Everton v Church
May 2 nd 1887. The Liverpool Courier.
These teams met for the third time this season, at Anfield enclosure on Saturday before 6,000 spectators Everton won the toss and Church kicked off, with a stiff breeze. Gregson had a shot which glazered the Everton post. Later on a corner to Church was not improved upon, and then Farmer shot the first goal for the home side. Before half time Costley scored another point and Church at the arrival, were in a minority of two goals. Following the interval Robinson repulsed a hot attack on the visitors goal, but Everton return to the assault, and Goodall notched a third goal for them, which was followed shortly afterwards by a fourth. Then the visitors obtained their first and only goal, and on Everton scoring still another point by this aid of Farmer, the home team were winners of a good game by five goals to one. Teams; - Everton; - Joliffe, goal; A. Dick and G. Dobson, backs; M. Higgins, A. Gibson, and R. McPherson, half-backs; J. Costley, G. Farmer, J. Whittle, A. Goodall, and W. Richards, forwards. Church; - Thorpe, goal; R. Robinson, and J. Woods, backs; Gaskell, Taylor, half-backs; Gregson, Holden, Brown, Walker, and Beresford, forwards.
Everton v Stanley
May 3 rd 1887. The Liverpool Courier.
These teams met at the Anfield enclosure last evening before 2500 spectators. Richards started the ball on behalf of Everton, who immediately attacked the visitors' goal. McCallum relieved, and a speedy visit was made to the cupholders end. After Dick had kicked away, some give-and-take play was indulged in, and then Brown from a long shot, scored the first goal for Stanley. Shortly afterwards the same player notched a second point with a good screw shot while a little later a third was got. Still Stanley had the best of the play, and penned their opponents, but no further goals were scored, and half time arrived with Stanley three goals to the good. The visitors restarted against the wind. McPherson having returned Goodall kick, Richards placed the ball outside the Stanley posts. A “corner” was then conceded Everton, but McPherson's kick proved fruitless. Everton were now doing the pressing, but Stanley maintained a good defence. Then Stevenson put in a shot that hit the cross bar and McPherson took a futile corner kick. Dick had a free kick for “hands” McCallum heading out of goal, Jackson then fisted a shot of Costley's and a corner resulted. Briscoe narrowly missed scoring on behalf of Everton, and than Goodall dashed away in a speedy run towards the home goal, when Dobson kicked back to the centre, McCallum headed out of the Stanley goal, and a corner fell to Everton closely following which a free kick was given against Stanley. Dick placed the ball well in front of the visitors goal, but McCallum headed over the bar and gave a further corner to Everton, Costley shot passing outside the uprights. Briscoe then headed Everton first and only goal, and the home team were beaten by three goals to one. Teams; - Everton; - Mee, goal; Dobson and Dick, backs; McPherson, Stevenson, and W. Jones, half-backs; Farmer, Costley, Briscoe, Richards, and A. Glider, forwards. Stanley; - Jackson, goal; McCallum, and W. Wilson, backs; G. Wright, J. Wilson, and D. Steel half-backs; Brown, McGoldrick, Goodall, Sherlock, and Shea, forwards.
Everton Football Club
May 4 th 1887. The Liverpool Courier.
To the Editor of the Liverpool Courier.
Sir –for the last three or four matches played by the above club the cry has been that they ought to turn Joliffe out, or “why” don't they get another man in his place?” All this simply because they have either been beaten or else have had a very tight game, and of course there was no one to blame but the goalkeeper. Now, on Monday evening last although Joliffe was at the clubroom in good time, and prepared to dress and play, he was told by someone in authority that they would not require him as they were going to try a new man in his place. They tried him –result defeat –three goals to one –by a club with whom they have always been able to hold their own. I should think that this is a sufficient answer to those who wish to detract from Joliffe's admirable play throughout the season, and a lesson to some of those in authority, who most likely never kicked a ball in their lives, not to throw over a thoroughly good man simply because he has gone a little out of form. Why don't they deal sharply with one or two who have been seen on the field totally unfit to play? –Yours etc., Play up Joliffe. Anfield, May 3 1887.
