot, but the ball went over the crossbar. Everton next gained a corner which, although well placed by Rogers. Bootle then made a sally upon the home fortress, but the danger was soon removed and the ball taken into the visitors' territory, where, from the result of an accurately placed corner kick by Fleming, Richards scored a splendid goal amid the cheers of the home partisans. About ten minutes afterwards Everton again gained the ascendancy, and from a scrimmage in front of the visitors' fortress Farmer scored the second goal, and half-time being then called, Everton were leading by two goals to none. On changing ends play was of an even character. Bootle then gained a “corner” which was taken by Grayson but the home team proved equal to the occasion, and no goal resulted. Some lively play then took the place in the Bootle quarters, which ended in the ball being kicked behind the uprights. Bootle now tried hard to score, but were frustrated in their attempts by the fine play of Everton forwards. Jackson, the Bootle goalkeeper, saved his charge on many occasions, and but for him the Everton score would have been larger than it was. Everton than had a “look in,” and some good play was witnessed in the vicinity of the Bootle citadel, a corner passing off harmlessly. No more goals were scored, and Everton were thus left the victors of a good game by two goals to nil. Teams; - Bootle; - Jackson goal; Veitch and Hutton backs; Galbraith, Deyland, and Rogers, half-backs; Hutton, jun., Grayson, Dfixon, T. Morris, and R. Anderton, forwards. Everton; - Pickering, goal; Dobson and Corey backs; Fayer, Finlay, and Welsh half-backs; Richards, Farmer, Gurley, Fleming and Wilding, forwards.

EVERTON V BOOTLE
September 3, 1885. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton met Bootle at Anfield yesterday evening, and after a pleasant game Everton won by 2 goals to nil. Everton pressed Bootle severely during the first half, and scored 2 goals (Wilding and Farmer). The second half was played in semi-darkness. Teams; Everton; Pickering, goal; Dobson and Corey, backs; Welsh, Finlay and Fair, half-backs; Fleming, Gurley, Richards, Wilding, and Farmer, forwards. Bootle; Jackson, goal; Veitch and Hutton backs; Develin, Rogers, and Gailbraith, half-backs; Morris, Grayson, Anderson, Dixon and Hutton, forwards.

THE LIVERPOOL DISTRICT CHALLENEGE CUP
September 3, 1885. The Liverpool Mercury
A special meeting of the committee of the Liverpool and District Football Association was held last evening (Wednesday), when among the clubs represented were the Liverpool Ramblers, Everton, Bootle, Stanley, Earlestown, Haydock, and others. Mr. A.B. Hall (Liverpool Ramblers) and Mr. H. Heard (Bootle) were unanimously elected chairman and vice chairman respectively of the association for the ensuing year. The honary secretary (Mr. R.E. Lythgoal subsequently stated that 38 clubs had entered for the challenge cup –at present held by the Earlestown F.C –while last year there were 30 clubs in the contest. The draw for the first round of the competition afterward took place, and resulted as follows:- Southport Christ Church v. Bootle Wanderers, Oakfield Rovers v Cambrian, Bootle Christ Church v Southport Crescent, Tranmere v Earlestown Wanderers, Southport v. Burscough, Linacre v. Liverpool North-end, Liverpool Brombrough v. Earlestown (holders), Stanley Refiners (earlestown) v. Warrington, Stanley v Haydcok St. James, Liverpool St. Mary's v. Southport High Park, Liverpool Post office v. Golbourne, Liverpool Gymnasium V. Skelmersdale, Liverpool Rambers v. Bootle, Liverpool St. Benedict's v. Haydick, Everton v. Southport Wanderers, Newsham v liver, Whiston v. Liverpool Union, Birkenhead Argyle v. Liverpool St. Peter's, new Ferry v. Toxteth Wanderers. The first named club in each tie has the choice of the ground, and all ties have to be played off on or before October 31.

September 5 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
Today, at their Anfield enclosure, Everton will be opposed by the full strength of the Blackburn Rovers holders of the Association Cup, and as the home interest have been well looked after some very fine play is confidently anticipated. The teams are as follows: - Rovers; - Arthur goal; Turner and Lofthouse backs; Heys, and Forrest, half-backs; Walton, and Douglas, right wing; Sourbutts, and Strachan, centre; Fecitt and Harper left wing. Everton; - Pickering goal; Dobson and McGill, backs; Corey Finlay and Welsh half-backs; Fleming and Richards, right wing; Wilding centre; Farmer and Higgins, left wing.
Thirty-eight clubs as against 30 last season, have entered the compettition under the auspices of the Liverpool Football Association, the first round of which must be completed on or before the 31 st of October next. The draw resulted as follows; the first named club in each instance having choice of ground. Christ Church (Southport) v Bootle Wanderers; Oakfield Rovers v Cambrian (Liverpool); Christ Church (Bootle) v Crescent (Southport); Tranmere v Earlestown Wanderers; Southport v Burscough; Linacre v Liverpool North End; Bromborough v Earlestown (holders of the cup); Sankey Refiners v Warrington; Stanley (Liverpool) v Haydock St James; St Mary's (Liverpool) v Highpark (Southport); Liverpool Postoffice v Golborne; Gymnasium v Skelmersdale; Liverpool Ramblers v Bootle; St Benedict's (Liverpool) v Haydock; Everton v Southport Wanderers; Newsham v Liver; Whiston v Union (Liverpool); Aryle (Birkenhead) v St Peter's (Liverpool); New Ferry v Toxteth Wanderers;

The second round toes to be played on or before December 12 th and the third by January 23 rd .

Everton v. Blackburn Rovers
September 7, 1885. The Liverpool Mercury
Between 3,000 and 4,000 spectators assembled at the Everton ground on Saturday to witness this match. The visitors put a good team in the field, but at the earlier stage of the game Everton had the best of it. After thirty minutes play, however Strachan and Lofthouse put Pickering in trouble, a return being well worked through by Fecitt. Just prior to half-time Stranchan accomplished a couple of successful shots. The play continued to be interesting and Fecitt put a fourth point to the Rovers credits, the latter winning by four goals to none. Everton; Pickering, goal; Dobson and McGill, backs; Finlay, Welsh, and Corey, half-backs; Farmer, Higgins, Wilding, Fleming, and Richards, forwards. Rovers; Welfall, goal; Suter and Turner, backs; Forrest and Heyes, half-backs; Harper, Fecitt, Strachan, Walton, Lofthouse, and Douglas, forwards.

Blackburn Rovers v Everton
September 7 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
The visit of the strong first team of the Blackburn Rovers (holders of the Association Cup) to the Anfield Ground on Saturday attracted perhaps the largest crowd that has yet been packed within the enclosure there being upwards of 3,000 persons present in anticipation of an interesting game. There were several changes in the Everton team, Vietch Gurley and Gibson making way for Welsh Fleming and McGill, and although the local amateurs were defeated, as it was expected they would be, they gave their formidable opponents a right good game. Strachan started the ball at 4-30, and Higgins and Farmer forward, and Welsh and Dobson back at once becoming active, Everton were enabled to drive the visitors on the defence for a time. Farmer, Finlay, and Welsh each shot at goal, but partly through eagerness on the one hand and excellent defence on the other, no point was scored. After half an hour's play Strachan gave effective relief by beating McGill and shooting Pickering however, fisted out nicely, but only to find himself defeated by Fecitt in return, caused by Lofthouse. The latter at once tried another shot, but the ball went just behind the post; and then returning to the attack after a flying journey up the hill Blackburn scored a couple of goals in rapid succession and both from the toe of Strachan, as the result of a pretty piece of forward play. Everton continued the game with spirit, and before the interval gave some trouble, Dobson sending in a good shot, as did Farmer, after the latter and Higgins had got the best of Hayes and Turner in a tussle. A few minutes after the change of ends Lofthouse served the ball from the right, but McGill headed away, and then Fecitt took up the movement and got the bets of Pickering a second time. This was the last point made and Everton were beaten by four goals to nil. As a fact, however, the result hardly reflects truly the game, for Everton repeatedly assumed the attack all along though unsuccessfully. Teams; - Everton; - Pickering goal; Dobson and McGill, backs; Finlay, Welsh and Corey, half-backs; Farmer, Higgins, Wilding, Fleming and Richards forwards. Blackburn Rovers; - Wolfall, goal; Suter and Turner backs; Forest and Heyes, half-backs; Harper, Fecitt, Strachan, Walton, Lofthouse, and Douglas forwards.

Association Game
September 12 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
A month ago the Evertonians ex-holders of the Liverpool and District Association trophy, commenced a series of preliminary matches of the highest class, amongst the visiting clubs being Darwen, the reorganised and vastly improved Great Lever, aznd the famous Blackburn Rovers, all of which organisations appeared at the vastly popular Anfield enclosure in full force. The spirit of the old Everton, which has lain dormant for years, has at length been aroused, the English cupholders being welcomed last Saturday at the Anfield enclosure by many thousands of enthusiasts. A few days prior to the visit of the Rovers, the old local rivals Everton and Bootle met at the same ground to fight anew their battle for the supremacy of the district. In the whole of these contests the Evertonians acquitted themselves so well as to inspire hopes of a most successful season. Today the Blackburn Olympic holders of the Football Association cup in 1883, will be the visitors. Their grand display at Anfield in the springtime of the present year is still sufficiently fresh in the memory of Evertonians to ensure, weather permitting another large attendance at the Anfield ground; and as Captain Dobson –a happy choice -will have the support of the best team Everton can muster, the game will be full of interest and exciting incidents. The Everton team has under gone several changes from that which donned the parti-colored jersey a season ago. A good man has been secured in Fleming, and when Wilding the Welsh international forward, who hails from Wrexham, becomes better acquainted with his colleagues, he will no doubt prove a most valuable acquisition. We hear of the probability of the advert of a clever half-back from Oswestry district, but for the present nothing definitely is known. Among other important matches to be played at Anfield is one with Accrington, on Saturday next; while later in the season visits will be made by Oswestry, the Welsh Druids, Padiham, Wrexham, and Witton, these being in addition to fixtures with all the best clubs in the immediate district. Since last season the ground has been materially improved, but there still remains work to be done of an important character.

Everton v. Blackburn Olympic
September 14, 1885. The Liverpool Mercury
These clubs played at Anfield Ground on Saturday. Dewhurst kicked off on behalf of the Olympic against a strong wind. Everton played up well, and 2 goals were secured by Farmer while Costley obtained 1 for the visitors. Everton leading at half-time by 2 goals to 1. On the chance of ends the visitors played well together with the wind, Costley and Dewhurst scoring a goal each. Everton tried hard to equalise, but were prevented, the visitors winning by 3 goals to 2.

Everton v Blackburn Olympic
September 14 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
This match was played on the Everton ground on Saturday before a large attendance of from 2,000 to 2,500 spectators. The home team won the toss, and Dewhurst kicked off on behalf of the visitors against a strong wind, notwithstanding which, however, the Olympic assailed the home fortress, but the ball was kicked over the bar. Some good play, however, on the part of the Everton forwards removed hostilities to the other end, where Farmer scored the first goal for Everton. Soon afterwards a fruitless corner fell to the home team, but in close following the Olympic strong hold was reduced for a second time by Farmer. The visitors then made a determined rush on the Everton goal, without, however, being able to score. Being thrown back upon the defensive, the Olympic goalkeeper repulsed a good shot sent in by Farmer, but Richards who was close in to promptly put the leather through the upright for the third time, but the point was disallowed for an alleged infringement of the rules. A “foul” then fell to the visitors in their own quarters, from which they rushed down the field, and Costley scored a goal –and half-time was called, with Everton leading by two goals to one. On changing ends the home team were compelled to act on the defensive and eventually the Olympians rushed on the Everton citadel, and Costley equalised the score with a good shot. Everton then tried to score a further point, but without success, although Ward, more fortunate, scored a further point for the Olympic. The visitors were now playing a fine game, and aided by the wind, the home goal was constantly in a state of siege, but the defence was good, and as no further point were scored the visitors were left the victors of a good game by three goals to two. Teams; - Everton; - Pickering, goal; Dobson (captain) and Duckworth backs; Wilding, Corey, and Finlay, half-backs; Farmer, Higgins, Sowcroft, Fleming, and Richards, forwards. Blackburn Olympic; - Leigh, goal; Beverley and Little, backs; Astley, Hunter, and Gibson, half-backs; Dewhurst Matthews, Ward, Costley, and Slater, forwards.

Everton v Accrington
September 21 st 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
Upwards of 2,000 spectators assembled at the Anfield Grounds on Saturday to witness the debut of the Accrington eleven in Liverpool. Scrowcroft had no sooner kicked off on behalf of the home team than the visitors rushed up the field and gained a corner kick, which, however, passed off harmlessly. Accrington then got a “foul” for hands in front of the home goal, but Lindsay fisted out a dangerous shot, and Richards took the sphere down the field, and some exciting play ensued in the visitors' quarters, the ball eventually being kicked outside the posts. A few minutes afterwards the visitors scored agoal McBeth doing the needful. Then Richards again obtained possession of the leather, and after a splendid run nearly the length of the field, equalised the score, a feat which was hailed with much cheering. Lindsay immediately afterwards stopped some hot-shots, and half-time was called with the score standing one goal each. Upon the recommencement of hostilities, Everton rushed up the field, and quickly scored a second goal, by Fleming. A “corner” then fell to Accrington, from which Mackereth scored a goal while after some pretty lively play a further goal was scored for the visitors from the feet of McBeth. Everton now made a claim for a “foul” which, however, was not granted following which Accrington being closely pressed, conceded a “corner,” but without result. The “Reds” now made a sally upon the Everton goal, which remained intact, the ball going behind the posts. Richards about this juncture received a hurt, and the home team were thus placed at a disadvantage for a while. No further goals were scored, and Accrington were left the victors of a good game by three goals to two. Fayer played a fine game for the home eleven. Teams; - Everton; - Lindsay goal; Dobson and Marriott, backs; Corey, Fayer, and Welsh half-backs; Richards, Fleming Scrowcroft, Farmer, and Gurley forwards. Accrington; - Cowell, goal; McLennan, and Stephenson, backs; Woods, Bryee, and Chippendale, half-backs; McBoth, Douglas, Conway, Mackereth, and Bonar, forwards.

Accrington v Everton
September 21, 1885. The Liverpool Mercury
The final of thee series of exhibition games engaged in by the Everton club was played on Saturday at the Anfield enclosure and about 2,000 spectators lined the ropes, though the weather was threatening and the ground in a poor condition, consequent upon the excessive rainfall. The contest, however, was very equal. A start was affected at four o'clock when Everton kicked off against a slight breeze. The home men commenced to press the visitors a good shot by farmer being got away by Cowell. Accrington were soon at the other end. Dobson having to give a corner, but nothing resulted. Fayer was playing neatly in midfield, and consequently upon some good passing by Everton, Fleming scored, after some give and take play. Richards now sent in a beautiful high shot which Cowell failed to save so that at half time Everton were 32 goals to Accrington 0. After the usual interval, some excellent play was displayed by both sides, the Accrington forwards playing magnificently placing 3 goals to their credit –Macbert 2, and Mackegreth 1 –the visitors thus winning by 3 goals to 2. Teams; Accrington; Cowell, goal; Stevenson and McLellan, backs; Chippendale, Bryce, and Wood, half-backs; Conway, Marbutt, Douglas, Bonar, and Mackereth, forwards. Everton; Lindsay, goal; Dobson and Marriott, backs; Corey, Welsh, and Fayer, half-backs; Richards, Fleming, Scowcroft, Farmer, and Gurley, forwards.

Football Notes
An organisation having few equals for enterprise is the Evertonians and the ex-cup holders have every cause to feel gratified at the position and the results attained by the team in the exhibition games already played; few clubs have made such immense strides as the club in question. The players acquired from other parts of the country are an undoubted suggest making the combination the powerful one it is, though a weak spot or two might filled up to advantage. Farmer, Wilding, Dobson, and Fleming are individually clever players; and when the eleven is thoroughly organised, it will be on an equal footing to others of first-class distinction. Home and home matches are, so far, arranged with Padiham, Witton, Oswestry, Druids, Rawstenstall, &c; and local matches and probably St. Mirren's &c, at the new year. - Spectator.

EVERTON V. ADLINGTON
September 21, 1885. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Cup Tie
These teams met at the Anfield enclosure on Saturday last to play off their tie in the first round of the above competition, about 3,000 spectators being present. Facing the sun, Adlington started the game at four o'clock prompt, and ran the ball down the field. Fayer soon gave a corner kick from which Hawker scored the first and only goal for his side. Everton shortly equalised the score, after some fast play in the visitors quarters. The home eleven kept up the pressure, but their shooting was mediocre; Gurley, Jones and Higgins, however, multiplied the Everton total, the game standing in their favour at half-time by 4 goals to 1. After the interval the play was almost entirely at the Adlington quarters; but their backs defended remarkably well. Finlay and Gurley got 1 more goal each and Richards secured 2, mauling the result in Everton's favour by 8 goals to 1. Teams; Everton; R. Parry, goal; Dobson and Marriott, backs; Corey, Fayer and Pickering, half-backs; C. Jones, Higgins, Finlay, and Gurley, forwards. Adlington; J. Fairclough. Goal; Haddock and Monks, backs; Speight, Miller and Harper, half-backs; W. Fairbrother, J. Hawker, J. Cook, H. Cook, and J. Berry, forwards.

Football Notes
The Everton club enclosure occupied on Saturday by the former playing Adlington in the Lancashire Cup competition. A very good attendance of spectators was scoured; and the home team had all the best of the contest throughout, winning by 8 goals to 1. The Everton forwards lacked combination, especially in front of their opponents goal. The only feature of the Adlington team was the excellent defence, Haddock and Monks being a couple of strong full backs; whilst the best on the Everton side were Corey, Dobson, Fayer, and Richards.

Everton v Adlington
September 28 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
These teams met at the Anfield ground on Saturday in the first round of the Lancashire Cup there being an attendance of fully 2000 spectators. The home team won the toss, and the visitors kicked off. Everton immediately took up the attack, but from a “foul” in midfield the visitors rushed upon the home citadel, when Hawker scored their first and only goal. Jones scored for the home team shortly afterwards, thus equalising the score. Everton again took up the attack, and the visitors fortress was for a second time reduced by Gurley. A “corner” then fell to the visitors, but the danger was averted, and a combined run by the Everton forwards ended in Higgins, by a swift low shot, scoring a third goal for the home team. Everton again visited the Adlington quarters where some sharp play ensued, and Jones scored a further goal. Just before half-time the visitors played up better, and prevented the home team from scoring any further goals, half-time arriving with Everton leading by four goals to one. On the change of ends the visitors, after running the sphere up to the Everton goal, lost a good opportunity of scoring by shooting the leather over the bar. Adlington were now playing a better game than in the proceeding half, and kept the home team at bay for a while. Everton than attacked the visitors' goal with great impetuosity and Finlay scored a fifth goal, while a few minutes later a sixth was scored by Gurley. The visitors now made an excursion into the home quarters, but could not score. Again Everton took up the attack, and Richards put the ball through the uprights for a seventh time, and it was not long before the same player again scored. No further goals were scored, and when “time” was called Everton had won a one-sided game by eight goals to one. Haddock, Monks, and Hawker played well for the visitors, while all the home team distinguished themselves. Teams; - Everton; - W. Parry goal; T. Marriott and Dobson (captain), backs; Pickering, Corey, and Fryer, half-backs; C. Jones, W. Richards, Higgins, Finlay, and Gurley forwards. Adlington; - Fairclough goal; Haddock and Monks, backs; Harper, Spete, and Miller half-backs; W. Fairclough, Hawker, Cook, H. Cook, and Bury forwards.

Everton Football Ground
September 30 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
To the Editor of the Liverpool Courier.
Sir –I would respectfully draw the attention of the committee to the state of the south side of this ground, and the urgent necessity for filling up the ditch in the portion set apart for spectators. If the Everton F.C. wish their enclosure to be patronised it is only fair that the convenience of the public, as well as of the players, should be studied. It is very disagreeable after wet weather to have to pick one's way through the mud and water lodging in and about this ditch. I have so far been to every match played on this ground, yet although the nuisance has existed since the commencement of the season, no one seems to think it worth while, either in the interest of the public or of the club itself, to have the matter attended to. I have heard many complaints from time to time about it.

I may perhaps, be permitted to explain that the above does not refer to the attention off ditches at the southwest entrance to the ground, but to the incline which extends almost the entire length of the south side of the portion of the enclosure which is set apart for spectators. Yours etc, Spectator.

EVERTON V OSWESTRY
October 3, 1885. The Liverpool Mercury
This match was played on the ground of the latter club on Saturday and the visitors won by 2 goals to 1. The Welshmen scored first after about five minutes play, but before the interval the visitors had made the total's even. Play in the second half was also very even until a few minutes of the finish, when Everton scored again, and won as stated.

Football Notes
Everton made the journey to Oswestry –without several of their best players, but were strong enough to administer defeat to the Welsh club, after a keen fight by 2 goals to 1. St Mary's were engaged in their cup tie with Great Lever Wanderers and Bolton too their fixture with Everton “A” team fell through. A match was therefore played between the “A” teams of Everton and Bootle, which resulted in a draw of one goal each. The game was of a tame character, and much bad shooting was indulged in by both teams. W. Veitch a brother of the Bootle vice-captain was tried with Bootle, but did not come up to expectations.

A five-a-side football contest is one of the features of the Harriers sports. Two capital teams of Everton and teams representing Cambrians, Stanley, Liverpool, North End, Gymnasium, and St. Benedict's were the entries. The last named received a bye, Everton “B” disposed of Gymnasium very easily, Stanley defeated North End, and after a very tough struggle Everton “A” vanquished Cambrians. The contest will be concluded today. Everton “A” are to meet St, Benedict's, when they will have no difficulty in ousting and Stanley should experience little difficulty in disposing of Everton “B”. The struggle would then be keen indeed, should the strongest quintets of Everton meet the Stanley five, and it would be hazardous to predict the winners. Spectator.

Association Game
October 3 rd 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
Another big crown estimated at over 2000, assembled at the Anfield enclosure last Saturday, to witness the Lancashire Cup-tie between Everton and Adlington. After the first few minutes of the game during which the visitors scored their first and only point, the play was of a most disappointing character. The Evertonians speedily drew level with their weak opponents, and scoring point after point, finally won by eight goals to one. The Everton team presented further changes the most notable being the appearance of W. parry in goal. This was a thorough surprise, but if the old club captain can fill the position as ably as he can invariably acquitted himself as half-back. Everton will be lucky undeed in having discovered a third and trusty custodian in ease of need. Today Everton pay a visit to the North End enclosure in Lower Breck road, and a good game is anticipated. The following represent the North End; - Whalley, Donnelly, Doon, Geoghan Smith, McGuiness (captain), Middleton, Shea, Flynn, Henderson, T. Donnelly.

