SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 4 EVERTON 0 (Fa Cup game 24)
March 2 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
Unfavorable weather militated against a big crowd turning out at Olive Grove, for when the game commenced there would not be more than 12,000 spectators present. Unfortunately. The Everton difference had to rearrange their team, owing to McInnes, Holt and Arridge being unfit, and from the outset their chances to which the semi final stage were none too preraising. Bain had been falling all night, and the game commenced in a drizzling downpour, on a very sodden ground. Wednesday opened well by forcing a corner, and Petrie keeping his forwards well ahead, a chance to score was missed by Brash who lay in a good position. Danger threatened a moment later, as a free kick was given to Wednesday, just outside the twelve-yard line, but Milward charged down, only to find Petrie in possession, and the latter with a clinkling shot skimmed the bar. Goldie put in some neat touches and frequently kept the home left at bay and on Bell racing off the ball was eventually transferred to Chadwick who had a long abortive shot at Massey. Spikesley recovered lost ground, when Cameron and Bell realised, Storrier supplementing the movement with a clever run down and shot from the side of his foot, but Massey lay in line and brought off a lucky save. Again the Everton right were prominent, but Jamieson gave a minimum of quarters, and Brady, Brash Davies, and Spikesley fairly outwitted the Everton halves the ball finally coming across to Spikesley, who meeting it in the air tipped it over Adams head to Brash, and the Latter finding Hillman out of goal had no difficulty in heading it in. the reverse was effected after 15 minutes play. On getting to work again the Wednesdayites swarmed round the Everton defence and Brady had an easy chance to put the ball through but shot badly. Spikesley had the better of Adams, and forced a corner, which came to nothing, and just as the Everton right were getting in a good astride, Cameron was kicked in collision with Crawford and retired for some five minutes. After Milward had put the ball behind Spikesley got off with one of his characteristic runs, and had practically no opposition when the finished up with a shot that went wide across the goal. Davies next tested Hillman, but the latter only partially clearing Bell rushed up and put it through before the Evertonians could get back to his post. The visitors livened up after this second downfall and following a fine movement on the left, Milward gave Chadwick an easy chance to reduce the margin. But the latter miskicked and Earp made no mistake in getting it away. No further scoring took place up to the interval when Sheffield had a lead of two goals to none. The Everton forwards with Bell in the centre, opened much better and tracks were early made to the home end. There was no passing Brandon, however, whose hugh lunges kept the Blues at a considerable distance and then Brash and Brady took up the running, Petrie finishing the movement with a clinking hard drive at goal, the ball rebounding from the crossbar to play. Repeated attempts by Milward to get away were only met by Earp and then Bell initiated a fine passing movement, which combined in Brash defeating Goldie and as Hillman had come out, the ball was drive into the net for the third time. Shortly afterwards Spikesley made the running again and, centring accurately to Bell, a fourth point was put on. Following the Everton played up with greater dash, but were rarely allowed within shooting range. Chadwick sent in a couple of long shots, but of no great difficulty, and when the end came, Sheffield Wednesday were popular victors by 4 goals to nil. Teams: - Everton: - Hillman, goal, Adams, and Kelso, backs Goldie, Boyle (captain), and Stewart, halfbacks, Bell, Cameron, Storrier, Chadwick, and Milward forwards. Sheffield Wednesday: - Massey, goal, Earp, and Brandon, backs, Petrie, Crawshaw, and Jamieson halfbacks, Brash, Brady, Bell, Davies, and Spikesley, forwards.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 DARWEN RESERVES 3
March 2 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
Played at Goodison Park, before 2,000 spectators. The home team opened well, and had the better of the game in the first portion of play. Hartley and Latta beating the Darwen custodian with clever shots whilst the visitors got one pass Briggs once, the score at half time was 2 goals to 1 in favor to Everton. The second half was altogether in favour of the Leaguers, who they well much better staving powers, and though Briggs kept them out repeatedly he was twice beaten, and the visitors won a hardy game by 3 goals to 2. Everton: - Briggs, goal, Kelly and Storrier backs Latta, Meiklejohn, and Mainman, halfbacks, Williams, McDonald, Hartley, Murray, and Schofield forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
March 2 1896. The Liverpool mercury
The Everton club has surely hit upon troublous times, and no doubt it is thinking today what is thought on Saturday-that there is no corners obscure enough to crawl into the tide over the time of crushing defeat. After awaiting in a valorous and vengeful mood for an opportunity to wipe out the defeat of the last League engagement at Oliver Grove where their colours were lowered by three goals to one, it was hard to be drubbed beaten, and run away with to the tune of four goals to nil. They smarted and chafed under the League defeat, but what was that to this? Outmatched, outran outplayed, beaten in close quarters, and dodged in the open. And now to account for so compete a failure. The forward rarely rose above the level of mediocrity, and it was unquestionably this branch of the team that was responsible for such a heavy trouncing. Certainly allowance must be made, owing to force of circumstance, for a rearrangement of the line, but that in itself does not account for so severe a defeat. There was an utter absence all along the line of that harmonious working that characticterised the brilliant victorious they obtained up to a few weeks ago, and that the van is state was apparent on Saturday to the most ordinary observer. Storrier was altogether cut of his depth as a centre forward, for his rarely kept his wings under control, but what could be expected from a player who has been long absent from high pressure football, and moreover, is admittedly ill at ease in this position? A capable centre forward on Saturday would unquestionably have restored the balance, and under the cirstunance would it not have been better for the prospects of the club had the directors retaised the service of Flewitt, at any rate until the close of the season, for when in strict training there could be no question about his ability. In the first half of the game the Everton right wing were almost alone in attack, and when either Cameron or Bell was dispossessed of the ball they were first to claim attention again, the left wing being left severely alone. The contrasted markedly to the play of the Wednesday forwards, who generallised the work to a nicely for the ball travelled from one to the other in a manner that remained one of Evertonians methods a few weeks ago. Cameron and Bell got through most work, and were going strongly when the former received a nasty kick when in collision with Crawshaw and their unfortunate incident had no small bearing to the subsequently play. Bell got in many fine sprints down the wing in the first half, but whenever he become at all dangerous. Jamieson, the opposing halfback was on his track in a trice, and repeatedly kept him out of deadly range. When the first half had all but expired Bell went centre forward and the change up to the interval worked wonderfully well, for twice in succession the Wednesday goal escaped marvelously. However, in the second portion the home halves, having nothing examptional to contend with on the wing, confined their attentions towards the centre, and most able did they carry out their mission. Storrier was more successful on the wing, was setting down when, owing to a wrenched knee, he was compelled to gave up. Chadwick on the whole played a very feeble game. His shooting lacked the old sting and though he sent in several shots, they were invariably directed straight to the custodian. Milward did very well, considering the scant attention he received, and one could scarcely blame him for attempting to run through single headed. He opened out one fine chance for his partner after Wednesday had scored their second goal, and had it been taken the visitors would have been encouraging to further exertions for the crowd were now show in appreciation the movements that led up to it. The Everton halfbacks played as good game throughout but they were at times, pardonably as unable to stand the heavy strain consequently upon playing behind a beaten lines. The fact that four goals were scored does not in the least reflect upon the work of the half backs, for the defenders would have been nothing less than peerless in their respective positions had they, under the existing circumstances been able to keep out the Wednesday forwards in each as vein as they were on Saturday. Goldie signalised his return to the team by some fine tackling and placing of the ball, and while Boyle was ready in judgement Stewart was again a concientious tried all the way. As Arridge owing to a bronchial attack, was unable to play, much uneasiness was abroad as to weather Kelso would survive the ordeal of filming the leftback position with credit; but whatever doubt may have existed on this point, it vanished before the game was many minutes old, as he settled down to some excellent work, both in tackling and kicking, and kept his position as well as any other player on the field. Adams play dwell consideringly the wing he had against him, but unfortunately Hillman's judgement was not as sound as usual, for both the first and second goals were the outcome of leaving his charge. He had however, twice the number of shots keep out as his vis a vis and they were almost without exception of a high-class character. With regard to the home side, they appeared from the very outset a winning team. There was no mistaking the deadly movements of their forwards when they got possession and threatened their way to the last line of defence and as stated above it was in the respect that they towered over their opponents. Bell who at one time was a likely candidate for the Everton ranks, kept his wings well employed And ever ready to seized openings was a constant there to Adams Kelso and Hillman. The two inside men, Brady and Davies though the latter at times was selfishly inclined, also played well, and Spikesley and Brash were always dangerous whatever the ball came their way. It was a fine line all though, and should they maintain their form that defeats, Wednesday will have to pile on goals. Jamieson an Evertonian a few seasons ago, played a magnificent halfback game by repeatedly accounting for Cameron and Bell and initiating attacks on the opponents defence. Crawshaw was a s sound as ever, and while Petrie executed capital work on the right it was more by bad fortunate that he failed to add to the score, as one of his shots skimmed the bar in the first five minutes and another immediately after resuming rebounded from the crossbar when different at a difficult angle. Earp also an Ex-Evertonian played a strong back game but nothing could have been fine then the all round defenders of Brandon who was simply impetable. Massey was not severely tested, but whatever came his way was safely dealt with. Taking the game all round the Blades were quite four goals better than their opponents and if they can but maintain that form they should be somewhere about when the final comes round.