LIVERPOOL FOOTBALL
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 07 May 1887
A BIG BEATING FOR CHURCH
The wearers of the flaring red pants were surely at their worst last Saturday. They appeared at Anfield to play off the return fixture with Everton, and brought so weak an eleven that it may be fairly said they courted defeat. The absentees were Wood, Taylor, Gregson and Smith, and at the last minute the team had to fall back upon the services of a substitute to make a full complement. For some time it has been assiduously repeated that Earlestown had secured the services of an unusually brilliant full back, McLean by name, and Liverpool people were somewhat amused to find that the “great unknown" was a familiar figure in their midst, when a fine big fellow stepped on to the field with bared arms, but in mufty, very much mufty, prepared to do battle for the turkey reds. It would be unfair to criticise the play of McLean on this occasion, for he was evidently much incommoded through want of uniform, whilst he found difficult to keep secure footing as he played in his ordinary boots, but it must, in fairness to the Church forwards, be stated, that the whole responsibility for a very severe defeat—5 to 1—rests with the very weak defenders. At the start the Church forwards played very finely, and did a lot of pressing, whilst many of their final efforts deserved better fate. Beresford and Holden especially distinguished themselves by fine dribbling. Whenever Everton got away they scored. Jim Woods is far below the meridian, and it is quite time he set, and McLean, from reasons above-named, was unable to put forth his best effort. Farmer scored the first point with a pretty shot, and then four goals were scored as the result of free kicks, two of them being scored without any apparent effort on the part of the backs to save. To make matters worse, Bethel Robinson, who had gone behind, was quite lame, and rarely ventured from the upright of his goal. It was a very poor game throughout, and there was scarcely an individual performance worthy of note, except from its mediocrity. But we must expect nothing less at this time of the year, when players should be at rest after their arduous duties during the season proper. A GREAT TAKE DOWN
Stanley have had such wretched luck during the season now passed, that their neighbours of Bootle and Everton could scarcely refuse to give them a helping hand at the finish. Matches were therefore arranged with Bootle and Everton, but they did not attract that attention which might have been expected. Still, a fairly substantial sum would be realized by the two matches, but what Stanley will prize most will be the fact that they were enabled to gain their first victory over Everton whilst they managed to draw the match with Bootle. The match with Everton was played at Anfield on Monday, and there was a pardonable amount of confidence displayed by the Everton section, the only question being apparently one of the magnitude of their victory. A new goalkeeper was on trial, Stevenson occupied the place of Gibson, whilst Jones played vice Higgins. Fleming was the only one missing from the front rank, and the team on the whole was a strong one. Stanley won the toss and had the advantage of a stiff breeze. They made good use of this, and after hovering ominously round the Everton goal for a time, Goodall scored the first goal amidst laughter. This was quickly followed by a second, which tickled the spectators, and they fairly realised the situation when third point was added. The situation was now serious, and Everton commenced to work with a will, but turned round in a minority of three to nil. With the wind at their backs they swarmed round the Stanley goal, but here they had to reckon with a most determined defence. McCallam and Wilson were as unfaltering in their tackling as they were unerring in their kicking and heading, and Jackson in goal was in his best vein, when he is admittedly the best custodian in this district. It was some time before Everton scored, but though they pressed continuously they failed to effect a further breach in the brilliant opposing defence, and Stanley were winners by three to one. Over confidence was again responsible for this disaster, but credit must be given to George Dobson, who never once relaxed his efforts, and it would have been well if he could have infused the same spirit into his men. It is not likely that Joliffe will give way to the novice who was tried in the Everton goal on Monday.
EXHIBITION GAME AT GARSTON
Mr. Evans, the enthusiastic athlete, well known from his connection with the Everton Football Club, which owes not a little of its prominence today to his exertions, as well as by his doings with the Sefton Cricket Club; and who has become well known as most capable referee during the past football season, has taken in hand the development of a cricket and lawn tennis club in Garston, as well as the possible introduction of a football club under Association rules in the rapidly growing riverside village. With these objects in view he invited the Bootle club to meet a picked eleven on Thursday evening at Garston. The Garston lot consisted of the whole the forwards who have done duty for Everton in its late matches, including Whittle of St. Benedicts and Goodall of Stanley. The half-backs consisted McPherson (Everton), Wilson (Stanley), and Owen (Gymnasium), whilst the full backs were McCallum (Stanley) and the famous Andrew Watson, of Queen’s Park, whilst Jackson, of Stanley, was the custodian. Thus it was not surprising that over one thousand spectators turned up at the match, a very small proportion of whom were natives. Bootle were short of Holt, Heyes, and Miller, but out a very good eleven. The turf was too springy for the players accustomed to the bare, worn grounds of the football season, but there was plenty of interest in the game. Play was very even, and the mixed lot got on excellently together, which was not to be wondered at, seeing that the forwards were by no means strangers to each other’s play. Wilson was the best of the half-backs, and Macpherson did good work in this part of the team. The backs were a fine pair, and it is safe to say that McCallum has no superior in this district on his form in the last two matches in which he has taken part. Jackson kept out some very warm shots, and he had no possible sight of the only shot sent past him. After he had repelled two warm ones in succession from Wilding, Bootle played a strong game, although many of them appeared ill at ease on the grassy enclosure. Izatt shot the goal by which Bootle won, and played cleverly all through. Albert Alsop was the best player on the field, and is turning out a splendid half back. The Veitches were in good form, and Allen quite reliable in goal. Bootle won by goal to nil but it should be stated that Macpherson retired in the second half, weakening the Garston” lot. Still the winners were least a goal better than their opponents throughout.
CHRUCH V EVERTON.
May 7,1887. Blackburn Standard.
