TODAYS MATCH
December 3, 1892. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton go forth today upon a trying journey, as they have to enter the lists once more at Deepdale with Preston North End, the present champions. Only once have Everton won a League at Preston, which was in 1889-90, by 2 goals to 1 –and indeed, this is the only time that Everton have scored a League success over Preston North End. Last year, at Anfield a draw ensued, but on all other occasions Everton were beaten. Recent form will not induce a feeling of confidence in the Evertonians today, but, as will be seen below, the team selected, if Kelso is quite fit and well, is a much more reassuring one than some that have done battle for the club of late. There will be the usual easy railway facilities for those who wish to see how their favourites acquit themselves.
Everton v. Preston North End, Preston, Kick-off at 2.15 p.m. The following will play for Everton;- Williams, goal; Kelso, and Howarth, backs; Boyle, Holt and Jamieson, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Maxwell, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Combination
Everton v. Stockport County, Goodison Park. Kick-off 2.30 p.m. The following will play for Everton; Jardine, goal; Taylor or Newtown) and Campbell, backs; Chadwick, Jones, and Coyle, half-backs; McLaren, Murray, Smith, McMillan, and Elliott, forwards.
Thursday.
Everton Combination v Thursday League, Goodison Park
GOODISONIA
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 03 December 1892
By “Black Rock”
The Sheffield Wednesday Match
When the teams faced each other last Saturday it was noticed that Mumford was at left half vice Hall, and Darroch was occupying the veteran’s usual position immediately behind whilst on the home side Rennie, Gordon, and Murray (not the goalkeeper) were included. On the play I have nothing but praise for the “Blades” and plenty of pity for our homesters. Praise for the one, because of their weakness, chiefly through accidents to Boyle, Holt, Geary &c. Though the two former played, it was apparent they were unfit for the ordeal.
REMARKS ON SHEFFIELD
Truly the Sheffielders were the better team. At the outset their earnestness to score was worth seeing. Rowan held the reins in the centre judiciously, preserving harmony, and giving and taking. The old Evertonian, Brady, was simply in his element against Boyle, who for once was not excellent; whilst his flying partner, Spikesley, gave Chadwick so much to do that he failed to do it all. Davies and Brown on the other wings were little below their comrades, the outside man performing many smart things. The result of these machinery-like movements placed three goals to their credit, the third from Spikesley being a “Tickler.” Although Everton were seen to better advantage now, and played up most pluckily, they had not the method of the visitors, Gordon during very little at centre in this portion, and at Murray I was much surprised. Indeed, I was sorry for him, a he undoubtedly is a clever Combination player, and his debut in a League match this season was disastrous. He never seemed to gain his feet, and consequently did little or nothing. Rennie, also who had previously performed well, because very nervous, and did not clear with that promptitude for which he is noted. Edgar Chadwick and Milward never relaxed their well-meant efforts, and when the inside man hit the post with a long grounder, which beat Allan, Everton’s hopes rose exceedingly. But our halves were palpably weak, which threw more work on the defence, and the attack –for I saw Latta and the left wing repeatedly coming back for the ball. Spikesley made the score into four, and a little before the usual rest Davis sent a slow shot nearly thirty yards from Rennie, which he misjudged, to the crowd’s discomfiture.
The restart saw Latta playing centre, Gordon going outside right. The change was doubly beneficial, Gordon putting in all he knew to advantage, and Latta make desperate efforts against powerful play on the part of Betts, T. Brandon, and Darroch. The good generalship by the visitors’ captain was now manifest, as brown was figuring amongst the defenders. Cheered on by every mark of goodwill, slowly but surely were Everton wearing them down-a trait I have mentioned before. The occasional visits by Brady, Spikesley, and Davis were well negotiated, and though they caused some anxiety, they were but fitful. Mumford was showing signals of distress, but still behaved gallantly, and the other veteran, I should think, had enough of it. I believe these two last-named players are the only remaining representatives, of their club that were seen at the Oval in 1890-91. Boyle draw much attention as time flew on, and Holt who should not have been played, stopped that good centre, Rowan, a few times. Jamieson was not his usual self, but equal to his confreres, which is not saying much, although he performed a few smart things at the beginning. Without the slightest doubt the home team enjoyed (?) many hard lines, and, with a slice of luck might have drawn level. The last twenty minutes was very exhilarating, as the ball was repeatedly on the toe of the home five, Milward added two goals to the single, both of which were deserved. The second one was the result of a clever piece of individual work and somewhat similar to his partners.
CRITICISMS
Allan was clever, but lucky on two occasions. The captain and his mate showed sterling defence. If the latter is a reserve man he has won his position as a good player. The halves were especially strong in the first stage, but rather weak towards the finish. The front line displayed such combination as has not been excelled on the new ground, but they also tired perceptibly near the close of the match. On the home side Rennie, Murray, A. Chadwick, and Holt were weak, Boyle and Jamieson not being much better. Gordon improved and slightly retrieved some of his losses, and Latta was a success and fairly raised our hopes when he changed positions with Gordon. The left wing deserve credit, Milward receiving much applause at the finish. I must not forget Howarth, who was far superior to A. Chadwick.
PRESTON NORTH END V. EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 03 December 1892
Heavy rain prevailed at Preston this morning, for about six hours and did not abate until after 12 o’clock. The condition of the ground at Deepdale, this afternoon, may therefore be imagined. Everton had a strong team, including a new Scotch full back, who today played under the name of “Thompson.” There was only one alteration in the home team from last week, namely Gordon for Gallaher. The referee, Mr. McIntyre, of Manchester, was punctual, and the game started at 2-16. The teams were;-
Preston North End;- Trainer, goal; Holmes and N.J. Ross. Backs; Grier, Sanders, and Drummond, half-backs; Cowan, J. Ross, Russell, Beckton, and Gordon, forwards. Everton; Williams, goal; Howarth and Thompson, backs; Jamieson, Holt and Boyle, half-backs; Milward, Chadwick, Maxwell, Gordon and Latta, forwards. Everton kicked off up-hill, and at once showed their pace and determination. Latta and Gordon got up the right, and the first-named had a good shot, which Trainer had to throw away. Then it was noticed that Drummond was once more a cripple –his name leg had given way, but the forwards rushed ahead. Holt being here penalized and spoken to by the referee. The home forwards got near Williams, and Bob Howarth was instrumental in getting two good shots away. Another run of the Everton forwards was repulsed and Drummond tipped the ball to Russell, who with Ross, jun., ran right through the Everton backs, the latter shooting a brilliant goal amid great enthusiasm after six minutes play. Play continued fast. Only a minute from the last point Saunders kicked the ball forward a few yards and following it up scored a second goal with a clever left foot shot, which was wildly cheered by the 5,000 spectators. By this time many of the players were plastered from head to foot with mud. Everton were playing as keenly as ever, and Milward, Chadwick, and Latta for some minutes tested the home defence. But Ross and Holmes were safe, and the home forwards were soon again racing down the field until, when near Williams, beckon beat Howarth, and Russell scored a third goal, time 18 minutes. Everton had another look in, but Milward was ruled offside as he put the ball through. A minute later Trainer had to throw away a grand shot from Latta. Once more the home forwards got near Williams, when Gordon put the ball to midfield, where Russell came into possession, and notched a fourth goal. Drummond had just previously left the field so that the home team had only ten men. Try as they would the Everton backs could not get the ball way from near Williams, and when Thompson made a weak attempt to clear, Beckton pounced on the ball and scored a fifth goal. The Everton left wing had a couple of corners, which was cleverly placed, and Trainer had both times to show his agility. By this time the ball was extremely heavy, which made it all the more astonishing to see Jimmy Ross dribbling fast down the field, and dodging Howarth, and twice making Willliams save. A corner to North End was useless. All this time Holt was playing a grand game at half-back. Ross and Holmes had to rob the visitors’ forwards, and Latta, with a rare chance, kicked over. Then Trainer had to save three times shot from Chadwick and Maxwell, Ross, jun., was penalized and at half-time the score was –North End 5, Everton 0. After crossing over the home forwards were for a few minutes very threatening. Cowan, Ross and Russell showing up well. After this Everton had the best of matters, and many times Trainer had to save. Saunders was spoken to for jumping, and Holt had hard lines in not scoring. Trainer had another fine shot from Latta to clear. In fact the home team were about now penned, and there were loud cries of “Play up, North End,” but North End did not seem to care to bestir themselves any further. Cowan and Ross were several times near scoring, but play for the most part was in the North End half of the field, where Chadwick, Milward and Maxwell repeatedly tried to beat Trainer and his backs. But Ross and Holmes stuck to their men like bulldogs, and spoiled many an attempt at shooting. Latta and Maxwell tried long shots, but Trainer was always ready and threw the ball away repeatedly. The game in the second half was not half so interesting as in the first, for both sides were completely tired. Cowan near the finish was lamed. There was nothing more done. Final; Preston North End 5, Everton 0.
COMBINATION
Everton v Stockport
At Liverpool, before 2,000 spectators. Everton started, the opening play being all in favour, Smith putting on two goals very quickly. Then Jardine put the ball through a third time for Everton, who were three to one at the interval. Pennell scored early in the second portion, during which period Stockport were kept almost entirely on the defensive. Final; Everton 4, Stockport County 1.
NUGGETTS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 03 December 1892
FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 03 December 1892
Everton met a stronger team than themselves last week when they took on Sheffield Wednesday, but if better judgement had been displayed by the Everton captain, after winning the toss, in the choice of “ends” the result, in the opinion of a good many of the spectators, would not have bene quite so disastrous. On such ill-conditioned ground as Goodison Park was found to be in last Saturday, after the rain had been pouring down for so many hours, the bets plan in our mind, to have adopted would have been to have chosen for defence that end of the ground least affected by the rain. Instead of doing this, however, the reverse was the case, and the sequel to it was Sheffield Wednesday in the first half scored 5 goals and Everton 1. Whenever the ball was rushed up the home goal, and this was frequent, it was next to an impossibility for the home backs to clear it before they were tackled. The leather stopped dead in the broken turf and pools of rain, and defied the kickers to remove it. A minority of four goals to make up in the last half was sufficient to dishearten almost any team, but the Evertonians went at it undaunted, and before the finish tactics had been displayed at the beginning the probability is that the victory would have bene reversed, as it was evident to everybody that the Everton eleven lasted the best, and showed the best training. Sheffield, however, much they deserved their victory, must consider themselves fortunate. Brady, the whilom Evertonian-Celtic, played a very fine game for the Wednesday, and seemed delighted to be able to “show off” which he did with much effect, before his old friends. Constitution of the Everton team was not such as to inspire much confidence at the beginning. Rennie did not prove much of a power between the posts, and but for Howarth he would have been beaten more frequently than he was. Holt naturally with a little “off,” but Jamieson was a regular trump, and Milward was far and away the best of the forwards. To-day, at Preston, Kelso is likely to make a reappearance after a long sickness. The visit of the Mayor of Liverpool to Goodison Park was highly popular with the big crowd of spectators, and both his worship and the gentlemen who attended him appeared to take considerable interest in the game.
ASSOCIATION
Everton League v Preston North End, at Preston; kick-off at 2.15. an excursion train leaves Exchange Station at 1.5.
Everton.- Williams, goal; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Boyle, Holt and Jamieson, half-backs; Milward, E. Chadwick, Maxwell, Gordon, and Latta, forwards.
Everton Combination v Stockport County at Goodison Park; kick-off at 2.30
Everton.- Jardine, goal; Taylor (of Newtown) and Collins, backs; A. Chadwick, Jones, and Coyle, half-backs; McLaren, Murray, Smith, McMillan, and Elliott, forwards.
Preston North End v. Everton, League
Combination- Everton v Stockport County
Note Joliffe now playing for Bootle Wanderers
AT LIVERPOOL
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 03 December 1892
A rude shock was felt on Saturday by those who swear by Everton. Everton, it is true, had a moderate team, owing to illness, defections, or suspensions, but every man was considered worthy of his position, and it was a staggering situation when the home team found themselves five goals to the bad at the interval, a development without a parallel at the Everton ground.
Everton scored the only goals of the second half, but then Sheffield Wednesday were always safe and had no need to be kept at high pressure. The situation is becoming desperate with Everton but there is anticipation of things mending, as Jardine and Kelso will be seen in harness again to-day, the former at Goodison Park and the latter at Deepdale. If there is no greater success in store for Evertonians they will quickly find themselves in the last three-an incongruous position for a club which still enjoys the largest gates, to be one of the final trio under the new League rules is a very serious matter. What irony” Whilst Everton were in the cat of being made to look foolish by Sheffield Wednesday, a man paraded inside the barricade with the handsome West Bromwich Charity Cup, which Everton a few days previously had won. This was rubbing salt in the raw wound with a vengeance. The advice to give the cup to Sheffield was freely tendered.
There is a rumour afloat that Geary has been suspended; that he has asked for his papers, and got them. On the other hand, it is said he has been chosen to assist against Preston North End. The fact is, he is at variance with some of the committee, owing to the unjust charge against him of not doing his best for Everton. To one who has seen Geary in nearly all League matches the insinuation seems absurd.
PRESTON NORTH END v EVERTON
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 03 December 1892
These old League rivals met on the Deepdale enclosure this afternoon great interest being attached to the match on account of the long absence of the home team from their own ground. The teams have had quite a different experience in the League contest so far this season, the North End having held the first position since Sept 17th, while Everton during that period have jumped about from the 13th to 6th positions. During this period both sides have suffered from having men injured, the North End having for six weeks been without Stewart and Drummond, while Everton have lacked the services of Jardine, in goal, and Bob Kelso, while other men have been away an odd week or two. The teams had not previously met in the League this season, but they played a game at Ardwick on the 16th ult., when the North End won by 4 goals to nil. In addition to this Prestonians have not so far this season suffered a League defeat on their own ground, so that they were strong favourites, notwithstanding that Everton hoped to pull through. The teams were as follow;
North End.- Trainer, goal; Holmes and N.J. Ross, backs; Grier, Sanders, and Drummond, half-backs; Cowan, and J. Ross, right wing; Russell, Centre; Beckton, and Gordon, left wing.
Everton.- Williams, goal; Howarth (Captain) and “Thompson”, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Jamieson, half-backs; Latta, and Gordon, right wing; Maxwell, centre; Chadwick, and Milward, left wing.
Referee; Mr. McIntyre, Manchester.
The ground was in the most miserable condition, pools of water of different sizes being scattered about the field. Everton played with a new back under the non de plume of Thompson. He is a well-known Glasgow player. Bob Howarth led the Everton men on the field and Trainer headed up North End. Everton started the game uphill before 4,000 spectators. The home side were at once sent back in front of their own goal, and Trainer sent out a long shot from Latta. Then in midfield George Drummond was noticed to be limping on his left leg. Play was quickly hovering about Howarth and “Thompson” the former saving two stinging shots from Jimmy Ross and Beckton, and then when play had been proceeding six minutes Drummond passed on to Russell, who gave forward to Ross round Holt, and the two made a most brilliant run, which Jimmy finished up by beating Williams Hollow. This feat was received with boisterous applause, which had scarcely subsided ere Jimmy Ross gave nicely to Sanders, and he, after a nice little run, beat Williams a second time, this performance being cheered to be echo. Everton now appeared crestfallen, and were penned in. Beckton dribbled on to the left and made a spanking shot, which Williams held just in top corner of the goal. Everton next got away, and Milward and Chadwick looked dangerous, but Jack Ross was equal to the occasion. Grier once from a grand throw-in headed away, and then the pressure on the North End goal was relieved by Milward kicking clean got away nicely. Beckton beat Howarth, Russell took the ball, and again beat Williams a third time at the end of 18 minutes play. From the centre again, North End were quickly attacking, but Everton got up by the right wing, and Milward, who was offside, beat Trainer, but no goal was allowed. Soon after Trainer saved brilliant from Latta. The North End went down all in a body, and Gordon giving Russell the ball he scored the fourth goal, the cheering being terrific. At this stage it was noticed that George Drummond had left the field, Gordon having gone half-back. The North End pressed hard, Everton seldom getting over the half-way line. Jimmy Ross twice had hard lines in skimming the uprights, and then, when the game was half-an-hour old, “Thompson” got the ball in front of his own goal, and brought it dead instead of kicking it away, and allowed Beckton to rush up and plant it securely in the net for the fifth time. After this the Evertonians seemed to take heart again, and Trainer and the home backs had an anxious time of it. Trainer saved splendidly twice from Milward and Chadwick, and a couple of corners to the visitors did them no good. Holmes accidentally fouled the ball in his own quarters. From the free kick Jimmy Ross made the best bit of play of the afternoon. He made off and beat “Thompson” but Howarth got his weight on, and Jimmy missed the ball. Trainer saved capitally from Chadwick, and then Latta shot yards over the bar. Again, Everton came up smiling by the efforts of their left wing. Chadwick called on Trainer, who cleared smartly, and then Maxwell hot the cross-bar, decidedly hard lines. The score at half-time stood- North End 5 goals, Everton 0
On resuming, both ends were quickly visited. After three minutes’ play Cowan outwitted Boyle and “Thompson,” and compelled Williams to save, and Beckton was a yard too far to score. Everton got nicely down, but Moses Sanders sent them back again, and Cowan and Russell were to the fore, the latter finishing with a shot which Williams held and sent away. North End goal was next in danger, and a corner, which was earned from Jack Ross, proved abortive. Rain now began to fall in North End’s faces, and made matters uncomfortable for them. From a nice easy chance Chadwick headed miserably wide of Trainer’s charge. Sanders was penalised for jumping, and from the free kick Holt sent in a swift low shot, which was prevented from scoring by the crowd of legs in front of the goal. Latta again called on Trainer, who cleared capitally, and a couple of corners fell to the visitors but were unavailing. Cowan got into dangerous quarters and was fouled by Bob Howarth, and from the free kick Gordon sent in a teaser, but it was wide of the mark. At the other end Sanders gave a corner, which was placed behind the goal. At the other end Beckton beaten Howarth, and then Russell sent over to Jimmy Ross, who struck the corner of the crossbar and dropped outside. North End went up by means of Sanders and Jimmy Ross, the latter calling on Williams to save, which he did at the expense of a corner. The game now became little more than mud-larking. The North End exerted themselves to keep their opponents from scoring, and relieved the monotony with sundry incursions into the Everton territory. In one of these just before time Williams saved well from Jimmy Ross and the game ended with the result-North End 5 Everton 0.
EVERTON REVIEW
December 5, 1892. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton on Saturday were beaten more decisively by Preston North End in a League match than they had ever before –by no less than 5 goals to nil, and all scored in the first half. Last year at Deepdale he measure of defeat was 4 goals to nil, so there is here further evidence that Everton have deteriorated even from their status of last year. The easy overthrow in the more severe when it is remembered that Preston North End was a man short for the last hour's play, Drummond's leg having again been injured, so as to render him of little service, a few minutes from the start, finally compelling him to withdraw altogether. The ground was in a terrible condition, covered with water and soft mud; but this is no excuse for Everton, as the inconvenience of insecure footing affected all alike. Everton were the inferior team in every department, especially in defence –at least during the first half –and though the visitors had a few shots they were never really dangerous up to the interval. The home team, on the other hand, played with great dash, keeping well possessed of the ball, and passing and shooting with great speed and capital judgment, most of the shots being brilliant. The second half was more in favour of Everton, who were oftener at goal; and though the shooting was rather above their average, it was always repelled by the giants deputed to defend North End's goal. Impatient as Evertonians must be for their team to win a match, those who saw the brilliant tactics of Preston North End could not but foul admiration. Trainor, N.J. Ross, and Holmes were insuperable barriers, and never seemed at fault. The half-backs were not so successful, but they were a clever lot; and of the forwards, smart as they all were, Jimmy Ross was the greatest cause of terror to Williams and his colleagues. His activity is marvelous and the manner in which he ran round his opponents, then to shoot terrifically, was worthy of Ross's best days. Williams made innumerable good saves, but on the whole he is not to be congratulated on his performances, and he was sadly astray in running out to meet a shot which gave Preston their first goal. That he had so much employment does not redound to the credit of the Everton backs and half-backs, among whom Holt alone played up to reputation. The forwards were in very fair form, combining well, and if any are to be singled out as more effective than their colleagues, the qualm must be given to Maxwell, who worked unselfishly and accurately at centre, whilst Gordon was best in the shooting line.
The Everton Combination Team, who on Saturday played Stockport County, winning by 4 goals to 1, on Thursday afternoon will try conclusions with a team selected from clubs forming the Liverpool commendable one –to provide breakfasts for the waite and strays of Liverpool –the event should be liberally patronised.
PRESTON NORTH END 5 EVERTON 0
December 5 1892 The Liverpool Mercury
The first League match of the season between thses clubs, took place at Preston on Saturday in the presence of about 7,000 specatators. The weather was fine at start, but rain fell fast towards the finsih and the ground was in a very muddy stae, so much so that the players in a few minutes were plastered. The teams were ‘'Thompson'' being the assumed name of a man who had already played once at Everton- North End;- Trainer, goal, Holmes, and N.J Ross (captain) backs, Grier, Saunders, and Drummond half-backs, Cowan, Ross (junior), Russell, Beckton and gordon, forwards,. Everton:- Williams goal, Howarth (captain) and Thompson (r), backs Boyle, Holt and Jamieson half-backs, Latta, Gordon, Maxwell, Chadwick and Milward forwards. Everton having kicked off opened full of promise as Gordon tested Trainer. The visitors returned on the right and on Drummond kicking out, he wrenched his left leg and was evidently injured. He limped on however, and North End went away with a burst, but Howarth checked, and J Ross was compelled to shoot outside. Holt scored of Russell, and Maxwell went near in, but before a shot was permitted, Drummond drove clear, and Russell and J Ross running jointly the latter scored. Williams failing in his effort to step out to meet the ball. Prest North End quickly returned when Saunders turned a pass from Ross to account, and in seven minutes Everton found thenselves in a minority of 2 goals. J Ross then had a hard shot, Williams this time caught the ball. ‘'Thompson'' also cleared once or twice coolly and Latta tried to shift the venue but he was foiled by N.J.Ross. Everton were not to be easily dislodged just now and twice Milward centred well, but Ross removed danger on each occasion. Cowan next shot out, followed by Jamieson and ‘'Thompson'' who caused the ball to be run out. Everton a few minutes later raised the hopes of their supporters by closing in towards goal. Holmes, however, kicked out from Latta's shot and the ball finally went over the goal line. This, unluckily, was the prelude to a further reverse for Everton, as Beckton helped Russell to beat both Howarth and Williams. In a little while Everton actually penetrated goal, but it did not count, as the whistle sounded for some informality just as the kick was being taken. Everton made a brief stay, culminating in Latta shooting hard into Trainer's hands. Drummond at this juncture left the field but Everton could profit nothing from this fact, as Russell with the game just 25 minutes old madew the record 4 goals to nil in favour of North End. They continued to have much the best of the play, and, after several near shaves Beckton took the ball amidst some amusement from Thompson whilst in the act of blocking it and spanked it between the posts. The day was hopelessly lost to Everton long before the last downfall but they never gave in, and between now and the interval were near scoring once or twice. Chadwick, Gordon and Maxwell each causing Trainer to use his hands. Milward also felt his mark on the bar from a shot that deserved better success. ‘'Thompson'' leading up to the recess robbed the right wing of Preston cleverly and staved off further disater. Everton on resuming, had the first brush near goal, as Gordon and Maxwell passed down but Chadwick shot wrenchedly. A free kick to the home team was ominous, but the ball was headed away. Back went Cowan to shoot keenly to Williams, who fisted grandly. Latta next sent across to Milward, who was off-side,, and the opportunity passed away. Everton certainly showed a vast improvement now, and keeping a firmer hard attacked very solidly, though they were not clever enough to find a foothole. Howarth put his forwards on the attack again, with a lob, when Trainer only kept his goal intact with difficulty. Again Gordon drove in spendidly at long range but Trainer though pushed gathered and cleared the ball. Attacks followed next, Chadwick Gordon and Latta the best shot, being that of the last named., which Holmes stopped with a foot. North End then besieged the Everton goal, but Howarth came to the rescue twice. It was some minutes before the siege was raised, and when this was done, Chadwick shot so well that it enforced a corner. The light now grew very imperfect, and when the end came Everton were Beaten by 5 goals to nil. No goals ensuing during the second half.
LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 05 December 1892
By The Loiterer
The Everton Combination can still boast of an unbeaten record, their latest victims being Stockport County, whom they defeated on Saturday at Goodison Park by four goals to one. From the very commencement there was no doubt as to which was the superior team, and almost throughout the visiting backs and goalkeeper were kept busily defending. Jardine reappeared in the home ranks after a lengthened absence and though he was not frequently tested, displayed some of his old ability between the sticks. He however, gave the County their only point by putting the ball through his own goal. On the Everton side Smith was a great success at centre and twice lowered the Stockport goal in fine style. Pinnell being responsible for the other points. The visiting left wing played a pretty game, but their efforts were ill-supported, and although the team was decidedly overmatched. It will take a very strong eleven to overcome the present leaders of the Combination.
NORTH END STILL AT THE TOP
Athletic News - Monday 05 December 1892
BY Harricus
The first League match between Preston North end and Everton was set down for decision on Saturday at Deepdale. The teams had met before in a benefit match at Ardwick, when North End won a curious game by four goals to two, after Everton leading at the interval by two clear goals. Only once, I believe, have Everton been successful at Preston. The ground was in a very bad condition, but it would compare very favorably with other Lancashire clubs’ grounds I know of. Fortunately for the gate, which reached about 7,000, the rain cleared up before the kick-off, though it came down in its own sweet way again during the second half. Stewart should have made his reappearance in the North End team, but Drummond figured at left half-back, and Gordon took Gallocher’s place at outside-left. Geary was absent from the visitors, owing, it was said, to some differences he has with his committee, whilst there was still another new back in “Thompson,” who appeared as a “dark horse,” the teams being;-
Preston North End;- Trainer, goal; Ross and Holmes, backs; Grier, Saunders, and Drummond, half-backs; Cowan, Ross, Russell, Beckton, and Gordon, forwards. Everton; Williams, goal; Howarth and Thompson, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Jamieson, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Maxwell, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Referee; Mr. J. McIntyre, Manchester.
From the start that was made there seemed all probability of a good game being witnessed, and Trainer was soon called upon to save from Latta, but after about six minutes’ play Drummond passed the ball to Russell, who, in turn, gave to Ross, un., that player registering the first goal, and in the very next minute Saunder’s got in front and put on a second point. The North End forwards were playing a splendid game, and fairly out-witted the Everton defence. Although so much behind, the Everton forwards strove hard to get near Trainer, but the Prestonians’ defence was wide-awake, whilst at the other end Beckton got round his opponents, with the result that Russell notched the third point for the Deepdalians, after which the visitors had a goal disallowed for off-side. It was noticed that Drummond's leg broke down again when play had only been in progress a few minutes, and although he stuck gamely to his post he had to retire for good after the third goal had been obtained, which left his side with only four forwards, as Gordon wisely fell half-back. Notwithstanding being thus handicapped, the Preston forwards played up as well as ever, and Russell was instrumental in scoring the fourth goal, whilst Beckon took advantage of a mull and rushed through the fifth. Everton tried to retrieve themselves, the left wing working hard, Trainer saving to save twice in succession, whilst Latta had a good chance in front, but it was easily discernible which was the better team. Jimmy Ross gained applause by a grand dribble down the field, and the Everton Gordon might have gained his side a point had he been well up. In the next minute the ball struck the North End cross-bar, but nothing further was done in the scoring line, the leaders crossing over with five goals in hand. The Everton goal had a miraculous escape directly after the re-start, and then Holt gained favour by dispossessing three of his opponents, and “Pat” Gordon missing two chances was the next item. The hard work of the first half was evidently telling on both sides, and the game after the interval was not so interesting in consequence. North End apparently were well satisfied with their substantial lead, and their deterioration gave the impression that Everton were improving, but although they were often in close quarters it was, as a gentleman on the stand remarked, as if “they could not shoot through a wet newspaper.” There was nothing particularly interesting in the play up to the finish, both sides having had enough of it, and the end came with North End the winners by the same score as half-time—five goals to none. They thoroughly deserved their victory, and on their form of the first half even Sunderland would have come off second best. Although with only four forwards for an hour, and really only with three during the closing stages, as Cowan got hurt, and did not exert himself much, they were simply irresistible, and displayed such combination as was only shown in the old days, in fact, I do not think that any defence, no matter how good, could have withstood their onslaughts, but as it happened they had not a very brilliant defence to cope with, with the result that goals came pretty frequently. The right wing got along splendidly. I have never seen J. Ross play better; he dodged his opponents with the utmost ease, and had a very capable partner in Cowan. Russell has improved by streets since he played against the Rovers at Deepdale; then he rushed about like a mere novice, but on Saturday he played a most finished game, and little Beckton, who was all alone in his glory, was not far behind. The defence was quite up to the mark, although Gordon is not an ideal half-back by any means. I should almost like to see Trainer play a bad game. I remember him once having a dozen goals scored against him by the team he is now playing with, and even then he played the best game on his side. I am afraid Everton will require some goal-getters before they make a good show on the League list, as they missed chance after chance on Saturday. I daresay they had the best of the play in the second half, but it was pretty plain that their opponents were easing up after gaining such a decided advantage. Chadwick, I thought, gave the best display of football of the attackers, and fed his partner well, the left wing being far the most effective. Holt was the best half-back, and it was surprising how such a little fellow got on so well in the worst part the field. He worked like a nigger, (The “N” word in no way represents the Blue Correspondent) and had the appearance of one, too, for his white knickers were often on a level with the mud. The men behind him were not over successful, and Howorth has played much better, while Thompson—or whoever he is—is no great guns. Why the mystery about his identity, I don’t know, but I heard one of the Everton supporters shout Campbell to him. Does that explain it? 'Kelso was expected to play, and the sooner he makes his reappearance the better for the defence, providing he has not deteriorated during his enforced absence.
Club Notices
Everton Combination requires match away Saturday next, Dec,10, also January 7 and Feb 11- Apply R. Molyneux, Goodison Park, Liverpool.
EVERTON COMBINATION 4 STOCKPORT COUNTY 1
December 5, 1892. The Liverpool Mercury
At Everton, before 2,000 spectators. Smith scored after ten minutes and soon added a second goal. Jardine next put the ball through his own net, and Pinnel obtained a third for Everton who at the interval lead by three goals to 1. In the second half Everton had touch the best of the play,, and finally Pinnell scored and Everton winning by 4 goals to 1. Everton team, Jardine, goal, Taylor, (of Newton), and Campbell, backs, Chadwick, Jones, Coyle and McLaren, half-backs, Murray, Smith, Pinnell McMillan and Elliott forwards.