Novel football contest at Anfield
October 3 rd 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
The Everton sport festival commenced last evening at the football enclosure Anfield, the programme consisting of the opening games in a five a side contest, for which there were seven clubs entered. At the close of play the teams left in were Everton “A” Everton” and Stanley, St Benedict's having a bye. The semi-finals and final will be played on Monday evening, and today at the same enclosure the Liverpool Harriers the champions cross-country club of England, will hold their autumn sports. A splendid programme has been issued, and amongst the competitors entered are many of the best athletics in the North of England. The football contests resulted as follows the scoring being a point; -

Everton “B” team v Liverpool Gymnasdium
During the first half the Gymnasium playing against the wind, scored a goal by the aid of McLennan, while two goals were scored for Everton, and when half time was called the home team was leading by two goals to one. On restarting Everton took the ball up the field, but kick outside. The Everton quarters were then visited, but the “Gyms” were no more fortunate than their opponents. A further goal was scored for Everton while another was added a few minutes afterwards and thus Everton won by four goals and a minor point to one goal. Teams; - Everton “B” Marriott, Higgins, Finlay, Wilding, and Gurley. Gymnasium; - Milroy, McLeanan, Hedley, Welsh and Conning.

Everton “A” v Cambrian
Everton played with the wind and the game continued even for some time, but Everton rushed down the field and scored a touchdown. A fruitless corner than fell to the home team, the ball striking the crossbar and half-time was called with no major points scored. Upon resuming, Everton rushed the ball down to the Welsh stronghold, but the danger was promptly cleared by the goalkeeper' shortly before time was called Richards scored for Everton, who won by a goal and two minor points to one minor point. Teams; - Everton; - “A” Dobson, Corey, Richards, Fleming and Farmer. Cambrian; - Evans, Jones, Neil, Kettley, and Harrison.

Athletic sports at Anfield
October 5 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
The Liverpool Harriers continued their sports festival at the Everton football ground on Saturday afternoon, but the weather was dull and threatening and the attendance below expectation. The racing, however, was of a high-class character, and much interest consequently was taken in the various events. Mr., Councilor Houlding, in presenting the prizes (which consisted of gold and silver medals) to the successful competitors spoke appreciatively of athletic as a means of recreation, and complimented the Liverpool Harriers upon the great success that had attended their efforts.

Everton v Liverpool Northend
October 5 th 1885. The Liverpool Daily Post.
There was not many spectators on the North End ground on Saturday, yet those who did put in an appearance must have felt grievously disappointed. Be matter how strong a team may be, they certain ought not to undertake to do too much and does not redoured to the credit of the Evertonians that they should turn up with men short. We believe they are playing two other matches –one at Oswestry and another at Bootle. Half a dozen inhabitants were fired up, and North Enders proved victorious by five goals to nil.

Everton v Oswestry
October 6 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
Played at Oswestry on Saturday, the Evertonians winning by two goals to one.

Bootle v Everton “A” teams
Everton brought a strong “A” team down to meet the Bootle on the Hawthorn-road, and a very pleasant game followed the kick off by Everton, resulting in one goal each being scored, thus leaving the game draw. Fleming scored for Everton after 40 minutes play and Betts, for Bootle, on the stroke of half-time. No points in the second half were notched by either side.

The five a side competition at Anfield
October 6 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
The five a side competition promoted by the Liverpool Harriers was brought to a conclusion at the Everton football ground last evening in the presence of about 400 spectators the weather being cold and extremely unsettled. The final game lay between the Everton “A” team and the Stanley, and was won by the Evertonians who take the handsome set of gold medals while Stanley as the runners up were presented with silver medals of the same design. The game resulted as follows; -

Everton v St. Benedict's –
The “Saints” playing with the wind soon menaced the Everton citadel but the ball was got away, and Richards getting possession raced down the field finishing with an abortive shot at goal. A few minutes afterwards Richards again got the ball and scored Everton thus leading at half-time by one goal to nil. On restarting Fleming got the ball and scored a second goal St. benedict's scoring afterwards. Everton than gained a “corner” which however, passed off harmlessly, and time was called leaving Everton the victors by two goals and two touchdowns to one goal. Teams; - Everton; - G. Dobson, Corey, Richards, Fleming, Farmer. St. Bendict's; Joliffe, T. Whittle, Briscoe, J. Whittle, and Raby.

Everton “B” v Stanley
Everton started the game with only three men, and as a consequence two goals were scored by Wilson in a few minutes after the commencement. A further goal was then scored and half-time was called with Stanley leading by three goals to nil. Finding their chance hopeless, the Everton “B” then withdraw from the contest. Teams; - Stanley; - Stevenson, McCallum, Dick, Brown and W. Wilson. Everton “B” Findlay, Wilding, Gurley.

Everton “A” v Stanley
The “Light Blues” started with the wind, and the ball run well within the Everton quarters but Dobson running out landed the leather to midfield. Everton gained a fruitless “corner.” Half-time was then called. On restarting play became very fast, each goal being menaced in turn. Just before time was called Everton scored a goal, and as no further points were scored, Everton were left the victors by one goal and two minor points to nil.

EVERTON V OSWESTRY
October 10, 1885. Wrexham Advertiser.
These teams met in the Cricket field, Oswestry, on Saturday, in fine weather, and in the presence of a goodly number of spectators. The home captain won the toss, and defended the pavilion goal, having the wind and sun in their favour. The game started before three o'clock, and both teams at once settled down to fast play. After about nine minutes sharp work, the home team scored the first point from a corner kick, the ball being nicely put in front of goal by M. Evan, was put through the upright by one of the Liverpool players. This reverse put the Liverpool players on their mettle, and they tried hard to score, but the defence of the home back division was too good for them, and they were not able to score until the game was about half an hour old, when farmer succeeded in sending the ball past Davies, and the game was made equal. No other point was gained upto the change of ends. On resuming both teams had several new chances of scoring and about ten minutes from the finish Fayer manager to notch the winning point for the Liverpool men the visitors winning a good game by two goals to one. Teams had their full strength. J. Groves playing with Fayer on Liverpool right wing, and D. Samuel partnering Powell at back for Oswestry.

Association Game
October 10 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
Everton and Bootle are reported to have been successful in their matches with Oswestry and Stanley respectively, but the absence of details it is not possible to speak as to the merits of the relative performances. The Everton “A” team, however, found worthy opponents in the “young blood of Bootle” who schooled by Mr. Sim Jones played a drawn game; while Everton third team fared badly in the game with the Liverpool North-end.

Stanley play Everton today at the Nursery Grounds, Walton Stiles, and the following will represent Stanley –A. McCallum, goal; A. Dick, and R. Stevens, backs; H. Pollock, G. Devey, and G. Wright half-backs; J. Wilson, W. Wilson, J. Whittle, T. Highet, and W. brown forwards. Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Marriott and Dobson. Backs; Corey, Heyes, and Higgins, half-backs; Richards, Fayer, Fleming, Wilding, and Farmer, forwards.

STANLEY V EVERTON
October 12, 1885. The Liverpool Mercury
On the Nursery Ground on Saturday in presence of about 2000 spectators. Stanley kicked off against the wind, and Everton at once took up the running. The wind was too strong to admit of very correct play, and for some time there was much wild kicking, and the game ruled somewhat slow. Then some smart passing on the Everton left threatened the Stanley goal, but Dick relieved with a hugh kick. Everton, however, continued to press, and the ball was constantly crossing the Stanley goal line. At length the visitors obtained a free kick some twenty yards from goal. Higgins placed the ball and touching quietly to Dobson, that player sent the ball between the Stanley posts, the goalkeeper making no effort to stop the sphere. The point was disputed on the ground that the ball had not been properly placed by Higgins; but the referee ruled in favour of the visitors. From the kick-off Stanley ran up smartly, but wild kicking spoiled their chances, and once more Everton carried the ball into Stanley quarters. Wilding was prominent for a pretty dribble, and passing to Farmer that player shot across. Dick, attempting to save, steered the ball clear of his goalkeeper, and scored the second point for his opponents. Half-time shortly arrived. The home team with the wind in their favour, soon began to press, and fourteen minutes the Everton defence was sorely tried. Once from a corner, the Everton citadel narrowly escaped reduction, as after bobbling dangerous near, the ball struck one of the uprights and bounded into play, Dobson just rushing it away. Then Everton once more took a strong lead, and Stanley were after this rarely troublesome. Higgins and Wilding led many an attack on the home goal, but no further point was scored. Everton winning by 2 to nil. Teams; Everton; Joliffe, goal; Marriott and Dobson, goal; Corey, Higgins and Heyes, half-backs; Farmer, Wilding, Fleming, Richards and Fayer, forwards. Stanley; Wright, goal; Stevenson and Dick, backs; Pollock, Dovey and R. McCalluer, half-backs; J. Wilson, W. Wilson, Highest, and Brown forwards.

Football Notes
Everton proved a bigger attraction even than Bootle on the Stanley ground, and a very large crowd witness the match. Feeling ran very high during the whole of the game –somewhat too high; for the players on the whole appeared to studionely avoid unfair tactics. Everton proved too strong for their neighbours, the result being in their favour by 2 goals to nil. The winners scarcely played with their usual combination, there being a too manifest disposition on the part of several to indulge in what is usually termed gamey play. The defence, however, was , if anything more than usually strong. Dobson and Marriott proving perfectly impassable. However, the opposing forwards were by no means formidable. They are all very light, and in contrast to Stanley traditions, indulge in wild kicking to a most damaging extent. Here is great room for improvement. A. McCallum was absent from the half-back division, and Higgins and Wilding quite nonplussed. Pollock the least Stanley acquisition. Dick and Stevenson played very finely at full back, and the former received most unfair treatment from the spectators, who received some of his fine kicking with passive coldness, and on some occasions with hooting. The player in question has earned the reputation of being rough, but certainly his play on Saturday does not hear out this imputation. Heyes a new half-back from Wrexham was tried for Everton, and played a capital game. Why Finlay is persistently passed over in the selection of Everton teams is not quite clear, as being a very young player, he has a great future before him, and it is just from the school of players that the greatest organisations in the country generally recruits their ranks.

Stanley v Everton
October 12 th 1885. The Liverpool Daily Post
Not very long ago the announcement of a match between Stanley and Everton would have been treated with considerable indifference, but the times have changed, and the Nursery Ground on Saturday was visited by at least 3,000 spectators. This was their first meeting this season and it was quite refreshing to notice the enthusiasm of the partisans of the respective clubs. Everton had decidedly the best of the game throughout, their goalkeeper having only handled the ball once whilst the Stanley custodian had a stiffest task, and it'is only doing him justice to say that he acquitted himself well. The Stanley back division is decidedly strong, Dick's tackling and kicking being a long way above the average. The forwards however, were decidedly weak. W. and J. Wilson at intervals showed considerable dash, but it was not maintained. On the Everton side Fayer was a failure as a forward. Fleming and Wilding divided the honours in the division Farmer being too well looked after to do much. Heyes and Corey are a worthy pair of half-backs, and Dobson was always where he was wanted. Everton won the toss, and turned their backs to a strong breeze. W. Wilson kicked off, and after a free kick to Everton, the game settled down in midfield, where some clever kicking and heading on both sides was exhibited. Brown, who has a good turn of speed, came along the right, and passed to Wilson but Dobson upset his calculations. Hands off the player, however, caused some uneasiness. This, however, was short-lived as Heyes head proved an obstacle, and Dick was immediately obliged to kick into touch to save. Three corners in success fell to Everton, but they were not improved on, and a free kick to Stanley gave them a short respite. Fleming came with a rush; Dick and Devey tackled well, and for a short time the excitement was very great. Everton was fortunate in being allowed a free kick, and by a smart ruse it was converted into a goal, Higgins just touched the ball, putting it in play, and Dobson shot it through. An appeal was made against the goal, but the point was allowed. Directly after the kick off Stanley were again pressed. Dick now lunged out, and W. Wilson aided by Hignet dribbled well into the visitors' end. Marriott and Dobson checked their progress Richards being the next to come in for notice. He passed to the left, where Stevenson fouled Farmer, and Brown attempted to get through. Fleming robbed him, and Wright had to fist out. Meeting a lofty kick by Marriott, Wilding by a nice low shot defeated the Stanley custodian a second time amidst ringing cheers. Daniels and Wilson on the oneside, and Richards and Fayer on the other, visited their respective ends, but up to half-time no further score was made. As the change of ends gave Stanley the benefit of the breeze, their supporters appeared to think highly of their chances, but disappointment was their portion, as after the first five minutes they were never even dangerous. Fleming restarted, and Stanley spurting up, a fierce scrimmage ensued right in the mouth of Everton's goal. J. Wilson sent in a clinking shot, the ball striking one of the posts and rebounding into play. The Everton right wing pair then got the leather into tow Pollock being obliged to kick out. Wrigth soon after saved a splendid shot from Wilding. Wilson, Highet and Brown in turn did their best to get away but the Everton backs proved an insurmountable barrier. The Stanley goal was fairly besieged, but up to the sounding of the whistle no further scoring was made, Everton thus winning by two goals to nil. During a portion of the second half one of the Stanley backs retired hurt. He resumed however, before the finish. Teams; - Stanley; - Wright, goal; A. Dick and R. Stevens backs; H. Pollock, G. Devey, and R. McCallum, half-backs; Daniels, J. Wilson, W. Wilson, T. Highet, and W. Brown forwards. Everton; - Jolliffe, goal; Marriott and Dobson (captain), backs; Higgins, Heyes and Corey half-backs; Farmer, Wilding, Fleming, Fayer, and Richards, forwards.

Association Game
October 17 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
Everton play the Bolton wanderers at Anfield this afternoon, and the teams are as follows; - Wanderers; - Tarinor, goal; Powell, and Hutchinson, backs; Weir, Steel, and Roberts, half-backs; Davenport, Miller, Brogan, Struthers, and Hewitson, forwards. Everton; - Jolliffe, goal; Marriott, and Dobson, backs; Corey, Hayes, and Fryer, half-backs; Richards, Farmer, Higgins, Fleming, and Wilding, forwards.

The Everton Reserves Team play at Bromborough today; but the Swifts' match with the Liver is cancelled. The following is the Reserve team; - Chambers, goal; Morris and McGill, backs; W. parry, Pickering, and Preston, half-backs; Roberts, Brown, Douglas, McGoldrick, and Finlay, forwards.

OTHER EVERTON PLAY
October 17, 1885. Wrexham Advertiser.
The Everton Football club by all appearance, I should think, are for converting the Wrexham Olympic Club into their training stables, for the present season. After having recruited J. Wilding the Olympic centre, they have now obtained the services of Hayes a very promising half-back, who I hear played a grand game for them on Saturday.

EVERTON V BOLTON WANDERERS
October 17, 1885. The Liverpool Mercury
Teams; Wanderers; Trainer, goal; Powell and Hutchinson, backs; Weir, Steel and Roberts, half-backs; Davenport, Brogan, Struthers, Hewitson, and Mullen, forwards. Everton; Joliffe, goal; Marriott, and Douglas, backs; Corey, Heyes, and Fayer, half-backs; Richards, Higgins, Fleming, Farmer, and Wilding, forwards. Kick-off 3.30.

Bromborough Pool v Everton (A team), Everton.

EVERTON BOLTON WANDERERS
October 19, 1885. The Liverpool Mercury
This match was played on Saturday at Anfield before a capital gate, the fixture having been arranged hastily, as the Villa could not play Bolton on account of the English Cup-tie. Everton lost the services of Fleming during the game; and the visitors scoring 1 goals in the first half and 3 in the next, won by 4 goals 1. Teams; Wanderers; Trainer, goal; Powell and Hutchinson, backs; Ramsay, Steel and Weir, half-backs; Brogan, Davenport, Hewitson, Purkinson and Miller, forwards. Everton; Joliffe, goal; Marriott, and Dobson, backs; Corey, Heyes, and Fayer, half-backs; Richards, Higgins, Fleming, Farmer, and Wilding, forwards.

Football Notes
The best game in the district was that between Everton and the Bolton Wanderers, the latter sending their full team, as the original fixture with Aston Villa suddenly fell through on account of the Midlanders having to play a cup tie. At half-time the Wanderers were only 1 goal to nil so good had been the Everton defence, but the skill of the visitors were exerted to be a successful issue in the last half, and they won by 4 goals to 1.

Everton v Bolton Wanderers
October 19 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
An exceptionally large crowd, estimated at close upon 4,000, assembled at the Everton ground on Saturday to witness this match. Everton having secured choice of ends, played down hill at the opening, but were at once forced back, Dobson giving a corner. Play then became fast and more even for a time, during which Richards, assisted by Wilding, made a couple of shots at goal, one skimming the bar and the other being well handled by Trainor. Bolton, however, after about twenty minutes' play, became very harassing corners being given in rapid succession, and Weir shot through from the right. Keeping Everton hard on the defence, Bolton soon had a second goal, Hutchinson running up and getting in from a long shot. In the meantime Fleming was forced to withdraw, and with the home team thus weakened they were kept almost continually on the defence. Weir and Ramsey each scored in the second half, but on Everton obtaining a moment's respite, Farmer beat Trainor in as long shot. The last quarter of an hour's play was in a bad light, and though hard pressed, Joliffe prevented further disaster, the visitors thus winning by four goals to one. Teams; - Everton; - Jolliffe, goal; Dobson (captain) and Marriott backs; Fayer, Heyes, and Corey, half-backs; Farmer, Higgins, Fleming, Richards, and Wilding, forwards. Bolton Wanderers; - Trainor goal; Powell, and Hutchinson, backs; Ramsey, Steel, and Weir, half-backs; Parkinson, Hewiston, Miller, Davenport, and Brogan forwards.

Everton v Southport Wanderers
October 26 th 1885. The Liverpool Daily Post
Liverpool Cup
This event was brought off on the Prior-road Ground on Saturday in the presence of about 1,000 spectators. The play does not call for any comment, as the exhibition was a wretched one throughout. Everton eventually winning by three goals to one. Everton won the toss, and played down the slope. Stead gave motion to the ball, Farmer, nicely tackled by Rimmer, gave the globe to the left, Leadbetter having a shot at the home goal, Jolliffe hit out, and Farmer rushed along the wing, the ball ultimately getting over the line. The visitors soon after caught the home backs napping. Rimmer dodging Dobson, gave the ball to Halsall, who defeated Joliffe about ten minutes from the kicks off Richards got away; but the final shot went high. Several corners now fell to Everton in quick succession, but, thanks to the good goal keeping of Kay and the vigorous kicking of Parker, none of them were improved on. The game now settled down in the visitor's end, but owing to the faulty shooting of the home team, half-time arrived with the score one to nil against Everton. After ends were changed, although Everton had the wind and hill against then, they played somewhat better, Farmer being warmly applauded for his fine kicking. Wilding kicked off, and a corner to Everton resulted. Rimmers cleared, Dobson met the ball, and by a neat left footer sent the leather into the mouth of goal, where it was rushed through, thus making matters equal. Shortly after a good centre by Higgins rushed Gorley to notch the second point. Stead and the brothers Halsall made several sturdy attempts to break through, but Dobson always proved a rock ahead. Farmer now came with rare dash, but was neatly foiled by the visitors goalkeeper. From a well-placed corner by Corey, Farmer, headed the third goal. From this point to the call of time, the game was entirely in the Southport end. Just before the whistle sounded Corey shot the ball through the upright, but this was disallowed on the plea that a corner to Everton had previously been conceded. The whistle sounded soon after, leaving the score as above. Teams; - Southport; - Kay, goal; Parkes and Rimmer, backs; Sellars, Shorrock and Liptrot, half-backs; Leadbetter, Lee Stead, R. Halsall, and W. Halsall forwards. Everton; - Jolliffe, goal, Dobson (captain) and Marriott, backs; Higgins, Pickering, and Corey, half-backs; Farmer, Gurley, Wilding, Richards, and McGoldrick, forwards.

Association Game
October 31 st 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
The chief interest, however, centred in the match at Anfield, where Everton and the Southport Wanderers brought their tie to an issue. The play was not up to cup form, especially during the first half of the game, wherein the Wanderers second a goal Everton changed over pointless, but afterwards the home players proved equal to the occasion, and having once found a way through the timber, the Evertonians won their way into the second round of ties by four goals to one.

Bootle v Everton
“Right Wing” writes; - In reply to “Evertonians” I beg to state that the admission on Saturday next will be 3d, reserve side extra, and posters have been out since Tuesday last to the effect. “Evertonians” should have made some inquires before writing such a piece of nonsense, as it would not benefit the Everton club to work against themselves and the public. “Evertonians” evidently has been led astray.

Bootle v Everton
“Secretary” writes; - In reply to the various letters which have appeared in your columns re the price of admission on Saturday next, I would inform your readers that the addition to be price was a mistake (by whom it does not matter) that had not received the contest of the committee; and if your correspondents and other will look again at our posters they will find that the figure 3d, has been posted over the 6d.
Todays matches.
Bootle v Everton at Anfield.
Bootle v Everton 2d teams at Bootle

Everton v Bootle
November 2 nd 1885. The Liverpool Daily Post
Oh, what a day for football! Mud to right of you, mud at the left of you, and where the mud was not ugly pools of water filled the void. With these drawbacks and a ready downpour of rain added, the Bootle and Everton teams met on the ground of the latter on Saturday. The uninviting surrounding, however, were quite powerless to damp the ardour or the spectators, who numbered about 2,000. One consolation they had was the fact that their witnessed a fast, exciting and well contested game, ending is it did in a draw, and this is a fair reflex of the general play. Fraser kicked off for Everton the play coming at once become fast and exciting. Jefferson raced up on the right, and centring well, Fraser drew first blood for the home team amidst loud cheers. After the kick off Anderson and E. Jones compelled Marriott to concede a corner. This was a failure, Galibraith again looked dangerous, but Dobson tackled, and sending to the right. Jefferson finished a good dribble with a clinking shot, which Jackson fisted away, and some grand half back play ensued. R. Jones ultimately got through and trouble George to save at the cost of a corner. The corner kick being entrusted to Morris he placed the leather beautifully, Roberts shouldering it through thus making the score level. Veitch how stopped a determined rush of the Everton right wing pair. Hutton replied with a good run and pass to E. Jones, who mulled a fair chance. Farmer did likewise a few minutes later in sending the ball over the ball. Richards now came along the right, and sending across into the mouth of goal, Jackson hit out, but Farmer meeting it, rattled the ball through amidst great excitement. Half-time was reached with Bootle one goal to the bad. No time was lost in the change of ends. Roberts kicked off, and Everton soon appeared to the front, Farmer having the leather before him a long shot just going over. Hutton was the next to catch the eye, and getting along the right he sent-across to Roberts, who shot in low, but a pool of water stopped its progress. A stiff scrimmage ensued. Marriott Corey, and Heyes working the ball clear. Hands off Dobson in front of the home goal looked bad, but the ball passed harmlessly through the upright. Vietch met the kick out, and again a rare bully ensued in front of the home citadel, water and mud flying in all directions. Fraser came away at length, and Everton rallied two corners. These, however, proved baron. Farmer also had a fine shot, which Jackson threw out smartly. Nothing further or note took place until within five minutes of time being called when a fine scrimmage ensued in front of the home sticks. Heyes kicked clear, but Veitch sent the globe back, and the home goalkeeper instead of letting the ball go harmlessly into touch played it back into the midst of the forwards, from which Roberts made the scorer level, bringing out lusty cheers from the Bootle admirers. The whistle sounded soon after, leaving the game drawn, each side having scored two goals. Teams; - Bootle; - Jackson, goal; Veitch and F. Wood, backs; Galibraith, Devlin, and Gibson, half-backs; Anderson, and E. Jones, left wing; Roberts centre; Hutton and Morris, right wing. Everton; - George, goal; Dobson (captain) and Marriott, backs; Higgins, Corey, and Heyes, half-backs; Farmer, and Wilding, left wing; Fraser, centre; Richards and Jefferson, right wing.