THE ENGLISH CUP -THIRD ROUND
The Sheffield Independent, Monday March 2, 1896
SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY v  EVERTON
THE BLADES THRIUMPHANT, EVERTON OVERWHELMED
The pick of the round again. This was the general opinion when it was known that Wednesday and Everton would have to meet once more in the third round of the cup ties. From the day of the draw the interests has increased rather than grown less, both in Sheffield and Lancashire, and it did not suffer through the meeting of the two clubs on Shrove Tuesday. That match still fresh in the memories of those who witnessed it, was really a more decided win for the Sheffielders than it appeared on paper, for while the visitors were about at full strength, the home team lacked the services of Brady and Brandon, and had a forward playing half-back, in addition to which Bell was away injured almost half the game, and Davis was of little use for three-quarters of it. To a lest extent this was lost sight of by the admires of the Liverpool team, who, notwithstanding the defeat of their favourities by 3 to 1, still greatly fancied their chances as the cup winners of 1896. The very victory of the “Blades” in the League match was supposed to have sounded their death knell, for we were solemnly informed that so many chinks had been discovered in the Wednesday armour during that 90 minutes on Pancake Tuesday, particularly by the lynx-eyed Hillman, that they were practically wiped out before they went on the field on Saturday. Confidence in the Evertonians was widespread, for an eminent Lancashire football scribe stated that though he would not be surprised at a draw, he expected Everton to win, an opinion that met with the gracious approval of a Sheffield critic, whose previous flights into the realms of prophecy have not increased his honour in his own country. Everything pointed to a hard, stern, and interesting contest and an immense crowd, but man proposes and, in this case, alas, the rain god disposed, and that effectually, for the tap was turned on about midnight on Friday and never turned off until nearly the end of the game. A sullensky, dismal drizzle, and mud and slush on every side, are not calculated to bring a record gate, and it speaks much for the football enthusiasm of Sheffielders that 12,000 should be found willing to brave the elements. They had their reward however, and witnessed some glorious play, while the weather improved as the afternoon wore on, so that the sum at the finish seemed half inclined to honour Wednesday’s victory with his presence. By half past two there was a gathering of the plans all round the ground, the worthy musicians doing their best to enliven the wait, with a performance of “Her golden hair was hanging down her back” and other popular and exhilarating melodies. Though after the big “gate2 of a fortnight ago the crowd looked somewhat small, it nevertheless was of respectable dimensions, and its vocal efforts seemed to suffer but little from the general state of dampness that prevailed. It was early seen that the visitors were not without a numerous following by the way in which they were received when they turned out, but as might be expected their greeting paled before that given to the home team, who showed themselves a moment later. Both lots of players looked in splendid condition, and each club had wisely trained at home, and in the case of the Sheffielders what better training ground could be desired than the Derbyshire hills within reach of their own dressing rooms and conveniences at Olive Grove. The home team was as selected, Brandon taking Langley’s place at back, and Brash partnering Brady on the right wing, but the visitors had three alterations from the eleven that did duty in the League match, Arridge, Holt and McInnes giving way to Kelso, Goldie and Storrier, the last named being centre forward. Arridge was reported unwell, and Holt injured, but it was whispered that one or two of the alterations were made not without a desire to strengthen the team. There was no wind, and the ground though of course very heavy was not as bad by any means as might have been expected, and scores of important Cup Ties have been played on turf in a far worse condition. Earp won the toss though it meant no advantage, and amidst the hum of suppressed excitement the game commenced. For fifteen minutes nothing was done in the scoring line, but it was quickly seen the great Everton combination was not going to have all its own way. They showed pretty passing at times, and clever half-back play, but they lacked the dash and finish of their opponents, who soon roused the enthusiasm of their supporters. The forward play was beautiful, the understanding amongst the five being perfect, and well fed and backed up as they were, it was only to be expected they would score. When they did it was a pretty effort, from left wing right across the goal mouth to little Brash, who did the trick amidst such yells as only can come from a Sheffield crowd; nor were the signs of satisfaction confined to the spectators, for there was much hand-shaking and somersault-throwing amongst the players, Master Davis coming to grief with his head in the mud in his joy. Scarcely had the cheering died away than the pressure was renewed, and with beautiful long swinging passes the Wednesday forwards kept up the attack. The visitors broke away at times, Bell and Cameron leading the way as a rule, but the Wednesday backs made no mistakes, Brandon in particular being a bright and shinning star, while Earp got in some splendid kicks. The play was full of incidents, and the crowd was fairly worked up. Now it was the trickiness of Davis, a moment later a brilliant dash by Spikesley, then a clever pass by Bell, our Bell, to say nothing of the cleverness of the homes halves or Stewart, Bell (the blue Bell), or Cameron for Everton. Towards the finish of the half a second goal came to Wednesday, and again the crowd gave voice in no uncertain manner. This time, as before, it came from the left wing, the centre forward beating the mighty Hillman in his own particular style. When the welcome tootle of the whistle-blower was heard announcing the interval there were manifest signs of satisfaction on the faces of the Sheffield part of the crowd, and equally evident signs of uneasiness amongst the Liverpudlians. After a few minutes, during which the Wednesday players changed shorts, and several of them, including Spikesley (who, be it known, had been very unwell all day, received the attention of the trainer, the men turned out again. Like the first portion, the second half was greatly in favour of the Sheffielders, whose form all round was beyond praise. There was not a weak spot in the team, and man for man they were clever and smarter than their opponents, excepting perhaps Massey, who had so much less to do than Hillman that the two could not be compared. Right up to the finish the game was fast, and the home lot stayed it out, though they naturally slackened at the finish, when leading by four goals. How the people shouted when Brash, little Brash, got the ball from Bell, and going away at top speed, beat two men and scored, though it is rumoured he had a bit of luck at the finish; and how they yelled when Bell made the score a quartet in splendid style, though there was equal credit due to the left-wing flyer for his share in the matter. All these things, and many more also, are they not written below, and will they not live in the memories of those who witnessed the doughty deeds, and be discussed in great fulness by the learned in football lore? There can be no doubt that, despite the desperate efforts of the Evertonians, they were overplayed and outmanoeuvred, and the Sheffielders well deserved their glorious victory of four to nil. To the strained of “See the conquering hero comes” the players left the field; the crowd gave them a final cheer, and then slowly dispersed, discussing the game in all its aspects. Quickly quietness reigned where excitement had so lately ruled supreme and as at the beginning the sullen sky and the dismal drizzle were in possession, only the mud and slush was a little muddier and slushier than at the start. 
THE GAME
Earp having won the toss, Storrier kicked off towards the City end, there being little or no wind to affect the play. A dashing attack on Massey’s goal by Storrier saw Earp clear with a big kick close in.  Smart work by Crawshaw transferred play to midfield, where a bustling attack by the Wednesday front rank resulted in Kelso giving the first corner of the match, the ball just touching him as he attempted to head away. The flag kick was well placed but got away, and Earp, with a fairly good opening, sent the ball very high and wide of the mark. A minute later Wednesday looked like opening their account, Bell appearing to have gained a capital opening, but before he could get in his shot Boyle brought him down heavily. The Wednesday man endeavoured to fall over the penalty line, but the free kick was rightly given, a yard outside. Earp took the free kick, and after a sharp tussle the ball came out from the ruck of players, where Pettie gained possession, and with a terrific shot was only just wide. Then a pretty bit of work by the Everton front rank threatened danger, Storrier cleverly eluding the home defence, but finishing up with a rather tame shot which Massey easily cleared. The Wednesday men were in terrible earnest, Adams and Kelso having a very rough time of it. Once, however, Massey was heartily cheered for a fine save from Cameron. Still the home forwards were doing most of the attacking, and Hillman had twice to handle from long shots. Fifteen minutes from the start the persistent attacks of the Wednesday men were rewarded. Tricky play by Davis and Spikesley brought the ball well up, and the latter, centring almost from the line Brash had no difficulty in heading the first goal, a performance which was greeted with tumultuous applause. Wednesday were now fairly on the warpath, and Brady missed a capital opening two minutes later. Another corner to Wednesday was not improved upon, Jamieson shooting high over the bar. The visitors now gained a corner, but after a sharp struggle the danger was cleared. For a few minutes play was fairly even, and though both goals were attacked in turn there was not much sting about the attacks. Brandon and Earp were both kicking powerfully, and Crawshaw, Petrie, and Jamieson were always bothering the Everton forwards, who found great difficulty in getting in their shots. The Wednesday front rank made many dashing assaults on Hillman’s fortress and the Everton custodian had a very anxious time of it. A big kick by Brandon landed the ball well down the field, and Spikesley, dodging his opponents got the ball near the Everton touch line, but shot right across the goal mouth, none of the other forwards being up to take advantage of the centre. Cameron was off about five minutes, but returned all right. Everton gained another corner, but this was placed outside. Another grand run by Spikesley saw that player shoot in splendidly. Hillman rushed out and just managed to stop the ball, but whilst that custodian and one of the backs was on the floor with Bell, the latter got to the ball and scored a second goal with a clever shot before Hillman could get back. This was after about half an hour’s play, and the Wednesday supporters were now worked up to a high pitch of excitement as it was generally realised that the home team had got the full measure of their opponents. Directly after this success a slight stoppage was occasioned through Spikesley being hurt, but the left-winger quickly resumed. A smart attack by Everton resulted in another corner being conceded them, but this was again put the wrong side of the post. Down to the other end dashed the Wednesday men from the goal-kick, and Adams conceded another corner, from which David shot over the bar. Again the home team attacked in a body, and Brash should have scored another goal, but shot outside, Spikesley making a desperate but ineffectual attempts to reach the ball as it rolled just outside the post. Half-time was now close at hand, but before this arrived Davis again gave Hillman a handful, which that custodian cleared cleverly. Half-time was now called, the Wednesday men being loudly cheered as they retired to the dressing room with the score standing as follows;- Wednesday 2 goals, Everton 0 goals.
On restarting, Everton appeared determined to make up for their weakness in the first half, and quickly gained a corner kick. This was well placed, but just as well got away by the home defence. Wednesday soon got into their stride again, and the Everton half-backs appeared utterly unable to stop the combined rushes of the Wednesday forwards. A series of brilliant attacks on Hillman’s charge were dealt with, a corner kick and a foul to the home team causing a lot of trouble, Petrie sending in a fine shot which struck the upright and rebounded into play. Still keeping up the pressure, Bell, for Wednesday, made a spirited run, and, cleverly eluding the Everton backs, finished up with a shot which Hillman did well to clear even at the expense of a corner kick. This was not improved upon, but 12 minutes from the recommencement the home team were rewarded with a third goal, Brash cleverly beating Hillman with a capital shot just as that custodian had rushed out to clear. The goalkeeper appealed for a foul, the ball having touched Brash’s hand, but the appeal was not allowed, much to the disgust of Hillman. The Evertonians were now thoroughly demoralised, and although at times the forwards broke away, and got into the Wednesday quarters, their attacks were only spasmodic and were easily cleared by the home backs, who left nothing to chance, Brandon kicking and tackling in fine style on these occasions. A corner to Everton proved of no use to them, while directly after Hillman was busy fisting away shots from a free kick close in. The Everton halves, with the exception of Stewart, could make little impression on the Wednesday forwards, and the two backs, who were none too safe under  the circumstances, had a rough time of it. Nearly all the play was in Wednesday’s favour and when the fourth goal was scored for the home team the supporters of the visitors gave up all hope of their favourites passing into the semi-final. This point was really the best goal of the match. Brash cleverly outwitted two or three opponents in midfield and transferred to Spikesley. This player and Davis quickly worked the ball well into the Everton quarters, where Bell was given possession, and that player, going within a short distance of the burly Everton custodian, easily scored. This was the first time Hillman had been in his goal when the ball had been got into the net, and this fact afforded no little satisfaction to the home team’s supporters. If the Evertonians appeared a beaten team before they appeared utterly powerless now, and the Wednesday players took matters fairly easy, having got the full measure of their opponents. For a time, the game was not very interesting, the Wednesday halves, of whom Crawshaw and Petrie shone most conspicuously, doing most of the work, while Brady, who had played a really beautiful game throughout the match, and gave the outside and centre men some of the most accurate passes possible, contented himself with assisting the half-backs, with an occasional pass to Brash, who on one occasion almost scored; but was tackled just in time. All interest had gone out of the game, although towards the close Everton made desperate attempts to reduce their opponents’ lead, but all to no purpose. Without combination, and with no one to hold them together, they draftedabout in a most hopeless manner. Added to this, they had to finish the game with only ten men, Storrier having unfortunately accidentally wrenched his knee, and having had to be carried off the field. The heavy ground had told its tale on most of the players, the visitors evidently being the greatest sufferers, and players and spectators alike appeared heartily glad when the whistle went sounding time. Thus Wednesday were left easily and deservedly victorious of a rather one-sided game as follows;- Sheffield Wednesday 4 goals, Everton 0 goals.

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
The Athletic News- Monday, March 2, 1896
By the Loiterer
We are out of the running for all the chief honours attached to football. First the League was dropped, or practically so, and a great effort was then to be made by the Everton club to raise themselves by winning the English club, and it is now well known they utterly failed; in fact, to judge by the score they must not have made a serious attempt. They had plenty of supporters at Sheffield, both numerously and influentially, for past and present directors made the journey, and it goes without saying they came back thoroughly disappointed. No excuse is put forward, and it is conceded that the Sheffield players deserved the victory, and by such a substantial majority, too. The team might have bene stronger perhaps, but only in the forwards, as Kelso and Goldie are recognised League players, and I am pleased to hear such good accounts of Kelso’s play. No, the painful fact must be recognised that once more the team did not rise to the occasion. I am not the one to advocate rash measures even after repeated failures, but I think it will be acknowledged that the introduction of new blood in the team would be beneficial. Let the men by young uns- players who have a reputation to make, and not those who have already gained distinction, and rest upon it. Both our teams are too clever to win if there is anything at stake. Surely we have ample proof of this with the failures in cup ties and the test matches. The forwards of both Everton and Liverpool are undoubtedly clever, but they have got in a certain grooves as it were, and too much reliance is placed on their abilities, which would be all right if more energy were shown in carrying it out. With opponents who are continually on the ball it is essential, to command success for the passes to be followed up, not, as is often the case, depending on the ball going as desired and a little of that dash which was a feature with Lancashire teams of ten years ago would go a long way in securing better results.