Placed 1 st , played 11 won 10, lost 0, drew 1, for 55, against 3, points 21
PRESTON NORTH END v. EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 05 December 1892
The ground at Deepdale was in a shocking condition when the spectators commenced to troop on the enclosure, the slush being in some places ankle deep. The attendance was not what Evertonians would call a large one, there being about 5,000 persons present when the following teams took up their positions;- -
Everton : Williams, goal; Howarth (Captain) and Thompson, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Jamieson, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Maxwell, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Preston North End Trainer, goal; Holmes and Ross, backs; Grier, Saunders, and Drummond, half-backs; Cowan, Ross, jun., Russell. Beckton, and Gordon, forwards.
Preston won the toss, and Maxwell kicked off, and was immediately robbed, but Holt came to the rescue, and gave to his right, Latta and Gordon making excellent progress, until Everton outside right missed his kick, when Drummond kicked out, and was immediately afterwards hurt. A free kick to the North Enders followed, and Howarth cleared, but the Preston men came on the right, young Ross sending leather over the line. Jamieson repulsed a further raid by the homesters, and then there was a prolonged assault on the Preston fortress. On the homesters getting away Holt time after time checked his opponents, but they at last wont dashing through, and Ross, jun., scored the first goal for Preston, and this was quickly followed by another from the centre half-back (Saunders) these points scored ten minutes from the start. The Preston front line once more waded through the sea of mud, and attacked their opponents stronghold in most determined manner, but after close play Howarth cleared again. Latta got away, only to be robbed by Ross when he was well up the field. After play in midfield Milward centred, Ross meeting the ball and clearing easily. Then the North End left wing went sailing away, the result being that the leather was forced over the line close to Williams's goal. A return was quickly made and, after a throw-in on the extreme right Holt saved. Latta shot for goal, but Holmes rushed, in and cleared though nearly at the expense of corner. The ball having been crossed over the field, Cowan and Ross took the play down to the other end, and the leather was again crossed. Beckton then passed to Russell, who scored the third goal for North-end. The Everton men then worked away with vigour, and Milward put the leather between the posts just as the whistle sounded for offside. Latta then shot for Trainer, who caught the ball and kicked clear, and the next minute the Preston stronghold was once more in danger, but a wild shot mulled the chances. After this the visitors were forced back into their own half, and Russell scored again for North End. Hereabouts Drummond found his old injury too much for him, and retired, the homesters thus being left with ten men. They, however, kept up the attack, and after some little time had elapsed Saunders sent in stinging shot, which only just missed. The Everton goal had another narrow escape a minute later, but the visitors were then placed at a disadvantage, as after Thompson had checked the leather ready for a long kick Beckton rushed In, took the ball away, and scored another goal. After this the Everton men advanced, and Chadwick forced a corner, but Trainer was all there when wanted, the Preston man catching and kicking clear. Latta dallied and lost a chance, and directly afterwards Saunters shot wide at the other end. J. Ross twice made tracks for the Everton goal, but on each occasion Williams was equal to the emergency. The Preston right wing claimed a comer, Williams fisting clear. The play of North End men was much superior throughout the first half. Just before half-time Chadwick passed to Maxwell, and then leather passed on to Latta, who shot terribly wide. Trainer was again in trouble, but Everton could not score.
Half-time score:—North End 5 goals, Everton nil.
Early in the second half, Maxwell, Chadwick, and Milward passed to the Preston half, Chadwick sending in a long pass which no one could reach. Holt was then engaged closely, and a free kick to enabled the visitors to attack, but Grier checked, and ball was taken along the Preston right, Cowan shooting in to Williams, who succeeded in tipping the ball away. An onslaught wan initiated by Latta, but Milward missed at the last moment, and shortly after this a free kick ended in a corner to Everton, but this was cleared away, after which there was a loud shout of approval for Holt, who, playing a champion game, steered the ball to the Everton right, although hampered by a couple of bis opponents. Directly after this Gordon headed the ball into the Preston goal, but was unfortunate enough to strike the post. At the finish Everton, who had been most unlucky in their efforts to score, retired defeated by goals 5 goals to nil
EVERTON COMBINATION 4 THURSDAY LEAGUE 1
December 6, 1892 The Liverpool Mercury
A match under this title was played at Goodison Park yesterday the object being to provide funds for the purpose of giving breakfast to the waifts and stays of Liverpool. Their was a fair attendance. Everton pressed repeatedly during the first half and scored 3 goals to nil. Subsqently the scoring was even-one each and the result was Everton 4, Thursday League.
Everton Team, Rennie goal Coyle Clark backs Jones Leay and McLaren half-backs, Smith, Murray Pinnel McMillan and Elliott, forwards.
EVERTON TEAM NEWS
Liverpool Mercury - Wednesday 07 December 1892
Everton Combination v Thursday League-
A charity match between Everton Combination and a team selected from the clubs composing the Thursday league will be played at Goodison Park tomorrow (Thursday), commencing at 2.30 p.m., The following is the Everton team;- Rennie, goal; Coyle and Clark, backs; Jones, Leay, and McLaren, half-backs; Smith, Murray, Pinnell, McMillian, and Elliott, forwards.
Everton League v. Wolverhampton Wanderers .-
The following team will play for Everton at Goodison Park next Saturday;-
Jardine, goal; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Boyle, Holt and Jamieson, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
THE ANNUAL THEATRICAL CHARITY FOOTBALL MATCH
Liverpool Daily Post - Thursday 08 December 1892
At the usual weekly committee meeting of the above, held yesterday afternoon, at the Bee Hotel, St John’s Lane, considerable progress was made in furthering the arrangements for holding this popular annual charity. At the meeting held last week a slight deadlock existed, inasmuch as it was intimated to the committee that the executive of the newly organised Liverpool Association club intended to play a charity football match also at the Anfield ground, and had partly obtained the cohesion of the management of the respective theatrical establishments in Liverpool. This latter statement, it may be said, turned out to be a mere “myth,” as several professional gentlemen attended the meeting at the Bee Hotel prepared to act in conjunction with the Everton Committee. However, to get out of the dilemma and do the best for the two institutions for what the match is played, it was proposed that a deputation (consisting of Mr. Mahon, and another gentlemen) wait upon the Liverpool club committee (who also were sitting at the time at the Neptune Hotel), and invite their co-operation with Everton, and thus make the affair a big success. The deputation, of course, were instructed to point out that the match hitherto had taken place under the auspices of the Everton Football Club, who had always granted the use of their ground, and this season it should take place at Goodison Park, while arrangements could be made for it to take place next year at Anfield. Particular stress was laid upon the fact that the accommodation at the new ground was so superior to what could be provided at the old one, that, supposing the day turned out in element,16,000 people would be able to find shelter on the covered stands, which would practically make them independent of the weather. Then there is the additional ground space, which would enable the “show” to be considerably developed, by means of which the charity might be further aided; to say nothing about dressing rooms on the ground for the artistes. The reply the Everton committee received to their reasonable demand was, “The match must be played on the Liverpool ground,” and when this decision was read by Mr. Mahon at yesterday’s meeting it was decided by the committee to “proceed with business.” One gentleman promised a large support of the theatrical profession, and also his influence in other quarters. Sub committees to make detail arrangements were formed and the chairman (Mr. Mahon) announced that he would make a donation of a £5 note to be drawn for, tickets for which would be sold at 1d each.
EVERTON COMBINATION v THURSDAY LEAGUE
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 09 December 1892
This match, on behalf of the waifs and strays of Liverpool, took place on the ground of the former, Goodison-road, before about 1,000 spectators. The weather was rather foggy, but the ground, owing to preparations beforehand, was in very fair condition. The League kicked off, and after some scrimmaging in midfield the League got up in front of the Everton goal, two corners falling to them in succession. These were both cleared, and Elliott got hold and made off down the left, sending in a beautiful shot which almost scored. Cheshire the League goalkeeper, had a warm time of it for the next few minutes, and had to fist out two shots from left and centre. A good kick by Hall cleared his lines and enabled the visitors to play a visit to the home end, but their stay was very short. Some exciting play took place round the League goalkeeper, but without result, and then Rennie was called upon to save from Wharmby. A good run by the Everton forwards at length led to the desired result, Pinnell scoring with a lighting shot, and a few minutes later Murray shot past Cheshire for the second time. The visitors made two attacks on the Everton goal, but both were easily repulsed and Everton again scored out of a scrimmage. Half-time score-Everton 3 goals, League nil.
The attendance had greatly increased on the resumption of the game. A few minutes after the restart the League forwards got away in good combination and Usher scored a pretty goal, a feat which was loudly cheered. This seemed to settle the Evertonians, and they made a determined onslaught, Pinnell scoring from Murray’s pass. The Evertonians had got the measure of their opponents, and kept peppering away at their goal, but Hall, Ellis, and Cheshire defended well and managed to prevent further scoring. The rest of the play was in favour of Everton, and the final result was;- Everton Combination 4 goals, Thursday League 1 goal.
TODAYS GAME
December 10, 1892. The Liverpool Mercury
The league will contribute seven matches this afternoon and among them is that of Everton v. Wolverhampton Wanderers at Goodison Park. A stern game is assured, for each club will be eager to improve its position. Everton have selected a capital team to do battle for the club, and if they all turn out fit and well there should be no doubt about the issue being favourable to the Liverpoolians, despite the fact that the “Wolves” last week administered a defeat to Stoke, who had staved off reverse in their eight proceeding matches. It is time Everton won, and they will have to fight hard today if their flag is to be run up in triumph.
Everton v. Wolverhampton Wanderers at Goodison Park. Kick-off at 2.30 p.m. The following will play for Everton; Jardine, goal; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Jamieson, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 10 December 1892
Once again Preston North End have demonstrated as they have done times innumerable, that there is no hope for Everton when they and the latter meet. The cry of the North Enders is, “We’ve done it before, and we’ll do it again.” Last Saturday they succeeded in “doing it” to the extent of 5 goals with practically ten men, as Drummond had to leave the field shortly after the start. The ground at Deepdale was in a similar plight to that at Anfield on a memorable occasion about three seasons back- all mud and splash-when the North Enders galloped round Everton, and surprised the football world. The Preston men scored all their points in the first half, and during this period the home forwards played one of the finest games possible to witness; in fact, from goalkeeper to attacking line, the men displayed form worthy of the eleven who upheld the prestige of the club in its palmiest days. The Everton Club will have a more representative team to play for them this afternoon against Wolverhampton Wanderers than they have been able to place on the field for some time part. There will be Jardine in goal, Kelso partnering Howarth at back, and Geary at centre. At least such is the selection made-and it is to eb hoped this old combination, who will have a stiff opposition to face, will succeeded in checking the run of disasters which have beset Everton.
ASSOCIATION
For the League match between Everton and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Goodison Park, kick-off at 2.30 the following have been selected to represent.
Everton.- Jardine, goal; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Jamieson, half-backs; Milward, E. Chadwick, Geary, Gordon, and Latta, forwards.
A NEW PLAYER FOR EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 10 December 1892
The Everton Football Club have secured the services of Stewart, the well-known left half back of the Burnley Club, who has been registered with the League and with the Association and will be available to play in the League engagement with Notts County on Saturday next. Stewart has been a member of the Burnley team for several years.
AT LIVERPOOL
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 10 December 1892
Everton and Evertonians took the drubbing suffered at Deepdale last Saturday Philosophically and with becoming meekness. A win for the Liverpudlians was never anticipated, in the light of current form, though hope had not been entirely abandoned of administering a check to the triumphal march of the Prestonians. With Everton the mutability of football is strongly developed. Not long since surprise was felt if they lost a match-now it is an experience of astonishment if they win one. Yet Everton have seldom risen superior to Preston North End when the occasion was other than a “friendly.” So far they have met the Deepdalians nine times in League contests, and have won but once, when, in the season 1889-90, they visited and defeated North End by two goals to one. Last year a draw of a goal each ensued at Liverpool, and the other seven games were all won by the Prestonians, who have scored 23 goals against four by Everton. In fact in six out of the nine matches Preston North End have beaten Everton pointless.
It was the recollection of these facts, perhaps, that reconciled Evertonians to the rout of Saturday last, for when Everton had failed in their palmy days they had no chance in their present weaker state. A turn in the tide is possible to-day, when Everton meet Wolverhampton Wanderers at Goodison Park. No new men are expected, but it is announced that Jardine, Kelso and Geary will take the places filled by Williams, “Thompson,” and Maxwell last Saturday.
EVERTON v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 10 December 1892
The first League match this season between these team was played at Liverpool to-day. The weather was wintry, snow falling, and about 10,000 persons were present. Teams;-
Everton.- Jardine, goal; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Boyle, Holt and Jamieson, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Wolverhampton.- Rose, goal; Baugh and Swift, backs; Davies, Allen, and Maplas, half-backs; Woodhall, Baker, Butcher, Wood, and Devey, forwards.
Both Kelso and Jardine had a good reception on reappearing after their long absence through illness. Everton kicked off, and went down when Geary drove outside. Wolverhampton were checked by Kelso, and after the ball had been headed over Everton went quickly to the other end and Gordon scored from Milward’s pass. A minute later, however, the score was even, as on Jamieson fouling Wood beat Jardine from Allen’s free kick. Everton pressed for some minutes following, Geary being very near with a running shot. Woodhall drove behind the goal, and then Geary became very conspicuous for brilliant runs, which taxed the resources of the visitors severely. A corner was forced, and on Milward returning, he hit the near post. Though Everton had been attacking most, the next goal fell to the Wolves. Wood again beating Jardine this time with a long shot. Everton were very determined, moving up to the goal in brilliant combination, but they were not deadly in their shots, the best attempt coming from Milward, whose shot was arrested so narrowly that many thought Rose had stepped behind the line in gathering the ball. For the most part Everton were in the Wolves’ half, but the home forwards were invariably prevented getting in a decent shot, but nearing the interval Jardine was called upon to use his hands, whilst a third raid culminated in Devey shooting wide. Half-time- Wolverhampton 2, Everton 1
On resuming, Devey who was suffering from lameness, exchanged places wit Baker. Everton opened on the right, and in response to “play up Latta,” Latta took the advantage of a mistake by Swift and centred to Geary, who scored a pretty goal, the ball going in at the top right hand corner. The Wolves were then dangerous, swarming in front of Jardine, but the defence proved sound, Howarth finally driving clear. A fierce attack was carried on by Everton, Chadwick hit the end of the net with a keen shot, then Howarth put into the goal from a free kick, but no one touched the ball, a corner following. Amidst great excitement Everton bore down on the goal in quick succession, but Rose was safe, though he had to run out and concede a corner on one occasion. The Wanderers at length raised the siege, when Butcher kicked out timely. Wood then nearly beat Jardine, who was in two minds whether to handle or kick, he just having time for the latter action. Everton jumped ahead, now, Chadwick scoring on Rose using his fist to a shot by Milward. More chances fell to Everton but Gordon and Milward shot badly, whilst Rose used his hands to one from Geary.
Result- Everton 3, Wanderers 2.
LIVERPOOL CLUBS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 10 December 1892
t is matter for regret that the-divisions in local football circles should in any distant way threaten, or even problematically threaten, the success of that wonderful hardy annual, the theatrical charity match. Jealousies and rivalries should disappear in such a connection. Unfortunately, the charity that is said to cover multitude of sins is not sufficiently strong to enable the new and old Evertonians-or, to put it more correctly, the Everton and Liverpool Association Clubs -to join hands for hour or two in a cause which should know no differences, and recognise nothing but the common brotherhood of man. Pity 'tis 'tis so, but so it is, and there's an end don't. At last week's meeting of the Match Committee it was intimated that the executive of the newly-organised Liverpool Association Club intended to play a charity football match also at the Anfield ground, and had partly obtained the cohesion of the managements of the respective theatrical establishments in Liverpool. It was decided that a deputation (consisting of Mr. Mahon and another gentleman) should wait upon the Liverpool Club Committee (who also were sitting at the same time at the Neptune Hotel), and invite their co-operation with Everton, and thus make the affair an assured success. It was an instruction to the deputation that they should point out that the match hitherto had taken place under the auspices of the Everton Football Club, who had always granted the use of their ground, and to propose that this season it should take place Goodison Park, while arrangements could be made for it to take place next year at Anfield. Stress was laid upon the fact that the accommodation at the new ground was so superior to what could be provided at the old one, that, supposing the day turned out inclement. 16,000 people would be able find shelter on the covered stands, which would practically make them independent of the weather. The reply to these and other apparently conciliatory and reasonable suggestions was a simple non possumus, an absolute no surrender. It was intimated that "the match must be played on the Liverpool ground." A match will, perhaps, be played there, but not the old annual charity event, which united the local football world, and attracted always such an enormous "gate." What the outcome of the division will be remains, of course, to be seen. It may be possible to organise two matches, both of a successful character; but this we very much doubt, and in any case it seems making too great a demand on the hard-worked pantomime and other professionals, whose generous support is essential to the popularity and attractiveness of the gathering. It may be that unity of action will yet be secured upon terms which will prove mutually satisfactory, and without hurt to the pride or prejudice anyone. In the opinion of impartial outsiders no offer could well have been more fair and reasonable than that of playing the annual match alternately in the grounds of the two clubs, and the unqualified rejection of that proposal is to be deplored.
THE DISASTER AT PRESTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 10 December 1892
By Richard Samuel
The half time telegram which brought intelligence that North End had scored five goals to nil in the first half caused quite a sensation in places where footballers do congregate, and any person would have done good business had he opened a guessing competition for the number of goals Everton would be beaten by. It was generally surmised that other five would follow in the second half, but this humiliation was spared us. Methinks there have been quite sufficient fives figuring against Everton lately. The scoring seems to have been on a par with that of Sheffield Wednesday the previous week, and before the players had got fairly going, Preston, like Wednesday, had a couple of goals in hand. The remaining goals were similar to those of the previous week, whilst the number is the same at the interval, without any addition at the close. Comparing this and other results it would appear that the team has deteriorated since last season, and to account for it is a difficult matter. The new man, and the resuscitated old ones, that were included in the team are supposed to be capable men, and the two forwards seem to have done their bits, if not satisfactorily, at least quite as well as the other three. Campbell, the Thompson, that played was evidently considered a better back than either Chadwick or Collins by the Selecting Committee, who decision no doubt would be influenced by the advice of those who secured him, but their judgement on football matters is open to doubt, for, however, prodigious this faculty for comprehension, sufficient experience for the purpose cannot be crammed into an eighteen months’ tuition. I offer no opinion on the players’ merits, for I am not in a position to do so, but he does not appear to have played a brilliant game. The club have too many goalkeepers to select from and the constant changes are fraught with danger. I assume Rennie was considered a better man than Williams, or why was he put in charge against Sheffield? Then failing at the first attempt he is put on one side and the discarded one is called up. This to my mind is a queer way of dealing with these players and tends to “Kinder rile” them and make them careless. Jardine, I suppose, is the “boss” goalkeeper, but if the directors are experimenting with Rennie and Williams for second position, then the former has not had a fair chance. The team are evidently not as clever, at least on soft ground, as they were. That they are well-trained is evident from their play in the second portion of the two recent games, but it is plain that the back position, to say nothing of the goalkeeper, is indifferently filled. This must be apparent to every one after comparing our defence with that of our opponents.
EVERTON V. WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 10 December 1892
The Wolves paid a second visit to Goodison Park this afternoon, before 10,000 spectators. The teams were;- Everton; Jardine, goal; Howarth and Kelso, backs; Jamieson, Holt and Boyle, half-backs; Milward, Chadwick, Geary, Gordon, and Latta, forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Rose, goal; Baugh, and Swift, backs; Davies, Allen, and Malpass, half-backs; Woodhall, Baker, Butcher, H. Wood, and Devey, forwards. Jardine and Kelso had a hugh reception. Geary kicked off, and the game opened tamely, but after five minutes Gordon beat Rose from a header by Milward. A minute later Allan took a free kick, Wood touching, and making it one all. Everton made a concerted attempt, Geary heading behind. The Wolves ran down neatly, Woodhall placing outside. Geary was enthusiastically cheered for clever work, which gained a useless corner. From a foul against Milward, Wood added a second goal. A long shot by the Wolves’ forwards gave Howarth and Kelso trouble. Chadwick lost a chance through selfishness. The visitors’ backs were always on the alert. After very hard lines for Everton Milward struck the post. A spell of midfield play followed, and Chadwick missed a bonny chance. Davies was often beaten by the left wing, but Baugh was always safe. Howarth rushed in with a big kick, giving the forwards a chance, but the shooting was mediocre. The Wolves enjoyed a spell of pressure in the Everton lines, but Jardine and the back kept them moving. Devey sent the ball yards too high from a fair position. There was much feeble kicking by the defence.
Half-time; Everton 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2.
Resuming, Devey changed places with Baker, the former limping. Immediately Geary made a flying run, passed to Latta and returned to the centre, who scored amid uproarious applauses. The Wolves infused spirited passing, gaining a corner, Howarth clearing in the nick of time. Chadwick them bravely essayed, Rose gave a corner Everton showing improved form and again missing by the merest slave. Encouraging cheers spurred them on merrily. Holt and Allan showed creditable defence. Latta ran and centred, Geary and Milward missing few yards from home. Chadwick being handy, scored. Rose now saved a dangerous shot, after much pressure on the Wolves. The visitors got near Jardine, but their shots were ill-directed. Baker and Butchers were great sinners. With five minutes to play the Wanderers tried all they knew to draw, and Everton defended very gamely. Kelso performed very creditable after his illness. Full; Everton 3, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2.
NORTH END DEFEAT EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 10 December 1892
Good old North End deserve all the congratulations heaped upon them during the week for their brilliant achievement at Deepdale. What achievement say you. Why, the victory over Everton by five goals to nil. Yes, and with ten men, too, for Drummond was rendered useless within five minutes from the start; he left the field soon afterwards, and will not, it is said, be able to play again for a month. His damaged leg has given way. The sea of mud at Deepdale was deep enough and strong enough to make anything give way, but the North End forwards –during the first half-hour, at any rate –appeared to startle the Evertonians, who were evidently prepared to play a dashing game. Again and again the home forwards rushed past the Everton halves, and gave Bob Howarth and his new companies a lot of anxiety. Then bang would go the ball at poor Williams, who must have been miserable every time he saw Jimmy Ross and his companions approaching. I had forgotten to mention that “Thompson” who partnered Howarth hardly know how to deal with the North End tactics; in fact he was quite bewildered and was lucky in having such a cool companion. But though North End had scored five goals the Evertonians, to their credit be it said, never appeared to lose heart. For a quarter of an hour before the interval they were finding plenty of work for the North End referee, but they could make no impression, and had to admit that their look-out was anything but an enviable one. During most part of the second half North End acted on the defensive, Gordon taking Drummond’s place at half-back. It was now that the grand defences of the North End backs and goalkeeper was seen to perfection. They were fully tested, for the ball was generally in the home quarters. It was seldom that Russell was able to get his forwards up the field, but when they did get near Williams they made him quake. Altogether the second half was uninteresting because play was so slow, it was a wonder how the contestants kept up as they did considering the condition of the ground; while as to the ball, it became almost as heavy as lead. During the last fifteen minutes North End had virtually but nine men, for Cowan was useless through an injury. Still the visitors could not score. No one who saw the game will, I think, deny that the North End fully deserved their victory. The forwards certainly surpassed themselves, and by their dash in front of goal brought back the memories of the days when the Deepdale forwards were capable of running round any defence. I don’t think I ever saw Jimmy Ross exert himself with so much spirit for goal the ball travelled at marvelous speed. He has a grand partner in Cowan, and what a wonderfully clever right wing the wee ladies make. Russell worked hard and cleverly, but spoiled his display by endeavouring to out-dodge Holt, with the result that he was almost on every occasion beaten. Beckton was clever on the left wing; he gets stronger on the ball every match. Jack Gordon, who with his partner, worked so hard and well both as outside left and at half-back (after Drummond’s retirement) that his many friends are hoping he will be as strong and as affective as ever before long. Sanders and Grier at half-back were always there when wanted; the first-named is never beaten. There could scarcely have been seen a grander or more perfect defence than that exhibited by Ross and Holmes at back, or with Trainer in goal. They had lots of work and never made a mistake. The best of the losers were Holt, Howarth, Chadwick, and Milward. If their companions had been up to their form the result of the match would not have been so onesidered. It only remains to say that the Everton supporters present were unusually quiet, the exhibition, no doubt, providing much food for thought.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 10 December 1892
A WELCOME WIN FOR EVERTON.
Athletic News - Monday 12 December 1892
By the Loiterer.
Everton have not figured amongst the winning clubs in the League for several weeks, a draw and two losses being their portion of the last three games, and the public have, in consequence, made use of some “off-side'’ remarks about the players’ ability and the committee's judgment. ’T’was ever thus. Let the men be successful and they are spoiled, when success does not attend their efforts all sort of things are said about them and accusations made which are simply bosh. To a great extent supporters of such a club as Everton, with their heavy wage list, have a right to criticize the play of the men, and it is only to be expected that such criticism will be on the lines that “nothing succeeds like success ;” but a more sober view should be taken of the non-success of the team, for whilst, perhaps, it is not worth noting, the conditions, meteorological and otherwise, under which the match played is when victory is attained, yet when the elements are unkind some consideration should be shown the men. It is here that sound judgment is needed. It is said and with some truth too, that men receiving the salaries the Everton players do, the weather should not make any difference; in fact, that they should be able to adopt the style most suitable for the existing circumstances. But it is a notorious fact that there are players who, from causes principally physical, cannot stand the racket of ninety minutes’ hard fighting in slush, and a player, inferior perhaps in other respects, would do better at such times. The Everton committee have been brought face to face with both these causes, and have apparently had to experiment for a solution of the difficulty with the result that they have been subject to some adverse criticism. No less than three goalkeepers and centre forward, having been tried in the last three matches. The ground was hard after the frost, but I should think it would compare favourably with any ground in Lancashire, for we had no snow, but rain coming on made it rather slippery. However, everything pointed to a fast game, and in this we were not disappointed the following players took part in the match Everton;- Jardine, goal; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Boyle, Holt and Jamieson, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Geary, Chadwick and Milward, forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Rose, goal; Baugh, and Swift, backs; Davies, Allan and Maplass, half-backs; Woodall, Baker, Wood, Devey, and Butcher, forwards. Referee; Mr. J. Lewis.
The start was rather sensational, for a visit to each end, Gordon sent a shot past Rose in exactly three minutes. This early success gave much satisfaction, which, however, was soon turned to disappointment, for from a free kick, well placed Allen, the ball was put throngs by someone on the other side. With the scores level, both sides strove hard to gain another point, and it was evident that the Evertonians took more kindly to the ground than the soft mixture they have had the last week or two. Geary especially came out of his shell, and treated us to several brilliant flashes. Altogether the home forwards were doing good work, and gave Baugh and Swift plenty to do. After doing all the pressing, it was disappointing to see the “Wolves” notch another point, Jardine being beaten by a long shot from Wood. By far the most work was done in the visitors' half, and although Everton did not score again before the interval, the forwards played a good game, and only the resolute work done by Allen, Baugh, and Swift kept them out. Play was not by any means all one way, for the visiting forwards frequently came out, and they wanted a lot of stopping when once in possession. The wings played a prominent part in these incursions, without being nearly as dangerous as their opponents, and Jardine had several shots to stop. Nothing more was done up to the interval. The second half opened in much the same fashion as the first for after a little skirmishing Geary obtained possession and passed over to Hall, who centred nicely, and the centre drew level. The visitors’ defence withstood another hot attack, and it was sometime before the forwards could gain a foothold in Everton quarters, nut as before, when once in possession, they made progress Wood, however, continued to work hard, and he did several nice little touches which diverted the ball’s course, and once had the goal at his mercy but shot at Jardine. Had he followed up promptly he might have obtained a goal, as Jardine fumbled the ball, which was put behind. The game was afterwards of an even character, and eventually Latta again centred nicely, and Chadwick scored the winning goal. After this, pressure w was brought on each goal, the visitors working hard to draw level, but failed. Everton winning a hard game by three goals to two. The inclusion of Kelso made a great difference in the home defence. He played a grand game after a lengthy absence, his kicking being powerful and fairly accurate Howarth also played finely, and once staved off an attack in brilliant fashion. There seemed to be a more confident method between the backs, which has been wanting in recent matches Although Jardine was not to blame in allowing one goal to take effect, the second might have been saved, and in other instances he was hardly as safe as usual. Holt again played a fine game, and far too good for his more weighty opponents. He often came across Harry Wood, and was generally successful. Boyle was not so good, but Jamieson played a fine game. A great improvement was noticeable in the attacking force, and had they had a less capable defence to face, they would have won comfortably. Geary and Milward were the shining lights, and Latta came up in the second half. The visitors’ defence was grand. Rose had not over much to do, but on two occasions in the second half he saved pluckily. Baugh and Swift did a lot work, and it was of the best quality. There was no mincing matters with them, and it was owing to their splendid behavior that Rose had so little work. Allen was the best of the halves, but Malpass and Davies, although frequently beaten, never gave up, and they were generally about when their backs were hard pressed, and in this way rendered valuable assistance. The passing of the forwards was very well timed, but somehow they could not get along, and did not show up anything like the home lot. The work seemed to be done by fits and starts, and Wood appeared to have above his share.
