TODAY’S TEAM ARRANGEMENT
The Liverpool Daily Post- Friday, April 3, 1895
Everton v. Derby county, at Goodison Park; 2.30;
Everton.- Hillman, goal; Adams and Arridge, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, McInnes, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Derby County.- Robinson, goal; Methven and Leiper, backs; Cox, A. Goodall, and Kinsey, half-backs; J. Goodall, Bloomer, Miller, Stevenson, and McQueen, forwards.
Everton Combination v. Burton, at Buxton.
Everton Combination.- Briggs, goal; Balmer and Molyneux, backs; Kelso, Meiklejohn, and Elliott, half-back; Latta, McDonald, J. Chadwick, Murray, and Schofield, forwards.

EVERTON V CHESTER.
April 4, 1896. Chester Observer.
Enable “by bit of curious chances,” Chester figured on Saturday in the final tie of the Liverpool Senior Cup against Everton. To do the Cestrians justice it should be stated that they have often found their way into the semi-final, but on this occasion Liverpool scratched to them, on account of some hitch with the Liverpool Association, and o allowed Chester to face Everton, in the final tie. The attendance at Goodison Park was estimated at not more than 500, and the following were the teams: - Chester: - Coventry, goal; Astbury and Wilson, backs; Barker, Farrell and Turner, half-backs; Lipsham, W. Lewis, H. Jones, and Spencer, forwards. Everton: - Briggs, goal; Kelso and Storrier, backs; Goldie, Micklejohn and Elliott, half-backs; Williams, Latta, Chadwick, Murray and Schofield, forwards. Everton were soon on the aggressive, and Scholfield scored in the first four minutes. An end to end game ensured, and Chester showed up for a short while, but to no purpose. Williams subsequently added a second for the homesters. A mistake by Storrier left in Worgan and Spencer, but nothing resulted. Then Lipsham threw away a good chance by shooting wide, and to make matters work, Farrell could have easily scored, but sent the ball in the wrong direction. Half-time now arrived, and changing ends, the play for a time became more even. Williams notched a third and then Chester forced a corner, which Storrier cleared in splendid fashion. Scholfield scored a fourth, and the Cestrians retired beaten by 4 goals to nil.

EVERTON 2 DERBY COUNTY 2
April 4 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
The first of the season's league matches between these clubs was played on the Goodison road enclosure yesterday afternoon, before close upon 30,000 spectators. The County team was somewhat handicapped by the absence of Goodall and Bloomer and as Everton was fully representative, it was confidently anticipated that the local team would have no difficulty in notching a couple of points. After a dull morning the weather cleared up beautifully, and at 2-35 the teams faced as follows : - Everton: - Hillman, goal, Adams, and Arridge, backs, Boyle (captain), Holt, and Stewart, halfbacks, Bell, McInnes, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Derby County: - Robinson, goal, Methvan, and Leiper, backs, Cox Goodall, and Kinsley, halfbacks, Paul, Miller, NcMillan, Stevenson and McQueen forwards. Everton won the toss, and following the initial exchanges looked all over a winning team. Cameron McInnes, and Bell took the ball nicely down, but Leiper was not to be beaten, and following some capital tackling by Cox on the other wing both Paul and Miller put in good work only to be foiled by Arridge in the fine attempt. A moment later brought off a fine save when the ball was close in, and after Chadwick had supplemented Cameron tricked both Kinsley and Leiper, and scored a capital goal within five minutes from the start. Directly following it appeared almost certain that Everton would increase their lead as a heavy pressure was sustained for a considerable period on the County goal. Milward passed nicely across to Bell, who, however, headed over, and directly following the outside left and had a fair chance but put very wide. McQueen and Stevenson then took up the running and had the better of Adams, and a shot from the centre was ably dealt with by Hillman, when Milward and Chadwick raced nicely down, and a fine centre all but resulted in a second point for Everton. directly afterwards Milward was adjudged to be offside when in a good position, but this assistaned little, as Bell had the better of Kinsley and parting nicely to McInnes the last named found an opening for Cameron,, who took full advantage and scored place Derby County two goals in arrear. A long shot from Kinsley almost reduced the margin when Bell, by a fine individual effort, raced down the right, and after receiving assistance from McInnes, had exceptionally hard lines in increasing the score. From the goal kick, the ball was quickly at the other end, and McMillan sent forward to Hillman, who left his charge and Adams in accidentally working to save the goal, put the ball into his own goal. The play had scarely been resumed when Hillman was again called upon, but not having thorough control of the ball Goodall seized the opportunity, and deftly put it through, then bring the teams on a even footing. Nothing further was done up to the interval when the score stood 2 goals each. On resuming the Everton attack set to work desperately, and failt cut out the pace. Milward, Chadwick and Bell having teasing shots without success for Robinson was well desired, as he dealt with repeated class shots in such an able manner, as to call for the sustained attack of the large crowd. Bell almost caught him unawares with an excellent header, and failing from close range. Cameron assayed from the long field but without better success. There was no mistaking the severely pressure maintained by the Evertonians, for it was rarely indeed that the ball was in the home half. Try as they would Robinson was not to be beaten, and a drawn game of 2 goals each resulted. That the County were lucky in obtaining a point could not be denied and they own they success in their custodian in a great degree, and to rather poor judgement on the part of Adams and Hillman, who performance was disappointing.

BUXTON 0 EVERTON RESERVES 6
April 4 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
This combination match was played at Buxton yesterday, before 3,000 spectators. The visitors were both powerful and too clever for the amateurs and after 20 minutes Murray scored. Williams added a couple and Elliott made it 4 goals to nil at the interval. Buxton had a couple of good chances but could not credit themselves. Goldie added a fifth for Everton, and the half dozen was made soon afterwards. Final result of 6 goal to in favour of the Evertonians. Everton: - Briggs goal, Balmer and Molyneux backs, Kelly, Meiklejohn and Elliott (captain), halfbacks, Latta McDonald Chadwick (j), Murray, and Storrier forwards.

ATHLETIC AND SPORTING GOSSIP
The Weekly Blackburn Standard and Express- Saturday, April 4, 1896
Everton were the visits to Leyton last Saturday and there met the Corinthians in a friendly bout. A rare game ended in a win for the Corinthians by two goals to one.
The Everton directors are determined to give local talent a trial, and have already engaged four young and promising players. They want them, for there are few eligible men in the reserve. The old ones are not up to date by a long way.

EVERTON CLUB
The London Evening News- Saturday, April 4, 1896
The Everton directors are alarmed by the total exclusion of their players from International honours, and after considering the why and the wherefore have decided that it is because they are suffering from a plethora of old men. They have determined, therefore, to go in extensively for young blood, and, strangely enough, have decided to give all the promising local talent a fair trial. Probably they are taking this course because it is now almost impossible to buy any really good men in Scotland.

EVERTON v. DERBY COUNTY       
The Liverpool Daily Post – Saturday, April 4, 1896
Favoured by beautiful weather, the encounter between these redoubtable opponents attracted an enormous gathering at Goodison Park yesterday afternoon. Derby have been going so strongly of late that great interest was excited in their appearance here, and there were probably 35,000 present when the teams stepped into the arena. Derby were without Bloomer and John Goodall, but Everton were fully represented, the teams facing each other as follows;-
Everton; Hillman, goal; Adams and Arridge, backs; Boyle, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, McInnes, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Derby County.- Robinson, goal; Methven, and Leiper, backs; Cox, A. Goodall, and Kinsley, half-backs; Paul, Miller, McMillan, Stevenson, and McQueen, forwards.
Prompt to time Derby started, and the opening exchanges were in favour of Everton, Chadwick dribbling the ball towards Robinson, Methven, however, pulled him up, and A. Goodall, serving up to his forwards, the Derby right wing got away. Miller, having beaten Adams, passed nicely to McMillan, but the latter, when he had the goal at his mercy, failed miserably to take advantage of the opening. Arridge punted the leather towards the Derby goal, and Cameron, getting possession from Bell, tricked both Kinsey and Leiper, and sent in a long rising shot, which sailed into the net amid tumultuous shooting. Elected by this success, gained almost within a minute of the start, Everton played up strongly, and for some time the Derby citadel was subjected to a hot bombardment. Leiper, however, succeeded in clearing the opposing forwards out, but they were soon up again, and a nice pass by Chadwick was headed out by Bell. The visitors then attempted to get away, but they were pulled up by Holt, who passed out to Bell. The latter raced away and passed across to Milward, but the latter was too slow, Methven rushing in and clearing smartly. Keeping up the attack the Evertonians gave both Leiper and Methven considerable trouble. Chadwick shot strongly, and Milward, who was lying up by the goal, attempted to put the finishing touch on the effort, but he was promptly pulled up for offside. McQueen and Stevenson then burst away on the left, but Adams proved a stumbling black, and the homesters once more made for their opponents’ goal, Everton were playing an excellent game, and up to this time they had all the best of the play. Goodall initiated a movement towards Hillman, but it came to nothing, Goodall finally shooting over the bar. From the kick out Chadwick moved along nicely, and passing to Cameron the latter again shot magnificently, Robinson rushing out and clearing. Then Chadwick tried his luck as a “shootist,” but again the Derby custodian proved thoroughly reliable. Paul then ran off, and got the better of both Stewart and Arridge but the latter recovering himself put the ball well up to Milward, who sent in a clinking shot to Robinson, who saved splendidly. The Derby left wing again attempted to get away, but the Everton defence was equally as good as their attack, and the Derby men were speedily put to the right about. Bell getting possession sprinted right through his field in magnificent fashion, but when a goal seemed certain he fell, and Leiper chipped in and cleared. There was no withstanding the homesters, however, and they returned to the attack with redoubled vigour. Bell running up passed to McInnes, and the last-named passing in turn to Cameron, the amateur, to the great delight of the spectators again sent the leather skimming into the net-a beautiful bit of work. From the restart, Chadwick was in evidence with a long shot which certainly deserved success, and then Derby changed the order of things by assuming the aggressive in a most determined fashion. They moved towards Hillman in combined order, but the movement was spoiled by Goodall shooting over.  Returning to the attack Miller shot strongly, but Hillman was equal to the occasion. The ball was speedily sent back to him by Kinsey, but again the home goalkeeper was safe. Derby were now playing up remarkably well and at length McMillan sent in one that proved disastrous to the home team, for Hillman, rushing out, missed it, and Adams in attempting to get it away inadvertently put the ball into his own goal. Restarting Derby again came away with a great rush, and again their efforts were crowned with success. Stevenson sent in a long swift shot, and Hillman ran out to clear. Before he could get back to his goal, however, Archie Goodall slipped in and banged the leather into the net, thus putting the visitors upon even terms. The game now bore an entirely different complexion from the opening stages, and Everton, instead of being the aggressors were forced to defend their goal most determinedly. The Derby forwards seemed to have got fairly into their stride and both McMillan and Paul sent in shots. These, however, were successfully coped with, and nothing more happened when the interval arrived, the game then standing with 3 goals to each side. on crossing over Everton started capitally, Cameron running down and sending in a long shot which Robinson, however, dealt with effectually. Another movement was made towards the Derby goal, and Stewart sent in a beautiful shot, but again the visiting custodian proved equal to the occasion. Everton returned to the attack, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward being concerned in a smart forward movement, but the last named was too slow at the finish and Methven was permitted to come in and clear the danger. The Derby forwards then moved away in business-like fashion, but Holt and Arridge administered a check, and Everton were given a lock in. The home left wing got smartly  off, and Milward sent in a clinker, which Robinson just put outside the post. From the succeeding corner nothing came, and a shot from Chadwick a minute later fell into the hands of the Derby custodian. McInnes then tried his luck at a shot, but this failed, and a grand run by Bell also ended in nothing. The homesters at this time were again having the best of matters, but no fault could be found with the Derby defence, which was magnificent. Chadwick passed to Bell, and the latter shot outside, and then Cameron was equally unfortunate. A few moments later McInnes sent in  a grand shot, but Robinson, who was playing magnificently, saved. The Derby goalkeeper was kept busy by a series of hot shots from each of the forwards, but he behaved splendidly, showing remarkable agility and smartness in saving his charge from downfall. At length, the visitors made a move towards the home goal, and Miller sent in a long shot, but it gave Hillman no difficulty. Stevenson then tried his hand, or rather foot, but the shot went wide, and the Everton forwards again got under way. A free kick close in looked ominous for the visitors, but whatever fears they entertained were groundless. Boyle took the shot, and Cameron followed on, but the ball struck the upright and went outside. A break away on the part of the Derby left wing was unattended by success, and it was not long before Everton were again swarming around Robinson. A second free kick close in was taken by Boyle, but it was safely negotiated and a subsequent shot by Cameron came to nothing. There was no mistaking the determination of the Everton forwards, who were playing in magnificent form, but they reckoned without Robinson, who treated the spectators to a truly wonderful exhibition of goalkeeping. Chadwick and Milward worked the ball down, and passed smartly to Bell, who out it into the corner of the goal, but Robinson was on the alert, and again the Derby citadel was saved. Paul and Miller breaking away removed the scene of action, but though Arridge was beaten nothing tangible ensued, the whistle going for “off-side.” The home team were soon on the warpath, and Boyle sent in a long low one, but this was treated with ceremony by Robinson. A brief spell of midfield work ensued, and then Bell went away, but he was hampered by Kinsley, and the attempt was spoiled, Cameron then sent one in smartly, but Methven intercepted it, and the Derby right wing raced away. Stewart pulled the pair up, but the ball was sent across, and Stevenson was given an opening. Adams however, was upon him before he could profit by it. The visitors remained in home territory, and McQueen sent in a beautiful screw shot, which Hillman got away. Boyle passed out cleverly, and the home forwards moved away in combined order. Cameron put one in, but without result, and Bell was spoiled when getting in position. Everton were still in front of their opponents’ goal when the whistle blow, and a fast and exciting game ended in a draw, the score being-Everton 2 goals, Derby County 2 goals.
TODAYS TEAM ARRANGEMENT
Everton v.  Sunderland, at Goodison Park; 4
Everton.- Hillman, goal; Adams and Storrier, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Williams, McDonald, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Everton Combination v. Leek, at Leek; 3.30.
Everton Combination.- Briggs, goal; Balmer and Molyneux, backs; Kelso, Meiklejohn, and Elliott, half-backs; Latta, Mainman, J. Chadwick, Murray, and Schofield, forwards.
Jack Bell playing for Scotland v England at Celtic Park today

EVERTON 1 SUNDERLAND 1
April 6 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
These teams met in a friendly contest on Saturday afternoon at Goodison Park, but the fixture failed to attract more than a gathering of 6,000 spectators which is a new record in an ordinary meeting between these teams. Owing to Scottish internationals demands neither team was its best, and they faced at four o'clock p.m. in the following positions: - Everton: - Hillman, goal, Adams, and Storrier backs, Boyle (captain), Holt, and Stewart halfbacks, Hartley, McInnes, Cameron, Milward, and Schofield, forwards. Sunderland: - Anderson goal McNeill, and Gow, backs, Dunlop, Gibson and Johnston, halfbacks, Gillespie, Cowan, Campbell, Millar, and Hannah (d) forwards.
Everton started the game, but had the worst of the opening play for the Sunderland forwards continued nicely, and gave the home halves plenty of work. Eventually Cameron raced off and shot wide, but on a further return, a corner was forced and well placed by Schofield, and Hartley shot in. this success was followed by a strong attack on the Sunderland goal, but there was no getting past McNeil and Gow. Finally Campbell led on a strong movement to the other end and Passing out top Gillespie the latter was very faulty when in a fairly easy position. For some little time the Wearsiders held their position, but Holt's attentions were too close for their liking and after Stewart had accounted for Cowan, Milward and Schofiled got off, only tom find Dunlop quite as capable in attending to then. A corner against Storrier resulted in Hillman being called upon and following a slight relief Gibson shot in strongly at the keeper, who was too previously charged, and from the free kick the running was once again made in the direction of Anderson. Cameron was mainly responsible for most of the attacks, and had the wings at this juncture made use of the opening afforded them at least a couple of goals must have been put on. However, nothing further was record up to the interval, when the score stood Everton 1 goal, Sunderland nil. Without delay the second half was proceeded with, and at once the Sunderland forwards made headway, Cowan testing Hillman with a capital shot which, was ably dealt with. Another from the same player was also got away in good style, but returning again, a lengthy pressure followed in the home half, both Adams and Storrier getting through their work in sound fashion, the latter eventually sending well on to Schofield who raced down and finished a severe attack on Anderson's charge. Three corners followed in quick succession, and as they were all well placed the Sunderland keeper had an anxious time. McNeil afforded relief but directly afterwards Hartley missed a couple of ridiculous easy chances, when Hannah got away and forcing a corner, placed it beautifully to Campbell, who stood close in, and putting his foot to it, took Hillman by surprise. Nothing further was scored, and a drawn game of 1 goal each resulted.