These teams met for the third time this season at the Anfield enclosure on Saturday, before 6,000 spectators. Everton won the toss, and Church kick off with the sun in their eyes. The Church forwards showed up in some good passing. Gregson shooting struck the Everton the Everton posts. Later on a corner to Church was not improved upon, and then Farmer shot the first goal for the home team. Before half-time Costley scored other point, and Church, at the interval, were in a minority of two goals. Following the interval Robinson repulsed a hot attack on the visitor's goal, but Everton returned to the assault, and Goodall notched a third goal for them, which was followed shortly afterwards by a fourth. The visitors obtained their first and only goal, and the Everton scoring still another point by the aid of Farmer the home team were the winners of a good game by five goals to one. Teams: - Church: - Thorpe, goal; Robinson and Woods, backs; Gaskell, Taylor, and Tather half-backs; Gregson, Holden, Browne, Walker and Beresford. Everton: - Joliffe, goal; Dick and Dobson, backs; Higgins, Gibson, and McPherson, half-backs Costley, Farmer, Whittle, Goodall, and Richards, forwards.
SOUTH SHORE EXCELS THEMSELVES.
Athletic News - Tuesday 10 May 1887
It is only necessary to look back at some of this season's results of the Everton matches to convince my readers that South Shore were justified in booking their matches with Everton as the best on their fixture card. In the return match at South Shore, although the start did not take place until 5 p.m., 2,000 people were drawn together to witness the attraction. Both sides were fully represented, with the exception of Dick on the one side and Parkinson on the other. Very rarely do the Shore men display such football as they did on Saturday, and from start to finish it was free from any blemish in the shape of rough or foul play. Dick Elston quickly scored from corner, and soon after Richards equalized for Everton. Bob Elston put another through, and Cookson scored number three goal. South Shore leading by three goals to one at half-time. Re-starting. South Shore were pressed for a time, but ten minutes later Richard Elston scored goal number four. Goals were now rapidly obtained, fifth being rushed through South Shore, whilst Farmer obtained a point for Everton, and Bob Elston followed with a sixth for South Shore. Cookson then headed another through, and South Shore won by sterling play to the extent of seven goals to Everton two. This must count the most brilliant performance South Shore has accomplished in their time. Every man in the team played with one aim, viz., to win, and from the goal keeper to centre-forward, every man was in the best possible form. On the side Joliffe was a fair custodian, and not for moment must the heavy defeat be attributed to him. Dobson, McPherson, and Stephenson were the pick of the back division. Richards, Farmer, Fleming, Costley, and Briscoe, who composed the forwards played masterly manner, but the Shore defence was par-excellence.
Everton v Lancashire Nomads.
May 12 th 1887. The Liverpool courier.
A team of Lancashire players, assuming the above title opposed Everton last evening, and although the weather was unpropitious about 1,500 persons surrounded the popular Anfield enclosure. The Nomads stated the ball, but Everton were the first to attack, and a corner kick fell to them. The danger was removed however, and the visitors went away to the Everton end –Mcpherson getting the ball back to midfield. Here Farmer broke away on the Everton left, and a further corner was conceded to the homesters, but although Costley placed well, the venue of play was removed, and in turn Joliffe was troubled. Having cleared, a nice passing run was indulged in by the home forwards, which resulted in farmer scoring the first goal. The visiting forwards now got in dangerous proximity to the Everton goal Dobson clearing in time. Arthur next put aside a dangerous shot of Costley's from a run by Fleming on the right, and then Gibson took a free kick on behalf of Everton. The ball was well placed in front of thew Normads' goal, but after a short skirmish Chadwick relieved, and play was taken to the centre. Here the Normans were awarded a free kick for Hands but the ball found its way outside. McGoldrick then tried a shot, which Arthur cleared in good style. Everton were now attacking impetuously, and after the Nomads' custodian had successfully negotiated several dangerous shots Briscoe beat him for a second time and half time was shortly afterwards called with Everton leading by two goals to nothing. Upon restarting Costley scored a third goal for the home team, but this was disallowed for off-side play. Then the Lancashire van ran up the field, but Joliffe was not troubled, as McPherson speedily removed the danger, and McGoldrick had a quick shot at Arthur who cleared, Chadwick having staved off an attack by the Everton forwards, a corner kick resulted. Farmer headed out Flemings kick and soon afterwards Joliffe had to fist out a hot shot of Wilmot's at the Everton end. Some give-and-take play ensued, both goals being visited in turn. A nice bit of passing was then shown by the visiting forwards, and a free kick was given them within the Everton half and in close following Gibson obtained a like advantage close to the visitors' goal. The ball was outside, but almost immediately afterwards Farmer scored a third goal for the Evertonians. On again kicking off, the sphere travelled quickly towards the Nomads' goal. The backs transferred play to midfield after a sharp scrimmage and play was again taken to the Everton end; but although the Nomads were powerless to score, just on “Time” a fourth goal was credited to Everton farmer again doing the needful and thus Everton won by four goals to nil. Teams; - Everton; - Joliffe goal; Dobson (captain) and Dick, backs McPherson, Gibson and Jones, half-backs; McGoldrick, Farmer, Costley, Fleming, and Briscoe, forwards. Nomads; - Arthur (Blackburn Rovers), goal; Chadwick (Olympic) and Dew (Rovers) backs; Barton (Rovers), Almond (Witton), and Grimshaw (Witton), half-backs; Haresnape (Darwen), Wilmott (Blackburn Rovers), Duckworth (Olympic), and Watson (Rovers), forwards.
