SOUTH SHORE V. EVERTON.
Athletic News - Tuesday 01 May 1888
The return fixture between South Shore and Everton was played at Blackpool on Saturday. The match at Everton was a win for South Shure by two goals to one, but Everton had by far the best of the game on that occasion. On Saturday South Shore were without Heaton, who was hurt on Monday against Aston Villa, Parkinson, from the left wing, taking him place. Everton were three men short, but found good substitutes in Thackerny, Halliwell, and Pollard. The play at the commencement was very loose, neither side showing good form. In about 15 minutes Everton scored an easy goal, and play was then in favour of South Shore, but they were unlucky, and Farmer passed Parkinson, and Halliwell added a second point. South Shore had all the play in the second half, Langley having nothing to do; but the forwards were very weak in front of the goal. Cardwell scored from a centre by Elison, and continued to play well, Wilson making the game 2-2. Halliwell and Farmer (the goalkeeper) played well for Everton, Wilson and the two backs doing best for South Shore.
NOTES
The Everton club have decided to arrange a match for their old, popular, and able member, Mike Higgins. Higgins assisted Everton since the days of the Old St. Domingo, and is the only one of the old members now playing in the Everton team. May he have a right royal bumper.
EVERTON ABROAD
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 05 May 1888
The Everton team had the novel experience of an out match last Saturday, when they journeyed to Blackpool for the return engagement with South Shore. There can be little question that much of the success achieved by the Everton team in the past season has been due to the astute policy by which the out matches have been reduced to a minimum, through the judicious administration of sops to clubs less fortunate in the matter of “gates.” How the League will effect this system it will be interesting to note. Everton have not quite maintained the same standard on foreign soil which is sustained at Anfield-road, and a two to nil defeat of Burnley was followed last week by a draw with the much deteriorated Blackpool South Shore. Three of the Liverpool lot failed to reach Blackpool, and substitutes had to be found. The match was played at a very late hour and in a very stiff gate. In the first half Everton got a couple of goals, but afterwards were very greatly intercised to prevent defeat. So much so that Farmer had to go into the defence ad South Shore only managed to draw level.
EVERTON AT BLACKPOOL
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 05 May 1888
NICE TIME FOR A KICK OFF
From some cause, of which I am not aware, Everton were obliged to start for Blackpool on Saturday without Costley and Higgins. We were to pick up Sourbutts at Preston, but he unfortunately was not well, and sent word to that effect, so there was nothing for it but proceed on our journey short of three players, not a very pleasing prospect, as South Shore are generally pretty strong on their own ground. We arrived at four p.m., and my surprise can hardly be imagined on catching sight of one of the posters which announced the kick-off for six p.m. This was a corker and no mistake, and gave rise to the very serious question, “Shall we eat first or how?” I voted with the eaters, and with commendable promptitude the hostess of toe Royal had a good tea set before us. This disposed of, I reflected that my occupation was gone as regards getting the result through in time for the Press; however, off we started, and had no difficulty in securing three subs., Messrs. Pollard, Halllwell, and Langley, and it was admitted all round that the men named played very well indeed. The game really calls for very little in the way of criticism as, owing to the breeze, almost amounting to a gale, which blew from goal to goal, good play was out the question. In the first half Everton had much the best of the game, but wild shooting and good goalkeeping on the part of Langley prevented Everton doing more than getting the ball through twice. Towards the close of the first half Threlfall and Cordwood made capital efforts to get the ball between toe posts, but Smalley was all about, and being ably assisted by the backs the home club had to rest content until the second half, when the breeze became so strong that too canvas screen near the entrance was carried away. This enabled toe Shoreites to completely pen the visitors, but the defence was so stubborn that South Shore only just managed to make a draw, the second goal being a very dubious one. The ball struck the outside edge of the bar, and as it was bouncing back Dick cleared it away. However the referee appeared to think that the ball was through before Dick kicked it out. The whole of the Shore forwards worked well together, Elston and Tattersall being particularly energetic. Sharpies, Moore, and Caffrey played well in the back division, and it was through no fault of Langley’s that Everton scored. Smalley was well up to form, and put in a lot of good work. Dobson tackled smartly, as did Dick, although the latter was still suffering from the knock on the ankle. Gibson and Nidd were all over the shop heading and kicking like Trojans. Farmer missed his mate even more than Fenning, the latter doing very well with Pollard. Briscoe was better than usual in the centre and shot with more confidence, the goal which obtained being beauty. On our way back we paid a flying visit to the proud town, and had a few minutes chat with Jolly Sir John who came to see us away. He was quite jubilant over the chances of the North End being restored to animation and predicted that the Lancashire Association would be sat on. In he not entitled to figure as a prophet after that.
THE WANDERERS AGAIN
Although the Wanderers have met Everton, so often this season, there was no falling off in the attendance on Wednesday evening, when the Pike’s laner's put in an appearance. Everton in for another drubbing seemed to be the idea uppermost in the minds of a lot of the knowing once when it was observed that Lofthouse, Conway, and Townley were included in the Wanderers forwards, and that neither R. Jones nor Dick was able to take part the contest. Well, the unexpected happened. Waugh took the place lately occupied by Sourbutts. Nidd went in place of Jones and A. Goodall full back and a very good game he played there. The whole team appeared to be actuated by one desire only and that to play the game as it should be, and the consequence was that the Evertonians fairly kept the game in the Wednesday’ half during the first part of the match, when the wind was in their favour, and scored four goals. Over the last of these there was a considerable amount of argument as to whether Costley impeded the goalkeeper before the ball reached him, and Steel seemed inclined to leave the ground. As events turned out, it would have mattered very much, on against the wind Everton had almost as much of the game as their opponents, who failed to score, although on one occasion it was simply astonishing how Smalley got rid of the ball three times in rapid succession, and at last Everton wound up by administering a sound drubbing to their old Cup opponents. The Everton forwards never played better. Farmer and Waugh worked together splendidly, and the back division left nothing to be desired. Individually the Wanderers were good, but they lacked combination.