HOW EVERTON FELL AT SHEFFIELD
The Athletic News- Monday, March 2, 1896
By Nondescript
Once more into the breach at the Oliveless Grove, there to see great football played by Sheffield Wednesday. A wet dismal afternoon “beastly cheerful,” to use pantomime phrase- spent among rival houses of York and Lancaster, witnessing the complete rout of the representatives of the “red nose.” Such were the experience of Saturday at one of the four great Cup-ties. Better to come out to see something in a Sheffield fog, though I, than stay at home to cultivate a hump as big as a lugged bear’s in the moistness of Manchester’s mist. So I hied me forth; expecting to be crushed out of shape amongst a typical cutlery Cup-tie crowd, had plenty of room and good seeing; anticipating a close and even struggle, looked on at what must have been to many Liverpudlian eyes the mournful spectacle of Everton being smitten hip and thigh. For, after all, when clubs single themselves out of the rack and come together so late in the competition as the third round we do expect somewhat of evenness of calibre amongst them. Had there been a bulged-out crowd to see it all for themselves I might have said little about it; but for the benefit of the expected thousands who shied at the incessant patter on the footway and the creamy thoroughfares and who came not, I must fill up a share of space, and moreover Sheffielders one and all can play the game over again with me in cold type, while an explanation of Everton’s dire collapse will be interesting, if sadly so, to the absent. “Richard Samuels.” It is safe to say that the attendance, recorded at a trifle over 12,000, would have been doubled had the elements been, in the language of the junior reporter, propitious. The greater part of these were hoping, yet doubtful, that the Wednesday would win; some few hundreds came from Liverpool prepared to see Everton quite reverse the previous running, and shake the enemy as terrier shaken rat. Alas, for those travellers from the west. They had never so much room for even an apology of a cheer. A glance at the visiting team as they stepped upon the field somehow shook my confidence in Everton entirely. Look at the names, and mark the representative strength of each side- Sheffield Wednesday;- Massey, goal; Earp and Brandon, backs; Petrie, Crawshaw, and Jameson, half-backs; Brash, Brady, Bell, Davis, and Spikesley, forwards.
Everton; Hillman, goal; Adams, and Kelso, backs; Goldie, Boyle, and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, Cameron, Storrier, Milward, and Chadwick, forwards. Referee; Mr. A. Kingscott (Derby).
Why the Everton authorities chose to stand by such a team, lacking as it did two eminent professors, is not my purpose to inquire. I suppose they picked what seemed to them best. For a time, the wearers of the cornflower blue certainly were very responsive to the spirited calls made upon them by the frisky Sheffielders, and after the local Bell had been scientifically sandwiched between two Everton backs, just as he was about to ring up Hillman, there was more than a little bit of merit in the way Storrier slipped round Earp and put a left-footed screw shot into Massey’s arms. After that, however, the Everton centre seemed remarkably unable to get along in unison with his colleagues, and all one could admire about the Everton attack was the masterly fashion in which Bell and Cameron hoodwinked their opponents in wing work. At this, however, the attempts of the visitors to score ended, and when once Spikesley and the rest of the Sheffield van got well moving in the contrary direction the “conversation” between them and the defence they sought to overcome was long and aminated. This was the first time I had seen Everton play since the season began, and, not much impressed with the precision of their attack, I was equally as little struck with the safety of their rear-guard. The very first business-like shot Hillman had he blundered with, and it was very expensive indeed. It arose from an assault on the Wednesday left, and the keeper, deeming his backs unable to cope with it, rushed out of his goal to clear, and ere he could recover the position Spikesley, from near the line, had hooked the ball beautifully over Adams’s head for Brash to do the needful -which he did. This rather disheartened the Evertonians, and worse luck was in store, as Cameron, wrenching himself, had to leave the field for some while. Even when he returned, he went a bit gingerly in his slow paces, and it never could be said that he did himself fair justice after his collision. With Brandon hammering away like a giant killer there was little hope of anything being given away in that quarter, and indeed, with a bit of luck and a few cool heads to back up Spikesley, Sheffield’s score might have been increased on two occasions, for Brady was given the favour of an absolutely open goal, while a beautiful cross from the International left-winger under difficulties went a begging. Still, however, Wednesday’s persistence was worth a deal more than the laboured combination of the seaport team, and by and bye Hillman ran out of his goal again, mixed himself up with a scrummage, lost his whereabouts, and ere he had time to gather them and himself off the floor Bell had the ball in the net for the second time, and the Sheffield crowd, shaking itself of the moisture, cheered, and began to think that the match was half won. It was just half won, and it took the same number of goals in the second portion to make up the full complement. For his two grievous errors of judgement Hillman once partially atoned when, in single-handed conflict with Bell, he brought off a grand save; but then again he was at fault in repeating his old tactics, the ball, however, as luck would have it, going slick against the bar. The Everton forwards up to the interval almost, had been so short somehow of a key that Bell had exchanged places with Storrier with a view to make the combination smoother of running, and the change momentarily had augured well, as just before the half-time whistle blew he all but got the better of Massey. But very rarely indeed did the visitors steer themselves on a scoring tack, and generally speaking they were as unto a timepiece which wants winding-up, going and stopping, and going and stopping again. Wednesday, on the other hand, were never idle, cheered on lustily by their supporters, who having once tasted, were as thirsty as old topers after goals. And they were not disappointed, for Brash went solo and got ‘em beautifully, and with the Sheffield Bell once more on the “ting-a-ling,” the locals had an abundance of goals at the finish, while poor Everton had a misère hand. Not all being whilst players, the point of this poor, spavined joke may be lost upon you. Thus once again, and as in the case of Sunderland, the Oliveless Grove had proved Everton’s bete noir. (This is a phrase borrowed from the French, and is thought to have a connection with knur and spell, but will serve here.) It is locally considered that the Wednesday play their best game on the top of the ground, but having seen them twice this season, and on soppy turf, they must, to improve on those two performances, play a game fit only for the gods to watch. There was not one weak spot in the team. Massey played confidently in goal, happy in filling a post which, the older the game grew, he knew was on the winning side, and nothing could have been finer than Brandon’s resolute back play, with which Earp’s steadiness lost by comparison. Still two backs, the one bold and dashing and the other of the safe and stay-at-home sort, make up a fine partnership. Crawshaw well merits his International cap. He was never still, and always doing rare good work, frequently having a business-like pop at goal on his own account. I don’t know another man to beat him in his place the country through. The forwards were an exceedingly good lot. Spikesley rendered yeoman help, notwithstanding that he was not in the best of health, and that on the top of this came some rather rough mauling. In the first half it had been a question with him whether or not to retire, after an awkward bump, and he was indeed being assisted off, but all at once he changed his mind and returned, amid, of course, the kind of approval bestowed on such melodramatic incidents. Davis fed him unselfishly, and the triumvirate of B’s which made up the quintette were as busy as those lively members of the insect world engaged in the honey trade. They were never afraid of showing their sting either. Although the Wednesday displayed as much vigour and as much staying power as though they had been fed for a week on the far-famed Barnsley chops. And to this great form the immediate precursor, it will be recalled, was a defeat on the same ground at the instance of Bury. What to say about Everton individually I hardly know, I was so taken aback with them. Evidently off their own pitch in cup-ties they are heaps below themselves. Between the backs, who ought to have stopped the men, and the keeper, who ought to have allowed for the playful eccentricities on the part of a greasy ball, they gave away the first two goals- not that Sheffield did not score them well. Then Cameron’s accident did them no good. Last at all, they lost Storrier, who had been playing with any amount of pluck on the extreme wing, and who sprained himself so badly that he had to be carried off. Never at any time spurred on with confidence, the Everton forwards, as a body, in the second half seemed inclined to give it up as a bad job. Their passing at time it was required to be most precise was ill-timed and badly placed, and their movements very often belied their physique, for they were frequently bustled aside easily. All their finessing amounted to nothing in the long run. The usually active Chadwick was distinctly “off,” while Milward, at times good at others did little more than make holes in his reputation. Cameron did well up to the time he got so severely shook, and perhaps Bell was the best of the lot, and some of his work was not that of a star artist. Of the half-backs Stewart stuck to his guns till he was black in the face- with mud of course- and deserves the most praise of any on the side. there was a shakiness father back, as already indicated, which, pieced together with the lack of decision, method, and spirit forward give you the make up of a very poor team-for Everton-or at least a good team in a poorly humnour. And now it remains to be seen what the Wednesday can do in the classic struggle in a match off their own ground against opponents worthy of their steel. Another joke for the doctors!”

THE ENGLISH CUP-THIRD ROUND
The Liverpool Daily Post -Monday, March 2, 1896
EVERTON v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY
After beating decisively Notts Forest and Sheffield United respectively in the first and second round of the English Cup, Everton had the misfortune to come out last in the draw for the third round, and to be pitted against such redoubtable opponents as Sheffield Wednesday, and that too at Oliver Grove, where it is well known they are real gluttons for work, and very hard to beat. There would be about 10,000 people present when Boyle and Earp advanced to the centre and arranged the preliminaries. Earp won the toss, and scrambling play, owing to the slippery state of the ground, ensued. Bell and Cameron made desperate efforts to get away down the right, but Jamieson almost immediately changed the scene of operations. Smart work by Stewart failed to keep the Sheffield right wing out, and they immediately went down, Kelso inadvertently giving a corner. This was followed by a wild shot from Crawshaw, and after the ball had again been sent clear Boyle, Goldie, and Stewart put the forwards in possession. Earp made a splendid clearance, and the Sheffield Bell raced to the front. A pass from the left was taken up by this player, and then the Sheffielders had a free kick close to the twelve yards lines, Storrier, dashing forward, cleared the ball away, but Petrie caught it on the bound, and sent in a grand shot which just tipped the crossbar. A magnificent effort by the Wednesday Bell was well met by Goldie, but Spikesley returned, and Adams kicked out. The ball again went out off Spikesley, and Bell sent forward. On this occasion Brandon was the saviour of his side, and after some sparkling play in midfield the Evertonians got within shooting distance. Jamieson and Stewart put in some good checking work for their respective sides, the Evertonians getting slightly the best of it. Chadwick here skipped in, and shot by the side of the post. The Everton right wing then advanced, Cameron and Bell each having a share in the move forward. Storrier continued the onward rush, and Massie had to put forth his best efforts to save his charge from downfall. This he did, and from the kick-out the Wednesday forwards were well served, and at once rushed to the front. Kelso cleared from the front of the goal before a shot could be got in, and a pretty passing move as far as the heavy state of the ground, could permit, came from the Everton right. This ended in a shot from Bell, and a further one soon came from the other wing, but neither the outside right nor Milward gave a proper direction to the ball. A long kick by Brandon again saw the home front rank dash up to close quarters, and while Adams was busily engaged with Spikesley, he slipped and gave a corner. The speedy left wing, however again same to the front, and sent in a couple of shots in as many minutes, one going wide and the other being well attended to by hillman. The game up to this point had not only been fiercely contested, but all things considered, remarkably fast. On a free kick being taken from the centre line Goldie cleared, but almost immediately Spikesley dashed forward again, and Hillman ran out to engage him before he could effect his purpose. The Sheffield man had managed to scrape in a centre which Brash met and headed into goal, which was at the time utterly unprotected, the homesters thus earning the first point after exactly fifteen minutes’ play. A couple of minutes later the Everton goal had a narrow escape from Brady, the home team at this time having nearly all the game. Spikesley forced a corner from Adams, and this was met by Jamieson, who shot over the bar. Davies followed suit, and notwithstanding some desperate efforts on the part of Goldie and Adams, the home left, who seemed to be doing most of the attack, got in again and it was left for Kelso to make a brilliant clearance. The visitors were scarcely allowed to go over the half line before Jamieson again gave to his towards, and sterling work by Bell, Davies and Spikesley followed. The latter raced down at a tremendous pace, but he failed to do damage with his shot. By way of a welcome change the Evertonians moved down in attacking order after the ball had been thrown in on the right. A stiff brush then took place between Chadwick and Milward and Earp, and after Massie had been troubled the Evertonians got their first corner. This came to nothing and Brash at once broke away, but he was pulled up for infringing, the off-side rule. A moment later in was observable that Everton had had another slice of ill-luck. Cameron limping off the field. Goldie took a free kick, and this led to a hot onslaught on the Sheffield goal, Massie being twice called upon. Spikesley then again got in, and altogether beat Goldie for speed, but by some mysterious means the latter managed to hamper the left winger to such an extent that he failed to make much use of a splendid opportunity. Still keeping up the attack, Bell, of Wednesday fame, on two occasions threatened the Everton goal. Cameron reappeared just as the Evertonians had transferred play and claimed another corner, which was sent behind. Then Jameson fouled Bell, but the extraordinary efforts of the Evertonians which followed came to nothing. Spikesley dashed away from the centre, and again out-distanced all his opponents. He got in his centre in a lively manner, and Davies immediately shot, but hillman saved. Before the Everton custodian had time to get the ball away, however, he slipped and Bell, at once taking in the situation, sent the ball flying into the net, thus scoring a second goal for the Wednesday centre, along with Davies and Brady, then put in some sterling work, and Hillman was again called upon. He cleared, but the homesters were still in front when the game was stopped for some minutes owing to Spikesley being winded. He continued to occupy his position, and the ball having been thrown up Bell nipped through and shot by the side of the goal. Kelso cleared raid, and Boyle followed this up with some useful work in midfield. Notwithstanding this the Wednesday men were again on the move when Adams was fouled. From the free kick the Everton left wing got possession, and the pair put in some very effective work before Bell narrowly missed heading a goal. Again the Everton men came down and forced a corner, but Milward failed to turn it to good account. The home team at once surprised their opponents by again advancing in double quick time,  but Goldie got his foot in the way of a shot from Bell, and then Hillman finely headed away one from Crawshaw. At this period there was another cessation of hesitation owing to Brandon being injured, but he recovered and took up his stand amid the cheers of the multitude. Kelso then performed very cleverly in keeping out Brady and Brash in succession, but a moment later the latter managed to scrape in a shot which Spikesley just failed to direct into goal. The next moment the Everton men were in front of the Wednesday citadel, but their little trip to the Sheffield quarters was but a finish in the pen. Bell then took the centre position, but this did not improve matters for Everton, the half-time whistle sounding with play near the home goal, Wednesday then leading by 2 goals to nil. When the teams restarted the Wednesday people had the benefit of the breeze, which had sprung up during the interval. The ball once in motion, the Everton right went straight away and gained a corner, the leather being promptly sent from the front of goal by the Wednesday centre forward. Petrie effected a splendid check when Everton came on the right wing, and the Blades had their first pot at goal by the aid of Crawshaw, who shot almost from the centre ring. There was more method about the attack of the home contingent than was apparent in the Everton ranks, and this was shown very much when they once more got down in a very easy manner and claimed what proved to be a fruitless corner. The leather was cleared away, but Brandon at once came with a long punt from the half-time, which sailed over one side of the goal. After a terrific scramble in the Everton goalmouth, Brady struck the crossbar with a clinking shot, and the next moment saw the Evertonians very busy at the opposite end. Chadwick was obstructed, and he immediately passed to his partner, who in turn no seriously hampered by Petrie that he had not the semblance of a chance of getting in his shot. Earp next came in the way of Chadwick, and on the ball being brought back on the right Storrier was pronounced offside. Bell travelled gaily, and then Stewart gave to Chadwick, who was once more spoiled by Earp. The Sheffield centre forward then bounded away, and Hillman had an anxious moment, but he succeeded in getting out of the difficulty. Now come the best move so far by the Everton front rank, Milward trickling Earp splendidly, and effecting a fine centre. Chadwick and Bell had a hand in a shot which troubled Massie to a great extent, but he saved his charge, and a terrific shoot went up when the Sheffield front rank went clean through all opposition, and Brash finished up with a third goal, the Sheffield Wednesday man beating Hillman in splendid fashion. This third reverse only served to what the opposition of the Sheffielders, who forced a corner, but Everton followed suit with a couple, Chadwick nearly scoring. The speed of Spikesley ultimately dashing down and passing over to the right, a fine centre being met by Bell, who scored the fourth goal for the home team, the visitors playing like thoroughly beaten men. Storrier was carried off injured and it was a positively relief when the end came. Sheffield Wednesday winning by 4 goals to none. The gate amounted to £363 1s 6d. teams;-
Everton; Hillman, goal; Adams and Kelso, backs; Goldie, Boyle, and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, Cameron, Storrier, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Sheffield Wednesday;- Massie, goal; Brandon and Earp, backs; Jamieson, Crawshaw, and Petrie, half backs; Spikesley, Davies, Bell, Brady, and Brash, forwards.

EVERTON COMBINATION  v  DARWEN
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, March 2, 1896
This match took place on Saturday at Goodison Park, in most miserable weather, rain falling all the time, before about 2,000 spectators. The following were the teams;- Everton Combination;- Briggs, goal; Palmer, and Cook, backs; Latta, Meiklejohn, and Mainman, half-backs; Williams, McDonald, Hartley, Murray, and Schofield, forwards. Darwen;- Kingsley, goal; Leach, and Lomax, backs; Pearson, Haddow, and McEvoy, half-backs; Hunt, Tyrer, Hunt, Bryan, and Townley, forwards. Hartley kicked off for Everton, but the first attack was made by Darwen and for a time Everton were hard pressed, several hot shots being sent in to Briggs, but all were cleared. Mainman got away on the left, but his pass was intercepted by Leach. Another run by Mainman, resulted in Leach giving a corner, but this was fruitless, and Darwen visited the other end. Briggs saving grandly from a straight shot by Hunt. Everton had then a look in at the visitors’ goal, a foul in front of goal giving them a further advantage, but the ball from the free kick was sent over the bar. Returning, however, the home team no mistake this time, Hartley scoring with a grand shot. Darwen broke away from the centre kick, Hunt testing Briggs with a low shot. The home team scored again, and then Hunt beat Briggs from a long range. Half-time; Everton Combination, 2 goals; Darwen 1 goals, Darwen had decidedly the best of the second half, and, scoring twice, won a finely contested game by 3 to 2.