EVERTON 3 WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 2
December 12, 1892. The Liverpool Mercury (G 107)
The Last League match of the season between these clubs was played at Goodison Park. Snow was falling at the time of commercement and this coupled with the fact Everton last two League matches with spectatots numbering 7,000 or 8,000.. teams:- Everton Jardine goal, Kelso and Howarth (captain) backs Boyle Holt and Jamesion half-backs, Mildwild Chadwick, Geary, Gordon, and Latta forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers:-Rose goal, Baugh, and Swift, backs Davies, Allen, and Malpass half-backs Woodhall Baker Wood Devey and Butcher, forwards Kelso and Jardine stepped onto the field of play. The home team went direct from the kick off to goal on the left, but Geary shot outside. The Wanderers then moved on their left, ansd Kelso found employment and checked his opponent Swift on the ball being finally headed out. Everton returned to the goal on the left and Milward shot,, forcing the goalkeeper to handle. And Gordon score with easy with a hard shot. A long cheer signalled the good fortune of Everton on assuming the lead. Within Five minutes, but the joy was immediately modified as, on an Evertonian being penalised the free kick was taken by Allen with good judgement,, and Wood touched it through. Everton display great energy especially Milward and Geary, and the ‘'Wolves'' defence had a trying time of it, but it held out grandly the nearest shot coming from Geary. Play was opened on the visitors right, when Woodhall sprinted out of reach of Jamieson and Howarth, but shot badly. Geary was very conscpious during the next few minutes. He was in spendid form, and the ground thanks to the re-turfing that had been done, giving him a fair chance, he sprinted in towards goal several times, generally winding up woth a sharp shot. From one of these he forced a corner, and then Milward also essayed a quick run and keen shot, experoencing hard lines in banging the ball against the near post. The attack was so well conceived that just when most people expecting Everton to take the lead, the boot went on the opther foot. Wood driving into goal with a long shot, which Jardine failed to check. The visitors were not permitted to return to goal for some time, as Everton had much of the play that immediately followed, during which period Geary tested Rose, and Milward drove in obliquely so well that the latter though he had compelled the custodian top get behind the line in gathering the ball. It was evidently a near thing. The Wanderers were well kept back by the activity of Holt, Howarth, and Kelso in particular and chances were created for the left wing but both Milward and Chadwick were at fault in shooting. Geary tried an effort of his own but was baulked in time and when Latta put the ball into goal shorthly nafterwards Rose saved capitally. Otherraids were made by Everton who could find no flaw in the Wolverhampton defence. Then the scene changed again, and Jardine was successful in running out to meet a shot from Allen. The visitors were not dislodged for a few minutes, but they could not get in a likely shot. Everton relieved in a pretty movement with an ugly finish as Chadwick made a blind shot and after Devey had placed pver the goal line the interval arrived with Wolverhampton leading by 2 goals to 1. Devey, who was crippled through a wrench of the leg, he received a fortnight ago, changed places with Baker on resuming. Everton re-opened in the most promising manner. Geary dashing off and passing out to latta who promptly centred to Geary, and a hard shot by the latter beat Rose, and put Everton on an equality with their opponents.it was now a tussle for a leading point. The ‘'Wolves'' were not far from obtaining this a Minutes of so after, but got nothing more valuable than a corner though they were driven off with much difficulty. Chadwick had the next shot, and then Howarth from a free kicked, lobbed into the net but it did not count as the ball had not been touched in its passage. Latta shortly following,centred and Geary shot gradually, but Rose saved equally well, and then anxiety was experienced by the Evertonians as Wood shot accurately and found Jardine in two minds how to clear. He attempted to nick up, but changed the idea, and had just time to kick clear. It was a relief to the home team when the ball rolled over the line; but in a moment fear turned into enthusiaum as Latta run and passed to Geary who could not quite reach the ball. Milward, however, did, and shot at Rose, who fisted, and Chadwick atoned for some previous error by bagging a really brilliant goal. Everton and their supporters were of course upon good terms with themselves as the issue was probably settled. The home team were again threatening, but Gordon went wide, and Milward skied the ball. The visitors rallied, and gave much trouble to the Everton defenders. Devey was wide in a long shot, Baker returned and forced a corner though Boyle had intercepted him. Baker shortly following missed a chance created by Woodfall and Butcher was similarly faulty. Play continued to be keen, and both Geary and Latta made excellent attempts. Jardine was also requistioned more than once, and, like Rose, holding out, a fast game terminated in a win for Everton by 3 goals to 2.
STEWART FOR EVERTON
Lancashire Evening Post - Monday 12 December 1892
The Everton Football Club have secured the services of Stewart, the well-known left half-back of the Burnley Club, who has been registered with the League and the Association, and will be available to play in the League engagement with Notts County next Saturday. Stewart, whose football abilities are a very high order, has bene a member of the Burnley team for several years, and his charge to Everton is said to eb due to some friction with his late employers, who lately granted him his release.
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS v EVERTON
Birmingham Daily Gazette - Monday 12 December 1892
There have been some sharp contests between the Wolverhampton Wanderers and Everton of which the former, up to the present, have had the advantage. So keen is the rivalry between the two teams that it was generally expected that Saturday’s match would be well fought from start to finish. Moreover, both teams were anxious to add a couple of points to their League record. Everton have not been giving satisfaction to their supporters of late, and the defeat of 5 to 0 by Preston was none to their liking. On the other hand, Wolverhampton appeared to be getting into better form every week, as, after drawing with Derby County at Derby, they inflicted a defeat on Stoke last week. This Besides Devey, and Woodhall were doing very little, the former being unable to run on account of an injury to his leg, and the latter finding it impossible to do anything on the hard ground, which was not to his liking. With practically only three forwards the opposing team did most of the pressing, though the Wanderers broke away now and again and troubled home backs. Swift missed his kick near goal, and Geary was soon on the ball. He equalised, and before long Chadwick put on a third. Loud cheers greeted the reappearance of Geary, Kelso and Jardine with the team as they walked on the field in a nasty sleet. The ground was perfectly free from snow, not much having fallen just around Liverpool, but it was very hard, and the Wanderers had not fitted their shoes properly to meet this state of affairs. The visitors won the toss, and decided to kick with the wind play. Geary started the play punctually and Milward and Chadwick went direct for the Wolves goal, where the ball went out. From the goal kick the ball was kept in centre-field for a time, and here Everton obtained a foul. Nothing came of it, and the Wanderers working their way into the home territory, Butcher shot. Jardine saved, and Latta getting the leather he raced down the wing and crossed to Gordon, who lowered the colours of the Wolves for the first time. Again Everton attacked and the Wanderers’ defence played very weakly. At length a free kick fell to the Wanderers for a foul. Allen took it and sent in a long swift shot. It looked like going through without being touched, but the ball just caught Kelso and then touched Wood’s forehead, from where it went into the net. Thus matters were made equal. The home forwards were soon busy once more, and Geary just sent on the wrong side of the post. Again the home forwards pressed and missed a nice opportunity. Woodhall and Baker broke away, but Howarth robbed them, and a corner fell to Everton at the other end. This was nicely sent down the field by Baker, but Geary getting possession made a grand run, and finally sent out. Then Milward hit the upright, but a second later a free kick for hands was given against him. The ball went to Wood who, with a long shot, scored the second goal for the Wanderers. On the resumption a foul was given against the Wanderers and Everton narrowly missed the mark. Then Jardine was called upon to use his hands, and Butcher running well half the length of the field sent to Woodall, who put the ball over the bar. Gordon broke away, but Allen stopped him, and then Swift robbed Geary as he drew well into goal. The Wanderers now had a short spell of pressing, but soon Milward went down, and passing to Chadwick, that player missed a splendid chance through selfishness. Devey and Wood next had a spin, but the backs robbed them, and Holt, who was playing splendidly, sent to Milward. This winger at once centred to Geary, who once more sent out when he had only Rose to pass. Milward made some excellent runs, and for about a quarter-of-an-hour the home forwards pressed. Chadwick missed his mark by a few inches, and then Milward struck the upright with a very swift shot. Wood made a pretty run, but Holt returned, and Rose had to deal with some smart attacks. Once the Wolves were particularly fortunate in clearing, and then Devey put in a capital centre near the opposite goal, Butcher reached the ball, but sent outside, and an effort by Latta at the Wanderers’ end had the same result. Milward next sent to Chadwick, who had nothing to stop him, but he missed the ball, and Geary shot outside a minute later. Once or twice Milward and Chadwick had very hard lines, but Latta on the opposite wing was too well looked after by Malpass to become dangerous. Geary made another fine run, but Gordon sent out, and Chadwick followed suit. Before half-time Rose saved well, and the Wanderers then attacked, but Kelso cleared. Half-time arrived with the score Wanderers 2; Everton 1.
In the second half Devey, who was seen to be limping, took Baker’s place, Baker going to outside left. Butcher kicked off, but Geary got possession, and started at full speed towards Rose. Latta received the ball from him, and Swift missing his kick, he returned to Geary, who sent into the net, thus equalising in less than a minute from the restart. Matters now became very exciting. Butcher and Wood went to the Everton end, but after some short passing Boyle went to the rescue. Woodhall, however, went up, but kicked over the line, and once again play was in the Wanderers’ territory. A couple of corners were conceded to Everton, but they were well cleared, and a foul then fell to the home team. The free kick sent the ball into the net without it being touched, and Rose was afterwards forced to give a corner from a shot by Geary. Baugh and Swift were now playing well, and all the efforts of Everton to score were nullified. Rose saved capitally, and at last Woodhall got away. He centred, but Butcher put the ball on the wrong side of the post. Wood was next conspicuous, but Howarth stopped him, and then Baugh, missing his kick, let in Geary. Swift, however, got in goal and cleared, and Devey and Butcher tried shots at the Everton fortress. Milward broke away, and after running the length of the field he sent out. Then Butcher ran down on the wing, but Howarth was too strong for him. The Wanderers’ forwards were now playing better, Baker putting in some fine work on the left. Wood missed a nice opening, as Jardine slipped with the ball. It rolled a few yards away from him, but the Wanderers sent outside. Milward easily got possession from Woodhall, but Baugh put an end to his run. Everton had a kick for a foul in centre field, and Wood went to the home goal, but Kelso returned, Latta, getting possession, sent in a grand shot, which Rose saved splendidly while on the floor. Baugh kicked out, but Chadwick, meeting the ball sent it into the net for the third time amid loud cheers. rose saved again a minute later, and Boyle just missed scoring. Milward sent over, and Rose dealt with a nice shot by Geary. At last, after hard pressing by Everton, Baker and Wood went down the field, but the ball went out. Milward sent in a beauty, which Rose saved, and then the visitors attacked warmly. A corner fell to them, but this was rendered safe after a struggle. Baker missed a grand opportunity, and then Butcher sent wide. Just before the call of time Rose again saved in magnificent style. Result;- Everton 3; Wanderers, 2. Teams;-
Wolverhampton Wanderers; Rose, goal; Baugh and Swift, backs; Davies, Allen, and Malpass, half-backs; Woodhall, Baker, Butcher, Wood, and Devey, forwards.
Everton; Jardine, goal; Kelso, and Howarth, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Jamieson, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Referee; Mr. J. Lewis.
THE WOLVES GO DOWN AT EVERTON
Birmingham Daily Gazette - Monday 12 December 1892
In my opinion the Wolverhampton Wanderers may fairly congratulate themselves upon being let off so lightly at Everton. A defeat by 3 goals to 2 is not a severe one, but no one who saw the game could have been greatly surprised if Everton had notched another point or two. But really there are some extenuating circumstances for the Wolves. The Everton ground was very hard in some places and soft in others, and to increase the difficulties of the visitors, it was patched here and there with new turf. Of course the Everton men were quite at home on the field, and the forwards completely outran the Wanderers. To add to the visitors misfortunate Woodhall failed to kick the ball because he could not stand up, and Swift played a poor game for the same reason. Then Devey had scarcely been on the field five minutes before his leg began to trouble him again, and he did absolutely nothing during the game. With practically only three forwards what could be expected? Certainly Wood and Butcher worked hard and put in some most useful work, and Baker, after going to Devey’s place on the left, showed up as well as anyone on the field. Once he ought to have scored, as he had the goal at his mercy, but he sent outside. Generally considered the Wanderers did not show their true form, and the ground was responsible. The half-backs did nothing like the effective work which, under ordinary conditions, might be expected from them. Allen was the pick of the three, and he had a difficult customer top deal with in Geary, who was in rare form, and used his speed to the best advantage. Malpass worked well, but was not so successful as he has been in previous matches, and the same may be said of Davies. On the other hand, Holt broke up the rushes of the visiting forwards and at times when he failed Kelso and Howarth were found in their places. Baugh was the better of the backs, though he once missed his kick, and let Geary into dangerous quarters. Rose could not have stopped the goals scored against him, and otherwise he did splendid work. The strongest feature of the home eleven was the forward division. All the men showed remarkable used, but their shooting for goal was wretchedly inaccurate. However, they deserved to win, as they had most of the play. Next Saturday the Wolves ought to have their revenge for the 10 to 1 defeat which Newton heath gave them, as the return match is to be played at Molineux Grounds.
EVERTON v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 12 December 1892
For the first time for several weeks Everton placed a representative League team in the field, Jardine, Kelso, and Geary once more turning out. The recent frost had somewhat improved the ground, which appeared in fair condition. The unfavourable weather apparently affected the attendance, not more than 7.000 being present when operations commenced. Kelso and Jardine received an ovation on stepping into the enclosure, and Geary started punctually. The homesters were first to make an attack. Milward and Chadwick racing down, the latter sending in a futile shot to Rose, who successfully negotiated the attempt. Kelso repulsed an attack, and the home left wing took up the running, Milward sending across the field, and Gordon, rushing up, put ball past Rose. Immediately hostilities were recommenced Swift put in a huge kick, and the globe glided off Kelso’s head into the net, thus placing the teams on an equality. The home front rank got to work, and after pretty passing in front of Ross Geary only just missed the mark. Woodhall and Baker next moved up, Howarth accounting for them in fine style. A corner fell to Everton which was cleared by Swift, and then Geary made a magnificent run, which was deservedly cheered, but the only result was an abortive corner. After both goals had been visited Milward robbed Davies grandly, and raced off with the ball, but was badly supported, and no one was up to receive his centre. A free was given for hands against Milward, from which Butcher put the ball past Jardine for the second time. For a while the game was evenly contested, though the play was not of a very exciting character. After a run by and Wood, Milward and Chadwick had a spin down the left wing, the former centreing well to Geary, who however failed to utilise it to advantage. Shortly after this Milward had particularly hard lines, as after a brilliant run had the mortification to strike one of the uprights with a lightning shot. For fully fifteen minutes, Everton attacked the Wolverhampton goal, but all their efforts to lower it proved futile. Towards the interval, the visitors made an attack on Jardine’s charge, which was at length staved off by Kelso, and Latta and Gordon took up the running, but Chadwick mulled when a splendid opportunity was afforded him of scoring.
Half-time score : —Wolverhampton Wanderers 2 goals, Everton 1. goal
When the teams reappeared after the interval, the fog, which had prevailed throughout, thickened considerably, and it was that semi-darkness would set in before the finish. Butcher restarted, and after a brief tussle in midfield Geary secured possession and raced away at top speed. Sending across to Latta, who centred well, Geary rushed up and scored a grand goal. Butcher and Wood were the means of putting Everton on the defensive, but Boyle gave relief, and the homesters attacked, strongly. Two comers fell to the Blues,” both, however, being cleared. Still Everton assumed the aggressive, and persistently attacked Rose’s charge, but Baugh and Smith were equal to all emergencies, and successfully assisted Rose to keep his goal intact. At length the Wolves broke away, Durey and Butcher each endeavouring to lower the home colours without avail. Give-and-take play was the order for a while, and then Milward rushed down the field, sending the ball over the line. Holt and Butcher had a tussle in midfield in which the Evertonians came off successfully, and from a shot Latta Swift conceded corner, which Allen cleared. Baker, Wood, and Butcher passed finely in front of Jardine, the former shooting in, and Jardine failed to pick up the ball, which was put just outside the posts. The front division, led by Latta, went away with rare dash, the home outside right man centring grandly, and Geary shot in, Baugh kicking out and Chadwick meeting the return banged the ball past Rose with terrific force, tremendous cheers greeting this grand all round display. The home man now went at it in ding-dong fashion, and the ‘‘Wolves” defence was severely tried. Baker and Woodhall eventually succeeded in getting a footing in the home quarters, the former having a bully with Howarth which ended in the sphere going outside. A further attack was then made by Everton, and from Latta's pass Geary, who had played a splendid game throughout, had very hard lines. Everton ultimately won by 3 goals to 2. Teams
Everton; Jardine, goal; Kelso, and Howarth, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Jamieson, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Wolverhampton Wanderers; Rose, goal; Baugh and Swift, backs; Davies, Allen, and Malpass, half-backs; Woodhall, Baker, Wood, Devey, and Butcher, forwards.
STEWART SIGNED
December13, 1892. The Yorkshire Herald
The Everton have just secured the services of Stewart, the well known left half back of Burnley club, who has been registered with the League and the Association, and will be available to play in the League engagement with Notts County next Saturday. Stewart, whose football abilities are of a very high order, has been a member of the Burnley team for several years, and his change to Everton, he said to be due to some friction with his late employers.
EVERTON CLUB AND THE THEATRICAL MATCH
Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 14 December 1892
The arrangements for the theatrical match which is to take place at Goodison Park early in February next are in a very forward state, and the committee look forward to a most successful day, financially and otherwise. We understand
That his Worship the Mayor (Mr. R.D. Holt) has given his patronage to the match, and has kindly consented, if possible, to attend.
ECHO v. EXPRESS FOOTBALL MATCH
The annual charity match between representatives of the above Liverpool newspapers will again be played on the ground of the Everton Club, which has bene kindly granted for their use by the directors of the Everton Football Company Limited. The match will take place in the morning of Boxing Day, and the proceeds this year will be devoted to the Newsboys’ Home, which is a deserving institution.
THE EVERTON CLUB AND THE HOTPOT FUND
The directors of the Everton Club will fix “cages” inside the entrances to the Goodison Park ground on match days for the reception of donations towards the Liverpool Hotpot Fund.
POLICE ATHLETIC 0 EVERTON COMBINATION 11
December 15 1892. The Liverpool Mercury
A match between these teams took place yesterday afternoon, on at the Police Athletic Soceity Ground. Everton tried a new Centre-forwarsd in Hartley who had been fulfilling a smilar position for Dumbarton. A one sided game ended in favour of Everton 11 goals to nil.
Everton team, Rennie, goal, Coyle, and Collins backs, Coolinson, Jones, Jamieson half-backs, Maxwell McLaren Hartley, McMillan, and Elliott, forwards
THE THREATRICAL FOOTBALL MATCH AT GOODISON PARK
December 16, 1892. The Liverpool Mercury
A further meeting of the committee entrusted with the arrangements of the approaching threatening football match at the ground of the Everton Football Club was held yesterday afternoon at the Bee Hotel, under the presidency of Mr. Mahon. Additional sub-committees were appointed, and the preliminary work completed in that respect. The Mayor of Liverpool (Mr. R.D. Holt) has promised his support, and will attend personally if practicable. The date of the festival was fixed for February 2.
EVERTON COMBINATION v POLICE ATHLETIC
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 16 December 1892
This match was played on the Police ground Fairfield, yesterday afternoon for the purpose of giving a trial to a new player, Hartley, of Dumbarton, recently secured by the Everton club. A heavy ground, strong wind, and showers of rain were the prevailing atmospherical feature. The Combination kicked-off with all the advantages of ground against them, but their superiority soon asserted itself. At half-time Everton had scored six times to nil- Hartley (3), Elliott, and McMillian. The play in the second half was very nearly a reptation of the first Elliott opened the scoring by charging the Police goalkeeper through along the ball. Hartley added three more, and Elliott another, which left Everton winners of a one-sided game by 11 goals to nil. Hartley who played centre forward filled the position most efficiently and scored no less than six times.
“ECHO” v. “EXPRESS” CHARITY MATCH
In connection with the above, which will be played at Goodison Park on the morning of Boxing Day (December 26) for the benefit of the Newsboys’ Home and non-resident newsboys, the Major (Mr. R.D. Holt) has kindly given his patronage, and should circumstances permit, will also grace the occasion with his presence.
THE CALEDONIAN CLUB COMPAMY TO BE WOUND UP
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 16 December 1892
The adjourned meeting of the shareholders of the above football company was held on Wednesday, at the company’s offices, 20, North John street, and in the absence of all the directors Mr. C. Birchall was elected to reside. The secretary (Mr. C.H. Rutherford), stated that he had received a letter from Mr. Kirkland regretting his inability to attend. Mr. Jude, as auditor, presented a statement of accounts which showed liabilities amounting to £540 19s 8d, with estimated assets of £384 10s. no account in the statement had bene made as to value of the lease and goodwill of the ground, or the liabilities to players on agreement with the company. It was stated by the secretary that one of the creditors had taken proceedings for compulsory liquidation, and it was extraordinary agreed that the company be wound up voluntarily. Mr. Howarth, North John street was appointed liquidator, with Messrs Mahon, Blair, McCracken and Bramley as committee of inspection. A vote of thanks to the chairman brought the meeting to a close.
GOODISONIA
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 17 December 1892
By “Black Rock.”
The “Wolves” Go Down and Everton Up (Two Points).
Turning to my notes book I find that the “Wolves” paid us a friendly visit on September 12th, and played a draw of two goals each. I also see that Kelso made his first appearance at full back and was noted and voted a success. Well, when this player (after a lengthy illness) and Jardine made their re-appearance last Saturday they received a kind of a welcome which spontaneously burst from their well-wishers. Which reminds me –I know of no better appreciators of football (if we win) than the Liverpool public, nor yet do I know any who are more fickle in their judgements or vacillating in their condemnations. It was said that if the home team did not win they would hear such.
Straight talk and direct language as would surprised them. Fault-finding has lately been the pang of the hour. Much has been written, but more has been said, of the existing relationship of the directorate and their players, and the selection of teams and the public. The why is because they have been unfortunate to lose. The public don’t want “extenuating circumstances,” they want victories. I will offer no opinion on these intricate points, but simply say that the animating spirit between the managers and the actors should be as master and man, and that between the players as a brotherhood.
A SLIPPERY GROUND AND FAULTY PLAY
The morning’s sleet had rendered the ground surprisingly slippery, and consequently at times we had flimsy kicking, weak returns, and many misses. Yet though the encounter was never brilliant it was hard and fairly exciting, from the rapidity the forwards sped from end to end. The cause of this was undoubtedly more the weakness of the halves than the power of the attack. Only the centre halves-Holt and Allen –defended in the humour to satisfy. They were ever prominent; the big man with his head and dash, and the little man with his tricks and tactics. Davies was notably weak, and Chadwick and Milward had little difficulty in beating him. Geary filled the aching void, and led on his men to do or die-for great was the determination to conquer. Baugh and Swift stood their ground well, and gave the scorers many facilities which they put to good account. H. Wood and Devey (though limping) passed and repassed, bothering Boyle and Holt greatly. And it was well that Howarth and Kelso were firmly set behind, for Butcher was ever daring and the understanding of the company was conspicuously noticeable. Although Everton were oftener nearer Rose than the visitors were to Jardine, there was more unison apparent, the home van getting on more by individuality than by concerted movements. Milward won eulogizing remarks, but his partner was not quite up to his usual standard. Selfishness entered greatly in his performance-robbing his confreres of favourable openings. When the teams rested Everton were one goal behind, Kelso having kindly aided a free kick by Allen through the uprights. On resuming, Baker and Devey exchanged positions, and this, to my mind, was more weakening than otherwise. Geary soon scored a beautiful goal and then began the keen fight for the winning point. Rose was often troubled, thanks to the improved fostering of Geary and Co, by Boyle and Jamieson. Latta also failed not to create good impressions, and from another timely centre-after being missed by Milward and Geary-Chadwick shot through the company. Previously, the Wolves, although not as strong as before, galloped in grand style down the field, and had not the defence been sound and good, they must inevitably have scored more than once. The victory was sadly and badly needed, and the Wolves need not begrudge the consolation.
CRITIQUES
The best of the Wanderers were Baugh and Swift (who know how to play full-back), Allen, who was a tower of strength at half and H. Wood, Baker, and Butcher forward. The commendations which Harry won after the match were deserved. Of the home lot I have much praise, especially for Kelso, Howarth, Holt, Milward, and Geary. Jardine was not quite fit, and Williams has been chosen for today. Stewart late of Burnley, will make his appearance at Nottingham, in place of Jamieson. Hartley, of Dumbarton, has signed and it is expected that this youth will manifest some of his high credentials against Burnley next Saturday. Campbell, I hear, has been suspended for non-appearance last week-end.
Richard Samuels notes
Hartley, of Dumbarton, was given a trial with Everton Combination against Police Athletic on Thursday. A solider, who is on furlough, also played half-back.
NOTTS COUNTY V. EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 17 December 1892
These clubs met on the Trent Bridge ground this afternoon, in fine mild weather, before 10,000 spectators. Both clubs were fully represented as below;-
Notts County; Toone, goal; Whitelaw and Hendry, backs; Bramley, Calderwood, and Shelton, half-backs; McGregor, McInnes, Oswald, Daft, and Bruce, forwards. Everton; Jardine, goal; Howarth and Kelso, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Milward, Chadwick, Geary, Gordon and Latta, forwards. Everton started well’ attacking strongly. Milward centred finely, and Latta heading in all but beat Toone. The Notts goalkeeper had several times to save. Bruce then broke away, but finished a splendid run with a poor shot, and Everton again got in front. Boyle troubled Toone, and then a fine run by the Notts forwards almost resulted in a goal, Jardine only just reaching a shot by Bruce. Notts improved, and keeping Everton in front were frequently dangerous. Latta shot close after a fine run. Oswald sent the ball against the cross-bar with another splendid shot. A centre by Chadwick was headed out by Hendry, but Latta recovering the ball shot beautifully, and scored for Everton after twenty minutes play. The visitors continued to have the best of matters, but McInnes broke away, and was dangerous near when Holt tripped him. Geary was conspicuous with a tricky run but he ended with a wide shot. A quick run was made by Notts, and McInnes made a capital shot, Jardine saving. Shelton was hurt on the face, but was able to resume in a minute. Everton again assumed the aggressive and Toone was several times called upon, but at last Notts broke away. McInnes had only Jardine to beat, he sent the ball rolling slowly in and the Everton custodian cleared. Oswald had an easy chance, but he sent high over the bar. Stewart next headed out a good shot, and Jardine stopped one which followed by Oswald. Toone saved splendidly from Gordon, and Howarth placed a free kick only a few inches over the Notts crossbar. Notts tried hard to draw level, and attacked vigorously. Bruce missed a nice chance, and Jardine stopped a good shot by Whitelaw. Half-time; Notts County 0, Everton 1.
Notts attacked vigorously on resuming, but found Jardine very safe. Notts were severely pressed for some time afterwards, and Everton had hard luck. Jardine was hurt by Oswald, but soon recovered. After being heavily pressed Everton got down and Geary scored. Play slackened greatly, but Oswald scored for Notts. Play now was very exciting, but Notts could not get through. Final; Notts County 1, Everton 2.
The Combination
Everton v Wrexham
AT Liverpool, in fine weather, on a dry ground, and before about 2,000 spectators. Hayes kicked off for Wrexham, and it was quickly evident that Everton were quicker on the ball then their opponents, who, however, played a splendid defensive game. At the interval the home team were leading by two goals to nil. Everton afterwards materially increased their scored. Final; Everton 8, Wrexham 1.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 17 December 1892
TODAYS MATCH
December 17, 1892. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton pay their customary visit to Trent Bridge to play the first customary visit to Trent Bridge to play the first of their two fixtures with Notts County, and after the success last week against the Wolverhampton Wanderers, and, on the contrary Notts failure at Accrington, Evertonians ill re-visit the midlands with a sanguine feeling. They will have the assistance for the first time of Stewart who whilst with Burnley proved a half-back above the average. Everton have not been always successful at the headquarters of Notts County, but they were so last year, then winning by 3 goals to 1. Why not now? Everton v. Notts County, Nottingham will play for Everton; Jardine, goal; Howarth and Kelso, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Combination
Everton v. Wrexham, Goodison Park. Kick-off at 2.15 p.m. The following will play for Everton; Rennie, goal; Chadwick and Collins, backs; Coyle, Jones, and Jamieson, half-backs; Smith, McLaren, Pinnell, McMillan, and Elliott, forwards.