EVERTON V BLACKBURN OLYMPIC
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 05 May 1888
Although the weather has at length become warmer there is no sign of lagging in the interest displayed by the public at Everton, and at least 5,000 spectators assembled today to see the Olympic. The teams were as follow;- Everton; Goal; Smalley; backs, Dobson and Dick; half-backs, Nidd, Gibson, and Higgins; forwards, Waugh, Farmer, Costley, Briscoe, and Fleming. Olympic; Goal, Barrett; Chadwick and Redhead; half-backs, Cooke, Starkie, and Gibson; forwards, Fielding, Carlisle, Davy, Dickson, and Hothersall. At 4.20 Carlisle kicked off. The Olympic playing against the wind, came away the final shot going just outside. Waugh and Farmer ran the ball back, the latter shooting wide. Waugh again came and screwed across. Fleming just missed the chance. Redhead cleared, and Dobson shot into the goal mouth, but Barrett cleared. The Everton left now took up the attack. Farmer shot in, but Barrett again saved, and Fleming headed over. A free kick fell to Everton and the Olympic had a marvelous escape. The Olympic left wing next got away, but Nidd put in a timely check. Smalley next cleared a shot from Carlisle. Everton again pressed, but did not show to such advantage as on Wednesday. After 23 minutes play Dickson beat Smalley by a fine shot. A minute later Waugh equalized, and Costley added a second from a pass by Waugh. Farmer next got away Fleming centred, and Briscoe scored a third goal amidst great cheering. Costly restarted and after an unproductive corner to the Olympic, Waugh and Farmer gave a pretty display of passing, Chadwick just clearing in time. Carlisle then made a splendid effort. Everton now played up much better, and although playing against a strong breeze, gave the Olympic back division considerable trouble. Barrett hit out a beauty from Fleming, and Dobson headed away a fine shot from Chadwick. Waugh then made a good attempt. Final; Everton 3, Blackburn Olympic 1.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 05 May 1888
EVERTON V. BLACKBURN OLYMPIC
May 7, 1888. The Liverpool Mercury
Between 6000 and 7000 people turned up at the Anfield road ground, on Saturday, to witness the encounter with the Olympic, who brought their next season’s team, with the exception of Hargreaves (full back), whose place was filled by Chadwick, of the Rovers. The home lot was strengthened by Waugh (late of Burnley), who has signed for Everton. The visitors were late in arriving. Everton won the toss, and Devey kicked off against a strong breeze. Fielden took the ball down, but finished with a weak shot at goal. Waugh and Farmer then worked nicely up towards Barrett, who cleared three shots in grand style, and Costley eased pressure by kicking over. After Fleming had headed over the bar, the Olympic left sprinted down, and Carlile nearly scored with a nice shot. A free kick was taken by Dick, who lobbed right into the goal-mouth, where Chadwick was in readiness and cleared, but Higgins tested the goalkeeper, who had to concede a corner to save. Everton, continuing to press, had a succession of corners, but the visiting half-backs were playing a grand defensive game, and kept their lines intact. Smalley having cleared a shot from Carlile, the home team worked up, but Framer’s shot was carried high over the wind. From the goalkick, Dickson got possession, and, darting along in nice style, beat Smalley with a speedy shot, thus securing the first point for the Olympic. A roused by this reverse, the Evertonians were again busy, Waugh and Farmer passing neatly up, and were placed on an equality, the ball being put through the posts by the former. From the restart, the home club were again dangerous, but Costley got his hands in the way, a free kick resulting. Fleming had a nice shot into Barrett, who threw out, and Chadwick sent to Dickson, but he allowed Dobson to ease him. Playing well together, Everton left wing passed up, and Farmer screwed across to Costley, that player adding a second goal to the home sheet with a quick shot. Again the home forwards swarmed around Barrett, who eventually had to concede a corner to Farmer, which was only temporarily got rid of, however, as Fleming evaded Redhead and gave the leather to Briscoe, who headed the third goal for Everton. Endeavouring to augment their score, the Olympic halves worked hard, and Carlile shot in nicely; but Everton, aided by Gibson and Higgins, continued to play hard, half-time arriving with the score –Everton, 3 goals; Olympic 1. On changing over the visitors, aided by the wind, got up and had a corner, which was cleared by Dobson, the ball travelling to the other end, where Chadwick had to negotiate a warm shot from Waugh. Devey having cleared, Carlile, who gave Nidd plenty of trouble, dodged nicely up and had two shines at Smalley; but the Everton custodian was working well, and cleared splendidly. Fleming got down, and screwed the ball across the goalmouth Barrett, in saving, giving a corner, which was also got away. The visitors again transferred play, and had hands and a couple of corners, Andy Gibson clearing the lines with a hardy kick, and planting the ball well down the field, where Waugh and Farmer made it uneasy for Barrett. George hitting the bar with one of his old shots, and Waugh sending in a warm one, which the visitors’ goalkeeper got away at the expense of a corner. From now to the finish the Olympians worked hard, but found the home team impregnable, while Everton failed to notch another point, a pleasant game resulting in a win for Everton by 3 goals to 1. For the winners, Smalley, Dick, and Watson played a good defensive game; Gibson and Higgins were the best halves; while forward, Waugh was the most conspicuous of a good lot. For the loser’s Barrett (in goal) worked hard, the backs only middling, half-backs a splendid trio, and Carlile the best of the forwards. Teams; Everton-Smalley, goal; Dick and Dobson (captain), backs; Higgins, Gibson, and Nidd, half-backs; Fleming, Briscoe, Costley, Waugh, and Farmer, forwards. Olympic; Barrett, goal; Chadwick and Redhead, backs; Gibson, Starlde, and D. Cooke, half-backs; Fieden, Carlile, Devey, Dickson and Hothersall, forwards.
We are informed that a commission will sit in Liverpool towards the end of the month to investigate the case of Watson and Goudie, of Everton, with a view to reinstatement.
