EVERTON V. HALLIWEEL
April 2, 1888. The Liverpool Mercury
These teams met for the first time this season on Saturday, at Anfield. There was another large company present, every spot of vantage ground being occupied. The field of play had been carefully rolled, and was so dry that it seemed difficult to believe it was the same enclosure that the previous day simply looked a sea of mud. Halliwell came fully manned, whilst Everton played the same team that beat Padiham. Duncan kicked off down, hill and with the wind. Everton at once running the ball-up on the right and over the line. R. Jones put an end to an offensive run, and, dodging through sent well to the right wing, the line again being crossed. Jardine ran down and put behind, and on trying a return shot was charged over at the corner. Halliwell right then took up the attack, but had no better success than the left had. Everton could not yet, however, beat back the invaders a Mullin, and Jardine each called upon R. Jones and Dick, and so effectively did the latter perform that Everton were enabled to become dangerous for the first time. Costly heading well out of a scrimmage. Dick stopped Jardine and Mullin when near in, and Nidd missing the ball, Dick found it necessary to rush across to foil Crombie and sent out. Duncan renewed the attack, but shot badly, and then R. Jones put Fleming on the ball, Costley spoiling a possible chance by kicking blindly. Halliwell at once gave trouble, and pressed somewhat severely, during which R. Jones seemed to be always ready to prevent mischief, and finally relieved by sending over to Farmer and Briscoe, who lost the ball near the line. Crombie was the next aggressor, but Dobson was in time to prevent an accurate aim, whilst Hay shot too high. A concerted run by Fleming, E. Jones and Costley was only checked in Lucas fouling the former, and from the free kick Costley found his way past Fairclough, amidst great rejoicing, after some 20 minutes' play. On resuming, the visitors tried to pass Dick, but in vain; and Farmer and Briscoe worked their way well up from the kick up, Farmer going over in an erratic shot. Fleming also failing through the activity of McDougall. Smalley fisted out a centre shot, and Weir in turn cleared an Everton corner from the left, and then Halliwell threaded their way down to goal and attacked strongly. Dobson enabled one shot to pass innocently over, but Dick had some stiff work to keep Jardine at bay, a shot by the latter going behind. The onslaught was renewed, Smalley stopping one from Weir high up a fine bit of passing across the front of goal testing Dick and Dobson's defence, which proved impregnable, and Everton were not far off scoring from a rush. Smalley again found Mullen and Jardine peppering away from the left, and had some clinking sallies to negotiate, which was done in his best style. Everton had another turn, Costley., from Fleming and E. Jones screwing in close to the left post. Dick was too sharp for Duncan and Weir's kicks, and on Nidd sending to Farmer half time was announced whilst the latter was running strongly. Score Everton, 1; Halliwell, 0. On resuming, Robb got on the track of Briscoe, and sending to Hay and Crombie, play was taken close to Everton goal. Dick got in the way of the centres, and lifting up to Fleming, the visitors' corner was reached in a strong run, but E.Jones came up too late to take the pass. Nidd pulled up the Halliwell right wing, and gave to Costley. Lucas, however, was in readiness to prevent a shot. Duncan then gave Smalley a hard one to stop, which was only achieved by running out. Farmer and Briscoe, in a strong run, forced a corner, and Nidd proved quite a match for the raids of Crombie and Hay, beating them in a surprising manner. Fleming and Farmer tried runs and again Nidd held Halliwell in check. Everton now considerably out played Halliwell, and shots and corners rained in profusely. Crombie again found Nidd impassable, Farmer shooting wide from the half-back's post. Higgins spoilt Mullin's and Jardine's intentions, and lobbing up, a corner fell to Farmer. This was easily cleared, but Halliwell essaying a movement. Dick with a long kick bothered Robb, Fleming at once pouncing on the ball, and scoring the second goal. Fleming passing up, Eyton-Jones might have scored from Fleming's centre but was again too slow, to save the match, and gave Smalley a hard one but found no encouragement, and the remaining play was in favour of the home club. None of the good shots of Costley, Fleming and Eyton-Jones found their way through, so Everton won by the unequivocal score of 2 goals to o. Teams; Everton; Smalley, goal; Dobson (captain), and Dick, backs; Nidd, R. Jones, and Higgins, half-backs; Farmer, Briscoe, Costley, Eyton-Jones, and Fleming forwards. Halliwell; Fairclough, goal; Robb and Lucas, backs; McDowell, Weir, and Durham, half-backs; Jardine, Mullin, Duncan, Hay, and Crombie, forwards.
EVERTON REVIEW
April 2, 1888. The Liverpool Mercury
The Anfield enclosure on Good Friday was almost if not equally as crowded as when Aston Villa were disporting themselves the previous Saturday. Everton's opponents were their old familiar friends Padiham, who thus made a second visit within six weeks. When in Liverpool last, on February 11, Everton were found to be 2 goals to 0 the better team. The Anfieldites of that period were just recovering from rather rough usage, and, as they have shown improving form in the meantime against more formidable foes, the renewed battle with the Pads had no pretensions to be classed as a rousing event. However, it was evident the match was a popular one, or 7000 spectators the face of in elements weather influences, would not have patronised it; and if the play was not of the highest polish, it bristled with interesting periods despite the saddened state of the ground. Everton opened by scoring a goal in an instant from a melee, and in such a ludicrous manner that Costley, from whose head, when charging a man, the ball rolled through, must have been quite as much surprised as the custodian to see the shot and gone home. For the greater part of the first half Everton had the “biggest say,” but, mainly due to the slippery state of the ground at the lower end, could do nothing effectively against the highly respectable defence. A quarter of an hour of the restart Padiham equalised, as the result of a nice all-round forward movement, but Fleming soon gave Everton the lead again, and this being the last point made Padiham had to bite the dust in a 2 to 1 reverse. Everton did more attacking than the result indicated, but, in addition to active defence, had luck to contend with, Farmer, Fleming, and R. Jones sending in very accurately. Everton's back division were strong with the exception of Nidd, who was not at home on the heavy ground. The forwards also showed better combination, Farmer exhibiting something more like his own particular form, whilst Eyton-Jones paid a welcomed attention to Fleming. Padiham were on a level scale, and at times showed fair combination. Everton eclipsed all previous performances achieved since Christmas not excepting the display against Witton in their victory of 2 goals to 0 over Halliwell on Saturday. The company was again very large, and the play being as interesting as the weather was genial, enthusiasm ran high. When assisted with the wind and hill during the first half Halliwell were certainly most frequently at goal, but could find no flaw in the home defence, whereas Everton every now and then broke away in dangerous rushes, out of one of which Costley scored from a penalty kick given against Lucas for fouling Fleming. On turning round, Everton showed to much greater advantage, and scored the only goal of the second half, Fleming talking full advantage of a mis-kick by Robb at a critical moment. Every man in the winning team did well, but it was in the latter stages of the game that the most perfect combination was exhibited. R. Jones was very clever, especially in the first half, at centre half-back, and fairly puzzled the Halliwell forwards, disappointing them time after time. Nidd, though shaping very indifferently early on, played with confidence towards the close; the manner in which he robbed Crombie and Hay repeatedly showed that he has plenty of resource on a dry ground, and with practices may develop into a useful and safe wing player. Higgins was not called upon often, but was ever ready. All the forwards tried their best, and on the whole the formation was well sustained. Fleming showed most skill, Eyton-Jones supporting him with much better judgement than usual; Briscoe also was keeper in his running and kicking; whilst Costley and Farmer were more effective than of late. Smalley and Dobson were safe, and Dick was the best man of the field, his grand kicking being always a source of discomfiture to the visitors. Of the losers, Halliwell forwards could rarely show combination, thanks to Everton half-backs; Weir was too well watched to become dangerous; and Robb, Lucas, and Fairclough were strong.
EVERTON ASTONISH THE HALLIWELLIAN’S
Athletic News - Tuesday 03 April 1888
Halliwell were at Anfield on Saturday, and an immense crowd assembled for their reception, the visitors being popular with the Evertonians. Nidd went half-back in the place of Gibson, who stood down in the last two matches, and R. Jones resumed his proper places at centre half. Halliwell were the more active during the first half, but they found R. Jones, Dick, and Smalley equal to all their efforts. Everton on the other hand, indulged in rushes, and being stronger in front of goal, scored twenty minutes from the kick-off. The home team showed surprising combination in the second half and did nearly all the pressing. A quarter of an hour from “Time,” Robb missed and let Fleming in, Everton eventually winning by two goals to none. The Halliwell forwards displayed poor combination, evidently being puzzled by Dick, R. Jones, and Nidd, the former of whom played a most brilliant game, Farmer and Briscoe and Fleming and Jones, showed good tackling in their respective wings, Costley doing better than usual at centre. Lucas and Weir both worked hard.
Notes
The Liverpool Press Guard (19th L.R.V) amongst whom are Finlay and Pickering, of the Everton olden-time brigade, gave Birkenhead Argyle a rattling good game.
EVERTON V. BOLTON WANDERERS
April 3, 1888. The Liverpool Mercury
These teams met on the Anfield enclosure yesterday. The weather was fine, but the wind too strong for an accurate passing game. The home team, who played a brother of their goalkeeper in Costley's place at centre were the first to appear, and were heartily greeted by over 9000 spectators, a similar compliment being paid to the visitors two minutes later. Dobson won the toss, and Sugg kicked off with the wind, the ball travelling down, Brogan finishing by kicking wide. Returning to the attack. Smalley had to race a warm one from the visitors right and Roberts and Sugg had each a shy at Smalley's charge. Brogan again got down, but Dobson staved off danger. Only temporarily, however, as Dakin managed to beat Smalley by popping one between the posts, but the whistle had previously sounded for hands. From the free kick to Everton the home right got up, but Roberts enabled Howarth to score the first goal in 15 minutes from the start. Re-starting the home left wing worked the leather well up, but Briscoe finished with a bad shot, which went wide of the post. Dakin, in attempting to kick the ball, hurt his knee, which caused him to cease playing for five minutes. Farmer collared the ball, ran up, but Usworth negotiated, and then Brogan tested Dick, who cleared. Fleming came away, and Roberts was loudly hooted for attempting to give him a back. A corner to the Wanderers having been got rid of by Dobson, Dick had some difficulty in clearing shots from Sugg and Brogan very close in. After Farmer had caused Robinson to kick out to save, the Everton centre and left wing again got up, ad had a corner, which was cleared. The game now became exciting. Farmer gave Eyton-Jones a chance, but that player passed it to Flitcroft and Higgins, in robbing him, accidentally kicked Howarth in the face. Continuing pressure, Fleming was spoiled by Roberts, but Briscoe shot in nicely, and Unsworth conceded a corner nothing resulting. Aided by the wind, the visitors travelled downwards, and Dick smartly transferred play to the other end, where the defence of the Wanderers in rapid successession, but luck seemed all against the homesters. At this stage Brogan was cautioned by the referee for venting a long standing grievance with Farmer. Playing hard and fast, Dakin saved a shot from Farmer, and Fleming passed nicely to E. Jones, who dallied, and Brogan was busy when half-time was sounded, the score being –Wanderers 1; Everton nil. On changing ends, Everton soon began to be busy, Fleming, Farmer, and Briscoe working down by passing neatly, but the latter unfortunately ran the ball over the line. From the goal kick Roberts essayed a long lob, but after being pushed over the line by Roberts, skilfully planted the ball in the goal mouth, and W. Smalley gave it the finishing touch, thus equalising amidst the greatest enthusiasm. Striving hard to augment the score, Nidd and R. Jones kept a lively time of it. The Wanderers then had a look in, and kept the home backs busy; eventually, Everton became very aggressive, and had hands given them near their goal, but Farmer mulled an opportunity by lifting the ball right over the bar. Sugg having paid a flying visit to Smalley, Farmer called on Unsworth, who saved, and Flitcroft spoiled a near thing from Fleming. Encouraged by a round of applause for a long kick, Nidd worked hard along with R. Jones, and play continued some time in the visitors quarters, but their defence was excellent, the goal being kept intact. From a free kick E. Steel and Howarth went up smartly on the left, but Dick robbed them, and passed to W. Smalley, who was floored as he was in the act of shooting for goal. After Farmer had missed an easy chance through hanging with the ball too long, the visitors' centre got up grandly and beat Smalley the second time. An appeal was made for off-side, but the point was allowed. Being asked to play up, Everton worked hard, and besieged the Wanderers' goal, but could not find an opening., the ball struck the upright, just as the whistle blew for time, many of the spectators thinking a second goal had been scored, and a medium game ended in favour of the Wanderers by 2 goals to 1. Teams; Everton; Smalley, goal; Dick and Dobson (captain), backs; Higgins, R. Jones and Nidd, half-backs; Fleming, Eyton-Jones, W. Smalley, Briscoe and Farmer, forwards. Wanderers; Unsworth, goal; Robinson and Flitcroft, backs; Bullough, Dakin ad Roberts, half-backs; Brogan, Owen, Sugg, Steel and Howarth, forwards.
