EVERTON 3 BLACKBURN ROVERS 1 (Game 57)
December 1 1890. The Liverpool Courier
The League match between Everton and Blackburn Rovers was played at Anfield on Saturday in the presence of 10,000 spectators. The ground was hard with frost, and there was a mist hanging over the ground. Jradine made his first appearance for Everton in goal. The teams were as follows : - Everton: - Jardine, goal, Hannah (captain), and Doyle, backs, Kirkwood, Holt and Campbell half-backs, Gordon, Brady, Geary, Chadwick and Milward forwards. Blackburn Rovers: - Gow, goal, Forbes and Brandon backs Forrest, Dewar, and Barton, half-backs Townley, Walton, Sothworth, Campbell, and Lofthouse forwards. The Rovers kicked off down hill, and there were some midfield exchanges in which, the home team came off somewhat the best. Pretty play between Milward, Chadwick, and Geary took place at the Rovers end and from this Brady narrowly missed breaking through the posts. A little more play at that end, and then the Rovers went off, Southworth getting away in a grand run, and scoring the first goal. The Evertonians took the ball from the kick off in the visitors quarters but the backs succeeded in keeping them at bay. Milward propelled a fine dropping shot, with Gow saved, and although a claim was made that the goalkeeper took the ball, when it was over the line the referee did not support it. Owing to the fog it was somewhat difficulty to distinguish the players, Everton continued to hold the advantage without any benefit and some exceedingly clever passing between Brady and Gordon resulted in the latter shooting very wide of the mark. Although the Rovers were a goal to the good they were by no means obtaining a fair share of the game- the ball continually passing and repassing in front of their citadel. From a relief by Doyle the ball went to Milward, who headed finely into the goalmouth although a good distance from it, and Geary put the finishing touch upon the effort, the equalising being enthusiastically cheered. The homesters were going at it with great form and when their opponents made an effort to get away they met stern opposition from the defence which, was in grand form. At length the visitors by means of long passing forced a corner, but this was of no benefit to them. Jardine after this ran out and kicked away an attempts by Lofthouse, and Doyle next affected a smart relief. The play was now of a more even nature and fir a few minutes, the ball was sneaking about in centre field until Townley passed to Southworth, who was about to give the forwards the chance of a dangerous rush had not Hannah smartly kicked into touch. The home men dashed away, and Gordon put a clinker right into Gow's hands and before the goalkeeper could rid himself, he had to contend with three forwards, who promptly knocked him though and the second goal was thus scored, Chadwick after the kick-off was not far short of scoring, and a shot from Brady nearly took effect, Gow sending the leather away just before he was floored again. A minute or two before half-time after some meacing by the left wing, Geary received the ball, and got the third goal. Halt time result :- Everton 3 goals,, Blackburn Rovers 1 goal.
Upon the recommencement of the game it seemed as though Everton would score again, the bell being carried down towards the Rovers goal, and it was only by the exertion of the backs and goalkeeper that it was kept out. The visiting left attacked with great vigour, and two fouls were given them in alarming proximity to the goal, but fortunately the kicks were inaccurate, and there was no adverse point gained. Milward and Chadwick worked at a good pace, and Geary from the ensing pass was preparing for a shot when Forbes uncarenouicuely removed him. An appeal was made for a foul, but not sustained. There were more unexciting manonves in neutral territory, and a but slightly sustained attack by Everton, and then the Rovers pulled up a lot of ground with no better success. The whole front rank of the home team, put themselves in a good position with spirited play and Brady had a near shaye when a goal seemed very likely to occur. Lofthouse pastured along very nicely in company with his partner until close upon the goalline, when a foul on ‘'heads'' was given. The Rovers took the kick and shot through as far as could be seen in the mist without anybody touching. A most unseemly bit of tripping and hacking between Lofthouse and Doyle occurred in front of the centre of the grand stand, and the referee Mr. Jope, admonished both players to observe more care in their play. He then inspected the boots of several of the players, and ordered Brandon and Doyle off the field in order to have some iron protuberances on the soles of their boots filed down. The home team took up the running, and was spoiled of a splendid opening owing to offside play. The Rovers then had a turn at the other end, and a free kick, and corner made it appear likely that a goal would ensue, but to the relief of the spectators this was averted. A few minutes before the conclusion of the game Brandon knee was hurt and he had to be assisted off the field. After this Everton had one or two good chances, Geary being prominent in smart flashes, but they were not taken advantage of. Final result Everton 3 goals, Blackburn Rovers 1 goal.

EVERTON V BLACKBURN ROVERS
December 1, 1890. The Birmingham Daily Post
The meeting between the two teams who faced for second place amongst the League club attracted 12,000 people to the Everton club ground at Liverpool. For the first few minutes Everton pressed rather severely, but the Rovers relieved the pressure, and Southworth with a splendid shot scored for the visitors. Very soon afterwards a fine piece of play between Milward and Geary resulted in a score for Everton and before half-time the home side had put on two more points. In the second portion of the game Everton fully maintained their lead, and so gained a victory by three goals to one. During the last few minutes there was a sharp dispute, and both Doyle and Brandon were ordered off the field to file down the irons on their shoes.

SOUTH SHORE 0 EVERTON RESERVES 3
December 1 1890.
No match details , Everton team: - Smalley, goal, McLean, and Cresswell, backs, Martin (captain), Jones (r), and Parry backs, Hammond, Murray, McGreger, McMillan, and Elliott, forwards.

EVERTON V BLACKBURN ROVERS
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 01 December 1890
Though fog seemed likely to spoil, if not entirely prevent, play in this return League match at Anfield-road, interest by no means waned on that account, as the ground was packed to completeness on Saturday and so the number assembled would be about 14,000.  The Rovers were fully represented, Brandon re-appearing as right full back whilst Everton with the exception that Jardine kept goal instead of Angus, who received a kick off on the knee at Preston, and is thus incapacitated, was the same as that which was defeated by North End, the names of the teams being as follows;- Everton-Jardine, goal; Hannah and Doyle, backs; Kirkwood, Holt, and Campbell, half- backs; Gordon, Brady Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Blackburn Rovers-Gow, goal; Brandon and Forbes, backs; Barton, Dewar, and Forrest, half-backs; Lofthouse, Campbell, Southworth, Walton, and Townley, forwards, Before commencing a consultation took place as to the frozen state of the ground, and after inspection it was decided to consider the match a League one under protest by the Blackburn Rovers, the matter to be determined by the League in council next Friday.  As soon as the ball was set in motion Holt made himself conspicuous for clever tackling, with the result that his forwards were put in possession, and neat passing between Gordon and Geary gave the Rovers anxiety, but the final shot missed the mark by a mere shave. Everton were enabled to bring further pressure to bear on goal, when suddenly Southworth broke sway in a dashing run, and, evading the home defenders, who were up the field, had a clear course, scoring a magnificent goal, which Jardine could hardly have prevented if he had seen the ball, which apparently he did not.  With a goal against them, though the game was but a few minutes old, Everton were by no means disconcerted, and at once went to the face of goal, where Kirkwood and Campbell each took good aim.   Then Chadwick tried a long shot, and in catching the ball Gow seemed to step back through goal, but the referee thought differently. Again Everton pressed severely, and good shots wear sent in both right and left, one hitting the bar. Brandon defended grandly but there was no driving the home van-back, so Barton put into, touch; but Gordon and Brady, in a neat joint run, worked the ball up, Forbes being just in time to prevent an accurate aim, Barton looked Geary close in, but Doyle came to the help of the Rovers by lifting over the bar.  Southworth again essayed a fine run, but he could not get beyond Hannah in time, and Doyle coming in the way of the ball placed neatly to the forwards, who in close order beat Gow, and equalized. The success was properly received, and excitement increased at first Milward and then Townley were in turn menacing goal. Kirkwood assisted Hannah to cut short Townley in a fast run and Everton, were soon giving trouble to Forbes who however cleared.  The fog by this time had lifted greatly, and play became more distinct. A passage of arms between Geary and Dewar was the next interesting item, and the Notes man coming out with flying colours took operations in close proximity to the Rovers’ goal. The defence proved sound until an escape was made on the right, where Doyle covered a miscalculation by Campbell. The visitors, however, were not easily beaten off. Hannah kicked out, and Doyle tackled firmly, but a corner was conceded, and from this Everton took up command. Gordon shot into Gow's hands, but Milward returned the ball and nonplussed the wily custodian, giving Everton the lead. Keeping up a determined onslaught the home team were within an ace of scoring two or three times, the passing being excellent. Brandon at length sent play into the home quarters; but here Geary dribbled back, tricked Dewar, and shot a splendid goal, which brought up the interval with Everton leading by 3 goals to 1.  Milward opened the second half by a fine run, and though challenged, by Brandon, put in a good centre, but the ball went over the line. Hannah next placed accurately, and Kirkwood essayed a shot, arrested by Forbes. Geary then tried to go down, but was smartly foiled by Dewar, and this placed the Rovers in an advantageous position, as, on Townley gaining a throw-in near goal, Walton put over the bar so closely that many at a distance thought a point had been scored. Doyle, by a huge kick, put his forwards in evidence, but the visitors held them in check, though with much difficulty. Lofthouse made many gallant efforts to break away but he was invariably beaten by Doyle, and play went, as it had throughout, in favour of Everton, Campbell adroitly robbed the Rovers' left wing, and Brady sent in a quartet of good shots, which were well stopped by Gow and Forbes. Soon afterwards a free kick fell to the Rovers at an easy range, but the ball passed through goal untouched. Play tended towards roughness from this time forward, and an examination of boots was deemed necessary, with the result that Doyle and Brandon momentarily retired. Everton maintained the upper hand, during which Brandon and Geary came into Collison and the former wrenched his knees so badly that he was forced to withdraw, and soon the end came with the disaster at Ewood Park fully avenged, a hearty cheer being sent forth in recognition that Everton had carried the day by 3 goals to 1,
Considering the hard nature of the frost-bound ground, the game was a capital one, and how well players kept their feet and passed accurately under such impediments was really surprising. 
The Rovers were never in the hunt, which seems a little paradoxical-remembering that they scored the first goal. But this was a bit of a fluke, though Southworth deserves every praise for his grand individual effort, so suggestive of what Geary did repeatedly when the Rovers- were at Anfield last year. Everton had been pressing so severely prior to this incident that the home defenders were decoyed too far up the field perhaps; and when Southworth, with his great speed, had got a footing no one had a chance of overtaking him. If he ran well he shot better, and the ball went under the bar, out of sight and reach of Jardine, at a truly lightning like pace. This performance stands out as the striking feature of the match, though there were innumerable smart things detailed to the vast and excited crowd during the afternoon. Everton and their supporters accepted this early reverse with the utmost nonchalance. There were no forebodings of failure, and this will be readily conceived when it is noticed that the Rovers from the outset showed that they-were overmatched, on this occasion at least. Everton went up to goal persistently in solid formation, and so stoutly that the defence, strong though it was, must inevitably yield to the impact, and soon the strain proved too great. A scrummage goal equalised, a fine shot by Milward gave Everton the lead and a clever dribble and successful shot by Geary cemented the advantage just on half time. The game was considerably more, with Everton on changing ends. Still no flaw in the Rovers' defence was now to be found, but the victory of 3 goals to 1, even if the play warranted a more decisive one, is ample, and was thorougbly earned. Everton had no faulty department. The wings were evenly balanced, and Geary evinced great spirit, keeping his supports well combined, despite the fact that he had a masterly centre half in Dewar to pay him special attention, who, it must be confessed, frequently spoilt Geary in well-conceived ideas of attack. The home forwards passed very neatly, and, whilst all were effective, mention must be made of the improved form of Gordon, who has got quickly into a League stride; and, having youth on his side, has a future of fair promise before him.  Holt-was happy in his successes, over Southworth and Campbell especial, and, as both Kirkwood and W. Campbell were at their best, the half-backs were an important factor in the attainment of Everton's victory. Doyle and Hannah, too, were as firm as rocks, and the amount of work Doyle gut through would exhaust the majority of players. Jardine had little to do, but stopped a few ugly thrusts on his citadel. It was an unpropitious start, though, to be baffled by the first shot levelled at the Everton goal whilst in his charge! The Rovers were uneven. The left wing out-balanced the right, Lofthouse having small chance of contributing his strong rims and hard shots. Southworth made a good centre forward so far as Holt permitted. The backs had more work than they cared about, and did some-clever things, and that they had so much is more to the blame of Barton and Forrest, who were moderate, than Dewar, who was, with Gow in goal the "giant" of the Rovers' team. It may be the Rovers will appeal successfully for the match to be replayed; but what about the other League matches, as the grounds were even worse in some eases?

EVERTON V SOUTH SHORE
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 01 December 1890
Everton visited Blackpool on Saturday to play South Shore.  Murray missed his train, and the trainer was called upon to keep goal for Everton in the emergency.  The first half was somewhat even, the visitors scoring the only goal; but afterwards Everton pressed repeatedly, and adding 2 goals, won by 3 to nil. 

EVERTON NOTES
Lancashire Evening Post - Monday 01 December 1890
The match at Everton on Saturday affords a good illustration of the folly of playing football on a ground frozen Hard as iron, and in a tog dense enough at times to prevent the players seeing the goalposts from midfield. There was crowd of about 11,000 people in the enclosure, and their clamourous demands overcame the better judgment of the officials, and the match was declared a League fixture, The result was rough excited game, which ended, after several narrow escapes from serious accidents, in Brandon having to leave the field with a badly twisted knee, which may keep him out of the Rovers’ team for another long spell. It is ridiculous to play football under such conditions. Just before the game started a thick fog rolled over the enclosure, and made it impossible to see across the ground. The start was delayed several minutes, and Mr. Jope, the referee, declared that owing to the fog would not undertake the responsibility of giving a decision on a disputed point. The Rovers’ committee thereupon lodged a protest against the match as a League fixture. The fog lifted somewhat, but at times it was very bad. As to the game, it doesn’t call for much remark. Play was rough, much more so than was safe under the circumstances, and the shouts of the spectators did not help to allay the feeling any. An angry altercation in the second half among the players led to an examination of the boots with the result that Brandon and Doyle had to have their spikes knocked off. For the victors Jardine had little to do, but Doyle and Hannah had plenty, but both acquitted themselves well. The halves were too much for the visiting forwards, Holt being particularly conspicuous. Of the forwards, the left wing were the best pair, though the others played a dashing game. Gow played well, but made one mistake, which cost the Rovers a goal. Brandon and Forbes were in good form, but the halves were poor. Barton does not show the judgment that used to characterize his play. Repeatedly he passed the ball to the foot of an opponent. The forwards played badly. They dallied too long with the ball, and tailed to shoot when they ought to have done. They certainly could not stick on their feet as well as their opponents, but if they had shown half as much dash as Everton did the result might have been different.

EVERTON NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 01 December 1890
D. Doyle, of Everton, has to be very careful, or irresponsible and inexperienced football writers are continually hinting about his “reputation” and also his “dangerous” play.  I believe a firm of Liverpool solicitors have been in correspondence with a Sunderland paper on this matter, but even a contradiction does not always wipe out the bad impression caused by a first paragraph.  I have seen Doyle very often during the past two years, and have had particular occasion to closely watch his movements, and I can honestly say he is not a bit worse than most players of his weight, and a great deal better than some prominent backs I could name.  Of course, he commits breaches of the rules, and did so on Saturday in a most glaring manner; but so do other players, and I do not think it is fair to be continually reaping up old matters. 
From what I hear it is not unlikely that Wylie, of the Glasgow Rangers, will be in the Everton team before long.  Certain it is that he has signed the necessary documents, and all that is required is Wylie to come over and complete his agreements by playing.  The Maybe lad is a good player, and since Latta was so badly injured Everton have been in need of an outside right, but on Saturday’s form I do not think Wylie will be an improvement on Gordon, who played really well.
The Rovers protested against the match with Everton being considered a League game, and the case will come before the League at its meeting on Friday next.  A great deal depends on the decision of the referee, and no doubt Mr. Jope will be very definite in his statement.  The grounds of the protest were the state of the turf and fog. 
Dr. Morley was present at Anfield, despite the very inclement weather, and sat on the stand beside that prominent Evertonian, Councillor Houlding.  These gentlemen took very little part in the controversy about the elements, &tc., and for what they said might have been disinterested spectators.  There were one or two excitable people in the immediate vicinity, and the most desperate of the Everton shouters-but a really decent fellow-willingly held up his hands to the superior qualifications of a Blackburnian, who is the acknowledged possessor of the strongest pair of lungs of any football enthusiast in the East Lancashire town. 

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES.
Athletic News - Monday 01 December 1890
By The Loiterer.
THE ROVERS AT EVERTON.
Everton were fairly on the job on Saturday, and ran the Rovers off their legs.  The game for the first ten minutes was carried on in the Rovers quarters but the play of the Everton forwards was not of the best, and Brandon and Co, held them in check.  Not so at the other end, as Townley quietly tipped the ball to Southworth in midfield, and gave the steady Hannah the “go by,” and the ball was through in the twinkling of an eye.  This piece of good play and good fortune brought out the faithful followers of the Rovers, but soon the Everton spectators had an innings, and it may be safely said they occupied the wickets all the afternoon.  The match will be dealt with elsewhere, but I would just like to have a little say in the matter.  For the most part the game was fast and terribly exciting, but in the later stages there was too much play to be interesting; in fact, at one time it was perfectly disgusting, and what with fouls, “throws up,” and free-kicks, matters were a trifle mixed.  All through Everton had the best of it, but it must be remembered that the game was played under protest, on account of fog and the hard state of the ground, and it is possible it will have to be re-played.  However, the League will settle this on Friday next.  Protest or no protest, there is no mistake one side, at any rate, was trying, and that was the winners.  They went at it in earnest, and three goals to one hardly represents the play.  The home right played a good game, their passing being streets ahead of anything yet done since Latta’s accident.  From what I hear Gordon’s place in the team is not safe, as Wylie, from the Glasgow Rangers, is expected on Friday, but I fancy there won’t be any great improvement. 
The Everton Committee is a queer body.  Here they go and give 75 pounds for Jardine, and then choose Angus to keep goal.  Now, if Angus is good enough, why did they procure Jardine, and who is to be the reserve man?  Outside the magic circle there is only one opinion as to who should have first call. 
The treatment of the secretary is not what it ought to be.  Only a week or two ago he had to leave the Sunderland officials to go to Crewe with the reserve, to the consternation of Mr. Watson.  There is no mistake about Mr. Molyneux being a servant, and if he does not know it, that is not the committee’s fault.  Even at the dinner given to the players he was placed in an undignified position, but anyone can see which way the wind is blowing, and before long we shall have further developments.  Pity they don’t value a good secretary when they got one; but it is the way of the world, I suppose.  There is one thing certain, Mr. Molyneux is highly respected by all the outside club officials I have come across. 
The committee of the Liverpool and District Association met at the Neptune Hotel, on Friday evening to draw the third round of the Cup ties, senior and junior.  Everton have an easy thing on with the Bootle Wanderers, and Bootle should manage Stanley.  Aintree Church and Earlestown will be the best match of the lot, and should be an even game. 