EVERTON V BLACKBURN OLYMPIC
Athletic News - Tuesday 08 May 1888
Blackburn Olympic opposed Everton for the first time this season, before 5,000 spectators. Unfortunately the former had to travel with a vastly altered team, six of those originally selected failing to turn up. Efficient substitutes, however, were found, and in the end they were only beaten by three goals to one. All the goals were scored during the first-half of the game. Dixon scored for the Olympic, Waugh, Costley, and Briscoe kicking the goals for Everton. Barrett played a fine game between the Olympic “sticks," and undoubtedly saved his side from a heavier defeat. Of the rest, Chadwick, Cooke, Gibson, Hathersall, Dixon, and Carlisle were the pick. For Everton, Smalley, Dobson, Nidd. Higgins, Waugh, Costley, and Fleming worked hard, and greatly contributed to the success of their side.
NOTES
Everton intend to have a first-rate team next season, as I should have were I connected with the big gates at Anfield-road. Mr. Nisbet was over in Bolton on Thursday after David Weir, but was not successful.
The Everton F.C. are about to lose their treasurer Mr. W. Marriott who is tired. Mr. Marriott is one of the most gentlemanly treasurers I know, and will be missed as much by opponents as by his own club.
At the Liverpool Athletic Ground tonight (Tuesday) the second of a series of matches between individual members will be decided, the contestants in this instance being harry Green, the popular captain, and Will parry, of old Everton footballing notoriety. The distance will be two miles and a keen contest is anticipated by those fellow-members who have ridden with both men throughout the past winter months.
EVERTON AGAIN VICTORIOUS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 12 May 1888
Everton had another success to chronicle last Saturday, but now that the legitimate season is followed results of matches are greatly discounted. However, the average Evertonian is a veritable glutton for football; indeed he reeks not of the existence of anything else in the way of sport, and it will be a sad experience to find the gates closed at Anfield Road. Quite a big gate attended the fixture last Saturday with Blackburn Olympic, and the weather was quite cold enough to induce the players to go in search of the ball. Thus there was a really interesting game, which the home team won by three goals to one. It was by no means a runaway game, for the Olympians scored the first goal when playing against the wind, and Everton were thus under the necessity of putting in all they knew. They were not long in a minority, a couple of minutes and then they got other two points which gave them something in hand. This was not much, seeing that they had to face the wind in the second half, but they managed to keep their goal safe as well as finding plenty of employment for the back line of the Blackburn lot. Of the visitors Carlisle was the most conspicuous and this youngster invariably makes his mark on a Liverpool ground. He made little of Nidd, who did not shine as in the previous matches, whilst R. Jones was rather badly missed at centre half. Behind the Everton halves the usual solid phalanx was on view, Smalley making a few remarkable saves. At the other end Barrett gave a really fine exhibition and remembering the really magnificent play of this player at Bootle in the early part of the season it would seem that here is a right hid under a bushel. The Everton left wing is very strong now, and there is the utmost satisfaction amongst the Everton crowd to be assured that Farmer has signed for next season. I have no further ground for this statement than common report, but I must say that it required considerable credulity for anyone to suppose that a player would leave this district for any other, for we are on the flood tide not the ebb, and football professionals are not less discriminating than ordinary mortals. Many changes are talked of at Anfield-road, but it will be difficult to find may vacancies, and although Townley’s name again crops up as a likely recruit for Everton, it is difficult to comprehend any method by which he could be “found a job” in his own particular line. Mike Higgins has plenty of play in him, but would not stand in the way of any bright particular star, whilst Gibson will be probably relegated to the reserve next season. R. Jones could not easily be replaced, and if his knee gets strong must find a place in the team. Fleming and Briscoe have regained their best form, and the left wing is now complete, but a good centre is a great desideratum. Dobson was never in better form than today, but if he must got to Bolton there will be a vacancy at full back. Thus four new players may be required, but it is to be hoped, and I think may be taken for granted, that “no stiff uns need apply.”
EVERTON v. ACCRINGTON.
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 12 May 1888
Eight thousand spectators assembled to see this match at Anfield-road. The teams faced each other as follows; Everton; Goal, Smalley; backs, Dobson and Dick; half-backs, Nidd, Gibson, and Higgins; forwards, Sourbutts, Farmer, Goodall, Briscoe, and Fleming. Accrington: Goal, Horne ; backs, Stevenson and McLellan; half-backs, Haworth, Tipping and Pemberton ; forwards, Lofthouse, Bonar, Fecitt, Holden and Yates. Everton won the toss and Fecitt kicked off. Nidd missed his kick, and Lofthouse shot just wide. Accrington pressed very hard. Dick cleared a good one from Holden. Everton broke through the blockade and Farmer tried a long one unsuccessfully. Everton now played better together. Sourbutts, Goodall and Fleming came up and a barren corner resulted. Lofthouse then raced from the right but shot behind. Everton made a good combined rush and Sourbutts had hard lines, Horne clearing. Briscoe nest shot in and McLellan cleared. Everton Just now did all the pressing, Accrington escaping wonderfully. Half-time arrived and no score. Goodall re-started against the breeze. From a pass by Bonar, Holden defeated Smalley. Two minutes later Lofthouse sent in a beauty, which was well handed out. Horne then stopped one from Fleming, and Accrington came in with a rush. Dick cleared, and Gibson sent to the left and Sourbutts to the right, but McLellan saved. Horne then hit out one at the cost of a corner. Briscoe shot in hard, but Horne again cleared. Final; Accrington 2, Everton 0.
OLYMPIC LOWERED AT EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 12 May 1888
By “Mickey Free”
DRYING HARD
The season proper has reached the end of its tether, and although the time is long, still there are many engagements yet to be fulfilled. Saturday saw the recorganised team of the Blackburn Olympic at the Walton Breck-road enclosure. On Tuesday next the same ground will be occupied by the Mount and Aintree Church in the final for the Liverpool Amateur Association medals. Everton meet Accrington on this afternoon; and last, but I trust not least, Mr. Sudell’s team will play a team raised by the veteran half-back of Everton. “Mike Higgins” for the benefit, on the 26th inst, when I hope to have the pleasure of recording that there were 10,000 present.
A SMART LOT
I was very favourably impressed with the play all round of the Olympic men. They passed, dribbled, and tackled very smartly, and with a little more practice together they will prove themselves to be no mean exponents of the dribbling code. Carlisle especially created a most favourite impression by his dodging tactics, by which he completely baffled Nidd. The strong breeze which prevailed throughout the game had the usual effect, where the competitors are neatly matched, of confining the contest pretty much to one end, and although the Olympic scored in the first half against the wind, it was only a flash in the pan, as with the benefit of the nor-wester they failed completely to score in the second half.