BOOTLE VETERANS V. EVERTON VETERANS.
April 3, 1888. The Liverpool Mercury.
Yesterday morning, two elevens under the above titles met at Hawthorn-road; but there were several in both teams whose designation of “veteran” was not very apt, notably a prominent member of the Gymnasium eleven. There was a respectable attendance of the public, and no doubt the number would have been augmented if the object of the promoters had been better known. A small sum was handed to the treasurers of the Bootle Borough and the Stanley Hospitals respectively; the balance, after some slight expenses had been defrayed. Everton turned out a very business-like side, and made a better show than the ancients of Bootle. The latter nevertheless defended very firmly, and were beaten by the narrow majority of a goal to nil. Scott scored the goal from an excellently-judged kick of Brown in the first half. The Bootle forwards shaped better against the wind, but Marriott and Parry played with starting vigour, and repulsed every assault. Sloan at the other end, kicked hugely, and L. Woods tackled very safely, and this pair were mainly responsible for the clever feat of preventing a score in the face of a strong wind. Allsopp and McMurray also did good work for Bootle, and Brettle and Scott for Everton.
EVERTON V. CORINTHIANS
April 5, 1888. The Liverpool Mercury
The Corinthians, continuing their northern tour, visited Anfield last evening, an interesting game being watched by a very large company. Tinkey-Lindley kicked off on behalf of the Corinthians . Everton starting play minus R. Jones. Higgins kicked back, but Arnott returned the ball with a hugh kick. Falls put in some capital play for the home team, who brought pressure to bear n their opponents' goal. Fleming, however, shot outside the post. Dick then took a free kick in the centre on behalf of Everton. Te ball was sent right in goal, and, with a fine shot, Falls reduced the Corinthians colours. From centre kick the visitors rushed down to the Everton goal, but Dick relieved. Arnott brought up the Everton van, and with a hugh kick again transferred play in front of the home upright. Spilsbury shooting over the bar. R. Jones then stopped a rush of the Corinthians forwards, and giving the ball to his forwards, the visitors' goal was attacked. Higgins shot well in, but Costley missed a favourable opportunity. Everton still kept up the pressure, and gained a corner, but Wreford-Brown cleared. On the Corinthians rushing down the field Dewhurst shot badly. The visitors' forwards now put in some good passing, but Dobson cleared, and Everton ran down the field. From a pass by Fleming, Costley had hard lines, the ball just tipping the crossbar. A corner kick to Everton was cleared by Dewhurst, but Gibson shot in again, Cooper fisting out. Arnott took a free kick for the visitors, following which Lindley scored for them, but the goal was given offside. From the goal-kick the Everton left rushed down the field, Farmer passing over to the centre, Higgins, however, just landed the ball over the bar. Dewhurst ran the ball to the centre, but Dick kicked back, and, running down the field, Farmer landed the ball in Cooper's hands, the visitors' custodian clearing with Costley and Falls on top of him. Everton still had the best of the play, and Cooper had to stop a hot shot of Briscoe's. The whistle was now blown for half-time, with Everton leading by 1 goal to nil. Costly re-started the ball on behalf of the home team, and Falls, running down, shot well in goal, Briscoe heading it over. Dewhurst then got off, but Higgins robbed him nicely. Dobson next relieved an attack of the Corinthian forwards, but on Anderson returning the ball Spilsbury equalised from a fine centre by Dewhurst. The latter had another good chance, but failed to utilise it. Smalley cleared a shot by Pike, and Arnott cleared an attack of the Everton forwards. Farrant then shot over the Everton crossbar. A foul for the Corinthians was given right in front of the Everton sticks, but the ball was sent high over the bar. From the kick out of goal Everton rushed to the other end, Anderson clearing. The Corinthians next rushed off, and Farrant scored, the ball striking the upright and bouncing through. Falls put in a good run on behalf of Everton, but Fleming from the pass, put the ball over the visitors' bar. On Everton again attacking, Arnott kicked finely, and Wilson put in good play at half-back. Smalley saved a hot shot by Farrent, the Corinthians now doing most of the pressing. From a run down the field the visitors again scored. From the centre kick Everton got to the other end, but the shooting was at fault. The Corinthians were nearly scoring again, but this was prevented, and when time was called Everton were beaten by 3 goals to 1. Teams;- Everton; Smalley, goal; Dick and Dobson (captain), backs; Gibson, Higgins, and R. Jones, backs; Falls, Farmer, Costley, Briscoe, and Fleming, forwards. Corinthians; Cooper, goal; Arnott, and Anderson, backs; Wilson, Wreford,-Brown, and Taylor, half-backs; Spilsbury, Dewhurst, Pile, Lindley, and Farrant, forwards.
BOLTON WANDERERS TOO GOOD
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 07 April 1888
Everton had reason to face the Wanderers with confidence on Monday, seeing that they had previously defeated Halliwell and that the Wanderers were short of W. Steel and Davenport. But once more the fallacy of deductions from comparative form was demonstrated, and the Evertonians must record a result in the season’s encounters with the Pike’s-laners unfavorable to themselves. The clubs have met five times this season; Bolton Wanderers have won twice, Everton once, and two games have been drawn. The last match drew a splendid gate, fully 9,000 spectators being present, and like all the other engagements there was some feeling displayed between the players. The visitors showed some very nice passing at the opening of the play, and Dakin got a shot past Smalley very early on, but an unfortunate “hands” nullified the point. They were not to be denied, however, and Steel (A.) soon got a legitimate goal. This advantage the Wanderers maintained until the change of ends, and then commenced as if they were going to add to the score. Smalley, the Everton centre, however got an equalizing point- and the crowd jubilated some. Then Everton commenced to press, and kept it up for a long time; but the Wanderers went slick off after being hotly engaged round their own goal, and soon got a winning point. The forward play of the Boltonians was better than that of Everton, and the half-backs and backs were much on a par, although Bethall Robinson was not in such demon form as on Christmas Day at Bootle. Smalley in the Everton centre was not an improvement on Costley-not at all, and Nidd was much safer than in the previous holiday engagements.
THE VETERANS
An intersesting event was that which took place on Hawthorne Road ground, when veterans of Everton opposed those of Bootle; and the more people one comes into contact with connected with the rival clubs, the more becomes surprised to find the circle of irreconcilables reduced into very narrow limits. The utmost friendliness was shown between the players, and it is hoped that this is the only the first motion towards bringing about friendly relations between the two clubs. The Everton pets were a much more serviceable lot than those of Bootle, and should have won by more than a goal to nil. The balance of the gate, after some slight expenses were defayed, was divided between Stanley Hospital and the Bootle Borough Hospital.
(Note) Church included Nidd, the Everton recruit in their team.
A CRUMB OF COMFORT FOR ‘PAPA”
The Corinthians brought a splendid team to Everton on Tuesday with the exception of a weak half-back division, but it was some time before they got fairly going. There was a good muster of spectators, and they were somewhat partial in their favours. Falls scored for the home side very cleverly in the first ten minutes, and though Lindley with a grand shot beat Smalley the point was disallowed and Everton were leading by a goal at half-time. They had not much chance afterwards, the defence falling to pieces before the grand forward play of Lindley; Spilsbury, Dewhurst, and Co., Anderson, and Arnott kicked and tackled magnificently behind, and Everton were beaten by three goals to one. The Corinthians had another goal disallowed, although Spilsbury’s shot was a beauty. The Everton forwards were quite off colour, and Dobson and Dick not up to the mark.
THE PROPOSED LEAGUE
The proposed Football league has been the subject of much discussion in Liverpool during the last week, and Bootle naturally object to being excluded, seeing that they have proved themselves the equals of any of the Lancashire clubs, included, with the exception of Preston North End. There is no need for apprehensions, for it is not likely to prejudice the interests of any of the numerous clubs who have claims to consideration equal to any nine of the twelve named clubs. There are only three pre-eminent clubs in the country, and a selection of the other nine would always be a delicate subject. It has further to be considered whether the object aimed at-the increased interest in ordinary club matches-will be at all achieved by the proposed league. Few clubs could undergo a keen struggle for the empty title of “Champion,” continued throughout the season, together with the ardous task imposed by the various Cup competitions. We have Mr. Sudell’s word for it that ordinary fixtures must be subordinated to Cup ties to achieve success in the latter, and I fail to see that the League can succeed in accomplishing its object of such considerations generally prevail.
EASTER EGGS AT EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 07 April 1888
By “Mickey Free”
PADIHAM
We had Padiham up for an airing on Good Friday, and by the same token it was more wet than sunshine they got, and not even the consolation of a win to drive the damp out. They had nothing to be ashamed of anyhow, for they played like good men and it just took Everton all they knew to chalk up a win.
HALLIWELL
Next came the bowld boys from Halliwell, ye champions of Bolton (there’s the rub). Well, now the day was just about as nice as could be wished for, the ground looked most inviting, and John James’s pet blade of grass, so ruthlessly pressed out of sight by reason of Dewhurst squatting on it against his will, when mud was plentiful, has again burst forth to make glad his heart. In fact, all nature smiled, and so did the executive when they saw the sea of faces around the enclosure. When the teams made their appearance Halliwell played the identical team which did duty against Bootle, and it was highly amusing to hear the eager conjectures as to the probable consequence of the set-to. Bootle had made a good drawn game. Could Everton do it? Halliwell soon found that Everton were just in the right humor and a rattling game was the consequence. It is not my intention to run after the boys in all their twists and turnings, but will just sum up by saying that the win of two goals to nil was a capital performance, and a fair and square reflex of the game.