EVERTON V SOUTH SHORE
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 14 May 1887
Sir- having noticed adverse comments in your paper and heard rumors in this district, alleging rough play on the part of the South Shore Club, wish to give them denial so far as our club is concerned. We played at Blackpool on the 7th inst., and the South Shore played a game free from suspicion of roughness, and their referee (Mr. Wilde) was very fair and prompt in his decisions. - Yours, truly, Alex Nesbit, Hon. Sec. Everton F.C.
Everton v Padiham
May 16 th 1887. The Liverpool Courier.
This postponed fixture was played off at Anfield on Saturday in the presence of 4,000 spectators. Padiham kicked off and an immediate raid on the Everton goal was repulsed by Dick. Going down the field the Everton forwards were nearly scoring. Farmer heading over the bar. Then Thompson and Davy got away on the Padiham right, but Gibson robbed them on the ball, and the Padiham end was again the scene of hostilities an exciting scrimmage ensuing in front of the visiting goal, and Barnes retrieved. Gibson then took a free kick for hands, in the Padiham half, Whittle making only a poor attempt to score. Everton were now having a lot the best of the game, and after some good play within the visitors half, Briscoe succeeded in placing the first goal to Everton. Padiham now roused themselves, and a raid was made on the Everton goal, the ball going outside. The visitors, however, renewed the attack, and by hard play succeeded in equalising the game. No further points were scored up to half time, the score then being one goal each. Whittle restarted on behalf of Everton and McPherson put in a couple of good shots without effect. Whilst Goodall took a corner, on behalf of Everton. Later on a free kick for hands, was taken by Dick in the centre, but the Padiham backs cleared, and Thompson and Hacking got away towards the Everton goal. The ball, however, went over the line. A vigorous attack was now made on the Padiham goal, and Everton were nearly scoring from a free kick, but the danger was averted, and a run by the Padiham forwards again took play to the Everton end. Dobson relieved, and play was next in the centre Dewhurst then fisted out a shot by Goodall from underneath the bar, and Thompson put in a good run to the Everton quarters, but receiving no help, the danger was speedily removed. Give-and-take play prevailed up to the finish; but no further score was made, and the match ended in a draw of one goal each. Teams; - Everton; - Jolliffe goal; Dobson (captain) and Dick, backs; Goodall, McPherson, and Gibson half-backs; Whittle, Farmer Costley, Briscoe, and Fleming, forwards. Padiham; - Dewhurst, goal; Walsh and Barnes backs; Thompson, Starkie, and J. Hudson half-backs; S. Riley, D. Crears, G. Hacking, W. Thompson, and H. Davy, forwards.
EVERTON V PADIHAM
Athletic News - Tuesday 17 May 1887
At Liverpool, before 4,000 spectators. During the first half of the game play was of an even character. Everton scored first, but Padiham equalised before half-time, when the score was one goal each. During the remainder of the play nothing further was scored, and the match thus ended in a draw of one goal each.
NOTES
Everton are publishing two lists of results, one for the legitimate season and the other to cover everything from the beginning of August t June. The record for September 1st to April 30th is;- Played 39, won 25, drawn 7, lost 7, goals for 127, against 42, or an average of 3.02 to 1. Not bad this. They played Bolton wanderers at Anfield-road next Saturday, Preston North end on May 28, whilst the Monday following (Whit-Monday) they meet Accrington, the proceedings going to the funds of the Stanley hospital, three good matches to finish with.
BOLTON WANDERERS V EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 21 May 1887
Under atmospheric conditions which favoured no species of outdoors sport, the Wanderers proceeded to Liverpool today with the object, if possible, of serving out “toffee” to the Evertonians in their distant fastness. Curiously enough a fixture with Everton was the first match embarked upon by the Wanderers this-or last, should it be? –season. On that occasion the venue was Liverpool, and then the Pikes-laners secured a victory by three goals to one. Since then the Evertonians have defeated such clubs as Darwen, Accrington, Astley Bridge, Derby County, Rossendale, South Shore, Bootle, Halliwell, (and drawn twice), Ulster &c., whilst drawing with partick Thistle, the Rovers and Aston villa, and being beaten by Glasgow Rangers, Bell’s Temperance, Corinthians, Burnley, &c. The Wanderers’ team today was as follows;- Trainer, goal; McKernan and Parkinson, backs; Bullough, Steel, and Roberts, half-backs; Davenport, Owen, Struthers, Brogan, and Howarth, forwards. Referee, Mr. S. Ormerod, Accrington. Final Result- Everton 5, Wanderers 0.
Everton v Bolton Wanderers.
May 23 rd 1887. The Liverpool Courier.
