LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES.
Athletic News - Monday 01 April 1889
By the Loiterer
DEFERRED LEADER MATCH AT ANTIELD.
It will be remembered that, owing to the hard state of the ground on January 5, the League fixture between Everton and the Blackburn Rovers was agreed by the captains to be called a draw. However, the League Committee ordered the match to be replayed, and the delay, coupled with the fact that it was possible. Everton might be in the last four should this match result unfavorably, apparently intensified the interest of the Liverpudlians in the meeting. Seeing that there was a powerful opposition in the shape of the races, a good crowd of about 6,000 were present when Milward kicked off. The Rovers were the first to show up, and after Whittaker had shot over Townley sent in a fine centre, which was cleared at the expense of a corner. Everton retaliated, but Davies shot over, and Holt was penalized for tripping John Southworth. Everton now pressed severely and took two corners, Milward eventually scoring. "Off-side" being pleaded in vain. From the kick-off the Rovers forced the pace, and Townley nicely evaded Dobson, but the ball was worked over, and play was in the home half, Smalley having to clear a good shot from Beresford. The ball hovered about the Everton goal, and, after Holt had retired hurt, Whittaker equalised from a free-kick. Like the goal the home team put on, the point was hotly contested, but allowed; but in my opinion, neither ought to be on the score sheet. Soon after this Holt resumed, and, after the ball had visited the Rovers' and, Haresnape missed a splendid chance from Whittaker's centre. Forbes now beat the home right, and the visitors took a couple of corners; but Everton now showed up better, Milward, Brown, and Davies making an awful mull of a chance, half-time arriving with the score one goal each. Even play ensued on resuming, and then the home forwards attacked strongly, and Forbes only partially clearing. Waugh came up and scored a second goal. Jas. Southworth now left, and elated by their success the home forwards came in a body, and Davies placed a third goal. The game was fairly even up to the finish, but no more goals were scored, and Everton won by t brae goals to one.
THE PLAYERS.
Smalley in goal never made a mistake, and his work was done in a neat manner. Ross was away (up In London) with a sprained ankle, and his place was taken by Wilson, of Stanley. This individual is a football "jack-of-all-trades," for last week he took the centre-forward position, and his play as full-back left nothing to be desired; in fact, not one of the four equaled him. Dobson also did well as far as kicking went, but he is rash, and this was the only fault to be found in his play. Coming to the halves, Farmer stood out conspicuously from his companions, and he was altogether too good for Haresnape and Beresford. Holt received a nasty kick early on, and evidently suffered acute pain throughout, and the nature of his injury rendered medical advice necessary. Weir only played fairly, his shooting being faulty. Chadwick was the best of the home forwards, but not much fault could be found with any of them except, perhaps, Brown. Several times he calmly looked on whilst an opponent took a pass which he could have turned to advantage, but, generally, the forwards were in an aggressive mood, and made the most of their opportunities. For the Hovers Arthur has played better, and the third goal looked rather simple. In the latter part of the game he did not display the wisdom of a veteran when he left his goal. Forbes did a lot of work, but we either did not see him in his true form, or else his capabilities are considerably over - estimated. James Southworth played the better game of the two, but neither cleared as well as the home couple, and their kicks generally lacked force. The halves played a good game, Douglas and Forrest especially backing up their forwards well and defending stoutly. Forward, the left wing was ahead of the others, though Townley would have done better had he not hugged the touch-line so much. Whittaker, for a youngster, shows promising form, and should turn out to be a first rate forward. Jno. Southworth, in the centre, was weak, whether from the attentions of the “Wolves" or not I cannot say, but he did little, and Beresford less. Haresnape also belied his Aston Villa performance, and his play was disappointing.
CHIPS
Watson, of Everton has a grievance and declined to play against the Rovers. Guess it is the usual amateur fad. No more Scotch gentleman for Everton.
Bolton Wanders have met Bootle three times and won all the matches. The honours are divided in their matches with Everton.
Bootle have great hopes of being included in the League next season.
We shall soon have April 13 here. Everton will win.
By Saturday’s victory Everton have decided their right to be in the first eight.
EVERTON 3 BLACKBURN ROVERS 1
April 1889. The Liverpool Courier
For some time past the Liverpool football community has manifested a considerable amount of interest in this important match. The teams have already tried play twice this season in the League contest. The first match was played at Blackburn last November when the Everton boys were defeated by 3 goals to nil, and the return match arranged to be played at Anfield in January last, but when the teams came on the field it was found that the frost had made the ground very dangerous and it was decided to play a game, but whatever the result might be the match was to be declared a draw. The game ended in Everton victorious by 1 goal to nil, subsequently the league committee refused to uphold the decision and ordered the match to be replayed. It was a matter of extreme regret that Everton were deprived of the services of Ross, who was unable to play owing to indisositive his absent been keenly felt. There was about 6,000 spectators present. When Everton kicked the ball off at 3-35. The ground was at a very odd conditions, but soon after the game commenced the rain stopped felling Everton pressed at the opening and shot gained a corner, which could not be improved. The homesters continued to have the best of matters and Milward nearly shot over, and the same player retaining capital form put the ball through, a claim for off-side being disallowed. Then the Rovers became somewhat more conpicusous, and a number of shots were but along none of them, however, being close enough to cause an excitement. A few minutes later though the visitors had a free kick close to goal, and from this they equalised the score. Holt was damaged, and went way for a few minutes, being able to return to his place. Chadwick showed some good play, and making one or two long kicks, Waugh attempted a shot some distances from the goal, but just failed in his endeavor. An exciting dash was made towards the Rovers goal just before half-time, Milward and Brown appearing at it they would pop the ball through, but Davies spoiled the affair, and half-time arrived with the score Everton 1; Blackburn Rovers 1.
Shortly after the restart Holt made a beautiful shot the ball just being headed out by Southworth, but the sooner had been done,, then, Waugh neatly kick through. Everton were playing in good style, and were decidedly having the best of the tussle. Forbes was penalised for tripping Brown when close to the Rovers goal, from the free kick Davies added to the score. Things began to get very warm about the Rovers goal, Chadwick made an opening through, and travelled well up the field Townley was putting in some spendid runs down the left, whilst Wilson for Everton, was defending very finely. Haresnape made the Evertonians then charged Smalley, Towie just previously kicked over. Brown and Davis played up well, in a spendid run along the right and Forbes gotback to the former and struck to his. Brown being away and shot through, the referee had however blown his whistle, and a good piece of play was devoid of result. Barton later on charged Waugh when the ball was elsewhere. Waugh fixed the Rovers half-back altogether, and there was further suffering and pleasant banter and shelf. Brown, Davies, and Waugh had a spanking shots at the Rovers custodian, Arthur fisting away, Jim Southworth a Rovers back, had gone away, and Douglas filled his place. Final score Everton 3 Blackburn Rovers nil. Teams, Everton:- Smalley goal, Wilson, and Dobson (captain), backs, Farmer, Holt, and Weir half-backs Waugh, Chadwick, Milward, Brown, Davies forwards. Blackburn Rovers:- Arthur goal, Southworth (jim) and Forbes, backs, Barton, Douglas, and Forrest, half-backs, Beresford, Southworth (jack), Whittaker, and Townley forwards.
EVERTON 8 EARLESTOWN 2
April 4 1889. The Liverpool Courier
These teams met at the Anfield enclosure last evening. Wretched weather prevailed and only 500 persons witnessed the match. Earsletown were minus Sims and Fazackerley whilst Everton lacked the services of Ross, Holt, Watson, and Smalley, Everton kicked off, but the visitors were the first to attack, Nidd clearing the danger with a timely kick. Waugh and Chadwick made a nice run along the Everton left, and after soon neat passing the farmer scored the first point for the homesters. From the centre-kick the visitors attacked, where upon Wilson put in some fine play, and they were repulsed. Waugh was again prominent, and sent in a hot shot, which Champion put through his goal thus recording the second point for Everton. The homesters were thus early having the best of the play, until a run by the Earlestown left placed the home goal in danger, J.Shaw went in a grand shot which Farmer but over the line. Waugh cleared the ball from the corner kick, and the Everton forwards raced down the field, with the result that Davies topped the bar. A few minutes later the same player defeated Champion with a spendid screw shot right off' ‘'touch'' The Earlestown van were next prominent, a corner kick accuring to them. This proved futile, and at the other end Champion saved on his knees whist Weir sent in a spanker, which pressed outside the upright. Chadwick then notched a fourth point, which aroused the visitors who rushed down, W.Shaw scoring. Brown retaliated for Everton and at half-time the home players led by five goals to two. At the ‘'half'' only lasted thirty minutes, the scoring progressed at the taste of a goal in a trivia over four minuets' play. Earlestown restarted, and Milward raced down the centre until Green robbed him. The home forwards, however, returned and Farmer took a ‘'corner'' which proved futile. Everton had much the best of play, which was mainly located round the Earlestown goal. At many as a dozen shots were sent in, but the ball went anywhere but between the posts. Following a raid by the Earsletown, forwards, Davies shot a sixth goal for the home side. Waugh next gave Champion a ‘'handful'' which he had the utmost difficulty in clearing in time. Wilson played a spendid back game for the home side, and repeatedly mopped dangerous rushes of the Ealerstown forwards. Chadwick shot a seventh goal for the Evertonians, who were playing in grand form. Weir again shot through the Earlestown goal, but the point was disallowed. Brown then rushed down the Everton right, and centering grandly, Waugh notched the eighth goal. Everton pressed during the remainder of the game, but failed to score any further points. Earlestown thus retiring beaten by 8 goals to 2. Teams; Everton:- Joliffe goal, Dobson (captain), and Wilson, backs. Farmer, Weir, and Nidd, half-backs, Davies, Waugh, Chadwick, Milward, and Brown, forwards. Earlestown:- Champion, goal, Green and Jones, backs, Johnson, Howell, and Allison half-backs, Shaw (j), Shaw (w), Conray, and Siddeley forwards.
LIVERPUDLIANA; BY RICHARD SAMUEL
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 06 April 1889
Saved
All Everton breathes freely. There is no possibility of the club getting into the unenviable position left in the undisputed possession of the two county teams, Stoke and Burnley. Derby County have still just a chance of getting out, but it is not rosy one. But to return: Everton have defeated the Rovers, and the team is now firmly re-established in the confidence of its supporters. The victory three goals to one was unmistakable in extent and significance. The play of the winners was clearly in keeping with the result, and now, unhampered by the ever present possibility of being dropped, the arrangements for next season’s campaign will be continued by enterprising committee with greater zest than ever. The Rovers were short of three of their best eleven, Almond, Walton, and Fecitt being replaced by Beresford, Barton and Whittaker, and these changes were none for the better. Everton had do without the services of Ross, who was the Oval; and Watson, who had a grievance. Wilson went to Ross’s place, and it is absolutely correct to say that the great full-back was not at all missed in the effect with which Wilson played. The weather was not at all inviting, but the crowd was a big one and the outburst of cheering at the various successes of Everton were of most hearty description.
SOME DETAILS OF THE GAME
The home team threw a lot of dash into the game at the outset, and after a preliminary and threatening onset of the Rovers’ forwards, a lot of play took place in the neighbourhood of Arthur’s charge. The defence was not at all stable, several blunders making the situation look promising to Everton’s ultimate success. Before long, therefore, Milward found a weak spot, but it is questionable if he did not trespass in going for it. Nothing came of an appeal against the validity of the score, however, and the visitors betook themselves in some dissatisfaction to the task of wiping it out. This was effected by Whittaker, the smart reserve man, and here again the referee was appealed to before the goal was allowed to count. At half-time, each side having scored a goal, an exciting finish was promised. The home men again commenced strongly, and before long Davie Waugh gave Everton the lead, and Arthur and his backs were seriously tested for a long time. The Rovers’ forward play was here very moderate, and they were kept in check with no great difficulty, Wilson being especially steady at full back, whilst Smalley was particularly watchful behind him. Jas Southworth having to get an early train home left the ground before the conclusion of the game, and when Davies got a third goal the cheering was wild, for victory was then assured. Nothing further of note occurred, Everton winning rather easily by three goals to one. The whole of the Everton men are to be complimented on their plucky play, and it is pleasure for me, personally, to note the complete success of W. Wilson in a trying position, as I have persistently maintained that he is a very fine player, whose light has been long hid under a bushel. Of the Rovers it must be said that they were disappointing. Forbes was especially noticeable in this connexion, as were Haresnape and John Southworth, the heroes of the celebrated Cup tie with Aston Villa. Young Whittaker was perhaps the most effective player of the lot.
There is no question of the of the revival of form at Anfield Road, and if this is kept up to the close of the season the average of goals will be far more favourable than at any time promised. On Wednesday night Earlestown were taken on, but unfortunately the weather was of the vilest description, and the ground in a fearsome condition. The number of spectators was even than the previous Wednesday, but the game at some points was really worth seeing. Both goalkeepers ' were sadly tried with the heavy greasy ball, and both made blunders, the two goals scored by Earlestown being particularly easy things. Still, no fault can be found with the goalkeepers, and as for Champion he well redeemed his errors by some really grand play just as the close of the match. In commenting on the final tie between Bootle and Earlsetown, I pointed out that the latter team was very weak in back and half-back play, but this was even more apparent on Wednesday last, in the absence of Fazakerly, the best back and of the youthful (?) Sim, the bulky but clever centre half, who many years ago was the best forward in his club. Ross was again missing, but Wilson again took his position and played more coolly and more effectively than on Saturday. Holt’s place was taken by Weir and that served to show what has long been known, that Weir is essentially a centre player. Everton won easily by 8 to 2 but one of the goals allowed by Mr. Ramsbottom, the referee, was plainly no goal at all. Indeed, I greatly mistake if Wally Richards on being appealed to did not shake his head, but for all that the goal was allowed. Davies who made the shot, laughingly admitted that the ball did not go through, so that the chargin of the Earlestown men was quite excusable. The home forwards were in really fine trim, none more so than Waugh, who got four goals. Milward was too dashing, but when he moderates is likely to be a great acquisition to the team.