LEEK 1 EVERTON RESERVES 2
April 6 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
At Leek. Leek played with the wind, Everton made a run, but the defence made a return. The Leek forwards got away but shot over, but still pressed, but could not score. The Merriman shot thirty yards away, and Gyme the Leek custodian kicked the over the ball, thus giving Everton a very simple goal. Half time arrived Everton winning by a goal to nil. Chadwick scored a second in the second half . final result was Everton 2 goals leek 1. Everton: - Briggs, goal Balmer, and Molyneux, backs, Kelso Meiklejohn, and Elliott (captain), Latta, Mainman, Chadwick (j) Murray and Schofiled, forwards .
Played 14, won 11, lost 1, drawn 2, for 57, against 13 points 24

CAP FOR SCOTTISH EVERTONIAN
April 6 1896.
Robert Bell scored a second goal for Scotland against England at Celtic Park in front of 50,000 spectators.

EVERTON REVIEW
April 6 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
The Liverpool Football public have been well catered for turning the Easter holiday by our premier club Derby County and Bolton Wanderers furnishing League fixtures, whilst on Saturday afternoon Sunderland appeared in a ‘'Friendly'' The first of these encounters, on Good Friday afternoon, was productive of a great game, and the only matter for regrets from an Evertonians point of view, was the fact that the home team had to rest content with one point, although two were so thoroughly deserved. Early on in the game the Everton forwards took up the running, and gave their opponents little of no attitude. Rarely indeed were they seen in such trim this season, and the result of their fine efforts during the first half hour was a substantial lead of two goals to nil. In the last ten minutes of the first half however the County men rallied, and fairly penned the home team in their own half, and assisted by bad judgement on the part of Hillman and great weakness of the home right back the Peakiites were able to leave the field at half time equal terms. After the interval the home forwards were quickly attacking again but although their kept up a almost incessant onslaught on the Derby goal for the whole of the last 45 minutes they were, owing to fine defence and absolutely marvellously goalkeeping, unable to notch a winning point. The whole of the home quintet was a capital form, Bell and Cameron especially shinning. The former player was always conspicuous with his fine runs and centres, and his playfully justifies his selection by his countrymen to represent Scotland on the outside right. Cameron gave the best exhibition he has favoured up with at Goodison Park. He passed out to his wings with the greatest precision, and it was quite in keeping with his performance that both goals were credited to him. The half backs were also in fine form, and backed up their forwards consistently whilst in defence they also shone. Johnny Holt seemed delight in demonstrating to the hugh crowd, that in spite of his being overlooked by the international selection committee, he is by no means done yet, and his smart and tricky tactics evoked great applause. Arridge was good at back, but his partner Adams, was very much off colour, and rarely seemed at easy for his kicking was feeble and he did not last at all well. Hillman in goal was at times brilliant, but on two occasions lamentably the reverse. The first goal he forfeited by bad judgement in running out, although Adams seemed to bother him somewhat, whilst the second was due to him letting the ball screw through his hands and fall within easy reach of A.Goodall, who had no difficulty in putting it into the net. The Derby team was no doubt handicapped by the absence of J.Goodall and Blommer, but they appear to have good material in the way of reverse to fall luck upon. The forward when they got an opportunity, displayed good speed and commands on the ball, and on the whole worked well together. The half backs although not brilliants, and good workers, and in this line Cox was especially prominent. The backs Leiper and Methven played a sound game, but the custodian Robinson, is the man to whose the credit of saving the game is due. His goalkeeper was nothing short of marvellous for he had to cope with the affords of the Everton forwards in their most brilliant mood. In fact it is very doubtful whether another custodian could he found to stave off defeat in the way Robinson did. Derby County may consider themselves extremely fortunate to have gained a point in their first encounter with their rivals for second place in the League table.
In comparison the game on Saturday against Sunderland was a tame affair, and the attendance showed a striking decidence from that of previous meetings between the clubs on the same ground. There could be scarily 6,000 present at any time during the game, plainly showing that the Wearsiders have lost their great drawing powers. The Sunderland club would, however, be repaid for the venture, as they had only to make the journey from Bury but there could be no question that had they been the power they were last season, when the championship was in view the fixture would have been though a friendly almost as appewtising as that of the previous day. The teams were somewhat mixed in character, and the same might be written of the play. At the outset the home side had a little the better of matters in the first half, and a goal to nil at the change of ends about represented the difference in merit. The second half was in the main of an even character, and scoring from a corner, none could begrudge an even finish. The Sunderland forwards were a better balanced line than were the home quintet, and but for some very effective half back play by Stewart in particular and Holt they must have scored oftener. The latter was generally successful against Campbell but, with Cowan and Miller closing in, it took the little man all his time to keep them in check. Cameron played a fine dashing game and give his wings endless chances, but as the outside men, the right especially so were painfully weak, much of his work was thrown to the winds. Dunlop, the Sunderland left half, was far too clever for young Schofield, but in the matter of placing corners kicks the new recruits was simply faultless. Both Adams and Storrier did their work well, and there was but little wanting in the work of Gow and McNeill on the other side. While both Hillman and Anderson got through a good afternoon's work with credit. This afternoon Everton conclude their home holiday fixtures, with Bolton Wanderers as visitors in a League match and the Trotters are warm favorites with Liverpool crowds the Goodison road enclosure will likely be comfortably filled. For the match Tom Robertson of Queen's Park will play centre half in place of Holt. The start is announced for 2-30. The return League match at derby will be played to-morrow, and on Saturday next the League engagements will be brought to a close at Stoke, following which the club enter upon a fortnight's tour, visiting Woolwich, Luton, Reading, Southampton, thence proceeding to Scotland and Ireland.

THE LIVERPOOL DISTRICT AND NOTES
The Athletic News- April 6, 1896
By the Loiterer
Evidence of the approaching end of the football season are not wanting, for to-day the Everton first team conclude their engagements at Goodison Park, and the poor attendance at Saturday’s friendly with Sunderland, a team which has draws over 25,000 at a friendly on the same ground, forcibly reminds us that the game will soon be discontinued. However, I dare say it will be news to most people to know that the concluding game at Everton have not been remunerative affairs for the last two or three seasons. Hence the directors have recorded to the practice of other indigent clubs of turning the team into itinerant showmen. Engagements have been booked in the South as far as Southampton, and North as far as Falkirk, then across to Ireland, and so hard up are they that twelve matches will be played in the fortnight. Even Sunday (as per programme) is not respected, for I notice they are down to play Marlow on the 19th inst. However, they intend blending a strictly business programme with a charitable action towards Dick Williams,. I am not quite sure whether the once popular Everton goalkeeper will be called upon to part with the amount he offered the club to play his benefit, but I shall think his past services will be recognised by the directors, and the amount, if taken, refunded. Last week end the splendid services Williams did for the club have been brought vividly before the supporters of the Everton club by the indifferent displays of his successor, and I am informed he is doing brilliant work for the Luton Town. Throughout February and March he has only had four goals scored against him, and I think I am correct in stating the club have only lost one match since he has been with them, so I can well understand the quiet, unassuming goalkeeper being highly respected in the Bedfordshire town.
What a grand game we had on Good Friday, and what a grand team the Derby fellows are. The County have been severely handled by Everton, but in recent years they have given us rather more than we bargained for, and the latest item is even more astonishing, seeing J. Goodall and Bloomer were away, they had not the better of the play by a long way; indeed, they looked like losing badly about ten minutes before the finish of the first half, and then the nimble forwards put forth great efforts, were met by very feeble ditto on the part of Adams and Hillman, and before we had time to take in the situation the scores were level- two each. To say that the company-which numbered about 27,000; receipts £772-were astonished is putting it mildly; in fact, a lot of them were disgusted, but there it was. It was hard lines on the home forwards, who had played a great game. Cameron especially but they started the second half just as well. The splendid form was maintained, but they could not get through. For 35 out of the 45 minutes’ play I should think they were attacking and some good shots were sent in, only to find Robinson there. The backs, too, played a fine game, and the defence of the Derby men was as good as any I have seen this season, and put ours completely in the shade, for neither Arridge, Adams, nor Hillman were at his best. On the other hand, the half-backs and forwards played well and strongly, and, as I have said, it was heart-breaking to have the two goals scored against them.
Sunderland were here on Saturday, and played before 5,000 spectators. The game was uninteresting after the bout of the previous day but some pretty football was shown by the Sunderland forwards. The game does not call for much comment, as it was of an easy description, and the score at the finish was one goal each. Everton’s pint was well worked for, but the equaliser by Campbell, from a corner, was a very tame affair and Hillman has not greatly distinguishing himself this last week end.

DERBYSHIRE JOTTINGS
The Athletic New -Monday, April 6, 1896
By Peakite
DERBY COUNTY DRAW AT EVERTON
Any hopes the County might have cherished of winning the League Championship were finally dispersed on Friday and Saturday, when, by failing to get more than two points out of Everton and Burnley, Aston Villa were allowed to take a lead which cannot possibly be wrested from them. However, when the history of the past League season comes to be written, the failure of our men to win the championship will certainly be ascribed to other causes than the loss of a point each at Everton and Burnley. The general verdict will be that, in making a draw at each of these places, they achieved two of their best performances of the season. It is no joke for any team, however, powerful, to be called upon to go and play a League match against a club like Everton without the two forwards who have been considered by the Football Association to be worthy of places in the greatest match of the season. But this was what the County were called upon to do at Burnley and Everton and though most people had no doubt about the ability of Paul to do himself justice, there was a good deal of anxiety as to the upshot of the experiment of playing McMillan in the centre. It was a bold thing to do, but it seems to have worked out all right, and all things considered, it was a splendid performance to draw level after Everton had got a lead of two goals and looked like running away with the match. The Derby men made their head-quarters in Liverpool at the Alexandra Hotel, Dale-street, and on Saturday morning wended their way to Burnley. Here another fast and exciting game was witnessed, and one that bore a curious resemblance to the Everton match.

EVERTON v. SUNDERLAND
The Liverpool Daily Post -Monday, April 6, 1896
For a “friendly” probably no team is a stronger “draw” than Sunderland, but even this organisation failed to attract a very large attendance at Goodison Park on Saturday. Each side had won the League match on their own ground; that at Goodison Park resulting in a win for Everton by 1 to nil, whilst the Wearsiders swamped Everton at Newcastle-road by 3 goals to nil. The day was glorious fine for football, but judging by the attendance enthusiasm is waning, and it requires more than a friendly battle to bring together a large crowd. As will be seen from the following list of players, each team was short of one or two men, who from various causes were conspicuous by their absence. Just before four o’clock the teams took up their positions in the order given below;-
Everton; Hillman, goal;  Adams and Storrier, backs; Boyle, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Hartley, McInnes, Cameron, Milward and Schofield, forwards.
Sunderland;- Anderson, goal; Gow and McNeill, backs; Johnston, Gibson, and Dunlop, half-backs; Hannah, Miller, Campbell, Cowan, and Gillespie, forwards.
Everton lost the toss, Cameron starting towards the cemetery goal. Play opened tamely, but Sunderland were the first to show up. Hannah putting in a smart shot to Hillman, who fisted away beautifully. Everton made off to half-way, McNeill pulling them up, and then Cameron dashed away, but was pulled up. The home centre again made headway, but McNeil once more proved a stumbling block. The game was evenly contested both sides in turn having the advantage, and eventually Campbell had a fine opening, but his shot was very wide of the mark. Gibson checked an onward rush, and ere long Campbell had a further shot, which went wide of the mark. Continuing their pressure the Sunderland men gained a corner, but after this had been disposed of clever work by Schofield ended in the leather being taken in Sunderland quarters. Here a corner fell to the homesters, and this was nicely taken by Schofield. Once in the goal mouth McInnes dashed for the sphere and then, after a moment’s suspense, Hartley got at the ball, and scored the first goal for Everton after about ten minutes play. This early success quite suited the taste of the crowd, who applauded to the echo. For some minutes, the time was almost entirely confined to the centre of the field, the first to break away being the visitors. Sunderland got away in a beautifully combined movement, and when matters seemed very dangerous for Everton, Stewart relieved cleverly. There was, however, little enthusiasm displayed by either spectators or player in the proceedings, the game being generally very slow. Occasionally, however, smart work was shown on both sides, and once Storrier pulled up Gillespie in grand style. Two corners fell to the Wearsiders in quick succession, from the first of which hillman finely fisted away. A free kick was also conceded Sunderland, the ball being kicked to Gow, who made a gallant attempt, but Holt put his back to the leather and removed play to centre. A smart bit of work by the home right wing culminated in the leather being sent over to Milward, but it was left for Cameron to make the final effort, Anderson being on tender hooks until the leather was sent behind. An advance was at once made by the Wearsiders when the ball was sent flying out, but Adams was on the lookout, and at once checked and served up to Hartley, who was immediately floured. Cameron promptly took up the move, and had somewhat hard lines when one of his finest shots went over the bar. Play still continued of a very slow character, neither side seeming to exert themselves to any appreciable extent, whilst combination was almost entirely neglected by both sides. The extreme wings, however, of Sunderland were very speedy, and several fine centres were put in but without avail, as the Everton backs and custodian were in grand trim. A spell of pressure by Everton followed, but without danger to Anderson’s charge, and then Sunderland went away in swinging style, Gillespie forcing a corner from Storrier. This, however, came to nothing, and after a few minutes the Everton left got away, but Schofield was robbed on two occasions. However, Milward appeared on the scene and changed the venue of operations to the Sunderland quarter line, where McNeil finally administered the “order of the knock.” After McNeil had once more checked, the Sunderland men put in some fine work, with the result that the Everton goal was for a while closely invested, Gillespie and Campbell each endeavouring to make Hillman succumb, but to no purpose, the burly Evertonians having no difficulty in keeping his charge intact. For several minutes play was confined to midfield, each sets of halves being conspicuous both in defence and attack. Holt and Boyle were particularly busy in feeding their front rank, but the forwards could not make much headway against Johnston and Dunlop, who prevented them getting too far up the field. Then a movement on the part of Everton forced a corner, which Schofield planted beautifully into goal. Boyle twice headed in, and the ball being returned to him a third time he shot well for goal, Anderson being compelled to concede a corner in clearing. The corner kick was neatly disposed of, and appearance went in favour of the visitors, who dashed away to three-quarter distance, but here Adams brought them to a dead stop. The same tactics were repeated by Hannah and Miller, but Adams was again a stumbling block. The home right went gaily, and Cameron, Milward, and Schofield each had an opportunity of piercing the Sunderland goal, which, however, remained intact, half-time being sounded as follows;-
Everton 1 goal, Sunderland nil.
The teams immediately turned round and resumed play being confined to forty minutes each way. At the restart there would not be more than 6,000 spectators present. Campbell reopened operations, the first move being towards Hillman’s charge, but the custodian was not tested. Tame play ensued for a while, and then Everton got away on the left, but Schofield, when fairly off, was pulled up for offside. Play livened up somewhat, and Everton commenced to show a glimpse of their true form, and some really smart work was shown, but the defence of Gow and McNeill was splendid. A foul against Boyle was taken by Gow, who at once put his front rank in possession. Miller signalised this move by a spanking shot at hillman, who made a magnificent save, and followed up this fine bit of work by rushing out and clearing from Hannah. This was something like Hillman’s old form, and was duly recognised by the spectators, who cheered him heartily. Then for a while the game was confined to midfield, and was not of much account. Sunderland were awarded a free kick, from which the ball and landed well up the field, miller having a further abortive shie. Then Sunderland got off once more towards Hillman, Campbell being in a splendid position for shooting, when Storrier rushed up and cleared the ball away. Holt was many times to the fore with smart head work which kept Everton constantly on the aggressive. At length Sunderland assumed the upper hand, and for some time the Wearsiders swarmed round Hillman, without, however, causing uneasiness to the home supporters, so good was the defence. A free kick was conceded to the visitors close in, a regular bully occurring in dangerous proximity to Hillman, but the ball was smartly removed to less dangerous quarters. A spasmodic effort by the Everton left having been checked by McNeil, the Sunderland front rank went to work in earnest, Campbell making a lively pop at goal, and after play in midfield Gillespie sprinted down and shot by the side of the post. Everton then advanced by means of the left wing, and a corner was quickly gained the ball striking one of the homesters, and bounding over the goal line. Play still continued in the Weatrsiders’ half, Cameron taking deliberate aim on one occasion, but missing, after which Sunderland men were heavily pressed. Cameron then made a magnificent effort on his own account threading his way splendidly through his opponents, and finishing up with a terrific shot, which took Anderson all his time to keep out. This attempt on the part of the amateur was hugely and deservedly cheered by the crowd, and it was undoubtedly the best bit of individual work of the afternoon, Everton were now fairly roused up, more combination being displayed than hitherto during the play, but though a couple of corners fell to them no score accrued. The visitors made no particular use of a free kick against Holt, although it gave them a fine opening. A corner ensued to Sunderland, and the ball being well placed Campbell had no difficulty in defeating Hillman, who was some distance from his charge when the ball was shot in. both sides tried desperately hard after this, but neither could add to their score, the result being a draw -1 goal each.