These teams met at the Anfield enclosure on Saturday, and although there was a strong wind blowing and the weather was threatening there was a large attendance, close upon six thousand people witnessing the game. The Wanderers came with a strong team and Everton had also their full strength. The Wanderers started the game, and by a fine combined run a visit was paid to the Everton stronghold. The home backs, however, cleared, but the Wanderers returning, had a kick for a foul given them in front of the Everton goal. Davenport shot into Joliffe's hands, and the home custodian just cleared in time. Then from a fine concerted run by Costley, Farmer, and Goodall, a corner was conceded, Everton from which, McPherson shot a fine goal, thus scoring the first point for the Evertonians. After farmer and Costley had contributed a further good effort on behalf of the home team the Boltonians came away in a dashing tun towards the home goal, Davenport just shooting over the bar. Then Goodall scored a second goal for Everton after a good run. The home team still maintained a vigorous attack, but McKernan and Parkinson played a stubborn back game, and for a length of time kept the homesters from scoring. Bolton then obtained a corner, off Dick, but this proved of no advantage, neither did a foul off Dobson, well in front of the Everton goal. Trainor was next visited, but saved in splendid style. Costley then shot outside the Bolton upright, and after a further corner, was given, Everton, they managed to score another goal, and at half-time were leading by three goals to nothing. Upon restarting, Bolton immediately assumed the aggressive, Brogan just shaving the Everton crossbar with a swift shot. Then the home forwards got away, in a good passing run, Farmer had a shy at goal, and Fleming being too sharp for the Bolton custodian, the latter promptly put the ball past him for the Bolton custodian, for the fourth time. This feat was hailed with tremendous cheering, which had the effect of rousing up the Wanderers, who rushed on the Everton stronghold, and although Dobson cleared, Bolton returned, and Struthers landed the ball in Joliffe's hands who quickly transferred the play to the centre. After some give-and-take play Costley centred finely, and Fleming again effected the downfall of the Wanderers stronghold. Even play ensued, both set of backs playing a hard game, while the forwards on each side put in some good runs. Towards the close of the game Everton attacked the Bolton citadel in a spirited manner, Trainor being called upon several times to save his charge. This he did with success, and no further scoring being done, the home team were left victorious by five goals to nothing. The following are the teams; - Everton; - C. Joliffe goal; A. Dick and G. Dobson (captain) backs; M. Higgins, A. Gibson, and J. McPherson half-backs; G. Farmer, T. H. Costley, A. Goodall, G. Fleming, and W. Richards forwards. Bolton Wanderers; - Trainor goal; J. Parkinson, and McKernon backs; Steel, W. Kerr, and J. Bullough, half-backs; W. Struthers, Haworth, J.K. Davenport, W. Owen, and Brogan forwards.
EVERTON V BOLTON WANDERERS
Athletic News - Tuesday 24 May 1887
At Anfield, Liverpool, the teams being as follows; - Everton; Joliffe, goal; Dick and Dobson, backs; Higgins, Gibson and Macpherson, half-backs; Farmer, Richards, Goodall, Costley, and Fleming, forwards. Bolton; Trainer, goal; Parkinson and McKernan, backs; Steel, Weir, and Buller, half-backs; Howarth, Brogan, Struthers, and Owen, forwards. The match was played before fully 6,000 spectators. In the first half of the game the home team scored three goals to none. In the second half Everton out-ran the visitors and added two more goals. Full score; Everton five goals, Bolton Wanderers, none.
Everton v Stanley and District
May 24 th 1887. The Liverpool Courier.
A team of Stanley and District opposed Everton last evening at the Anfield enclosure, and although the weather was dull about 3,500 spectators witnessed the game. Stanley won the toss and on Everton kicking off a raid was made on the Stanley goal, but Goodall relieved, and the visitors got away towards the Everton end, the ball going outside. The Farmer and Costley became prominent on the Everton left, and the Stanley goal was placed in danger until Costley shot outside. A foul was given Everton in the centre, but immediately afterwards tracks were made for the home goal, Jones just intercepting a shot of McGrogor's, while a moment later dick kicked out of goal. Joliffe next fisted out, a fast shot of Allsopp's. The Stanley end again became the scene of hostilities, but Griffiths was to the fore with a kick to midfield. Brown then took a corner kick, on behalf of the district, and although the ball was placed well nothing came of it. Costley had a shy at goal, but made only a poor attempt. A free kick for hands, was them given the district, but Higgins intercepted the shot at goal. No scoring was effected up to half-time, and ends were changed with a blank sheet. McCallum restarted the game on behalf of the district, and the Everton quarters were at once invaded. The danger was removed, and going to the other end, Whittle scored the first goal for Everton with a capital shot from nearly the centre of the field. A foul was next given the home team close by the district goal, and after a short scrimmage Farmer's shot went outside. Wilson and Brown then came down the field, but Brown let a pass from the former travel over the line. The Stanley goal was again attacked a long shot by Dobson being headed out by Goodall. Wilson next came down the field in a good dribble, but Dick got the ball away in time. Farmer, as the result of a run down by the Everton forwards next had an abortive shy at the Stanley goal, while a second later McPherson hit the visitors upright. The district team tried hard to equalise the score, but in this they failed and were beaten by one goal to nothing. Teams; - Stanley and District; - R. Price, goal; Goodall and Griffiths, backs; Wilson, Welsh, and Allsopp, half-backs; Brown, McGregor, Jones, McCallum, and McGoldrick, forwards. Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Dick and Dobson (captain), backs; Higgins, Jones and McPherson, half-backs; Fleming, Farmer, Costley, Whittle, and Briscoe, forwards.