TO DRAW THIS TIME
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 06 April 1889
By “Mickey Free”
“Everton are safe in the League now.” Such were the words heard on all sides on Saturday when the Rovers went down to the tune of three to one in the undecided League match. Faix, it looked bad for them lately, with Derby County making such gigantic strides up the ladder; and there were all sorts of “if’s” promulgated, but the “if’s” are out of court, and owld Everton is in the first eight.
The Rovers were not up to their full strength, but the “subs” were good, and a few of the executive who travelled with the team were rather sanguine about the results, if one might judge by the overflowing spirits of the party. Fat jokes and lean ones came floating round, whilst a running fire of banter was kept up with some Evertonians in front of the stand, but this waxed weaker when Everton scored. It came once again when the Rovers equalized, but when a second and third goal were added by Everton the bubbling wit had all gone, and being unable to stand the crushing defeat any longer the wits bolted to look for a good glass of bitter to wash it down, and they were seen no more. Some people take a licking badly. The game started fast, and there could be no mistake about the earnestness displayed on both sides. The Rovers were the first to show up, and I thought it was going to be a case of tally-one when Whittaker had an opening. But it didn’t come off, and after a scuffle in front of the Everton goal from a corner kick, the game was carried to the lower end, where Arthur was called on by Davies. Business still ruled brisk and fairly bristled again when Everton drew first blood. Not a few were surprised as the goal was clearly off-side, but all’s well that ends well. The Rovers equalized with a goal of exactly a similar character, so that there were no cats eyes out after all. The Evertonians were now overplaying their opponents, who seemed inclined occasionally to stop to tell each other how they were reared, and so the Everton left came up and Waugh got as pretty a goal as anyone could wish for, and wasn’t he cheered? Davie is rather popular, and deservedly so, as his play is always very fair, well-judged, and his manner unassuming. The Rovers fed Townley, but wriggle as he would it was no use, although on one occasion he crewed across a grand shot which Beresford ought most certainly to have scored from. Wilson put an end to the second attempt, and with fifteen minutes or so still to play Davies managed to land the third goal from a free kick off Forbes. Jas Southworth disappeared after this, whether in disgust or to play somewhere else was not quite clear, and yet his absence was made use of as a set-off against the defeat. I hope no one else will try to do so, as Holt was off the field for over fifteen minutes through a kick.
THE PLAYERS
I believe I noticed that Everton were without Ross, who was suffering from a sprain or something of that sort. His place was taken by W. Wilson, and very well he filled it. His kicking was clean and sure, and I am more satisfied than ever that it is a great mistake to put him out of the back division. As a half or full-back he is an undoubtedly good man, but I don’t like his play as a forward. Dobson did a couple of rushes which might have proved awkward; otherwise George played a good game. Farmer was the best of the halves. Chadwick and Waugh worked together grandly and Milward continues improving. For the other side Arthur compared badly with Smalley. Jim Southworth pleased me better than Forbes, whilst Douglas was undoubtedly the best of the halves. The forwards were not at all even in their style. Now and then Haresnape, John Southworth and Townley showed us what they are capable of, that’s about all. The weather was very much against a large attendance, yet I think the Rovers would make a nice thing out of their share of the gate.
EVERTON V. WITTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 06 April 1889
This match was played at Everton today, before about 5,000 spectators on a ground wet and muddy, the start being 45 minutes late. Witton kicked-off. Waugh came up the left and Parry headed into Sharples’ hands. A foul off Holt brought the game uncomfortably near, but Everton replied and lost a chance through Milward getting off-side. Sharples next saved a fine shot from Davis, and the game ruled very fast despite the heavy going. Fifteen minutes after the start Sharples made a ridiculous error, and Milward scored. Smith repelled twice cleverly. Chadwick indulged in some wretched shots. Then Parry almost beat Sharples who saved marvelously but he play all round was much in favour of Everton, who tested the defence severely. Waugh, Chadwick, and Parry in turn gave Sharples dirty fist-fulls to negotiable which he did very finely. Half-time; Everton 1, Witton 0
Everton re-started and shot well in. Sharples saved again three times in succession amid loud cheering. Everton continued to press, and from a free kick in the goal mouth they scored a second goal, but their shooting was very wild generally. Witton came up well but Grimshaw went wide. Isherwood had a possible chance, but his final effort was very wide. By good passing Witton came again, but Turner’s attempt was weak. Final Result; Everton 4, Witton 1.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 06 April 1889
LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES.
Athletic News - Monday 08 April 1889
WITTON AGAIN MEET LIVERPOOL.
By the Loiterer
A beautiful morning was succeeded by a wretched afternoon on Saturday, and the Everton ground on one side resembled a miniature ship canal. However, friend Webster and a staff of assistants, cleared the water away by the aid of buckets, but, nevertheless, the field of play was in an awful condition. Considering the uninviting state of the weather, a great number attended, probably between 6,000 and 7,000. They could hardly expect to see a correct exposition of football—the ground was dead against that- but don't you see that the Witton boys were at Bootie last Saturday, and Everton play their friends over the way next week, so, doubtless, a lot of 'em came to study, in a sense, the football barometer, and so indulge in a profitless mathematical problem of the chances of their favourites. Dobson won the toss, and Turner was soon busy, but it was only a spurt, and Sharples had to use his hands. However, the visitors, chiefly by the aid of two free kicks, got within shooting range again, but danger was averted and play was in Witton half, Milward eventually scoring. Everton had now a lot the best of the argument, but the forwards shot badly (which is easily accounted for, and half-time arrived with the home team leading by one goal. 'On crossing over, Sharples was loudly applauded for his fine display of goalkeeping, and he fully deserved it. On resuming, Sharples early on effected a grand save, and then from a free-kick, close in, the home team further increased their score. Play was open, the Witton forwards making several good attempts to score, but, like their opponents, they shot badly, and Smalley was seldom troubled. At last the visitors' left effected their object, Turner bearing Smaller with a good shot. Play was again taken to the Witton end, and it was not long ere Farmer added a third goal to the Everton store, and, keeping up the pressure, Parry placed a fourth, Everton thus winning by four goals to one.
For the home team, the forwards showed a decided improvement, the most pleasing feature being the effective manner in which Davies and Parry—who hails from Chester, and made his debut for Everton—played throughout. I have several times hit Davies rather hard on his style, but on Saturday he put in some judicious work, both in passing and centreing, and if he will only modernise his play he has everything in his favour to turn out a good forward. Parry has a rather clumsy gait with him, but he did very well, and seems to have a good idea of the duties of a forward. Milward, in the first half, played a rare good game, but he seems to tire very much as the game progresses. He is young, and should turn out a good man. Chadwick and Waugh continue to show improved form, though selfishness occasionally creeps in their play. The halves were all good and so were the full backs, whilst 'Smalley did what he had to do in good style. For the visitors, Sharpies proved to be the hero, and the way he successfully dealt with what appeared impossible shots to negotiate, was a caution. Both Smith and Shorrock proved to be reliable backs, but the halves I did not care much about. The forwards made some nice passing movements, Rushton and Horsfleld perhaps being the most effective.
EVERTON RESERVE
Everton Reserve journeyed to Fulwood to tackle Aigburth Vale. From the start the visitors attacked, but the Vale were the first to score, Tibbot doing the needful. The home team pressed, and Tibbot repeated the dose. The Reserve now put on some pressure, but could not break through the defence. Hendry replied with a good run, but shot wide. However, he made amends a little later, and beat Joliffe a third time. Keys was next prominent, and at last Weir opened the visitors' account. The Reserve pressed, and Weir scored a second, and Angus drew level with a good shot. In the latter half play continued exciting, and each side had a turn of attacking, but the visitors ultimately obtained the winning point, and won by four goals to three.
CHIPS
The great fight comes off next Saturday, at Anfield-road. Bootle have obtained a new goalkeeper and centre forward since the teams last met
Bassett is not coming to Everton, but for all that Mr. Barclay will have a good team.
Which team will N.J. Ross play for?
EVERTON 4 WITTON 1
April 8 1889. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton encountered Witton for the first time this season at Anfield and quite 7,000 enthusiasts were present. Ross again absent, but his place was successfully filled by W.Wilson partnering Dobson. A new man was tried in the person of A.Perry (Chest St Oswald's), who seemed to satisfy the followers of the home club with his consistent and accurate passing to his right partner. Witton, who kept the crowd waiting 40 minutes came with their full strength. Dobson won the toss, and taking advantage of the slight-wind, kicked towards Stanley end. Grimshaw set the ball going, and soon Parry caused Sharples to throw out, a well judged shot. Coming again. Holt had the misfortune to handle, and the visitors getting down from the free kick, Rushton missed his mark. From the goal the home left, and centre did a grand rush towards Sharples, and Milward, unfortunately was ruled offside. Nothing daunting, Everton again were aggressive and after Wilson pluckily staved off Rushton, Sharples had to negotiable attempt from Davies and Chadwick. The visitors, who still kept pegging on, got towards Smalley, and Wilson put in a timely save from Smith, and placing the ball well up the field, Milward got possession and scored the first goal for the homesters. After this Witton strove hard to get on level terms, but failed to break through the defence of Dobson and Wilson, who enabled their side to hold the upper hand, and Farmer narrowly escaped notching another point. after the visiting custodian had attended to Parry, Isherwood sent in a scorcher to Smalley, who saved in a business-like style, a performance which Sharples initiated four times just on half-time. On charging ends, the spectators showed their admiration of the clever tactics of the visiting custodian by a hearty round of applause, which was the least that, could have been meted out to him. Milward restarted, and the Everton right were not long in getting down, but Davies failed to find another opening. The visitors monetarily held the reins, but Wilson proved himself equal to Turner and Horsefield by neatly robbing them when ominous looking and then Sharples was called upon by Waugh, responding in good style by throwing out the shot in clearing which Smith handled the leather close in the goal mouth and from the free kick Farmer very cleverly added a second goal. Play still continued fast,, considering the soft state of the ground, and Davies hit the crossbar, followed by Sharples escaping to the corner in steering a good aim by Milward. Rushton was again conspiouous and nicely eluding Wilson,, had the goal at his mercy, but was yards off the mark. Amends however were made, Horsefield beating Smalley for the first time with a very easy shot. Everton, who seemed to be anxious to obtain as many goals as that recored Against Witton the previous week infused more life into the game, and Farmer added a third point whilst Milward attended the goalkeeper, a feat performed by Parry but without success a minute later. As a final attempt, the strangers well fed by Iserwood, strove hard to increase,, but found the home defence impregnable and just on the call of time Parry added the fourth goal for Everton, greatly to the delight of the spectators, who seemed to be proud of the capabilities of the last acquision to the team. Result Everton 4 goals Witton 1 goal. Teams; Everton:- Smalley, goal, Dobson (captain), and Wilson, backs, Farmer, Holt, and Weir,, half-backs, Davies Parry, Milward, Chadwick, and Waugh, forwards. Witton:- Sharples, goal, Smith (j), and Shorrock, backs, Alston, Isherwood, Pickering, half-backs, Ruston, Smith (h), Grimshaw, Horsefield, and Turner, forwards.
AIGBURTH VALE 3 EVERTON RESERVES 4
April 8 1889. The Liverpool Courier
This interesting fixture fought out at Fulwood Park in gloomy weather and attended by only a few spectators. Everton kicked off at five minutes past four, and the home backs were soon busy, Jackson having to fist out two or three shots. Aigburth pressed and from a corner warm work followed,, Joliffe setting out twice but being beaten at the third attempt by Tibbott, the goal giving great satisfaction to the spectators. From the kick kick off Angus had a chance, but he shot wide. Tibbott then headed a second notch from a scrimmage and the game get very lively. A corner to Everton was well centered by Nidd, an offside goal resulting. Hendry making a fine sharp shot at the other end, which however, just went outside, succeeded a wide shot by Weir. Another corner to Aigburth gave the same player a second chances, which the accepted in fine style heading the ball through and adding goal No.3. Weir afterwards sent in a beauty, which Jackson failed to negotiate thus making the game one to three. Several corners to the visitors ended in Everton centering nicely and Weir heading another point for his side. After some minutes close work in the home goal harder against the homesters nearly proved an equaliser, but Jackson just got the ball away. At this point Everton had the best of the game, and Angus made the game 3 all with a fine oblique kick very low down. Score at half-time Everton reserves 3 goals Aigburth Vale 3 goals.
Resuming Everton pressed , and show much the better combination a few minutes from the restart, and after a sustained improvement of the home goal, Robinson helped the ball through the upridge putting the visitors a goal to the good. Aigburth broke away once or twice, but the vistering backs held their opponents well in check. Roberts played a fine game for his side, and was very prominent all though. The home team weaked but coulds scaredly got on terms with the visitors. Tibbott put in good work, but nothing came of it, the ball being chiefly in Aigburth quarters. Everton took a corner and Aigburth cleared. Nidd and Weir put in some god long kicking and Peers did similar work. Briscoe put in a warm handful, which Jackson got away, but the game was continued near the Aigburth goal. Final result Everton 4 goals Aigburth Vale 3 goals.