NOTTS COUNTY V EVERTON
December 17, 1892. The Nottingham Evening Post
Considering how badly, in a sense Everton have played in the League this season, Notts were justified in hoping that they would be able to obtain two more points in the competition this afternoon, when they met the Liverpool men for the first time this season. They were able to place a full team in the field, Bramley having recovered from his indisposition, to be able to take his usual place. Everton were also strongly represented, Stewart, late of Burnley, making his first appearance with the team. The afternoon was mild and fine, and there was an attendance of about 10,000 spectators. Oswald kicked off, and after Burnley had missed his kick and lost the ball by his slowness, Kelso cleared a long shot by Whitelaw. A foul in the Everton half was easily got away by Stewart, and then Geary was conspicuous for a neat dribble along the centre. He subsequently gave the ball to Chadwick, but Waitelaw robbed him before he became dangerous. Milward again got close up, but his final shot was a trifle wide of the post. Chadwick making a similar mistake a minute later. From a fine screw by Milward, Latta headed in, and Toone only just reached the ball in time and fisted out. Everton were doing all the pressing, and the Notts goal was several times in danger. Latta forced a corner off Hendry, but the first-named placed behind from the flag kick. Another corner was conceded the visitors directly afterwards, and from this McInnes relieved. Then Oswald took up the running, and a long pass was made to Daft, but Stewart interpassed when he centred. Latta got away along the right, but Whitelaw stopped him cleverly, and Bruce, who received the ball, made a pretty run the who length of the field, but he finished up with a poor shot, and Stewart cleared. Everton again assumed the aggressive, but a foul against Chadwick for “hands” relieved the pressure, and some midfield play ensued. Calderhead stopped Gordon very cleverly when he was getting dangerous, and then Oswald, Daft and Bruce broke away in splendid style. The latter finished with a fine shot, but Jardine saved. A minute later Oswald again got clear away and appeared to have a good chance of scoring, but his shot passed right across the goal and went out on the other side before Daft could reach it. Notts pressed, the Everton backs and half-backs being kept busy for several minutes, but eventually Latta changed the scene of operations and getting clear of Calderhead had a fine opening, but he sent just over the bar with a splendid shot. Bruce and Oswald broke away from the goal kick, and the last-named player cleverly trickling, Howarth, sent in an excellent shot which, however, was a trifle too high. At the other end Chadwick made a side shot, and the ball appeared to be passing outside, but Hendry headed it, and the ball falling at Latta's feet he shot beautifully, and scored the first goal for Everton after twenty minutes' play. On restarting Everton again immediately went to the front, and Toone had to pick up a long rolling shot from the right wing. McInnes broke splendidly away, and he looked very likely to score, when Holt got behind him and tried to trip him. The referee very properly cautioned him, and awarded Notts a free kick. Bramley placed the ball nicely into goal, but Kelso headed away, and Bramley accidentally fouling the ball, Everton relieved, Geary, getting possession in the centre of the field made one of his usually tricky runs close up to goal, but he spoiled it by a bad shot, sending wide. Still Everton were having all the best of matters. Their right wing put in an amount of capital work, and often got the best of Hendry. Once Latta screwed almost from the line right into goal, and it took Toone all his time to clear. A quick rush was made to the other end, and McInnes put in a good shot, which Jardine stopped. Shelton was kicked in the face of Jamieson, and the game was stopped for several seconds. On resuming, Gordon got away, and Toone had to clear a well-directed shot from him. Oswald changed the venue, and cleverly beating Stewart gave the ball to McGregor, who shot, Howarth heading out. Hendry stopped Latta and Gordon very neatly, and then after some clever work by the Notts, forwards, McInnes, who received the ball from a pass by McGregor, had a splendid opening, with no one but the goalkeeper to beat. He made a good kick, which looked certain to score, but Jardine saved magnificently by falling upon the ball. After a sharp scrimmage the ball was got away. Everton transferred the scene of operations, and Chadwick sent in a slow shot to Toone, which he had no difficulty in clearing. Then Oswald had a great chance, but his shot went high over the bar. The same player had another opening immediately afterwards, but he shot straight at Jardine, who easily cleared. Geary and Chadwick broke away, and the former sent right across the goal, Hendry missed the ball, and Gordon put in a grand shot, Toone, however, was equal to the occasion and cleared splendidly. A free kick to Everton followed, and Howarth placed only just over the Notts crossbar. Daft made a run along the left, and was passing to shoot when Kelso tripped him. The referee awarded Notts a free kick, and a sharp scrimmage ensued in goal. Oswald shot, and Bruce missed a fine opportunity, allowing Kelso to clear. Whitelaw, who had rushed forward, shot splendidly, and Jardine only just saved. The siege was then relieved, and half-time arrived with the score;- Notts 0, Everton 1
After the interval Notts started at a great pace, McGregor and McInnes forced their were along the right, but they were beaten back Gordon got off-side, and the free-kick enabled Notts to get in front. McInnes only shot slowly when tight in front, Jardine picking up and throwing away, and he dealt in a similar way with one which succeeded by Bruce. Geary again slipped through, and everybody was expecting that he would score, when he kicked the ground instead of the ball. The ball was easily cleared, and Oswald got well through. He passed to Daft, who sent in a deceptive carling shot, which jar dine fisted out. Everton again went to the front, and there was a fine open charge on the Notts goal. Shots were made from all directions, but Whitelaw and Hendry stopped them. Then Oswald was seen careering along on the right, and he sent well in. Daft charged Jardine at the moment he got possession, but although the goalkeeper fell he saved. Latta and Gordon were again prominent, and Shelton was very clever to stop the ball, but Stewart immediately sent into the Notts, goal, and Toone had to clear. Then Chadwick shot, and the ball struck the cross-bar, Hendry then kicking away. Notts gradually worked to the other end, but Bruce shot pass when he ought to have done better. Next McGregor centred well, and Kelso almost headed through his own goal, Jardine being very smart to save. Everton relieved, and Hendry twice stopped Latta. Chadwick sent in a shot from the left, and the ball glancing off Hendry's boot when he tried to kick away, the ball went sharply into goal. Toone stopped it, and at the same time withstood a charge by Milward, who went falling over him and was hurt. The game again opened out, but a free kick for a foul gave Notts, the advantage. Bramley, however, passed wide. From the goal kick Oswald and Bruce ran close in, but they were prevented from shooting, the ball being kicked out by an Everton man. The corner kick was of little avail, for the ball was got away. Daft sent well across, and McGregor headed in. Jardine again saved, but he was hurt by a kick as he did so, and the game was suspended for a minute. On resuming Notts, continued to attack, and it took Kelso and Howarth all their time to keep Oswald and McGregor from scoring, for there was some very exciting play in the Everton goal. At last the pressure was relieved, the Everton left leading the way to the other end. Toone had once to throw away a shot which stopped almost dead, but the ball was quickly returned, and in the scrimmage Geary got possession, and scored the second goal after 25 minutes play in the second half. This was very disappointing for Notts, but they still played with great energy. They kept the ball in their opponents' half, but they were not dangerous, and the kicking was rather wild. Milward broke away, and, running “all over the field” crossing as a matter of fact on to the right wing, he luckily got the ball past Hendry, Latta shot in fine style, and Toone could only just reach the ball to save. Calderhead conceded a corner, and Milward made a close shot from it. Everton remained aggressive, Milward again sending past. At last Notts, broke away and scored. Bruce getting the ball in the centre carried it cleverly along the left, and shooting on the ground, Oswald, who had rushed up to the goal, very smartly tipped it through. Everton restarted with a dash, and Hendry stopped a good shot. Then Notts again got away, and after Daft had once tried and failed, McGregor sent through. The whistle had, however, gone for Oswald having been off-side and the point was not allowed. Everton ran to the other end, and Chadwick sent close. A minute later he again put over the bar, Notts again tried to get through, but a bad pass by McInnes spoiled the run. This was the fault with Oswald after another smart burst by the Notts forwards, but he was not to blame, for he had no time. McInnes made a slow shot, and then Geary got right away. Hendry reached him, and deliberately tripped him a free kick, of course, being awarded. This was of no avail. Notts rushing away, but being immediately beaten back. Some midfield play followed, Daft at last getting away. McInnes made a shot at goal, but Kelso cleared. Latta and Geary broke away in nice style, but Chadwick got off-side, and danger was averted. Still, Everton remained aggressive, and Geary gave Toone a nice straight shot to stop. He did so with ease, and time was called, the result being; Notts 1, Everton 2. Everton, Jardine goal, Kelso, and Howarth (captain), backs, Stewart, Holt, and Jamieson, half-backs, Latta, Gordon Geary, Chadwick and Milward forwards. Notts County:- Toone, goal, Whitlaw and Hendry, backs, Bramley, Calderwood, and Shelton, half-backs, McGregor, McInnes, Oswald Bruce and Daft forwards.
FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 17 December 1892
It is with much pleasure that we congratulate the Everton team on having once more broken through the long spell of ill luck which had fastened on them after defeating Derby on November 5th. Saturday’s game at Goodison Park was more than ordinary severe, and the Everton team, staying the best, won a good game by 3 goals to 2. The home eleven was more in accord with public opinion as to what is an Everton League team, and it is to be hoped the men will have a greater immunity from accidents, &c., during the closing half of the season than they experienced in the opening. The Goodison ground was in better condition than most League fields were last week, and consequently the game was fast and interesting. Jardine requires a lot of practice before it can be said he has attained his old form. Still, after such a long absence, his work was not so badly done. Kelso had a lot of heavy work thrown upon his wing; but his play was admirable, as also was Howarth’s who seemed more at home with a reliable man alongside of him. Holt played brilliantly, and was about the best man on the field. Of the forwards, Geary and Milward were the most prominent, and they deserve full credit for what they did. The Wanderers played a hard and good game all through but they were a little outclassed at the finish. Rose kept goal in good style, and the others who deserve mentioning were H. Wood, Allen and Baugh. Devey was suffering from a bad leg, and was not seen at his best, though occasionally he did some clever work.
The Liverpool Caledonians have decided to wind their club, and, looking the state of affairs straight in the face, it is perhaps the only course upon to them. The club has not been run strictly on the lines it was originally intended and a very short experience has sufficed to teach the directorate that a professional football team is a rather costly ornament. It is hard lines for those players who had “booked” for the season to find themselves at this stage out adrift.
Charles Parry, we understand will renew his acquaintance with Everton; in fact, he signed an agreement to play for his old club on Thursday.
ASSOCIATION
Everton journey to Nottingham to-day to play Notts County, the kick-off being fixed for 2.15.
Everton.- Jardine, goal; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Boyle, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Milward, E. Chadwick, Geary, Gordon, and Latta, forwards.
Everton Combination v Wrexham, at Goodison Park; Kick-off at 2.15
Everton Combiantion.- Rennie, goal; Chadwick and Collins, backs; Coyle, Jones, and Jamieson, half-backs; Smith, McLaren, Pinnell, McMillian, and Elliott, forwards.
AT LIVERPOOL
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 17 December 1892
Everton, too much accustomed just now to hard knocks to be crushed at the pummelling they were subjected to when at Deepdale, “came up smiling” last Saturday; chuckled at the end of their 90 minutes’ tussle, with the “Wolves” and have been jubilant ever since.
The change was great in the play of Everton from that shown by them at Preston, and that it was so, after making due allowance for the superior tackling powers of the North End to those of the Wolves, is due, first, to the inclusion of Geary, who was in his best fettle, and also to Kelso, who, reappearing after his two months’ illness, gave a fine display of defence in partnership with Howarth. Everton, determined to improve their position, are casting about for more eligible men. Their latest capture is Hartley, who up to last week had been playing centre forward for Dumbarton. He is secured, having played in Everton Combination team on Thursday.
A good fight should be witnessed between Everton and Notts County this afternoon at Trent Bridge, in the light of last Saturday’s form of the respective teams. Everton will play Stewart, late of Burnley, as left half-back, in place of Jamieson.
NOTTS COUNTY v. EVERTON
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 17 December 1892
At Nottingham Bridge, in fine weather, before 10,000 persons. Playing towards the pavilion goal, Notts pressed vigorously, and Bramley deceived Howarth and nearly beat Jardine. Milward then beat Whitelaw, but shot too hurriedly, and thereby lost a good chance. Then Chadwick missed a kick when finely placed, and Gordon headed in one, which Toone saved, Hendry clearing another a little later. From a corner off Hendry Whitelaw sent over another, which was almost improved upon, while Toone cleared from Chadwick. Bruce made a brilliant run half the length of the ground, and shot across, Boyle clearing. Toone ran out and cleared when Chadwick was dangerous. Afterwards Calderhead cleverly checked Gordon, and Bruce caused Jardine to save. Oswald made a fine attempt, which was just wide, and play continued in the Everton quarters. Latta then raced away, but shot too high. Another by Oswald hit the cross bar. Then Geary and Chadwick had shots, and at the end of 20 minutes Latta beat Toone. Holt was penalised for tripping McInnes when he was about to shoot from a corner. Then followed a grand shot by Chadwick. Latta headed behind, and Geary executed a grand run, but shot wide, waiting a trifle too long. Toone saved magnificently from Latta. Jardine cleared from McInnes and Hendry beat Latta. Shelton was kicked by Jamieson saved finely, when all McInnes had to do was to dribble the ball through, and Milward was given off-side when he got a clear course. Oswald got down, but shot over. Jardine saved from Oswald, and Toone cleared grandly from Geary. Kelso fouled Daft, and Holt missed a kick. Buthemwarth cleared, and Brambles saved when Whitelaw missed his kick, and the whistle went.
Half-time- Everton 1, Notts 0
On resuming Notts attacked with vigour, Jardine twice saving. Geary then missed a grand opening. Jardine cleared well from Daft, and then the Notts goal was bombarded, the backs saying several times. Although floored by Daft, Jardine saved from Oswald. Toone saved grandly from Stewart, and Chadwick shot against the bar. Jardine made a grand save from Oswald. Hendry missed his kick, and nearly gave a goal, Toone being floored with the ball, Milward hurting himself in the charge. Jardine was hurt by Oswald, and play was stopped. Repeated attacks were made on the Everton goal, and then Everton got down, and Geary scored a second goal at the end of half an hour. Toone saved from the latter just under the bar; then from a shot by Bruce, Oswald scored. Chadwick just missed with a grand shot, and then lost a fine chance. Hendry was foully tripped by Geary, but the free kick was not improved. Result-Everton 2, Notts 1.
EVERTON AT TRENT BRIDGE.
Football News (Nottingham) - Saturday 17 December 1892
"Everton have discovered the mutability of matters football." The phrase isn't mine. It was used the other day by a Lancashire chronicler in deploring the persistence with which ill-luck dogs the footsteps of what was wont to be considered the second best football team in the country. Truly, Everton have fallen upon evil days ; but what the deuce is the matter with the team puzzles me to say. At the moment of writing the “blues" from Liverpool are round the Notts, goal; there is a dead: silence, for all that there is a crowd of some seven or eight thousand people. Latta has just headed in from a clever cross by Chadwick; but the ball is beautifully cleared by Toone. Really up to this no possible fault could be found with the visiting team. They have been giving Notts. considerably more to do than one would like, and the forward play, particularly the beautiful short passing, has been elegant. The game started remarkably fast, Chadwick and Millward doing excellent work, though just after the kick off Notts. were in the Everton quarters. However, Howarth and Kelso put in such good kicking that Everton were speedily in a position to attack. For a brief period the ball was confined to their forwards, and we had a chance to note that Fred Geary appeared to have lost neither has speed nor neat cleverness. He played to both wings very skilfully, and kept out of Calderhead's way, when he had the ball, with amusing coolness. Stewart, the right half-backs, late of Burnley, became noticeable when after repeated efforts Hendry and Shelton had ended the attacks of the right wing, Latta and Jack Gordon. Stewart is well enough known as a brilliant half-back, but he proved unable to keep up to Daft in speed. Yet he prevented the Notts, left wing getting away for some time. Presently, however, a good pass out by Oswald sent the Notts, outside left on travel, and hereabouts there ensued some remarkably accurate long distance shooting by the Notts men. Bruce and Oswald were especially prominent. "Notts are shooting today,' said a bystander. And they were, but Jardine is a good custodian, and takes a lot of getting past. Once Oswald whizzed the ball from long range—a splendid attempt—but it only skimmed the bar. The shot "deserved a better fate,” as they say. Vociferous shouts accompanied the Notts. men in their repeated attacks —renewed as fast as Holt, Jamieson, and the backs beat them back; but success came to the Everton men first. Their forwards got into beautiful possession, and there was a lively moment or two round Toone's goal. But the point would not have been gained save for a misfortune. Milward made an oblique shot which would certainly have passed the goal, but Shelton, with his back to Toone, judged the ball more dangerous than it was, and headed away. The ball went to Latta, who met it with his head and popped it past the Notts. goalkeeper. It was unpleasant, this success of the visitors, but it had been gallantly striven for. The "blue" forwards really had the best of the exchanges so far with the Notts. half-backs, who appeared to me even at this period of the game not to be playing as well as usual. Bramley was making strenuous exertions against his wing, but they often defeated him all ends up. There had been some interesting little personal contests between players. Notably Holt and Mclnnes were frequently engaged and I think the advantage rested with the Everton half-back, but in Oswald Holt met a man of more sustance and determination. One peculiarity of the Notts. play struck me, and that was the manner in which the ball had been so far confined to the centre of the field. Daft on occasions had broken away. The brief period during which Notts. were busily engaged in firing the hall at Jardine had been due to Harry's exertions. McGregor, on the other hand, had not been utilised to any extent, Mclnnes being frequently out of his place, and unable, in consequence, to get the ball out to McGregor, when a pass to the right would have been useful. Still, the play on the whole, though Everton were now a goal in front, had been so fairly divided between the two teams that the success of the Evertonians seemed only likely to stimulate the home players to more activity. But the minutes went by, and in spite of a desperate onslaught on Kelso, Howarth, and Jardine, there was nothing scored on the Notts. side. Mclnnes caused a roar of cheering and a minute of exciting suspense as he put in a shot at close quarters and dashed on to Jardine as the latter was dealing with the ball, but hesitation at the critical moment lost him the opportunity, and though it was a perilous time for the Everton goalkeeper the chance was lost, rind Mr. Tillotson, the referee, signalled half-time with Everton still leading by one goal to none.
The second half commenced at a great pace, and the first event of importance was a very neat shot by Daft, which Jardine fisted away amid long drawn " Oh's.' Then after a moment's hesitation by McGregor, Kelso kicked away. Down the "blues" galloped to the other end, and we thought they must score, but they didn't. Shelton used his weight on Stewart, and Notts, got away, Daft going slap at Jardine as the latter was holding the ball, which McGregor had just fired in. Both men rolled over, but Jardine's colleagues got the ball clear, and there was an exciting spell at the other end. Only for a moment, however. Thousands of voices were in a minute shouting "Go on " "Well played Notts.!" as nimble Mclnnes, Bruce, and Oswald went full pelt to the other end. No success, however, attended their efforts, the effect being merely to wake up the "blues," who came down upon Toone and his allies with determination. Milward made a desperate plunge at Toone as the latter was stooping to get hold of the ball as Chadwick shot. For a minute Milward squirmed on the ground as he turned a somersault over Toone, but he got up shortly, and limped off. He had taken the risk, and bore his injury with fortitude. Notts. cleared, and away went Daft, nimble footed, Calderhead helping him on the road, and pegging the lively Holt back a yard. Really it was remarkable — this non-success. Jardine got a severe kick on the knee from Oswald, but managed to keep his end up as the "black and white" players surrounded him. Notts. seemed likely to score at any minute; but the wished for did not occur. Once more the staunch and capital backs, Kelso and Howarth, beat back the invasion, and there was an advance on the Notts goal. Geary was noticeable in the Notts right corner, where Hendry went over to Whitelaw's assistance, and slipped as Geary put the ball on one side of him and dodged round on the other. Geary's centre produced some trouble, and a turbulent time in front of Toone resulted in a second goal to the "blues," for Geary eventually shouldered Hendry out of the way and popped the ball through.
Two To None! This was bad, but it made the game more exciting than ever, for Notts. went into their work with redoubled vigour. Were they going to be beaten by Everton, the " lame ducks” of the Lancashire con-contingent? Perish the thought, said Bruce, as he scooted up the left, performing a solo to which the thousands of shouting partisans furnished a roaring accompaniment. Bruce dodged the big Stewart, evaded the attention of Howarth, and screwed nicely in. Up flashed Oswald, and, dashing in front of Jardine, helped the ball in an eccentric course into the net by a really remarkably clever kick. Oswald evidently understands the science of angles, at any rate as far as regards the deflection or alteration of the course of a football.
Two to One it was now. Make it two all, good Notts.! There is a quarter of an hour to play. But the Evertonians are strong and skilful, and the wily captain called Milward back to assist the halves. Shortly before the finish Geary darted away with Hendry in hot chase. It was a rare race, and Hendry looked to go faster than 'Freddy." However, the Notts. Back must have felt Geary getting the best of him, for he deliberately tripped the Evertonian. The free kick was profitless, and the game died out with Everton in the Notts quarters. I must say that on the play the best team won. I think that would be the opinion of nearly all the spectators. The weak points in the Notts. team were apparent. C. Bramley was utterly unable to cope with Millward and Chadwick, and Hendry so often went over to the right wing that sometimes his own was unprotected. And Geary, who was in his best form, played the ball out to his outside wing men continually. Calderhead, who has been out of form or ill for the past two matches, did not show up well today, and Bramley, who looks white and pinched, would probably have been better in bed than playing at football. He should have a good spell of rest and medical attendance at once, I think. The best men on the Notts. side were Toone, Daft, Oswald. Shelton, and Mclnnes in the order named. Bruce was inert, lethargic, and "off," ; though he shot very straight on some occasions, and was mainly instrumental in scoring the only goal obtained by Notts. Jardine was given a lot of work to do in goal, but save on a couple of occasions the ball came well to hand. Mclnnes might have scored on one occasion in the first half, but was not sufficiently ready to seize his opportunity when Jardine was fumbling with the ball on the ground. The Everton defence, both backs and half-backs, was really very good, and the forwards play a neat, finished, and telling passing game. They met our team at a disadvantage, however, for several of the home players were more than disappointing. It is to be sincerely hoped those of the team who are ailing will be speedily well. It will be noted from the teams given below that Stewart, late Burnley, played right half-back for Everton, and that Millward was outside right. Kelso played for the second time two months, and played well. Teams : Everton;- Jardine, goal; R.H. Howarth, right back, R. Kelso, left back; J. Stewart, right half, J. Holt, centre half, J. Jamieson, A. Latta right outside, J. Gordon right inside, F. Geary, centre forward, E., Chadwick, left inside, A. Milward, left outside.
Notts;- G. Toone, goal; A. Whitelaw right back, J. Hendry left back; C. Bramley right half, D. Calderhead, centre half, A. Shelton left half, A. McGregor right outside, T. McInnes, right inside, J. Oswald, centre forward, D. Bruce left inside, H.B. Daft ;left outside.
THE GAME
Everton won the toss, and Oswald started three minutes after time. There was at once a pretty run down the field in the direction of the Everton goal, but Kelso returned, and midfield play ensued. The Everton right then tried to get off, but a long pass gave Whitelaw an opportunity to get rid of the ball. The visitors, however, returned, and again the backs cut up the combination before the forwards could get dangerous; but Notts. could not clear, and Chadwick. getting the better of Whitelaw, ran round Hendry and kicked hard at goal, sending a yard wide. A prolonged assault on the Notts. goal followed a free kick to Everton for a foul by Mclnnes, and as the result of a dropping shot from the left Latta headed in beautifully. The ball looked like going through, but Toone jumped up and cleverly kept the ball out. A corner fell to the visitors before the Notts. men could get rid of them; but nothing came of it, Toone easily kicking up a long shot, which was sent in after the first scrimmage, and Calderhead coming away with the ball from the custodian's threw out, Daft was given the ball, and a pretty run down the field ended in Howarth heading Daft's centre into touch. From the throw in Bruce got a chance, but shot across the goal, and the Notts. right wing could not keep it in the Everton quarters. Geary dribbled the ball nicely down the field, and transferred to his right wing very cleverly. Gorden and Latta worked the ball beautifully in and out et the backs, and the last-named finally dropped the ball right in front of goal. There was a desperate rush for the ball, but Toone followed it up, and to the intense delight of the crowd kicked clear. Up to time the visitors had this best of the game, but the Notts. forwards now made repeated excursions into the Everton Ground, and following one of these Bruce put in a magnificent shot which Jardine safely caught and threw away. Oswald also tried from the extreme right, but there was too much screw on the ball and it went a yard outside the left post, Daft just failing to keep it in. The kick out was followed by more midfield play, and then Geary again gave the ball to Latta, who ran round Shelton, and sent the ball flying over the crossbar. Oswald furnished a bigger sensation than this, however, for, sprinting out from the centre, he steadied himself when right in front of goal, and, taking good aim, sent in a shot which looked like scoring all the way. The crowd cheered in anticipation, but to their great chagrin the ball struck the top of the crossbar and bounded over. From the kick out the hearten front rank once more got into a line, and Chadwick lifted in a soft shot, which would have gone safely behind had not Shelton headed away. The ball fell at the feet of Latta, who headed it into the net, scoring the first goal for Everton after twenty minutes play. The visitors looked like scoring again, but Latta headed over and this the Notts, men got down to the other end. McInnes was working his way round the halves for a shot, when Holt made a deliberate attempt to trip him, and was cautioned by Mr. Tillotson, who promptly gave a free kick. This was taken by Bramley, and the ball being headed out, the half-back fouled it in an attempt to get another shot in. Another determined attempt on the part of the Evertonians followed the free kick, but although the backs offered but a poor resistance to the repeated rushes of the forwards Toone showed magnificent form, and kicked and punched the ball away with unerring accuracy. At last Notts. got the ball into safer quarters, but McGregor lost control of the ball, and was only able to centre. Oswald shot, but Jardine stopped the ball and threw away. Still the Notts. was pressed for a while, and McInnes, who collared the ball from a scrambling run down the field, ought to have scored with the greatest of ease. He had only Jardine to beat, but he the ball under the custodian's feet, and Jardine fell on the ball as he tried to put it through. There was an attempt to get the ball past Jardine, but the goalkeeper twice pushed it away while lying on his side, and finally Howarth got the ball clear away. Immediately afterwards Oswald also had a splendid opportunity, but he shot too hard and sent the ball flying over the crossbar. A free kick to Everton for a foul on Holt by Mclnnes when in the centre of the field looked dangerous for Notts., but Kelso hit the corner of the goal, and the ball bounded out of play. Whitelaw following up with a big kick which landed the ball well into the Everton quarters, ran into the left corner and took a shot at goal himself, which looked like scoring, but Jardine kept the ball out, and before any of the Notts. forwards could get at the ball Kelso ran it away. Everton were soon at the other end again, and Bramley, who had been playing a very good game, distinguished himself by a very clever save. Half-time was than called, with the score : Everton 1 Notts County 0
The interval was a brief one, and the Notts. men crossed the half-way line in a body, but could not get close enough, Howarth kicking away. From a throw in on the Notts. right the Everton men got away, but Gordon got off-side, and from the free kick .Mclnnes took a snap shot at goal, Jardine cleverly saving. Bruce also made an attempt, but the goalkeeper kicked away and Holt gave the ball to the forwards, who ran right up to the Notts. goal, where Whitelaw ran across and kicked clear. Hendry was penalised for " hands " in stopping another rush, but free kick availed the Everton men nothing, and the Notts. right wing started on a very pretty run. McGregor ended with a fine shot, but Jardine caught the ball and held it despite a determined attempt on the part of Daft to bustle the ball from him. The goalkeeper saved another shot, and when the ball was kicked clear Daft returned at a great rate. A minute later McGregor put in another good shot which Jardine again saved. Shelton returned, but shot wide, and from the kick out the Everton right made a determined attempt to get past Hendry, but the sturdy back stood like a rock and kicked clear. The left wing was then tried, and Chadwick got close enough to shoot. The ball went straight at Toone, who caught it low down just as Millward topped over him into the net. The custodian cleared, but Milward was rolling about on the ground, having winded himself. He, however, quickly recovered, and the Notts men going down the field, they got a free kick on the right. Bramley took the kick, but landed the ball over the crossbar. The Notts forwards were soon back with the ball, and Oswald shot in, Jardine stopped the ball, but received a nasty kick on the leg as he was clearing from Oswald, who had followed up his shot. The home forwards then looked as If they were going to carry everything before them. They swarmed round the goal, and shot after shot was sent in, but to no purpose. Jardine, whose injury did not prevent him from skipping about after the ball, was in magnificent form, while the two backs were very steady. At last Notts were driven back and the visiting forwards got well away. Gordon took charge of the ball until they had got well up to goal when he parted to Geary. Hendry tried to upset the centre forward, but got the worst of the collision, and Geary easily put the ball into the net, putting Everton two ahead, after twenty five minutes’ play in the second half. This success was very nearly followed by another goal a minute later. Milward found himself barren on his own wing, and ran right across the field to the right wing, where he put in a dropping shot. Toone only just managed to keep the ball out, and Calderhead was compelled to kick out as the ball dropped. The flag kick was easily disposed of, and amid tremendous excitement, the Notts forwards got into a straight line and swept down the field. Bruce spurted out into the left corner, and put in a fine screw, which landed just in front of the left goalpost. Oswald rushed on, and with a wonderfully clever side kick pout the ball into the net, scoring the first goal for Notts.
The cheering was loud and prolonged, and a continues shout of "Play up Notts." was kept up. Oswald and his men were soon under weigh again, but the referee penalised the centre forward for an infringement of the off side rule—a very doubtful decision. As the whistle blew Bruce ran on, and parting to McGregor, the right winger shot into the net. The point was, of course, disallowed, and from the free kick the visitors got off again. Their front rank was, however, weakened by the absence of Milward, who was playing half back in company with Stuart, Holt, and Jamison, and Hendry returned the ball. It was, however quickly back, and Hendry was penalised for deliberately tripping Gordon. The free kick was placed, but Calderhead ran it out of danger, and Notts. made a final attempt. The Evertonians, however, packed their goal, and Howarth landed the ball well up the field, where Geary trapped it, and running on put in a hard shot which Toone banged away. Bramley took the ball up the field again, but Holt kept the forwards from getting across the line, and before Notts. could make another decided the whistle went with the score : Everton 2 Notts 1.
SPORTS AND PASTIME
December 19, 1892. The Nottingham Evening Post
Notts, have generally failed to do themselves justice in matches with Everton, and Saturday's game on Trent Bridge was no exception to the rule, for Notts, played nothing like the game they have against many other clubs, and on the day's play, were beaten on their merits. The result caused great disappointment among the supporters of the club, for the respective performances of the teams up to the present pointed to a victory for Notts. Everton included in their team for the first time Stewart, the ex-Burnley half-back, who played a very fine game, but they were minus the Old-Dumbarton half, Boyle, who is one of the most effect players wearing a jersey at the present time. The game was not a particularly good one. The Everton forwards, it is true, passed finely on the whole, but the Notts men could not get going until the game was almost over, and had it not been for Oswald, who never once relaxed his exertions to make up lost ground, it is doubtful whether they would have scored at all. As it was there was not a great amount of accuracy in front of goal –indeed, splendid openings were lost by both sides –and when the ball was shot in jar dine proved that he is an clever as ever he was, and, if he has the good fortune not to get injured Everton need look no further for a custodian. On the whole Everton had the best of the game, and, although they are far from being the team they were a couple of seasons ago, they are by no means to be despised, and ought to finish in the League competition in a much better position than they are at present. A noticeable feature about them is that they have cast aside the claret-coloured jerseys they were last season and have adopted the light blue jerseys which the now defunct Blackburn Olympic made so famous, when they brought the Association Cup away from the Southerners in 1883. Of all the players engaged probably the most notable were the two goalkeepers. Jardine saved many shots in capital fashion, but he had not as much to do as had Toone, who week after week beare out the great reputation he possesses of being probably the best custodian in the country. On the Notts side Hendry was very weak indeed in the first portion, and although he tackled finely in the second half he could not kick with his accustomed vigour. He was to blame for the loss of the first goal as he headed the ball when it was going out, and it went to the foot of Latta, who scored. Whitelaw was safer than his partner, but he has played many better games, and at half-back Bramley had rather more than he could manage in Chadwick and Milward. Calderhead and Shelton worked hard, and forward Oswald was the best man on the side, although Bruce made two very fine runs in the first portion, and really deserved the credit for the goal which Oswald scored, as it was the outcome of cool play and a quick shot by the Notts left wingman. The other three men were not as smart as usual, and McInnes missed one splendid chance, shooting when he might have almost dribbled the ball through. Kelso and Howarth has lost a great deal of dash which he used to posses. The half-backs were exceptionally strong, the diminutive Holt doing an immense amount of work. Forward there was good combination, all playing well, but Geary more than once, when he got through the defence, overran the ball, a fault which has always characterised his play.
A FINE VICTORY FOR EVERTON.
Athletic News - Monday 19 December 1892
By Trentsider
I don’t support that a single supporter of the Notts Club could be found who would not say that Notts are a far better team than they were twelve months ago, and on Paper there is no doubt about the fact. Yet here we are half way through the season and already they have lost three League matches at home. The afternoon was nice and mild, and there were 8,000 spectators. The ground was rather greasy, but a fair foothold could be obtained, and a fast game was played. Both teams were well represented, and in the Everton ranks was the old Burnley man, Stewart, the full teams being;- Notts County; G. Toone, goal; A. Whitelaw and J. Hendry, backs; C. Bramley, D. Calderhead, and A. Shelton, half-backs; A.McGregor, T. McInnes, J. Oswald, D. Bruce, and H.B. Daft, forwards. Everton; Jardine, goal; R.M. Howarth, and R. kelso, backs; Jamieson, J. Holt and J. Stewart, half-backs; A. Latta, J. Gordon, F. Geary, A. Milward and E. Chadwick, forwards. Referee; Mr. C. Tillotson, Birmingham.