FROM NEAR AND FAR.
March 3, 1896. The Sheffield Independent.
The London daily newspapers are not yet wound up to interest point as respects the English Cup competition. The only comments worth quoting are the two following the “Chronicle” says the great sensation was the utter wretching of the Everton crew on the Sheffield rocks. After their defeat by the Wednesday in the League, it was felt that Everton's prospects were black, but nobody could have expected such a woeful collapse as was actually made by a club, which a few weeks before had appeared invincible. As Sheffield Wednesday played in this match not a team in the Kingdom would have beaten them and the hasty have at once installed them favourites for the Cup. That I however, is a totally different matter. The “Blades” have so consistently worked their way into the semi-final round year after year without gaining chief honour that their friends have begun to despair of them. Their paper chance is the best of the four clubs, but that is a fact threatency rather then encouraging. I think Sheffield Wednesday have come best out of the bunch by beating the great and mighty Everton pointless by four goals (says “Rover” in the Morning Leader”). Surely Everton are the team of all the disappointing. Weather than any of the league clubs, they cannot purchase pluck-which, after all, is the greatest quality in football. This season Everton seemed to have a chance of the League championship and a great chance of Cup. Now they have lost their hold on both. Perhaps, they will have the sorry satisfaction of seeing the final on their own ground at Goodison Park. As for Wednesday's share of Saturday's performance they are beyond all praise just as their efforts were beyond all expectations when I saw the Blades at Millwall a few weeks ago. I could not understand their indifferent position on the league ladders, but since then they have gone from victory to victory. Provided they do not meet Derby in the next round, the Blades should see the final.

EVERTON’S ENGAGEMENTS
The Liverpool Daily Post – Thursday March 5, 1896
The following teams will represent Everton on Saturday next;-
Against Preston North End, at Goodison Park; 4.
Everton; Hillman, goal; Adams and Arridge, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, McInnes, Milward, Cameron, and Schofield, forwards.
Against Glossop North End, at Glossop
Everton Combination;- Briggs, goal; Balmer and Kelso, backs; Goldie, Meiklejohn, and Mainman, half-backs; Latta, McDonald, Hartley, Murray, and Hill, forwards.

HOWARD v.  THE EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB CO., LIMITED
The Liverpool Echo- Saturday, March 7, 1896
THE SMALL HEATH MATCH
TO THE EDITOR OF THE LIVERPOOL ECHO
Sir.- As the plaintiff in this action, I trust you will allow me to say a few words in justification of the course I took herein. Having only just returned from Ireland, I was unable to explain my position before. As to the merits of the case, I may say I paid my money to see a match played; but after play had proceeded for about half an hour the game was suspended without any explanation whatever, and the public were allowed to stand in idleness and uncertainty, and more or less exposed to weather which the club now alleges was inclement enough to justify the abandonment of the game. However, the officials did not inform us that the game was abandoned. I waited patiently for over half an hour expecting it to be resumed, and then left the ground. Some of the spectators who remained longer became at last so irritated by the fiasco, which neither allowed the game to proceed nor formally announced its stoppage, that a riot occurred, and some of the company’s property was damaged. The company refused to return me the sum I had paid, and therefore I sued them. Unfortunately, a few days before the hearing I was taken ill (whilst travelling in Ireland), and was laid up for some time. This prevented me returning for the trail. I therefore withdrew the summons, with the intention of re-issuing it, and the Everton Football Club took advantage of my absence to put a remarkably ex paric statement before the judge, securing from him a favourable opinion (I say “opinion,” because as no evidence was before him it can hardly be considered a decision), and am order for costs on the higher scale against me. In asking for costs, the company’s solicitor threw out a hint that the company might not press for payment of same. The sequel was delivered to me of a bill of costs, on the higher scale, amounting to £5  9s, but which bill was, on taxation, reduced to £1 16s, including witness fees. To sum up, I consider that I and every other patron of the game who can prove that he paid his entrance money to see that match is entitled to have the money returned. The Football Club Company collects so large an amount of gate money in excess of the working expenses that it is to all intents and purposes a company carrying on a business for profit. It is only right and reasonable, therefore, that it should bear the brunt of all risks attending the kind of business it carries on. The public are its customers, and have a right to expect to get value for their money. If the company advertises a match, and induces the public to part with money to see that match, the company is bound to fulfil the contract by providing the match. When it finds that the weather, the vagaries of a referee, or the inability of officials to arrive at a decision in an emergency, prevent it performing its part of the contract, it ought to manfully face the loss of the gate-money as one of the risks of its business. On the day in question, the players of both teams were willing to proceed with the match. In the absence of the official referee, it could not be counted a League match, but it could have been played to a finish as a friendly, and the public would have seen an exhibition of skill, which they would have accepted in full satisfaction for their entrance money. As the business managers of the club (I have no grievance against the Everton players, whom I admire as exponents of the game) could have provided a game and failed to do so, they have no right to a penny of the money they took at the gate. The principle involved has an important bearing upon the management of our popular sport. I hope my letter will elicit expressions of opinion from others on the subject-Yours, &c., W.G. HOWARD. 57, Madelaine-street, Liverpool, March 1896.

EVERTON 3 PRESTON NORTH END 2
March 9 1896.the Liverpool Mercury
The return League match engagement between these clubs at Goodison Park, brought together some 15,ooo spectators-an attendance which, considering the unfavorable weather was highly satisfactory. Orr, Sharp, and Henderson were absentees on the visiting side; but matters were fairly level in this respect, as both Cameron and Chadwick were away, the longer taking part in the Scottish trail game, while Chadwick was rendering services in the English-Ireland match at belfast. The teams were as Follows: - Everton: - Hillman, goal, Adams and Arridge, backs, Boyle (captain), Holt and Stewart, halfbacks, Bell, McInnes, Milward, Hartley, and Schofield, forwards, North End: - Trainor goals, Holmes and Tait backs, Grier, Sanders, and Eccleston, halfbacks Smith Pierce, Stevenson, Cunningham, and Blyth forwards. Everton were fortunate in having the choice of ends, for a fairly stiff breeze blew down the ground and on Stevenson kicking off the running was at once taken up by the home right, when Tait got in a hugh lunge, and for the next few minutes the North End forwards held the position. A neat check by Adams followed by some capital defence by the halves, nonplussed the visitors attack. Holt came to the rescue at a critical moment and then Bell made off and levelled a fine shot at Trainor who saved in good style, but on the line returning again with Schofield in command, a fine pass to Hartley almost resulted in success as the latter shot in hard, only to see the ball rebound from Holme's leg. After Bell had failed from the other end of the line Stevenson made headway, which resulted in Pierce driving in at Hillman, who saved nicely, and the ball travelled quickly down the home left. Schofield centred beautifully and as Tait kicked out Boyle met the ball and with a swift rising shot put into the net. Trainor having no possible chance to save. On resuming hands against McInnes spoiled a neat movement which, looked promising, and Hillman was called upon. Boyle immediately having another pop at goal with near approach to success. At the other end Cunningham had an easy chance to draw level from close range but shot badly. From the goal kick Holt was strongly in evidence and passing the ball to the right Bell sent in a veritable thunderbolt, which fortunately for north End passed wide. A further return resulted in a corner kick which Schofield placed accurately, and the ball was rushed through, Milward playing no small part in obtaining the second point. Following this, from a free kick Smith found himself with only Hillman to beat, but the custodian scopped the ball out of the goalmouth, and Boyle completed the relief, this bringing about the interval with Everton leading by 2 goals to nil. On resuming North End played but ten men, owing to Tait having strained his thigh and Grier went full back. Blyth complacing the trio. Hands against Holt looked ominous for Everton, as Sanders being well up sent in a high stringing shot which, Hillman tipped over the bar. McInnes got the corner kick away, and after a fine cross pass by Schofield he almost added to the score. A few minutes later Bell with a fine effort brought out Trainor, who saved as the expense of a corner, but on returning again the same player got in a magnificent centre which was pounced upon by Hartley and Everton led by three goals. Arridge now left the field through injury, but was not away long. During his absence North End rushed the ball past Hillman and this encouraged them to further exertions, and for some time they more than their own against a complete team. Holt put in a grand long shot which Trainor was lucky in getting away, for Hartley was upon him in an instant and bundled him into the net. Hillman also brought about a fine save as the corner of the post, and after the ball had been bobbing about the goal Stevenson placed it finely for Blyth, and scored a second point was put on. Arridge was immediately afterwards penalised, and the closing stages found the North Enders attacking vigorously, but no further scoring took place, and Everton won a good game by 3 goals to 2.

GLOSSOP NORTH END 3 EVERTON RESERVES 1
March 9 1896. The Liverpool mercury
No details . Everton:- Briggs, goal, Balmer, and Kelly, backs, Goldie, Meiklejohn, and Mainman, halfbacks, Latta, McDonald, Hartley, Murray, and Hill, forwards.

FOOTBALL NOTES
The Liverpool Mercury, Monday Match 9, 1896
Although not such doughty champions as of yore, the Preston North End team are still a great attraction to the Liverpool football public, and it is therefore not surprising that in spite of the very poor form shown by the Everton team in the last three engagements, a crowd of about 15,000 should have turned up at Goodison Park, even on so unpromising a day as Saturday, to witness the return league match between the two teams. When Everton encountered North End team at Preston earlier on in the season, it will be remembered that the result, after a very stubbornly contested game, was a draw of one goal each. On Saturday, the home team just managed to obtain the verdict by the narrow margin of one goal, the result reading 3 to 2. This fairly represents the run of the play, which was not of a very high order, the bad state of the ground no doubt militating against a pretty, scientific exhibition. At the same time, Preston North End can be congratulated on making a plucky fight and getting within a goal of their opponents’ score, although playing only ten men all through the second half. In midfield play there was not much to choose between the two lines of forwards, although the home five seemed, to make more ground by their passing movement; but it was in front of goal that Everton were distinctly superior, and when in the vicinity of Trainor were always dangerous, whilst their opponents rarely troubled Hillman, even when within easy shooting range, and many of their attempts were ridiculously weak. When it was known that Schofield was to play on the outside left, many of the club’s supporters, although quite prepared to allow that he has been playing a magnificent game all the season for the Combination team, were dubious of his success in the league team. Their misgivings, however, were demonstrated to be quite unnecessary, for the local had made a thoroughly satisfactory debut, and it is just doubtful if he was not the best forward on the field. There was a finish about all his work that was quite refreshing, and his centres were a feature of the game. Hartley was weak, although he played up much better in the second half. It is a pity he does not put more spirit into the game. He can pass and shoot with anybody at times, but he is easily disheartened, and if he meets with a check from half back or back he gives up instead of trying to recover the ball. This appears to be his greatest defect, and one he should certainly try to remedy. Milward was at a disadvantage in appearing in a position somewhat strange to him, and did not particularly shine in the centre. His short passing was all right but he could not put the ball out well to the extreme wing men. He certainly infused plenty of dash into his play-a bit too much on one or two occasions for the referee. McInnes had improved considerably on his last week’s form, and played a steady, hard-working game, sticking to his opponents like a leech. In this respect he is a great contrast to the other inside man, and it is certainly this factor which makes him such a serviceable player. Bell distinguished himself with several fine runs, whilst his centres were clean and exact, the last goal coming from a regular beauty. His shooting was not quite up to the mark, although he gave Trainor a couple of scorchers to stop. The pick of the North End  forwards was Stevenson, and had he not been carefully and assiduously attended to by Holt would have been a very dangerous man.  He passed well out to his wings, but the outside men, Smith and Blyth, usually met more than their match in the Everton halves and backs when at close quarters, and were very rarely allowed to pass the ball into the centre-again. In the second half when Preston were only playing four forwards, the attack seemed more dangerous, and Cunningham was often conspicuous. The half-back play of both teams was as good as one could wish to see. Holt and Boyle were magnificent, and Stewart was not far behind. It was gratifying to note, also, that the whole three were on the alert for any chance of scoring when near goal, and all of them made some capital attempts. Boyle succeeded with a splendid shot, whilst Holt had the narrowest possible shave with a magnificent long drive, which Trainor managed to throw away in a marvellous fashion just as he was charged into the net by Hartley. The North End trio were little behind their vis-à-vis in point of merit, and were a great thorn in the side of the Everton forwards. Eccleston was perhaps the weakest of the three, but he performed very creditably considering that he is only a reserve man, and it is but the second time he had appeared with the league team. There was little to choose between the backs of both teams, although the great speed of the Everton pair assisted them materially in their rencontres with the Preston outside men. North End were unfortunate in losing the services of Tait at the of the first half, although Grier, who took his place, did very well indeed. Hillman had very little to do in the first half, but at times in the latter stages of the game he had his hands full, and it is greatly to his credit that he was only beaten by almost impossible shots. That Trainor had thoroughly recovered from the effects of his unfortunate accident was fully demonstrated by his good exhibition between the posts. He is always a favourite at Everton, and received plenty of support and encouragement from the crowd.
As Everton are not interested in the Lancashire Cup next Saturday they have arranged with the Celtic team for a second visit to Goodison Park, and as the meeting between these teams are usually productive of excellent sport, the game will no doubt be well patronised.

COMBINATION
The Athletic News – Monday, March 9, 1896
EVERTON’S FIRST DEFEAT
There was a good gate at Glossop to witness the game between Glossop North End and Everton Reserves. Briggs was soon tested by the home team, and after about ten minutes’ North End were awarded a penalty, from which Storer opening the scoring. Everton then played up, and at length McDonald equalised. Both sides were playing well, Frail and Briggs being found plenty of work in the respective goals, but there was nothing further done in the scoring line up to the interval. The “Enders” were not long in gaining the lead on resuming, Hill doing the needful with a splendid shot, and half-way through Briggs was beaten for a third time. The Evertonians were now a beaten team, though they still played well, and in the end they were given their first combination defeat by three goals to one.