LEEK v EVERTON
The Liverpool Daily Post, Monday, April 6, 1896
At Leek. The game commenced in favour of Everton, for whom Chadwick scored. Murray was injured and retired. Once the Leek forwards got away, and Bratt hit the post. Everton resumed the attack, Chadwick doing some good work, but the Leek backs were so strong that the visitors could not work through again before the interval when they led by 1 to none,. Final result;- Everton 2, Leek nil.

ENGLAND v  SCOTLAND
The Liverpool Daily Post -Monday, April 6, 1896
At Glasgow, the twenty-fifth annual contest under Association rules between England and Scotland took place in the presence of a crowd which might only be described as enormous. From one o’clock, when the gates opened, thousands of people poured into the ground, until by three o’clock, an hour before the start, the concourse of people was so great that the gates had to be closed. Celtic Park is estimated to hold 60,000 people, and as far as could be seen the stands and terraces were packed to their utmost capacity, the vast sea of faces forming a scene which, if not so picturesque in its surroundings as that at the Crystal Palace when the final tie was played there a year ago, was certainly more suggestive of the density with which people were crowded together. Despite the efforts of the police no small number of people sealed the fences surrounding the ground, and in one or two places the barriers were broken down, but the disorder, although occasionally very pronounced, was up to within a quarter of an hour of the start nothing like that which prevailed at Celtic Park when the great international was last played in Scotland. The weather, though dull, was, it need scarcely be added fine, and the tedium of waiting was lessened by the efforts of the pipers of different regiments, the spectators also amusing themselves by singing “Scots wha hac,” “Rule Britannia,” and other inspiring ditties. Scotland, who had not beaten England under Association rules for seven years, were fortunately able to place in the field exactly the same side as had been selected at the beginning of the week, five of the eleven being professionals engaged with the English League. England, on the other hand, had to deplore the loss of Bloomer, who was injured a fortnight ago, and their prospects were further handicapped by the indisposition of Needham, who was taken ill on Thursday night, and who, in his arrival Glasgow on Friday, was quite unable to leave his bed. Wood, of Wolverhampton, as had been announced, took the vacancy forward, but joined Burnup on the left, Goodall crossing over to Bassett on the right to fill Needham’s place. Crabtree went forward, and Lodge, last year’s international, was called upon to partner Oakley at back. Thus, as finally constituted, England’s team included six amateurs and five professionals and Scotland ten professionals and one amateur. The teams appeared on the field at a quarter to four, but this proved the signal for a rush on the part of the crowd, who, breaking down the barriers, swarmed in thousands upon the touch line. This action was resented by others, who pelted them with lumps of cinder, and the police gradually drove them back a few yards, but the ground had to be cleared of the missiles before play could proceed. Smith started for the visitors, and hands against Hyslop took play to the Scottish end. Nothing came of this, and Lambie called upon I=Oakley to clear, and the Scotch attack continued strong for a few minutes. Some neat work between Bassett, Goodall, and Smith improved matters for England, but Burnup failed to take advantage and then a kick by Gibson caused Raikes to run  out, Lambie trying to charge the English goalkeeper, but Raikes eluded him. In another minute Lambie headed outside, and Lodge just afterwards blundering. Hyslop had a fine chance, but failed to seize it. Scotland next forced a corner, and although nothing came of it at the moment, a loose scrimmage in front of the English goal was very dangerous, King ending it with a kick just outside the post. For fully fifteen minutes Scotland had a very much large share of the game. England’s forwards making no great show, but at length the Englishmen came away, and from a kick by Crabtree Burnup got on the ball, eluding Brandon, but his final shot was easily cleared by Doig. Another corner to Scotland followed, and after Bassett had once broken away and kicked behind Hyslop interfered with the attack by upsetting Crawshaw, a foul being only conceded. Lambie and King raced away, the first-named sending in a shot which Raikes put out, but Lambie took it on the rebound and gave Raikes no chance, scoring for Scotland. After another five minutes’ play King scored a second point from a pass. After the second disaster England still failed to make headway, the forward play being strangely weak. There came a brief interruption owing to the crowd encroaching on the field of play. On resuming the English broke away, but Goodall was ruled offside, and then close in Hyslop headed only just outside, while a minute later King nearly scored, Raikes saving low down. Still Scotland pressed, and a splendid shot by Hogg was only prevented from taking effect by a smart save by Raikes. The Scottish half-backs played a great game, and throughout the first half fairly broke up the combination of the English forwards, whilst on the other hand Henfrey was weak and Crawshaw scarcely so good as usual. The wind, however gave Scotland considerable help. At half-time Scotland led by 2 goals to nil. Immediately on restarting the Englishmen broke away, Goodall, Wood, and Smith working prettily together, and the last-named finishing with a fine shot, which Doig only just saved by giving a corner. This attack was soon followed by another on the Scotch goa, Goodall shooting just over the bar, and then Drummond had to concede a corner, the kick dropping the ball right across the goalmouth, but without effect. England played with refreshing vigour, and just afterwards from a pass by Burnup, Goodall put the ball between the Scottish posts, but the point was disallowed for offside. On one occasion Lambie and King raced away, but Crabtree kicked out, and another minute Doig did well to save a shot from Wood. The attack on the Scottish goal still continued, and from a pass by Wood, Goodall looked to have the goal at his mercy, but the referee blew his whistle for offside. As the time drew near the pace slackened somewhat, Scotland devoting their energies to defence, but ten minutes from the finish Lodge dropped the ball up to Goodall, who passed out to Bassett, and the last-named scored for England, the goal scarcely arousing a cheer from the enormous gathering. Another minute later Crawshaw sent in a low shot, which Doig just managed to save. Final result; Scotland 2 goals, England 1 goal. Teams;-
England.- G. Raikes (Oxford University) goal, L.V. Lodge (Corinthians) and W.J. Oakley (Oxford University), backs; Crabtree (Aston Villa), Crawshaw (Sheffield Wednesday), and A.G. Henfrey (Corinthians), half-backs; Basnett (West Bromwich Albion), J. Goodall (Derby County), G.O. Smith (Oxford University), Wood (Wolverhampton Wanderers), and C.J. Burnup (Cambridge University), forwards.
Scotland.- Doig (Sunderland), goal; Brandon (Blackburn rovers) and Drummond (Rangers), backs; Gibson (Rangers), Cowan (Aston Villa), and Hoggs (Hearts of Midlothian), half-backs; Bell (Everton), Blesisngton (Celtic), Hyslop (Stoke), King (Heart of Midlothian), and Lambie (Queen’s Park), forwards.

NEW PLAYER FOR EVERTON
The Liverpool Daily Post -Monday, April 6, 1896
We are informed by telegram that the Everton Club have secured a new centre half back Mr. Tom Robinson, of Queen’s Park. It is stated that he will make his first appearance at Goodison Park this afternoon.

TODAY’S TEAM ARRANGEMENTS
The Liverpool Daily Post, April 6, 1896
Everton v. Bolton Wanderers, at Goodison Park; 2.30.
Everton; Hillman, goal; Adams and Arridge, backs; Boyle, T. Robinson, (late of Queen’s Park), and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, McInnes, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Everton Combination v Llandudno Swifts, at Llandudno; 12, Lime street
Everton Combination-Cook, goal; W. McDonald, and Molyneux, backs; Mainman, Meiklejohn, and Elliott, half-backs; Williams, Barlow, J. Chadwick, Murray, and Scofield, forwards.
Llandudno Swifts;- R.J. Williams, goal; F.W. Jones, and T. Knight, backs; J. Roberts, A. Knight, and J.E. Hughes, half-backs; H. Bevan, F. Webb, E. Turner, J.R. Thomas, and W.Allman, forwards.

EVERTON 1 BOLTON WANDERERS 1
APRIL 7 1896. THE Liverpool Mercury
The last of Everton home league fixtures was played yesterday afternoon, before about 15,000 spectators. Robertson (late of Queens Park) filled Holt's position, and there were a couple of changes in the Wanderers in the Wanderers team, Alexander, of the Montrose club, taking Sutcliffe's place whilst Brown played centre half vice McGeachan. Cameron started the play, and following a movement by Chadwick and Milward Brown put Jack in possession, and as Adams was outwitted, Wright sent in a clinking shot at Hillman, who fisted clear. The brilliant sun handicapped the home defenders in no small degree and it was due to this disadvantage that they were for a lengthy period kept on tender hooks. Tannihill and Cassidy put in some telling work on the Bolton right, but Arridge eventually effected a clearance and Milward appeared to have an open goal, when he unfortunately miskicked. Pressure followed upon the Bolton defence, and Cameron levelled a shot, which went sailing over the bar, and the siege ended on both McInnes and Robertson handling the ball with the result that Hillman was once again called upon. A long pass out from Cameron to Milward brought relief and, as Paton fouled the latter player, it looked odds on Everton taking the lead. Bell, McInnes, and Boyle had good command of the ball, and nothing but the fine defence of Somerville and Jones could have kept them out. After Nicol had led a movement of the other end, Boyle McInnes and Bell, by clever passing, and repassing worked their way down, and as the outside men was steadying for a shot, Jones timely nipped in and saved luckily. A moment later, a fine bit of judgement on the part of Robertson left another open course for Bell, without in an exceptionally fine oblique shot, which Alexander failed to meet, as also did Milward the slightest touch from whom must diverted it into the net. For the next few minutes the Wanderers defenders had a warm time, and in the matter of goalkeeping the visitors apparently suffered little by the absence of Sutcliffe. A breakaway by Nicol and Wright looked dangerous, especially as the latter reached close range, but Robinson, who stuck gamely to his man, finally pulled him up nicely. Bell was the recipient of a round of applause as he threaded through the opposing defence and forced a corner, which, however, he badly placed, and directly following the visitors by their long swinging passes got to the Everton end, but owing to the fine tackling of Adams and Arridges, they had perforce to shoot from long range, and as Hillman was thoroughly safe, no damage was done. Wright brought down the house with some brilliant dribbling through the halves, but not much headway was made. The ball was again bobbing round Sommerville and Jones, and a really brilliant effort wad made by Chadwick, who with a lightning shot, drove over the bar. The interval was announced directly afterwards, nothing having been scored. Restarting the Wanderers got off with an irresible dash, and Nicol placed the ball out finely to Jack, who drove in hard and low, Hillman bringing off a magnificent save. Immediately following, Bell slung the ball well in, and now Milward lifted it over the bar when only a few feet in front was a marvel. After Chadwick had twice failed, McInnes got in a clinking shot under difficulties, Alexander cleverly saving with a flying kick. Bell and McInnes were often conspicuous in spirited runs along the right, but they like their comrades, got little quarters from Somerville and Jones. It was only at odd intervals that the Wanderers broke away, but when they did they were always extremely dangerous, and one of their sudden spurts resulted in Tannahill making tracks and passing to Nicol. It was immediately returned, and Hillman was beaten, though Robinson appeared to be in a good position for preventing the shot. A chance was afforted Cameron directly afterwards, but he shot feebly. Then the Wanderers forwards led Boyle and his men amerry dance, and several times looked like further increasing their lead. The spell was however, broken mainly through smart play on the part of Bell and McInnes and following a recentre with Fairbairn and Jones McInnes placed to Chadwick, who with an excellent shot drew level. There was no mistaking the earnest work of the home forwards after the point had been notched, and for quite ten minutes the Bolton Wanderers were kept fully extended. Milward had hard luck with a well-directed shot, which Alexander just reached and a moment later a perfect howl went up as Bell failed badly from close quarters. Chadwick all but took the lead from a free kick, and then Bell followed with a fine shot, which Alexander luckily kicked out. Chadwick then put the ball into the net, but was ruled offside, and a heavy pressure followed from a free kick, against brown close in. directly afterwards time was called with the result a draw of one goal each. The gate receipts amounted to £352 10s. Teams Everton: - Hillman, goal, Adams, and Arridge, backs, Boyle (captain), Robinson and Stewart, halfbacks, Bell McInnes Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward forwards. Bolton Wanderers: - Alexander, goal, Somerville, and Jones (captain), backs Paton Brown, and Fairbairn halfbacks, Tannahill, Cassidy, Nicol, Wright and Jack forwards.

LLANDUDNO SWIFTS 2 EVERTON RESERVES 2
April 7 1896.
No details

EVERTON v BOLTON WANDERERS
The Liverpool Daily Post- Tuesday, April 7, 1896
The usual holiday crowd (the gate amounting to £380) put in an appearance at Goodison Park yesterday afternoon and were favoured with grand weather and a good game, the result being a drew of one goal each. Robertson, the Queen’s Park amateur, played centre half in place of Holt for Everton, and Alexander took goal for Bolton Wanderers, and played a very fine game. Everton won the toss, and from the kick-off the Bolton left made straight for Hillman’s charge, a grand cross shot from the feet of Jack producing an equally fine save from the Everton custodian. For a few minutes Everton were pressed, and then Bell got off, but was unfortunately tripped up while in full sail. Back again went the Wanderers’ vanguard, and once more Jack sent in a fine screw, but without result. The Everton left next raced away, but unfortunately Milward, who had the sun in his eyes, missed his kick when a goal seemed almost certain. The Everton men were greatly handicapped by the blazing sun, as Bell too mulled his kick; after which Cameron just shot a little wide. Play followed with end to end visits, the Wanderers rushing the game in brilliant style. Arridge just manged to pull up Nicol when within easy range of Hillman, the ball being passed across to the Wanderers’ right, where Tannehill put in a beauty, which called upon Hillman. The ball was kept going at a great pace with about equal advantage for some time. Then, from a throw in on the right, Boyle, Bell, and McInnes put in a pretty sequence of work, Bell ultimately getting possession, but he was just a minute too late in putting in his shot, and was tripped as he let “go.” At this stage, the home forwards were displaying grand football, and pressed hard for a point, though without success. Jack, who was lying offside, got away with the leather, but was promptly pulled up by the referee’s whistle. Robertson tackled in great form, and pulled up several strong raids by the visitors’ forwards. This was followed up by the Wanderers putting on some pressure, Everton having to fall back into defence, a fine but ineffectual shot by Nicol terminating the attack. Jack and Wright, however, returned play to the home end, Adams intercepting and sending the leather to midfield. Somerville was penalised for tripping Chadwick while dribbling up, but a minute later the Evertonian got in a shot which topped the crossbar. The interval was soon afterwards called, neither side having scored. On restarting the Bolton men went straight away, Jack putting in a shot which took Hillman all his time to save, having to throw himself forward to get at the leather. Everton retaliated, but Milward made a great mess of the opportunity he got, as he skied the ball over the bar from just outside the goalmouth. McInnes a minute later made a much better attempt, shooting straight into Alexander’s hands. The Bolton forwards by good passing worked the ball to the other end. Adams checked and play for some time was located in midfield and then in front of Alexander. After a while Tannehill ran the ball back, passed to Brown, the latter being checked by Arridge. A neat bit of work followed by the visiting front rank, which Cassidy crowded by shooting into the net clear of Hillman’s reach, the first goal being scored a quarter of an hour after the second half had been started. After the Evertonians had paid a brief visit to the Bolton end, the visitors again got back, Nicol forcing Hillman to throw clear. The homesters paid another unproductive visit to the Wanderers’ goal, this being followed by a couple of splendid raids made single-handed by Jack on the home goal, causing the Evertonians some anxiety. However, the game had progressed only a little ere Everton equalised. They got down on the right, where Chadwick took up a fine pass from McInnes and scored. Several fine bits of play rapidly followed, and then Milward chased the leather down, and brushed the Wanderers’ goal mouth with a capital centre. Bell rushed in, but Alexander got up first and cleared. The Evertonians were now doing the pressing. Stewart shot in high, Alexander just managing to scrape the ball away from passing underneath the crossbar. Bell was much in evidence with a somewhat good shot,, but Everton had to fall back on their own defences, and then for a time the ball was dodging backward and forward over the half-line. After a free kick within the Bolton half, Milward again skied the leather over Alexander’s head, and from the goal kick the visitors came away in grand style, using both their heads and foot to some advantage. This led up to an attack on the Everton charge, but Hillman was equal to the occasion, and eventually sent his field to the right about. An offside goal by Chadwick was followed by a free kick for Everton inside the 25 line mark, but the Bolton players worked the leather clear, and directly afterwards Hillman was twice called upon. In the last few minutes both sides made a grand effort to obtain the lead, but without avail, the result being a draw of one goal each. Teams;-
Everton.- Hillman, goal; Adams and Arridge, backs; Boyle, Robertson, and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, McInnes, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Bolton Wanderers;- Alexander, goal; Jones and Somerville, backs; Patron, Brown, and Fairbairn, half backs; Tannahill, Cassidy, Nicol, Wright, and Jack, forwards.