Southport v Everton
November 9 th 1885. The Liverpool Daily Post
The match between these clubs played at Prior road Ground on Saturday draw a large number of spectators. The game, with the exception of a few scrimmages in front of the Southport goal, was of tame and rather one-sided. Thanks to the augour defence of the full backs, Baxter, and the goalkeeper, Maynall, Everton were only just able to put on a score of three goals to love. The ground, although still muddy was much better than last week. A late start was made, and the time in consequence reduced to two Thirty-fives. Everton won the toss, and played up the incline. C. Morris kicked off –Farmer being on the job most immediately and getting upon the left, he sent it almost in front of the visitors' posts, but this went for nothing as Brown skied the ball in a ridiculous fashion. Dobson met the goal kick and, sending to the left Wilding centred grandly, Baxter fisted out, but following up quickly, Wilding rushed the leather through scarcely five minutes having elapsed from the start. Baxter and Briggs were next conspicuous in saving a fierce rush. The brothers Morris then worked gamely along the right wing, until tackled by the indictable Dobson, who linged out, Farmer taking up the running but again Brown spoiled a good chance. Richards then failed to improve a good centre by Higgins, Hodge and Mellor dribbled along the left, Heyes intercepted, and Farmer replied with a warm one, which Mayall played out smartly. The Southport defence, was not again taken through up to half-time. Ends were changed and, dispending with he usual interval, Fraser at once kicked off, and Mayall was obliged to concede a corner soon after from a fine shot by Fraser. The ball was cleared, but Corey renewed the attack by a fine shot from the right, Baxter handed clear, Hayley sending to Hodge, who with Meller got away a corner, resulted. The kick was a failure C. Morris came through again, and passed to the right; the final shot, however, went wide. Heyes saved another dangerous rush, and now the visitors end was fairly besieged Mayall handling two shots in quick succession, a third from Farmer just striking the post. Dobson next sent in a lofty shot the ball struck the bar, and just as Richards was about to put it through, Briggs fouled the ball. The globe just now put down into the mouth of goal, a most sporting scrimmage resulting, the Evertonians ultimately working it under the crossbar. Five minutes later after some smart passing by Wilding and Farmer Fraser added the third point time being called soon after. Teams; - Everton; - Joliffe goal; Marriott and Dobson (captain) backs; Corey, Heyes, and Higgins, half-backs; Farmer, Wilding, Fraser, Brown, and Richards, forwards. Southport; - Mayall, goal; Griffiths, and Baxter backs; Saveley, Briggs, and Johnson, half-backs; Hodge, Mellors, C. Morris, T. Morris, and W. Morris, forwards.

Everton v Druids
November 16 th 1885. The Liverpool Mercury
This match was played on Saturday at Ruabon. The viusitors were minus two or three of their first team, while the Druids played their full strength. Doughty scored for the Druids after half an hour's play. A minute afterwards Vaughan shot another goal, and Owen secured the third. In the second half Doughty increased the score to 4 the game ending in a win for the Druids by 4 goals to nil. Sides Druids; - Jones goal; Bowen and Monding, backs; J. Davies, W. Davies, and Roberts, half-backs; R. Doughterty, Owen, Vaughan, Green, and J. Doughty, forwards. Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Pickering, and Dobson, backs; Higgins, Hayes, and Farmer, half-backs; Fraser, Wilding, Roach, McGoldrick, and George, forwards.

EVERTON V DRUIDS.
November 21 1885. Wrexham Advertiser.
This match was played on Saturday at Ruabon. The visitors were minus two or three of the first team, while the Druids played their full strength. Doughty scored for the Druids after half an hour's play. A minute afterwards, Vaughan shot another goal, and Own secured the third in the second half Doughty increased the score to four the game ending in a win for the Druids by four goals to nil. Sides: - Druids: - Jones goal; Bowen and Monding, backs; J. Davies, W. Davies and Roberts, half-backs; R. Doughty, Owen, Vaughan, Green and J. Doughty, forwards. Everton: - Joliffe, goal; Pickering and Dobson (captain), backs; Higgins, Hayes, and Farmer, half-backs; Fraser, Wilding, Roach, McGoddrick, and George, forwards.

November 21 st 1885. The Liverpool Courier
Everton v Clithroe
Today, Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Marriott and Dobson, backs; Corey, Heyes, and Higgins, half-backs; Fleming, Wilding, Richards, McGill, and Farmer, forwards. On Wednesday Everton play the Bolton Wanderers at Bolton. Mr. W. Jackson, Chairman of the Everton committee writes; - I may state that the match today –Clitheroe v Everton –very probably the parliamentary candidates for Kirkdale, Everton, Walton, and West Derby divisions will attend the play. Mr. John Houlding, president of the club, will also attend.
Today other match; - Liverpool Gymnasium v Everton Reserves at Newsham Park.

Everton v Clitheroe
November 23 rd 1885. The Liverpool daily Post
The Walton Breck-road ground was visited by 800 spectators on Saturday to witness the match between these clubs. Amongst those present on the stand we noticed the President of the Everton Club (Mr. John Houlding accompanied by Mr. E. Whitley, Mr. G. Badenpowell, and councilor Woodcook). The game was well worth looking at –in fact it was generally conceded that a better contest has not been witnessed this season. The combination of the Clitheroe forwards was very good indeed. The back division were also a smart lot. The individual play of the home team was good all round, Heyes being exceptionally brilliant. Everton defended the Walton Breck goal and Burgess kicked off. The home team immediately became the aggressors, and five minutes after the start Fraser, by a magnificent shot, scored the first and only goal of the match. For some time after restarting the visitors were pressed, Nutter handling out three shots in quick succession. Gradually wakening up, the Clitheroe men settled down to their work in the style and the play became very fast and exciting. McHolden feeding the forwards a combined rush caused Joliffe to use his hands. Throwing the ball well out, Dobson kicked clear, but again the leather was returned. Corey missing his kick, Joliffe was just in time to hit the ball away. A spell of very even play followed, and ultimately Everton was in jeopardy through a free kick. A capital scrimmage followed, and then a corner. Higgins neutralised the leather, advantage by a timely kick, but again Clitheroe players swarmed round the Everton stronghold, another fruitless corner falling to their lot. Joliffe again distinguished himself by clearing a fine shot by Dalton. Farmer and McGill now gave a timely relief and by a good doggy run, invaded the visitors territory, and Ireland tackled promptly and sent the ball to midfield, Dobson repelled, and Richards assisted by Fraser, threatened the right. Nutter cleared, and Higgins shot high over the bar. Half-time arrived McGill restarted after crossing over. A long kick by Dobson and the visitors custodian just saved by giving a corner. The ball was worked away and Eastham replied with a splendid shot, and Joliffe fisting out, in rare style. Again a shot from the right was well stopped, and then Farmer made one of his dashing dribbles along the left. The ball was worked over the line. A corner was claimed but not allowed. From a corner Wilding headed the ball into Nutter hands, getting rid of it quickly, Croadale kicked clear. Just before the call of time by clever play by the visitors got in front of the home goal, when a stiff struggle assured. Joliffe saved in a novel fashion, being pushed on his head, while in possession of the ball, he push around the posts. A goal was claimed but the corner only allowed. This was a failure, and time being called the Evertonians was left victors by a goal to nil. Teams; - Everton; - Joliiffe, goal; Marriott and Dobson backs; Corey, Heyes, and Higgins, half-backs; Richards, Fraser, McGill, Wilding and Farmer forwards. Clitheroe; - Nutter, goal; Croadale, and Ireland, backs; McHolden, Dalton, and Swanbrick, half-backs; Roberts, Eastham, Burgress, Nightingale, and Sutcliffe, forwards.

Gymnasium v Everton “A”
The Liverpool Courier
Played at Sefton Park on Saturday. The home team started the ball, and ten minutes after starting Finlay scored easily no change-taking place up to half-time. Crossing over a goal to the bad, the “Gym” forwards commenced at once a spirited attack, and Schumacher shot smartly through from the right, making the score even. McLennan also found an opening, and added another goal to the credit of the home team. From now to call of time the visitors were hard pressed, corners, and goal-kicks following each other, but no further addition to the score was made. Teams; - Everton; - W. Williams goal; McGuinnes, and another, backs; Patterson, Brown, and Parry, half-backs; Douglas, Scott, Finlay, McToul, and Allison, forwards. Gymnasium; - Ufflemann, goal; Richards and Milroy backs; Welsh, Owens, and Bowing, half-backs; Schumacher, Johnson, McLennan, Edwards, and Gibson, forwards.

Association Game
November 28 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
Everton gained a very creditable victory over Clitheroe, but afterwards made such a wretched exhibition in their match with the Bolton Wanderers to seriously impair their own prestige and that of the district. The form of Everton in the latter match was so utterly bad that we are loth to believe that the local men were beaten so hollowly on their merits, the score being ten goals to nothing. Meanwhile Dobson, captain, Heyes, Farmer, have been selected to play for the Liverpool and District on Saturday week again Walsall Association.

Today match
Everton Swifts v Haydock at Anfield.

November 30 th 1885. The Liverpool Mercury
Our local Association clubs have not reached the position of being able to put out a full team in midweek. This was amply demonstrated last Wednesday (November 25), when Everton journeyed to Bolton to play their second match with the Wanderers. On the last occasion the teams met the Evertonians gave their strong opponents a very good game, but in the return fixture at Bolton they collapsed utterly, being ignominiously defeated pointless by ten goals. It was impossible to get the full team together, and those who did perform made a very poor exhibition.

Everton v Post Office
November 30 th 1885. The Liverpool Daily Post
A match between these clubs was played on the ground of the former on Saturday before a limited number of spectators, and the game that ensued was not of a character to call for their applause. The play generally could not be described as good, the passing being anything but artistic, and the shooting at goal by the Everton men being unequiously bad, three of four good chances being taken advantage of, and the picking up of the ball by the goalkeeper on more than one occasion twenty yards from the goal month cannot be described as good form for a club of the standing of Everton. The greater part of the play was in the visitors territory, though Sawyer and Meeham several times conveyed hostilities into Everton territory, while Deane and Jones were fully alive to their work in defence. For Everton, Richards and Gurley forward and Morris and Marriott defence were most conspicuous. In the first half three or four corners accrued to Everton and Deane saved well on two or three occasions, but no goal was scored by either side. McGill restarted the leather in the second half, and Richards ran along the Everton right wing, centering in front of goal, Allison scoring the only goal in the match Everton thus winning by one goal to nil. Teams; - Everton; - W. Williams, goal; Marriott and Morris, backs; Brown McGinness, and Pickup, half-backs; Richards and Gurley, right wing; McGill centre; McToul, and Allison left wing. Post Office; - Deane, goal; F. R. Jones and W. McConchie, backs; Edwards, Grave, and James half-backs; Astbury, and Scott, right wing; Sawney centre; Hindle, and Meeham, left wing.

December 5 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier
The following team will journey to Wrexham today to oppose by the titular club. Joliffe, Marriott, McGunness, Corey, Taylor, McToul, Richards, Finlay, George, Wilding, and Higgins captain.
Todays matches
Everton v Wrexham, at Wrexham
Deb v Everton 2d team at Sheil Park

December 7 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier
Liverpool District v Walsall Association, 2,000 spectators watched the match between the above teams, and resulted in a two goals to each team, Dobson, Joliffe, and Farmer playing for the District.

Everton v New Ferry
December 14 th 1885. The Liverpool Daily Post
Liverpool Cup.
This match in the Liverpool Cup tie (second round), was played on Saturday, at Anfield-road, in the presence of a large number of spectators. Everton started the game against a strong wind, and at once bore down on their opponents' goal. Then the visitors keeping the ball very low, attempted to make some progress by neat passing, but their efforts were exceedingly feeble, and when the home forwards commenced to press they met with little resistance, and soon shots were being rained in fast and furious on the New Ferry custodian. Farmer was conspicuous in a capital doggy run, and from his pass Wilding almost scored, Everton winning a corner as the result of the shot. From the corner kick the ball was rushed through. Afterwards Farmer put in some very taking runs, dodging his opponents with the greatest ease. Some capital passing by the home forwards gave Farmer a chance, and he at once banged the ball between the posts. For a time play was a trifle even, but Everton once more commenced to press, Wilding put in a fine run down the centre, and passing to Farmer that player again scored. From this time the visitors were completely out-played, and their forwards showed a great lack of nerve, while the backs seemed utterly unable to cope with their tricky opponents. A fourth goal was soon scored from a corner by Wilding, which was followed by a fifth from the foot of McGoldrich, after a neat pass by Finlay. Then, from a scrimmage, Wilding scored a sixth, and Finlay with a seventh, just on the call of half time. Afterwards goals continued to be taken with great regularity, Farmer scoring the eight, Ninth, Ten, and Eleventh. At this juncture the Everton backs and goalkeeper crowed up in their opponents goal, and Marriott scored the twelfth goal amidst laughter. Two more goals were added before time expired, Everton winning with ridiouslous ease although playing a man short all through. Teams; - New Ferry; - Mason goal; Kearsley and Smith, backs; Mort, W. Evans, and Brown half-backs; Margerson, Westmoreland, Spencer, G. Evans, and Johnson, forwards. Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Marriott and Dobson, backs; Corey, and Higgins half-backs; Farmer, Finlay, Wilding, McGoldrick, and Richards.

Association Game
December 19 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
A very considerable crowd of spectators assembled at the Anfield enclosure on Saturday under the expectation of witnessing a fairly good game in the Liverpool Cup tie between Everton and New Ferry. For some reason, which promises to become the cause of unpleasant litigation. Hayes one of the Everton half-backs, did not put in an appearance, and his club consequently had to take the field with ten men. This circumstance, doubtless, inspired the visitors with a gleam of hope, which, however, was speedily dispelled, for they were overpowered from the start, and by the time ends were changed their ill-fated citadel had been captured no less than seven times. When the teams crossed over it was though the New Ferryites would pull themselves together, and to some extent change the aspect of affairs; but still Fate was against them, and the scoring proceeded at a raid rate. As Joliffe, the home custodian, had an unenviable sinecure, he ultimately deserted his post, and joined the attacking force. Eventually Everton were the winners of a singularly unequal contest, by 14 goals to nothing eight of which were put through by Farmer, who was perfectly irresistible; while Marriott, from full back, was the contributor of one of the winning points.

Days match.
Everton v Liverpool Ramblers, at Anfield.
Everton Swifts v Earlestown 2d team at Anfield.

Everton v Liverpool Ramblers
December 21 st 1885. The Liverpool Daily Post
This match was played at Anfield-road on Saturday, and resulted in an easy victory for the home team by 5 goals to nil. The start was delayed by the late arrival of the visitors, who played ten men for a portion of the game, but were afterwards assisted by Richards, a member of the Everton, who went into goal relieving Hall, when he took up his position at half-back. Horley started the ball for the visitors, and Demsey and Keizer were at once conspicuous by a pretty combined run into Everton quarters. Marriott returned the ball, and play was for a time slow and uninteresting, being confined for the most part to midfield. Then Horley made some progress, but was easily dispossessed by Dobson. The Everton captain, with a fine kick, transferred the scene of operations, and his forwards put in a pretty combined run. Farmer spoiled the effect by a wild long shot. From the goal kick Farmer again received and dribbled nicely down, but the sphere was again returned. Withers and Pattison then fastened on it, and after a pretty run the ball was taken across the Everton goal lines. Then Fleming and Hamilton took the ball down and coming to Farmer, that player dodged capitally, and centring nicely, a short scrimmage occurred in the Ramblers goal, the ball ultimately going out. The goal kick was immediately followed by a corner to Everton, and danger threatened the Ramblers' citadel once more. Hope relieved with a fine dash. Not to be denied, the Everton forwards again advanced to the attack, and Farmer dodging the halfs and full backs put in a good centre. Turner, by a supreme effort, saved when a score was inevitable, but immediately afterwards Hull allowed an easy shot to take effect. Richards now assisted the Ramblers, and with Hull reinforcing the defence, the Ramblers for a time showed up better. Demsey made a good attempt, the ball just missing the mark. Immediately following, the ball was taken into the visitors' quarters, when a slow shot by Wilding was missed by both the backs and goalkeeper all three missing the kick, and a second point was added by Everton. Everton again took up the running, but after Hope had finely relieved his lines the Ramblers again commenced to press, and as the result of some good play a corner was obtained. This proving abortive, Everton again ran down, Wilding being conspicuous in a dodgy run. This player appeared to have a palpable chance, but being adjured to “shoot,” threw the chance away. This was followed by another wretched shot by Farmer, who at this point dodged his opponents with much ease. Play was now of a most desultory character, some bad kicking being indulged in on both sides. After the interval play was more even, and at times exciting. Everton, however, outstayed their opponents, and in the rapidly gathering darkness added other three goals, a somewhat disappointing match ending in a win for the home team by 5 goals to nil.
Liverpool Courier. Added the goals were scored by Wilding (2), Farmer, Fleming and Finlay. Teams; - Everton; - Joliffe goal; Marriott and Dobson, backs; Corey, Brown, and M. Higgins, half-backs; G. Fleming, G. Farmer, Finlay, W. Richards, and Fleming, forwards. Ramblers; - Richards, (Everton) goal; Turner and Timmins, back; R. Hope, Grimsdale and A. B. Hull, (played in goal until Richards took over), half-backs; Pattison, Withers, Dempsey, Horley, and Cayzer, forwards.

Everton v Stanley
December 27 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
Yesterday the Everton F. C. played the first of their series of Christmas tide matches at their enclosure, and although the weather was of the most discomforting charter fully 3,000 persons were present to witness the play, which was fast and full of interest through out. Everton kicked off, and were for a time subjected to much pressure, until a “foul” was claimed, the resulting kick from which gave them access to the Stanley quarters; but the “Light Blues,” proved equal to the occasion, and further lively play ensued near the home citadel. Everton again broke away, and the ball was passed to Richards, who, however, shot over the bar. After a short period of play at the Everton end, Richards ran down the field with the ball at his feet, and screwed in from the right, which caused the visiting custodian to use his hands. A “corner” then fell to Everton, which was kicked outside after Brown had a shy at the Everton goal. Wilding, who headed grandly in midfield, then made a splendid run down the field, and, in the absence of support, shot a magnificent goal from the right, amid encouraging cheers from the vast crowd. A moment later the same player sent in a further shot from the same position, which, Wilson next ran the ball up to the Everton goal, and had a shot, which Dobson headed out, and removed the danger. Half-time was then called, Everton leading by one goal to nil. Upon resuming play was taken to the Everton end, but Dobson removed the venue by a hugh kick. Two successive “corners” then fell to the home team, both being kicked outside. Everton now had the best of the play for a short time several shots being aimed at the visitors' goal without effect. A raid was made on the home goal, headed by Brown, but Dobson again starved off danger and shortly afterwards fierce play ensued in the Stanley quarters, which ended in Finlay shooting without effect, the ball just passing outside. The play now became very fast and exciting, during which the visitors custodian fisted out several shots. Richards at this period was hurt, thus leaving Everton to fight the battle with ten men, but no further points being scored, a good and interesting game ended in a win for the home team by one goal to nil. Teams; - Everton; - Joliffe, goal; G. Dobson (captain) and T. Marriott, backs; Brown, Fryer, and Pickering, half-backs; G. Finlay, M. Higgins, G. Wilding, W. Richards, and Gibson forwards. Stanley; - G. Wright, goal; A. McCallum and A. Dick, backs; R. McCallum, R. Kerr, and Pollock. (captain), half-backs; Whittle, Brown, J. Wilson, W. Wilson, and Wright, forwards.

Today's matches
Bromborough v Everton “A” at Bromborough
Everton v Ulster at Anfield.

Everton v Ulster
December 28 th 1885. The Liverpool Courier.
The Ulster Club paid their first visit to the headquarters of the Everton F.C., at Anfield, on Saturday and so great was the interest in the match that nearly 4,000 spectators assembled to witness the play. The “Hibs” made a most favourable impression by the excellency of their passing, while the play throughout was marked by a spirit of the utmost cordiality, and although the game remained drawn, satisfaction was felt by the supporters of the home club. Everton kick off, but the visitors once made a rush upon the Everton goal, a respite being gained by Joliffe who kicked the ball back to midfield. Several “corners” having fallen to each team without success, the Ulstermen again invaded the home teams' quarters, where Williams tried a long shot, which just dropped underneath the bar. Everton then had a look in, Farmer's shot passing over the bar. Soon afterwards the visitors gained some ground by a “foul” off Farmer. W. Parry was then applauded for a capital run into the Ulster territory, but the backs promptly cleared the danger, although Parry shot over a few minutes later. The Hibernians now rushed down the field impetuously, and lost an easy chance of scoring, the ball going over the line. Half-time was then called Ulster leading by one goal to nothing. Upon restarting, the Ulstermen made a raid on the Everton goal, which Dobson repulsed with a good kick to neutral ground. A few minutes, later, however, the “Hibs” were again at their opponents end, a shot by Barclay going over the crossbar. Everton, following up a kick of Dobson, then rushed upon the Irish fortress, which was reduced by W. Parry amid cheers. With the score equal, both teams worked in good earnest, the “Hibs” being the first to show up by scoring a second goal. A “corner” then fell to the home team, but the Irish backs cleared away the danger, Everton, however, were not to be denied, and rushing down the field scored a goal, which was disallowed on the plea of off-side play. Then Everton enjoyed a free kick from a “foul” in midfield, but the Irish backs were all there, and prevented the home forwards from making any score. The Evertonians again pressed back their opponents and after some exciting play in front of the Irish goal, W. Parry was again instrumental in equalising the score by a splendid shot. As no further points were scored, the match ended in a draw of two goals each, having been splendidly contested throughout. Both teams played a fine game, the backs on both sides showing to the utmost advantage. Teams; - Everton; - Jolliffe goal; G. Dobson (captain) and Marriott backs; F. Parry, W. Parry, and Pickering, half-backs; Farmer, Finlay, Wilding, Richards, and Higgins, forwards. Ulster; - R. Barclay, goal; J. Watson and W. Fox, backs; McCall, J. Hasting, and E. Barclay, half-backs; J. Reid, E. Reid, J. Johnstone, and H. Fox, forwards.