EVERTON V. BLACKBURN ROVERS.
Athletic News - Monday 01 December 1890
By The Free Critic.
The Rovers have travelled up the League list so very rapidly that Liverpool people eagerly anticipated their visit to Anfield on Saturday, and, despite the frost and fog, there would be fully 12,000 people present to see the game. The Rovers were able for the first time for many weeks to put their full team in the field, whilst, with the exception of Latta, Everton may be said to have done the same, Jardine, of Bootle, appearing in the Everton ranks, the teams being— Everton.— Jardine, goal; Hannah and Doyle, back: Kirkwood, Holt, and Campbell, half-becks: Gordon. Brady. Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forward Blackburn Rovers;-Gow. Goal: Brandon and Forbes, backs; Barton. Dewar, and Forrest, half backs; Lofthouse, Campbell, Southworth, Walton, and Townley, forwards Referee: Mr. W. H Jope. Previous to the match there were a series of pow-wows about the state of the ground, and likewise the atmosphere, representatives of both clubs assembling in force, but ultimately the chairman of the Everton Club, Mr. Barclay, announced that they intended to play a League match, whilst on other hand the Rovers had protested. However, the game was started, and was soon in the Rovers' quarters, where Brandon and Forbes defended admirably. The Everton forwards very early on showed that they could play on a hard ground, and they had all best of it, but could not get the ball through, owing chiefly to the admirable defence of the Rovers. After Everton had pressed a considerable time, the Rovers broke away and Southworth got the ball, ran on, and made a deadly shot, which Jardine just touched. The Everton backs, with the utmost sana froid, placed the ball for a goal-kick, but the referee did not quite see the force of the joke, and allowed the goal. After this the first half may be described vary briefly series as a series of attacks on the Rovers’ goal, varied by occasional spurts on the part of the visiting forwards; but the ball very seldom reached the goal line, and the Rovers were completely out of It. Whilst the Everton men dashed the ball and got it, the Rovers simply waited and lost it, and it is wonder Everton did not score more than they did. When the equalizing goal was obtained there was a great shout, for up to this period the Rovers' defence had been so safe and determined that it would not have been surprising had they successfully resisted the efforts of the Everton forwards. The second point was secured from a high shot, which Gow caught but held too long, with the result that was unceremoniously bundled through the goal-ball and all. The third was through a bit of combined forward play, the ball being put past Gow after a genuine case of “hands “on the part of one of the Rovers. The Everton umpire, wise in his generation, did not see the palpable foul, whilst, singular to say, the Rovers' official did, but as he did not make his appeal until the ball had passed between the posts. Mr. Jope did not give him credit for his impartiality and allowed the point, and with three goals to one in favour of Everton the teams crossed over. The second half was not one-sided as the first, neither was it so pleasant. The Rovers were often at the top goal, but their forwards played in a very loose manner, and were seldom really dangerous. Whether it was the hard state of the ground or not I cannot say, but they certainly did not show anything like the same amount of dash as their opponents; and although the ball was several times dangerously near the Everton posts, there was only about one decent shot for Jardine to clear, and that was put In from half-back, and caused the ex-Bootleite to jump up. At the other end matters were often very sultry, for the Everton forwards do not believe in fooling around with the ball, and when they get it mean to land it somewhere near the uprights. Gow, however, was in good form, although one or two occasions he dallied too long, and Forbes and Brendon were also on the job. During the last ten minutes the Rovers played up most spiritedly, and seemed certain to score, but they discovered that the Everton defence was as good as their own when it was tested. There were several bits of foul play, and once Lofthouse and Doyle caused Interference on the part of the referee. Although the Rover had no right to retaliate, Doyle was the first offender. However, matters were smoothed over, and just before the finish Brandon came down heavily on the hard turf and so severely injured his knee that he had to be assisted off the ground. Considering this was Brandon's first appearance for about a month it was very hard lines, and from what I heard it is likely to turn out a rather severe case. The end came without any further scoring, and Everton won by three goals to one.
No one who saw the match -not even the enthusiastic Rover who made the Everton shoutist take a back seat—will deny that on the day there was only one team in it. Last week I said that Sunderland could not play on a heavy ground, and I am equally certain the Rovers cannot shape on a hard one. They did not seem tumble to it-they certainly tumbled on it often enough—and Everton displayed any amount of dash. Both teams were shod in the same manner, but where one Evertonian went, down there were half a dozen Rovers slipped and fell. The first half was terribly one-sided, and the Rovers' forwards could not raise a gallon. As for combination, there was none, and it was hard lines on Everton to be pressing, and then have a goal scored against them. By the way, there was no mistake about that goal. Southworth pounced on the ball in the centre of the field, doubled round the backs, and, when going at full speed, sent in a shot strong enough to take the goalkeeper along. After this, all the play was at the Rovers' end, but the defence was admirable, and I thought that Everton were pressing too much to score, but eventually the game was equalized, and the other goals soon followed. The second half was more even, but still Everton had the best of it. The only drawback was the rough play which was introduced, and there were several shady bits; but fortunately nothing serious resulted from them, for the Injury to Brandon was a pure accident. I feel very sorry for both Tom and the Rovers, for the St. Mirren man played a good and gentlemanly game, and it is hard lines to be badly injured after nursing a damaged knee for a month. I may say it was not the same knee which gave way on Saturday. One of the medical gentlemen took a very gloomy view of Brandon's future football career, but I hope matters will turn out better than is anticipated. I was much pleased with the all-round performance of the Everton men, who continually on the alert, and didn't wait for the ball dropping, but went to meet it, and this was where they beat the Rovers. The forwards passed with rapidity, and shot well, and Gordon, who took Latta's place at outside right, placed very well, and it will take very few games indeed to make him a real good one. He has capital command over the ball, dribbles and passes nicely, and is not afraid of doing his fair share of work. Besides this, he has youth on his side, and possesses a well-knit frame which will develop. Brady did fairly well, but occasionally his passing was rather wild and inaccurate. Geary did not get away often, Dewar being on his track, but once or twice the Notts flier was seen going at tremendous speed, and if Forbes and Brandon had not remained firm Gow would have to had look out. Chadwick is the forward in the Everton team, and the way he can “hook" the ball to his partner from almost any position is a caution; and he is a Blackburn man. Milward has been made what he is by Chadwick, and I very much doubt if there is a better left wing in any club. The Everton half backs played sturdy game, and Campbell was altogether too much for Lofthouse, who endeavoured to dribble, with the inevitable result. Little Holt, another Blackburn man, was on Southworth's track all the afternoon, and got in some wonderful kicks, whilst Kirkwood played the whole of the time. Both Hannah and Doyle defended grandly, the latter putting in some big kicking, whilst the old Rentonian was as steady as a rock, and makes an admirable captain. Jardine had very little to do, but once in the second half made a magnificent save, getting the ball away from just under the bar. Very few of the Rovers are entitled to a good word. Take their exhibition as a whole, it was palpably weak and unworthy a league team. This applies more particularly to the forwards, and Southworth, Lofthouse, and Walton shaped like schoolboys. I was surprised at the latter, for no matter what the others are doing, you can generally rely on “Nat” Townley played fairly, and so did Campbell; but, for some reason or other, they were continually going down, and I'm sure it could not have been for choice, for, in addition to being hard, the ground had not been well aired. Barton was most plucky of the half-backs, and he had the best wing to face. Dewar did not play badly, though he did not get on the ball as usual, whilst Forest was neat, but not very effective. Both backs played a sound, honest game, and saved the Rovers from a very heavy defeat.  Gow kept goal well, the only fault he has being a weakness for holding the ball, and once he was rushed through on Saturday, whilst on another occasion he narrowly evaded a similar collision. The protest against the ground and fog will be heard at the next League meeting, and, course, a great deal will depend on Mr. dope's statement as to whether he could see the ball clearly all through the game.

EVERTON RESERVES 0 BATTLEFIELD 2
December 2, 1890. The Liverpool Mercury
With the first team of Everton away trying conclusion with the Celtic the Scotchmen and to put up with meeting a mixed eleven of the home club at Anfield-road yesterday afternoon. The ground, owing to the heavy rain overnight, was in a sodden condition, and good football was accordingly out of the question. The Battlefield men were a very good lot all round, and at times treated the 5,000 spectators with an occasional taste of their merits, while on the other hand, the home eleven with one of two exeption, were far below what is generally seen at Oakfield-road. Owing to the non-arrival of three of the selected player, the game was late in starting, and only two thirty-five were played. Everton were lucky in the toss, and Cunningham started. The strangers at once worked up in the centre, but failed to get beyond Weir, who was the means of Abbott speeding away, Martin putting a good shot to the side of Neil's charge, the visitors had to put in a deal of hard work for which Hall was the most prominent before the homesters could be stemmed off. McLaughlin forced a corner, and Joliffe ran a narrow escape, a hard shot from J.Hall hitting the upright and rebounding into play. After Everton had twice tried to find an opening, Bttlefield was soon back to Joliffe, who was beat by Inglis after ten minutes play. Good combination by the Battlefield team carried the ball to get back to the home quarters, but the leather was worked over. Everton now warmed up a bit to their work, and a piece of sterling play by Farmer deserved better luck, than a fruitless corner. Cunningham attempted to get away, but found Nidd in waiting, and a good bit of passing work by the home right and centre was finished by Hislop sending to the side of the upright, a similar felt being performed by Nelson at the other end. Just before half-time, a few exchange ware made, but the whistle sounder with the score Battlefield 1 goal, Everton nil. On changing over, the Battlefield were the first to get prominent, and both Nidd, and Hammond had a lots of work in stemming the rushes of the strangers. A free kick to Everton was nicely placed by Weir, and Farmer narrowly misted equalizing with a fast shot. Again attacking, Joliffe had a couple of good shift to fist out, but Nidd conceded a corner before a danger was allayed. A long kick by Hammond was the means of Everton getting well in, and after a corner, had been worked by the Battlefield men. Inglis sped away, and crossing to Kilgour the latter beat Joliffe a second time and appeal for offside being negatived. Joliffe being again beaten, a claim for offside this time being successful backed up this success. Play remained in the Everton goal for quite ten minutes, relief coming to the homesters through Cunningham spinning the leather over the crossbar. From the goalkick the Anfielders were award a corner, which, however, resulted in nothing tangible, and Joliffe thrice saved cleverly from the visitors front rank. The only excitement during the entire game was now exhibited as Hammond worked neatly through and placed to Abbott, who shot in, and Neil just saved with difficulty. The game again became monotonous, and no further scoring taking place, a poor game ended in a win for Battlefield by 2 goals to nil. Teams Battlefield: - Neil, goal, Cook, and Hall (J), backs, Hall (P). Hendry, and Connal, half-backs, Kilgour, Inglis, Cunningham, Nelson, and McLoughlin, forwards. Evertoi: - Joliffe, goal, Nidd, and Hammond, backs, Weir, Martin, and Edwards, half-backs, Jones (R), Abbott, Hislop, Farmer, and Kelly, forwards.

ROVER  PROTEST AGAINST EVERTON.
Burnley Express - Wednesday 03 December 1890
The Rovers' protest against Saturday's match at Everton being a League fixture, because of the fog and the ground, will come for hearing at the next League meeting at Manchester, on Friday night. All will depend upon what Mr. Jope, the referee, says, but there is a pretty general opinion that the match will be declared a League fixture.

EVERTON NOTES
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 06 December 1890
That Everton must have felt in unusually good trim for football when they urged on Saturday, in face of very unfavourable circumstances, that the game with the Blackburn Rovers should be considered a League match ; that a very curious cloud of thick black smoke came over the ground, and rendered the light so bad that it was impossible to see across the field ; that this made one think that a midnight match by the aid of the electric light was about to take place and that the lights had gone out; that here and there all over the enclosure match lights shone conspicuously as spectators lit their pipes ; that to a large extent the dark cloud passed  away before the game commenced, but this did not do away with all the drawbacks ; that when the teams turned out the men could hardly stand on their feet; : that it was evident the turf was more suited for skating  than playing football; that the Rovers very properly protested against the game being a League match ; that  it was some satisfaction to them that the referee declared at the beginning that he would not be responsible for disputed goals ; that the Rovers played throughout the game as though they anticipated breaking a limb, while on the other hand Everton played recklessly—frequently at man as well as ball---and were apparently determined to take the Rovers down : that the Rovers simply at sea, and were defeated at every point except at back; that Brandon and Forbes played a “clinking” game ; that it was a pity Brandon received another injury to his knee on his first appearance after several weeks’ absence; that the Liverpool men were all in good form, the right wing pair especially ; that it was no credit to them to commence showing unnecessary roughness, after the Rovers had opened the scoring ; that an Everton supporter, who had found his way into the Press box, acted rather strangely ; that his excitement against the Rovers got to a tremendous pitch in the first half ; that when the Everton victory was practically assured it was funny, to say the least of it, to witness his attempts at disinterestedness by asking for fair play for the Light Blues.

EVERTON v. WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS.
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 06 December 1890
Evert journeyed Wolverhampton to-day, play their League return fixture with Wolverhampton Wanderers. When the Wolves visited Liverpool in September, they were defeated by five to nil. Both teams made special preparations for the struggle, which took place before 10,000 spectators. Teams Everton;- Jardine, goal; Hannah and McLean, backs; Kirkwood, Holt, and Parry, half-backs; Wyllie and Brady, right wing; Geary, centre; Chadwick and Milward, left wing. Wanderers;- Rose, goal; Baugh and Mason, backs ; Fletcher, Allen, and Brodie, half-backs; Wykes, Booth, Thomson, Wood, and Worrall, forwards There were 8,000 to 10,000 spectators. Geary kicked off for Everton. Everton began aggressive tactics, and the Wanderers speedily gained a free kick, which was well taken, but Everton were equal to the occasion, and directly broke through the Wanderers defence, with the result that Milward put the ball through after several miskicks. An appeal for offside was allowed. The Wolves now pulled themselves together, and play became exciting. Jardine saved a hot shot by Booth, and play was suspended temporarily through Geary being hurt. On the resumption the visitors forced matters and became dangerous, but missed a good chance. Wood, for the Wolves, tried a header, which proved abortive. Allen, from a free kick, nearly did the trick, and then Everton got possession and passing to Moran, Geary scored in splendid style. Jardine was called on to save twice. Brady and Wyllie caused a sharp scrimmage in the Wanderers’ half. The Visitors’ forwards played strongly and Brady tried Rose with a hot one, which was beautifully saved, half-time—Everton 1, Wanderers 0.
In the second half the Wanderers want off with a dash, Worrall nearly scoring directly. Everton next made a fruitless attack but Geary with a splendid shot nearly upset Rose, who was for a time kept well employed. The Wolves exhibited poor form on the whole, though Brodie and Baugh, for the defence, played well. Booth made splendid run, and he was within an ace of scoring with a neat, centre, and Wood made an effort to force the ball through, but Hannah cleared. Geary was next unsuccessful in an attack on a drop goal. Wykes and Worrall became dangerous, after passing McLean, but could not equalise. The score and play altogether was very even. Hannah saved out of exciting scrimmage, and the Wanderers, although pressing, were kept at bay Wood was expected to do the trick, after a shot by Thompson, but disappointed the Wolves’ supporter-;. Worrall was injured. No further goals resulted.
Result Everton 1, Wanderers 0.

WYLLE ENGAGED AT EVERTON
DECEMBER 6, 1890. The Belfast News Letters.
The defeat of Blackburn Rovers by Everton was the most important item in Saturday's matches. The Liverpool club on this occasion showed a return to its old form before the unfortunate accident to Latta. A young player of the name of Gordon filled the place of the injured right-wing man better than an substitute that has been tried, and it is partly due to the more combined efforts of the forwards that Everton achieved so great a victory. The Rovers did not consider the ground fit for a league match, and played under protest. This may account for the poor display they gave, but if so they were ill advised, as the match in all probability will rank as a League fixture. Tom Brandon of the Rovers, slipped on the hard ground at Everton, and hurt his knee so badly that nit will be some considerable time before he will be able to play again. This is practically hard lines for the Blackburn men, who have no efficient substitute for their fine half-back. I hear that the Everton club has engage Wylle, of Glasgow Rangers, to play outside right forward, in place of Andrew Latta, who seems to be permanently indisposed. The terms on which Wylle comes re pretty stiff, being £100 down and £3 a week. This is very good pay for a few hour's a weekly, but it must be remembered that the right of a professional footballer are great, and also that a player seldom maintains first class form more than a few years.

BLUE REVIEW
December 6 th 1890. The Liverpool Courier.
Last Saturday was an eventful day, for all eyes –locally at least –were turned in the direction of Anfield, where in the return match with the famous Blackburn Rovers, who twice had lowered the colours of North End, the Evertonians were, so to speak, to “do or die.” To lose meant perhaps the irreparable deprivation of an exalted position in the annuals of the League, but to win was to regain prestige and to inspire renewed hopes of future victories with partial recovery of the ground lost in recent encounters. Liverpool expected every man to do his duty, and knowing it, right gallantly Everton responded to the call, with a result that surpassed the most sanguine expectation. The turf was as hard as adamant, and to make matters worse a fog developed the ground just prior to the start, but which fortunately cleared off as the play proceeded. The atmospherical and other adverse conditions, however, sufficed to induce the Rovers to formally protest, notwithstanding which the game was regarded as a League engagement by home captain and his responsible adverse, who confidently left the question for future adjudication. Jardine, who appeared in the Everton colours for the first time, enjoyed a most cordial reception, which he justified by his display in goal; for although not heavily taxed, the old Bootle custodian discharged his duties to the evident satisfaction of the thousands present on the occasion. He certainly was beaten by a shot from Southworth, but it was such a scorcher that it is doubtful whether the smartest custodian in the land could have checked the flight of the ball through goal. But this success was the only real chance the Rovers ever had. It simply served to nerve the Everton men who forthwith gave an exhibition of the dash and skill which the habitues of the ground were accustom to witness during the early days of the season, when Latta was in his place and the evolutions of the team were as perfect as the most fastidious supporters of the club could desire. So irresistible indeed, was the attack that the score was speedily equalised; but when the third goal was registered just prior to half-time the feat evoked a storm of applause which the Rovers will long remember. This completed the scoring, for afterwards the play (which occasionally bordered on roughness) was of a desultory character, and as the English cupholders failed to improve their position they were thoroughly beaten by three goals to one. Rarely have the Rovers shown such indifferent form, and it is truthful to say that they were completely beaten at all points of the game. On the other hand, Everton were seen to district advantage, the left wing being particularly effective, while Gordon and Brady on the right worked more cohesively together than they have hitherto done; but as all did well it would be manifestly unfair to particulars the merits of individual members of the team.
The second string of Everton gave a good account of themselves at Blackpool, where in an encounter with South shore they were the victors by three goals to nil, the Shoreites, however, having very hard lines.