THE WANDERERS
Just imagine it! On Monday afternoon there were 2,000, or thereabouts, of the fair sex present, seventeen or eighteen hundred gossoons who planked their pennies to see that (I was going to say cup tie) match, and 8,000 of the bone and sinew of Liverpool. Indeed it was an enlivening sight. But what’s this? Smalley’s brother as centre forward in place of little Costley? If ever there was a mistake made by men with their eyes open, this was one. On Saturday, Costley played an excellent game, and contributed more than an average share to obtaining such a smart result, and here we have him thrown out and an unknown man put in his place. The comments on the whole proceedings made by scores of the public, which I could not avoid hearing as we struggled off the ground, were anything but complimentary. The play opened very even, but the pace cut out was a caution. It was very clear that ye “Trotters” meant to show that they could just let down the Everton men a peg, but even with the drawback of a useless (?) centre forward they would never have done it had Farmer made anything like an attempt to utilize the chances which (unfortunately for Everton) frequently fell to his lot. Had the right wing fed more, the day might still have been theirs’s, and with all respect to the referee, the game was only a draw, as Sugg was most decidedly off-side when the ball was passed to him. However, this was only an accident, which might possibly have happened the other way. There were so many changes in the Bolton team since I last saw them that I had to rub my eyes a couple of times to try and make out some of the old faces. At last I caught sight of the burly Bob Bullough, and Brogan, so that I felt more at home. Bethal played a good game at back, Bullough and Roberts were very safe, but Dakin was exceptionally good. Brogan seems to have got up his speed again, and proved very troublesome to Dobson. Sugg shaped very well in centre, whilst Unsworth was as good as usual in goal. Briscoe was about the best of the home forwards, although a little prone to keep the ball too long. Farmer did any amount of fancy twirling and twisting, but didn’t score. Eyton-Jones and Roberts were playing at knock up or knock down in which, strange to say, honours were easy, but had Eyton paid more attention to feeding his wing man it would have paid better. Nidd showed much improved form on Friday’s play. Higgins was “as usual” whilst R. Jones took the palm. Dick and Dobson tackled and kicked in grand form, and R. Smalley was as lively between the posts as ever. But stop, the game was lost, and the Wanderers were in high glee.
CUP HOLDERS AT LIVERPOOL
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 07 April 1888
ALBION v. EVERTON.
Liverpool was all agog this afternoon consequent on the visit of the “champions the nation,” the West Bromwich Albion, to Anfield Road. Everton are adepts at wooing big teams to the city, and have this week cut the record by successively introducing the Bolton Wanderers, the swell Corinthians, and the crack English club, the Albion, to their constituents. As may be imagined the attendance to-day was enormous, and a huge crowd welcomed the visitors. The latter came without their goalkeeper, Bob Roberts, who crossed the Irish Channel to assist England against Ireland. There were fully 9,000 spectators. The teams were: Smalley, goal; Dick and Dobson, backs; Higgins, Jones, and Gibson, half-backs; Fleming, Briscoe, Whittle, Farmer, and Falls, for-wards. Albion: Reader, goal; Horton and Walker, backs; Horton, Perry, and Timmins, half-backs; Woodhall, Haines, Bayllss, Pearson, and Wilson, forwards. Referee, Mr. Brownlow. It will be noticed that four of the Albion were absent. Bayliss kicked off at 4 10, and for a time there was little to choose between the teams. Everton won the first comer, and then Smalley saved cleverly at the other end. A run along the right landed the ball in front of the Everton goal, but Pearson headed over. This was followed by a corner which, however, was got away. Gibson raised the siege but Bayliss came back with the ball, which Woodhall kicked over the line. Everton were still pressed, and Smalley got down with the ball from a shot by Perry, but he threw out to save, and Farmer and his partner now broke away nicely, and just as the Albion goal was threatened Whittle fouled the ball. A corner for the home team caused some excitement, Whittle first heading on to the bar, and Farmer heading over. Another corner was also unproductive. Everton were now quite holding their own Everton had another spell of attacking, but they were slow In front of goal and lost chances. A determined dash by Farmer and Falls ended in a goal kick. The same pair were dangerous the next minute, Whittle heading Into the hands of the goalkeeper. Horton, the full-back, worked hard, and saved more than one dangerous shot. When half time arrived not a point had been scored by either side. Going off from the re-start, the Everton forwards seemed bound to score, the ball the striking the post before J. Horton kicked away. A nice bit of play by Higgins was followed by a ran by Pearson, which Dick stopped coolly kicking out. An Everton Invasion was spoiled by a wild pass by Briscoe. Woodhall next spurted away, and screwing in at the right moment Bayliss scored an easy goal. The Albion were within an ace of adding to their score, but Dick saved grandly. After Gibson had mulled a corner badly. Wilson shot yards too high when right in front. The visitors’ backs were now hard put to it, chiefly through the Everton right, Fleming ultimately shooting wide. Dobson pulled Woodhall smartly. Haines next headed on the top of the crossbar. Play ruled quiet until Dick took a free kick which Falls missed badly. Final Result; Everton 0, West Bromwich Albion 1.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 07 April 1888
EVERTON V. WEST BROMWICH ALBION
April 9, 1888. The Liverpool Mercury
Quite 10,000 people turned up at the Anfield road enclosure on Saturday to witness the above match. The English cup holders were without the services of Roberts, Aldridge, Bassett and Green, but had able substitutes in Reader (who kept goal in good style), Horton, Haines, and Walker. The weather, and the ground in good condition. Punctual to time, the home team appeared on the field, followed by Bayliss and his men, who came in for a hearty of applause. Dobson, winning the toss, played with a slight wind at his back, and Bayliss kicked off down the hill, the ball travelling towards the home captain, who sent to Farmer, and that player ran up with Falls, Horton saving; but Everton had a corner, which was fruitless. Whittle had a very nice shot at goal, and Fleming and Farmer soon tested the visitors' defence, Reader having had to negotiate twice, and Horton to concede a corner. The kick was nicely judged, and Fleming hit the bar, the ball rebounding into play again, and Whittle headed just a big high. From the goal kick the visitors' left pair came away, and got well down, Dick and Smalley clearing; but Bayliss came again, who was foiled of his chance through Pearson getting offside. A corner kick having been got rid of, the home right wing ran up, but Walker transferred play to the other end, where Dick was in readiness to send the leather back, and from a pass by Whittle, Farmer caused Reader to throw out. Working well together, the Albion forwards dashed away and had a corner, which Dick cleared splendidly, aided by R. Jones, the ball going towards Fleming, who sent in a nice shot. Woodhall, in saving, gave a corner. After Smalley had been visited, Fleming and Falls, with Whittle, again worked up. Hands eased the pressure, and Woodhall screwed nicely across the goalmouth to Wilson, but that player failed to avail himself of the opening, and the ball glided harmlessly outside of the upright. Play continued very even for some time, and both sides had corners and free kicks awarded them. After Dick had put in nice work, Falls and Farmer got spoiled by E. Horton, and Whittle ought to have scored from a pass near in. Continuing to work hard, Fleming and Briscoe got past Walker, but Reader ran out and conceded a corner. Again the kick was nicely taken, the ball hitting the bar from the foot of Whittle, and bouncing into play, but Farmer finished up by shooting over. Another corer soon fell to the home team, which was well cleared by Reader, as were also shots by Farmer and Fleming, the latter having hard lines in not scoring. Trying their best to score, the Evertonians worked with great determination, and kept pegging away, but half-time arrived with a clean sheet. On changing ends, the home team, with the hill in their favour, were soon busy storming Reader's charge, shot after shot being rained in upon him; but he was all alive, and kept his goal intact. At length pressure was eased, and from a long kick by Walker, Wilson, Bayliss and Pearson went prettily up, but were impeded in their progress by Dick, who sent the ball spinning back to Falls, and that player dallied until, he was robbed by E. Horton. Higgins and R. Jones were labouring hard, and kept feeding their forwards, who failed to break through the Bromwich defence. After Higgins had missed his kick about midfield, Woodhall seized the ball, and darting away at a good speed, passed to Bayliss, who beat Smalley with a very fluky shot. Re-starting, Bayliss again got in by pretty play, but Dobson cleared nicely, Dick doing the same from Pearson a moment later. Encouraged to play up by their supporters, the home club became very aggressive, and Reader and the two backs had a lively time of it in clearing shots from Farmer, Briscoe and Fleming, and also a nice lob by Gibson from the centre line, which just grazed the upright. The visitors having journeyed to the other end, Bayliss sent in a swift shot, which hit the bar. R. Jones transferred play to the cup holders' end, where Fleming attacked, and screwed across, but hands against the visitors eased the pressure. Dick placed well in the goal mouth, Reader cleared splendidly, and Fleming was shooting in again, when the whistle sounded for an infringement of the offside rule. Rather hard lines again fell to Everton, and then Woodhall had a shy at Smalley, who saved a hot one, and also from Perry. Striving hard to equalise, the home players worked well together, and had hands twice close in the goal mouth, but the visitors managed to keep their goal intact, a hard and very even game ending in a win for the visitors, the score being –West Bromwich Albion, 1; Everton, nil. Teams; Albion; Reader, goal; Horton and Walker, backs; E. Horton, Perry and Timmins, half-backs; Woodhall, Haines, Bayliss (captain), Pearson, and Wilson, forwards. Everton; Smalley, goal; Dick and Dobson (captain), backs; Higgins, R. Jones and Gibson, half-backs; Falls, Farmer, Whittle, Briscoe, and Fleming, forwards.
EVERTON NOTES
April 9, 1888. The Liverpool Mercury
The bank holiday fixture at Anfield was a happy hit, for no contest in which Everton engage –the fight with Bootle always excepted –a rouses so much excitement as a bout with their old foemen, the Bolton Wanderers. Weather favoured the event, and fully 10,000 people squeezed themselves inside the enclosure, curious to see whether Everton were able to repeat the achievement of their last meeting. On that occasion it will be remembered Bolton were beaten in the first round of the National Cup, after three undecided ties by 2 to 1, a victory Everton will always recollect with mingled feelings of pride and chagrin. Since then both teams have had ups and downs, and undergone a degree of transformation. But the old rivalry survives, and the game on Monday proved a most energetic affair, as it was expected to do. The Wanderers were physically stronger than Everton, and, as science was sacrificed somewhat to weight, the home eleven went to the wall in a defeat of 2 goals to 1, the inverted result of their previous encounter. At half-time the game was as even as the score of a goal each indicated, and in the second half, though the Wanderers scored the only goal, the home team did most of the pressing, but experienced extremely hard luck. Altogether, the match was not so interesting as that with Halliwell. Everton's combination being far inferior to that displayed on Saturday, and several players showed signs of fatigue. On the other hand, the visitors were all in a business humour, their back division perhaps being more complete than the vanguard. The Corinthians paid Everton a compliment in whipping up such a formidable team as that which preformed at Anfield on Wednesday. To be beaten by 3 goals to 1 by an eleven which included Lindley, Dewhurst, Arnott, Spilsbury, and Wreford-Brown is not an overwhelming mishap. Everton did very creditably in the first half and in fact scored the only point up to the interval, but as the game grew old the Corinthians “giants” fairly ran the Everton “dwarfs” off their feet, and had little trouble in achieving a decisive victory. With the exception of the half-backs, all the visitors were powerful. Anderson acquainting himself quite as brilliantly as Arnott, the famous Scotch international back, whilst the forwards, in addition to passing grandly at times were strong in their runs and shooting. Dick and Dobson worked hard, but showed signs of staleness after the holiday exactions. R. Jones was too clever now and again, for Lindley; and Fleming and Falls were the best of the home forwards, the latter making a fairly good impression, though occasionally slow. Something like 10,000 people assembled at the Anfield ground on Saturday to welcome the English cupholders, West Bromwich Albion had four absentees –Roberts, Aldridge, Green, and Bassett –from their team that was too much for Preston North End. Of course disappointment was felt at the enforced absentee of four of the best men, but there was compensation in the fact that play was more even and exciting than it might otherwise have been. Everton had just a shade the most of the game except in luck. The solitary goal scored was very fluky. Higgins missed his kick; Woodhall availed himself of the blunder, passed to Bayliss, who, in turn, beat Dick, the latter having run across to cover a defect of Dobson in venturing too far up the field. The visitors substitutes were all good and altogether the team were well balanced. Reader I goal being quite as safe as Roberts could have proved. For Everton, Smalley did what little he was required to do well; Dick, Dobson, Higgins and Gibson were the most effective of the backs department. R. Jones though never shirking his work, was a bit too light to baffle the opposing heavies players, he being knocked about pretty freely. Whittle was hardly so fearless as Costley would have been at centre, and Fleming again nitrified priority among the Everton forwards. Farmer came in a good second, Briscoe being slightly better than Falls, the latter wanting practices with his men, before he can turn his knowledge and undoubted skill to effective account.