Football notes
December 28 th 1885. The Liverpool Mercury
Amongst Association matches, that between Everton and Stanley on Christmas Day was a great success from a finical point of view, but as a scientific of football it must be pronounced a failure. Neither team could place the full strength in the field, and in this respect Everton were at a greater disadvantage. Calkin absence from the centre was more than balanced by the substitution of Whittle, although the latter is not the player of twelve months ago. Stevenson's place at full-back was occupied by A. McCallum who played a dashing game, and whose knee showed no sign of weakness after his long rest. Farmer and Fleming were absentees from the Everton team whilst Pickering, Fayer and Gibson again appeared in the ranks of their old club. Of these players Fayer certainly gave a very fine display, and he was undoubtedly the best half back on the field. The game was fast and exciting, and the victory of one goal to nil in favour of Everton denotes pretty faithfully the actual state of the play. The forwards on both sides were somewhat lacking in combination, and the game was more especially distinguishable by some grand defence by Dobson, the Everton, and Dick the Stanley, full backs. The latter player was in grand form, and his presence in the team will make a vast difference. One pleasing feature of the game was the good spirit displayed, which was exceptionally gratifying considering the keen rivalry existing between these clubs. The spectators were just a trifle ungenerous and it is questionable if such matches are suitable for Christmas Day, especially in view of what took place at Bolton, who two rival teams exhibited a spirit altogether out of keeping with the traditions of the season.
On Saturday Everton took on the Ulster Club winners of the Irish association Cup. There was a great crowd at the match, which proved far more exciting might have been anticipated. When Cliftonville sent a team top Bootle last season they fared very badly at the hands of that team, and it was them expected that the Ulster men would have to accept defeat. They played up astonishingly well, and the Everton could only make a draw of an exceedingly even game, in which each side scored 2 goals.

Everton v Patrick Thistle
January 2 nd 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
Yesterday the Patrick Thistle commenced their English tour at the Everton ground, Anfield, and the weather being most favourable for the pastime close upon 2,500 spectators were present to witness the play. The visitors were a trifle short of the team, which recently played an exciting drawn game with Queens-park. Everton, however, were still more unfortunate for with Dobson, Farmer, Fleming Wilding, and Corey absent the home club was placed at a great disadvantage. The game nevertheless, was an interesting one, and although Everton suffered defeat by three goals to nothing, the home players during the second half of the game fully held their own, but through lack of combination were unable to score, McGoldrick started the ball and the Evertonians having the hill in their favour a descent was made upon the Scottish goal, which Hendry repulsed in gallant style. The ball now found its way to the Everton end, but although a neat header by Marriott and good play by Fayer gave relief. Everton again had an anxious time of it, until Marriott, for the second time, proved the savoiur of his side. Higgins dribbled well, but after 15 minutes' play Johnson placed an easy goal; while barely a minute had elapsed when Suter scored a second point. A further attack by the visitors having been repulsed by Higgins, Richards, put in some pretty play finally shooting a little wide of the post. The Scotch now broke away, and from a capital “centre” by Marshall from the right corner Suter added a further goal, the score at half-time standing three to nothing in favour of the Glasgow team. On restarting, Everton took the ball upfield, and Gurley having missed an easy chance of scoring, Everton showed some splendid heading in front of the Scottish citadel, which caused Burns finally to use his hands, danger by this means cleared away. Again the sphere was worked up in front of the Scottish posts, when Higgins from a free kick, placed the ball through goal, but as it touched no one in its flight the point, of course was not allowed. The Thistle having paid a brief visit to the lower ground, Everton again had a look in but want of tact lost them a favourable position; while Gurley later on headed the ball outside. Again, by concerted play, the Scotch were in front of the goal, erratic shooting finally depriving them of an eligible chance of adding to their score. The remainder of the play was of a desultory character, in which the teams were pretty evenly matched, and as neither were able to improved their position the game terminated as above stated. Suter, Johnson, and Miller were the most prominent of the Scottish forwards, while their backs all played sterling game, Burns (in goal) particularly so. The best of the home backs was Marriott although Fayer and Higgins did a lot of useful work. The forwards were weak, and of them Richards showed to most advantage. Teams; - Patrick Thistle; - Burns, goal; Brown and Hendry, backs; McKie (captain) and Leeks, half-backs; A. Johnson, Suter, Robertson, Eadie, D. Marshall, and G. Miller, forwards. Everton; - Joliffe, goal; T. Marriott and J. Pickering, backs; Fayer, M. Higgins (captain), J. Welsh, half-backs; Finlay, Gurlay, McGoldrick, W. Richards, and Powell, forwards.

Association Game
That there exists a natural bond of union between England and Ireland in the matter of national sports was forcibly illustrated on the occasion of the visit of a team of Ulster to the Everton headquarters on Saturday last. There were close upon 4000 persons present to give the strangers a greeting and to witness their play –a much larger number, perhaps than has ever previously attended a club game in Liverpool. Owing to the holidays the Everton committee were not able to place in the field their full strength, and had therefore, amongst others, to avail themselves of the services of their old club captain, W. parry, who of late has rarely been seen on the field of play. It thus happened that the team were equally balanced, and the play, therefore was full of interest from beginning to end. First the Ulster boys scored, and there was great cheering, which was repeated with interest when Parry equalised the score. From this stage to the end of the game the play was thoroughly exciting, but although the Hibernians scored a further point, the irrepressible Parry delighted the Evertonian crowd by again reducing the Ulster citadel, and thus a most interesting game remained drawn. Everybody was well pleased with the result especially the visitors, who were spectators of the game played by Everton and Stanley on the same ground on the previous day.

Today match
Everton v Limavady (Irish), at Anfield
Liverpool Postoffice v Everton Swifts at Langton-road.

ULSTER V EVERTON (LIVERPOOL)
December 29, 1885. The Belfast News Letter.
The Ulster team journey to Liverpool this year to spent their Christmas, and judging from the reception which they received at the hands of the Everton they are not likely soon to forget it, nor be slow to avail themselves of the next opportunity of playing a visit to Liverpool. On their arrival they were met at the station by a number of the Everton players who form that time till they left on Saturday night for they were most attentive to their wants of every kind. The weather was all that could be desired, 4,000 to 5,000 spectators turned out to witness the games. The fair sex were largely represented, on account of their being told the team were sure to be a good looking lot, as they were from “Ould Ireland.” The match was play in two forties, on of resulted in a draw, both sides scoring two goals; Ned Barclay getting the best of the coin, decided to play down the hill, Everton started the ball, the play for the first fifteen minutes was very even, the Reids making several onslaughts on the Everton goal, but all attempts at scoring frustrated by the brilliant back play of Dobson and Marriott. Farmer and Finlay on the left were several times very dangerous, but Fox and Watson were always they, and Bob Barclay in goal, received quite an ovation for the clever manner in which he several times cleared his chase, especially on one occasion, when one of Farmer's “hot ‘Uns” which everybody thought was certain to go through, he just got in the nick of time, and, clearing his charge splendidly he fairly brought down the house. Johnston in the centre was now working very hard and made determined attack on the Everton goal, but the goalkeeper saving in time, the ball came out to McColl at half. The sent in a beauty, which the goalkeeper was only able to ouch, this drawing first blood for Ulster. This seemed to route the home team, who made strenuous efforts to score, but at half-time the game was unaltered –Ulster one goal, Everton nil. On change of ends, Everton, with the hill in their favour seemed very formidable, but the Ulster men, keeping well together, prevented all attempts at scoring, till after twenty minutes play the right wing came down with a rush, and sending in a splendid shot which Barclay might have stopped, but being heavily charged from the left wing just in the act of saving the ball went through thus making the game equal. On the ball being restarted, Williams and H. Fox, on the right, took up the running with Johnston in the centre backing them well up, and after about ten minutes' play Williams, after dodging both backs, sent in a shot which the goalkeeper was unable to reach, and again placed Ulster in a majority by one. From this till call off time Everton seemed determined to make matters equal, and about five minutes from time, and after a lengthened struggle in front of Ulster goal, the ball was put through again making matters equal. The ball was again put in motion, but no further scoring took place when the referee's whistle sounded. This ended in a draw, by two goals each, one of the pleasantest matches in which Ulster ever took part. W. Barclay. Esq. kindly acted as Referee but the umpires made his duties very light. After the match the Everton entertained their guests in a very hospitable manner, and have promised to pay the Ulster's a visit before the end of the season when Ulster hopes to have an opportunity of returning some little of their kindness. Teams: - Everton: - Joliffe, goal; Dobson (captain), and Marriott backs; W. Parry, F. Parry, and Pickering, half-backs; Richards Finlay, Farmer, Wilding, and Higgins, forwards. Ulster: - R. Barclays goal; J. Watts and W. Fox, backs; Bailey, McColl, and E. Barcley (captain), half-backs; J. Reid, E. Ried, J. Johnston, H. Fox, J. R. Williams, forwards.

Everton v Limavady
January 4 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
After being beaten by Wigan, the Limavady team journeyed to the Anfield enclosure on Saturday to meet the Everton club, and the weather being most favourable there was an attendance of 2,000 spectators. During the first half of the game the ball never left the Limavady quarters, but owing to the splendid defence, especially of the goalkeeper, no score was made. The second half was somewhat the same as the previous one, the Irish goal, being in a continual state of siege, but the home team could not score. Towards the close of the game the Irish forwards came away with a rush, and from some misunderstanding between Parry and Marriott, they got in front of goal, were from a scrimmage, Brown scored. No further points were made the game thus ending in favour of the visitors by one goal to nil. Teams; - Limavady; - Fleming, goal; Devine, and R. J. Sherraid, backs; Allen, and McGunness, half-backs; Phillips, Stewart, Osborne, Fiemry, Sherard, and Brown forwards. Everton; - Joliffe, goal; T. Marriott and Dobson (captain), backs; Parry, Higgins, and Fryer, half-backs; Richards, Powell, McGoldrick, Farmer, and Finlay forwards.

EVERTON V LIMAVADY
January 4, 1886. Belfash News Latter.
The Limavady team played the second match on the card for the Liverpool tour on the grounds of the Everton Football Club, on Saturday, when after a very exciting contest, they defeated the home team by one goal to nil. The Everton played their full league team. Everton won the toss, and playing with the wind in their favour, they pressed the Limavady men pretty hard during the first half, but so good was the defence of the Limavady back division that at half-time neither side had obtained a point when side were changed. Limvady soon succeeded in placing a goal to their credit from the foot of Joe Sherrard. After this the game became very fast, but call of time found the game standing as above. The following are the teams. Everton:- Joliffe, goal; Marriott and Dobson, backs; Higgins, Fayer, and Parry, half-backs; Gurley, Pickup, Richards, Farmer, and Finlay, forwards. Limavady:- J. Fleming, goal; Sheerard and Devine, backs; Maginnise, Allen, and Phillips, half-backs; Joe Sherrard, J. Fleming, Osbourne, Logue, and MaCualay, forwards.

Association Game
January 9 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
After being beaten by Wigan the Limavady team showed up at the Everton headquarters on Saturday. During the first period of play the ball never left the Irish quarters, but owing to the sturdy defence Everton could not score; while during the second half the visitors found a vulnerable spot, and won by one goal to nothing.
Today's match
Everton v Wrexham Olympic at Anfield.
Everton Swifts v Birkdale, at Anfield.

Everton v Wrexham Olympic
January 11 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
These teams met at the Anfield enclosure on Saturday before nearly 2000 spectators. The chief feature of the play was the passing of the home eleven, who were altogether in capital form. The Wrexhamits kicked off, and racing down to the Everton end the sphere was promptly sent through the posts by Sisson. Upon restarting, Farmer, and Finlay got the leather away and carried it to Wrexham quarters. The attack, however, proved futile, as the ball passed over the line “”hands” near the visitors lines, had the same result, Farmers kick being charged down. After Pugh had fisted out in a surprising manner Wilding sent in a “hot un” which proved too much for the Olympic custodian. The Everton right wing (George and Richards) then got the ball away to the Wrexham goal, and on George centring, Finlay sent in a clinking shot, which was fisted out in grand style, when farmer got his toe to the sphere and scored a further goal Finlay immediately afterwards scoring a third. Wrexham then had an inning, but erratic shooting spoiled their chances. After fryer had shot over the Olympic crossbar. George ran the ball down the Wrexham fortress, and scored with a splendid shot from the right. When Higgins had scored a fifth half-time was called with Everton leading by five goals to nil. George scored a sixth goal for Mr. Houlding boys. Two “corners” were then conceded to Everton, from the last of which Higgins scored. Farmer next shot into Pugh's hands, who put down the ball to kick it, but Wilding was lying in wait, and robbing him of it, scored the eight goal, shortly after which George scored a ninth. The Olympic from a broke away, and troubled Joliffe, who fisted out, and as no further points were scored Everton retire victorious by nine goals to one, after a thoroughly pleasant game. The two Wrexham backs played well, while of the forward Sisson and Fisher played up best. Every man in the Everton team played capitally. Teams; - Wrexham; - Pugh, goal; Dobson and Thomas, backs; Harrison, Heywood, and Owens, half-backs; Sisson (captain), Fisher, Roberts, T. Roberts, and B. Lewis, forwards. Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Dobson (captain) and Marriott, backs; Higgins, Corey, and Fayer half-backs; W. Richards, Farmer, Wilding, George, and Finlay, forwards.

Association game
January 16 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
Continuing their good fortune the Evertonian on Saturday participated in another remunerative gate, nearly 2,000 persons passing the turnstiles on the occasion of the visit of the Wrexham Olympic to the Anfield enclosure. The play, so far as the visitors were concerned certainly fell short of public expectations. As a matter of fact, the Olympic, after they had early gained their first and only goal, were never in the hunt, being eventually beaten by nine to one. Of Mr. Houlding's boys George one of the right wing pair, was seen to immense advantage no fewer than three goals being scored by this auxiliary of the home club; while Wilding the centre forward notched a couple of the winning points. The Olympic were best represented by Sisson their captain, who for once was very feebly supported by his colleagues. The feature of the game was the fine passing of the Evertonians who seemed to have fully recovered from the effects of the Christmas festivities.

Today Everton will meet Witton on the ground of the latter with the following team; - C. Joliffe, goal; G. Dobson (captain) and T. Marriott backs; E. Corey, T. Fayer, and W. Higgins, half-backs; W. Richards, W. George, J. Wilding, Farmer, and Finlay, forwards.
Todays matches.
Witton v Everton at Witton
Everton Swifts v Birkdale, at Anfield
Mr. C.M. Lindsay, of the Everton F.C. writes; - Several people have spoken to me about my having played in goal for the Liverpool Blues, and on looking up the report of their match Stanley, I found that a Mr. Lindsay had really played in that position. Allow me to mention that the persons are not identical. The doctor has prohibited me from playing at present, but I hope soon to be on the warpath again.

Everton v Witton

Birkdale v Everton (A Team)
January 18 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
These teams met at the Walton Breck road enclosure on Saturday, in the presence of near 500 spectators. Rain commenced to fall at half-time but the spectators stood their ground, and were treated to a fast and pleasant game, which resulted in a victory for the home team of four goals to nothing. McGill (2), W. Henry, and McGoldrick one each. Teams; - Birkdale; - H. Clemson, goal; W. Booth and W. Cairns, backs; A. Scott, F. Knight, and R. Eccles, half-backs; W. Cross, F. Dowzard, E. Marchant (captain), A. Taylor, and H.L. Thornily forwards. Everton; - W. Williams, goal; J. Henderson and G. Good, backs; R. Aindows, T. Pickup, and F. parry, half-backs; T. Scott, W. henry, J. Douglas, J. McGill, and G. Gouldrick, forwards.

Association Game
January 23 rd 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
The Everton Swifts gained an easy victory over Birkdale who, however, found ample consolation in the welcome hot pot usually provided by the hospitable host of the Sandon Hotel. Everton will meet Bootle on the ground of the latter today and as both clubs hold high rank in the district a large amount of interest will be sure to centre in the match. The following are the teams; - Bootle; - T. Galbriath, goal; T and W Vietch, backs; R. Devlin, A. Gibson, and F. Woods half-backs; W. H. Routledge, T. Morris, W. Roberts, R. Anderson, and J. Eyton-Jones, forwards. Everton; - C. Joliffe, goal; G Dobson and T. Marriott, backs; E. Corey, M. Higgins, and T. Fayer, half-backs; W. George, W. Richards, J. Wilding, G. Farmer and W. Finlay, forwards. Mr. S. Ormerod (Accrington), referee.

Everton v Bootle
January 25 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
These teams met at Hawthorne road enclosure on Saturday, and although the weather was unfavourable there was an attendance of 4,000 spectators. The game, notwithstanding the bad state of the ground, was fast and most interesting throughout. The Bootle captain won the toss for choice of ends, and Everton having kicked off play was soon raging in the vicinity of the Bootle goal. A “corner” fell to the visitors, which proved fruitless. The home team ran up to midfield, but were again beaten back on their lines. W. Veitch kicked however, away, and the Bootle forwards speedily found their way to the Everton goal, when Dobson came to the fore with a well judged kick. Still, Bootle were not to be denied, and pressed resolutely onward until Everton broke away and took the ball to their opponents' end, where Wilding passed to Richards, who, however, shot over the Bootle bar. Everton were now having the best of the play, and several times threatened the Bootle citadel, but the home backs always proved equal to the occasion, and the hostile force were prevented from scoring. The visitors were again found banging away at the home goal, when W. Veitch gave a “corner,” which although well placed, was safety cleared away. Both sides now tried their utmost to score, but as the respective goalkeepers exerted themselves most valorously no record was made up to half-time. Bootle having restarted, Richards got the ball away to the Bootle end, but dribbling too fast, an apparent opportunity of scoring was spoiled by Veitch kicking smartly away. The Bootle forwards then got nicely away, and by a bit of superb passing gained the Everton end, where Anderson finally shot wide. After about fifteen minutes from the restart Everton made a sally on the Bootle fortress where Wilding sent in a hot shot, which proved beyond the goalkeeper's efforts to stop, and thus scored the first and only goal for the visitors, amidst great enthusiasm. Bootle tried hard to equalise the score, but try as they would they could not break through the stubborn of the Evertonians. The play now became very fast and exciting, Bootle having a little the best of the battle. Several shots were aimed at the Everton goal, but the ball was well kept out Joliffe playing exceedingly well. No further points were scored, and thus Everton were left the victors of a hard fought game by one goal to nil. For the winners Dobson, Wilding, Marriott, and George played a splendid game while for Bootle Veitch, Woods, Gibson and Morris tried hard to avert defeat. The following are the teams; - Everton; - Joliffe goal; Dobson (captain) and Marriott backs; Corey Higgins and T. Fayer half-backs; Wilding, George, Farmer, Finlay and W. Richards, forwards. Bootle; - Galbraith, goal; W and T. Veitch, backs; Devlin, A. Gibson, and F. woods half-backs; Routledge, Morris, Roberts, Anderson, and Eyton-Jones, forwards.

Association Game
January 30 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
A vertable windfall replenished the Bootle coffers on the occasion of the annual visit of the Evertonians to the Hawthorne road ground. Year by year interest in this fixture has so greatly increased in magnitude that on Saturday last, notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather, over three thousand persons paid for admission to witness the play. It is hard to convince those whose souls are above. Such mundane things as national sports, that so large an amount of interest is taken in the winter pastimes; but we well remember the case of a person who, after railing against football in unmeasured terms, was shortly afterwards found alongside the “field of play” in a state of intense excitement, there being for the moment no greater enthusiast among the applauding crowd. Bootle and Everton had previously met twice during the season, a win for the latter and a drawn game being the result. Both clubs collected their full available strength for the final struggle, and it is therefore needless to say that the battle was stubbornly contested from beginning to end. For a time the play was tolerably even, but as the combatants warmed to their work. Galbraith the Bootle custodian was repeatedly called upon to defend his charge, which he did in right gallant style, so that when the time arrived for the change of ends the stronghold of each remained intact. Upon resuming, the fine staying powers of the Evertonians enabled them to make frequent raids into their opponents territory. Still Bootle played superbly, their passing throughout being a distinguishing feature of the game; but eventually the dash of the visitors prevailed and ranging themselves in front of the home goal, Wilding sent in a shot which Galbraith vainly attempted to fist out, and thus the match was lost to Bootle by one goal to nil, notwithstanding repeated and vigorous attempts to give a more favourable complexion to the season's record.
Today's matches.
Everton v Fishwick Ramblers, at Anfield.
Oakfield Rovers v Everton Swifts, at Walton-styles.

Everton v Fishwick Ramblers
February 1 st 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
This match was played at the Walton Breck road enclosure on Saturday, in the presence of about 1,500 spectators. The Ramblers turned up with two of their first team men away, but their places were ably filled by second team men. Everton were also at a disadvantage in having Wilding and Corey absent. Everton played the second half with ten men, W. Richards having to retire hurt early in the game. The Ramblers won the toss, and elected to play with the wind; and from the kick off some very fast and even play resulted, the ball eventually finding its way to the Everton headquarters. Marriott kicked out, and soon after the throw in the ball was fouled by Richards, but from the free kick the ball went behind the Everton line. The Ramblers than had a fair look in, but missed a good chance of scoring. After the sphere had travelled several times the length of the field Farmer tried a shot, which being well fisted out Richards returned and scored the first goal for Everton. Five minutes later Tebay scored for Fishwick and equalised, Joliffe not at all pleasing the spectators by the manner in which this point was scored –holding too long. W. George made a splendid run up the right and centred to Farmer, who put the ball just over the bar. Again Joliffe was called upon, and holding the ball was charged through, half-time finding the Ramblers leading by two goals to one. From the kick off Everton had hard lines for some time, but eventually Farmer by a long shot fairly puzzled Heaps, and again equalised. Everton got a “corner” and the ball handled by one of the Ramblers a foul ensued in front of the post, and goal No 3 was fairly pushed through. Soon after Parry tried a long shot, which was fisted out. Ten minutes before time Farmer put in a beauty from midfield, which again fairly staggered Heaps. No further goals being scored, Everton were left the victors by four goals to two. Teams; - Fishwich Ramblers; - Heaps, goal; Hunter and Barnscroft, backs; McSalvie, Robinson, and Bailey, half-backs; Wilkinson, Tebay, Booth, Taylor, and Connell, forwards. Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Dobson (captain) and Marriott, backs; Fayer, Parry, and Higgins half-backs; W. George, Richards, Farmer, and J. McGill, forwards.

Liverpool Ramblers v Everton
February 8 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
This match was played at Aigburth on Saturday before a small attendance of spectators. The ground was attendance of spectators. The ground was not in good conditions, being hardened by the frost. Two thirties only were played, and the game resulted in a victory for Everton by five goals to nil –this being the second time this season that Everton have gained decisive victories over the Ramblers. For the Ramblers the full backs did good service, and Bailey and Hull at half-back played hard and well; and had it not been for the players named, the score would have been even larger, as the visitors had their opponents penned in for the greater part of the time. The goals were scored by Finlay (2), and Farmer (2) in the first half, and W. George in the second. Of the Everton team Farmer and Finlay on the left and Higgins on the right were perhaps the best. Everton team; - Joliffe, goal; Dobson (captain) and Marriott backs; Corey, Parry, and Fayer, half-backs; George, Higgins, Wilding, Finlay, and Farmer, forwards.