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS V EVERTON
December 8, 1890. The Birmingham Daily Post
These two football combinations, who up to Saturday were respectively first and second in the aggregate of the League contests, met at Molineux Gounds practically to decide which team should claim the championship of the matches for the present season. The particularly good form of the Wanderers and the equally successful play of the Everton so far this year were sufficient guarantee that a stubborn contest would be the result of their meeting. Stubborn the play doubtless was, but at times during the progress of the game the partisanship exhibited by the players almost approached to reprehensible roughness, and at the conclusion a somewhat large section of the spectators gave way to a most hostile and disgraceful demonstration against the visiting team, probably because they had the luck, or misfortune to win. In the case of Geary the protection of a constable with a drawn staff which was brought into justifiable use was required to save him from being badly treated –perhaps, judging from the fierceness and coarseness of the threats hurled against him. Lynched. The importance of the match may be judged from the fact that nearly 12,000 spectators assembled to witnessed it. An alteration was made in the personal of the team, for the Wanderers A Worrall partnering Wykes on the right-wing, while Booth took the place of Bowdler; and for Everton McLean played vice Doyle, and Parry vice Campbell. Not excepting these alterations the opposing elevens were strong and fully representative. The match it was generally expected would be a close and exciting one for a few minutes' play sufficed to prove the latter expectation. Geary started the ball, but Brodie quickly obtained possession of it, and away the home forwards raced towards the Everton goal. The pace gave every indication of a fast game. Ball to Milward and Chadwick, who made a clever passing run on the wing and shot for goal. Rose removed the danger by kicking into midfield, but immediately after Wyllie and Brady beat the Wanderers backs, and Brady centreing, Geary put the ball through. There seemed some doubt as to whether the Everton man was not offside, and on beating appealed to Mr. Ormerod, the referee, decided against Everton. The most striking feature of the game now was the frequency with which the ball was fouled, both sides being blameable in this respect. About this time Geary came into violent contact with one of the Wanderers, with the result that for a few minutes the game was suspended. He, however, very courageously resumed, but upon examination the injury he had sustained proved to be a very severe bruise near the knee-cap. This untoward circumstance had the appearance of handicapping the visitors. When the ball was restarted Worrall and Wykes did some clever dodging against Parry and McLean, but were unable to crown their efforts with success. Again the left wing of the Everton made an attempt, but Baugh was too good for Milward. The ball was Baugh was too good for Milward. The ball was Baugh was too good for Milward. The ball was Baugh was too good for Milward. The ball was taken to the other end, and for an infraction of the rules Wolverhampton were awarded a free kick near goal. Fletcher took the shot, but the ball struck McLean, who was standing in goal, and with difficulty it was got away to the Everton right wing. Wyllie had possession of it, and on being tackled centred. The ball fell close to Mason, who unfortunately missed the kick, and Geary who was at hand, took advantage of this, and dribbled for a yard or so, before putting the ball through with a shot which would probably have defied any goalkeeper. The Wanderers took the lead when the game was resumed and Thomson had a chance which he practically threw away. This followed by a bit of smart play on the part of Wykes and Worrall, who at several points in the game showed to great advantage, and gave Jardine some trouble. As stated above, foul followed foul with unnecessary monotony, but no addition was made to the score. Milward, Chadwick and Geary, notwithstanding the latter's misfortune, played with surprising smartness and secured the ball under exciting circumstances from their opponents; and for the Wanderers, Worrall and Wykes showed the most attractive energy. The Wanderers tried several times to force the play, but the Everton played a strong defence. Towards the end of the first half the visitors several times kicked out to prevent further danger to their goal. The time arrived with the score standing 1 goal to o in favour of Everton. On recommencing, the game was marked by some spirited play on the Wanderers' right wing, which compelled the visitors to give a corner. The ball was not at all well placed, and the result was that it was easily got away by the Everton forwards, and a sharp attack ensued by the Everton forwards, and a sharp attack ensued on the Wanderers' defence. The backs and Rose were kept busily engaged. Rose returned in grand style a formidable shot sent in by Wyllie. In the course of a charging run Wykes, who had been displaying exceptionally good form and energy for the side, received a nasty kick on the leg, which had to be bandaged before he could proceed. Perhaps with more courage than prudence he continued to play, but it was apparent that his injury had greatly robbed the Wanderers of the value of his services. Thomson and the left wing troubled Jardine considerably, but aided by Hannah and Mclean, he was able to preserve his charge. For a time the pace of the game decreased somewhat, but the determination with which it was contested was not a whit less resolute. Both sides made desperate but unsuccessful efforts to score. Roughness, however, was too apparent. Towards the end of the game corners fell rather quickly, but in no instance did any appreciate result follow. The game concluded in favour of Everton, by 1 goal to o. On the play the winners deserved the victory. As already mentioned a most hostile attitude was assumed towards Everton by many of the spectators. They were howled, at, and but for the intervention of the police some of the players would have regretted their visit to Wolverhampton. Wolverhampton Wanderers; Rose, goal; Mason and Baugh, backs; Brodie, Allen, and Fletcher, half-backs; Booth, Wood, Thomson, Worrall, and Wykes, forwards. Everton: - Jardine, goal; Hannah and Mclean, backs; Kirkwood, Holt, and Parry, half-backs; Brady, Wyllie, Geary, Milward and Chadwick, forwards.

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 0 EVERTON 1 (Game 58)
December 8 1890. THE Liverpool Courier
Everton jersey, blue and gold stripes
Played at Wolverhampton on Saturday in the presence of 12,000 spectators. For Everton McLean played in place of Doyle, who is laid up with an infected throat. Wylie played ta outside right and Parry took the place of Campbell. Teams are as Follows: - Wanderers: - Rose goal, Mason, and Baugh, backs, Brodie, Allen, and Fletcher, half-backs, Worrall, Wood, Thompson, Wykes, and Booth, Everton: - Jardine goal, Hannah (captain) and McLean, backs, Kirkwood, Holt, and Parry, half-backs, Wylie, Brady, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward forwards. Everton appeared on the ground new jerseys, with Blue and Gold strips. The visitors kicked off against the wind and after a bit of moving on the left wing, Booth and Wood of the opposing team, got away, and were just pulled up by McLean in time. From a foul by Thompson Hannah placed the ball well in goal, but it was not sent any further. Midfield play was next seen, and then Kirkwood placed the ball to his forwards, and they passed to the left wing, from whence Milward shot through. It seemed to be a clear goal, but the referee ruled otherwise. The Everton men, were having somewhat the best of the play and Rose was called upon to save one from Geary. The home left cleared a way through, and Booth propelled a splendid shot, which McLean removed, from the goalmouth. Allen then kicked Geary on the leg, and the game was stopped for a couple of minutes when the centre forward resumed play. A foul on hands was awarded the Wolves close in goal, and safely pulled away, upon which, the Everton forwards by means of very neat passing along the line reached well up, and from a pass by Wylie the ball was shot outside by a few inches, from the foot of Milward. A foul was given against Everton when the Wanderers had recovered a lot of ground, and although the homesters were right in front, and sent in a hard shot, it rebounded off Burley McLean to the great relief of the Evertonians. From this the forwards of the Visiting team worked splendidly up, and a pass from Brady afforted Geary a grand opening, which he promptly availed himself of, by passing both the backs and scoring an easy goal twelve minutes from the start. When the kick off was made the Wanderers initiated an ugly rush, which foreboded Evil to Everton, but Jardine very coolly cleared puzzling one from Wykes. Another one was put in, and received the same treatment from Jardine, who acted as cool as a cucumber, notwithstanding the pressure round him. Everton were to the fore in a couple of attacks notable for the centres from Wylie, but both shots were wide. There was not much to choose between the teams for a few minutes. Mason deliberately tripped Geary when he was moving away but the ensuing free kick was of no avail. The home team travelled beautifully down, and Thompson had the acceptance of two fine changes, but in both cases. McLean, who took the ball from his toes in smart style, smartly beat him. Everton rushed off and Brady cracked in a beauty, which Rose managed to fist out cleverly, and Mason then kicked away a pretty attempt by Geary. The play for a little while settled downs into smart drops between the half and full backs. Hannah then checked a rush on the left, and McLean and Parry did ditto on the opposing wing. At this period the Wolves were having rather the best of the play, the ball being mainly in the Everton half, but Hannah and McLean worked perfectly together. Half-time Result Wanderers nil, Everton 1 goal.
On the restart the Wanderers brushed their way past all opponents, and again a corner, which was of no use to them. Geary and the left wing dash away, and finally Baugh kicked away an effort by Milward. Only a slight menace by the home team, when the visitors were at it again by the aid of the left wing, and a pass to Geary resulted in a shot from the centre which, Rose had the utmost difficulty in saving. He had to give a corner and although this was unproductive of danger at the moment Wylie had a shy immediately afterwards which, gave Rose an anxious moment, but he came out safely. The game was again stopped for a few minutes owing to Wykes being hors do combat. The Everton men just made a few fugitive attempts, there being nothing very dangerous in them, and then the home left pattered away, Booth sending in a high shot, which Jardine neatly put away. Everton were only able to rush forward to a certain distance, as the defence invariably proved too good; and the Wanderers suffered in a similar manner, their attacks being quickly repelled. For some time the ball was continually on the move, and never reaching further than the backs of both teams. Chadwick and Milward sprinted for some distance, and then passed over to the right wing, where after very clever play between Kirkwood and Brady, the ball was kicked wide by Wykie. The home team were doing all in their power to put themselves on terms of equality and their was a distinct improvement in their combination. They were unable, despite the most gallant efforts, to get the point so much desired. Hannah repelling them in wonderfully fashion three times in succession. Again they returned to the attack, and again Hannah repulsed them, but cheered on by their supporters, they went at it as hard as they could. Final result Wanders nil, Everton 1 goal.
DISGRACFUL SCENE
An exciting and disgraceful scene followed the match. As the Everton players were leaving the ground their were surrounded by a infuriated crowd and literally mobbed. Geary, who had already been severely kicked on the knee, was stoned, and was also badly mauled by several of the spectators. A number of Everton gentlemen who were trying to protect the players were maltreated, one Evertonian narrowly escaping series injuries at the hands of a police inspector who was striking wildly at the crowd in order to keep them away.
RECEPTION OF THE NEWS AT EVERTON
Great excitement prevailed at Everton on Saturday upon the reception of the intelligence of the attack upon the members of the League team. The sporting Express-the only paper in Lancashire, which contained the news-was eagerly, brought up and local football enthusiasts upon ascertaining therefrom the particulars of the occurrence manifested great indignation. Is was recalled that a similarly disgraceful espide occurred two years ago, when the Everton players were victorious at Wolverhampton, and many people urged that the attention of the football League should be drawn to the matter. Special irritation was expressed at the determined characters of the onslaught upon Geary who had evidently been singled out for the attention of the mob in consequence of his fine play during the match. A large party of Evertonians met the team upon their return to Lime-street Station and were delighted to find that they had so luckily escaped from the clutches of the crowd.

EVERTON NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 08 December 1890
We have received the following letter from Mr. Molynuex, secretary of the Everton F.C.;
In last Monday’s edition of your valuable paper, under the Liverpool notes, there appeared some remark upon my position with the committee, &c.  Will you kindly contradict that statement in the next issue, and say that the greatest harmony and best feeling exists between the committee and myself. 

EVERTON AGAIN HEAD THE LEAGUE.
Athletic News - Monday 08 December 1890
By The great interest that was felt in the match between Everton and Wolverhampton was proved conclusively by the fact that 10.000 spectators were present, this beings a great gate Wolverhampton. All the week the question has been passing from lip to lip, “Can the Wanderers beat Everton?” and thus maintain their position at the head of the League. To win meant putting the “Wolves” two points ahead of any other team, a consummation devoutly wished for their numerous partisans. It they succeeded in making a draw of it, they would still be at the top, it will easily be seen with what anxiety the match was looked forward to.  It is only the truth to say that but little doubt was expressed upon the “Wolves” ability to come through the contest with flying colours, after the splendid form they showed against Preston North End on the previous Saturday. Enthusiasts were confident that such form as was shown by the Wanderers on that occasion would beat any team in the League. Great disappointment was felt, however, on arriving at the scene of action to find that Bowdler, the popular and clever left wing forward, was unable to take his place in the team, owing to a sprain in his foot brought on in the course of the game against North End. This occasioned a re-arrangement of the front rank. Booth going from Inside right to extrema left, and little Worrall taking Booth place. The visitors were also deprived of the services of some of their regular team -Doyle, suffering from a sore throat, and Campbell, injured, both being absentees. McLean, late of Renton, and Parry were the substitutes, and right well they performed. Wyllie, the ex-Glasgow Ranger, made his debut on the right wing along with Brady, the full teams being as under; Wanderers;- Rose, goal; Baugh and Mason, backs; Fletcher, Allen, and Brodie, half-backs; Wykes, Worrall, Thomson, Wood, and Booth, forwards.  Everton; - Jardine, goal; Hannah and Mclean, backs; Kirkwood, Holt and Parry, half-backs; Wyllie, Brady, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.  Referee; Mr. Ormerod, Accrington.  Everton were the first to put in an appearance, and were cordially received, a loud cheer directly afterwards proclaiming the advent of the home players. The “Wolves" won the toss, and both teams once proved themselves in earnest, the pace being very fast. The visitors, however, played the better game, and in five minutes Milward scored, but the Wanderers successfully appealed for a previous foul, and the point was disallowed. Fouls were very frequent, several free kicks being awarded in the vicinity of both goals, but nothing resulted from them. After 20 minutes’ play, however, both Baugh and Mason missed their kicks, and Geary, dashing up with the speed of a greyhound, easily beat Rose with fast shot. Everton, playing a better and more scientific game than the “Wolves, "continued to have the best of matters, and Rose cleverly stopped several dangerous shots, Jardine, too, was called upon to show his ability, shots from Wykes and Booth particularly being very warm ones, but the new keeper was all there when wanted, and at half-time Everton led by one goal to nothing.  In the second halt the home team made strenuous to draw level. Urged on by their supporters they assaulted the visitors' goal again and again, but owing to poor combination and the splendid play of the Everton half backs and backs they seldom put in a dangerous shot. As the game neared a conclusion the excitement was great, and it evidently spread to the players, for the game got very rough, and the referee had frequently to blow his whistle and award free kicks. On two occasions Geary deliberately kicked at Allen, and would only have had his deserts if Mr. Ormerod had ordered him off the field, but he let him off with a strong caution. No further scoring took place, and Everton retired victors by one goal to none.  The game was a disappointing one, and there were few pretty and really interesting pieces of play. I never saw so many fouls, by “hands," unfair charging and tripping in a big match before. Both teams were to blame, although the visitors were penalised much oftener than the Wanderers. The winners, undoubtedly, were the better team, especially in the matter of combination. Jardine, in goal, was a decided success Hannah and McLean were very safe at back, especially the former, who played a brilliant game, and all three half-backs were in capital trim. Forward. Geary and Chadwick were the best of very good string. I think Wyllie will turn out a good man when he has got used to his new companions. For the “Wolves" Rose kept goal finely. Mason was much better than Baugh, who wandered about a lot too much. All three half-backs played well, Brodie being the pick. The greatest weakness was among the forwards. There was a great lack of combined action, and Bowdler's absence doubtless partly accounting for this. Little Worrall, however, who took his place, as well as any of the five. Thomson and Wood were both decidedly off it, in the first half especially. On the whole the team quite failed to maintain their line form of the previous week, and were beaten in consequence.

OUR SCOTCH LETTERS
Athletic News - Monday 08 December 1890
Latta, the Everton crack, was in Glasgow the other day, and he assured an old friend of his and mine that he hoped to be able to take his old place in the Everton team in three or four weeks.  The twist he got when playing against 3rd Lanark was a bad one, but he has taken very great care of himself ever since, and in a week or two he will, no doubt be as sound and as eager on football as ever.  Latta is a typical Scot in more ways than one, and his good qualities have made him exceedingly popular with Everton. 

EVERTON RESERVES 3 FLEETWOOD RANGERS 0
December 8 1890. The Liverpool Courier
There was only a moderate attendance on the Everton ground on Saturday to witness the match between the above teams. The weather was fine but dull. The Rangers put in a late appearance and it was about twenty minutes after time when Colley kicked off. Gordon was the first to show prominently Robinson removing the danger, and the play was in centre. A free kick did no good, Jones and Martin mulling a good chance Play was even until McGregor, Murray, and Gordon ran and passed prettily McGregor in a good shot at the finish, which was nicely saved by Porter. Murray had to save shortly after. McGregor and Gordon again were prominent, but found the defence equal to the emergency, and Hammond had to put all in to defend his citadel. Fleetwood attacked strongly Murray having two difficult shots to negotiate. He cleared, and play was quickly in the visitors half. Porter was a capital custodian, and cleared every shot he had to deal with until McGregor from a pass by Elliott shot through out of his reach. The point however, was disallowed for offside. Everton quickly had their revenge, McGregor and Elliott scoring a very soft goal with Porter out of his place. A foul in a dangerous position fell to the visitors and after the ball had hovered in front of the home citadel Hacking shot over the bar. A pretty run by the Rangers right wing was cheered but meeting Cresswell, the attack was frustrated. Elliott and McMillan followed suit but had no better luck than their opponents, and Murray had to fist out a capital shot by Hewitson. Pratt made a good run up the right for Rangers, but shot wide of the mark. Gordon also ran strongly, and Robinson had to concede a corner, which was futile. Hammond was cheered for his good play at Half, proving a stumbling block to the strong right wing of the Rangers. Everton nearly scored from a corner well placed by Gordon. Robinson just cleaning in time-a near thing. Everton were having all the game, but the defence of Robinson and Porter, was excellent and nothing further was scored. Half-time result Everton Reserves 1 goal, Fleetwood Rangers nil. After the usual interval McGregor kicked off Everton having the best of the opening exchanges, and Gordon from a pass by McGregor promptly shot past Porter, the point again beening disallowed for offside. A good run by the Rangers front rank deserved a better fate than the corner which, assured to them. Everton, too should have scored more than once, but were weak in front. Elliott and McMillan ran strongly and centering nicely Gordon shot past Porter to the delight of the crowd, and later Elliott sent in a magnificent shot, one, which would have taken a fair better goalkeeper than Porter to stop. Final result was in favour of Everton Reserves by 3 goals to nil . Everton team: - Murray, goal, McLean, and Cresswell, backs, Martin (captain), Jones (r), and Hammond, half-backs, Gordon, Murray, McGregor, McMillan, and Elliott, forwards.

THE ATTACK ON EVERTON FOOTBALL TEAM : RUFFIANISM DENOUNCED
December 9 1890. The Liverpool Courier
The Birmingham Post says:- The records of Saturday's match are not altogether satisfactory reading. In more the once instance bad temped usurped the place of good feeling and rowdyism characterised the close of the big match at Wolverhampton. It is not the first time that Molyneux ground has been the scene of disgraceful conduct of that kind, and it was pointed out in the column 12 months ago that the better manners were sadly needed by some of the spectators who patrousie the enclosure. Disappointing was undoubtedly very keen at the defeat of the Wanderers, but nothing can excuse the treatment the Everton team received after they had won the match. Throughout the game was unworthy of the reputation of either eleven, and there was a great deal too much personal element. Everton started in the most promising style and had much the best of the game in the first half, during which Geary scored a brilliant goal for the visitors. Some strong and able work by the home defence gave their forwards many opportunities of retrieving their position, and even winning the game, but they failed at critical moments and Everton were declared the winners of a very hard but by no means scientific encounter. Geary had been hurt at the beginning of the game, and just before the finish he collided with Allen, one of the home half-backs and this was made an excuse by the ruthiantly portion of the crowd for a cowardly attack on the slim young Evertonians, as he left the field. Geary has the reputation of being an honourable opportneat, and is celebrated for playing an honest and straightforward game. It would be an undeserved compliment to say as much of the Wanderers, and for the slightly Built Geary to deliberately charge such a powerful man as Allen would be intensely foolish. The Wanderers executive will be only doing their duty in repressing in the sternest manner, the cowardly and disgraceful conduct which, a section of the crowd exhibited on Saturday. Only drastic measures will have any effect on these fellows, but if one or two of them were haled before the insgistrates it would probably soon put a stop to proceeding which, if allowed to continue will sooner or later prevent all respectable people from patronizing the pastime.
The Birmingham Gazette says: - the Wolverhampton match was a very disappointing one from a spectator's point view. Football being infinitely below what one had a right to expect from teams of such caliber. Truth to tell, there was as great deal too much feeling manifested, and the fact that one side was as bad as the other does not in the least excuse the rough and tumble game which was played. Spectators go to a match to see football, not an exhibition in which'' brute force'' is allowed to triumph over science. I don't think I ever saw a game in which there were so many fouls, whilst the display of feeling between Geary and Allen towards the finish was disgraceful. Geary had been badly hurt in the early part of the game, but that was no excuse for the petulant attack he made on ‘'the Wolf'' afterwards, and the crack centre had only himself to blame for the demonstration against him at the close by the spectators. But for the Intervention of the police and the assistance of the other members of the team Geary would have been roughly handled. Of course one can only condemn this action on the part of the spectators in the strongest terms, but it is nevertheless a regrettable fact that on several grounds I could mention the spectators are Wong to show a most unsportmanlike spirit, which in the event of the defeat of their favorites finds expression in hooting and telling at opponents, and the referee alike, and frequently ends in abrutal attack on the objects of their ill temper. Such proceedings can not but bring the game into ill-rapute, but can be easily combated by the Football Association on the matter being reported to them. The Association has but to follow in the wake of the Yorkshire Rugby Committee. Who in similar emergencies have vetoed the ground on which such hostile demonstrations have been made. If the clubs who are patronized by such unsportmanlike spectators are debarred from playing matches on their own ground for a month or six weeks, both spectators and executive will be speedily brought to a sense of their responsibilities, and will take the necessary steps to avoid such disgraceful demonstrations.