HOW THE EVERTON FLEET WRECKED THE WANDERERS’ CRUISERS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 28 May 1887
THE FIGHT COMMENCED
By “The Grumbler.”
Avast there, also belay, and likewise luff, whilst I pay out this yarn of the great naval fight by the Mersey on Saturday last, when the Wanderers copper-bottomed hull was riddled and her rigging carried away, by the smart little craft captained by George Dobson. It was late in the day before they lined up and the first shot was fired. The Everton boats came up singly and in pairs, and so far from exciting displeasure by their tardy appearance were cheered vociferously by the crowd by the offing. At last the bos’un gave his signal, and the cannonade commenced. The early exchanges were confined to the outlying sharp shooters until the Davenport sent a well-directed shot bounding into the enemy’s flag ship. Joliffe threw out the shell before it could explode and work mischief. It was soon seen that the gunboat Farmer was going in for cutting out tactics. The maneuvering was splendid, and the way this craft took the wind in its eye, and skirted the main body fairly harassed the Wanderers. At one time it was thought he had inflicted serious damage on the admiral’s ship, but Trainer took her out of action for a time and disaster was averted.
THE FIRST CASUALTY
Then came an exciting scene in which the Parkinson temporarily lost its head lights, whilst the Farmer rushed in, the Trainer keeled over, and only by a well-timed diversion created by the Steel was the charge repulsed. The Wanderers seemed to be reserving their fire, or else they were short of ammunition, whilst Everton banged away all along the line with a vigour and persistency that was bound to bring its reward. Had the direction of their shots been better the Wanderers would have been sent to the bottom in double quick time. As it was the battle had not lasted twenty minutes when the Higgins braced up to the McPherson, who crashed in a red hot ball there was no resisting, and so the first ship was captured.
THE SECOND DISASTER
Once on the aggressive, Everton stuck like bulldogs grim, and the Parkinson only just managed to scramble up in time to stop another disaster. Then the Wanderers left wing appeared to be going great guns but the Davenport fired wildly. Not so, however, the Goodall on the other sided who having been supported to the breach by the Costley and Farmer, by a brilliant feint affected the second downfall of the Wanderers, whilst the Trainer foolishly left its position to meet the advancing foe.
CEASE FIRING
In revenge for this the Wanderers knocked a hole in the ammunition boat, and fresh shell had to be served out. They were then favoured with a grand opportunity for inflicting damage on the elated enemy but weakly let it slide, after which the Trainer received seven or eight shots in a vital part, but repelled them all manfully, until through a mistake on the part of the Bullough, which let in a crowd of the attacking force, who took up position right in front, the third craft was captured by the Costley, just before there was temporary cessation for repairs by mutual consent.
THE CONFLICT RENEWED
By this time it was fully apparent that the issue would be with Everton. The Wanderers, though still preserving a bold front, appeared demoralized in tactics, and could not move in the sea-room with the same alacrity as their opponents. For a minute or two the heavens were opened, but the storm was followed by sunshine, and the Wanderers as they again opened fire, took the rainbow which arched the clouds as an emblem of hope. But the rainbow quickly disappeared, and plunged the Wanderers in darkness again. The Steel and the Weir often did smart execution, but generally the Bolton cruisers were beaten, and instead of persevering in combined attack commenced a series of individual combats with one or two of the opposing force which could have no effect on the general engagement. On one occasion the Dick got altogether out of reckoning, and the Howarth by a well-timed dash could have inspired his comrades with fresh energy, but his heart failed him, and the chance was lost forever. The Farmer yet again out-sailed all rivals, and easily beating the McKernan sounded the point, and centreing, the Fleming affected the fourth capture of the day, the visitors giving vent to their jubilation in cheering loud and long.
BOLTON CAPTULATES
Nor was this the last disaster, for the same redoubtable pair repeated their performance in exactly similar style, with the same result. Thus it was when the sun went down and the signal was given to cease firing the Wanderers retired from the strife with a record of five against them, whilst Everton had not lost a solitary dingy. The lesson to be learnt from this terrible disaster is that the Wanderers should lay up for repairs for the rest of the summer, and come out again new rigged fore and aft, prepared to stand the arduous encounters of another season.
PRESTON NORTH END V EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 28 May 1887
A glorious day succeeded the boisterous weather of yesterday, and consequently the attendance numbered 8,000. The teams faced each other as follows;- Everton; Joliffe, goal; Veitch and Dick, backs; Gibson, Higgins and McPherson, half-backs; Briscoe, Fleming, Richards, Goodall, and Farmer, forwards. North End; Rose, goal; Holmes and Ross sen, backs; Graham, Russell, and Robertson, half-backs; Drummond, Dewhurst, Goodall, Gordon, and Ross, forwards. Everton kicked off, and the game was very fast. Two minutes from half-time Goodall scored for Preston.
Final Result; Preston North End 5, Everton 0.
SUMMER FOOTBALL
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 28 May 1887
THE WANDERERS AT EVERTON.