ENGLAND'S PRIDE AT ANFIELD ROAD.
Athletic News - Tuesday 10 April 1888
WEST BROMWICH ALBION v. EVERTON.
By " The.Tramp”
I was one, Mr. Editor, of some 12,000 sports who welcomed the pride of England to Anfield Road on Saturday. Just now, there is no more popular club in Britain than the accomplished West Bromwich players, and wherever they go they are received with open arms. Much as we in Lancashire would have liked that "tin pot" to grace Mr. Sudell's sideboard for the next twelve months, we cannot withhold our admiration for the plucky English lads who knocked over about the strongest mixture ever seen in the same colours. No wonder, therefore, that we are ever ready to pay homage to Capt. Baylis and his trusty henchmen. The knowledge that three of the Albion players would be away at Belfast fighting for their country's honour did not diminish the interest in the fixture, and the crowd was enormous. On every side there was a solid phalanx, and the takings must have totted up to a good round sum. Association football has got firmly hold of the Liverpool public, and the gates at Everton and Bootle compare favourably with any in the county. If the Lancashire Association have an eye to finances, Anfield-road is worth considering for their final tie. When the players appeared on the scene, it was observed that, besides their three internationals, the Albion were without Harry Green, so that they were minus their goalkeeper, both full backs, and the midget, Bassett. Fortunately the Bromwich Club are rich in talent, and although most organiastions would have found it difficult to supply the places of four of their best men, the Albion "subs." showed themselves to be made of the true metal. To play In the presence of 12,000 spectators would try the nerves of most youngsters, but these second teamsters acquitted themselves like old stagers, and were evidently quite at home. An outsider looking on would have thought they were component parts of the regular team, and with such reserve men to draft upon, the Albion have no need to foster apprehensions as to the future. The teams took up their positions as follows: -BROMWICH ALBION: Reader, goal; J Horton and Walker, backs: F, Horton. Perry, and Timmins, half-backs; Woodhull, Haines. Bayliss, Pearson, and Wilson, forwards. EVERTON: Smalley, goal; Dick and Dobson, backs; Higgins, R Jones, and Gibson, half-backs: Fleming. Briscoe, Whittle, Farmer, and Fallass, forwards. Referee, Mr. H. Brownlow.
It was not until the abnormally late hour of 4-5 that the game was started, and even then spectators were rolling up in big batches. It seems that the bulk of the Everton supporters do not close up for the week until three o’clock; hence the late kick-off. If the supporters of the home team were looking forward to taking down the cup-holders whilst weakly represented (in name, at least) they were disappointed, for the bulk of the play was waged in the Everton quarters. Unselfish passing repeatedly took the ball towards Smalley’s charge, and the defence was severely tested. Fortunately the back play of the Liverpudlians was about as good as could be wished, whilst such shots as found their way to the goal-keeper were sharply dealt with. When Everton won the first corner there was a yell of delight, but it was badly managed. A yell of a different description followed a header over the other goal by Pearson. Yet another sort of yell burst forth as Smalley was suddenly seen to drop with the ball in his arms, but, quick as lightning, it was whipped over the line by the Preston youth, who has not only a cool head, but is full of resource. Farmer on the one wing, and Fleming on the other, were frequently prominent, but both were badly served by their partner, or it might have gone hard with the Albion more than once. Just now, the Bromwich goal had a desperately near squeak. A game at shuttlecock ended in Whittle heading on to the crossbar and Farmer over, the escape being wonderful. And so the game went on, backwards and forwards, the play being hardly up to par but, nevertheless, interesting and at times highly exciting. When ends were changed, there was still a clean sheet, and, as Everton had now the advantage of the hill and wind, they were naturally buoyant as to the result. A mighty shout went up as a dash by the Evertonians carried them through the opposing forces, the ball striking the post and all but going between before sturdy J. Horton got his foot to it to clear. Then Woodhall was seen galloping away in his best style, and, screwing in with beautiful judgment, the trick was completed by Bayliss, just as Smalley rushed out in the vain endeavour to save. It. was a deft goal, and was most ungrudgingly cheered. Pearson looked dangerous in the next moment, but Dick adopted his only checkmate—kicked into the crowd without the slightest scruple. Everton are not the team to give in, and worked manfully against their renowned rivals. Unluckily, however, the cream was skimmed off their best efforts by the incompetency of one or two of the van. Farmer's companion, finely-built young fellow as he is, was a broken reed, and, either from nervousness or some other complaint, he was often found wanting. In fact he Falls away when the pinch comes. Whittle, too, is hardly class enough in the centre, and a smarter man would have scored more than once. The backs and half-backs worked like niggers (Blue correspondent takes no responsible for the wording) , but to pass the ball forward was often labour in vain, and the Albion found that they could maintain their advantage without running themselves down. Dobson made it his special duty to look after "Spry" Woodhall and was fairly successful. Still, the crack International was very troublesome and bad to keep in check. He sprained his leg, but for all that he got in with many a good sprint. Haines, Bassett's deputy, shaped very well indeed, and fed Woodhall with nice discrimination. “Hands “against the Albion smelt of powder, Dick taking the kick and dropping the ball almost in front of Reader, but Falls murdered the chance completely. The last few minutes were by no means lively, honours being fairly divided and when time was up the Everton curtain was rung down on their third successive defeat within a week -their previous conquerors being the Bolton Wanderers and the Corinthians. Everton suffer from a dearth which is just now almost an epidemic among our best Lancashire clubs—namely, a want of good forwards. There is much grumbling that the executive do not avail themselves of the best come-at-able material. Costley, for instance, has been shelved, although he is certainly superior to more than one who figured in Saturday's encounter. Behind, Everton are strong enough, and if they can only improve their front rank, they will always be able to command liberal support. They have an immense following ever ready to snap at a big attraction. The Albion were satisfied with their narrow victory, seeing that they had travelled close upon a thousand miles during the week. They are just now having a glut of good things, and have not yet got over their rejoicings, which formed part and parcel of that great national victory at the Oval. They have some stiff jobs in prospect, and have made up their minds not only to win the Staffordshire Cup, but the "Championship of the World," besides giving the North End a dose of the old sort when the return comes off at Stoney-lane.
Everton were seen out on the Anfield-road ground three times during the past week, and in every case they had to take a back seat. Financially, however, they had a big haul, as the total attendances added up to something like 30,000. Solid comfort, this, for a triple defeat.
Everton have been drawing in the nuggets of late. The following are the figures- v. Padiham, 6,000; v. Halliwell, 8,000; v. Wanderers, 13,000; and v. West Bromwich Albion 10,000. 37,000 for four matches stamps Liverpool people as enthusiasts.
A TALE OF TOFFS, THROSTLES AND TREASURES
TOLD BY “V.C”
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 14 April 1888
With the end of the season approaching so near,
And the says growing longer and lighter,
The crowds at the gates ever bigger appear,
And the Jubilee “Joey” shines brighter.
With fully ten-thousand as Accrington’s gate,
And full twenty thousand at Leeds,
It plainly appears that the pastime of late
Is gaining in favour;-and needs
At a glance to conclusively show us that as time
Goes on we shall have to allow
That Football is really the national pastime,
And Crickets’ quite out of it now!
The leg strikes the ball when the Footballist plays,
The ball strikes the wicket in cricket;
And choosing between them, the public betrays
A penchant for “leg” before “wicket.”
And here, while by way of a preface we speak
Of the gathering of clans, we may mention
Five figures assembled three times in one week
At a place lately closed by Suspension!
When, looking behind us, our memory dips
Far into the Past we remember
A woe-begone face in the City of Ships,-
A chap fallen face last December.
When the glad bells of Yuletide were pealing their joy,
There seemed to be little of pleasure or
Joyance in store for that broth of a boy,
Poor unfortunate Everton’s Treasurer!
“Suspension” was hung like a sword o’er his head;
And the evils thereunto attending,
Cumulating above him, had filled him with dread
Lest he should be payment suspending.
Suspension to him meant a state of suspense
Sans pense was his drooping exchequer-
Though our Rhymist sang pence-ively just in the sense
Off “Marry! Now, keep up your pocket!”
For our bard said at Yuletide “Ho! Be of good cheer,
For Yuletide is over, old chappie;
The Everton roar soon again we shall hear,
Marry! Ho! ‘twill soon make you look happy,”
These words of our modest, retiring poetaster
Were proved to be truth on the day
Then the talent rolled in ever faster and faster
To look on the Cupholders’ play
And, viewing his week’s work of three-times three-figures,
Full well might that Treasurer say
Sat, from Sutherland’s crofters to Cornwall’s tin-diggers,
Was no happier mortal that day!
And talking of Treasuers too,- did we recently
Dream of a Treasurer,-unknown
We have filled his position both nobly and decently
As even his enemies (?) own,-
The talked in an off-handed way of resigning
His post at the end of the season,
Had further connection with Football declining?-
-If so, can we guess at the reason?
So, can it be that the Local F.A.,
Who recently rendered assistance
In closing the gates that made E……n pay,
Are now being met with resistance?
So, can it be that the Home Combination,
That seemed to attempt to entoil
The treasurer (first-named) in sad liquidation,
Are suffering now to recoil?
On the Treasurer (dreamt of) expect a secession,
And a decrease of gate-monies netted;-
And so he evading the coming depression?-
If so, we should greatly regret it!
If we hear a sly chuckle?- “If we should recede,
To Local F.A. Will no Treasurer need,
For they never won’t have any Treasurer!!!”
West Brom match
First, it is surely but justice to say
There were four of the best of the Throstles away
Bassett and Roberts and Aldridge and Green,
When the team came to Anfield, were not to be seen.
And those are the four we may safely set up
As having won West Bromwich Albion the Cup;-
The first by his tricky dodging Jack Ross,
The rest by their “saving” averting a loss!