Everton (Reserves) v Bootle Wanderers.
This match was played at Anfield, the ground being very hard and slippery, and the play being witnessed by about 300 spectators. Everton played uphill. From the kick off, very fast and even play prevailed for some time, and from a foul the ball founds it way to Everton quarters, but was well accounted for, and after travelling several times the length of the field Johnson and Holt got possession and carried it the Bootle right, and being well centred Smith, who was waiting near goal, put the ball through the Everton uprights and scored for the Wanderers. A dispute was made for offside but not allowed. A little later Messrs Goldrick and Scott carried the sphere to the Wanderers' end, and the latter neatly centring Douglas easily equalised. From now to 15 minutes of time the game was very evenly contested, but for the last quarter of an hour the Bootle had to act on the defensive and although the Everton played up they could not increase their score –the game ending in a draw of one goal each. For the visitors Holt, Johnson, and Pickup were the best and Moody in goal was not to be beaten; while of the home team the pick were Scott, Parry, Aindow, and Gibson. Teams; - Bootle Wanderers; - Moody goal; Francis, and Fogg, backs; Pickup, Reid, and Hoax, half-backs; Johnson, Holt, Smith, Keats, and Thomas (captain), forwards. Everton; - Henderson, goal; Gibson and Goode, backs; F. Parry, Aindow, and W. Brown, half-backs; Scott, W. Henry, Goldrick, McToole and J. Douglas (captain) forwards.

Everton v Bury
February 15 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
Played at Anfield on Saturday, nearly 3,000 persons witnessing the game, which was of a very fast and interesting character, Everton eventually winning by five goals to one. Dobson won the toss, and elected to play against the wind. From the kick-off the ball was pounced upon by the Bury left and carried to Everton quarters, where the wind carried the ball out. The throw-in was taken by Malpas, when Clerk passed to Pollock, on the left, who shot for goal and defeated Joliffe. The ball now for some time paid frequent visits to both sides, and Horn, in goal, was found plenty of work to do, Farmer, George, Wilding, and Higgins each testing him in turn. Everton got a throw in, when Wilding, by a “grass-cutter” reduced the Bury fortress, thus equalising, amidst loud cheers from the spectators. Pollock made a brilliant run, but passed over the line. W. George soon after had a good chance of scoring, but failed, the ball going behind the posts. From the goal kick the ball was put out, Corey taking throw in, Wilding essayed a shot which was fisted out, but Richards returned by a clinker and scored goal two for Everton. Everton again got a corner, when the ball was fouled in the goalmouth, and in the scrimmage half the players were down in highly piggledy fashion, causing immense amusement to the lookers-on. The goal was well cleared by the Bury backs, and the ball eventually went behind. Again Wilding got a chance and shooting Richards touched and the trick was done –No 3, for the home team –half-time finding Everton leading three to one. From the kick off Pollock and Richardson did grand work for their sides; but it was a false alarm, for Everton were not to be denied, and playing even faster than before, Richards shot, Horn fisted out, and Farmer put in goal No 4. Later on Fayer, by a shot from midfield again scored making No 5. From now to time Everton had things pretty much their own way, Bury several times paying flying visits to Everton only to find Marriott and Dobson ready. Farmer early in the game shot at goal, which was disallowed from offside. A remarkable feature in the game was the number of shots that were made by several players on both sides, the ball passing harmlessly behind the goal line. The Bury goalkeeper, Horn, is to be complimented on the manner in which he kept his charge, stopping shots without number in a remarkable manner. Teams; - Bury; - Horn goal; Walmsley, and Ross backs; Malpass, Clarke, and Lee, half-back; Douglas, Rostron, Cottam, Pollock (captain), and Richardson, forwards. Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Dobson (captain) and Marriott, backs; Corey, W. brown, and Fayer, half-backs; Richards, George, Wilding, Farmer, and Higgins, forwards.

Association Game
February 20 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier
Given an attractive fixture, there is certain to be a large and appreciative crowd at Anfield enclosure, which is not infrequently leavened with a considerable sprinkling of the gentler sex, many of whom, by the way seen to understand the run of the play as well or better than the bulk of the masculine patrons of the Everton F.C. Here on Saturday the Bury team made their defeat in the seaport, and in order to welcome the strangers, between two and three thousand of Liverpool's citizens put in an appearance. The Bury lads hold a good reputation in their own neighborhood, and when Pollock early in the game drove the ball through the Everton uprights an uncomfortable felling crept over the crowd. When Wilding equalised there was a general shaking of hands, but when Richards twice fatally pierced the Bury citadel the cheering was loud and fervent. Afterwards Farmer negotiated another goal, and with a final from the foot of Fayer, the Evertonians were returned the victors by five goals to one, despite which Horn, the Bury custodian, is entitled to credit for the manner in which he battled with his opponents.
Today's match
Everton v Druids, at Anfield

Welsh Druids v Everton
February 22 nd , 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
These teams met at the Anfield enclosure, and being the first appearance of this renowned Welsh team in Liverpool another immense gate was the result, between 4,000 and 5,000 persons paying for admission. Everton played with ten men only (W. Parry being hurt, early after the start) and won a hard fought game by a goal to nil. James Richards started the ball for the Druids, and at once got a free kick from a “foul.” An attack was made upon the Everton goal, but easily repulsed, and a “foul” from Doughly carried the ball to the Druids' quarters. Again Everton was attacked, W. Owen shooting, but Joliffe cleared in good style. B. Davies returned the ball, hitting the crossbar. Farmer now became prominent on the Everton left, and carrying the ball some distance parted to Wilding, who gave it to Fleming on the right. Fleming rushed the sphere to the corner and centred, and Farmer being handy made a splendid shot, and J. H. Davies in goal was fairly beaten amidst a roar of excited applause. From the kick off a visit was made to Everton, and W. Green tried Joliffe. W. Richards and Fleming, however, seized upon the leather, and by a bit of good passing carried it down to the neighborhood of the Welsh goal, when Jones averted disaster by granting Everton a throw in which was put behind. Everton now had three corners in succession, but owing to the splendid back play of the Druids they proved of no avail. A determined attack was made upon the home citadel, Green, Bowen, and J. Richards each essaying shots, Dobson relieved the pressure, and the sphere was soon at the other end where Farmer had a chance, but put behind. Everton had hard lines in not scoring, Davies having to handle repeatedly. A couple more corners fell to Everton, but resulted in nothing the ball finding its way harmlessly behind. Play was removed to the home end, but only for a limited time, Farmer Fleming, Richards and Wilding each testing Davies, who undoubtedly saved the credit of his team by his brilliant defence. Following half-time, flying visits were made to both ends of the field, W. Richards losing a good chance. The Druids certainly deserved to score at this point, but the home defence was impenetrable. Higgins carried the ball up and centred. Wilding essayed to score, but was spoiled at expense of a “corner,” and from the kick Richards headed, but hit the crossbar. The Druids got a “foul” close in Everton goal, but danger was soon removed. From now to time, except on one or two occasions, the Druids had to act on the defensive, the bulk of the Everton men having shots at goal, but the full back (with Davies in goal) played a sterling defensive game, and managed to keep their charge intact, while of the forwards Doughty and James Richards played really well. Of the home team the result speaks for itself. Teams; - Druids; - J. H. Davies, goal; W. Jones and W. Jones backs; J. Davies, H. Davies, and W. Moulding half-backs; E. Rowen, W. Owens, R. Doughty, W. Green, and James Richards, forwards. Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Dobson (captain) and Marriott backs; Corey, Fayer, and W. Parry half-backs; Fleming, Richards, Farmer, Higgins, and J. Wilding, forwards. Referee Mr. Lamont.

The International association football Conference
February 24 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
We have been furnished with the following report of the proceedings of the conference of international delegates announced to be held in Liverpool a few days ago, but of which at the time the local press was unable to obtained the slightest information. ; - J. Sinclair, chairman, vice president Irish F.A. and D. Hannay Ireland; J. McKillop, president Scottish F.A., and R. Bowne, Scotland, A. H. Hunter, Hon sec Welsh F.A., and John Taylor, Wales. Telegrams received from England regretting committee cannot be represented to discuss agenda sent them. The items under consideration were as follows; - • What is a professional? Each National Association may define professionalism in so far as regards players under its discussion. A professional of one country shall rank as a professional in the other three, and an amateur as an amateur.

• Should all national Associations adopt professionalism? Each National Association shall settle this point for itself. • Shall clubs be allowed to play against professionals? Clubs of one country shall not play against professionals of the same nationally, who play for clubs of another country, unless they (the professionals) have been resident there three years. But clubs of the same country may play against each other without this restriction. Residence to have the meaning defined by the English Association.

• The qualification for international player shall be birth in the country for which he plays; the question of inter-county and inter-association matches to come under resolution 3.

• That an annual conference be held in the month of June for the consideration of the “laws of the game,” and any other matters of importance of the game. The conferences to be called in turn by each of the four National Associations. England to be asked to call the first meeting for June, 1886 followed by Scotland, Wales, and Ireland. Alterations to be discussed at one conference, and decided at the next.

• It was agreed by the representatives present to adopt the foregoing resolutions for their respective associations and to recommend their adoption by England. If these resolutions are agreed to Scotland will be in a position to play England with her full strength as usual. This being the case, and as we are aware it would be inconvenient to play on the date previously fixed, viz, March 20 th Ireland and Scotland have agreed to play on that date so that England and Scotland could meet on the 27 th of March.

Association Game
February 27 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
There was a time when the Druids resigned supreme, not only in the Principality but in the district, which under the Northern Welsh dispensation is known as the Border Countries. The Association game in Liverpool was then in its infancy, and compared with the pioneers of the code in the Mersey district the Druids were as giants in the land. But there was an enterprising and flagging spirit abroad, and as Time levels up in sports as in other human affairs, today the “ancients” find themselves unable to cope successfully with their younger rivals. At any rate such was the case on Saturday when they met the Evertonians at the Anfield enclosure, which by the way, was so densely packed that a lively sprite remarked there positively “wasn't room for another.” Only one goal was scored during the match, and that by the Liverpool “silver medallists,” the winning point being the result of fine passing between Wilding Fleming and Farmer, the last named of whom eventually got the ball past the Druids custodian, and thus won the match. Unfortunately W. Parry was hurt early in the game, and having only recently recovered from a serious injury, it is regarded as more than probable that the popular and genial ex-captain of the Everton team will now retire from the football arena.

Todays matches,
Everton “A” team v Toxeth Wanderers, at Anfield
High Park (Southport) v Everton, at Southport (Liverpool Cup)
Advertisement in local Liverpool Courier reads; -
Everton v High Park (Souhport) –Saloon carriages will be attached to the 1 55 and 2 20 Trains from Exchange Station for Southport Today (Saturday), for the convenience of the Everton Cup team and their friends.

Liverpool and District Cup
Everton v High Park (Southport)
March 1 st 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
These teams met at Southport on Saturday to decide their fourth round tie in the above competition, a closely contested game ending in favour of Everton by two goals to nil. Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Dobson (captain) and Marriott backs; Corey, Fayer, and Pickering half-backs; W. Richards, Fleming, Finlay, Higgins, and Farmer forwards

Everton v Stanley
March 5 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
Mr. Richard Richmond writes; - Permits me to draw the attention of the Everton Football club to the fact that they might with every advantage to the club employ a gang of men to clear their ground of the snow, so as to permit the match to be played off on Saturday against Stanley. Seeing that to clubs will meet in the Semi-final of the cup ties large crowds will no doubt assemble to see the game. By employing the men they will be helping many poor men who are owing to the depression in trade out of work. I may mention the Notts County club employed men to clear their ground when covered with snow.
Tomorrow's matches are.
Everton v Stanley, at Anfield
Stanley v Everton 2d team

Amongst Liverpool Clubs.
March 6 th 1886. Football Field
What is to be said of the Everton tie with High Park? Never was team more unlucky than the Southport lot. Never was team more surprised than Everton. A very narrow squeak, indeed, High Park meant business. Nor are they as a team to be despised. It is surprising how well some elevens shew up in Cup-tie. Every season furnishes illustrations of the fact that no team should enter a Cup-tie against a club unknown to them, and on that account underrated. That Everton underrated their antagonists I will not venture to assert; but that some of their immediate supporters ventured on extravagant flights prophecy as to the magnitude of their victory is beyond doubt.

Certainly I was not prepared to see such a close result of the contest, not from any underrating of the ability of the Parkers, but from knowledge of the brilliant form of Everton. The first intelligence of a two-to-one victory was received in Liverpool with incredulity, but when later reports came in, it appeared that the Liverpool club had much to be thankful for, that they had not to record defeat.

Wilding was absent from the Everton team as he was playing for Wales against Ireland, and the Everton Committee would not stand in the way of his obtaining international honours. As the event proved he could ill be spared. Everton commenced play with the wind in their favour, and their first goal was quite a “soft un,” for one of the home players put it through his own goal immediately after the start. Richard scored a second point, and at half-time Everton led by two goals to nil. Facing a strong wind this was not a big majority, and when High Park commenced to press and scored a goal, things began to look serious. Many of the Everton players appeared off colour, and the back play was much feebler than usual. Everton got the ball through again, but the point was disallowed. As time wore on matters looked worse for Everton, and the home team had some very hard lines in not scoring. The ball struck the bar far too frequently for the comfort of the Everton contingent, and the call of “time” was welcomed very warmly by this section of the spectators, who had quit enough excitement for one afternoon. Richards was far the best of the Everton forwards and Fayer of the defence. Pickering was not up to the form of the rest of the team, and the backs were somewhat feeble. Altogether the match furnishes another example of the care with which a club no matter how powerful, should enter into a cup-tie against unknown team.

Everton v Stanley
March 8 th 1886. The Liverpool Mercury
The return fixture was played off on Saturday at Anfield, and so great was the interest taken in the game that 4,000 assembled, despite the ground being covered with snow. Everton were minus Farmer, who had met with an accident at work during the week; while Stanley were short of McGregor, Culkin, Stevenson, and Highet. Everton defended Walton Breck road, and Stanley were the first to become dangerous. The game continued to be pretty even, and Everton, after some neat passing, scored a goal. Stanley now made matters warm for the Everton backs, Brown hitting the crossbar. Shortly after the ball was kicked to Dick, who from half field landed the ball between the posts, and Brown put the finishing touch to it. Half-time arrived with the score one goal each. On restarting Everton had a little more of the game, but Pollock and Dick at back proved too many for them. Four minutes from time, however, they succeeded in scoring another goal, great cheering greeting the event. Stanley played very well considering the team they had only three of them being in their right places. Phillips, of the second team, was one too many for Higgins, and Dick played as he always does –grandly. Everton put forth all their efforts to secure a good victory, but were fain to accept one by the extremely narrow margin of 2 to 1. Fayer and Wilding the best for Everton, whose back play was weak. Teams; - Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Dobson (captain) and Marriott backs; Corey, Fayer and Finlay, half-backs; Fleming, Richards, Wilding, Gibson, and Higgins, forwards. Stanley; - Wright, goal; A. Dick and H. Pollock, backs; R. McCallum, G, Devey, and W Phillips, half-backs; P. Sherlock, A. McCullum, G. Kerr, W. Wilson, and W. Brown, forwards.

Daily post gives goals to Wilding and Gibson
Football notes
The match between Everton and Stanley was looked to with the utmost eagerness, and an aurous crowd may be expected to gather when these teams meet on the 27 th instant to decide which is to enter the final for the local cup. The Everton club had posted large bills calling for the services of 100 of the “unemployed” to clear the ground from snow. The response was almost alarming; and as the disappointed applicants indulged in a playful expression of their feeling the assistance of the police was necessary to remove them from the locality of the ground. They appeared to look upon the matter much as in the nature of a hoax, and it is questionable if the generous instincts of the Everton club could not have been more wisely directed, for a very liberal response to their call for workers was bound to follow the widely distributed notices of the want. Notwithstanding the weather and the known weakness of the team to represent Stanley a great crowd assembled at the time of starting the game. The Stanley team was of a very scratchy nature, as will be seen from the report of the game, and Everton played Gibson vice Farmer. It need not therefore be surprising to notice that the game was of a very uninteresting character. Everton won by 2 goals to 1, a result by no means satisfactory to their supporters under the circumstances. Dick the Stanley full back played a splendid game, whilst the Everton back play was again weak. Wilding was the best forward on the field, and Fayer most assiduous at half-back. In view of the result the forthcoming Cup-tie between these clubs will be invested with a very great amount of interest and it cannot be said that Everton have a very great pull after Saturday's game.

Everton v Stanley troubles
March 8 th 1886. The Daily Post
The events proceeding the return match between these clubs were as full of excitement as the game itself, in fact had it not been for the prompt action of Messrs Ramsey and Gunning in telephoning to Hatton-garden, and the equally prompt dispatch of Superintendent Hancox with a force of twenty constables in cabs to the above game, it is just possible that a serious disturbance might have taken place. As the ground was covered with snow, to the depth of five or six inches play of any sort would have been impossible. Consequently the committee of the Everton club, with the double purpose in view of clearing the ground and giving a day's work to some of the vast numbers of unemployed laborers in the city issue posters asking for 100 men to apply on the ground at nine a.m. on Saturday morning. The men were soon engaged and not to work, but had scarcely begun when six or seven times that number presented themselves, but finding that they were not required they at first contended themselves by snowballing the unfortunate officials above mentioned including Dobson, the captain of the team. This, however, was soon changed, and it then became evident that an attempt was about to be made to drive the employed men off the ground. One of the younger lot, of the pronounced corner man stamp announced that they were the “High Rip Gang” and wanted money without work. Matters became serious, and as belts were being brought into use the above steps were taken with the excellent result that after addressing the crowd and distributing a number of bread tickets, Superindentant Hancox cleared the men away, leaving the chosen hundred to continue their work undisturbed. The committee were well rewarded for their charitable intentions, as owing, no doubt to the first fact that these clubs were drawn to play in the semi-final for the local and district several thousand spectators lined the enclosure before the ball was set rolling, and by the time the kick off took place not less than 4,000 spectators were present. After all the ground was only partially cleared, and perhaps it was well that such was the case as the portion completely cleared was so sloppy that the players could with difficulty keep their feet.

EVERTON REVIEW
March 8, 1886. The Liverpool Mercury
The match between Everton and Stanley was looked forward to with the utmost eagerness and an enormous crowd may be expected to gather when these teams meet on the 27 th instant to decide which is to enter the final for the local cup. The Everton club had posted large bills calling for the services of 100 of the “unemployed” to clear the ground from snow. The response was almost alarming; and as the disappointed applicants indulged in a playful expression of their feeling, the assistance of the police was necessary to remove them from the locality of the ground. They appeared to look upon the matter much as in the nature of a hoax, and it is questionable if the generous instincts of the Everton club, could not have been more wisely directed, for a very liberal response to their call for workers was bound to follow the widely distributed notices of this want. Notwithstanding the weather and the known weakness of the tram to represent Stanley, a great crowd assembled at the time of starting the game. The Stanley team was of a very scratchy nature as will been seen from the report of the game, and Everton played Gibson vice Farmer. It need not, therefore be surprising to notice that the game was of a very uninteresting character. Everton won by 2 goals to 1, a result by no means satisfactory to their supporters under the circumstances. Dick, the Stanley full-back, played a splendid game, whilst the Everton back play was again weak. Wilding was the best forward on the field, and Fayer most assiduous at half-back. In view of this result the forthcoming Cup tie between these clubs will be invested with a very great amount of interest, and it cannot be said that Everton have a very great pull after Saturday's game.

EVERTON V STANLEY
March 8, 1886. The Liverpool Mercury
This return fixture was played off on Saturday at Anfield, and so great was the interest taken in the game that 4,000 people asserted, despite the ground being covered with snow. Everton were minus Farmer, who had met with an accident at work during the week; while Stanley were short of McGregor, Culkin, Stevenson, and Highet,. Everton defended the Walton-Breck goal, and Stanley were the first to become dangerous. The game continued to be pretty even, and Everton, after some neat passing, scored a goal. Stanley now made matters warm for the Everton backs. Brown hitting the crossbar. Shortly after the ball was kicked to Dick, who from half field landed the ball between the posts and Brown put the finishing touch to it. Half time arrived with the score one goal each. On restarting Everton had a little more of the game, but Pollock and Dick at back proved too many for them. Four minutes from time, however, they succeeded in scoring another goal, great cheering greeting the event. Stanley played very well considering the team they had, only three of them being in their =right places. Phillips, of the second team, was one too many for Higgins, and Dick played as he always does –grandly Everton put forth all their efforts to secure a good victory, but were fain to accept one by the extremely narrow margin of 2 to 1. Fryer and Wilding were the best for Everton, whose back play was weak. Teams: - Everton: - Goal, Joliffe; Backs, Dobson and Marriott; Half-backs, Corey, Fayer and Findley; forwards, Fleming, Richards, Wilding, Gibson, and Higgins. Stanley:- Goal Wright; Backs, A. Dick, and H. Pollock; Half-backs, R. McCallum, G. Dorey, and W. Phillips; Forwards, P Shorlock, A. McCallum, G. Kerr, W. Wilson, and W. Brown.

DISTURBANCE AMONG LIVERPOOL UNEMPLOYED
MARCH 8, 1886. The Liverpool Mercury
On Friday, a number of placards were exhibited in Liverpool, announcing that 100 men were required to clear away the snow from the Everton Football Club ground t Walton Breck-road, on Saturday morning, where a match was to take place between Everton and Stanley. The prospect of employment although temporary attracted several hundreds of men to the ground on Saturday morning, and a struggle took place for precedence. As soon as 100 men had been “taken on,” the others were informed that no more were required. This naturally raised the ire of those not selected, and they commenced to snowball the hired men. A serious disturbance being apprehended the city and county authorities were communicated with. By instruction from the Head Constable, Chief Superintendent, Hancox, Inspector Hassall, Taylor and Simpson, and 20 constables were sent in cabs about ten o'clock and, on arriving of the football ground, it was found that a disturbance was taking place. Fortunately the police were enabled in a few minutes to disperse the combatants before anyone had been seriously injured. A number of county police also arrived to render assistance if needed.

The Unemployed at Everton
March 13 th 1886. Football Field.
There were rumours in Liverpool that Stanley intended to scratch to Everton last week over the inability to raise a team. These rumours where without foundation, but at the earnest requested Everton-Stanley decided to play the match possibly to dispel all doubts as to the certainty of the match being played the Everton issued a number of posters to the following effect that the unemployed. Wanted 100 men to clear the Everton Football Ground of snow for the game between Everton v Stanley. Apply at the ground on the day morning at nine o'clock. This notice was in times of prosperity would certainly be like responded to, and the Everton officials when present at the time appointed for the engagement found themselves confronted with an alarming situation. One hundred men were quickly got to work, but from all directions the alarmed Committeeman beheld a steam of the unfortunate fellows, who sufferings are at present here such widespread sympathy all over the county, was approaching the ground. As usual, however, there were the unemployed “corner” element persons in large proportions, and the more expelled of the disappointed applicants were them persuaded by the roughs that they have been hoaxed. Something like a thousand men of this class assembled, and under the circumstances facing them was indeed an alarming situation to the Everton officials. They soon become playful and pelted George Dobson and his companions unmercifully. Represent themselves as the “High Rip Gang,” a big miscreants who are a terror of some parts of the city, several of the crowd took off their belts and contemplated an attack on all concerned as a hundred favored individuals, as a matter of fact coming in for especial notice. When matters had reached this alarming crisis a band of men appeared on the scene. By the judicious experience of persuasion and force, and the distribution of relief tickets order was gradually restored, and George Dobson was dead out of form in the afternoon and no wonder.