EVERTON REVIEW
December 13, 1890. The Belfast News Letters.
The match between Everton and Wolverhampton Wanderers last Saturday was surrounded with unusual interest owing to the two clubs engaged being first and second respectively. The Wolves were one point better than their opponents before the match began, but after it was concluded the Liverpool club had the advantage by the same score. Now that Everton has resumed the lead of the league, I would not be surprised to find it keep on the top to the end and win the championship. I have sung the praise of the Everton men frequently, and now that I see them on the mend, I can leave them to fight their own battles, when they are perfectly capable of doing. Wylle, late of Glasgow Rangers make his debut in the ranks of Everton on Saturday as right wing forward, and played a capital game, although he is not so good as Latta, who, I am glad to hear is likely to be playing again as well as ever in the beginning of the year.

BLUE REVIEW
December 13 th 1890. The Liverpool Courier.
Now that the “fight for the standard” is over, and Everton again reigns supreme over the aspirants to championship honours we can breathe freely –for a while at least. To beat Wolverhampton Wanderers by only a goal may not be regarded as a particularly great achievement, but it must be acknowledged that to accomplish this in the den of the “Wolves” speaks volumes for the plucky ability, and endurance of the visiting team. The game was not of that scientific character, naturally expected on the meeting of two such high-class teams, but such as it was Everton had decidedly the best of it, and retired triumphantly from the fray only, however, to realise the fulfillment of threats previously made by the followers of the “Wolves” who took the reverse morosely, and wantonly savaged at least one member of the victorious team. Unfortunately for Geary, he has constantly been a “marked” man –for no fault of his own, but simply because of the brilliancy of his play, and to “knock him out” therefore, because the policy of more than one rival team. No player –and he is but a slender youth –has suffered more in this respect, and his maltreatment at the close of Saturday's match refexs everything shame upon his cowardly assailants. The only fault that can be laid to his charge is that when viciously prostrated by an opposing player, and whilst still on the ground, he for once adopted a retaliatory course of action, which, although objectionable, was nevertheless pardonable under the circumstances of the case. This is by no means the only occasion on which a Wolverhampton crowd has behaved outrageously, and it is therefore to be hoped that the League authorities will adopstringent measures to prevent a recurrence of such conduct for a length of time to come. This can easily be done by a suspension of fixtures on the Molyneux ground, and only drastic action will have the desired effects. Everton placed a strong team against Fleetwood Rangers, and a capitally contested game resulted in favour of the Anfield-roadsters by three goals to nil.

DERBY COUNTY V EVERTON
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 13 December 1890
Played at derby, in splendid football weather, before 5,000 spectators.  Each side was well represented, Doyle, of Everton being the only noticeable absentee.  The visitors won the toss, and after a few minutes Wylie scored for them.  The same player was responsible for a second point obtained shortly afterwards.  Geary then scored the third for Everton.  The County pressed a little and J. Goodall nearly scored, Bakewell also being unsuccessful.  Each side pressed alternately, the visitors having the best of the exchange.  After several corners to either side, the County broke away, and Holmes scored a brilliant goal.  A thick fog by this time covered the ground, making the proceedings awkward to the players and spectators alike.  The County appealed for another goal which was not allowed, and then Brady kicked the fourth for Everton, who led at the interval by four goals to one.  The second half opened with a splendid attack by Derby, who scored a second goal from a long scrimmage.  Very little of the play could be seen owing to the fog, but, if anything, the home team appeared to have the best of it.  Everton added a fifth goal, and eventually a sixth.  The County could not increase their score, and were beaten.  Result;- Everton 6, Derby County 2. 

WE HEAR WE SEE-
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 13 December 1890
That Everton have at last succeeded in getting hold of Joe Marsden, the well-known Darwen back, for next season ; that is stated that they have agreed to give him £50 down, and either £3 all the year round or £4 10s a week in winter and 30s. In summer; that good man Joe is, he is not worth that much, and it is doubtful whether any footballer is.
That the Evertonians were entitled to rejoice over their success at Wolverhampton; that this victory meant a tremendous lot to their prospect for League honours; that Everton generally had the best of it all through the first half; that Geary’s was a very fine goal; that in the later stages of the game Everton were hard pressed; that Chadwick was called back to strengthen the defence; that the play was most exciting for fully twenty minutes; that the match was remarkable for the number of rough incidents; that there was no quarters asked for or given; that both sides were equally to blame; that the referee was more to blame than either. 

DERBY COUNTY v. EVERTON.
Derby Daily Telegraph - Monday 15 December 1890
Splendid football weather favoured this Derby to-day (Saturday), and about 4,000 people were present witness it. Both teams were well represented, though Doyle was absentee from the Everton ranks. The previous matches between the clubs had almost without exception resulted in favour of Everton, the Liverpudlians being the only team, with the exception of Accrington, the County had not previously beaten in League match. Everton won the toss, and the County kicked off towards the Canal goal. The opening exchanges were altogether favourable to the visitors, who once or twice forced the ball behind the bar. Then Brady shot a trifle wide, and five minutes from the start Wylie kicked the first goal for the visitor with a clever low shot. After this reverse County went down for the first time, and Holmes appeared to miss a chance through momentary hesitation. Bakewell, who had curled the ball, repeated the feat, and McMillan made an effort to score, but Hannah kicked the ball away. Baker and Ferguson checked a temporary incursion the visitors, and Bakewell centred just behind the bar. Everton, however, quickly transferred play, and from a pass in front of goal by Chadwick who was hard pressed, Wylie scored a second goal with ease. From a weak return Ferguson, Geary immediately shot a third point, and then the County had hard lines. John Goodall defeated Hannah grandly, and shot into Jardine's hands. The goalkeeper cleared, and John then put the ball just over the bar. From a good save and return by A. Goodall, ran ball down the field, and centred beautifully to the captain, who stopped at the critical moment, whilst the left-wingers both missed the ball entirely. From fast run Geary was getting dangerous, when Ferguson floored him, and the referee decided that a foul had been given. From the free kick nothing was done. Haddow was, called on again by a shot from Holt, and from the return he was compelled with difficulty to give a corner. The ball was then shot over the bar.  At the Everton goal a long shot by Holmes was being further assisted in its course by McLachlan, when the goalkeeper gave a corner. This was ineffective, and Wylie and Brady getting back, a free kick followed a piece of foul play by Rouleton, for which the referee cautioned him. Despite the state of the score and the manifest superiority of Everton the play had not been one-side, and eventually the efforts of the home team were rewarded by Holmes scoring capital goal. A second one, which could not be seen from the centre of the ground on account of the fast gathering fog, was disallowed by the referee being off-side. The - cross-bar had been struck just previously, but it was impossible to say by whom. Before interval was reached, Milward centred, and a fourth goal was scored for Everton from the right wing. Score at half time Everton four goals, Derby one.
On resuming John Goodall at once broke away, and Holmes shot outside the post.  From a free kick Jardine handled, and Bakewell centred without effect. A second attack from the same quarter was more successful, for the ball was allowed to hang the line for a few seconds, and then, a cheer proclaimed that the County had scored a second goal. Tire home team pressed for some time hereabouts, but they could not score, and Everton transferred play to the other end. It remained there for some time, though it was impossible to see what was going on. Geary broke away, but was pulled up in time by Ferguson, who pressed him so hard that he shot over bar. Soon afterwards, however, they scored a fifth goal.  Roulstone was conspicuous for some splendid play after this, and mainly by his exertions some dangerous attacks were put in. McMillan once centred beautifully from one of his passes, and then the left winger put the ball right into Jardine's hand. The goalkeeper cleared. During a long controversy on the far side of the ground, the crowd broke in, and play was suspended for some time. So dense was the fog that the people on the pavilion were ignorant of the cause the stoppage. Eventually play was resumed, and in the last quarter of hour Everton scored again, making the final result follows; - Everton 6 Derby County 2.  The magnitude of the victory will come as a surprise to the supporters of the Derby Club, but there can be no getting, away from the fact that Everton displayed an all-round superiority that entitled them to the victory. The executive of the Liverpool Club have undoubtedly got together a magnificent team, and one that more nearly approximates to the great North End side of four years ago than any club in the country. The only weak spots appeared to us to be Kirkwood and McLean, but the latter was only a makeshift. All the other men have improved wonderfully, and Geary, by discarding his brilliant rushes for a steadier style of play, has become splendid centre- forward. Wylie, the new right winger, is very little inferior to Latta. The County, in our opinion, played a better game than they did last week, but although the backs were pretty reliable, they appeared to be conspicuous by their absence when the majority of the goals were scored. The goalkeeper did not receive that amount of support which he had a right to expect from Roulstone was in grand form at half-back, and Bakewell and John Goodall were the best of the forwards. McMillan had not many opportunities of shining, though occasionally he gave one the idea that he has in him making of a very smart player. The teams were as follows :-Everton Jardine, goal; Hannah and McLean, backs ; Kirkwood, Holt, and Campbell, half-backs;  Wylie and Brady, right wing; Geary, centre; Chad wick and Milward, left wing. County Haddow, goal; Baker and Ferguson, backs; Chalmers, A. Goodall, and Roulstone, half-backs; Bakewell and McLachlan,  right wing; J. Goodall, centre; McMillan and Holmes, left wing. Umpires : Messrs. Stocklaw (Everton), and Holloway (Derby County). Referee : Mr. Holloway (Sheffield).

EVERTON V DERBY COUNTY
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 15 December 1890
Everton fulfilled the second of three consecutive away fixtures on Saturday, when they met Derby County for the second time this season. The Peakites, as is well known, were badly beaten by 7 goals to nil at Anfield on October 4. but, despite this overwhelming evidence of superior power on the part of Everton, there were elements to be reckoned with on Saturday that precluded the idea that the Liverpudlians had got a "soft thing" in hand, and that victory could be assured without much ado. Derby County have done very well, at least, at home; and, as their forces had been strengthened with one or two importations from over the Cheviots during the last two or three weeks, Everton, however confident, were too wily to be caught napping, and espoused the honour of their club with as much fervour as though their opponents were the mightier men of Blackburn, of Preston, of Notts, or of Wolverhampton. The fine ground of the Derby Club was in splendid condition, the turf being little affected by the frost. Everton, with the same team-with the exception that Campbell displaced Parry-that beat the "Wolves," were early on the scene; indeed, the enclosure was almost tenantless at the time they arrived Derby County, too, had but one change from the team that went down unluckily before Accrington last week, and this was the reappearance of Holmes, vice Brand, late of Burnley, who is voted slow. The teams thus comprised the following:-Everton-Jardine, goal; Hannah and McLean, backs; Kirkwood, Holt, and Campbell, half-backs; Wyllie, Brady, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards, Derby-Haddow, goal ; Baker and Ferguson, backs: Chalmers, A. Goodall, and Roulstone, half-backs; Bakewelll, McLechlan, J. Goodall, Holmes, and McMillan, forwards. When J, Goodall kicked off the sun was shining brightly, and the visitors had the advantage of the wind, which was not of much help. Everton at once moved goalward, and nice play between Brady and Wyllie forced a throw-in, from which Chadwick made an indifferent shot. Campbell was called upon to tackle Bakewell when running strongly, and did it effectively, and passing up to his fowards Derby were again in turbulent waters. Chadwick again missed the mark, but Brady and Wyllie returned on the right, and the latter scored his first goal for Everton with an incisive oblique shot, five minutes from the start. Bakewell contributed another of his old familiar flashes on the right, and getting the best of the defence screwed  in so truly that Jardine was only just in time to chuck clear, Goodall being in readiness to put the finishing touches on. Everton left retaliated, but a foul against Holt let Derby in again, J. Goodall leading the raid, which became more ominous when a successful claim for hands against McLean was made in front of goal, but the ball was placed badly. Wyllie took play to the other end, and after the forwards had maneuvered a little, the new man shot over the bar. Derby evinced considerable dash at this period, and as Holmes and McMillan were difficult to arrest Hannah kicked into touch, to the displeasure of the home partisans. The throw-in enabled Derby to bring further pressure on goal, but their shooting was wretched, whilst McLean also kicked out.  Again Bakewell wormed his way down, but McLean overtook in a fast sprint, and prevented the shot being an accurate one. Everton at length got a footing in their opponents' quarters, and taking a neat pass from the left wing, Wyllie secured a second goal, and after Chadwick had another shy, and failed, Geary sent a shot past Hiddow, giving Everton a led of 3 goals as the result of 20 minutes’ good play.  Derby escaped on the right, but Holmes missed a fine chance of heading it, a free kick to Derby also failing to be of any use to them. WyIlie soon bad a further shot at goal, and beat Haddow but the whistle sounded for off-side, whilst Holt gave the home custodian an opportunity of making a smart save. Derby County's turn now came and they brought Jardine out to clear shots from both Goodall and McLachlan. Haddow also made a couple of good clearances, and then play again tended in favour of the home team. Play was progressing in an interesting direction, both sides showing good forward tactics, when fog descended on the scene of operations, and prevented the spectators enjoying a full view of the game. Bakewell was cheered for a fine run round Campbell, but McMillan shot just off the post and then Holmes scored an excellent goal, which called forth a louder cheer. Everton defence stood the fire of a fierce onslaught. A shot struck the bar, and Chalmers sent in grandly, Jardine fisting out in a marvellous fashion. Milward and Chadwick went away in a nest, dashing run, and Wyllie getting the ball put in a telling side shot out of the reach of Haddow, the interval arriving with Everton leading by 4 goals to 1, three of threse being Wyllie’s.  Derby went off in earnest on restarting, and bearing down heavily soon scored, the goal being invisible from the other end of the field. Geary was knocked down by Chalmers when running strongly, and this put Derby in evidence, but they found the defene sound. Play ruled even for a while, the fog destroying true combination. Then Derby settled down the a protracted attack, chiefly on the right here good defensive work was contributed by McLean and Jardine, and though the home team were persistent, they could not shoot with sufficient accuracy, to capture further goals. In fact, when Everton get down they soon improved their lead, Milward turning a pass from Wyllie to good account, and again, near the finish, Wyllie brought the record up to half a dozen. Geary was next very near scoring, and when time arrived Everton had won by 6 goals to 2.
The game, at one time promising to be interesting, if one-sided, was spoilt from a spectator's view through the fog that enveloped the play the greater part of the time. Everton soon placed the issue out of doubt, and slackened for a time, until the Derby men scored, and then play resumed its original animation. Derby did most of the pressing in the second half and Everton the bulk of the scoring, and so it will naturally be inferred that Derby's shooting was poor. It was certainly below that of Everton's, who came off nearly every time they had a fair raid on goal; but Derby yet delivered many stinging shots at Jardine, who, though beaten twice, was in great form, especially in the second half. Hannah was as resourceful as ever in play and generalship, bet McLean was scarcely so successful in grappling with the Derby right wing as he had been against the Wolverhampton. All the other members of the team, with the exception of Campbell, were in good form. The combination was fairly maintained, though the fog was a hindrance, but Wyllie was the hero, in shooting more particularly-he scored four goals- and when he appears at Anfield will soon become a hot favourite, that is, with fair lock and immunity from accident. Derby showed good points in the forward and half-back departments, but the backs and goalkeeper were only moderate. A. Goodall was effective and good-humoured, and so were Roalstone and Chalmers. All five forwards ran and passed well, but might have shot better.

NOTES FROM THE NORTH
Athletic News - Monday 15 December 1890
The enjoyment was rather spoiled by the receipt of a telegram conveying the unwelcome intelligence that Sunderland had been drawn against Everton in the first round of the competition proper for the English Cup.  Much as I disapprove of some of the surroundings of the club, I am prepared to admit that the lines have not fallen to them in pleasant places.  Last season their first opponents were the Blackburn Rovers, whom they had to play away.  It is some consolation that on the present occasion they have the choice of grounds, which, of course means that Everton will have to come to Sunderland.  Talk of Belshazar and the handwriting on the wall! His was a mild sort of surprise compared with the wild despair which laid hold on some when the unwelcome intelligence came to hand. 
OUR SCOTCH NOTES
Everton may visit Hampden Park on an early date.  They would have met the Q.P on Saturday but for a prior engagement, out of which they could not get.  Now that negotiations have been opened it is almost certain Everton will play the Q.P before the season is over. 

A LEAGUE RECORD AT DERBY
Athletic News - Monday 15 December 1890
By Peakite
The beating administered to Derby County by Everton on Saturday, was the worst they have ever received in a league match on their own ground. We have to go back to October, 1887, to find a match in which they were defeated by so much as four goals. Preston North End then winning by five to one.  In fact, only one occasion have they been beaten more severely at home, and that was in the very melancholy English Cap tie with Walsall Town in November. 1884. I believe this is the only time on record, up to Saturday, in which so many as six goals have been scored against the club on the Derby ground. This was in the very infancy of the club. Can it be that it has now arrived at the stage of second childhood? I have been saying all along. “Wait until we come to the home matches, and then we will see whether there is anything to be really afraid of in the condition of the team." The series of home engagements has now fairly commenced, and we see what is happening. I am very sorry, but facts are facts, records are records, and perpetual defeat is ruinous. And the weak place is so apparent all the time. The forward play has been none too good, especially away from home, yet there is a tolerable average record of goals obtained; but what are we to say the enormous total of 55 goals scored against them in 14 matches? This is the exact number they lost in the whole of their League matches last season, and in the previous season they only lost 82 in the whole of the matches they played. At the same time they have in Haddow, in the opinion of most people, at least as good a goalkeeper as ever they have had. The fact of it is that all this season they have been in want of two full-backs. Ferguson has once or twice played up to League form, but generally they have not had one full back worthy of appearing in a league match now. Roulston, Archie Goodall, and Chalmers are very good halves, but they can only mitigate the severity of defeat, and not avert it. Besides, they all have tendency to play rather an offensive than a defensive game, and this, coupled with the weakness of the backs, accounts for the opponents of the club so frequently scoring from breaks away after the Cooney has been pressing. This occurred three or four times on Saturday, and has long been notable feature of matches in which Derby County have taken part. The committee are to be commiserated with on the unfortunate position into which the club is drifting; and whilst it impossible to ignore the state of affairs, I hope the team will yet recover itself, and finish the season well.  There are still eight matches to be played, five of them at Derby, and it is just possible the club may yet drag Itself out of the “submerged third,” as General Booth would call it. I hope this long and doleful exordium will be pardoned in consideration of the fact that I Intend to say very little about the match with which I am supposed to be dealing. The fact is, I could see comparatively little of It.  Soon after the start a fog began to settle upon the ground, and it increased in density until neither goal could be plainly seen from the pavilion, and more than half the field was shrouded in obscurity. So it continued during the remainder of the game, but fortunately— or unfortunately, perhaps -the fog did not get so dense to prevent Mr. Clegg, by a liberal exercise of his old agility, from following the game. Doyle was from the visiting team, his place being taken by McLean (one more Mac!); whilst in the Derby eleven the small band of Englishmen was recruited by the presence of Holmes, in place of Brand, on the left wing, the team being in other respects the same that met Accrington the previous week. The teams were:
Derby County; D. Haddow, goal; Baker and A. Ferguson, backs; Chalmer, A. Goodall, and W. Roulston, half-backs; G. Bakewell, and J. McLachlan, right wing; J. Goodall, centre; Holmes, and McMillan, left wing.  Everton; Jardine, goal; Mclean and Hannah, backs; Campbell, Hall, and Kirkwood, half-backs; Brady and Wyllie, right wing; Geary, centre, Milward and Chadwick left wing. 
Geary led his men off with a rush, and they were soon swarming round the Derby goal. Wyllie got a long, low diagonal shot through before the line had been fairly cleared, the ball being thus brought back to the centre before it had been in motion five minutes. It next travelled the other way, John Goodall and the right wing showing up strongly. It was some time before the visitors got far over the line again, but when they did Chadwick sent the ball over to Wyllie, who was well up, and the Derby citadel fell again. The lead was further increased a few minutes afterwards by Geary, who took advantage of a weak return by Ferguson to shoot the ball through close to the post. Everton leading by three goals to none after 20 minutes' play. Striving hard to make up for lost ground, Johnny Goodall in conjunction mainly with Bakewell and McLachlan, hammered hard at the Everton defence, but failed to break it down. Seven minutes from the interval, however, Holmes found a favourable opportunity and put on the initial point for Derby. Fired by their success, the homesters blazed away their hardest, but only to see the ball disappear in the fog towards the other end, and rapidly find its way through the goal. It was just after the interval that the Derby forwards were seen -or partly seen —at their best. For about ten minutes they were all over the toffeemen’s goal, and they scored one more—how I cannot say. There was a great deal of shouting on the far side of the field, so I suppose the right wing was playing up well, and we could see the left working capitally when it got the chance,  McMillan putting in some good centres.  However, after a while the visitors began to press again, and, to cut a long story short, they scored two more goals, the last from a breakaway, and won by six goals two. In all but the defence of the goal, I don't think there was much between the teams though at the same time McLean was not very powerful substitute for Doyle. It was interesting to compare the performances of the two famous centre forwards, John Goodall and Geary, but I shall not venture to award the palm.
By Loiterer (Liverpool District Notes)
George Farmer was at Bootle on Saturday, and a committee man seemed to be on the job, but the financial secretary was off when the matter was mentioned to him.
The Derby spectators say that the Everton team are the North End of four years ago. 