THE LIVERPOOL DISTRICT AND NOTES
The Athletic News- Monday, March 9, 1896
By the Loiterer
The military cup-tie at Goodison Park on Thursday was a very entertaining affair. Both teams entered into the game as if their lives depended upon the result; consequently some hard knocks were given. The game had not been long in progress before the right back of the North Staffordshire Regiment had to be carried off the field. Of course, this had a great effort on the run of the game, and though the Staffordshire men played up pluckily, the Black Watch put on two goals, and led by this number at the interval. In the second half the weakened team adopted another plan, keeping the forward line intact, and Rowley playing full back alone. And how he played! He was first on one side of the field and then the other, kicking and tackling in fearless style. His forwards were the better players, and before the close had drawn level. An extra half hour was ordered, and in the last quarter the Black Watch scored, and won the tie by three goals to two. There is no doubt about it, the better side lost. Both forwards and aft they were superior and had they not have been shorthanded I fancy they would have won easily. It is said Stoke booked the full back alluded to above.
A number of the directors of the Everton club are away in Scotland, possibly taking an interest in Cameron’s doings in the trail matches or more likely on the prowl for eligible men for the Everton team. That affair at Sheffield last week has evidently whetted their appetites for new blood.
So we are to have a final for the Liverpool Cup after all. It was out during the week that Chester, so that there should not be any risk of Everton not having a cup to boast of had scratched, but I fancy the individual must have been sarcastically inclined. The match will be played at Goodison Park on March 28.

EVERTON RECOVER THEMSELVES
The Athletic News – Monday March 9, 1896
By the Loiterer
Preston North End are great favourites at Liverpool, and though a recent calamity in the Cup ties had damped the ardour of a number of supporters of the Everton Club, the attraction of a game with the Prestonians brought together a good company of probably 15,000 people. Neither side was up to its full strength, the visitors having Sharp, Orr, and I don’t know who away, Eccleston, a native, taking the left half position. The home team was a trifle mixed as well, Chadwick playing in the International match at Belfast, and Cameron striving for International honours at Glasgow. Everton, too, had a local lad in Schofield, who formerly belonged to Aintree Church, the teams being as follows;-
Everton; Hillman, goal; Adams and Arridge, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, McInnes, Milward, Hartley, and Schofield, forwards.
Preston North End;- Trainer, goal; Holmes and Tait, backs; Grier, Sanders, and Eccleston, half-backs; Smith, Pierce, Stevenson, Cunningham, and Blyth, forwards. Referee; Mr. Helme.
The visitors received a cordial reception, Trainer especially coming in for a congratulatory cheer on taking up his position in goal. Everton had the first pop at goal, McInnes making a good attempt, only to find Tait in the way. Then Cunningham got away, but he was not allowed to get within shooting distance, and once more the Everton men attacked. There was not much in it, however, and the defence seemed to take matters easily. The half-backs on both sides were in good form, and if they could not get at the ball themselves they stopped the man, and the backs cleared the ball. The players did not appear to take kindly to the work, and the play was of the easy-going order. Some nice passing was seen, especially by Grier, Sanders and the inside forwards, but somehow the home backs were seldom seriously harassed. Considering the heavy state of the ground, the Preston forwards showed clean play, if not over effective. The home front was not so finished nor yet so quick on the ball, but they showed more determination when in possession, Milward and McInnes worked like horses, but a want of method told against them at the finish, just as the want of dash nullified the efforts of the Preston forwards. Bell and Schofield were neglected, but both did good work when they got the chance, the latter especially centring well. The first goal came from a nice bit of play by the latter, who placed the ball well in front of goal. Tait heading to the foot of Boyle, who did the trick with a shot that gave Trainer no chance. The visitors set to work with more dash after this disaster, but though they attacked strongly the backs were good enough for them. The play was even at this stage, the North End forwards frequently getting away, but were very weak in their final attempts. Once Cunningham had a rare good chance, but he failed to make use of it. The advantage on play, however, was held, and the home goal was hotly besieged, and Hillman got rid of one or two ugly shots and rushes. At the other end, the home lot were more successful, for Schofield always finished up by placing the ball in the goal mouth, and with Milward in a lively mood, both Holmes and Tait had all on in keeping him out. From one of these centres Holmes was so hard pressed that he had to concede a corner, and Milward put on the second goal from close quarters. After this the North End forwards put in their best efforts, and their quick passing was altogether too good for the home halves, and Smith put in a good shot all along the ground, but the Everton goal was intact at the interval. Being two goals behind and having to leave Tait in the dressing-room suffering from a severe wrench of the thigh, matters looked none too promising for the visitors. Grier went full-back, and Blyth half-back. The four forwards made a gallant show, and for a time they had the best of the play. The infused more life into their efforts, and the absence of one man did not seem to upset their combination. There was very little between the teams, and as a rule the play now favoured one side and then the other. Yet had the visitors shown more dash in front of goal their work would have had a better finish. Stevenson retired, presumably hurt, and making the most of a good chance, Bell got away on the right, and placed the ball well across the goal, and Trainer was puzzled what to do, for his backs were beaten as well, and Hartley finished up by scoring the third goal. Arridge was also away for a few minutes, but both reappeared, and the game entered upon a fresh lease of life. The North End forwards at once swooped down on the Everton goal, and one goal was knocked off-the result of determined work in a scrummage. Both sides wakened up, but of the two the Preston men had the best of it. They were continually on the leather, and the outcome was another goal, but they had left the effort too long for equalising the score, and in the end were beaten by three goals to two. The game was an enjoyable one to watch, being devoid of anything approaching roughness, and it is a puzzler to me how the casualties happened. The players seemed to depend entirely in their abilities to bring them through, and there was almost a total absence of anything outside legitimate football. To many the play would appear to be slow and occasionally uninteresting, but really I thought it always well contested. The half-backs on both sides played well, Holt being as good as ever in defending, and even more tricky than usual. Both Boyle and Stewart had clever and speedy men to face, but they got through very well until towards the close, when the wing-men gave them more than they could manage. On the other side, Sanders got through a lot of work, and he was invariably successful, his placing of the ball being as accurate as could be desired. Eccleston has an ugly gait, but he plodded on, and there is evidently football in him, for Bell and McInnes, good as they are, had nothing in hand. With the halves in such good trim the backs on both sides, though having plenty of employment, were seldom in difficulties. Again, neither set of forwards were in good fighting fettle when they reached them, and it was not until the game was far advanced that the goals were attacked with determination. Both custodian cleared well, but it was not a goalkeeper’s match by any means, and with the exception of the shot from Boyle, the points were obtained from close quarters. The North End forwards passed splendidly, and the outside men were speedy, but generally they finished at that, for they were weak in front of goal. The home lot were not so methodical in their work, but, as is after the case, were keener on the ball, and this brought them through. Their style was more useful than ornamental. Schofield gave great satisfaction, and I have seldom seem centres better placed.

ENGLAND v IRELAND
The Athletic News -Monday, March 9, 1896
ENGLAND AGAIN WIN
By the Free critic
Of late years Ireland has done very well against England when operations upon Irish soil, and before Irish enthusiasts. Twelve months ago, the Irishmen were simply toyed with at Derby, and only last week they received a severe gruelling at Wrexham, but they turned up just the same old party when called upon to meet England at home. Bearing in mind the various gentlemen who were compelled to undergo the mal de mer process two years ago, it was decided to patronise the Stranraer route, and sleeping saloons galore were attached for the convenience of the English representatives in charge of Messrs, Gregson and Hughes. Notwithstanding the telegrams announcing “The English International team in the storm,” very little effects of the storm were felt, and only Bassett had the honour of being a victim. I patronised the old Fleetwood route and the Duke of Lancaster, with the ever-obliging Captain Cook looking after us, and “the Duke” is quite good enough for me. We had a strong head-win-I heard the steward, who is the personification of courtesy, say so-but your humble servant retired to his state-room- that sounds big- and slept the sleep of the innocent until the courteous steward aforesaid intimated that it was time to clear out. Calling at the Grand Central Hotel, I looked up the amateur portion of the team in charge of “Pa” Jackson, who was with a distinguished but highly entertaining gentleman in the person of Mr. Kelly, who has done duty for his county in Rugby warfare. The next item on the programme was to meet the belated travellers from Larne, but they arrived all right, and then we were a merry party. Mr. Reed, the Irish secretary, turned up, and seemed quite as much surprised as gratified because there was an prospect of a fine day, and made sundry references to the oysters and champagne which he understood the Englishmen would require at half-time. Mr. Reed is a born jokist, although he would not strike you as such. We had engaged a brake and four to drive to the ground, and there was quite a collection of people to see us off, but for some reason or other they hooted. However, we got over that, although it affected the horse, and we travelled at what was possibly considered a safe rate to the football ground. Here we found a big crowd for Ireland, and all previous records went to the wall, for the receipts amounted to something like £350, and our friend Reed joked more and more. I cannot say a great deal about the ground. Of course, as my colleagues, “The Scribe,” rattled it off at sixty words to the square inch, rain had been falling in Belfast for a matter of 365 days, more or less; but it was a veritable quagmire, and being the linesman in a Robinson and Cleaver, specially purchased 10s 6d, patent mackintosh of 3 ½ ounces, warranted to stand the heaviest shower in the world, begorra, I happen to know something about that ground and the weather. Bejabers- think that is right-the weather was simply disgusting, it was. Right from the start to finish the rain came down as if it never meant to cease for the next 365 days, and we were all dripping- at least all those persons who, like myself, were actively engaged in the fray, so to speak. But perhaps it would be as well were I to give the names of the gentlemen who took part in the memorable contest. Here they are;-
England;- Raikes, goal; Lodge and Oakley, backs; Crabtree, Crawshaw, and Kinsley, half-backs; Bassett, Bloomer, Smith, Chadwick, and Spikesley, forwards.
Ireland.- Scott, goal; Pomsonby and Torrans, backs; Fitzpatrick, Milne, and Gordon, half-backs; Baird, Turner, Stanfield, Peden, and Kelly, forwards.
Referee Mr. Robinson (Scottish F.A).
The game itself was a very fair one, all things considered, and I couldn’t imagine the team which faced England on Saturday being beaten so decisively by Wales the previous week, for in the first half particularly they played up splendidly. Right from the kick off they went about their work as if they meant business, and for the first quarter of an hour they were streets ahead of their opponents, who did not seem to “feel” themselves, and put in what is termed scientific play only to see a dashing Irishman come along and take the ball. The Irish forwards were by no means clever, as the term generally implies, but they went ahead with a vigour which was surprising, and Oakley and Co, had all their work cut out to keep their impetuosity within reasonable bounds. Oakley himself had to show us some of his even time sprinting, for a young gentleman rejoicing in the name of Baird was very persistent, and the half-backs had a peculiar of meeting the ball en route, as we say in the classics. Consequently, England had quite a rocky time of it, but gradually they assumed the upper hand, and had a long spell of attacking, but it came to naught, for the final efforts were very weak. There was any amount of what may be termed parlour football, and Crawshaw worked up and down the show like a Trojan; but nothing seemed to come of it until Bloomer got the ball, ran along on the right wing, asked two or three opponents what they meant by coming his way, passed to G.S. Smith, and the captain, after taking a general survey, planked the ball past Scott in the most undemonstrative manner, and England was a goal to the good. And so she remained up to the interval. There was nothing much in the second half, except that England had a great deal the best matters, but were met by a resolute defence, and did not display a vast amount of combination. They scored once, but then it seemed a sort of muddle, for the ball got mixed up between the Irish backs, and Bloomer pounced upon it, and made no mistake. It was a splendid shot. Of course, with the pressure they brought to bear, the Englishmen had many cases of hard lines, but until Bloomer scored the second goal the issue was doubtful, for the Irish forwards were ever on the alert, and many times got dangerously near Raikes. However, England added the second goal, and then all was over so far as the actual result went; but the Irishmen were so pleased with the display of their team- and quite reasonably, too- that they wanted to “chair” several of the prominent members, an act of courtesy which, however, was declined, and everyone seemed content to flounder through the sea of mud, satisfied that England had only won by two to none. I am not quite sure that England deserved to win by two to none. Certainly, they were the better team, but for all that Ireland had chances of scoring which ought to have been taken. Their forwards are not particularly clever, but they are plucky. Of course, we had Stanfield plodding away in the centre as of yore, and I should imagine he will be getting quite accustomed to International matches. He must have a cap or two to spare, for his record is somewhat about thirty, and he still lives. Baird, on the outside right, struck me as a promising youngster, and he had something to tackle in Kinsey and Oakley, but he stuck to them gamely for a stripling of eighteen. I didn’t think much of his partner though. Kelly, the other outside man, did very well-far better than his partner, Peden, who played a waiting game, and did that none too gaily. Milne was in rare form at centre half, and compared very favourably indeed with Crawshaw on the other side; but all the half-backs did exceedingly well, and it was here where the Irish strength lay. Fitzpatrick, the only representative of Dublin, worked very hard, and Gordon, on the other wing, did capitally against Bassett and Bloomer. The backs got through a great amount of work, particularly the little man, Ponsonby, and Scott kept a splendid goal, some of his saves being little short of marvellous. The Englishmen were disappointing to those who know what they are capable of, and they did not take kindly to the heavy going. Raikes could not have been improved upon in goal, and whilst Lodge was a bit erratic, no serious fault could be found with the backs, who each played a powerful game, Oakley in particular being in capital form. It is very seldom you can have the combination of an even-timer and a 14-stoner in a full back, but more than one of the Irishmen had a practical illustration of these qualifications, especially in the matter of avoirdupois, one gentleman not being content with simply rebounding off Oakley, but he gave us a series of evolutions in the mud which would have done credit to the most experienced acrobat. The halves were very powerful, Crawshaw looking for work all over the place, whilst Kinsey got his shoulders up higher than ever, and was as active as a two-year-old, and although Crabtree was not at his best, he gave us some touches which proved him to be the past master he is. The forwards were uneven, but if I were to pick one out of the bunch I should ask G.O. Smith to come forward and go to the top of the class. He was most unselfish, and all he wants is to finish with a little more “devil.” The right wing was much better than the left, but still they were hardly up to concert pitch, and a sample of Cliftonville mud which Bassett managed to get into one of his option seriously inter-forced with his vision, whilst the caking of the same sort of material on the ball did not assist his usually accurate centring. All the same, the pair did by no means badly, and Bloomer had something to say about both the goals. Chadwick and Spikesley did not get along at all, the Wednesday flyer being very much out of it in the second half, when Chadwick did much better. Spikesley seemed to be badly shod; at any rate, he should not keep up, and the wing was very ineffective. It will take a much better display to have any chance with Scotland, but then we shall have a different bit of turf to play upon.

