THE EVERTON-NORTH END MATCH
March 2, 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
The North End team are in regular practice for their match with Everton in the Cup semi-final next Saturday. Trainor has recovered from his injury, and will appear beneath the upright; but Russell, who is lame, will probably be succeeded at centre forward by Drummond. The team leave Preston on Friday, and they will probably line up against Everton at Sheffield in the following order;- Trainor, goal; Holmes, and Ross, backs; Grier, Sanders, and Stewart, half-backs; Gordon, J. Ross, Drummond, Beckton, and Cowan, forwards.
TODAY'S MATCH
March 4, 1893, The Liverpool Mercury
The eyes of Liverpool, so to speak, will be on the performances of Everton and Preston North End at Bramell Lane, Sheffield. No semi-final tie was ever rendered more interesting or more difficult of forecasting in its issue. Collateral form is not generally are reliable index; but if it can be depended upon Everton should win, for they have been phenomenally consistent during the past couple of months during which time they have been phenomenally consistent during the past couple of months during which time they have beaten nine League teams in succession, included among whom were Preston North End, and who were actually defeated at Goodison Park by six goals to nil. Since then North End have drawn with Ironoplis at Middlesbrough, and then routed the “Nopes” in a sensational manner by seven goals to nil on the following Saturday. This letter achievement has brought many friends to the side of North End, but its worth may be easily over-valued. However, it will be a stern fight to-day for which careful training has prepared both teams. Several excursions are announced. At Goodison Park Everton will encounter the Burnley Swifts, who are in command of the North East Lancashire League in connection with which they have not lost a match.
Everton v. Preston North End, Bramell-lane, Sheffield, Kick-off at 3..30 p.m. a selection will be made from the following to play for Everton; William, goal; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Maxwell, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Preston North End; Trainor, goal; Holme, and Ross, backs; Grier, Sanders, and Stewart, half-backs; Gordon, J. Ross, Drummond, Beckton, and Cowan, forwards. Referee; Mr. C.J. Hughes (Cheshire), Linesmen, Messrs J. Howcroft (Northamberland) and M. Roberts (Derby).
Everton Combination v. Burnley Swifts, Goodison Park, Kick-off. At four o'clock. The following will play for Everton; Jardine, goal; Chadwick and Parry, backs; Coyle, Jones, and Jamieson, half-backs; Smith, Murray, Hartley, McMillan, and Elliott, forwards.
ACCRINGTON BEATEN BY EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 04 March 1893
By Pilican
The appearance of Everton at Accrington created more than ordinary interest, notwithstanding the Reds’ inability to get themselves in a winning humour this last month. At the request of Everton, the kick-off was delayed till 3-30, this being to allow the three specials from Liverpool to reach Accrington in time to see Maxwell put the first touch to the ball in the match. Everton had a lot of friends on the ground, bringing along with them usual rattles, and one gentleman on the foot stand fairly amused himself with a broken down cornet. Their improved form easily won them the game. No one who saw the match can have two opinion’s as to which was the better team. Everton’s dash both in attack and defence, was greatly in advance and altogether superior to that of Accrington. Comparing the first match, which ended in a drawn game at Liverpool, to last Saturday’s the position of the two teams seems to have been reversed. Then Everton had leaps to severe criticism poured upon them. McLellan excelled himself on that occasion. On Saturday he was out of the team. Wonderful change. Though not to be good enough by the committee. Everton, however, have improved theirs ways since then, and on Saturday fully demonstrated that they are a clever team in every respect. It was a rattling good shot which gave them their first goal, from the foot of Edgar Chadwick, though in my opinion Hay ought to have managed it better than he did. Then Holt came in for notice along with the Hon. Fitz. I had never previously seen the curly-headed darling in such a scene before, therefore I was all the more surprised. Holt had certainly no right to question his decision in regard to hands, or even approach the referee in the manner he did, and I am inclined to believe it was this more than anything else that got “Fitz” so aggravated. However, the matter blew over, but I did hear afterwards that the Everton executive who were all more or less perched on the stand, meant to report the whole affair. Chadwick got in with a second after good work, a penalty kick against Ditchfield gave them their third, and with this the scoring ceased. There were times and particularly on turning over, when Accrington showed glimpses of their old form, but when it came to Williams, just when they should have scored, either Cookson fell H. Lea was too slow, or one of the other forwards shot amongst the spectators. It is difficult to account for Accrington’s falling away in form. Prior to the New Year it was a common practice to see the team come out with three or four goals to their name, but now, note the difference. In eight matches they have scored four goals! What does that say? Either the defence of opposing teams has become considerably better, or Accrington’s forward play has become weaker and weaker, until it is now a matter of case for any backs to repel then. With Hodge and Bowie in the team, better things were certainly looked for. Surely they have not given up all hopes of ever scoring again? Stewart is now one of Everton’s brightest stars, and it is curious that they have never looked back since he joined them. His play was grand, and quite up to his reputation; in fact, the half-back play all along the line was marked by fine judgement. Holt was streets ahead of Bowie, who seemed to lack go and dash, whilst Hodge was scarcely any better in the first half- though he did improve in the second, when he several times got the better of Milward and Chadwick.
PRESTON NORTH END V. EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 04 March 1893
When the draw for the semi-final ties was made the North End had still to decide their tie with Middlesbro Ironopolis. Or it is quite possible that a Lancashire ground might have been selected for the meeting of the great rivals. Ever since Everton astonished the world by winning the return League match with the North End by six goals to nil the latter have been dying for revenge and the opportunity came today. It was the first time the clubs had met on neutral territory, and in the matter of experience the Prestonians had a decided pull. Everton may be said to have been in continuous train for some weeks, Hoylake being the “happy hunting ground.” They have had a marvelous run of successes since Christmas, and did not lack confidence as regards the result today. Their antagonists, who had done their preparations quietly at home, were equally confident, although two or three of their players were suffering from injuries. Below will be found the doings of the two clubs in the League this season from which it will be seen that the North End have considerably the best record;-
P.N. End- P22-W15-L6-D1-For 64-Agst 29-Pts 31
Everton -P25-W12-L9-D1-For 58-Agst -46-Pts 28
On the above performances the finger of probability had a decided leaning for the old champions. The fortunes of the clubs were entrusted to the undernamed;-
Everton; Williams, goal; Kelso and Howarth (Captain), backs; Boyle, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Maxwell, Chadwick and Milward. Preston North End;- Trainer (Captain), goal; Holmes and Ross, backs; Grier, Sanders, and Stewart, half-backs; Gordon, J. Ross, Drummond, Beckton, and Cowan, forwards. Referee; Mr. C.J. Hughes (Cheshire). Linesmen, Messrs J. Howcroft (Nothumberland) and M. Roberts (Derby). An hour before the time set for the commencement of the game there appeared little possibility of another spectator finding accommodation in the enclosure. Although rain had fallen almost continuously for several days proceeding, the sky was bright throughout the morning, but ominous black clouds gathered about three o’clock, and the outlook became unpromising. The ground was terribly greasy, and the probabilities of a scientific game suffered in consequence. For some time before the teams appeared there were rumours that neither club would be represented by its full strength, but fortunately they had little foundation in truth, as upon arrival on the ground it was found the elevens were as above. Excitement ran high as the time for the start approached, cries and counter cries for the clubs rendering every other sound inaudible. Ten minutes before time the teams appeared for practice. Everton won the toss, and Drummond kicked off against a slight wind and sun. Everton pressed at the start, and after eight minutes Gordon (Everton), from a pretty pass by Latta, obtained the first point. Directly after Preston should have equalized, but Gordon (Preston) kicked over and Everton again pressed and obtained a corner, Ross clearing. A fine run gave Latta a chance, but he failed. Everton continued to show the better form, and appeared more at home on the greasy ground. Latta distinguished himself in several attacks, and nearly scored on two occasions, completely out-maneuvering Ross. When the game had been in progress 25 minutes Chadwick obtained possession and with a clever stroke scored Everton’s second point amidst tumultuous cheering from their followers. The Preston forwards played up, but Drummond spoiled the combination. Everton, naturally elated with their success, played finely, and were assisted by a freshening wind, while Preston were handicapped by Grier’s increasing lameness and Gordon’s poor play on the right wing. James Ross in an attack passed to Gordon, who sent in a fast shot, but William saved. Half-time; Everton 2, Preston North End 0.
Despite the advantage of the breeze Preston had but little if any the better of the early play in the second half, the Liverpool eleven being more together than their opponents. In a break away Preston missed a great opportunity when Gordon, who was close in goal, miskicked a magnificent pass by Cowan, but a minute later Gordon made amends by shooting a fine goal from a corner. The game continued to be keenly contested, and Nick Ross had four fouls given against him. Gordon (Everton) hurt his knee, and retired for five minutes. After 20 minutes a new ball was requisitioned, the original having lost all shape. At the end of 25 minutes, amidst intense excitement, Cowan equalized for Preston, from a splendid pass by Beckton. Preston directly after obtained a corner, but nothing resulted. Both made tremendous exertions, and the exchanges were fast and even. Everton became a little wild in their anxiety, and their combination deteriorated. In an attack they were dangerous from a kick by Chadwick, but Trainer threw away. The Preston penned them, but nothing resulted, and the game ended in a draw. Final; Everton 2, Preston North End 2.
OLYMPIAN’S SPECIAL
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 04 March 1893
It was a pleasure to find the weather favourable for the great match, and a crowd of immense dimensions. Bramall-lane is associated with many famous gatherings, but that of to-day cut all record. Excursions poured visitors into the town, and the sight at the ground was most striking. Thirty thousand would doubtless be a pretty correct estimate of the number present. When Howarth beat Trainer in the toss a cheer went up from the Everton spectators, as Preston had wind and sun to face. Just as Chadwick kicked past for the first time the barrier gave way and the spectators tumbled into the arena by the score, the crush being tremendous. Everton soon showed cleverness, and a deafening shout went up as Gordon scored, the result of good play by Latta and bad play by Jack Ross. Then to keep up the excitement Preston rushed away and Gordon kicked over the top, a grievous blunder. Trainer knocked out a grand shot by Boyle. There was no stopping the Everton forwards, who were not only very fast very tricky, but presently Preston forced two corners. Cowan screwed across grandly, and Drummond just missed heading a goal. Latta had frequent tussles with Jack Ross, and more than held his own. Play was most interesting and brimful of excitement, as the ball travelled about with great rapidity. Drummond had the goal at his mercy when he was erroneously pulled up for offside. Then came another calamity for Preston, a nice pass by Holt enabling Chadwick to kick an easy goal. Two points inside twenty five minutes sent the Liverpool spectators into ecstasies. Everton were certainly going strongly, their passing and backing-up being admirable. The wind was blowing with much force, which was, of course an advantage. Drummond was not an ideal centre and was decidedly slow in marked contrast to some of his feet-footed antagonists. It was only by a desperate effort that Preston could keep out their rivals, every one of whom was full of life and dash. Latta and Gordon were thorns in the flesh for Jack Ross, who was kept constantly on the move. Holt, Chadwick and Milward drove their supporters wild with their tactics, whilst Cowan put in some telling runs. Preston took up the attack with spirit, but they were a couple of goals behind at the interval, just having had a corner. North End had now no hope of winning, unless they showed a big improvement, as Everton had outplayed them. Indeed, William’s nerve had never been tested as he only handled twice. After Jimmy Ross had kicked outside, the Preston goal was hotly bombarded, but stoutly defended. Grier was quite lame, but stuck to his men with great pluck. The Everton goal had several narrow shaves, as Gordon missed very badly when he was bang up to the net, whilst Williams saved another so well that Kelso patted him on the back. Gordon was not to be held in check, and scored a fine goal to the joy of the Prestonians. This stroke of luck caused a boisterous demonstration, the team being urged on by frantic cries. Jack Ross raised a chorus of howls by jumping at Milward, but the usual penalty was fruitless. The feeling all round was at the highest tension, and fouls were pretty plentiful. Milward and Holt were cheered for wonderful skill, the half-back being rarely beaten. One can hardly imagine the scene when, by splendid play, Cowan fairly ploughed his way through all opponents and completely beat Williams, this being the best goal of the afternoon. With the teams on a level footing the battle became painfully keen, and a could almost in the Everton goalmouth was followed with anxiety of the crowd where spared. The swaying of the crowd where the barricade gave way was terrible to behold, a mounted policeman being on duty to keep the people back. Play was mostly at the Everton end, and Williams knocked a shot by Ross over the top. It could hardly be said that the play was of the highest class, but everybody seemed to suffer from excitement. Howarth did well to stop a shot by Drummond which was going home with great force. There were yet ten minutes to play and two goals each was the state of the poll. Everton had lost much of their dash, and evidently found their rivals more than they had bargained for. Just now, Preston were fairly peppering the Everton goal which had the luckiest escapes, whilst Williams kept out several stringing shots. Just on verge of time stoppage was caused by a player being hurt, and when all was over there was a great shout, the teams being immensely cheered as they left the ground.
CRITIQUE
I have seen many better games. The combination on both sides was faulty, but individually there was some good work, Chadwick, Milward and Latta on the one hand, with Cowan, Beckton and Jimmy Ross on the other, were the best forwards; Holt and Sanders the cleverest of the half-backs; and Holmes and Howarth the safest backs. Trainer has kept goal better, but Williams did very well. Preston ought to have won in the second half, without a doubt, as they had many chances.
The Date of the Replayed Tie
The Tie will be replayed at Sheffield on Thursday week.
Gate Receipts.
27,000 paid for admission, the gate amounting to the sum of 840 pounds.
EVERTON V. BURNLEY SWIFTS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 04 March 1893
At Everton, in summer-like weather, before 6,000 spectators. Save for a few occasional runs by Burnley, the home team had most of the play. Ryan kept goal well, having much to do, but he succumbed to shots from Elliott, and Hartley. Vociferous cheering rang from the thousands on hearing the half-time result of their pets at Sheffield. Half-time; Everton 3, Burnley Swifts 0.
Final; Everton 12, Burnley Swifts 0.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 04 March 1893
EVERTON REVIEW
March 6, 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
The semi-final ties of the English Cup competition overshadowed every other Association event on Saturday. At both Sheffield and Nottingham –the towns chosen as the venue of the momentous struggles –tremendous crowds assembled, but that at Bramell-lane, where Everton and Preston North End were the exponents, was the greater, the “gate” realizing £340, whereas hat at Trent Bridge, where the Wolverhampon Wanderers and the Blackburn Rovers where the champions, amounted to £750. Each game, as anticipated, proved to be hard, stern, and pretty even, with fouling strung at too high a pitch to permit of purely skilful play. The Rovers, who had become strong favourites in some quarters owing to the easy manner in which they had routed Sunderland a fortnight ago, and who have won the English Cup five times, did not come up to expectations, and were beaten by 2 goals to 1, the Wanderers being their superiors in forward play. Everton and Preston North End could not affect a decisive issue, and a severe combat, fought out on a sticky and tiring ground, resulted in each team scoring 2 goals. They will have accordingly to meet again. Thursday, the 16 th instant, being the date decided upon, at Sheffield. The Prestonians had most followers among the assembly –who were certainly the most noisy –and this was evident all through, for whilst any good bit of play by North End was cheered to the solo, quality clever Everton displays fall comparatively flat. The reason, perhaps, is supplied in the foot that Everton had a fortnight ago made themselves somewhat unpopular by defeating Sheffield Wednesday and depriving them of cup honours. Everton, however, being fortunate in securing choice of ends, and so turn their backs to the stiff wind, which blew from goal to goal, early seemed likely to upset the calculations of those who espoused the cause of Preston North End, as the Liverpoolians soon got into a good stride and firm combination. They had far the best of the game during the first half, and thoroughly earned their lead of 2 goals to nil, a score that ought however to have been increased, for Gordon in particular failed to utilise what appeared to be easy chances of further scoring. The breeze stiffened somewhat by the time the second stage was entered upon, and this helped North End materially, but it was ten minutes or so before they assumed strong aggressiveness. From thence to the end Everton were more or less hard pressed. Many excellent shots were levelled at Williams' charge, as, step by step, North End advanced. When J. Gordon scored from a corner, a hugh cheer went up, the excitement growing in intensity until Coan equalised with a magnificent shot. Hope of Everton's success was now crushed, and anxiety in turn felt as to whether the defence could hold out, which herculean task though it was, it did, the whistle sounding, to the relief of the many thousand Liverpool people present, and still more so to the players, on a drawn game. The Everton men played well to a man during the first half hour; but they were all this time being badly knocked about, for North End were not at all disposed to be kid-gloviah, their fearlessness and pluck often bordering on brutality, though never so vicious as to call the full powers of the referee into use. The goalkeeping of Williams was of the best quality. The two shots that beat him were grand efforts, and most of the shots he did clear would have defeated the majority of custodians, Howarth and Kelso got through of custodians. Howarth and Kelso got through a heavy day's work in a clean and certain style. The half-backs were all three very effective in their tackling and judicious in passing up to the interval, the back play during the first half being so perfect that Williams had only once to attend to a shot. Afterwards the Everton half-back trio fell off through two exacting work. The forwards shaped well at the outset, though they were occasionally slow in front, but as the game went on they fell off woefully, and were scarcely ever aggressive in the second stage. That they were not so must be laid t the charge of Gordon, as he seemed to get exhausted, though it was mainly owing to an injury he received in the second half that he was so weak towards the finish. So it was, perhaps, a mistake to leave out Geary, whose sprints would have been useful, since Latta, Maxwell, Chadwick, and Milward were in fine-going, fettle. Preston North End had to depend chiefly upon wing play, for Drummond was out of touch at centre, invariably kicking too strongly, which was not surprising in a man who is a back one day and a forward the next. They were also handicapped through Grier's injured foot bothering him. He was useful, however, and Sanders, Stewart, Holmes, and N.J. Ross were all effective, if at times too vigorous. Trainer was not at his best, but then he has been on the injured list.
Everton exertions in conjunction with the theatrical profession in the cause of charity have met with ample reward and highly satisfactory results –as the net receipts amounted to £313 –a sum which would have been even much greater had the weather on the gala day proved more propitious, and had not some malevolent Pecksmith stopped the lotteries that had been arranged for handsome prizes generously given. Stanley Hospital was allotted £208, and the Royal Infirmary £104.
Next Saturday Everton and Preston North End will fight over again, but in the Lancashire, and not an English Cup-tie. North End will have a distinct advantage on this occasion since the tie is to be played off at Deepdale. There is evidently much equality just now in the teams, and if the ground should be dry and easy going Everton will have confidence of successfully “bearding the lion in its own den,” especially if a large company of their supporters are present to spour them on. Everton followers are so constant that they would feel slighted if there was no sport provided at their popular resort. The Everton executive have thus secured a match with the Edinburgh St. Bernard's who have had a very successful experience this season.
PRESTON AND EVERTON DRAW.
Athletic News - Monday 06 March 1893
By The Free Critic
The Bramall-lane ground has generally been associated with semi-finals for the English Cup, and it, was, therefore, no surprise to find that the tie between Preston North End and Everton was fixed to be played there. And why not? It is a fair ground, with plenty of accommodation, and the M.S. & L. Railway Company lay themselves out to provide for the comfort of travelers, whilst in addition Sheffield is essentially a football centre. Of course, it hardly seems right for one town to have such a collection of the good things going but Sheffield is rather an exception. On Saturday the arrangements were perfect, and great credit is due to Mr. D. Haigh, the sec., and members of the Sheffield United Club, for their efforts to accommodate the crowd. I thought there were over 30,000 people present, but as the number who paid for admission was slightly under 27,000, it would appear that 30,000 was the maximum. It looked well, and although the crowd on one side broke down the barriers, they afterwards behaved in an admirable fashion, and a few mounted police who put in an appearance did not appear to be required. Indeed, the only apprehension I felt was whether the police would be able to retain their seats. That particular section of the crowd deserves the thanks of those in other parts of the field. The teams were fairly representative, but North End were obliged to leave out Russell, owing to his injury, and Maxwell took up the centre position in place of Geary, the teams being;-
North End;- Trainer, goal; Holmes, and Ross, backs; Grier, Saunders, and Stewart, half-backs; Gordon, Ross, jun., Drummond, Beckton, and Cowans, forwards. Everton; Williams, goal; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Boyle, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Maxwell, Chadwick and Milward, forwards. Referee; Mr. C J Hughes. Linesmen; Messrs Howcroft and Roberts.
Each team had a good reception, and when it was found that Howarth, after shaking hands with his rival captain, had won the toss, the Everton portion of the audience jubilated, and well they might, for it gave them the assistance of a strong wind, and an exciting cup-tie , there is no denying the fact that a couple of goals to the good means a great deal, and consequently it increased Everton’s chances when it was seen that Howarth had named the right side of the coin. And it wasn’t long before they showed that they meant to score if at all possible, for although Latta was treated as a determined customer, he several times got past Ross, and was always dangerous with his square centres, which Chadwick or Milward was ready and anxious to take advantage of, and Gordon rushed the ball through after Trainer had only partially saved. But, for all that, the Everton forward play was not up to the mark, and although the men showed any amount of dash, they appeared to lose their heads. In the meantime, North End got away with bursts which were generally dangerous up to the backs; but the final efforts of the Prestonians were weak. Drummond in particular being off it so far as taking chances was concerned. The play went on in this fashion for twenty-five minutes, when, from a pass by Holt (who was showing splendid form), Edgar Chadwick got the ball, dodged Holmes, and sent in a hot one, which trainer probably saw but could not get at, and Everton were two ahead. They had been playing so well that the Evertonians behind the Press table were justified in asserting that they would win easily, but North End now had the benefit of their old stagers, and played up in splendid fashion, and, if anything, had the best of matters up to the interval. Many times they seemed certain to score, but the Everton defence was in fine form, and, for that matter, so was North End’s, and try as they would- and they did try-no further score was made, and Everton turned round with a lead of two goals to none. For a short time after resuming, Everton appeared to be as good as ever, and did a lot of pressing, but gradually they were worn down, and their backs had an anxious time of it. The North End forwards put in a great amount of clever play in midfield, but lacked force in front of goal, and the result was that Williams had but little to do. Gordon had missed an easy chance in the first half, and he failed at a similar one in the second, but immediately afterwards he had one sent across by Beckton and getting it with his left foot steered it through at the corner. From this point North End went ahead in a very determined fashion, and many were the attempts made to capture the Everton goal, but the Preston forwards did not appear to have that cohesion in their movements to give their supporters confidence. They kept the ball pretty well at their opponents’ end, but did not drive it home; however, Cowan got possession, and dribbling past two of the Everton men sent in a shot somewhat similar to that of Chadwick’s, and Williams could not get at it, the scores being equal. It was now expected that North End would pull it off easily, but Everton appeared to realize their position, and went about their work in splendid fashion, Trainer having more than one awkward shot. He got clear of them all, and Preston had many chances as well, but until five minutes from the finish the game may be considered fairly equal. During that period, however, North End fairly peppered their opponents and I do not remember so important a match so nearly won. J. Ross had three shies and the first, which was the result of real hard work on his part, was sent straight across goal and barely wide of the post, whilst Williams accounted for the other two. A minute from the finish Holt was badly injured, but the game was then over, and the end saw a draw of two goals each.