Everton too had a good man away;
Though Costley be sometimes too rough in his play,
He is Everton’s best centre-forward today!
The executive somehow I think are to blame
Fort shunting Tom Costley;- it must be their game
Top Whittle away all the Everton fame
For whether we have the Corinthians or Thostle here,
Though Costley be costly, yet others are costlier!
Farmer and falls with the ball got away,
But Horton returned it right into the fray,
Then Everton won by some beautiful play
A corner, -the first of a number that day,-
But they never make goals out of corners, not they,- Except when they get on the Wanderers lay!
Whittle shot feebly, and farmer again
And Fleming sent shots in at Reader in vain;
Till a West Bromwich back gave a corner, and then
Success seemed to smile on the Everton men;
For Fleming by heading had struck on the bar,
And the ball bounced back to the head of George Farmer, (a former good forward in Everton who
Of late has been wondrously off the right hue,
And all but forgot his once-wonderful “screw,”)- and he headed it o’er when he might have rushed through!
Woodhall and Bayliss, and Fleming and Falls
Bombarded their opponents, citadel walls.
(Laugh not my simile, scribblers, to scorn,-
‘Tis a leaf from your own memoranda I’ve torn.
My far-fetched hyperhole is but a hit at all
Those who describe three sticks as a “citadel.’
Let dabblers in figures of speech take a note,
And the goal-line in future describe as a “moat!”-
And while they work in “banners” and “moats” in their notes,
My beams shall burn brightly, out shining their notes!)
A good word may here be inserted for Dick; he was
Through the whole game by his “saving” conscious.
And it’s really refreshing to note that he can,
When he likes, play as fairly as ever did man!
Whittle some two or three chances had missed;
And Fleming sent in with a wonderful twist;
But Fleming’s poor fortune and Whittle’s poor skill
Brought half-time along with the game Nil-to-Nil!
When the second half was started, first the Toffs had all the play
And ‘twas then the Rhymist risked his humble shilling on the day.
But the splendid header-passing of the Albion men upset
All our plunger’s calculations, and he lost the measly bet,-
Though when Woodhall passed to Bayliss ‘twas a lucky goal to get!
Woodhall, Bayliss, Perry, Gibson, -each had shots before the end,
But their One-to-Nil position neither team could change or mend.-
Taking all the game together, though they lost the day we say
That the men of Anfield-road when in their tip top form, can play
Full as well as can the Cupites-with their three best men away
In the land of rale ould shtingo, -where our Rhymester views today
The “Battle of the Blood-red Hand,” and sings his soaring lay!
THE CUP HOLDERS AT EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 14 April 1888
It was a big stroke of business on the part of the Everton executive to introduce West Bromwich Albion the full blush of their triumph to a Liverpool crowd. It was an expensive and a most remunerative undertaking, for although the “guarantee" was a big one, a gate of £150 would leave a very big margin, and after the recent holiday matches It will no doubt be found that notwithstanding their suspension the total takings at Everton will be in excess of those at any other ground in the county for the season now drawing to a close. Although a large loss was sustained by the “accident "last Christmas, it must be borne in mind that the out fixtures have been a minimum fewer perhaps than those of any other club, so that the takings for the season must tot up to good round sum. The attendance last Saturday got into five figures, ranging from 10,000 to 12,000 and the Albion were quite taken aback by the enthusiastic reception accorded to them on their first appearance in the county, the champions, which they had lately overthrown Unfortunately the team was bereft of four players to whom has unanimously been accorded the main share of the glory achieved In the famous fight of a month ago. Roberts, Green, Aldridge and Bassett were all missing, so that there is no ground for surprise that their victory at Everton was so narrow, or that the visitors failed to create anything like a deep Impression by their display of football.
THE MATCH
The play during the opening stages was not at all brilliant, although the visitors showed that they had the true conception of the correct game, and there were occasional flashes of brilliance on Woodhall’s wing. The Evertonian back brigade was in full vigour, and although Bayliss called upon his man to come on.” it was to no purpose in face of the resistance offered by Dobson and his merry men. The home forwards were none too strong, another experiment being tried, and with no satisfactory results. Still the Albion goal came near a downfall more than once, and half-time found both goals intact. Ten minutes after re-starting a rafter simple-looking goal was obtained and Bayliss breathed freely. The Albion captain was, as usual, on the spot to take a square pass from Woodhall, and, as Smalley was at fault, the shot for goal found a safe berth. There was nothing striking in the after proceedings, although Everton had almost equalized on several occasions, and a rafter disappointing game ended in a win for Albion of one goal to nil. The absence of Costley from the Everton centre was scarcely compensated for by the presence of Whittle, and this is perhaps the first time that the old St. Benedict has f ailed to make his mark at Anfield Road. The others were as usual; although Briscoe could not be expected to come up to his average form after another change of position, and Falls again dallied too much. The substitutes in the Albion team were all capable men, and the forwards passed at times with consummate skill.
THE CHAMPIONS AT EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 14 April 1888
A BIG GATHERING
By “Mickey Free”
Another fine spring day, just sufficient of the cold winter’s blast in it to remind one that topcoats and wraps are still needed in the open, yet nothing to frighten the most delicate from facing 90 minutes on an enclosure like that at Everton. The result of this, in conjunction with the English Cup winners, drew a rattling gate, there being very little unoccupied space when both teams, with most commendable promptitude, made their appearance, the actual numbers present being 19,500. The reception given to the Throstles was none of your milk-and-water affairs; oh, dear, no. A genuine, hearty cheer—ln fact, a regular Everton whisper-greeted the men as they trotted in after their captain. Of course. It goes without saying that people were very sorry that the full team was not there, but as it was generally known that at least three of the Cup team would be absent, there was no deception about it, and the subs, proved worthy of their places.
MORE SHUFFING OF THE CARDS
A prophet hath," &c, This old proverb has been fairly well exemplified at Everton within the last few weeks, and the ringing of the changes but proved the baseness of the new coins substituted for the old makeshifts which the club were glad to fall back upon in their hour of trial. Troth, it has made me come to the conclusion that instead of being, as it ought be, an advantage to have players on the committee, it is a positive evil. I am not now enunciating my own opinion only, not a bit It; on the contrary, it is that of scores of good judges, via., that it was arrant folly to upset the team which did duty for the club so many Saturdays with such excellent results. Sure, if any confirmation of my views was wanted, we have only to refer to my esteemed friend “Grumbler’s'' notes of last week for It. Whittle perhaps never played worse than he did on Saturday and without wishing to hurt the feelings of a promising player like Falls I must again assert that he is not good enough for the place he was asked to fill. Therefore, with the forward rank as follows, Briscoe, Farmer, Costley, Eyton-Jones and Fleming, it is any odds that Everton would, not have been beaten.
THE GAME
One of the vice-presidents of the visiting team remarked in a manner so touching that I could scarcely retrain from a good laugh, “You must not Judge of our form from our play to-day.' or in fact from our play since winning the cup. I hope I shall not see it again till next season, as the responsibility of keeping the team right since that eventful day has been something awful! Probably it has caused some uneasiness. For my part the team impressed me very favorably, and the magnificent rush of Woodhall, which brought about the only goal of the match, was an eye opener. The way he piloted the bail along the wing, followed by a centre as accurate as could be desired, although Dick made a good bid to spoil it, and the promptness with which Bayliss met the ball and sent it flying past Smalley, left nothing to be desired, and was in wonderful contrast to the cat-and-mouse style of playing with the ball in front of goal which the great North Enders sometimes indulge in when seeking for an opening. The capital defence of Everton prevented any further score, and the want of combination amongst the forwards prevented their scoring when a score ought to have been chalked ups Three times at least a score seemed unavoidable. Farmer missed, Whittle missed, Falls missed, and, the club thereby missed a chance of the honour of beating the cup holders.
OULD IRELAND AGAIN
Today the Everton boys are to air themselves at Ballnafeigh against the Ulster club, unless last year’s ill luck should follow them and keep them in a fog for a dozen hours or so. I hope not, as it is quite likely I may be amongst the voyagers myself.
EVERTON V ULSTER
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 14 April 1888
The Evertonians accompanied by a number of friends (including the president, Mr. John Houlding) left Liverpool at midnight on Friday, and after a splendid voyage reached their destination at 11 o’clock this morning. The sun shone brilliantly as the Dynamic steamed up the Lough, and the fine scenery on either side was enjoyed to the utmost. Just as they made fast ton the Quay they were treated to the spectacle of a launch from Harland’s Yard, the vessel being the Idra, of Liverpool-a fine specimen of naval architecture. A light luncheon was partaken of at the Queen’s Hotel, and a start made for the Ulster ground. The team faced each other as follow; - Smalley, goal; Dick and Dobson, backs; Higgins, Jones and Gibson, half-backs; Fleming, Briscoe, Costley, Farmer and Sourbutts, forwards. Ulster;- Barclay, goal; Watson and Brown, backs; Phillips, Rosbottom, and Crawford, half-backs; Reid, Mears, Miller, Stanfield, and Elliman, forwards. Prompt to time Everton kicked off. Ulster assailed but the ball worked into touch. Stansfield next tried a shot, the ball just going over the bar. Fleming now sent to the left and Sourbutts shot, but Barclay cleared. Torrens then put in a capital run, Gibson just saving. Dobson then kicked to the left and Sourbutts got along the wing. Watson, however, repelled. Fleming, Costley, and Sourbutts replied by long passing, but again Watson cleared. Ulster was then successful in scoring one. Farmer next received one from Sourbutts, which struck the bar. The ball rebounded and the Ulster right got off, Reid scoring the first goal after 15 minutes’ play. Everton now played up a little better, Fleming just grazing the post. Ulster now broke away and Miller shot through, but was given off-side. Barclay then cleared a good shot by Sourbutts. Two corners then fell to Everton without result. Close on half-time Costley equalised. Half-time; one each.
One minute after restarting Miller drew ahead by a clever shot, and Sourbutts almost equalized after a pretty run and centre. Jones was very lame, being hurt early in the game. Dick was also lame, militating very much against a good defence. The number of spectators now reached 2,000. Torrens shot across, the ball struck the bar and bounded over. A free kick to Ulster, and Everton was severely tested, but Dick repelled. Final Result; Ulster 3, Everton 2.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 14 April 1888
THE EVERTONIANS “AT SEA”
Athletic News - Tuesday 17 April 1888
Everton prestige was somewhat tarnished by the natives of Ulster, who on their own verdant green turned the tables on their former victors by three goals to two. The first half, however, was evenly contested, ends being changed with the score one goal each. The wearisome and protracted journey evidently told its tale, for the visitors had been "at sea" from Friday at midnight up to eleven on the forenoon of the day of play, and were therefore unfit for the strain of au exacting game, and it was no doubt due to this cause that this defeat was incurred.
THE TWELEVE NEW APOSTLES
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 21 April 1888
ANOTHER LEAGUE “PROCLAIMED.”