EVERTON REVIEW
April 8 1889. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton have apparently struck the right chord at last, and the the improving trenency of the forwards week by week bids fair to see the attack as uniformly strong as the defence has all along been. This week they have added two more victories of an unequivocal kind to their record- that of Earlestown by 8 goals to 2 on Wednesday, and again over Witton on Saturday by 4 goals to 1. It so happened that Bootle have recently met those two particular clubs, and on the eve of a certain interesting event it is impossible to refrain from indulging has long since proclaimed, ‘'ordorous'' Bootle made a draw with Witton, and were only 5 goals to 3 better than Earlestown in the cup tie. These figure speak in favour of Everton. Of Everton's latest success, however, It was not a good game-not nearly so entertaining as the Earlestown match, when Everton's forwards were seen as they have not been seen of late-but this defect is to be attributed to the slippery state of the ground, which indeed, was flooded in places. The home team are stronger in physique than the visitors, and on the heavy ‘'turf'' the weight told effectively the Wittonians who were fast on the dry ground at Bootle, being now too slow for their heavier Anfield opponents. Play thus despite the clever all-round tactics of Witton went all in favour of Everton, and had the shooting been as accurate as the forwards were powerful in their raids, the score would have been a record one. Sharples delighted everyone with his prowess between the posts; he was relieved in a great measure by Smith, though Shorrock was almost as safe a back. Each set of halves were about equally effective Isherwood being about a match for Holt who played one of his best games through lame. Dobson and Wilson did their work well, and there is a great confidence in the department as when in other charge. Smalley had few opportunities of displaying his form. The Everton forwards were on the whole highly satisfactory, the left wing proving very strong. Davies had a new partner in Parry of Chester St Oswald's but on such a ground he had hardly a fair opportunity of showing his full worth. The wing was certainly not so effective as the one in charge of Chadwick and Waugh. Parry was very free in passing to Davies; a little more attention to Milward would have made his efforts telling
SOUTH SHORE 4 EVERTON 1
April 8 1889
No details
EVERTON X1 7 NORTHWICH VICTORIA 1
April 11 1889. The Liverpool Mercury
These teams met at Anfield last evening, before about 1,000 spectators. The home club depended almost entirely upon reserves men apparently saving their senior players for the Bootle match. The ground was in a muddy condition, but play was carried on briskly right from the start. Northwich were the first to become dangerous, but were stalled off easily, and Everton attacked strongly on both wings Angus scoring after a few minutes play. Fallows was nearly beaten two or three times in quick succession and after a flying visit to Joliffe Parry and Milward went down in grand style the latter running close up and shooting the second goal. Everton returned to goal, repeatedly, Cross intercepting smartly when Parry and Brown had assumed a menacing attitude. There was no keeping the home forwards backs, and a moment later Parry shot through, whilst Milward charged Fallows. The next goal came from Briscoe,, who put through from a corner forced by Milward and placed by Angus. Two other goals followed within a few minutes Angus and Parry being the pilots, and at half-time Everton were leading by 6 goals to nil. The visitors backs proving no sort of barrier to the strong and well combined forwards runs of the home team. On Milward restarting, Victoria right wing broke away with the wind at their backs, but were pulled up by Chadwick and Pollock, and Fallows soon had to chuck clear from the right wing. Chadwick attended another breakaway to, and then Falloffs was in too minds, though he cleared. A strong run by Northwich's right wing and down the centre took play in close proximity to Joliffe who was defeated by leather, an appeal for off-side not being entertained. The visitors brightened up just now and made the game more even, travelling once or twice quite as powerfully at the home team. Everton, however, towards the close again assumed control and on Angus running hard and centering Milward just managed a goal near the post, after an exciting scrimmage. Parry trying a shot of some merit in the renewed attack. In the waning light the home team moved often to goal in nice combination, but in the last moments or so the visitors gave trouble. No flaw was to be found in the Everton defence however, the result being:- Everton 7 goals Northwich Victoria 1 goal. Teams. Northwich Victoria:- Fallows goal Maddock, and Cross, backs, Hankey Whitlow, and Dalton, half-backs, Rowbottom, Leather, Golden, Upton,. And Pickering forwards. Everton:- Joliffe, goal, Chadwick (a), Pollock (h), backs, Nidd (f), Wilson (w), and Jones (r) half-backs, Brown (w), Parry, Milward, Briscow (w), and Angus forwards. Referee H.McIntyre
EVERTON V BOOTLE
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 13 April 1889
For the third time this season these clubs met today. On the first occasion the meeting was what might aptly be termed “the reconciliation game” and the gate was divided, Bootle carrying away the very handsome sum of 150 pounds. The match was well contested and the result was a draw, neither side being able to break through the defence of the other, if we may except an offside goal by Bootle. Some people asserted that the Everton full-back Dobson admitted that the ball struck him, and, of course, if this had been so it was a win for Bootle. Dobson, however, most positively asserts that the ball was over a yard off him. The next meeting was on the Bootle ground, and here, although the price of admission had been doubled, the crowd must have numbered 10,000, and Bootle’s coffers would be well filled. Yet, satisfactory as this part of the business must have proved, there was an alley, as Bootle lost a chance of winning by a majority so solid and so unexpected that their supporters and some of the players themselves were half crazy with delight. It was here the rub came, and the old adage of many a dip ‘twixt cup and lip fully verified, as Everton put on a grand spurt, wiped off the leading points, and almost won by four to three, but one goal being disallowed a draw of three goals each was the result. Three changes in the Everton team for today’s contest have been made, viz, W. Wilson vice Holt, Waugh vice Brown, and Parry in place of Watson. In the Bootle team Jackson’s place was taken by Jardine, and the teams faced each other as follows;-
Bootle; D. Jardine, goal; F. Woods and R. McFarlane, backs; A. Allsopp, T. Morris, and W. Campbell, half-backs; J. Woods, H. Galbraith, R. Jamieson, J. Jones, and W. Hastings, forwards. Everton; Smalley, goal; Dobson and Ross, backs; Weir, J. Wilson and Farmer, half-backs; Davies, Parry, Milward, Chadwick, and Waugh, forwards. At four p.m. the teams appeared on the field, which by the way was rather heavy going. Both teams were cheered heartily with corncrake accompaniment. Ross won the toss, and before about 13,000 spectators, Jamieson kicked off against a slight breeze, previous to which Mr. Norris called the teams together and read the Riot Act. Two minutes after the start Jamieson scored from a free kick. Everton came with a rush after this reverse, but Milward lost a possible chance. Everton pressed, and Jardine saved three shots in rapid succession. After some pretty passing by Everton, Milward sent the leather the wrong side. F. Woods saved marvelously from a rush by Milward, taking the ball from his toe just in the goal mouth. Farmer next took the ball down well, but Chadwick shot wide. From a pass by Parry, Chadwick again missed, his shot being wild. Bootle ran right up, and Ross saved at the lost of a corner. The Everton left replied and a free kick close to Bootle caused uneasiness, but the visitors cleared. At length after a fierce scuffle, Parry equalized amidst immense enthusiasm. The play still ruled in favour of Everton up to half-time, but the score remained unaltered, each side having scored one goal. Good passing by Everton caused Jardine to use his hands after restarting. Farmer passed to Milward who shot wide. Morris sent to Jamieson, but Ross repelled, and Campbell had to kick out to save, Hasting and Jamieson came down, and Dobson gave a soft corner which Bootle nearly converted into a goal. Smalley saved, and immediately after Jardine had to save, which he did excellently, and Waugh shot over the bar. Ross next have a corner but the ball went behind Galbraith sent in a beauty which just went wide. Bootle attacked fiercely, but Ross kicked out. Hastings raced down the left, but his shot was wide. Everton again workled down and Waugh just shot over. The play still ruled very fast, Everton having much the best of the play, as Jardine made several wonderful saves. Final Result; Everton 1, Bootle 2.
SPECIAL
Which shall win the rubber? Was the question which set the football pulse in Liverpool at fever pitch today. Ross playing for Everton, and Hughes absent from Bootle, a goal in a minute for Bootle fairly took away the breath of the spectators. Everton played desperately, but McFarlane, Woods, and Jardine fine play magnificently round the Bootle goal. Jardine succumbed at last after a prolonged assault The heavy ground had done its work, and both sides were less eager for the fray in the second half. The day swayed first one way, then the other. Ross kicked magnificently for Everton, and Woods and McFarlane at the other end were scarcely less brilliant. The Bootle forwards played up finely, and well deserved their success, which was received with immense enthusiasm.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 13 April 1889
LIVERPUDLIANA; RICHARD SAMUEL
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 13 April 1889
More Of Witton
Evertonains were greatly elated with the result of last Saturday’s game with Witton, the Blackburn lads being taken down by four goals to one at Anfield Road. Perhaps it were as well to be in the fashion and tell how Witton had beaten Bootle by five to one, and how Bootle could only draw with them on the Saturday before at Bootle. Put this to that and you get -. But then a new element crops up. On Monday Everton were at Blackpool and away out at Bootle they put This to That and got_ “Words! Words!” It is a profitless task, this comparative reckoning. There is no further difference between the teams than when they last met. Bootle have a new goalkeeper, they had, but have they a new centre? Everton have got Davie Waugh in condition now, and a new forward from Chester. What is the issue of to-day’s meeting? In it not faithfully recorded on page 4? Tip? Not I. Not until I know. But of this Witton match? The ground was in shocking condition again, and the game was not at all exciting. Everton got a goal in the first half, and three in the last, whilst the visitors got a solitary one, and were thus beaten. This history of Witton’s games with Liverpool club is peculiar. Everton until last season found them too good, but have beaten them easily since one Saturday after their suspension. Bootle played two drawn games with them last year, and then beat them by five to nil. This year Witton have the pull with a drawn game and a win by five to one.
On Wednesday evening Everton Reserve, with Parry, Wilson and Milward thrown in, won a very tame and uninteresting game with Northwich Victoria by 7 to 1. This is a most meritorious performance for the youngsters, for the Victoria have been playing fine football right through the season, and have lately won the Cheshire Cup from their rivals, Crewe Alexandra.
KICKING OFF PROMPT AT EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 13 April 1889
By “Mickey Free”
“Time no object.” Not it. What’s the odds whether you have to wait an extra hour or so for a team turning up? So some people seem to think, and it would hardly make much difference if the sun was shining with a heat sufficient to split stacks; but when, on the contrary, there is cold nor’-easter, accompanied by hail and rain, it is not the ’‘cheese” to keep fire or six thousand spectators waiting three-quarters of an hour after the advertised time. This was the treat we had dished up on Saturday when Witten visited us. Like a swamp when I first arrived, but by the great efforts of half a dozen officials armed with buckets, spades, barrows of sand, &c., the largest of the miniature lakes disappeared by the time the teams stepped into the mud! What a horrid contrast to the appearance of the ground at the beginning of the season. It is quite clear that seed sowing is all up a gum tree on this enclosure, and the only chance of keeping it clothed with grass is to have it laid with good turf the instant the season is over. Wltton drew with and beat Bootle in their two matches, and as the local rivals meet for the third time of asking to-day, there is no end of speculation as to whether football form might be relied on once in a way. If it can be, which I doubt very much, then Bootle will have to look to their laurels. But hold on a bit. Have they not got a new centre and goalkeeper for this occasion? Ah well ! Before these lines reach Everton the point will be settled. Witton started Business, and in spite of the sarcastic remarks of well-known gentleman who sat behind I consider they played good football, but the ground was against them, whilst the Everton boys took to it kindly, and the forward play was much better than of late. A very promising young player named Parry partnered Davie on the right, and although somewhat slow in his movements he can play the game. The manner in which he availed himself of the opening that gave Everton the last goal showed conclusively that he is capable utilising an opportunity. I hope to see him again. Hands off Dobson close to goal looked bad indeed, but it was not to be, and Milward, who was a long way offside, shot the ball through the other end. Long Shooting then became the order of the day, but with a man like Sharpies in goal it was wasted energy. At length Sharpies ran out to clear on the Everton right, missed the ball, and Milward had nothing to do but touch the leather through. It was his mistake. Grimshaw gave one to Smalley, but throughout the game the latter had very little to do, thanks to the bad shooting of Witton when they got chance. A couple of the home forwards now became very conspicuous for all over-the-shop kind of play. When will they learn to keep their places The Witton left, by excellent play, came up, and dodging Weir and Dobson beat Smalley with a low corner shot. Farmer was again in grand form, and accounted for two goals, the first from a free Lick and the second from a long drop. Sharpies would probably have saved this had it not been for the Delicate Attentions of Parry, who rushed him over in a way that the Witton man hardly approved of. The final result of four to one does not show how the game actually stood, as on the play Everton were six or eight goals better. For the visitors Smith put in lot of good work at back, and even went so far as to fist out when Sharpies failed, but the free kick cost a goal all the same. As everything was against play I think it scarcely fair to criticize the players generally, so I shall wait, in hopes of a better day on their next visit.
EVERTON V. BOOTLE.
Athletic News - Monday 15 April 1889
BOOTLE WIN AT THE THIRD ATTEMPT.