EVERTON v PRESTON NORTH END
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, March 9, 1896
This return League game was decided at Goodison Park on Saturday, before a large attendance. The first game having ended in a draw of a 1 goal each, Everton were fully expected to secure a couple of points on Saturday. Neither side was at full strength, Chadwick and Cameron, engaged in Ireland and Scotland respectively, being absent from the home front rank, this occasioning a re-arrangement of the entire line, Milward going centre, and the left-wing being Hartley and Schofield. North end were without Henderson and Orr, but the spectators were delighted to see that Trainer was again in change of the Preston goal, this being his third appearance since his accident. North End took the field a few minutes before four o’clock, a hearty cheer greeting their appearance, while Boyle and his team were very quietly received by the 15,000 spectators on the ground. Boyle won the toss, and Hillman took up the defence of the Park goal, Everton having the assistance of a stiff breeze. Stevenson started, and thanks to Boyle Bell get well away, but Tait back the attack, and McInnes shot in, but Tait was on the qui vive heading away the ball right from the goal mouth, Sanders getting the ball away to the centre. Here play ruled for awhile until Cunningham came into possession, which caused play to be carried close to Everton’s citadel, without danger, however, being seriously threatened. Then Holt served up to his front rank, Milward and Hartley being very conspicuous the latter shooting wide. Everton now kept up a perfect fusillade on Trainer’s charge, Stewart putting in one particularly fine shot, which Holmes was rather lucky to save. Two or three other attempts were made by Everton, but the defence of the North End backs was grand, and Trainer was not called upon. Smith made a dashing run to the front, but was pulled up for offside as he shot for Hillman. North End came again, however, some smart passing overcoming the Everton half-line, but Arridge first, and Adams immediately afterwards, made fine clearing kicks, Boyle supplementing this by sending the leather well among the forwards. Hartley worked to close quarters, but Holmes took the leather from his toe. Everton soon moved up in attacking order, and Hartley passed to Boyle, who planted the leather right over the left wing to Schofield, who again put in a dashing run and finished up with a magnificent centre, Tait just getting the ball away in time, but Boyle met the return, and with a grand shot scored Everton’s first goal, Trainer not having the slightest chance of saving his charge. This splendid effort on the part of Boyle roused up the spectators to a high pitch of enthusiasm, the cheering being loud and continued. The visitors then had a run of pressure, Adams being provided with plenty of work by Blythe and Cunningham, but Hillman was not called upon, Holt and Boyle doing the fine service in aid of their forwards, whose attacks were well deserved, but the Preston defence was thoroughly sound, though Hartley came very near the mark with a chance shot after a pass from Milward. The North-Enders stuck manfully to their guns, the extreme wing men making some splendid runs, while the inside trio were always on the alert. Some clever work by the home halves and forwards was now shown, the whole of the players named taking part in a grand forward movement, but no one succeeded in piloting the ball into the net, though Hartley made a most praiseworthy attempt to beat trainer. From the goal kick North End swooped down, and almost before Everton could realise the fact the visitors were in the vicinity of Hillman. Stevenson sent in a beautiful shot, which the home custodian saved splendidly, and with the goal practically at his mercy, Cunningham shot wide. Midfield play caused for several minutes. After this, play was confined to the centre, but Preston North End attacked, and Smith forced a corner off Arridge, but this was easily accounted for, and Schofield again led off towards Trainer, McInnes receiving and heading for goal. Some pretty and effective passing by Everton ensued, and the home forwards quite non-plussing the visiting halves by their smart tactics, Milward put in one terrific shot, which almost scored. Keeping up the pressure, Everton were not long in securing reward for their exertions, Schofield once more put in a really lovely centre, Holmes being compelled to grant a corner. From this the ball was well placed by Schofield, who planted the ball right into goal, and from an exciting scrimmage the ball was rushed into the net, Milward apparently having a large share in the success; North End now made their best effort, and looked like getting through, some puzzling passing movements non-plussing, the home defenders, and Smith’s shot thoroughly tested Hillman with a low shot, the Everton custodian just succeeded in scooping away the leather. In a trice play was at the other end, and for the last few minute Trainer had an anxious time, the whistle sounding for the interval with the score in favour of Everton by 2 goals to nil. At the restart there would be some 18,000 present, which under all the circumstances may be said to be higher satisfactory. Milward put the ball in motion, the first moves being in favour of Everton. Hands against Holt, however, resulted in North End becoming aggressive, Arridge sending the ball out when the Prestonians were becoming dangerous. North End, it was observed, only had ten men on the resumption of hostilities. Tait not turning out, Grier going left back, and Blythe falling from the forward rank to right half. Notwithstanding this the visitors attacked, Sanders forcing a corner, but Boyle relieved finely, and caused play to be carried to the other end, Schofield crossing the ball beautifully to McInnes, who only just failed to reach it and score a goal. From the goal kick Stevenson travelled smartly downfield, but was blocked out by the home defenders, Hillman having plenty of time to clear. Grier pulled up the home left wing, and Sanders sent in a long dropping shot, without result, Bell then making an effort to reach the visitors’ quarters, but the right winger was well checked, and Adams was subjected to some pressure from the Preston left wing pair. Everton then assumed the aggressive, Milward shooting well. North End then had a spell of attacking, Cunningham putting in a good shot to Hillman, who saved in the coolest possible fashion, Smith’s attempt to bundle the burly custodian through his charge being greeted with ironical cheers and laughter. For some time after this play fluctuated considerably, each side in turn sharing the attack, though Everton were undoubtedly having the best of the argument. North End, however, notwithstanding their reduced forces, still put any amount of dash into their work, and were many times dangerous. The Prestonians indulged in some really clever passing, which culminated in Cunningham shooting across the goal and Stevenson heading in to Hillman, who cleared most effectually. Stewart became in evidence, and caused a further raid on Trainer’s charge, after which Stevenson was seen to leave the field, thus leaving North End with nice men, but it was only momentary, as he was back again directly, and his absence was not due to any accident. North End paid a further visit to Everton’s end, but without, however, threatening danger. The game toned down somewhat hereabouts, both sides seeming to feel the effects of the heavy turf, and Holt working cleverly up, when Schofield took a pass and headed for goal, missing the mark by a couple of inches. With their ten men the visitors made a plucky fight, a grand rush by the right wing making a fine opening for Stevenson, who shot just over the bar. Holt outwitted Blythe close to the home goal line, and Bell dashed off, being twice challenged, but on each occasion resuming possession, finishing with a beautiful centre, which was well met by Hartley, who scored a third goal for his side. Arridge now left the field from some unexplained cause, Milward going left back. The visitors came away from the centre, and a scrimmage in the home goalmouth was ended by Pierce netting the leather. A smart shower was now falling, but play continued at a good pace, Everton having but slightly the best of the argument. North End towards the end had the best of matters, Blythe scoring a magnificent goal from a free kick. The remaining stages were played in a downpour of rain, but the spectators manfully stuck to their positions to the end. The visitors could not draw level, Everton winning a stubbornly contested game by 3 goals to 2. Teams;-
Everton.- Hillman, goal; Adams and Arridge, backs; Boyle, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, McInnes, Milward, Hartley, and Schofield, forwards.
Preston North end.- Trainer, goal; Holmes and Tait, backs; Grier, Sanders, and Eccleston, half-backs; T. Smith, Pierce, Stephenson, Cunningham, and Blythe, forwards.

EVERTON’S ENGAGEMENTS
The Liverpool Daily Post- Friday, March 13, 1896
The following teams will represent Everton on Saturday next;-
Against Celtic, at Goodison Park; 4.
Everton.- Hillman, goal; Adams and Arridge, backs; Boyle, Meiklejohn, and Stewarts, half-backs; Bell, McDonald, Milward, Chadwick, and Schofield, forwards.
Against Walsall, at Walsall. 3.30. Lime-Street Station, 12.
Everton Combination.- Briggs, goal; Kelso and Molyneux, backs; Latta, Goldie, and Mainman, half-backs; Williams, McInnes, Hartley, Murray, and Elliott, forwards.

EVERTON 2 GLASGOW CELTIC 3
March 16 1896. The Liverpool mercury
The Scottish League champions paid a second visit to Goodison Park on Saturday last, and the friendly fixture with Everton brought some 7,000 spectators together. Neither side was at its full strength, and the Everton team included four of the combination players. The sides were as follows: - Everton: - Hillman, goal, Kleso, and Arridge, backs, Boyle (captain), Meiklejohn, and Stewart, halfbacks, Bell, McDonald, Milward, Chadwick, and Schofield forwards. Celtic: - Docherty, goal, Meeham, and Doyle, backs, Maley, Kelly, and Callaghan, halfbacks, Madden, Blessington Marton, MaMahon, and Ferguson, forwards. The home forwards opened very well, and made a sharp visit to the Celtic end, where Doyle and Meehan put in strong work, Ferguson eventually breaking away and testing Hillman who with a capital shot. The visitors then indulged in some fine passing movements, which culminated in a bully in front of the home goal, and madden, opened the scoring account. Directly afterwards Milward sent in a terrific shot which, appeared to be making straight for the net, but Doyle got his head in the way and conceded a fruitless corner. Again the Celts van by excellent passing got well Dow ,but Martin finished up badly and having now obtained the measure of the home defense, it was well difficult to keep the line out of shooting range. However, a change set in, and Chadwick, Milward and Schofield made progess and the last named player got his right foot to the ball and steered it into the net, the custodian apparently misjudging it. From this point to the interval the game ran evenly, and the score of a goal each just about represented the actual play. The second half opened with a strong attack on the Celtic defence, but Bell from Schofield finished up badly, though a minute later it looked on Milward scoring after a fine centre from the left, when he was coolly dispossessed and Ferguson made off to the other end and with better result, as Martin fastened on to the ball, and placed his side ahead from a hard shot at close quarters. Chadwick and Schofield continued to share most of the attack, but met with a very stubborn defence, both Doyle and Meehan kicking out of the goalmouth frequently with confidence. Shots from Bell met with no better result, though they were invariably well directed. Another breakaway resulted in Martin beating Hillman from a fine pass from the left and almost immediately following Schofield put the ball passed Docherty, thus being the last point scored. Everton though having much the better of the game, being defeated by 3 goals to 2.

WALSALL DISTRICT 3 EVERTON RESERVES 1
March 16 1896. The Liverpool mercury
Played at Walsall. The home team had the better of the general play, and backed up by a strong defence were frequently attacking. Copeland score by heading into the net, and Horchin added a second later on. While Hartley reduced the margin close in to the interval. On resuming the home defence held out against a strong attack, and eventually Copeland scored a third, leaving the result 3 goals to 1 in favour of the Walsall. Everton: - Briggs, goal, Kelso, and Molyneus, backs Latta, not known, ansd Mainman, halfbacks, Williams, McInnes, Hartley, Murray, and Elliott, forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
March 16 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
The Everton team were opposed to a formidable array of defence on Saturday last, and though having unquestionably the greater share of the play, the verdict were against them. At the outset it appeared as though the celts were going to command the whole situration and make amends for the two previous defeats they experienced this season, for their passing and shooting in the initial stages were prolific features. But when once the home forwards found their footing and got into their old stride they were always a dangerous line, and nothing but the superb defence of Doyle and Meehan could have prevented them from finishing up with a substantial lead. It was the last lone of defence that frustrated all Everton's hopes, and had the home defences have even moderately steady the local team would undoubtedly have had the satisfaction of recording a treble victory of the season. While the play in the first half was generally even, that of the second was unquestionably in Everton's favour for it was only at odd intervals that the visitors broke away, and playing on one weak position they were then dangerous. It was by sudden spurts that the second and third goals were registered by the Celts, and it must have been disheartening to the Everton forwards, after coping with good success against a stout defence, to find themselves further in arrear at a period when such was least expected. Schofield and Chadwick formed a capital left wing, and by their successful maneuvers, which always foretold danger, one was inclined to imagine that they had played together for seasons. The celts right half and back were often beaten by the local lad, and but for Doyle's great judgement in heading and kicking out of goal when apparently under difficulties the custodian would have had a lively time. Chadwick's return to his best form was quite refreshing, and Milward though far from being an ideal centre, was more effective than in the North End match. He kept his wings fairly well under control, and the outside men, had more direct attention. It was as well that the latter point was attention to, for McDonald was only a moderate substitute for Mcinnes and Bell had frequently to get along by individual effort, and while his work in the field was excellent, his shooting was somewhat erratic. Meiklejohn was outclassed at centre half, and it was on his position that most of the Celtics attack were directed. Martin was allowed quarter on almost, every occasion that he got the ball, and when close up he was then frequently enabled to get between the backs. Boyle and Stewart played a steady game in defence, and in the second half were they especially soon to advantage in opening out chance for those in front. Arridge and Kelso fairly well, and Hillman had no chance against the shots that defeated him. The Celts forwards were a well-balanced line, and when they got off it required the best attentions of the Everton defenders to stay their career. The outside men, Madden and Ferguson, were very speedy and resourceful, and whenever, there was a chance of Boyle or Stewart defeating them they rarely failed to centre accurately to Martin, who in the absence of much opposition frequently wended goalwards. Blessington and McMahon were capable inside men, and the halves, though never brilliant got through their worm, which was principally of a defensive character, very creditably. Doyle was in one of his best moods, and played a fine game frequently assisting his partner and custodian when at times downfall appeared certain. The game all through was fairly interesting, but the result was not in accordance with the general play.