Association Game
Match 13 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier
With characteristic enterprise, the Everton committee had the snow removed from the Anfield enclosure so that their fixture with Stanley might be brought to a solution; but of course there was wisdom in this, seeing that the clubs meet in the semi-final of the Liverpool Cup ties, and that Stanley had actually ousted the holders from the competition. It is no wonder therefore that these facts sufficed to attract an immense crowd of spectators. Although neither of the clubs placed their full team on the field the game was so stoutly contested that when the sides crossed over the score was level –one goal each. Inspired by their victory over Earlestown and the additional prestige thus gained, the Stanleyites played up in the full hope of also lowering the colors of their formidable neigbours; but all their efforts were in vain for whilst they were unable to augment their score, Gibson sent in a successful shot which enabled Everton to win an exciting game by two goals to one. Should this form be borne out on the 27 th instant, it is more than probable that Everton will have to meet Bootle in the final, in which case the district committee would act wisely in appointing the umpires as well as referee, so as to minimize the possibility of a recurrence of the journalistic warfare which marked the close of last season contest.

FAREWELL DINNER
March 13, 1886. The Liverpool Mercury
On Monday evening Mr. C.S. Twemlow, late headmaster of Northcote-road Board School, Walton and who is well known in football circles in this town, was entertained to dinner by a few professional and other friends prior to his departure for Queensland on the 24 th instant. The dinner was held at the George Hotel, Breck-road. The chair was comprised by Mr. Albert Smith. The toast of the evening was submitted by Roger Wilcock of the Wavertree F.C., seconded by Mr. J. Thwaites of Everton F.C., and cordially honoured.

EVERTON V OSWESTRY
March 15, 1886. The Liverpool Mercury
This match was played at Anfield-road in presence of a large gathering of spectators. The ground was soft, and dead against good play. Both teams seemed to take matters easily. In the first half Everton scored a goal to nil, whilst the second portion of the game was a repetition of the first, Everton had considerably the best of the game and left off winners by 2 goals to nil. The goals were scored by Farmer and Fleming. Teams:- Everton:- Goal; Joliffe; backs; Dobson, Marriott; half-backs; Corey, Fayer, Higgins; forwards, Fleming, Richards, wilding, Finley, Farmer. Oswestry:- Goal Harriss; backs; Powell, Plimley; half-backs; Morrise, Ellis, m. Evans; forwards; P. Evans, T. Evans, Davies, Bryan, Roche.
Everton v Oswestry, at Anfield.
Everton Swifts v Birkdale, at Birkdale.

Daily Post
The Everton Club's charitable intentions in advertising for 100 men to clear the ground last Saturday, in order that the Stanley match might be brought off, very nearly led to a breach of the peace, as some 800 or 900 presented themselves, and the unemployed set on to the employed with snowballs, and but for the prompt action of the Everton officials in calling in the police the end might have been serious. I know, however, that is has been accepted by the club as a caution. No more advertising for the unemployed. Turning to the match, I may say it was a sturdy one, though neither team was quite at its best, and the best club just got the verdict by two goals to one. If the absent Stanleyities play much better than the subs on Saturday, then Everton will have to put in all they know to hold their own when the cup tie comes on the decision, that is on the form of Everton on Saturday, which was not as good as usual, especially in the full back department. Perhaps the dose of snowballs which Dobson received in the morning had not quite agreed with him, as although he tackled well his kicks were feeble. It is a pity Dick does not content himself with playing the game pure and simple, without resorting to little bits of roughness which mar what would otherwise be almost faultless back play. It is hoped the ground will be in a better state for the next encounter, and that both clubs will be fully represented. In such circumstances a grand struggle may be anticipated.

Everton v Oswestry
March 15 th 1886. The Liverpool Daily Post
About 2,000 spectators found their way to the Everton enclosure on Saturday to witness the return match between the above clubs. The visitors were anxious to wipe out the defeat which they sustained on their own ground, but failed, as the home club won by two goals to love. The ground was muddy, and in some places the players had great difficulty in maintaining their equilibrium, and this, perhaps in a measure may account for some wretched attempts in shooting at goal. During the second half the game was rather one-sided, Joliffe only handling the ball once most of the play being confined to the visitors 25. Oswestry won the toss and defended the top goal. Wilding kicked off, and before many seconds elapsed, Farmer gave some trouble on the left. Harris cleared well, and after a few exchanges Farmer shot over the bar. The brothers Evans now got off on the right, the globe being worked over the line. From the kick out some nice exchanges took place in midfield, then Byran and Roche made an incursion into the Everton end, hands off Higgins causing some uneasiness. The free kick was well negotiated by the home backs, and then farmer dribble along the left. Morris tackled smartly, but Wilding got the leather across to the right; Fleming centred, but Gibson shot high. A corner to the home club soon followed, but was spoiled. Evans now came up prominently, Dobson just overhauling him when getting within shooting distance. Everton right replied with a needful run. A corner followed, which, being beautifully placed by Corey, Farmer just touched the leather with his head and first blood was drawn. Aided by two throwns in on the right and a judicious centre by Richards, Gibson had the goal at his mercy, but failed wretchedly in his attempt farmer was the next to test the Oswestry custodian, but failed to find an opening, Harris handling out and Powell kicking clear. A throw in from the right and pass to the left gave Gibson another chance, but again he mulled it, and meeting the kick out, Davis dashed down the centre, Fayer pulled him up, and several exciting assaults on the visitors goal were made but half-time arrived without further damage. Davis restarted after crossing over, and after a few passes a corner resulted to Everton. Powell kicked clear, Dobson returned, and another corner was conceded. Powell again saved, but hands off Powell made matters awkward; the advantage was neutralised by Gibson heading over the bar. Davis and Byson now relived the pressure, and by good long passing, invaded the home end. Everton were soon on the back track, and three corners in quick succession fell to them. From the third Wilding headed the leather well in Powell just saving. At length after a number of very nears, Wilding sent across to Fleming, who notched the second point. Corey next stopped a determined rush on the left, and for some time the visitors were again pressed, Ryan and Roche ultimately got away, and Davis had a shy at the home goal. Joliffe threw clear, Fleming and Richards back on the right, and Farmer shot over. Time was at length called with the score as above. Teams; - Everton; - C. Joliffe, goal; G. Dobson (captain), and T. Marriott, backs, E. Corey, T. Fayer, and M. Higgins, half-backs; G. Fleming, and W. Richards, right wing; J. Wilding centre; G. Farmer, and W. Gibson left wing. Oswestry; - R. Harris, goal; Seth Powell (captain) and G. Plimley, backs; J. Morris, T. Ellis, and M. Evans half-backs; G. Evans, and T. Evans, right wing; T. Davies, centre; T. Bryan, and T. Roche, left wing.

Everton “A” team v Birkdale
Liverpool Courier.
The Everton “A” team paid a visit to Birkdale on Saturday. A fast and pleasant game was played, Everton eventually winning by three goals to two (and having one disallowed for off side play). After the match the teams sat down to a sumptuous spread, and a pleasant hour was spent. Teams; - Birkdale; - H. Clamson, goal; Hales and Shaw, backs; A. Scott, Eccles, and Knight, half-backs; Cross, Dowd, F and W. Marchant, and K. Knight forwards. Everton; - W. Williams, goal; Goode and Henderson, backs; Pickup, Aindow, and F. Parry, half-backs; Douglas, W. Henry, W. George, T. Scott, and W. Brown, forwards.

March 20 th 1886. Football Field
The Everton ground was a perfect swamp for their match with Oswestry, and the white jerseyed visitors to Anfield Road soon presented a very be dabbled aspect after a few peregrinations over the enclosure. Farmer was not expected to play for Everton, but the little Oswestry man could not withstand the temptation of showing his old club that his foot had lost none of its cunning, notwithstanding that he ran a risk on the slippery ground of placing himself on the shelf at a very critical time. Oswestry have not been very successful in their engagements with Liverpool clubs during the present season. Stanley have beaten them twice, the last time on their own ground at Oswestry, and by the decisive majority of four goals to 1. This is an old fixture of Everton, and was formerly a very popular one. Two thousand spectators mustered for the game, which was not distinguished for any brilliant or noteworthy performance. Everton asserted a decided superiority from the start, and Oswestry appeared perfectly content to act on the defensive. Here they exhibited a certain amount of vigour, but forward they were weak and easily held in check by Dobson and his fellows. Gibson was again tried on the left wing but failed to justify his selection. He lay well up and had several opportunities, but his shooting was vile and severely tried the patience of the spectators. Fleming and Farmer each scored, but Richards and Wilding were not in their usual form. Fayer was the best man in the team, and is developing into a grand player.

Members of teams visiting Everton, more especially during the latter end of last season, will be interested to learn that the farewell dinner given to “Charlie” Twemlow, prior to his departure to Queensland, was a great success. Mr. Albert Smith presided, and prominent amongst the company present were Messrs. Dick Walsh and J. Thwaites. “Sam “Bushell had been to Blackburn the previous Saturday, and he was unfortunately only able to be present in the spirit. There were two verdicts.

• That the popular ex-Treasurer of the Everton Football Club was a “Jolly good fellow.”
• That Harry Marshall's hotpots take the cake in this part of the world.

Association Game
March 20 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier
The Anfield enclosure was occupied with Everton and the Oswestry teams, while in former years was able to hold it, own against the best of its rivals. The same hugh crowd which throughout the season has patronised this popular enclosure again championed the cause of the local men who had all the best of a slow game, and won by two goals to nil. Farmer, who was an absentee on the previous Saturday, owing to an accident sustained at the works where he is employed again donned the famous blue and white and scored for his side a feat which it is needless to say, did not escape. The observations of the enthusiastic crowd, it may be taken as a pretty sure sigh of prosperity when a club can effort to dispatch its teams to the scene of operations in Saloon carriages. Thus the Everton “A” team travelled in as quest of Birkdale and after a sharp encounter returned victoius by three goals to two, however, before the Birkdale officials had dispensed hospitality with a degree of liberality which does them credit.

Everton v Southport
March 22 nd 1886. The Liverpool Daily Post
About 1,000 people assembled at Anfield on Saturday to witness this contest, which proved to be of a very one sided and somewhat uninteresting character. Three quarters of an hour after the advertised time Southport, having lost the toss, turned their backs to Anfield-road, and kicked off against an oblique wind. Higgins returned, and the home forwards became very aggressive, Richards opening their account after five minutes' play. Some interchanges in midfield ensured, in which Fayer and Briggs were conspicuous, and Farmer came away, Baxter kicking over his own line in his efforts to save. The corner was well placed, and Farmer headed through very cleverly. A raid was then made to the other end, and Dobson, missing his kick, let in T. Morris, who compelled Joliffe to throw away. Fleming and Richards worked the leather back, and from a good centre Finlay notched the third point, and immediately after the kick off Wilding added a fourth. Mellor and C. Morris put in a capital run which resulted in a corner off Marriott, and this enabled W. Morris to score the first goal for the visitors. A sharp fusillade on the visitors' goal followed, and Wilding soon put in a beauty out of Mayall's reach. The home team then secured four corners in succession, from the last of which Baxter headed through his own goal. Mellor and the brother Morris essayed in vain to break through the Everton defence, and two capital returns of Marriott's were nullified by Farmer's erratic shooting, Wilding ultimately shot into Mayall's hands, and meeting the return put it through, and half-time arrived with the score seven to one in favour of Everton. With the assistance of the wind Southport set off with a rush, and from a neat pass of W. Morris, T. Morris who was lying handy, easily defeated Joliffe two minutes from the restart. Playing up with vigour Briggs got very dangerous but Dobson cleared his lines in fine style, and the venue was changed to the other end, where Everton took an abortive corner. After Farmer had indulged in some gallery play Fleming kicked over. The Southport defence was then severely taxed, and Farmer getting well placed put one between the sticks at a tremendous pace. For the next few minutes' play was in the home quarters, and Joliffe threw a shot from Dutton over his own lines, Marriott cleared and a race for possession between Richards and Bailey ended in the latter getting the leather well up, but the whistle sounded and left Everton victorious by eight goals to two. Teams; - Everton; - Joliffe, goal; G. Dobson (captain) and T. Marriott backs; E. Corey, T. Fayer and M. Higgins, half-backs; G. Fleming, and W. Richards, right wing; J. Wilding, centre; G. Farmer, and W. Finlay, left wing. Southport; - J. Mayall, goal; T. B. Burnett and H. Baxter, backs; A. B. Bailey, J.J. Briggs, and J.H. Johnson half-backs; C. Morris, P. Mellor, T. Morris, W. Morris, and A. Dutton, forwards.

Match 27 th 1886. Football Field
Everton induced Southport to play their return fixture at Anfield-road, and a capital attendance was attracted to the ground. In future, I fancy Southport's drawing power will not prove so powerful, for they are certainly not a club of the caliber to give Everton a stretching. Much satisfaction was expressed by the Everton supporter's proclivities of their favourites, as there has been a lack in this particular quality of late. The home players had the advantage of a stiffest breeze to commence, and few opportunities were allowed to pass. Southport were ever on the defensive, but notwithstanding some strenuous efforts on the part of the backs division, their quarters were stormed on no less than seven occasions in the first half, whilst the younger Morris was enabled just by way of diversion to notch a goal for Southport. Afterwards the visitors' defence proved more obstinate, and the second portion of the game was of a somewhat more even nature. Still the seasiders were sorely pressed, and finished in a minority of eight goals to two. Everton were, as I have indicated, in good shooting form, Wilding scoring three goals and Richards two. The former played a pretty game, and his inclusion in the Welsh international team to oppose England next Monday has given unbounded satisfaction to his numerous admires.

Stanley took their cup team to Bury and had a pleasant game with the club of that place, a drawn match resulting. The brilliant victory of Everton over this club a few weeks back would indicate their clear superiority to Stanley, and on that form they should beat the Stiles Club today pretty handsomely. Still such reckoning up of football form are illusory. The display of Everton on the occasion of their match with Bury was perhaps the finest they have yet exhibited, but it cannot be said that this form has been maintained. On the other hand, Stanley have lately developed a form, which will render them formidable antagonists, and Everton are by no means underrating them. The match is exciting immense interest, and I have small doubt in my own mind, that when these lines are in print a new and in tenser excitement will have been born, and all local footballers will welcome the 10 th of April when the flight between the old rivals Bootle and Everton for the Liverpool trophy will take place.

Football Notes
March 27 th 1886. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton had an easy task with Southport, and their forwards had a capital opportunity for a little practice at goal kicking which was not to be despised, if we may judge from the fact of Farmer playing six successive shots in less than so many minutes, over and wide of the posts. The same player would, we think, be doing more services to his side if he indulged in a little less gallery play. Joliffe might have stopped one of the Southport shots from taking effect, but with these exceptions no fault can be found with the team, among whom Fleming and Fayer were gluttons for work, the former making some very judicious centres. W. Morris played a splendid game for Southport, the forwards being too light for their opponents while the backs were very uncertain, with the exception of Bailey.

In the semi-final for the Liverpool and District cup, played at Hawthorne road today, the teams are as follows (kick off at 3-30). Stanley; - G. Wright, goal; A. Dick and R. Stevenson backs; A. McCullum Kerr, and H. Pollock half-backs; Wilson, McNiel, McGregor, Brown, and Culkin forwards. Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Dobson (captain) and T. Marriott, backs; E. Corey, T. Fayer, and M. Higgins, half-backs; G. Fleming, and W. Richards, right wing; J. Wilding, centre; G. Farmer and W. Finlay, left wing.

LIVERPOOL CUP TIE –SEMI-FINAL
March 29, 1886. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton v. Stanley
A crowd of 4,000 spectators had assembled on the Bootle ground to witnessed his important match. The ground was in fair conditions, ad through the weather was somewhat overcast, the rain held off. Stanley won the toss, and elected to defend the Stanley-road goal, having the wind at their backs. Wilding started the game, and after a few preliminary interchanges in midfield, W. Wilson passed nicely to Brown, who, however shot out. Stanley now showed up in a strong attack, Marriott tackling Culkin in fine style when danger threatened. Still Joliffe was twice requisitioned before the ball could be got away, when Finlay receiving on the Everton felt, sent in a long shot, causing Wright to handle. Fleming now ran well down, a fine centre being mulled by Farmer. Stanley them ran down J. Wilson shooting well, but Dobson transferred the venue, Richards essaying an attack from the Everton right. A fine return of Stevenson again gave Stanley a chance, and Brown almost scored with splendid overhead kick. The pace was now very hot. Fleming ran well down, his centre causing some anxiety to the Stanley defenders, a corner accusing. Finlay placed by Carey, Wright was twice troubled but not beaten, and soon matters became serious for Everton a persistent attack by Stanley, in which a corner was won, being with difficulty repelled. A good combined run, by the Everton forwards, a grand shot by Wilding, which struck the crossbar, and then a disappointed murmur as Farmer shot badly. The kick out found the position again reversed, and a foul against Everton in dangerous proximity afforded Pollock a chance, which he had almost turned to account. For some time the Everton defence was seriously tested; but at last the siege was raised, and a good passing run brought Everton within shooting distance, Stevenson almost heading through his own goal. The same player, however, averted disaster and his forwards were racing off when Dobson dashingly interposed. Fleming shot finely, but Dick replied with a hugh punt. Back again Fleming twice shot, but on each occasion Dick cleared the lines in fine style. The Stanley back was at this time playing superbly, his flying kicks eliciting hearty cheering. Stanley assayed an attack, but Marriott interposed, and half-time arrived, no score having taken place. McGregor started the ball, which at once travelled over the Everton goal line. Everton, however, speedily ran down, Farmer shooting very wildly. After a period of slow play, Culkin and McGregor made two determined attempts to get away, but Marriott frustrated each effort. Still the Everton defence had an awkward time of it, for a space a speedily run of Farmer bringing relief. After Fayer had spoiled a concerted move of the Stanley forwards. Farmer assayed a run, but Dick interposed. The latter in tackling Wilding a moment later, left an opening, and Finlay centred well, Wilding scored with a beautiful shot amidst enthusiastic demonstratious. Stanley went off with a rush, Culkin showing up in a capital dribble, but the attack on the Stanley goal was renewed, Dick being compelled to concede a corner. This was badly taken by Gibson, and some progress being made by the Stanley forwards, Marriott returned, and Wilding again scored with a fine shot. At this point Wilding was playing brilliantly, and twice after the restart was within an inch of scoring. Dick was too attentive to Everton centre, and Finlay was enabled to score a third goal for his side. From now play was mostly in the Stanley quarters, and Fleming showed up very prominently in some fine efforts. Stanley however, made severely ugly rushes, and an inevitable score was only saved by a supreme effort of the Everton captain. Farmer shot firmly on two occasions, but no further score took place, Everton going into the final by 3 goals to nil. Teams; - Stanley; - G. Wright, goal; A. Dick (captain) and R. Stevenson backs; McCallum, Kerr, and R. Pollock, half-backs; W. Wilson, J. Wilson, McGregor, Brown, and Culkin, forwards. Everton; - C. Joliffe, goal; G. Dobson (captain) and Marriott backs; E. Corey, F. Fayer, and W. Gibson, half-backs; G. Fleming, G. Farmer, W. Richards, W. Finlay and Wilding forwards.

Football Notes
The second of the semi-finals in the Liverpool Cup competition entirely uncompetition entirely unaccomplished the attention of local dribbles on Saturday. Everton have met Stanley three times previous to Saturday during the present season, and on each occasion secured a victory, albeit the majority was very small in every instance. Hence they entered the contest on Saturday with every confidence, whilst Stanley were sanguine of obtaining a favourable verdict. Some 4,000 spectators had assembled on the Hawthorn-road ground to witness the game, and every coign of vantage in the vicinity of the ground was also occupied. The turf was in better order than was anticipated, though somewhat sticky, and a stiffest breeze blew towards the Hawthorn-road goal. With this in their favour Stanley during the first half made the pace, the Everton citadel narrowly escaping downfall on several occasions. Everton also made some determined attempts to score, but at half-time excitement had reached a high pitch neither side having scored. In the second half Stanley palpably tired, and were thrown almost entirely on the defensive. Intense enthusiasm prevailed when Wilding scored for Everton with a beautiful shot. The same player shortly added a second point with equal cleverness, whilst Finlay added a third goal, placing the result of the game beyond doubt. Several of the Stanley players once more threatened to bring obloquy on their club by most persistent front play. The referee interfered on several occasions, but there were many instances in which unnecessary roughness passed without penalty. Had the losers played the game in true, sportsmanlike fashion it is possible they might have minitated their defeat. The back play of both sides was powerful, Dick playing magnicently in the first half, whilst Dobson was at his best. There was little to choose between the respective half-backs. It was forward where Stanley were beaten. The Everton forwards were more active, and, though they have been seen to greater advantage, they played with all their accustomed dash. Fleming was perhaps the most assiduous of the rank, and Wilding the most brilliant. He two goals secured by the Wrexham player (who is in the Welsh international team today) were exceedingly fine efforts. Culkin was perhaps the best of the Stanley forwards, who occasionally exhibited some neat passing.

Liverpool Cup semi-final
Everton v Stanley
March 29 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
These teams met on Saturday in the last of the semi-final of the Liverpool and district contest, decided on the neutral ground of the Bootle F.C., and with springlike weather there were close upon 4,000 persons in attendance to witness the play. Wilding started the ball, and Marriott having taken a free kick for a “foul “ W. Wilson made a splendid run down the field, the ball eventually being kicked outside. Now Marriott tackled splendidly, notwithstanding which the Everton fortress became the scene of a fierce bombardment, and although the attack was repulsed a moment later the younger Wilson sent in a beautiful shot, which just passed outside. On kicking out, Richards showed fine heading, while the trackling of Stevenson was superb. An attack by Everton having been repulsed, Brown sent in a clever overhead shot, which passed over the bar. Now the Everton left broke away and Wilding sent in a grand shot, which narrowly missed scoring. Already several of the Stanleyites were playing to reverse of a gentlemanly game, which elicited from the spectators strong expressions of disapproval. During subsequent attacks upon the Stanley fortress Wilding's shooting and Dick's defence were alike marvelously good, and with further play of a equal character half-time was signalled without a point having been scored. McGregor having restarted the ball, the interchanges became of a lively description, and in these the respective backs showed very conspicuously. For a moment the Everton fortress was in danger. Relief, however, was at hand, and Farmer was warmly cheered for a run almost the length of the ground, but although the shot missed its mark Wilding directly afterwards scored a magnificent goal, notwithstanding a deliberate attempt on the part of one of the Stanley backs to charge his man rather than play the ball. The cheering had scarcely subsided when Wilding again beat the Stanley custodian, on which the enthusiasm reached its culminating point. Now Finlay took up the attack, and evading a charge the Evertonians scored a third goal amidst a renewal of the cheering. At length Stanley broke away and the evil spell appeared to be passing away when Dobson rushed into goal and saved magnificently. “Corners” of a fruitless character next fell to Everton when Richards, owing to an injury, had temporally to retire. Stanley were now visibly suffering from the effects of disorganization, and as a consequence the Evertonians gained a corresponding ascendancy, mean while keeping up an incessant attack upon the unfortunate Stanley stronghold. A pretty piece of play on the part of Fleming gave Farmer possession who breasted the ball just outside the upright –a grand effort which certainly deserved better success. Again Fleming took the ball most brilliantly down the right of the field finishing with a fine but unsuccessful shot, and although nothing further was scored the last named player was conspicuous to the end, his play on several occasions being quite to county form. During the second period of play, the Stanley men fell off their play, and at least a couple of points were scored against them owing to a prevalent disposition to play “the man.” Undoubtedly the best team won and Everton will now have to meet Bootle in the final struggle for the title of champions of the district. Teams; - Stanley; - G. Wright, goal; A. Dick (captain) and R. Stevenson backs; McCallum, Kerr, and R. Pollock, half-backs; W. Wilson, J. Wilson, McGregor, Brown, and Culkin, forwards. Everton; - C. Joliffe, goal; G. Dobson (captain) and Marriott backs; E. Corey, F. Fayer, and W. Gibson, half-backs; G. Fleming, G. Farmer, W. Richards, W. Finlay and Wilding forwards.