THE PAST AND THE FUTURE
Is the satiety of football reaching Bolton? One of the features of the present season has been the great. Falling off in football following exhibited in some of the East Lancashire towns. Is the fate of Great Lever looming over Bolton Wanderers? There were many screws loose last Saturday at Everton, and the universal opinion was that radical changes are necessary in the constitution of the club, which still can claim to have twice lowered the proud colours of the famous Preston North End. Never was club more completely beaten than the Pike’s-laners last Saturday. They were rarely in the hunt at all, and there was scarcely a good performance by a single member of the team. There was at times a spasmodic rush, but an entire absence of continuity their efforts. Everton on the other hand never made a mistake, never lost opportunity, and there was not a single weak spot in the team, whilst several of the eleven played brilliantly.
THE WANDERERS UNLUCKY STAR
The Wanderers certainly benefited from a pecuniary point of view by their trip to Everton, who once more were lucky to obviate the necessity for a trip up country, as they owed the Wanderers a game. It is surprising to note the apparent case with which Everton can induce opponents to play both their matches at Anfield Road, and it is not a very comforting reflection to those who have the real interest of the sport at heart, that many Lancashire clubs are willing to forego the great advantage of playing at home for a “consideration.” In nearly every case the result of the match has been adverse, and in pocketing the big share of a gate of some six thousand, the Bolton Wanderers had at the same time to swallow the very bitter pill of an ignominious defeat. Everton forced the pace from the start, and it was not long before McPherson kicked a goal, and Goodall added a second, after peculiarly weak effort of Trainer’s. Both these goals had a considerable element of luck, but the next three were obtained in a masterly manner.
THE WANDERERS OUTPLAYED
Before half-time Costley had very cleverly got a third goal after free kick, and it was then certain that Everton would not lose. Play was of a good quality in the second half, and the home defenders worked lustily, whilst the forwards exhibited brilliant combination and dribbling. Goodall was a fine centre, and will yet rival his brilliant brother. Fleming was very speedy on the right, but the other wing was the better. Here, Farmer and Costley had a perfect understanding, whilst the little Oswestry man fairly excelled himself, notwithstanding the constant and assiduous attentions of the Wanderers’ defenders. The grand effort which ended in the fourth goal, will become historic at Anfield-road, and truly a finer goal was never scored. Farmer dribbled nearly the length of the field, although hampered in his whole course by the Wanderers defenders. A brilliant screw at the finish landed the ball to Fleming, who was standing quite alone and headed past Trainer amidst the most enthusiastic cheering. Nor was the fifth goal much less meritorious, and was scored by Fleming with a wonderfully fine shot. Meantime the Wanderers were growing irritated with their repeated failures, Mr. Parkinson being especially wrathful. Howarth seemed to raise his ire particularly by his bad shooting. Taken all round the Wanderers were most disappointing. Davenport was weak, Brogan weak, Struthers carried too much weight, and the left wing was faulty throughout. Steel worked hard and well at half-back, but the others did little. The back were perhaps the best of the team, but Trainer was very disappointing. Dobson and Dick were wonderfully safe on the other side, the half-backs did well, but the forwards were the best of the team, and Farmer the best of all.
A DIFFERENCE
Against a very moderate team, under the title of Stanley District, Everton found far more difficulty in obtaining a victory on Monday than was the case on Saturday. There was considerable interest manifested in the game from the defeat lately sustained Everton at the instance of Stanley. Everton now won one to nil. Goodall for some reason or other played full back, and McCallam forward, an unwise arrangement, for the latter can play a fine back game, and is useless forward, and Goodall is essentially a centre forward, although did tolerably well full back.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 28 May 1887
Everton v Preston
May 30 th 1887. The Liverpool Courier.
The meeting of these noted teams at the Anfield ground on Saturday attracted an enormous crowd, which could not have numbered less than 10,000 persons, the capacious enclosure being densely packed up to the very verge of the line of play. It was the first visit of the North End team, which complass, with the exception that Holmes took the place of Howarth; but Everton were decidedly unfortunate in losing the valuable services of Dobson, their captain, who through lameness was unable to take part in the match, and his absence the position at back was filled by T. Vietch of the Bootle Football Club, which circumstances, it is to be hoped, will tend to a speedy renewal of good fellowship between three leading local clubs. Shortly after the advertised time Archie Goodall kicked off for Everton, and an attack on the North End lines having been repulsed, Joliffe was twice called upon to use his hands, following which Drummond shot wide of goal. Fleming, with Richards in attendance, not brought about a movement, and on the return of the sphere, J. Goodall after some effective play, shot outside; and a moment later, on Dick failing to get in his kick, the North Enders again levelled an abortive shot. A good run by Dewhurst was supplemented by a movement on the part of Drummond, when Dewhurst and Ross made a pretty exchange, the ball finally being rolled over the line. Everton now had a look in, and Archie Goodall was within an ace of scoring, the fine keeping of Rose alone preventing a point being made. Farmer indulged in some tricky play, which greastly amused the crowd, but ultimately Joliffe's powers were severely taxed in