SOME COMMENTS
It was anything but a great game, especially in the first half, when the players were very excited and rash, and it was seldom a decent shot was got in at either end. The play fluctuated a lot, and may be divided as follows;
In the first half-hour Everton had the best of it; them up to the interval North end were more dangerous. For the first quarter of an hour after resuming Everton showed great gameness, but after this North End had them well in hand, and whilst they went stronger and stronger until the whistle blew, Everton were tiring fast. It was a game which either club might have won, but the fairest result was a draw, and two goals is quite as much as each set of forwards earned, for they were very loose, and there was nothing in their play which would give confidence to their supporters. The last five minutes must have seemed a terribly long time to the Everton men, for North End appeared to come with a big flourish, and thrice during this short period was the Liverpool goal nearly captured –all from shots by young Ross, who had hitherto been somewhat slow and undecided. When Everton were two goals ahead, after half an hour’s play, it seemed all up with North End, but the second reverse made them show up better, and there was any amount of confidence amongst the players. But when Everton opened the second half so well, and not only prevented North End scoring but nearly increasing their own total, it really seemed as if they would appear in the final for the first time. Then the North End pluck asserted itself, and whilst not particularly methodical in their movements, the forwards were very determined and dangerous. Gordon missed two easy chances, and then got at a centre with his left foot close to the posts, and the ball whizzed through. Still, Everton were leading until Cowan, dribbling on when I thought he might have passed, dodged two opponents and sent in a capital shot straight for home which Williams had no chance with. Then Everton had to struggle hard, and to the credit of the defence, they struggled successfully. From these brief notes it will apparent that the forwards were not up to form, and that is perfectly true. Whether it was excitement or not, I cannot say, but they were decidedly ragged, and there was not that system in their movements which one expected to see. Then the defenders did not scruple to floor an opponent, and in this respect N.J. Ross was on two or three occasions positively cruel. I do not care to speak too strongly about a man whom I have greatly admired for many years, but I do wish he would avoid going for his opponent’s ankles. It is cowardly and he can play well enough without resorting to it. He was not alone, and on one occasion at least Kelso deliberately fouled Cowan- a foul which the referee did not see. Turning to the players, Trainer made a sad mess of the first goal, and the ball must have had a lot of twist on it, for the great goalkeeper put it right to Gordon’s face and it rolled through. Several times afterwards he cleared well, particularly from corners, and he could not possibly stop the second goal of Edgar Chadwick’s. The backs did well, but were not so safe as I have seen them. Ross and Holmes, however, can deteriorate a lot without appearing commonplace. The half-backs were fair, Saunders being the pick of the basket, and he got in some really wonderful kicks. The one I admired most was Grier, who moved about with a decided limp, but although he must have been in great pain he kept at it and never gave up. Stewart was chiefly noticeable for his long throws, although he did some capital work against Latta and Gordon. The forwards were a mixture of good and bad, and Drummond was a failure in the centre- he couldn’t get along at all, and hardly seemed to know what to do with the ball when he had it. Besides, he did not exert himself, and young Ross, for a great portion of the game, followed his example; but they both came at the finish, and Ross’s shot in the last few minutes were in themselves almost a good afternoon’s work. The left wing couple were far head of the right, and were both speedy and clever. Cowan is dangerous when he once gets away, and Beckton certainly gave him every opportunity. Williams deserves a vote of thanks from the Everton committee for the manner in which he cleared those shots of Ross’s. He had been comparatively idle, and it was a great strain on the nerves of a young player to have his stiffest work at the last, when he knew that the slightest mistake on his part meant losing the match. But he kept a cool, and was successful in his attempts to deal with the ugly customers. The backs were fair, but got a bit bothered in the second half. Both are old North Enders, and played for all they were worth. There was no question who took the palm at half-back, and little Holt seems to improve each time I see him. He had several hard knocks but wisely preferred to play the ball rather than retaliate, and it was astounding to see him emerge with the ball at his feet from amidst a crowd of North Enders. Stewart I did not care much about, but Boyle was very clever, and he had the strongest wing to face. Milward and Chadwick were better than the pair on the other side of the field, and the latter is now displaying his best form, and like Holt, is pretty certain of his Scotch cap again. Milward often showed Grier a clean pair of heels, which is not surprising, considering how the latter was handicapped, but he also once or twice beat Holmes in a sprint, and this is not an easy task by any means. Maxwell combines well, but cannot shoot, and on a dry day Geary would, perhaps, be an improvement. Latta put in some capital runs during the first half, and Gordon was by no means a failure. The next game should be interesting enough.
EVERTON 2 PRESTON NORTH END 2 (FA cup game 13)
March 6 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
This semi-final tie played at Bramall lane Sheffield, in the presence of 28,000 spectataors, the enclosure being packed to overflowing, many having to be content with a very imperfect view of pla. Both teams arrived during the morning and prompt to time took up their position as follows:- Everton, having the same team that defeated Preston a few weeks back:- Preston North End, Trainer goal, Holmes, and Ross (hj) (captain) backs, Grier, sanders, and Stewart, half-backs, Gordon (j), Ross (jun), Drummond, Beckton, and cowans, forwards, Everton:- Williams goal, Kelso, and Howarth (captain), Boyle, Holt, and Stewart half-backs, Latta, Gordon (p), Maxwell, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards, Referee Mr C.Jhughes, Linesman messrs Howcroft and Roberts . The ground consqently upon the recent rains, was soft and yielding whilst a strong wind swept from goal to goal. This Everton, winning the toss, had the assistance of at the outset. The ball on Drummond kicking off , went out twice, and from one of the throws in, Chadwick and Milward moved along until checked by Sanders. Maxwell was then penalised, but this was no relief to North End, as Chadwick quickly had a long, wide shot. The Everton left wing returned, and the people swaying forward at the corner of the ground broke down the barricade, though the police kept the field of play clear. Preston failed to drive Everton back and Latta shot in correctly. Trainer mulled the ball, and Gordon rushed it into the net, Everton thus scoring in seven minutes. Preston restarted full of ‘'go'' and swooped down on goal in compact formation, but Gordon lifted high over the bar. Stewart was very active for Preston, he spoiled one or two raids by Everton. Soon, however, Latta beat him. Ross too kicked badly and from a throw in Trainer was soon called upon by Latta. He fisted away, and so Latta tried again, but this time Sanders in heading for a corner, almost gave Everton a goal. The kick was placed well by Chadwick, when the ball grazed outside the post. The Everton Stewart next passed up judiciously, leading to more pressure upon the Preston defence until Grier kicked well and timely. North End now had a turn, when P. Gordon took the ball from near goal, though without clearing as Howarth and Kelso each had to kick back. Some pretty passing by Everton ended in Latta after steadying himself, screwing just outside the net. Holt and J.N. Ross collied and fell a moment later, and this let in J Gordon, who was fouled by A Stewart. Holmes making nothing of the free kick. Preston forced two corners, which Howarth and Kelso neutralised easily, and Latta again beat N.J.Ross, but he gave to Holmes the latter kicking out. Cowan next ran granddly, and forced a corner, an effort Latta replied to by running round N.J.Ross, but only to shoot out. Stewart of Everton and his colleagues continued to play most effectively, but their forwards could not get at goal. Cowan, however, wass more dangerous at the other end, as he wound up a dashing movement, Williams playing the ball for the first time. Cowan return, but Drummond was off side when he took the pass, and this blunder by Preston centre forward opened the way to a further reverse. Latta had a throw in, when Holt possessed himself of the ball, and gave it to Chadwick, who scored beautifully at long range, a great cheer sugnalising that Everton had assumed a subetantial lead of a couple of goals, as the result of 25 minute's play. Everton were soon afterwards awarded two free kicks, which caused trouble to their opponents, whilst a corner was so nicely taken by Chadwick that the gaol had a marvellous escape. Preston North End, smarting under the influence of the unexpected turn of events, exerted themselves to the utmost; but Milward had the next meritorous shot at goal, whilst the closing incident of the first half was in Gordon shooting well at the Everton goal, and in Williams conceding a futile corner. The interval thus arrived with Everton leading by 2 goals to nil. On crossing over, despite the strong wind against them, the Evertonians went off with the lead, and found the North Enders' defence a lot or work. After a time play was transferred to the other end, and the Preston forwards worked their way close in but lacked fire. Returning to the attack, Cowan the extreme left, centred admirably, and gave a spendid chance to Gordon, but the latter shot just outside. Still the Prestonians assailed, and after 14 minutes play their efforts were rewarded, Gordon sending in a shot just inside the post which nobody could have stopped. Owing to being injured in a charge Gordon of Everton had to retire for a few minutes, but soon reappeared. The ball travelled quickly from end, to end, both teams putting in some smart work. Ross junior made a grand run into the Evertonian territory and passed to Gordon, but the ball outpaced the latter. Preston as sailed in force and Cowan after 25 minutes play made the game equal by dodhing round Kelso, whilst the latter was attending to Drummond, and steering past Williams. Preston continued to press hard, but could not get though Williams on several occasions had to negotiate some hot shots. After a time Everton got down and were conceded a corner from which Trainer had to beat away in hot haste and the ball being kept in the vicinity of the Preston citadel the custodian had to come out to save. Jimmy Ross had a fine opening at the other end, but was pulled up just in time. Whilst Gordon with the aid of Beckton was within an ace of scoring for Preston. The Everton strong hold was now in a state of bombardment, and it was nothing short of a marvel how it escaped captore, the interceptions being smart in the extreme. A short occupied owing to Holt being winded and although each goal was in turn assailed the game eventually ended in a tie of 2 goals each.
EVERTON COMBINATION 12 BURNLEY SWIFTS 0
March 6 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
These teams, the previous game having been won by Everton by 6 goals to nil. Met at Goodison Park, the game despite the apparent inquality of the teams attracting as many as 6,000 spectators. The home club was strongly represnted, their eleven including Jardine and Parry, a lat start was effected and before the scoring had commenced the welcome news arrived from Sheffield that Everton were leading Preston North End by 2 goals to nil. This was lustily cheered and enthusasium being awakened. Everton piled goal upon goal until the end Burnley Swifts were routed by 12 goals to nil. Everton team, Jardine goal, Chadwick nd Parry, backs, Coyle Jones Jamieson half-backs, Smith, Murray, Hartley, McMillan and Elliott forwards.
THE SWIFTS PULVERISED AT EVERTON
March 8, 1893. Burnley Express
There was a big crowd at Everton on Saturday, the attendance being placed at 7,000 to witness the return match between Everton Combination and Burnley Swifts. The teams were made up of the following players;- Swifts;- Ryan,; Tattersall, Sawers; McFertridge, Nash, Mullineaux; Hatton, Place, Binns, Hargreaves, and Graham. Everton; Jardine; Chadwick, Parry; Coyle, Jones, McLaren; Smith, Murray, Hartley, McMillan, and Elliott. There was not so much between the teams for a while, and the Evertonians did not score until 20 minutes had elapsed, after which the Swift got openings but did not shoot well. Before the interval the homesters put on two more goals. To say, the least, however, the Swift had hard luck in not scoring on two occasions, in fact, hey aver that Jardine was over the line once, while Hargreaves got one through from Hatton, but had the point disallowed. In the second moiety the Swift were completely outplayed. The Evertonians played in champion form, and there was no resisting them, and as they scored on an average a goal every five minutes. Burnley Swift had to retire with the crushing defeat of twelve goals to none. Though Mullineaus was hurt and was absent towards the close of the game, it had little or no effect on the result.
OSWESTRY DISTRICT 1 EVERTON COMBINATION 3
March 10 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
This match was played at Oswestry yesterday in brilliant weather and before 2,000 specatators. Mr Wright of Hallson started the ball and for some time the play was of a fairly even character. The home forwards then attacked, and in the result F Jones scored. This was the score at half-time. In the latter portion Everton had the best of matters and scored on three occasions and when time arrived a grand game ended in favour of the visitors by 3 goals to 1.
THE EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB AND ITS PRESIDENT.
Liverpool Echo - Friday 10 March 1893
The above club and its remarkable doings have been so much in evidence of late, that any item of interest affecting its welfare is heartily welcomed. Since the club sprang into liberty and new life not quite a year ago, the one member who has stood out prominently as the unanimously selected leader has been the president of the club— Mr. George Mahon. By his great ability, his close attention to minutest details, and his kindly manner withal, he has won for himself an almost unique position in the hearts of the members and directors alike. Indeed, the regard of his more intimate colleagues on the directorate amounts almost affection for him. It may well be understood therefore that great anxiety was manifested for Mr. Mahon during his late severe illness. Along with his convalescence has come the continued success of the League team in Cup and other ties to cheer the members of the club and its large body of supporters. In order to fully reestablish his health, which has been doubtless affected by the great strain of the last few months as well by two attacks of illness, Mr. Mahon has arranged for a holiday in the Canary Islands. He leaves to-morrow in one of Elder, Dempster, and Co.'s fine steamers, in the company of a distinguished party under the guidance Mr. A. L. Jones. The tug leaves the at eleven o'clock, when no doubt many of Mr. Mahon's friends and admirers will be present to wish him “God-speed." Mr. is now senior partner of the firm of Messrs, Roose, Mahon, and Howarth, the well-known accountants, of North John-street.
THE EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB.
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 11 March 1893
DEPARTURE OF THE CHAIRMAN FOR MADEIRA
To-day, a great number OF members of the Everton Football Club and a few friends assembled on the Prince's Landing-stage to wish Mr. George Mahon, chairman of the board of directors, a pleasant voyage to Madeira, to which place he is proceeding by the steamer Loanda for the benefit of his health. Among those present were Messrs. Clayton, Griffiths, James Mahon, Whittingham, Stamford, Crosby, Roberts, T. Leather, S. H. Linacre, T. Savage, Pulson, T. H. Williams, Howarth, Leake, and Goffey. Halliwell, Anderson, Davies, Walter Sugg, and R. Stockton. The team which are playing against Preston North End to-day journeyed from Hoylake, where they are in training, that they might join in the leave-taking. Mr. Mahon will be away about two months.
FOOTBALL TASTE
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 11 March 1893
By Richard Samuel
There is hardly any accounting for the taste of Liverpudlians. Here we have a splendid team on view at Bootle, and an interesting events at Anfield, yet the attendance at both places falls short of that at Goodison Park, where two reserve teams are pitted against each other, with nothing whatever depending on the result. There is no comparison between such a match and the one at Bootle or Anfield, and there is not another town in England where such a state of things exists. In either Nottingham or Sheffield the public would not have had any difficulty in discrimating between the games, and would have bestowed their patronage or divided it with much better judgment. Everton are, indeed, fortunate in having such staunch supporters; but it does not give the other clubs much encouragement to provide good football when a very minor sort of League team can draw better than such a club as Notts County.
Cricket & Football Fields
Cricket & Football Fields
PRESTON NORTH END V EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 11 March 1893
Lancashire Cup Round Two
Vast interest centred in the meeting of these teams at the Deepdale enclosure today, this being the second successive Saturday on which they have contested in a Cup-tie. The game at Sheffield last Saturday proved one of the hottest contests on record, and the spectators who witnessed the game this afternoon turned up with the expectation of seeing another big struggle. The spell of fine weather gave great hopes to the supporters of the Liverpool team, as the Evertonians are a notoriously fast lot and play best on a dry hard ground. Both teams were slightly altered from last Saturday, Russell being in the centre for North End and Drummond filling Grier’s place at half-back. Grier made his injured foot still worse at Sheffield, hence his retirement. For Everton Geary reappearance in the centre, and Maxwell partnered Latta on the right, Gordon standing down. A little while back, negotiations were in progress to have the game played at Everton, but, as satisfactory arrangements could not be concluded, the proposal fell through. Both teams had been doing quiet work during the week, the Evertonians trusting to their old training quarters at the quiet village of Hoylake on the Cheshire coast. The result of today’s game, one way or another, was expected to give an opportunity of forming an opinion as to the likely winners of the match at Sheffield on Thursday next, when the same teams meet to decide which shall tackle the Wolves in the final tie for the English Cup. It was a glorious afternoon, with a fresh breeze blowing, and not too warm to be uncomfortable, when the teams faced each other in the following order;- Preston North End; Trainer (Captain), goal; Holmes and Ross, backs; Drummond, Sanders, and Stewart, half-backs; Gordon, J. Ross, Russell, Beckton, and Cowan, forwards. Everton; Williams, goal; Kelso and Howarth (Captain), backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Latta, Maxwell, Geary, Chadwick and Milward, forwards. Referee; Mr. J. Lewis, Blackburn.
Long before the time fixed for the kick-off there was a crowd of many thousands, and when it wanted but a quarter of an hour from the commencement of operations there must have been a crowd of fully 16,000 present. A large contingent hailed from Liverpool, and didn’t by any means forget to let their presence be known. The ground was in first-class trim, and had evidently undergone a thorough preparation. For some before the start a lively hum of conversation ran round the ground, mingled with the occasional whirr of the rattles carried by some of the Everton followers. Ten minutes before the start the North Enders appeared, amid a volley of cheering. They were followed a few minutes later by the Evertonians, and both teams appeared in the pink of conditions. Howarth came out best in the spin of the coin, and Geary kicked off with the wind and sun behind him. North End were the first to show up, but Gordon’s shot came to nothing, and then Everton pressed for a time. Beckton got away nicely, but was tripped by Holt, and from the foul North End gained a corner, but nothing resulted. The home team continued to press, but Everton got away with some grand passing by Chadwick and Milward, which was nullified by the ball going out. After some hard tussling North End got the ball up again, Jimmy Ross shooting past the post. North End played finely, a succession of throws-in helping them considerably. Both teams were going well, Everton hereabouts passing grandly, the chance being lost through Milward being off-side. Again North End came up, and after a tremendous bully in the Everton goal Jimmy Ross scored for Preston after Williams had partially cleared, first blood being received with great acclamation, nine minutes after the kick-off. Preston improved, but played rather more vigorously than the occasion called for, a corner falling to them, which, however, resulted in the ball going behind. Milward, however, and Holmes had a tussle which came to nothing for either, and play quietched down a bit, the ball being kept mostly in midfield. Then matters livened up once more and the leather travelled speedily from end to end on the hard ground, North End ultimately having a good shy, which just went wide. Beckton was playing exceptionally well, but Howarth was all there at back, Johnny Holt was a marvel and was too good for Russell. Everton had another spell, Latta getting well down, but Nick Ross cleared a grand run by Gordon was the next item, and a fine centre by the right winger was badly mulled by Russell. Holt relieved a somewhat lengthy spell of pressure by the home team, and after Drummond had bene beaten by Boyle, the visitors had a look in. They were, however, rather weak in front of goal, and fine passing failed to be improved upon when it came to the finishing touch. Latta and Maxwell made ground on the right, being very conspicuous with some pretty passing, Nick Ross interceded, and for his kicking Maxwell, the referee granted a foul against the homesters through nothing tangible accrued. Everton were now playing in their best form and pressed hotly, Geary and Milward having useless shies, and Chadwick sending in a grand shot which barely missed. There was plenty of feeling introduced into the play and both teams indulged in a good deal of heavy charging. The sun came out more strongly and the players perspired freely, but the game never flagged for a moment. A large number of Everton supporters were on the stand and urged on their team loudly and frequently. During exciting play the crowd broke on to the ground near the homesters’ goal, and the game was stopped until the encroachment was removed, the referee being firm on the point. Everton were now passing grandly and got through the ruck time after time, but never the wished for goal. When well in front, Chadwick sent right across to Latta, who dallied with the ball until he was robbed by Stewart, the latter player receiving an ovation for doing the trick. Everton were decidedly masters hereabouts, and had tremendously hard lines, Geary shooting over the bar when he had absolutely no one in front of him but Trainer and was only a few yards from the goal mouth. Continuing to press, the visitors showed up well, but the Prestonians fought every inch of the ground determinedly. From an excellent pass by Latta, Maxwell shot right across the goal mouth, the goal kick enabling the North Enders to again assume the offensive. The ball was soon at the Everton end, and after a pretty combined movement by the whole of the homesters’ forwards, Beckton sent a scorcher just by the post, Gordon having another try a moment later, the ball rolling right across the mouth of the goal and just behind. The Prestonians were putting in all they knew, and after some short exchanges Saunders shot from a distance, the ball dropping on the crossbar and falling in front of Williams. A tremendous struggle ensued right under the bar, and after a desperate bully the leather was forced through, the second goal to Preston being received with uproarious cheering. Everton’s goal was besieged from the kick off, another fast one from Beckton barely missing. The hometsers infused great vigour into their play, and kept up a smart pressure, the visiting defence having great difficulty in keeping them out. A momentary incursion by Everton was followed by more peppering from the North Enders who displayed excellent tactics Beckton was playing a grand game, but his shooting was hardly up to the mark. The home team seemed to be wearing better than Everton, and had far more life in them in front of goal though individually and whenever play was in midfield there was hardly a pin to choose. As the interval approached the game again became vigorous. There was nothing else of interest before the interval, which arrived with the North End leading by two goals to nothing. Soon after re-starting the Prestonians had a free kick for hands just in front of Williams. Jimmy Ross passed the ball to his brother, and the latter, amid laughter kicked high over the bar. The Everton forwards now commenced a long series of attacks, Latta and Geary had a fine bit of play in a corner, and the North End defence was kept very busy. Cowan and Ross, junr. worked the ball nicely to the other end, but an offside claim relieved the danger. Play now became very even, the Everton half-backs and backs being very quick indeed on the ball. Latta was very near scoring, and Trainer had to clear close against the upright in very smart fashion. Shots by Boyle and Milward went over the bar, and a grand run by Latta ended in that player again making Trainer display his best powers. Chadwick and Milward were now prominent and got a free kick for a foul against Ross, who with Holmes, sanders, and Drummond were displaying fine defensive tactics. Latta was again dangerous, but was spoiled in his last effort by Ross and Stewart. Whenever the home forwards did get away, they were repulsed. Jack Ross was nearly putting the ball through his own goal in trying to return the shot from Chadwick. Although North end had been playing in very weak fashion all this half, they began to improve in the last ten minutes. By cool correct passing they kept getting near Williams, and Cowan had to be floored under the crossbar or he would have scored. In the last few minutes of the game Russell got near, and with a good shot scored a third goal. There was nothing else of interest to the finish. Final; Preston North End 3, Everton 0.