In and about Liverpool
April 3 rd 1886. Football Field
Nothing could afford ampler proof of the growth of popularity of the Association game in Liverpool, than a comparison of the attendance at the various semi-final and final ties during the last few years. The semi-finals in the competition last season must have yielded little more than half the receipts already netted by our thriving Association. Evening the exciting tie between Bootle and Everton as yielded something like £50 last year whilst in the match between Everton and Stanley on Saturday last, something like £80 was taken at the game. The final now lies between Bootle and Everton, undoubtedly the two most foremost clubs in the Association, and the two, which I have all along supported to furnish the eventual winners of the handsome trophy. The superiority of these clubs may be indicated by the list of their performances during the present competition. Thus, Everton have beaten Southport Wanderers 3 to 1, New Ferry 14 to 0, High Park 2 to 1, Stanley 3 to 0, or a total score off 22 goals to 2. Bootle have beaten Ramblers 7 to 0, Southport 5 to 0, Earlestown Wanderers 8 to 1, Haydock 4 to 0, or a total score of 24 goals to 1.

There was a very large crowd on the Bootle ground at the commencement of last Saturday game between Everton and Stanley. Something like 5,000 people witnessed the match, although 4,000 would be a liberal estimate of the number on the ground at the start. The bulk of these were from “hill country,” as it was evidenced the hearty and general cheer which greeted the arrival of the Everton team on the ground. Stanley had a good sprinkling of followers who had the greatest confidence in the ability of their team. There was not so much “cocksureness” exhibited, however, by either party, and it was evidence the impression that the struggle would be keen. Stanley started with the advantage having the wind at their backs, and as soon as the players found their legs, a proceeding apparent necessary amongst Liverpool footballers, the recipations of a stiff fight were seen to be founded. The ball travelled from end to end with a great swiftness and strict impartially. Stanley made the most of the position, and it looked that odds on their notching the opening points. The passing was very nicely, and dashed with great determination at the sturdy defenders of Everton. Marriott early got a very heavy throw, and George Dobson was seriously harassed on several occasions. Still these stalwart defenders kept the pass, and averted disaster. It must not be supposed that the Everton forwards were idle meantime. As I have indicated the attack alternated at either end, and Dick and Stevenson were severely tested. They also were also powerful defenders, and although neither side showed very skillful tactics, the back department on both sides must be characterised powerful. The Everton forwards, as usual relied rather on sudden rushes and on concerted movements, and they were as active as ever in making the most of any opportunity, which offered. Stanley played a closer game, but also a slower and half-time found the teams on an even footing, no score having occurred. The wind had now greatly subsided, and Stanley had the advantage of the ground. Those familiar sound the Bootle enclosure were of opinion that Everton would now have just as hard a fight to score a goal, but these anticipations were soon satisfied. When the game again settled down, it was apparent that the Evertonians would not be denied, for they bore down on the Stanley goal with great persistence. A foreboding of coming defeat seemed to take possession of Stanley, and Dick who had played faultlessly in the first half, made a mistake which proved fatal. A good combined run of the Everton forwards had brought the sphere into dangerous proximity and Dick was tempted from his stronghold (he played cover goal) to annihilate Wilding. He used his mark, and, before he could get home and quarry had slipped past and scored a beauty, the usual demonstrations followed this really ever feat, and the cheers had barely died away before the smart little Welshman had made assurance doubly sure by a second brilliant shot.

Stanley lost heart, and it really looked as if Everton would make a tall score, for after Dick again overreached himself in tackling Wilding, alay scored a third time. Afterwards play came easier. Everton being apparently satisfied that Stanley were beaten. Once or twice the latter made incursion into Everton quarters, and they came very near scoring once, but Dobson saved wonderfully. No other goal was scored and Everton won a good game by three goals to nil.

Association Game
April 3 rd 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
Convincing evident of the great popularity of the Association game was to be found at the Hawthorne road ground on Saturday, when close upon 4,000 persons assembled to witness the semi-final tie in the Liverpool cuptie contest between Everton and Stanley. For a great length of time appearances were in favour of a drawn game but the moment ends were changed, there was a marked improvement in the play of the Anfield team, who throughout played a much fairer game than their opponents excepting of course the brothers Wilson and three or four others. Owing to a blundering “charge” Wilding was enabled to score his first goal, and at least another point fell to the lot of Everton from the same reason, and as Stanley were by the time thoroughly beaten, the Evertonians won by three goals to nothing. Following the chance of ends, Fleming played a remarkably fine wing game, his runs, dodging, and centring being repeatedly cheered by the appreciative crowd. The full backs of both teams greatly distinguishing themselves, Dick, in the first half and Dobson and Marriott in the second being particularly conspicuous. The latter, indeed, has rarely sent to better advantage; while on one occasion his colleague earned plaudits by repulsing an attack when the ball was dead in the mouth of goal. It may be of interest to state that this was the fourth meeting of the teams this season, and that on each occasion Everton was victorious scoring in the aggregate eight goals to one. Of the 38 matches played by Everton, 23 have been won, 12 lost, and 3 drawn. 108 goals being scored and against 54 –a very good record, considering that the bulk of the losses were inflicted by superior organisations. The final now lies between Everton and Bootle, and people are wondering whether history will repeat itself; but as Everton have won two out of the three last games played (the other being drawn), and scored five goals to two these facts are regarded as a propitious augury of success.

Everton play the Fishwick Ramblers at Anfield today, and the following are the teams; - Ramblers; - R. Smalley, goal; T. Baverstock and R. Whittle, backs; T. Hunter, W. Robinson, A. Bailey or T. Ogden, half-backs; J. B. Edwards, T, Cornall, J. Teebay, W. Jackson, and J. Armstrong. Everton; - C. Joliffe goal; G. Dobson and T. Marriott, backs; M. Higgins, or W. Gibson, T. Fayer, and E. Corey, half-backs; G. farmer, W. Richards, W. Finlay, J. Wilding and G. Fleming, forwards.

After the final cup tie with Bootle on Saturday next Everton have arranged to play the full team of the famous Preston North End on the Wednesday evening following. The Easter matches are –Good Friday, against the Northern and Eastern Counties comprising players from Northumberland, Durham, and Cleveland; on Saturday, the 24 th instant possibly the Edinburgh Hibernians; and on Easter Monday, Sheffield Wednesday.

Everton v Fishwick Ramblers
April 5 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
These teams met at Anfield on Saturday in the presence of 1,500 spectators. Everton defended Anfield road end against a strong breeze and after visits to both ends Joliffe knocked the ball through his own goal. Shortly afterwards Richards got a shot but put the ball behind. Hunter shot, when Joliffe handled, and running with the ball, a foul was claimed, but not allowed. Richards now made a run the full length of the field, and centring Wilding shot, but without result. The ball next found its way to Everton quarters, and Edwards and Armstrong on the right looked dangerous, but Brown saved well. Richards and Wilding worked up the ball, which Farmer put behind. After a futile shot by Tebay, Richards made a tricky run, and gave to Wilding, who was charged down, and at half-time the Ramblers were a goal ahead. Soon after the restart Farmer returned to the field after ten minutes' absence. After a lot of play in the Ramblers' goal, and some bad shooting Everton goal again was visited, and two shots made, both passing over the bar. Still Everton looked dangerous, but were repulsed. Now Richards was hurt and carried off the field. After further play of an equal character Higgins equalised the score, and the match remained drawn, one goal each. Everton had a very poor team. The sides were as follows; - Ramblers; - Smalley, goal; Bayerstock and Whittle, backs; Warley, Hunter, and Robinson, half-backs; Edwards, Armstrong, Tebay, Jackson, and Cornale forwards. Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Brown and Dobson (captain), backs; Corey, Gibson, and Higgins, half-backs; Farmer, Richards, McGoldrick, Wilding, and Finlay, forwards.

April 10 1886. Football Field
There seems no limited to the Everton home fixtures. The latest was the Fishwick Ramblers, and attracted a large number of spectators. The best fixture with this club was also played at Anfield Road, and Everton won easily, the Preston youngsters proving on that occasion somewhat disappointing. Thus Everton were confident of the ability of the weak team they placed in the field being able to obtain a victory. But for the accident to Richards such a result might have been obtained, but the Ramblers made a very bold bid for victory. They played with dash and spirit and could certainly give their opponents a wrinkle or two in passing. Everton were somewhat unfortunate, for no sooner had Farmer returned to the field after an absence of some minutes owing to a nasty knock in the face, than Richards had his ankle put out and had to be carried off the field. This young Everton forward is singularly unlucky, for scarcely a match is played in which he is not hurt. The Preston Club showed excellent spirit running at once to the assistance of their injured opponent, whom they carried to the stand, where he was attended to by a doctor. Fistwick scored first, and it was not until well in the second half that Everton equalised, and the match was drawn, each side having scored a goal.

Liverpool Cup Final Tie
Everton v Bootle
April 12 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
These teams met in the final of the above cup at Walton stiles on Saturday, in the presence of fully 8,000 spectators. Bootle having started the ball, with the sun in their eyes, Everton immediately assumed the aggressive, and obtained a “corner,” which, however, was headed out by T. Veitch. Bootle then forced a couple of “corners” in close succession, both of which proved fruitless. Some splendid passing on the part of the Everton forward then ensued, and once more they were found in front of the Bootle goal, a shot going over the bar. Veitch then initiated an attack on the Everton citadel, which resulted in Routedge shooting over the bar. Everton again attacked, and the Bootle fortress was reduced by a splendid shot on the part of Gibson. Dobson then repulsed a raid of the Bootle forwards, and kicked to midfield. Here a “foul” fell to the “stripes” but they failed to make profitable use of it. A further “corner” then fell to Bottle, but although the ball was nicely placed no score accrued, the ball being headed over goal. Everton next became aggressive, and Higgins took a corner kick, which dropped outside. On Everton renewing the attack Veitch kicked away. A free kick then fell to Bootle in their own quarters, by which T. Veitch was enabled to clear out the invaders. Play next raged in the Everton quarters, and eventually Dobson took the kick for a “foul” in midfield, where Farmer tried a screw shot, which Galbraith fisted out; and half-time was called with the silver medallists leading by one goal to nil. Upon the resumption of hostilities Everton raced up the field, and a shot by Fleming just missed scoring. Bootle then made a raid out the Everton goal, where Morris centred to Roberts, who made a poor attempt to score. Anderson, however, sent in a splendid shot, the ball striking the bar and bouncing over, to the disappointment of the partisans of Bootle. Joliffe was then forced to concede a “corner,” which was kicked behind. Bootle again had hard luck from a further kick at the corner, which Joliffe cleared in admirable style. The “stripes” now began to press the Evertonians, a high shot by Roberts only missing its mark by a few inches. Eyton-Jones now ran the ball down the Everton right, but kept the leather too long, and apparently let a good opportunity of scoring. Wilding then assayed a shot at Galibraith, but that player fisted out, and Veitch (who played a remarkably good game throughout) kicked away to midfield, where a “foul” was claimed by Bootle. The ball was well shot in, but Higgins headed out, and Gibson kicked towards the centre. Bootle still continued the attack, although later on Everton broke away, and were within an ace of scoring. A further “foul” to Bootle, and the ball was kicked through the Everton goal, but as the ball in its flight had not touched any of the players it was not allowed. Soon afterwards Routledge obtained possession, and ran down the Everton left, but his final shot went over the line. For the next few minutes a hot fusillade was directed against the Bootle fortress but Gaibraith, aided by the backs, cleared away the danger, and when “Time” was called Everton were the victors of a grandly contested game by one goal to nil. For the winners Dobson and T. Marriott at back played a fine defensive game; while of the rest Corey, Farmer, Wilding, Fleming, and Finlay played splendidly. For Booth T. Vietch played magnificently at back; while, Devlin. Woods, Routledge, Anderson, and Eyton-Jones played best in their relative positions. Teams; - Bootle; - G. Galbraith, goal; T. Veitch and W. Vietch, backs; R. Devlin, A. Gibson, and F. Wood, half-backs; W. H. Routledge, and T. Morris, right wing; W. Roberts, centre; J. A. Eyton Jones (captain), and R. Anderson, left wing. Everton; - C. Joliffe, goal; G. Dobson (captain) and T. Marriott backs; M. Higgins, T. Fayer, and E. Corey, half-backs; W. Gibson, and G. Fleming, right wing; J. Wilding, centre; W. Finlay, and G. Farmer, left wing. Referee C.J.Hughes (Cheshire) and J. Lewis (Blackburn Rovers). The committee have decided to devote as portion of the gate receipts to local charities, also of the semi-final and inter-city (Liverpool and Manchester) matches. The gate receipts amounted to about £130.

The Wanderer's Return
April 17 th 1886. Football Field.
The Sandon Hotel adjoining the ground of the Everton Football Club was the scene of a most enthusiastic gathering on the evening of Saturday last. Twelve months ago, the Philistines had borne away into Waggon Land, the daring of the Everton eye. For twelve months, the vacant chair (I beg your pardon –stand) had suggested sad and savage thoughts in the breasts of the outraged Evertonians. There had been a resolve, deep and firmly rooted in the breasts of the men of the “Hill Countrie” to restore to its place in the sad and lonely Sandon the trophy borne away in such triumph by the lads from Earlestown. And now the wanderers has returned, and having been duly cleansed has been installed once more in its old resting place, to gladden the eyes of the numerous and enthusiastic supporters of the new Liverpool cupholders. And thus it came to pass. After a voyage of some little difficulty and no little danger, after being almost wrecked on the shoals of Southport and weathering the stormy waters of Stanley, the Everton champions found themselves within sight of the object of their regards. It so happened, however, that their old and well-loved rivals from Bootle were also bent on taking to their arms that which they had once wooed and won, but never yet possessed. Their course had been on clam and untroubled waters, and now they were to encounter the only formidable obstacle they had yet met. The friends of the respective champions mustered in thousands, six seven, eight ten twelve; so we have been assured by the different and very veracious chronicles of this notable fight. It is always a safe plan to adopt the mean of these various estimates to arrive at a calculation approximately correct, and so we shall adopt the figure 8,000, and this cannot be far out. Certainly no game in the Liverpool district ever aroused such enthusiasm. The crowd was most orderly, a great contrast to the noisy throng, which gathered to witness last year's final. Excitement was too intense to be demonstrative. Everton first appeared on the scene, and were followed by Bootle, who were very well received. Richards could not take his place in the Everton team, and the Everton supporters had many misgivings when they saw Gibson in his place. Bootle had their full list, and both teams appeared in fine conditions. There was a large amount of wagering over the event, and Bootle were the favourites in this respect. Everton were extremely lucky to win the toss, and placed their backs to the sun, which shone full in the faces of the Bootle defenders. With the advantage of the slope, too, many a confident whisper went around, “Everton will score first and win.” The ball was quickly started, and the teams were soon at it nell-mell. Everton at once took a corner, but Bootle immediately retaliated at the other end, and the pace grew fast and furious. There was nothing to choose in the play, which alternated at either end, and it was apparent that the respective defenders were in grand form. Dobson for Everton played as he never did before, whilst T. Veitch emulated his performance at the Bootle end. The forwards were not in it, to use a common expression, so grandly did the backs and half-backs of both teams perform. At last after much even play, Fleming is observed rushing away on the Everton right, but finds Frank Woods too much for him. Still, he gives Wilding a chance, who takes up the running, and again Fleming got the ball almost on the Bootle goal line. Centring finely, the younger Veitch with the sun right in his face meets the ball weakly, and it no sooner touches the ground than Wilding pops it through the Bootle goal. Immense enthusiasm greeted the downfall of the Bootle citadel; the game again proceeded most evenly and without any change up to half time. Down the slope it was expected Bootle would go ahead. Those who remembered their play against Haydock under the same conditions were not so sanguine. Still, they appeared certain to score for a long time, and had many “hard lines.” They certainly had most of the play in the second half but great cheering burst from the crowd when Sam Ormerod whistled the end and Bootle again found themselves behind their rivals –a bitter disappointment, as they were confident of winning, and still think they lost through ill-luck. Still there is doubt that until they can shoot better at goal, they must always “knock under” to Everton. Mr. Hull, the President of the Lievrpool Association, presented the cup to the winners, and it was borne in triumph by George Dobson, and Mr. Barclay, the Everton vice-president, to the headquarters of the winning club.

Association Game
April 17 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
The great event of the Association season in Liverpool was decided at Walton-stiles on Saturday, in the presence of the largest assemblage of spectators that has ever been brought together on a local football field. This was all the more remarkable, as the final between Bootle and Everton had to contend with the imposing counter-attraction at fairfield; but while the occurrence was extremely unfortunate, it suffered to show how great the interest in football is in the seaport. Had the fixture fallen more adventitiously many ardent admires of the Rugby code would for the nonce have “crossed over” while it is quite certain that large numbers of the Associationists would not have hesitated to show their appreciation of the older pastime. It is not a little singular that since the institution of the trophy in 1883 Everton has figured in the final each successive year, having won twice and been twice defeat. The first winners were Bootle, who beat Everton by three to one; but although the victors were termed the “cupholders” the trophy only became a reality in the following year (1884) when Everton beat Earlestown by one goal to nil. Last season Earlestown. After a not altogether satisfactory game, turned the tables on their conquerors, the scoring again being one to nil. The game gave rise to a fierce “paper” warfare the effect of which however, has been a tremendous increase of interest in the pastime. As regards Saturday's match, the merits of the contending teams appeared to be so evenly balanced that no one except an extreme partisan cared to predict the issue. On the eve of the contest Everton had the misfortunate to lose the services of Richards, a dashing but extremely unfortunate forward, which untoward incident let in Gibson, who, with the exception of Marriott is the only surviving member of the team which years ago disported in Stanley Park. The Bootle team is also a very different combination to what it was some three or four years ago, although today both are infinitely stronger than at any former period of their history. Prestige in football, as in most other affairs, is a powerful factor, therefore it was argued, regardless of collateral form, that as Bootle in the inter-club matches of the season had not beaten their opponents, Everton was certain to win. How much truth there was in this mode of argument is shown by the Evertonians winning back their lost laurels by a goal to nil. It is, so to speak, “an ill-wind that blows nobody good,” for Wilding improved his reputation by scoring the winning goal, which feat secured for Everton the cup and won for himself and his colleagues the gold medals of the district association.
Todays matches
Everton v Rawtenstall, at Anfield.
Everton Swifts v High Park, at Southport.

Liverpool and District v Manchester District
April 19 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
At the Anfield enclosure, on Saturday, 2,000 spectators being presented, The Liverpool District winning by five goals to three, Gibson scored one of the goals, Dobson, Farmer, Fleming and Wilding also played for the District.

The North-Eastern Counties at Everton.
April 24 th 1886. Football Field.
A lovely day, a sixpenny gate, an enormous and expectant crowd –all these yesterday attended one of the most funeral affairs every witnessed on the Everton ground. A team with the high sounding title of North-Eastern Counties, consisting of players from Durham and Northumberland, met Everton on Good Friday. Why the charge to such a match should have been doubled is not at all clear, and certainly the spectators had not the worth of their money. The game was almost absurd in its one sidedness. Everton won by nine goals to nil, and their little forwards fairly danced round the very amateurish defenders of the visitors' goal. Details of such a game are altogether unnecessary; suffice it to say that Everton scored four goals in the first period and five in the second. The utmost disappointment was expressed on all hands at the very poor display of the visitors, but the contest today with Davenham, and Sheffield Wednesday on Monday, will be stirring games, and the winners of the Liverpool Cup will require to put in all they know to win either match.

Everton v Northeastern Countries.
April 24 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier
This match was played at Anfield yesterday before 2,500 spectators. The visitors having kicked off, Everton soon assumed the aggressive, and after a short period Higgins shot the first goal. A “corner” then fell to the home team, which, proving fruitless, the attack was maintained, and Farmer scored a second goal. The visitors then had a “look in,” but Dobson returned the ball with a timely kick, and the Everton forwards taking up the advantage scored a further point by the aid of Farmer. Five minutes later the ball was again at the Northern citadel, and again Farmer, with a splendid screw-kick, registered a further point for his side. Shortly afterwards the visitors made a threatening raid upon the Everton quarters, which Jolliffe repelled, and the ball was again worked to the other end of the field, when half-time was called with Everton leading by four goals to nil. Everton restarted the game, and racing down the field Corey had a shy at the Northern goal, which only missed by a few inches. Again the Evertonians returned to the attack and Farmer who was in splendid form, scored the fifth goal. Corey then took a “corner” for Everton, but Marriott headed outside. A few minutes afterwards, from a further corner, Farmer again effected the downfall of the “northern” citadel. Higgins then kicked a fruitless corner for the home team, and Farmer had a shy at the visitors fortress the ball passing over the bar. Then, from a scrimmage in front of the visitors goal, another point was scored following which Fleming ran down the visitors left, and when near their goal passed to Corey who, however, just tipped the crossbar with his shot. The visitors' goal was again besieged, but the goalkeeper fisted out, and Corey shot over the bar. Another goal then fell to Everton, and this proving to be the last point, the home team gained an easy victory by nine goals to nil. Teams; - Everton; - C. Jolliffe, goal; Dobson and Marriott, backs; Corey, Fayer and Higgins half-backs; Farmer, Fleming, Wilding, George, and Finlay, forwards. Northestern Countries; - Strachan, goal; Derham, .R. Douglas, and W. Hall (Northumberland), backs; Blackett (Northumberland), Ferguson, and Pickup, half-backs; Muir (Northumberland), Arnold (Northumberland), Thompson (Cleveland), Callister, and Strachan (Durham), forwards.