The millennium at hand. No more debts. Both ends to meet. Plain sailing. These, we suppose, are the ideas of the promoters of the New Football League. All is in future to be plain sailing and instead of finishing in the old style with a balance on the wrong side of the ledger we are to have big profits. Well, I sincerely hope we may. A dozen Association clubs, who style themselves the pick of the talent, have joined hands for their own mutual benefit, apparently without a care for those unhappily shut out in the cold. Here are the names of the twelve New Apostles in alphabetical order;-
Accrington, Aston Villa, Blackburn Rovers Bolton Wanderers, Burnley, Derby County, Everton, Notts County, Preston North End, Stoke, West Bromwich Albion, Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The first public intimation of the hatching of the League was on the eve of the great annual battle for the F.A Cup in London, when representatives of the clubs immediately concerned met at Anderton’s Hotel and agreed upon the following circular being sent forth;-
March 26, 1888. - Dear sir, - At a meeting of representatives of some of the leading clubs in the country, held at the Anderton Hotel, London, on Friday evening last, a strong feeling was evinced that something should be done to improve the present unsatisfactory state of club fixtures and to render them more certain in their fulfilment and interesting in character, and the following suggestions were made;-
-I remain, your truly, H. Lockett, sec., pro tem.
A second meeting took place at the Royal Hotel, Manchester, on Tuesday evening, when there was a full muster of delegates and one or two to spare. The last-named attended in the interests of Halliwell, Notts Forest, and Sheffield Wednesday, but their applications for admission were refused on the ground of want of dates, those which were not set apart for cup ties being fully required by the twelve already fixed upon. The proceedings, we understand, were marked by the utmost harmony. It was agreed to meet again at Birmingham on May 2nd to arrange the 22 matches.
The club which gains the greatest number of victories in the 22 games is to be recognized as champions, and if any tie in the aggregate total they are to play off for the championship. It was decided not to clash in the arranging of club fixtures with the national Cup and County Cup tie dates; but no other conference fixtures will be recognized. April 30th is to be the recognized close of the season. Next season four other clubs can be proposed as members of the League; but the four lowest on the list, who will be compelled to retire, are to be eligible for re-election. Mr. McGregor is President of the League, Captain Sudell treasurer, and Mr. Lockett (Stoke) secretary.
Now we wish it to be distinctly understood that we have not the slightest feeling of antagonism towards this “new departure;” on the contrary, we wish all and several the heartiest success. No one can object to the search for big gates and the strangling of the demon debt. But is it quite fair to the clubs thus coolly barred out and left to shift for themselves? On what principle has the selection been made? Are the clubs chosen absolutely the strongest, or is it a case of eliqueism in the hope of starving out thriving and dangerous rivals? Does the League deserve to flourish by wholly ignoring the claims of those to who they refuse membership? Suppose we glance at the names of a number of the clubs who are not yet members of the League;-
Blackburn Olympic, Bootle, Crewe Alexandra, Darwen, Derby Junction, Derby Midland, Grimsby Town, Halliwell, Leek, Lincoln City, Long Eaton Rangers, Mitchell’s St. George’s, Notts Forest, Notts Rangers, Newton heath, Port Vale, Sheffield Wednesday, Small Heath Alliance, Walsall Town Swifts, Witton.
Here we have twenty clubs, the majority of whom can quite hold their own with a good proportion of the New League. Many of the above would rightly object to being placed among “second class clubs,: especially Notts Forest, Darwen, Halliwell, Bootle, Crewe Alexandra, Sheffield Wednesday, Mitchell’s St. George’s, the new Walsall Town Swifts, and Witton. What, then, must be done? Mr. J.G. Hall, hon. Sec, of the Crewe Alexandra, has somewhat unwisely whipped out a circular suggesting the establishment of a second League, but this would only make confusion worse confounded. Better wait for further developments.
A strange side to the new picture is that of the twelve members of the League no fewer than six hail from the county of Lancaster, only two from Warwickshire, two from Staffordshire, and but one each from Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. Yorkshire is entirely unrepresented, not to mention Cheshire, Southern ad Scotch teams. Aston Villa and five other Midland clubs will have to travel all the way to Lancashire on six separate occasions. The question arises, “Will it pay them?”
BY ONE OF THEM
There seems to be much heartburning over the selection of the twelve, but there is certain to be a lot of that, no matter who got in amongst the favoured few. It was the original intention not to have two clubs out of the same town, but had it been found practicable to have increased the number, I believe Halliwell and Notts Forest, both of whom are fully entitled to be included, would have been added to the list. We had only 22 vacant dates on which we could positively make fixtures, and as this was the exact number required for home and home matches between twelve clubs, it was thought advisable to adhere to the original resolution. This is, no doubt, very hard on those clubs outside the League, but it is very probable that the three clubs who attended the meeting on Tuesday- Sheffield Wednesday, Halliwell, and Notts Forest –will have the priority of fixtures with those clubs belonging to the League which may be disposed of in the earlier days of the Cup competition. It will behove such clubs as those named to prove themselves superior to the four worst clubs in the league, and their position next year will be practically assured. As it now stands, the twelve clubs bind themselves to play their League matches, and the public can feel certain that the home and home fixtures will be played. There is not the slightest spirit of antagonism to either the Football Association or the provincial Associations, but the members of the League think that the manner in which these Cup competitions have been managed in the past is suggestive of looseness, and the persistency with which they have cancelled home and home matches simply means ruin to the clubs affected. The fixtures will all be made next Tuesday week, at a meeting held in Birmingham, and the cards of the twelve clubs can then be issued. Personally, I do not see the slightest objection to the remaining prominent clubs forming a second League. It is done in connection with base-ball in America, where they have a dozen different leagues. In this event there are certain to be some clubs disappointed, for it is utterly impossible, with two sets of Cup ties, to definitely arrange more than 22 matches. A second League must naturally take a secondary position, for, though several of the clubs in the present League are not first-class, the majority of them are without doubt the pick of English football, and my suggestion would be to work amicably with the second League, and the four best clubs at the end of the season to be put in competition with the four worst of the first League. In my opinion, it will be the salvation of the ordinary matches, which will now possess as much interest as Cup ties. There’s no doubt Cup ties have been the means of creating an artificial enthusiasm which has had a most deteriorating effect on home and home fixtures.
WHAT THE PUBLIC THINK OF THE LEAGUE
Several of our correspondents have at our request furnished us with the opinions of the towns they represent, and these will be found very interesting reading.
PRESTON
The new Football League has been much discussed in Preston, where the new venture is generally looked upon as one all in favour of football as a sport, stripped of the many impediments which have of late years grown around clubs and their fixtures owing to the interference and in many cases the tyranny of Association. Surprise has frequently been expressed that powerful clubs have not taken action when their fixture cards have virtually been thrown topsy-turvy by the many Cup ties and county matches; in fact, fixture cards after the first few weeks in the season have become worse than useless. And it is well known that many members of the various Associations have come to look upon football purely from an Association point of view, overlooking altogether the claims of clubs. This state of things has been felt very heavily both by first-class clubs in the Lancashire Association and by clubs in the Associations in Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Birmingham, and in Scotland. It is not surprising, therefore, that the gentlemen who are the leaders of the football world should devise some method by which football, as a sport- and quite apart from Cup competitions- mat be played for the enjoyment of both players and spectators. In the light the new departure is hailed among Prestonians as a step in the right direction. It is thought that the formation of the League will virtually sound the death-knell of more than one Association, and that the clubs will be the gainers in every way. Football will be played in a more sportsmanlike spirit, and as the results will be calculated on the number of wins, draws, and losses, there will be no difficulty in deciding as to which club is entitled to claim the honour of champions. Probably other Leagues will be formed, and the Football Association will see the advisability of completely altering the system of Cup ties when they find that the first class clubs care more for their reputation in league fixtures than they do for the Cup competitions. The League here is hailed as a combination which will save football from the deterioration which has been lately coming over it owing to the frequent alteration of dates, and as a means whereby the game may in future be played more for the enjoyment of clubs and their supporters than for the caprice of Associations.
LIVERPOOL
The establishment of the Football League is regarded with very mixed feelings in Liverpool. It is generally conceded that so far as the favoured clubs are concerned, it is indeed “good business,” but there is a great difference of opinion as to the inspiring motive of the genuine who selected the twelve. Everton must be included with their splendid support, and they have shown themselves equal to the best. But this satisfaction at the recognition of the claims of Liverpool is not unmixed, for Bootle feel aggrieved, and rightly so, that such teams as Notts County, Derby County, Stoke and Bolton Wanderers, not to mention Everton and Burnley, should obtain the recognition of a higher status, even by such an irresponsible and self-constituted authority as the League. The record of Bootle during the past season will bear comparison with those of the great majority of the Twelve, whilst the omission of Notts Forest and Halliwell in favour of Notts County and Bolton wanderers is also looked upon rather as a concession to the financial aspect of the Trades Union, as somebody has called the League. It is not likely that Bootle will have anything to do with any proposed second League, as the Chairman at Tuesday’s meeting so gratuitously advised Halliwell, Notts Forest and Sheffield, which clubs, methinks, would have best consulted their own dignity by refraining from any appeal to the Twelve. Bootle’s fixtures? Look down the present list. Is it satisfactory? Next season’s will be no worse; and, indeed, the motive powers at Hawthorne-road view the situation with the utmost complacence.
NOTTINGHAM
The league is regarded with mixed feelings in Nottingham, for the project is looked upon as a hugh strategy to dip into the pockets of the public. Besides, favouritism, or something akin to it, has been shown to one of the two great rival clubs of Laceville. The supporters of Notts are satisfied, although they know that the wearers of the chocolate and blue have been admitted to the magic circle not upon their form during the past two seasons, but simply and solely because Notts are the lessees of the famous Trent Bridge ground, which offers the prospect of a good gate for each of the League contests. There is no denying that Notts are lucky, and I know that some of the leading officials are free to admit it. During the past season Notts Forest have beaten Notts, the Bolton Wanderers, and Accrington, but they are most politely told that they can join the second class string which is projected. The Foresters are aware who opposed them at the Manchester meeting and the influeness set at work against them, and they feel considerably sore about it, especially as they understood that everyone who attended the Manchester meeting was pledged to secrecy. The Notts club are in the League, but, what is more, they are in sad difficulties, and next season will, to my mind be the most critical period of their career.
BLACKBURN
The Football League has been very little discussed in Blackburn, but where it has the opinion is pretty unanimous that it will prove a benefit to the clubs connected with it. A certain section of the supporters of one club in the town seem to think that the fact of these twelve big organiastions banding together will prove prejudicial to them, but I think if the matter is fully explained they will see that the League will indirectly benefit them. The other night, I was talking to a member of the Lancashire Association, and he seemed to think that the League partook very much of the now defunct British Association, and that its fate would be similar. Witton, the Olympic, and Park-road have been invited to join the second League, which emanates from the secretary of the Crewe Alexandra club, but whether they will do so or not I cannot say.
BURNLEY
The impression in Burnley respecting the formation of the Football League is very favourable indeed. On all hands-from officials of the Burnley club and supporters –the same chorus of approval. Everybody seems weary of the “monopoly of the cup ties,” and glad that a bold front is to be shown in carrying out fixtures.
EVERTON AT ULSTER.
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 21 April 1888
TIME ROLLS ON
By “Mickey Free”
Twelve months have elapsed since the Everton team, accompanied by their chief supporters, made their first invasion of Irish soil. The word invasion has rather an ominous sound about it, but if all invasions resulted only in a friendly tussle such that which I wish to describe, then I say with confidence we cannot have too many of them. The feelings engendered in the hearts of the visitors twelve months ago have not grown cold by the lapse of time, indeed it is far otherwise, as the hospitality and good fellowship of the Ulster men is as green in the hearts of the men of Everton as the beautiful shade of their own grass covered slopes.