EVERTON COMBINATION v. LLANDUDNO
The Liverpool Daily Post- Tuesday, April 7, 1896
As was the case last Easter Monday, the holiday match fixture at Llandudno was filled by Everton combination team. Last year the Swifts won a hardly-fought match by 2 goals to 1. Yesterday the match was played at noon, in order to leave the ground free in the afternoon for the final tie in Welsh cup competition between Wrexham and Bangor. Everton sent a strong team down. The Swifts made a decent show in the first half, and had several bots of hard luck, but Williams scored for Everton half an hour from the start. The scene at half-time was Everton 1 goal, Llandudno nil. Two minutes from the restart the Swifts got a free kick, when Roberts put in superbly. The ball glanced off Molyneux into the net, thus equalising. Ten minutes later McDonald was brought down with a sprained leg, and the game was stopped till he recovered. He afterwards took Cook’s place in goal. Eight minutes later Mainman put in a superb centre, which Elliott converted with a magnificent shot, putting his side one ahead. Close on time Goldie got a bad kick when Roberts equalised in a grand shot. Final result;- Llandudno 2 goals, Everton 2 goals.

EVERTON  v DERBY COUNTY
The Liverpool Daily Post- Tuesday, April 7, 1896
The Everton League team will leave the central station at 9.30 this morning for Derby, where the return League match with Derby County will be played this afternoon; kick-off 3.30.
Everton; Hillman, goal; Adams and Arridges, backs; Boyle, T. Robinson, and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, McInnes, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.

DERBY COUNTY 2 EVERTON 1
April 8 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
The Everton team much weakened owing to injuries and heavy demands on the players during the holiday season, made the journey, to Derby yesterday to conclude the fixture with the County team. Cameron and Bell were unable to take their accustomed places and Goldie was brought in at half back whilst at the last moment Storrier was sent for to partner Arridge, as Adams though making the journey, was unfit. The County team also suffered from absenteeism, as Goodall and Bloomer stood down in the forwards, and Staley displaced Methven who was suffering from a sprained knee, at full back. The day was beautifully fine, and at the start of the game there would be close upon 8,000 spectators present. The sides were as follows : - Everton: - Hillman, goal, Storrier, and Arridges backs Goldie Boyle (captain), and Stewart, halfbacks, Williams McInnes, Hartley, Chadwick and Milward forwards. Derby County: - Robinson goal, Staley and Leiper, backs, Cox Goodall (a), and Kinsley. Halfbacks, Paul, Miller McMillan, Stevenson, and McQueen (h), forwards. Referee Mr. Armitt Leek. There was a delay of some five minutes owing to the referee not putting in a prompt appearance, and at 3-35 McMillan started the game facing a brilliant sun, but having the assistance of a fair breeze. Play was at once taken down the County right, and in the first couple of minutes Paul put in a fine centre, which Hillman got away though at the expense of a corner. The Everton left pair then took up the running, and after a slight relief from Staley. Boyle drove nicely in but Leiper met it cleverly though a moment later Milward was in possession, and put in one of his bests shots which Robinson very luckily got rid of. Immediately following, Stevenson with a single-handed effort ran clean through Goldie, Boyle, and Adams, and went across beautifully to Paul, who though close up, failed to take advantage and the ball went harmlessly over the line. During the next few minutes the Everton defenders were in sore strait as the County forwards had the better of several tussles, and had their centre taken the passes from Paul, and McQueen the scoring account must have been opened. Milward was next offside, and then followed a hot pressure on the home goal, a free kick well placed ending in McInnes heading in to Robinson, who conceded a fruitless corner. Play was now unmistakably in Everrton, s favour, and the County custodian had plenty of work on hand. Chadwick and Milward both testing him with clever shots. Meanwhile Kinsley was getting through a fair amount of work against McInnes and Williams and Goodall was also very attentive to Hartley. Following a fine bit of passing and repassing by the Derby halves, McMillan had full command but failed badly in the final attempt Chadwick was unfortunately offside when Hartley had provided himself with an opening, and a moment later had Mcinnes put more dash into a chance from Milward, the lead might easily have been taken. A change was brought about shortly afterwards and as neither Arridge nor Storrier was at this juncture too reliable, it looked odds on the home team opening up their account. However, Hillman ably attended to a high dropping shot from McMillan, and then followed some fine maneuvering of the Everton, forwards round the County goal. Success seemed certain, but that vanished as McInnes was eventually adjudged offside a similar ruling a moment later also spoiling a well-meant effort by Milward. There could be no mistaking the superiority of the visitors during the past quarters of an hour and by their play they certainly deserved to score, but quite a different and unexpected complexion came over the game, for from a sudden breakaway Miller lobbed the ball on the direction of Arridge, who failed to get round, and Paul being in close attendance raced on and had no difficulty in placing the ball out of Hillman's reach, half an hour from the start of play. Almost immediately afterwards Hillman with a flying kick saved a certainty from Miller, and thus the Everton van again took up the running, only to find Leiper and Goodall clever in preventing final efforts. Hands against the latter however, gave them a chance, but Milward made wretched attempts to put though. Still the Blues played up pluckily, and up to half time maintained a steady pressure, but could not defeat Robinson, and on the change of ends the County held a lead of a goal to nil. Immediately on resuming Robinson was tested by Chadwick, and then the home forwards got away in one of their characteristic dashes, and McQueen swung the ball to Paul, who lost an easy chance by heading across the goal mouth. The County men were now much keener on the ball, and for some time gave the Everton backs considerable trouble, but at length Boyle put in some telling work, and Milward was given a hard chance, but failed to reach it. Taking the Everton van as a whole, they were too chary about shooting at goal, and they had to pay the penalty for the slighest hertancy, as the home backs were ever ready to nip in at every possible opportunity. Boyle continued with sterling work, and another chance was afford the visitors of drawing level as hands was given against Kinsey close to the twelve yards line, but as on the previous occasion, it was badly worked. Directly following Chadwick put in good work and sent across the goal mouth, when McInnes was in readiness and had nothing to do but head it into the net. He missed badly and then Chadwick and Stewart had the hardest of hard luck with excellent shots, that from the latter rebounding from the crossbar. This heavily pressure was the signal for the County men to renew their efforts, and after some fine work by Goodall, Arridge headed in the wrong direction, which led up to McMillan putting in a second goal. Still the Everton forwards worked uncensihgly and nothing but the fine efforts of Leiper, Kinsey and Goodall could have kept them out. The ball was repeatedly charged down when in the act of shooting, but shortly afterwards they were rewarded for their persistent endeavor by scoring from a foul against Leiper close in, the bell being put through from a scrimmage by Williams. Later McInnes put in a fine centre, and Robinson ran out to clear, but putting it to Chadwick the latter had a nice chance to take advantage of the custodian's wandering, but unfortunately put it high over the bar. During the last few minutes the Evertonians had all the play, but could not equalised and were beaten by 2 goals to nil. On the play Everton was the better team, but the same ill luck that attended them on Good Friday in the first game between the clubs, dogged their footsteps yesterday. Milward and Chadwick played a capital game, as also did Boyle, Stewart, and Hillman.

EVERTON v  DERBY COUNTY
The Liverpool Daily Post -Wednesday, April 8, 1896
For their return League game with Derby County the Everton Club was badly handicapped in respect to players. Holt, who put in an appearance at the Central station prior to starting for Derby, had to be excused the journey on account of a bad knee, other absentees being Bell and Cameron, so that they did not leave Liverpool with much promise of success, especially as Adams also was complaining of lameness and Everton had to depend upon Williams, Hartley and Goldie as substitutes. On the other hand the county was not more fortunate. The weather was delightful when the Midlands were reached, and altogether then outlook, so far as the home prospects were concerned was very favourable for the match. The kick-off was fixed for half-past three o’clock. At the last moment it was found necessary to substitute Storrier for Adams at back in the Everton ranks. Being partly a holiday in Derby, there was a great crowd of spectators, and at the time of the kick off the sun was shining brilliantly. The following were the sides;-
Everton;- Hillman, goal; Storrier, and Arridge, backs; Goldie, Boyle, and Stewart, half-backs; Williams, McInnes, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Derby county;- Robinson, goal; Staley, and Leiper, backs; Cox, A. Goodall, and Kinsley, half backs; Paul, Miller, McMillan, Stevenson, and McQueen, forwards.
The principal absentees on the Derby side were J. Goodall, Bloomer, and Methven. Some delay was caused consequent on the non-appearance of the referee, Mr. Armitt, of Leek, but he turned up five minutes after the appointed time for kicking-off. Everton won the toss, and at that time there were about 9,000 people present. After the preliminaries Milward raced away, but was checked by Goodall, who returned well on to the Everton goal. Arridge miskicked, but Stewart was handy. Later, Paul shot across and Hillman rushed out and gave a corner. The leather, however, was returned to midfield, and from the Everton right the leather was kicked out by Staley. A minute later Milward put in a beauty for Robinson to handle- a very near thing- and then away went Derby on the left, and the Liverpool goal was in jeopardy, but at the critical moment Paul missed to negotiate a splendid centre by Stevenson. The game was very fast, Everton finding their way back to the Derby goal in fine style, where Robinson was again troubled. Shortly afterwards the visitors found another opportunity, but a grand pass by Boyle was spoiled by Milward being given offside. Still another likely chance of scoring came to Everton from a free kick taken by Storrier, who centred nicely in front of the home goal. McInnes tried to head in, the goal being marvellously well saved from downfall by Robinson punching over the crossbar. Everton, who were playing a grand game, still stuck to the attack, Milward, Chadwick, and McInnes putting in a grand bit of work. Derby broke away for a spell, but the Everton backs sent them to the right about, and for a brief period the contest was carried on in midfield. Goodall kicked, and brought out Hillman, and then McMillan shot past the goalmouth. Back again went the field towards Robinson, but a grand run up by the Everton forwards was neutralised by Chadwick being offside. It was a splendid contest, the pace being tremendous, and the ball travelling from end to end with rapidity. During this stage McMillan dropped the ball high up for Hillman to punch away, and a second or two later a desperate struggle was waged round the derby goal. Boyle got the leather into the net, but according to the referee, McInnes, who just previously played the ball, was offside. After another visit had been paid to the Everton quarters, the struggle went on for some time, when Miller passed the ball to Paul, who raced straight away, and found no opposition. Hillman had no real chance of stopping the leather’s progress as Paul parted with it, his screw-in finding a billet at the off corner. Thus the County scored the first goal after thirty minutes’ play. Up to this point it had been a desperate struggle for supremacy, but, barring the goal scored, Everton had the best of the work. After the restarting of the leather Everton again took up the attack, when Milward, Chadwick and McInnes worked like Trojans, but the chief stumbling block was Goodall, who was a host in himself. At the interval, the visitors were still pressing, but they experienced hard lines, and had to change ends a goal to the bad. Half-time score; Derby 1 goals, Everton nil. Shortly after the restart Storrier gave a free kick for hands close to his goal, and this let in the homesters. From the place McQueen passed to Stevenson, and Paul just headed wide of the upright. For a few minutes following the home side did the pressing, the Everton men being somewhat slow in getting into their stride again. The tension, however, was released by McMillan being given offside, and from this the Evertonians got away, a rare opportunity of scoring being missed by Milward skying the leather, Everton now seemed to have lost the dash which distinguished their play in the first half, and allowed themselves to be pressed hard. Williams tackled Goodall smartly, and took the ball to the County end, where a couple of free kicks were very badly manipulated. A little later on Everton again lost an opportunity of opening their scoring account. From almost within a line of the home posts Milward centred for McInnes to head in, a task he badly accomplished. Everton renewed their attack. Chadwick made a bid for goal, but the ball went out off Leiper’s foot, and then Stewart struck the crossbar, the ball rebounding for Staley to cleat away, and off went the County up field, McMillan finishing a dashing piece of work with a capital goal. This double success cheered on the county to further efforts, and they brisky opened up another attack, but they were well met, Boyle effecting a grand clearance. From a cross by Chadwick, Williams just failed to reach the desired mark by a yard or so, and a few minutes later he was equally unsuccessful. Leiper, however, fouled the leather just outside the twelve line mark. Boyle took the kick gently, and after a bit of a scrimmage Williams toed the ball into the net, a result that was met in dead silence by the spectators. This happened about five minutes off time, and Everton now doubled their exertions to obtain the equalising point, Boyle showing fine judgement. Just on the point of time Chadwick experienced hard luck, and when the whistle sounded Everton were left attacking. Result;- Derby County 2, goals Everton 1.

EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB DINNER
The Liverpool Mercury –Saturday, April 11, 1896
The directors of the Everton Football Club Company, Limited, last evening gave a dinner at the Alexandra Hotel, Dale-street, Mr. W.R. Clayton, vice-chairman of the club, presiding over a numerous assembly of guests, including Messrs, E. A. Bainbridge, J. C. Brooks, J. M. Crawshaw, and J. Prescott (directors), Louis Ford, and D. Haigh, vice-presidents of the Football League; Messrs, Dunkley, Parlby, Bellamy, and R. Molyneux, management committee; Mr. D.S. Lamont, president of the Liverpool Football Association; Mr. W. Wilson, secretary Scottish League; and Mr. R.E. Lythgoe, secretary. Mr. Bentley, the president of the League, and Dr. Baxter, the chairman of the club, were unable to be present owing to other engagements. After an excellent repast, served under the personal superintendence of Mr. H. Heard, the loyal toasts were duly honoured. Subsequently, the Chairman proposed the toast of “Health and Prosperity to the League.” He remarked that in Liverpool they were peculiarly grateful for the formation of the Football League. In his opinion the League had advanced football considerably, and it had been of great advantage to the community at large. (Applause);- Mr. Louis Ford, in responding to the toast, said the management committee of the League had always received the greatest sympathy and support from the Everton Club. Mr. Molyneux was a valued member of the management committee, and although he represented one of the wealthiest clubs in the country they always recognised from the advice he gave that he was the representative of one of the straightest clubs with which the League had to deal. (Applause.) The Football League, he contended, had added to the advancement of football, and it was a matter of satisfaction that during the present season there had not been an appeal to the almighty appeal committee. (Applause.)- Mr. J. Parlby proposed the toast of “The English Association,” and, in the course of his remarks, said that the association ought at least to have a representative on their body for the League. (Hear,. Hear.)- Mr. Haigh, in responding to the toast, said that the leading members of the Football Association were as loyal to the League as any member of the latter body- Mr. Lythgoe remarked that, while he did not for one moment contend that the League had a full representation on the council of the association, they formed a compact and powerful body in the councils of the association (Applause).- Mr. Dunkerley proposed “Success to the Everton Football Club,” and said that while he was distinctly proud of the Aston Villa Club, to which he had the honour to belong, no club had given to the public better football than had Everton. (Applause)-The toast was cordially pledged, and the chairman suitably acknowledge it, dwelling particularly on the active and energetic work which Mr. Molyneux, had done in advancing the interests of the club. (Hear, hear)- The arrangements of the dinner were admirably carried out by Mr. J. M. Crawshaw and Mr. E. Molyneux. During the evening, an excellent musical programme was rendered by the Minster Vocal Quarttette (Messrs. Thomas Barlow, Charles Aspinall, W.H. Atkinson, and Fred Owens), accompanied by Mr. George Kiddle and by Mr. Leslie Harris.