T’other side
Dick resumed his place beside Dobson, where he showed up much better than the man who filled the position the week before in all the glory of the bright colours of Derby County; but as the peripathetic player referred to was rather out of position I mustn’t begin to draw invidious comparisons, more especially as I am so near the end of the chapter, and the possibility also that it may be almost the last contribution of “Mickey Free.” However, l’ll not say good-bye just yet. Waugh and Farmer again played well together, and all being well, when the season comes round again, this pair will develop into a splendid wing. Costley, as usual was volatile, some wild kicks, some well-judged ones, one minute disgusting his admirers and at the next raising them to a great pitch of excitement by some dashing exploit. He will probably become a clipper when he gets more ballast in. Briscoe shows more improved form than any man in the team. We are treated to fewer of those little cat and mouse kind of taps which he used to give the ball which apparently landed it to an opponent instead of to his own man, and instead of this he shoots aye, and with such judgement that they are very awkward to stop. The dash which Everton led off with after the Olympic scored was irresistible, and in less than a minute Waugh and Costley equalized again. The passing which brought about the second downfall of the Olympic was very fine. Dobson sent the ball to the centre, Dobson touched it to the left, Farmer kicked to Waugh, the latter to the centre, and Tommy did the trick. Similar play let in Briscoe for the third goal. Smalley made some brilliant saves in the second half, and so a fairly pleasant game ended in a good win by Everton.
MISTAKEN NOTIONS
Just a word to the Olympic umpire. The only unpleasantness in the whole game was caused through his failing to make the usual signal when the ball went out off one of his men on his side of the field. He is an old player, and ought to know that it is his duty to promptly allow a claim when there is not the least doubt about the matter. Such conduct merely exasperates the spectators, and may lead to unpleasantness’s that do not tend to popularize the game. It is not the duty of an umpire to act a twelfth man.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 12 May 1888
EVERTON V. ACCRINGTON
May 14, 1888. The Liverpool Mercury
A crowd of 9000 turned up at the Anfield-road ground on Saturday afternoon to witness the above match. The Lancashire Cupholders had their full team, but the home club was somewhat weakened through Waugh’s inability to play, a sprained ankle being the cause of his absence. Sourbutts partnered Farmer, while Archie Goodall took Costley’s place in the centre. Dobson won the toss, and took advantage of the wind and sun. Fecitt kicked off, and for the first ten minutes kept the home back division busy, Gibson and Higgins being conspicuous in keeping Smalley’s charge clear. Dick having negotiated a shot of Yates’s close in, the home forwards were enabled to get to the other end, where Fleming tested Horne with a splendid screw shot, and Farmer nearly affected a downfall, followed by a corner from McLennan, who was compelled to kick out to avert disaster. After Goodall, Fleming, and Lofthouse had each paid attention to their respective goals, Everton had hands given to them, but Dick, taking the kick, sent the ball to the side of the post. The play continued in Accrington quarters for some considerable time, and Horne had to clear a nice lob from Fleming and two warm shots from Higgins and Goodall, a corner eventually being given, which was nicely taken, the ball hitting the bar and going over. Lofthouse having sent in a hot one to Smalley half-time arrived with a clean sheet. The home club at this stage had the best of the play, but luck seemed to be set against them. On re-starting, the Accrington men, with the elements in their favour, soon assumed the aggressive, and in two minutes time had a goal to their credit, Bonar having passed to Holden, who neat Smalley with a low, swift shot. Striving hard to equalise, the home club were again busy around Horne, who had to put in all he knew to keep his lines clear, but, in repelling Fleming, concede a corner, which Chippendale cleared, and shortly afterwards Fecitt added a second point to the visitors with a very fluky shot, the ball deceiving Smalley, who through it was travelling outside of the upright. Both sides worked hard to the finish, particularly the homesters, and Fleming, who did what small share of the work he had to do well, had hard lines in not scoring, the goalkeeper having had great difficulty in getting his shots away. No further scoring talking place, Accrington won by 2 goals to nil. The visitors were at their strongest, and played a winning game all round. Horne (in goal), who had an anxious time throughout the match surprised himself with his own cleverness, and Fecitt and Yates were the most prominent forward. The losers played at great disadvantage, Dick being compelled to change wings with Dobson owing to the former’s leg being still weak from a recent injury, while Goodall allowed Fleming and Briscoe to stand idly by, through persistently feeding the left pair, who had Stevenson and Geo Haworth to face them, whereas had he given Fleming more work the latter would assuredly have scored, as he and Briscoe were in their best form. Sourbutts and Farmer did fairly well, but Nidd did not seem at home, and Dobson, Gibson and Higgins played a hard and sterling game in their respective places. Teams; Accrington; Horne, goal; Stevenson and McLennan, backs; Haworth, Chippendale, and Pemberton, half-backs; Lofthouse, Bona, Fecitt, Holden, and Yates, forwards. Everton; Smalley, goal; Dick and Dobson (captain), backs; Higgins, Gibson, and Nidd, half-backs; Fleming, Briscoe, Goodall, Farmer, and Sourbutts, forwards.