To all ye lovers of the leather chasing art, know ye that on the banks of the river Mersey there has for a long space of time existed two tribes of the popular pastime, and between these tribes a feud arose so great that they despised each other, and, moreover, they declined to meet in honourable rivalry to the detriment of each other's revenues. Now, behold, the men of toffee appointed a new steward to safely guide their warriors over the quicksands that had befallen then. Thereupon the chiefs of the B. B. hosts marvelled and said, let us approach this man and hold communication with him, and endeavour to settle our differences by arbitration. So they held council, and lo! They mutually agreed to have three battles in the hope that thereby may be settled the question of who shall hereafter be called greater than the other. Now the first battle raged fiercely for ninety minutes at Anfield, in toffeedom, on Boxing Day, and the shekels there collected from the vast multitude assembled were equally divided, but neither the chosen of Bootie nor the chosen of Everton received as much as a scratch, though they had an abundance of mud. Now the people of the valley of Bootle revelled, and said wait until the ninth day of the third month, when the battle will be fought in our territory, and we will throw you into oblivion by the exercise of our power. So the day duly came, and the countenance of the man who looks over the destinies of the 'men of Bootle beamed with satisfaction—yea, even to a grin - as he saw the accumulation of silver and gold which the multitude brought. Again, for the specified time, did these warriors puff and blow, but the prophecy of the tribe of Bootle was not fulfilled, for the wise man from the East proclaimed that honours are easy. Now the men of Bootle were vexed, and waxed wroth exceedingly at the man who was deputed to frustrate all attempts of the warriors from Everton to pierce the Bootle armour. So they held council, and one more wise than the rest said: I have heard great things of one man, Jardine by name, who abides in the land of cakes and poetry; peradventure, if he is a worker in iron or goeth to sea in ships, we might persuade him to dwell amongst us and partake of the sweetness accruing front the utter rout of our enemy. So he came, and there followed him another warrior whose powers in shooting goals, it was said, not even the men of toffee could successfully withstand; but lo! The vile men from the East decoyed the last named away with offers of pay without work, and be departed hence. Likewise the men of toffeedom held council, and behold! One Parry, from ye ancient city of Chester, appeared and said he would like to pitch his tent amongst them and fight in their battles, and they permitted him to remain. Now again, did vast multitudes gather from the North, the South, the East, and from the West, so much so, that the spacious arena at Anfield was well filled, albeit the crowd was composed of all sorts and conditions of men—A. King, an ex-mayor, and double ex-mayor, likewise a species known as dockwolloppers, a goodly number of ye fair sex, and the members of the fourth estate. A mighty cheer rent the air as the combatants appeared, and the wise man who blows the whistle calleth them together and spoke in their native tongue thusly: Inasmuch as ye are met together for as honourable purpose, ye must faithfully observe the ordinances as laid down by the Football Association. Verily, I say unto you swift punishment shall visit those who indulge in hacking, tripping, and other vile offences. And they marvelled at his words, and did face each other thuswise:— Bottle—D. Jardine goal; F Woods and R. McFarlane, backs; A . Allsop, T Morris, and W Campbell, half-back .J. Wool., H. Galbraith, R Jamieson, J Jones. and W Hastings, forwards. Everton —Smalley, goal; Dobson and Ross, backs; Weir, J Wilson, and Farmer, half-backs; Davies, Parry, Milward, Chadwick, and Waugh, forwards.
Now the captain of the men of Bootle prophesied falsely in the spin of the coin, and was commanded to bear any disadvantage arising from weather. The whistle blew, and behold the men of Bootle dashed with violence against the enemy, and one Wilson did transgress the laws which govern the play, and the advantage thus gained was supplemented by Jamieson baffling the skill of the custodian of Toffeedom, and a loud shout proclaimed the fact that Bootle had tasted bleed. This was distasteful in the eyes of the tribe of Everton, and they made strenuous efforts to put themselves on a level, and did persistently invade the territory of their opponents, and send with force shots innumerable at the fortress held by the men of Bootle. Now, the man named Jardine had buckled on his armour, and it was apparent that the steward of the hosts of Bootle was wise in his generation in securing him, for lo! he sent the shots to the right and to the left, and the enemy was dismayed at his powers. Jones and Hastings twice invaded the Everton territory and another transgression of the laws by Farmer, from the land of Wales, aroused visions of a further collapse of the home citadel, but with a mighty kick Ross cleared away all danger, and Chadwick and Waugh gladdened the hearts of the onlookers by their fleetness of foot: and, moreover, Milward did execute an acrobatic feat in the Bootle goal, which provoked much mirth. Now the captain of the tribe of Everton called to his men in a loud voice to rally and not slumber. The enemy overheard him, and they attacked fiercely, and the Everton custodian was fain to give a corner. This was cleared, and Milward wasted much valuable wind by a reckless run down the field. Then did the men of toffee bear in mind the injunction of their captain, and the enemy could not withstand their incessant attacks, and the man from ye ancient city of Chester materially encouraged the manufacture of hats by successfully piloting the ball between the uprights. The game waxed more fiercely than ever, and the Bootle referee was sorely tried, but never again was he found wanting, and the whistleblower proclaimed a truce of fully ten minutes. By mutual consent each tribe exchanged territories, and did suck oranges with great gusto, and hold council each in their own land. Their bellows having been refilled the men of Bootle made tracks to regain what they had lost, but the battle for a long space of time was fought on neutral ground. Another transgression of the laws found favour in the sight of the Evertonians, and several of the laddles did jabber in a strange tongue over a throw in. Davies now felt inclined to violate the "off side" rule, but the eyes of the whistle-blower were upon him, and he refrained. The ball travelled freely and with the utmost impartiality from the East, the West, the North, and the South; but again did the men of Bootle put forth all their energy, and Ross took a flying kick. and, lo! the ball alighted on a neighbouring domicile, and provided work for the glazier. Now the multitude called aloud on their warriors to play up, and the rattle pealed forth gratingly. The men of Bootle were now subject to much pressure, and Jardine was often called upon, but the tribe of Everton had mercy and forbade to test his abilities to the utmost; moreover, they sent in shots most recklessly, and their captain rebuked them. Now Weir used his hands, and the people assembled cried out "foul," and they cheered ironically as the whistle-blower placed the ball, and he measured to a hair's breadth distance of several paces over which the men of Everton must not come. And the men of Bootie did maintain the advantageous position, and Dobson and Ross were sorely tried, and Woods cast dismay around by forcing the Everton custodian to surrender. This success so troubled the tribe of Bootle that they performed a series of acrobatic feats, and grinned with a great grin, yea even as a cat in agitation. The warriors of Everton were dumb-founded: nevertheless, they did their utmost, and their enemies were fain to kick anywhere for safety. Moreover, they won a corner, but their calculation was at fault, as the whistle-blower intervened and proclaimed the men of Bootle victors by two goals to one. Now Bootle has proved the greater of the two, and the tribe of the valley of the borough aforesaid rejoiceth exceeding, and in their exuberance of joy they calleth upon the powers that be to make them one of the chosen tribes of the League. The people of toffeedom waxed wroth at the result, and thought evil of their attacking force. Likewise with one accord they made excuses and vowed that if the man with the long body and short legs had put on his armour they would have routed the enemy. Now the men of Bootle did lavish praises abundantly on their warriors, and would have saved them the trouble of walking, but they were commanded to desist and they depareth in peace, and satisfaction reigneth in the borough at their prowess.
LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 15 April 1889
By the Loiterer
"Cup holders" sounds high, but it is always a delusive title, and the team who hold the Cheshire Cup proved no exception to the rule. The Everton executive appeared to have formed a pretty correct estimate of their abilities, for they commissioned the reserve (with three exceptions), to do duty against Northwich Victoria. In the first half the Cheshire men had not the ghost of a chance, and Everton piled on half a dozen points. On crossing over play was more open, and each side scored once, Everton thus winning by seven goals to one.
The great match at Anfield for the local championship will he found in another column. The ground was rather soft; otherwise it was fought under pleasant surroundings. Whatever doubts existed as to any unpleasant incident arising out of the meeting of such keen rivals can now be set at rest, as I do not remember throughout the afternoon any case of tripping or hacking being allowed (and Mr. Fitzroy is a keen observers ) by the referee. There was rather a large number of free kicks for "hands," but almost a total absence of anything approaching rough play. Bootle are naturally much elated at their success, and I heartily congratulate them on their performance.
CHIPS
Davis, of Everton, will play into to-day's International at Wrexham.
Bootle are now comparatively happy, for though they won the district cup, It was without meeting Everton, but the victory at Anfield-road on Saturday, after two drawn games, clearly entitles them to championship honours. Mr. Beard will conclude his labours on behalf of the Bootle Club with something he had almost ceased to hope for -the defeat of Everton.
EVERTON 1 BOOTLE 2
April 15 1889. The Liverpool Mercury
The third meeting of Everton and Bootle, which took place at Anfield on Saturday. Aroused all the interest of the two previous contests, and despitethe increased tariff , there was the same dense crowd of about 10,000 spectators. The weather though threatening fortunately proved fine and the ground, it still muddy in place, was in a greatly improved condition to that of the previous Wednesday. Punctually at four o'clock Ross led his men on the field, Followed immediately by Jamieson and his colleagues, both teams being popularly received. Bootle had two alterations compared with the eleven that played in the last match. Jardine displaced Jackson in goal, and Jones partnered Hasting Morris playing centre half in place of Hughes. The changes in the Everton team were, Waugh, Wilson, and Parry also Brown, Holt and Watson, respectively. Mr Fitzroy Norris having addressed the players everything was in order for a start. Jamieson prompt to time kicked off, and Bootle at once moved uphill in spite of the wind against them. Wilson held Wood in check when going well, but the visitors were not yet stalled off, as Hasting returned on the left, and compelled Dobson to kick out. Keeping at close quarters,, a free kick fell to Bootle, which was placed by MaFarlane, from which Wood centered nicely to Jamieson who beat Smalley and placed Bootle in the lead three minutes from the start. Before the ovation subsided Parry Milward and Davies were away in strong combination and severely defeated Macfarlane and Woods, the shots by Chadwick and Parry being in one case wide, and in the other too high. Again the home team grew threatening. Macfarlane adroitly intercepting a splendid centre by Chadwick and then Jamieson led a rush which brought forth a clever defensive feat on the part of, Ross, Davies at once replied in a dashing run, finishing with such a good pass to Parry that McFarlane deemed it essential to step across to kick out. Everton proclaim a series of exciting scrimmages in goal, Jardine fisted out coolly. Allsopp headed a another critical movement, and all the visitors stood up manfully until relief came on the left. Hasting put over the bar, and with this let off Everton soon took up the bombardment in earnest Davies going behind from a corner, and Milward being just off the post in a shot taken at an easy position. A good run by Hasting and Jones shifted the venue, and a passing run, in which each of the five forwards had touched the ball. Improved the outlook for Bootle but Ross was on the alert to prevent mischief, as he did when MacFarlane placed accurately from Chadwick's foul of Allsopp near goal. Waugh came to the rescue in a neat dribble to Milward, who beat Allsopp but found himself foiled by Campbell, the latter driving on to the roof of the long stand. Farmer broke through from the throw in, and gave Chadwick an opening but the Blackburn man banged wildly over the bar, and on Farmer again dodging up Campbell was just to smart enough to divert Waugh's shot. Davies a moment later overrunning himself from a Wilson pass. Chadwick also received from Wilson, and tried a low shot which MacFarlane was keen enough to see would pass harmlessly out if left alone. Ross next risked a corner in attending to Wood, a corner falling to Everton soon afterwards. Play just now ran on even lines, sulminating in Jardine carrying the ball out of his prescribed boundary. An exciting tussle arose from the free kick, Hasting eventually clearing. Further scrimmages were pitched in front of goal, and after Jardine had scrooped away when on his knees a sterling bit of play by Parry, Davies and Waugh was too clever to be combated. Parry equalising with a spirited return shot. There was jubilation once more in the home camp, and hopes ran higher as Parry, upon Farmer nipping a fine run by Jamieson and Galbraith in the bud, experienced rather hard luck in shooting behind. Bootle soon rallied, and went up two or three times in splendid formation, and just when Hasting was sailing along strongly, and Wilson disputing his progess. Half-time was announced with the score Everton 1 goal Bootle 1 goal. On taking up positions for the second stage, Jardine was welcomed to the Anfield-road goal with a good cheer in recognition of his skill during a trying time, and was also congratulated by the referee. Campbell was the first to forge ahead when Milward restarted, with Jones in support, Weir checking them by kicking out. Hasting however, took up the theme, and though Ross slashed across to repel the attack, Smalley had to check out. Everton now ascended the slope by the aid of a hugh kick, Wilson's goal shot being clamly fisted clear by Jardine, whilst Milward went ridiculously wide from a long range. Allsopp was too tricky for Waugh at the half-line, but Everton closed up to goal in a determined manner, play setting in Bootle quarters for about 10 minutes. Ross came well up the field, and kept his forwards supplied, but only one good attempt was made to score, and them McFarlane met Parry's accurate shot very smartly. Jones and Weir had a tussle, the former getting free, only to find Ross breaking ever in front of Dobson, and kicking up the wing to Davies and Parry. Bootle were at once back to goal, the ball having been impelled by means of neat heading by Jamieson, Hasting and Galbraith. Dobson cleared by conceding a corner, and from a ticklish scrimmage that ensued Galbraith had a fine chance, but faltered,, apparently fastened in the mud, and so gave Smalley time to pick up and chuck away. Waugh was near scoring a few moments later, he lifting just over the bar, from a pass by Parry, after Chadwick had run well. Ross then found it safest to give a further corner, on Wood and Gaibraith running prettily, the latter placing behind, and this was followed by Jones shooting through, Subsequently to the whistle sounding for off-side. Both goals were repeatedly visited during some energetic play; but nothing remarkable occurred until Davies, Chadwick and Waugh each shot hard in succession, and Jardine coolly saved two of their shies and Woods the other. Milward soon had another favorable opportunity but again made a wretched attempt. Woods went well from a free kick, and though checked at the corner, he followed by giving Smalley a handful. Waugh and Chadwick, going nicely up the left, raised the hopes of the Evertonians once more, but the attackers were easily held in check. Wilson also had a good opening from a corner, but was too high, and then Bootle attacked very strongly time after time about the nearest shot being an overhead one by Jamieson. Ross, as he had done all through played a masterly and safe game staving many an ugly rush, and just when all had made up their minds that there was going to be another drawn battle, a run by Hasting, Galbriath and Jamieson took the ball within range, the captain tipped to Wood, who availed himself to the full of a good position, and thoroughly beat Smalley. The Bootletes at the slice of good fortune raised a great shout for there were but three minutes left, for play, and the match was practically won. However, Everton darted off up the right, and on Parry becoming dangerous, Campbell kicked over, but before the corner could be placed the signal was given for a cessation f hostilities, Bootle emerging out of three hard contest as Liverpool champions, by a bare margin of victory ion the score of Bootle 2 goals Everton 1 goal. Teams, Bootle:- Jardine, goal, Woods and MacFarlane, backs, Allsopp, Morris, and Campbell, half-backs Wood,, Galbraith, Jamieson (captain), Jones, and Hasting forwards. Everton:- Smalley, goal, Dobson, and Ross (captain), backs, Weir, Wilson, and Farmer, half-backs, Davies Parry, Milward, Chadwick, and Waugh, forwards. Rewferee Mr Fitzroy Norris. Umpires, messr McMurray and berry.