STOKE 1 EVERTON 2
April 13 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
These teams completed their League engagements for the season at Stoke on Saturday just, before a crowd of some 3,000 spectators. Neither side was up to full strength, for Arridge gave place to Storrier. And Schofield partnered Chadwick, owing to Milward sericers being required in the inter league match and Hartley played inside right while on the Stoke side Dickson filled Eccles position and Johnson played outside right. The Everton forwards were the first to show up, but the pressure was short lived, and the Everton defenders had some heavy work in attending to the Stoke forwards. Briggs had several shots to negotiate and eventually the visitors broke away and sustained some pressure on the Stoke defender. Quite a change came over the play as the Evertonians were apparently in a winning stride. Boyle sent in a warm shot, which was charged down, and for some little time Clare and Dickson had all their work cut out. Eventually a movement was made to the other end, where Hyslop all but scored, but on returning again Boyle drove in, and as Dickson only partly cleared, Harley was well up and put the ball into the net fifteen minutes from the start of play. Following this the Stoke left put in telling work, but failed to get the better of Adams, and then Cameron made off and gave Clawley an awkward shot to deal with as so did Bell directly afterwards, and the custodian was lucky in escaping defeat in both instances. Attacking again, Cameron drove into the net, but owing to Dickson having handled the ball the point was not allowed. Still keeping up a steady pressure the Stoke defence had an anxious time, and had Hartley taken advantage of an easy opening a second goal must have been registered. An incursion by the home forwards was short lived and on a further return, Chadwick shot into the net, but Schofield, who made the opening was ruled off side. A little later Bell also found the net, but was also adjudged offside, and the interval arrived with Everton leading by 1 goal to nil. On changing ends, Hyslop went back vice Dickson who partnered Johnson while W. Maxwell changed over to the left. The Evertonians opened well, but after the usual exchanges they were driven to their lines, and profited by loose finishing of the Stoke left. However Johnson almost drew level with a clinking shot which, Briggs justed reached, and during the next few minutes Adams and Storrier were kept busy. Boyle was prominent in an attempt to lower the Stoke goal, which resulted in a fruitless corner. Keeping up a steady pressure Cameron put the ball out top Hartley who sent across goal, and Schofield put it through, this point being registered ten minutes from the restart. Even play followed for some time, but the home forwards never looked like scoring. Five minutes before time Schofield scored for Stoke the game ending in favour of Everton by 2 goals to 1. Teams : - Everton: - Briggs, goals, Adams, and Storrier, backs, Boyle (captain), Holt, and Stewart halfbacks, Bell, Hartley, Cameron, Chadwick, and Schofield, forwards. Stoke: - Clawley goal, Clare, and Dickson backs, Turner, Grier, and Brodie, halfbacks, Johnson, Maxwell (w) Maxwell (a), Hyslop, and Schofield forwards

MILWARD CAPPED FOR ENGLAND
April 13 1896.
Afred Milward capped at Goodison Park against Scotland in front of 16,0000 spectators, in three goals to nil in favour of England.

EVERTON REVIEW
April 13 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton's holiday fixtures can scarely be looked upon as a great success. The loss of a couple of points at home, to say the least, most unexpected, but they had average luck they must now have been runners up for the championship. Bolton Wanderers ran them a stiff game on Easter Monday. but on the following day at Derby County had a game of two halfs and on the play deserved a couple of points. Cameron and Bell stood down of the forward line, and Holt and Adams from the defence, but still in the matter of absentees the teams were on an even footing as Goodall, Bloomer and Methven were unable to take the field for derby. Chadwuck and Milward played one of their finest games, and whenever they were in possession danger always threatened. The backs were all right, and Storrier proved a capable substitution for Adams. Paul and McQueen the County wingmen, were always dangerous, and took the long swinging passes with remarkable accuracy. As on Good Friday Robinson was a tower of strength to the Peakites, for the innumerable shots were kept out in marvellous fashion. The Everton League programme was completed at Stoke on Saturday, and though altogether not unexpected, they came out strongly, and numbered one of the few that have taken down the Potters on their own ground. After the first quarter of an hour there was only one team in it, and that was not Stoke. The Everton van despite the enforced changes worked splendidly together, and as both Bell and Schofield had plenty of attention from Cameron, it can readily understood how the line as a whole came out so strongly. Three goals were disallowed, but the ruling did not seen to have any other affect upon the players then to spurt there on to further efforts. The wingmen were always dangerous and were endless in resource and there was little to find fault with in the work of the remainder of the quintet. The halves were distinctly good, and, Boyle again got through his work with credit, and with the assistance of a little luck mighty easily have added to the score. The defence was sound, and Storrier showed evidence of an improving player, while Briggs did all he had to the in good style. The stoke team were never allowed to get into a winning stride and although a rearrangement of the team was made after the first half there was no improvement. The Everton halves accounted for the forwards at times with the greatest of case, and taking play all round, the backs were luckily in having so avail a margin of defeat against them.

EVERTON v  STOKE
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, April 13, 1896
On Saturday Everton journeyed down the stoke to fight their final engagement in the League competition. Although so late in the season, the fixture attracted considerable attention in the Potteries, the probable result of the match being freely discussed. The weather was stormy and cold, and this had great effect upon the attendance, there being but a small company of spectators present, Everton started. The visitors right wing at once moved away, but Dickson pulled Bell up smartly, and Grewer serving nicely up to his forwards, the home forwards moved along in fine fashion, W. Maxwell sending in a long low shot, which briggs succeeded in getting rid of cleverly. Everton then tried to break away, but the Stoke half-line well up to form, and the right wing running up Johnson centred strongly, but Storrier met the ball and returned smartly. Holt gained possession, and passed out to Bell, who attempted to get away on the right but Dickson was again on the qui vive, and the ball was sent back to midfield. Schofield then attempted to get a look in, but feeble shot was coolly disposed of by Clawey. A spell of midfield work followed, and then the home left wing gave both Boyle and Adams considerable trouble, the ball eventually going over the line. From the kick out Chadwick and Schofield worked the ball nicely along, the latter centring cleverly, but Hartley failed to meet the pass, and Dickson nipped in. Bell returned to the attack, and a corner was forced, but this came to nothing, and the home right wing sped fastly down. Storrier, however, proved a stumbling block, and midfield was again the centre of attraction. The visitors’ forwards next hot away in combined order, but the line was broken by Clare. Boyle sent in smartly, and Dickson met the ball cleverly, but Hartley just managed to touch it, and the leather glanced into the net, thus scoring for Everton after fifteen minutes’ play. After this success Everton played up strongly, but the home defence was sound, and the right wing beating Stewart went along prettily. They were staved off, however, by Storrier and Holt serving up to Bell. That player raced along and gave Clawley a warm handful. The home custodian scraped the ball away, however, and the Stoke left wing centred down. Adams was all there, however, and the visitors were speedily sent to the right about, Bell and Hartley being conspicuous in a forward movement. The latter centred well, and Cameron rushed up and banged the ball into the net, but the whistle having previously sounded for a foul, the point was, of course, disallowed. Play ruled even for some time, but Everton by strength of superior combination, succeeded in making gradual headway, and a strong attack upon the home citadel ended in Hartley shooting over the bar. The Everton left wing next got away, but Schofield, when in a good position, shot very feebly, and the ball rolled harmlessly outside. At this time Everton were having all the best of the play, and the Stoke defence was taxed to the utmost. The visitors attack, however, lacked fire, and Clare and Dickson had comparatively little difficulty in stalling off disaster. Assuming the upper hand for a time, the Stoke forwards pressed strongly, and both Adams and Storrier were kept busy for a long spell, a brisk fusillade culminating in W. Maxwell shooting splendidly. Briggs however, was on the alert, and the ball was got out of harm’s way. Chadwick and Schofield then worked the ball along, and the former passed nicely across to Bell, but the offside rule came into operation as the last-named sent the leather into the net. Everton kept up the attack, and a corner was forced from Dickson. Nothing came of it, and the home left wing went away at a fine pass, the ball finally going over the line. Another rush on the part of Johnson and W. Maxwell ended just as unsatisfactorily, and then the visitors by a neat little bit of play, once more took up the running, Chadwick and Schofield dribbling the leather nicely along. Chadwick sent in a nice low shot, but Hartley, rushing in, was given offside, and the movement came to nothing. Everton returned to the attack, and they were having the best of matters when the whistle sounded, Everton leading by 1 goal to nil. On crossing over, the Stoke Club rearranged their ranks Hyslop going back instead of Dickson, who partnered Johnson on the right wing, while W.S. Maxwell crossed over to inside left. From the start Everton at once assumed the aggressive, but the home defence was thoroughly sound, and it was not long before Schofield initiated a very dangerous movement. This was spoiled by Adams, but a moment later Johnson screwed in strongly almost from the corner flag, Briggs just saving. Everton then moved along in combined array, and a corner was forced off Clare, but this came to nothing. The visitors, however, were playing a very strong game, and after a spell of pressure Hartley got possession from Cameron and passing across the goalmouth Schofield rushed in and scored ten minutes from the restart. Schofield then attempted to get away, but though he passed Adams, the later speedily recovered himself, and the ball was transferred to midfield. The home left again came up to the attack, and this time Schofield had an opportunity of shooting, but the ball struck the outside of the net. Stoke were now having slightly the best of matters, but their attack lacked combination, and the Everton defence had little difficulty in keeping the home forwards at bay. Schofield scored for Stoke, and the final result was a win for Everton by 2 goals to 1. Teams;- Everton;- Briggs, goal; Adams and Storrier, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, Hartley, Cameron, Chadwick, and Schofield, forwards.
Stoke-Clawley, goal; Dickson and Clare, backs; Turner, Grewer, and Brodie, half-backs; Schofield, Hyslop, Maxwell, W. Maxwell, and Johnson, forwards.

THE LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, April 13, 1896
By the Loiterer
By their win at Stoke the Everton team have redeemed themselves in the eyes of their supporters for some hard things have been said of the team, over the result of the Easter matches. The two League games and one friendly each finished with the scores even, and three goals was the meagre total of the four and half-hours’ work. The Bolton Wanderers, as usual provided the Easter Monday bill of fare, and with a weakened team, Sutcliffe and McGrechan being away, they managed to obtain one point out of us, which makes three out of the two League games this season. Tom Robertson, of Queen’s Park, fame, was down holidaying, and, as Holt was on the injured list, he took the centre half-back position. His play, however, was hardly up to Holt’s standard. The Bolton defence was splendid, and it is a pity Somerville made the miskick which cost his side a goal as he otherwise played splendidly. Brown also did well as centre half; and forward Wright and Jack took the honours. Hillman was in good form for Everton, and up to getting goals the team was very fair. The pace was not the hottest by any means.
In the League competition the team have dropped from second to third place, as compared with last season, and the falling off seems to have been in the forwards, as their goal average is 66 for 43 against, whereas last season 82 goals were scored to 50 by their opponents; so that the defence of Hillman, Adams, and Arridge has been more successful, while the forwards have dropped away a little. These facts only bear out what many have maintained for weeks is the case, that some of our forwards are getting stale. I believe the necessity of introducing young blood in the team is acknowledged by the directors, and I fancy we shall see new faces next season. There’s money in the concern, for without the exceptional 2gates” accruing from the Liverpool matches the net amount will not to be far short of that taken last season. As everyone knows a better system of cheeking the gate has been introduced and this must have some influence on the taking, for I don’t think the matches have been so well attended.
Some nice little were said of the liberally and sympathy, which I take it go together, of the Everton Club at the dinner given to the Management Committee of the League by the club, and Mr. Molyneux also received a stroke or two down the back. Mr. Dunkley, of the Aston Villa Club gave testimony to the high-class football shown by the Everton team; but a lot of the club’s supporters would be glad to know how it is his club can give a finished exposition of the game and also take chief honours this season of the Championship of the League and last season the English Cup.

EVERTON WIN AT STOKE
The Athletic News- Monday, April 13, 1896
By Onward
Practical proof was afforded on Saturday that the Pottery people have had enough of League football for the present term when an attractive team like Everton failed to bring more than 3,000 people to Victoria Grounds. True, the sky threatened rain, and a little did actually fall during the hour previous to the kick off, but this can hardly be advanced as a sufficient reason for the poor turn out, which must have been a keen disappointment to the Stoke directors. Everton had a good side in the field, though Milward was away in the inter-League match, and Hillman and Kelso had been deposed in favour of Briggs and Storrier. Stoke lacked the help of Eccles, who was injured at West Bromwich last Tuesday, and Dickson in consequence went left back, whilst W.S. Maxwell took the position of inside right forward, with Johnson, of the reserves, as his partner. Burt a perusal of the following names will better show how the sides were fixed up;-
Stoke.- Clawley, goal; Clare and Dickson, backs; turner, Grewer, and Brodie, half-backs; Johnson, W. S. Maxwell, Allan, Maxwell, Hyslop, and Schofield, forwards.
Everton; Briggs, goal; Adams and Storrier, backs; Boyle, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, Hartley, Cameron, Chadwick, and Schofield, forwards. Referee; Mr. Kingscott (Derby).
The Stoke players, with what little advantage there was in a cross wind, were quickest off the mark, and Willie Maxwell, with a beautiful trimmer, gave Briggs an opportunity of showing his appreciation of his inclusion on the Everton side. the nimble custodian got rid of this warm handful neatly and expeditiously, and showed no less skill in keeping out attempts from Grewer and Allan Maxwell. The Everton defenders all round kept admirably cool during a very critical five minutes, and gradually, but surely the Stoke men were forced back into their own territory. Bell opened fire with a grand ball, which Clawley, with praiseworthy dexterity, caught and threw away, and this proved to be but the herald of many scorching attempts from the Everton forwards, who, by s series of brilliant movements, kept the game pretty well to themselves for a considerable period. The active Clawley was about between the stoke posts like the proverbial cat on hot bricks, and returned many a shot which he could not very well have been blamed for missing. The first goal came after about a quarter of an hour, and was the result of a piece of weak play on the part of Dickson, who was evidently making up his mid in what direction to kick the ball when Hartley rudely solved the problem for him by smart taking it from his toes, and hanging it into the net. The “blue jersey” gave the Stoke defenders a very sultry time after this, their forwards swarming round the home goal like boss round a honeycomb, and superb, indeed, was the goalkeeper of Clawley, shots from Bell, Cameron, and Schofield, being dealt with in a manner little short of marvellous. Holt aroused the ire of the crowd by two or three instances of characteristic shamming when beaten with the ball, and Mr. Kingscott, I thought, seemed singularly blind in awarding fouls against Stoke players when apparently the boot was quite on the other leg. On one occasion I saw the Everton half-back do a graceful slide to mother earth after taking both hands to pull Allen Maxwell off the ball. The referee awarded a free kick-against Stoke, whereas the crowd howled forth its derision. Still, this was only a side issue, and there was no question about it, Everton were thoroughly overplaying the home team, whose forwards seemed quite unable to raise a gallop. Cameron with a very skilful touch again piloted the ball through for the visitors, but, unfortunately for then, the whistle had previously sounded for a foul against Stoke, and the free kick came to nothing-distinctly hard line. On two other occasions also did the Goodison-road people get past Clawley, but the whistle in each case sounded for offside some time before the ball reached the net. When the teams reappeared it was seen that the stoke captain had made several changes, Dickson going up to his usual position at inside right, W.S. Maxwell crossing over the inside left, and Hyslop falling back. Still the “Potters” didn’t seen to get any “forrader,” and Everton, as in the first half, had the lion’s share of the play. Schofield -the Everton professor of that name- scored the second point from a cross by Hartley ten minutes after the change of ends, and Stoke were kept pretty well on the defensive until five minutes from the finish, when the Pottery Schofield raised the hopes of his side by scoring from a free kick. Thereafter the locals showed such dash that the Everton goal was on more than one occasion seriously threatened, and the visitors must have been relieved when the whistle signalled “Time” leaving them victors by two goals to  one. I have already said sufficient to indicate that the Everton men thoroughly deserved their victory; in fact, on the play they ought to have finished three or four goals to the good. They outplayed the Stoke men to a great extent, and were their superiors in every department. The team played a fine, well-balanced game, and praise must be distributed very equally. Briggs did smart work in goal on more than one occasion, and Adams and Storrier both did excellently at back. The halves put in some rare effective play, Boyle being about the best man, though Holt and Stewart were always on the job. It is a pity that holt will ally himself with questionable tactics, for we all know that the little man cam play the game when he likes. The forwards play reached a very high standard, passing, dribbling, and shooting alike being first-class. Bell, Chadwick, and Cameron impressed me most, but Hartley and Schofield were little, if any, behind. Except Clawley, who gave a magnificent display of goalkeeping, there wasn’t a man on the Stoke side who was up to his average form. The weakness was most pronounced in the front, where combination and dash were factors equally unknown. Clare and Brodie did not do so badly when we consider how hard the defenders had to work, but of the rest of the team it will be most charitable to say nothing.

WOOLWICH ARSENAL 2 EVERTON 0
April 14 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
Played at Plumsted yesterday, Everton being beaten by two goals to nil. The visitors were not at their full strength, but none of the side showed anything like there League form. The score was even at half time, afterwards the Arsenal scored from a corner, the ball going through off Storrier, while five minutes from the close Hare put on the second goal. Hartley the Everton centre left the field with a twisted his knee in the second half, but McDonald came on in his place at half time.

EVERTON v  WOOLWICH ARSENAL
The Liverpool Daily Post -Tuesday, April 14, 1896
Played at Plumstead yesterday, before about 1,500 spectators. At the start Everton had the best of the game, but Hartley retired injured after half an hour’s play, and nothing was scored during the first half. On restarting McDonald completed the Everton team. The Arsenal scored from a corner, the ball going through off an Everton back. The visitors pressed most in the second half, but Hared scored again for the Arsenal, who won by 2 goals to none.