THE JOURNEY
At nine p.m. on Friday evening an unusual stir was observable at the Sandon Hotel, and after some handshaking and good wishes were exchanged, the intending travelers issued forth, fully equipped for their journey, a number of cabs were requisitioned, and the Clarence Dock reached in good time. Here, thanks to the energy of Messrs. Ramsay and W. Marriott, berths were booked, and prompt to time my old friend Captain Downes, the worthy Commander of the Dynamic, was heard issuing the necessary orders, and in very short time we cleared the gates, and certainly a more propitious start than that of last year was made. In fact, almost to a minute of the time estimated by the captain, we reached the Belfast quay. If we had no fog, yet the voyage was not altogether uneventful; in fact, I have little doubt that if the majority were asked their opinions they would unhesitatingly vote it as a very eventful one, but it was of their own making! Two or three uneasy spirits whom sleep had forsaken took particular trouble to prevent old Morpheus visiting those whom he appeared inclined to favour, and so our men landed sleepless and weary with only a matter of three or four hours to recuperate. The consequence was, as might be expected, a general seediness totally unfitting the men for the stiff struggle in store for them.
THE GAME
Having already had three tussles with Everton, and on each occasion only coming off second best, the Ulster executive determined to get together as strong a team as possible. With this object in view, and also the very commendable idea of making the game as interesting to the public as possible, they secured the services of Browne (full back) and Bosbottom (half-back), of Clintonville ; Stansfield, (Distillery), and Torrens (Linfield) forwards. The result of this combination was very effective, and success attended their efforts, although the majority was very narrow. Without any desire whatever to detract from the merits the victory I must, in bare Justice to Everton, say that such a result would not have taken place with the Evertonians in anything like form.
THE TEAMS
For Ulster Browne played a very smart game indeed, and J. Watson, the captain and full back, never performed better. Time after time when Everton’s chances of scoring looked exceptionally bright, the burly James came through and lifted the ball to a safer distance. The halves did excellent service, Rosbottom and Crawford being particularly noticeable. The forwards passed unselfishly and well, the aggregate result being a wonderful improvement in style and effectiveness. If Ulster could keep that team together for season they would certain to render good account of themselves. Smalley in the first half made his first serious mistake since he has thrown his lot in with Everton—it cost a goal. After this, however, he roused himself up, and was frequently cheered for his smart play goal. Dobson tackled well, but his kicking lacked vigour. Dick was very lame, still suffering from the knock received in the West Bromwich match. In the first five minutes of the game R. Jones received an accidental kick on his sore leg, with the result that this splendid half-back was little or no use whatever on the field. Higgins and Gibson worked hard, but the forwards were not at all happy their efforts, yet had the back division kept them going better it is just possible that defeat would have been staved off. In fact on one occasion Briscoe lost as easy a chance as man could wish. He made amends to a certain extent later on by kicking a fine goal, which was credited to Fleming in error. The spectators wore evidently highly delighted with the result, as well as the Ulster men.
THE TELEGRAPH ARRANGEMENTS
I cannot pass away from the subject of this match without thanking the energetic and courteous superintendent of the Telegraph Branch in Belfast for his kindness in making arrangements which enabled me to get my messages oft with so little delay that they reached their destination in good time for publication.
THE BANQUET
After the match we drove to the Queen's Hotel, where the Ulster Club entertained us to a regular banquet, to which 60 persons sat down. Under the excellent supervision of the worthy host, Mr. Shorthouse, the menu proved a good one, and ample Justice was done in proof thereof. After the usual loyal toasts we were treated to somethings in the way of songs and speeches. Mr. Hastings on the part of Ulster, and Mr. J. Houlding for Everton, being very happy in their references.
SUNDAY
The rest afforded on Sunday was much needed, although several parties drove off in different directions, the majority giving preference Crawford’s Burn and Bangor.
THE CLIFTONVILLE MATCH
Monday morning saw the boys eager to redeem their laurels, and as a proof that Dick’s lameness was not a lame excuse he was obliged to stand down on this occasion, his place being well filled by Higgins. Nidd and W. Jones took up positions right and left of Gibson at half back, and gained the encomiums of the spectators generally by their dashing play. Cllftonvllle were not fully represented, but I was assured before the match that the substitutes were good men, in fact almost if not equal to the absentees. Be that as it may, the Evertonians were in a playing mood, and poor Cllftonville suffered in consequence. Smalley was himself again; Dobson nearly so; the forwards quite so. Sourbutts and Farmer worked together well on the left; Costley passed very fairly; Briscoe was selfish: Fleming never played better, and his cross shots were brilliant, Elliman not being given a chance of stopping them. The goal obtained was due to a little carelessness on the part of the Everton captain. However Barry deserved credit for it all the same. Ten to one was a set-off against Saturday.
THE RETURN
I was almost pleased to find that we were going to have a bit of rough weather coming home, as it was a guarantee that there would be an absence of the pranks played on the outward passage. It was so, as after passing Donaghadee we experienced a stiff beam sea, which proved a wonderful quieter; in fact, there was more groaning than cheering! True to the last, our Ulster friends swarmed down on the quay to see us off. Many were the jokes which passed between the boat and the shore before the ropes were cast loose. Fred Wills, in his racy way, had the whole crowd in roars of laughter, listening to his comic ditties. At length “Auld Lang Syne” was sung in fine style, Messrs, Watson, Johnson, Hastings, and others being prominent In the rendering thereof, and It was with real feelings of regret we saw their figures fade away as we steamed off homeward bound.
EVERTON V BURNLEY
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 21 April 1888
A miserable wet afternoon heralded the advent of Burnley at the Everton enclosure this afternoon. The teams faced each other as follows;- Burnley; Goal, smith; backs, Bury and Lang; half-backs; Abrains, Friel, and Keenan, forwards; Gallagher, Howarth, Roland, McFetteridge, and Waugh. Everton; Goal; Smalley; backs, Dobson and Dick; half-backs; Gibson, Nidd (Did not turn up-Houldsworth 30 mins) , and Higgins; forwards, Fleming, Briscoe, Costley, Farmer, and Sourbutts. There were 3,000 spectators, Everton had only ten men, Nidd being absent. Farmer and Sourbutts came along the left, Abrams repelled a pass to the right, Fleming centred, and Costley was given off-side. Again Fleming came up and a corner was conceded. Another corner followed soon after, Burnley then spurted up and Gallocher obtained a corner, Roland just heading against the post. Hands off Higgins looked ominous. A corner followed, from which Keenan kicked behind. Higgins few cleared a fine shot by Gallocher. McFetteridge missed a fine chance. Splendid passing by Everton followed, now replied, Gallocher shooting high. Again the visitors look dangerous but a foul charge changed the game. Fleming got across finely, and the ball was met beautifully by Sourbutts, and headed through after twenty-five minutes play. Houldsworth now came on in place of Nidd . Play ruled pretty even up to the interval.
Half-time; Everton 1, Burnley 0
Costley re-started, and almost immediately after Gallocher shot wide. Dick cleared and Roland struck the cross bar. Farmer next shot in, Lang just heading clear. Waugh sent in a beauty, Smalley saving splendidly. Twenty minutes again lapsed when Costley sent to the left, and Sourbutts added a second goal amidst great cheering. Burnley now got a free kick in the Everton goal mouth, but it came to nothing. Final; Everton 2, Burnley 0
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 21 April 1888
THE NEW FOOTBALL LEAGUE
April 21, 1888. The Blackburn Standard
An important meeting of representatives from a number of the most prominent football clubs of the county was held on Tuesday in the Royal Hotel, Manchester. The meeting, which was held by adjournment from Anderton's Hotel London, was for the purpose of formally inaugurating a football league, the object of which is to promote a series of home matches between the clubs selected to form the organisation, which shall be played irrespective of local or English Cup ties. Some dissatisfaction has been expressed at the manner in which ordinary matches are interfered with by cup ties and the teams being weakened by the withdrawal of some of their strongest players for the purposes of the ties. It is with a view of preventing this state of things that the decision was arrived at to form the league, the cardinal principle of which is that all matches arranged between the clubs enrolled in it shall be played upon the dates fixed upon, irrespective of any cup tie. It is hoped by the arrangement, that increased interest will be attracted to ordinary matches as distinguished from cup tie matches, and that they will be rendered more financially successful than has been the case hitherto. The result will be taken from the wins, draws, and losses, and not from the number of goals secured; in other words, the average will be calculated on the county cricket system. At the meeting last night Mr. W. Macgregor (Aston Villa) presided, and there was a large attendance of football representatives, Preston North End being represented by Mr. Sudell. The proceedings, which were private, were of a protracted nature, the discussion extending over nearly four hours. The original proposition before the meeting was that the following clubs should form the league:- Preston North End, Blackburn Rovers, Bolton Wanderers, Accrington, Everton, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Derby County, Burnley, Aston Villa, West Bromwich Albion, Notts County, and Stoke. Representatives attended the meeting from Notts Forest, Sheffield Wednesday, and Halliwell, and urged the claims o their clubs to be included in the league, and expressing the opinion that they were of equal standing with many of those which it was proposed to bring within its operation. After the representatives had retired a long discussion ensued upon the suggest. Many of those present urged that the limits of the league should extended so as to include the three clubs desirous of being admitted into it ranks, while others contended that the original proposition should be adhered to, owing to the difficulty of arranging fixtures for a large number. Ultimately the following 12 clubs were decided upon to form the league:- Preston North End, Blackburn Rovers, Accrington, Burnley, Bolton Wanderers, Everton, Derby County, Notts County, Stoke, Wolverhampton Wanderers, West Bromwich Albion, Aston Villa, and the representatives of the other clubs were informed that there application could not be entertained in consequence of the difficulty of finding dates so as to avoid clashing with cup-ties. It was decided to hold the next meeting at Birmingham on May 2 nd , when the fixtures and other matters will be arranged. Mr. H. Lockett (stoke) was appointed secretary.