Everton v Davenham
April 26 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier
This match was played at Anfield on Saturday before 4,000 spectators, although Davenham came two men short of the advertised team, a finely contested game was the result. Wilding kicked off on behalf of the team, and for a short time Daveham hotly pressed. “Hands” from Riley gave Everton a chance of scoring, and from a “corner” a severe attack was made on the Daveham defence. Stringer and Plant cleared the danger and raced down the field. Joliffe was troubled, but he cleared at the expense of a corner, which however, was put behind. Davenham still continued the attack, and Stringer had a shot at the Everton citadel; Jolliffe cleared, but Cross was lying in wait, and scored first goal for the visitors. On kicking off, George and Fleming ran the sphere within the Davenport quarters, and on a clearance being effected Davenham made a determined attempt to score, but Corey got the ball out of danger, and succeeding a brilliant run, Fleming shot the ball behind the line. Stringer and Plant again troubled Joliffe, who nobly responded by stopping a succession of shots in a marvelous manner. Haddock then rushed the ball through the Everton upright from a corner kick, and half-time was called with Davenham leading by two goals to nil. Upon resuming Everton made an attack on Leather, Farmer shooting behind. Higgins then tried a long shot, which Fleming just headed over the bar. Everton then gained a corner, but the Davenham backs cleared, and during a struggle in goal the ball went behind. After Dobson had stopped a rush by the Davenham forwards, George got possession, and beat Leather by a good shot, from a foul near midfield Dobson sent the ball well within reach of the Davenham goal, and Fleming equalised the score. The penalty for “Hands” was again awarded against Davenham, but Finlay's shot went astray. Although George missed a good opportunity of scoring, the Davenham goal was again the scene of hostilities. Riley kicked out, and from the corner, Higgins sent in a shot, which George headed by through, and gave and gave Everton the lead by a goal. The home players then gained a couple of corners in quick succession, from the last of which Farmer nearly scored, just heading over. Cross and Holland then raced up the Everton left, and Finlay had to “Handle” but from the “foul” the ball went behind. Time was then called, leaving Everton victorious of a fine game by three goals to two. Teams; - Davenham; - Leather, goal; Goulding and Riley backs; D. Dalton, W.H. Dalton, and Cross half-backs; Cross, Haddock, Stringer, Holland, and Plant, forwards. Everton; - Jolliffe, goal; T. Marriott and Dobson (captain) backs; E. Corey, T. Fayer and M. Higgins, W. George, J. Wilding, G. Farmer, G. Fleming, and W. Finlay, forwards.

Everton v Sheffield Wednesday
April 27 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
The Sheffielders paid their first visit to the seaport yesterday, and opposed Everton in the last of the holiday series of matches at the Anfield enclosure, before a large number of spectators, estimated at about 2000. Fayre kicked off for the home team who, playing with the sun in their eyes, were subjected to an attack, which being promptly repulsed, Fayre soon afterwards levelled a shot at the Wednesday goal, which Smith fisted out. From a subsequent scrimmage in front of the Sheffield uprights, Farmer scored the first point for the home team. Everton then claimed for a foul for hands, from which Farmer nearly scored. Dobson next shot the ball into the Sheffield goal, and Smith was forced to concede a corner, the sphere passing outside. A little later Fleming registered a second goal for his side. The Reds then rushed up the field, and an attack was made on the home goal, but Marriott kicked away, and the ball finally rolled outside. A further corner fell to Everton, when Fayre headed in, but the ball again passed harmlessly over the line. From the kick the Reds got well within the Everton quarters, where Dobson had to give a corner, but Crawley shot outside. Play then raged in midfield, when Wednesday broke away and gained a second, but fruitless corner. After some good play by both teams Fleming again scored for his side, and half-time was called with Everton leading by three goals to nil. Brayshaw restarted on behalf of Wednesday, who attacked the Everton citadel. Dobson, however, got the ball away, which was forthwith rushed to the opposing end. The ball having been played out, the visitors got the leather away from the kick off, and scored their first and only goal. Sheffield then made a corner, but farmer headed out. The Everton forwards now ran up the field and gained a corner, which was fouled by one of the opposing backs, and Dobson took a free kick, which, however, passed off harmlessly. Finlay next shot at the Sheffield goal and missed the mark. On kicking off play was taken to midfield, where Farmer got possession, and running again to the Sheffield quarters had a shy at Smith, which just missed. Wednesday then assured the aggressive, and attacked the Everton goal, but Joliffe cleared and Farmer had a screw shot at the Sheffield goal. Again the sphere went a little wide of the mark and Sheffield had a “foul” in the Everton quarters, but nothing came of it, and a good game terminated in favour of Everton by three goals to one. Teams; - Joliffe goal; G. Dobson (captain) and TT. Marriott, backs; E. Corey, TT. Fayer, and M. Higgins, half-backs; W. George, G. Fleming, J. Wilding, G. Farmer, and W. Finlay, forwards. Wednesday; - J. Smith, goal; W. Moss and J. Hudson (captain), backs; J. Daughton, and A. Beckett, half-backs; T. E. R. Wilson, B. L. Shaw, H. Winterbottom, E. Brayshaw, W. Mosforth, and T. E. Cawley, forwards.

Everton “A” Team v Everton Veterans
April 28 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
This interesting match was played at Anfield ground on Monday forenoon before 300 spectators, who greatly enjoyed the game. W. Marriott and McGill scored for the Veterans and Aindow for the club. The teams were as follows; - Everton “A” Corrie goal; Goode and Welsh, backs; Aindow, and F. Parry, half-backs; Bell, McGoldrick, Gurley, and Gibson, forwards. Veterans; - Charnley, goal; R. Morris and Pickering backs; W. Parry, and Cartwright, half-backs; W. Marriott, H. Williams, Richards, Williams, McGill and Brettell, forwards.

Everton v Rossendale
May 3 rd 1886. The Liverpool Courier
These teams met at the Anfield enclosure on Saturday, when a slow game ended in favour of Everton by three goals to two, about 1500 spectators being present, Teams; - Everton; - Jolliffe, goal; Dobson and Marriott backs; F. Parry, W. Parry, and E. Corey, half-backs; Farmer, W. Finlay, J. Wilding, W. George, and G. Fleming, forwards. Rossendale; - Cropper goal; Moorehurst and Haworth, backs; Ashwalsh, Heselton, and Spencer, half-backs; F. Haselton, Riley, Watts, Whittaker, and Pitchford, forwards.

Everton v Blackburn Olympic
May 10 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier
These teams met for the second time this season at the Anfield enclosure, but although the weather was cold and extremely unsettled there would be about 2,000 persons present to witness the play. Dewhurst kicked off, and after brief skirmishing in the neighbourhood of the Everton goal a futile visit was made to the Blackburn end. Higgins having contributed some excellent play, the Olympic right took the ball swiftly down the hill a parting shot just passing outside the upright. For a brief space of time the Evertonians were pinned close to their goal. At length, however, the home backs cleared but the invaders and Fleming taking up the movement, executed a most brilliant run to the Olympic quarters of the field. After half an hour's play the Olympic right again took up the ball, and on Dewhurst rushing up an easy goal was scored. A few minutes only had elapsed when the ball gravitated down the left, and for the second time Dewhurst put the ball beyond the Everton custodian, shortly after which half-time was called. Wilding having restarted, the play for a while was of a desultory character, when for a moment the Olympic goal was in jeopardy. On the danger being removed, alternate visits were made to each end of the field. During a subsequent attack Sharples was compelled to concede a corner, which being well directed towards the centre, one of the hottest scrimmages of the match ensued. Eventually the ball was got away, although a few minutes later Wilding shot the ball over the Olympic bar a mistake which George shortly afterward committed. At length Parry from half back sent in from a distance a bounding shot, which passed beneath the bar before Sharples could handle the ball, and a goal was therefore awarded, amidst enthusiastic plaudits. Again Everton through a mistake on the part of Beverley, had the ball at their left corner but nothing came of the resulting kick. Immediately afterwards Dewhurst was finessing in front of the Everton goal, which for a third time fell a prey to the accomplished player. Soon after the restart George sent in a beautiful but ineffective shot. while another from the foot of Fleming passed just outside the Olympic posts. These, the last chances that fell in the way of the home players, were finally pushed back, and with a brilliantly scored point Dewhurst (who it will be seen shot the whole of the points on his side) the Olympic were declared the winners by four goals to one, a score which it must be said does not fairly represent the run of the play. Teams: - Everton; - Jolliffe, goal; Dobson (captain) and Marriott backs; Corey, W. Parry, and Higgins, half-backs; Fleming, George, Wilding, Farmer, and Finlay, forwards. Blackburn Olympic; - Sharples, goal; Beverely and Shorrock, backs; Cook, Chadwick, and Gidson, half-backs; Haresnape, Whitehead, Dewhurst, Monk, and Thompson, forwards.

At the close of the match Mr. Councilor Houlding presented the gold medals of the Liverpool and District Association to the Everton team, who it will be remembered beat Bootle in the recent competition. Mr. Councilor Woodcock having briefly returned thanks on behalf of the club, the proceedings were brought to a close.

Preston v Everton
This match which had been postponed owing to the numerous engagements of the famous North End team, will be played at the Anfield enclosure this evening the teams being as follows; - North End; - W. C. Rose, goal; R. J. Ross and R. Holmes backs; J. Graham, D. Russell, and A. Robertson, half-backs; G. Drummond, and J. Goodall, left, S. Thompson, centre; James Ross, and Goodwin, right forwards. Everton; - C. Jolliffe goal; G. Dobson (captain) and T. Marriott, backs; M. Higgins, W. parry, and E. Corey, half-backs; Yates and G. Farmer, left wing; J. Wilding centre; Dewhurst and Fleming right wing.

Preston North End v Everton
May 11 th 1886. The Liverpool Daily Post
The unpleasant prospects of a severe drenching was not sufficient to damp the ardour of football admires, and fully 4,000 spectators lined the Everton enclosure last evening to witness the advert of the renowned North End club. The home team were strengthened by Messier Yates and Dewhurst and the sequel was a magnificent game; in fact, the exposition of short passing by the visitors was worth going to see. The home defence and play generally was of such a high order that their defeat by only two to one is something to be proud of. A late start was effected, and not until after twenty minutes' play did the North end manage to score, and then it was a fine header by Drummond from a corner. Shortly before half-time Thompson dashed a second shot through. Fleming and Farmer, troubled Rose to clear. After the change of ends rain descended heavily. Farmer, Yates, Fleming and Dewhurst made some splendid dashes on the one side, whilst the visitors worked like machines. A splendid throw in by Corey, a pass by Farmer, and Dewhurst defeated Rose by a regular lighting shot, which was greeted by great cheers. The north End pressed Everton at times very severely, but owing doubtless to the great state of the ball the shooting was not to good. Dewhurst on the other side slipped when the goal was at his mercy, the ball going over. Time was called leaving the result as above. Teams; - North End; - W.C. Rose goal; N. J. Ross and R. Holmes backs; J. Graham, Ferguson, and D. Russell, half-backs; G. Drummond, and J. Goodall, left wing; Thompson, centre; J. Ross and J. Gordon, left wing. Everton; - C. Joliffe, goal; G. Dobson (captain) and T. Marriott, backs; M. Higgins, W. parry, and E. Corey, half-backs; Yates, and G. Farmer left wing; J. Wilding centre; Dewhurst and Fleming right wing.

The Olympic and North End at Everton
May 15 th 1886. Football Field
Notwithstanding the midsummer like weather of last week, Saturday last was most seasonable for a football match, and the players, instead of panting with the heat, had much ado to keep themselves warm. The match between Everton and Blackburn Olympic drew together a crowd of fair dimensions. The Olympic team was of a mixed character, and might have been more aptly termed a Blackburn team. Sharples, the Witton goalkeeper, Shorrocks of the Rovers, Haresnape Thomson, and Dewhurst figured in the team, from which Costley, Hunter, and Ward were conspicuous absentees. The game was not devoid of interest, but Everton sustained a rather severe defeat, the visitors getting the verdict by four goals to one. There was not this disparity in the play, however. The home team pressed very hard in the second half, but could find no opening. Sharples kept goal grandly whilst Shoroocks and Beverley were bad to beat. The latter made several bad mistakes, but played a very fine game apart from these, the result of over confidence. There was good passing between the forwards, although the left wing was not up to the rest of the attack. Tom Dewhurst played a demon game scoring all four goals for the Olympic. Whitehead and Haresnape played well together, but the latter would persist in getting off-side. He fairly bothered Dobson, however, who invariably raised the cry of “Off-side” when the little Wittoner got past him.

The visit of Preston North End on Monday was eagerly anticipated, but proved somewhat disappointing. The North Enders turned up late, the game was curtained, and rain fell during the greater part of the match. The Preston players evidently underrated their opponents, and they have not often been so near defeat as in their game against Everton, which they won by a narrow majority of two goals to one. Everton strengthened their team by engaging Tom Dewhurst, and Yates of Accrington, and the whole team worked with the greatest assiduity. Farmer played very finely, and was the best of the Everton attack. Corey was the best of the half-backs although he came very near scoring for North End on two occasions. Marriott and Dobson, who were rated all round in the match against the Olympic, were in very fine form, and never funked it in the slightest degree. North End were disappointing. There was some fine passing and occasional flashes of brilliance, but their shooting was simply wretched! This was especially the case in the second half. Certainly, in this respect Everton were not much behind their formidable opponents, for Rose had one or two very hot ones to get away Gordon and Goodall, the latter of whom was very selfish, were somewhat behind the rest of the attacking party, Graham the hardest working of the half-backs, and Ross most conspicuous at full back. Rose was cool enough in goal, and watched Dewhurst's shot, which was beyond his reach, pass between the posts with the greatest nonchalance. Greatness does not always bring magnanimity. The North Enders resented any signs of “handplay” and Graham was almost guilty of an unseemly breach of discipline, in going for (vulgar, but expressive) Fleming, who had done nothing unfair, as all who know him can quite conceive. An angry appeal to the referee (Mr. Fairhurst) availed the burly one nothing, but was rather “good biz” on Graham's past under the circumstances.

Liverpool Athletic Shield-First round
Everton v Bootle Wanderers
May 24 th 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
The initial ties of the novel contest were partially run through at the enclosure of the Liverpool Athletic Grounds Company on Saturday in the present of close upon 2,000 spectators. The teams played 30 minutes each half . The Wanderers kicked off, but were several pressed back, and within a minute from the start Fleming for the Evertonians scored their first goal. Now for a while Everton were held on the higher ground in close proximity to their goal, but on the siege being raised abortive shots were made at the wanderers posts, once the ball striking in its passage over the bar. Soon after the change of ends the Liverpool cupholders took the ball up the field when Fleming succeeded in scoring a second point and at this proved to be the last in the game, Everton were returned the winners by two goals to none. Teams; - Bootle Wanderers; - Cotton, goal; T. Harrison and O. Francis backs; T F. Tebay, C. Ketley, and O. Oakes half-backs; E. Thomas, Johnstone, J. A. Tebay, J. Bailiffe, and T Hooper, forwards. Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Dobson and Marriott, backs; Parry, Corey and Fayer half-backs; Fleming, George, Wilding, Farmer and Higgins forwards. St Benedict beat Birkenhead Argyle by three goals to one. Everton will meet Stanley in the semi-final ties, and the winners of the tie between Bootle and the Oakfield Rovers to be played at the Liverpool Atheltic ground Fairfield this evening will meet St Benedicts.

The Liverpool Athletic Company Shield competition-semi-final
Everton v Stanley
May 31 st 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
Everton and Stanley first entered the arena the former having much the best of the opening ten minutes' play. Then W. Wilson ran fully two-thirds of the length of the ground on the Stanley right wing close up to goal –a magnificent effort. After a free kick had been claimed and allowed in front of the Everton fortress, Farmer on the right dashed along, and Wilding beat Jackson, and half time was announced. On restarting Stanley threatened danger, the Evertonians playing for a time with little combination. At length they settled down and breasted the hill in grand style, Fleming leading and Fayer shot the ball through. During the remainder of the game, Farmer played brilliantly bringing the ball up on the left time after time, and several of his shots missed by the merest shave, one stiking the crossbar, and for some time Jackson was rather severely tested, but prevented further scoring. Everton ultimately winning by two goals to none. Teams; - Everton; - Jolliffe goal; G Dobson and Marriott T. Fayer, W. Parry, W. George, G. Farmer, E. Corey, G. Fleming, J. Wilding, and W. Richards. Stanley; - Jackson, Stewart, McCallum, Wright, Devey, Hughes, W. Wilson, J. Wilson, McNeil, Culkin, and Brown.

The Liverpool Athletic Shield Final tie
June 1 st 1886. The Liverpool Courier.
Everton v Bootle
The winners and runners up in the late contest for the Liverpool Cup met last evening at the Athletic Grounds Fairfield to compete for the possession of the above handsome trophy and the weather being fine there was an attendance of close upon 3,000 spectators, who thoroughly manifested the keenest interest in the play. Everton started, and play was taken into the Bootle quarters, but Veitch relieved the pressure. Bootle then raced down the field, and were within an ace of scoring. From the kick off the Evertonians rushed to the Bootle end, the ball bouncing over the line. A little later the “stripes” made a raid on the Everton citadel, and Dutton scored their first goal. Farmer then put in some neat play on behalf of the cup holders his shot passing over the bar. Bootle instantly made a combined rush, but Dobson kicked to midfield, and from whence T. Vietch returned and the fight raged in the vicinity of the Everton goal, Everton next gained a corner, which George placed well, but T. Veitch was “all there” and removed danger. Everton had a foul for “Hands” in the Bootle quarters, from which the ball rolled harmlessly over the line. Higgins, for Everton, now made a good attempt to score, when half-time was called Bootle leading by one goal to nil. Bootle restarted, but failed to get away, and Everton, gained a couple of corners in quick succession, both of which, however, proved fruitless. Bootle now menaced the Everton citadel, and Anderson had a shot; and on Marriott relieving the pressure, play was taken to midfield, where Higgins took up the attack, but the ball went over the line. From the kick off Joliffe being pressed, conceded a corner, to Bootle, which, however, proved futile. Bootle then had a foul within a few yards from the Everton goal the ball just passing over the bar –a narrow shave. The cupholders then assumed the aggressive, but failed to score, owing to the good defence shown by the Bootle backs, although at length their efforts were rewarded by Wilding scoring a splendid goal. Bootle then renewed the attack and were repelled. As no further points were scored an extra half-hour was played, during which farmer scored for the Liverpool Cupholders, and Everton won by two goals to one. Teams; - Everton; - Joliffe goal; G. Dobson and T. Marriott backs; Corey, Fayer, and Higgins, half-backs; Fleming, Farmer, George, Wilding, and W. Parry, forwards. Bootle; - Galbraith. Goal; T and W Veitch backs; Rogers, Holt, and Woods, half-backs; Anderson, Routledge, Dutton, Morris, and Gibson, forwards.

Bromborough v Everton “A”
Played on Bromborough resulting in a win for the Pool by two goals to one.

Exciting Football Competition at Liverpool.
June 5 th 1886. Football Field.
The enterprising management of the Liverpool Athleticv Grounds with a view to advertising their very finely appointed property at Fairfield, but up for competition amongst the local Association Football Clubs a valuable Silver Shield. Eight clubs were selected to compete, viz., Everton Bootle, Stanley, Gymnasium, Oakfield Rovers St. Benedicts Argyle (Birkenhead) and Bootle Wanderers. The initial stages attractive but little attention the first four to be dismissed being Bootle Wanderers, Oakfield Rovers, Gymnasium, and Argyle. Last Saturday the semi-finals were reached, Everton being drawn against Stanley whilst Bootle had to tackle St Benedicts. Interests naturally centred in the former of these games, the latter being booked as a certainty for Bootle. The Stanley v Everton was entirely reconstructed Dick, Stevenson, and Pollock being displaced by Jackson, Stewart, and Hughes. The first named is the old Bootle goalkeeper. Stewart a full back from Southport and Hughes from Oakfield Rovers. All three proved fine recruits, and the whole of the Stiles team worked surprisingly well together. So well, indeed, that Everton only escaped defeat by a liberal bestowal of the favour of the fickle dame. Playing up a very awkward slope during the first portion of the game Stanley only lost one point. To commence the second half they pressed Everton most severely, and had the hardest lines in not scoring. The ball would go anywhere but between the posts. Then Everton roused themselves and having got into proximity to the Stanley goal Fayer sent in a shot which Jackson should have easily repelled, but luck was against Stanley, and the ball just slipped through their custodian's fingers. As usual Stanley gave up the ghost when in a minority of two goals, and Everton had the best of the game up to the finish winning by two goals to nil. The final tie was thus more left between Bootle and Everton. More than 3,000 people assembled to witness the match, which for excitement has never been surpass in this district. Everton played the team which has latterly shown such brilliant form, whilst Bootle had not the services of Eyton-Jones or Roberts. These players were displaced by the evergreen Johnny Rogers and R. Hutton. Gibson played centre forward, his place at centre half being occupied by Rodgers. Bootle had the advantage of ground and Everton of the wind during the first half. The game was intensely exciting from the start. Bootle evidently meant business and the increased weight of their attack was at once apparent. They showed far more dash than in any of their previous matches with Everton and after a few minutes' play roused the highest hopes in their supporters of approaching victory. Hutton rushing the ball under the Everton goal in fine style. Everton played up now very finely and took a number of corners in succession but to no effect, and half time found Bootle a goal to the good. The next portion of the game was most evenly fought out. Everton got down, and a shot from George was repelled by Galbriath. Everton claimed that the ball had passed under the bar, and the referee decided in their favour. Bootle did not accept this decision with good grace, the players confidently asserting that the ball had not passed the fatal line. The game was resumed with renewed spirit. A fierce scrimmage took place in the Everton goal, and the ball passed under the bar. Everton set up a claim of off-side which after much heated wrangling was sustained. Bootle grew dishearted for a space but roused themselves, and once more claimed a goal, Joliffe fisting the ball, they alleged from beyond his goal line. The referee again decided in favour of Everton, and time expired with the teams on equal terms. An extra half hour was then started, and in the last quarter Everton scored a point which was allowed and won by two goals to one. The play was on the whole of a very even nature, but Everton were exceptionally lucky in having all the doubtful points decided in their favour. After allowing the first goal, which was a very doubtful thing, in favour of Everton Bootle naturally expected consideration from the referee in the second instance. It was almost an impossibility for any Bootle player to be offside in the conditions under which their disallowed goal was obtained, a scrimmage taking place almost on the Everton goal line, out of which Routledge kicked the goal. In future the Athletic people should take a wrinkle from the Liverpool Association and obtain a referee whose decisions will command more confidence than those of a local gentleman however, estimable Mr. Bailey was I am certain, by no means delighted with his experience on Monday night. Two more excitable umpires surely never badgered a long suffering referee as the twelfth men of Bootle and Everton badgered the old goalkeeper of the Liverpool Ramblers. Meanwhile Bootle will not acknowledge the supremacy of Everton even now. Bootle have claimed a win in the tie with Everton, alleging that their disallowed goal was first allowed by the referee who called his decision. The matter is to be decided by the Liverpool Association and meanwhile the Athletic Committee will retain possession of the shield.