DERBY COUNTY V EVERTON
December 15, 1890. The Birmingham Daily Post
Except for the absence of Doyle, Everton had their full strength against Derby County, where the about four thousand people gathered to witness the match. Wyllie scored twice for the visitors soon after the start, and though the County then attacked well the home eleven were driven back, and Geary obtained a third point with a long shot. Holmes then scored a goal for Derby, but Brady once more defeated the County goalkeeper. Everton leading at half-time by four goals to one. Soon after resuming a second goal was obtained by Derby, but during the concluding portion of the game, which was seriously interfered with by fog, Everton scored twice more, and so won by six goals to two.

MR BROOKS
(Field Sports, 15-12-1890)
Suppose we finish the mournful part of the business first. And yet it was not altogether mournful or unpleasant. The gathering of which took place at the residence of the popular and genial president of the Everton Football Club (Councillor John Houlding) last Monday night to bid farewell to one of the pillars of the club – Mr. John Brooks – had many agreeable phases about it.
Certainly Mr. Brooks will remember it with kindly and grateful feelings for many years to come. As soon as Mr. Brook’s departure from Liverpool to assume a more important Customs appointment at Grimsby was announced in Everton a spontaneous movement arose in favour of presenting him with some appropriate testimonial of his invaluable services to the club in the past.
The movement soon took definite shape, and culminated in the presentation to Mr. Brooks last Monday of one of the finest albums I have ever seen, in which was inscribed the following address: -
To John C. Brooke, Esq.
Dear Sir, - We, the committee of the Everton Football Club, cannot allow you to sever your long connection with us and it without expressing to you our esteem for your high character, regret at losing you from among us, and gratitude for the invaluable service you have rendered to the club from its infancy.
We sincerely hope that your promotion to a higher sphere may be conducive to your personal welfare, and a prelude to further and speedy advancement. In bidding you farewell, we trust that you may be long spared to enjoy the respect of all with whom you come in contact, to present the constant example of a manly and straightforward character, and to know of the continued success of the club, whose triumphs you have done so much to secure. -
Signed on behalf of the committee,
John Houlding, President.
W.E. Barclay, Vice-President.
Robert Wilson, Treasurer.
R. Molyneux, Secretary.
The presentation was made in a very neat and suitable speech by the president, whose remarks were supplemented by further observations from Mr. Barclay and Mr Molyneux. Mr. Brooks’s acknowledgement of the compliment was a model of its kind, and the sad occasion which brought the meeting together was afterwards quite forgotten amid the hospitalities of the president.
**ARTICLE FOUNDED BY KJELL, THANKS FOR THE RESOURCES**

EVERTON RESERVES 2 ATTERCLIFEE 0
December 15 1890, The Liverpool Football Echo
A Great amount of interest was evinced in the visit of the Attercliffe Club to the Anfield-road enclosure this afternoon to oppose the Everton team. The visitors are famous as winners of the Sheffield Minor Cup on four successive occasions, and have this season succeeded in reaching the third stage of the Sheffield and Hallamshire Cup, for which trophy they will be next opposed by Sheffield United. In consequence of the severe frost the ground was very hard. A fair attendance of spectators had assembled in anticipation of a good game. The visitors were late in arriving and consequently it was twenty-five minutes after the advertised time when Crawshaw kicked off. Everton at once made for Machon, but a shot from the left went wide. Some amusement was caused by the team both playing in white jerseys, and it became necessary for the game to be stopped a few moments while the Evertonians donned their “salmon” colours. After the restart Crawshaw made off down the centre, Martin rushing up and effectually stopping his progress. Elliott and McMillan got away splendidly on the left, and then Martin centred, but the ball travelled a little too far. Webster and Beech were next to show up, getting well down the field; but Jones secured and transferred to Murray, and this player with Gordon made tracks for Machon, Cutler, however, saving splendidly. The Attercliffe forwards put in a nice sequence, the left working down the field in great fashion, but timely intervention on the part of Dobson and Martin sent them back. Elliott and McMillan careered up the left, the latter centreing beautifully, but Gordon, who was close up, failed to put the globe through. Everton pressed severely for a few minutes, several shots being sent in to Machon, all of which he dealt with in a masterly manner. Still the homesters held the upper hand, and after the visitors had cleared a corner Elliott again had a shot, which however, just missed its mark. Attercliffe got away from the goal kick, and just when they seemed to get in full swing Parry intercepted and sent them to the right about. Murray and Gordon took up the running, but Booth was one too many for them. Dobson had a kick charged, which made matters look rather serious for the “Salmons.” The danger, however, was averted, and Everton raced away to the other end. Exchange between the home forwards then occurred and the ball was sent down to the centre. McGregor defeated Machon with a good shot. A brief visit was paid to Angus's charge chiefly through the instrumentality of Webster, but the homesters were soon again at the other end attacking vigorously. Time after time grand shots were sent in from left, right and centre, but Machon, who, played a really magnificent game. Treated them all alike, and saved in a marvelous manner. Just before half-time Attercliffe raced down the field T. Beech's shot just going over the bar. Half-time result: Everton 1 goal, Attercliffe nil. After crossing over McGregor started operations and Everton were quickly attacking Machon's charge. The Attercliffe custodian fisted out a rattling shot by McMillan, and then a stinging one from the same wing was propelled over the bar. Parry centred well, but all to no purpose, as the ball could not be piloted past Machon. Jones then robbed Crawshaw finely, and sent in among his forwards. McGregor got possession, and passed over to Elliott who was successful with his shot, but the referee ruled him off-side. Everton were having all the best of the game, attacking severely for quite a quarter of an hour, and but for the excellent tactics of Machon must have scored on several occasions. Eventually Beech and Webster had an opening, and sailed away on the right, crossing over to the centre, but in a moment the homesters were again pressing, shots from nearly all the Everton forwards failing to take effect. Parry went away from the half-way line and evaded all the opponents, but his final effort went over. Attercliffe then got away to halfway, where Jones took the leather from the toes of Beech, and sent well up the field, when hostilities were again carried on for a time. A brief spurt by the visiting left, and then Everton were back again. Parry kicked Elliott, and McMillan shot across the goalmouth, but Murray failed in his attempt to get the ball though. Still Everton had the best of it, and sorely tried, the capabilities of the visiting custodian, who, however continued to respond manfully to every call made upon him. Eventually, however, success met the continued attacks of Evertonians. Parry sent amongst his forwards, and a swift shot from the feet of Elliott escaped the vigilance of Machon. The referee shortly afterwards blew the final whistle, though evidently under some misapprehension, as the game had only been in progress half an hour in the second stage. Everton: - Angus, goal, Dobson (captain) and Cresswell backs, Martin, Jones (r), and Parry backs, Gordon, Murray, McGergor, McMillan, and Elliott, forwards.

DERBY COUNTY 2 EVERTON 6 (Game 59)
December 15 1890. The Liverpool Courier
The ground at Derby was in good condition, having been but slightly affected by the frost. The kick off was made soon after a quarter past two in the presence of 3,000 spectators. The visitors moved well down on the right, but the ball was rushed over the line. It was retained in the home territory and a pass from Geary permitted. Chadwick to make an attempt his calculation from a difficult spot being only a few inches out. Just after the goal kick Geary sent to Wylie, who shot through very neatly, the game only being three minutes Bakewell and McLachlan went away in neat style, and the concluding touch was easily removed by Jardine. Geary and Milward made good progess. Only to be baffled by Baker, and then a foul for hands against McLean gave Derby a good position in the vicinity of the goal, but this was of no profile, the ball being sent flying over the line. Wylie put in a grand sprinted run and finally shot somewhat high over the bar. John Goodall carried the leather out of danger by season of a good sprint, Hannah proving the stumbling block. The home men were now pulling themselves together, and Bakewell had a fair opening, which he spoiled by ever running the ball. Pretty play between Geary. Chadwick and Milward took the leather well away, and Wylie again scored with a fast low shot, which Chadwick's pass effected him. Only a minute elapsed when Chadwick sent in a hot one which, Haddow cleared, and then Geary cleverely shot the third, play only having been in progess for a quarter of an hour. Wylie rushed off at a fine rate and shot through a grand one, from a long distance, but he had just previously been declared offside. Bakewell was to the front in another fine run, and passing to J.Goodall a tough shot was sent in Jardine neatly repelling and another immediately afterwards flew over the bar. McLachlan following this up with a stinging shot, which Jardine very smartly took away from the feet of those who rushed at him. The Evertonians now took up the running and Wylie shot over the bar. Holt sent into the hands of the goalkeeper and Geary planted a scorcher well in the goalmouth, Haddow having to concede a corner. Nothing came of this, and again the County men attacked in a vigorous manner, and a hard one from Holmes was wonderfully well arrested by Jardine, after which Goodall kicked over the bar. Smart combination on the home left-wing resulted in Holmes scoring with a fast grounder. A thick mist now came down, and it was impossible to observe the movements of the players more than a third of the time. Chadwick quickly ran the ball down and transferred to the right wing from whence as far as could be seen Wylie scored the fourth. Half-time result; Derby County 1 goal Everton 4 goals. On restarting the mist was thicker, and the task of distinguishing the player was rendered almost impossible. The County man travelled towards their opponent's goal at a tremendous speed. Everton repulsed them twice, but down they went again and John Goodall scored a second goal apparently. The visitors carried along, and Geary lost a fairly good opening by handling the ball. A minute later that player was kicked on the foot by Chamber, and he limped about for a little while, but resumed play. There were more ugly rushes by the County team, but weather the goal was in imminent danger could not be seen. Eventually Wylie repelled the besiegers and the partner slipped off and crossed the ball to the left Chadwick sending over the bar. Geary received the ball afterwards, and slipped off at high speed, but with only Baker in his steps, and the goalkeeper running far away from his charge, he propelled the ball high over the bar. A few minutes later the fifth goal was scored by Geary from Wylie's pass. The game was here delayed for a few minutes on account of the spectators encroaching upon the field of play. The onlookers from the different sides of the field went on to the pitch, and assisted in that manner to hamper the efforts of the officials and the police who were endeavoring to restore order. When the people were removed the county men attacked strongly, and it was only by the repeated fine rescue by Hannah, McLean, and Jardine that a further score was prevented. For some time Everton only had one rush, and on that occasion it could not be seen by whose effects this was brought about. Until the exclusion Derby continued to have the best of the game. Final result Derby County 2 goals Everton 6 goals. Teams as follows; Derby County: - Haddow, goal, Baker, and Ferguson backs Gondola (a) Roulstone, and Bakewell backs McLachan, Goodall (j), Holmes, and McMillan forwards. Everton: - Jardine, goals, Hannah (captain), and McLean backs, Kirkwood, Holt, and Campbell backs, Wylie (t), Brady, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.

BLUE REVIEW
December 20 th 1890. The Liverpool Courier.
Now that Everton has recovered the prestige lost during the calamitous days of the season, there is joy in the region of Anfield, and hopes are revived of a successful issue of the campaign. For a length of time the loss of Latta appeared irreparable, but after much anxious research a worthy substitute was found in Wylie, whose debut Wolverhampton Wanderers will long remember, and whose later exploits against derby County have stamped him –if such evidence were needed –as a player of the highest rank. Of course, no one ventured to doubt the ability of the dual victors in the journey with Wolverhampton Wanderers to vanquish Derby County, and the problem to be solved was rather as to the number of winning goals, and even in this respect the most sanguine were wide of the mark. The prevailing fog rendered the game uninteresting from a spectator's point of view, and only in occasional instance could be scorers of goals to noted from midfield. Wyllie, however, was the hero of the day, for the game had not long been in progress before a couple of points stood to his credit –one being the result of what is described as a long diagonal shot, the other being scored from a splendid pass from the left by Chadwick. Barely twenty minutes had elapsed when Geary put on a third, and Holmes having replied on behalf of the County, the Evertonians rushed through a fourth, so that at half-time the Peakites found themselves in a minority of four to one. Following the change of ends, however, the “County” temporarily rallied and added a second point, and now the Evertonians again stormed with irresistible force, and adding two more points, won by a large majority of six to two. This is a record at Derby so far as League matches are concerned, although in 1897 North End beat the County by five goals to one, but with this exception many years have elapsed since so large a number of goals have been registered against the ill-fated team, which now ranks eleventh in order of merit of the competing clubs. On the other hand, Everton now stand conspicuously at the head of the list, being a point ahead of Wolverhampton Wanderers, and three points ahead of Blackburn Rovers, who, however, are still a match in arrears. Needless to say, the result of the match against Sunderland today is anxiously looked forward to as sounding the keynote of final success for then the Evertonians will have met the bulk of their engagement on distant fields of play. Having made the journey overnight, Everton will rise refreshed for the fray, and with a full and thoroughly reliable team to do battle for the good old town, not even the semblances of a doubt should exists “play up Everton!” and the sterling old “whisper” will greet you on your return.
EVERTON V HANLEY
This match has been abandoned owing to the inclement state of the weather. The team was, Smalley, McLean, Cresswell, Hammond, R. Jones, Parry; Gordon, McGregor, Robertson, McMillan, and Elliott.

SUNDERLAND V EVERTON
December 22, 1890. The Birmingham Daily Post
These two clubs, the first and last on the league list, met at Sunderland, in frosty weather, the ground being very hard. Nevertheless, the play on each side reached a high standard of excellence, but through the ball was in turn several times in dangerous proximity to each goal, neither side could score, and the elevens crossed over without a goal having been obtained. Everton pressed early in the second half, but failed to obtained a point, and then, amidst great cheering, Hannah scored for Sunderland. The home team played very finely afterwards and maintaining their advantage to the end, the game ended in favour of Sunderland by one goal to none.

SUNDERLAND 1 EVERTON 0 (Game 60)
December 22 1890. The Liverpool Courier
Everton played their sixteen League match on Saturday at Sunderland in the presence of about 7,000 spectators. They arrived in the north on Friday night, and stayed at the Roker Hotel. The weather was beautiful and the temperature was fairly warm for this time of the year. The ground was very hard, and only a slight firm of snow was falling. Everton played the same team as that which defeated Derby County the only alteration taking place in the defence, Doyle resuming his place and causing McLean to retire. The teams were as follows :- Sunderland :- Doig, goal, Porteous, and Oliver backs, Wilson, Auld and Murray, half-backs, Harvey, Smith, Campbell, Hannah (d), and Scott, forwards. Everton: - Jardine goal, Hannah (captain), and Doyle backs. Kirkwood, Holt, and Campbell, half-backs, Wylie, Brady, Geary, Chadwick and Milward, forwards . Mr.M.P.Betts was chosen by the club as referee, but as he was unable to attend his duties was fulfilled by Mr. Arnott of Leek. Sunderland kicked off, at a minute past two, and the Evertonians were at one conspicuous in some slow but accurate and puzzling passing, which took the ball down, when Chadwick sent in a soft one, which Doig easily removed. Campbell and Scott replied with interest, the ultimate effect being a neat attempt by Scott, the ball merely missing by a few inches. The ensuing play was not of an exciting nature, the northerners by fairly good passing obtaining a slight advantage, which was nullified by Hannah taking a kick in the vicinity of the goal when he was off-side. Milward Chadwick and Geary were getting on well past the defence when Oliver kicked behind, but the corner was of no benefit. The play was now mainly in midfield, the halfbacks on both side tackling and kicking brilliantly, and shaving off all advances by the forwards. Holt gave Milward a good chance the shot however, bring very lofty although it was taken from ten yards in front of goal. For a few minutes Everton were greatly in evidence and Geary kicked outside, and Oliver gave a second corner. Owing to a mistake this was unpredictable. Doyle splendidly drove the opposing forwards back on three occasions, and from the last kick Kirkwood passed to Milward, who at lighting speed sent the ball an inch over the bar. The visitors were now taking up the play earnestly and Geary put in a beautiful short dropping shot, which unfortunately was a shade too high. Milward in a dashing endeavour to make things sure went at the goalkeeper, but it was a case of the biter bit, as Doig quickly brought him down. Harvey and Smith ran down further pressure by Everton, and then the ball. Doyle relieved and Auld returned finely into the goalmouth, a good thing here being missed by Campbell. Chadwick and Milward carried the leather along, and the latter again kicked a yard too high. The home team took a turn at the attack, but they were scarely at any moment really dangerous, the brunt of the work falling upon Doyle, and being discharged with great honour to himself. Brady had a short sprint, and concluded with a wide one, and Wylie also slipped away in similar fashion, and finished up with a beauty, which shaved the crossbar. Sunderland went up again and this time it was possible for them to have the first to break the ice, had not their shooting been indeed miserable. Wylie just before half time was to the front with a grand and smart dribble, Oliver having to concede a corner. As this was useless, the interval arrived without either side scoring. The game had so far not been remarkable for any sustained brilliant execution, but no doubt the ground accounted for this, the players preferring to adopt the slower, and aurora method in order to avoid injury. Sunderland started after the interval at a clever pace, and Doyle headed out a stiff trial by Scott after this Wilson replied with an inaccurate smack. The ‘'Salmons'' boys continued to play at the increased pace, and Wylies when in advantageous positions, was twice ruled offside. The home men then were nearly bringing about the desired result. Jardine saving two attempts, the last one being a hard thing from Scott. He was charged in saving it, and was doubled up for a couple of minutes. After a brief lapse, Hannah received the ball from Smith, and as he was standing only a couple of yards off the upright he scored easily a claim for offside not being regarded favorably. The movements following upon this were more vigorous –not to say rough-and Doyle was hard pressed severe times, but succeeded in emerging safely from the tussles. Geary rattled off in clinking style, and when in passed to Chadwick, who shot wretchedly. The home men were going with far more determination, and Scott was responsible for a splendid attempt, the ball hitting the bar, and bouncing behind. The Evertonians were battling as hard as they could in order to avert the impeding defeat, but the halfbacks of the home team always seemed to drop on the ball as an opportune juncture, and their interceptions were very smart. They was still having the advantage in point of quarters, the ball being very nicely carried over the half-way line by their opponents, and on such occasions not in a manner to cause the spectators to feel uneasy. Holt used his chad to some purpose, and Doyle relieved from nearly under the bar. Jardine also saved his charge grandly when a couple of his antagonable were battering away at him. At this time tripping, whether designedly in accidentally done, was frequent, and both sides obtained fouls, Sunderland had the best of the game at the finish. Final result Sunderland 1 Everton nil