EVERTON V ACCRINGTON
Athletic News - Tuesday 15 May 1888
By The Free Critic
I DON'T think there are many persons more enthusiastic than myself about Association football, but a day like Saturday causes enthusiasm, like grease, to evaporate. Fortunately for football players, there had been few matches arranged for Saturday, but there was one at Everton, where the public would not object to seeing the game played all the year round. Mr. Nisbet favours the idea of a late start , for most of their supporters are at business in the city, and It is more convenient for them to have a comfortable dinner before going to the match than hurrying off with a fist-full of sandwich and a parting volley from the “missus," who doesn't quite see the force of so much haste for a simple football match. On Saturday the start was advertised for 4-15, but the players did not seem at all anxious to come out even then, and it was 4-30 before they arrived on the field. Accrington sported their red jerseys as of old, and were, as a matter of course, accompanied by their guide, philosopher, and friend, which means J. P. Hartley. The Everton " boys,' as they are known down at Anfield-road - though when we see such ancients as Mike Higgins bounding about it seems a misnomer; but every football resort has its little peculiarities, and this is one they possess at the Sandon —were more sensible, and had their cotton jerseys and pants. The ground was well tilled, and altogether there would be about 7,000 spectators, who seemed pretty comfortable in comparison with the players. The ground was frightfully hard, and the lengthy studs on the players' boots were anything but enjoyable. They intend rearing grass when they have finished with the ground. There is a bit at each of the four corners, but it looks ashamed of itself when it surveys the grand broad patch of stuff as hard as it was possible to bake it. Both teams were very strong, as will be seen front the following list :--
Everton; Smalley, goal: Dick and Dobson, backs; Higgins, Gibson, and Nidd. Half-backs; Fleming, Briscoe, Goodall, Farmer, and Sourbutts, forwards. Accrington; Horne, goal; McLennan and, Stevenson, backs; Howarth, Chippendale, and Pemberton, half.-backs; Lofthouse, Boner, Fecitt, Holden and Yates, forwards. The only man to boast about as an absentee was Waugh, the ex-Burnleyite. Who, has "signed" for Everton, and is a good "boy. - I do not intend to say much about the football, for there was very little football about it - grease won hands down. Everton did by far the most pressing in the first half, and had several pieces of bad luck. Then their shooting was not as good as I have seen that important part of the game, and—well, Stevenson, McLennan, and Home were playing for Accrington. Horne is a very cool young man, and saved several times splendidly, and on various other occasions luckily, and the nearest shave Everton had of scoring was when Fleming just headed wide. That was all owing to grease, for the ball slipped of the amateur's face at right angles. Accrington once very nearly did the trick at the bottom end, for, with a large amount of screw on, the ball hit the bar when Smalley wasn't looking, and rebounded into play. On turning round there had been no scoring, and Accrington appeared to have the best of the argument, for they had the wind to help them a bit. The home team were, however, the first to show up, and were not a mile off scoring but in three minutes Holden opened the " Reds” account with what is usually termed a daisy-cutter, but as there were no daisies, it might he called dust-cutter. It took quite a cloud with it. The "Reds" had the best of the play in this half, and had several near goes, but it took some time to chalk up another point, Fecitt doing the needful with another dust remover. The Everton "boys" played up very well, and Horne had not a time of idleness, and twice got rid of the ball when it seemed almost certain to go through. It didn't, and Accrington, won by two goals to nil.
It was the general opinion that the game had been a slack one, as, indeed, it was, with the exception of about ten minutes after Accrington had scored the first goal, and, with an utter contempt for the extraneous matter oozing out of them, they went at it like demons, to the enjoyment of the spectators, but in the end grease was again successful, and the play tamed down to the old state of things. The game was a very pleasant one so far as the players were concerned, and only two cases of foul play were penalized, but they were both vile ones, and probably prevented scores. One was by McLennan—about the fairest back I know, and one of the last ever brought to Lancashire--who, in the excitement of the moment, forgot himself so far as to charge Goodall behind in the most barefaced manner when Archie was about to shoot. The other case, singularly enough, was on the part of the left back on the other side, and this was worse than McLennan’s. Yates got the ball and raced past Dobson. The Everton captain could not work up sufficient speed, and with no one to pass but Smalley, matters assumed a serious for Everton, and George gave Yates one in the back which had the desired effect, for the "Red " came down and left a lot of skin to assist in rearing the grass. The two ancients, Higgins and Chippendale, played about the hardest of the lot, and I am glad to hear that the “boy" is to have a benefit match. He deserves it.
NOTES
The Liverpool Football Association held its annual meeting on Friday, but Everton don’t seem to see the necessity or advisability of being one of its members, and this is unfortunate for the Cup competition.
The Association are arranging a match for the sufferers in the late colliery disaster at St. Helens, and, though not members of the Association, Everton have offered the services of any men they may require.
I notice Everton are advertising for some new “boys” They will not be quite as open in their transaction with Scotchmen as they were last year.
Have you seen the balance-sheet of the Football Association? It is only just out, so perhaps you have not. It shows a very nice balance in the hands of the Association, and will afford some ground for the claim which will probably be put forward before long that clubs competing in the semi-finals of the Cup competition should receive a portion of the profits. The expenses of the semifinal at Everton between Preston North End and Crewe were £115 and the receipts £331. In the match at Stoke between Derby Junction and West Bromwich Albion the expenses were £38 (rather different from Everton and the receipts £140. For the final the expenses were £275 and the receipts £827.
We believe Everton had 10 per cent of the takings.
R. Smalley, the Everton goalkeeper, is an uncertain quantity for next season. It is said that North end want him, and, as he is a Prestonian, he would be eligible for all the Cups, and would prevent the necessity of calling in outsiders like Mills-Roberts.
EVERTON SUCCUMB TO LANCASHIRE CUP HOLDERS
Athletic News - Tuesday 15 May 1888
Accrington took a strong team to oppose the denizens of Anfield, who again had the assistance of Sourbutts, while Archie Goodall was found among the forwards, Costley and Waugh being the absentees. Holden, of Church, assisted the "Reds." Everton had decidedly the best of the play for the first twenty minutes, but Howarth, Horne, and the Accrington backs played a rattling game, and at half-time no goals had been scored. Everton undoubtedly had “hard lines" on one or two occasions, while Smalley cleared a shot of Holden's from underneath the bar—a near shave. The second half opened in favour of the "Reds," who scored twice, and having slightly the best of the play, finally won by two goals to nil.
LIVERPOOL FOOTBALL
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 19 May 1888
Summer Football
It is not a very edifying spectacle, nor is it all amusement for the players, but it pays –ay, there’s the rub; it pays. Moreover, so long as the public demand remains it is only right to supply such demand, and when 7,000 spectators turn out to witness a match there can be no question as to the existence of an appetite. The only danger is in the reaction when satiety has been reached. The visit of Accrington to Anfield Road last Saturday was the first for nigh twelve months, and baring their inglorious encounters with Witton in the semi-final and in the fixture which took the place of the Lancashire final for the Lancashire Cup, Accrington have won many laurels since Christmas. Everton have been carrying all before them of late, and had every confidence of wiping out Accrington; but the absence of Waugh, although It let in Sourbutts, was not quite compensated by the substitution at centre forward of Goodall for Costley. The peripatetic is a useful all-round man, but least effective as a centre forward, where he is somewhat heavy and clumsy in his movements, albeit a dead shot at goal. His last two performances with Everton contrasted strongly with some of his brilliant achievements in the Everton out-of-season matches last year, and the sooner he settles down as centre half-back and the better for his reputation.