repelling a dangerous raid of the North End forwards, prominent among whom were Dewhurst and Gordon. Everton again attacked, when Gordon showed some brilliant play on the right. Farmer, however, got away with equal brilliancy, and a moment later Fleming was fouled in the midst of a magnificent effort, Everton at this juncture obtained a privileged kick on a claim for hands, but the ball passed through goal untouched. Then Higgins narrowly escaped scoring, but J. Goodall, more fortunate than his rival, scored for North End, and on his namesake failing for Everton, the visitors at half time led by a goal to nothing. J. Goodall restarted for North End, and a moment later the same player leveled a hot shot at the Everton goal. A corner followed, and Everton were penalized although later on a kick from the front of goal gave relief. The pressure, however, was instantly renewed, and Gordon sent in a dangerous shot. Subsequently some capital heading was indulged in by Gibson, but on a retrograde movement setting in J. Goodall's shot struck the bar, and the ball fell back into play. On a corner, being taken, Russell headed the second goal for North End, twenty minutes having cleared from the resumption of play. Barely a minute had elapsed when Goodall scored a third, Jolliffe evidently miscalculating the position of the ball in its flight. The sphere had no sooner been restarted then Dewhurst scored a fourth goal from a high shot. The Evertonians now pulled themselves together and for a moment gave trouble to Ross. The ball, however, again gravitated to the lower ground, when Dewhurst, with a spanking shot, registered a further point. The Evertonians made a further spurt, but had no luck for a shot by Higgins passed outside, and although the local men made heroic efforts, they were palpably outplayed, and as the score remained nochanged, North End won a highly interesting game by five goals to nothing. The first half was very evenly contested, but towards the close the splendid combination of Mr. Sudell's famous team told with terrible effect. Still, under the circumstances, the Evertonians are to be complimented on the plucky manner, in which they for so great a length of time held their powerful opponents at bay, and no doubt there is a great future in store for the local team. The following are the sides; - Everton; - C. Jolliffe, goal; Dick and T. Veitch (Bootle), backs; Gibson, McPherson, and Higgins (captain), half-backs; Briscoe, Fleming, Richards, Archie Goodall, and Farmer forwards. Preston North End; - Rose goal; Holmes, and W. J. Ross, backs; Russell, Robertson, and Graham, half-backs; Gordon, A. Ross, Goodall, Dewhurst and Drummond, forwards.
Everton v Accrington
May 31 st 1887. The Liverpool Courier.
Stanley Hospital funds.
A match between these teams were played at Anfield yesterday in aid of the funds of the Stanley Hospital, and as the weather was remarkably fine a crowd of over 3,000 persons thronged the enclosure, amongst those present being the Major of Liverpool (Mr. Jas Poole) Mr. Edward Whitley, M.P., Dr. Costine, Dr. Sheldon, Mr. Counsilor Houling, Mr. L. E. Bennett, Mr. W. T. Brunt, and other gentlemen interested in the welfare of the North end institutions. Acrrington kicked off and a speedy visit was paid to the Everton end, where Chippendale headed into goal. Jolliffe, however, saved splendidly, and on McPherson clearing to the centre, some pretty play ensued on the Everton right, when Richards, after a combined dribble, shot strongly at goal. McConnell, however, saved most brilliantly, when Beresford became prominent among the Reds, and for a while the Everton stronghold was menaced. At length McPherson cleared, and on McLelland missing his kick, Goodall after some finessing in front of goal kicked over the line. The play now became of a desultory character during which Yates blundered by playing the ball over the lines, and a minute later Griffith took a free kick on a claim for hands. Higgins was similarly penalised, but no harm resulted. Shortly afterwards Joliffe was in trouble from a shot by Holden, but the Evertonians saved most brilliantly amidst considerable cheering. Directly afterwards Griffiths succeeded a corner kick, and on the ball being released from the succeeding scrimmage Accrington were in turn very hardly pressed. At length from a kick from this corner Conway headed through a goal and at half time Accrington were leading by one point to nil. Richards restarted the game, and a moment later Bonar narrowly raised adding to the Accrington score. Later on farmer was penalsied for fouling the ball, and after a brief space of time Conway again headed through goal. Successive corners, now fell to the Reds, but although the ball was invariably centred with precision Jolliffe, aided by the backs defended with conscious ability and success. Now Goodall was immensely cheered for a most brilliant run down the centre, but a good opportunity was lost through the ball being played over the line. Briscoe and Fleming were next on the sphere, which again travelled beyond the precious of the field of play. Goodall however, got the ball at the centre, and shot from nearly midfield through goal amidst tremendous cheering. This success appeared greatly to inspirit the Evertonians, but again the Reds broke away, and Beresford scored a magnificent goal for them. Fleming made an immediate, but unsuccessful attempts to turn the fortunes of the day in Everton's favour, but a little later on the same player headed through the visitors uprights the cheering now being of the wildest description. Immediately afterwards Yates scored a fourth point for Accrington, which proved to be the last in the match, and the visitors won a soughly contested game by four goals to two. Teams; - Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Dick and Griffiths, backs; Higgins (captain), Goodall, and McPherson half-backs; Farmer, Costley, Richards, Briscoe, and Fleming, forwards. Accrington; - McConnell, goal; McLennan and Stevenson, backs; Chippendale, Wilkinson, and R. Haworth, half-backs; Yates, Holden, Conway, Bonar, and Beresford, forwards.