SUNDERLAND EVERTON
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 22 December 1890
Everton had a gloomy time of it as they travelled from Liverpool on Friday to Sunderland, owing to the heavy fall of snow, which made it so very trying for them, the boots and clothes of the players being far from comfortable, and it was only after they reached the Roker Hotel that they began to feel warm. Everton remained indoors during the evening, and on Saturday morning all went on the sands for a ramble, and then made tracks for the ground, which was found to be in a hard and dangerous state. In the absence, of Mr. Betts, the services of Mr. Armitt, of Leek, were requisitioned as referee. Both teams were at their full strength, as will be seen from the following list:-Sunderland-Doig, goal; Porteous and Oliver, backs; Wilson, Auld, and Murray, half-backs; Harvie, Smith, J. Campbell, Scott, and D. Hannah, forwards. Everton-Jardine, goal; Hannah and Doyle backs; Kirkwood, Holt, and Campbell, half-backs; Wyllie, Brady, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. There were over 12,000 spectators present. The homesters were first afield, and when Everton put; in an appearance they were cheered by a select few. Everton won the toss, and Doig had immediately to throw out from Chadwick. From the goal kick the homesters got away, but they overran the ball. Again Everton went down, and after Oliver had eased, Wylie and Chadwick sent one narrowly by the post. Sunderland now had a look in, and Scott might have scored but for off-side. Everton then had a corner, after a deal of pressure, but it came to naught. Everton continued to press, and Doig had plenty to do, along with Oliver, to stem the onward rush of the  Liverpudlians. Milward received the ball from Doyle, and sent a fine shot to the side of the upright, l which was followed up by Geary doing similarly, Doyle now lobbed in, and Oliver had to concede another fruitless corner. Everton completely hemmed in the homesters by good play, a shot by Geary bouncing over the bar. Wyllie then got a pass by Geary and was running down to goal when he was miss taken given, offside. After Sunderland had been sent back: twice by Hannah and Doyle, Chadwick and Geary went down, and it looked all over scoring when the latter put the leather over the bar. Encouraged by the shouts of their supporters the homesters tried to make headway, but the visitors' defence always repelled them. At length Wyllie called upon Doig to give another unproductive corner. 
The pressure was very hard on the Sunderland man, and Everton had a grand corner, but it came to nothing, and half-time arrived with the sheet clean. Restarting, Everton, appeared determined to get the initial point, but Sunderland had the first call on the goalkeeper.  Geary managed to speed along in the centre, and the outside right winger had hard lines twice in not putting on a point. Not satisfied with the game being all in the home quarters, Sunderland made a raid on the Everton fortress, and, Jardine was hurt. Taking advantage of the accident, the homesters once more attacked, and D. Hannah scored for Sunderland amidst a deafening cheer. Not disheartened Everton went again to the attack, and Wyllie caused Doig to save a beauty. The Everton right wing made another effort to get through, but found the defence of such a grand nature that they could not score. The Sunderland left came grandly down, Jardine saving from Campbell. Geary evaded the attention of Auld, passing to Wyllie, who again centred finely, but Poreous cleared and another attack, in which Campbell was prominent, followed on Jardine, whose charge escaped by a few inches. In the last ten minutes of the game Everton played up with their usual pluck, left and right wing players each making good bids for scoring, but every attempt was defeated by the grand defence of the home backs. Final result- Sunderland, 1 goal: Everton, nil.
The contest evoked much anxiety amongst the northern followers, who turned up in full force to cheer their men on, which they did as only a Sunderland crowd can. The ground was very dangerous, and that. alone accounts for Everton not adding another to their already long list of victories, the visiting forwards not running any risk of being knocked down and perhaps getting their bones broken for the sake of a couple of points, The match was exceedingly even, caused by the fine defence of the respective sides, and runs and counter runs to each goal were the only items of the match. Doig had by far more work to do than Jardine, and at the interval neither side had scored.  The second half opened warmly, and Everton were within an ace of scoring six times in as many minutes, but so slippery was the ground in front of Doig that all their  hearts were nullified, Sunderland, aided by a big kick from Porteous, went down on the right and Smith sent across to D. Hannah, who was lying behind the Everton backs and within a yard of Jardine, with the result that the latter was beaten. A strong plea was made for offside, but the referee beetled it not. No other scoring taking place, a tame game ended against Everton by the narrow majority of a goal to nil, being just the exact opposite of that at an Anfield three weeks ago. The defence of both teams was all that could be desired, and they alone only merit word of praise. The visiting forwards, as we have already said, warn wise in not risking their limbs on such a slippery ground. Hannah and Jardine received nasty kicks in the eye in the first half of the game.  We may here state that Latta is all right again, and will arrays in Liverpool from Dumbarton to-day, and in all probability don the jersey against Motherwell on Christmas Day. 

SUNDERLAND v. EVERTON.
Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette - Monday 22 December 1890
VICTORY OF SUNDERLAND.
What was announced on large posters as “The gratest fite in the League "took place on Saturday afternoon on the Newcastle-road ground. The contestants were Sunderland and Everton (Liverpool), and the match was a return one under League auspices, Everton having at Anfield-road on Nov. 15th, in the presence of 12,000 spectators, beaten Sunderland by a goal scored in the first half. Since then the clubs have been drawn together in the first round of the competition proper for the English Cup, to be decided in Sunderland on Jan. 17th. and the match to-day is regarded as likely afford some clue to the chances possessed by the Wearsiders against their antagonists. The teams were as follows;-
Sunderland : Goal, J. E. Doig; backs. T. Porteous and J. Oliver; half-backs, H. Wilson, J. R. Auld, and J. Murray; forwards, J. Harvie and J. Smith (right), J. Campbell (centre), J. Scott and D. Hannah (left). Everton: Goal, D. Jardine; backs, A. Hannah and D. Doyle; half-backs, D. Kirkwood, J. Holt, and W. Campbell; forwards, A. Brady and T. Wylie (right), F. Geary (centre), A. Milward and E. Chadwick (left). Referee—Mr. Armitt (Leek).
THE GAME.
Mr. Armitt quickly had the men marshalled, and Everton having won the toss, Campbell, at 2.3 p.m., started the ball for Sunderland from the lower end the ground. There was little or no wind stirring. The ball was run into the home goal mouth, but was not molested, and he had leisure, to throw away. Play remained for a minute or two at the road end, and then Wilson shot to the front and gave Harvie and Smith a chance. The former
SHOT ACROSS
to Scott, who attempted to manipulate the leather through. Jardine, in the hurry of the moment, missed, and the ball almost rolled through, the narrow escape of the Everton citadel, thus early on, evoking the greatest excitement. A. Hannah returned with a long kick, and an awkward punt by Oliver gave the visitors
THE FIRST CORNER
which raised some apprehensions that they might score. However, all fears upon that score were pleasingly disappointed, and play settled down in midfield, where for next five minutes neither side had much advantage. Scott skirmished ahead, and was charged by A. Hannah, at whom loud cries of “Foul" were raised, but the game went on as usual until the ball was put over the line by the home team. From the goal kick Auld made an attempt to secure but failed, and the ball passed to Brady, who speedily lost to Oliver. It then went to the home right wing, near the grand stand, and was shot forward by Porteous to Harvie, whose tricky tactics caused much laughter. Milward was breaking away when “Hands “was given against him. Porteous took the kick, which was secured by Geary, and he ran along at a rare pace, but let the ball get too far ahead, the natural consequence being that Porteous experienced no difficulty in clearing. Again the ball was rushed in, only to go out of play. Chadwick soon after made a miserable attempt to score, sending the ball far wide of the mark and landing it among the spectators. A second corner was secured by Everton, which, like the first, was easily disposed of. Everton from the nature of the ground, had a decided pull, but the grand defence of the home team raised the fondest hopes, which seemed to be realised when Smith gave to Harvie, and he shot. The Everton goal escaped by the merest chance, and so deafening was the hubbub that an impression prevailed that it had fallen. "Hands against the visitors enabled the Wearsiders to resume the pressure, and close siege was laid to the Everton goal, but without success. Angus here appealed for a throw in.  The ball at the time was six inches within the line, but probably the referee could not see from his position, and intense indignation pervaded against Angus who had made the claim, when the referee awarded it to him. However, the home forwards forged ahead, and Harvie compelled the concession of a corner, which was raced down by Wylie and his partner. Play now began to rule strongly in favour of Sunderland, for whom Murray shot in a stinger, which was a few inch only wide the mark. Chadwick returned and administered a beauty. Doig showed his possession of science by reaching and putting the ball over the bar. A corner, of course, ensued for Everton, but it was easily disposed of, and Scott and Hannah broke away to midfield. A. Hannah returned, Auld headed back, and a struggle ensued between the Everton right back and Scott for possession of the leather. The latter was unsuccessful, but A. Hannah could not get the ball far, and Smith and Harvie raced in. compelling Jardine to throw away. The attack was taken up again by the same players, and Smith secured a corner off Doyle, but failed to convert the kick. Wilson next took the ball smartly from the Everton left wing, and it went to Scott, who misjudged the distance, with the result that Kirkwood sent to Wylie, who shot, and Oliver yielded a corner. The ball from the kick in scrimmaged about for a short time and cleared. It was still in the home half when half-time arrived with the score— Sunderland Nil Everton Nil
At 2.52 ends were changed, and Geary initiated the second half. The home team began with great dash, and the Everton goal had a narrow escape from an attack by H. Wilson. Chadwick received a free-kick for hands, and conveyed the leather into the home half, where a corner was claimed. It was given to Wylie, who centered well, but Auld cleared, and Wilson helped the ball down the field. Still it did not reach the centre line, looked as if the visitors' forwards meant business. Wylie and Brady were assisted by a throw in, but owing to some misunderstanding the ball was momentarily lost, Wylie eventually kicking behind the posts. A long throw in by Murray cleared, but J. Campbell, who attempted to make some progress, fell, and his rival, F. Geary, rushed at the home goal, failing, however, to get through the defence. Midfieid play was the next feature, both sides being
VERY EVENLY MATCHED.
Wilson was the ultimate means of changing the venue. Geary in turn secured, but did not make much progress, and, Wilson shooting to D. Hannah the latter administered a ground-grazer which Jardine experienced some difficulty in clearing. While fumbling with the leather he was charged by Smith. Jardine doubled up to meet him, and a heavy collision ensued, both men going down. Jardine appeared to have suffered more than him, and the game was delayed for few minutes until he had recovered. From the goal-kick Geary rushed up like a streak of greased lightning, and passed splendidly to Wylie, whose shot, was kept out by Oliver. Again Wilson came to the rescue, and transferred to Harvie, who troubled the custodian with a dangerous shot.  D. Hannah secured, and quick as thought spun the ball through, and credited Sunderland with their
FIRST GOAL.
The point was hailed with a tremendous outburst of cheers, which subsided somewhat when the referee was appealed to by the visitors, but broke afresh with redoubled vigour when he gave the point in favour of Sunderland. Hats went off, and the crisp air rang with lusty cheers at the success of the home team. Again the home forwards pressed, having all the pull in the play, and the Everton defence was taxed to the utmost, Geary relieved with
A RUN,
cries of off-side being raised, but Oliver rushed across, and sent away. In the last ten minutes Everton played a thoroughly beaten team. Except an occasional burst away by Geary, whose career was ignominiously cut short by Oliver, the visitors rarely got out of their own half, and the greater part of the time not more than half a dozen yards from their own posts. Shots were rained in by the home forwards, and had it not been for Doyle and Hannah a big total would have been piled np. These attempts to increase the lead of the home team failing, time was called with the final score: Sunderland 1 goal Everton Nil.

EVERTON AT SUNDERLAND
Athletic News - Monday 22 December 1890
By Gideon Grump
For about a week past the dead walls of Sunderland, already sufficiently ugly, have been rendered positively hideous eyesores by the forcibly feeble announcement of the return match with Everton, as, I quote textually, “the gratest fite in the League.”  This is not true; it is not good orthography; it is not even funny.  I trust we shall have no more of these illiterate aberrations.  The “gratest fite” stood a poor chance on Saturday morning.  Fog and frost had joined in a dismal duet, and threatened to extinguish the fite before it had so much as begun.  However, the spirits of local enthusiasts, which had sunk below zero, and their hearts, which were somewhere in their boots, rose responsive to an improvement in the weather, and the afternoon was as bright and fine as could be wished in these dull December days.  The ground at Newcastle-road looked frost-bitten, and one of the home men mistook it for Boldon Flats, and tried to get up a slide.  The effect of the sprinkled grass, I read was pretty.  From a spectator’s point of view this may be so.  But what about the players!  Still, it was decided to be good enough by the referee, and as neither side objected the game went on.  Both were fully represented, as the appended contents-bill will show;- Sunderland;- J.E. Doig, goal; T. Porteous, and J. Oliver, backs; H. Wilson, JR Auld, and J. Murray, half-backs; J. Harvie, J. Smith, J. Campbell, J. Scott, and D. Hannah, forwards.  Everton;- D. Jardine, goal; A. Hannah, and D. Doyle, backs; D. Kirkwood, J. Holt, and W. Campbell, half-backs; T. Wylie, A. Brady, F. Geary, A. Milward, and E. Chadwick, forwards. 
Jardine’s understudy, Angus, was also on the field as umpire, in which capacity he excited the ire of the home partisans by the frequency and freedom of his claims.  Angus used to be goalkeeper for Sunderland Albion, and he was the butt of a lot of far good-humoured jests.  Another victim of the worse pleasantries bandied about in one portion of the field was Doyle.  He must be little short of a philosopher, or he could never have borne so patiently as he did the execrations and the brutal taunts that were hurled at him.  The committee cannot of course, control these disgraceful exhibitions by a small knot of spectators, for the general conduct was most exemplary, and I do not blame them in the slightest degree.  I cherish a hope-a faint hope-that publicity will cause the offenders to bridle their unruly tongues.  But it is useless to appeal to their common courtesy; they would not understand me.  Before the game began I had the pleasure of an unsought interview with Doyle, who appeared to be anxious to know if I was the representative of so-and-so.  I truthfully assured him that I was not.  A look of keen disappointment flitted across his expressive countenance, which boded no good to the person after whom he inquired, and whose shoes I would have been sorry to occupy while the burly back operated upon me.  Some wild forecasts had been made of the probable attendance.  The record was to have been easily broken.  Actually, however, it did not exceed 8,000, and there were great gaps in the extra stand accommodation which has been recently provided.  Both teams were attired with startling similarity.  A stranger might, perhaps have told Everton, because their uniforms looked as if they had been at the wash, while the others didn’t.  If they derived no advantage from the elements, Everton at all events, were favoured by the ground.  The dip from the top end which they occupied in the first half to the road is ever so slight, but it exists, and Everton ought to have made more use of it than they did.  Sunderland did not fail do afterwards.  J. Campbell started, and for three-quarters of an hour most even struggle was witnessed. The play, if anything, was against Sunderland, but they were far more frequently at the top end of the field than Everton were subsequently, and in the very first few minutes the visitors' stronghold, was as nearly captured by Scott as possible. An awkward miskick by Oliver gave a corner to the visitors. Like two or three others it was easily disposed of, and then the opposing forwards would range from end to end, but weak shooting by Everton spoiled their numerous forays. From their goal average, I expected them to be dead on. Yet the earliest attempt by Chadwick was a most miserable one, and no more than merited the mocking laughter which it evoked. Another from the same wing was almost as bad.  Doig (Othello-like) found his occupation gone for some time. The few shots which didn't wander away into space but dribbled through the defence he picked up leisurely and threw back. Geary set his men a better example. A nasty fall which he experienced when charging Doig damped his ordour. He was hungry for revenge, and one shot which he sent in would, I thought, have scored. The home custodian has caught the prevailing fashion, and he just jumped up and slipped the ball over the bar. The resulting corner failed, and for remainder of that period the home goal was safe. Sunderland, it is true, had failed to score; but so had Everton, and the chances were greatly against them when they crossed over. It was an easy thing now to prophesy that Sunderland had the game in hand. The question was merely by how many goals would they win. The home team were not long in tapping the Everton claret. By good wing play, Harvie and Smith got well down the field; from them the ball went to J. Campbell, thence to D. Hannah, and through from his foot before Jardine could quite gauge the situation.  It was all done so quickly that the home spectators were slow to catch on, and their cheers were checked momentarily by an appeal of some kind to the referee, but burst forth with renewed vigour, when he motioned towards mid-field. A perfect babel of cries prevailed on all hands, and as Sunderland continued to press the excitement became red-hot. Doyle, for a minute, here lost his composure, for presently, in attempting to head out another stinger, he sent it right on to the bar. Jardine caught the ball as it fell behind, and, still holding the leather, he was charged by Smith, and shouts went up for a second goal. Of course, the ball was out of play, but that was not immediately perceived in the gathering gloom, and some rather premature jubilation ensued among the spectators. It speaks volumes for the Strength of the Everton defence that no more goals were allowed to pass. In sober truth, as I stood and watched, especially during the last ten minutes, I was almost incredulous that the “Champions of the League “ were being so cruelly gruelled. Geary and Wylie seemed to be about the only two men out of the eleven who could make any headway. The former fed the outside right, to the complete neglect of the other wing, but whenever the ball travelled to the top a flying kick sent it to the bottom. Heartbreaking the visitors must have found it, for their best efforts were purely of a defensive kind, and although the ball circled about the Everton uprights, through again it could not be got, and Sunderland romped home by one goal to nil, an exact inversion of that at Liverpool. All I can say is that if Sunderland displayed the same form then as they did on Saturday the Liverpool result was a mistake. Some of my readers in the big city on the Mersey may think that I have rather exaggerated the facts, and painted a picture distorted because partial. If so, they are singular in their opinion, because no one in Sunderland accuses me of partiality for the home team. Rather the reverse, although I believe myself to be neutral. Here, at any rate, it has been my aim “nothing to extenuate nor aught set down in malice." The score does not represent the one-sided nature of the game in the latter portion of the second half, but the play did: and if it seems unaccountable that the “'wooden spoonists" should defeat the erstwhile champions, my reply is that facts are stubborn things, and cannot be ignored. Coming to the merits and demerits of the respective teams, I should say that the Everton forwards were quicker on the ball than their opponents. The backs and goalkeepers of both teams were about on a par. Where Sunderland shone was in her halves. The visitors' forwards shot so wretchedly because Wilson, Auld, and Murray compelled them to let fly before they had a decent chance to score. The home captain worked hard, as usual, but Wilson and Murray were simply superb. If Oliver be not so polished a player as Porteous, he was not less successful, and his happy-go-lucky kicks told with great effect. Holt pleased me most in the Everton halves. He is a striking illustration of the truth that “the best things are made up in little packets.” Geary did nothing to add to his reputation, and Wylie the latest acquisition, has a weakness for off-side. “It is no fit ba’,” as the Sunderland skipper remarked to me. Naturally, there, is great elation in local circles, and a growing confidence that on January 17th next Sunderland will make short work of the Cup career of their antagonists. But then, as Burns wrote;-
       The best laid schemes o’ mice and men
       Gang aft aglew.

EVERTON NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 22 December 1890
The fact that Everton had got beaten at Sunderland was made known to the Wolverhampton Wanderers as they were seated round Host Morris’s festive board at the Saddle Inn, Bolton, and you should have heard the cheers.  They knew that it meant giving them another chance for the championship, hence their appreciation of Sunderland’s victory.  The “Wolves” evidently know who they have most to fear, and estimate their great Liverpool rivals at their true value. 
In estimating the respective chances of Notts (who are now at the top) and Everton for the League championship, the fact should not be lost sight of that the Liverpool club have an immense pull as regards the ground.  Of the six remaining fixtures Everton will play five at home; whilst Notts play four out of their five away.  Three of these are at Everton, Sunderland, and Blackburn, and they will do well to win one out of the trio. 

OUR SCOTCH LETTERS
Athletic News - Monday 22 December 1890
Liverpool is to be visited by the Queen’s Park on Easter Monday.  Readers of my notes of last week must have been prepared for such an announcement as this.  Everton have been in communication with Mr. McTavish for some time, and it has now been decided that Everton shall visit Glasgow on an early date- perhaps January 10-and the Queen’s Park will return the compliment by playing Everton on Easter Monday.  The strollers’ eleven of the Q.P.-and most clever players they are-have visited Bootle several times, but this will be the first of the G.P team to Liverpool.  Football appears to be very popular there, and this visit of Q.P will add much to its popularity, while it will also show that the committee of the Everton are anxious to give their supporters the best talent possible. 
OTHER NOTES
The Shropshire Charity Association held their annual meeting last week.  Everything passed off very satisfactorily.  The Mayor of Shrewsbury, Mr. G.J. Holt, was elected president for the year.  The choice of the committee gave great local satisfaction, as Mr. Holt is extremely popular, and a good supporter of sports generally.  Mr. G.H. Jones was again elected hon,. Secretary and he informed the meeting that he had arranged for Everton to visit Shrewsbury to give an exhibition of football during the season.