CHURCHTOWN 0 EVERTON RESERVES 0
April 15 1889 The Liverpool Courier
These teams met at Churchtown, before a fairly large attendance. The game during the initial stages was of the keenest nature, and when half-time was announced although both goals were frequently visited, no major point were registered a result, no goals being scored.
EVERTON 3 NEWTON HEATH 1
April 16 1889. The Liverpool Mercury
These two well known teams appeared at Anfield last evening it being the first appearance of Newton Heath on the ground. The visitors brought a good team with them and Everton were presented by two or three of their second team. About 3,500 spectators assembled. Williams kicked off, and Everton at once pressed. Farmer and Ross punted into goal-Briscoe sent over to Watson and he parted judiciously to Angus, who scored with a spendid oblique shot, four minutes from the start. Good play by Farmer kept Powell busy, but at length Dobson was beaten by Gotheridge. Ross cleared but Brown put the ball though when he had a good opportunity to pass. The play was kept on the Everton right, which was not to the best advantage. From a foul the ball was taken over the Everton lines for the first time. Parry passing by the whole of the home forwards took the ball down,, and Angus obtained a foul, which Farmer put over the bar. Williams and Jarrett rushed away, but Smalley cleared. Watson was fouled when clear away, but the referee gave a foul. Excellent play by Holt gave Watson and Briscoe possession, they passing to Milward and he shot into Hay's hands, who only partially cleared and Briscoe shot through. Good combined play on the part of the home forwards kept the sphere in the opponents goal, Milward at last give Hays a handful, which he had no difficulty in clearing. A good shot by Owen was diverted by Williams who headed out. Everton then secured a foul near goal, and Watson shot through, but as the ball was wrongly placed it was brought back. Williams started, and Tait and Williams ran down. Williams shot to Smalley's hands, and from some inexplicable cause he allowed the ball to fall and scored for the visitors. Back play by Dobson gave Jarratt a possible chance, but Ross came to the rescue. Hays next had a busy time, as he had to fist out five consecutive shots. Doughty and Gotheridge worked their way down, but found Ross good enough for them, and Angus gave to Brown, who raced away, but nothing came of it. This was directly afterwards followed by a foul in goal and Ross scored the third point for Everton. The home team still maintained the pressure but breaks away by Tait and Gotheridge relieved the monotony. Ross gave a foul in goal, but Holt sent up the field, and Watson forced the pace considerably, and the home forwards again became the aggressive. Score Everton 3 goals; Newton Heath 1 goal, Teams Newton Heath:- Hays (t), goal, Mitchell and Powell, backs Burke, Owen, and Jones, half-backs, Tait, Jarrett, Williams, Doughty, and Gotheridge, forwards. Everton:- Smalley, goal, Dobson, and Ross (captain), Weir, Holt, and Farmer, half-backs, Briscoe, Watson, Milward, Angus, and Brown,, forwards.
LIVERPUDLIANA; BY RICHARD SAMUEL
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 20 April 1889
REMINISCENCES
In answer to a correspondent, an athletic contemporary remarks that of something like 20 matches played between the clubs Bootle have won but two, including that of last Saturday. This is not correct. My recollections of the meetings carry me no further back than the years 1882-83 to the institution of the Liverpool Association. In that year Bootle had a very strong team, including the late Rudolph Ashton, so well-known to Darwen football and cricket; Britton, a very fine forward, who afterwards figured with distinction in Southern football; whilst in one of their games with Everton the Bootle men were assisted by Brodie, the present captain of Wolverhampton Wanderers, then a big raw youth just leaving the Normal School at Saltney, near Birmingham. In that season Bootle won three engagements, one at Bootle by two to one, the second in Stanley Park by two to none, and a third, the semi-final tie for the Liverpool Cup, by three to one.
The second game was unfinished, owing to the crowd breaking in upon the field, when the referee awarded Bootle a goal, which Everton hotly disputed. In the season 1883 - 4 the clubs did not meet, but next year three games were played, Everton winning the lot The first was a very stiff struggle at Bootle, and Everton just get the verdict by two to one. The next was cup a cup-tie on the Everton ground and was so stubbornly contested that it was only won after extra time had been played, by Everton again, the result being two to one in their favour. For the last match, Everton considerably strengthened their team, which included Scowcroft, of the old Bolton Association, with Pollock and Parkinson, two other Bolton men. This game the won by three to one. The next season Everton were again too good for their rivals, winning three out of four games, fourth being drawn. In 1886-7 Everton won the only match played, a cup tie at Bootle by two to nil, after they had been sorely pressed almost throughout, and when Roberts, a goalkeeper who was having a trial for Bootle, completely gave his side away. Then came the game of last season, another cup tie which Everton won by two to nil. This with the three games played during the present season, gives total of 15 games, of which Everton have won eight, Bootie four, whilst three games have been drawn. These reminiscences might supplemented, and perhaps corrected in some instances by some of our ancients; if so, am sure everyone will be interested, as there is lot of obscurity as to the history meetings our two chief clubs.
REVEUONS’S NOS MOUTONS
But to return. The last meeting was at Everton, and for various reasons a vast amount of confidence prevailed in Everton circles as to the issue. Holt was left out of the team, but Wilson was considered by everyone to be a more reliable man, for this match at least, as the little man had not been seen to advantage at all in the first two games against his old club. Ross was in his place, but Dick was not, and Everton have had to do without this fine player for almost three-quarters of the season. Then Parry - a thick-see young fellow—displaced Watson on the fight wing. Bootle had do without Hughes, for whose sad bereavement the utmost sympathy has been felt in Bootle circles, but “little Tommy,” the Idol of the Bootle crowd just now, once more filled the gap, and Jones partnered Hastings on the left, whilst the captain went to his natural position - the centre. The crowd was not nearly so dense as on Boxing Day, and the calculation 15,000 was a wild flight of imagination on the part of a reporter a local print. The number could scarcely have reached, it certainly did not exceed, 10,000. It was a good-humoured crowd. The man with the rattle was there, and the horn-blowers and trumpeters were also in evidence. Both teams got a good reception on coming out, and it was pretty evident that the instrumentalists in the crowd were on the part of Everton. Then Fitzroy emerges, in characteristic “getup,” and gracefully acknowledges the plaudits of the admiring throng. A friendly admonition to the players, and then he lines them up, With Everton facing the Oakfield-road goal, and having the dope and slight wind in their favour.
THE PLAY
The Bootle men made good use the of the kick off, and passed prettily into their opponents ground, where the ball remained in dangerous proximity to Smalley. A claim of hands for Bootle is at once acknowledged by the referee, and Allsopp places the ball accurately. It is pounced upon by Wood, passed across to Jamieson, and the Bootle captain taking cool and steady aim shoots a splendid goal through a shoal of opponents. A wild cheer burst from Bootle sentingent, but such an impetuous onset followed the kick off, that it looked as the game would at once be equalized. But now was seen with what determined defenders the Evertonians had to fight. “Mac“kicked with tremendous power and tackled unflinchingly and unfailingly, whilst Frank Woods was equally impassable. And so the Everton forwards commenced to try of what mettle Jardine was made. From long range they poured in an unmerciful fusillade. There came high shots and low shots, straight shots, oblique shots; but the young Scotchman between the sticks punched and kicked, and caught and let alone, and threw himself down upon the ball, in manner which even heartbroken Evertonians could not forbear to cheer. He once ran with the ball, and an ominous silence prevailed as the referee carefully measured six yards and when the ball was finely placed the huge crowd behind the goal swayed forward in eager anticipation, and fell back like a broken wave, whilst again the wild Bootle cheer proclaimed that the ball had got loose and away. It was a mouvaied quart old heure for Bootle sympathizers, but a better time came, and little “Tommy” came in for a lot of encouragement for his fine play, whilst Campbell and Allsopp put a temporary check on the advances of the home forwards. Ross came out prominently at this juncture, his tackling of the dangerous right wing of Bootle being superb, and his kicking of extraordinary power. From one of his returns a struggle took place round Jardine; McFarlane fell back at a critical moment, Chadwick rushed in and shot at Jardine. He saved, but did not clear, and Milward get in another hot one, and again the plucky custodian hit out, but again failed to dear, whilst before he could gather himself for a final effort Parry banged the ball at a terrific pace through the fatal opening. This sent the Everton party into a fever of enthusiasm, and truly it was well deserved goal. Then the Bootle men again grew threatening, but even play followed from now to the interval, and as several of the players began to show signs of distress, it was thoughtful of the referee to make the breathing space as long as possible, whilst the same polite official took occasion to compliment Jardine for fine display in goal.
HOW THE GAME WAS WON
Yes, the heavy going, and it was heavy, had told a tale. It was now a question of endurance. The visitors began to come down the slope in ominous fashion, the ball being worked amongst the Everton defenders with much skill and very definite object, and when the goal was sighted one or other of the advancing forwards rarely failed to pot it Smalley had an anxious time ; Dobson floundered helplessly about; Ross never failed nor ever faltered. But the Everton men did not submit to this attack without reprisals, the ball being impelled in Jardine’s direction quite as frequently as towards Smalley. With this difference. The Everton forwards showed few concerted methods, no judgment ' The alternation of attack and defence at either end continued with remarkable, but the greatest with anxiety was felt by Everton’s following when the ball neared Smalley, whilst the Bootleites gradually came to regard with unconcern the rash and random onsets of the home attacking party. Towards the finish Bootle came oftener, and with over-increasing confidence. A fine passing movement ended in Galbraith shooting through, but Jones had previously got off-side, and Everton breathed freely again. Just as a draw seemed inevitable, the Bootle left again got the better of Dobson ; Ross rushed across to cover him—fatal mistake—Wood get the ball and sent it straight home. Three minutes to play! A roar of excitement attended the restart. Campbell promptly robbed Davies, and banged the ball in amongst the spectators. It was thrown in, and Campbell again put it out, but a corner fell to Everton. Here the Bootle umpire rushed to the referee calling excitedly “Time ! Time!” Fitzroy was calmly looking at his watch, but before Davies could place the ball, the whistle sounded upon the triumph of the Bootle team.
REFLECTIONS
The scene of wild enthusiasm on the one hand, and the utter prostration on the other, were remarkable. Mr. Houlding and Mr. Barclay stood by the press stand, too full for speech, the burly president exhibiting an exterior of blank amazement, and betraying emotions such as he might feel if “Tay Pay” had just ousted the sainted Edward from the Gibraltar of local Toryism; whilst Mr. Barclay’s handsome face was flushed with something more than the ruddy glow of health. President and secretary thus stood, looking each across the other's shoulder, yet neither able speak. You might pick out the rival parties to a man, the crowd slowly dispersed, and the road from Everton to Bootle resounded with the triumphant shouts the victorious party. The wieners have been universally congratulated on their success, and the recollections of their triumph will be kept fresh in the memory of the team for some time to come. The club will entertain them to dinner, and this may take the form of a public entertainment. The Smoking Concerts Committee have been first in the field, and on Wednesday gave a dinner to the team at the Victoria Hotel, Miranda-rd. l am told that a munificent supporter of the club will also celebrate the victory in a similar manner, so that the success is not likely to be soon forgotten. I should mention that on the Everton side Ross gave a magnificent display at full back; that Wilson was not equal to Holt at centre half; that the forwards were inconsistent, but generally wild and erratic. Of Bootle it cannot be. Said that there was a weak man in the team, and Jardine’s performance in goal was a fine one indeed. Campbell showed some extraordinary points at half back, and Morris did all that was passible to minimize the loss of Hughes.
CHAMPIONS!
There is no question now to the settlement of the local championship. The Liverpool Cup-holders have vindicated their position as the premier club of the district, and this position should again secure them a place in the eighteen exempted teams in the English Cup competition next season. It further enhances their claim to consideration for admission into the League, and their display against Preston North End on Monday evening gives further force to this claim. Having now beaten four of the League clubs, Bootle can also claim to have beaten every team of consideration in the county except North End and Bolton Wanderers. Halliwell and South Shore have succumbed twice ; Darwen were beaten, but managed to draw their home engagement; Burnley, the Rovers, Accrington, Newton Heath, all number in their list of defeats one by Bootle, though Accrington and Newton Heath have both been avenged. The game with North End on Monday evening proved a big success. The weather was glorious, the ground in splendid condition, and despite the game at Everton the attendance was beyond four thousand. As for the play, it proved a real treat. North End displayed infinitely better form than on the occasion of either of their previous visits, and yet it is exaggeration to say that nothing but the superior condition of the Prestonians enabled them to score a success. Ross scored their first goal, a splendid one, but a series of brilliant runs the home forwards put them in a leading position at half-time, when Bootle were leading by two goals one. The home men could not keep up the pace, however, and some wonderfully accurate operations by the Preston forwards gave them the lead after some stiff struggles around Jardine. A fourth, a lucky goal, was then obtained, and then in the last ten minutes Bootle rallied. After becoming very pressing, they succeeded in getting a third point, and with very little luck must have equalised, for Trainer got rid of several awkward and hot shots from the home forwards. Still defeat of four to three reflects much credit on Bootle, and again demonstrates the dangerous nature of their attack. The feature of the first half, indeed, was the complete inability of such a seasoned veteran as Graham to cope with Wood and Galbraith, and if the Bootle men could have but held out, they would have saved the game. The reaction after Saturday might well excuse them to tiring on this occasion. The North End team comprised the five forwards the Cup team, Graham, Drummond, and Robertson, and the substitution of Bethall, Robinson for Howarth was the only variation from North End’s most powerful rearguard. Bethall played a champion game throughout.