Notts did not go off with their usual rush, and it soon plain that Everton meant business, and that the game would be a stubborn one. The visitors very soon went to the front, and Toone only just reached a “header” by Latte. Bruce made pretty run, but his final shot was a very poor one. He made amends for this when Oswald and Daft gave him a chance, but Jardine was, safe, and Daft was too late to take a pass right across the goal by Oswald. Latte and Oswald each made unsuccessful attempts, the ball travelling from to goal very rapidly. Then Chadwick sent a long high kick in the direction of the goal. There is doubt that the ball would have gone out, but Hendry, thinking that it was going into goal, headed away in the direction of Latta, who did not lose the opportunity, for he was close up, and he quickly sent through with a beautiful shot, scoring the first goal in twenty minutes. After this Everton attacked, the forwards playing a capital game. McInnes broke away, and looked very much like scoring, when Holt charged him foully. The free kick useless, Geary returning with one his pretty runs. Latte screwed in almost from line, Toone having a difficult task to clear, and Mclnnes caused Jardine some anxiety. The Notts man got clear away, and it looked as if he would run the hall through, but when a few yards away he sent it on the ground to the goalkeeper, who saved cleverly. Oswald had two nice chances, and Toons cleared a fine shot by Gordon, half-time arriving with Everton leading by goal nothing. Notts made a great effort on restarting, but they were soon forced to retire, and Geary slipping away had practically the goal at his mercy. He, however, kicked the turf instead of the ball. Jardine fisted out a curling shot from Daft, and he also stopped one by Oswald. Chadwick sent ball against the cross-bar, whilst Jardine saved very cleverly when Kelso headed a shot by McGregor into his own goal. Toons was equally smart when Hendry turned a shot by Chadwick the wrong way. During a scrummage and whilst stopping a shot by McGregor, Jardine was hurt by a kick, but he was able to continue playing. A scrummage in the Notts goal followed, and after Toone had once thrown away Geary got possession in in a sharp scrummage and hooked the ball past Toone, scoring the second goal for the visitors. Toone claimed that he was obstructed by Chadwick, but the point was allowed. Milward put in a useful run, dodging about a good deal, and he enabled Latta to make splendid shot, which Toone had some trouble to clear. Some pressure was put on the home goal, but at last Notts got away. Bruce dribbled well forward, and when he centred Oswald very cleverly put the ball through. This put some spirit into the Notts ranks, and returning in dashing style McGregor shot through after Jardine had stopped one shot by Daft. The whistle had, however, gone for Oswald being off-side, and, much to the disappointment of the spectators, the point was disallowed, and time was called, leaving Everton the victors by two goals to one. They were undoubtedly the better team, their play all round being superior. The home forwards were very disappointing, working in a disjointed manner. At times Bruce was very slow, and Mclnnes was not seen to very great advantage. Oswald and Daft played splendidly, and McGregor did fairly well. The half-backs were hardly np to their usual standard. Bramley in particular being off colour. Still, Calderhead and Shelton did some useful work. In the first half and Gordon were for too good for Hendry, but he had taken very much of their measure in the second. Whitelaw played an ordinary game, but Toone was himself in goal. Jardine was quite his equal, for he stopped many difficult shots in first - class style. Howarth and Kelso were a moderate pair of backs. Holt played grandly at half-back, and he was very ably assisted by Stewart and Jamieson. The forwards were a really splendid quintette, their display being as good as any on the Bridge this season. They played fine football from start to finish, and to them belongs the chief credit of the victory.
LIVERPOOL DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 19 December 1892
By The Loiterer
The Caledonians have shot up. We have agents after the players already, but Parry, their best man, has gone to his old Club, Everton.
The action brought against the Everton club by Joe Marsden was settled by the lawyers on Saturday. Marsden, I believe, gets 20 pounds.
Adams will not leave Edinburgh, but there are hopes that McCartney will come down. Hartley, from Dumbarton, is a likely lad-young and big. Another promising player is Collinson, a solider on furlough, who has played in a couple of matches, and shows very fair form at half-back.
The Everton Combination team continue their victorious career, their latest victims being Wrexham, who were “sat upon” on Saturday to the tune of eight to one. The first half was not so much of a runaway, but this was mainly owing to indifferent shooting on the part of the home forwards, the score being at the interval two goals to none. In the second stage the Evertonians had all the play, goal after goal being plied on, while the Welshmen had to be content with one goal, from the toe of Heyes. Needless to say, the Welshmen were completely out of it.
WREXHAM V EVERTON
December 19, 1892. The Wrexham Advertiser
Played on the Goodison road ground, Liverpool, on Saturday, before about 2,000 spectators. Hayes started for Wrexham, and after some fine passing by the visitors, Hayes shot just a little wide. Everton were dangerous, but hands stopped them for a time. Dodd gave a corner, in saving a shot from Smith, and this was sent behind. Dodd saved a fine shot from Elliott. A free kick for Everton was returned, and then McLaren shot behind. A free kick for Wrexham in midfield followed, and good passing by the Wrexham in midfield followed, and good passing by the Wrexham forwards was applauded. A good shot by Smith was saved by Dodd, and then McLaren kicked behind. A corner for Everton came to nothing, and then Wrexham paid a short visit to the other end. Smith was well placed, but Evan Williams came across and saved at the expense of a corner, which was badly placed and came to nothing. Good play by Wilding gained ground for the visitors, but the ball was shot behind. Everton were quickly at the opposite end, and after Dodd had saved from Elliott, Smith kicked over the bar. A corner for Everton was kicked behind. Davies and Pugh made a nice run, Chadwick returned and Elliott hot wide. Directly afterwards, R. Jones had a try, but sent over. Everton pressed, and from a corner, which was beautifully placed, the ball was rushed through, thus scoring the first goal for the home team. A couple of corners for Everton were not improved upon, and then a free kick for Wrexham relieved the pressure for a time. The ball was however, quickly returned, and another corner, which was sent behind, resulted. Smith got through, but as he was clearly off-side, no score was allowed. Then Wrexham had a look in, but Hayes shot wide. Play was in the home quarters for a short time, and then Dodd was again called upon. A good shot from Maxwell was saved at the expense of a corner, which was safely got away. Hayes got past the home backs, but the whistle went for off-side. Rennie had to hit out a shot from the same player directly afterwards. Two corners for Everton were not improved upon. Elliott had a splendid chance of scoring, after good play by Pinnell sent in a long shot. Dodd kicked at the ball, but it twisted off his foot and went into the net, thus scoring the second goal for Everrton. At half-time then, the home team led by two goals to nil. On changing ends, Dodd had at once to kick out, Elliott was nicely placed, but shot behind. A corner for the home team was cleared, and then Pugh made a good run. He crossed the ball, but when Turner was well placed, the whistle went for some informality. Directly afterwards from a cross by Elliott, Maxwell scored a third goal. “Hands” for Everton in midfield was followed by a corner, which was got away, and Wrexham got to the opposite end, Owen shooting wide. Elliott did the same at the Wrexham goal. A corner for Everton was well placed, and the fourth goal was rushed through. Lea did some fine work, and then Chadwick stopped the visitors left wing when dangerous. The visitors had the best of the play for some time, and bombarded the Everton goal. The defence was safe, however, and the home forwards breaking away, Elliott scored a fifth goal. From the restart Pugh had an opening, but shot a little wide. A free kick for “hands” near the home goal was well placed by Lea, and J. Turner headed through for Wrexham. Samuels was directly afterwards hurt, and had to be carried off the ground. On the restart Pinnell scored a sixth goal with a long shot. Wrexham got to the home goal, and Rennie saved a shot from Turner. A free kick for Wrexham near the home goal was followed by a similar advantage for Everton. Wrexham played up pluckily, and nearly all the forwards had shots at the home goal. They were unable to score, however, McMillan got possession, and after making a magnificent run, passed, when in front of goal, to Pinnell, who easily scored the seventh point. Dodd saved well from Smith, and then T. Owen got passed the home backs, but when shooting kicked the turf, as well as the ball, which he sent behind. Pugh headed in from a cross by Owen, Rennie saving Lea secured and shot behind. Wrexham had a splendid chance off adding to their score. Trevor Owen sent the ball across goal, but no one was up, and it rolled behind. Just before time arrived, a corner fell to Everton. The ball was sent out, but McLaren returned, and scored the eighth goal with a long shot. Final score; Everton, eight goals; Wrexham one. The following were the teams;- Everton; Rennie, goal; Chadwick and Collins, backs; McLaren, R. Jones, and Coyle, half-backs; Smith, Maxwell, Pinnell, McMillian, and Elliott, forwards. Wrexham; Dodd, goal; Williams, and Edwards, backs; Lea, Wilding and Sameuls, half-backs; Owen, Turner, Hayes, Pugh and Davies, forwards. Referee, Mr. Struthers, Gorton Villa.
EVERTON REVIEW
December 19, 1892. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton set out on a formidable task on Saturday in encouragement Notts County at the famous Trent Bridge Ground. Yet they felt sanguine of success, and their confidence was not misplaced, as Notts were beaten by 2 goals to 1. The win over Wolverhampton Wanderers the previous week was an indication of what Everton were capable of when in the happy position –which has been infrequent this season –of placing their best men on the field. They were without Boyle, who has been in good health of late, but as his place was filled by Stewart, a man of great experience in League work, he having been a conspicuous member of the Burnley team, the eleven was strengthened rather than weakened by the change. The weather was most pleasant, with no wind to speak of, and the sport was thoroughly enjoyable. The only drawback was the sticky state of the ground, which made the going heavy for the actors. They made the pace a fast one, however, and each set of forwards worked so admirably together that there was not a dull moment during the whole game. Everton if anything, attacked the more frequently, but still Jardine had perhaps more work to do than Toone. Most surely the Everton custodian had one or two more difficult shots to meet than his vis-a-is. Generally, the shooting on both sides, though often deadly, left room for improvement; but of the combination of the forwards it could hardly have been improved. Everton had the advantage in this respect, and were voted by onlookers as about the cleverest and fastest quintette that had been seen at Nottingham this season. If this were really the cases, it must in justice be admitted that the Notts Forwards came very near the Everton standard of excellence. Here the equality of the teams ended, as Notts were inferior in skill to the Everton half-backs, backs and goalkeeper, Holt was again the most busy and effective man in the half-back department throughout the match, and was a long way better than Caldehead, Jamieson compared well with Sheldon, and Stewart with Bramby. Of Stewart it may be said he made a successful debut with Everton. He was playing on the opposite wing to that which he is most accustomed to, and will, no doubt, be seen to greater advantage when installed on the left of Holt. He fed his forward with excellent tact, but was not so successful in the tackling propensity. This made the employment heavier than it would otherwise have been for Kelso, who did good work at back, but who seemed to be tiring more than his colleagues towards the finish. Howarth made no noticeable mistakes and covered a lot of ground in a remarkable manner as also smart in the scrimmage. He also displayed good generalship when during the last ten minutes, he strengthen the defence by the inclusion of Milward. Still clever though the defence of the backs was, Jardine had perhaps more chances of showing his resource than he probably cared for; but, unfortunately for Everton, he was in his most cool and active mood, and his performance will rank as one of his best. He twice got the ball clear when full length on the ground, with opponents close upon him. Few would have dared to attempt each dangerous expedient and invariably he caught the ball securely and rid himself safely. He could hardly be blamed for the goal scored by Notts as it was put in from a quick, short pass bear the post. Everton seem to have reached the turning point, and will probably be as consistent in success now as they have been in ill-success. The executive are determined that it shall not be their fault if the team is not brought up to the level attained two seasons ago, and have done well in securing Parry once more, who have shown much improvement in connection with Ardwick and the Caledonians. He will, it is thought, partner Howarth next Saturday against Burnley, an arrangement which would allow Kelso to resume his old place as right half back, and at the same time let Stewart take up his proper position as left half back.
NOTTS COUNTY 1 EVERTON 2
December 19,1892, The Liverpool Mercury
The first of the two League matches between these teams tool place at Nottingham on Saturday, in fine weather, but on a sticky ground about 8,000 spectators being present. The teams were Everton, Jardine goal, Kelso, and Howarth (captain), backs, Stewart, Holt, and Jamieson, half-backs, Latta, Gordon Geary, Chadwick and Milward forwards. Notts County:- Toone, goal, Whitlaw and Hendry, backs, Bramley, Calderwood, and Shelton, half-backs, McGregor, McInnes, Oswald Bruce and Daft forwards. Notts opened the attack, the right wing, though experiencing a check from both Jamieson, and Howarth, getting within range, when McInnes essayed a dangerous ourling shot, but which Kelso met and releived. A spell of midfield worked followed culminating in Milward breaking away, grassing an opponent in his rush, and shooting wide. Hendry tackling him and preventing a better aim. Stewart next passed up, and play was located near the Notts goal. Chadwick made a poor shot but on Milward sending across to the right Latta placed into goal spendidly. Toone just managing to reach the ball with his fist. Everton returned, and Geary forced a corner. Notts then grew threantening on the left Daft and Bruce commanding a fine turn of spped, and passing both Stewart and Kelso, but Howarth went to the assistance of his colleagues and removed danger. The Notts left wing were quickly back again but Bruce shot widly across the face of the goal and Jamieson fastened on the ball, and put Everton on the attack. Latta ran and centred when Tonne went out and took the ball from the left wing and put it into touch. For some minutes Everton were threatening, but were unable to break down the defence and then Notts had two good shots each of which Jardine stopped. A neat movement by Gordon, Geary and Latta was finsihed badly through the latter shooting too high, and in quick time Oswald was really dangerous experiencing hard luck in graziling the bar from a terrific shots. This smart bit of play, however served but as the prelude to a downfall to Notts, as Geary went down at a merry pace and shot. Hendry intercepted with his head but Latta easily secured the ball, and banged it into the net. Everton thus scored the initial goal the game having been then 25 minutes old. Notts renewed with vigour. They were award a free kick near in, but this was smartly repelled and Latta moved down and screwed in so accurately that Toone had difficulty in parrying the shot with his fists. This fine bid for goal was replied to by one equally good by McInnes but he found Jardine quite safe. Holt and Gordon next tested Toone, who easily negtiated, and the home team went away at thelead of the left wing, who sending across enabled McInnes to try a shot which Jardine stopped marvellously he stretching at full length on the ground and just managing tp push the ball aside. Oswald sent in a return but was a little too high. The Everton defensive resources were to be further severely tested the Notts forwards being very persistent. The best shot came from Oswald but his this accurate as it was Jardine checked brilliant. Immedately succeding this escape, Gordon drove in, with a swinging kick, which rather surprised Toone, but he was in time to meet the ball. Howarth next hit the bar from a free-kick and Notts took up a fierce attack, during which they were very near scoring, Stewart, Jardine, and Kelso in particular diverting dangerous courses of the ball. Holding out grandly, Everton had got into their opponents ground when the whistle sounded for the half-time, with the score-Everton, one goal; Notts nil. The second stage commenced with the home team pressing. McInnes and Bruce each shot straight and low, but Jardine caught the ball. He next scooped it clear from an aim by Daft who had outwitted Stewart and Kelso. Daft shortly following also brough Jardine down with the ball in his hands, but the Evertonians clung to the leather until he could throw it aside. Notts were on him again in a minute, and once more Jardine threw to the left. Play fluctuated pretty equally for some time, during which Chadwick had a good try at goal. He soon had another shot, and Milward in charging Toone got the worst of the collison, as he hurt his knee and fell. This caused him to limp afterwards. Notts seemed to be staying better than Everton, and made a terrific onslaught getting in many shots, in stopping one of which Jardine received a knock on the leg, but resumed play. Howarth extricated the ball out of an urgy scrimmage that ensued, and the spectators were worked up to a great pitch of ecitement as the Notts men evined so much dash suddenly a dead calm came over the assembly, for Stewart headed to Gordon, who centred and Geary beat Toone with a hard shot. Everton had now a lead of 2 goals with 20 minutes' play to run. They were not far off jumping further ahead on restarting, as Milward took the ball across to his right wing and gave it to Latta who made a ticklish dropping shot. Toone was safe this time, and Notts made ground on the left,, when Bruce centred, and Oswald guilded the ball just inside the post. A defeatening shout welcome this success, and whilst under its influnence, a brilliant bit of short passing looked likely to bear fruit again as Kelso fell, simultaneously the whistle sounded for off-side,, luckily for Everton, as the ball had been driven into the net. Milward new strengthed the back and stopped one or two very threatening shots. Notts had the best of the remaining play, but the score was unaltered. Everton winning by 2 goals to 1.
EVERTON COMBINATION 8 WREXHAM 1
December 19 1892, The Liverpool Mercury.
At Goodison Park, before 2,000 spectators. It was soon evident that Everton were demdedly smarter than their opponents, who, however, played a spendid game. At the interval the home team were leading by 2 goals to none and afterwards had the best of the game, with the result Everton 8 Wrexham 1. Pinnel (2) Maxwell, and elliott scored. Everton team:- Rennie, goal, Chadwick and Collins backs, Collinson, Coyle, and Jones half-backs, Smith, McLaren Pinnell McMillan, and Elliott forwards.
Places 1 st , played 12 won 11, lost 0, drew 1 for 73 against 4, points 23
EVERTON v. NOTTS COUNTY
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 19 December 1892
This match was played on the famed Trent Bridge ground. Nottingham, on Saturday, in the presence of about 10,000 spectators. A capital brass band discoursed sweet music for hour before the start, and this diversion helped to while away the time in a very pleasant manner. Kelso again mads his bow to the public after his recent Illness, and Stewart, late of Burnley, played right half in place of Boyle, who is indisposed. Oswald kicked off, and almost jumped clean ever Holt, who attempted check the progress the homesters. The Notts men pressed for a time, and had the benefit of free kick, but nothing came it, and then Holt was cheered for checking cleverly, Geary got in, and looked like going clean through, but a couple of men were quickly on his wake. Then Milward dashed away and shot wide of the mark. A minute later the same player passed to Chadwick, who made a bad attempt, the ball going very wide. A bit of sharp work on the Everton right followed, Latta heading in beautifully, and Toone saving brilliantly. The Everton men attacked, again, and a corner was conceded them, but this was easily accounted for. McGregor then broke away and on being pressed, transferred to the other wing. Daft making great progress until the ball went outside. Daft again got away, and succeeded in evading Kelso, but the Notts men made a terrible mess of his final effort. Geary came into possession, and a minute later a capital display of combination was given by the Everton centre forward and the left wing pair. Hendry eventually succeeded in clearing. Bruce broke through and gave Jardine a warm shot to contend with, but the Everton man kicked clear away, and a corner was immediately afterwards given to the homesters. Play for a while was confined to midfield, and after a tussle Holt sent the ball to Geary, who passed to Latta, and this player raced away and shot with terrific force, but the ball went flying over the crossbar. Then a tremendous effort was made by the Notts men, Oswald skimming the bar. After this the Evertonians advanced by their left, and then Geary took up the running and afterwards shot for Toone’s charge. Hendry made a partial clearance, and Latta stepped in and lowered the Notts colours from the centre. After a few exchanges the homesters made their way into Everton territory, and a couple of penalty kicks fell to their lot, but no distinct advantage was gained from either of these, for Howarth cleared nicely, and an instant later Geary was through the thick of his opponents and finished up with a shot which went slightly wide, and this was followed by a splendid shot from Latta which tested Toone to the utmost. The visitors kept up the attack for some little time, but at last the attacks came from each of Notts’ wing, but without tangible result. Geary got away once more, but was pulled up for fouling, and then the whole of the Everton front put in capital work, Latta being robbed when he was well up the field. The ball was quickly taken back to the Everton half, and the Notts men worked up to Jardine’s charge, in front of which a particularly fierce struggle took place, the ball eventually being tipped over the crossbar. Each team then attacked in turn, and one very fine attempt was made by the Notts left wing, the ball being sent flying over the crossbar at lightning speed. Each goalkeeper was called upon, Jardine nicely, and Toone running out and kicking away. A free kick to Everton followed, butt the leather was simply sent over the goal line. The homesters attacked strongly and Jardine was called upon to save, but the Everton men then romped away to the other end. Whitelaw checked Milward, but Holt met the return and took a shot at goal, the ball being sent a trifle wide. At half-time play was about midfield, and the score stood;—Everton I goal, Notts County nil.
Following the restart not team could make much headway for fully five minutes. The first item of interest was a sensational run by Geary, who was badly hampered when he was about to shoot, the consequence being that the ball went very wide. Bruce and Daft then dashed through, the latter sending in lively dropping shot into Jardine’s hands. The Everton men then attacked with vigour, and some pretty head play was shown in front of Toone. The leather having been steered clear away, Oswald rushed away and passed to Daft, who brought Jardine to mother earth, but the Notts men did not succeed in capturing the Everton stronghold. The game was then for some time confined to Notts quarters, but after a while the homesters broke through and attacked three times, one shot giving Jardine some trouble. Everton quickly made amends, and shot for Toone, Milward charging the goalkeeper and getting none the best of the argument. The Notts goal escaped, however, and the homesters, after pasting the half-line, had a free kick awarded them. Whitelaw dropping the leather behind the net. The Notts men kept up the pressure, and one occasion when Oswald was about to shoot Jardine rushed out and cleared, but received a nasty kick oh the shin, which caused a cessation in the game. Shortly afterwards Stewart headed to Gordon, who went away and passed to Geary, the second goal to Everton coming from the latter. After skirmishing play Milward took the ball across the field and gave to Latta who went down the field with Gordon. Latta sent in a beautiful shot, which Toone was just able to reach. The leather was taken to the centre, where Bruce came In possession, this player racing up the left and centring, Oswald meeting the ball and scoring for Notts amid deafening cheers. Immediately afterwards Oswald again put the ball between the posts, but the referee had previously sounded the whistle for offside. The Notts men were now with wonderful vigour and determination, attacking time after time. Geary raced down the field, but was rolled over by Hendry, and the free kick which was given came to nought. The following play was fast and furious, but nothing accrued to either side. Final result -.—Everton 2 goals, Notts County 1 goal.
A HOT PACE AT OSWALDTWISTLE
Athletic News - Monday 21 December 1903
An exciting game on the ground of the Oswaldtwisle Rovers ended in a win for Everton Reserve by 2-1, the victors having to fight every inch of the ground to keep the lead. The home forwards played an unusually smart game in the first half, Banks being frequently conspicuous. Hindle the home custodian, was frequently called upon, Rankin doing most of the work for the visitors. The latter, however, had hard lines, and it was only Hindle’s clever saves that kept the toffeemen clever. In the second half, with Everton leading, the game became rough, two of the home eleven having to retire. Everton replied on their defence, and in Balmer and Whitley they had nothing to fear.
DISAPPOINTING DISPLAY BY EVERTON.
Athletic News - Monday 21 December 1903
By Junius
Everton hare earned an unenviable name for inconsistency, and they seem determined to maintain their reputation in this respect. For their League fixture with Derby County they had to alter the constitution of their half-back line—which has been their bedrock of support in many a tussle—owing to the absence of Abbott, who was suffering from quinsy, and as Makepeace, who would otherwise have filled the vacancy, was also incapacitated, Taylor drawn from the forward line to left half, and Sheridan introduced as inside left to Corrin. This change exercised a potent influence on the game, for the Irish International was in one of his roving moods and proved himself a poor substitute for Taylor, in fact, after the interval he was transferred to the inside right position, and McDermott crossed over to the left wing. Derby had to make one alteration in their front line, owing to Hodgkinson's absence—due to a sudden attack of biliousness—and Warren took his place. Despite these chances it was generally anticipated that Everton would prevail, and that they failed to do so was due more to their own weaknesses than to any superiority on the part their opponents
THE GAME IN BRIEF.
Although Everton made a most invigorating start, and should have scored through McDermott in the first minute, they soon afterwards displayed that weakness which eventually cost them the game. This was an utter inability on the part of the forwards to turn to account the chancre which their clever work in midfield had gained for them, and Everton, I consider, lost the match in the first half. Derby were by no means idle, but their prospects were dimmed somewhat when Hall in a Collison with Sheridan was so badly hurt that he had to retire for ten minutes. Even with four forwards the visitors were by no means inert, and from a corner, forced by Richards, Kitchen had to clear an awkward drive from Bloomer. Still, Everton were showing a ragged sort of attack at close quarters, and for thirty minutes the play, after waging mostly in their favour, brought them no reward. The only goal of the game then came. Mercer broke away, and from long range drooped in a shot that Kitchen fisted over the line. From the flag kick Hall headed into goal, and Richards doing ditto from close range found his effort successful, the ball hitting the under part the bar before finding the net. Everton now roused themselves, and had they shown more keenness in shooting they must quickly have equalised, for Maskrey was twice floored with the ball in his possession. Then Mercer got an open goal after clever work by Davis, but shot wide, and when Crelly had to leave the field five minutes before the interval the outside right again got possession, and had a clear course, and the visitors seemed certain to be two goals ahead. The Irishman, however, after drawing Kitchen out, shot feebly outside. Judging the first half altogether, the visitors just deserved their lead.
A ROUSING FINISH.
Everton had been playing the one back game after Crelly’s retirement, and they resumed under the same conditions. Warren broke clean past Balmer, and with only Kitchen to beat found that worthy equal to his final shot, but the custodian could only partially clear. Bloomer pounced on the leather and a goal appeared certain, but again did Kitchen save his charge by a brilliant effort. This looked ominous, but still the crowd did not despair of victory even yet. Crelley entered the arena again and it was noticed that Sheridan and McDermott bad changed places. A slight improvement was witnessed in the Everton attack, and Maskrey just scooped behind a trimmer from Sharp, while Corrin headed a centre from Sheridan over the bar, when such an accomplishment seemed almost impossible. In the last quarter of an hour we saw the real Everton, not the flimsy substitute that had been paraded before our gaze for the previous portion of the game, but the Derby defenders played grandly, and fought desperately for the points which now seemed well within their grasp. Still, the home players infused such vigour and determination into their work that one felt they ought to draw level. Derby, however, were not to be vanquished; Maskrey and his backs had not an idle moment, and so splendidly did they resist the tremendous, onslaught of the home players, now worked up to their proper form, that they maintained an intact defence throughout, and , fairly deserved to capture the points, which at present are simply invaluable to them.
INCONSISTENT EVERTON.
After being unbeaten in two successive, away matches. I naturally, in common with others, anticipated something different from the Everton team. At the same time it is impossible to get away from the fact that Abbott’s enforced absence made a wonderful difference to the efficacy of the home side. Settle was a very moderate sort of centre, and I should imagine Everton would not mind signing a big cheque for a decent player in this position. Sheridan is much of a nomad, and though fairly clever in midfield, easily bustled when close quarters are reached. Of the forwards, Corrin pleased me most; there is a robustness about his play which is very enticing, and this is the quality in which the Everton attacking line as a body showed themselves deficient. The half-backs gave them numberless openings. In the closing stages of the contest they did much to efface this impression, but it was then too late to redeem themselves. They had allowed the glorious chances of the earlier portions of the game to slip away unheeded, and now their best efforts went for nought. Booth played a grand game at centre half, and Wolstenholme also shaped excellently, whilst the veteran emergency man, Taylor, was ever plugging away with solid determination writ in every move. Balmer was in fine trim further behind, but Crelley received a nasty knock in the first half which so completely upset his subsequent play that it would be unfair to adjudicate upon his work. Kitchen made some excellent clearances, but that was a bad one that gave a corner and led to the only goal of the match.
DERBY'S DETERMINED DEFENCE
This was the quality that pulled Derby safely through the game, and secured for them the eagerly coveted points. Their forwards were fairly smart, particularly the left wing, but Bloomer was seldom in evidence, and Mercer was erratic in his final efforts, whilst Warren filled the unaccustomed position—for him—of centre forward as well as could be expected. Having once secured the lead the visitors played as if they meant retaining the advantage, and whilst their half-backs stuck to their work determinedly it was the solid display of Morris and Methven that pulled them out of their difficulties. This pair kicked splendidly, and though Maskrey had a few awkward long dropping shots to deal with he never seemed likely to be beaten. The Derby backs and halves worried the Everton attackers at close quarters and caused them to shoot anywhere and everywhere but in the goal mouth, and owing to their sterling resistance in the last quarter of an hour the Midlands’s brought off a most unexpected success. The visitors exhibited a marked anxiety during this period, and when one considers the attendant circumstances their subsequently jubilation need not be wondered at. Everton; Kitchen; Balmer and Crelley; Wolstenholme, Booth, and Taylor; Sharp, McDermott, Settle, Sheridan, and Corrin. Derby County; Maskery; Methven, and Morris; Leckie, Hall and May; Mercer, Bloomer, Warren, Richards, and Davis. Referee; J. Adams, Birmingham.
EVERTON’S DOWNFALL
Athletic News - Monday 21 December 1903
By Junius
The defeat of Everton at Goodison Park was but another example of the manner in which the team disappoints the supporters at the most unexpected times. Owing to the insecure position of the Midlanders, their visit to Goodison Park was of the utmost importance and the two points they have secured may be of inestimable value to them. I was somewhat curious to see how the reorganized Everton forward line, which had proved so successful at Wolverhampton and Stoke, would work, and Now I am bound to wonder how the points were obtained in those two away fixtures. As a centre-forward Settle can only be looked upon as a temporary stop-gap, and on the form shown in the home games there is only one centre that the directors possess who seems to understand the requirement of the position, despite his failings, and that is Young. He injured himself in the recently equipped gymnasium which the directors have rigged up under the large stand, and it was here, I understand, that Makepeace their half-back, also came to grief. It would not surprise me to find Everton giving a precisely opposite exhibition next Saturday at Manchester, for with the splendid set of backs they possess everything depends upon their forwards, and if these latter happen to be in a deadly humour- well, there will be trouble for someone.
CONCERNING CUP-TIES
Everton have again been fortunate in the draw for the first round of ties in connection with the Association Cup competition, and as was the case last year, when they met Portsmouth at home, they will be visited by another Southern League team on the first Saturday in February. The ‘Sours will undoubtedly prove a great attraction; in fact, any of the prominent Southern clubs would in this city, and the past reputation of the North Londoners in the national tourney will simply be an additional incentive to view the game. The Portsmouth chimes remain with us even yet, though they are generally voiced forth somewhat sarcastically against losing clubs that come to Liverpool and one of the subtle charms of the competition is that it introduces to us other clubs and other manners. In the Lancashire Senior Cup competition Everton are indulged wild a mild sort of canter at home against the “Recs” of St. Helens.
IMPORTANT ENGAGEMENT OF PLAYERS
York Herald - Wednesday 21 December 1892
During the last fortnight Everton have been busy searching for talent in Edinburgh. Adams, the famous internationalist and the Hearts of Midlothian back, has signed, but his departure is doubtful. Adams it is said, gets £5 10s a week.
TODAYS FOOTBALL
December 24, 1892. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton are home this afternoon, and play Burnley. Having been clever enough to defeat Notts County away in the midlands last week, a warm welcome probably awaits their return home at Goodison Park today. That their opponents are Burnley is an earnest that the contest will not be characterized by tameness. It is well remembered that last season, from January 13, Everton and Burnley tried conclusions four times –twice in connection with the English Cup and twice in the League – and the nearest approach to success obtained by Everton was a draw in the home League match. Burnley won the return League game, and also the cup tie. This should have been decided on January 16, but the ground was not fit, so a “friendly” was decided upon, which Burnley won by 4 goals to 2, and then confirmed their superiority by winning the proper, the following week by 3 goals to 1. There is thus a heavy old score to rub off, and no conditions could tend surely to ensure a spirited encounter. As will be seen from the names below, Everton have materially chosen the same players that did so well at Nottingham last week.