It was far more pleasant for spectators than players, for with a sweltering sun overhead, and a hard unyielding ground beneath, the panting dribblers left the ground footsore and reduced in conditions, far behind the experience of an ordinary winter match. And yet the game was not fast, sometimes exciting, but only at long intervals. Everton had the wind favourable in the first half, and pressed somewhat steadily, but were called upon to put in a fair bit of defence, whilst they never beat Horne. In the second half Holding scored almost immediately after the change, and Lofthouse looked certain to get another when a masterly stroke by Smalley spoiled the famous old Rover’s good intention. Everton were hereabouts in distress, for Fecitt got a second goal after a slip by Dick at a critical moment. Goodall retired from the front line, making way for Gibson, not because of any shortcomings of the latter at half-back where he was playing splendidly, but to give Goodall a chance of doing something. It was of no avail, for Yates just towards the finish got away in splendid style, broke past Dobson, and altogether looked like making the run of the match, when the Everton captain brought him down, and the referee did not approve of the method at all. The free kick proved harm less, and the end soon came -Everton defeated by two to nil.
MIKE HIGGINS
The Everton season will be brought to a conclusion next Saturday, or rather the last match at Anfield-road, is announced for that day. The occasion will be the benefit match for Mike Higgins, perhaps the most popular player in the Everton team. Old Evertonians cherish fondly the recollections of the old Stanley Park days, and the veteran Higgins is the only link with the cherished past which is to be found in the present Everton team. As a left wing forward he was wonderfully tricky player, and when most of his compeers fell away and began to take to flesh, Mike went a step backwards and began to carve out a new career as a half back. Here he has proved quite as affective in his former position, and no half-back ever played by Everton has maintained for such a lengthy period such uniform excellence of form. The match for his benefit is to be between a team got together by Mr. Sudell and a combination of Everton, Bootle and Stanley players. This should take on greatly, notwithstanding the lateness of the fixture. Higgins has many friends in Bootle, where, I believe, he has long resided; and his manly action in the Spence benefit match last August will not militate against the attendance of the Bootle supporters, that is certain. If ever a player deserved a recognition for services long continued and of consistent excellence, it is Higgins, and it is not hazardous to predict for him the most substantial reward reaped by any previous beneficiaries in the past season.
ACCRINGTON TAKE THE STARCH OUT OF EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 19 May 1888
By “Mickey Free”
The Reds turned up in full force at Everton, and although the latter could not play their full strength, yet they were in the (for them) unfortunate position of having too many strings, with the result that the round man got planted in the square hole, and the Lancashire cup holders chronicled a win. I don't believe in the stick in the mud policy, but I do like to let well enough alone. Goodall is a very reliable half-back, but it is arrant humbug to play him as a forward; he is too slow. The game opened by Fecitt kicking off against a steady breeze, and I may here remark that it is astonishing to see how consistently the spectators turn up at Everton, late though the season be. The said spectators certainly had the best of the bargain in the way of comfort, as the lay was Just a wee bit too warm for the players, which was clearly manifested by streams of perspiration running over their faces. This state of affairs was also manifested in the speed with which play was kept up. I question if Horne ever kept goal better, as he had several awkward things to deal with. Fleming, Briscoe, Sourbutts, and Farmer each in turn essayed shots, all of which were well met and cleared. Once Fleming had the goal apparently at his mercy; he made a fierce header, but the bias was wrong and the ball went just outside. The change of ends giving the Reds the benefit of the draught, as their umpire called it; they were not long before they opened their account. Holden doing the trick very neatly. Lofthouse then made a desperate burst along the right wing and shot hard. Bob turned the leather aside, and then McLennan had an opportunity of showing what a good back he is by pulling up Briscoe aid Fleming. The latter, lowered, got round again and bobbed one into Horne's hands. He threw clear, and Chippendale let Fecitt In. Dick missed his kick, and Smalley hadn't a chance as the ball struck the upright and glanced through. Everton now woke up a bit but the halves, notably A. Goodall, who had gone centre half, kept feeding the left wing pair, who failed to utllise the chances they obtained, and so time was reached without Everton putting up a chalk. It would hardly be fair under the circumstances to criticize the players, so I will dismiss it with the remark that there was very little in the game, and although Accrington won there was nothing to crow about.
EVERTON V. DARWEN
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 19 May 1888
In spite of weather far too warm for football, and a heavy thunderstorm immediately before the match, Everton and Darwen met at Anfield to-day. The teams were as follow;- Darwen; Goal, Holden; backs, Leach, and Fagan; half-backs, Marsden, Owen, and Thornber; forwards, Shorrock, Broughton, Marsden, Shorrock, and Smith. Everton; Goal, Smalley; backs, Dick and Dobson; half-backs, Jones, Gibson, and Goodall; forwards, Sourbutts, Farmer, Costley, Briscoe, and Jones. Everton won the toss, and at 4-20 Darwen kicked off. The ground was covered with pools of water, which rendered accurate play impossible. Darwen pressed for some time until relieved by smart passing by Jones and Farmer. Shorrock and Smith returned, but Smalley and Dobson cleared the latter’s centre. A foul close to the Everton goal gave Darwen an opening, but the place-kick went behind. Farmer now sent in a splendid shot, the ball striking the bar. He repeated the performance immediately after, Holden clearing.
Half-Time; Result; Everton 1, Darwen 0.
After some sharp tussles between H. Shorrock and Sourbutts the former got off, but his shot went wide. A scrimmage before the Darwen goal gave Goodall an opening, but his shot was fisted clear by Holden. From a pass by Costley, Farmer made a fine run, skimming the bar. With a screw shot Marsden next shot over the Everton goal. Jones returned, and just before half-time, scored the first goal for Everton. Final Result; Everton 3, Darwen 0.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 19 May 1888
EVERTON V. WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS.