EVERTON RESERVES 3 MOTHERWELL 0
December 26 1890. The Liverpool Courier.
The latter, their first visit to Liverpool yesterday afternoon, when Everton were opposed at Anfield before 6,000 spectators. The visitors kicked off, but Everton were the first to attack, the ball going harmlessly over the line. The Motherwell left raced away, McLean however, driving them back. Everton were having the best of the play, and after Sneddon had knocked out a shot from McMillan, Gordon headed through goal. From the centre kick McFarlane essayed to break through the Everton backs but was easily checked. Lappin drove back the Everton forwards, and then Geary and Oliver ran along the visitors left. An abortive corner kick was taken and then Robertson McMillan, and Elliott, indulged a grand bit of passing the length of the field. Sneddon mulled the latter's shot, and Robertson rushing up made the score two to nil in favour of Everton. This second reverse put the Scotsmen on their mettle, and the Everton goal was next the scale of hostilities. McLean relieved, and a neat passing run by the home forwards was next noticeable. Nothing however, resulted. Oliver made a capital dribble on behalf of the visitors, and the home goal was attacked, a shot by McFarlane passing the wrong side of the upright. Everton forced a corner kick, but on Gray affording relief the visitors, forwards went rapidly down the field, and Angus had a rather stiff shot to negotiate from Spairs. The danger was cleared, and Elliott by a good run, paced the visitors goal in jeopardy. Cresswell shot in well, the goalkeeper throwing out a ‘'header'' from Gordon. Everton returned, and Elliott took a corner kick, which was, kicked away by Gray. Gordon sent in a fine shot from the extreme right, and the ball was bustled through goal. As a claim for hands had been previously made however, the point was disallowed. McGregor then had a good chance of adding to the score, but shot wide. A free kick in midfield to the visitors enabled them to attack, but McLean came to the rescue in capital style. A rather hot attack was now made on the visitors goal, and the ball was bubbling about dangerously for a few minutes. Sneddon however, breated out of goal, and ran the ball to the half-way line, the interval arriving with Everton leading by two goals to nil.
Robertson restarted on behalf of the home team, who again was the first to assume an aggressive attitude. The visitors backs, however, defended atonally and the invaders were repelled Motherwell were playing a much better game than in the previous half, and several times worked the ball in close proximity to the Everton goal. Angus, however, was not tested the backs making his work easy. Everton attacked from a run down by Elliott, and a corner kick resuled, Gray relieving with a out to the centre. Play for some time was contested in the Motherwell quarters, but the home team were unable to increase their score. Gray and Oliver made an incursion into Everton territory, McLean pulling them up in grand style; Elliott and McMillan retaliated for the homesters, and the former shot across the goalmouth, Jones striking the crossbar. Leppin kicked away, and a temporary visit was made to the Everton quarters. McLean gave relief, and McGregor made a fine sprint along the touchline. This was followed by a fast shot, which Sneddon kicked away. The Vistors were playing very well, but were unable to get within shooting distance. Gray sent in a high overhead shot, which Angus cleverely kicked out of goal, and now the visitors attacked frequently, and for a time Everton were penned within their own quarters. Angus was troubled several times, by skilful play managed to keep his charge intact. T.Seddon put in a grand bit of play for the visitors. McLean, however, starving off the attack. Robertson scored again for Everton. Result Everton Reserves 3 Motherwell nil.
Teams; Everton: - Angus, goal, McLean, and Cresswell, backs, Hammond, Jones (r), and Martin (captain), half-back, Gordon, McGregor, Robinson, McMillan, and Elliott, forwards. Motherwell: - Sneddon (w), goal, Lappin, and James Gray, backs, White, Sneddon (j), and Sharpe, half-backs, Wathie, Spiers, McFralane, Gray, and Oliver, forwards.

EVERTON V MOTHERWELL
December 26, 1890. Birmingham Daily Post
At Liverpool, 7,000 being present, Everton, who played a weak team, had the best of the game at the start, and in fifteen minutes Gordon and Robertson scored. Everton continued to hold the upper hand to half-time, although nothing further was scored. In the second half play was more even until Robertson again scored what proved the last point of the game, the home team thus winning by three goals to none.

EVERTON V ACCRINGTON
December 27, 1891. The Birmingham Daily Post
Played at Liverpool, before 14,000 spectators. Barely five minutes had elapsed when Chadwick scored a magnificent goal, whilst a moment later Geary had one disallowed. Milward, however, put on a second point, the play all round being of the finest description. Then Barbour and Whitehead each scored for Accrington. Play was afterwards fairly even, and nothing further was scored up to half-time. Geary restarted, and the play was remarkably accurate. Considering the state of the ground, Milward shot outside, and then Accrington gained an abortive corner. The play become ever exciting, the Everton had hard lines. Ultimately Milward gained a grand goal, midst tremendous cheerings, and despite injures to Geary and Milward, the home team played up splendidly, and won by three goals to two.

EVERTON 3 ACCRINGTON 2 (Game 61)
December 27 1890. The Liverpool Courier
This League fixture was played at Anfield yesterday in the presence of thirteen of fourteen thousand spectators. The ground was hard and slippery, but this did not interfere with the play to any extent. The teams were – Accrington: - Hay, goal, McDermid, and McLeannan, backs, Sanders, Howard, and Tattersall, half-backs, Gallacher, Whitehead, Pendergast, Stevenson, and Barbour, forwards. Everton: - Jardine, goal, Hannah (captain), and Doyle, backs, Kirkwood, Holt, and Parry, backs, Wylie, Brady, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Accrington kicked off, but Everton attacked, and for a few minutes the ball was hovering round the Accrington posts, Geary shooting over the crossbar. From the goal kick Parry put in a capital bit of play, and Milward sent well across in front of goal McLennan kicked clear, but Chadwick, with a beautiful shot, defeated the ‘'Reds'' custodian amidst enthusiastic and prolonged cheering. Geary dashed down smartly, and got adrift of McLennan whom he floored, and then shot through, but the point was not valid, as the shooter had fouled. Play was of a midfield nature for a few minutes. Hannah making some very neat returns. Chadwick tried a low shot, and Wylie rushed in for the purpose of making the point certain, but tipped the ball just outside. After some clever defence, in which Holt shone conspicuously, Chadwick passed to Milward, who scored with a grand fast grounder, with which Hay and not the sigthest chance. The visitors were playing a remarkable stubborn and fast game and Jardine was forced to give a corner, from which, Barbour scored. Wylie slipped rapidly along, but the ball was removed from a pass to the centre and then the line of Accrington forwards going, well up reached close quarters, and some faulty resulted in Whitehead being allowed to equalised by a smart dash in. Everton now had the best of the play, and from a fine centre by Chadwick. Wylie banged the ball into the hands of Hay, who cleaned. The Accrington forwards initiated a strong attack, and a couple of puzzling long dropping shots where sent from the left, Jardine removing both beautifully. Geary sprinted away, and carried the leather to the other end, where he propelled an electric one, which Milward tried to put into the right direction, but was a few seconds late in the rush. Pendergast was placed hors de combat, owing to a collision with Doyle. Chadwick and Milward combined well, and a centre afforded a good opening to Wylie, which was lost, and half time was then called with the score standing at two goals each.
The movements immediately after the restart were somewhat tame, Pendergast missing the ball when well on his way down, and Milward rushing in while McDermid was dallying with the ball, and shooting outside. A slight rush by Accrington, and Everton then returned. From a throw in Brady passed to Geary, who, though only a few yards from the front, caused the ball to fly over the bar. Whitehead travelled along in double quick time, and had a clear route owing to erratic defending tactics, but bit lost all by running too far down. A corner was obtained by Everton, but found to be of no profit to them. There was a decided diminution in the pace, and the game was scarily so productive or neat play as in the first period. Some excitement was raised by an attempt by Geary from Wylie's pass Hay lifting the ball over the bar. The ensuing corner did not increase the score, nor one which, Hay was compelled to gave immediately after Geary was cripped, and had to take outside left position, Milward going to centre. The centre did not prove disastrous, as a minute after it occurred, Milward took up a grand dodgy run, defeated the backs and then the goalkeeper, the leading point being greeted with rapturous and vociferous applause. A minute later Milward, who also hurt, but resumed his place as quickly as he was able. The ‘'Reds'' were trying hard to equalise, but they were easily driven away by the backs. From this point until the finish the battle was fought on even terms, and the whistle sounded with the score; Everton 3 goals, Accrington 2 goals.

EVERTON v. BURNLEY.
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 27 December 1890
At Everton. Everton. —Jardine, goal; Hannah and Doyle, backs; Kirkwood, Holt, and Parry, half-backs; Latta, Brady, Geary, Milward, and Chadwick, forwards. Burnley;-. Kaye, goal: Lang and Walker, backs; McFettridge, Patterson, and Keenan, half-backs; Oswald and McLardie, right wing; Lambie, centre; Stewart and Hill, left wing. The ground was covered with snow when the game was started before 12,000 spectators. Everton at once went into fierce attack, and after a fine screw across by Chadwick, Latta shot through at the second attempt, Burnley retaliated in a powerful attack upon the resumption, and after Jardine twice threw away Stewart put in grand shot. Jardine met the ball. Stewart at once returned, and this time straight home. When the game was restarted the Burnley men raced down, and Holt being heavily thrown a rush was made upon Jardine, and before he could recover himself McLardie ran round the backs and shot through.  The Burnley forwards, upon restarting again, swooped down upon Jardine, who once more saved in grand style. Hannah, next put the Everton front line In possession, and Latta, with Brady, made pretty play upon the light. The newly-returned right winger beautifully evaded a rush of Lang, and his shot just cleared the crossbar. The greatest excitement now prevailed, for both teams were working with desperation. Chadwick and Milward found openings, but neither could get through. Lambie was now penalised tor jumping, and when the ball came Latta he shot strongly just as he was declared off-side and the ball was driven into the Everton ground. Holt ran Lambie down when he looked dangerous. Geary was called for off-side. Lambie and for McLardie then got past Doyle and Parry, but the pass of the latter was intercepted by Kirkwood, and the ball travelled towards Kay. Everton strove hard to get on terms with their opponents. Latta put the ball in, but Lang met it, though he miskicked. Kay came up splendidly to the rescue. Then Chadwick took a pass from Parry, and after a brilliant shot, Latta got the ball from Kay, and put it past the Burnley custodian amidst frantic cheering. Returning to the attack, Everton again troubled Kay. Half-time—Everton 3, Burnley 2.               Burnley restarted up the slight incline, and at once looked dangerous. Holt drove them back, and Latta made a fine run on the Everton right He was stayed on appeal for off-side, but shortly following the penalty kick the whole Everton line advanced, and splendid Shot put in by Chadwick just found way through Kaye's charge. The Burnley men had been showing signals of distress for some time, whilst Everton were playing quite as keenly as it starting. Lang twice made grand saves from Chadwick and Milward, and then McLardie with Lambie changed the venue. Jardine just tipped a long drive from Hill over the crossbar, and then the Everton forwards again threatened Kay. The left pair once more went close in, and Latta met a long pass by Milward just as Walker rushed him off the ball. A claim of hands was made. Everton now attacked almost without intermission, and though Walker and Lang behaved splendidly they could not stay the rushes of the Everton forwards. Chadwick again shot a magnificent goal whilst surrounded opponents. Burnley at last broke away, Parry twice meeting the rush in gallant style, but McLardie coming through the defences, beat Jardine. The game ran on more even lines now, Doyle and Walker driving back the threatening rushes of both lots forwards. Result— Everton 7, Wanderers 3. 

Alfred Milward (LEFT)

WE HEAR WE SEE-
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 27 December 1890
That Everton acknowledge they were beaten on their merits at Sunderland; that they know they can play a better game, and are not, in consequence so much discouraged in taking stock of that business on the 17th January ; that Wyllie does not seem altogether what he was expected to turn out—an effective substitute for Latta; that he is far too fond of playing the waiting game ; that he is a dead shot; that he is always seeking opportunity for shot; that he will, in consequence, be frequently penalized for poaching; that he must make play more, and not play the Micawber game, before he suits. That there was an immense crowd at Everton on Boxing Day ; that they got a lot of value for their support ; that the game was a scorcher; that Everton scored two goals in ten minutes and had a third disallowed ; that they looked likely to run over the Reds ; that the Reds rallied splendidly ; that they gave Everton every bit that they cared for after the scoring of the second goal ; that Barbour and Whitehead played very finely all through ; that Gallocher was not a success, and was, like Wyllie, playing a waiting game; that the crowd got quite ill-tempered with the Everton right winger, and asked him to show his Derby County form; that he did not; that Milward’s scoring of the winning goal was a ready magnificent effort; that his chance arose through the injury of Geary; that the little centre man was heavily pitched, and went outside left; that no sooner had Milward changed places with him than a goal was scored; that the Cockney lad dashed every one aside, and scored with a fine shot; that the crowd went almost frantic with delight; that much disappointment is felt in Liverpool that Milward was not selected to partner Chadwick; that many think, at the big seaport, that Milward is, if anything, a better man than Chadwick, and a lot superior to Townely on his present form. 

EVERTON V ACCRINGTON
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 27 December 1890
This match took the place of the late familiar local struggle of Boxing Day between Bootle and Everton, at Anfield-road, yesterday, and proved a great attraction.  Fully 14,000 spectators were present, and many were unable to obtain admission, the ground was slippery, but little objection could be taken to it condition, the thaw having destroyed the ice that prevailed on Christmas day. The teams were :-Accrington--Hay, goal ; McDermid and McLennan, backs ; Sanders, Haworth, and Tattersall, half-backs; Gallocher, Whitehead, Pendergast, Kirkham, and Barbour, forwards. Everton - Jardine, goal; Hannah and Doyle, backs; Kirkwood, Holt, and Parry, half-backs; Wyllie, Brady, Geary, Chadwick and Milward, forwards. Accrington started short of Stevenson, and at a head- long pace Everton rushed straight down, and McLellan meeting a dangerous shot only partially cleared, and Chadwick shot a splendid goal. On the resumption, the home forwards again showed remarkable pace. and after a struggle between Geary and McLennan the Everton man got through. A previous claim had just been answered against the Liverpool team, and the ball was kicked from goal. Everton continued to hem Accrington well within their own ground, play still being forced at the greatest pace by the home attackers, and after one or two backs, they succeeded in completely beating Hay, who succumbed to a grand curling shot from Milward.  Accrington seemed no way discouraged at this brace of goals so early recorded against them, and, improving in their general tactics, dictated terms rather persistently until, following a corner, Barbour found an opening with a good shot. Everton were again thrown on the defensive, and, dashing along the centre, Whitehead beat Doyle and shot a spanking goal, Jardine finding the ball impossible to arrest. The home team, realizing that the outlook was not so roseate as the opening play tended to show, went down in earnest and forced a corner, Wyllie Soon afterwards taking the ball from Milward and lobbing into goal, Hay easily negotiating a clearance. McDermid kicked judiciously to his forwards, and the left closing up, Jardine was called upon to save, which he did in his best style. A characteristic run by Geary down the field improved the aspect of play from an Evertonian point of view, and several likely shots were levelled at Hay's charge, one by Wyllie being very near taking effect, but Hay and his defenders parried all the good aims. A corner next fell to Accrington, and on Chadwick, Milward, and Geary carrying play to the race of goal in nice combination-a piece of strategy rendered abortive by Wyllie, who was standing off-side apparently-the interval arrived with Everton and Accrington even-2 goals each. The second half opened quietly. Everton moved along on the right, but we pulled up by McLennan, and to this Barbour replied with a powerful run, which looked likely to bear fruit, but Hannah was just in time to prevent a good aim. At the other end Milward made a gallant attempt to charge the ball through, and on another opportunity occurring of Everton increasing their lead, Geary get too much rise in his shot. The visitors shifted the venue in admirable formation, Gallocher commencing a movement taken up by Whitehead, who, however, shot behind. The Everton right wing made another raid on the Accrington goal, but were  repulsed. A return run on the left compelled Hay to venture far out to clear, the danger being great from the fact that Sanders missed his kick, the attack was continued with energy, Brady being prominent, but Hay chucked well alvay from a hard shot. From a corner placed on the Everton left, Accrington went down in a fast run, Barbour being with difficulty held in check; but Everton soon drove the visitors hard on the defence. Wylie screwed in, and a keen shot was tried, whilst a long shy by Milward almost gave a goal from a "bully." Kirkham then dashed down the right, but was so effectively tackled that the ball was forced over the line. Geary at this juncture was charged by McLennan, and got his knee injured. He did not withdraw', however, but changed places with Milward, who opened his installation as centre forward with a magnificent zigzag charging run and a brilliant shot, which gave Hay no chance. A tremendous cheer was raised at this smart bit of play, given all the more avartily as the match, which had been trembling in the balance for a long time, was now safely secured. Accrington were kept busy defending a sustained attack that followed. Good runs and shots were contributed by the whole line of the home vanguard, but no impression could be made an Accrington's defence, and an exciting, fast, and hard game resulted in favour of Everton by 3 goals to 2.

EVERTON VETERANS V FIELD SPORTS
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 27 December 1890
A match between the Everton Veterans and Field Sports was played on the Anfield-road ground, yesterday morning, in aid of the funds of Canon Mayor Lester’s charities.  At the outset the Veterans held the upperhand, and scored a goal within a few minutes of starting, but subsequently their opponents had by far the best of the game, and gained the victory by 5 goals to 1.  The match was a very enjoyable one, and witnessed by a fair number of spectators. 

NORTH v. SOUTH.
Sporting Life - Saturday 27 December 1890 
The following are the teams selected for this match, which is to be played at Nottingham on Monday, January 12th- North.—A. Toone (Notts) (goal). J. Earp (Notts Forest) and T. Underwood (Stoke) (backs), +J. Barton (Blackburn Rovers), +J. Holt (Everton), and +A. Shelton (Notts) (half-backs), A, Brown (Aston Villa) and +J. Goodall (Derby County) (captain) (right wing), +F. Geary (Everton) (centre), E. Chadwick (Everton) and W. J. Townley (Blackburn Rovers) (left wing).
Reserves.—+W. C. Rose (Wolverhampton) (goal), Marsden (Darwen) and Lilley (Sheffield United) (backs). Smith (Notts Forest), +G. Howarth (Accrington), and Tumor (Bolton Wanderers) (half-backs), +W. J. Bassett (West Bromwich Albion) and W. Smith (Notts Forest) (right wing), +John Southworth (Rovers) (centre), +H. Wood (Wolverhampton) and +H. B. Daft (Notts) (left wing).
South.—W. R. Moon (Old Westminsters) (goal). W. C. Wells (Swifts) and D. M. Ingram (Old Wykehamists) (backs). A. H. Hossack (Cambridge University), C. Wreford-Brown (Old Carthusans), and E. Shaw (Marlow) (half-backs), R. R. Sandilands (Old Westminsters) and J.G.. Veitch (Old Westminsters) (left wing), A. G. Henfrey (Cambridge University) (centre), G. H. Cotterill (Brightonians) and G. Brann (Swifts) (right wing).
Reserve*.—L. R. Wilkinson (Old Carthusians) (goal), F. R.Pelly (Old Foresters) and J. R. Pauli (Cambridge University) (backs), J. F. K. Cross (Casuals), W. N. Winckworth (Old Westminsters), and A. J. Topham (Chiswick) (half backs). T. M.Pike (Crusaders) and H. Offer (Royal Arsenal) (left wing). R. Topham (Chiswick Park) (centre), J. W. Campbell (Royal Arsenal) and R. C. Gosling (Old Etonians) (right wing). Umpire, Messrs. S. W. Widdowson (Notts Forest) and N. L. Jackson; referee, Mr. J. C. Clegg (Sheffield).  +An International player.