Everton v. Burnley, Goodison Park, Kick-off at 2.15 p.m. The following will play for Everton; Jardine, goal; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Stewart, Holt and Jamieson, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Combination.
Everton v. Chester, Chester, Kick-off at 2.15 p.m. The following will play for Everton;- Williams, goal; Chadwick and Collins, backs; Collinson, Jones, and Boyle, half-backs; McLaren, Murray, Hartley, McMillian, and Elliott, forwards. Monday
Everton League v. Bootle, Goodison Park, Kick-off at two o'clock. The following will play for Everton; Everton; Rennie, goal; Howarth and Parry, backs; Kelso, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Latta, Hartley, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Everton Combination v. Northwich Victoria, Northwich, kick-off at 2.30 p.m. The following will play for Everton; Williams, goal; Chadwick and Collins, back; Coyle, Jones, and Jamieson, half-backs; Gordon, Murray, Pinnell, McMillian, and Elliott, forwards.
ANOTHER TWO POINTS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 24 December 1892
By Richard Samuel
The Everton team appears to have pleased everybody on Saturday. Even Nottingham people were struck by the splendid play of our forwards, although they claim that their team hard lines on several occasions. Well, they are welcome to any consolation they can derive from such a source. We in Liverpool have had our fill of hard lines this season, and the dish has upset our digestion. At least it has mine; but a win or two more during the holiday’s will put us alright, especially a success against Sunderland on January 3rd. Looking back to the play in the game with Sunderland on Oct. 8th, I don’t see any ground for anxiety in the forthcoming fight if the men will go on the field with the determination to win, as they did last Saturday at Nottingham, especially if the ground is in good order. I consider the team are now in better order than they have been this season; they are certainly going stronger than they were when Sunderland caught them napping. With Jardine in goal, Sunderland will not chalk such four easy goal, Sunderland will not chalk such four easy goals this time round; but in addition to this great advantage the team seem to be in a better humour, and work more harmoniously. They gave great satisfaction at Nottingham, and the score (2-1) is given as about representing the tenour of the play. It will thus be seen that the team had nothing to spare, but for all that the way the forwards did their work, and the confident manner in which the defence stood off attacks, viz, little less brilliant than their own, justifies the belief that the team have entered upon a more successful period. Parry, of course, is eligible now, and may want a place, but he has been here before, and the directors should have a good idea of the abilities which certainly may have increased in the meantime, but in estimating any improvement several important facts should be considered, and none more than the class of men he has had to face. I have seen Parry play a grand game this season, but I hardly play a grand game this season, but I hardly think I could get the Everton directors to acknowledge that the opponents were up to the League standard, and it is for this reason that I think it is not advisable to include him in the team, for a League match at any rate.
EVERTON V BURNLEY
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 24 December 1892
At Everton, in true football weather, making a vast improvement in the ground. The home team played exactly the same as that which triumphed over Notts. Everton; Jardine, goal; Howarth and Kelso, backs; Jamieson, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Milward, Chadwick, Geary, Gordon, and Latta, forwards. Burnley; Hillman, goal; Nichol and Lang, backs; King, Espie, ad Mullineanux, half-backs; Crabtree, Buchanan, McNab, Bowes, and Hill, forwards. There would be fully 11,000 spectators. The game opened excitingly the visitors left wing putting in neat and effective work. Everton next showed up Latta’s centre being admirably cleared by Nicol. Burnley were in the home quarters but Crabtree dallied and lost the opportunity. Everton won a corner, and Chadwick putting it by the same player shot over. Then there came another corner to the home team, after which two corners in succession were fruitless. Milward run splendidly and passed to Chadwick, he to Geary, which Hillman kicked clear. Everton played hard, Burnley’s defence being at this stage particularly good. Geary was threading his way through brilliantly, when Lang foully brought the player down amidst universal hotting. From the foul for pushing against Jamieson, Burnley all but scored, Jardine saving with Bowes only three yards from him. Espie was playing in accurate game, and with Bowes and McNab was ever utilizing opportunities. Stewart was cheered for good work, the home team having more of the play than the visitors, but although making creditable tries were unrewarded. Amidst cries of “Play up, Everton,” Gordon got down a penalty kick being given against Espie. Geary took it, but failed to score, the shot striking the upright, and the ball rebounded into play. Bowes and Hill exhibited pretty combination, the former shooting and winning a corner, from which Espie had hard lines. Crabtree in this half did very little, he throwing chances away by dallying and being apparently indifferent with many chances from McNab and Buchanan. Both sets of halves were good. Half-time; Everton 0, Burnley 0.
On resuming, improving play took place, and the home team were first aggressive, Hillman having to deal with shots from Latta, Geary, and Milward. Nichol relieved, and Espie headed a forward movement, which caused Jardine to use his hands. After Everton had attacked frequently, Hillman and Crabtree raced down, and McNab scored for Burnley. This livened the play, but Everton could not equalize. Final; Everton 0, Burnley 1.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 24 December 1892
EVERTON v WREXHAM
Wrexham Advertiser - Saturday 24 December 1892
Wrexham played Everton in the Combination, at Liverpool, on Saturday. Both clubs were well represented. Dodd kept goal for Wrexham ; Hayes was in the centre Evan Williams joining Edwards at back ; and J. Wilding was at centre half. Everton won by eight goals to one, but notwithstanding this heavy score, the game was a fairly good one, and there was not so much difference between the teams, as the score would seem to indicate. At half-time, Everton led by two goals to nil, and Dodd ought certainly to have stopped one of the two. On changing ends, the home team quickly scored three more goals. Then Turner headed through for Wrexham, who were playing up well. Samuels at this point injured his ankle, and had to retire, and before the finish, Everton bad brought their score up to eight. Dodd did fairly well in goal, but we think he might have saved three of the goals scored against him. The backs and half-backs all played well The forwards passed very nicely, but lacked power when in front of goal. R. Davies, Hayes, and Turner were the best, Hayes playing very well in the centre.
Played on the Goodison- road ground, Liverpool, on Saturday, before about 2,000 spectators. Hayes started for Wrexham, and after some fine passing by the visitors, Hayes shot just a little wide. Everton were dangerous, but hands stopped them for a time. Dodd gave a corner, in saving a shot from Smith, and this was sent behind. Dodd saved a fine shot from Elliott. A free kick for Everton was returned, and then McLaren shot behind. A free kick for Wrexham in mid-field followed, and good passing by the Wrexham forwards was applauded. A good shot by Smith was saved by Dodd, and then McLaren kicked behind. A corner for Everton came to nothing, and then Wrexham paid a short visit to the other end. Smith was well placed, but Evan Williams came across and saved at the expense of a corner, which was badly placed and came to nothing. Good play by Wilding gained ground for the visitors, but the ball was shot behind. Everton were quickly at the opposite end, and after Dodd had saved from Elliot, Smith kicked over the bar. A corner for Everton was kicked behind. Davies and Pugh made a nice run, Chadwick returned and Elliot shot wide. Directly afterwards, R. Jones had a try, but sent over. Everton pressed, and from a corner, which was beautifully placed, the ball was rushed through, thus scoring the first goal for the home team. A couple of corners for Everton were not improved upon, and then a free kick for Wrexham relieved the pressure for a time. The ball was, however, quickly returned, and another corner, which was sent behind, resulted. Smith got through, but as he was clearly off-side, no score was allowed. Then Wrexham had a look in, but Hayes shot wide. Play was in the home quarters for a short time, and then Dodd was again called upon. A good shot from Maxwell was saved at the expense of a corner, which was safely got away. Hayes got past the home backs, but the whistle went for off-side. Rennie had to hit out a shot from the same player directly afterwards. Two corners for Everton were not improved upon. Elliot had a splendid chance of scoring, after good play by Pinnell, but sent behind. Just before the interval, Pinnell sent in a long shot. Dodd kicked at the ball, but it twisted off his foot and went into the net, thus scoring the second goal for Everton. At half-time then, the home team led by two goals to nil. On changing ends, Dodd had at once to kick out. Elliot was nicely placed, but shot behind. A corner for the home team was cleared, and then Pugh made a good run. He crossed the ball, but when Turner was well placed, the whistle went for some informality. Directly afterwards, from a cross by Elliot, Maxwell scored a third goal. “Hands" for Everton in mid- field was followed by a corner, which was got away, and Wrexham got to the opposite end, Owen shooting wide. Elliott did the same at the Wrexham goal. A corner for Everton was well placed, and the fourth goal was rushed through. Lea did some fine work, and then Chadwick stopped the visitors' left wing when dangerous. The visitors had the best of the play for some time, and bombarded the Everton goal. The defence was safe, however, and the home forwards breaking away, Elliott scored a fifth goal. From the re-start Pugh had an opening, but shot a little wide, A free kick for "hands" near the home goal was well placed by Lea, and J. Turner headed through for Wrexham. Samuels was directly afterwards hurt, and had to be carried off the ground. On the re-start, Pinnell scored a sixth goal with a long shot. Wrexham got to the home goal, and Rennie saved a shot from Turner. A free kick for Wrexham near the home goal was followed by a similar advantage for Everton. Wrexham played up pluckily, and nearly all the forwards had shots at the home goal. They were unable to score, however. McMillan got possession, and after making a magnificent run, passed, when in front of gaol, to Pinnell, who easily scored the seventh point. Dodd saved well from Smith, and then T. Owen got passed the home backs, but when shooting kicked the turf, as well as the ball, which he sent behind. Pugh headed in from a cross by Owen, Rennie saving. Lea secured, and shot behind. Wrexham had a splendid chance of adding to their score. Trevor Owen sent the ball across goal, but no one was up, and it rolled behind. Just before time arrived, a corner fell to Everton. The ball was sent out, but McLaren returned, and scored the eighth goal with a long shot.
Final score : Everton. eight goals ; Wrexham, one.
The following were the teams : —
Everton : Rennie, goal ; Chadwick and Collins, backs ; McLaren, R. Jones, and Coyle, half-backs ; Smith, Maxwell, Pinnell, McMillan, and Elliot, forwards.
Wrexham : Dodd, goal ; Williams and Edwards, backs ; Lea, Wilding, and Samuels, half-backs ; Owen, Turner, Hayes, Pugh, and Davies, forwards. Referee, Mr Struthers, Gorton Villa.
FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 24 December 1892
The achievement of Everton in defeating Notts County at Trent Bridge may be set down as one of the best League performances last Saturday; inasmuch as the Liverpool club was the only one which proved successful on “foreign soil” during the afternoon. The game itself was of the most attractive character, full of excitement, and made highly interesting by the splendid combination shown by both sets of forwards. Famous as the Trent Bridge ground is for good contests, it is questionable if a better struggle than last Saturday’s had previously bene witnessed there. Every one of the Everton men played as though victory meant life or death to him, and the esprit de corpe displayed was quite refreshing when compared with the don’t-give-a-cent-style if we lose which somehow or other recently got associated with the Everton players. Jardine gave a fine exposition of goalkeeping, some of his saves being of the miraculous order, and although the two backs played a genuine game, and gave Jardine every assistance Davie still had a lot of hard work to do on his own account, perhaps a trifle more than Toone. Holt again showed up well, and though in stature he was the smallest man on the field, in skill he ranked as one of the ”tallest” Stewart, late of Burnley promises to be an acquisition to the half abcks; his debut in the Everton colours being of a very creditable kind. Forward both sides vied with each other in smart and clever play. Geary and Milward being equal to any other two on the field.
The match on Monday between Everton and Bootle should excite some of the old enthusiasm.
ASSOCIATION
Everton League v Burnley, at Goodison Park; kick-off at 2.15.
Everton.- Jardine, goal; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Jamieson, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Milward, E. Chadwick, Geary, Gordon, and Latta, forwards.
Everton Combination v Chester, at Chester; Landing-stage at 12.20. Kick-off at 2.15.
Everton Combination.- Williams, goal; Chadwick and Collins, abcks; Coyle, Jones and Collinson, half-backs; McLaren, Murray, Hartley, McMillan, and Elliott, forwards.
TEAMS FOR BOXING DAY
Everton League v Bootle, at Goodison Park; 2.
Everton.- Rennie, goal; Howarth and Parry, backs; Kelso, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Latta, Hartley, Geary, Chadwick and Milward, forwards.
Everton Combination v Northwich, at Northwich; Lime-street at 10.40; kick-off at 2.30.
Everton.- Williams, goal; Chadwick and Collins, backs; Coyle, Jones, and Jamieson, half-backs; Gordon, Murray, Pinnell, McMillan, and Elliott, forwards.
Today Everton v Burnley League
Combiantion- Chester v Everton
Monday Everton v Bootle, at Goodison Park
Echo v Express at Goodison Park
EVERTON 0 BURNLEY 1
December 25 1892. The Liverpool Mercury
Fred Geary penalty miss again
These teams met in the first league match this season on Saturday, Goodison Park being the venue. The weather was of an ideal kind for the christmas season, bright and bracing; but the attendance was somewhat less then might have been expected in the light of the recent success of Everton, and the strong play of Burnley when at Anfield last year. The teams were- Burnley, Hillman goal, Nicol, and Lang backs, King, Espie, and Mullineaux half-backs Crabtree Buchanan, McNab, Bowes, and Hill forwards. Everton; Jardine, goals Howarth (captain) and Kelso backs, Jamieson, Holt, and Stewart, half-back, Milward Chadwick Geary Gordon, Latta forwards. Burnley opened well on the left where Hill made a good but futile effort to get through, and a free kick falling to Everton, the scene was changed. Latta went off at a telling pace but was confronted by lang, who forced the ball into touch. Everton were not to be easily thrown back, and the left wing moving along aggressively, Nicol closed with them and made a brilliant clearance. Burnley escaped on the right, where Crabtree had just time to centre, but only to see Espie putout. Milward and Chadwick went away nicely together and initiated a stiff brush with the burnley defenders, the ball going over the line, to be followed by Nicol conceding the first corner. Hillman was called upon to clear, and did so, Jamieson centred well a few minutes later when Chadwick was at fault in a shot taken at a good position. Espie next gave a corner when hard pressed, and this was followed by a foul from the consequentials free-kick the ball going into the net untouched. The next conspicuous incident was a dashing run by Milward, and Geary almost turning the pass to account. Another run was effected by Milward. This time Gordon took the ball, but the shot was not quite accurate enough. Following a diversion by Burnley as far as the home backs, Geary broke away in one of his well known runs, and was getting formidable until he was badly charged by Lang who was loudly hooted,. Nothing came of the free-kick, and then Chadwick in taking a pass by Geary was rule off-side. Burnley got the advantage in play arising from a free-kick given against them, and Jardine scored grandly with players close upon him. Despite good work by Espie at centre half, the visitors had to defend. Both Gordon and Latta grew threatening but Lang interposed. Stewart put his forwards again on the attack, but Chadwick finished with a wretched attempt at goal from a captal centre by Latta. Play was not very brilliant, during which the ball was put into the net twice from free-kicks untouvhed and the spectators showed their impatience by urging the actors on to move spirited exertions. Everton then forced their way on the right, and Latta, following up a centre was charged heavily. Mt Lewis considered a Penalty kick, a due punishment to Burnley, and this was taken by Geary, who in a well conceived attempt, had the ill-fortune to hit the post, the idea evidently being to drive through at the right hand end of goa. The ball returned into play almost to the same spot from where the free kick was taken. Burnley pucked up at their escape and a few moments before the interval themselves experienced ill-luck. As Espie shooting hard the ball cannoned off a defender and passed outside. There was a marked improvement in the Everton play on resuming, as they closed in time after time. The burnley defence proved solid, howver, though Nicol driven to foul Milward once. The free kick came to nothing. Everton could not be driven off, but whenever, the backs were eluded and a shot essayed, it either went wide or Hillman negotiated. Chadwick sent in a ticklish low one., which the custodian grappled with. Milward played with great determination, centreing or shooting after a smart race with preuision, but it was all in vain. The Everton half-backs kept the vanguard almost continuously in work, and it seemed that they must find some loophole to enter the net by. They coulod not however, and though free kicks were freely given against Burnley, interspersed with corners, these could never be utilised to the home team's advantage. It was only occasionally that the visitors got within shooting distance and one of these incursions secured them victory. Crabtree led the way, but was challenged by Howarth. The ball, howver, went in the direction of goal and McNab put it though with a low shot, to the surprise of Kelso. Everton had ten minutes in which to recovery the lostb ground but try they never so hard they found not do it, and Burnley won luckily by a goal to nil.
CHESTER 3 EVERTON COMBINATION 2
December 25, 1892 The Liverpool Mercury
The home team kick off against the wind and spirited play ensued. Chester had the best of the play for some time Morris and Fleming each scoring a goal. The teams played spendid football, and the display of the home side was remarkable. Williams for Everton, having to negotiase several shots. Result Chester 3 goals Everton 2.
Everton team:- Willimas, goal, Chadwick and Collins backs Collinson, Jones and Boyle, half-backs McLean, Murray, Hartley, McMillan and Elliott forwards.
WELL PLAYED, CHESTER!
Athletic News - Monday 26 December 1892
Chester had the undefeated Everton team as visitors in their return match. Last year the Cestrians defeated Everton by several goals at Chester, and Saturday’s meeting of the teams was regarded with more than ordinary interest. In the first half some excellent combination was shown, and the Cestrians, who displayed great determination and tricky passing, scored three before the interval, Fleming, Morris, and Heys doing the needful, whilst the Evertonians only scored once. Play ruled fast and exciting in the second half, the visitors making strenuous efforts to add to their score, and eventually Elliott notched the second point for them, but had to retire with the score three goals to two against them. On the day’s play Chester were certainly the better team, they played one of their best games. The score hardly represents the game, as in the second ball Chester penned their opponents for a considerable time, and good all-round play brought about the victory. The result was a decided surprise for the Liverpool men, and if Chester can maintain Saturday’s form, a good place in the Combination list is assured.
BURNLEY IN LUCK’S WAT AT EVERTON.
Athletic News - Monday 26 December 1892
By the Loiterer
As customary late, Burnley was the dish of Christmas fare at Liverpool, and a very indigestible meal it will prove to most Evertonians. About the correspondent date two years ago Everton fairly pulverized Burnley by defeating them by seven goals to three, but last year they had to make shift with draw of a goal each, which seemed but the steppingstone to further retrogression, as Burnley three weeks later knocked Everton out the English Cup competition in the first round of the second stage, and, just to emphasize the fact as to which was the cleverer team, they chanced to meet a week or so afterwards in the return League match, and Burnley again won, this time by a goal to none. The respective form of the two seasons was as certain as it was surprising, and it was the remembrance of what had gone before that threw doubt on the issue of Saturday, and not form up to date, for glance at League results showed that whereas Burnley had not emerged victoriously out of their nine preceding League matches, Everton in the, corresponding number had won four, which included those of the two previous Saturdays. On paper, Everton should have won comfortable, but how far they came short of the ideal will be gathered from what follows. The ground was hard from a sudden frost that had set in, but the course was in as good condition as anyone could make it, and having been returfed almost ‘entirely, the enclosure looked a picture greenness, and as even nearly as cricket pitch. A fast game was predicted, but this was hardly realized, the teams, the names of which were as follow, finding it difficult to keep the lively ball in a progressive direction: - Everton; Jardine, goal; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Stewart, Holt, and Jamieson, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Burnley; Hillman, goal; Nicol, and Lang, backs; King, Espie, and Molyneaux, half-backs; Crabtree, Buchanans, McNab, Bowes, and Hill, forwards. It was a little late when Mr. J. Lewis got the men in line for commencing, when it was –found that Everton had exactly the same team. That did well at Nottingham the week previously, whilst Burnley made no fewer than four changes, Espie, Buchanan, McNab, and Bowes, displacing Matthews, Chambers, Lambie, and Place. Everton had the wind to assist them, or otherwise, at the start; but had made the first bid for goal, a free kick giving relief to Everton, and Latta moving down strongly was forced over touch line by Lang, Nicol finally clearing. Crabtree found a likely chance for Espie, but it was not made good use of, and the game proceeded in a somewhat loose order. Fouls were frequent and good combination rare, the springy eccentric diversions of the ball causing much confusion. Speaking generally Everton were more often on the attack, but not so dangerous as they were expected to be. Nearing the interval the home team had a favorable opening –a penalty kick. Latta was fouled badly inside the twelve yards sacred quarter by Espie, I think and the free kick was deputed to Geary, who experienced hard luck in hitting the edge of the post, the ball returning into play almost to the same spot from whence it had been sent. Geary seems unfortunate in his place kicking, but his idea was the good one of getting through at the corner of goal. His shot was a terrible one, and very different to that hugh failure of his at Bolton. With this let off, Burnley went gaily away, and themselves experienced ill luck, as from a fine shot by Espie the ball appeared to bounce off an opponent accidentally and pass just outside. The second half was much more in touch with anticipations, the play being a great improvement on that of the preceding stage. Everton were even more aggressive than hitherto, and it was only at infrequent periods that Burnley could get at Jardine’s charge. Burnley stuck at nothing in order to hold their opponents in check. Free kicks were liberally conceded, and so were corners, all of which came to nought-who can remember when Everton turned a place kick to good account? Lang, Nicol, and Hillman defended splendidly, sturdily, perhaps, and at times roughly, but they meant to keep the ball out of goal; and they did it, and on the whole in an admirable manner. The tendency of play was such that few entertained the probability of an Everton reverse. What happened ten minutes before the finish, therefore, was a bit staggering. The Burnley right-wing got on the ball just inside the Everton half. Crabtree beat Jamieson, but Howarth came up. Suddenly Buchanan shot in, and McNab, meeting the ball, got it past Jardine with a low shot. Kelso might probably have interposed, but he apparently though no danger was to be apprehended. It was a muddle which Burnley were wise enough to take advantage of, and Everton, as they had done previously, attacked hard and often afterwards, but in vain, and had to retire beaten by a goal to none, after having about two-thirds of the play. Christmas will be none the more enjoyable Goodison Park way from the reflection that they had all the worst of the luck, which somehow plays a fickle but important part in determining issues, however, skillful the actors may be. The game calls for no special criticism, but it must be said that Everton showed too much less advantage on a lively field of play than they did on the dead one at Nottingham last Saturday week. The defence was good on both sides. Jardine could not have stopped the shot, good as he is at low ones, once out of three times, and but for the misunderstanding that let McNab in when he scored the only goal of the match, Howarth and Kelso had done capitally. Holt was really brilliant, and Stewart and Jamieson, in their respective styles, left nothing to be desired. The forwards were not so successful, and had some difficulty to indulge in combination. The shooting was off, and Milward outshone his colleagues. Hillman left nothing derogatory to be recorded against him. Lang and Nicol got through a lot of work with success, though the first-named once aroused the ire of the crowd for the way he charged Geary. The half-backs were fearless and rough, and the forwards were conspicuous for individualism rather than well-knit movements.
LIVERPOOL DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 26 December 1892
By The Loiterer
It is not often that Everton receive a couple of defeats in one day, but the double event came off on Saturday, and both were unexpected. Burnley repeated the success which they attained in last season’s Cup competition. The game was splendidly contested but the referee was kept too busy for it to be called a great or pleasant game to watch. The visitors certainly disputed every inch of ground, but on the whole, they had the worst of the play, yet managed to win by one goal to nothing. The point may be put down as a little luckily obtained, but it only shows the aptitude of the visitors in taking advantage of any little slip of their opponents. Whilst some of their methods were questionable, there was no mistake about the earnestness with which they defended their goal, and on several occasions their attacks were equally desperate. The biggest surprise, however, was the defeat of the Combination team by Chester. The “champion reserve team of England” have a splendid record in the Combination series, and only Stoke Swifts have bene able to hold their own with them previously. If my memory serves me right, Chester were beaten by something like ten goals at Everton, but at the ancient city things were kinder altered, for the Cestrians won by three goals to two. It is about time our team found opponents that would and could take them down, as wins by seven or eight goals were beginning to be monotonous and when you come to think of it, it is strange the lads have not gone off sooner. The defeat will do them no harm, and may do Chester a lot of good. Stoke Swifts have a slight pull over them now, and the match at Goodison Park on January 2nd should be an exciting affair.
EVERTON REVIEW
December 26, 1892. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton, if they were slightly lucky when at Nottingham a week ago, were decidedly ill-favoured by fickle fortune on Saturday. The improved form which gave Everton victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers and Notts County raised a feeling of confidence that they would avenge last year's defeat by Burnley, particularly as they were playing at Goodison Park. The team which had worked so well together the week previously was, so well together the week previously was, on the principle of leaving well alone, chosen to meet Burnley, but the latter had a different representation than that which fell at Ewood in their preceding League match. Espie displaced Matthews at centre half. Mullineeaus was left half, vice Boes, McNab superseded Lambie at centre forward, whilst Crabtree and Hill were partnered by Buchanan and Bowes respectively, instead of Chambers and Place. The weather was seasonable, well suited for Association football, and the ground if hard, in capital condition, the liberal amount of fresh turfing that had been affected having brought the surface up to a high state of excellence that seemed impracticable a few weeks ago. The opening exchanges demonstrated that the ball would be two lively on the frost-knit ground, and the difficulty to keep it low was often insurmountable, the consequence being that play was spoilt more or less all through. Many good bits of combination were rendered nugatory from too sudden bounce of the ball, and this condition seemed to hamper Everton more than Burnley. Still the home side gauged by the amount of attack, had about three-parts of the play, and that they did not make better use of the opportunities was due to three causes –fearless defence of the visitors, much erratic shooting by Everton, and a spice of ill luck by the home attackers. If Burnley were not so often at goal, they were better on the whole in directing the ball towards the net when they had a chance; and though they scored the only goal of the match “sortly” through misunderstanding or misjudgment on the part of the opposing backs they must be given credit for taking full advantage of the only time the Everton defenders made a bad mistake. The game was not a pleasant one. It lacked good points all through, and the number of fouls, especially by the visitors, proved how roughness dominated in its ugliness. The men of Burnley have plenty of weight, and are not slow to use it. Their plucky charges –doubtful ones at times certainly –will explain the deterioration of the Everton forwards tactics to a great extent, for though their passing was well done at times, it was not uniformly so, and the minus at goal will compare adversely even with some of the worst demonstrations that have been given this season. The half-back department was again the strong feature of Everton, and Holt was once more in his most businesslike mood. Stewart possessed and dispossessed himself of the ball with splendid judgment. Jamieson had a speedy man in Crabtree to look after, and he helped materially in rendering this fast outside right wing man a disappointment to the Burnleyites. Howarth, Kelso, and Jardine erred once, which seriously detracted from their otherwise good play. Despite the vigour shown too frequently, Long and his associates gave a splendid exhibition of sturdy defence; the half-backs were the reverse of timid; and Hill and McNab the smarter of the Burnley forwards. Everton were sooned to a still further slice of misfortune, as their combination team were beaten by Chester –the first reverse this season. As customary on Boxin Day, the exponents of the Association code will be in full cry, through the invasion of Scotch tourning teams is less general than it used to be a few years ago. There are no less than five first division League matches, but these do not incorporate Everton. They and Boootle join issue, an event that was a feature of Christmas holidays some three or four seasons back, in those merry days when Everton and Bootle were in turn sure to give a Roland for an Oliver. The revival of the local combat is a right movement, for it must be more genial to the taste of the players than would be a match of such vital importance at that associated with the League. Following closely upon the tussle with Burnley, the neighborly bout will act as a sedative, though this would not have been the case a few years back. Bootle are not quite up to the standard of Everton now a days, but they have shown signs of improvement in their recent matches, and as Everton intend their team to be somewhat of an experimental one, the prospect are that a game will be supplied of just sufficient spirit and equality as would make it interesting.
EVERTON v BURNLEY
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 26 December 1892
This League match was played at Goodison Park, there being about 11,000 spectators present, the weather being bright, but bitterly cold. The following were the teams
Everton: Jardine, goal; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Stewart, Holt, and Jamieson, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Geary, Chadwick, and Mil ward, forwards.
Burnley : Hillman, Nicol and and Lang, backs ; King, Espie, and Mullinaux, half backs ; Crabtree, Buchanan, McNab, Bowes, and Hill, forwards.
McNab started, and the first few minutes’ play was in midfield, Chadwick being unable to make way through, and the efforts of the Burnley left wing being nullified by the vigorous play of Stewart and Kelso. Geary ran into the right wing, but was despoiled on reaching Lang. Slowly but surely the Burnley forwards worked their way to the front of Jardine, but when they were getting positively dangerous Mr. Lewis sounded his whistle for an informality. After Geary had made short run and a grand pass to Latta, the last-named failed to part with the ball at the proper moment, and lost possession. A second later, however, the leather was sent flying to the front of the Burnley goal, Nichol executing a pretty move and clearing nicely as the ball went sailing by. Then followed a stiff bit of play in the centre of the field, Holt coming in for an ovation by reason of the excellent checks he administered to McNab and Espie. A couple of futile attacks on the home goal followed, Crabtree having one very fair opening, but failing to take advantage of it. The homesters then ran down, and the first corner in the game came from this effort, but Chadwick sent the ball behind the net, and a moment later shot over the bar. Another corner to Everton followed, but this was easily cleared away. Espie gave a free kick, and this followed by another on account of hands, the ball being placed in the net without touching a second player. A grand sprint was then made by the Everton centre and left wing, Hillman receiving an express shot from Milward. Keeping up the attack, the Burnley defence was sorely tried, Gordon being cheered for galloping round his opponents and dropping the ball prettily in front of Hillman. Nichol soon afterwards cleared out his opponents, and then Hill went dashing away with a clear course. This player quickly shot for goal, but Jamieson stepped in and cleared handsomely. After some further close play in Everton territory Geary received a pass and went clean through, but when he had got within shooting distance he was deliberately tripped up by McNab, a proceeding which the spectators marked their displeasure at by a regular salvo of hooting and hissing. Holt took the free kick, but the leather went behind. Then followed a grand effort at the other end of the field, Hill shooting and Jardine clearing, there being a moment of painful suspense until it as seen that the leather was cleared away. Gordon and Latta then passed, and sprinted down the Everton right, but Lang jumped in and cleared when the right wing pair were getting positively dangerous. The ball was again sent into the Burnley net untouched from a free kick, and then Howarth checked his opponents when they were getting up the field. Espie then fouled Latta, and a penalty kick given close in, but Geary struck the goal post. Burnley then raced away and claimed a corner, which proved a very near thing. At half-time there was no score.