NEWTON HEATH BEATEN
Everton and Newton heath met on somewhat even terms, each being short of three of their best teams. The failure therefore, of the Heathens to make anything more than an indifferent show, cannot be explained away. The defence was of the usual stubborn nature, and this alone prevented Everton winning the game by a very substantial majority. As it is they won by three to one. The attendance at the game was only thin, and it is now quite apparent that the midweek matches are by no means so popular at Anfield as at Hawthorne-rd.
CONSTANT DROPPING WILL WEAR A STONE
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 20 April 1889
By “Mickey Free”
Tis’ many years ago since Bootle attained the honour of beating Everton. If I remember right, it was in the final for the Liverpool and District Cup the first year it was inaugurated, and with characteristic luck Everton on that occasion had the misfortune to have T. Marriott and W. Parry, the mainstays of the back division, on the sick list. Since that time they have had many stiff struggles for supremacy, but Bootle, if they didn’t come off second best, only just managed to draw, so that it is only in accordance with the fitness of things to expect that victory must come someday, and as I said before, it ought to have been in the match previous to that under notice, when Bootle obtained a lead which they should have maintained on Saturday, however, although they won just on time I have no hesitation in asserting that the winners had not the best of the game by any means, therefore I was not a little surprised at a late Everton player making the assertion after the match that he considered the better team won, but when asked to give reasons for his deduction it amounted to a question of the forward play only. And in this I am at one with him, and at once honestly confess that the Bootle forwards did play a better combined game than their rivals. The centre fed his wings and the wings took the passes neatly. To do this properly the men must be in their own places and not all over the stop, and in this lay the difference. But after all this there is another vital point to be considered before summing up, and that is which side exercised the greatest pressure, or in other words, which side was most frequently placed on the defensive. From this stand point the said Evertonians’ little house of cards tumbles to pieces as Bootle had infinitely more to do in defending than their opponents, and Jardine had double the number of shots to deal with that Smalley had, to say nothing of the number of poor attempts at shooting, from good positions, by Chadwick, Waugh, Milward and Davies. As to Parry he did not shoot often, but when he did the ball went in the right direction. From the Everton form against Witton I expected to see much an improvement in the forwards that the result would hardly have been in doubt. Be this as it may, whether from undue anxiety or excitement or some other cause not apparent, the play bore no comparison to that exhibited in the match mentioned. This may seem strange when the assertion is made that Everton did most of the pressing, but in considering thusly, the play of the Everton back division becomes the great factor! I have seen Ross play grand football, but I do not remember having ever seen him to greater advantage than on Saturday. Need I say one word more? He and Farmer were miles ahead of all the others; in fact they were generally speaking almost impassable, and on many occasions Ross darted across from his own wing to repulse an onslaught on the other where his fellow back had been dodged. Wilson was very cool and kicked with judgement, but he appeared to tire on the heavy ground. Weir was not at his best, and Dobson was in his wildest rushing form. Smalley acquitted himself well, and was not to blame for the goals scored as he didn’t even have a look in at the ball on each occasion. The goalkeeping of Jardine was the subject of general conversation, and as usual on the Everton ground his efforts were loudly applauded. He is entitled to all the praise showered on him, still I prefer seeing a goalkeeper use his hands more. It was only requires a wet greasy ball to show how unreliable kicking is, to stop a shot. Frank Woods did many smart things, notably when he fairly took the ball off Milward’s toe when the latter was not half-a-dozen yards off the centre of goal. Morris surprised me at centre half; I could hardly believe he was capable of playing so well in the position, but Campbell took the palm in the first line of defence, whilst Jamieson, Hastings, and Woods were in their best form. The first goal was well got from a free kick, but the play on both sides just previous to Everton equalizing was about the best of the match. Morris repelled a free kick, Ross returned and the Everton forwards came with a rare rush. They found McFarlane ready whilst Woods covered the goalkeeper. Dobson replied to Mac’s kick with a long low shot; this was cleared by Jardine, then Milward and Waugh in rapid succession sent in shots which were splendidly repelled, and the ball was kept flying about the Bootle goal until the solid man, Parry, saw an opening and dashed the leather through in real business-like fashion. It was a caution to look round and see the many thousand hats waving, and hear the deafening cheers which followed this success. The pace was kept hot right throughout the whole of the second half, and I was just in the act of writing it down another draw, when, lo! The Bootle right dashed along like an avalanche, carrying away all obstacles, and with a low quick screw shot Wood settled Smalley’s hash, and won a most exciting game. The ball was again placed, kicked off, and although only one minute from time, Everton made a desperate effort to retrieve themselves and actually forced a corner, but it was of no avail, and Bootleites retired cheering like madmen.
HOW CAN WE RECONCILE FOOTBALL FORM?
On Monday, with an almost different and more indifferent set of forwards, Everton didn’t allow Newton Heath a look in, Begorrah. I give it up as a bad case.
EVERTON V. BURSLEM PORT VALE
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 20 April 1889
Fine weather favoured these teams today. Port Vale appeared with only ten men. Marriott, however, filled the vacant place at full-back. At 4.20 Milward kicked off for Everton, and within two minutes the Vale almost scored. A fine piece of passing by Parry, Milward, and Chadwick brought the leather into the Vale 25, but Bateman checked the movement. Inconvenienced by a strong breeze, Everton were pressed for some time until relieved by a fine dash by Farmer and Chadwick. From a smart scrimmage Balliham just shot outside. Smalley now cleared from Reyonds, and before he was back in his place Ballham returned the ball smartly, but striking the post it rebounded into play. From a scuffle in the Everton goal-mouth Reynolds defeated Smalley for the first time. Half-time; Port Vale 1, Everton 0.
McGinnis set the ball rolling again, and Everton at once commenced to press. Chadwick made a fair attempt, sending the leather just over the crossbar. Two corners fell to the Everton lot, but neither of them were utilized. Ditchfield now defeated Smalley but the goal was disallowed on a claim of off-side. A corner again gave Everton a chance but Broomhall cleared his lines. The game was one stopped for some time through Parry being hurt. Final Result; Port Vale 1, Everton 0.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 20 April 1889
EVERTON 0 LONDON CALEDONIANS 1
April 20 1889. The Liverpool mercury
This was the first visit of the visitors to the Anfield enclosure and to show the interest it aroused they were greeted with a hearty welcome from close upon 14,000 spectators. The day was rather dull, but fine, and the ground in capital conditions for a good display of scientific football. Everton first appeared in the white jerseys they unfortunately played in last Saturdays but as the ‘'Scottish'' were in the same costume the Everton team had to retire, and their re-appearance in the old blue and white colours was the signal for an outburst of hearty cheering. Ross won the toss, and played uphill, with a good breeze at his back. Barbour kicked off but Milward intervened and gave to the left, where the immense audience appreciated good play by Nidd. Angus passed well to Davis but the latter unfortunately ‘'fouled'' the ball, and Burns, on the visitors right, got clean away, but shot badly. Holt helped the kick off to Angus and obtained a foul near goal, but nothing tangible accrued. Everton were now decidedly the better team, and kept up a continued pressure. The home forwards made up an excellent combined run, but Farmer unfortunately headed wide. Stirling, the London Scotch goalkeeper, showed remarkable form, and wasceedingly cool. Shots by Holt and Milward were treated in a quiet way, which spoke volumes for his play. Farmer next put in a short sprint and centre to Davis, who made but a poor screw, and the ball went outside Lambie, the Scotch international obtained it from the kick-off, and Wilson missing, he ran down, and shot magnificently, this being the first time the visitors had troubled Smalley. The home team still continued to press, but weak play on the Everton right was the cause of several chance being lost. Farmer dodged his opponents in capital style, but Milward made his center. Era and Lamb received great applause for a short-passing run, which was prettily checked by Ross was in his right place,, and cleared, and Milward tried a shot which went wide. Burna, the noted late Lancashire cricketer, now raced away and beat both Nidd and Ross, but his pass was not put to the best use. Milward then put in a short timely run, and passed at the proper moment to Davies, but he mulled and allowed the ball to go out. Still maintaining the pressure the Evertonians kept Niel and Stewart very busy, but their play was so good that no impression was made. At last Farmer got the best of Stewart, and shot in terrific fashion close to the goal-post, and Stirling in attempting to clear-apparently from the stand-put the ball through his goal, but upon an appeal the point was disallowed and a corner given. Pretty play by Lambie and Barbour beat weir and Wilson, and Ross had to kick out. Milward was now prominent for an excellent shot, but this was replied to by a spendid dodge run down the right Clarke who finished up in fine style by giving Smalley an awkward handful. This brought about half-time, and now that the visitors had the wind their combination improved, and, as they improved so Everton fell off, and for a long time their forwards play was wretched. Good combination by Lambie and Ross compelled Holt, and then Wilson to give corners, but nothing was made of them. Burna then beat Ross twice in succession, and Smalley had an anxious time, but eventually Ross lunged out, and cleared by putting over the houses. Clarke threw into goal mouth, and after some hopping and dodging about, Barbour popped on the ball and shot through thus scoring first blood for the Caledonians. The home team now wakened up a little, but the defence of the Caledonians goalkeeper and backs was so good that so impression could be made, although Farmer and Milward put in several meritorious individual runs, one of Milward's shot striking the bar, and it was rather hard lines on the homesters to secure a corner just on the last minute, and as Framer was preparing to kick the ball to have the whistle blows for time. Teams; London Caledonians;- Stirling, goal, Stewart, and Niel, backs, Clarke, Casselton, and Smith, half-backs, Burns, MacAlpine, Barbour, Rea, and Lambie, forwards. Everton:- Smallet, goal, Wilson,, and Ross (captain), Weir, Holt, and Nidd, half-backs, Davis, Angus, Milward,. Chadwick, and Farmer, forwards.
EVERTON 0 BURSLEM PORT VALE 1
April 22 1889. The Liverpool Mercury
This match was played on Saturday on the Everton ground before 7,000 spectators. The home team were first to appear and it was noticed that Ross Waugh, and Davis were absent. Everton lost the toss, and Port Vale played with the wind and sun at their backs. Milward started, but Shields intercepted and gave to Balham, who centred smartly, but Ditchfield, on the left wing, just missed with his head. Farrar the Everton centre-half gave a dangerous foul close in goal but Ditchfield relieved all anxiety by shooting high over the bar. Milward then ran away from all opponents, but in stopping to shoot was robbed by Poulston, Ditchfield and McGuinness now ran down the centre in nice style, but a lofty kick by Dobson temporarily relieved. Shields, who played a grand game throughout narrowly escaping scoring. From the kick-off Parry passed to Milward, who again got clean away, but unfortunately overstepped the ball and fell, and thus a good chance was lost. Parry was then noticeable for excellent passing, both to his wing man and centre, but nothing was made of them. Brown on several occasions losing the ball through dallying. Ballam on the visitors right then raced away in fine style, and secured a corner off Holt. Although placed well, Weir cleared and gave to Milward, who in turn passed on to Farmer, and he got away very nicely, but in attempting to ‘'play'' with Marriott instead of going ahead he was easily robbed by Shields,, and McGunness sent the ball on the left, and Stokes caused Smalley to fist out. McGunness, however, met the ball and shot, but it went wide. Ditchfield then put in some tricky play and centred and Smalley had an anxious time for shots came from Balham, McGunness and Shields the last named just grazing the bar. The visitors up to now were having all the best of the game, and if an Everton got away his colleagues and consequently his individual efforts did not support him were easily nipped in the bud. Parry and Milward got up, and Milward lifted the ball right into the top stand. Immediately Parry, from a pass from Chadwick, repeated the performance. The homesters were not allowed to remain at the Pot Vale end very long, for the visiors forwards by quick and judicious passing, were soon round Smalley and Wilson and a regular attack was kept up for some moments and it was fortunate that Smalley was in his best humour, for had some string shots to negotiate. The old saying that ‘'Perseverance will gain its own reward'' was soon exemplified. Ditchfield and Stokes by nice passing had got down in the left corner, and had drawn Dobson out of grate when Stokes centred quickly and McGunness by a pretty overhead shot scored the first point, for the visitors. The indignant cries of their supporters somewhat roused the indifferent play of the home team, and a semblance of combination was attempted by Weir, Chadwick, and Farmer but the latter started ‘'gallery play'' and consequently the improvement went for nothing, for Poulston stepped in and made an excellent run down the centre of the field, and although challenged by four Evertonians managed to elude them all, and obtained a corner. This brought about half-time, and it was now through that the home team would make a better shape, and soon wipe the score obtained by the vistors but the play, instead of improving became worse, and it disgusted the large crowd of their enthusiastic supporters. The game eventually ended in a win for Port Vale by 1 goal to nil. Teams; Everton:- Smalley, goal, Wilson, and Dobson (captain), backs, Weir, Farrar, and Holt half-backs, Brown, Parry, Milward, Chadwick and Farmer, forwards. Port Vale:- Broomshall goal, Marriott and Batesman, backs, Poulston, Shields, and Elston, half-backs, Reynolds, Balham McGuniness, Stokes and Ditchfield, forwards. Referee Mr. Walter Sugg.