A Talk With The Referee
During the interval, Mr. Lewis, the referee, in reply to questions by a reporter, said that Howarth had protested on behalf of Everton after the first goal was scored. The reason was that the crowd interfered with the play. Mr. Lewis declined to give an opinion on the match, and said he would make his report to the Association. As far as the reporters could judge, the crowd did not interfere with play, and were nothing like so near to the goal-line as during the cup-tie between North end and Notts Forest at Nottingham last year.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 11 March 1893
THE SEMI-FINAL AT SHEFFIELD
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 11 March 1893
Everton Take a Strong Lead, and are then Lucky to Draw,
Readers of the long accounts in last week’s Football Field, which I am glad to know were appreciated cannot be told much more about the great semi-final in which Everton at one time seemed to have fairly settled the North end, and were then exceedingly fortunate to escape with a draw. When the Goodison Park representatives appeared to be making all the running their friends were terribly boisterous, and they jeered at the North end players wholesale. Two or three facetious individuals in close proximity to the long Press table fairly rubbed it into the followers of the Preston team, who bore it all with wonderful equanimity. When the tide turned the Evertonians were as mute as funeral mummers and looked on aghast at the lively Prestonians. Whilst they could not altogether admire the methods adopted by some of the North End players they could not be silently admire the dash and go that were thrown into the last half hour. The goals scored in the first half by “Pat” Gordon and Chadwick were accompanied by noisy demonstrations, but these were as nothing compared with the scene following Cowan’s equalizer. This was one of the finest goals imaginable and kept the Preston section of the hugh gathering in the highest spirits for the rest of the match. When Jimmy Ross was literally skimming the goal on every side during the last few minutes the silence was remarkable, and when all was over, the most rabid Evertonian was bound to admit that they were well out of it. Why Everton should begin so well and finish so badly is somewhat of a puzzle. It could not be for want of condition, as all the men were fit and well. It is far more likely that they suffered from the excitement, whilst the heavy going might have a little to do with it. To lead by two goals and then fail to pull the tie off was naturally disappointing, and they came away from Sheffield with a big “bump.” All kinds of uncomplimentary things were said about the play of the brothers Ross, for which there was some justification. Jack seemed to lose his head several times before the interval, and did not at all relish the way in which Latta got the better of him. His jump at Milward was a very nasty bit. Jimmy showed a few tricks that were not according to Cocker, and was very ill-tempered more than once. It is a pity that such an admittedly clever forward should ever forget himself. The play was always interesting, and in the last twenty minutes it was very exciting indeed. Everton have Williams to thank that they were not beaten, the young man standing up to his work with great pluck and nerve. What will happen when the teams meet again at the same spot on Thursday next is, of course, a matter of speculation. With Russell in his place, however, and Grier all right the North End should improve on last Saturday’s performance, so that if Everton mean to win they will have to do better still. They know now how the difference between meeting the Preston men at Goodison park and on a neutral ground, and they should profit by experience. The struggle is sure to be desperately keen, and which ever club is victorious should be good enough for the Wolves in the final tie a fortnight hence. It is time the cup came back to Lancashire once more.
Mr. C.J. Hughes is again to act in the final tie.
Everton were a long time in discovering that the rule stated that cup ties must be re-played on the following Saturday.
The “Supporters” of the Wolves who endeavor to use their tickets two or three times the same afternoon will have an unpleasant experience if they are not careful.
Cricket & Football Fields
TODAY'S MATCH
March 11, 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
The Associationists of this district will be greatly engrossed in the four ties which form the second round of the Lancashire Cup competition, especially those games in which three Liverpool clubs take part. Everton, who gave still to effect a decisive issue with Preston North End in the English Cup semi-final have been drawn to meet the Prestonians to today at Deepdale, and in the light of recent and prospective events, the engagement have awakened national interest. Everton have the disadvantage of playing on their opponents' ground, where they have never but once, we believe won a match, but they have come out so strongly during the last two months in their contests, whether at home or away, that they will encounter Preston North End today with a greater hope of victory than an any previous visit to Deepdale. The will, too, have a host of friends to keep them company, for, as will be seen from an advertisement elsewhere, cheap trains are announced to run from Exchange Station at 1,3,in advance if required.
We have been officially informed that Scholfield, of Stoke, and Spikesley, of Sheffield Wednesday, will take the places of Milward and Chadwick, of Everton on the left wing, in the team to represent England against Wales at stoke next Monday. There is an important match at Goodison Park between Everton and Edinburgh St. Bernard's. The latter's permonaces have already been recorded. St Bernard's will have a strong team, including Walter Arnott, the celebrated Queen's Park full back. During the progress of the match telegrams will be received from Preston every quarter of an hour.
Everton League v. Preston North End, Preston, Kick-off at three p.m. The following will play for Everton; Williams, goal; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Latta, Maxwell, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards,
Everton Combination v. St. Bernard's Goodison Park, Kick-off at four pm. The following will play for Everton; Jardine, goal; Chadwick, and Parry, backs; Coyle, Jones, and Jamieson, half-backs; Smith, Murray, Pinnell, McMillian, and Elliott, forwards,
Tuesday
Everton v Preston North End, Sheffield (English Cup undecided semi-final tie)
Cricket & Football Fields
PRESTON NORTH END 3 EVERTON 0
March 12, 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire cup competition second round
This tie in the county cup competition created intense interest, which was only natural after the drawn game which ensued between the teams a week previously, and fully 17,000 spectators assembled at Deppdale the well known headquarters of the North End Club. The crowd in fact, was too large for the enclosure, with the result that people encroached on the field of play in places, which may necessuate the match being replayed. The ground was in excellent condition, with little or no wind, and altogether the game was played under favourable circustances. Each club made one charge from last week, Geary and Russell the two centre forwards, being now included and Gordon and Grier standing out, the position of the side's being filled as follow :- Preston North End, Trainor goal, Holmes, and N.J.Ross (captain) backs, Drummond, Sanders and Stewaet (w), half-backs, Gordon (j) Ross (jun), Russell, Beckton and Cowan, forwards, Everton:- Williams goal, Kelso, and Howarth (captain), Boyle,, Holt, and Stewart (a), half-backs, Latta, Maxwell, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Referee Mr John Lewis (blackburn) Howarth again won the toss, and Russell accordingly kicked off, with the sun in his eyes., but North End opened the attack on the right, and though Holt tackled gamely Gordon got near enough in to shoot, Williams stopping the ball with his feet. Holt was next adjudged to have fouled Beckton and from the pressure J Ross forced a corner. So far the home team had all the attack but a long pass by Chadwick gave employment to Milward who didged Drummond, but who could not reach the ball when passed to him by Chadwick. The Everton left wing quickly returned, but Holmes proved a barrier to their progess, and a piece of good passing caused the venue to be changed. J ross hitted over the bar, and Kelso was in requisition, who kicked away grandly and Latta centred by Chadwick put failed to get possession. The round play tended to favour of Preston, who went with a rush on the right, and shot. Williams caught the ball but could only make a weak kick, which J Ross took full advantage of, and managed to put into the net ten minutes from the start, a tremendous cheer greeting this early success of Preston, who soon caused Everton to conceded a corner, badly placed, on the left. Everton made several attempts to get within shooting distance but could not combined well, the opposing half-backs intercepting the passes. Boyle found it necessary to kick out shortly afterwards, and then Geary starting a run, he was cleverly robbed by Sanders. The Everton centre forward, however, followed up by shooting for goal. He was fouled simultaneously, but nothing came from the free kick, nor of a corner taken by latta., who was hampered by the crowd. Holt interposed at a critical period, and then N.J. Ross came in for official censure, he having kicked Maxwell. The free kick seemed likely to be expense, for Everton attack hard for some minutes during which Chadwick tested Trainer with a daisy cutter. Everton certainly showed firmer formation now then hitherto, and gave much anxiety to the Prestonians but Latta was robbed by Stewart when about to centre, whilst Geary,, from a change he made for himself, shot hard, narrowly over the bar. Some of the best passing so far was then contributed by Everton, which terminated in Maxwell making a fine bid for goal. This was followed by a dangerous shot by Beckton which Williams cleared at the expense of a corner. J Ross next sent the ball spinning along the bar, but had it gone into the net it would not have counted as the whistle sounded for an informality. Preston, however, were going strongly just now and a free kick being taken by Sanders he lobbed the ball against the crossbar rebound, and was rushed into the net. North End thus attained a strong lead of 2 goals in 25 minutes. Another disaster seemed imminent a moment or so later, as Gordon centred beautifully but, fortunately for Everton Beckton could not quite reach the ball. Cowan drove hard, and North End were dangerous in the extreme until, Holt got in some effective work. Latta relieved, but Stewart pulled him up, and then came Everton's greatest opportunity, as the sphere being handled they got a free kick in the goalmouth almost, but the ball struck the bar and but aside. a spankling shot, stopped by an Everton back, was the chief item between now and the interavl, which came with Preston Noth End in command by 2 goals to nil. On resuming Everton passed up nicely, but Latta centre could not be utilised, whilst a return raid culminated in a poor shot. A free kick conceded to Preston was enthrusted to J Ross, who put to NJ ross, but who shot wildly over the bar. The play went on even lines for some time, but it was evident that Everton half-backs were gaining in effectiveness to the corrsponding deteroration of the home team. The attack of the visitors was rather better than that of their opponents., but Trainor was always ready to clear the shots that came his way. The tactics of Everton were for long shooting as the flourish of a rush, and had centre been resorted to instead of wing shot, the match might have been saved. Holt got badly but accidentally kicked on the head some 15 minutes from time, but though weakened Everton made play if not often danerous. Just when every one was listening for the whistle to blow, Russell scored the best goal of the day, and secured victory of 3 goals to nil for Preston North End.
EVERTON REVIEW
March 13, 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
The second round ties of the Lancashire Cup competition were the chief attractions locally on Saturday, but none was more interesting, owing to the drawn game that ensued at Bramell-lane a week ago, than that between Everton and Preston North End at Deepdale. Though the Liverpool public was not so greatly represented at Preston as at Sheffield, the ground was packed to inconvenience, so much so that people had to be placed between the barricades and the touchlines, and as these encroached upon the field of play, the tie may have to be replayed, Everton having lodged a protest as the interval with the referee, Mr. J. Lewis, who will lay the matter before the committee of the Lancashire Association. The result of the match must be voted a great disappointment to Evertonians, but certainly the cleverer team on Saturday won, though the superior of Preston North End was not so apparent as the score would represent, the two first goals being somewhat lucky ones, and both as the result of free kicks. The condition of the ground, which was dry and easy going, was exactly as Everton hoped for, and further, they had the help of what wind was blowing, which was not much, and the sun at their backs, in the first half, and yet it was during the opening stages that they were weakest. They could not get into a confident stride until the 15 minutes had elapsed, during which time irreparable damage had been wrought to their chance of victory. From this period of the game to the end Everton were quite as good as their rivals, except when at the face of goal, a defect which will have to be remedied if they are to emerge with their colours flying next Thursday in the English Cup semi-final. The only department in the Everton team which merited unstinted commendation on Saturday was that in the charge of Howarth and Kelso –two ex-Prestionains –and whilst the former sustained his character as one of the cleverest backs in the country, kelso, difficult though it seemed, even played a better game than his captain. It was mainly due to these two players that the defeat was not more severe, for Williams proved to be a little unsteady and anxious, though in his defence it must be stated that he got badly kicked on the thing when trying to prevent the first goal being scored. The half-backs of Everton were not seen to advantage, Boyle excepted, Stewart as often beaten by J. Ross and Gordon easily, whilst Holt scored fewer successes than usual, and evidently found more than his match in Russell, but Holt tried his utmost and, in the second half, in tackling J. Ross, received a very serious kick on the back of the head, which will probably prevent his assisting in next Thursday's match. With the half-backs less effective than of late, the Everton forwards had fewer chances, and what they had were not made the most of. They passed splendidly at times, but on the whole combination was no a strong point, especially when closing in upon goal. The outcome was that too long shooting predominated, and these, with Trainor in good form, were useless. Who is to blame for lack of cohesion and dash at close quarters it would be difficult to say, but true it is that the forwards as arranged on Saturday were weak, and seldom indeed looked likely of capturing goal. The Preston North End forwards were also their weakest point. Their combination was not marked, but they always followed up their shots readily on the off chance of affecting a coup from a short return, and so were really dangerous whenever they got within range of goal, which was only too frequent. Drummond, Sanders and Stewart made a superb half-back trio, and with N.J. Ross and Holmes at their backs Preston defence could scarcely have been improved. Everton find solace in the achievements of their Combination team, who affected a very clever win of 5 goals to nil over St. Bernard's of Edinburgh, a team which included two international backs –Walter Arnott and Foyer – and have beaten, among many other Scotch clubs, the Glasgow Rangers in a cup-tie. It was altogether a smart performance, and the respect for Everton's second team is confirmed in the support given by the Liverpool public.
LIVERPOOL DISTRICT AND NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 13 March 1893
By the Loiterer
The Everton club do not come off so well in their bouts in the committee room, but they think they will have little difficulty in stating their case at the encroachment of the spectators at Deepdale to the satisfaction of the Lancashire executive, and hope to justify the protest laid. Some people think that the team is going off, and that the men are suffering from over training. There is no question about it, the men have had a long spell of exciting work, and there is plenty yet on hand. I don’t see that the club can allow any relaxation if they mean to get possession of the English Cup.
It looks as if the Everton supporters anticipated defeat at Deepdale for nothing like the number went that journeyed to Sheffield, only about 800 leaving Liverpool. We can have too much of a good-thing and I should fancy the Everton ad North End teams will had quite enough of it by Thursday evening.
The match between Everton Combination and St. Bernard’s was very disappointing notwithstanding the fact that they were assisted by such a sterling player as Arnott. The latter showed some of his old form all through the first half, but in the second he fell away, while Foyer, his colleague, improved very much. Altogether the “Saints” with the exception of a short period in the first half, when they sent in some really beautiful shots which took Jardine all his time to clear, were outplayed, from start to finish, and a six goals to nil victory hardly represents the play.
NORTH END HOLD THE FORT AT DEEPDALE.
Athletic News - Monday 13 March 1893
By Prestonian
It is a long time since so much interest was centred in a match as in that between North End and Everton, at Deepdale, on Saturday. The visit of Sunderland brought enthusiasts from all parts of the country, but the ground appeared to be more crowded on Saturday, and it was only by the persevering efforts of policemen and others that the touch-line was kept clear. Of course, curiosity was heightened at the outcome of the match by the position which the clubs hold in the English Cup contest. In fact, many were of opinion that the outcome of Saturday’s game would give the cue to who would win at Sheffield next Thursday. Everything was favourable to good football. There was no wind, and the ground was in good condition. Both teams had been slightly altered from what they were at Sheffield. North End had Russell as centre forward, while Drummond played at right half-back in place of Grier, who is still on the injured list. Everton included Geary in their front rank after his rest, and put Maxwell on the right with Latta, thus leaving out Gordon. There had been some difficulty, I believe, in selecting a referee, which was solved by the Association appointing Mr. Lewis, of Blackburn. The following were the contestants; - Preston North End;- Trainer, goal; Ross and Holmes, backs: Drummond, Saunders, and Stewart, half-backs; Gordon. Ross, Jun, Russell, Beckton, and Cowan, forwards. Everton;- Williams, goal; Howarth and Kelso, backs: Stewart, Holt, and Boyle, half-backs: Milward, Chadwick, Geary, Maxwell, and Latta, forwards. Half an hour before the game commenced the crowd crept up to the touch-line on the opposite side from the stand, and just before the teams came out the referee walked along the most crowded parts to judge for himself as to the condition of the field in respect to the crowd. Howarth once more won the toss for choice of ends. He decided to play down the hill with the sun at his back, and from the kick-off both sides, appearing in splendid condition, went to work at tremendous pace. I don’t think I ever saw faster play than that which took place in the first half. Both sides were in a very determined humour, and there was a great contrast from the very first between the form North End displayed and that they showed at Liverpool. Gordon very early gave Williams one of those lightning-like screws of his from the corner, and Chadwick and Milward made plucky attempts to reach the vicinity of Trainer. In nine minutes Jimmy Ross shot in, and Williams, being unable to get it away far enough, the ball was returned, and the “little demon” delighted Deepdalians by scoring the first goal. If anything, play was fiercer than ever after this, and a bit of bad feeling sprung up between Latta and Jock Ross. The latter was seen by the referee and penalised, though in my opinion one was as bad as the other. Trainer had to save a couple of times, the Evertonians just now displaying some beautiful combination in the North End half of the field. The game was stopped for a minute through the crowd getting over the goal line, and when play had been recommenced Geary missed a magnificent chance. He got past the North End half-backs and back, and with no one in front of him but Trainer, shot over the bar amidst intense excitement. Such fast play resulted in free kicks for both sides, and it was from one of these that Saunders was able to score a second goal, the ball rebounding from the crossbar. Both goals were in danger before the interval. Once Everton had a free kick within a yard or two of Trainer, but they could not manipulate it, and the interval arrived. A great change came over the game in the second half. Everton almost from the first took the upper hand. They worked like Trojans, keeping the North End half-backs perpetually busy: and it was noticeable that Drummond made himself very useful against the Everton left. In fact, Geordie distinguished himself more on Saturday than he had done, perhaps, during the season. “Play up, North End!” Came from all parts of the field, but, somehow, the North Enders did not appear in the humous to exert themselves to any extraordinary degree. Latta put in some fine runs about this period and deferred to score more than once; but he was not as well supported as he might have been. Whenever the home forwards did get over the half-way line, the opposing halves soon nullified their efforts. So time crept on till about ten minutes from the finish, when the home forwards suddenly showed some of their old combination, Cowan, Beckton, and Jimmy Boss were very conspicuous, but the Everton defence remained as stubborn ever. Both Cowan and Russell had been nearly scoring, and the last-named put on a third goal. This was evidently quite sufficient for the spectators, for they at once began to pour off the field by thousands. The game was very a finely contested one, and, considering the speed, was not unduly rough. There were some questionable tactics which Mr. Lewis was very quick to perceive, and the blame can be equally divided to each side. The weakness of the Everton team is the poor combination of their front rank when in front of goal, where they rely too much on individual effort. The half-backs and backs could not be improved upon. I have seen Geary and Maxwell of far more use to their side. Williams could not be blamed for any of the shots that passed him. On the other side Trainer played one of his best games, sad the way he cleared once or twice won for him hearty and well deserved applause. The backs, like those on the opposite side, played a grand game. It is seldom that four such backs are seen on a field. The half-backs were a useful trio. Saunders and Stewart, as usual, worked very hard, and Drummond, though he made a few mistakes, was a good substitute for Grier. The steady improvement of the left wing was much remarked upon. Both Beckton and Cowan are fine players, but the former has a tendency to be selfish; a fault which he will do well to get rid of as soon as possible. There is no doubt that Russell in the centre wonderfully improved the North End front rank, and he, Ross, jun.. And Gordon gave the spectators a grand exposition of forward play. The game was worth going a long way to see, and it appeared to be keenly appreciated by the spectators. I had almost forgotten to say that Everton through their captain protested in the first half against the game being considered a Cup tie. The decision will, of course, lie with the Lancashire Association. All I can say is that I never saw any of the players on either aids impeded in the slightest degree by the crowd.
DAPATURES FOR CANARY ISLANDS
March 13, 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
The British and African Steam Navigation Company's Royal mail steamer Loanda sailed from the Mersey on Saturday for the Canary Islands and the West Coast of Africa, having on board a large party of visitors to Grand Canary. One of which is Mr. George Mahon, treasurer of the Everton Football Club, who has been indisposed for some time past, is visiting the islands to recruit his health.
EVERTON V ST BERNARD'S
March 13 1893. The Sheffield Independent.
The visit of the Scotchmen to play the second eleven at Everton attracted 10,000 spectators. The game was one sided so far as scoring was concerned. Everton obtained three goals to none, before the interval and adding two more points later on they won as under Everton 5 St Bernards 0.
EVERTON COMBINATION 5 ST BERNARDS 0
March 14, 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
This match was played at Goodison Park, before 6,000 spectators. The home team included Walker, late of Grimsby, half-back, and the visitor were strongly presented, including Arpott and Foyers (Scottish internationals). Playing against the wind and sun, the combination exhibited clever play, McMillan Gordon, and Murray scoring. Half time Everton 4 goals St Bernards nil. The second half was more evenly contested, but Everton scored the only goal, and won by 5 goals to nil. Everton team, Jardine, goal, Chadwick, and Parry, backs, Walker jones, Coyle half-backs, Smith, Murray, Pinnell, McMillan and Elliott forwards.
EVERTON REVIEW
March 17, 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
Not yet! Everton failed in the last course of the National Cup competition at Fallowfield Manchester on Saturday, and the Cup instead of being held by Liverpool during the next twelve monthsa, has returned to the Midlands, being simply transferred from the West Bromwich Albion who won it last year to their neighbours the Wolverhampton Wanderers. Who are to be congraduated upon becoming cup holders for the first time in their history. The result is of course a bitter disappontment to liverpollians in general and Evertonians in particular, a contreterner all the more keenly regretted since the majority of their supporters though that once Preston North End had been disposed of as they were last Monday at Blackburn the destiny of the cup wasassured, and that Everton had practically won. No doubt the delustive feeling of over=confidence orevaded the players also, though not to-such an extent as with their patrons. On form, which is as untrusty as a brished reed. Everton should have won comforably, since represntatives of the club had beaten the Wanderers twice this season in connection with the League, and drawn with them in a friendly match. But, on the other hand. It ought never to have been lost sight of that the ‘'Wolves'' in order to qualify for the position in the final tie had to beat in particular Bolton Wanderers, and the Blackburn Rovers. Despite the fact that the Rovers had in the previuos round overthrown in an emphatic manner the powerful Sunderland team. The final combat of Saturday was where fore a much more open affair than Liverpool people were willing to concede, and it was evident from the equal reception of the two teams by the phenomenal crowd at Fallowfield that faith in the abilities of the respective contestants was about equally divided. The game however, was not a brilliant one. It is rear that the best exhibitions of the Associattion code are given in cup ties, for the apperent reason that excitement is worked up to an unnerving pitch. Then again,, the players on Saturday were more or less hampered through thousands of people having broke down the barriers, encouraging upon the touch and goal lines. So much was play interfered with by intruding spectators that the feeling became very general that the match was not a cup tie but merely a friendly one for the partification of the multitude of people who had spared neither trouble nor expense to be present. At times a listlesaness on the part of some of the actors was obserrable and this lethargy strengthened the opinion that the play was merely a rehearsal of the real performance of another day. But this assumption was wrong. There were protests talked about but none we understand, formally lodged, and so the issue was a decisive one. It certainly seems illegical that the Lancashire tie between Everton and Preston North End should be ordered to be replayed owing to the interference of the spectators, and not that with the Wolverhampton Wanderers at Manchester where the encrochments were more promounced; but in the one casea protest was handed in, and put so in the other. That there was no protest is a tribute to the sportman like insttincts of the clubs concerned for, after all, the inconveniences were equally felt by both teams, and Everton acknowledge that they were beaten in a fair and square combat. They were not Fortune favourities for the day, but as they had a very full allowance of luck at Ewood Park on Monday, they could not expect to be so kindly treated on Saturday. With ordinary luck, they would most probably have won, for it is generally admitted that up to the interval theu had played much the better game, not with standing that the had to face the sun and wind. The initail half was Everton's opportunity. They ought to have scored at least two goals during this period but their shooting was below their normal quality whilst it must be allowed that they were met by most brilliant defenders. On changing ends Everton with the elements helping them were though, and reasonably so to have the issue in their keeping, but instead of growing more powerful they showed evidences of disintegration. Their combination evaporated and when the ‘'wolves'' scored from a rush about half an hour off the finish, the genral factor of Everton were not such as to buoy up hope that they would even get on equality with their rivials, much less ultimately defeat them. The combination of the Everton forwards was very good at the outset, but towards the finish selfishess obtruded and no matter how generously Maxwell fed his wings his attentions were not reciprocated. The result was that there prevailed to much wing play, whist Maxwell deemed it necessary to commence to strike out on his own account. There was thus hardly any cohesion at the time Everton needed it most with the inevitable sequal of long shooting and easy clearances. Holt as usual was the hardest working on the field. He scored triumph upon triumph, and his two colleagues toiled uncertainly but each found themselves outmanunred more frequently,than usual. The great strength of Everton lay in the defence of Howarth and Kelso. Both tackled and kicked effectively the latter confirmed the oponion which grows week that he is the best right full back extant and his brilliancy should secure his selection for the impeding international league match. Williams, who did such wonders in goal, at Blackburn on Monday, was not so fortunate. Many think he should have prevented the shot which scored taking effect. He certainly stopped others more dangerous from a spectators point of view, but he misjudged the direction of the ball. Its is no sully on his reputation, however, to allow one of many shots piercing goal, and it would be manifestly unfair to by the onus of the defeat upon his shoulders. The sting must rather be suffered by the forwards in not making better us of chances that came their way. Forwards play, too,, was not a strong point with the Woverhampton Wanderers, but they were surefooted and kicked hard as a rule in the desired direction when they had a free course, but is iften happned that one or other of those Evertonians upon whom the duty devoloped spoils the shot at goal. Wykes who was so weak against Coyle last week. Was the most dangerous man of all, and he had evidently profited by the admonitions he had received. Malpass, Allen, and Kinsey was a powerful half-back fine and the success play of Kinsey thoroughly merited the international honours he afterwards received. The defence of Baugh and Swift also was some of the finest, the latter kicking much more truly than in the League match a weel ago. Thses sturdy backs shielded Rose so completely that he had comparatively little to do, and what this little was prevented no flaws, however, much Everton might have wished it otherwise. There was of course no procession when the team returned to Liverpool, but there was crowd awaiting them. And gave them an encouraging cheer. This the team thoughly deserved. They were beaten but by a goal,, and how hard and successful has been their work during the past two mouths id fully recognised. They had to meet a League team in each round of the cup, having beating West Bromwich Ablion , Notts Forest, Sheffield Wednesday, and after two drawns games, Preston North End. Conourrently with three achievements, they have done hereulean performance in the League winning every match played in this connection since they were narrowly beaten by Notts Forest on January 12, and then lifying Everton to near the top from bottom but two. The strain has been most exacting, but they have come so well out of it that, wheather further successess or the reverse are in store, during the next month. Everton have earned the graditude of all their numerous folling. They have yet the Lancashire Cup within the range of proveability, and they should rally to the standard with refurbished determination at Depdale next Thurday.