EVERTON v. ACCRINGTON.
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 27 December 1890
At Everton. Quite 14,000 spectators were round the enclosure at the time for starting. The ground was in grand condition, considering the recent variations frost, snow, and thaw. Teams: — Everton; - Jardine, goal; Hannah and Doyle, backs; Kirkwood, Holt, and Parry, half-backs; Milward, Chadwick, Geary, Brady, and Wyllie, forwards. Accrington; - Hay, goal; McDermid and McLellan, backs; Sanders, Haworth, and Tattersall, half-backs; Gallocher, Whitehead, Pendergast, Stevenson, and Barbour, forwards. Starling a man short, the Accrington men were at once driven on defence, and just as Stevenson completed the compliment Chadwick scored a beauty from a weak return McLellan. Five minutes later Milward scored with a magnificent low shot. From this the Reds rallied and Barbour and Whitehead each scored from mistakes made by Hannah and Doyle. The pace slackened now, and the game ran on positively even lines until half-time, when each side was credited with two goals. The play was resumed amidst much excitement, first Whitehead and then Geary aroused enthusiasm by their dashing runs. The back and half-back play was simply perfect on both sides, and both Jardine and Hay were purely spectators of the game. Tom Hay found employment when Geary, with Wyllie, ran splendidly into Accrington ground, the veteran twice conceding a corner to get out of his difficulties, and his judgment was generously applauded. Then threw out an ugly shot from Barbour, and Whitehead caused a great thrill of excitement as he beat Doyle and raced towards Jardine, but Hannah just put him off his shot. Geary was heavily thrown now, and Milward going centre scored one of the grandest goals ever obtained at Everton.

EVERTON REVIEW
December 27 th 1890. The Liverpool Courier.
The Wearsiders are no more boasters, as the result of last Saturday's match at Sunderland proves. Everton, it is true, gained the hat at Anfield under circumstances which inspired abundant hopes that a more decisive victory would be gained in the second trial of strength, but unfortunately they were not destined to be realied, and again, to the unbounded joy of the revenging “Wolves” Everton contest temporarily let us hope –to hold the pride of place in the recovery of the League. But then no one knows what few days may being forth, despite Saturday's reverse a hopeful impression prevails that before Christmas finished Everton will have substantially regained the position so long coveted and tenaciously disputed by the Wolverhampton team. All through the chapter home teams, as shown by tabulated results have possessed an undoubted advantage, while in away from home matches Everton has gained more victories than any other League club; and I having completed the bulk of these engagements it stands to reason that the Anfield-road team will test to the fullest the calibre of all comers at the home enclosures regarding the event from a physical point of view, it may be that the fittest team won, but that there is little to choose between them in certain. With one exception Everton played the same team that gained such a brilliant victory over Derby County, McLean retiring in favour of Doyle, whom it was found necessary to indulge with a rest. At times the play was of the vigorous type, structure with a shadow of roughens, but happily no casualties occurred. Perhaps no one will begrudge the plucky Wearsiders their victory except the losing side, who stoutly maintain that the goal which gave Sunderland the game was shot from an offside position. The referee alleged that Doyle touched the ball, but this the Evertonians confidently denies, and it may be that by a serious error of judgement, which cannot now be rectified, Everton were doomed to a defeat which for the moment materially reduced the chances of final success. Where Sunderland principally excelled was at half-back, and of the trio Wilson and Auld displayed champion form, the former being a conspicuous figure throughout the game. With perhaps the exception of Wyllie, the shooting of the Evertonians was weak and defective, lacking that sting which led to success in many a well-fought game. Hannah and Doyle maintained a good defence, and Jardine could not reasonably be blamed for the point by which he was beaten. The teams, however, will meet in the first round of the English cup-ties, probably on the 17 th and as Sunderland will again have choice of ground, the event will excite widespread interest, not only in the North but the country at large.

FLINT 0 EVERTON RESERVES 6
December 27 1890. The Liverpool Courier
Played at Flint, the ground had been cleared off snow, put it was very heavy. Flint kick off, and Everton at once on the attack, shots raining in on the goalkeeper from all the Everton forwards. Robinson, McGregor and Elliott registered goals in the first half for Everton, who lead by 3 goal to nil at the interval. On resuming the Everton forwards went in for shooting, and were repeatedly robbed by the home defender. However. Everton successfully defeating the home goalkeeper three more times and won by 6 goals to nil. teams Flint: - Batley (a) goal, hughes (ej), and Hall (jl), backs, Ellis (ea), Matthews (j), and Price (j), half-backs, Christopherson (eb), Crondall (cw) Jones (r), Jones (ae), and Craig (t), forwards. Everton: - Smalley, goal, McLean, and Cresswell, backs, Martin (captain), Jones (r), and Hammond, half-backs, Gordon, McGregor, Robertson, McMillan, and Elliott forwards.

EVERTON V BURNLEY
December 29, 1890. The Birmingham Daily Post
This match at Liverpool between these clubs attracted a company estimated at 12,000. After a long absence the well known player, Latta, reappeared in the Everton team, his reception by the public being enthusiastic in the extreme. From the first the play was very fast, and its early stages the game proved quite exciting. Everton kicked the first goal, but within a very short time the Burnley men scored twice. Before the change of ends two other goals were obtained by Everton, who thus led at half-time by three goals to two. In the second half a very different state of things prevailed, the Burnley players being apparently exhausted, and making no further stand against their powerful opponents, Everton had nearly everything their own way, and won by at the finish by seven goals to three.

PORT VALE ROVERS V EVERTON
December 29, 1890. Birmingham Daily Post
A match between these junior teams was played at Cobridge, Burslem, there being only a moderate attendance of spectators. The first part of the game was carried on in the home quarters, but was of rather a tame description. After half an hour's play the Vale made a vigorous attack, and McAlpine put the ball through the posts; but he was off-side, and the referee disallowed the point. The visitors retaliated, and McGregor secured the first and only goal in the game. As a matter of fact, just before half-time McGregor put the ball through between Higginson's legs a second time, but this point was disallowed for off side. The second half of the game was evenly contested throughout, neither side having much advantage. There was no scoring, and the game ended in favour of Everton by one goal to none.

EVERTON v. BURNLEY.
Athletic News - Monday 29 December 1890
THE CHAMPIONS CLEAR AHEAD.
By The Loiterer.
At the time the League matches were arranged for the present season, I thought it was a little risky in giving the Everton team such important matches on what you may call festive dates. However, the team did a smart thing in beating Accrington on Boxing Day, but the result of the match with Burnley was an eye-opener. Both teams were thoroughly representative, Latta having a warm reception on taking his place in the team after a pretty long absence; but this was nothing the ovation he received at the close. The Dumbarton man played with all his old dash, and scored the first two goals brilliant style. The ground was hard and covered with snow, but considered playable by the officials. Teams; - Everton; - Jardine, goal; Hannah and Doyle, backs; Kirkwood, Holt, and Parry, half-backs: Latta, Brady, Geary, Milward, and Chadwick. forwards. BURNLEY. - Kaye, goal; Lang and Walker, backs McFettrldge, Patterson, and Keenan, half-backs; Oswald, McLardie, Lambie, Stewart, and Hill, forwards. All through the first half the play was exceptionally fast. The home team went off at rare rate, and soon there was plenty of noise as Geary and Chadwick made progress. The cheers, however, were deafening as Latta came up with one of his well-known rushes, and after Kay had fisted a shot out, the Dumbarton man stored. Burnley did not seem to be daunted at this, and away the forwards went to the other end, Jardine had a couple of well-judged shots to clear. The Burnley forwards played a dashing game, and soon Stewart scored. The visitors were not content with this, and forced matters, Lambie and his left putting in really good work, which thoroughly beat Kirkwood and Hannah, and finally, from Lambie’s centre Burnley drew ahead. The effort did not receive that recognition which it merited. Latta made a good attempt, but the most dangerous work was done the Burnley men, the team all round being strong, Parry on one occasion saving in the nick of time. Play took a turn. Milward trying a long shot, which Lang turned to a corner.  Burnley were now on the defensive, and Chadwick sent in a fast one, which Latta improved upon. It was neck and neck race so far, and the teams made no ado about such trifles as scoring goals, but went at it anew. For the next few minutes play was very even, Walker and Lang on the one side, and Parry on the other, showing grand defence. The Everton men pressed as the interval approached, and Brady scored a third goal, and this was the state of the poll when the teams crossed over- -Everton three goals: Burnley, two. For a time play was as fast as ever on resuming; but eventually Burnley slackened somewhat, and their numerous appeals hereabouts were not very interesting. Chadwick scored the fourth goal, a fine effort; and Lambie was prominent with individual work, but this was eclipsed by the collected efforts of Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, the Burnley goal being almost reduced. Everton continued to play well; and for Burnley. Walker did a lot of excellent kicking; Chadwick scored a fifth goal from corner.  The visiting forwards put in soma work from kick off, Lambie sending in a shot to Jardine with rare judgment. Now that they had gained a foothold the Burnley men were not to be driven back, and their big centre scored a third goal for his side. It did not seem "dead cert." for Everton yet, as the Burnley men, Lambie in particular, were doing good work. In the Iast few minutes, however. Milward ran up and scored a sixth goal, and all was up; but before the close Chadwick put on another, and Everton won by seven goals to three. That’s pretty tall scoring for League teams, especially when you take into consideration the state of the ground. The match was very interesting, and the play shown was superior to the Boxing Day match. Kay kept goal well, despite the large score against him. The two backs were in grand form. Walker at one time dealing with shots in the goal mouth in an able manner. The halves were the weakest part of team, and this accounts for the heavy score. Now and again Keenan and McFettridge would put in work which reminded us of bygone days, but all through the Everton wings were too quick for them. Lambie played a grand game in the centre, some of his passes being very neat and well timed. The left wing were a better couple then Oswald and McLardie. Jardine was exceedingly smart in the Everton goal, some of his saves being very fine.  No fault could be found with the defence, the two backs not experimenting on this occasion. Barry was a decided success at half-back, being the most prominent of the three. He was continually at it, and very useful with his head. Forward, both wings combined effectively, with plenty of dash thrown in, but Geary seemed to suffer from the effects of the previous day's match, and was “off” it.

EVERTON v ACCRINGTON
Athletic News - Monday 29 December 1890
A GOOD GAME.
By The Loiterer.
It has become fashionable to play local matches on Boxing Day, and for the last two or three years Everton and Bootle have fought their season’s first battle on this memorable day. Everton this year displaced the match League by a one Accrington.   At Nottingham, however, the fun is kept up. The Everton club will undoubtedly be the gainers by this arrangement, as there was the usual crowd present —probably over 15,000 (the gate was 408 pounds) when the match commenced. The teams were: — Accrington; - Hay, goal: McDermid and McLennan, backs: Sanders, Haworth, and Tattersall, full-backs; Gallocher,  Whitehead, Pendergast, Stevenson, and Barbour, forwards.  EVERTON; - Jardine, goal; Hannah and Doyle, backs: Kirkwood, Holt, and Parry, half-backs; Wyllie, Brady, Geary, Chadwick, and Mllward, forwards. From the kick off the home team were the attacking parties, and were not kept at bay long, as Chadwick scored a beauty. Play was now in midfield for a time, Hannah putting in some timely kicks. Holt, too, was prominent, and soon Milward placed his side further ahead by defeating Hay with a daisy cutter. The Accrington men now played a forcing game, and after Jardine had conceded a corner, Barbour scored the first point for them. The visitors were soon on the job again. Doyle letting in Whitehead, who drew level. Still on the aggressive, the Accrington men gave Jardine a couple of dropping shots, which he managed to save. The Everton left were dangerous several times, but the interval arrived with the score two goals each. Considering the hard and slippery state of the ground, the pace had been very fast, but on resuming it slackened somewhat. The game was not as exciting as before, but Whitehead fairly bothered Doyle, the little forward being very prominent. Just when everybody was counting upon a drawn game, a contretemps occurred which settled the matter. McLennan and Geary had been at loggerheads nearly all through the game, and, as usual, Geary got the worst of it, with the result that Milward and he changed places. Whether fortunately or otherwise, the change benefited Everton, as Milward by pluck and dash scored the winning goal. Everton going up another couple of points in the League competition. The game was a well contested one, and, although the play of the Everton team might not please some of their supporters, still the game was fast and brimful of exciting incidents. The Accrington men played surprisingly well all round. The backs were simply perfection. We had not the “old firm," but McDermid put in grand work, especially in the first half. McLennan left nothing to chance, and the rushes he made were always successful. Hay in goal was as lively as ever, and for his sake I was sorry the third goal was put on. He had no chance, however, with it, and can gather all the consolation he likes from the fact that Milward was the only man in the team that could have scored it. The halves were also in good form, Sanders especially being successful against the Everton left wing. Forward, Stevenson was by means a failure, his efforts being above what we might expect from a tall-back. Pendergast and the right wing took the cake, Whitehead in particular being prominent. On the home side might have saved the first goal, but both backs were to blame for the scores against them. Hannah and Doyle kicked well in the open, but both were at fault for the two goals scored- Hannah, in the first instance, but Doyle was more to blame for the second point. Passing to a fellow back is no play when the opposing forwards are putting in all they know. The halves were fairly good, Holt being the best. Parry seemed to be at sea with the fast play. The forwards were not so successful as usual, and on account of his success Milward must have first place. For Everton it must be voted a good thing that he went centre, for Geary could never have accomplished the feat of scoring the winning point. Wyllie did not make a good debut at Anfield. The lad lacks tackling powers, but his general play, such as passing and running, was good, though it was all wasted through his inability to give his opponents a good push. Altogether I was pleased with the game, as there was quite as much enthusiasm, and infinitely better play than the usual Boxing Day matches.

LIVERPOOL DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 29 December 1890
By The Loiterer
I suppose my notes of last week got befogged.  Well, I don’t know that there was anything startling in them.  That affairs at Sunderland, however, was a trifle warm, but the team have made up for it in the last two matches, and they appear to be in a fair way for the League championship.  The Cup tie with Sunderland appears to be an open question, but with Latta back I think we shall just about manage it.  It is possible the railway company may run a trip, and two or three hundred Evertonians would make themselves heard with beneficial results. 

EVERTON 7 BURNLEY 3 (Game 62)
December 29 1890. THE Liverpool Courier
This League match was played at Anfield on Saturday in the presence of about 12,000 spectators. Latta having at last recovered from his recent injuries replaced Wylie on the right wing, his appearance on the ground being greeted with a tremendous outburst of cheering. The ground was covered with a thin carpet of snow, which rendered it slippery for the players. The teams faced as follows: - Everton Jardine, goal, Hannah (captain) and Doyle, backs, Kirkwood, Holt, and Parry, half-backs, Latta, Brady, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Burnley: - Kay, goal, Walker, and Lang, backs, McFetridge, Paterson, and Keenan, half-backs, Oswald, McLardie, Lambie, Stewart, and Hill, forwards. The visitors kicked off promptly at half-past two, and Latta and Brady brushed their way up on the right, several shots in, and a finely saved one from Geary being particularly good. Everton continued to retain the advantage, and Latta sent one in which, was repelled by Lang, but immediately returned by the outside right in a proper manner. Latta success on his return to play was recovered with prolonged cheering, as much given for the player himself as for the sake of the goal. Milward had a high shy a little while after, and then the Burnley team took up the attack, Lambie putting one in which Jardine dropped in having but managed to clear. Then a beautiful hugh falling shot was sent over and Jardine twice held it, but with the crush round him, he could not remove the ball, and Hill rushing in headed through easily. Not many minutes had elapsed, the Burnley men in the meamtime going in splendid machine like order, when Stewart shot across and McLardine scored. Latta who seemed to work in perfect order, kept splendid time with Brady, and by their efforts the ball was carried neatly on to the line, when from a pass, Chadwick shot and Walker repelled, and Milward shot behind. The Everton forwards were held well in check by the opposing half-backs, and for some time could not by any mean make any headway. Eventually Parry transferred to Chadwick, he in turn giving way to Milward, who passed to the right wing, from whence Latta kicked a ‘'trazer'' which Walker grandly headed out. Had it gone though, however, it would not have been of use, as Latta had previously been declared offside. Milward shot over, and down went the Burnleyites in rare trim. Parry kicking away a good attempt and Jardine, saving a tought couple, one from Paterson beening a remarkably clever shot. It was as much as the Evertonians could do to keep their charge intact as the forwards could not break away, Geary repeatedly missing chances of passing and dribbing off. At length he pulled himself together and passed to Latta, who kicked lofty in front of goal, and Walker in endeavoring to kick away, nearly gave a goal, as the ball slipped off his foot and went into the hands of Kays, who fortunately for the visitors was standing directly behind, or otherwise a goal could not possibly have been averted. The home men were now obtaining a better facting, and Chadwick screwed the ball magnificently over to Latta, who smartly equalized. Jatdine was called upon twice, the second shot being a scorcher from the right, but he kept them out safety. A free kick was given to Everton on account of offside play on the part of Hill, and from this Brady passed to the left wing, where after a pretty bit of dodging by Chadwick and Milward, the ball was returned and Brady scored the third point. good play was seen between Latta and Brady, and the latter had a try which was nearly successful Kay only putting the ball out a few yards, when it was kicked outside by Geary. Half-time result: - Everton 3 goals, Burnley 2 goals. On crossing over Latta was again the player upon whom great applause was bestowed. Play was confined chiefly to midfield for some minutes, and then it was removed to the Burnley end, where Parry distinguished himself by his exertions in retaining the ball in the visitor's territory. There were some neat agile movements amongst the home forwards, and then Chadwick banged in a beauty along the ground, and Kay failing to reach it, the fourth goal was scored. The Evertonians were now running their antagonists very hard, and grand combination on the left wing resulted in Chadwick crashing one in. which Walker in a very alert manner, headed out. There was then a fierce scrimmage in the goalmouth and Walker magnificently prevented a couple of pretty effects from taking effect. Everton were at this juncture practically running their opponents to a standstill, and the only diversion in favour of the latter team was a shot from Lambie, which compelled Jardine to give a corner, which passed off without event. A similar point fell to Everton, but as in a previous case Latta placed the ball behind the line. Parry forced Lang to gave a corner and Brady took it, Chadwick kicked in, the ball was removed, Latta headed back, and Chadwick getting hold steered the ball neatly under the bar. This making the fifth goal. Two desperate efforts were made by the right wing of the Burnley men, to get off, but in both cases Parry, who was in rare fettle, came off victories in the tactics. The Burnleyites by means of smart combination recovered a lot of ground. Locker kick in, and as Jardine only partly held the ball gave McLeardie an opening, which he promptly took advantage off, the score than standing 5 to 3 against Burnley. Down went the ball on the home right and Lang, after finest heading a shot from Geary, granted another corner. From this a little manovourving occurred in front of the Burnley goal, and a score seemed assured and Geary made the ball career over the bar. A centre field play followed and then Latta spoiled a good afforded him from Walker kick by handling the ball. This then giving the homesters much chance, as Milward kicked to high. Hill then had a good chance and Jardine saving in brilliant style. A minute or two later, Milward scored, followed by a seventh by Chadwick.

PORT VALE ROVERS 0 EVERTON RESERVES 1
December 29 1890. The Liverpool Courier
Everton meet the ex-holders of the staffordshire Junior Cup, the Port Vale Rovers at Burslem on Saturday, on ground covered with snow. The visitors made a late start, and the visitors obtain the first corner, and for some time passing, keeping the Rovers back and Custodian well employed. The home the scored, but the goal was disallowed for offside. Thirty minutes from the startMcGregor registered a beautiful goal for the Liverpool men. Everton continued to attack when great determination and Higginson, the home goalkeeper had to save repeatedly. A clever bit of passing by the Everton forwards enabled McGregor to send the ball between Higginson legs, put it was plain that he was offside and no goal was allowed. The whistle sounded directly afterwards for halftime. With the score one to nil in favour of Everton, final scored Everton 1 goal, Port Vale Rovers nil.