EVERTON REVIEW
April 22 1889. The Liverpool Mercury
The game on the Everton ground this Easter have been a great disappointments to the admirers of the club. The root of all the evil is the great want of combination, not only between the forwards but with the whole team. One point which most strike all throughful persons as being altogether wrong in the continual chopping and changing of playing men out of their proper positions. Why are the reserves not called upon oftener ? They won the Northwich match in a hollow fashion, and their forwards on Monday last beat the team that has been one of the hardest nuts for Bootle to crack this season. if the players and committee do not make a great change, they cannot expect to get the patronage they have hitherto to. The match on Good Friday was remarkable for the immense attendance. In the first half Everton had matters pretty well their own way, but the lazy, indifferent style of shooting lost them dozens of chances. Milward has certainly deterorated since the final introduction to the first team, and his play on Saturday was simply wretched. Brown is not class enough for a team of this standing of Everton, and it surprises more than one why he is chosen in preference to such consistent players as Keys and Briscoe. The half-backs, too, have not by any means been up to the mark of late; and Wilson through injury received in the bootle match was only ‘'so so'' The Caledonians played a very close passing game and shot with great accuracy while the two full backs were in fine kicking form. Why Farrar, the Southport Central player was brought into the team on Saturday is a coundrum few can solve. What is the use of Mr. Stockton working up a good set of reserves with such half-backs as Pollock, C Weir, Fayer, W Jones Parry, and Chadwick, and them passed over for a stranger ? With exreit de coups lacking it is not surprising that first the London Caledonians, and, then-mark it-Burslem Port Vale, should ride Everton down, even on their own ground.
Meanwhile Mr J.Rogers has sent to Mr. Frank Brettle a postcard announcing that the long looked for charity match between Bootle and Everton veterans is off, the reason being the inability to raise a team among the Bootle ‘'Vets'' What an unfortunate thing this was not found out before last Saturday week. It is rather hard on Everton who fully expected that Bootle would keep their return engagement and had by means of handbills extensively advertised the match in Everton, but it also to regretted that Stanley and Bootle Hospitals will at least be the losers of about £10 each.
To-day at Anfield Everton will try their prowess with better success, it is hoped, than of late, against the well-known Renton team, and if they are clever enough to come out of the formidable task with flying colours the bitterness of Friday and Saturday reverses will be toned down. On Wednesday Everton not content with the heavy work of late, cross over the border in order to tackle Hearts of Midlothians on the Scotchmen's native beath.
LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 22 April 1889
By the Loiterer
AT ANFIELD
The reverse of last week does not seem to effect the Everton supporters much, as there was a big crowd on the Anfield-road ground to welcome the Scotchmen from London. With the wind the home team had considerably the best of matters, but the wretched shooting of the forwards, coupled with the solid defence of the visitors, prevented them from scoring, and half time arrived with a clean sheet. On resuming, the visitors showed improved form, and the home deferce was severely tested, but some time elapsed ere Barbour scored, and they ultimately won by a goal to nil. Their goalkeeper is a grand player, and so was the centre-half. Ross and Kidd played a good defensive game, but the least said about the forwards the better
BURSLEM PORT VALE AT EVERTON.
This was the second meeting between the two teams, the first at Burslem resulting in a draw of two goals each. Burslem came short, and Tom Marriott obliged. Playing with the wind the visitors had the best of matters, and Smaller was soon called noon. The home right transferred play. The ball, however, was soon hovering around the home goal again, and Smalley showed splendid goalkeeping; but, after a time, Reynolds beat him, and at the interval the visitors led by a goal to nil. The visitors continued in an aggressive mood, and Smalley only just saved in time. Chadwick now gave Broomhall a handful, and again Everton came on, but beyond a couple of corners nothing resulted. The visitors retaliated, and "hands" against Holt further improved matters, and then Parry was injured. Play to the close ruled In favour of Everton, but they could not score, and retired beaten by one goal to none. The visitors showed nice passing, which was backed up by reliable defence. On the home side Smalley kept goal well, but generally the team seemed out of gear.
CHIPS
Everton are doing badly in their Ester fixtures. Will today’s match end in a third defeat? I hope not.
It is rumoured that Ross will not leave Everton after all. It seems to be a case of Gordon and Ross not being in the same club, and if Gordon comes to Everton, Ross will go to Preston. That was the real reason why Gordon signed for Everton.
Everton can boast of defeating a club which has twice beaten Bootle-I mean Newton Heath.
EVERTON 2 RENTON 1
April 23 1889. The Liverpool Mercury
The visit of the famous team to Liverpool to play Everton yesterday roused much interested and there was 12,000 spectators to greet them with a hearty cheer when they appeared in their dark blue jerseys at 2-30. Great eagerness was evinced as to what would constitute the Everton team, and it gave an immense amount of Satisfaction to the greater present when it was seen that three reserves men were included in the team. Ross won the toss, and elected to play with the wind and sun. J.Campbell kicked off, and at once Keys and Briscoe got away on the right, but the ball went out. Weir met the kick off, and Chadwick tried a shot, which Hannah kicked away, and G.Campbell helped the ball onto Harvey and H.Campbell who sprinted off in splendid fashion; but Ross intercepted and sent up the field, but a foul of Weir's caused Smalley to use his hands. Holt was then noticeable for his fine tackling of the visitors forwards, and from a well judged past Angus centered beautifully, and Keys obtained a corner of McCall. Weir put well in, and for several seconds the ball was bobbing about Lindsay in dangerous fashion. eventually Gardner punted up the field,, but the home team, whose improved play was greatly appreciated continued to have the best of matters and Briscoe and Weir both tested Lindsay with a good shots. From the kick off Brown sent to Harvey, and that player again got away, but Ross overlook him and kicked into touch. Ross them saved grandly right in the mouth of goal and by a powerful kick gave Keys possession, but the players centre was allowed to roll out on the other side. Campbell then took up a pass of Briscoe and outwitting Holt sent to his left wing, and McNee and McCall raced along the left and centred, but Ross met the ball and kicked over the stand. Not to be so easily denied the visitors left and centre came again, and McNee by a stringing shot struck the upright. Dobson then put on a spurt and overturned Gardner, and passed judiciously to the Everton left, but Brown stepped in before Chadwick and gave the ball to J.Campbell who when pressed by Holt, sent to Harvey but Ross came away with a rush and put in a good shot which was supplemented later on by one from Briscoe. Hannah cleared the latter by a tremendous kick but Holt again spoiled the concerned effort of the visiting forwards and passed to Keys, who, when attempting to pass McCall was fouled and a free kick awarded Gardner cleared the free kick, but Ross coming up the right moment landed the ball back again in the goal and just as Chadwick shot through the whistle blew for a previous claim for hands. Pretty play was then shown by J.Campbell, but Dobson robbed the left wing of the pass, and a miss by McCall let in Keys. Again his centre was not put to the best. Excellent short passing was now shown by Campbell, McNee and McCall, McNee centred to the right, and Harvey after dodging Ross, scored the first goal with a magnificent oblique shot. This unexpected reverse aroused the Everton team and they put more fire into their play and forced the Scotchmen back upon their goal, and kept Lindsay, Hannah, and McCall busy. Brown showed a turn of speed, but Holt robbed him, and sent to Milward who put in a flying shot, which took Lindsay all his time to get away. Angus then put in a nice easy centre but somehow both Briscoe and Keys missed. Half-time being called. Milward kicked off and he, Chadwick and Briscoe ran through the visiting forwards and half-backs, but McCall was too good for them, and returned. The Renton forwards then replied and a similar run, and Dobson was compelled to kick out. Weir got the best of an argument with McCall and McN ee and sent forward, but Lindsay ran out and kicked up the field . Farmer returned and passed beautifully to Milward but Hannah rushed in and punted up the field. Harvey dropped upon the ball and darted off, but Farmer pulled him up, and gave to Angus. Again Hannah spoiled the combination of the left wing, and then the spectators were treated to a pretty bit of passing by the Renton forwards, but they could not get any further than Ross and Dobson, who were placing in their best form. Hot obtained Dobson pass and gave to Milward, who by the help of Briscoe and Keys made considerable headway and troubled McCall and Lindsay, who was compelled to gave a corner. Weir then beat the visitors left wing, and sent to Keys, who raced off, and closed in towards goal and shot into Lindsay hands, but he only partially clearing Briscoe was enabled to make the game equal with a good shot. This success and the hearty cheers of the spectators urged the players to greater things, and for a spell the home team kept up a regular bombardment of Lindsay's goal, but that cool player was not caught napping and treated all shots in a mastery style. Angus and Chadwick with Farmer's help them get up a nice piece of Combination, and Chadwick's find shot struck the cross bar-a neat thing. Although Hannah and McCall were kicking in a most powerful style, the Everton forwards forged ahead, and directly Angus forced a corner off Hannah. This was well placed by Farmer and Milward headed in Lindsay fisted out But immediately a claim arose from players and umpire for a goal, as they stated Lindsay was though the goal, when he cleared and Mr Lythgoe, who was standing by the upright at once gave his decision in favour of Everton. The point was greatly appreciated by the immense assembly But little time being left the visitors worked hard for another point but the backs and half-backs playing a determined game, kept Smalley free from danger and when the whistle blew for time, with Everton leading by 2 goals to 1, the cheering was loud and prolonged. Teams Renton:- Lindsay, goal, Hannah, and McCall (a), backs, Brown, Gardner and Campbell (g), half-backs Harvey, McCall (j), Campbell (h), Campbell (j), and McNee forwards. Everton:- Smalley, goal, Dobson, and Ross (captain), backs, Weir (j), Holt and Farmer half-backs, Keys (j), Briscoe (w) Milward Angus and Chadwick (e), forwards. Referee R.Lythgoe
HEARTS OF MIDLOTHIAN 3 EVERTON 0
April 26 1889. The Daily Post
Played at Edinburgh on Thursday, about 4,000 spectators being present. The play in the first half was of a retaliatory character, the forwards on the home side and the backs for the Everton doing excellent work. At half-time the teams changes ends without anything bring scored, but immediately after the restart, Taylor defeated Joliffe charge. This success for the Hearts was followed twice afterwards and Everton lost by three goals to nil.
LIVERPUDILANA; BY RICHARD SAMUEL
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 27 April 1889
And on that.
Everton 0, Caledonains 1; Everton 0, Burslem Port Vale 1; Everton 2 Renton 1. Everton 2 goals Oppoents 3. Two inglorious defeats, one brilliant victory- Everton form all over. On Friday, surprise; Saturday, disgust; Monday, unbounded, unmitigated pleasure and delight. To be beaten by a Cockney team of Caledonians, generally the relics of a bye-gone football epoch, was not delightful, but still was accepted as one of the incidents of a long and varied campaign. But when Port Vale, best beaten of all the Competition clubs, comes Everton way and route the already discredited team, the cup overflowed, and a lot of free criticism and much reasonable abuse was heaped upon the heads of the Executive, who were represented as blundering and fatuous in their conduct of the club affairs. Then comes Monday and the famous Renton team, fresh from a victory over Aston Villa. Lo! The triumph of Everton, an unmistakable hard-earned success, and everything is well. The history of last week’s football is as the whole history of the Everton club in the season 1888-89. A reverse of six to two at Bolton is followed by a wondrous victory of two to nil over Aston Villa, when the club was going at its best, whilst right upon the track of this glorious event, two days later indeed, defeat at Burnley by three to none cuts short the shrill Evertonian pecan of victory. Start at any point on the record, and thus you may trace the glorious uncertainty of the doings of the Everton team. On Monday, the display of the Everton forwards was better than for a considerable time back, but throughout the holiday matches the same weakness of attack which has so long characterized the Everton play, has been very evident. With some show of bravery it was given out that Everton would play a reconstructed team for their matches and something was expected “to turn up” on this account. On Friday the Caledonians played better than they were expected, and were uncommonly stubborn in defence, but the Everton shooting was bad. ‘Twas the same tale on Saturday, but Port Vale deserve a word of commendation for their sound play throughout the match. On Monday, Renton showed signs of fatigue, and did not by their display come up to the standard looked for. However, they managed to get a goal lead in the first half, and then Everton got much the best of the operations and twice scored, winning by two to one.
EASTER AT EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 27 April 1889
By “Mickey Free”
A BAG EGG
Bad, aye, bad it was, but there is no use in talking. Shure it’s small comfort we’ve been havin’ at Everton lately. First, the gessoons from cum-Linacre come up and give us the first drubbing they ever administered since Everton had an enclosed ground? Then we have the London Caledonians (save the mark!) who gave Everton the knock by one goal to nothing, although it ought to have been considerably t’other way about had the executive used the material lying at their hands. But it’s no use in talking. Local talent has never been recognized in this district, and herein Bootle is a century ahead of us. Casselton, the strapping big centre half, did a lot of good work and pleased the spectators immensely. Little Burns, late of Hurst, a Lancashire Scotchman, put in some splendid runs, and troubled Ross not a little. The result was bad, although the gate was a bumper. But what can I say about Saturday’s match? Upon my conscience, Mister Olympian, I have scarcely any patience left to write about it. The executive must think that their supporters are a proper lot of “mugs,” and unable to distinguish the difference between a footballer and a flounder, but what can we expect when a respected member of the unfortunate committee told me that Briscoe wasn’t fit to play for nuts, whilst others asserted that the best available team had been got together. Now, sir, my way of summing this up may not be elegant, but it is not my opinion only, but that of thousands who “plank” their threepences every Saturday, and that is Bunkum. Now for proofs.
In December last the Reserve team went to Burslem and drew with the Port Vale boys, scoring two goals each, and here in the return match Burslem turned up with only ten men, so that a sub had to found (T. Marriott, late full-back for Everton). The back division couldn’t have made many mistakes, as the Evertonians failed to score, and, oh! Tell it not in Gath, Port Vale scored once- and against the first team.