EVERTON 0 PRESTON NORTH END 0 (FA cup game 14)
March 17 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
Following the tie of two goals each which these rival teams played on Saturday week, they were ordered to again meet at Bramell line Sheffield yesterday afternoon. It was fully antcipted that there would be another large attendance, despite the generally inconvenient day of the week, and these expectations were fully realised for by the time the rival teams faced each other, there would be quite 20,000 spectators lining the barriers. The almost phenomenally fair weather experienced during the last few days in Sheffield gave way yesterday morning to several sharp showers of rain, but the downpour was not of such weight as to seriously affect the ground which was in good going order., though a stiffish breeze miliated against accurate play. Everton played the same team as on the previous meeting, but the Preston side, Russell took his palce at centre forward in place of Drummond, who went to his old position at half-back, supplanting Grier, who was on the injured list. The hugh crowd during the interval of waiting indulged in good-humoured chaff, and when North End made their appearance at 3-25, they were cheered, as were their opponents, who appeared immediately afterwards. Preston winning the toss elected to defend the Bramell-lane goal having a stiff breeze in their favour. From the first play ruled fast, but the defence of each aside showed rare form. Preston got away in force and obtained a corner which proved fruitless, and Everton dashing away, to the other end kept the Preston backs busy, and for a considerable time seriously imperilled the North End citadel. Despite the wind being against them, Everton kept up the pressure. At length Beckton and Russell got away, but Kelso returned, and from a free kick from a foul the ball was directed just outside the Preston posts. An unsuccessful raid was made on the Everton quarters and then Preston by capital combination, again assailing, got through, and obtained a corner from which Cowan after subsequent play, shot over the bar. At this juncture snow fell heavily, and continued for fifteen minutes, after which happily, it ceased. Each end was in turn besieged, and with the wind dropping considerably after the cessation of the strom, some neater forward play was wittnessed. From end to end the ball travelled rapidly, and although each goal was in turn in jeopardy, the defence prevailed. Everton going away with a rush obtained a corner, but the Preston backs relieved. North End, after a well concerted run got close in the Everton quarters, and had a fine opening, but spoilt the chance by a series of mistakes. During the latter portion of the first half Everton had the best of the play but neither side could score, and the interval arrived with no goals to either side. On crossing over, Preston broke awa and Gordon shot outside the Everton uprights. For the first ten minutes the play on the whole was pretty evenly divided, but ruled very fast while several members of each team went in for some unnecessary charging. After some capital play Everton got though, and Milward had a grand opening, but failed to utilise whilst after a rapid rush to the other end Ross junior from a grand position, shot over the bar. After a considerable amount of give and take paly in midfield. Everton went away with a rush, and Trainor had all he could do to save, and from another attack immediately afterwards Latta sent in a shot which hit the cross bar and rebounded into play Trainor having to rush out and beat away in hot haste to clear. Everton were now holding the upper hand, and kept Preston North End busy with their repeated attack, but all efforts were repulesed although Trainer had several times to exert himself. At length North End raised the siege and Ross jun, Gordon, and Russell negotiated a good run into the Everton quarters, but Williams came out, and cleared his lines cleverly. A rush to the North End lines saw the ball carried over the line, and more desultory mid-field play took place. A slight occasion wass caused owing to Gordon, of Everton being Injured in a charge but fortunately he speedily recovered. Not to be denied Everton again assailed and secured a corner, but the flag kick was badly directed, and was easily got away. Everton returning to the attack invaded the Preston lines in fine style, but Ross and Holmes were always there of thereabouts, and nullified at the brilliant efforts of the Everton forwards. North End made a determined effort towards the finish, but Everton defence prevailed, and at the call of time neither side had scored. After consultation it was decided that a third meeting of the teams should take place on Monday next at Blackburn on the Rovers ground, the kick off being fixed for 3-30p.m. teams Everton:- Williams, goal, Kelso and Howarth (captain) backs, Boyle Holt and Stewaet (a), half-backs, Latta Gordon (p), Maxwell, Chadwick, and Milward forwards. Preston North End:- Trainer goal, Ross (jn) (captain) and Holmes, backs, Stewart (w), Sanders, and Drummond half-backs, Cowan, Beckton, Russell, Ross (jun), and Gordon forwards. Linesmen: Mr J.Howcroft, (Middlesbrough), and Mr. Roberts (Derby), Referee Mr. C.J.Hughes (Cheshire).
Cricket & Football Fields
RE-PLAYED TIE-ANOTHER DRAW
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 18 March 1893
No goals For Either North End or Everton
If either of the above named clubs win the F.A. Cup they will deserve it. They have met twice in the semi-final stage and yet a third trial of strength is necessary. The second meeting came off on Thursday, like the first, on the Bramell-lane ground, Sheffield, and as 530 pounds was taken at the gates it will at once be seen how keen is the interest of the public in the fate of the old trophy. Trips from many of the big towns were freely patronized, Everton bringing a very large following as usual. The afternoon was bitterly cold, but except a downfall of snow not long after the start, and a strong breeze, it was by no means a bad day for football. Everton were represented exactly as on the occasion of their last visit, and Preston had the same team as won the Lancashire tie on Saturday, the players being stationed thus;-
Preston North End; Trainer (captain), goal; R. Holmes and N.J. Ross, backs; Drummond, Sanders, and Stewart, half-backs; Gordon and J. Ross, right wing; Russell, centre; Beckton and Cowan, left wing. Everton; Williams, goal; Kelso and Howarth (captain), backs; Boyle, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, right wing; Maxwell, centre; Chadwick and Milward, left wing. Referee; Mr. J.C. Hughes, Cheshire Assoication. Those persons who had unbounded faith in the old champions had a bad hour and a half. North End were acting on the defence for two-thirds of the game, and for quickness on the ball and speed in the field Everton were miles in front of their antagonists. It was entirely due to the superb defence of the Prestonians that they were not beaten, and beaten badly. If North end had half the chances that fell to the lot of their rivals they would have walked in, but it was rare, indeed, that they got a fair opportunity of scoring. Everton had to face the wind in the first 45 minutes, and all the team played well to a man. Williams had several occasions for showing his skill, and kept goal without a blemish. He was well protected by Kelso and Howarth, who supported each other admirably, and scarcely ever made a blunder. Several times the Everton wings raced away, and Holmes and Jack Ross had all they could do to keep them in check. Latta on the one wing and Chadwick and Milward on the other put in some taking runs and gave Trainer work to do now and again, and he did it like the finished master that he is. When the half-way house was reached Everton were congratulated on having kept their charge intact, and they deserved all the good things said about them. Now that they had the wind at their backs they were very hopeful and they played up with immense dash. Except at very rare intervals the play was entirely in Preston territory and visitors from the “proud town” were in a perpetual state of anxiety. Chadwick sent in one of the best shots he ever made in his life and it was beautifully dealt with by Trainer, whilst Latta hit the cross-bar with a regular trimmer that left its mark on the ball for the rest of the game. Trainer admitted to me after all was over that he thought the shot had beaten him. Williams came out of his goal some yards to clear, but after this he was seldom more than an interested spectator. Time flew rapidly by and yet the bulk of the play lay with the defence. Jack Ross had been rather shaky at the start, but he was now going great guns, doing the most daring things and not a word could be said against the methods. For some minutes after the game had commenced Latta got the netter of Jack Ross, but once the latter settled down he trotted out all his old resources and kicked as strongly as ever. Holmes did not fall into his best style for a while, but he afterwards made amends, and the greater the pressure the better he played, showing up in fine style against the best wing in the Kingdom. When at last the end was signaled, and not a point recorded, the great crowd remained in their places, evidently under the impression that extra time would be requisitioned. They kept their seats until they saw there were no signs of a renewal of hostilities, and then the thousands separated, the admirers of Everton satisfied at the skillful display of the team, and yet disappointed that they had not won, whilst the friends of the North End were full of praise for their sterling defence. The brilliant play of the Preston back division, goalkeeper included, has abundant testimony in the fact that for two successive matches-three hours’ play in all-Everton have been unable to score a solitary goal. Trainer’s goalkeeping was quite blameless, Holmes and Ross were very safe and clever, particularly in the second half, and they were often severely tested. Sanders was the smartest of the three half-backs, though Stewart was very reliable, and Drummond repeatedly useful. The forwards have often been seen to better advantage, anything like finished combination being almost entirely absent. Such a thing as a concerted run on the Preston side was not seen all afternoon. Russell was no great shakes at centre-forward, being too well looked after by Holt. Boyle had about as much as he could do to attend to Beckton and Cowan, but Stewart came off well as a rule against the right wing pair. Neither of these was so prominent as in the previous match, Gordon rarely getting away with the ball. Jimmy Ross got in with the best shots, and one from Cowan nearly took effect. The rear division of the Everton team had not nearly so much to do as that of the other side, but each and all played a good game. Howarth’s coolness and Kelso’s daring were in marked contrast, but equally effective. Holt was the smartest half-back on the field, and the other two met with much success, Boyle’s neat and telling style coming in from any favorable comments. The front rank were constantly on the alert and the ready way in which one and all fastened to the ball was frequently cheered. Maxwell fed the wings with nice judgement but lacked shooting powers. Indeed only Latta and Chadwick appeared to have the proper idea of sending the ball in the direction of the goal, the shooting being generally at fault. The fast runs of Latta and Milward and the tricky play of Chadwick came in for a lot of notice, Edgar’s skill with the ball being as conspicuous as ever. Whilst many persons declared that Everton had hard lines and deserved to win, their antagonists must have their full share of credit for keeping their colours from being lowered. Nothing finer could have been desired. It was perhaps not altogether a great day from a Preston point of view, and they can hardly look upon their excursions to Sheffield with satisfaction. The arrangement to replay the tie at Ewood Park on Monday next met with approval everywhere, and the commodious enclosure is pretty sure to be well tested. It’s an excellent selection, and as Everton scored a sensational victory when last at Blackburn they should be thoroughly well pleased. –OLYMPIAN.
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS V. EVERTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 18 March 1893
With a view doubtless of getting some forecast of the final next week some 10,000 spectators turned out at Wolverhampton today. Moreover, the League positions of both contestants afforded additional interest. Everton, however, to the general disappointment, only sent three of the original Cup team, the absence of the rest being excused on various grounds. The Wanderers kicked off against the breeze, which was blowing strongly, and for some time they were pressed, Rose luckily saving. At the other end Kelso just hooked the ball away as danger was brewing. Topham forced Coyle to kick out, and in a lot of midfield exchanges the Wanderers held their own against the wind. The backs were very safe, though occasionally the goalkeeper was harassed. Latta failed miserably with a golden opportunity, and then Topham just sent a beauty wide of the mark. In fifteen minutes Rose fisted out in a scrimmage, and the ball, bouncing on Geary’s head, went through somewhat accidentally, scoring Everton’s first goal. The Wanderers attacked strongly, but were hampered a bit, the wind often and often landing the leather right on to an opponent’s foot, and moreover Everton’s defence was very active. Several times Topham tried, Doyle sticking to him like a leech, though the amateur nevertheless was dangerous near Jardine. The latter fell full length in clearing a rushing shot from Wood, but he effected a marvelous save notwithstanding. Again the visitors looked in at the top end, where Rose had an anxious time; Hartley ended a sally by kicking wide, and then from a foul Geary pounced on the ball and shot a second goal, Rose having no chance whatever. Jardine was once more called on but had little difficulty, and Hartley put another beauty above Rose this being followed by a third goal, also from Geary, likewise impossible to stop with a full volume of wind behind it. Half-time; Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Everton 3
The Wanderers now had the wind, and attacked vigorously, Topham getting a swinger in at Jardine, but it was cleared at the moment he was charged. Everton returned, and after hanging about, Geary completed the sequence with a header, which took the fourth goal for the visitors. At length Griffin worked in off the line, and Butcher got past Jardine with a swift one. Everton were hard pressed, and in the height of the scuffle Stewart fouled Wood, shooting through from a free kick and past a cluster of opponents. Still the Wolves pressed, herculean efforts now being made. Butcher got in position but his shot was too high. The game continued in an interesting fashion, the scoring constantly looking imminent at the Everton end. The visitors managed to keep the coast clear. Topham almost crushed through, the ball bobbing about right in front for several minutes, and the Wolves were going it desperately hot though the Everton defence was gallant.
Final; Wolverhampton Wanderers 2, Everton 4.
Cricket & Football Fields
COMBINATION
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 18 March 1893
Everton v. Macclesfield
Before 7,000 spectators. The home team tried Leadbetter, from Formby. Everton had most of the first half, although the visitors displayed rare dash against the wind and sun, Bullock scoring. Murray and Gordon played with Burgess, and caused Kent no end of trouble. He was cheered repeatedly, and rounds of applause were heard at the League team’s doing at Wolverhampton. Half-time; Everton three, Macclesfield one. Final; Everton 9, Macclesfield 1.
Cricket & Football Fields
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 18 March 1893
Cricket & Football Fields
AT THE LANCASHIRE ASSOCIATION MEETING
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 18 March 1893
Remarkable Decision
Wednesday last was busy for the Saddle Inn, Bolton, for the Lancashire Association held a meeting there for the purpose of deciding the protests lodged by Bury and Everton. The North End case came on, and Mr. Lewis, the referee stated that the spectators had encroached near the touch-line, and of course, interfered with the play. The Executive decided that the tie must be replayed and the draw for the semi-final result as follow;-
Bolton Wanderers or Bury v Ardwick
Everton or Preston North End v. Bootle
We are of the opinion that the decision in this case had an effect on the one in the Everton and North end protest, and of the two we are inclined to think that North End are the greater sufferers and more badly treated than the Wanderers. We believe it is generally admitted by those who were present that the game although stopped occasionally, was not much affected by it, and we remember a case at Sheffield in the semi-final for the English Cup, between North End and West Bromwich Albion in which the spectators were all in the lines and repeatedly stopped play, but the Association would not consider a protest. To win by three goals and then to have to replay is decidedly hard lines on North End. But it is not so much the clubs we consider as the dangerous precedent established, and unless it is rescinded we are afraid the Lancashire Association will have several similar protests, and they will have themselves and themselves alone to blame for it.
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS V EVERTON
March 20, 1893. The Yorkshire Herald
At Wolverhampton, in fine weather and before a large crowd, the position of the teams in the English Cup Competition giving additional interest to the match. Scoring was opened by Everton. This visitors, added by a strong wind got down several times, and Geary scored twice. Halt-time scorer- Everton three goals to Wolverhampton nil. The Wanderers improved with the wind, but Geary completed the sequence with a header, which made Everton's fourth point. Butcher immediately responded with a god one for the “Wolves” who then improved on a free kick against Stewart by shooting a second. Everton were hard pressed, the “Wolves” pressing with almost herculean efforts, but although they were very near scoring during several hot sallies nothing resulted. The final of a curiously fought game was –Everton, 4 goals; Wolverhampton Wanderers, 2 goals.
RUGBY AT GOODISON
Athletic News - Monday 20 March 1893
A significant sign of the times was shown in Liverpool last Wednesday, when Runcorn played a match with Swinton on the Everton Ground at Goodison Park. It is not often that Rugby players appeal to their brethren of the Association code, but the popularity of the Everton club, and the wonderful completeness of their ground, together with its unique record in the matter of attendance, made it a desirable place to hold a charity match, and when Runcorn, for whose benefit the fixture had been arranged, applied to the Everton authorities, the request was very graciously acceded to. The game proved very interesting and was a splendid exhibition of good Rugby football. The attendance, which was also a matter of importance, realized all expectations, some 10,000 people being attracted, and the amount netted was the handsome sum of £142 17s, 7d.
LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 20 March 1893
By The Loiterer
The English Cup tie between Everton and Preston North End is arousing great interest in Liverpool, and after the form shown at Sheffield, we have great hopes of pulling off the event this afternoon at Blackburn. There is no question on to which side showed the better football and had the best of the play at Sheffield, and the match was a good as one in every respect. The Preston defence was really superb, and when I say that the Everton men played quite as well, it will be seen that Kelso and Howarth, along with Williams and the halves, must have been in tip-top form. It should be a great game this afternoon, but, for my own part, I don’t see that there is any cause for anxiety in the result.
Unfortunately it will throw Bootle without a match for the evening, as Everton were due at Hawthorne-road. The Committee offered to send the Combination team, but that is not good enough. That would not suit the Bootle supporters, who, though few in number, have a little dignity left, and good as the Combination team have proved themselves to be- and we have only to note the result of the League match at Wolverhampton for confirmation of it-they do not quite see the fun of playing them.
The Liverpool public will patronize Goodison Park ground. Fancy 8,000 spectators putting in an appearance to witness a game against Maccelesfield. This number would be an acceptable to many of our first division League clubs. The game went all in favour of the Everton contingent, who won by ten goals to one. The play needs no comment. The visitors, as will be seen, were not in it.
PUTTING THE BRAKE ON THE CUP FINALISTS.
Athletic News - Monday 20 March 1893
By The Wandering Wolf
Wolverhampton folks—looking with longing eyes for a glimpse of the Cup, which they think, or rather have thought, will come their way, were doubly surprised on Saturday. They had not reckoned on Everton turning up with only three of their recognized Cup team, and had set themselves out for an imaginary rehearsal of the final. But when the card came to be called over, what a crew—every other man a stranger almost. It was all put down to “cruel treatment on the part of the North End on the Thursday that this, that, and t'other player could not come, though when excuses have to be made for about eight of a standing eleven it comes a bit thick to be sure, particularly when, if I was properly informed, one of their crack wing Internationals had to be excused on the ground that his partner was knocked up, and so the Combination would be spoiled. It reminded one of the Scriptural tale of the gentleman who made unto his neighbors a great feast and then had to go out into the gutter for guests. That was one surprise. Accordingly the crowd, failing to see the accredited company of cup-fighters, booked in advance a walk-over, a mere exercise canter for the Wanderers. M’yes, they had a sort of exercise canter, but it was after goals which could not be got. As a matter of fact the team of “Toffs” got up for the occasion, with a view of letting presumably better men rest at home, actually run “me little Wanderers” round to the extent of a four goals to two victory. Whereat the second surprise was greater than the first. The chief business attaching to such a result, which must have been astonishing to all parties concerned, was done in the first half, when, profiting by a high wind, which was an invaluable help whenever the ball rose more than a yard or two from the surface, the seaport people rushed three goals past Billy Rose. One resulted through the ball bouncing through off Captain Allen as the keeper was fisting out—no less a goal for all that, though it was decidedly lucky—another fell to a smart oblique shot from Geary, after the “Wolves” had been vainly trying to bustle the enemy away from the vicinity of their keep, and the third came in somewhat similar fashion from the flying centre, who, just after the second half had been commenced, completed nice little sequence in the teeth of the wind, and fairly put the cap on the bewildered Wanderite head. From here it looked a hopeless case with the locals. What has a team to think with four goals against them, and into the second half? But they did play, and they fairly roused the Everton defence. Two first-class quality shots each took a goal, and the crowd looked up again and recovered its wind, which up to then had gone sadly amiss. It might yet been a draw, perhaps, by the way the “Wolves” put heart into their work. But when goals are wanted badly, and when all but got, they mostly come not. So it was here. . Even showing up better than their nimble opponents had done prior to the interval, the “Wolves” could not break through a defence which was in every way masterly, and so they had to retire with as much grace as a beaten team could clothe themselves with under the circumstances. In spite of the vagaries of football form I had expected getting some little clue from the match to the big game at Fallowfield next week, but considering all things I’ll give up with pleasure the idea of offering any remarks thereon. You can’t talk of the chances of Cup finalists being extinguished because they are beaten beforehand by prospective opponents in the same way that the racing man can figure out the prospects of, say, a Grand National horse as being nil because the animal comes a cropper in some little event prior to the big “Chase.” And. Moreover, supposing that Everton were left in at the finish and boarded an infinitely better team than the good one they had out at Molineux Grounds, what should I have to say of the Wanderers’ chance at Manchester? They beat the cutlers with ten men. I’m not so sure whether they would lose much by taking ten men to Fallowfield for Whkes is developing –no, degenerating into the clumsiest duffer who ever toed a ball. His selfish, ignorant, blundering performance on Saturday was one very valid reason why more goals were not scored when his side had the wind, and it must have been- well, I know it really was- galling to the crowd to see chances thrown broadcast to the wind through his sheer stupidity. Another most valid reason was that the assorted packet of Everton goods was much spicer than folks took them to be at first sight. I must compliment them on a victory that was striven hard for, though they may have been for the day fortune’s favourites.