The teams had no sooner changed ends than Everton men went to the front, and several hot raids were made on the Burnley fortress, which had several narrow escapes. On the visitors relieving the pressure Howarth checked finely, and then some particularly fine placing and stopping was shown by the half backs, principally Jamieson and Holt. The ball was eventually sent to the right, and about the best bit of work of the day was shown by home front rank. This came to nothing, however, and a foul against Holt let the visitors in. This was followed by a free kick to Everton, and so matters, were even. A dashing bit of play by Milward was next Item of interest, this player making “mincemeat” of a little crowd of his opponents. The ball was kept in the vicinity of the Bumley goal for some little time, but brilliant save by Hillman nullified all the efforts of the Everton men. After a visit to the other end, Milward came into possession and dashed away down the field at a furious pace. The Everton man shot hardly, and Hillman, in fisting away, gave a corner, from which the homesters nearly scored. Chadwick was within a hair’s breadth of scoring a minute or so later. Fouls were about now of very frequent occurrence, Espie being prominent amongst the delinquents. Latta had hard lines at the Burnley end, and the visitors away and were given a free kick, which was finely cleared away by Howarth from out of the goal mouth. Then there was more fiddling between the opposing half-backs, and after Holt had again distinguished himself, Geary got bold and threaded his way through and passed to Latta, who made a lofty shot over the crossbar. There was a rush to the other end, and after Howarth had cleared once the leather was sent to the front of the Everton goal, and McNab scored for Burnley, this being one of the “softest” goals imaginable. The Everton men then attacked fiercely, but they could not effectually pierce the Burnley defence, and the homesters retired defeated by a goal to nothing.
COMBINATION
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 26 December 1892
CHESTER v EVERTON
These teams met on the Faulkner-street ground on Saturday, before a large gate. The Evertonians were fully represented, whilst Chester were short of Thompson, and Rimmer filled the vacancy, and Hays, late of Northwich, partnered Lewis on the left wing. Chester kicked off against a slight wind, and for some few minutes the visitors pressed, Pay having to fist out some warm shots. Eventually Carter robbed nicely, and passed to Hayes, who sent to Lewis. Hayes got the return, and Fleming scored the first goal. The visitors were next conspicuous for long punting, and after the ball had hovered about the home goal the Evertonians rushed a goal. Hands off Everton gave the Cestrians a chance, but danger was averted. The homesters had a turn of leisure, the forwards working better, and after some sharp exchanges Morris defeated Williams for the second time. Chester now pressed, and Collins and Chadwick were kept busily employed. Play was now in the Chester quarters. Powell conceding a corner, which was barren. Everton were disallowed an offside goal. Even followed. Chester secured hands, Rimmer taking the kick, put Williams fisted out grandly. The Chester men were fairly running their opponents, and played a superior game. Lewis gained possession, and after a splendid run passed the ball across the month of the goal, and Hays registered the third goal for the Cestrians amidst great excitement. The game was stopped for a short time owing to one of the visitors being Injured. Everton had a free kick, but the ball was placed between the post without second player touching it. Everton had a turn of pressure, and Wilson and Powell defended grandly. Half-time score :—Chester 3 goals, Everton 1 goal
Resuming, Chester put in a capital run, causing Williams to fist out and Pay, for Chester, also negotiated some well-intended shots. Chester played ten men, Ashton being hurt, but, notwithstanding, they more than held their own. Hays sent in a clinking shot which Williams saved just in nick of time. Everton were penned in their own quarters, their goal having narrow escapes. Elliot, for Everton, had a single run along the left wing, and Powell could not reach him in time. Elliot shot, and the ball passed by Pay. Everton commenced to press, and Pay saved well, whilst the ball was frequently about the homesters’ goal. Final result Chester 3 goals, Everton Combination 2 goals.
EVERTON 1 BOOTLE 1
December 27 1892 The Liverpool Mercury
The Bank Hoilday attraction at Goodison Park was one of the customary matches between Everton and Bootle, a popular local fixture well appreciated by the Liverpool public. The company numbering about 14,000. Teams Everton:- Rennie goal, Howarth (captain) and Parry backs, Kelso, Holt, and Stewart half-backs, Latta, Smith, Hartley, Chadwick and Milward,forwards. Bootle :- McLoughlin, goal, Hutinson and Arridge backs, Robertson, Hughes, and McEwan Half-backs, Clarkin Gallagher, Grierson, McLafferty, and Montgomery,, forwards. Play opened evenly, and when just inside the Everton quarter Holt got winded. The home right made tracks on goal, when Smith sent behind. More pressure was brought to bear on the Bootle lines, but the defence was good. Play ruled fast and exciting Bootle for a few minutes having quite as much of it as the home team. Clarkin moved along on the right and, being beaten of by dint of energy. Everton attacked strong particularly on the right wing. But Arridge made one or two clever clearances especially on Kelso shooting in. a free kick was conceded Bootle, which was neatly placed by Arridge to the face of goal, when Parry kick out. Bootle soon returned, and were menacing, but again Parry effected two smart clearances. Everton now had a turn, without becoming very threatening, and a free kick falling to Bootle Hutchinson drove to Clarkin, who shot at long range, and very near through, the ball passing across the face of goal. Rennie cleared a ticklish shot, but the visitors made another excellent atttempt. Everton were still further pressed and spendid passing and shooting caused, during which trying time Rennie saved well on two or three occasions. Everton made an effort to get the vicinity of goal, but was repulesed. Hughes then passing up to his left wing, but Hartley was given the ball, and running along, passed to Latta, who was in close attendance, and he got a goal with a straight shot. Everton thus assumed the lead after half-an-hour play which on the whole, had been pretty even, with Bootle having most shots at goal. The Bootle right wing next gave trouble tp Parry, but could not get down to goal, and more excitement ensued when McLoughlin prevented two grand shots taking effect, one out of a close scrimmage, and the other from a lengthy range. Parry shortly, following headed up, and Chadwick essayed a long low shot, which Latta tried to steer into goal, but which was just put just outside, and the interval arrived with Everton leading by a goal to nil. On restarting, Holt was penalised, and from the free kick Bootle got close in, but were repelled by the home defenders. The visitors came back again, and some fine shooting was in dulged in by the left wing. Parry headed out twice in capital style. The Everton left wing made an attempt to remove the scene of operations, but Hutchinson got on the ball, and put the forwards on the attack, when montgomery shot hard but abortively. Hughes shortly afterwards passed to Clarkin, who centred, and Grierson banged in out of the scrimmage, but Rennie met the ball with his foo. It was some time before Everton got anything like a telling swing, and this Rose when Latta was tripped and the ball driven goalwards from the free-kick. Everton now were really dangerous, but this only served to bring the good defensive readiness of Hutchinson and Hughes who cleared in smart style. Booten then attacked quickly and Grierson beat Rennie. Everton immediately attack the other end, and Latta banged in, and McLafferty defensive play rrepelled this. Bootle went away in good line McEwan tested Rennie with a long sharp shot, Rennie cleaned to safely the patten of play was in favour of Bootle. Everton the eproved on their attacks, and were sereral times within shooting distance, but the attaempt at goal, was poor, the shooting being too high or wide. Then Bootle attack the other end and Montgomery shot, but Rennie saved and cleared. Howarth giving to his assistance, and keeping the opponents men from charging him. From a free kick to Everton they got near in, where still another free kick was conceded, but this could not be turned to account. The sunqueent play was made by more weak kicking by the Everton forwards. Milward now went centre with the view of forcing play. Robertson, however, tackled well, and enabled Grierson to lead a sharp raid which gave some anxienty to the Evertonians. Stewart removed danger, and soon end came, with the result of a draw of a goal each.
NORTHWICH VICTORIA 2 EVERTON COMINATION 1
December 27, 1892. The Liverpool Mercury
Palyed at Nortwich before 3,000 specatators. Upto half-time no goals had been scored. Although both goalkeepers were serveral tested. Northwich having most of the chances. In resuming Everton scored neatly for a corner kic afterwards Northwich had the best of matters William being very busily empolyed but hargreaves mutled at glorous chance, Ramsley and Bradshaw howver scored and Northwich won by 2 goals to 1.
EVERTON v BURNLEY
Lancashire Evening Post - Tuesday 27 December 1892
By The “LOTHIAN LASSES.”
We wish following items to be clearly understood by Preston people and football maniacs generally, first, that N.E. is our one favourite team and can do no wrong (except get beaten, when we long to visit them with a whip); second, we always “stick up” for visiting teams when we’re not in Preston ; and third, we have sneaking regard for rough play, while, lastly, no one, not even the dear N.E., is safe from our tongues and pen. We think it best to own once so that our readers won’t be surprised at anything which may slip into our reports. Having got this off our minds, will proceed with an account of Everton’s latest defeat by Burnley. Last season's thrilling experiences in the Cup ties and League matches between the two teams caused huge gate to assemble at Goodison Park—two-thirds of the spectators fully confident of a win for the homesters—the remaining third thinking that a draw would result. Stewart was loudly cheered entered as he with his new clubmates, and upon Burnley losing the loss and kicking off Hill made straight for him, a throw-in for Everton ensuing. Bowes was the next to have a ”dig” at him, his charitable intentions bringing Stewart and himself t0 the ground, with their legs entangled. Everton tested the visitors’ defence but a free kick removed play, and Howarth cleared. Some lively attacking and tackling passages were indulged in by both teams. Amid yells of ‘‘Here’s the man who'll hook it in.” Chadwick steadied himself to shoot, but his shot went for a higher level. This somewhat TOOK THE ENTHUSIASTS ABACK, but they recovered in time to howl lustily Burnley were penalised three times in as many minutes. Hillman nabbed the ball when a goal seemed certain, and his vis-a-vis had to save hastily from a rush of the Burnley men. Geary doing a sprint at even time was airily tripped by Lang, misfortune which caused him to skate into on his head. Sandy, of course, was penalised, and henceforth every kick of his called up yells and hisses galore. The home team slightly the best of the matter, Holt making the spectators grin with delight at his funny and effective dodges. He had just succeeded in getting the ball to Gordon after sitting down at Espie’s feet, when Latta was gloriously tumbled —we’d give worlds to able to floor people’ like it- and a penalty kick was given. Our sympathies were aroused and we REALLTY PRAYED that Everton score, and behold, Geary, who was entrusted with the kick, shot against the upright and the ball flew across goal, and was next placed for a free kick against Everton for tripping. Burnley had taken one corner and gained another when half-time sounded. There was a conflict of opinions as to which team had been having the best of it, and upon our views being requested, we raised a chorus of “Oh ladies, ladies.’’ from our neighbours, by saying that Burnley had, because they hurt more men. This adverse demonstration delighted us as it does Lang, who glories in hoots and hisses. Geary restarted and Burnley briefly attacked. Milward, getting away in good style, was hooking dangerous, when Nichol was penalised for an ugly jump at him; a man said if Nichol had caught him with his feet, the Evertonians would have had “nowhere to put his Christmas pudding.,” This was very rude, we thought. The Burnley defence was kept briskly exercised for some minutes. Geary retired and play raged just as “fast and furious'’ without him, but on his return shortly after Hillman had to run out and tackle forwards, whom he robbed cleverly. Danger, however, was not removed until energetic charging by Mullineaux was followed by a free-kick against Gordon, Crabtree racing away only to be disappointed. MORE LAMBLIKE PRANKS by most of the players could not fail to produce great excitement, and as they were chiefly confined to the space around Hillman we were afraid he’d be beaten. A brother reporter shouted loud enough to waken the dead, and another one kept leaning on his pencil and breaking the point in his extreme agitation. A spectator was heard yelling. “Give us a goal.” and one came quickly enough—for Burnley though—as Crabtree and Buchanan threaded their way up field at top speed, nonplussing Howarth, and the latter “centring” under coercion to McNab, Jardine was beaten. Everton tried to equalise, but Lang was too much for them, and upon Gordon going to wipe him off the face of the earth—so that Everton might have a chance to score— the ground played Pat G. a nasty trick, and jumped up and hit him as he sat down hastily at Laug’s feet. Sandy stood with one foot on the ball and grinned as Mr. Lewis penalised Gordon for what he intended to do. Some neat play by little Hill and some wonderfully strong kicking by Nichol and Co.- who invariably landed the ball out of touch-brought the match to a close, and we had the pleasure of saying, “I told you so,” to people to whom we had predicted a closer finish than 4-1 for Everton. Well played, Burnley!
EVERTON v BOOTLE
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 27 December 1892
The Boxing Day fixture has in the past generally been the means of drawing together a rare crowd of excited sightseers, and yesterday’s game proved no exception to the rule, there being present on the Everton ground about 14,000 or 15,000 spectators, who were rewarded by witnessing one of the best-contested matches which has been seen this season. Bootle were without Brandon who was injured on Saturday. Shortly after two o’ clock, Grierson kicked off, and there was nothing much to choose in the opening stages between the two teams. The first serious forward movement came from the Bootle front ranks, who went down in fine style and had a rattling chance, Hope Robertson making rather bad business. Even play followed, and then the Bootle right and left went into the Everton goal mouth, Rennie saving time after time in a marvellous manner. Then by way of a change, the Everton men put on full speed and Arridge was cheered for checking a dangerous move by Latta and Smith. A long series of exchanges followed, the Bootle men fairly holding their own, until Hartley went down the centre at full speed, and made a short pass to Latta, who indulge in a little run and then shoot for McLaughlin, who was rather easily beaten. The Bootle men, on advancing from the centre were checked by Parry, and then the opposite wing along with Grierson took up the running, but another check awaited the visitors at the hands of Holt, and afterwards Howarth gave his opponents their matching orders. After this the respective teams attacked in turn, although the homesters had rather the best of the argument. Half-time arrived shortly afterwards, Everton then leading by a goal to nothing.
The second half had scarcely commenced when Bootle had a free kick from a foul off Holt, but the visitors were beaten away from the Everton goal. Still the Bootle men attacked and Rennie saved twice. A nice passing movement by Milward, Chadwick, and Hartley was broken up by Arridge, who dashed into the fray when things were looking rather serious for the Bootle men. Some capital combination by the visitors was now shown, and it took the homesters all their time to steady the Hawthorne-road men. The Everton right advanced, and Arridge made a splendid feint, and then turned round and kicked clear. A long kick and a rush was made by the Bootle right wing, and Howarth though it policy to kick outside close to the corner. The ball went to the centre from the throw-in, and Grierson succeeded in enabling the Bootle team to draw level. After further exchanges, of which the homesters certainly had the best, Montgomery went away with rare dash, and Howarth was beaten. However, when matters looked very serious for Everton Rennie kicked clear, and the homesters once more threatened their opponents’ goal. The following play was pretty evenly divided, but nothing further was scored, and the final result was a draw a goal on each side having been scored. Teams;-
Everton.- Rennie, goal; Howarth and Parry, backs; Kelso, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Latta, Smith, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Bootle;- McLoughlin, goal; Hutchinson and Arridge, backs; Robertson, Hughes, and McEwen, half-backs; Clarkin, Gallacher, Grierson, McLafferty, and Montgomery, forwards.
EVERTON COMBINATION 4 MOFFATT 0
December 28, 1892. The Liverpool Mercury
The holiday fixture was played yesterday afternoon at Goodison-road, before 6,000 specatators. Everton started the play and had the best of the opening stages. The visiting backs were early tested, but had plenty of resource, and the front line getting into a good stride the centre sent in a fone low shot, but Jardine was in readiness, and the home tight working well down Pinnel was given a chance, but shot wide. Play proceeded on fairly even lines until the visiting left wing pair got down by good combination, and Jardine again had a warm shot to deal with, but he cleared nicely, and his forwards for the next few minutes fairly raised the siege. Jamieson tried a shot which missed the mark, and after stubborn scrimmaging round the goal, the ball travelled to Gordon whoi scored from a fine centre by Elliott. The Everton forwards continued to have all the play to themselves, and after severe pressure thevisitors colours were again lowered by Jamieson, who sent in a magnificent shot. No other points were scored upto half-time, the score then being 2 goals to nil in favour of Everton. On resuming the home front line got well down, and Pinnell was given a couple of chances but was slow to take advantage. At length Steel and Ross took the ball nicely down, but the final effort of the latter was weak, and from the goalkick the home van broke clean away, and Pinnel sent in a beauty, which compelely beat Denholme. Gordon outwitted Niven and McMillan had the goal at his mercy, but landed high over the bar. Keeping up the pressure the home fairly made the play, but shooting inaccurate until Pinnell scored through. Blythe took the ball along, and Fraser tried his luck, but Parry was in the way. Not to be denied, Steel and Ross resumed the attack but failed to round Millett. A corner off Jardine was nicely worked away, and some smart play on the part of Murray and Gordon resulted in Denholmes again being called upon. The ball was all but through when Nevin came to the rescue. Nothing further was scored, Everton winning a fair game by 4 goals to nil.
Everton team, Jardine goal, Millett (trailist from great marlow), and Parry backs, Boyle Jones and Jamieson,, half-backs, Gordon Smith, Pinnel, McMillan and Elliott, forwards.
CHRISTMAS BOX FOR EVERTON.
Athletic News - Monday 28 December 1903
By Tityrus
We’re going beat the City today.” said Mr. Cuff, the secretary of Everton, in the most confident manner. I rather demurred, and suggested that such a victory would be a glorious Christmas-box but the present of a brace of points was the fortune of Everton when time had expired. The word fortune was chosen with design, to convey the impression that the fickle dame was a mysterious presence hovering around the Evertonians, but I should be sorry to suggest that there was no merit in the victory of the visitors. On the contrary, Everton excelled, and I have not seen them so quick on the ball, so dashing in all their movements, so keen and eager to drive home any advantage, and so strong both fore and aft—from centre-forward to goalkeeper—during the present campaign. Moreover, they always seemed confident of success, and the I-fear-no-foe feeling is a powerful stimulus. And yet it is only just to point out that Manchester City were deprived of both their brilliant backs, McMahon and Burgess, who are laid by for repairs owing to accidents at Small Heath. Moreover, the weakness at back was patent from the first kick to the last, for the visitors rushed past the last line as easily as a fair equestrienne crisply cracks through the hoops of tissue paper which the circus attendants glide towards the lady in scarlet skirt and spangles. Then an accident to Frost came in the last quarter of an hour. This was the crowning disaster, for during the popular half-back's temporary absence Everton took the lead, and, emphasizing their superiority again eventually won 3—l.
THE OPENING STRUGGLE.
On fast turf the game was always played at an exhilarating pace, and was a spectacle well worth watching. The Citizens were first dangerous, a long bouncing centre from , Turnbull giving Kitchen some little anxiety as the ball was evidently livelier when rising from the turf than he had anticipated, but Everton soon gave the impression that they were as the short-haired fraternity of boxers say “on business bent.” They were very quick on the ball and showed us thrusting football, with the result that only seven minutes had elapsed when the Goodison Paik team took the lead. From a free-kick for an infringement by Ashworth against Sharp, Wolstenholme swung nicely in front of goal and McDermott, who seemed quite unmarked, bobbed up and serenely and cleverly applying his head, placed the ball just inside the wing of the goal and in the opposite corner to where Hillman was standing. The point was well got, and encouraged by this early success the visitors proved themselves far the better attacking party. The forwards were dexterously plied by the half backs, and once Taylor looked like increasing the advantage but there was no resource in his parting shot, and Sharp with splendid effort was just above the angle of the bar and the post. It was evident that Manchester City were to be severely tested. Settle feeding his wings and darting through by himself time after time. The bantam centre was in happy mood and most difficult to keep hand. It was well that Hillman once took the ball off his toes at the expense of a fruitless corner. Sharp, too, was speedy and elusive, and once when he skipped past Slater he dribbled ahead and looked like scorings, but unluckily for him he lost precise control of the ball when he needed most to have it under command —and his flying trek was all in vain. There was no understanding among the City forwards, who were by comparison playing a poor and disjointed game, enlivened now and again by a fine pass or a surprise long shot from Livingstone. One of these struck the bar with force. Still the honours clearly rested with Everton, and a superb centre by Sharp was met by McDermott, who drove in a grand shot, which was as grandly bailed out by the burly Hillman. So the game wagged, and we were within five minutes of the interval when the City equalised the score. Livingstone with a long pass to the left enabled Threlfall to give Kitchen an awkward ball. He did not clear, and after Turnbull had but grazed the leather Gillespie with a low shot found the net, this being the first time that Kitchen had been troubled from short range.
A FROST SETS IN
So on crossing over the teams were as they began, but in the second portion Manchester showed better football in attack, but neither Threlfall nor Livingstone seemed to make the best of their opportunities. Settle was determined to give Sharp every chance, and the Everton dasher made Slater toil and toil without reward, for the City back seldom took up the right position for Sharp. Hillman was, however, generally a final stumbling block, and the custodian old particularly well to hand out a short sharp shock of a shot from Taylor. The home team were again aggressive, but they encountered a rolling back defence. Manchester were attacking when Settle tiled to raise the siege. He and frost kicked simultaneously at the ball, but Settle’s boot came in contact with the inside of Frost’s right knee. Frost dropped like a log and was carried the -dressing-room, where a doctor found that his leg was locked from the knee to the thigh. This was put right, and Frost returned with his undetectable smile just the same as usual. But the mishap had taken some of steel out of him. He was away about seven minutes, and in the interim Settle took the opportunity to nip in and score, while two minutes from the close Taylor headed a third goal from a corner—Hillman with upraised arm being beaten most entirely. So Everton gained all the kudos and the points.
EVERTONIAN EFTTSIONS
There is no escaping from the conclusion that Everton played the cooler, the more resourceful, and the more intelligent game. There was a stamp of talent about the winners, who were far more concerted it their maneuvers than the City. They were quicker on the ball, cleverer with it, and beyond compare superior in attack to the Mancunians. The Everton vanguard were fast, thrusting, and full of vitality and marksmanship. Booth kept the ball in the middle, and by giving it to Settle allowed the centre to dispose of it to the wings—a policy which was continually gaining ground and bothering the home backs, who were quite unable to cope with the swift swoops of the opposition. England are in want of a centre forward; at least, I have heard it said so. Now Settle was merely keeping the place snug and warm for Young who has had a bad ankle, and was tried with the reserves on Saturday. But Settle's conception of the part always spelt danger. He lay well forward, and one never knew whether he was bent on bustling through “on his own,” as the music-hall comedian phrases it, or whether he would feed the wing. His enemies were mixed up. Settle who could be tricky on a three-penny piece, kept the game going splendidly, and was something more than a pivot; he was a capital shot, although he did not utilize four fine chances from McDermott. Now touching this same McDermott. This inside left stood in a class by himself- a vigorous darting, dribbling, putting forward, always doing something and somebody. I have never seen McDermott such a force for woe to his adversaries. And he is not easy to move off the ball. With Taylor, as ever, a worker, it will be seen that the three inside forwards were a fine set, and Sharp was not a whit less effective, his thrilling turn of speed on the top of the ground enabled him to outstrip everybody and once possession he dribbled in dashing style, and centred with rare precision. At half-back Booth was a strategic as if he were playing billiards, but without that delicacy of touch which is required on the green cloth. Abbott dogged the footstep of Meredith with considerable success. A most unobtrusive player, this Abbott; nearly as quiet as Wolstenholme. But they are always ready for any emergency, and Everton are indeed lucky to have preserved their half-back line so completely this season. Only once has any one of the three been absent this winter. The defence of Everton was excellent, and it looked safer than ever by comparison with that of the other side.
MANCUNIAN MURMURING
Primarily Hillman was beyond reproach —and if everyone had done his duty as well as he, despite the three goals, a different tale might be told. But the home backs were a weak pair. Against McDermott and Settle, Davidson was quite feeble; the former could run rings round him. Davidson's kicking was lacking in accuracy and length, and form his boot the ball went in all directions save that which was desired on more occasions than I could count. Slater did not play half as well as I have seen him, and the pair never inspired the least confidence. It should, however, not be forgotten that both of them have had practically no acquaintance with first-class football this winter. From the Lancashire Combination to the first Division of the; League is a great leap. Far and away the most crafty and clever of the half-backs was Hynds, although his companions were rare triers, if not so successful as usual. The Everton forwards were too smart for them. Nor can I say much in praise of the Manchester frontal division. In ordinary phraseology the forwards were never together. Livingstone filled the eye occasionally by his determined onslaughts, and Meredita sparkled now and then like a spluttering electric lamp—but there was no sustained and brilliant light. I have only seen Manchester City thrice this season, but on Saturday, when they were supposed to be at their zenith, they were really weakest. The band played” See the Conquering Hero” when the Citizens first trooped on in Sunderland shirts and it is said that pride goeth before a fall. Manchester City; Hillman; Davidson, and Slater; Frost, Hynds, and S.B. Ashworth; Meredith, Livingstone, Gillespie, Turnbull, and Threlfall. Everton; Kitchen; Balmer, and Crelley; Wolstenholme, Booth, and Abbott; Sharp, Taylor, Settle, McDermott, and Corrin. Referee; F. Kirkham, Preston.
EVERTON THEMSELVES AGAIN
Athletic News - Monday 28 December 1903
By Junius
I was not surprised at Everton’s victory at Manchester, for a more inconsistent team exists not in the kingdom. As I stated a week ago, Everton possess a superb rear division, and when their forwards are in a fairly aggressive humour there are few teams that win take points from them. To defeat Manchester on their own ground by a margin of two goals was a rare achievement, and no doubt the presence of Abbott in the half-back line, with Taylor once more in the van, gave the side that impetus which was so lacking in the movements against Derby. This result shows the absurdity of attempting to forecast with any degree of certainty the chances of Everton in the League. They fail on the most unexpected occasions and succeed when one might naturally expect them to be overthrown, and I suppose this will continue to the end of the chapter. Variety is the spice of existence, and the Everton players give their supporters a full benefit of this spice. With an effective centre forward in their ranks I should feel inclined to back Everton for any of the honours offered in the football world; but judging from recent games they seem to reserve their best displays for their matches away from Goodison Park.
RESERVES CALLED OUT
The attraction on Christmas Day was the Lancashire Combination match at Anfield between the reserve teams of Everton and Liverpool. Strong sides were placed on the held, but a poor game ended in favour of the home contingent by three goals to two. Chadwick opened the scoring for Liverpool, and after the interval Dilly and Sheridan obtained goals for Everton. Then Carlin equalized, but close on time Dilly scored the winning points. The game was most disappointing, and a draw would have been a more fitting result. Liverpool spoiled many nice chances by dallying near goal, and instead of a rattling shot being sent in the ball was passed and repassed until an Everton defenders put a stop to the proceedings. The best player on the Liverpool side was Hoare at left back, and in the forward line Carlin bore off the honours. For Everton O’Hagan played a capital game, his passing being excellently timed, and he combined very well with Simpson, considering the few chances he obtained. Murray was an utter failure at left half-back. Wildman played very finely at right half-back, and further behind, Gordon proved a most capable full-back. But with the quality of the play I was utterly disappointed. Had either side possessed a forward that could shoot with any degree of accuracy the game would have been redeemed from the commonplace. As it was there was any amount of aimless kicking, skying the ball and trusting to luck, and plenty of tripping and hacking, which simply destroyed all interest in the contest. If this is the best we can get from the reserve teams the less we see of it and the better, and on the face of it I cannot understand the Anfielders’ position in the results table.
EVERTON RESERVES IN FINE FORM
Against the second eleven of Manchester City, which prior to the preceding Friday had boasted an unbeaten certificate, the Everton reserve eleven gave a capital exhibition, and can now alone boast of an untarnished record in their division. O’Hagan, Sheridan (twice) and Young scored for Everton before the interval; but afterwards the lead was reduced by a free kick. Makepeace then added the fifth from a penalty and Young put on the sixth; whilst Dennison was responsible for the City’s second point. The score scarcely represents the general character of the play, for Everton were not four goals better than their opponents. The forwards however, made no mistake when it came to a question of shooting, and despite the fact that Edmondson kept a good goal he was beaten on six occasions with shots which gave him no chance whatever. O’Hagan again played a very fine game for Everton, and I should fancy this youth, who was secured from the Old Xaverion has a future if given proper scope for his abilities by the other professionals in the team. Henderson at full back, and Whitley were responsible for much sound defensive work and Sheridan improved upon his display of the previous day by exhibiting some really clever bits of work. The result places Everton in a very favourably position for the Championship, and their defence is so reliable that they can view with equanimity occasional lapses by their forwards. In this respect they are exactly like their seniors, but as they have gone through the first half of the season without a reverse their prospects are very encouraging, for they have a big proportion of home matches during the next half.
EVERTON V. BURNLEY
December 28, 1892. The Liverpool Mercury
To the Editor Of the Liverpool Mercury
Gentleman,- I had the misfortune to be a spectator on the Goodison Park ground on Saturday last, and I should like to inquire if it is not within the province of the Football League or the Football Association to compel some respect to the ordinary rules of sport and fairplay? From start to finish of the game the Burnley team were guilty of disreputable and foul play in every conceivable form – tripping, hacking, collaring, and general desire at all hazards to injure their opponents. On one occasion the Everton centre forward when running at full speed, was deliberately tripped up and seriously injured by the fall on the hard ground; Latta was similarly served; Gordon was deliberately kicked in the thigh; Milward was jumped upon by a player, who took a flying leap at him; Chadwick was served in the same fashion; and almost every member of the Everton team received similar treatment, the animating idea of the Burnley team being evidently to injure and knock out as many as possible of their opponents. A more disgraceful exhibition of brutal ruffiannism I venture to say has never been witnessed on a football ground; and in the interests of common decency, if not of the sport itself, should be severely dealt with, otherwise the game will be one to be avoided and discouraged by every right-minded persons; and in my humble opinion the Everton Executive will be wanting in their duty if they do not place the whole circumstances before the Football Association and the governing body of the Football League. P.H.S Liverpool, Dec 26, 1892.
EVERTON v BURNLEY
Burnley Express - Wednesday 28 December 1892
BURNLEY RECORD A VICTORY AWAY FROM HOME.
More than usual interest centered in the first League encounter this season between Burnley and Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday, and despite the bitterly cold weather a crow of ten thousand people assembled to witness the match. Everton relied upon the team which performed so gallantly on their behalf at Trent Bridge the previous Saturday, but Burnley played a re-constructed team. The elevens were composed of the following players;-
Burnley: Hillman, Nicol, Lang, King, Espie, Mullineaux, Crabtree, Buchanan, McNab, Bowes, and Hill. Everton : Jardine, Kelso, Howarth, Stewart, Holt, Jameison, Latta, Gordon, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward. The referee was Mr. J. Lewis, Blackburn.