Draw with curtain and let us sing a dirge over poor Toffee’s misfortunes Faix, I was nearly saying “departed greatness” but hold on a bit; hope, that feeling which hardly ever leaves us, still lingers, and although the glimmering is but that of a rush light, still it is here. Come on, Mickey. What is it? Well, haven’t we to meet Renton? Yes, av course we have, but if the same wise counsels prevail in selecting the team, what chance is there against one of the crack Scotch organization? To be sure the Blackburn Rovers beat them by a goal, but on the other hand, they took it out of the Villa by three to one. But can I believe my eyes? Shure enough it is so. Briscoe and Keys on the right wing! By the powers miracles will never cease. Where was the “Can’t play for nuts” member when this selection was made? Well, sir, I’ll now try and proceed chronologically. The Renton day was gloriously ought never to have been made more than three-piece, was not full by any means, yet there must have been close on 12,000 spectators present when the dark blue of the Renton men was copied, and a hearty cheer followed their debut. Everton were again in white –why white? Is this a grim joke of some of the executive well posted in the ways of the Celestials? As white is the colour adopted by the mourning Chinese! What has the iold blue and white quarters done to them that they should be cast aside? Everton had the breeze in their favour to start with and before many minutes elapsed the right wing showed signs of a vitality which has been totally absent of late, if I except one useless rush along the wing. There was no such thing as allowing every pass to become of non-effect through the ball going into touch; there was, in fact, less strut and more football. Keys almost scored then Briscoe shaved the upright and Weir called on Lindsay to save. Dobson checked the movement, Ross put in a long return and again Renton had a narrow escape of capitulating. Chadwick did get the ball through a little later, but the whistle had just sounded, and the leather was brought back. The Renton right next got off, and Harvey shot a goal from am almost impossible position. It was a marvelous screw, as the ball was close to the goal line, right in the corner. This performance was justly applauded. More long shooting was indulged in by Chadwick, I don’t know by the way, what has come over this player of late; his style is purely half-back and of course less effective. Campbell ball cleared a warm one from Milward, and Angus screwed across the goal mouth, Keys only just missing heading through and the half-time record was one to nil. Up to this time Everton, aided by the breeze had done most of the pressing; so much so in fact that Smalley had nothing to do. Against the wind the boys showed up quite as well, and it was not long before Keys got off, passed to the centre and Briscoe scored amid thunders of applause. A second goal was obtained from a corner, and thus Everton won the most difficult match of the series by two to one.
THE PLAYERS
I’ve seen McNee and Mcall do better, but they had Weir and Dobson in their best form to deal with Harvey and Campbell were dashing forwards, Gardner was very clever at half-back, and the two backs (Hannah and A. McCall) played fine football. On the home side, as I’ve just stated, Dobson and Weir were in fine feather. Ross was as power usual, Farmer did all that was required of him in a business-like style, but Holt was the champions of the half-back division. Milward showed up occasionally, but failed to utilize a couple of good middles by Keys. He has not, however, bene treated to this kind of thing much of late, so can hardly be blamed. Angus was less clumsy, and some of his screws were good, but Keys and Briscoe were the best of the forwards. And so sir, if Briscoe’s play on Monday is “not good enough for nuts,” it is good enough for the Everton spectators, if they count for anything-or I’m no judge,- and this is more than can be said of the ornaments which have figured there so long.
EVERTON V. WALTON (Should be Witton)
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 27 April 1889
Fine weather favoured this event, and 6,000 spectators were present when the ball was set rolling by Milward. Everton played the same team which did duty against Renton. The game opened quietly. Chadwick had a chance and shot hard, but the ball was well kept out. Witton right nicely ran up but Pickering went wide of the mark, and them Farmer almost scored by a beauty. Again Everton had hard lines, the ball skimming the bar. Witton replied by a grand assault, Ross heading against his own bar. Smalley and Dobson in turn cleared. Smalley fisted out a nice one from Rushton, and Sharples did a like good turn from Weir. The game continued fairly level and decidedly tame, the men appearing to feel the heat of the day, and the half-time arrived with a clean sheet.
On restarting Everton spurted and from a corner Weir headed against the bar, and later on Sharples saved from a header by Briscoe. The Witton lads then came with a rush, and Everton had a narrow squeak. Keys got hurt hereabouts and Ross went on the right. Again Briscoe had hard lines, Everton pressing, but unable to find an opening. Good passing by Everton followed, but Chadwick shot wide. Final Result; Everton 1, Witton 0.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 27 April 1889
EVERTON 1 WITTON 0
April 29 1889. The Liverpool Mercury
The return fixture should have been played at Blackburn but Witton preferred to again travel to Liverpool. About 6,000 spectators were present. Milward kicked off at 4-45, but senting too far forward, Isherwood had no difficulty in giving to his own forwards who ran the ball over the Everton touch line. Weir received the kick-off and gave to Keys, who raced away, and at the right movement gave to Chadwick and Angus but Smith intercepted, and by a hugh punt sent the ball to Smith jun, who shot outside the post. Milward then put in a nice run, with the assistance of Angus made good progess and Chadwick essayed a shot which Sharples threw away. Grimshaw pounced upon the ball, and then the Witton forwards showed excellent passing, and bothered Ross and Dobson considerably but Rushton relieved all anxiety by shooting over the bar. Again Milward and Briscoe tried to break through the capital defence of Smith Frankland and Sharples but these players for a while nonplussed the efforts of the Evertonians. Eventually Keys livened up and went off at lighting speed and got well down near the Witton goal, but finished up badly by a wide shot. Weir was directly afterwards cheered for a fine save in the mouth of goal, and for a time the Visitors had the best of the matters. A foul in midfield against Witton eased the pressure and a magnificent shot by Farmer, which struck the bar, was deservedly applauded. This wakened the lethargio homesters up a little and good combination being shown by Keys and Briscoe, Milward was enabled to get in a good position but the shot over. Keys made amends for this immediately by a clinking shot, which skimmed the bar. Rushton and Smith then got off and, passing Ross Rushton centred, but Smalley cleared grandly, falling on his knees to do so. Weir then beat Higgins and Horsefall,, and gave to Briscoe who in his own unique style, dodged first one and then another, and wound up with a good centre, which Angus headed in but Sharples punted out easily, and thus brought about half-time. Grimshaw restarted, and he, Higgins and Horsefield put in a very pretty passing run and compelled Dobson to kick out. The home team getting the best of the throw in enabled Farmer and Angus to get down and Milward missed an easy chance from their pass. Holt who had been doing excellent services now put in a beauty, which Sharples could only get away at the expense of a corner. Weir kicked in with excellent judgement and Briscoe headed against the bar, and another corner obtained. Frankland and old Mike cleared this and Horsefield kept Dobson fairly busy but Weir came to the rescue and robbed them. Keys secured the ball and got off in nice style, and centred in Sharples hands but again the custodian sent clear, and it seemed as though the match must end in a draw but just about this period Keys got severely kicked in the groin, and Ross seeing Everton having so much of the game, brought him full back, sent Milward on the right and went centre forward himself, and it was not long before the Witton lads knew of his presence, and it gave immense satisfaction to the large number of spectators when, by one of his characteristic sprints he literally ran the ball through, Sharples's goal and scored the only point of the match. Shortly afterwards time was called and the match ended as above . teams; Witton:- Sharples, goal, Smith, and Frankland, backs, Whiteside, Iserwood, and Pickering half-backs, Ruston Grimshaw, Higgins, Smith jun, and Horsefield forwards. Everton:- Smalley, goal, Dobson and Ross (captain), Weir Holt, and Farmer half-backs, Keys, Briscow, Milward, Chadwick, and Angus, forwards .
EVERTON REVIEW
April 29 1889. The Liverpool Mercury
The match at Everton on Saturday was characterized by the lethargy, which seemed to possess the players on both sides. At times there were grand points in the play but there was a great want of fire and energy. This can be accounted for perhaps by the fact that the Everton team have gone through some hard work this last week. To play five matches in nine days is more than enough for any team, and one of them entailing a journay to Edinburgh and back. In the match with Hearts of Midlothians the Evertonians had equally as much of the game as the home team. Bad shooting is the cause of their not scoring, and little indiscretion by Joliffe made them a gift of the first point. the second point was obtained from a foul in goal, and the Evertonians maintain that the ball went though without touching any one, but that the referee was not in clined to listen to their claims. Chadwick played the best back game and Weir showed up well amongst the halves. The two outside wing players seemed off colour and the forwards work deviled itself among Watson Milward, and Chadwick who acquitted themselves creditably. And now for the valediction. To-morrow the official season closes, when players will be freed from the shackles of registration, and when secretaries and all who have a penchant for figure will be dabbling in statistic and striking averages. During the month of May odd games will be indulged in but they count for nothing, in an authorized sense of a club's record of a club, and will be interesting more as exhibitions games for the introduction of possible and impossible new hands. The shadow of coming events.
OUR SCOTTISH LETTER
Athletic News - Monday 29 April 1889
Everton, who have a great reputation, played the Heart of Midlothian on Thursday, which was the annual spring holiday at Edinburgh. The Lancashire players appeared to be seedy. Anyhow, they did not play up to their usual form, and were beaten, in consequence, by three goals to none. All the goals were scored in the second half, where Everton fell off terribly. The Hearts, who are in extra good fettle at present, worked very nicely together, the play of the forwards being accurate and at times brilliant, Everton played a “holiday game,” - and all know what that means.
LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 29 April 1889
By the Loiterer
WITTON AT ANFIELD
Witten have visited us rather often of late, but this did not seem to detract in any way the interest In the match, and quite a respectable crowd assembled to see them on Saturday. They came short-handed, and Mike Higgins obliged. The opening incidents were in favour of the home team, and then Rushton put in a dangerous screw. Hard lines for Everton now took place, as Mr. Referee was in the way as Chadwick shot in. Play was even until Farmer nicely placed a free kick, and the ball rebounded into play front of the cross-bar. Horsfield sent in a beauty, and a little later Ross cleared a grand shot from "Mike," and Sharples was called upon. Milward made a good spurt, but up to the interval play was of an even character, and neither side had scored. On remaining, Horsfield and Higgins cantered off and Weir cleared, and the home left gave the right a chance which was not accepted. Front a free kick, Keys headed against the crossbar, and the visitors' right troubled Farmer and Ross. The home forwards now attacked strongly, but found Sharples in splendid trim. Rushton and Smith transferred play, but Ross returned and Smith conceded a corner, which Sharples manipulated, well, and Smalley was called upon. Play was again in the visitors' half, and Ross, from 'Milward's pass, defeated Sharples. To the close Everton had the best of matters, and finally won by one goal to nothing. The home team were the same as vanquished Renton, and the forwards justified their selection. The defence also was good, and Smalley kept goal in his beat style. For the visitors, Sharples was the most prominent, and he was ably assisted by the backs. The ground suited the forwards better than when they were here last, and their combination was good.
EVERTON 0 BURNLEY 1
April 30 188. The Liverpool Courier
These teams met for the fourth time this season, at Anfield-road enclosure,, last evening, and the weather being fine. There was a good attendance of spectators. On the previous matches each side had won one the remaining game being a drawn. The Burnley team has been altered considerably of late and a capital game was expectorated. Everton minus Holt, whose place at half-back was filled by C.Weir, whilst ‘'venetian'' Mike Higgins was playing forward. The visitors having kicked off an attack was at once made on the home goal, Ross relieving. The Burley forwards returned McFettridge sending in a grand shot, which passed outside the posts. The home right next ran down, a corner kick at the other end and the danger being cleared. The homesters reached the centre line and White got the ball away in fine style. The next minute Briscoe shot wide of the Burnley posts. Smalley saved several shots in a marvelous manner, but at length Duckworth beat him with a fast shot. The centre kick brought no relief to Everton a ‘'foul'' against Dobson looked dangerous for then until Ross cleared with a powerful kick in the centre, and a corner accured to Everton, but the ball was badly placed, and Keenan cleared. Burnley was next dangerous and Everton were employed in defending their goal. Ross and Dobson saved finely on several occasions succeeding which Yates made a grand dribble along the Burnley left a splendid ‘'centre'' being badly missed by Duckworth. Everton now had extremely hard lines, but the Burnley defence was magnificent, and scoring was no easy matter. The visitors forwards had several shies at the home goal which proved futile. ‘'Hands'' off Dobson pressed danger for Everton but through some misunderstanding a capital chance was lost. Cox now saved grandly and prevented an imminent goal by admirable play. Farmer sent in a splendid shot from half-back Cox again being called upon to save. Higgins also put in a bit of good play, and Everton forced a ‘'corner'' which proved futile half-time was called with Burnley leading by one goal to nil. Milward having restarted on behalf of Everton, a rush was made for the Burnley goal, reaching which Chadwick made a poor attempt to score. From the kick-out the visitors forwards attacked, Smalley saving finely. McFettridge shot well, the ball just passing over the bar. Burnley still kept the ball well in their opponents quarters, and Friel sent in a shot which took Smalley all the time to save. At this jucture Ross collided with the rails, and play was suspended for a time. On resuming Everton attacked ‘'offside'' play spoiling their efforts. Burnley were now having much the best of the game, their opponents however showing a solid defence. Milward almost broke through but Berry brought him up in fine style, and the Burnley forwards were again busy at the home goal. Dobson and Ross were playing a champion game however, the former clearing grandly. The home forwards at length went away with a rush, but could not score the luck being dead against them. The Evertonians were by far too slow on the ball, and were in consequently repeatedly robbed. Still play was again taken in front of the visitors goal Watson with an overhead shot just topping the bar. One of the Burnley players was now hurt and had to leave the field. Smalley fisted out a shot from Hibbert over the line, and on Friel returning increased pressure was brought to bear on the Everton goal. Ross cleared, and a ‘'foul'' off keenan gave Everton a chance, but being to slow the opportunity was lost. Everton had a further chances of equalising from a long kick by Ross but Chadwick shot yards too high. Watson dribbled well on the home right, but although Everton pressed severely and forced several corners, they failed to score, and were beaten by a goal to nil. Teams: Burnley:- Cox, goal, Berry and White backs Friel, Keenan and McFettridge half-backs, Hibbert, Duckworth, Campbell, Crossley, and Yates, forwards. Everton:- Smalley goals, Dobson, and Ross (captain) backs, Weir (j), Farmer, and Weir (c), half-backs, Watson, Briscoe, Milward, Chadwick, and Higgins (m), forwards.