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 2 EVERTON 4
March 20 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
This return match was played at Wolverhampton on Saturday, the previuos game having resulted in a win for Everton by 3 goals to 2. The weather was fine and the ground in excellent condition. Much iinterst was excited in the contest, owing to the possibility of the same clubs having to meet in the final tie of the English cup competition at Manchester next Saturday; but, as it turned out the issue furnished no cue to the coming event, as whilst the Wanderers placed their full cup team on the field, Everton depended on an eleven in which the combination men were prominent in the matter of numvbers, the Everton executive owing to the strain of the severe tussells with Preston North End, finding it essential to give the bulk of their cup team players a rest, inany of them having received minor injuries, so that the chance of Everton at Blaclburn should not be imperilled. The sides were accordingly as follow:- Everton; Jardine, goal, Kelso, and Parry backs, Stewart, Jones, and Coyle, half-backs, Latta (captain), Hartley, Geary, McMilan, Elliott forwards. Wanderers:- Rose, goal, Baugh, and Swift, backs, Malpass, Allan, and Kinsley, half-backs, Topham, Wykes, Butcher, Wood and Griffin forwards. Latta won the toss, and so Butcher kicked off against the wind. Everton opened on the left without being dangerous. Some goal kicking by Kelso, Parry, Stewart, and Jones threw Everton to the front again, when on Latta shooting in,, McMillan lifted over. Topham was next conspicuous in good combined play, but Kelso neutralised the effort, and Everton returned, when Kinsley interposed. Geary joined Hartley, and Latta in a movement, and again Kinsley proved a barrier. A retalistory movement on the ‘'Wolves'' right terminated in a futile shot. Everton quickly combined strongly in front, and lokked likely for forcing a goal but Kinsley cleared. Kelso next despoiled Butcher, deeming it safest to kick out. The home team just now passed beautifuuly, and despite soon fine work by Stewart, the ball went to Topham who was not far wide in a long shot. Parry kick clear a moment later and Elliott and McMillan running down and sending to the centre, the ball was worked into the net after Rose had used his hands. Thus Everton took the lead a quarter of an hour from the kick off. During the play that immediately followed the visitors back and half-backs were found employment, which was so satisfactorily attended to that Jardine, had nothing to do. A fine kick by Kelso removed operations and Geary and Elliott sprinted away the latter going a little wide with a long hard shot. The Wanderers next tried a capital rush but Coyle kicked away nicelt twice. The home team were not to be driven off, and later Jardine had used his hands to tame a shot. Wood drive kennnly outside. Some strong forward play by Everton caused further anxienty to the Wolverhampton Wanderers. Their passing was sharp and crisp, and after being once denied, Everton tried again, and from a tussle, arising from a free kick to the visitors close in, Geary beat Rose with a powerful close range shot. Half-hour had now esapled which had been well employed by Everton, and they had scored 2 goals to nil. Both Geary and Latta took aim on restarting, neither of which were good effort, whilst a better attempt was that from the home right, but this Jardine frustated coolly. At the other end McMillan and Hartley shot moderately, but Everton kept in front and after neat passing Geary again scored. A spendid goal. The play continued much in favour of Everton. Once Butcher sprinted off, but he was challenged by Kelso, Parry clearing and then Elliott from more clever passing beat Rose but the Whistle had sounded before the goal had been crossed. The game had run on fairly intersting but the visitors certainly showed the better tactics and had entire merried the commanding position that they had gained. Nearing half-time Topham centred and Griffin shot out narrowly. The Wanderers give further trouble; still the Everton defence was sound. Coyle keeping quite in touch with his more experience colleagues, and when the interavl arrived, Everton had scored 3 goals to nil. Latta early got in a run on resuming though he was checked by Kinsey. A nice piece of passing ensuedon Everton left and this too, was nipped in the bud. Then Topham became prominent, the cheers he received proving him to be a very popular. He had two good shots each of which Jardine fisted in grand style. Nothing coming of a corner, that resuled from one of these effects. Everton then cleared, and took up the attack on the right and left, McMillan shot in, and Hartley headed the fourth goal, out of a exciting tussle. The ‘'Wolves'' were not at demoraraised at the turn of affairs and closed in on goal, with a great dash, but the defence was too good for a time. Jardine at length stepped out a little to saved but Butcher was to quick for from him a neatly taken pass and the Wanderers thus met with their first reward. Everton resuled in a grand rush in a cluster with out the desired effort. The Wanderers then fairly attack goal, and during the severe pressure, a free kick was given against Everton, from which Wood took Allen's pass and scored driving the ball though a forest of legs somewhat luckily. Wykes was sson found a chance but shot high over the bar, when on returned Kelso hooked the ball out of the goalmouth. A free kick was badly taken by Allen, and then Woles returned to goal most determined severly times. Once the ball bouncing off the ground on to the top of the net. Afterwards Parry headed away great danger. At length Elliott and McMillan raised the siege, and sending across to Hartley, the latter forced a corner. Nothing came of the play but Hartley had a shot at goal, before the Wanderers could resume the attacfk. Which was fierce in the extreme, Jardine and others having to be smart in repulsing most dangerous shots. Geary essayed one of his sprints and play become less eciting and more open. Latta had a now gone to the help of the half-backs, and time approached, it became apperant that the ‘'Wolves'' could nopt rub of the arrears. In fact, Everton were nearer scoring again, but were held smartly in check and the result of good game was a clear win for Everton of 4 goals to 2.
EVERTON COMBINATION 10 MACCLESFIELD 1
March 20, 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
At Goodison Park about 3,000 specatators. Everton from the commencement attacked, and Murray sppn broke though the visitors defence. Shortly afterwards Smith scored a second gaol, and Murray a third. Everton winning at the interavl by 3 goals to 1. During the second half Macclesfield had to defend continually, and goal upon goal followed until in the end Everton ran out easy winners by 10 goals to 1. Placed 1 st played 18, won 15, lost 2 drew 1, for 98 against 12 points 31.
EVERTON REVIEW
March 20, 1893. The Liverpool Mercury.
Everton had much confidence in the ability of several of the combination men that on Saturday executive determined to give no less them eight of their cup players rest in view of the severe game to-day and the team despatched to the Molineux Ground to meet Wolverahampton Wanderers in the return League match was thus an experimental one, however, clever the men might have been individually. There was a confident feeling, however among the team that they could hold their own against the ‘'Wolves'' finalist of the English cup though the latter be, and how well the Everton acquitted themselves is shown in their win of 4 goals to 2 a result which has no shadow of ‘'fluke'' associated with it, but brough about by smarter all-round play. The Wanderers had the same team which had beaten Blackburn Rovers in the cup tie a fortnight ago. It may be alleged that they were not over-exerting themselves, but the fierceness of their play, in the second half especially refutes this as sumption. No. Everton shaped more brilliantly at every department. Jardine was in his best form in goal, and effected several characteristic saves. Parry was in his element and never more happy than in breaking up those strong rushes his charging heading and kickikng being alike a treat to see. Kelso sustained his later-day form, and his clean kicking did much in the cause of victory. Stewart did not put him self out much, not rushing into danger of being hurt, but was ready when the punch came. R.Jones had a smart man in Butcher to cope with, but enjoyed great success; whilst Coyle tackled and passed in the most approved style and was as useful as any half-back of the day. Geary made a good centre forward and shot at his best. The combination was good all through, the passes being given and taken as though the men had been long familiar with each other. Hartley was very useful in the inside rights, and found a considerable mentor in Latta, who was conspicuous when required. The chief strenth laid on the left wing being made a strong by Elliott and McMillan as it would have been perhaps by the usual pair.
The replayed English cup tie has caused the return match between Everton and Bootle's which should have been played this evening at Hawthorn road, to be for the present abandoned.
EVERTON 2 PRESTON NORTH END 1 (FA cup game 15)
March 21, 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
These teams met at Ewood Park, Blackburn yesterday, in order tp reply their undecided semi-final tie in the English Cup competetion. This was the third attempt to bring about an effect result. The teams had met twice at Bramell lane Sheffield a draw ensuring on each occasion. Two goals each,, beong scored in the first game, and nothing in the second. The equally of the sides thus became emphasied, and tremendous interst was of course aroused in the third encounter. The capacious ground was packed long before the timeof starting, and there must have been quite 30,000 within the enclosure. Many hundreds failed to obtain admission, and crowd of disapponted ones took advantage of the hill beyond the ground, where they had a distant view of the play. The beautifully fine weather, warm and bright, rendered the afternoon enjoyment complete, whilst the wind being inconsequential, and the ground in the best goung order the conditions were favouable for a true and skill exhibition of the Association code. The teams were- Everton, Howarth goal, Kelso, and Howarth (captain) backs, Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs, Latta, Gordon (p), Maxwell, Chadwick, and Milward forwards. Preston North End- Trainor (capatin) goal, Holmes,, and Ross (nj) , Drummond, Sanders, and Stewart (w) half-backs, Gordon (j), Ross (jun), Russell, Beckton, and Cowan,, forwards Referee Mr. John Lewis.(Blackburn). North End were first to appear, and were well rerceived but a more flattering reception was accorded Everton a few minutes later,, and they evidently had most partisans. Trainor won the toss and Everton attacked the Darwin goal, and had the first brush without getting in a shot. Howarth was quickly called upon, and kicked up. Holmes returned, but Chadwick start a run, and would not be denied until he had a shot,, hitting the end net. Preston returned along the centre and attacked strongly, Howarth saving. No chance came, and Kelso, and Holt each interposed smartly, the later getting in the way of a shot by Stewart. N.J.Ross stopped a rush and after some open play in North End terrtory J Ross ran down and compelled Howarth to kick out, J.Ross was again in evidence,, but shot too high. Whilst Russell made bad use of a pass, and sent wildly outside. Gordon shots in grandly, but was a little too skyward, and this was followed by a rush, which Williams neutralised by running out and rising his feet. Niorth End were certainly playing the better game just now, and returned several times, Everton failing to get into a good line. At length the Liverpool right wing broke away, but N.J.Ross easily arrested their progess. Russell gave hands and from this Ross was again effective, and Everton were forced to defend during which trying period Kelso kicked spendidly. A chance now fell to Everton but Latta shot wide, with the goal at his mercy from Maxwell's pass. Maxwell tried a long low shot and then missed an opportunity, Gordon being also at fault with a screw a little later, Preston did not allow play to settle long in their Quarters, and so quick were they on the ball,, and close in following up, that both Howarth and Kelso, in particular had to exert themselves to the utmost and but for their herculean work Everton must have met with a reverse. Holt also did spendid things. Maxwell by way of a chance, found himself in control of the ball,, getting within range, but shooting blindly. N'J.Ross robbed Gordon and Maxwell very easily and them Everton were in real danger of being beaten. Williams, however, saved well from J.Ross, but without clearing,, and raids of a determined kind were made by Preston. A couple of free kicks fell to them, and from one taken by N.J.Ross the ball went to Russell, who headed over the bar. With this escape Everton woke up agood deal, and attacked with more vigour, and successfully, as Maxwell receiving from the left, dribbled and scored with a terrific high shot opening the scoring after just a half-hou's play. Everton at once returned to goal, but were held in check, and then survived a remarkable tussle right in the goalmouth of a profracted character. A delay now occurred owing to Sanders receiving a kick by Maxwell, which neccessitated his retirement, J.Ross going half-back in the energency. On resuming, Everton brought pressure to bear, on goal, Trainor having to use his hands from shots sent in from the left. The attacking party continued to be Everton, and though Ross defended cleverly and brillianty a fine centre by Boyle looked ominous, but Chadwick was a bit to trady in taking aim. A corner followed, and right up to the interval Everton were boldly bidding for goal,, shooting in with greater keenest than hitherto. No further opening was found, however, and at half-time Everton led by a goal to nil. On resuming, Sanders was sufficiently recovered to take up his position at centre back, and North End opened on the left, but found Kelso impossible. Everton also proved on the left in a spankling run, when Milward drove across to Latta but aginst whom off-side was proclaimed. Long kicking was indulged in by both sides, and momentarily play was de-ultory, this culminated in favour of Everton, and first Maxwell and then Chadwick, had a good shots. A sprint by the North End left wing was nipped by Kelso, and Spirited play by Everton was narrowly provented taking effects. The prestonians were then aggressive, and Williams picked up from J Ross, just in time. Whilst an abortive corner was conceded, North End on the left. The presure was sustained, though not severely. Cowan shot over at a long range, a better effort being one from Beckton, who went a few inches out with a low shot. Maxwell, who had for sometime played a strong and clever game, went through his men and centred finely, but it was in vain, and, on Everton returning Milward banged just outside the post from a powerful kick. Exciting play ensued a few minutes later as North End clustered in front of goal. Williams saved magnificently from Beckton and Gordon. The backs also cleared several times, and then Williams caught the ball from a central shot. The thrust on Everton's charge were most brilliant and J.Ross seened as though he must score, but Williams stopped the shot, and Latta ran off and took aim, a spendid shot which Trainor negotiated magnificently. The game was more spirited than over, and amidst the wildest demonstrations, the players fitted up and down with great gusto neither defences having any respite. Twenty minutes before time North end Equalised on J.Ross shooting across towards Gordon, who, though seeming to be off side, shot into the net at the further end of goal.preston caused more anixety to Everton, but Sanders went to high, at a critical period, and from the goal kick Everton, thanks to a good tackle by Stewart got down to the left corner, where Chadwick and Milward each shot in. J.Ross in reply, went the whole length of the field and thus relieved, but no one was up to take his centre though Beckton followed a moment, or so latter with a shot which Williams played. A corner came on the left, and again Williams got at the ball, whilst another flag kick on the right was cleared by the fielders. Howarth gave a throw in and Drummond shot, but Boyle headed out, and Everton gave a free kick almost on the goal line. Milward then got away, compelling N.J.Ross to conceded a corner. This was placed by Chadwick so well that Gordon headed into the net, Everton thus assuming the lead five minutes from ‘'time'' North End immediately afterwards swooped down on goal, but Williams got the ball round the post, or North End might have equalised. Latta raced off in grand style, and then went across but shot wide. A throw in to North End was the last item, and the whistle sounded whilst Preston were attacking with the result Everton 2 goals; preston North End 1. It must be admitted that on the whole Everton werein luck's way. The attack of the losers was better sustained than that of the winners, but this fact only demonstrates that Everton were grand in defence, Kelso and Williams especially so. On arriving at the Liverpool Exchange Station a large Crowd awaited the team. Who had a most beauty reception, Williams being carried shoulder high. To be well prepared for the final tie next Saturday, the Everton players leave for the country today. The gate amounted to £790.
THE ENGLISH CUP FINAL
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 22 March 1893
TO EDITOR THE LIVERPOOL ECHO.
Sir. —Now that the coveted English Cup will in all probability find a resting-place for the first time in Liverpool, will the Committee kindly convey to the public either by poster, private circulation, or through the Press, their official programme for next Saturday even proceedings—viz., the exact time and place of the arrival home of the " conquering heroes,” that the 20,000 Toffeyites (or thereabouts) who will be waiting to welcome them may not for any unnecessary length of time stop the traffic or block up the thoroughfares. It is only natural that the aforesaid enthusiasts will be exhilarated with the exuberance of their own verbosity, and Captain Nott Bower may have somewhat tough job to keep them in order. As regards the decorative arrangements, banners, triumphal arches, bands, and firework displays, the public can safely leave these matters in the hands of the committee, and, bear in mind, sir, there are no short cuts or back alleys to the headquarters of the Everton Football Club. Presuming the team arrive via L. and Y. the procession should march slowly down Moorfields then round to the Town Hall, where a halt should be made for refreshments, and, in order to add zest to the proceedings, the team should appear on the balcony and smile at the crowd for a few minutes. A start would then be made down Castle-street, via Lord-street, Church-street, Parker-street, Lime-street, and so on. N.B. —Royalty won't be in it. Of course,” there's many a slip, the “Wolves” might win, but as far as that goes pigs might fly. Facts speak for themselves. If the “Wolves” succumb on their own ground for the first time this season to an Everton Combination team (and you may rest assured they wouldn't drop two points in the League if they could possibly have helped it), what chance have they against the League team on neutral ground? It looks a bit dicky, does it not ? At the same time Everton must not hold them too cheap next Saturday. The “Wolves " will no doubt rise to the occasion ; but I'm afraid it is no go, and the Midland folk might as well stay at home. I would advise “England’s left wing” to take things pretty easy, and not run any unnecessary risk, so that they will be ready to snuff Scotland out, and show the braw Scotch laddies how a picked English team can play football. If I remember right, the International is fixed for the 1st April, to wit, All Fools' Day. What a record gate there will be.—Yours, &c., R. S. V. P.
EVERTON V. AIGURTH VALE
March 23, 1983. The Liverpool Mercury
Liverpool Senior Cup-Tie
For this match, to be played at Fulwood, Aigburth-road, this evening, commencing at 5.30, the following have been selected to represent Everton; Jardine. Goal; Chadwick and Collins, backs; Coyle, Jones, and Jamieson, half-backs; Smith, Murray, Hartley, McMillian, and Elliott, forward.
Everton League v Wolverhampton Wanderers
The following players have been selected to represent Everton in this tie, which takes place at Manchester on Saturday; Williams; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Maxwell, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
ENGLISH CUP FINAL
March 24, 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
Arrangements For The Match
The arrangements for the match at Fallowfield, Manchester, tomorrow, between Everton and Wolverhampton Wanderers, are of a most complete character, and reflect the greatest credit upon Mr. Bentley and his colleagues, who have the matter in hand. So far as the ground itself is concerned, special care has been taken with regard to the provision of extra exists, and these have been so arranged that it will be possible to leave after the match from every corner of the ground. By these means, and with the exercise of care by those present, there should not be any unseemly crowding at the finish. He stand accommodation, which runs the length of the field on both sides of the ground will give a fine sight to those lucky enough to get possession. There will be ample provision in the way of conveyances, as the Manchester Carriage Company will be running extra vehicles, and opposition buses are certain to be plentiful. Visitors to Manchester arriving at the Central and London-road Stations can book thence to Fallowfield, and those coming in at Exchange and Victoria Stations will find a good supply o buses and trams running from market-street, starting from the Exchange and the Infirmary. The great match will be preceded by a contest between the schoolboys of Manchester and Sheffield, this commencing at two o'clock and acting as a kind of curtain raiser.
AIGBURTH VALE 0 EVERTON COMBINATION 8
March 24, 1893. The Liverpool Mercur.
Liverpool Senior cup round one
These teams met at Fulwood ground last evening to play off their Liverpool Senior Cup-tie and as the weather was exceptionally fine, their was a large attendance of specatators. The first half was, well contested but despital the capital defence of the valeties Murray and Smith scored prior to the interval,, the score when the teams crossed over being 2 goals to nil in favour of Everton. Afterwards the game was entirely in favour of the visiitors, who did all the scoring and the game ended Everton 8, vale nil.
Everton, Jardine goal, Chadwick and Collins backs Coyle, jones and Jamieson half-backs, Smith Murray,, Hartley McMillan and Elliott, forwards. Aigburth vale, Spier, goal, Cogham, and Nidd, backs, Cork, Leek, and Gidman, half-backs, Sedby Boot Howcroft, Catesby, Stringer forwards.
CANCELLED OR POSTPONED?
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 25 March 1893
By Richard Samuel
On Monday evening Everton should have played the return match with Bootle, but they were otherwise engaged at Blackburn. They proposed that the combination team should fill the breach, but the Bootle Executive could not see their way to accept the offer. Whatever opinion the Everton people may have of the Combination team, and I’ll chuck the Wolverhampton opinion in as well, out Bootle way they have an objection, and a very proper one, too, I think to playing them. It is all very well for the Everton spectators to boast and put forward the splendid results of this team, and it is very probable the Combination would have beaten Bootle, but with all due deference to them, I venture the opinion that the Bootle players would have felt the slight so much that they would not have shown their true form. These words I know will be thrown away, for the exalted position they find themselves in regard to the English Cup has made a lot of the club’s supporters lose their equilibrium. There is no doubt some excuse for putting a little “side on,” but the Bootle Club has done something for association football in Liverpool, and they very properly resent this sort of treatment.
EVERTON AND PRESTON
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 25 March 1893
By “The Croaker”
The great match of Monday between Everton and Preston North End kept us busy for a while, and was interesting locally, as affording “record” figures for Ewood Park and I believe for Lancashire. Our sympathies were almost entirely with North End, principally for selfish reasons, but also in some slight degree because little soreness exists on the question of the sportsmanlike behavior of the Everton Committee in cup matters. The Liverpool men won, however, and they made the most of the victory, keeping the town in an uproar all night. The exact figures of the gate were 28,545 spectators and 790 pounds 4s, money. As some six or seven thousand people saw the game from the surrounding hills, and some hundreds got in free when the big doors gave way under the pressure, the actual number of people who saw the game was quite 35,000. If to this is added quit 5,000 who were shut out before the game started and never got inside the enclosure, we arrive at the enormous number of 40,000 people attracted to a football match –about a record for number I should say.