THE LIVERPOOL DISTRICT AND NOTES
The Athletic News- Monday, March 16, 1896
By the Loiterer
Our two premier clubs, or rather the directors cannot yet come to an arrangement for a trial of strength between the respective teams. Both had Saturday open yet, instead of filling up the afternoon by a fixture that would have drawn thousands to either Goodison Park or Anfield, “Friendlies” were arranged with the Celtic and West Bromwich clubs, games which the average football spectator does not care a button for witnessing, and consequently both clubs suffered financially. Of course, Liverpool are anxious to cross swords with the Goodison park champions, but the Everton directors fight shy. The subject has cropped up when in conversation with several of the Everton directors, but, whilst never going the length of saying they would not meet Liverpool, there always seemed to be a lot of difficulties in the way; in fact, mountains were made out of molehills. First of all they did not wish the players to run any risk in view of the probability of the League Cup finding its way to this city; then the exacting nature consequent on the attainment of Cup honours were put forth, but one after the other were ruthlessly brushed aside, and a glorious opportunity presented itself on Saturday for the fulfilment of a fixture which the rank and file of the followers of the game in this district anxiously await. Yet the directors are keeping the wound open in spite of the conciliatory attitude this season of the great baulk of their supporters.
The Everton v. Celtic fixture was not so successful a draw as was anticipated, for at no time during the afternoon did the attendance exceed 5,000. The game was fairly brimful of interesting incidents, and though the Celts won by three goals to two, it was more by good fortune than otherwise that they did not fall victims to their opponents for a third time this season. The first portion of the game was fairly even, Madden and Schofield scoring for their respective sides, but on turning round, there could be no two opinions as to which were the better team, though the score did not indicate such. Shot after shot was levelled at the Celtics citadel only to be luckily charged down, while at the other end, which was only occasionally reached, danger invariably threatened, and the result of two flying visits ended in Martin twice beating Hillman, Schofield again narrowed the margin, and a big effort to get on equal terms met with no success. The Celts’ defence was superb, and when their forwards got properly going, it required the best efforts of the Everton halves to hold them in check. The Everton left were the more effective of the van, though Bell put in some capital work on the right. The defenders, as a whole, were not as steady as usual, for they were easily beaten at times, and as luck would have it, when Hillman had particularly no chance of saving.
The prospect of a good game attracted me out to Blundellsands to see the Lancashire Amateur Cup-tie between the Ramblers and Liverpool Leek. Both clubs are of old standing in the district, though the Leek club is in itself of recent date, but they are descendants of the Cambrians, a club which some 13 or 14 years ago gave promise of rising to a powerful position in the country, but their local resource could not stand the strain, and they were rather severely treated by clubs up the country. However, in Ted Griffiths we had one of the old originals included in the team against the Ramblers, and he is as lively as ever. There were also one or two of the Ramblers who are not chickens. The Leek team were accompanied by a noisy, for the numbers, party, and both lots of spectators were very enthusiastic. There were several Evertonians out there, including Mr. G. Mahon, who is president of the Leek club, Mr. E. Wilson, and Mr. RT. Marriott. The game was a good one, for both teams showed plenty of dash, and we nearly had a fight thrown in. There was not much in the teams in the first half, though the Welshmen did by far the most pressing; yet so stubborn was the defence of Cripps, Bateson, and Picton, that the Welshmen only had put in a few decent shots. They made many poor attempts, and when the Ramblers’ right got away and centred for Lintott to score, which he did not fail to do, the outlook was black, as a stiffish wind aided the Leek. However, Foster equalised with just as clever a shot and the interval arrived with the score one goal each. Leeks won 5-1.

EVERTON v  CELTIC
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, March 16, 1896
These teams met in friendly rivalry at Goodison Park, on Saturday. The sun was shining brightly when Milward commenced operations. The Everton players went straight away from the centre, and a sharp move terminated when the ball was forced past the goal line. Ferguson broke away on his own account, but was quickly brought to book, and another move forward by the Evertonians was soon checked. A brilliant run by the Celtic left wing followed, and the first real good shot came from Ferguson, who sent in strongly, Hillman saving grandly. Keeping up the attack, the visitors came very strong on the right, and forced a corner, which was headed out by Kelly but in another moment the Celtic were rewarded, the ball, after being bounced about going into the Everton net out of a scrimmage. The first goal to the visitors in such a short space of time came as a bit if surprise, but the homesters at once went to work and a foul in favour of them nearly ended in the downfall of the Celtic goal. Then away dashed the visitors, and Hillman in saving from Maley gave a corner, this being accounted for in a satisfactory manner. The visitors advanced right and left, but Boyle was one to many for the advancing force when they came to close quarters. The next item was a pretty shot from Chadwick, with which Docherty had no difficulty, and following this the home contingent kept their opponents on tender hooks for some minutes, but nothing came of a prolonged attack. By and by Madden and Blessington went down the right in a very smart manner, but Arridge was very hard to pass. The half-backs now came into action, and then Schofield crossed over to Bell, who, along with his partner, worked up to shooting distance. After an abortive corner had been forced. Milward ran well, but at the last moment he was hampered, and the pass to Schofield ended in the last-named shooting wide of the mark. A couple of shots from Chadwick met with a like fate, but the Everton men came to the front again, the forwards passing brilliantly, Schofield dashing in at the last moment, and shooting quite out of the reach of Docherty. A rush right from the centre by the whole of the Celtic front rank ended in a corner, but the next moment the homesters went to the front McDonald shooting over the bar. Milward then forced a corner, and after this Doyle put forth his powers and defended splendidly in answer to some brilliant attacks on the part of the Everton left. Milward then tested the Celtic goalkeeper, who gathered the ball up, but was perilously near giving a goal. The ball was scarcely cleared before Meiklejohn and Bell were busy in the midst of a combined move, but the Scotch backs defended stubbornly, and some fine serving ended in Madden breaking away, this player being pulled up for infringing the offside rule. Some tricky work by Chadwick followed, and the end was a lofty shot by Boyle, but although the leather passed into the net the goal was not allowed. After a brief visit to Everton territory, during which Hillman was simply a spectator, Bell worked up the right, but fell just as he was about to centre. Milward came in and shot into the net, but this point was disallowed. Lively play in midfield followed, but at length Kelly crossed to Ferguson, and this player sent to Blessington, whose shot went very wide of the mark. Ferguson got in again, but on this occasion Kelso was on the alerts, and easily disposed of the Celtic man’s pretensions. A foul against the homesters was hereabout apparent, and this ended in Ferguson dashing along, but his final effort was of a very feeble nature. As half-time came near the play became of a slack nature, but a praiseworthy effort was made by Bell, who from Milward’s pace went gally, but slipped when he came in contact with Doyle, Chadwick, racing up for the centre, but being too late. A moment later Martin made a dash for Hillman but the Everton goalkeeper made very light of the onslaught, and had no difficulty in clearing his front. Boyle shot over the Celts’ crossbar from a free kick, and the next moment Bell, McDonald, and Milward were again busy the last-named shooting into Docherty’s hands. Keeping up the attack, the Evertonians gave Doyle and Callaghan a warm time on the right, but, beyond a rattling shot from Chadwick, nothing noteworthy occurred before half-time, which arrived with the score 1 goal each. Martin restarted in presence of about 7,000 spectators, the opening play being of a somewhat brisk nature, McMahon shooting finely for goal. Another effort ended in smoke, and then followed about the prettiest passing move of the day. Schofield went down the left, and passed to Chadwick, these players doing seesaw business until Schofield flashed the ball to the centre, Milward being robbed when he was on the point of shooting. Bell, Chadwick, and Milward then tried their hands at goal potting, but without success, this being followed by more tricky work on the part of the old Aintree Church man, and a futile shot from Chadwick. A smart advance on the part of the Celts culminated in Ferguson shooting wide, and then Bell raced down and crossed to Schofield, who effected a lovely centre, but this was not turned to good account. A free kick taken by Boyle was nearly headed into goal, and then the Celts rushed down to close quarters, Martin finishing up with a somewhat soft goal. Madden and Blessington, were next in evidence, but after a couple of futile shots Chadwick and Schofield came away finely, the last-named tricking his opponents and shooting well; but the Celtic goalkeeper was on the alert, and saved his charge in champion fashion. Lackadaisical work followed, until McMahon nipped in and sent a flying shot at Hillman’s charge. Brilliant work by the Everton left wing and centre was broken up by Doyle, but a moment later Schofield nearly hauled down the Celts’ colours, and then Milward made a dash in the centre and came very near to scoring. Bell then shot in from the right, and Docherty saved splendidly, this being followed by an equally praiseworthy effort on the part of Milward, but this effort, like the previous one, came to naught. For about a quarter of an hour Everton kept up a hot attack on the visitors’ goal, but nothing resulted. The Celts then broke away when Martin put the leather past Hillman. Schofield was prominent during the remainder of the game, the young left winger succeeding in defeating the Celtic custodian, the game ending in a win for the visitors by 3 goals to 2. Teams.-
Everton; Hillman, goal; Kelso and Arridge, backs; Boyle, Meiklejohn, and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, McDonald, Milward, Chadwick, and Schofield, forwards.
Celtic.- Docherty, goal; Meechan, and Doyle, backs; Maley, Kelly, and Callaghan, half backs; Madden, Blessington, Martin, McMahon, and Ferguson, forwards.

EVERTON  v PRESTON NORTH END
The Liverpool Daily Post – Friday, March 20, 1896
A friendly game between these clubs will be played at Deepdale to-morrow afternoon. The following team will represented. 3.30. Exchanged station 1.45.
Everton.- Briggs, goal; Adams and Molyneux, backs; Boyle, Meiklejohn, and Stewart, half-backs; Cameron, McDonald, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.

CHARRY PARRY
March 21, 1896. The Dundee Courier & Argue
Charles Parry (Newton), the right full back, was born at Llansilan, near Oswestry. He first played for the Oswestry Club, and has played for Chester, Newton Health, and Everton. He was last season considered the best back Everton had. After playing half of the present season with Everton, he received an offer to become tenant of a public-house at Newton (Montgomeryshire). After getting the consent of the Everton club to his transfer, he went to live at Newton, and now plays for the club of that town. He weighs 14 stone, and was captain of the Welsh team that so recently defeated Ireland at Wrexham.
S. Arridge, left back, made his first appearance as a senior in the Bangor Club, where he played outside left and then full back. He then transferred his services to Bootle, and after playing several years in that team, joined Everton, where he has been for the past three seasons. He played for Wales in 1892, 1894, and 1895, and was also chosen in 1893, but was unable to take part in the international. Tall and well built, he is no mean opponent; is speedy, and kicks well with either foot.

PRESTON NORTH END 4 EVERTON 4
March 23 1895. The Liverpool Mercury
These teams having off days, met in a friendly rivalry at Preston, and while the Everton executive tried several of the combination players the Prestonians, with the exception of Trainor were identical with the team that did duly at Goodison Park a fortnight ago. The sides were as Follows : - Everton: - Briggs, goal, Adams, and Molyneux, backs, Boyle (captain), Meiklejohn, and Stewart, halfbacks, Hartley, McDonald, Cameron. Chadwick, and Schofield, forwards. Preston North End: - Wright, goal, Holmes, and Tait, backs, Eccleston, Sanders, and Grier, halfbacks, Smith, Pierce, Stevenson, Cunningham. and Blyth, forwards. North End were the first to take up a dangerous position, but met with a strong defence, and following some capital work by the visiting forwards, McDonald put the ball into the net from a corner kick, thus opening the scoring account. The play had scarcely been resumed when Sanders defeated Briggs, and the teams being once again on level terms. Played up most asidually, Chadwick sent in a beauty, which Wright safely dealt with, and them Cameron followed suit, only to be also beaten back. Blyth and Cunningham took up the running, but failed on reaching the last line of defence. Eventually an opening was made for Smith, who placed his side ahead, with a clever shot. The lead however, was not long maintained for a pretty pass from Cameron to Schofield was converted. Following this success the Evertonians looked best on increasing their lead and finally Chadwick put in a warm shot which, took Wright all his time to gather. With North End pressing the interval was reached the teams crossing over with the score equal. On resuming Hartley got in a telling shot, which took effect and though the home players pressed in persistent fashion it was some time, they were awarded by the equalising point from Stevenson. Cunningham followed with a fourth and towards the close Chadwick brought the score level again the final result being 4 goals each.

EVERTON REVIEW
March 23 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
The Everton team would in the ordinary course of events have met Derby county in a League engagement on Saturday but the latter's participation in the semi-finals for the English cup coupled with the demands of the governing body for the use of the ground for the Bolton Wanderers against sheffield Wednesday contest left no other alterations than to wander afield for friendly combat. Their engagement was with North End and though they made the journey with a mixed team, they nevertheless gave an exceptionally good account of themselves against a full League team of North Enders. The play alternated in curious fashion for one side had no sooner obtained an advantage then they were promptly hauled down from their pedicel eventually ending a draw of four goals, each which was a fitting conclusion to an interesting game. The Everton forwards although a mixed of combined like old hands accounted to each others play and generally they infused more sting in finishing touches than did their opponents who were at time weak when in good range. Both sides of backs got through their work well on a heavy ground, and the task of the representative goalkeepers was not a light one, as may be judged by the number of shots that found the net.