The ground was very hard and the ball very springy, causing considerable confusion. The home side won the toss. Burnley at once initiated a fierce attack, during which they were within an ace of scoring, Kelso, more by good luck than good management, relieving. Mid-field play followed, in the course of which Holt was cheered for clever play. Latta got possession near the touch line, and sent in a grand centre which Nicol smartly got away, and then the Burnley forwards dashed off to the other end, the ball, after some exciting play on the left wing, finally going harmlessly over the line. For a considerable period the Everton defenders were unable to get the ball away, but relief at length came in the shape of a wild kick by King into the stand. A brief but unproductive visit was paid by the Everton forwards to their opponents' goal, a goal-kick only resulting, and then the visitors quickly returned, Kelso in particular distinguishing himself by his grand defence. A corner, badly placed by Chadwick, then fell to Everton and a moment later, the same player had a shot at goal and sent the ball on the top of the stand. From free kick Holt sent the ball into the net, but although a confident appeal was made that it had touched a player in its progress the referee disregarded the claim. A few minutes afterwards another free kick fell to Everton, and Kelso placed the ball in the net without being touched. Everton continued to have the best of the play, and at last would almost certainly have scored but for Latta being pulled up near the goal mouth. To the surprise of the visitors the referee granted a penalty kick, which Geary took, and with a swift shot struck the cross-bar, the ball rebounding harmlessly into play and being safely got away. Burnley redoubled their exertions after this piece of good fortune, and just upon half-time gamed a couple of corners, the whistle blowing just as the second was about to be taken. Thus nothing was scored at half - time. Upon resuming Everton quickly made tracks for the opposite goal, and the Burnley defence was severely tested. Nicol was penalised for fouling Milward, but Everton profited nothing by the incident. Some grand play on the part the Everton forwards gave Hillman considerable trouble, but he managed to keep his charge intact under trying circumstances. The game continued to be of a fast and interesting description. Milward came in for a special round of applause for the tricky way he dodged several of his opponents. A few minutes before the end the Burnley front line dashed away other end, and from fine centre by Crabtree McNab SCORED THE ONLY GOAL OF THE MATCH, the ball having in the meantime been played by Buchanan, Jardine just touching the ball as it went into the net. After this success the Burnleyites continued to attack with great vigour, and more than once looked certain to score again. As the end came near Everton redoubled their efforts to equalise, Latta once making a splendid run and centre, which Milward almost converted into a goal. At the finish the Everton men were pressing, but it was of avail, and they had to accept defeat by one goal to none, it is conceded that Hillman had more shots to deal with than Jardine, but there was not much in the play generally, though perhaps Everton may claim to have had what little advantage there was. The defence on both sides was the feature of the match, and though the home defenders did well yet the Burnley trio did not suffer by comparison. The half backs, too, did very well indeed on the whole, and particularly Espie. As regards the forwards, the whole they played well, though there was rather too much individual effort. Crabtree was not quite so conspicuous on this occasion. Taken altogether, however, little if any fault can be found with the team, and especially seeing that they created a record by defeating Everton on their own ground for the first time in a League match. The result was received in Burnley with feelings of the greatest possible satisfaction, for the success has raised the dropping hopes of the club's supporters. The win, however, does not at present give Burnley an enhanced position in the table, but the two points were especially welcome.
EVERTON v MOFFATT
Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 28 December 1892
Yesterday being another holiday in Liverpool, the Everton club provided an attractive match for patrons of the Goodison Park grounds, and although the weather was winterly in the extreme, the game was well patronised, about 6,000 spectators being present. A new full back in the person of Millet, of Great Marlow, donned the Everton colours and the team generally was a mixture of League and Combination players. So far as the game went it turned out a very one-sided affair, for rarely did the ball get over the half-line. The ground, however, was so slippery that goal-getting proved a very difficult task, and although the Evertonians were continually “peppering” the Moffatt custodian, the result at half-time was only 2 goals, these being scored by Gordon and Jamieson. On restarting, the game again settled in front of Denholm, the Moffatt goalkeeper, who had previously saved some good shots. In five minutes Pinnell, however, with a splendid shie from a thirsty yards’ range, scored the third goal, which he supplemented shortly afterwards from a free kick taken by Parry. Moffatt then forced a couple of corners from the home club, and Jardine once had to handle the leather. There were the only occasions on which Moffatt were at all dangerous, and a one-sided game ended in favour of Everton by 4 goals to nothing.
NORTHWICH VICTORIA v. EVERTON COMBINATIION
Northwich Guardian - Wednesday 28 December 1892
The Victorians met Everton Combination on the Drill Field in a friendly fixture on Monday. The visitors were fully represented, while the Vics were without Postles (back) and McBeth (forward), Smith and Drinkwater filling their places respectively. Gow, too, was again tried in goal, and on entering the field he received an ovation. There was a very large crowd of spectators, fully 3,000. The teams were-
Northwich Victoria; Gow, goal; Scanlan and Smith, backs; Stanley, Crozier, and Ramsey, half-backs; Fecitt, Drinkwater, Bradshaw, Finnerhan, and Hargreaves, forwards.
Everton Combination; Williams, goal; Chadwick, and Cornes, backs; McLaren, Jones and Coyle, half-backs; Gordon, Murray, Pinnell, Elliott, and McMillan, forwards.
Everton opened with a run on the right wing, which Crozier effectively spoiled, and then Fecitt and Drinkwater took up the strain, only to be repulsed by Chadwick, Pinnell looked in a scoring mood, but two deadly shots put in by him were well negotiated. Time after time did the local forwards take the field, but some of them dallied too long with the ball. From a nice cross by Drinkwater, Finnerhan shot fiercely, Williams fisting out with skill. For a spell the Evertonians pressed, Scanlan saving many a stringer. When Gow was called upon he elicited cheer after cheer by his noble defence. Taken on the whole, the first half was pretty evenly contested, the Reds having the best of matters. Ramsey and Stanley each sent in lightning shots, but it appeared as if Williams could not be defeated, and he dealt with the charges of these two “half’s” in a manner similar to that in which he disposed of the forward efforts. Gordon and Murray made a clean spurt, the latter swinging it in. Gow, however, caught and, at the same time, overthrew Pinnell, who was paying him unnecessary attention. The same forwards forced Scanlan to concede a corner, which Gordon took and put in with force, the home custodian throwing out very cleverly. The corners which following was equally well taken and dropped into the mouth, some one in the scrimmage touching it through. This occurred a moment or two before the call of half-time.
On resumption the salt lads played with a vigour which deserved, but did not meet with success. Chadwick and Cornes, who had been playing in champion style, were now often vanquished; but still the goals would not come, the forwards, for one thing, shooting injudiciously or else making muffs. Though bombarding terrifically, it appeared as if the home team would be unable to equalise, and the supporters were beginning to imagine that their favourites had been defeated when five minutes from the call of time the Victorians had registered nothing. Finnerhan threw away a very easy chance. Fecitt had passed to him within a few yards of Williams, but, to the chagrin of the onlookers, he kicked wildly. Twice Fecitt whizzled in, the keeper catching. Drinkwater followed suit, yet he could not get past. Three minutes from the finish, Ramsey fired along the ground; Williams was ready to hand, but allowed the ball to slip through his fingers amid the wildest excitement. From the kick off, Hargreaves secured, and getting round Cornes, gave to Finnerhan. That player most beautifully crossed to Bradshaw, who caught as the sphere was dropping and fired rapidly into the net, thus scoring the winning point. From this time to the close the Reds had all their own way, and had they played with such determination during the early stages the defeat would have been most drastic. As it was, the contest ended- Northwich 2 goals, Everton 1.
NOTES OF THE GAME
The Victorians have now defeated four different Liverpool teams-Everton Combiantion, Caledonians, Liverpool and Bootle. This is something to be proud of. To those who have closely followed their recent play, their form on Saturday was sadly too bad to be true. It was distinctly unlucky that they should have fallen amiss on the occasion of such an important match. Small Heath soon discovered a very weak spot- in goal- and made great capital out of it. That particular defect was effectually remedied on Monday by the reinstatement of Gow in the position of custodian. The team which faced the Evertonians as a whole acquitted itself grandly, Drinkwater and Smith proving themselves capable substitutes. Proper attention was given to the all-important matter of combination, and some very smart and pretty passing was the result, the hard and slippery mature of the ground notwithstanding. At the same time there was a disposition on the part of one or two to “dally” which they will do well to avoid in the future. Shooting at goal, too, was at times somewhat erratic. Still, Williams, the Everton defender, had a warm and lively time, the homesters often experiencing the hardest of hard line. The visitors also played splendidly, and would have put a different complexion on the match but for Gow’s superb form between the upright. The first point which was obtained by Everton was a very lucky one, the ball passing into the net out of a sharp scrimmage in the mouth of goal. Up to within five minutes of the call of time, fortune continued unkind to the home team. Then a welcome change came o’er the scene. Everton goal was subjected to a fierce bombardment which ended in its capture. This feat infused fresh energy into the local men, who with brilliant forward dashes, completely penned their opponents during the short time that remained for play. A swift shot from Bradshaw sent the ball whirring past Williams, and thus was added another win to the Victorian list of successes. The delight of the spectators was expressed in uproarious cheering. With regard to the play of the Victorian representatives there were some slight defects noticeable; but taken all round their play was highly creditable, and they are to be heartily congratulated upon having to a very large extent wiped out the unfortunate blot of Saturday. Too much praise cannot be accorded to Gow, and it is hoped that the committee will now decide to retain his services.
EVERTON V BURNLEY
December 29, 1892. The Liverpool Echo
To the Editor of the Liverpool Mercury
Gentleman –Being a partisan of neither of the above clubs I would like to say a few words against the unjust attack made by “P.H.S.”In your issue of today (Wednesday) against the Burnley team. Burnley beat Everton last Saturday by 1 goal to nil. They deserved to win because they played the most scientific game of football –not of roughness, as “P.H.S” would lead your readers to believe. If Everton had won, would “P.H.S.” have taken the trouble to level such unfair charges against Burnley? I think not. Because Everton did not win he rushes frantically into print and accuse the Burnley players of “tripping, backing, collaring, and a general desire at all hazards to injuce their opponents. This is untrue, and shows the animus and spleen which characterise the whole of your correspondent's letter. Mr. Lewis is a gentleman well known in the football world as a referee of the highest honour, and for the conscientious discharge of his duty there are few to equal him. I am sure your readers will agree with me when I say that no referee, putting aside Mr. Lewis, would countenance such unfair play as “P.H.S” has so vindictively brought against the Burnley players.
Dec 28, 1892. John Soley.
EVERTON V BURNLEY
December 30, 1892. The Liverpool Mercury
To the Editor of the Liverpool Mercury
Gentleman –I should imagine your correspondent Mr. Soley writes from ignorance of what scientific football is, or else for love of contradiction. I saw the game on Saturday, and, with thousands more, left the field with the firm conviction that as an exhibition of foul football Burnley had excelled themselves, and that if justice and fairness were dealth out of them they would be expelled from the League. We all know that Mr. Lewis, as a referee, is not to be beaten, and nobody questions him in the conscientious discharge of his duty, and what he thought of Burnley was evident by the penalty kick he gave against them, besides no end of fouls. If Burnley go on improving on such “scientific” play as theirs of Saturday last, why the next time they come to Everton we shall have to engage ambulances to take away the damaged Everton men, who in their effort to show what proper football is, were beaten by a team every way their inferior. Liverpool Dec 29, 182. Spectator.
TODAYS FOOTBALL
December 31, 1892. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton lie low as regards the League, and will meet Burton Swifts in an ordinary return match at Goodison Park, the first match played as far back as September 7, having been won by Everton with the score 3 goals to 2. The Swifts also played Bootle in September but then won 2 goals to 1 and at present stand fifth in the second division of the League. They are thus almost certain to give Everton a close game.
Monday
Everton League v Newcastle East End, Newcastle
Everton Combination v Stoke Swifts, Goodison Park
Tuesday
Everton v. Sunderland, Sunderland (League)
Everton v. Glasgow Thistle, Goodison Park
Wednesday
Everton League v. Middslbrough, Middlesbrough
CHESTER V EVERTON
December 31, 1892. The Cheshire Observer
There were great rejoicing in the Chester camp on Saturday, at the victory of the Cestrians over their formable rivals Everton. To be the first to lower the colours of the redoubtable Evertonians two seasons running has given the utmost satisfaction too the Cestrians. The Evertonians figured in the Combination which, up to a week ago was, won all, lost none, drawn one, after Saturday stood; Played 13, Won 11, Lost 1, Drawn 1, Points 23; while their opponents basked under the score of played 10, won 4, lost 4, drawn 2, points 10. Thompson, who was absentee in the home ranks, was supplanted by little Rimmer, while Heyes (late of Northwich Victoria) partnered Lewis on the left. There was a large crowd, and the greatest excitement prevailed. Ashton started, and Hartley securing was within an ace of scoring. Pay was kept busy for a time, and then Carter transferred to Heyes, who dashed up, but Chadwick sent them back. Lewis and Heyes came again, and working it near, scored amid a loud burst of cheering. Both teams resorted to long punting, and after dallying about Pay's charge the visitors equalised. Excitement now ran high, and Morris with a neat dashed away, and on being hampered, by Collins he lifted the sphere with force straight through the “toffy” boys' goal, nearly from the half-way line, it was a splendid shot, and Williams was fairly bewildered by it. Chester continued to press, and the two “C's” were kept alert, but as last Lewis got the better of Chadwick, and shot in a little wide, but Fleming, who was on the alert, headed through, the cheers at this renewed success of the homesters being both loud and long. Urged on by the frantic shouts from all parts of the field, the Cestrians shone conspicuous, and Fleming and Morris were prominent for some good work, and they are to be complimented on the matter they obtained the mastery over Collins. Porter was censured by the referee for rough play, and the game was interrupted for a short time through Collins coming into contact rather heavily with mother earth. Continuing the encounter, was both fast and furious, but nothing further resulted, and Chester in the envisable position of being in front by three goals to one. Upon the resumption, the Evertonians, whose staying powers were probably more sound than the homesters, were soon in evidence, and it was not long before the Chester defence were called upon to save dangerous shots, Elliott, over-running Powell, scored, and then the struggle for supremacy commenced. Ashton, who was always well up, missed a nice chance when Collins nulled his kick, and immediately afterwards Heyes struck the upright. An exciting scrimmage in front of Pay's charge caused considerable uneasiness to the home partisans, but, to their delight, the goalkeeper proved equal to the occasion, and the ball was got safely away. From that point Everton were penned in their own territory , and when the whistle sounded time, which was anxiously awaited for, the Cestrians retired victorious by three goals to two, and the spectators were simply wild with delight. It was a smart performance on the part of Chester to again turn the tables, and they were highly congratulated on all hands. The homesters seem to rise to the occasion with the Liverpool men visit Chester, and I never remember to have seen them play so combined together and with such excellent judgement as on Saturday. Pay played an admirable game, and he dealt with all kinds of shots in a masterly manner. His confrere's Powell and Wilson, never played better, the former's superb tackling and the latter's fine kicking being worthy of special notice. Carter affected many neat saves when the Evertonians were making their well-known deadly shots, while Porters weight served him capitally. His kicking was clean, long and Heyes were a capital pair, and the latter is a great acquisition to the home eleven. His quickness on the ball-being everywhere and in every position for readiness and tackling –helped the Cestrian vastly, and, no, doubt greatly assisted them to gain so brilliant a victory. Heyes does not dally with the ball, and passes with accuracy. Lewis exhibited some of his old form, and he was loudly applauded for his clever dodges rounded the visiting backs. He was always to the fore. Ashton fed his forwards splendidly, and brilliant runs and dash were excellent. The right wing-Fleming and Morris –were both speedy and tricky. Williams, in the Everton goal, acquitted himself very well, although he might have stopped the second goal. The other two points were rather difficult ones. Chadwick and Collins were always on the alert. The halves were good, and the forwards –especially Elliott and McMillian –were a trifle superior to the other pair on the opposite wing. The Everton men, when they found they were having the worse of the argument, played an exceedingly rough game, and their tactics were very unfair and ungentlmanly. It is about time they learned to take a beating without resorting to such reprehensive methods.
Combination –Chester v Everton.
The champions of the combination –Everton make their first appearance this season at the Faulkner-street enclosure on Saturday, to try conclusions with the City team, when they met at the commencement of the present campaign, the Evertonians were victorious by ten goals to one. Since that time the Cestrians have shown improved form, and they were determined, if possible, to avenge that crushing defeat. The Liverpool men had not up till Saturday been defeated. The teams were: - Chester: - Pay, goal; Powell and Wilson, backs; Rimmer, Porter, and Carter, half-backs; Morris, Fleming, Ashton, Lewis, and heyes, forwards. Everton: - Williams, goal; Chadwick and Collins, backs; Coyle, Jones, Collinson, half-backs; McLaren, Murray, Hartley, McMillan, and Elliott, forwards. The weather was beautifully fine, and the attendance was very large, Chester kick-off, and Pay's goal was immediately in danger, but he cleared. Heyes dashed finely up the field, but Lewis put it outside. Chadwick kicked out, and then heyes troubled Collins and Chadwick, Lewis intervened, Heyes scoring with a beauty. Wilson was next forced to save, Elliott beleaguered Pay, who was badly “shinned,” and the ball went through. Fleming had a near chance. Morris from the centre line punted splendidly in, and Williams missing, the sphere went flying through. Ashton and Morris passed beautifully, but Williams cleared easily, Wilson saved at the other end, and several visitations to one goal and then the other were made, nothing resulting. Lewis was intercepted by Chadwick in the nick of time, and Pay was defeated by Hartley, but the whistle had sounded for “off-side.” Murray bustled Wilson, but Carter saved. Porter treated the spectators to two of his immense throw-in, and Ashton, Lewis, and Heyes frequently troubled the Evertonians defence. Lewis next received the ball from Carter and ran splendidly up, passing Chadwick, but he shot rather wide. Fleming secured, and headed the sphere through, defeating Williams for the third time. Porter fouled one of the Evertonian forwards, and was cautioned by the referee, play being stopped for some time. Restarting the visitors dashed off, and looked extremely dangerous, Pay saving repeatedly. Pay was again stopped, Collins being “Winded” Everton ratted down, but to no avail, and Heyes, who played a capital game, raced nicely along and then Fleming tried his hand, but failed to convert. Hartley struck the cross-bar, and the whistle sounded for a rest. Half-time score Chester 3, Everton 1. Recommencing Everton forced Pay to give a corner, but Morris got away and shot wide. Fleming repeated the offence, and Porter saved a beautifully straight shot from Jones. Wilson cleared when Hartley was about to shot. Ashton and Lewis each got crippled, but the matter was unnoticed by the referee. Everton played a rough game, and Heyes were injured on the leg. Lewis waltzed nicely round Chadwick, but his final shot was weak. He came sailing along again, but fell –tripped –when on the point of banging it in, and immediately afterwards, Ashton shot outside. Heyes placed the sphere in Williams hands ad Elliott and Mclaren, who frequently troubled the home back division, passed Seth Powell once, and Pay ran out, the consequence being that Elliott pooped it through. Powell cleared again from the same player and then Pay saved a shot. Ashton went away, but Collins got the best of the tussle. Carter saved, and then Murray Everton scored a goal, which the referee deemed “off-side” much to the delight of the spectators. Ashton failed at the last moment, and afterwards Heyes struck the upright. Pay saved a warm one, and next conceded a corner. A most exciting scrimmage in front of the Chester goal followed, but Pay negotiated splendidly, Lewis looked dangerous, but was “off-side.” Everton pressed now, and Porter kick-out. Chester grandly and the visiting halves and backs played a rough game, resorting to all sorts of questionable tactics. The whistle sounded time with the score –Chester 3 goals, Everton 2 goals.
GOODISONIA
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 31 December 1892
By “Black Rock”
The most disappointing game ever witnessed on Goodison-rd, took place last Saturday, when Burnley were the visitors. After Everton’s clever successes lately it was universally thought that they were certain of adding two more points to their comparatively speaking, poor record. But it was otherwise, and the visitors achieved a victory of one goal to nil. Mr. J. Lewis, who officiated as referee, had not a happy time of it, and, be it said to his credit, he did not shirk his onerous duties. The free kicks awarded as the penalty for several bad fouls by Burnley did not avail Everton anything, three of them near goal being placed in the net untouched by any but the player. The ball was not, indeed, spherical, and many complaints were made by the players on the score. Much was expected of Geary and his partners, but the centre forward received a shaking that settled him for the afternoon. Everton gained a penalty kick, but “Fred” had the hardest of luck in striking the top of the post. Burnley played a strong game, particularly behind, Espie proving himself one of the best halves that ever appeared on the new ground. Many were the praiseworthy efforts of Milward and Latta, but, if Lang or Nicol failed, Hillman was a veritable fortress behind. Bowes and Hill were miles ahead of Buchanan and Crabtree in the former stages, but, towards the finish, the right wing pair made ample amends. Stewart of whom much was expected in this match, caused the outside left to look very soft on many occasions. The hard and unduly rough methods of the visitors’ defenders seemed to outwear the efforts of the home five. King, who was not brilliant at first, created a great surprise by the way he tackled Chadwick and Milward. Then, again, with Geary incapable, it was not the first time that I have noticed how the other men in front do very little. Geary’s presence is certainly inspiring, and, when he fails to score, it appears no one else can. The goal that fell to Bunrley was somewhat of a fluke, although the previous good play of Crabtree and Buchanan merited it. “Twas obtained in this wise; Crabtree threw in, Buchanan and Howarth went to meet the ball, which was sent thence over Howarth’s head towards the touchline and Kelso, seeming undecided what to do, the ball was centred by Buchanan, and McNab put it through. Jardine played a very fine game, and had not the least chance, as the centre was but a few yards from him. I will offer no individual criticism, but simply say that Burnley are a strong and clever eleven, deserving a better position on the League eleven, deserving a better position on the League register if they will only play fair. Everton’s forwards were not seen to that advantage we expected, the strong and capable rushes of the visitors overcoming them. The home defence was up to the mark, and if they continue in this sweet way ‘twill not be their fault if more victories do not fall to them. The forwards will do more good if they shoot a little oftener, instead of dallying or attempting to dance round the halves, and thus giving time to their opponents to fall back and aid their men.
EVERTON V BOOTLE
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 31 December 1892
By “Black Rock”
Borne on by the wheel of time this annual holiday football fixture has come and gone. What a host of varied cherished recollections and remembrances encircle themselves round the meeting of these near and dear neightbours! But these clubs of today are not the clubs of yesterday. Everton have run the faster, and are just a League in front. And in the race the old spirit of jealously has been slowly yet surely dying out, and the true and manly spirit of honest rivalry has succeeded. This must have been observed by ordinary patrons in the last few encounters, and especially was it conspicuous last Monday, for in all the meetings (and I have seen mostly all and played in many) such a peaceful, quiet, gentlemanly, and satisfactory game has never before been chronised. It was of such a nature that one regretted its termination. The day was seasonable, the ground hard, the ball unusually supple, and the crowd of 13,000 (representing 280 pounds) cheered unbiasedly the many good points of their respected and respective representatives. Bootle were minus Davies and Brandon, the former being left out for indifferent play at Walsall, and the latter through an accident in the same match. Everton tried their two latest recruits –Hartley, of Dumbarton, and Parry of the Caledonians. Smith, of the Combination, partnered Latta, and Rennie kept goal.
THE PLAY
On commencing, both sides appeared to me to be extremely cautious and consequently the game was rather tame. But after a while, when the players warmed to their work, the game became very interesting, and then people cheered lustily. I was agreeably stuck with the neat and pleasing passing of the visitors. Their combination was particularly close and good (in fact, a revelation to me), and naturally drew forth high eulogiums from their surprising number of followers. (I wondered they had so many. Perhaps they will pay them a few visits a little oftener now.) Everton mainly made ground by the wings, Hartley in the centre scarcely ever finding his feet; but when he did his short journey was broken abruptly by “Billy” Hughes, who liked him so well that he never left him. The only goal scored in the first half was secured by Latta, who beat McLoughlin by a very awkward shot. Holt was a master in his position. Clarkin from a good position centred, and Grierson, who was always well up, just shot into the net, giving Rennie no chance. New life was infused by Latta letting fly at “Mac” who did a clever bit of goalkeeping in saving. Excitement grew as both sets of forwards were near to their opposing custodians, and the keen struggle for the mastery made us forget the severity of the weather. Just towards the finish Milward went centre to effect a change, but it was useless, and the curtain rang down without further score.
PITHY RECAPITULATION.
Rennie proved his knowledge and ability as a custodian. Parry was simply great, and on this form Everton have a capable left back if they desire Kelso at half. Howarth was up to his usual standard, and although a big player always gentle. Holt played almost a perfect game, but showed bad feeling on one occasion to Robertson. Stewart was good, and Bob, although taking it rather easy, filled his favourite place at right half in good style. The forwards are weak, and it is owing to them that their team did not win. Hartley simply did next to nothing, and on his display is not worth a place in the Combination team. Smith is a pretty player but was not effective and only Latta worked right through, with that determination that commands success. Bootle’s form was marvelous when we consider this season’s performances, and although, their sec, informs me, they have played equally well before and lost, I am inclined to think he has made a mistake. There was not a weak spot in the elven, and so well did they generally combine and act that Evertonians were as satisfied with the draw as Bootle. It must been comforting to the directors to see their forwards show such consummate judgement, their halves such fearless tackling, and their custodian and backs possessed of the happy knack of being the right men in the right place at the right time. Their president, Mr. Vicars, the life and soul of the club, was so satisfied that he gave a supper to the team the following night.
THE GREAT “FITE”
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 31 December 1892
By Richard Samuel
The interest taken in the meeting of Everton and Bootle continues keen, though the excitement is not so intense as it was four years ago, when after an interval of several years the two teams met on Boxing day, and on that occasion the match resulted in a draw, no goals being scored. Then, on March 9th the teams met at Bootle, and another draw was the result, but in the following month Bootle were victorious at Anfield. The Boxing Day match was kept up for another year, and then dropped until this year. Home and home matches have taken place each season, but Everton have gone ahead in the meantime, and have had the better of the argument to such an extent that the interest in the matches was on the wane. Neither club have this season played a consistently good game week after week, but when apparently going from bad to worse each team has come out of its shell, and astonished its supporters by winning events which were put down as lost. Bootle did a good thing on December 17th, when the team took down Grimsby by three goals to one, and I expressed my conviction last week that if the men would only play such a game against Everton at Goodison Park lads would have to trot to beat them. A win over Notts County on the same day put the Everton team in a more favourable light for the encounter which, needless to say, had thus received additional interest from these performances. There would be about 12,000 spectators present. Bootle put their best team on the field, whilst Everton were without Geary, which let in Hartley, a new centre forward from Dumbarton. The ground was hard but in good condition for a fast game and we were treated to a splendid exposition of football. It was a rare good game, and there was scarcely a foul during the whole afternoon. Up to the time Latta scored the home eleven had the worst of it both in the exchanges and the actual play, and the point had certainly a flavor of offside about it. At the interval Everton led by one goal to nil, but Grierson soon equalized after the resumption of play. In the end the game was left drawn, one goal each having been scored. No one has any occasion to grumble at the result, for both teams played a grand game, and there was scarcely anything in them on the day’s play.
SOME CRITICISMS
Except it be a little faltering on the part of Montgomery, and a bit of unsteadiness of Hope-Robertson at the start, there was not a weak man on the Bootle side. Robertson speedily recovered himself, and, I should say, played the finest game of any he has previously played in Liverpool. Chadwick and Milward require a lot of watching, and Robertson came out of the ordeal in a creditable manner. McLoughlin kept goal splendidly, and proved full of resource in several shots from close quarters. Both Hutchinson and Arridge played a confident game, and their kicking and tackling left nothing to be desired. McEwan surprised everybody by his successful dealing against Latta, and the lad never seemed to tire. Hughes was also effective, and all three half-backs compared favourably with their opponents. The forwards were not a whit behind them, and all five got through a lot of work. The Everton men played a good game, but the defence was better than the attack. Hartley was only medium in the centre, and there was no improvement when he went on the wing with Chadwick. Smith was very tidy at the start and gave Latta much assistance, but McEwan had much the better of the argument with him throughout the game.
EVERTON V. BURTON SWIFTS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 31 December 1892
At Everton, in bleak weather, a south-east wind blowing. Five minutes before the advertised time for the kick-off there were not more than 500 spectators. Teams;- Everton; Rennie, goal; Parry and Howarth, backs; Stewart, Holt and Kelso, half-backs; Latta, Boyle, Geary, Chadwick and Milward, forwards. Burton Swifts;- Hadley, goal; Furness, and Berry, backs; Spencer, Perry and Sutherland, half-backs; Sissone, Emery, Worrall, Devey and May, forwards. Referee; Mr. Roche.
Geary kick-off, and both sets of forwards ran down in turn. From a neat centre by Chadwick, Geary made a good attempt. Holt next shot over, Everton pressing and Furniss defending well. From a misunderstanding between Perry and Furniss Geary lost a splendid opportunity. Burton raced away, Howarth sending it back, Hadley saved from Latta, then Milward put over through May. The visitors won a corner, which was nicely placed, Rennie saving. Everton were doing everything but score. Burton made headway and Holt was enthusiastically cheered, beating three opponents. After numerous chances Milward scored and Boyle added a second.
Half-time; Everton 2, Burton Swifts 0.
At the interval the crowd had increased to 3,000. Everton enjoyed two-thirds of the play, Stewart, Chadwick and Geary adding goals. Devey put in a solitary goal in favour of the visitors. The Burton backs were the best part of the team, the forwards only now and then exhibiting anything dangerous. Boyle made a fair debut at inside right. Devey was conspicuous among the visitors’ forwards, but the game on the whole was disappointing. Final; Everton 5, Burton Swifts 1
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 31 December 1892
AT LIVERPOOL
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 31 December 1892
Everton, as last year, experienced a “Christmas fall.” Sunderland it was the previous Christmas that brought them down; now it is Burnley. It was quite unexpected that the Turf Moorites would carry the day at Goodison Park last Saturday, and the tumble was thus all the more vexatious.
Everton had the identical team which had beaten Notts County the previous week at Trent Bridge, but Burnley made at least four changes from the eleven that had failed at Ewood, Matthews, Lambie, Chambers, and Place standing out and Espie, Mullineaux, Buchannan, and McNab stepping in. the ground was hard but smooth, and not without danger in a game that was not expected to be “kid-glovish.” Everton were on the attack two-thirds of the time, but could not score; Burnley pressed the one-third, and scored once, and were thus the smartest team. It was an ugly game to witness, however, and how reckless and questionable were the tactics adopted is evidenced in the free kicks, including a penalty one, that was awarded almost every five minutes.
FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 31 December 1892
Everton v. Bootle was a rather appropriate fixture for Boxing Day, and attracted the usual large attendance to the Goodison ground. The Everton club were not disposed to put what is styled “a full League team” on the field, and they narrowly escaped defeat, the score at the finish being 1 goal each. As well as the hard ground and thick fog would permit, both sides played a rasping good game, and, if anything, Bootle had the best of it. McLaughlin, Arridge and Hutchinson were full of good defence, which they frequently had to display; and Hughes and Robertson were the means of keeping the forwards busy attacking more often than the Evertonians cared for, Grierson, McLafferty, and Clarkin doing good work in the Bootle front line. Parry, who appears to have improved a lot since he last carried the Everton colours, eased Rennie of a lot of his work in goal.