THE GREAT MATCH AT FALLOWFIELD
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 25 March 1893
F.A. Cup Final
Everton v. Wolverhampton Wanderers
For the first time in the history of the competition for the F.A. cup, which dates as far back as 1871, the final round took place in Lancashire this afternoon. Only once previously has the last tie been played in the provinces, and that was in 1886, when Blackburn Rovers and West Bromwich Albion met at derby after playing a drawn game at the Oval. For the first eleven years the cup was always won by a southern club, so that famous Kennington Oval was stage in the early days. Since the Blackburn Olympic won the cup, however in 1883, the feeling has gradually grown in strength that the time had arrived for the provinces to have the privilege of witnessing the last, and, of course, the most important tie in the competition. For ten years in succession the cup has bene brought away from London by a provincial team, but today is the first occasion on which the last round has been decided away from the metropolis, with the exception named. The refusal of the Surrey County Club to grant the use of their grounds as usual, owing to the turf being re-laid, presented the long-sought for opportunity to the provincial representatives, and the fine ground of the Manchester Athletic Club at Fallowfield was fixed upon by the F.A. Council. The National Cup, it may be said with safety, has perhaps done more than anything else for the development of football, and evidences of this are not wanting. The annual return of the competition is gladly hailed on all hands, and as the time approaches for the disposal of the various rounds, the interest taken in the League championship is somewhat dimmed the conversation of footballers being mostly turned to the fate of the Cup. Instead of waning, each year sees additional interest displayed in its destiny. A brief review of its history may not be out of place. When the Cup competition was instituted it offered little attraction for the Northern element, but a steady improvement was seen to be taking place, and the standard of play was being raised to a higher level. For a lengthy period, as already shown, the possession of the trophy had been monopolized by the Southern “gents” the London Wanderers having claimed the precious, though not over elegant piece of silver, no less than five times, winning it in three consecutive seasons, whilst the Old Etonians succeeded in carrying it off twice. They could not, however, kept up with the improvement of their Northern brethren, and the attempts of the Southern representatives to secure the cup are now but feeble, and few of them ever even survive the first round. It was in the season 1882-3 when the cup was for the first time wrested from their grasp, the honour of this smart performance falling on the new defunct Blackburn Olympic. This was virtually the death of the southern clubs as regards the cup, as the Blackburn Rovers followed in the wake of their rivals with three successive and brilliant victories, twice against Queen’s Park, and for this and subsequently splendid achievements they have since become famous as the champion cup-fighters. Then there was a spell of inactivity amongst the Lancastrians, as the two succeeding years found the Midlands supreme, but in the season 1888-9 Preston North End again brought the prize to Lancashire, whilst the Rovers re-asserted their claim the following year by running round Sheffield Wednesday to the extent of six goals to one, the biggest victory since the foundation of the cup. Then came the Rovers’ easy conquest of Notts County. Last year they had to release their hold in favour of West Bromwich Albion, who so signally defeated Aston Villa, and this brings us face to face with the present struggle, which will stand out as one of the most memorable of the whole series. Never has the interest taken in the game been so apparently as in the present contest which from a gate money point of view, has put into the shade all its predecessors. Last year the Lancashire clubs were cleared out of the competition before the final round by the Midland clubs. This year, however, the prowess of our representatives has again asserted itself, and it was expected that all the Midland teams would have been swept clean out of the running for the semi-final, but the supposed good things did not come off. The talent possessed by the Wolverhampton Wanderers, who made such a lucky draw at Pike’s Lane, was brought out in its best light when they so unmistakably put to rest the Blackburn Rovers in the semi-final at Nottingham. This was a great disappointment for Lancastrians generally as they had quite built on the Blackburn team appearing in the final tie for the seventh time in their career. The stirring events leading up to the final tie are fresh in the memories of all ardent follows of the Association game. The Wolves have never as yet had the honour of winning the cup, but have once previously figured in a final, succumbing to Preston North end in the season 1888-9. Everton their opponents of this afternoon, have not hitherto had the good fortune to get so far as the semi-final stage. The Goodison Park team played anything but well at the beginning of the season, and what they were really capable of was not seen until the commencement of the cup-ties. But they have made up the lost ground in the League, and now figure in a very prominent position. As regards the Wolves they have likewise done good work, although they stand as low down as ninth on the League table. The victories in the cup ties have been narrow with the exception of that against Darwen, but they are one of the very few clubs who can boast of having taken down the formidable Sunderland combination. Everton may be considered to have been lucky to be drawn at home in every round preceding the semi-final, but it must not be forgotten that they had as antagonists a League team in every instance. Their battles in the semi-final round have been the most striking features of the competition. Twice they have met the Preston North End before victory fell to their lot, and that was at Ewood Park on Monday last by two goals to one. Victory fell to the team that had much the worst of the game, as the Prestonians did two-thirds of the pressing. The match was in striking contrast to its predecessor at Sheffield. Then Everton almost monopolized the attack but could not score, and in the first of the three games they were fully the equals of North End, so that really the teams have been well matched on the whole.
The following shows what the rivals of today have accomplished during the season;-
EVERTON ENGLISH CUP TIES
v. West Bromwich 4-1
v. Notts County 4-2
v. Sheffield Wednesday 3-0
V North end 2-1 (semi-final, after two draws, 2 each and 0 each)
The League.
Played 25-Won 13-Lost 9-Draw 4- For 62 –Against 48 –Points 30
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS ENGLISH CUP TIES
v. Bolton Wanderers 2-1 (After drawn game, 1each)
v. Middleborough 2-1 (After extra time)
v. Darwen 5-0
v. Blackburn Rovers 2-1
Total 11-3
The League
Played 25- Won 11- Lost 10- Drawn 4- For 45-Against 53-Points 26
Previously Meetings of the Teams
May 21, 1888 Friendly at Everton-Everton 0 Wolves 0
Jan 26, 1889, League, at Wolverhampton –Wolves 5, Everton 0
Feb 9, 1889 League, at Everton- Everton 1, Wolves 2
Sept 16, 1889, League, at Wolverhampton- Wolves 2 Everton 1
Sept 30, 1889, League at Everton- Everton 1, Wolves 1
Sept 13, 1890, League at Everton –Everton 5, Wolves 0
Dec 6, 1890, League at Wolverhampton- Wolves 0, Everton 1
March 21, 1891, friendly –at Everton –Everton 1, Wolves 0
Nov 21, 1891, League, at Wolverhampton-Wolves 5, Everton 1
Dec 12, 1891, League, at Everton- Everton 2, Wolves 1
Feb 4, 1892, Friendly at Wolverhampton- Wolves 2, Everton 1
Sept 12, 1892, friendly, at Everton – Everton 2, Wolves 2
Dec 10, 1892, League at Everton, - Everton 3, Wolves 2
March 18, 1893, League at Wolverhampton –Wolves 2, Everton 4
Games Wins For Wins For
Played 14- Everton 6, Wolves 5, Draws 3- For Everton 23, For Wolves 24.
Prior to this week the Everton men have done their training at Hoylake, but the day following the great victory at Blackburn they were dispatched to Buxton, where they have spent the remainder of the week. The Wolves have not been away from home, but they have spared no pains in getting themselves into condition. The whole of their players, it is worthy of note, are Englishmen, as was the case when they previously figured in the final. The Everton team, on the other hand, was made up of six Scotchmen, and five Englishmen. The names and position of the players will be gathered from the following. Everton; Williams, goal; Kelso, Right back, Howarth (captain), Left back; Boyle, Right half-back, Holt, Centre half-back, and Stewart, Left half-back; Latta, Outside right, Gordon, Inside right, Maxwell, Centre forward, Chadwick, Inside left and Milward, Outside left. Wolverhampton Wanderers; Rose, goal; Baugh, Right back, Swift, left back; Malpass, Right half-back; Allen, centre half-back and Kinsey, Left half-back; Wykes, Inside right, Butcher, Centre forward, Wood, Iniside Left, and griffin, Outside left. Linesmen; Messrs T. Gunning (London), and M. Roberts (Derby). Referee; Mr. C.J. Hughes (Cheshire).
The selection of the Fallowfield enclosure has naturally given immense satisfaction to dwellers in the county, and as it was early announced that there was seeing accommodation for fully 40,000 spectators a record gate was booked as a certainty. The price charged ranged from a shilling to half-a-guinea, one of the reasons given for these stiff figures being that we are not likely to have another final in the county for a long time to come, and the authorities were determined to make the most of it. The arrangements were left to a Sub-Committee, consisting of Messrs., J.J. Bentley, R.P. Gregson, and R. Lythgoe, the Hon’s share of a busy’s week’s work having devolved on the Wanderers Secretary. Mr. Potter, secretary to the Manchester Athletic Club, had also labored assiduously to get everything into proper order.
THE GAME
Fortunately for the success of the contest, the weather was quite hot and summerlike; indeed the afternoon was more like August than March. That there would be an exceptionally big attendance was generally expected, and the gate being opened early several thousand people were on the ground by eleven o’clock, whilst at two o’clock over 20,000 people were on the ground. To while away the time a match between teams of Sheffield and Manchester boys was begun at two o’clock and gave great enjoyment to the spectators. As time went on, however, the crowd became larger and larger, whilst at a quarter to three o’clock some of the barriers gave way and thousands trooped on to the field lining right up to and over the touch line. Attempts to keep them back proved fruitless and at three o’clock the prospects of any Cup tie being decided were very remote, for every minute the numbers on the ground grew greater thousand by thousand. The Boys match ended shortly after three o’clock in a victory for Manchester by two goals to one. The crowd growing larger and larger invaded the field still further. Nearly 200 police were present but proved quite incapable of controlling the company, which probably numbered 40,000, and may have been considerably greater. The teams entered the field shortly before half-past three, but the game cannot rank as a cup tie. In order to make a start the police struggled to drive people back, but with indifferent success. The Press seats were invaded and reporters had to make for the pavilion. Maxwell kicked off for Everton, who soon forced a corner, but the attack was cleared, and then the Wanderers came away with a rush, Williams having to handle. The Wolverhampton right wing showed dash, which severely tested the Everton defence. Everton breaking away, Gordon sent in a shot which Baugh finely saved. Topham, in reply, came away down the right wing, and finished with a fine centre Kelso clearing, whilst afterwards, from a pass by Butcher, Wykes shot just outside. Everton broke away and getting down to the other end Chadwick sent the ball between the posts, but hands had just previously been given, and the point was disallowed. Again the Wanderers came away, one attack being spoiled by hands, and Woods in another case shooting wide. Generally speaking Wolverhampton had the better game, their forwards being rather more vigorous, but the play lacked life. Topham forced a corner for the Wanderers, but Latta dashed away, and was only brought up by Baugh. The crowd now broke through the Wanderers’ goal, but play went on, Chadwick and Milward doing a lot of smart dribbling. For some time afterwards Everton had decidedly the better of the game. Some neat work by Milward giving Chadwick a chance, and the latter hitting the bar whence the ball rolled over. Topham occasionally relieved the pressure, but Wolverhampton had apparently no such pair of forwards as Milward and Chadwick. Once Everton nearly scored from a prolonged scrimmage in front of goal, a fruitless corner resulting.
HALF-TIME; Everton 0, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0
The resumption was delayed owing to the crowd breaking into a corner of the field, some improvement being eventually made. The second half was entered upon at 25 minutes to five. The play could only be followed with extreme difficulty. Wood and Topham in turn ran down but were brought up, and then Everton improving forced play right to the Wanderers quarters when Rose saved a shot from Maxwell. Topham who all through was very prominent next sent in a fine shot just over the bar ten minutes after resuming, Malpass dropping the ball well into the Everton goal. Williams misjudged it and just touching it, let it through, Wolverhampton thus scoring the first goal amidst great cheering. A minute later Williams blundered again, but after an exciting piece of play cleared in fine style. Just afterwards Everton forced a corner, but the ball was soon cleared. Desultory play rather in favour of Everton ensued, the Wanderers now having the sun in their faces, but the Liverpool club failed to equalize. Their combination was far from being maintained and their played lacked the vigour of that of Wolverhampton, whose defence was certainly very sound. For the most part, however, the game was far beneath what might have been expected of a Cup tie, the failure of Everton being very noticeable. As time wore on Wolverhampton appeared to have well beaten their opponents whose play during the whole of the second half lacked life. Once or twice Everton looked dangerous, but their attacks were always frustrated, and five minutes from the finish Wolverhampton were still leading by a goal. The general opinion of the Association officials was that the game, encroachments of the crowd notwithstanding, will rank as a cup tie. Final; Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Everton 0.
A PROTEST LODGED
Everton lodged a protest 15 minutes before the close of the game.
SPECIAL REPORT
It would be impossible to imagine a more brilliant scene than that presented on the Manchester Athletic ground at Fallowfield today. It is beautifully situated, and with the fields and trees putting on the first tints of spring, it looked especially pretty in the brilliant sunshine which flooded the whole county side. But it soon began to look more than pretty, for people anxious to see the big event began to arrive fully three hours before the time fixed for the kick-off, and by one o’clock there would be many thousands present. A regular inflow had, however, set in by this time, and the steady tramp tramp which was at first observable, soon developed into a rush, the narrow lane by which the ground is reached being literally gorged with eager, pushing, crushing, jostling, the first-come-first-serve people, who had come to see and meant to do it. The result was that by two o’clock all standing room had been taken up, and all the unreserved seats on the stand occupied. Only the big-priced seats on the extra reserved stands now had any empty spaces. But still the people were thronging in, and it had become evident, even now, thousands would be unable to get any sight of the game. Everywhere one looked there were closely packed lines of faces, the sterner sex of course predominant, but the gentler ones were there in goodly numbers, and the brilliant hues of their tasty costumes added point or zest to the picture, which was as attractive and interesting as it is possible to conceive, when the school lads of Sheffield and Manchester took the field-the Blades in crimson and the Manchester lads in stripes. After the lads had played for half an hour, the Blades scoring before half-time, the crowd, which had now got altogether beyond all estimates, came with a rush over the barriers, and the policemen, who seemed as supine a lot as we had at Bury the other week, did nothing but assume a look of injured innocence, and let the people do precisely as they liked. The crowds crushed in front of the Press seats, right on to the touch line and the question at a quarter to three was whether it was even possible to commence the big game. We were just wondering how on earth we were going to give anything like a report, when a big cheer announced that the Manchester lads had scored, and then we were subject to a regular fusillade of sods from people in the rear, who sternly demanded that those in front, including the pressman, who had no chance of seeing, should “sit down.” There were now some ugly observations regarding the “complete” arrangements, which were allowed to crack up at the first strain put on it; but it was generally admitted that the big estimates which had been put on the capacity of the ground had altogether been beyond the mark. For those behind the crush it now became simply a question of endurance, the hot sun, the occasional volleys of dirt, the indescribable blank of a row of good broad expressive backs- not full-backs, but backs who were impassable so far as vision was concerned, making things about the reverse of lively. The only bit of entertainment we had was a cheer when the Manchester lads had scored the winning goal, and another when Mr. N.L. Jackson, the referee, called time, leaving the Manchurians winners by two to one. The police and the committee were now doing their best to try to clear the field, and the crowd first cheered and then jeered as they appeared to succeed at one point or to fail at another. It was now ten minutes past three, and the people were right on the line in some places, over it in others, and still pressing forward from behind with an ugly determination which presaged very badly for the success of the game. At seventeen minutes past three there was an extra rush and even a fresh posse of police which now arrived could do nothing but keep the lines just clear. As time went on and the excitement grew the people beyond the outer barrier became more savage than ever, and clinkers came in a manner which persuaded many to move, one poor fellow bearing the mark of the argument in the shape of a nasty bleeding gash. Not even “The man that broke the bank” sufficed to moderate the zeal of the throwers, who seemed as though they would rather break heads than banks. Then the teams appeared, so we were told- we could not see-and then we could tell the game was proceeding, for we could see occasional flashes of blue and yellow and black between those in front of us. The Everton men, from what we could make out, had the best of the opening, but a corner was all they got, and the Wolves coming with a rush had a strong attack, which, however, went wide. Playing finely, the Wolves fairly tested the blues’ defence, Howarth, however, kicking clear, and Kelso putting in a hugh lunge which gained the Everton men a lot of ground. Following this up the Everton centre gave to the left, and Chadwick and Milward seemed likely to score, but the ball was just wide, and Latta met with the same reward after fairly raising the hopes of his supporters. Holt put in a bonny bit of tackling, and the left wing of the Liverpudlians were again dangerous, but only a goal kick came, and from this Topham flashed down the right wing, and centred grandly. He was, however, too far, and the ball was kicked clear. After some give and take play Butcher got away, and there were shouts of “Butcher scores?” But the ball got too far from him, and only a goal kick came, from which there were jubilant cries “Milward’s scored,” but he had not, and Topham again came with a dash. Kelso cleared with a grand kick, and play kept in midfield by kicks from Swift and Howarth. It was noted that the Wolves were particularly smart on the ball, and that they fairly meant shooting when they got anywhere near. The Everton half-backs were very clever, and they needed to be, but the result of their steady work was that a good deal of steam was taken out of Butcher and Co. Still they were first to get through, the smart little Wolverhampton centre, putting the ball through just as the whistle was sounding for offside. Just now the fellows from the Black Country were having the best of the struggle, but hands gave relief to the Liverpudlians who tried hard, but did not seem to get into stride. Hands against Stewart, who was now limping, ended in another foul right in goal, but amid the most intense excitement Everton cleared at the expense of a corner. This was well put in, but to the great relief of Everton, Latta was seen coming away with the ball at his toes. He centred, but the half-backs on the other side were too hard-working to let anybody have any drawing-room runs, and the ball was forced out. Rose now saved beautifully from Chadwick, but the ball came again to the Everton end, Kelso clearing. So the game went on first one side and then the other appearing to have the pull. A free kick to Everton sent the ball into the Wolverhampton goal, but Baugh cleared hastily, and a possible chance to the Blues went-a-begging as the result of wild passes, which were just now far too prominent. Swift robbed Latta beautifully, and then Butcher was seen dashing down the centre, only to be robbed by Boyle. Holt also was useful, but he was struck in the face, and Kinsey sent the ball to Allan, who went down until Howarth got in with a splendid kick, which gave the Everton left wing a chance. They passed to Milward, who returned to them, and Milward shot just over with a remarkable attempt, which would have hit the crossbar had not Rose pulled down the bar. Up to now there had been little in the way of really clever combination, the forwards on both sides seeming to anxious to part with the ball. Swift made a lucky stop after Milward had failed to get the ball in. Everton, however, kept close to the Wolves’ goal, a breakaway by Topham being the only relief Baugh and Swift had for some time. Howarth brought up Topham and the blues went with a dash, Rose being decidedly lucky to save twice together. Again they came, and again Rose saved in marvelous style. Topham now came along twice together, and from the last of these the Wolves had a free kick close in. It seemed certain they would score, but the defence was good, and after a fierce attack the ball was got away. Everton going to the other end, Rose had to save, and Swift cleared, but the Evertonians finished up the half with a big attempt. They failed, however, and at half-time there was no score. Up to half-time it could not be said that either side had much the best of play, though Everton had perhaps had the better chances. In the second half the Wolves were first to get down, but Howarth returned and the ball ran out. Topham put in one or two big centres, from which Wykes put wide, whilst Kinsey directly afterwards shot over. Chadwick and Milward got down and passed to the centre, who gave to Latta. He returned a bit too high, and the ball was got away. Then Maxwell got in right in front of goal, but Rose saved finely. Holt was penalized and from the free kick Kinsey tried hard, following which Maxwell got in fine position but dallied and was robbed. Wolverhampton then went at it, and a clever piece of work by Butcher finished by a good centre by Topham nearly coming off. Then Wolverhampton scored from a free kick ten minutes from the start. The excitement was now intense, and for a minute or two Everton had all they could do to save. They, however, worked away and earned a corner, which was well put in but headed away. Try as they would Everton could not get in, and the Wolves beat them back. Kelso headed finely, but the Wanderers playing with all the confidence in the world nearly scored again. Wood centring finely and Allan being just over. Everton worked hard, but they were too anxious, and their kicks were often wild, whilst Baugh and Swift never hesitated to kick out. Time after time Latta would get the ball in, but there was never anybody up. Once they ought to have scored, but Baugh headed out and Swift kicked clear. Butcher was offside with a nice opening, and then Chadwick was wide, after shooting from close in. The Wolves defended well, but were by no means done with so far as attack was concerned, a free kick to them looking very bad. A free kick in goal came to Everton just as spectators were selling “Everton funeral cards,” It was now clear, however, that the Wolves were playing an extra man in defence. We could not see who it was, owing to the crowd. However this might be, Everton were playing like a beaten team, their passes being wild, whilst the Wolves were cool and collected, and they had this advantage that they could afford to kick anywhere so long as it was out of goal. Towards the close Everton tried hard, and once had hard lines, but they were playing a losing game, and the sellers of the Everton funeral cards became more confident and noisy. Then Chadwick had perhaps the only chance of saving the game, but he dallied until the back got on him. After this the “Wolves” fairly held the field. They kept their men close in, but there was no need of this, for Everton were rally shot and retired beaten.
THE CROWD OVERCOME THE POLICE
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 25 March 1893
Discreditable Scene
By Olympian.
It was exactly 1-30 when I entered the ground. All the way from the city we had formed part of an unbroken cavalcade made up of every kind of vehicle, each one being crowded to the last ounce. Evertonians were easily distinguishable by their blue and white rosette and “Cocky air” their idea being that only one result was possible. Inside the enclosure there were early evidences that the crowd would not be long kept within the bounds. Two hours before the time for kicking off there appeared to be as many persons as could obtain a view of the game and yet the number was being added to by the thousand every few minutes. The outlook was fearful and possibility of the tie being played off exceedingly remote. Whilst the schoolboys were entertaining the crowd by their clever football, the crowd was rapidly growing in dimensions, until by and bye it became unmanageable. Soon after 2-30 Mr. Potter, secretary to the Athletic Club was seen rushing over the track excitedly beckoning several of the police-officers and pointing in the direction of the pavilion. The cause for his anxiety was immediately apparent, some unruly members of the crowd having forced their way over the rails, and they were quickly squatting on the grass. Their example, as may be imagined, was most pernicious, and in the space of a very few minutes there was a dense mass of spectators in complete possession of the track, the efforts of the policemen to stop the rush being laughed to scorn. The reporters who were fixed at a couple of benches just inside the rails, were shut out from view, and had the pleasant experience of rowdy spirits climbing over them to get in front. The whole scene was of the utmost discredit, and there were many inquiries for mounted police. In my opinion a whole regiment could not have stemmed the invasion, which was wholly due to the fearful crush from the back of the crowd. There were thousands who knew they would never see anything despite the stiff charge for admission, and they evidently played the game that if they could not view the play nobody else should. It was soon apparent that they had done one thing, viz, placed the question of a cup tie out of the range of settlement. Football might be attempted, but it was very long odds, against it being counted as the legitimate tie. Long before the schoolboys had disappeared from the field spectators were right on to the touch line all-round the ground, and such things as throws-in or corners looked quite impracticable. How many persons there were actually in and about the ground was no easy matter to guess, but the record must have been easily left. Estimates ventured 35,000, some even going up to 40,000. Some venturesome spirits actually ventured out to the roof of some lofty buildings running parallel with the field, whilst others were to be seen perching in trees like so many crows. Lord Kinnard, Mr. J.C. Clegg, Dr. Morley, and other members of the F.A. Counsil made a hasty inspection, the result of which was that police officers were stationed at regular intervals within the field. The fun was fast and furious, visitors adopting numerous forms of amusement to while the time away. A cornet player near the 3s stand struck up a number of lively tunes, the spectators joining in singing “The man that broke the bank at Monte Carlo.” The Wolves were out early, but before their opponents appeared the police attempted to drive the crowd back in the vicinity of the pavilion, but it was a work of extreme difficulty. The officers used their sticks freely, and one poor individual was taken off with his head cut open. The mob behind the Press seats pelted the unfortunate reporters with clinkers and their position was not one to be envied by any means. A shout announced that Wolverhampton had won the toss and another heralded the first corner for Everton, but seeing the play was utterly impossible. Bob Howarth was seen to put in a kick and Wykes was declared to have knocked off a policeman’s hat. We could just see Williams throw away as an antagonist got at him. Latta was breaking away, but was rolled among the crowd. A splendid kick by Kelso gave everybody one of very few sights of the ball, and then Howarth dropped the ball up so well that it was headed out. Play was down at the Wanderers’ end, but how it got there we could not tell. We did see the ball a minute or two later, Topham coming rushing down the centre and had it out of danger in a twinkling. The heat was terrible, and this, combined with the fearful crush, made matters decidedly uncomfortable. Another crash announced the overthrow of another tier of Press tables, all of which were now levelled to the ground. All we could see was a strip of green on the far side of the field, dotted occasionally by the black and yellow stripes of the Wanderers or the dark blue shirts of the Evertonians. How the game fluctuated we had to gather from the exclamations of the onlookers. “Butcher’s throo again,” “Now Wood,” and “There’s a kick for you,” were the ejaculations that told us how things were going. These were varied by a simple inquiry of an individual who was completely shut out, “who’s got the first goal?” This was no sooner asked than Butcher ran the ball into the net, but he was dead off-side, the bulk of the Everton men having stopped play to claim. “Good lad, Kelso,” indicated that the ex-North Ender was doing herculean work, and the next minute a foul against Stewart was given not far from the posts. Bob Howarth gave a corner which took a long time owing to the encroachment, and then Latta was noticed galloping away with the ball at great speed this opening up a siege on the Midland goal, Rose handling a long shot from Chadwick. The ball was soon back, Kelso just stopping Butcher when he was extremely dangerous. The Wolves were certainly lacking nothing in the shape of dash. Latta was putting in some taking runs, Swift in one case taking the ball right off his toes. Gradually the ball was taken down. Rose was observed to jump up to the bar and over the top it went from the foot of Milward. The farce continued, and surely greater farce was never seen at football match. Hemmed in as we were on every side anything like an accurate report was not possible, and had it not been for the help and assistance of other unfortunate wights we could not have done anything at all. A false cry of goal for Everton caused a vast amount of excitement, the pressure on the Wolveshampton fortress at this juncture being very severe. Topham caused a diversion by a slashing run which brought Kelso out of his place to stop him. Another raid was initiated by Wykes, but the Everton defence was perfectly safe. Boyle did good services against the Wolves’ left and presently the blues were again busy attacking. They were helped by a series of fouls, and then came the interval with not a goal recorded by either side. “Is it a cup tie?” was asked on every ham during the brief rest of the players. Several members of the F.A. Council to whom I put the question replied in the affirmative, saying there was no reason why it should not count, seeing that it was as fair for one side as the other. I gathered that there were no fewer than 192 police on the ground, but they were little better than powerless. Mr. Malcolm Wood had the police arrangements in charge, but they were far from adequate for the occasion. Myself and colleagues had now shifted our quarters, fixing ourselves near the pavilion, but the view of the proceedings was poor in the extreme. A great shout went up as a splendid shot from Topham went flying into the net, thus scoring the first goal of the match. This reverse for the Evertonians stimulated them to desperate exertions, and they came very near scoring more than once. A throw-in looked ominous for the Liverpool men but Howarth appeared to be in the way, and the next minute the ball just flew wide of the post. As a football spectacle the whole affair was a hugh fraud, but as a remarkable gathering it was unique. Such a fiasco was surely never contemplated! The police cane in for a good deal of chaff owing to the tender way in which they attempted to deal with interlopers and they might as well have been in the barracks. To gather up the threads as the game progressed was not to be done, the Pressmen being “out in the cold” and their wroth was great!