WOLLWICH ARSENAL v  EVERTON
Sporting Life- Tuesday 14 April 1896
EVERTON DEFEATED
In fine, although somewhat cold weather, Everton commenced their Southern tour yesterday (Monday), when they opposed Woolwich Arsenal, at the Manor Field, Plumstead, when the attendance, although not large, was a fairly good one, numbering close on 2,000. Both were unable to put their full strength into the field, Everton being without Hillman in goal, whilst the homesters combination was minus Boyd, Crawford, and Haywood. The play throughout was rather slow. The visitors, unfortunately, had their centre forward, Hartley, injured shortly after the start, but on crossing, over their rivals very generously allowed them to play a substitute. The Arsenal having lost the toss kicked off from the Abbey Wood end against a strong wind and the sun which was shining brightly in their eyes. After a few minutes’ play the ball was worked up into the visitors half, and Gordon sent in a shot which went over, following which, Adams in clearing a shot sent in by O’Brien, gave a corner, from which nothing accrued, the visitors then had a turn at pressing, but the shooting on the part of their forwards was very erratic. Give and take play followed, Mortimer on one occasion just missing scoring by inches, whilst soon after Gordon appeared to have a fine opening, but mulled his chance. After the game had been in progress about half an hour Cameron twisted his ankle, which necessitated his leaving the field. A piece of exciting play now ensued in front of the locals’ citadel, but Caldwell neatly cleared, and Mortimer and O’Brien, taking up the running, were the means of the Arsenal again becoming the aggressors, but when half-time arrived either side had failed to gain anything definite, then sides crossing over with the score sheet blank. Owing to Hartley still being unable to resume play, the Arsenal allowed McDonald to substitute him. Tracks were immediately made for the visitors’ fortress, and for some minutes the ball hovered round the uprights. Everton, however, displayed capital defence, and the play was at length taken in midfield. The Arsenal, however, quickly returned to the attack, and forced a corner. Caldwell neatly placed the kick, and O’Brien attempted to score, in which Storrier in trying to clear, sent through his own goal, and consequently scored for the Arsenal seventeen minutes from the interval. Almost immediately after Bell sent the ball through the homesters’ uprights, but the point was disallowed through being off-side. a few minutes before the conclusion a foul was given against Storrier through fouling O’Brien. Jenkyns took the kick, but went wide of the mark. Just before the conclusion, however, Hare, with a high shot, succeeded in gaining a second point for the Arsenal, nothing further being obtained, the game thus ended with the score;- Woolwich Arsenal Two goals, Everton None.
Referee. Mr. F.W. Bardsley. Sides;-
Woolwich Arsenal.- Fairclough (goal), Caldwell and Powell (backs), Davis, Jenkyns, and Boyle (half-backs), Mortimer, and O’Brien (left), Gordon (centre), Hare and Mills (right).
Everton.- Briggs (goal), Storrier, and Arridge (backs), Goldie, Boyle, and Stewart (half-backs), Milward, and Bell (right), Hartley (centre), Chadwick, and Schofield (left).

CASUALS v. EVERTON
Sporting Life –Tuesday April 14, 1895
The following will play in this match at Leyton to-day;-
Casuals.- A. Lawrence (goal), F. Pelly and E. Bray (backs), J. Grieveson, R. Barker, and C. Hatton (half-backs), M. Stanborough, T. Perkins, J. Fernie, C. Alexander, and G. Forrander.
TOUR OF THE EVERTON F.C.
The following matches have been arranged by the Everton F.C. for their tour in the South this week;-
Today (Tuesday) v Casuals, at Leyton
Wednesday v. Reading, at Reading
Thursday v. Luton Town, at Luton
Friday, v. Marlow, at Marlow
Saturday v Freemantle, at Southampton.

LONDON CAUSUALS 3 EVERTON 3
April 15 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
At Leyton yesterday the Liverpool club, with a strengthen team, had a bigger share of the game than the Casuals, but were not so fortunate in front of goal, and could only make a draw, each side scoring 3 times. Play ruled fast throughout the Conditions being very favorable, Fernie scored in six minutes, Williams immediately equalising. Fifteen minutes later Perkins gave the Casuals the lead, but Williams soon equalised again. Alexanders next scored, and the Causuals led at the interval. Milward obtained the only goal in the second half.

CASUALS v  EVERTON
The Liverpool Daily Post- Wednesday, April 15, 1896
Played at Leyton yesterday, in dull weather. Fernie scored for the Casuals six minutes from the start, but Williams immediately equalised for Everton. Then Perkins put the Casuals ahead, but Williams again equalised from a free kick. Ten minutes from the interval, Alexander again gave the Causals the lead. Early in the second half Milward, with a screw shot, again put Everton level, the game being drawn -3 goals each.

CASUALS v EVERTON
Sporting Life- Wednesday, April 15, 1896
A DRAWN GAME
Following their match at Plumstead with the Arsenal on Monday, Everton met a strong eleven of the Casuals at the Essex County Ground, Leyton, last evening, when although the weather was dull, there was a large company assembled. There were several changes in the visitors team from that which did duty the day previously, Hartley and Schofield being replaced in the forward line by Williams and McDonald, whilst Holt was at half-back in the place of Goldie, and Adams in the place of Storrier at full back. There was scarcely any wind, and the ground was in good condition when the teams made their appearance, the Casuals, who win the toss, defending the goal furthest from the Pavilion. Williams set the ball in motion for Everton. The Casuals at once attacked, Stanborough and Perkins taking the ball up the field, but Adams cleared, and the Casuals’ fortress was visited, the play thus early becoming exciting. Exchanges of a give-andtake nature followed, and the ball being taken into Everton’s lines, Fernie cleverly beat Briggs within six minutes of the start, and scored the first goal for the Causals. This advantage, however, was but short-lived, as almost immediately Everton took the ball to the other end of the ground, and Williams having it nicely placed, banged it into the net, and thus equalised. Play continued very fast, each goalkeeper, in turn, being called upon to defend. Twenty minutes later Perkins, with a long shot again placed the Casuals a point ahead of their rivals. A free kick for “Hands!” gave Everton an opportunity, of which they were not slow to avail themselves as Williams headed through in a clever manner. The score again becoming equal, for a few minutes the ball once more hovered in the Casuals’ lines. Pelly, however, relieved and Alexander making a splendid single-handed run up the ground, finished with a shot that beat Briggs and half-time arriving shortly after, the teams crossed over with the score-
Casuals Three goals, Everton Two goals.
Fernie restarted the game. And the Casuals forwards made a combined attack on the professionals’ stronghold, but Briggs sent the ball up the ground, and then Everton had a spell of play, though the Casuals backs kept up a good defence, and Alexander repulsed two or three hot shots, especially one sent in by Williams. Alexander then got on the ball again, and taking it up the ground, looked like scoring, but the ball went wide of the upright. A couple of corners then fell to Everton, but although good attempts were made, they were unproductive. At length, however, Milward sent in a shot that Lawrence failed to negotiate and once more the scores were equal. Both sides after this strove hard to gain an advantage, the amateurs only just missing when briggs fell on the ground. Fernie then hurt his leg, and was unable to keep his place on the field. Rain now threatened, but fortunately held off. During the remainder of the play nothing further was scored, the result being a draw of three goals each, Referee, Mr. Roston Rourke, sides;-
Causals.- A.G.S. Lawrence (goal), E.H. Bray and F.R. Pelly (back), C.O. S. Hatton, R.R. Barker, and J.E. Grierson (half-backs) M.H. Stanborough and T.N. Perkins (right wing), G.F. Fernie (centre), C.L. Alexander, and R.L. Hillerary (left wing).
Everton.- Briggs (goal), Arridge and Adams (backs), Stewart, Holt, and Boyle (half-backs). Milward, and Chadwick (left wing), Williams (centre), McDonald, and Bell (right wing).

EVERTON CLUB
The Liverpool Daily Post- Wednesday, April 15, 1896
Unfortunately for Elliott, the captain of the Everton combination team, who takes a benefit on Saturday, the match clashes with the League test game played on the Anfield ground between Liverpool and Small heath. To avoid this as far as possible, the kick-off in the Combination game between Everton and Glossop North End has been altered from four o’clock to half-past two, by which means those of the public desirous can witness both matches as the test game does not start until four o’clock.
We understand that the Everton second string will consist next season of purely local men, who will be trained by Elliott. Already a good number have been “signed on,” and amongst them it is hoped some genuine footballers have been unearthed.

READING 0 EVERTON 2
April 16 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
Played at reading before 2,000 people. Both clubs were well represented, and some good play was witnessed. In the opening half Williams head a fine goal for Everton, and Milward kick a second. In the latter, in the second half, both teams were brilliant, but nothing scored, and a grand game terminated Everton 2 goals Reading nil.

EVERTON v.  READING
The Liverpool Daily Post- Thursday, April 16, 1896
Played at reading yesterday, in pleasant weather, before a great attendance. The opening exchanges were even, but on settling down the Everton players had the best of the game, and Williams headed the first goal, Milward scoring a second before half-time, when Everton led by 2 goals to none. A desperate game was played in the second half, but neither side scored, Everton thus winning by 2 goals to none.

LUTON TOWN 0 EVERTON 2
April 17 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton continue their Southern tour by visiting Luton, yesterday where they played the Town Club, for the Benefit of Williams, the Luton custodian. Gallacher was absent from the home team. Everton won the toss, and played with the wind, a couple of goals falling to them before the interval through Stewart and Williams. The second half was in favour of Luton, but they failed to score. Everton winning by 2 goals to nil.

EVERTON v LUTON
The Liverpool Daily Post-Friday, April 17, 1896
Played at Luton yesterday, for the benefit of R. Williams, late goalkeeper for Everton. After twenty-five minutes play Stewart scored for Everton. No further scoring took place, Everton thus winning by 1 goal to none.

LUTON v  EVERTON
Luton Times and advertiser-Friday 17 April 1896
WILLIAMS’S BENEFIT
LUTON DEFEATED
Yesterday (Thursday) afternoon, Everton paid a visit to Luton during their southern tour- in which they have been beaten by the Arsenal 2-0, have drawn with Casuals, and defeated Reading by 2-0=to play a match for the benefit of their old goalkeeper, Dick Williams, now of Luton Town. The weather was dull and unsettled, a drizzling rain having fallen all the morning, and the “gate” did not exceed 1,000. Williams has done splendid service for Luton since his first appearance for us on November 18, and all Lutonians are highly satisfied to know he has “signed on” for next season. Dick is a Cheshire man, born and bred, and played for Bormborough Pool, a local club, near Birkenhead, for seven years -first at full back -before going to Everton, for whom he played four seasons. Unhappily, Gallacher’s bad shoulder would not allow him to play, and Parkinson supplied his place, McCartney gallantly turning out at back despite a bad leg. Mr. Saywell refereed, and Everton brought a strong team. The sides were ready directly after 4 as under;-
Luton; Williams; McCartney, and McEwan; Watkins, Stewart, and Docherty; Parkinson, Finlayson, Galbraith, Coupar, and Ekins.
Everton; Briggs; Adams, and Storrier; Goldie, Boyle, Stewart; Bell, Williams, J. Chadwick, E. Chadwick, and Schofield.
Luton kicked off. Everton showed style at once, although it must be allowed they had a little advantage in the wind. J. Chadwick got in the first shot that was really dangerous, and Stewart put in good play.  “Hands” off Boyle was given about 20 yards from goal. Watkins took it, but placed it in the net without any of the players getting a chance. J. Chadwick was again to the fore, and caused Williams save, McCartney clearing eventually. Luton played for all they were worth, and Stewart at times looked anxious. Galbraith fouled Boyle at centre. Adams took the kick, but Stewart returned. Ekins had a fine run, but was spoiled at the finish by Storrier. The first goal kick fell to Luton after 10 minutes play. McEwan showed fine form at back. After some brilliant passing by the Luton forward string, Ekiss centred from the left, but Coupar shot wide. In spite of his “gammy” knee, McCartney worked like a trojan. Off-side against Coupar after a brilliant dash was resented somewhat. Finny failed to dash at the critical moment, or Galbraith into a lead for Luton. Schofield, the outside left, got away, but McCartney saved, another goal-kick was forced, owing to some good passing. Play resuming, Chadwick ran away from the field. From a mis-kick by McEwan, Bell shot in. Williams cleared twice in succession, and McEwan redeemed his fault. Williams shone again, Goldie bombarding.  The first and only goal came to Everton from Stewart after twenty five minutes’ play. It was an impossible shot to stop. Ekins was atrociously fouled by Boyle. Docherty took the kick with undue care, and it passed out of play. Five minutes afterwards McCartney conceded a corner, Williams cleared, and McEwan gave another. It was splendidly taken, and Williams put through only to be ruled off-side. Ekins and Galbraith showed some pretty play on the left wing and the former got in another. A foul against Stewart made things dangerous for a few minutes and a goal was averted by McCartney, who found his weight useful at times. Parkinson had been playing quite a second rate game, but he roused enthusiasm by sending in the finest goal yet seen, and Briggs saved with difficulty. Ekins again forced and centred well. Galbraith tried hard and Adams only succeeded in preventing by conceding a corner. Parkinson took the kick, McCartney collared, and so things went on for several minutes until the whistle blew for half-time, when the score stood;
Everton 1 goal, Luton 0
The second half opened auspiciously for Luton, Ekins tried for all he was worth, and to everybody’s regret failed to get hold of the ball when just ready for a shot. From the goal-kick Williams headed to centre. Elkins did the same, landing the ball into Briggs’s arms. The field was traversed and Williams had two “soft” saves. Still another change, Finlayson sent in a beauty, which tried Briggs to the uttermost. Docherty followed suit, ditto Williams and still Luton didn’t get even. Yet again Galbraith passed, Elkins was there and shot across but no one was up. A foul against Finlayson did not redound to the credit of Mr. Saywell. For the past quarter of an hour Luton had been pressing. The current of things changed. Bell troubled Williams and the backs were busy. At length Luton broke away, Coupar and Stewart making things hum from a centre by Ekins. After Galbraith had the misfortune to prevent a possible score for Luton, Parkinson woke up for the second time, and shot a lovely grounder. “Goal” went up; but it was premature. Nevertheless, it was a fine shot. Ekins handled, while Docherty could not restrain himself from deliberately fisting the ball down. Williams had to look after his “sticks.” Briggs soon afterwards had to follow suit, Elkins and Docherty making the running. J. Chadwick got away and caused Williams to elicit applause by his sound defence. Coupar ran down the centre, and the hearts of the Luton supporters rejoiced. He was non-plussed by Williams, who stubbornly defended, and from back that player passed up the field, through Coupar and McEwan, and with the goal at his mercy had the misfortune to shoot over. McEwan fouled Boyle 20 yards out of goal, McCartney cleared, and Ekins made the finest sprint of the match, and centred from the corner in a masterly way. After Williams had saved twice, Ekins for the third time gave Galbraith another centre. Sad reflection; he didn’t take it, and Everton still led when the whistle blew. Final score; Everton 1 goal, Luton 0.
The match ought to have secured a larger gate. Certainly, it was soundest exhibition of “Socker” witnessed in Luton this season. Ekins amongst the forwards, and McEwan at back, were in their best form. The former was indefatigable in sending in sure centres, and had the other forwards shown equal smartness in shooting at goal, Luton might have won by two to one, instead of suffering defeat. Briggs the old Darwen goalkeeper, was exceptionally smart; a weaker man would have spelt disaster. I am glad to hear that Galbraith and Coupar have “signed on” for next season.

MARLOW 1 EVERTON 1
April 18 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
Continuing their Southern tour Everton played Marlow last evening before a good crowd. Marlow started downhill, and commanded with great dash, Jones scoring after ten minutes play, Chadwick equalising with a grand shot and the interval arrived with the score a goal each. In the second half Everton did most of the attack, but failed a beat the excellent defender of Marlow and a good game ended in a draw of 1 goal each.