EVERTON V. BURNLEY
April 23, 1888. The Liverpool Mercury
Burnley visited the Anfield-road ground for the second time this season on Saturday, and brought their full cup team, with the exception of McConnell (goalkeeper), who is ill. The home club were without the services of R. Jones –who has not yet got over the injury to his knee whilst playing against Stanley –but had an able substitute in Sourbutte, and Nidd's place was filled by Houldsworth 20 minutes after the game had started. The afternoon was wet, and consequently only 3500 spectators were present. Dobson won the toss, and Poland kicked against the wind and hill, the ball going towards Smalley, but Dick launched out by sending across to Sourbutts and Farmer, who were successfully eased by Lang when looking dangerous, and shortly afterwards had two corners, which were fruitless. From a throw-in, the Burnley right ran nicely up, a corner also being conceded them; and from the kick Poland shot against the crossbar. Coming again, Waugh and Gallagher got up, but hands against Burnley cleared, and then Sourbutts darted down, Bury giving a corner, which McFetteridge nicely got away by crossing to Waugh, who passed well up and centred, McFetteridge finishing with a shot which went a bit wide. Farmer gave Poland a chance by kicking to that player, but Dobson spoiled him, and play was suspended for a few minutes owing to the bursting of the ball. The home captain lobbed into Smith's hands, after which a pretty bit of passing by the whole of the Everton forwards was recognised by a cheer from their supporters, the ball having been worked the length of the field. Costly had the misfortune to lose a chance by overrunning to the side of the upright. Playing hard and pluckily, Sourbutts visited the Burnley end, where Smith negotiated, and Waugh and Gallagher ran off, the latter sending one over Smalley's head. From the goal kick the home right got down, and play continued bust around the Burnley goal for sometime, Lang, after staving off danger, at last conceding a corner to Fleming, which was well cleared by McFetteridge, who along with Poland, got in close quarters. Gibson managed nicely by passing to Sourbutts, and he in turn gave to Fleming, who repassed to the left player, and the ball was headed through by Sourbutts, 20 minutes from the start. The homesters, from mid-field, again got down, and found Lang and Bury plenty of work, and then Dobson had to stop a dangerous rush of the Burnley right wing. From one of the throws-in Farmer and his partner sprang down and sent to Fleming, who shot across, and Lang, in attempting to clear granted a corner, which was got away, only to be succeeded by a foul close in goal. Smith threw out, and Lang transferred play to the other end, where Dick had to negotiate from McFetteridge and Gallagher, half-time arriving with the score –Everton, 1 goal; Burnley, nil. On changing over, it was thought the visitors, aided by the wind, would soon equalise, but Everton seemed determined, and kept their lines clear. Poland nearly beat Smalley, the ball hitting the crossbar and going over. Pressure being thus eased, Sourbutts, Farmer, and Fleming worked up, but Georgie missed a chance given by Fleming, Lang easily robbing him and planting the ball out of danger. Abrams was here cautioned for fouling Sourtbetts, which looked as if it was accidentally done. A free kick and Waugh tested Smalley, but that custodian cleared by kicking well up, when the Burnley right again attacked, hands, felling near in, which Houldsworth got rid of by tossing to Costley, who, along with the left wing and Fleming ran neatly up, and Sourbutts was enabled to add a second goal to the credit of Everton. Restarting, Burnley worked hard, and managed to get near Smalley, when Waugh was fouled by Dick a few yards from the goalmouth. A free kick was given, and many of the spectators were rather dishearted as the ball was seen spinning over Smalley's head, as, had a goal been scored, Dick would have been credited with it. Aroused by the incident, the visitors tried hard to register a point, and after Fleming and Sourbutts had visited Smith, McFetteridge ran down the left and sent in an oblique shot, which Dick and Smalley missed, but Gibson got behind and kicked clear. A claim was made that the ball had gone through, but the referee thought otherwise. Play continued of a give-and-take nature to the finish. Result-Everton, 2 goals; Burnley, nil. Teams; Burnley; Smith, goal; Bury and Lang, backs; Abrams, Friell, and Keenna, half-backs; Gallagher, Waugh, Poland, Haworth, and McFetteridge, forwards. Everton; Smalley, goal; Dick and Dobson (captain), backs; Gibson, Houldsworth and Higgins, half-backs; Fleming, Briscoe, Costley, Farmer, and Sourbutts, forwards.
BURNLEY AGAIN SUCCUMB TO EVERTON.
Athletic News - Tuesday 24 April 1888
The Turf Moor representatives visited the Anfield enclosure for the second time this season, and, with the exception of McConnell, brought down their full strength. Everton were also one short of their first team, R. Jones being the absentee, Houldsworth, however, proved a very efficient substitute, and Burnley again had to "bite the dust." For the first twenty minutes the homesters had to play with only ten men, notwithstanding which they not only kept the Turf Moorites at bay, but managed to score a goal, Joe Sourbutts heading through from an unselfish pass by Fleming. This represented the play up to the interval. With the wind, it was thought Burnley would equalize, but although they numberless chances they failed to utilize them. On the other hand, Sourbutts again lowered the Burnley colours with a grand oblique shot, and this being the last point, Everton claimed a victory by two goals to nil.
Smalley had a comparatively easy time of it in the Everton goal owing to the diligence of Dobson at back, who kicked in grand form, Dick, on the contrary, being somewhat erratic. Higgins was the best of the halves, although Houldeworth put in a fair amount of work. No fault could be found with the forwards, who passed effectively, the most prominent being Fleming, Sourbutts, and Farmer. Smith was a good substitute for McConnell in the Burnley goal. Berry was the best of the backs, Lang marring his efforts by roughness of play. Keenan and Abrahams were the best of the halves, and forward Waugh excelled, although Poland and Gallocher contributed some excellent play.
Notes
Everton can hold their own at home in the best of company, but they have only won one match away from Anfield road all season. Next season, if arrangements are carried out, they will have to play eleven League matches on foreign soil, so that unless they improve on present form they will disappear from the Twelve. Who will be the other three?
EVERTON V. POLICE ATHLETIC
April 26, 1888. The Liverpool Mercury
These teams met at Anfield, last evening. The Police kicked off, and at once made a raid on the home goal, which was relieved by Houldsworth, Higgins, Costley, and Briscoe went down the field in nice passing, the former finally shooting over. Farmer took a corner for the homesters, but Usher kicked down. The Police then had the best of the play, and a splendid shot from the left was near scoring, Joliffe just fisting out in time. Everton then ran to the other end, but Fayre made a miserable attempt. A corner kick to the Police proved futile, and Higgins made an attempt at goal, Fraser clearing. George put in a good run down the Athletic right, and from the centre Joliffe had to fist out. The Police, however, returned, and C. Usher scored. A free kick cleared the Everton quarters, but on returning George shot outside. No further points were scored, and at the interval the Police were leading by 1 goal to nil. Everton restarted, and attacked, Frazer relieving. Then Rawsthorne rushed off, and passing to Armitt, the latter sent in a long shot, which George put over the bar. Everton next attacked strongly, and Lindsay had to fist out. Everton, however, returned for a shot, which went home; but the point was disallowed. Everton then had hard lines, following which Fayre shot outside twice in succession. Everton now had the best of the play, and Jones took an abortive corner. Briscoe next shot in goal, and on Fraser missing his kick Everton nearly scored, but Lindsay cleared. Everton now played up much better, and quickly put on a couple of goals. Armitt then made the run of the day, for, eluding the vigilance of the Everton backs, after a run from his own half, he shot a grand goal. Gibson had a couple of more for Everton, who won by 4 goals to 2. Teams; Everton; Joliffe, goal; Dobson (captain) and Houldsworth, backs; Gibson, Pollock, and W. Jones, half-backs; Fayre, Farmer, Costley, Briscoe, and Higgins, forwards. Athletic;- Lindsay, goal; Frazer, and C. Usher, backs; Kelly, McLaren, and Stevenson, half-backs; H. Usher, Armitt, George, Stevens, and Rawsthorne, forwards.
BURNLEY BOTTLED-UP AT EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 28 April 1888
THE RUBBER
By “Mickey Free”
When Burnley received their quietus at Everton, a few weeks ago, a number of people set it down to a lucky fluke, and the Burnleyites themselves having a couple of absentees, McFetteridge, Friel, and Co. chose to attribute the difference to the want of these players. Be that as It may, the full team, barring McConnell, were at Everton on Saturday, and the dose was repeated—although Everton played twenty-five minutes with only ten men. The game opened in a very tame sort of a way. Poland kicked-off against a slight breeze. There was nothing of an exciting or even smart nature until nearly twenty-five minutes elapsed, when Fleming made a long pass to the left and Joe Sourbutts landed a fine goal. This seemed to awake both players and spectators, as the latter gave a some of the usual musical accompaniment to goal getting at Walton Beck Road. Everton now played their full number of men (Holdsworth Joining in the fray), and well was it was that a full team was secured, as Burnley spurted up, and Abrams was not at all particular in his kicking. In fact, Sourbutts and Farmer received such polite attentions that Mr. Referee had occasion to have little tete-a-tete with that sturdy half back. The second half was well advanced when Costley received the ball from Higgins, screwed to the left, and with a beautiful cross shot Sourbutts scored the second goal. Towards the close Burnley made a great effort, and the ball appeared to be fairly through when Gibson kicked clear, Gallocher unfortunately used impertinent language towards the referee. Whether that had anything to do with the decision or not of course I can’t say, but Patsy was cautioned and the ball thrown up, the game finally ending in a win for Everton by two nil.
THE REMOVAL OF THE CUP
On the Thursday preceding the final for the Liverpool Cup the worthy Secretary called at the Sandon for the purpose of removing that trophy. An amusing scene followed. The “Dead March” was whistled. Old Jimmy, who happened to come in, removed his hat, and his action was so amusingly expressive as to call forth roars of laughter. Later on this was renewed tenfold as one of the most humorous members of the club walked in solemnly with a miniature tombstone under his arm, and placed it on the case which formerly held the cup. The superscription was as follows;-
EVERTON V. SOUTH SHORE
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 28 April 1888
Everton, thinking that the kick-off would be at a reasonable hour, started by the 210 express with three men short. On arriving at Blackpool, however, it was ascertained that the kick-off was fixed for the very ridiculous hour of six p.m. Costley, Higgins, and Sourbutts were the absentees. Owing to the late start it will be impossible to furnish a description of the start.
LUCKY TEM
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 28 April 1888
Monday's match for the benefit of Veitch was a great success, a crowd of seven thousand gathering in response to the attractions of a game, in which the cream of local talent was to be on view. Nothing could have been happier than the selection of the local team, and though Campbell and Briscoe had to be requisitioned to complete Mr. McMurray’s Eleven, both these youngsters proved themselves quite worthy of the company in which they played. Briscoe partnered Tait, whom he easily outshone, and Campbell was set to tackle Farmer and Hastings. He did this with an effect and a finish which quite fetched the spectators, and the promising Bootle player was eulogized warmly all-round the ground. There was a stiff breeze blowing, and when the Liverpudlians shewed that they could more than hold their own In face of this, the result of the match was very rarely in doubt, Veitch headed the first goal for the visitors, but Wilding equalised with a famous shot, and Farmer followed with a second—a beauty. At half-time Liverpool led by two goals to one. Farmer got a third point, and Jamieson followed with a brae, bringing the total up to five. Hastings got the ball past Fairclough in a wonderful manner for sixth time, but was ruled offside—an exceedingly doubtful ruling. The local forwards played with great finish and combination, some of their runs being really brilliant. Farmer excelled himself, and showed all his old ability, whilst Hastings and Flaming, the extreme men, both did splendid work. Jamieson played a dashing game at centre, and Wilding with ease and coolness ably assisted Fleming. Indeed the same line would make it warm for any defence in England. The half-backs were all there, but Dobson quite outshone the beneficiaries, who was very nervous throughout—not at all like the old Tom. Indeed Dobson is just now playing better than ever. By the way, Veitch objects to the notion that he is done with, because has taken a benefit. He is but 26 years of age, and being of remarkably regular life, has many years of play before him. The East Lancashire lot were best behind, Goodall and Tait being rather weak in the front line. The one feature of the match was the perfect cohesion of the Bootle and Everton elements, and the entire absence of anything like selfishness amongst them, and everybody hopes to see them again together. There is a benefit on the tapis for another player, whose claims on Everton are greater even than those of Veitch upon his club, and when Mike Higgins calls upon his friends to declare themselves their name is sure to be legion. Nothing could be more fit than another fusion of the rival teams, and the securing of worthy antagonist.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 28 April 1888