“OLD FOGEY’S” SPECIAL
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 25 March 1893
To say that today’s final beat the record would only be admitting even a mild portion of the truth. Despite every possible precaution it was early evident that the police were utterly powerless to cope with the thrush of crowd, which broke in on all sides to the touch line, completely swamping the Press and reserved enclosures. A form breaking down behind these paved the way, and the result was all confusion. The reporters were at once hopelessly mixed up in the melee, and the wonder was, amid the sea of struggling human beings, that no one was killed. Four times the number of constables would have scarcely sufficed to cope with the heaving tide. Five shilling seats were indiscriminately pounced upon by the outsiders, and the writer, in an attempt to get this message away, solicited in vain the friendly services of agent in blue. Such a final had never before attended the cup’ history. There was not seeing room for a quarter of those present, and the affair, from the point of view of the Fourth Estate, at any rate, was a fiasco. Reports were written out with only the least loophole of hope for them ever reaching their destination. How it would all end was a matter for conjecture. Everything had to be left to chance, for at intervals sods and even stones were whirled from behind from those who had not a shadow of a chance of seeing the enclosure. Five minutes before the advertised time the Wanderers elbowed through but a sort of subterranean passage had to be opened for the Evertonians, who for several minutes were firmly wedged in the ground. A lively thing it was and no mistake. At length the Blues appear. Harry Allen wins the spin, and now the twenty-two are sent on their eventful journey, the Wanderers having the sun’s powerful rays behind them. Everton, despite this, are soon astir down at the Roses’ end, and some pretty play is seen but the Wanderers defence is sound, and travelling to the other end Topham shoots with sufficient force to fetch down a policemen standing against the Everton post. Some fierce work follows in front of Rose, and then Topham skidding along past Stewart gets a lovely dropper, although too strong for improvement to be wrought. Boards were heard crackling in rear as Milward shot through the post after offside had been tootled. A foul against Griffin, just as Everton keep was likely for being captured, brought forth an injunction from Baugh to keep his hands in his pockets, and then, after Maxwell had been tackled just, and only just, in time. A puzzling shot all but surprised Rose. Topham whirled the ball across again, but if Everton attack was sharp, its defence was likewise solid. For a time Wolves were kept on a pretty strict defence, and Chadwick dodged about in lovely fashion, and it was more accident than anything else that a shot which Malpass just kept on the right side of the post did not go through. Everton’s crack wing was simply irresistible, and how the goal was saved was a miracle. At the interval nothing had been done, and it was a question whether the tie could be proceeded with so great was the crush overlapping the touch-lines the officials on both sides being in a quandary. Before hostilities could be commenced a quarter of an hour elapsed, and meanwhile it was a case of “pull Devil, pull baker” with thousands in the crowd. “You’re going to gie o’er propping me in the chin,” was one remark. “Who is? Why, you –“ The a third party chimed in with, “What are you talking about?” “Oh polities,” was the reply, and “So am I,” and “Fireworks, too.” From Mr. Hughes, came the retort that up to now, it was a cup tie, and if the crowd intruded no further, for they were already abreast with the line, it would continue so. Lads got into the enclosure with ready versed death cards for both sides and eventually the game proceeded. By this time I had managed to squeeze out and into the holy of holies, an especially reserved, and so far unmolested, spot. Here were the Association big pots unable to see the least bit of the game, and here a roar reached us some ten minutes after the restart, heralding a goal from Topham to the Wanderers. Almost immediately afterwards Rose was everything but beaten. The save was nothing short of marvelous, but the Wanderers, keeping their own end well together, were speedily away again in pursuit of the enemy. Everybody was on tenter-hooks as Wykes got in front but big shouts which spoke volumes greeted his effort, which went amiss. Everton were not playing at all badly, but had worn down somewhat, and the Wanderers seemed to be going confidently. Though the sun was going down thousands were sweltered and liquid refreshment would have been priceless. The players, too, who had battened on half rations at the interval, were feeling the general warmth of this interesting meeting, their faces shining like polished mahogany. From what could be seen of play. The Wolves were going it strong, while Everton, getting a bit leg weary, though the danger to the Englishmen was spiced as a foul came close in. It was cleared, and play took a turn once down in the direction of Williams, and here I had to leave, not so sorry I am sure, for the whole affair out-banged Banaghan. There was yet ten minutes to play, and already the Wanderers were being congratulated on their first victory. Mr. Mitchell of the Blackburn Rovers being especially exuberant. Whether all was true had to be left to the final message, which doubtless is on its way ere these lines have passed through the overtaxed operator’s hands.
From An Everton Point of View
Looked at through Liverpool spectacles the game was a failure, naturally, and when the spectators broke through the barriers they were doing all in their powers to have the tie squashed. Riot ran loose through the crowd, and the people conducted themselves in whatever manner they thought proper. There was no proper method of competing with the tremendous crush, and, in fact, few of the police attempted to do so. The game itself was rather disappointing –the play not being by any means up to the standard for which one might look in an English Cup Final. Neither side could claim to have any advantage over the other in point of play, during the first half, and occasional brilliant spurts were the only features to relieve the general tameness of the game during this period. Williams was very cool in goal and saved grandly on several occasions, one shot from Topham which he caught and threw away being a very hot one. Several times the Wolves’ forwards got down in good style and had hard lines in not scoring. Latta played a splendid game on the right and one of the shots which Milward sent in was a bare inch too high. When the Wolves scored pandemonium reigned for a time, and though Everton went great guns occasionally afterwards, the Staffordshire team seemed to have more lasting in their play and more sting in their attacks. The result certainly surprised Everton supporters, who pinned their faith on a last hope that the game might have to be replayed. The Everton forwards did not show up as they certainly can do and have done, while the dash which the Wolves put into their efforts the result must mainly be attributed.
A Record Gate
The gate realized 2,500 pounds, which beats the record.
How The Match Was Won
By sheer hard work and pluck. That is the only way I can put it. The Wolves were not the better team. In some parts of the field they were the worse, but they played that never-say-die sort of game, which come off when once the people on the other side make any mistake. Everton did make mistakes, the Wolves took advantage of one of these, and though Everton might have drawn level after had they kept cool they went wilder and wilder, and really at the end of the game were not in the hunt. The Wolves seemed all through to defend closer than the Liverpudlians, and it was this that had more to do with the winning of the game than anything else. Still their forwards were a lively lot, and Topham and Butcher, especially the amateur, was always somewhere about. Towards the end Wood and Griffin did a lot of dangerous work and Williams had once all he could do to save. If I may say how I think the game was lost, I should say it was about as glaring a case of over confidence as I have ever seem, Everton did not appear to realize until it was too late that there was the slightest chance of being beaten. They dallied with the ball in front; their backs often got dangerous far away from goal, and when it dawned on them that they might be beaten they lost their heads.
NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 25 March 1893
TODAY'S MATCHS
March 25, 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
The height of the Association season is reached today, and, with Liverpudlians, never more satisfactorily and interesting, since Everton make their debut in the final tie of the English cup competition –the goal of every club of any standing. If ordinary custom had been possible of observance, Kennington Oval, would have been the venue, but owing to returfing, of this celebrated cricket enclosure, some other eligible ground had to be chosen, and the English Council, taking a popular course, decided to play the match this year in the provinces. The Manchester Athletic Ground, both from its central situation and capacity for accommodating a vast crowd, has accordingly been selected as the scene of the great contest today between Everton and the Wolverhampton Wanderers. The stand accommodation, which runs the length of the field on both sides of the ground, will give a fine sight to those lucky enough to get possession. There will be ample provision in the way of conveyances as the Manchester Carriage Company will be running extra vehicles, and opposition buses are certain to be plentiful. Visitors to Manchester arriving at the Central and London-road Stations can book thence to Fallowfield, and those coming in at Exchange and Victoria Stations will find a good supply of buses and trams running from Market-Street, starting from the Exchange and the Infirmary. The cup tie will be preceded by a contest between the schoolboys of Manchester and Sheffield , this commencing at two o'clock and acting as a kind of curtain raiser.
The ground is said to be capable of accommodating 60,000, and, with fine weather, it is believed that the number present will not be much less than 50,000, which will b a record attendance. Excursions are announced from every direction. Each of the companies running from Liverpool will dispatch several trains, and the times of starting will be seen on reference to out chiefly of saloon cars, will leave Exchange Station, Tithebarn street at twelve noon, and will return from Victoria Station, Manchester, at 7.38 p.m. The teams, we understand, will return home by this train, arriving in Liverpool about half-past eight. This is the 22 nd anniversary of the final struggle .
Everton combination, at Goodison Park, compete with Chirk, who distinguished themselves a fortnight ago by defeating Stoke Swifts. During the progress of the match at Goodison Park telegrams will be received from Manchester every quarter of an hour.
Everton League v. Wolverhampton Wanderers, Manchester Athletic Ground, Fallowfield, Kick-off at 3.30 p.m. The following will play for Everton; Williams, goal; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Boyle, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Maxwell, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Referee; Mr. C.J. Hughes; Linesmen, Messrs Gunning and Roberts.
The v. Chirk, Goodison Park, Kick-off at four o'clock. The following will play for Everton; Jardine, goal; Chadwick, and Parry, backs; Walker, Jones and Coyle, half-backs; Smith, Murray, Hartley, McMillian, and Elliott, forwards.
Thursday
Everton v. Preston North End, Preston (replayed Lancashire Cup tie)
Good Friday
Combination; Macclesfield v Everton. Macclesfield
General
Everton League v. Middlesbrough Ironopolis at Goodison Park
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 1 EVERTON 0 (FA cup game 16)
March 27 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
The FA Cup Final
EVERTON COMBINATION 4 CHIRK 1
March 27 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
At Everton, before 5,000 spectators. Hartley started and Jardine was first visited. Then Everton pressed, and sent in shot after shot each of which was well acounted for until a goal was scrimmaged. Some brilliant passing next enabled McMillan to score the second goal. Half-time Everton 2 goals; Chirk none. Everton continued to have the best of the argument, so the finish and won by 4 goals to 1.
Everton team, Jardine goal, Chadwick and Parry backs, Walker, Jones and Coyle, half-backs, Smith Murray, Hartley McMillan and Elliott, forwards. Placed 1 st played 19 won 16, lost 2, drew 1, for 101, against 13 points 33
LIVERPOOL DISTRICT AND NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 27 March 1893
By The Loiterer
Despite the exodus of Everton supporters to Manchester to witness the fight between the “Toffee boys” and the “Wolves” in the final Cup tie, no fewer than 7,000 spectators turned up at Goodison Park to witness Chirk, who the week before had defeated the Stoke Swifts, take on the Everton Combination. The game was a good one, and one of the stiffest the home team has had to contend with on their on ground for some time. At the interval Everton were leading by two goals to nothing. Chirk in the second half played up well, and scored once, but ultimately had to put up with defeat by four goals to one.
On Thursday evening Bootle played Liverpool for the benefit of Dannie Kirkwood, who had the misfortune to have his leg broke at South Shore on November 26. The game itself does not call for much notice, but Liverpool won by one goal to none. I was sadly disappointed at the small number present, for I thought party feeling would have been buried on such an occasion, and Evertonians would roll up to assist such a cause. But it seems I was mistaken, for a few spectators there were belonged to either Liverpool or Bootle clubs. Surely the splendid play of the Everton right wing in the days of Brady, Latta, and Kirkwood has not been forgotten but it really looks like it.
The great fight is over, and victory is with the “Wolves” Well, well! The Everton team had a cordial reception on arrival in Liverpool, but the torch line procession, decorations, illuminations, &c., suggested by “R.S.V.P” in one of our evening papers had, perforce, to be cancelled. The average Evertonian is bad to beat, but the letter of “R.S.V.P.” licks creation for cheek and bombast, and I should say he will feel very small now. There are hundreds in Liverpool who never thought it possible for Everton to lose, and some of the most extravagant language has been indulged in of the team’s ability to bring the Cup to Liverpool. It was not to be, but there is yet the Lancashire and Liverpool trophies left.
THE FINAL TIE
Athletic News - Monday 27 March 1893
A Big Crowd, But A Poor Game
By Robin Hood
Most football writers have had some experience of big crowds, and some even have vivid recollections of those crowds turning unruly and breaking down the barriers, which they should respect as sacred, if only for the credit of the management of the ground where the match was played; but I think I can defy any of the now somewhat numerous band of journalists who follow the fortune of the Association game to produce me an experience similar to that at the Manchester Athletic Ground at Fallowfield on Saturday. There gathered a multitude whom no man could really number-unless he knew the gate receipts-and they, finding a weak point in the elaborate of it for their own convenience and made light of the regulations which laid down that those who paid five shillings should have more convenient accommodation than those who merely sported a fifth of that amount.
Perhaps I ought to have preferred these remarks by the statement that I was deputed to give some description of the final tie of the English Association Cup Competition, which was contested by Everton and the Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Fallowfield ground on Saturday. If my details prove somewhat meagre blame not the humble scribe. I held to the post of duty-otherwise my sent at the Press tables –long after all my brethren of the pen and pencil had fled and long after all the press tables but the one I stood on had been demolished and probably I should have remained there throughout the match but a fat man who would add his weight to the frail and previously overburdened structure. I knew it was all over when I saw him coming. The other occupants of what was them an impromptu grand stand- principally colliers –assisted me in trying to keep him off, but he was not to be denied, and so at the sound of the first big crack I took my leave, and in less than half a minute had the somewhat fiendish satisfaction of seeing that fat man reduced once more to the level of the cinder track and unable to see the ball at all, except it was kicked into the air, because –as I ought to have explained before –he did not combine height with his bulk. It was a great day for the Fallowfield Ground. On the solemn testimosty of a gentleman competent to measure space, the Association had been prevailed upon to select the ground as the venue for the first final played out of London, with the exception of the drawn game between Blackburn Rovers and West Bromwich Albion in 1885-6. This said competent gentleman demonstrated with mathematical exactness that the enclosure of the Manchester Athletic Club, with stands upon it and what more that could be erected, was capable of accommodating 68,210 persons. I believe it was an addendum that these 68,210 would also be able to watch a football match on the ground in comfort, but I won’t be certain as to that, and in the light of subsequent events I prefer to believe that he did not make that additional statement when he produced the result of his labours. The figures I can quite believe. They can be worked out of mensuration or algebra-which is it? – and therefore must be accepted as correct. But, unfortunately, mensuration, or algebra, or the people who prove things by their aid, measure human beings by one average standard, which must have been exceeded on Saturday, as, although there looked to be something approaching 68,210 people present, many of them could not see comfortably. That number was a very large one, and, moreover, stout of wind and strong of limbs. What is more, many of them had taken advantage of the railway facilities to come to Manchester from the wilds of Lincolnshire or some other strange part to see the match, and to see it they meant. Well, you know there is an old proverb which we wrote in our copy-books at school, which runs something like this. “Where there’s a will there’s a way,” and as most of these nature’s noblemen from the fastness’s of the Black Country and the Fen Country and the shady dells of East Lancashire knew football and how it should be played, and were resolved on seeing this match played, they had the will, and the way was soon opened-through the barriers. Of course there were one or two policemen about. In fact, there were three on the spot where the first little breach was made in the palisades and they frowned ominously at the few hundreds of people who first dared to face them. But there was some rather bold men amongst those few hundreds, and they responded to the policemen’s frowns with a few causal smiles, and went on their way rejoicing to the touchline, and the policemen stood and watched them in blank astonishment. In fact, the situation was brimful of humour, and I could have laughed until the tears had run down my cheeks but for this important fact – I had instructions to describe the game fully, and I could not see it, because the successful move of these few hundreds, and soon the touch-line al round was more than half-a-dozen deep with human beings. They were a very orderly crowd, however. There was very little real encroaching on the field of play, and no ill-temper, or one or two policemen who attempted to drive the people back in rather a rough style might have had a sorry time of it. In fact, these individual members of the force behaved in an unnecessarily rough way at this point. The mischief was done. A little firmness and a bold show of authority at first might have turned the tide. That firmness, &c., was wanting, hence the situation, which the police only aggravated by breaking one or two people’s pates by blows from their sticks.
It should be placed on record that the Committee of the Fallowfield Athletic Ground, with the Committee of the Football Association, who had the arrangements for the accommodation of spectators under control had contrived everything that human foresight could suggest to enable the immense crowd expected to have their money’s worth, and everybody was congratulating them on the success of their efforts until this storming of the barriers was sprung upon them like a mine. The Chief-Constable had been warned that with the innumerable excursions that were to be run into Manchester there was sure to be a gathering of people such as had never been previously witnessed at a football match, and that they wanted a staff of constables strong enough to combat any emergency. It appears, however, that Mr. Wood’s lieutenant, who was placed in charge, was under the impression that he had no great difficulties to face, and the staff was not so strong as it ought to have been in consequence. As to their efficiency I will make no remark. The general public passed their unanimous opinion on the ground, and carried it with them to their homes and the four corners of Great Britain.
Most of the spectators arrived early, and by two o’clock there were no blank spaces observable on the stands with the exception of that prepared for people who could afford half a guinea. Their places were reserved and numbered, so there was no occasion for them to come an hour and a half beforehand. A match between sides of Manchester and Sheffield schoolboys was started at two o’clock, and caused plenty of cheering, as some of the youngsters proved themselves really clever players. It was a beautiful afternoon. Everything seemed pleasant and nice, and the arrangements appeared to be working beautifully until just before three o’clock, when an ominous crack announced the commencement of the storming of the barriers at a point close to the pavilion on the Levenshulme side. The work of demolition, once began, went on merrily. The crowd came down the banked corner of the cycling track like a buttering-ram, and soon the rails, and some seats in front, set part for complimentary ticketholders, &c., were made so much match wood. As I have described before, three policemen attempted to bar the passenger of the crowd, but they passed to the right and left, and spread themselves out on the grass like a plague of locusts. The press tables, which ran up the same side of the ground, were rapidly deserted because there was no chance of witnessing the play from them, and they were just as quickly taken possession of by people from behind, who climbed the railings, and at once turned the frail structures into grand stands. The spectators at the bottom of the big stands behind objected to this- it interfered with their view. Words were useless, and strong measures in the shape of stones and turf were hurled in their place. Even these had not much effect, but the “three shillingers,” behind had their revenge shortly after, as the press table gradually crumpled up with the weight of human beings resting upon them. At the commencement of these proceedings a gentleman with a red rosette in his coat came and suggested to myself and one or two other pressmen that we had better remain in our places, because they would have the people cleared out from the front of us. But I reckon that gentleman didn’t “come fra, Sheffield,” or he would have known a bit more of the possibilities of such a thing happening. In fact, the mischief once begun got worse. I stuck to my seat hoping against hope, but finally I had to abandon it in despair and fight my way to the pavilion enclosure, where I had a more or less interrupted view of the game. When spectators stand on the railings in front of you it is impossible to see through them, and when they are a dozen deep close up to the touch-line, all the nice points of the game around goal are lost to the man behind. Hence my information on the match is of a most general and circumstantial character.