READING v  EVERTON
Berkshire chronicle-Saturday 18 April 1896
READING MAKE A PLUCKY FIGHT, BUT SUFFER DEFEAT
These two elevens met on the Caversham enclosure on Wednesday, Everton had previously lost to Woolwich Arsenal by two goals to nil on Monday, and played a drawn game (three goals all) with a strong team of Casuals on Tuesday. Holt, Hillman, Adams, and Bell were absentee from the Toffyites, but good substitutes took their places, and they had a good representative team. Reading had their full team out. The turf was in capital condition. The teams lined up before Mr. Boston Bourke as follows;-
Reading; Cannon, goal; Bach and Justins, backs; Spiers, Baben, and Watts, half-backs; Hadley, G. Reid, J. Reid, Cunningham, and Wheeler, forwards.
Everton; Briggs, goal; Arridge, and Storrier, backs; Stewart, Boyle, and Golding, half-backs; Schofield, Milward, Chadwick, McDonald, and Williams, forwards.
Bach won the toss and Chadwick started the ball for Everton with the sun in his face. Hadley got away and passed to G. Reid, but Stewart was there and relieved. Pretty passing by Cunningham and Wheeler resulted in the latter centring. J. Reid had a fine opportunity, but dallied with the ball, and Boyle robbed him of it. Justins checked nicely, and then Reading forced a corner, but G. Reid shot high over the bar when in a good position. Bach was beaten for the ball, but “stan” relieved. Cannon caught a long shot from Williams, and then Reading had a foul, which resulted in the transfer of the scene of operations. Bach repelled finely a strong attack, and then the Reading forwards did a superb piece of short passing, working their right in before the ball was got away by Boyle. Storrier relieved in the nick of time. Arridge and Storrier had plenty of work to do, but did their work grandly. A fine attack by the Reading forwards was repelled in the nick of time by Storrier giving a corner, which wheeler placed right along the bar, and the ball eventually went behind. The transfer of operations was effected, and Schofield sent a splendid shot right on the bar, but the ball went behind. Succeeding this, the Everton forwards made a combined attack. Schofield sent in a fine centre, which Williams headed past Cannon into the net. The visitors still kept up the pressure, the Reading goal being more than once in danger. Wheeler and Cunningham made a good run, but Storrier spoilt the effort by relieving with a fine kick, which was followed by McDonald shooting behind. Off-side was given against Schofield when he was in a most dangerous position, and Reading attacked, but Arridge and Storrier could not be beaten, but Spiers received and sent in a fine shot, which just went over the bar. Cannon only partially hit the ball when Schofield centred, but Babes happened to be there and got the ball away, Everton still pressed and Williams sent in an unstoppable shot, which, however, fortunately just missed the upright. A smart attack by the Reading forwards compelled Arridge to kick out. Everton then made a run all down the field, Boyle eventually sending the ball over. A corner then fell to Everton but Golding sent the ball over the bar. On the restart Schofield received and sent the ball the ball behind. Reading then made a fine attack. Cunningham sent the ball all across the goal, but Hadley could not quite reach it, and it went behind. Bad miskicks by babes and Justins let in Everton. Watts temporarily relieved, but to no purpose, for Milward received, and with a fine shot placed Everton two ahead. A foul was given to the visitors on the restart, and Bach missed his kick badly, but the ball went behind. Reading transferred the ball into the visitors’ quarters, but Cunningham held it too long, and was robbed of it, and then G. Reid fouled Stewart, and from the free kick Storrier placed the ball into the net, but no one touched the sphere. A corner fell to the visitors, but Golding sent behind. Cannon saved from Milward. The Reading goal had a narrow escape, the ball striking Babes. Hadley and G. Reid got away, but were eventually robbed by Stewart, and Schofield received the ball, but fortunately for Reading shot wide of the upright. A fine centre was dispatched from the Everton right, but Back sent the ball away, and “hands” brought a welcome relief to the reading defenders. Babes, G. Reid, and Hadley were conspicuous, but Briggs kicked the ball away, and then Wheeler ran up and sent the ball behind. After McDonald had sent the ball over at the other end, the homester’s right forced the ball down, and Storrier sent out. G. Reid received, and sent in one of his lovely and characteristic shots, but Briggs sent the ball away. Watts’ head was in the way-it always is- and g. Reid sent in a very fine shot, which Briggs cleared, and then Hadley hit the net with a good shot. Half-time was called with the score-
Everton 2 Reading 0
The sun was just disappearing from view when J. Reid opened the ball for Reading in the second moiety, and caused Briggs to clear, and then G. Reid sent in a fine low shot, Briggs having to fall full length to save, which he did marvellously by giving a corner. G, Reid headed in fine style from the corner, but Briggs punched out, and then both J. Reid and G. Reid failed to get hold of a fast return from Watts, and thus the pressure ended. Everton attacked and Milward shot just wide of the upright. Bach, when hard pressed, had to give a corner, which spier relieved, and Hadley, G. Reid, and J. Reid made a pretty run, Arridge clearing, and Bach took a foul for Reading, Briggs having to punch away, but the ball was eventually sent behind. Schofield centred across the goal and Williams headed in, but was given off-side. Everton got very dangerous, and Schofield, when almost under the bar, sent over into the Laundry. Cannon had to punch away from Chadwick, and Justins also relieved finely after he had made a partial miskick. Cannon saved a fine shot from Milward. The Reading goal was having some narrow escapes. Justins again miskicked but Spiers relieved, and Wheeler ran up the field, Arridge having to send the ball outside. Reading attacked once or twice and spiers shot wide of the upright, and Justins then checked McDonald and Williams in splendid fashion, and G. Reid and Hadley put in some good combined play, but Storrier sent away. Hadley got possession and centred nicely, G. Reid sending the ball behind, being hard pressed. G. Reid passed badly once or twice, and then Cannon saved a beauty from Boyle, and Wheeler had a splendid run all up the field, and finished up by beating Briggs but offside had been given against him. Milward was given offside, and Wheeler again beat Arridge, but Storrier finally forced him to kick wide. G. Reid sent in a good shot when in a kneeling position, but Briggs sent away, and again a  moment latter the same player sent in a fine low shot, which Briggs cleared. Spiers was winded and the game was stopped. On the restart G. Reid brought Briggs to his knees with a fine shot. Watts and Justins checked an attack by the right wing, and Watts brought Briggs out of his charge. J. Reid broke through the opposing defence, but Arridge just relieved in the nick of time. Wheeler centred finely, but Arridge conceded a corner, which was cleared away. Cunningham sent in a low shot which brought Briggs to his knees, and Babes shot over. Babes sent McDonald to “grass” in the nick of time, and wheeler spoilt a good chance by getting offside. Milward sent over when he had a good chance, and then the whistle blew for time with the score standing;- Everton 2, Reading 0.

EVERTON v  MARLOW
The Liverpool Daily Post- Saturday, April 18, 1896
Played at Marlow yesterday. Ten minutes after starting Jones scored for Marlow, but Chadwick equalised before the interval. And the game ended in a draw-1 goal each
TODAY’S TEAM ARRNAGEMENTS
Everton Combination v. Glossop North End (Elliott’s benefit) at Goodison Park; 2.30
Everton Combination,- Cook, goal; Balmer and Molyneux, backs; Kelso, Meiklejohn, and Elliott, half-backs; Latta, Reay, Mainman, Murray, and Schofield, forwards.

FREEMANTLE v  EVERTON
Evening News (London)-Saturday 18 April 1896
The visit of Everton caused a great stir in the Freemantle district, and although it was hardly expected that the locals would win, a fine crowd turned out to see the fun. A £50 guarantee speaks well for the puck of the Freemantle executive, but at the time the bargain was made it was not anticipated that St. Mary’s would have a match at home. Moggs and Hanna, of Portsmouth R.A., assisted Freemantle in the positions usually occupied by Simms and Stares. Teams;-
Freemantle; Hutton, goal; Hawkins and McKie, backs; Taylor, G. Ridges, and Fowle, half-backs; Moggs, Nineham, Hanna, H. Ridges, and Eaglefield,
Everton; Briggs, goal; Adams and Arridge, backs; Stewart, Holt, and Boyle, half-backs; Bell, McInnes, Hartley, Milward, and Chadwick, forwards. S.R. Carr, referee. Everton started the ball before 2,000 people. The opening stages were characterised by wild attempts to score by the visitors. The Freemantle right get away, and Arridge repelled an attack on two occasion. Play was chiefly confined to the Freemantle half, and the home custodian had plenty to do. At length Reilly cleared badly, and E. Chadwick scored the first point. Soon after Jardine got away and a fine centre was sent through by Nineham. Interval Everton 1, Freemantle 1. Final Everton 3, Freemantle 1.

SOUTHAMPTON FREEMANTLE 1 EVERTON 3
April 20 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
Continuing the Southern tour, Everton on Saturday encounted Freemantle at Southampton though minus Holt, Hartley, McInnes and Adams their opponents being strong during the initial half. Everton did most of the pressing and were first to score, through Edward Chadwick. Needham equalising for Freenmantles immediately after the interval J.Chadwick and Goldie added further goals for the visitors. In quick succession and Everton won three goals to one. The match was witnessed by 2,000 spectators

EVERTON RESERVES 1 GLOSSOP NORTH END 1
April 20 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
This combination match, the result of which bound to have an important bearing on the Championship of the competition was decided on Saturday at Goodison Park. Sometime ago Jack Elliott popular captain of Everton's second string selected this match for his benefit and was particular unfortunate for the benifieiare that if classed with the first of the best matches at Anfield road. The consequence being that there was only a meagre attendance, which the game commenced. Everton kick off, with the sun in their faces, and at once carried play to their opponents half, where Reay distinguished himself with a couple of beautiful shots which frail negotiated in the coolest manner, Meiklejohn alsop had a try from long range, but the visitors retaiting a corner was forced off Balmer. This led to a most exciting scrimmage round Cook. Twice the ball was banged against the crossbar and it was a relief to the Evertonians defenders when Elliott head away. The Everton right wing then became prominent, and after some near passing between Reay and Mcinnes the ball was sent across to Schofield, who made no mistake. The point was strongly protested against on the ground off offside, but the referee decided in favour of Everton. by clever passing the visitors once again threatened danger, and although Cook had saved a stringing shot from Farmer, the ball was quickly returned, and this timer the shot was intercepted by one of the Everton defences. Everton continued to have the best of the game, but were unable to add to the score. At half time the score was one goal to nil in favour of Everton.On resuming the visitors attacked strongly, and Cook was repeatedly called upon to save his charge. Weakness in front of goal alone prevented the Glossop men from equalising for the forwards had several good chances. Try as they would the Everton men were unable to make headway. At length the visitors were rewarded for after Molyneux had charged down a shot, Frew obtained possession during the ensuing scrimmage, and notched the equalising point. as the end approached Everton tried hard to score the winning goal but they were unsuccessful, and the game ended in a draw of one goal each.

EVERTON COMBINATION v GLOSSOP NORTH END
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, April 20, 1896
The popular captain of the Everton Combination team took a well-earned benefit on Saturday, but unfortunately the affair simply developed into what may be termed a “small and early.” In order to avoid clashing with the test match at Anfield it was resolved to make a start at half-past two, but at this time there was only a very small crowd present to show their appreciation of Elliott’s services to the Everton club. The early stages of the game were fairly even, the Glossop men gaining a corner, and the home team making a couple of onslaughts before McInnes tried his prentice hand. A few minutes later, however, Schofield got at the ball when he was lying offside, and sent it into the net, but the referee allowed the point. Alternate attacks were made, until Reay came with a dashing advance and centred to Mainman, who was grassed when he was on the point of shooting. Long kicking was followed by a breakaway on the part of Murray, but the visitors returned the compliment with interest, Pearson and Laxton each having opportunities offered them oi capturing the Everton goal. A corner to Everton followed, but this came to nothing. Then Trail cleared a scorcher from Schofield, this bringing half-time, Everton leading by a goal to nil. After changing ends the visitors showed remarkable vigour, and at once made tracks for the Everton goal, and a stiff brush took place in front of Cook, Saxton bringing the assault to a close by shooting hard in the side of goal. Brilliant defence by the homesters kept out the Glossop men, whose attacks were very spicy, and then Schofield made a great run and centred, but Mainman’s shot went by the side of the post. Another bright attack by the visitors met with success, Freer sheering the ball through the thick of his opponents and scoring the equalising goal. Cook then gave a corner from a centre by Hill, and after give and take play the game was drawn 1 goal each.

LIVERPOOL DISTRICT AND NOTES
The Athletic News- Monday, April 20, 1896
By the Loiterer
Clubs are now in a hurry to get in their fixtures before the end of the season, and next week matches are numerous. They are confined principally to our junior clubs, as matters are very quick at Goodison Park and Anfield. In fact, Goodison Park is closed until next season, and Mr. Crawshaw will, I hope, have the pleasure of witnessing the gradual improvement of the playing pitch, which, as matters go, is even now beyond reproach. But the chairman of the ground committee is ambitious, and those bar patches are an eyesore to him.
The Combination match at Goodison Park was poorly attended, and this is to be regretted, for the proceeds were for Jack Elliott, who has done good service for the club. The game ended in a draw, so Glossop have the fare distinction of gaining points out of the Everton second string. In previous seasons the Everton Combination team have been easy first, but this time they only carry first honours by a better goal average. Next season local talent will haver a trial, and already four or five promising players from the neighbourhood clubs have been secured.
By all accounts Everton will swell the League transfer list considerably this season, but we must not take the names suggested in different quarters as being authentic. That a number of well-known players will be in the market is certain, but hitherto the club have not been consistent in their selection. And other clubs have benefited by the service of the rejected.

ST BERNARD v  EVERTON
Edinburgh evening News-Monday 20 April 1896
The first of the holiday matches was played at Logie Green,, a start being made at noon. Everton had a busy week in the south of England, having played five matches last week, winding up at Southampton on Saturday afternoon. They did not being a very strong team up North, the following prominent players being absentee; Hillman, Adams, Holt, Cameron and Hartley. Their eleven was; Briggs, Storrier, and Arridge; Goldie, Boyle, and Stewart; Bell, Murray, j. Chadwick, E. Chadwick, and Milward. St. Bernards were represented by the following; Russell; McLean and Pillar; Murdoch, Baird, and Russell Wilson, Paton, Peden, Wark, and Phillips. The weather was fine, but even that and the attraction of good football did not induce a large crowd to visit Logie Green, the attendance at the start being not more than about 1,000. Mr. Ashmole set the game going ten minutes after time, Chadwick kicking off from the road end goal. In the first minute two fouls were given against the St. Bernards, and for some time the play continued all in favour of Everton. St. Bernards by long kicking broke away, and from a corner Baird headed in. Briggs, who was well through his goal, struck out and an appeal goal was given to the Edinburgh team, the Liverpool goalkeeper meantime looking quite amaze at the referee’s decision. Everton’s play was much below the standard they usually serve up to the Edinburgh public. Neither of their wings did anything out of the common; in fact, they all seemed to be suffering from an overdose of football. The football began to show some improvement on both sides, the forwards putting in some very pretty passing. From a break away by the home right Paton finished up with a fine shot, which Briggs fisted out, giving a corner, which was cleared easily. The St. Bernards got down again, but were finally stopped by Arridge. This was the beginning of a series of incursions by the St. Bernards, and twice Briggs had to turn out several yards from his goal in order to clear, while on another occasion Wark made a good attempt at scoring, but the shot was a bit wide. Everton left wing had hitherto been doing the big share of the forward work, but Bell at this point led them off, and sent in a good shot to Russell, which the goalkeeper smartly cleared. So far Everton had given a very poor display, and their efforts at goal shooting were quite in keeping with the otherwise mediocre play. By very stragging play the Liverpool forwards carried the ball well up the field, a free kick helping them to gain ground, and Milward somewhat modified the reproach against his side by sending a magnificent shot, which caused Russell some difficulty to dispose of. He, however, got the ball away, and a kick behind, again by Milward, gave him further relief. Bell led on Everton gain, and forced a corner. Milward drove in another shot, a second corner being conceded, but the ball was placed over the line. Everton were now pulling the strings to some tune, and had they been even moderate careful about their work, they ought to have equalised. The goal was not long in coming, E. Chadwick giving Russell a long low shot to stop. The goalkeeper got at the ball with his right foot, but, kicking badly, just turned the ball aside on its way into the net.
Half-time; St. Bernards one goal, Everton one goal.
The game opened somewhat brisker in the second half, Everton applying pressure more or less strong for a considerable period. The home backs were having a lively time, and it was to their credit that they were able to baulk they opponents in front of goal so effectively as they did. After a while, the play settled down into the old rut, and most people got tired of the perpetual banging about of the ball to no purpose. The St. Bernards left pair sought to force the game a bit, but they were quite off in their tactics in front of goal. At the other end J. Chadwick had a shot at goal, but it was a soft one, and Russell easily got rid of the ball. Following upon a period of very tame and uninteresting play, the Everton forwards got into line, and Bell, running the ball well forward, centred to J. Chadwick, who foolishly let a good chance of scoring slip away. Baird got down upon him, when he endeavoured to remedy his mistake and the home half was slightly injured in his attempt to get the ball away. The game had to be stopped for a while till Baird recovered. On resuming the St. Bernards’ right wing broke away in good enough style, and Paton deserved the applause he got for a grand shot, which just missed the mark. Everton retaliated, and E. Chadwick scored. From a dash away on his own hook, Bell very nearly landed a third goal for Everton. Briggs, in Everton goal, had on several previous occasions when called upon to save shown a rather reckless spirit in rushing far out from his goal, and on one occasion he almost paid the penalty. He went a good way out, and letting hard drive knocked the ball against one of the Everton players close in front of him, off whom it rebounded into the goalmouth. Peden was rushing down to get possession, but Storrier was there before him, and managed to clear just in time to avoid certain defeat. Very shortly afterwards the St. Bernards had a remarkable deliverance. Bell was on the ball, and beating all opposition on the way to the goal was free to do business with Russell. The winger, however, took plenty of time before shooting, and as a consequence of his studied effort he tipped the ball a few inches to the outside of the post. Everybody laughed, and Bell looked as if he could have eaten his own bed. A little while before time J. Chadwick scored the Everton’s third goal, and Russell had fisted out. Result; Everton three goals, St. Bernards one goal.