May 22, 1888. The Liverpool Mercury
“Wolves” caused Smalley anxiety, but Dick, who was in one of his best moods, cleared splendidly, a shie from Wood going over. After Baugh had negotiated a dangerous rush of the home right and centre, Fall shot in, and then Dick rushed down, a corner kick being concede him, which however, was badly take. The ball was soon back again in the home quarters, where Wood and White tried shots, but found the back division intact. A combined run of the Everton forwards looked as if the initial goal would be registered, but R. Jones was late in getting down, and Baynton ran out and kicked the ball well up. When Cooper again tested Dick, hands against W. Jones nearly proved fatal, Smalley having great difficulty in clearing. A similar mishap befell the Wanderers, but Higgins kicked wide, and half-time arrived with a blank sheet. On changing over, Wood, who had taken Benton’s place in the centre, sent the ball rolling, and soon the visitors were invading the home end, where Higgins gave hands, but Lowder was wide with his shot. Arousing themselves the homesters began to be busy, and kept the play for some time in their opponents’ ground. Falls and Briscoe shots, but Baugh managed to keep the charge clear. Again Falls got up and screwed across to R. Jones, who shot nicely in, but Mason sent the ball spinning down the field, only to be returned by Dick, who gave his side a chance, Briscoe getting penalised for off-side as he was about to shoot for goal. Hard kicking took play towards Smalley, and Dobson in clearing, conceded a corner, which Dick headed away, and enabled Falls and Gibson to get to the other end, where Briscoe again got his hands on the ball. From the free kick the visitors’ left wing went down, and Lowder sent in a warm shot, Smalley being heavily charged just as he had cleared. The referee cautioned the player. Resuming play continued furious, and both goals were often visited, but neither side could score, a medium game thus ending in a draw. Teams; Everton; Smalley, goal; Dick and Dobson (captain), backs; Nidd, Pollock, and W. Jones, half-backs; Higgins, Falls, Gibson, Richard Jones, and Briscoe, forwards. Wanderers; Baynton, goal; Baugh and Mason, backs; Fletcher, Allen, and Lowder, half-backs; Hunter, Cooper, Wood, White and Benton, forwards.
EVERTON V WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Athletic News - Tuesday 22 May 1888
At Liverpool, in grand weather, and before 7,000 spectators. The visitors with two exceptions, had their full team, but Everton were only moderately represented, several substitutes having to be introduced. Farmer being a conspicuous absentee. Result; a draw, neither side scoring.
Five thousand spectators assembled at Everton on Saturday to see the locals beat Darwen. Next week Higgins, of the Everton takes a benefit, when Mr. Sudell’s team play the united strength of Everton, Bootle and Stanley.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 26 May 1888
LIVERPOOL FOOTBALL
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 26 May 1888
Shortly before the commencement of the match between Darwen and Everton at Anfield-road, a most extraordinary downfall of rain and hail occurred, accompanied by some heavy claps of thunder and flashes of lightning. The rain fell in sheets, and the unfortunate individuals who were caught in the downfall will not readily forget its violence. The ground at Everton was perfectly flooded, and the prospects of any play at all looked exceedingly remote at one time. However, the teams turned out as well as the spectators, and so the game was played. Both sides were well represented, and so far as it is possible to gauge the merits of teams at this period, they were more evenly matched than a score of three goals to nil in favour of Everton would seem to indicate. Darwen worked the ball very cleverly along the field, and showed excellent defence, but were weak in front of goal. R. Jones scored for the home side towards the close of the first half, and afterwards Darwen played very tamely, not could it be wondered at considering the oppressive state of the atmosphere. Everton got other two goals, thus winning by three to nil.
THE WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS AT EVERTON
The first visit to Liverpool of the clever vanquishers of the English Cup-holders in a thrice fought battle took place on Whit-Monday. One missed Brodie from the ranks of the visitors, who came fresh from a defeat at Newton Heath. Everton had a very shaky lot on the field. The half-backs were Jones, of the reserve, Pollock, of Stanley, and Nidd. The left wing was patched up by “Mike” and Falls. Gibson played at centre, whilst Briscoe was accompanied on the right by Jones, of Stanley. The weather was again a scorcher, and the gate not quite what might have been expected, considering the fame of the Wanderers. The shaky lot did very well all things considered, but they were lucky to make a draw of it. And yet, indeed, they escaped success by the merest shave. Gibson once screwed an awkward shot at Baynton which struck that individual on the shins, to his evident surprise and consternation, but the screw happened to be on the wrong side, and the ball came back into play. The Wanderers weakness in front of goal was very conspicuous in the second half, but Mason and Baugh were universally voted “terrors.”