Both teams turned out about five minutes before time, the “Wolves” wearing black and yellow striped jerseys, instead of the black-and-yellow-quarttered ones in which they appeared at Nottingham. Both teams were representative, as the following names show;- Everton;- Williams, goal; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Latta, Gordon, Maxwell, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Rose, goal; Baugh and Swift, backs; Malpass, Allen, and Kinsey, half-backs; Topham, Wykes, Butcher, Wood and Griffin, forwards. Officials;- referee; Mr. C. J. Hughes, (Cheshire). Linesmen; Messrs T. Gunning (London Football Association) and M. Roberts (Derby). There was a blazing hot sun, so that when the Black Countrymen won the toss they had no hesitation in choosing to kick towards the Levenshulme goal, as by that arrangement the Everton men had to face both the sun and a slight wind. This did not affect them much, as in spite of the disadvantage, their forwards showed much the better form and they were nearly always acting on the offensive. A corner was quickly taken, but easily cleared by the “Wolves” and then, after two or three minutes’ play, there was a rush to the other end, where Topham made a close shot. The Evertonians were, however, playing the best forward game, and the Wolverhampton halves were nonplussed in a way that was never the case when they played the Rovers at Nottingham. This sort of thing went on for over twenty minutes, the Everton forwards continually getting up, but they generally failed when they reached the backs. It was not always because the backs were too clever for them-in fact, I thought Baugh played a wild game in the first quarter of an hour, although he improved and showed a grand defence afterwards-but there was a lot too much passing and finnicking in front of goal when shooting should have been the order. While the “Toffee Men” could not do anything but play what may be termed a “three-quarter game” Wolverhampton improved and gained their first corner about this time, but they could make nothing of it, and Everton once more took up the attack, although they were always lacking at the right moment. The first half does not require a great deal of description. Everton showed much the better forward play, but the same finnicking tactics in front of goal, which I have before referred to, prevented them scoring. From the only brilliant bit of forward play – from right to centre and centre to left-Milward had a fine chance, but he screwed as if he was kicking against a hurricane of wind, and altogether spoiled the opportunity. Everton made other attempts which were too high, and on one occasion put in a splendid bit of play, from which three fast shots were attempted in quick succession. Rose saved two, and from the third Baugh gave a corner, which was a somewhat simple one to deal with. Of course the Wanderers had turn at the attacks, but they were weaker than their opponents, and no scoring had been done up to half-time. The weather was much too hot for football, and there was a tremendously long interval. On resuming, a change came over the scene. Instead of doing better with the sun at their backs the Evertonians were very languid, and there was certainly nothing worth mentioning for ten minutes, when Allen ran across to the right and sent in a long dropping shot, which Williams misjudged, with the result that a goal was scored against his side, which proved the only and winning point. There was a tremendous cheer at their success and it nerved the Wanderers to try and do greater things. They went up again from the kick off with a beautiful burst, and Williams saved a magnificent shot from Topham, while Wykes made a splendid attempt before the attack was finished. After this there was little really fine play. The Everton attacks with one exception towards the close of the game, were of a most half-hearted character, and the Wanderers had the best of the play, although they never really looked like getting through again. Thus there was no further scoring, and the Wanderers were returned the winners of the match by one goal to none. There was plenty of enthusiasm at the finish, but during the progress of the game I never knew a big crowd less demonstrative. Perhaps it was because it was to seldom that the usual artistic touches generally expected from two good teams were seen. In fact they were conspicuous by their absence. I never really saw a poor game for a final in the whole course of my experience. Abler perms than mine will criticize the form of the two teams, but the Everton men seemed to be-judging from their recent hard fights with Preston North End-thoroughly stale, as after the first half they utterly failed to sustain their reputation. Holt never tired to sustain their reputation. Holt never tired, and the left wing made spasmodic efforts but as far as the others were concerned I would not care to criticize their performance in the second half beyond stating that I am sure they must have done better in all previous Cup matches this season. As for the Wanderers they were somewhat lucky to score, although they deserved to win their defence was grand but I consider their forward play below anything I have seen in previous finals.
WHAT “THE FREE CRITIC” THINKS
Athletic News - Monday 27 March 1893
For a start, I think the crowd behaved themselves admirably; that the police were a lot of dummies, and that the corners of the barricading ought to have been strengthened. At 2-30 the ground looked splendid with the clever schoolboy teams giving us a fine exhibition of football, but after an ominous creaking at the corner nearest the pavilion the crowd broke in, and was followed by the people all round the ground; then the 5s seat holders had cause to grumble, for they were unceremoniously hustled out of their seats, and compelled to form part of the common or shilling man. There were 192 police somewhere; where I couldn’t see, but a more helpless set of men I never came across. They were far too polite, and whilst as a rule I admire courtesy to strangers, I did think the Manchester City police overdid it in contenting themselves with, “Will you please come down?” to the adventurous spectators who swarmed the rails to the discomfort of those behind them. But for the break in the pavilion people and the Press would have been very comfortable, but although “Robin Hood” and “The Tramp” manfully stuck to their posts, and seemed to be defying the whole 40,000, they had to cave in and contribute to the already overcrowded pavilion. Dr. Morley seemed very uncomfortable, and I don’t think enjoyed himself a great deal; our “boss” had to leave early owing to a dislocated neck; the reporters were making use of friends’ backs as writing desks; W. Allt of Wolverhampton, was shouting himself hoarse about England; two or three directors of the Everton Club were wondering how it was that they could not score; Mr. Whitehead, the eminent Manchester surgeon, expressed himself satisfied with three-quarters of an hour’s play; but Lord Kinnaird and Mr. J.C. Clegg were quite comfortable, and his lordship informed me that on the whole he had enjoyed himself. I didn’t, for various reasons. When one comes to think about the game, and to forget the hurry and bustle, I cannot say that it was a good one. As a rule, final ties do not produce the correct article, but Saturday’s performance was even below the average. In the first half Everton had certainly the advantage, and may be said to have experienced very hard lines indeed in not scoring. Three times was the ball right on the line, when the slightest push would have sent it through, but the push came from the other side, and it really seemed as if the Liverpool people were not to score. Once Rose missed taking the ball very baldly, but his energetic backs recovered themselves and cleared, and more than once their forwards, particularly Topham, were very dangerous. The second half witnessed a complete change. Whether their unproductive efforts had a disheartening effect or not I cannot say, but Everton tumbled completely to pieces, and were simply not in it with the “Wolves” who went about their work with surprising vigour. The climax came when Allen scored, and from that point Everton were very loose. And it was a simple sort of a goal, too, and yet of so much importance. So far as I could see, Allen got the ball at half-back, sent in a long, dropping shot, Williams appeared to be expecting Wykes, made a half attempt to clear the ball, missed, and through it went. Everton were now a beaten team, and their forwards got completely disorganized, and the attempts which were made to beat Rose were very spiritless, and I thought if either team scored it would be the “Wolves” for there was much more business in their attack. They kept it up right to the finish, and came off winners by one to none. I don’t believe in all Englishmen, for the Everton players were as much qualified and entitled to play in the final as were the “Wolves” but at the same time I must admit that it is very creditable to the Wolverhampton executive to be able to put a team of Englishmen on the field able to carry off the Cup. The precise commercial value of that last half-minute at Bolton will probably never be known, but it must have been worth a cool thousand, and Topham and Wood each deserve an extra medal. On Saturday they earned their victory if only for the plucky manner in which they set to work immediately the second half was entered upon. In the initial forty-five Everton had shown themselves complete masters of the situation, and had displayed football of a very high order; and when a team knows that it has been overplayed with the meteorological conditions in its favour, it speaks well for its pluck to go in and completely turn the tables. To my mind, the hard struggles Everton have had in the semi-final tie had a great deal to do with their cracking up at the finish for to fight three battles like they have done with Preston North end must have taken it out of them, and although they had spent a few days at Buxton, it was easy to be seen that the wear and tear was telling on them. I am not putting this forward as an excuse for Everton, but merely as an opinion which, I venture to say, will be borne out by anyone who has had football experience. And now let me congratulate Wolverhampton on their victory. It was a great one; it was achieved against odds; it was over a team which had beaten them decisively on their own ground only a week previously, and it was a victory which was thoroughly deserved. Englishmen admire plucky and determination and I am an Englishman. To my mind nothing could be finer than the manner in which the winners rose to the occasion immediately the second half was commenced, and although their play was not nearly so scientific as Everton had shown us in the first half, there was considerably more go in it, and it was far more likely to be successful. Had Everton been favoured with the slightest luck in the opening stages of the game they must have won, but they hadn’t that useful commodity on their side, and appeared to give up the ghost whilst the “Wolves” came again. If I were asked who won the match I should say the Wolverhampton half-backs, and as a trio they would be very hard to beat. They were always on the top of the Everton forwards, and played them down. I may add that being under the impression that Wolverhampton had protested, the Everton captain handed in an objection to the referee on account of the encroachment of the spectators; but when the directors were informed that the “Wolves” had not done so they, in a very sportsmanlike manner, withdrew the protest and the “Wolves” were enabled to take away with them the trophy which they had so well earned and won.
THE “WANDERERING WOLFS” QUOTA
Athletic News - Monday 27 March 1893
Well, it was about the liviest “jamboreen” that I’ve seen since I started at football matches. Perhaps it fell to my lot to have the most unique experience of any of my lay brethren of the Fourth Estate, and certainly up to half-time the best sight of the game. The Press Stand had gone by the board when I arrived. Where it once stood, according to the ground plan of the field was a mass of struggling humanity, and the crackling of timber in the immediate vicinity spoke volumes as to the reserved portions being appropriated by the shilling outsiders without any reserve whatever. It was the same pretty nearly all over the place. People were clambering anywhere and everywhere and the police looked on and smiled approvingly. If you asked one of the force for advice or assistance, notwithstanding the fact that you had come in the discharge of a public duty, he became at once a model of stupidity. A more incapable lot I scarcely ever get eyes on. True there was an insufficiency in the strength of the force, although there were 192 of them, but at some portion of the enclosure at least they might have nipped an inrush before it developed. How many people the ground will hold, and how many may have a view of the game, are two totally distinct matters, and surely the contractors might have known the futility of rigging up such jerry-built rails. However, I may get on to a few remarks on the game from our side of the question. As the one solitary scribbler in the inner ring I had a fair view of play up to the interval, when I had to out somehow and get “copy” to the telegraph office, for –tell it not in Gath-police officers could not even be bribed with more than a day’s pay to get a message through to the operators. And so on the touch-line I had to do a tailor-like squat half way between the goals, and when not “down” as in a Rugby scrummage, clutching telegraph forms keen as any player on leathern egg, I had a fair field to look upon. Up to the half-way then, be it said, that Everton, with the dazzling rays of the sun slanting down in front of them, played a magnificent game, Milward and Chadwick particularly so, and more than once it was a mere miracle how the Wolverhampton goal was saved. There were some who blamed Rose for an awful mull when the ball bounced in front of him as he had run out to clear. But it was a puzzling shot, for the leather skidded sideways, and as he whipped round suddenly on the goal-line when hotly tackled I certainly thought the save a brilliant one under the disadvantageous circumstances. A nearer thing was when Malpass just got up in time to put screw on to a swift shy from the left, and then the ball only just went beyond the post- a matter of inches. At the other end one possible goal might have come from Topham’s wonderful middles. The amateur raced past Stewart just as he pleased. I thought the goal which won the match –and which came from captain Allen-might have been stopped. Williams seemed to misjudge the ball, which passed over his thumbs and under the bar. After that the Everton collapse was remarkable, considering their previous brilliance. They were worn down if you ask me what won the match, it was the perpetual bang, bang, bang rate at which the Wanderers went, Machination was powerless against it. Baugh, the halves, and Harry Wood I thought, had most to do with the victory, and the next best assistance was given by Topham and Wykes; the inside left man, however, was the war-horse. When he couldn’t do business forward he went to help the half-backs. Why he is not again in the International I can only ascribe to the fact that it would be unwise on present form to displace Chadwick. All the same, it does not prevent my saying that Harry has no equal as “solo” inside man. Neither he nor Topham minded being left out now that the Cup was their honour. I am glad, however Kinsey is included in next week’s match at Richmond. The way he bothered Latta and Gordon was a caution. The Wanderers’ officials by no means relished the idea of not being allowed to take the cup at first. To await further developments was not in their line so long as the rumoured protest was unconditionally withdrawn. They got it at last –if the rest of the “pots” had been as congratulatory as Mr. Tom Mitchell, of the Rovers (though he aint one of ‘em) the proceedings would have been pleasant enough. But once in possession Mr. Addenbrooke and Albert Fletcher were quite radiant. The home-coming was joyous, in all conscience. Lord Dartmouth and Sir Alfred Hickman, who came in the players’ saloon, were more delighted than of a Tory Government was in power. “Magnums” were cracked, and the “pot” handed round for a general toast, yet the team were as straight as judges. A more orderly lot of winners I have never come across. The happiest Wanderer of all was Jack Brodie. Didn’t he wish he could have been playing! At Crewe the Alexandra president looked in to inspect the cup, and give hand-shakes and all through Shrospshire crowds cheered to the echo. The sight in the morning, as thousands of employees at the various works on the railway side turned out, wishing the “Wolves" good luck, waving all sorts of trophies from big sheets to dirty-looking coloured ‘kerchiefs, which had been “flashed up” from trousers pockets and fastened on sticks, I think I shall never forget. For miles chalk marks on railway wagons, “Play up, ‘Wolves,” greeted the eye. And what a reception when the victors got home. A perfect fusillades of fog-signals heralded the approach of the train; “Conquering Hero” was being fairly thumped out by the brass band on the other platform, and once the Cup-the best cup of all- was shown to the thousands outside amid a glare of varicolored lights, a ringing, echoing, and re-reaching cheer went up, fairly giving one’s heart strongs aa tremor. “England declared,” as in Nelson’s old song; the team had played up in the earlier portion of the day, and now it was Wolverhampton’s turn proper. And so will it be kept up for goodness alone knows how long. What shall I say of the conquered? ‘Tis a noble thing to be magnanimous to fallen champions in the hour of victory. And Everton are a grand team. Pity the prognostications from the seaport were ill-timed, though if the Cup be lost to them the reputation still clings. More than that I can’t say. I have only to add that the Wanderers today (Monday) mean showing Cup form against the Albion at Molyneux Grounds, and thereby making, if at all possible, a record.
THE “LOITERER’S” VIEW
Athletic News - Monday 27 March 1893
Enthusiasts in Liverpool has been rampant lately in connection with the Everton team’s performances, and after their defeat of North End on Monday last in the semi-final, after three attempts, it reached fever heat, and this week nothing else has been the topic of conversation. Everton did badly up to Christmas, but since then they have accomplished some creditable performances, winning in fact almost all along the line. Without recapitulating their performances in detail, it may be mentioned that to have beaten in the English Cup ties West Bromwich Albion, Notts Forest, and Sheffield Wednesday in succession was a task the magnitude of which no other club had to face. In these three matches they scored 11 goals to three, and then came the remarkable contests with North End in the semi-final. They had certainly the advantage of playing at home in the first three matches, but their form was consistent. In the three encounters with North end there was only a goal between them, and when Everton somewhat luckily came out of the ordeal on Monday last their supporters patted themselves on the back. They had disposed of their toughest opponents and confidently looked forward to their team beating the “Wolves” in the final. That they were bitterly disappointed all the world- or rather the football world- now known, and how it was accomplished will be told in another column. As befitted the occasion, the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company place at the disposal of the committee splendidly –appointed saloon trains, which left the Exchange Station at 12 noon. As a spectator of the match I may be allowed to express an opinion as to how the Everton team were defeated. In the first place I was much impressed with the business-like manner of the “Wolves” when they stepped on the field. They looked fit and confident, and immediately at the outset it was evident to the impartial observer that they had come with a determination to do their level best to win the Cup, and they undoubtedly carried the programme out to the latter. In physique they had a decided advantage over the Everton men, and no sooner had the game started than this was demonstrated. Mr. Hughes, however, put his veto upon rough play very early, and after the first fifteen minutes, during which time play had been fast and furious, there was nothing to cavil at; in fact, on more than one occasion I thought fouls were given for charges which were perfectly fair. The referee’s strict attitude in this respect was, however, undoubtedly in the best interests of the game, and it had the desired effect upon the players. In the first half Everton had more of the play, although they faced a glaring sun, but there was not much between them. Neither goalkeeper had anything serious to deal with –in fact, throughout the game both goalkeepers had very little to do, and what they did was done badly. With the sun behind them in the second half I thought Everton would just about land the converted trophy, but after Williams was beaten by a long, soft shot the team-or rather the forwards-appeared to go to pieces. Their efforts lacked cohesion, and during the last twenty minutes their play was wretchedly ragged. Whether they were overstrained, or stale, or what I cannot say; but certain it is they did not stay with the fire and dash of the “Wolves” Whilst the latter never neglected any point in the game, Everton, on the contrary, did not to my mind exhibit that keenness which one expected. For instances, in taking a throw-in when well in their opponents’ territory, the forward as often as not would take the throw instead of leaving it to the half-back. Milward appeared to have given up the ghost for the greater portion of the second half, for he was rarely where he should have been, and Gordon throughout the place was far from a success. Maxwell played as well as anyone in the front rank, and received any amount of hard knocks. The backs did well, Kelso and Howarth showing up better than Baugh and Swift. It was the “Wolves” halves who made such havoc with the Everton forwards. All three played an effective game, especially Kinsey and Allan, and they kept it up right to the end. On the day’s plat, the better team won, and to do so they adopted better tactics, and too advantage of every possible point, which I think the Everton team did not. Apart from this, Williams ought to have stopped the shot which won the match. It was a long dropping shot, and he was not hampered; in fact, no one was within yards of him, but into the net it landed, and, as it so happened, decided the resting place of the England Cup for another twelve months. I need hardly say that the defeat is a severe blow to the Everton supporters. Rumours of a protest on the ground of the crowd being on the goal lines were rife after the match, but I believe the Everton executive have taken the defeat like sportsmen and withdrawn it. So mote it be.
LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
March 29, 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
A committee meeting of the above association was held at the Neptune Hotel last night, Mr. D. S. Lamont in the chair. The draw for the semi-final Liverpool Senior Cup competition resulted as follows;- Bootle v. Everton, Aintree Church v. Everton the latter being played on the Bootle Ground on April 11. Permission was given to the Everton Club to play a benefit match on behalf of A. Latta, and one in aid of the National Lifeboat Fund. A donation of £5 5s was given to D.D. Kirkwood
EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB.
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 30 March 1893
A NEW FLAYER.
It is reported that the Everton Football Club have secured the services of John Watson Bell, captain of the Dumbarton team. Bell has just completed his apprenticeship an engineer. He has played for Scotland against England, and he figured well in the International League match at Bolton last year. He is a capital centre forward, and is not out of his position as inside or outside right.
EVERTON V PRESTON NORTH END
March 30, 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
These clubs replay their second round tie in the Lancashire Cup competition at Deepdale this afternoon, and the match, following as it does the treble contest between the same organizations in the semi-final stage of the English Cup, is of special interest. For the convenience of Liverpudlians desirous of witnessing the game the Everton Club has arranged a cheap excursion to run from the Exchange Station, whilst the London and North-western Company also announce a excursion, particulars of both of which will be seen on referring to our advertising columns. The following have been selected to play for Everton; Williams, goal; Kelso and Howarth, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-back; Latta, Maxwell, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
PRESTON NORTH END 5 EVERTON 1
March 31 1893. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire senior cup second round
These teams meet at Deepdale, Preston in order to replay that tie in the second round of the Lancashire cup competition. It will be remembered that North End won about a fortnight ago by 3 goals to nil,, but on Everton protesting owing to the interference of the crowd, who encroached upon the touch line, and goal lines the match was ordered to be replayed. The weather yesterday was again summer-like, but the attaendance was not great, considering the importance of the contest numbering about 4,000. Neither side was at quite full strength. Holt was an absentee through an juried side, and Russell was left out. tHe teams were accordingly as follows. Everton, Willians goal, Kelso, and Howarth (captain), backs, Boyle Elliott, and Stewart half-backs, Latta, Maxwell, Geary, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Preston North End:- Trainer (capatin), goal, Holmes (r), and Ross (jn), backs, Holmes (j), Sanders, and Stewart (w) half-backs, Gordon, Ross (j), Drummond, Beckton, and Cowan forwards. There was no wind to speak of and North End kicked off with the sun at their backs. Everton forced a corner on the left, hands giving relief to the home team. They soon got well down on the right, and were dangerous through Elliott missing his kick. This he made amends for, however, by kicking timely. Preston returned at once on the left, when Everton shot in along the ground, but Williams caught the ball and threw clear. Boyle placed out of harm's way, and play become open for a short time. Then J.Ross ran down and shot outside, which was followed by a better effort on the other wing. North End continued on the aggressive, Rose, after Howarth had kicked away, forcing a corner. Ross again shot ineffectively as did Gordon from a long range. Geary at the second attempt broke away, and passed to Latta, who was prevented by Stewart from driving into goal. A disater was quickly in store, Everton as a corner being conceded on the home right. J Ross after the ball had hobbed about a little headed into goal. Preston thus taking the lead 20 minutes from the start, a spurt on the Everton left was of no avail, and in a few minutes Everton were again in trouble. A mistake let in Cowan, who took full advantage of the opportunity, and immediately on resuming from the centre, Drummond ran down and scored nicely. Beckton missed a chance but this was of no advantage to the visitors as North End swooped down on goal, once more with success, Ross again beating Williams,. No less than four goals being scored in five minutes. The defenders of Everton were utterly impotent at this period, and had not Cowan found himself offside he would probably have added a fifth point. Everton despite the heavy record against them, plucked up a bit, and skirmised in front of goal but were not permitted to become very formidable-in fact they were easily cleared off. J.Ross next sent across to Beckton, who shot wide. Boyle put in some good defence at this juncture, but still North End exacted two corners. Beckton was again at fault, and Everton drove the ball in a desultory way towards goal, when Ross kicked to midfield. Howarth was hard pressed by the left wing and put the ball out. Chadwick next worked along prettily but there was no gaining a solid attack, and J.Ross replied with a spanking run but went out. Sanders shot hard into goal, Williams this time playing the shot with success. Once more the Everton left ran down, only to find J.Ross and his colleagues dash away and severely harass the Everton defence. Latta and Maxwell supported by Geary then tried to make an impression, but N.J.Ross scored one of his trumphs on defence, whilst a similar effort by Milward was equally well nipped in the bud by Holmes. As a closing incident of this diastrousd half to Everton. Kelso got in the way of a shot by J.Ross and the interval thus arrived with Preston North End leading by 4 goals to nil. The second stage was initated with tussling between Latta and N.J.Ross, the former getting slightly the best of the speed contest. Everton however, failed to grow dangerous, and Beckton sprinted down the centre, but Williams was too quick for him. North End continued to press, and almost scrimmaged a goal. Latta backed up by Boyle looked like getting through a few minutes later, but first Holmes and then Ross intercepted. Exciting play ensured at the other end. J.Ross sent in a grounder. Williams missed the first attempt, but was just in time to scoop the ball aside, with Beckton close upon him. The Everton left wing put in some good work until Stewart, robbed them, and thus threw the ball in the way of Gordon, who dribbled towards goal and shot, Beckton dashing in and scoring a smart goal. Play had now been in progess ten minutes from the restart. Everton rallied somewhat and lodged play for some time in their opponents quarters. The best effort was a dodging run by Milward, who best several opponents but the touch for goal was futile, as no one was at hand to help the ball on. Sanders licked over the bar, and this was followed by a better shot. Another attempted by the Everton let met with no better result than all others had done, the home defenders generally being planted whatever the ball went. The run of play continued to be much in favour of Preston North End, who were often at goal, but had no occasion to exact themselevs to any great event. Latta led several raids, but owing to the lack of cohension,, Geary especially being weak. North End always cleared conforably. Elliott once kicked out strongly when J.Ross was menacing. Then Geary essayed a spirit but the prestonians prompty went for goal again,, when Williams saved. Maxwell next brought down N.J.Ross, and was penalised, Sanders following up by sending the ball skimming narrowly over the bar. Everton shortly following got a free kick near in, only to see the goal line crossed. North End settled down in a quite attack. When Everton coped with easily, and a minute from the finish met with their soiltary but of fortune, as on Milward sending across Latta headed in and Geay caused the ball to go into the net. The only time Trainor was called upon during the whole 90 minutes. A disapponting h=game thus resulted-Preston 5 goals; Everton 1.