ST BERNARD 1 EVERTON 3
April 21 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
This holiday match was played at Edinburgh, yesterday . Everton were without several of their best men, but notwithstanding, proved more than equal for their opponents. In the first half Baird scored for St Bernard and Milward for Everton. The second half found Everton in better turn, two more goals were added from Chadwick

ST BERNARD'S V EVERTON
April 21 1896. The Sheffield Independent.
Played at Edinburgh in fine weather with Everton considerably under their full strength. St Bernard's scored immediately after restarting Briggs being through the goal before fisting out a header from Baird. Everton playing an easy game equalised by E. Chadwick before half-time. Everton pressed in the second half E. J. Chadwick scoring addition goals. Result St Bernard 1 Everton 3.

ST. BERNARDS V. EVERTON
April 21, 1896. The Dundee Courier & Argus
At Logie Green yesterday. The attendance was limited. Everton brought a rather poor team, wanting Hillman, Adams, Holt, Hartley, and Cameron. The play lacked spirit, the work of Everton being much below their average. After a few minutes' play Baird headed through for the Saints. The Liverpool men had rather the pull in the play, but 30 minutes elapsed before they equalised through E. Chadwick. Half-time -1 goal each. In the second half play was very uninteresting, neither the Everton wings doing anything like so well as expected. Everton put on the pressure, and after the Saints backs had averted danger on several occasions E. Chadwick scored a second goal for the Liverpool team. J. Chadwick scored again; Result- Everton, 3; St. Bernards, 1.

EVERTON v.  ST BERNARD’S
The Liverpool Daily Post -Tuesday April 21, 1896
Played at Edinburgh in fine weather, Everton being considerably under their full strength. St. Bernard’s scored immediately after the start, briggs being through the goal before fisting out a header from Baird. Everton playing an easy game, equalised by E. Chadwick before half-time. Everton pressed in the second half E and J. Chadwick scoring the additional goals. Final;- Everton 3, goals, St Bernard’s 1 goal.

East Stirlingshire v. Everton.—
Falkirk Herald -Wednesday 22 April 1896
East Stirlingshire were favoured last night with visit from Everton, the renowned English combination. , There would be about 1500 spectators present. The teams were -.—East Stirlingshire- Watson ; Baker and Stewart; Reid, M'Call, and Steele; McQueen, Fish, Fisher, Fraser, and Johnston, Everton—Briggs; Waugh and Kelso; Boyle, Littlejohn, and Goudie ; Williams, Murray, Chadwick, M'Donald, and Elliot. Mr. Ashmole, Edinburgh, was referee. The visitors, winning the - toss, played with the sun in their favour. East Stirlingshire were the first to attack, but when the was within shooting range was promptly returned. Play for some time was even. Everton defence proved a successful barrier to the inroads, the East Stirlingshire forwards, Kelso, former "Renton half-back, being conspicuous alike for his. Excellent tackling and judicious kicking. Everton had conceded two corners succession East Stirlingshire, but of these nothing came. Fish -had a good try at Briggs' goal, but Briggs proved equal to the call made upon him. Elliot then endeavoured to repulse Watson, but failed, and immediately thereafter M'Queen, after a speedy run, sent a shot to the Everton goal, Briggs smartly stopped. Elliot then had swift shot at the East Stirlingshire goal, but the ball passed over the bar. The home players were having, anything, the best of the play, the display «f the Everton eleven being somewhat disappointing. Stirlingshire played well in the open, but their attacks on goal were poor. Better shooting and a little better understanding amongst the forwards while in front goal should have brought them a few points. Fisher atoned for the loss of several good chances in front of goal by the smart manner in which he carried the leather to the opposing goal. Everton were more dangerous their efforts at goal. But for Baker on one occasion heading out the ball had sure goal, and then Watson «as loudly applauded for fisting out what seemed an exceedingly difficult shot. Fisher, fey another good run, carried the ball to the other end, but it was sent past. M'Queen, Fraser, and Wisher, then distinguished themselves a splendid run right the field nearly to the mouth -of the Everton goal. From spectator's point of view there seemed nothing to prevent the East Stirlingshire now securing a goal. Briggs, however, was on the alert, and abstracting the leather the foot of Fisher sent it field. Half-time was called without either team having scored. The second half was only five minutes in operation, when the East Stirlingshire forwards carried -the ball into Everton territory. Haugh mussed his kick, and giving Fisher opening, that player easily beat Briggs. This success had an encouraging effect on the home players, and the result was a show of fresh vigour. The play during the next few minutes was nothing but a succession attacks on the Everton goal. On one occasion had to throw out the ball, and Haugh sad Kelso had to exert themselves to the utmost to prevent further reverse. Williams nod Murray carried the leather down to the goal, but Stewart intervened, and tackled splendidly. The home forwards again got possession of the ball, and Fisher scored a beautiful goaL Everton now played as if they were detrained not to be so beaten, and the improvement in their play had its reward in a well-taken goad. Williams ran up in magnificent style, and crossed to Chad wick, who beat Watson with a high shot. The home team were fortunate not having another goal scored against them tea minutes afterwards. The ball seemed to about in front of the East Stirlingshire goal, sad Johnston and Baker saved the nick of time. Everton were now showing excellent play, and -line high shot by Littlejohn passed beyond the reach of Watson through the home goal. Both teams were now on a footing of equality. The lame forwards broke away, and Johnston terminated a speedy run by sending in shot which sai returned. A minute afterwards Williams, the beat forward on the field, took the ball with him the home goal. His parting shot was a beauty, although unsuccessful. Afterwards became fast and exciting, sod neither eleven could be said to -guilty of anything in the shape of the slightest slackness. The home forwards, who proved themselves somewhat awkward at goal in the first half, were now seen their best in that position. "While the East Stirlingshire front rank was bombarding the Everton goal, first one Everton player and then another missed his kick. Fish not hold of the ball and passed to Johnston, who sent it spinning through amidst cheers. A minute or two later Fisher registered the fourth for East Stirlingshire. Johnston, who was .playing exceedingly well, shot the leather into the of Briggs, and a minute from time he (Johnston) registered the fifth goal for East Stirlingshire, who won by five goals to two. It may be mentioned that the Everton team contained three international players—Kelso, Boyle, and Chadwick.

EAST STERLINGSHIRE 5 EVERTON 2
April 22 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
Played at Falkirk last evening, before 1,500 spectators. The game from the start was evenly contested, and at half time nether team had scored. In the second half was much faster and Stirlingshire scored twice of Fisher with ten minutes gone. Everton scored twice through Chadwick and Meikjejohn But Sterlingshire scored three more goals and won by 5 goals to 2.

EVERTON v EAST STRINGSHIRE
The Liverpool Daily Post- Wednesday, April 22, 1896
At Bainsford, in splendid weather, before 1,500 spectators. Stirlingshire began, and some pretty football was shown by both teams. At the interval neither side had scored. Fisher scored early on resuming and afterwards added a second. Chadwick accepting Williams’s pass, scored for Everton. Littlejohn equalised and Johnston gave Stirlingshire the lead. Fraser scored a fourth and Johnston’s fifth for Stirlingshire, who won by 5 goals to 2.

CELTIC 2 EVERTON 1
April 23 1896. The Liverpool Courier
Played at Glasgow yesterday, before a moderate attendance. Play was even for a time Briggs being brilliant in goal. Martin for Celtic at last scored, and shortly afterwards Martin headed a second. Everton at length got down, and from a corner Chadwick placed into goal, and Milward headed through. The game throughout was poor, towards the close Everton worked hard to draw level, but failed and were beaten by 2 goals to 1.

CELTIC v  EVERTON
Scottish Referee- Thursday, April 23, 1896
These teams met yesterday evening on the celts’ ground at Parkhead, Glasgow, before a meagre attendance of spectators. The home men did not play their full team, the most important absentees being Doyle, McMahon, Blessington, and Maley. The visitors played Tom Robertson (late of Queen’s and now St. Bernard’s). In the first half the homesters had most of the play, but the defence of Briggs, Kelso and Storrier was brilliant. Martin for the Irishmen, opened the scoring from a free kick, and Divers put on a second point. Close on half-time Milward from a corner kick scored the first goal for his team. Half-time- Celtic two goals, Everton one. The second portion was hotly contested and the visitors were more conspicuous, but the Celtic had the hold on them although they could not score, the match ending -Celtic, two goals; Everton, one goal; teams;-
Celtic.- McArthur, goal; Dunbar, Orr, O’Rourke, Meecham, King, Morrison, Madden, martin, Drivers, and Ferguson.
Everton.- Briggs; Kelso, Storrier; Boyle, Roberts, Stewart; Bell, Murray, Williams, Chadwick, and Milward.

CELTIC v  EVERTON
The Liverpool Daily Post -Thursday, April 23, 1896
Played at Glasgow, before a moderate attendance. Both were fairly represented. Play was even for a time, Briggs being brilliant in goal, Martin, for Celtic, scored and shortly afterwards he headed a second, Everton got down, and from a corner Chadwick placed into goal, and Milward headed through. Half-time; Celtic 2 goals, Everton 1. The game throughout was poor. Towards the close Everton worked hard to draw level but failed. Final;- Celtic 2 goals, Everton 1 goal.

WISHAW THISTLE 4 EVERTON 1
April 24 1895. The Liverpool Courier
Everton visited last night, and played the local club. The visitors were not fully represented, Wishaw in the first half had the best of the play, and scored twice from Binnie and Pennan, and Everton once through Bell. The first thirty minutes of the second half, Everton pressed, but could not score and wishaw getting away towards the finished put on another couple of goals, putting themselves in the majority by four goals to one.

WISHAM THISTLE V EVERTON
April 24 1896. Glasgow Herald.
Everton were the guests of Wishaw Thistle last night, and the famous Liverpool Combination brought out a large concourse of spectators to Old Public Park . Teams: - Wisham: - Borland, goal; Neal, and Leach, backs; Gavin, Foyer, and Thomson half-backs; Burnie, Smith, Borland, Pennan, and Ferguson, forwards. Everton: - Briggs goal; Ariidge and Storrie, backs; Kelso, Meilklejohn, and Elliott half-backs; Bell, Murray, J. Chadwick, Milward and E. Chadwick, forwards. Referee Mr. Trait Port, Glasgow. The visitors had the benefit of the incline in the first half, but in the opening stages were kept almost entirely on the defensive Wishaw opened scoring ten minutes from the start and the Everton forwards had seldom crossed the boundary line before the Thistle added a second point. The visitors great improved in their play after this, and kept the Jags defence busy, while Bell ultimately scored with a rocket shot although he was supicually near offside. Half-time was called with the Englishmen in the minority by 2-1. The second half was stubbornly contested, the visitors being slightly the best of matters but were reckless in front of goal. The Thistle came away unexpectedly neat the close and on other two occasions Briggs was beaten before the whistle sounded. Final; Wisham Thistle 4 Everton 1. The English club's display was on the whole disappointing, and the players seemed to take their opponents too cheaply.

WISHAW THISTLE v  EVERTON
The Liverpool Daily Post- Friday, April 24, 1896
Everton visited Wishaw last night, and played the local club. The visitors were not fully represented. Wishaw, in the first half, had the best of the play, and scored twice to Everton’s once. For the first thirty minutes of the second half Everton pressed, but could not score, and Wishaw, getting away near the finish, ran on another couple of points, putting themselves in the majority by 4 goals to 1.

MARLOW v  EVERTON
South Bucks Standard-Friday 24, 1896
The latter continued their southern tour by playing Marlow on the Crown enclosure at the riverside town on Friday evening in fine weather before a good attendance. Milward’s presence in the Everton team was a considerable attraction, the famous Everton being an ex-Marlow man. Marlow win the toss and played down-hill, Chadwick kicking off at six o’clock. Marlow at once forced the play and E. Shaw spoilt a good opening by shooting over. Milward and Chadwick were busy on the left wing for Everton, but Handsombody and Murton played a sound defensive game. After ten minutes play the Marlow forwards got through and James scored. Fast exchanges followed, till eventually weak play by the Marlow half-backs let in James Chadwick who equalised with a grand shot. Marlow twice came near scoring, but the interval arrived with the game one goal each. In the second half Everton had the best of the play, but could not get through. Marlow made some good attempts to score, and E. Shaw was unlucky with a shot which hit the post. Everton worked hard in the last ten minutes, but shot badly, and the result of a good game was a draw of one goal each. Teams;- Marlow; R.W. Menham, goal; H.G. Morton and F.T. Handsomebody, backs; E. Shaw (captain), J.G. Meakes and F.C. Keen, half-backs; W. Davis, and J.W. Janes, right wing; J. Ellerton, centre; F.O. Nicholls and C.A. shaw, left wing.
Everton; Briggs, goal; Barker and Storrier, backs; Goldie, bell and Stewart, half-backs; McDonald, and Williams, right wing; J. Chadwick, centre; E. Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.

GLENTORAN 0 EVERTON 2
April 27 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
The first of a trio of matches arranged between Everton Sunderland, and some local teams was played at the oval at Belfast between Everton and Glentoran on Saturday. The ground was in good condition, but sloppy. Towards the close of the game there were over 2,000 spectator's present. Everton won the toss, and played with the wind towards the pavilion goal. Murray scored the first goal for Everton. A free kick almost immediately afterwards left the visitors two goals to nil at half time. The game started again without leaving the field and a fine exhibition of play was witnessed of which, Everton's combination was the chief feature. The final result was a win for Everton by two goals to nil.

EVERTON v  BELFAST GLENTORAN
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, April 27, 1896
Played at the Oval before 2,000 spectators. Glentoran were assisted by Milnes (Linfield) and Scott (Cliftonville). Everton pressed, and in fifteen minutes Murray scored, Williams immediately scored again from a penalty Glentoran woke up and had good chances of scoring in the second half. Everton had most of the play. Final Everton 2, goals Glentoran nil.

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NEWS
The athletic News- Monday, April 27, 1896
By the Loiterer
The Everton team have been playing an in and out sort of game in what I may call their holiday matches. They meet Sunderland on Tuesday for the edification of the Belfast football enthusiasts and a consideration of £30. Some of the club’s supporters take exception to the £ s.d. spirit shown by the directors, but as far as I can see the bulk of the club’s supporters have no cause to grumble. The shareholders, too, have been met fairly, and the prices at Goodison Park have not been raised for club matches. On the occasion of the inter-League encounter the goal stands were charged for, but this arrangement was not made by the directors, but the League committee, and I understand it took the directors all their time to persuade the English Association to keep to popular prices on the occasion of the Bolton Wanderers and Sheffield Wednesday cup-tie. Then, again, I am pleased to say the Dick Williams’ benefit affair has turned out satisfactory to himself. It is all very well to find fault with what is termed the niggardly spirit of the directors, but if the balance in hand diminishes there is much taking at the annual meeting, and already some of the shareholders are preparing for the event.
I understand the bulk of the Everton players have signed during the tour. Adams is undecided, and, of course, it is much too easily for Holt to put his name to the necessary form. Two Guardsmen were booked in London, a goalkeeper and a full-back and I dare say there will be other new men engaged.

SUNDERLAND 1 EVERTON 2
April 29 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
An exhibition match between Sunderland and Everton was played at the Oval Glentoran last night. The weather was good, and there were 3,000 spectators present. Sunderland won the toss and opened with a dash towards the Everton goal, Campbell was in front, but Milward got Possession and made off with the ball and after a sharp tussle at the goal, Doig had to give way, and Milward shot the first goal. Sunderland had a chance on the restart, and Hannah shot the ball skimming the posts. Sunderland pressed hard during the rest of the half but nothing further was done. On the restart, several corner having been claimed on both sides, Milward shot the second gaol for Everton. Sunderland now had a show, and Miller after a fine run, the whole length of the field passed to Campbell who returned the ball, and miller shot the first goal for Sunderland. When time was called nothing further was scored, the resulted being 2 goals to 1 in favour to Everton.