EVERTON v.  PRESTON NORTH END
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, March 23, 1896
Excluded from participation in the final stages of the English Cup, and evicted from their own ground by reason of the requirements of Bolton Wanderers and Sheffield Wednesday match, Everton journeyed to Preston on Saturday, and engaged the North End in a friendly game. The home team started, and getting the better of the opening exchanges, a move was made towards Briggs, but this was stalled off by Adams. Boyle served up nicely for Cameron, who missed the pass, and North End again came down strongly, Cunningham finally shooting just outside. Everton now forced the play, and a nice combined movement on the part of the forwards ended in McDonald scoring a few minutes from the start. The home team then exerted themselves to good effect, both Boyle and Stewart beaten, and it was not long before Sanders with one of his dribbles broke through his field and equalised with one which gave Briggs no chance to avert. Re-starting Everton had much the best of matters, and for several moments both Holmes and Tate were kept exceedingly busy. The home defence, however, was thoroughly sound, and from a pass out by Tate the home left ran down strongly, Blythe sending in one that caused Briggs some trouble. The danger was cleared, however, and Everton, through the instrumentality of Molyneux, Boyle, and Cameron, returned to the attack. The last named dribbled nicely up, and, passing to Chadwick, that player had hard lines in not scoring. Play up to this point had been surprisingly fast, both teams apparently putting in all they knew, and there was no lack of cheering on the part of the spectators. The visitors continued to press, and again Chadwick sent in a futile shot, while a moment later Adams tried one from a long range. Smart paly in midfield followed, and then the home right worked the ball down, Pierce sending in a beauty, which only just missed the mark. A break away on the part of Chadwick was nullified by Holmes. The North Enders then came away in combined array, the movement ending in Smith sending the leather sailing into the net. Elated by this second score, the home team played up with redoubted energy, and the Everton defence was sorely taxed. Molyneux especially being pressed. Stewart, however, was on the qui vive, and the ex-Prestonian did yeoman service, in stalling off defeat upon several occasions. Meiklejohn served up to his forwards nicely, and Cameron worked the ball along, the final pass to Schofield ending in that player banging the ball into the net and thus equalising matters. Play of an even nature ensued, and the home team again advanced on the right, Smith and Pierce proving altogether too much for Molyneux to cope with, despite the valuable aid of Stewart. The score at half-time was 2 goals each. In the second half Hartley and Chadwick scored for the visitors, and Stevenson and Cunningham for North End, the game ending in a draw of 4 goals each. Teams;-
Everton.- Briggs, goal Adams and Molyneux, backs; Boyle, Meiklejohn, and Stewart, half-backs; Hartley, McDonald, Cameron, Chadwick, and Schofield, forwards.
North end;- Wright, goal; Holmen, and Tait, backs; Grier, Sanders, and Eccleston, half-backs; T. Smith, Pierce, Stevenson, Cunningham, and Blythe, forwards.

EVERTON v.  DERBY COUNTY
The Liverpool daily Post- Monday, March 23, 1896
A situation that may have serious consequences has arisen out of the Derby County and Everton match, which was to have been played at Derby last, and which the League have ordered to be played before Saturday next. Derby County, in view of the fact that they have to play three League matches during the next fortnight and in addition will have to give up three players for the international trial match on Wednesday, and in all probability a like number for the Scotch international on Saturday week, protested against this decision, especially as other clubs had been allowed a much longer extension. The League however, adhered to their decision, and the County have now deposited the £10 necessary to have the matter decided by a Board of appeal. The committee assert that they will not play during the coming week under any circumstances, and will be prepared in the last extremely to present Everton with 2 points rather than comply with a decision which they believe to be unfair and unjust. The Board of Appeal will in all probability meet to-day to settle the matter.

• FA Cup semi-final was played at Goodison Park on Saturday between Sheffield Wednesday and Bolton Wanderers, in front of 35,000 spectators. Receipts £1,017, game resulted a draw of 1 goal each.

CORINTHINAS 2 EVERTON 1
March 30 1986. The Liverpool Mercury
These teams met at Queen's Club London before 4,000 spectators. The Corinthians had a rather weak team. The Weather was gusty, and the wind interfered with accuracy of shooting. The visitors pressed at the start, but Moores and Lodge were very safe the Corinthinas forwards working hard together. Sandiland scored first for Corthinans and ten minutes latter, the same player gained another point, and the Corinthians led at half time by 2 goals to nil. The visitor's quickly advanced to the attack at the commement of the second half. Moon saved three hot shots before being beaten by Chadwick, who notched the first goal for Everton within two minutes of resumption of hostilities. Led on by Reynolds the Corinthians swarmed round their opponent's goal. Hillman saves repeatedly, as did moon at the other end. final result Corthinhians 2 goals Everton 1 goal Everton: - Hillman, goal, Arridges backs, Boyle (caprtian), Holt, and Stewart, halfbacks, Bell, McInnes, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.

EVERTON RESERVES 4 CHESTER 0
March 30 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
Liverpool Senior Cup Final
The Liverpool club having scratched to Chester, and withdrawn from the contest, the latter appeared at Goodison Park to engage with the Everton combination team in the final for the cup. The sides were as follows Everton: - Briggs, goals, Kelso, and Storrier, backs, Goldie, Meiklejohn, and Elliott, halfbacks, Latta, Williams, Chadwick (j), Murray, and Scholfield forwards. Chester: - Coventry, goal, Ashbury, and Wilson, backs, Barker, Farrell, and Turner, halfbacks, Spencer, Jones, Worgan, Lewis, and Lipsham, forwards. Everton started, and had all the best of the earlier play. Chadwick tested Coventry, who saved well and a long drive looked like beating the custodian who, however, got up in time to tip the ball over the bar. Schofield took the corner, which resulted in Everton's first goal. Restarling the game, with but few exceptions was mainly monopolised by the home players, whom the wing forwards constantly threatened danger. Coventry was again tested, and then Worgan raced nicely away, and in comjunction with Lipsham, kept Kelso constantly on the alert. At the other end Williams was ruled offside, but directly afterwards the same player found the net from a pass by Murray. The play slackened down considerably, but towards the interval the home defenders was roused by a well-directed attack on their charge. A header from Farrell apparently beat Briggs, but Farrell but Lewis unfortunately got his head in the way, and the ball went outside. The interval was then announced with Everton leading by two goals to nil. The second half opened with Everton attacking, and after ten minutes play, Murray made an opening for Schofield who after thoroughly beating the defence, sent across to Williams who netted the third goal. The Chester left was then in evidently, and both Worgan and Lipham sent in a capital shots, one of which brought Briggs to his knee, but beyond this the bulk of the play, was confined to the other end. Where a shot from Murray struck the bar and after a partial clearance Schofield rushed up and scored the fast point of the game, Everton winning by 4 goals to nil.

EVERTON REVIEW
March 30 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
The final for the Liverpool and district Senior Cup at Goodison Park on Saturday was not a great success, for the attendance was only of a moderate character, and the play rarely reached a high level. Then are usual incidents at this annual fixture, but one does not require to seek far for their cause. To begin with much of the interest in the competition was taken away by the withdrawal of the Liverpool Club, which left the trophy in the hands of Everton and Chester for control. Other trials have brought together the leading locaL clubs and where interest is likely to be sustained all through the game there will be found plenty of enthusiasm to give support. Apart from this, the public on the previous Saturday were admitted to a semi final tie in the English Cup competition between admittedly first class clubs for the sum of sixpences, but could they be expected profer the numble coin on Saturday in return for an exhibition of second or even third rate fare. The lower charge would have been a more popular one and even if the recepts were not increased the ground would have been rid of much of its hardness. The Everton combination teams were entrusted with the contest, and with regard to the play there could be no two occasions as to the result. The major portion of the movements of play consisted of excursions to the Chester goal, and had the Evertoninas, here inclined they could have quite doubled their score. It was only at odd moments when the home lot slackened off somewhat that the Chesterians had a chance to lower the Everton citadel and a couple of instances they showed good judgement which all but brought about the desired effects. Schofield and Murray in many fine touches of play, and it was from the former that most danger threatened while Williams and Latta especially in the first half, were not wanting in resource, though Chadwick gave then but little assistance. The halves were insteady, as were also the backs, but Briggs dealt very ably with everything that came in his way. The Chester team can be passed over as a hard working set, with a special word of praise to Lipham, the outside left, Morgan the centre forward and Coventry the custodian the last named player, by really good work, saving his side from a much heavier score.

LIVERPOOL CUP FINAL TIE
The Liverpool Daily Post -Monday, March 30, 1896
EVERTON v  CHESTER
The final tie in this competition was played at Goodison Park when Everton and Chester measured swords in content for the trophy. In Combination matches the two clubs have met on two occasions during the season, but Everton have been returned winners twice, on the first time of asking by 4 goals to 1, and on the second meeting by 3 goals to none. The attendance was remarkably small, not more than 500 spectators lining the enclosure. Chadwick started for Everton, and Coventry was at once called upon to clear, but the visitors at once returned the compliment, an abortive attempt being made to capture the Everton flag. Scarcely another moment passed before Meiklejohn had a chance of pleasuring the Chester defence, but a corner only followed, which being nicely put in by Schofield was turned to good account the first goal being claimed by the home team after four minutes play. An end to end to end game ensued of which Everton had slightly the best at last Ashbury made a creditable save on the Chester right wing. Then pressure was put upon the home players, but to no purposes, many efforts on the part of the Everton men ending in Chadwick just falling to capture the Chester stronghold. Subsequently the homesters advanced in capital style, and after Murray had a finger in the pie Williams scored the second goal for Everton. Spencer and Morgan each had chances at the other end, but nothing resulted. More give-and-take play ensued which was brought to a conclusion by Goldie shooting high over the bar. A mistake by Storrier nearly let in Morgan, but after this the Chester players were placed at a disadvantage, although once Lipsham dashed away and finished by shooting wide of the mark. The Chester men then gained a corner, which would have been converted into a goal but Farrell, who was unfortunate enough to direct the ball in a wrong direction. Later on Coventry was nearly defeated, but half-time arrived without any further score. The change of ends was marked by end-to-end play, but there was nothing shown worthy of a cup tie. A nice piece of work by Murray and Schofield culminated in Williams scoring the third goal for Everton, but a corner was gained by Chester shortly afterwards, Storrier clearing out of the goalmouth in splendid fashion. Another attack came from the Everton left wing, and after Coventry had saved once Schofield jumped in and scored the fourth goal for the home team. A spasmodic attack on the part of the Chester men followed, and then a grand move came from the Everton right wing Coventry just keeping his charge intact. A corner by Schofield was nearly turned to good account and then the home team kept on attacking, but towards the close of the game Everton gained another corner, but this was likewise cleared, and Everton gained an easy victory by 4 goals to nil. Teams;-
Everton; Briggs, goal; Kelso and Storrier, backs; Goldie, Meiklejohn, and Elliott, half-backs; Williams, Latta, Chadwick, Murray, and Schofield, forwards.
Chester.- Coventry.- Oswestry, goal; Astbury, and Jones, backs; Turner, Farrell, and Parker, half-backs; Spencer, Jones, Worgan, W. Lewis, and Lipsham, forwards.

EVERTON v. CORINTHIANS
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, March 30, 1896M
Played at Queen’s club Kensington, before wind blowing in the opening half. The Corinthians displayed good form, and Sandilands early gained two goals for them. They continued to press, and repeatedly assailed the Everton goal, but Hillman saved in splendid fashion. Everton tried hard, but could not break through the attack, and at half-time the score was -Corinthians 2 goals, Everton nil. Everton rushed off at the commencement of the second half. Chadwick scored for them inside a minute. For some time after play was of a desultory character. Everton made some big efforts, but Moon was in good form, and saved well. Towards the finish the Corinthians had the best of the play, but could not again score, the ball going behind frequently through the action of the wind. Result; -Corinthians 2 goals, Everton 1 goal.

LIVERPOOL DISTRICT AND NOTES
Athletic News- Monday March 30, 1896
By the Loiterer
Everton and Chester played off for the Liverpool association Cup on Saturday, before about 1,500 spectators but very little interest was taken in the proceedings. Early on Everton scored from a well-placed corner by Schofield, and for a time Chester were hard pressed, and at last Williams obtained the second goal. The Cestrians kept pegging away, and as the game went on their forwards improved, and Briggs had two very ticklish shots, and another time Lipsham ought to have scored. The visitors were very eager to notch a point before the interval, and considering they were playing against a strong wind they gave promise of better things in the second half. This however, was not fulfilled, for Williams soon scored for Everton, and the play degenerated into a wild kicking, aimless affair and another goal was put on, Everton winning by four goals to none. I have seen a few Liverpool finals, and this was the most spiritless game of any, even in the old days. Everton and Bootle generally figured in these events, and later Liverpool have had a say in it, but this year Liverpool scratched, and there was very little interest taken in the final tie. Everton were represented by the Combination team, and they were the cleverer lot, but taking the game altogether it was a very poor show. Of the young players engaged I liked Chadwick the best. Williams was also good, and Schofield tricky, and usually effective in his centres. On the Chester side Morgan played well in the centre, but the wings did the best work in the open, the left especially leading Kelso a merry dance, but like most teams they did not shape very well at goal.
I understand 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, and if the club is to maintain its prestige some provision will have to be made for supplying the first team with good recruits, and surely the directors might do worse than give our Liverpool lads a chance. There is sure to be vacancies in both the League and Combination teams next season, and I don’t see that we have players handy for the positions, for some training is required, and experience necessary, and only time can acquire this. Still, it is better late than never, and I hope the directors will be successful in unearthing some good ones. 
For the first time for some years we have not a representative in the International team, and if any proof of the failing strength of our prominent players is wanted I think we have it here. We have the same men at command. Yet the selection committee, in their judgement, have overlooked them all. When we turn to the inter-League team we cam derive some satisfaction, but it is very scanty, as only Milward in chosen out of Everton and Becton from Liverpool. So that what I have said of the necessity of having capable recruits receives every support from these plain facts, and it would be dangerous to delay the remedying of the evil. Apart from these considerations, I think Liverpool, as one of the great centres of football, should be represented in these matches, and the only way to do it is to cultivate the home-made article.