MR. SUDELL’S TEAM V. EVERTTON, BOOTLE, AND STANLEY COMBINED
May 28, 1888. The Liverpool Mercury
M. Higgins Benefit
The Everton ground presented a very animated appearance on Saturday evening, when fully 10,000 people assembled to witness a match under the above title, and at the same time give practical proof of their appreciation of M. Higgins’s ten year’s football service. The benefloiare, who is 26 years of age, first played football in Stanley Park, and soon became a prominent member, in conjunction with T. Evans, T. Marriott, W. Parry, and others, of the United Church Club, an organisation at the time St. Domingo, which included J. McGill, and R. Morris as their great rivals. In 1879 these two clubs amalgamated, and formed the present Everton Club. After a short experience as a second eleven player, Higgins was promoted to first team rank, partnering in turn J. Richards and W. Gibson on the left wing with marked success. Latterly he has been seen as an outside half-back, in which position he has even excelled all previous performances, and in addition, as a “handy man,” could always be depended upon to fill any place on an emergency with credit. During his career Mike had won six medals (four gold and two silver), and up to 1885 had played for every district match. Mr. Sudell’s team, though only containing one Preston North End man (Ferguson), was a very strong one, whilst the local eleven could hardly have been improved, including Watson, who with Goudie, was reinstated at the National Association meeting on Friday. Higgins and Watson entering the field together received a great ovation, and at 5.45 Roberts kicked off. Liverpool forced their way down hill but failed to pass Lang, who put in a clever bit of back play. The home forwards at once renewed the attack, Farmer, Hastings, and Jamieson showing up in nice combination. Hasting, however, was wide in his shot, and on the left wingers again beating Friel, Farmer just went outside. The visitors’ right cleared, Gallacher calling upon Smalley; whilst Duncan, from Roberts, made a good attempt at goal. Wilson followed in a spin on the right, and centred accurately to Jamieson, who shot against the bar, a corner well placed by Higgins giving trouble. The home left wing were the next to attack. Holt lifting over from the pass, Wilson following with a grand shie, which Gallocher smartly met. Farmer and Hastings then contributed another fine passing run, but the former had no luck with his shot. Duncan missed a chance off Roberts, and let in Hastings and Farmer. Friel saved, but on Wilson heading to Jamieson, the latter headed a goal. The visitors now settled down for an onslaught. Duncan, Gallocher, and Roberts each being very near scoring. Just before the interval a fine combined movement by Watson, Wilson, Hastings, and Jamieson secured another goal for the homesters, Jamieson putting on the finishing touches from Hastings’s pass near the line. The second half was very evenly contested, the Liverpool right wing having more work than in the first half, Ferguson was often called upon to clear up to 20 minutes of the restart, but towards the close the visitors in the endeavours to save the game, became very troublesome. Smalley, Dick, and Veitch, however, were impassable, and so a fairly good contest terminated in favour of Liverpool by 2 goals to 0. Teams; Liverpool; Smalley, goal; Veitch and Dick, backs; Higgins, Holt, and Dobson, half-backs; Hastings, Farmer, Jamieson, W. Wilson, and E. Watson, forwards. Mr. Sudell’s team; Ferguson, goal; Lang and Berry, backs; Abraham, Friel, and Keenan, half-backs; Duncan, McFettridge, Roberts, Crombie, and Gallocher, forwards.
WHO WOULD NOT BE AN EVERTONIAN?
Athletic News - Tuesday 29 May 1888
Who would not, indeed, after the magnificent recognition the services of Mike Higgins to the Everton Club received at the Anfield enclosure on Saturday? Mr. Higgins had been associated with the fortunes of the club through all its phases of title until it has risen to rank among the leading organiastions of the country, and is the last playing member of the old team, gentlemanly and unassuming, and esteemed by all. Of this the ten thousand persons present bear irrefutable testimony, and it truly will be questioned whether any other football player ever received such overwhelming testimony of esteem.
NOTES
At the Football Association and Lancashire Annual meeting, Mr. Nisbet wanted a referee to examine all the boots before going on the field, but Mr. Duxbury and Mr. Crump objected, and most of the gentleman in the habit of officiating as referee declined to make their duties more unpleasant.
Watson and Goudie, of Everton who along with a few others, caused such trouble in the Everton club, have been whitewashed and are amateurs once more.
EVERTON V. STANLEY
May 30, 1888. The Liverpool Mercury
These clubs played off their return match at Anfield last night, in the presence of about 3000 spectators. Stanley went well up at the start, forcing a couple of corners, during which Everton were three men short, but on the home team becoming complete Farmer and Sourbutt gave trouble on the left. Watson sending behind on a return attack from a corner. A hot assault, out of which Goudie was near scoring, whilst Brown spoilt a corner placed by Sourbutts. Quine and Brown cleared up the left, but on J. Wilson centreing, Sourbutts got under sail, Roberts and Stevens replied, and after either line had been crossed, a free kick by Dick, close in, was neutralised by Gibson giving hands. Just before the interval Sourbutts put a cross shot outside. On Goudie restarting Everton got up on the left, but Sourbutt’s good shot was checked, and in a moment Stevens took aim for Stanley, Dobson upsetting Stevens when again dangerous. The visitors goal was then the scene of a severe tussle, terminating in Sourbutts going outside. Stanley dashed off, and a smart bit of forward work enabled R. Jones to score the first goal of the match, after three-quarters of an hour’s play. W. Wilson spoilt the efforts of Everton’s left wing, Watson a little later putting behind from the right. Dick next had to kick out, and on Gibson dribbling up nicely R. Griffiths was in time to beat Sourbutta, J. Griffiths fisting out from Farmer. The game now proceeded very fast, Everton repeatedly closing up to goal, but Smalley’s defence was brilliant, particularly that of the Griffiths. At length Everton scrimmaged a goal, and equalised, a level game ending in a draw of 1 goal each. Teams; Everton; Smalley, goal; Dick and Dobson (captain), backs; W. Jones, Gibson, and Pollock, half-backs; Sourbutts, Farmer, Goudie, Watson and Briscoe, forwards. Stanley; J. Grithhs, goal; R. Griffths, and W. Wilson, backs; J. Wilson, Roberts, and McDonald, half-backs; Quine, R. Brown, Stevens, R. Jones and Hay, forwards. Referee; Mr. J.J. Bentley.
CHARITY MATCH
June 9, 1888. The Liverpool Mercury
A match in aid of the St. Helens-Colliery Explosion Fund and local charities will take place at the Everton Club Ground (kindly lent for the occasion by the committee) this day (Saturday). Kick off at five p.m. The following are the teams; Everton and Bootle- R Smalley (Everton), goal; T. Vietch (Bootle), and A. Dick (Everton), backs; F. Woods (Bootle), G. Dobson (Everton), and A. Allsopp (Bootle), half-backs; R. Watson and G. Fleming (Everton), right wing; R. Jamieson (Bootle), (centre); G. Farmer (Everton) and W. Hasting (Bootle), left wing; reserves J. Wilding and T. Morris (Bootle). Remainder of District –J. Jackson (Bootle), goal; A. Goodall and W.M. Wilson (Stanley), backs; L. Roberts (Stanley), J. McLaran (Police Athletic), and J. Campbell (Bootle), half-backs; R. Jones (Stanley) and R. Tasker (Southport High Park), right wing; S. Stephens (Police Athletic), centre; J. Shaw and A. Shaw (Earlestown), left wing; reserves, W. Briscoe (Everton) and W. Morgan (Tranmere Rovers).